Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information

ADVANTAGES OF SEX.

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 12:09:00 +0000

Deeper Intimacy

Having sex and orgasms boosts levels of the hormone oxytocin, the so-called love hormone, which helps people bond and build trust.

In a study of 59 women, researchers checked their oxytocin levels before and after the women hugged their partners. The women had higher oxytocin levels if they had more of that physical contact with their partner.

Higher oxytocin levels have also been linked with a feeling of generosity. So snuggle up -- it might help you feel more generous toward your partner.

Sex May Turn Down Pain

Oxytocin also boosts your body's painkillers, called endorphins. Headache, arthritis pain, or PMS symptoms may improve after sex.

In one study, 48 people inhaled oxytocin vapor and then had their fingers pricked. The oxytocin cut their pain threshold by more than half.

More Ejaculations May Make Prostate Cancer Less Likely

Research shows that frequent ejaculations, especially in 20-something men, may lower the risk of getting prostate cancer later in life.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that men who had 21 or more ejaculations a month were less likely to get prostate cancer than those who had four to seven ejaculations per month.

The study doesn't prove that ejaculations were the only factor that mattered. Many things affect a person's odds of developing cancer. But when the researchers took that into consideration, the findings still held.

Stronger Pelvic Floor Muscles

For women, doing pelvic floor muscle exercises called Kegels may mean more pleasure -- and, as a perk, less chance of incontinence later in life.

To do a basic Kegel exercise, tighten the muscles of your pelvic floor as if you're trying to stop the flow of urine. Count to three, then release.

Less Stress, Better Blood Pressure

Having sex could lower your stress and your blood pressure.

That finding comes from a Scottish study of 24 women and 22 men who kept records of their sexual activity. The researchers put them in stressful situations -- such as speaking in public and doing math out loud -- and checked their blood pressure.

People who had had intercourse responded better to stress than those who engaged in other sexual behaviours or abstained.

Another study found that diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number of your blood pressure) tends to be lower in people who live together and have sex often.

Sex Boosts Immunity

Having sex once or twice a week has been linked with higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A, or IgA, which can protect you from getting colds and other infections.

A Wilkes University study had 112 college students keep records of how often they had sex and also provide saliva samples for the study. Those who had sex once or twice a week had higher levels of IgA, an antibody that could help you avoid a cold or other infection, than other students.

Sex Burns Calories

Thirty minutes of sex burns 85 calories or more. It may not sound like much, but it adds up: 42 half-hour sessions will burn 3,570 calories, more than enough to lose a pound. Doubling up, you could drop that pound in 21 hour-long sessions.

"Sex is a great mode of exercise," Los Angeles sexologist Patti Britton, says. It takes both physical and psychological work, though, to do it well, she says.

Sex Improves Heart Health

A 20-year-long British study shows that men who had sex two or more times a week were half as likely to have a fatal heart attack than men who had sex less than once a month.

And although some older folks may worry that sex could cause a stroke, the study found no link between how often men had sex and how likely they were to have a stroke.

Better Self-Esteem

University of Texas researchers found that boosting self-esteem was one of 237 reasons people have sex.

That finding makes sense to sex, marriage, and family therapist Gina Ogden. She also says that those who already have self-esteem say they sometimes have sex to feel even better.

"One of the reasons people say they have sex is to feel good about themselves," she says. "Great sex begins with self-esteem. If the sex is loving, connected, and what you want, it raises it."

Of course, you don't have to have lots of sex to feel good about yourself. Your self-esteem is all about you -- not someone else. But if you're already feeling good about yourself, a great sex life may help you feel even better.

Better Sleep

The oxytocin released during orgasm also promotes sleep, research shows.

Getting enough sleep has also been linked with a host of other health benefits, such as a healthy weight and better blood pressure. That's something to think about, especially if you've been wondering why your guy can be active one minute and snoring the next.

2014 Ebola Outbreak in West Africa

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 12:14:00 +0000

Highlights

The Guinean Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation of Sierra Leone, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of Liberia, and the Nigerian Ministry of Health are working with national and international partners to investigate and respond to the outbreak.

Guinea

August 11, 2014, the Guinea Ministry of Health announced a total of 510 suspect and confirmed cases of Ebola virus disease (EVD), including 377 fatal cases.
Affected districts include Conakry, Guéckédou, Macenta, Kissidougou, Dabola, Djingaraye, Télimélé, Boffa, Kouroussa, Dubreka, Fria, Siguiri, Pita, Nzerekore, and Yamou; several are no longer active areas of EVD transmission (see map).
369 cases across Guinea have been confirmed by laboratory testing to be positive for Ebola virus infection.
In Guinea's capital city, Conakry, 95 suspect cases have been reported to meet the clinical definition for EVD, including 42 fatal cases.

Liberia

August 11, 2014, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of Liberia and WHO have reported 670 suspect and confirmed EHF cases (including 166 laboratory confirmations) and 355 reported fatalities.

Nigeria

August 11, 2014, the Nigerian Ministry of Health and WHO reported 12 suspect and confirmed cases, including 10 laboratory confirmed and 3 fatal cases.

Sierra Leone

August 11, 2014, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation of Sierra Leone and WHO reported a cumulative total of 783 suspect and confirmed cases, including 706 laboratory confirmations and 334 reported fatal cases.
Cases have been reported from all 12 Sierra Leone districts.

About the virus

Genetic analysis of the virus indicates that it is closely related (97% identical) to variants of Ebola virus (species Zaire ebolavirus) identified earlier in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Gabon (Baize et al. 2014).

Cell Phones and Health

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Fri, 05 Jul 2013 07:39:00 +0000

One of the most common sights we see these days, is that of people with their mobile phones next to their ears. A boon for better communication, cell phone usage nonetheless has many health hazards. Various studies indicate that the emissions from a cell phone can be extremely harmful, causing genetic damage, tumors, memory loss, and increased blood pressure and weakening of the immune system. This is alarming information, and one has to take into account all these factors..

CELL PHONES AND HEALTH
Though there is no evidence of cell phones causing cancer or any such illness, but the suspicion, or fear of the same is not baseless either. The electromagnetic radiation from cell phones does have a potential link to cancer. The fact that this radiation is invisible, intangible, and enters and leaves our bodies without our knowledge makes it even more intimidating.

Possible hazards:
* Two minutes of exposure to emissions from mobile phones can disable a safety barrier in blood causing proteins and toxins to leak into the brain, could increase chances of developing Alzheimer's multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's. (Scientists at Sweden's Lund University)
* Scientists say exposure to the phones' low-level radiation causes red blood cells to leak hemoglobin and can lead to heart disease and kidney stones.
* Recent studies suggesting a link between cell-phone use and brain tumors, and the possibility that the microwaves could ignite petroleum fumes at gas stations.
* A cell phone unit, or communications tower, has so many of thee radiation emanating gadgets. This can be a problem for its immediate environment.
SPECIFIC HEALTH CONCERNS

Cancer / Tumors
Studies have been conducted suggesting that rats that have been exposed to microwaves similar to the sort generated by mobile phones but more powerful, showed breaks in their DNA which could indicate an adverse effect. Also, mice exposed to radiation for 18 months developed brain tumors. Though of course, these studies are not concrete proof.

Blood Pressure
It was observed that people using cell phones were prone to high blood pressure. Again, there isn't any concrete evidence of the same.

Pregnancy
A study at the University of Montpellier in France was carried out on 6000 chick embryos and suggested that the heavily exposed chick eggs were five times less likely to survive than the control group. This study raised questions about possible effects on pregnant women but it has not yet appeared in peer-reviewed scientific literature or been reproduced, so its findings are difficult to assess.

Headaches, Heating Effects, Fatigue
A study brought out that longer the people used mobile phones, the more likely they were to report symptoms such as hot ears, burning skin, headaches and fatigue.
The study did not include a control group (that is people who do not use mobile phones, to make a comparison); therefore the symptoms reported could have been caused by any number of other factors in the mobile phones users' environment, such as working with computers, stress, driving or reading.

Memory
There have been various studies into the connection between mobile phones and memory loss. A study looked into the effect of radiofrequency (RF) on the section of rats' brains that is linked with the memory. The results showed that RF could modify signals in the cells in a part of the brain that is responsible for learning and short term memory.

Posture (holding phone between raised shoulder and ear)
Some researchers claim that holding a mobile phone between the raised shoulder and the ear could have a damaging effect on muscles, bones, tendons and discs. These problems would apply equally to a cordless phone or a landline phone as to a mobile phone and are the effect of bad posture.

Mobile Phones and Children
Because of their smaller heads, thinner skulls and higher tissue conductivity, children may absorb more energy from a given phone than adults.
PREVENTION TIPS

* Cell phones should be used for emergencies, and not for long conversations.
* A small chip-like cell phone microwave radiation protection device is available, which has the ability to absorb electromagnetic energy waves from your mobile phone. It helps in reducing the potential harmful effects of these emissions to the human body.
* Using a mobile headset is a good idea, you don't have to hold phones next to your ears all the time
* Use a hands free mobile car kit while driving, without taking your hands off the steering wheel

THE WHO (World Health Organisation) RULES

* Mobile phone users should limit their exposure to harmful radio frequencies by cutting the length of calls.
* Hands-free devices cut exposure by keeping the instrument away from the head and body.
* Driving cum mobile phone talking should be banned.
* Mobile phones should not be used in Intensive Care Units of hospitals as they can pose a danger to patients by interfering with the working of pacemakers and defibrillators.
* People with hearing aids should not use mobile phones.
* Base stations, which have low powered antennae on their terrace to communicate with cell phones, should not be located near children's schools and playgrounds.

CELL PHONES WHILE DRIVING
Studies indicate that a lot of car accidents have happened, while the driver was on the phone. This is because while driving, one obviously needs to concentrate, and talking on a phone doesn't help. Some countries like Portugal have banned the use of cell phones, which may not be very practical, as their main use is to be reachable while you are on the move. Thus, it is important to take certain precautions while driving:

* Position your phone within easy reach so that you don't have to take your eyes off the road.
* Get to know the features of your cell phone - speed dial, redial, voice mail, they can be your lifesaver. But don't dial and drive at the same time. Use a hands free kit.
* Avoid using a phone when road conditions are hazardous or traffic is heavy. You can let your voice mail take messages and then call back later.
* Don't engage in stressful conversations that may distract your attention from the road.
* Don't take notes or look up phone numbers whilst driving, wait till you can pull over.
* User abbreviated speed dialing. In fact, voice activated dialing is even better. It leaves both hands free. Frequently called numbers can be programmed.
* Have an answering machine installed that could take messages until you can return the calls. Let your co-passenger handle the calls if you are not traveling alone.

24 Foods That Can aid Your Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Mon, 01 Jul 2013 17:11:00 +0000

Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs make many other foods heart-healthy when they replace salt, sugar, and trans fats. These flavor powerhouses, along with nuts, berries -- even coffee -- form a global approach to heart-wise eating. Read on for more delicious ways to fight heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.Fact: Rosemary, sage, oregano, and thyme contain antioxidants.

Black Beans

Mild, tender black beans are packed with heart-healthy nutrients including folate, antioxidants, magnesium, and fiber -- which helps control both cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Tip: Canned black beans are quick additions to soups and salads. Rinse to remove extra sodium.

Red Wine and Resveratrol

If you drink alcohol, a little red wine may be a heart-healthy choice. Resveratrol and catechins, two antioxidants in red wine, may protect artery walls. Alcohol can also boost HDL, the good cholesterol.

Tip: Don't exceed one drink a day for women; one to two drinks for men -- and talk to your doctor first. Alcohol may cause problems for people taking aspirin and other medications. Too much alcohol actually hurts the heart.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

This oil, made from the first press of olives, is especially rich in heart-healthy antioxidants called polyphenols, as well as healthy monounsaturated fats. When olive oil replaces saturated fat (like butter), it can help lower cholesterol levels. Polyphenols may protect blood vessels.

Tip: Use for salads, on cooked veggies, with bread. Look for cold-pressed and use within six months.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a hearty, healthy substitute for white potatoes for people concerned about diabetes. With a low glycemic index, these spuds won't cause a quick spike in blood sugar. Ample fiber, vitamin A, and lycopene add to their heart-healthy profile.

Tip: Enhance their natural sweetness with cinnamon and lime juice, instead of sugary toppings.

Oranges

This sweet, juicy fruit contains the cholesterol-fighting fiber pectin -- as well as potassium, which helps control blood pressure. A small study shows that OJ may improve blood vessel function and modestly lower blood pressure through the antioxidant hesperidin.

Tip: A medium orange averages 62 calories, with 3 grams of fiber.

Carrots

The latest research on carrots shows these sweet, crunchy veggies may help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. They're also a top cholesterol-fighting food, thanks to ample amounts of soluble fiber -- the kind found in oats.

Tip: Sneak shredded carrots into spaghetti sauce and muffin batter.

Coffee

Coffee and tea may help protect your heart by warding off type 2 diabetes. Studies show that people who drink 3-4 cups a day may cut their risk by 25% -- and even decaffeinated coffee works. Caution is due, however, for those who already have diabetes or hypertension; caffeine can complicate these conditions.

Tip: Choose black coffee or a non-fat latte to limit fat and calories.

Kosher Salt

This may be worth a try for people with high blood pressure. Kosher salt may give you more salty flavor with less actual salt -- and less sodium -- than if you sprinkled table salt on your food. The larger crystals impart more flavor than finely ground salt. You’ll still need to measure carefully; a teaspoon of Kosher salt has 1,120-2,000 mg of sodium, while the daily limit for most people is 1,500 mg. And in cooking, the taste advantage is lost.

Tip: Mix with your favorite herbs for a homemade, lower-sodium spice blend.

Cherries

Cherries are packed with anthocyanins, an antioxidant believed to help protect blood vessels. Cherries in any form provide these heart-healthy nutrients: the larger heart-shaped sweet cherries, the sour cherries used for baking, as well as dried cherries and cherry juice.

Tip: Sprinkle dried cherries into cereal, muffin batter, green salads and wild rice.

Blueberries

The list of healthy nutrients in blueberries is extensive: anthocyanins give them their deep blue color and support heart health. Blueberries also contain ellagic acid, beta-carotene, lutein, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, potassium, and fiber.

Tip: Add fresh or dried blueberries to cereal, pancakes, or yogurt. Puree a batch for a dessert sauce.

