December 2009

Champagne in moderation can improve heart health

Partygoers on New Year's Eve may have good reason to make a midnight toast after a new study revealed that drinking two glasses of champagne a day could improve heart health and circulation by improving the function of blood vessels.

In a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, researchers from the University of Reading in the UK concluded that drinking champagne can lower an individual's blood pressure and the risk of blood clots by increasing the amount of nitric oxide that is available in the body, Science Daily reports.

The molecule is contained in polyphenols found in the red and white grapes used to make champagne, the researches indicate.

Jeremy Spencer, a professor of molecular nutrition at the University of Reading department of food and nutritional sciences, commented, "We always encourage a responsible approach to alcohol consumption, but the fact that drinking champagne has the potential to reduce risks of suffering from cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke is very exciting news."

However, consumption of alcohol is known to increase the risk of developing cancers of the esophagus, liver, colon and breast, according to the National Cancer Institute.

source: privatemdlabs

Early menstruation linked to heart disease risk

Women who started having menstrual periods before the age of 12 may have a higher risk of developing or dying of heart disease than other women, a new study suggests.

British researchers found that among nearly 16,000 middle-aged and older women followed for more than a decade, those who'd started menstruating before age 12 were 23 percent more likely to develop heart disease and 28 percent more likely to die of cardiovascular causes like heart attack or stroke.

These women also had a 22 percent higher overall death rate and a 25 percent higher risk of dying from cancer, according to findings published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

The results suggest that, across a wide population, women who began menstruating earlier have higher rates of certain health problems -- and not that the risks are great for any one woman.

But they do suggest that women should be aware of the connection, and that it seems to be partly related to greater amounts of body fat in women who started menstruating early, according to Dr. Rajalakshmi Lakshman and colleagues at Cambridge University.

"These women may need greater awareness of their disease risks and weight control," Lakshman told Reuters Health in an email.

She added that, "One key related message, therefore, is that tackling overweight early on in the next generation may be important to avoid early menarche and also reduce long-term disease risks."

Previous studies have found evidence that early menarche (the term for a woman's first menstrual period) can affect health later in life.

A large study of Norwegian women, for instance, found that those who began menstruating before age 12 were slightly more likely to die during the 37-year study period than their peers who'd begun menstruating at age 14.

Another study linked earlier menarche to a higher risk of diabetes in adulthood -- a connection that appeared to be explained by higher body mass index (BMI) among women who'd begun menstruating earlier.

In this study, though, higher BMI only partly accounted for the relationship between early menstruation and higher cardiovascular risks and death rates.

"Other than increased body fat, we don't yet know what other factors are involved," Lakshman said.

The current study included 15,807 women between the ages of 40 and 79 who were followed for up to 13 years. During that time, 3,888 developed cardiovascular disease, including heart disease or stroke; 1,903 women died, including 640 from cardiovascular causes and 782 from cancer.

Early menarche remained linked to higher risks of coronary heart disease and deaths from cardiovascular disease and cancer after the researchers accounted for a number of other factors -- such as age, BMI, smoking, exercise habits and education.

A number of studies have linked early menarche to an increased risk of breast cancer -- possibly due to greater lifetime exposure to estrogen. It's likely, according to Lakshman's team, that this contributed to the higher cancer death rate in this study.

Women with an early menarche also had higher rates of cardiovascular disease risk factors, like high blood pressure and high cholesterol -- but the reasons for that are unknown.

More research, according to Lakshman's team, is needed to see whether early menarche, per se, is a risk factor for later-life diseases, or whether it is serving as a marker of other risk factors, like childhood obesity.

One "intriguing possibility," Lakshman noted, is that excess weight in adolescence helps "program" later disease risks in some women, even if they lose weight in adulthood.

SOURCE: Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, December 2009.

Late bedtimes can be depressing for teens

Teenagers across the country are staying up late tonight to ring in the new year. But teens who make a habit of staying up past midnight have an increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts.

Teen A new study finds that adolescents can improve their mental health by sticking to bedtimes of 10 p.m. or earlier. Compared with teenagers who hit the hay by 10, those who go to bed after midnight were 24% more likely to be depressed and 20% more likely to seriously contemplate suicide.

Even more important than an early bedtime -- though certainly related to it -- was the total amount of sleep teens got. Compared with adolescents who reported eight hours of shut-eye each night, those who managed five hours or less were 71% more likely to be depressed and 48% more likely to consider suicide.

Columbia University psychotherapist James Gangwisch and colleagues determined these risks by analyzing data collected from 15,659 kids in grades 7 through 12 and their parents as part of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. Overall, 7% of teens were depressed and 13% had seriously contemplated suicide.

The findings, published in the Jan. 1 issue of the journal Sleep, are in line with the theory that insufficient shut-eye can cause depression, according Gangwisch. “Adequate quality sleep could therefore be a preventative measure against depression and a treatment for depression,” he said in a statement.