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:58:00 +0000

Way on how to Reduce Your Stress

Some stress can be a good thing. It's your body's way of preparing for a challenge, such as giving a presentation. But a steady stream of stress can be bad for your health. Studies show it can even weaken your immune system -- your body's system for fighting off disease and illness. Reduce your stress by avoiding whatever stressors you can. Take the time to relax and do things you enjoy.

Enjoy Regular Sex

It turns out that sex doesn't just make you feel good -- it's good for you, too. Studies have shown that a good sex life can be a boost to health. One study looked at the connection between sexual activity and health in people middle-aged and older. The researchers found that those who had frequent sex were in better overall health than those who had sex less often.

Get a Pet

There's a reason dogs are called "man's best friend." Dogs and other pets can offer us companionship, exercise, and even good health. Studies have found that having a pet can help reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and improve heart health. One study showed that having a dog can help improve immune system development and may reduce the risks of allergies in children.

Build a Strong Social Network

We all know friends are important, but strong social ties can also have a big effect on your health. A recent study found that people with strong relationships were 50% more likely to survive than those with poor social ties. To broaden your social network, try volunteering, taking a class, or joining a group that interests you. And be sure to nurture the bonds you already have.
Keep a Positive Attitude

Positive thoughts can give your immune system a healthy boost. One study of law students found that when they were feeling more optimistic, their immune system was stronger. To increase your optimism, take time to savor the things you enjoy, look for the silver lining in difficult situations, and try not to dwell on negative thoughts.

Have a Laugh

A good belly laugh might be good for you. While there's some evidence that laughter may help boost our immune system, overall research results have been mixed. A group of researchers who looked at several studies about laughter and immune function found that people who laughed out loud at funny videos had higher immune function after watching the video. But more studies are needed to prove whether laughter actually helps prevent or minimize illness.

Eat Your Antioxidants

Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can help you get a healthy dose of antioxidants. These substances in foods can help protect your cells from free radicals, molecules that can damage cells. To get a wide range of antioxidants, choose fruits and vegetables of different colors, such as oranges, green peppers, broccoli, kiwi, strawberries, carrots, watermelon, papaya, leafy greens, and cantaloupe.

Take Your Vitamins

If you have a feeling your diet is lacking, consider taking a multivitamin. A daily multivitamin will help ensure that your body is getting all of the building blocks for a healthy immune system. Some nutrients that may be especially important for immune system health include selenium, vitamins A, C, D, and E, zinc, and magnesium.

Avoid Empty Calories

Processed foods such as fast foods, snack foods, candy, and soda don't provide much in the way of vitamins, fiber, or other nutrients. And they often contain other additives and chemicals that may not be good for your body. When you choose these foods over more nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, you risk depleting your body of essential nutrients.

Consider Herbs and Supplements

Many people take herbs or supplements to improve their overall health. Some supplements have been shown to affect the immune system. But more well-designed studies are needed to learn their beneficial effects on humans. These include garlic, ginseng, milk thistle, astragalus, and probiotics such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about which supplements may be good for you.

Keep Your Body Moving

One simple way to strengthen your immune system is by exercising. Getting regular exercise can also reduce stress and help lower your risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. You get the most benefit when you exercise at a moderate level a few times a week. Any type of movement is helpful, including bicycling, walking, yoga, swimming, or playing golf.

Get a Good Night's Sleep

Without enough sleep, your immune system may not have the resources it needs to fight off illness. Most adults need about seven to nine hours of sleep each night. You can help yourself to a more restful sleep by keeping a regular schedule, getting exercise, avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, relaxing before bedtime, and keeping your bedroom at a comfortable temperature.

Limit Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is part of our culture. Many people drink at meals and at parties as a way to socialize and celebrate. But drinking too much alcohol can weaken your immune system and cause you to get sick more often. To minimize risk, men should have no more than two drinks per day. Women should not have more than one drink per day.

Limit Alcohol

Drinking alcohol is part of our culture. Many people drink at meals and at parties as a way to socialize and celebrate. But drinking too much alcohol can weaken your immune system and cause you to get sick more often. To minimize risk, men should have no more than two drinks per day. Women should not have more than one drink per day.

Kick the Nicotine Habit

Here's another reason to give up smoking -- it weakens your immune system. Even if you're just an occasional smoker, you're still at risk. According to the U.S. surgeon general, even low levels of exposure to tobacco can cause health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and asthma. If you need help quitting, talk with your doctor.

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:08:00 +0000

Does Anything Banish Cellulite?

No woman wants her rear compared to cottage cheese. Unfortunately, a type of fat called cellulite can create dimpled skin on the buttocks, hips, and thighs. Exercising to lose excess fat may help. Doctors question the value of cellulite creams, but those with caffeine may offer short-term improvements. Some cosmetic procedures also target cellulite.

Why Do I Blush So Often?

Most people blush on occasion, especially when feeling shy or embarrassed. But when patches of red pop up randomly on the cheeks, forehead, or chin, rosacea may be to blame. This chronic skin condition is treated with pills and/or creams. Frequent blushing along with a pounding heart during social situations can be a sign of social anxiety disorder.

Aren't I Too Young to Go Gray?

If you haven't reached 40 and more than half of your hair is white, you're "going gray" prematurely. In some cases, this can be a sign of a thyroid or pigment disorder. But most often, you can thank your parents for the early gray genes. Fortunately, premature graying does not mean that your body is aging more quickly than anyone else's.

Are Those Pimples on My Bottom?

Probably not. Small white or red bumps on the buttocks are most likely keratosis pilaris. This is a harmless skin condition that can also appear on the back, cheeks, upper arms, and thighs. The condition may last for years but tends to disappear gradually by age 30. Until then, intensive moisturizing can help reduce outbreaks.

How Did I Get Stretch Marks?

When the skin gets stretched by pregnancy, weight gain, or extreme weight loss, the stretch can create scarring. Stretch marks are usually red or purple, then fade to a glossy white. They generally occur on the belly, thighs, hips, breasts, or lower back. The marks can be reduced with chemical peels or laser surgery. Lotions and creams are usually of little benefit.

Why Do I Have Bad Breath?

You brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, yet you still have a bad taste in your mouth -- a sign of bad breath. The cause could be gum disease, acid reflux, dry mouth, or even a sinus infection. But most likely, your diet is the culprit. Toothpaste is no match for heaps of onions and garlic. See if avoiding these foods helps. If not, check with your dentist.

Is There a Fix for Razor Bumps?

Razor bumps occur when stubble curls back on itself and grows into the skin. The best way to treat and prevent the bumps is to stop shaving. Hair removal creams and laser treatment are possible alternatives. If you prefer to keep shaving, you might be able to prevent razor bumps by taking a hot shower first and using a thick shaving gel.

What's Making My Teeth Dark?

If you drink coffee, tea, dark sodas, or red wine, you have your answer. Smoking and some medications can also discolor teeth. The first step toward whiter teeth is to brush and floss regularly to remove substances that stain teeth. Teeth whitening systems, ranging from over-the-counter gels to in-office bleaching, can also help.

How Can I Soften Callused Feet?

Calluses are common on the heels and balls of the feet. The thick layers of dead skin are there to protect your feet from the pressure of walking. But you may not like the sight of rough, yellowish heels peeking out of your sandals. Soaking your feet in hot water and scrubbing with a pumice stone can remove some of the dead skin.

Why Do My Nails Split and Fray?

If your hands are often exposed to water or strong soap, your nails may tend to split, peel, or become brittle. Using a moisturizer and protecting your hands from water may help. If the nails are yellow or white in addition to splitting and crumbling, a fungal infection may be to blame. There are antifungal creams, but they often don't work. You may need prescription pills from your doctor to cure the infection.
Why Do I Sweat So Much?

The purpose of sweat is to cool your body. If you tend to sweat when that's not necessary -- for example, while sitting calmly in a cool room -- you may have hyperhidrosis. This condition causes annoying but harmless excessive sweating under the arms and on the palms and soles of the feet. Unless very mild, prescription antiperspirants, pills, or even Botox may be needed to calm the sweat.

Help, I'm Losing My Hair!

Hair loss in women is more common than you might think. By age 40, 40% of women have visible hair loss. The most common causes are hormonal or thyroid problems, pregnancy, certain medications, and hormonal imbalances. Severe hair loss may be treated with topical solutions to stimulate hair growth or pills to address hormonal problems.

Close Up of Man's Toes
Close Up of Woman's Lips
Vericose Veins on Womans Leg
Photo of skin tags on a woman's neck
Neck Wrinkles on Older Woman

Why Do My Feet Stink?

Even if you shower regularly, foot odor can be stubborn. The soles of the feet are a favorite hangout for odor-causing bacteria. When sweat mixes with the bacteria, you get that familiar foot stench. Keep the feet dry and avoid shoes that make your feet sweat. Wash socks after every use. If your shoes have a lingering smell, try a deodorizer.

How Can I Soften Chapped Lips?

When dry air leaves the lips dehydrated, they develop tiny cracks. This can make the lips sensitive and unsightly. To reverse the damage, avoid licking your lips, which only causes more dehydration. Instead, use a lip balm made with petroleum jelly, castor seed oil, or shea butter. This will seal in moisture and protect the lips from the elements. And look for one with SPF 15. The sun's damaging rays can dry your lips even more.

Why Do I Have Spider Veins?

Are you a teacher, a nurse, or a sales clerk? Women with jobs that keep them on their feet are more likely to develop spider veins. Obesity, pregnancy, and genetics also boost your risk. Spider veins usually don't need treatment, but some women choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. One effective procedure is sclerotherapy, which involves injecting the veins with a saline solution or chemical to make them gradually disappear.

Should I Worry About Skin Tags?

Skin tags are tiny balls of tissue that sprout along the neck, chest, back, and armpits. They are more common in women and the elderly. While they occasionally become irritated, skin tags are not dangerous. If the appearance of skin tags bothers you, a dermatologist can remove them with scissors or freezing them.

Neck Wrinkles on Older Woman

What Makes My Neck Age So Fast?

If you've lost a lot of weight, you may have excess skin hanging around the neck. And if your neck muscles have grown loose, you may have neck bands, sometimes called "turkey wattle." Either way, your neck may look older than your face. Botox injections can reduce neck bands. For a more dramatic change, a neck lift is also an option.

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 18:28:00 +0000

Sugar Detox: Hype or Hope?

Sugar detox is the hottest trend, with three-week diets promising to rid you of your dependence on sinister sweets so you can finally lose weight. But can eating masses of broccoli for seven days really get the sugar monkey off your back for good? Let me how you the truth about sugar cravings, sugar addiction, and how to tame an unruly sweet tooth right now.

Is Sugar Addiction Real?

You say you can't live without your daily donut -- but are you really "addicted" to sugar? The answer is complicated. Researchers think a pattern of withholding and binging -- not sugar itself -- may lead to addictive-like behavior and even brain changes. Sugar influences the same "feel-good" brain chemicals -- including serotonin and dopamine -- as illicit drugs. But scientists aren't quite ready to lump sugar in with heroin.

Symptoms of Sugar Addiction

Whether you call it an addiction, an eating disorder, or simply a bad habit, there are signs of an unhealthy use of sugary foods. You may lose control and eat more than you planned. You may have withdrawal symptoms when you skip your regular cookie "fix." "You can get low blood sugar symptoms, which would include a little bit of anxiety, shakiness, jitteriness…a cold sweat," says Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, a spokeswoman for the ADA.

Your Brain on Sugar

Sugar fuels every cell in the brain and influences brain chemicals, too. And overloading on sugary foods may alter the brain receptors that regulate how much we eat. In laboratory studies, rats that binged on sugar had brain changes that mimicked those of drug withdrawal. In humans, just seeing pictures of milkshakes triggered brain activity similar to what's seen in drug addicts -- and that activity was stronger in women with a high food-addiction score than in women who didn't report addictive eating.

Quick Sugar Highs…

When you eat cake, the sugar in that treat -- called a simple carbohydrate -- is quickly converted to glucose in your bloodstream. Your blood sugar levels rise and spike when simple carbs are eaten alone, as when you grab a candy bar mid-afternoon. All simple carbs are absorbed quickly, most especially the processed, concentrated sugars found in syrup, soda, candy, and table sugar. Simple carbs are also found in fruits, veggies, and dairy products -- but fiber and protein slow absorption and provide wholesome nutrients.

…And Sugar Lows

Your pancreas releases the hormone insulin to move glucose out of the bloodstream -- and into your cells for energy. As a result, your blood sugar level may "drop pretty dramatically," says Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS, RD, of the Cleveland Clinic. That lonely afternoon candy bar has set you up for more bad eating. "When you have a very high spike followed by a very low drop, you tend to get hungry again." Low blood sugar leaves you feeling shaky, dizzy, and searching for more sweets to regain that sugar "high."

When Starch Equals Sugar

Do you overdo it with bagels, chips, or French fries? These starchy foods are complex carbohydrates -- but the body breaks them down into simple sugars. When eaten alone, without better foods, some starches such as white flour, white rice, and white potatoes can trigger the same surge-and-crash cycle of blood sugar seen with sugary foods. Highly refined starches are the worst culprits: white bread, pretzels, crackers, and pasta. Grain-based desserts can be a double-whammy of sugar and refined grains.

Do Sugar Detox Diets Work?

Can you beat your sugar addiction by quitting cold turkey? Some sugar detoxes urge you to eliminate everything sweet -- including fruit, dairy, and all refined grains -- to purge your system of sugar. Diet changes like this are too drastic to be realistic. "If you are doing something that is not sustainable, that you can only do short-term, then you will ultimately go back to your old habits," says dietitian Kirkpatrick.

Retrain Your Taste Buds

You don't need sugar as much as you think you do. "If we wean ourselves off [sugar], we can train our taste buds to enjoy things that aren't as sweet," says Kirkpatrick. Try eliminating one sugary food from your diet each week. Pass on dessert after dinner. Slowly reduce the sugar in your coffee or cereal. "Over time, you will lose your dependence on that sensation," she says.

Choose Sweet Alternatives

You don't have to give up sweetness -- just get it from other sources. Try fresh fruit or pureed berries on oatmeal instead of sugar. Fruit in many different forms beats table sugar: dried, frozen, or canned fruit (without too much added sugar). A glass of low-fat milk or low-sugar yogurt can satisfy, too. These contain the milk sugar lactose, which doesn't taste sweet. And of course, these dairy foods are packed with protein and calcium.

Kick the Habit: Take Baby Steps

Don't get drastic. Make small, simple changes to your diet that you can sustain over time, Kirkpatrick suggests. Eat more fruits and vegetables, drink extra water, and use fewer processed products. Start buying unsweetened foods and add just enough sugar to satisfy your taste. Cut out a little bit of sugar each week. After a few weeks of trimming back the sugar, you'll be surprised at how little you miss it.

Kick the Habit: Add Protein

When you're starving, every cookie cries out to you. Hunger robs you of the willpower to resist sugar cravings. Eating protein is an easy way to curb those cravings. High-protein foods digest more slowly, keeping you feeling full for longer. Protein doesn't make your blood sugar spike, like refined carbs and sugars do. When you pick a protein snack, choose healthy sources like lean chicken, low-fat yogurt, eggs, nuts, or beans.

Kick the Habit: Fill Up on Fiber

"Fiber always helps with fullness," says nutritionist Gerbstadt. High-fiber foods also give you more energy, and they don't raise your blood sugar so there's no hungry crash afterward. Look for soluble fiber from fruits and vegetables, as well as insoluble fiber from whole grains. Or, smear some peanut butter on an apple for a protein/fiber combo. As a bonus, fiber can also protect against heart disease and some types of cancer.

Kick the Habit: Get Outside

Exercise doesn't "cure" sugar addiction, but it could change the way you eat in general. "People who get into an exercise program and start to feel better about themselves are more likely to try another healthy behavior -- like eating less sugar," Gerbstadt says. Whatever exercise you prefer -- walking, riding your bike, or swimming -- try to do it for at least 30 minutes at a time, five days a week.

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 21:12:00 +0000

A Lifetime of Healthy Breasts

A guide to keeping your breasts healthy now and in the years to come.

Breasts: Some women worry that theirs are too big or too small or not as firm and youthful as they once were, but here's one thing that every woman wants -- healthy breasts for a lifetime.

As you enter your 30s, 40s, and 50s, your breasts change along with the rest of your body. In your childbearing years, you may wonder whether breastfeeding will affect your shape. After menopause, you might be more concerned about breast cancer risk.

During this decade, hormones like estrogen help to keep breasts firm. Breasts contain no muscles. Rather, they consist of fibrous tissue, fatty tissue, plus dense glandular tissue that includes milk-producing glands called lobules and ducts to carry milk.

Fortunately, in the 30s, breast problems tend to be benign (noncancerous). Younger women commonly experience fibrocystic breast disease, a broad term that is characterized by breast pain, cysts, and noncancerous lumpiness. "Breast pain can be cyclic, coming with menstrual periods, or it can be more persistent.

What helps ease breast pain? Avoiding caffeine, says Elizabeth Steiner, associate professor at Oregon Health and Science University and director of the Oregon Cancer Institute Breast Health Education Program.

Fibroadenomas can also affect women in their 30s. These rubbery lumps made of fibrous and glandular tissue aren't cancerous, but they can hurt. If they're bothersome, they can be surgically removed, Downey says.
Worried About Breast Sagging?

During this decade, which has become more popular for childbearing, breastfeeding offers mothers some long-term protection against breast cancer. "One of the best gifts they can give themselves and their babies is to breastfeed for as long as possible," Steiner says.

But some women worry that breast feeding will cause breast sagging. Experts tell however, that nursing doesn't actually cause breast tissue to droop. Instead, breast swelling during lactation can stretch the skin over the breast. "Then when your breasts shrink again, you have this loose skin that appears to sag more than it did before," Downey says.

In fact, one 2007 study presented at an American Society of Plastic Surgeons conference exonerated breastfeeding. But it named other culprits that contribute to sagging: larger pre-pregnancy bra cup size, greater number of pregnancies, cigarette smoking (which can weaken skin elasticity), and older age.

As the years go by, breasts become less glandular and fattier, which makes them less firm. Another factor is the stretching of fibrous bands in the breast called Cooper's ligaments. "They're fibrous tissue that holds the breast up a bit, and those can stretch over time, and that leads to some of the sagging, too," Downey says. Hence the term "Cooper's droopers."

Experts tell WebMD you can't do much to slow or prevent sagging. Because the breasts contain no muscles, you can't really exercise your way to a perkier chest.

However, some doctors advise women to wear sports bras during jogging to prevent bouncing that can stretch the ligaments. "Wearing a tight-fitting bra on a regular basis probably doesn't make a big difference," Downey says, "but wearing a bra that prevents a lot of bouncing, like with jogging, probably does minimize stretching of those fibrous bands."

Low Breast Cancer Risk

Breast cancer is uncommon; women aged 30-39 have a risk of only one in 229 of being diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Unless there's a strong family history of breast cancer, women in their 30s don't need mammogram screening. In fact, younger women's denser breast tissue makes it harder to detect breast cancers on mammograms.

However, regular manual breast exams by your doctor are crucial to check for lumps, skin dimpling, and other signs of breast cancer, according to experts.

Furthermore, Downey urges women in their 30s to report lasting breast changes or pain to their doctors. "Many of these things that cause breast pain in young women are going to turn out to be benign, but there are breast cancers that happen in young women," Downey says. "My advice is, just because you're young and you're less likely to have a cancer doesn't mean that you shouldn't get it looked at."

What about doing monthly breast self-exams at home? The American Cancer Society has declared them optional, citing a lack of evidence that they reduce breast cancer deaths. But each doctor who spoke and emphasized that women should still perform breast self-exams monthly -- at the very least -- to familiarize themselves with their breasts so that they can report changes to their doctors.

"It's easy enough ... and there are certainly women out there who find their breast cancers that way," Downey says. "I encourage all women to do breast self-exams and get comfortable with what their breasts feel like."

If you are premenopausal, the ideal time to check your breasts is 5 to10 days after the beginning of your period, Steiner says, before premenstrual lumpiness appears. "That's when you have the least hormonal effect and you're going to have the most accurate exam," she says.
Your Breasts in Your 40s

During the 40s, breast shape continues to change for most women. "As we get older, sort of in a progressive way -- but certainly after menopause -- the breast has less glandular tissue but more fat," Downey says, leading to more sagging.

The Revlon/UCLA Breast Center reports that cysts are the most common type of breast lump seen in women during their 40s, although cysts can develop at other ages as well. These fluid-filled sacs aren't cancerous, but they can be painful. Doctors can drain or surgically remove them.

Cellular hanges like atypical ductal hyperplasia may also begin during this decade, Downey says. These abnormal cells in the milk ducts increase a woman's chances of breast cancer.

The numbers show that breast cancer risk rises during this decade; a woman between the ages of 40 and 49 now has a one in 68 chance of being diagnosed. Therefore, mammogram screening enters the picture.

6 Ways to Wreck Your Blood Sugar Level : What not to do if you have type 2 diabetes.

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Tue, 05 Jul 2011 22:49:00 +0000

Type 2 diabetes is a tough disease. It requires constant vigilance to keep your blood sugar level under control.

It also requires avoiding some common mistakes, many of which are the product of long-held bad habits.

Here are six mistakes that you can learn to avoid.
1. Not Knowing Your Disease

By that he means that you are the one watching your diet, making sure you exercise, and taking your medication on schedule. Understanding how diabetes works will help you make better decisions about how to monitor and manage it. Classes on coping with diabetes are an excellent but underused resource.

“Not enough patients seek them out, and not enough doctors send their patients to them,” Ahmann says.

That’s unfortunate, because not only do they offer essential information; they are often de facto support groups as well, bringing together people who are experiencing the same issues and difficulties and giving them a forum in which to meet and talk with each other.
2. Expecting Too Much Too Soon

One of the biggest hurdles in controlling your blood sugar is sticking to the necessary adjustments you must make to your eating and exercise habits. Many patients become frustrated and give up because they don’t see results right away, says endocrinologist Preethi Srikanthan, MD, assistant clinical professor of medicine at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine.

“Most people expect something dramatic is going to happen right away,” she says. “But it has taken them a decade or two to get to this point, and it will take a while for them to even to get to that initial 5%-10% reduction in weight…These are challenges that must be taken in small steps.”

Expecting too much change right away is a mistake. So is doing too much before you are ready, especially when it comes to exercise, Ahmann says. He advises starting off slowly and easing into the habit.

“If they do more than they can tolerate, they will often quit,” he says. “Or they will do too much and hurt themselves.”

Be sure to talk with your health-care provider before starting a new exercise program, especially if you aren’t already active. He or she can help plan a routine that’s safe and effective, as well as set realistic goals.

3. Going it Alone

There are a lot of resources out there to help you manage your disease. Don’t ignore the fact that one of the most helpful might be right there at home. Spouses, partners, friends, and family members can all make excellent exercise buddies.

“One error that people make when it comes to exercise is that they try to do it on their own without help from other people,” Ahmann says.

There are other advantages to the buddy system. Enlist your spouse or significant other in your efforts to stick your medication schedule and to maintain a healthy diet.

“Eating alone can be a problem,” Ahmann says.
4. Neglecting Other Problems

In her practice, Srikanthan sees a lot of patients who are dealing with more than just their diabetes. Depression and stress are common among people with the disease, and both can have a negative impact on blood sugar levels.

Constant stress, for example, may produce hormones that hamper the ability of insulin to do its job. “Stress should be considered as a significant contributor to glycemic variation by both patients and physicians,” Srikanthan says.

Ahmann agrees.

“Anything to reduce stress will improve your blood sugar,” he says.

Exercise helps relieve stress and there’s evidence that meditation and massage will have benefits on blood sugar levels, says Ahmann.

People with diabetes are twice as likely to be depressed, and an estimated one of every three people with diabetes have symptoms of depression. The lethargy common to depression can be so discouraging that you might give up your efforts to take care of your diabetes. Not only will that make your diabetes worse, it may also intensify your depression, creating a vicious cycle.

There’s good news, though. According to a new study, treating depression in patients with type 2 diabetes improved their mental and physical health.

“You need to recognize depression and work with it,” Srikanthan says.
5. Misunderstanding and Misusing Medications

Ahmann says that many of his patients share a common misconception when it comes to the drugs used to control their disease.

“They think that medications are more powerful than diet and exercise,” he says.

That’s not necessarily true. In many cases, type 2 diabetes can be controlled by a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise without the need for medication.

Among patients who do require medications, Ahmann says, one mistake stands out.

“It’s surprising how many people miss doses,” he says.

That’s a quick way to wreck your blood sugar level, so it’s a problem that needs to be recognized and addressed.

“You need to be honest with your [health care] provider that this is an issue,” says Ahmann, who points out that often the solution is for your doctor to change your dosing schedule to one that better suits you. “There are options.”

6. Making Poor Food Choices

When it comes to food and blood sugar, the big mistake is not the single candy bar that you couldn’t resist, Srikanthan says. The bigger picture matters more; unhealthy eating habits, in the long term, will have a worse effect on your blood sugar.

“People think it’s a one-time diversion, but no, it’s a consistent problem that affects your test results,” she says.

The two biggest hurdles, Srikanthan says, are calories and carbohydrates. You have to control both in order to keep your blood sugar level steady.

“Try to be aware of what’s going into your mouth,” she says.

That means keeping a diet diary to keep track of what you are eating and reading nutrition labels so that you can calculate the proper amounts of the foods you choose to eat.

Living With Insomnia: Get a Good Night's Sleep

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 16:36:00 +0000

A Drink Will Help You Sleep

Myth. Insomnia -- chronic trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep -- can leave you desperate for a good night's rest. Think a cocktail before bed will offer relief? Think again. This myth probably persists because alcohol can help you fall asleep. But as it moves through your body it may lead to disturbed, restless sleep, or it may make you wake earlier

Insomnia Is Strictly Mental

Myth. It's true that psychological issues can cause insomnia. As a matter of fact, stress is the No. 1 reason people report a lack of sleep. But it's not the only insomnia trigger. Many things can cause insomnia, including poor sleep hygiene, illness, drug side effects, chronic pain, restless legs syndrome, or sleep apnea.

Exercise Helps You Sleep

Fact. Regular exercise can be a great way to help stimulate better sleep -- as long as you avoid working out too late. Strenuous exercise can make you more alert. It also increases your body temperature, which may stay elevated for as many as six hours. Steer clear of workouts too close to bedtime. Aim to complete a workout two or three hours before you plan on going to sleep.

Screen Time Helps You Wind Down

Myth. It's tempting to try to wind down by reading on the computer or watching TV before bed, but both can actually stimulate you. The light and noise of TVs and computers can be engaging and can reduce brain melatonin levels. Some studies show that melatonin shortens the time it takes to fall asleep. Need just a little noise to help you drift off? Try listening to relaxing music on the radio, which is less involving.

Sleep Aids Are Risk-Free

Myth. It's true that today's sleeping pills are safer and more effective than many older drugs. But all medications have potential risks, including the risks of dependency. Always talk to your doctor before using sleeping pills. Some sleep aids can help relieve insomnia symptoms temporarily. They can't cure insomnia. Resolving underlying health issues and addressing your sleep environment is often the best approach to insomnia.

You Can Make Up For Lost Sleep

Myth. It's unlikely that you can fully catch up on sleep you've lost. Sleeping in one or two days a week or over the weekend may actually upset your natural body clock. The disruption may make it harder to get to sleep the next time. The only way to catch up on lost sleep is to get back into a regular sleep schedule.

Napping Helps Offset Insomnia

Myth. The helpfulness of naps often depends on the person and the nap. For some people, a brief 10- to 20-minute nap taken midday can be refreshing. For many people with insomnia, however, a late afternoon nap can decrease the brain’s sleep drive.

You'll Learn to Need Less Sleep

Myth. Believing this myth can be fatal. Everyone is born with a set sleep need. Most adults need at least eight hours. You can learn to get by on less sleep, but you can't train your body to need less sleep. If you're sleep deprived, you might not be able to pay attention or remember things. Being chronically tired can have serious consequences, including poor work performance and an increased risk of accidents.

Get Out of Bed If You Can't Sleep

Fact. Tossing and turning for a half hour or more in bed? It's OK to get up to read or listen to relaxing music. A quiet activity can help you relax and feel sleepy. Staying in bed may lead to frustration and clock-watching. Over time, you may associate your bed with wakefulness, not rest. Serious health conditions have been associated with chronic lack of sleep, including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, heart attack, and stroke.

You Can Train Yourself to Sleep

Fact. You can train your body to associate certain restful behaviors with sleep. The key, of course, is consistency. Read for an hour or take a warm bath before bed. Maybe meditating or daydreaming will help you drop off to sleep. Find what works for you, and then make those rituals a regular part of preparing for bed every night.

Sleep Problems Go Away on Their Own

Myth. Until you know what's causing your insomnia -- whether it's stress, medication, illness, or another issue -- don't expect it to disappear on its own. If you've had problems getting to sleep or staying asleep, or if you’re consistently tired after a night’s sleep, you may have a sleep disorder, and it's time talk to your doctor about treatment.

A Visual Guide to Asthma

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Sat, 04 Jun 2011 15:06:00 +0000

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a lung disorder that interferes with breathing. It can cause serious, recurring episodes of wheezing and breathlessness, known as asthma attacks. The trouble stems from chronic inflammation in the tubes that carry air to the lungs. While there is no cure, there are highly effective strategies for keeping asthma symptoms at bay.

Symptoms of an Asthma Attack

Symptoms of an asthma attack include:

    Wheezing
    Coughing that won’t stop
    Shortness of breath
    Tightness in the chest

    You are too breathless to walk or talk.
    Your lips or fingernails look blue.
    Using a rescue inhaler doesn’t help.
These are signs that your body is not getting enough oxygen. Emergency treatment can help open the airways and restore oxygen levels.

Asthma Early Warning Signs

Sometimes asthma causes more subtle symptoms that don’t interrupt your daily activities. But these can be warning signs that a full-blown asthma attack is imminent. Red flags to watch for include frequent coughing (especially at night), difficulty sleeping, unexplained fatigue, and feeling out of breath.

What Causes an Asthma Attack?

In people with asthma, the airways are chronically inflamed. Certain triggers can make the inflammation worse and cause a narrowing of the airways. At the same time, the body may produce extra mucus that clogs the airways. These changes work together to restrict the flow of air to the lungs. As too little air gets through, wheezing and breathlessness occur.

Asthma Triggers: Allergies

Allergens that can trigger an asthma attack include:

    Mold
    Dust mites
    Cockroaches
    Pollen from trees or flowers
    Foods such as peanuts, eggs, fish
If pollen is one of your triggers, you’ll probably notice your asthma symptoms are worse at certain times of year.

Asthma Triggers: Pets

Pet allergies are another common asthma trigger. The problem is dander – dead skin cells that collect on clothing, furniture, and walls. When pet dander is inhaled, it can cause an asthma attack in as little as 15 minutes. People with cat allergies react to a protein in the cat's saliva, skin, and urine. This protein accumulates in the air or on surfaces and can trigger asthma attacks in 20 to 30 percent of people with asthma.

Asthma Triggers: Air Pollution

Outdoor and indoor air pollution can make asthma symptoms worse. Top irritants include smog, cigarette smoke, paint fumes, and even hairspray. These are known as non-allergic asthma triggers. They don’t cause an allergic reaction, but can prompt an asthma attack by irritating the airways

Asthma Triggers: Exercise

The health benefits of regular exercise are extensive and well-documented. But physical activity can also trigger asthma symptoms in many people. This is sometimes called exercise-induced asthma. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean you have to give up exercise. There are ways to control asthma so it won’t interfere with the activities you enjoy.

Asthma Triggers: Weather

People with asthma may notice that symptoms get worse during certain types of weather. When the temperature drops, the chances of having an asthma attack may go up. Other triggers include air that is extremely humid or very dry.

Who Gets Asthma?

Asthma can appear at any age, but it typically develops during childhood. Those most at risk include people with allergies or a family history of asthma. Having a parent with asthma makes children three to six times more likely to develop the condition. Gender also plays a role. Asthma is more common in boys during childhood but in women during adulthood.

Occupational Asthma

Certain types of jobs can raise your risk of developing asthma as an adult. This includes working in a factory or other environment where you are routinely exposed to certain chemicals or industrial dusts.

Asthma and Obesity

Asthma is also more common in people who are overweight or obese. In a review of seven studies, researchers found asthma to be twice as common in obese adults and 38 percent more common in overweight adults, compared to people with a healthy BMI.

Asthma Rates on the Rise

Asthma rates have been rising steadily in the U.S. for decades. Some researchers suggest this is the result of better hygiene, which has reduced the number of childhood infections. The theory is that fewer infections may mean a less well-developed immune system, and an increased risk of asthma. Other possible explanations are the increased use of household cleaning sprays, the decreased use of aspirin, and lower levels of vitamin D.

Managing Asthma: Avoiding Triggers

The first step in controlling asthma is to identify and avoid your triggers. This may mean staying indoors when the smog index is high or getting special bedding to combat dust mites. The most effective way to fight allergens in the home is to remove the source, which may include pets, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Dusting regularly and using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter may also help.

Managing Asthma: Allergy Shots

If you can’t avoid some of the allergens that cause your asthma attacks, your doctor may recommend allergy shots. These shots help desensitize you to particular triggers and may lessen your asthma symptoms. An allergist can help determine which shots are right for you.

Managing Asthma: Long-Term Medication

It is virtually impossible for people with asthma to avoid all their triggers all the time. For this reason, many people need to take daily medication to prevent asthma attacks. Inhaled corticosteroids are the most common medication for the long-term control of asthma. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, making them less sensitive to irritants in the air.

Quick Relief for Asthma Attacks

Even with the use of long-term medication, asthma symptoms sometimes flare up. When this happens, you’ll need another type of inhaler to provide quick relief. Short-acting beta2-agonists are the most common choice. These rescue inhalers quickly relax the tightened muscles around the airways, restoring the flow of air to the lungs. Most asthma attacks respond to this medication, eliminating the need for a hospital visit.

Using a Peak Flow Meter

To determine whether your asthma is under control, your doctor will probably recommend using a peak flow meter. You blow into the device, and it measures how well air is moving out of your lungs. Changes in your peak flow score can help warn you that an asthma attack might occur soon.

Asthma Action Plan

Most people with asthma are able to keep the condition under control. The key is to play an active role in developing a treatment strategy. Sit down with your doctor to develop an asthma action plan.This plan will identify your triggers, list your daily medications, and outline what to do when you have a flare-up. By following the plan (and adjusting it when needed), you may be able to eliminate most of your asthma symptoms.

The Healthy Wonders of Water: Water Tips for Efficient Exercise

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Sat, 28 May 2011 09:15:00 +0000

When trainer Amanda Carlson did a study on college football players preparing for a major NFL scouting event, she found that 98% of them were dehydrated at the beginning of their morning evaluation.

“Your ability to perform athletically can decline with a very small amount of dehydration,” says Carlson, director of performance nutrition for Athletes’ Performance, which trains many of the world’s top athletes. “Just losing 2% of your body weight in fluid can decrease performance by up to 25%.”

Whether you’re an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, drinking water during exercise is essential if you want to get the most out of your workout and feel good while you’re doing it.
The Dangers of Dehydration

“When you’re working out, you’re more likely to be losing water, both through your breath and through sweat,” says Renee Melton, MS, RD, LD, director of nutrition for Sensei, a developer of online and mobile weight loss and nutrition programs. “If you start out dehydrated, you won’t get a good workout. You’ll get dizzy, lethargic, your muscles won’t work as well, you won’t feel as sharp mentally, and you’ll get cramps sooner.”

That’s because water helps your body to exercise efficiently. It lubricates your entire body -- without it, you’re like the Tin Man without his oil. It’s a vital part of the many chemical reactions in the body. “If these reactions slow down then tissues heal slower, muscle recovery is slower and the body is not functioning at 100% efficiency,” says Trent Nessler, PT, DPT, MPT, managing director of Baptist Sports Medicine in Nashville.
The Benefits of Adequate Water

By contrast, a well-hydrated athlete feels stronger and can work out longer and more effectively. “The heart does not have to work as hard to pump blood to the body, and oxygen and nutrients can be transported more efficiently to the muscles you’re working during exercise,” Nessler says. That means you’re going to have more energy, and the same exercises you struggled with when dehydrated will seem much easier.

But research has found that even experienced athletes don’t do a very good job at estimating their fluid needs. In one study, seasoned runners participating in a 10-mile race drastically underestimated how much sweat they lost and consequently drank too little to stay well hydrated. The runners underestimated their sweat losses by an average of 46% and their fluid intake by an average of 15%, resulting in the runners replacing only 30% of their fluids lost through sweat.
How Much Water Do You Need?

So how much water should you drink before, during, and after a workout? First, make sure you’re well hydrated to begin with. Drink fluids throughout the day before you exercise. Then follow this formula from Melton:

    One to two hours before your workout, drink 15 to 20 ounces of water
    15 minutes before you begin, drink between 8 and 10 ounces of water
    During your workout, drink another 8 ounces every 15 minutes.

You may need to drink more if you’re sweating heavily, especially if you’re exercising outdoors in very hot weather.

Carlson also recommends that you weigh yourself before and after any type of exercise. “For every pound lost, replace it with 16 to 20 ounces of fluid,” she suggests. If you lose weight during the workout, drink a bit more next time.

Many people like to use sports drinks during a workout, but that’s generally not necessary unless you’re working out for an extended period of time. “Most people who are working out for less than an hour at a time can get everything they need with just water,” Melton says.
Can You Drink Too Much Water?

It’s possible to drink too much water, but difficult to do. There is a condition called hyponatremia, usually found in endurance athletes. With hyponatremia, the blood becomes excessively diluted from too much water and sodium levels drop to dangerously low levels. This can lead to nausea, headaches, confusion, fatigue, and in extreme cases, coma and death.

But you’d have to drink gallons of water to suffer hyponatremia -- enough to gain weight over the course of a workout, which is rare.

Just make sure you have a full water bottle handy and drink whenever you feel thirsty. If you weren’t getting enough water during workouts before, you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel.

Is Your Mouth Fit for Kissing? : Reasons You're Not Kissable

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Sat, 28 May 2011 08:50:00 +0000

Cold Sores
Also called fever blisters, you don’t get cold sores from fevers or colds but they can be triggered by them. The virus that causes cold sores is usually passed via a kiss, shared utensils, or other close contact. OTC creams and ointments may help discomfort and speed healing. Frequent sores may require a prescription. Cold sores are a top mouth problem. Other problems include canker sores, TMJ, bad breath, and mouth cancer.

Thrush
Caused by candida yeast, thrush is most common in older adults or babies. But a weakened immune system, antibiotics, diabetes or certain medications such as inhaled corticosteroids can give candida a chance to grow wild. Wiping away the patches will cause soreness. See a doctor for a firm diagnosis.

Black Hairy Tongue
This painless condition occurs when the little bumps on your tongue grow long and trap bacteria that live in your mouth -- making your tongue look black and hairy. Causes can include antibiotic use, poor oral hygiene, smoking, drinking a lot of tea or coffee, and not producing enough saliva. Brushing your tongue and using a tongue scraper is usually all you need to treat it, though sometimes medication is necessary.

Canker Sores
No one knows what causes these small, painful blisters inside your mouth. Triggers include hypersensitivity, infection, hormones, stress, and not getting enough of some vitamins. Also called aphthous ulcers, canker sores can show up on your tongue, cheek, even gums. They usually last a week or two. Persistent, severe canker sores can be treated with numbing creams or prescription treatments.

Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia is a reaction to an irritant, like rough teeth, badly fitting dentures, smoking, and smokeless tobacco. It can show up as white patches or plaques in the mouth, usually is painless, and can’t be scraped off. Leukoplakia can also be a precancerous condition. Persistent patches or other changes in your mouth need a dentist’s evaluation.

Lichen Planus
A rare rash that shows up as lacy, white patches or red shiny bumps on the inside of the cheeks or tongue could be lichen planus. No one knows what causes it. Generally, mild lichen planus doesn’t need any treatment. If it causes pain or ulcers, it can be treated with oral and topical medication. Oral lichen planus can be chronic and may increase the risk for oral cancer. Lichen planus can also affect skin, scalp, nails, and genitals.

Geographic Tongue
When parts of your tongue are missing some of their small bumps, you end up with raised and lowered spots, giving your tongue a map-like appearance. The spots can change location, pattern, and size within minutes to hours. Geographic tongue is harmless and can come and go. It usually doesn’t need any treatment. If there’s pain, over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help.

Mouth Cancer
A mouth sore that doesn’t go away. Unexplained numbness in the face, mouth, or neck. Problems chewing, speaking or swallowing. These are a few symptoms of mouth cancer. Causes can include smoking cigarettes and using smokeless tobacco, drinking heavily, overexposure to the sun, and a family history of cancer. Don’t let fear keep you from the doctor -- oral cancer that is caught early is treatable and curable.

TMJ
A problem with the jaw called temporomandibular joint syndrome can cause severe pain in the jaw, face, ear, or neck. Clenching, tooth grinding, or injury can all cause TMJ, but the results are often the same: pain, headaches, dizziness, even trouble swallowing. Treatment may involve rest, a mouth guard, medication, or surgery.

Chipped Teeth
Munching on ice or hard candies, grinding or clenching teeth, even exposing teeth to heat and cold can lead to chips, cracks, and breaks in your teeth. Tiny chips or cracks may not be a bother. But anything more could lead to pain or permanent tooth damage. Your dentist can offer dental bonding, tooth contouring, porcelain veneers, and crowns to fix badly damaged teeth.

Amalgam Tattoo
Ever notice a small blue-gray “stain” in a soft part of your mouth after dental work? Called amalgam tattoos, they occur when a tiny piece of amalgam filling gets embedded in your cheek or gum. The silver in the amalgam leaches into your mouth’s soft tissue, resulting in what looks a bit like a tiny tattoo. Amalgam tattoos pose no harm. But if the blue-gray spot grows or changes color, that’s not an amalgam tattoo. Ask your dentist to check it out.

Periodontal Disease
With periodontal disease like gingivitis, bacteria in plaque can cause receding gum lines. Pockets form that become infected and can cause bone loss. Proper oral hygiene can help prevent periodontal disease. Smoking, poor diet, and stress can make it worse. See your dentist to treat receding gums.

Gum Disease
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums could be gingivitis, which can cause teeth to loosen and fall out. Also called gum disease, gingivitis – a form of periodontal disease -- can happen when an illness, medication, plaque, or other problem leaves gums vulnerable to bacterial infection. Prevention is the best strategy. That means daily flossing and brushing, as well as regular dental visits. Severe gingivitis may require antibiotics.

Aspirin Burn
Ever let an aspirin nestle in your cheek, near an aching tooth? While you may hope this relieves pain faster, instead the acid in the aspirin burns a white, rough lesion into your gums or cheek. Preventing aspirin burn is simple -- swallow those pain relievers! Treatment for aspirin burn is just as basic: Time. Simple burns should heal in about two weeks.

Cavities, Abcesses, Discoloration
Flossing and brushing daily and regular dental checkups help prevent problems like cavities, abscesses, and tooth discoloration. Don’t mess around with a severe toothache. Dental infections can spread to the face, skull, and even to the bloodstream. See your dentist as soon as possible if your toothache lasts longer than 1 or 2 days or if you have a fever, earache, or pain when you open your mouth wide.
Bad Breath
Unbrushed teeth have food particles around them that promote bacteria and cause bad breath. Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth may be from continuous breathing through your mouth, dry mouth, a sign of gum disease, or even diabetes. Fight bad breath by brushing your teeth and tongue, drinking water, and avoiding food triggers. See your dentist if bad breath persists.

The Real Cause of Cardiovascular Disease And The Benefits of Chelation Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 19 May 2011 20:47:00 +0000

I have spent over 35 years researching chelation therapy (CT), trying to determine how and why it helps patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). I strongly believe that some form of CT should be a part of the treatment for anyone with CVD. My knowledge of CT has permitted me to safely advise against all bypass operations on my patients for over 30 years.

I knew that this was working, but I jumped to the wrong conclusion: I thought that somehow CT must be reversing plaque, never dreaming that removing heavy metals could bring these benefits. My error probably set back the widespread acceptance of CT by decades, as knowledgeable invasive cardiologists often found that serious "obstructing" plaque was still present after CT.

I have since identified over 30 mechanisms of action of EDTA. Any one or all of these working synergistically can explain why over 80% of patients get both subjective and objective improvement. However, it is still not possible to predict when sometimes more-dramatic benefits will occur, including occasional rapid saving of gangrenous legs, reversal of heart disease or blindness, or the occasional autistic child who within hours recovers speech. Since we have poisoned our planet, I believe that heavy metal detoxification is a big part of the explanation for the benefits seen, even in nonexposed patients. All causes of morbidity and mortality have been shown to relate to how low lead levels are kept throughout life.

There is no magic program that can remove all of our heavy metals or other toxins overnight. We need several years to decrease the body burden of lead, as bones will remodel over a period of 15 years. I recommend continuous use of one or more aids to detoxification such as chelators, high-dose vitamin C, fiber, lipoic acid, zeolite, saunas, and daily exercise. These all provide benefits that greatly exceed any risks involved. For example, the various claims about chelation toxicity, such as harming the kidneys, although possible, are greatly exaggerated. In fact, repeated EDTA infusions often postpone indefinitely the need to start dialysis for many patients in early renal failure.

Due to my own CVD, I have intensively studied all aspects of it for most of the 50-plus years of medical practice. I have a complex medical history with lifelong heart disease issues that by age 29 had become nearly disabling; I avoided most physical activities until I was well in my 30s. When I first chelated, it was with with great results: hours after my eighth intravenous EDTA treatment, I felt like Superman! I could for the first time in my life run uphill without a racing heart, or chest pain, or fatigue.

I have acquired and reviewed thousands of articles and books about chelation and heavy metals; I have treated hundreds of patients, and seen many dramatic responses, yet I warn my patients that CT does not predictably by itself decrease plaque. However, improved blood flow happens in over 80% of patients. With more treatment and improved compliance with my "FIGHT" Program (Food, Infection, Genetics, Heavy metals/Hormones, Toxins), over 95% will improve, even if the angiograms report that plaque size has increased. This experience and my radiology training confirm the limitation of angiograms, which fail to identify the existence of collateral circulation, as seen with a PET scan.

Obstructing plaque or vascular calcium scores may appear worse after CT, yet the patient has dramatic subjective and objective improvement, and is now winning in competitive sports. I prefer noninvasive tests that more accurately assess the true status. They are useful and can motivate patients to try harder, as a poor response may just be a patient's failing to address all risk factors

In my own case, I had a mouthful of amalgam fillings, and part of my dramatic early response was due to removing heavy metals, which we now know interfere with healthy enzyme function and thus impair nitric oxide levels. Improved nitric oxide function is another reason for the predictable improvement in blood flow seen with all noninvasive measurements, including segmental blood pressures, thermography, plethesmography, Bio Clip, and multifunction ECG.

Researchers at California Institute of Technology have shown that average bone lead levels today are 1000 times higher than a few hundred years ago. Studies at Harvard have shown that higher bone lead contributes to cataract formation and 6 times more heart attacks. I conclude from my 35-year review of literature and worldwide attendance at environmental, anti-aging, ACAM (American College for Advancement in Medicine), and related conferences that we cannot reach our maximum intended useful lifespan or enjoy truly optimal health unless we are continuously detoxing.

Soft tissue lead stores are readily mobilizable, whereas bone lead is not, since bones take 15 years to remodel. While detoxing bones, we are still breathing in heavy metals as particulate matter from coal-burning for power, as well as taking in lead every day from our water, food, and air. This has made safe, convenient oral detoxification daily for life so essential today.

Frequent consumption of fish leads to mercury toxicity, and lead makes mercury more toxic, so we develop symptoms that are not cured by drugs. Genetics is involved, whereby some people after eating fish excrete mercury efficiently in 40 days, while others require 140 days.

There is no simple solution that meets all our detoxification needs, as we must deal also with organics. Some newer forms of zeolite work well for mercury, as well as for some organic toxins. I recommend regular use of one or more of the following detox measures: parenteral or oral EDTA, DMSA, DMPS, zeolite, greens, maca, garlic, vitamin C, fiber (as stabilized rice bran or modified citrus pectin), NAC, lipoic acid, exercise, sweating, saunas, and organic foods.

Dr. Rodger L. Bick, as a world expert on thrombosis, stated that blood clots kill over 3 million in the US alone each year, but are usually just called heart attacks or strokes, which occur when the vulnerable plaque ruptures.

My patients are shown a five-minute video of a vulnerable plaque breaking open and exposing subintimal tissues, which leads to the formation of a fatal blood clot. This graphic helps them understand that their supplement program is essential for life. Noninvasive vascular tests such as a new vascular age test, the Bio Clip, and the new multifunction EKG that is better than angiograms permit patients to see improvement and help me fine-tune the program when improvement is not adequate.

I rely on the textbook The Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaque for what I think is the best explanation of how and why death occurs from heart disease. (It took the American Heart Association many years to publish this.) I use this text, plus my professional experience and knowledge, to challenge most of the current dogma regarding the etiology and treatment of CVD. As a result, I routinely advise against all invasive procedures including angiograms, stents, and bypass surgery, as my program has a better risk-benefit ratio.

I explain the basic heart support program I use for patients in "The End of Heart Attacks Is in Sight," a guest chapter for Tony O'Donnell's latest book. Lester Morrison, MD, PhD, developed this approach to heart disease after he concluded that cholesterol was not the primary problem. Blood clots kill and heparin prevents clots, so he set out to develop a safe alternative to Coumadin and heparin. He spent $10 million doing the research that led to his nutritional program that modifies viscosity and clotting. He found a combination of several nutrients that act synergistically with his special mucopolysaccarides to help reverse arteriosclerosis and stop heart attacks.

Dr. Morrison's two published studies reported an average 91% reduction in fatal heart attacks using his institute formula. The addition of EDTA made it far more effective and led to its incorporation into oral packets of nine pills. These packets include a strong multivitamin, a capsule each of omega-3 and primrose oil, a phosphatidyl serine with Gingko biloba, and three capsules containing the EDTA-enhanced institute formula. This combination has been shown to lower viscosity using rheological testing. This is one reason that the packets help prevent fatal blood clots. Due to its weak benefits and side effects, I prefer these nine pills to aspirin, which I usually discontinue.

EDTA does much more than lower the body burden of toxic metals. The Morrison Institute Formula helps prevent clots, and EDTA enhances its anticoagulant effects. I focus on lowering blood viscosity and hypercoagulability, partly by lowering inflammation through diet and lowering total body burden of pathogens with oral advanced silver or other oxidative therapies.

In the years since Dr. Morrison's research was done, other nutrients such as vitamin D, resveratrol, vitamin K2 have become recognized and may now be part of the oral chelation packets. I have found that the nine-pill packets taken twice a day have virtually eliminated all fatal heart attacks and/or strokes in my patients for over 20 years now.

Ideally, most patients would also benefit from many other nutrients, such as CoQ10, carnitine, lipoic acid, acidophilus, and NAC; but due to cost, these are optional and taken separately along with other nutrients used by metabolic cardiologists.

Also, based on history or prior blood clot and/or lab tests results (for example with Leiden 5), I will recommend adding additional natural enzyme-based anticoagulant protection such as nattokinase, Wobenzym, or preferably lumbrokinase(Boluoke).

Intracellular magnesium levels are relatively deficient in most chronic illnesses, partly because inflammation leads to increased intracellular calcium, which results in a relative magnesium deficiency. I often recommend the use of a series of weekly IV Myers cocktails, initially to provide magnesium and B vitamins, since even aggressive oral magnesium supplementation fails for a while, as it is poorly absorbed.

Lowering lead levels benefits almost anyone. Doctor's Data found that calcium EDTA removes more lead than disodium EDTA per infusion. Thus I recommend a short series of IV calcium EDTA, which is painless, so it is often administered by chelation doctors over a 5- to 10-minute infusion time in place of the standard 3-hour infusion of disodium EDTA. Calcium EDTA may be given alone or as a mini-infusion with Myers or separately, one after the other directly from a syringe.

On my website forum, FACT (Forum on Anti-aging and Chelation Therapy), members report that they like this approach to chelation, as the results are comparable or even better and the process no longer ties up a room for hours. Patients like it since they do not lose a day's work and will come in weekly for a time, and then monthly. This provides an opportunity to check their vitals, review their supplement programs, and reinforce the need to follow the total FIGHT Program.

I wrote the original protocol for the safe use of IV chelation 37 year ago, which was subsequently officially adopted by ACAM. Since then millions have been safely treated. Now with our improved understanding of the risk factors and the multifactorial aspects of CVD, I use the acronym FIGHT. I direct patients to my website (www.gordonresearch.com) to learn more and watch webinars on each of those topics. I also record every consultation and e-mail the digital copy to them so that they can review all of my recommendations anytime. That protects everyone: since I am routinely advising against bypass surgery, statins, and Coumadin, they have the recording, which explains why I believe that the benefit-to-risk ratio is better with my program, as it has proven extremely effective in showing low morbidity and mortality for over 20 years.

Since infection/inflammation is always involved in CVD, I often recommend a course with a well-documented advanced silver product that safely lowers the total body burden of all pathogens including cytomegalovirus, Coxsackie, Chlamydia, Candida, and Lyme. Also I routinely recommend 8 to 12 g of a high-dose, well-tolerated, powdered vitamin C delivery system that includes nutrients for methylation support. I also use sublingual B12 along with 5-MTHF.

If vascular testing shows high calcium scores, I recommend therapeutic levels of K2 to help reverse vascular calcification. This also requires stopping bone loss, so I add exercise, vitamin D, and a safe natural alternative to bioidentical hormone therapy: HRT Plus, a SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulator) beta from Thailand that also has proven anticancer effects, so it is safe for lifetime use. I explain how long-term management of CVD requires preventing calcium accumulation in arteries and that maintaining strong bones helps decrease vascular calcification and leads to soft, flexible arteries. High-dose calcium supplements alone are not the answer, since by age 80 the average person has 140 times too much calcium in his aorta.

I have attended hundreds of conferences hoping to improve my CV health and that of my patients. I share my information freely, as do the over 2300 health-professional members of FACT. Members can search any topic, such as the use of calcium EDTA or alternatives to Coumadin, and retrieve the latest information from the ever-growing shared database. Also if necessary, members may get a free "curbside consultation" about a patient or an issue, but only after you have exhausted your own review so that questions are not repetitive. I hope that you will visit the FACT forum website at http://promed.gordonresearch.com/factforum/index.php, and register and join us. I believe that you will find your practice becomes exciting and fun again.

The Healthy Wonders of Water : 7 Wonders of Water

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Wed, 04 May 2011 07:24:00 +0000

Stay Slimmer With Water

Trying to lose weight? Water revs up metabolism and helps you feel full.

Replace calorie-laden beverages with water, and drink a glass before meals to help you feel fuller.

Drinking more water also helps amp up metabolism - especially if your glass is icy cold. Your body must work to warm the water up, burning a few extra calories in the process.

Water Boosts Your Energy

If you’re feeling drained and depleted, get a pick-me-up with water. Dehydration makes you feel fatigued.

Water helps the blood transport oxygen and other essential nutrients to your cells.

If you’re getting enough water, your heart also doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood throughout your body

.

Lower Stress With Water

85% of your brain tissue is water. If you’re dehydrated, both your body and your mind will be stressed.

If you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already a little dehydrated.

To keep stress levels down, keep a glass of water at your desk or tote a sports bottle and sip regularly.

Build Muscle Tone With Water

Drinking water helps prevent muscle cramping and lubricates joints in the body.

When you’re well hydrated, you can exercise longer and stronger without "hitting the wall."

Nourish Your Skin

Fine lines and wrinkles are deeper when you’re dehydrated. Water is nature’s own beauty cream.

Drinking water hydrates skin cells and plumps them up, making your face look younger.

It also flushes out impurities and improves circulation and blood flow, leaving your face clean, clear, and glowing.

Stay Regular With Water

Along with fiber, water is essential to good digestion.

Water helps dissolve waste particles and passes them smoothly through your digestive tract.

If you’re dehydrated, your body absorbs all the water, leaving your colon dry and making it more difficult to pass waste.

Water Reduces Kidney Stones

The rate of painful kidney stones is rising because people - including children - aren't drinking enough water.

Water dilutes the salts and minerals in your urine that form the solid crystals known as kidney stones.

Kidney stones can't form in diluted urine, so reduce your risk with plenty of water!

Are You Drinking Enough Water?

Generally, nutritionists recommend we follow the "8x8 rule."

Drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

You may need more water if you exercise or sweat heavily.

You may need less water if you drink other beverages often.

Gender Bending Chemicals in Food Packaging Linked To Breathing Problems in Babies

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Mon, 02 May 2011 14:58:00 +0000

A gender-bending chemical found in food packaging is linked to breathing problems in young babies, researchers have found.
A study showed pregnant mothers with the highest levels of bisphenol A in their bodies were twice as likely to have babies who suffer from wheezing in their first six months.
Wheezing in babies can be a symptom of lung damage, asthma, bronchitis, allergies or an infection.
Bisphenol A, or BPA, which is used to harden plastics, is one of the world’s most widely manufactured chemicals and can be found in dozens of everyday items including baby bottles, CD cases and food and drink packaging.

If you use water bottles or plastic of any kind (#3, #7, etc), conventionally packed products of any kind or cans and insulated cartons of any kind, chances are you have been exposed to BPA.

Human studies have found BPA in many tissues and fluids, including urine, blood, breast milk, the amniotic fluid of pregnant women and the antral fluid of mature follicles. A national survey conducted by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2003-2004 found BPA in 93 percent of the 2,517 people (age 6 and up) who were tested.
Because the chemical mimics oestrogen, many scientists believe it interferes with the way hormones are processed by the body.

Previous research from North Carolina State University and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) showed significant reproductive health effects in rats that have been exposed to bisphenol-A (BPA) at levels equivalent to or below the dose that has been thought not to produce any adverse effects.
Although several animal studies have shown it to be safe, others have linked Bisphenol A to breast cancer, liver damage, obesity, diabetes and fertility problems.
The latest U.S. study looked at the BPA levels of 367 pregnant women, with researchers at Penn State College of Medicine measuring levels of the chemical in expectant mothers in the 16th and 26th week of pregnancy.
They found 99 per cent of women had measurable levels of the chemical in their bodies – and those with the highest levels in their 16th week were twice as likely to have babies who wheezed at six months old than women with the lowest levels.
However, the study also found that high concentrations of BPA at 26 weeks and at birth were not connected to the condition.
Some experts suggest exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals causes the most harm during a crucial window of development early on in pregnancy, and believe women of child-bearing age should avoid products containing BPA.
Elizabeth Salter-Green, director of the Chemicals, Health and Environment Monitoring Trust, said: ‘This new research adds further weight to the need to reduce our exposure to this chemical, particularly pregnant women.
It is the foetus developing in utero that is most vulnerable to BPA exposures.’
Last year Denmark became the first country in the EU to ban BPA in packaging for food and drink aimed at under-threes, while the EU itself voted to ban it from baby bottles last year. Canada and three U.S. states have also introduced restrictions.
Adam J. Spanier, lead author of the study, which was presented at a conference in the U.S. yesterday, called for more research into BPA

What Men Want Women to Know

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Sat, 23 Apr 2011 19:10:00 +0000

Men Will Talk About Feelings

Was your guy raised as a traditional, stoic, man's man? If so, let me walk you through 18 relationship secrets, gathered from psychologists who study gender roles. Secret No. 1: It may be easier for your man to talk about feelings indirectly. Ask what he'd do during a romantic weekend. Or what he thought the first time he met you. His answers will reveal how he feels and bring you closer.

Men Say "I Love You" With Actions

Some men prefer to express their feelings through actions rather than words. Your guy may say "I love you" by fixing things around the house, tidying up the yard, or even taking out the trash -- anything that makes your world a better place.

Men Take Commitment Seriously

Men have a reputation for being afraid to commit. But the evidence suggests men take marriage seriously. They may take longer to commit because they want to make sure they are onboard for good. In a survey of currently married men, 90% say they would marry the same woman again.

He Really Is Listening

When you're listening to someone talk, you probably pipe in with a "yes" or "I see" every now and then. It's your way of saying, "I'm listening." But some guys don't do this. Just because a man isn't saying anything doesn't mean he's not listening. He may prefer to listen quietly and think about what you're saying.

Shared Activities Form Bonds

Men strengthen their relationships primarily through shared activities more than by sharing thoughts or feelings. For many men, activities like sports and sex make them feel closer to their partner.

Men Need Time for Themselves

While shared activities are important, men also need time for themselves. Whether your guy enjoys golf, gardening, or working out at the gym, encourage him to pursue his hobbies, while you make time for your own. When both partners have space to nurture their individuality, they have more to give to each other.

Men Learn From Their Fathers

If you want to know how a man will act in a relationship, get to know his dad. Some say men learn about their relationship role by watching and listening to their fathers. How they are with each other and how the father relates to the mother can predict how a man will relate to his wife.

Men Let Go Faster Than Women

Women tend to remember negative experiences longer and may have lingering feelings of stress, anxiety, or sadness. In contrast, men are less likely to dwell on unpleasant events and tend to move on more quickly. So while you may still want to talk about last night's argument, your guy may have already forgotten about it.

Men Don't Pick Up on Subtle Cues

Men are more likely to miss subtle signals like tone of voice or facial expressions. And they are especially likely to miss sadness on a woman's face. If you want to make sure your guy gets the message, be direct.

Men Think About Sex ... A Lot

OK, so maybe this one is no secret. The majority of men under age 60 think about sex at least once a day, compared with only a quarter of women. And that's not all. Men fantasize about sex nearly twice as often as women do, and their fantasies are much more varied. They also think more about casual sex than women do. But thinking is not the same as doing.

Men Find Sex Significant

It's a myth that most men think sex is just sex. For many, sex is a very important act between two committed people. And just like most women, men find sexual intimacy to be most satisfying in the context of a committed relationship. One reason is that long-term partners know how to please one another better than strangers do.

He Likes It When You Initiate Sex

Most guys feel as though they're the ones who always initiate sex. But they also like to be pursued and wish their partner would take the lead more often. Don't be shy about letting your guy know you're in the mood. Initiating sex some of the time may lead to a higher level of satisfaction for both of you.

Guys Aren't Always Up for Sex

Men, much to many women's surprise, aren't always in the mood for sex. Just like women, men are often stressed by the demands of work, family, and paying the bills. And stress is a big libido crusher. When a guy says, "not tonight," it doesn't mean he's lost interest in you. He just means he doesn't want to have sex right then.

Men Like Pleasing Their Partner

Your pleasure is important to your man. But he won't know what you want unless you tell him. Too many women feel uncomfortable talking about what they like and don't like. If you can tell him clearly in a way that doesn't bruise his ego, he'll listen. Because he knows he'll feel good if you feel good.

Guys Get Performance Anxiety

Most men get performance anxiety on occasion, especially as they age. Your guy may worry about his physique, technique, and stamina. If you can help him learn to relax and stay focused on the pleasures of the moment, sex will become less stressful.

Men May Stray When Needs Aren't Met

If a man doesn't feel loved and appreciated in his relationship, he may turn elsewhere for satisfaction. For one man, that may mean burying himself in work. Another may develop a fixation on sports or video games. And some men cheat. To avoid this, partners need to work together to meet each other's needs.

He's Vested in You

Most men realize there's a lot to lose if a long-term relationship goes sour – not just each other's company, but the entire life you've built together. If you're willing to work to strengthen your marriage, chances are your man will be, too.

What is alcohol?

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 06:06:00 +0000

Alcohol is thought to be responsible for 34,000 deaths in the UK each year because of the damage it does to the body, plus many more deaths due to the indirect effect of alcohol on others.

Alcohol is a sedative hypnotic drug that depresses the central nervous system, making you feel more relaxed.
Most adults in the UK drink alcohol moderately and on a social basis and derive a lot of pleasure from doing so.
However, about one in five men and one in seven women regularly drink more than the Department of Health suggests is strictly safe for good health. This is up to two to three units of alcohol a day for women and up to three to four units of alcohol a day for men, to a maximum of 14 units a week for women and 21 units a week for men. A unit of alcohol is equivalent to half a pint of ordinary strength beer, a small glass of wine or a single pub measure of spirits.

Short-term effects of alcohol

The short-term effects of alcohol are dependent on the amount consumed and can vary enormously from person to person and from one situation to another.
The main effect is on the brain, which can result in:

Slurred speech
Loss of coordination
Unsteadiness when standing or walking
Impaired attention and judgement
Loss of inhibition
Sleep

Relatively low doses of alcohol relax the user, make them more talkative and animated. Larger doses lead to uncoordinated movement, impaired decision-making and sedation.
The depressive effects of alcohol on normal brain function - especially those causing impaired judgement - are the main reasons it's always best to avoid alcohol when driving and never to exceed the limit.

Long-term effects of alcohol

The cumulative effects of excessive alcohol consumption, especially when associated with a poor diet, affect every part of the body. The two main sites of damage are the liver and the nervous system.
The liver may become progressively damaged through a condition known as cirrhosis, which may lead to liver failure, liver cancer and death.
The nervous system may be damaged at many levels. Damage to the brain can interfere with intellectual function, and increase the risk of anxiety and depression, confusion and dementia.
Damage to the peripheral nervous system can lead to loss of balance, impotence, numbness of the feet and hands, tremor and blindness.
Alcoholism is also implicated in diabetes, inflammation of the pancreas, internal bleeding, weakening of the heart, high blood pressure and stroke. Alcohol intake during pregnancy is harmful to an unborn baby.

Symptoms of alcohol addiction

When someone becomes dependent or addicted to alcohol, they:

Develop a strong sense of compulsion to drink
May drink shortly after waking to reduce feelings of alcohol withdrawal
Develop a reduced capacity to control how often and how much they use
Organise their lifestyle around drinking

Books about alcohol and addiction

Alcoholics Anonymous - Big Book (AA Services, 2002) - a seminal book, originally published in the 1930s, for people who suffer from alcohol addiction and who want to stop drinking.
Let's Drink to Your Health! (Nick Heather and Ian Robertson, 1996) - useful advice to enable people to change their drinking patterns; a drinking diary and tips for drinking less are included.
Alcoholism: The Facts (Donald W Goodwin, 2000) - a classic text on alcoholism. Written in a clear and lively style, the book is aimed at those who have alcohol problems and the people who share their lives.
Dying for a Drink: What You and Your Family Should Know About Alcoholism (Anderson Spickard and Barbara R. Thompson, 2005) - a self-help book for people who have alcohol problems and their families.
The Easyway to Control Alcohol (Allen Carr, 2009) - a self-help guide by best-selling author on addictions and how to overcome them.
Drinking: A Love Story (Caroline Knapp, 1997) - Knapp offers insights not only about alcoholism, but about life itself and how we learn to cope with it.

What's Causing My Chest Pain?

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 23:21:00 +0000

Chest pain. The first thing you may think of is heart attack. Certainly chest pain is not something to ignore. But you should know that it has many possible causes. In fact, as much as a quarter of the U.S. population experiences chest pain that is not related to the heart. Chest pain may also be caused by problems in your lungs, esophagus, muscles, ribs, or nerves, for example. Some of these conditions are serious and life threatening. Others are not. If you have unexplained chest pain, the only way to confirm its cause is to have a doctor evaluate you.
You may feel chest pain anywhere from your neck to your upper abdomen. Depending on its cause, chest pain may be:

Sharp
Dull
Burning
Aching
Stabbing
A tight, squeezing, or crushing sensation

Here are some of the more common causes of chest pain.

Chest Pain Causes: Heart Problems

Although not the only cause of chest pain, these heart problems are common causes:
Angina. A blockage in the heart blood vessels that reduces blood flow and oxygen to the heart, causing pain but not permanent damage to the heart. The chest pain may spread to your arm, shoulder, jaw, or back. It may feel like a pressure or squeezing sensation. Coming on the heels of exercise, excitement, or emotional distress, the chest pain from angina is relieved by rest.
Myocardial infarction (heart attack). This reduction in blood flow through heart blood vessels causes the death of heart muscle cells. Though similar to angina chest pain, a heart attack is usually a more severe, crushing pain and is not relieved by rest. Sweating, nausea, or severe weakness may accompany the pain.
Myocarditis. In addition to chest pain, this heart muscle inflammation may cause fever, fatigue, and trouble breathing. Although no blockage exists, myocarditis symptoms can resemble those of a heart attack.
Pericarditis. This is an inflammation or infection of the sac around the heart. It can cause pain similar to that caused by angina. However, it often causes a sharp, steady pain along the upper neck and shoulder muscle. Sometimes it gets worse when you breathe, swallow food, or lie on your back.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle becomes thickened. This makes the heart work harder to pump blood. Along with chest pain, this type of cardiomyopathy may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.
Mitral valve prolapse. Mitral valve prolapse is a condition in which a valve in the heart fails to close properly. A variety of symptoms have been associated with mitral valve prolapse, including chest pain, palpitations, and dizziness.
Coronary artery dissection. A variety of factors can cause this rare condition, which results when a tear develops in the coronary artery. It may cause a sudden severe pain with a tearing or ripping sensation that goes up into the neck, back, or abdomen.

Chest Pain Causes: Lung Problems

Problems with the lungs can cause a variety of types of chest pain. These are common causes of a pain in the chest:
Pleuritis. Also known as pleurisy, this condition is an inflammation or irritation of the lining of the lungs and chest. You likely feel a sharp pain when you breathe, cough, or sneeze. The most common causes of pleuritic chest pain are bacterial or viral infections, pulmonary embolism, and pneumothorax. Other less common causes include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and cancer.
Pneumonia or lung abscess. These lung infections can cause pleuritic and other types of chest pain, such as a deep chest ache. Pneumonia often comes on suddenly, causing fever, chills, cough, and pus coughed up from the respiratory tract.
Pulmonary embolism. When a blood clot travels through the bloodstream and lodges in the lungs, this can cause acute pleuritis, trouble breathing, and a rapid heartbeat. It may also cause fever and shock. Pulmonary embolism is more likely following deep vein thrombosis or after being immobile for several days.
Pneumothorax. Often caused by an injury to the chest, pneumothorax occurs when a part of the lung collapses, releasing air into the chest cavity. This can also cause pain that gets worse when you breathe, as well as other symptoms, such as low blood pressure.
Pulmonary hypertension. With chest pain resembling that of angina, this abnormally high blood pressure in the lung arteries makes the right side of the heart work too hard.
Asthma. Causing shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and sometimes chest pain, asthma is an inflammatory disorder of the airways.

Chest Pain Causes: Gastrointestinal Problems

Acid reflux is a very common cause of chest pain not related to the heart. Heart pain and heartburn from acid reflux feel similar partly because the heart and esophagus are located close to each other and share a nerve network. Other gastrointestinal problems can also cause chest pain.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Also known as acid reflux, GERD occurs when stomach contents move back into the throat. This may cause a sour taste in the mouth and a burning sensation in the chest or throat, known as heartburn. Factors that may trigger acid reflux include obesity, smoking, pregnancy, and spicy or fatty foods.
Esophageal contraction disorders. Uncoordinated muscle contractions (spasms), high-pressure contractions (nutcracker esophagus) are other problems in the esophagus that can cause chest pain.
Esophageal hypersensitivity. This occurs when the esophagus becomes very painful at the smallest change in pressure or exposure to acid. The cause of this sensitivity is unknown.
Esophageal rupture. A sudden, severe chest pain following vomiting or a procedure involving the esophagus may be the sign of a rupture in the esophagus.
Peptic ulcers. A vague recurring discomfort may be the result of these painful sores in the lining of the stomach or first part of the small intestine. More common in people who smoke or drink a lot of alcohol, the pain often gets better when you eat or take antacids.
Hiatal hernia. This common problem occurs when the top of the stomach pushes into the lower chest after eating. The pain tends to get worse when you lie down.
Pancreatitis. You may have pancreatitis if you have pain in the lower chest that is often worse when you lie flat and better when you lean forward.
Gallbladder problems. After eating a fatty meal, do you have a sensation of fullness or pain in your right lower chest area or the right upper side of your abdomen? If so, your chest pain may due to a gallbladder problem.

Chest Pain Causes: Bone, Muscle, or Nerve Problems

Sometimes chest pain may result from overuse or an injury to the chest area from a fall or accident. Shingles can also cause nerve pain in the chest area.
Rib problems. Pain from a rib fracture may worsen with deep breathing or coughing. It is often confined to one area and may feel sore when you press on it. The area where the ribs join the breastbone may also become inflamed.
Muscle strain. Even really hard coughing can injure or inflame the muscles and tendons between the ribs and cause chest pain. The pain tends to persist and it worsens with activity.
Shingles. Caused by the varicella zoster virus, shingles may prompt a sharp, band-like pain before a telltale rash appears several days later.

Other Potential Causes of Chest Pain

Another potential cause of chest pain is anxiety or panic attacks. Some associated symptoms can include dizziness, sensation of shortness of breath, palpitations, tingling sensations, and trembling.

When to See the Doctor for Chest Pain

When in doubt, call your doctor about any chest pain you have, especially if it comes on suddenly or is not relieved by anti-inflammatories or other self-care steps, such as changing your diet.
Call 911 if you have any of these symptoms along with chest pain:

A sudden feeling of pressure, squeezing, tightness, or crushing under your breastbone, especially if it doesn't get better with rest.
Chest pain that spreads to your jaw, left arm, or back.
Sudden sharp chest pain with shortness of breath, especially after a long period of inactivity.
Nausea, dizziness, rapid heart rate or rapid breathing, confusion, ashen color, or excessive sweating.
Very low blood pressure or very low heart rate.

Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

Fever, chills, or coughing up yellow-green mucus.
Problems swallowing.
Severe chest pain that does not go away.

The Basics of a Healthy Diabetes Diet

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:13:00 +0000

The Basics of a Healthy Diabetes Diet

Contrary to what you may have heard, there is no "diabetes diet," per se -- and that's good news! The foods recommended for a diabetes diet to control blood glucose (or blood sugar) are good for those with diabetes -- and everyone else. This means that you and your family can eat the same healthy foods at mealtime. However, for people with diabetes, the total amounts of carbohydrates consumed each day must be monitored carefully. Of the different components of nutrition -- carbohydrates, fats, and proteins -- carbohydrates have the greatest influence on blood sugar levels. Most people with diabetes also have to monitor total fat consumption and protein intake, too.

To keep your blood sugar levels in check, you need to make healthy food choices, exercise regularly, and take the medicines your health care provider prescribes. A dietitian can provide in-depth nutrition education to help you develop a personalized meal plan that fits your lifestyle and activity level, and meets your medical needs.
Learn the ABCs of a Diabetes Diet

The goal of nutrition for people with diabetes is to attain the ABCs of diabetes. The A stands for the A1c or hemoglobin A1c test, which measures average blood sugar overthe previous three months. B is for blood pressure, and C is for cholesterol. People with diabetes should attain as near as normal blood sugar control (HbA1c), blood pressure, and healthy cholesterol levels.
Alcohol and Diabetes

Use discretion when drinking alcohol if you have diabetes. Alcohol is processed in the body very similarly to the way fat is processed, and alcohol provides almost as many calories as fat. If you choose to drink alcohol, only drink it occasionally and when your blood sugar level is well-controlled. It's a good idea to check with your doctor to be sure drinking alcohol is acceptable.

Diabetes and Glycemic Index

For years, researchers have tried to determine what causes blood sugar levels after meals to soar too high in those with diabetes. Potential culprits have included sugar, carbohydrates, and starches, among other foods. The glycemic index is a ranking that attempts to measure the influence that each particular food has on blood sugar levels. It takes into account the type of carbohydrates in a meal and its effect on blood sugar.

Foods that are low on the glycemic index appear to have less of an impact on blood sugar levels after meals. People who eat a lot of low glycemic index foods tend to have lower total body fat levels. High glycemic index foods generally make blood sugar levels higher. People who eat a lot of high glycemic index foods often have higher levels of body fat, as measured by the body mass index (BMI).

Talk to your doctor, a registered dietitian, or a diabetes educator and ask if the glycemic index might work to help gain better control of your blood sugar levels.

The glycemic load takes into account the effect of the amount of carbohydrates in a meal. Both the type of carbohydrate and the amount have an effect on blood sugar.
Eating Right With Diabetes

If you have diabetes, it's important to eat right every day to keep your blood sugar levels even and stay healthy. Here's some easy tips:

    * Be sure to eat a wide variety of foods. Having a colorful plate is the best way to ensure that you are eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, meats, and other forms of protein such as nuts, dairy products, and grains/cereals.
    * Eat the right amount of calories to maintain a healthy weight.
    * Choose foods high in fiber such as whole grain breads, fruit, and cereal. They contain important vitamins and minerals. You need 25 to 35 grams of fiber per day. Studies suggest that people with type 2 diabetes who eat a high fiber diet can improve their blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Similar results have been suggested in some studies in people with type 1 diabetes.

Serving Sizes and Diabetes

Be sure to eat only the amount of food in your diabetes meal plan. Excess calories result in excess fat and excess weight. In people with type 2 diabetes, excess body fat means less sensitivity to insulin. Weight loss in overweight and obese people with type 2 diabetes helps improve blood sugars and reduces those risk factors which lead to heart disease. Your dietitian can help you determine the appropriate serving sizes you need, depending on if you need to maintain your weight, gain weight, or lose weight, and if you have high or low blood sugar levels.

    * In women with gestational diabetes, it's important to eat multiple meals and snacks per day as recommended.
    * Do not skip meals.
    * Eat meals and snacks at regular times every day. If you are taking a diabetes medicine, eat your meals and take your medicine at the same times each day.

Note: If you are taking some of the newer diabetes drugs, some of these tips may not apply to you; ask your health care provider the tips you should follow.
The Sweet Truth about Food and Diabetes

You might have heard that, as a person with diabetes, you shouldn't have any table sugar. While some health care providers continue to promote this, many -- realizing that the average person lives in the real world and will probably indulge in a bit of sugar every now and then -- have adopted a more forgiving view. Most experts now say that small amounts of sugar are fine, as long as they are part of an overall healthy meal plan. Table sugars do not raise your blood sugar any more than similar amounts of calories from starches, which is found in many foods that we consume. It is important to remember that sugar is just one type of carbohydrate.

When eating sugar, keep these tips in mind:

    * Read food labels. Learn how to determine how much sugar or carbohydrates are in the foods that you eat.
    * Substitute, don't add. When you eat a sugary food, such as cookies, cakes, or candies, substitute them for another carbohydrate or starch (for example, potatoes) that you would have eaten that day. Make sure that you account for this in your carbohydrate budget for the day. If it is added to your meal for the day, then remember to adjust your insulin dose for the added carbohydrates so you can continue to maintain glucose control as much as possible. In other words, readjust your medications if you do add sugars to you meals.
    * Sugary foods can be fattening. Many foods that have a lot of table sugar are very high in calories and fat. If you are watching your weight (and many people with diabetes must), you need to eat these foods in moderation!
    * Check your blood sugar after eating sugary foods and talk to your health care provider about how to adjust your insulin if needed when eating sugars.
    * Ultimately, the total grams of carbohydrates -- rather than what the source of the sugar is -- is what needs to be accounted for in the nutritional management of the person with diabetes.

Diabetes Diet Myths

Before you start a diabetes diet, get the facts. So many people believe that having diabetes means you must avoid sugar and carbohydrates at all cost, load up on protein, and prepare "special" diabetic meals apart from the family's meals. Wrong! Most individuals with diabetes can continue to enjoy their favorite foods, including desserts, as long as they monitor the calories, carbs, and other key dietary components and keep a regular check on their blood glucose levels.

Get the facts and start enjoying the foods you love on a diabetes diet.

What Is the TLC Diet for Diabetes?

People with diabetes who have abnormal cholesterol levels will likely be placed on a diet known as a "TLC" diet. The TLC diet will help reduce the intake of cholesterol-raising nutrients. As part of this diet you may be asked to lose weight and increase physical activity levels -- all of these are components that will help lower bad LDL cholesterol. Looking at food labels will help you become more knowledgeable about your intake of fats and cholesterol.

Specifically, the TLC diet calls for the following:

    * Total fat consumption should be 25%-35% or less of total calories eaten per day.
    * Saturated fats should be less than 7% of total calories eaten in a day.
    * Polyunsaturated fats (from liquid vegetable oils and margarines low in trans fats) should be up to 10% of the total calories per day consumed.
    * Monounsaturated fats (derived from vegetable sources like plant oils and nuts) should be up to 20% of total calories per day eaten.
    * Carbohydrates should be 50%-60% of total calories per day eaten
    * We should eat 20-30 grams of fiber per day. These can be derived from oats, barley, psyllium, and beans.
    * The amounts of protein in the diet should equal about 15%-20% of total calories eaten per day.
    * Cholesterol content of the diet should be less than 200 milligrams per day.

How Much Fat Is Acceptable on a Diabetes Diet?

People with diabetes have higher than normal risk for heart disease, stroke, and disease of the small blood vessels in the body. Controlling blood pressure and limiting the amount of fats in the diet will help reduce the risk of these complications.

Limiting the amounts of saturated fats, increasing the amount of regular exercise, and receiving medical treatment can lower bad LDL cholesterol. This has been repeatedly shown in medical studies to help people with diabetes reduce their risk of heart disease and reduce the risk of death if a heart attack does occurs in a diabetic person.

Artificial Sweeteners and Diabetes

Artificial sweeteners can be added to a variety of foods and beverages without adding more carbohydrates to your diabetes diet. Using non-caloric artificial sweeteners instead of sugar also greatly reduces calories in your favorite foods.

Keep in mind that foods with artificial sweeteners are not necessarily zero carbohydrates foods. Many have carbohydrates; therefore, you must read the food labels to determine the gram amounts per serving that these have in order to take into account the effect that these carbohydrates have on your glycemic control. Foods labeled with artificial sweeteners can affect your blood sugar.

As long as you are aware of the content of carbohydrates you can adjust your meal or medication to maintain blood sugar control. "Sugar free" means no sugar has been added, but you must remember these foods still contain carbohydrates which does affect your blood sugars.

Examples of artificial sweeteners you can use include:

    * Aspartame
    * Acesulfame-k
    * Saccharine
    * Sucralose
    * Other non-nutritive sweeteners

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid saccharine, and people who suffer from phenylketonuria should not use aspartame. People with phenylketonuria are unable to metabolize phenylalanine, an amino acid that's a common part of many proteins.

Some artificial sweeteners -- such as xylitol, mannitol, and sorbitol -- have some calories and do slightly increase blood sugar levels.

The American Diabetes Association cautions that eating too much of any artificial sweetener can cause gas and diarrhea.

Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information: Cocoa Rich in Health Benefits Cocoa Consumption May Decrease Blood Pressure, Improve Cholesterol

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:26:00 +0000

Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information: Cocoa Rich in Health Benefits Cocoa Consumption May Decrease Blood Pressure, Improve Cholesterol

Cocoa Rich in Health Benefits Cocoa Consumption May Decrease Blood Pressure, Improve Cholesterol

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:21:00 +0000

March 23, 2011 -- Cocoa, used throughout history as a folk medicine, may actually have significant health benefits, according to a new study by Harvard researchers.
Their analysis of 21 studies with 2,575 participants shows that cocoa consumption is associated with decreased blood pressure, improved blood vessel health, and improvement in cholesterol levels, among other benefits.
Eric L. Ding, PhD, of Harvard Medical School says the apparent health benefits come from polyphenolic flavonoids in cocoa that have the potential to prevent heart disease. Flavonoids are antioxidants that are commonly found in fruits, vegetables, tea, wine, and coffee.
Cocoa Flavonoids Good for Cholesterol
In addition to decreasing blood pressure and improving blood vessel health, consumption of flavonoid-rich cocoa decreased “bad” LDL cholesterol among people under age 50, and increased good HDL cholesterol, the analysis showed.

Flavonoid-rich cocoa consumption also was linked to reductions in risk factors for diabetes -- a major risk factor itself for cardiovascular disease.

Also, resistance to the hormone insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar, favorably dropped among people who consumed flavonoid-rich cocoa, compared to people in comparison groups.

Further, consumption of flavonoid-rich cocoa did not change triglyceride levels of study participants or make them obese. Triglycerides are a type of blood fat that have been linked to coronary artery disease when levels are elevated above normal.
More Research Needed to Nail Down Benefits of Cocoa

Most of the previous studies analyzed were short-term research projects using mostly sugar-free, dark chocolate.

Ding and his colleagues say in the new study that because most chocolate is high in added sugar and fat, more research is needed to determine the risk-benefit effect on the heart health of eating commercially available chocolate.

Though past studies by Ding and others have found that cocoa may reduce heart attack risk, the dosage necessary to produce this effect is not known, and further research is needed to shed more light on that question, as well as on cocoa’s direct benefits on preventing strokes and heart attacks, according to a news release.

The new research is being presented in Atlanta at the American Heart Association’s Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism/Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention 2011 Scientific Sessions.

Improve Your Odds for a Long and Healthy Life

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 23:55:00 +0000

No one is guaranteed a life free of disease or injury. As we age, many of us will face at least one of these common health problems. But certain lifestyle steps can help forestall illness and sometimes prevent it altogether. They can also improve your quality of life and recovery if disease or injury does strike. Read on to learn what you can do to improve your odds.

Better Health through Diet

"Food provides essential vitamins and minerals that play a number of different and overlapping roles," says Jen Sacheck, PhD, an assistant professor at Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition Science
and Policy in Boston. Some vitamins support metabolism, some boost immunity, some are good for bones, some help synthesize protein -- and many do several of these things and more. "The key is: You have to have all of them for optimal health," Sacheck says.
Besides providing nutrients and fuel, food plays a decisive role in your weight. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk for many cancers, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, to name a few. For people who are overweight, even a small amount of weight loss reduces the risk of many associated diseases.
If you do develop a medical condition, a nutritious diet is an important component of managing many diseases, including diabetes and heart disease.

Healthy Diet Basics

A healthy diet gives you enough fuel to get through the day without loading you up with excess calories. Start with foods from plants. The USDA's 2010 guidelines encourage Americans to eat more vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains, as well as more seafood and fat-free and low-fat dairy products.
In addition to focusing on beneficial foods, limit foods that may increase risk of health problems, like sweets. "Chocolate has some nutritional value, but is also high in sugar and fat," Sacheck tells WebMD. If you really love chocolate, enjoy it in small amounts, keeping the calories in mind.
Watch out for empty calories. For example, soft drinks have no nutritional value and are loaded with empty calories. You can find red flags for calorie emptiness in the list of ingredients on the label. If you see added sugar, saturated or trans fats, or refined grains, proceed with caution.

Getting Started: 4 First Steps to a Healthy Diet

Begin with these strategies to eat less and healthier:

Plan meals ahead of time to ward off unhealthy temptations.
Replace unhealthy ingredients with healthy ones. For example, an omelet made with egg whites and vegetables is healthier than one heaped with cheese and sausage.
Serve yourself smaller portions.
Slow down when you eat.

Healthy Living Through Exercise

"There is a huge amount of evidence that exercise helps lower the risk for serious diseases," Sacheck says. Exercise lowers the risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, many cancers, weight gain, depression, and cognitive decline. Some benefits – such as increased muscle strength and improved depression or blood pressure – may start earlier. Others -- such as reducing the risk for some cancers, heart disease, and diabetes -- build with years of sustained exercise.
Exercise can also promote weight loss, as long as you don't use it to justify eating more food. To lose weight, you need to eat fewer calories than you use. But don't let the numbers on the scale make or break your exercise goals. Being overweight and active is much healthier than being overweight and inactive.

Exercise Basics

Exercise works best when it becomes part of your life. Ideally, by exercising regularly, you will feel as if something is missing in your day when you take time off.
How much people should exercise varies, but a good goal is 150 minutes (two and a half hours) of moderate exercise each week. Any physical activity that raises your heart rate or makes you sweat counts. This includes brisk walking, recreational sports, and heavy housework or yard work.

Getting Started: 4 First Steps to Regular Exercise

Try these steps to make exercise part of your daily life:

Some activity is better than none. When you have a choice between walking or driving, choose walking.
Find activities that you like and keep you coming back.
Start slowly. Overly ambitious plans tend to end in burnout.
Increase workout length or intensity in increments when you feel ready.

Quit Smoking for Better Health

Smokers, here's some good news: No matter how old you are when you quit, you improve your chances for a healthy life almost immediately.

A smoker's heart rate drops within 20 minutes after the last cigarette.
Carbon monoxide levels in the blood drop to normal 12 hours after quitting.
Within two weeks to three months after quitting, a smoker's heart attack risk begins to drop and lung function begins to improve.
One year of not smoking cuts the risk of coronary heart disease in half.

If you are a smoker who has developed a health problem, giving it up can still make a difference. If you face surgery, chemotherapy, or other treatments, quitting smoking helps improve your body's ability to respond to therapy and heal. It may also lower the risk of a cancer returning or a second cancer developing.

Getting Started: 5 Tips to Quit Smoking

To help you quit and prepare for quitting, try these strategies:

Make a list of reasons you want to quit.
Set a quit date.
Prepare yourself for challenges by mapping out ways you will cope.
Let friends and family know about your plans to quit.
Clear your surroundings of cigarettes and anything that makes you want to smoke.

Healthy Living: The Big Picture

Working toward a healthier life is not always easy, and some days may be harder than others. If you have trouble staying on track, Schrieber suggests this: "Ask yourself what kind of legacy you want to leave behind," he says. "Your purpose in life is up to you. When you have one, healthy choices make more sense."

WINTER SKIN CARE TIPS AND TRICKS

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 10:28:00 +0000

Dry Skin Woes

Is your skin feeling dry and tight -- even itchy or flaky? Any number of things can strip your skin of its protective oils. The result: Everything from chapped lips and itchy skin to cracked heels. Relief is in your grasp. Use this pictorial guide to see top cold-weather threats to your skin and what you can do about them

SOS for Chapped Lips

No one is immune from dry lips in winter! Here’s how to cope: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and use a humidifier at home. Liberally apply beeswax or petroleum jelly to your lips. Put on lip balm or lipstick with sunscreen every time you go outside. Avoid being in the sun and wind too much. Don't lick your lips -- it may feel better briefly, but it only makes chapped lips worse.

Heal Cracked Heels

Painful, cracked heels are a common skin condition, especially in winter. They are often caused by dry skin. Having calluses around the rim of the heel can complicate the problem. In some cases, dry cracked feet can lead to infection or make walking painful. Keep feet healthy by marinating cracked heels in petroleum jelly, covering them with plastic wrap, and putting on a pair of socks overnight. You should see improvement in three nights.

Give Dry Hands Extra Care

Your hands may be hard hit by the cold winter air. Washing your hands frequently helps eliminate cold and flu germs, but it also increases dryness. And unless you wear gloves every time you go out, hands may be more exposed to cold than other parts of your body. Give dry hands some extra TLC by using a glycerin-based moisturizer when you wake up, before you go to bed, and any time your hands feel dry throughout the day.

Use Super-Fatted Soap

The same products that keep your face looking fresh in the spring and summer may cause skin problems during winter. Choose a gentle, super-fatted, fragrance-free soap -- bar or liquid -- for cleansing. Super-fatted means the soap is loaded with oils. Use a non-astringent toner, or just skip it altogether. If skin is dry, moisturizers that contain urea, dimethicone, glycerin, lanolin, or mineral oil can be good bets.

Choose a Winter Moisturizer

Should you change your moisturizer? Maybe. If you usually use a light lotion, try a heavier cream, at least on dry skin patches. Ointments -- like petroleum jelly -- have more oil than creams or lotions. That makes them more greasy, too, so they may be best for feet and body. Minimize the greasy feeling by using a very small amount and gently but thoroughly rubbing it into skin. Apply after a warm shower (more on that later).

Decode Moisturizer Choices

Humectants -- like urea, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol -- absorb water from the air. They are oil-free. Emollients -- like baby or mineral oil, plant oils (like jojoba oil), petroleum jelly, lanolin, stearic acid -- replace oils in the skin. Many moisturizers contain a combination. You may want to skip some anti-aging moisturizers in winter. Those that contain retinoids can further irritate already dry, sensitive skin.

Clear Away Dead Skin First

To get the most out of your moisturizer, exfoliate. Clearing away dead skin cells lets a moisturizer better penetrate dry skin. Exfoliate gently with a moisturizer that contains lactic acid or salicylic acid. Some exfoliants can be irritating -- especially in winter -- so try them on a small patch of skin first. If your skin is really dry or irritated, ask your doctor before starting a new skin care product or regimen.

Winter Showers

A shower can add water to your skin -- as long as you keep it short and sweet. Long, hot showers can actually draw water from your skin. Appealing as a hot shower on a cold morning may be, lukewarm water is a better choice. It won't strip away skin’s natural oils.

Lock in Moisture After Your Bath

Right after you step out of the tub, pat skin dry and apply moisturizer to retain the water your skin just absorbed. A glycerin- or hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer can increase the amount of water that’s drawn into your skin. Baby oil (mineral oil) is also a good choice, because it prevents water from evaporating from your skin. Don't stop there: Liberally re-apply moisturizer throughout the day, especially to troublesome dry skin patches.

Plug in a Humidifier

It's cold outside! So you’re staying inside, with the heat on. That warm, dry air can mean parched, dry skin. Use a humidifier to restore moisture to the air. You can find inexpensive models at most drug stores. Put one in your bedroom; better yet, invest in two or three and place them strategically around your home to stave off irritated, itchy skin this winter.

Lube Your Locks

Protect your hair this winter by shampooing every other day instead of daily. Shampoos and excess shampooing can strip hair of moisture. Use warm water and a mild shampoo with sunscreen. Apply extra conditioner to keep your hair hydrated, shiny, and soft. Don't overstyle with the blow dryer or flat iron. And protect your hair from the elements by wearing a hat.

Winter Sunscreen Required

Think you can't get a sunburn in winter? Wrong. Skiers and other winter athletes are at special risk of sunburn, because snow reflects sunlight. In fact, it bounces 80% of the sun's rays back to us, compared to less than 20% for sand and surf. Even if you're not hitting the slopes, you still need the protection of a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. Apply daily, and reapply at least every two hours if you're outside.

Bundle Up Against Frostnip

Frostnip -- a mild form of frostbite -- tends to affect the earlobes, cheeks, nose, fingers, and toes. Signs of frostnip include pale skin, numbness, or tingling in the affected area. Avoid frostnip by dressing warmly -- including hat, ear muffs, and gloves. The best treatment is to re-warm the affected areas; although frostnip is uncomfortable, it doesn't cause any damage to skin.

Be Alert for Frostbite

Frostbite is more serious and can cause lasting damage. Deeper tissues freeze, causing skin to become hard, pale, and cold. It may ache but lack sensitivity to touch. As the area thaws, it becomes red and painful. Hands, feet, nose and ears are most vulnerable, but any body part can be affected. Treat frostbite by getting to a warm place, wrapping affected areas in sterile dressings (separate fingers and toes) and going to an emergency department immediately. Don't rewarm affected areas if there's a chance they could freeze again.

Beat the Itch of Winter Skin

Dry winter skin can be incredibly itchy. Beat itchy skin by taking a lukewarm bath with oatmeal or baking soda, reapplying your moisturizer frequently, and steering clear of wool and other rough fabrics. If these techniques don't make a difference, see a dermatologist. You may have an underlying condition such as eczema or psoriasis that requires different treatment

Show Eczema the Exit

Eczema is an umbrella term for different kinds of skin inflammation. It is marked by dry, reddened skin that itches or burns. When skin becomes dry and irritated in winter, eczema can flare. Stay one step ahead by moisturizing frequently with an oil-based ointment that contains sunscreen. Sweating and overheating can also trigger the itch/scratch cycle, so dress in easy-to-peel-off layers. Ask your dermatologist about prescription treatments.

Put Psoriasis in its Place

Psoriasis is more than dry skin. It's caused when the immune system misfires and speeds up the growth cycle of skin cells. Dry air, lack of sunlight, and colder temperatures can make psoriasis worse. Follow tips for dry skin: short, lukewarm showers, lots of moisturizer, and humidifiers throughout the house. Ask your dermatologist about phototherapy, which uses ultraviolet light B (UVB) rays to slow the growth of skin cells.

Home Remedies

noreply@blogger.com (Better Health Solution, Health Tips and Information) — Thu, 25 Nov 2010 00:13:00 +0000

Cure for Acidity. (Courtesy Col Suresh Kandoth,MD)

Acidity, it is said, is worse than Cancer. It is one of the most common disease people encounter in their daily life. The home remedy for Acidity is "Raw Grains of Rice." They reduce acid levels in the body and make you feel better by the day.

Method

1. Swallow 8-10 grains of raw uncooked rice with water before having your breakfast or eating anythi ng in the morning.

2. Do this for 21 days to see effective results & continue for 3 months to eliminate acidity from the body.

Cure for Cholesterol. Cholesterol problem accompanies with Hypertension and Heart Problems. This is also one of the common problems in people who have High Blood Pressure and Diabetes. The home remedy for Cholesterol problem is "Raw Supari".When you chew the supari, the saliva takes in the juice that is generated and this acts like a Blood Thinner. Once your blood becomes free flowing, it brings down the pressure in the blood flow, thereby reducing Blood Pressure too.

Method

1. Take raw Supari (Betel Nut that is not flavoured) and slice them or make their small pieces.

2. Chew it for about 20 - 40 minutes after every meal.

3. Then spit it out. Don't swallow the Supari.
Cure for Blood Pressure . One of the simple home remedy to reduce blood pressure is "Methi" seeds or Fenugreek seeds.

Method

1. Take 8-10 raw "methi" seeds (Fenugreek seeds).

2. Swallow these with water before taking your breakfast, every morning.

Cure for Diabetes. There are 2 home remedies for Diabetes. One is Lady Finger and the other is Black Tea.

1.BLACK TEA. Due to high medication, the organ that is worst affected is the Kidney. Black tea will help in enhancing the function of the kidney, thereby not affecting it more. Hence a cup of black tea (tea without milk, sugar or lemon) every morning is highly advisable.

Method

1. Boil water along with the tea leaves (any tea leaves will do).

2. Drink the concoction without adding milk, sugar or lemon.

2. Lady Finger (Okra). Lady finger is considered to be a good home medicine for diabetes. After the lady fingers are soaked overnight in the water, you can observe that the water becomes sticky in the morning. This sticky water is considered to be good for people who suffer from Diabetes.

Method

1. Cut 4-5 lady fingers into two halves vertically and soak them in a cup of water overnight.

2. The next morning, remove the lady fingers and drink the water, before eating your breakfast.
Cure for Asthma, Tooth Pain, Acidity, Ulcers, Cracked Feet, Joint Pains, Stomach Problems, Problems related to Lungs, Liver & Nerves with "Oil Pulling"

Dr. Med. Karch, a Russian, introduced a simple process for the human body by using oil. This was further popularized by Lt. Col T. Koteswara Rao (Retd.). Initially it causes doubts, but after trying it out the results are astonishing.

Method

1. Take one spoon of refined oil in the mouth on an empty stomach early in the morning, before eating or drinking anything.

2. Without much effort or speed, slowly suck and pull the oil through the teeth. Gargle the oil within closed mouth for 15 - 20 minutes.

3. During this process, the oil becomes liquid and white like milk. Spit the liquid out and wash your mouth thoroughly, preferably with warm water.

4. Don't swallow the oil as it contains toxins and harmful bacteria drawn from the body through the saliva. Continue this process everyday for better results.

The Cure. The process of Oil Pulling can give relief & cure Headaches, Asthma, Bad Breath, Nose Block, Tooth Pain, Acidity, Ulcers, Cracked Feet, Joint Pains, Stomach Problems, Problems related to Lungs, Liver & Nerves.

Who Can Practice this? Oil Pulling can be practiced by all from the age of 5 years onwards for any type of health problems. People who are in a habit of taking a lot of medicines should try this, as it will release a lot of toxins from the body.

Which Oil to be Used? Any cooking oil can be used, but the most preferred is the Sesame Oil.
Use these totkas with conviction. Thank me if it gives you solace/good health, and you feel better.
Asad