Gangwisch has previously linked inadequate sleep to obesity, type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

Of course, convincing teens to turn in by 10 is easier said than done. In the survey data, only 54% of parents said their teens were in bed by 10 p.m., and 25% said they allowed their adolescents to turn in after midnight.

source: latimes blog

Is oily or spicy foods good for your health?

Good day! Eating spicy foods in moderate amount are found beneficial to your health, because the spice varieties are found to kill certain harmful bacteria in our body. A substance capsaicin that can be found on chill and peppers that causes heat, has been associated with many cures to any disease which include:

• Lowering blood pressure
• Has a laxative effects
• Reducing cholesterol and warding off strokes and also heart attacks
• It can help in unclogging stuffy nose
• It can speed up metabolism
• It can treat colds and fevers
• It can prevent cancer
• It can be use to pain control

However, increased consumption of spicy foods is bad for your stomach especially for those who has stomach problem. And while oily food such as oily fish can reduce the risk of death from heart attack because eating oily fish is a good source of omega 3, polyunsaturated fatty acids and this is important for the development of the central nervous system in babies.

Key symptoms, risk factors warning signs of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the prostate.

The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system located just below the bladder (the organ that collects and empties urine) and in front of the rectum (the lower part of the intestine). It is about the size of a walnut and surrounds part of the urethra (the tube that empties urine from the bladder). The prostate gland produces fluid that makes up part of the semen.

The following are key symptoms, risk factors symptoms of prostate cancer

• Age in which after age 50 the chance of having prostate cancer increases.

• Family history in which if your father or brother has prostate cancer, the risk of the disease is greater than that of the average man

• High-fat diet and obesity may also increase risk of prostate cancer and one theory is that fat increases production of the hormone testosterone in which may promote the development of prostate cancer cells.

• High testosterone levels in which the men who use testosterone therapy are more likely to develop prostate cancer compared to men who have lower levels of testosterone.

Unfortunately, this condition has no early warning signals although most cases have symptoms that do point to problems with the prostate gland.

Some of which are:

• Frequent urination
• Pain on urination
• Difficulty initiating and/or stopping a urine stream
• Pain on ejaculation

source: mdinfo

Major Risks Factors Associated With Malaria Malaria can potentially be serious illness and, in some cases, it can be fatal. The falciparum strain of the plasmodium parasite may cause the most severe malaria symptoms and results in the most fatalities.

Anemia
The extensive destruction of red blood cells can leave you with severe anemia. Anemia is a condition where the red blood cells are unable to carry enough oxygen, which leaves you feeling lethargic, weak and faint.

Cerebral malaria
In certain rare cases of malaria, the infected red blood cells can block the small blood vessels leading to the brain. This is known as cerebral anemia and cause your brain to swell which, in some cases, may lead to permanent brain damage. It can cause you to have a seizure (a sudden attack of illness, where your muscles may involuntary contract), or to fall into a coma.

Some other complications of a severe case of malaria can include:
• breathing problems (such as fluid in your lungs),
• spontaneous bleeding,
• dehydration,
• liver failure,
• shock,
• jaundice (a yellow discoloration of the skin caused by an excess of a chemical in your blood called bilirubin),
• hypoglycemia (an abnormally low amount of sugar in your blood).

How To Strengthening Your Digestive System

Chew your food well to allow breaking of food into small particles thus allowing salivary enzymes to begin their task in digesting the food. Swallow one bite before taking another as a means of slowing down in case you are accustomed in bolting your food.

Consume more cooked foods in oppose to cold or raw foods. If cold and raw foods are presented to you, have it heated up. Prefer hot soups, grain and bean dishes over snack-type meals.

Consume freshly cooked foods because these are free of molds or staleness and the most nourishing. Avoid leftovers.

Drink hot water (one that can be tolerated, not causing burns in your tongue). Hot water helps build digestive strength and detoxify the body. You can make a ginger root tea by adding few slices of ginger root in boiling water. Other herbs to improve digestive strength are cinnamon, chamomile and peppermint.

Avoid excessive intake of food because it greatly burdens the digestive system.

Rest a few minutes after eating and just sit still. This will help the body to focus fully on the digestive engine.

In between meals and you felt hunger, consume fruits preferably cooked fruit.

Eat simply by not mixing different types of foods.

If all else fails, consult a nutritionist or a physician to detect exactly the problem in your digestive system.
Ways to Improve Your Digestive Health:

Choose fresh, organic foods instead of canned or boxed foods that contain harsh preservatives and very small nutrients or vitamins. Combine cooked and raw foods, like a fresh salad and steamed carrots, to incorporate necessary and vital enzymes for proper digestion.

Maintain an 80/20 approach when eating throughout meals inhibits digestion and weakens your digestive system. This creates difficulties in converting consumed foods into energy.

Chew your food slowly and thoroughly with care and consideration every bite. Keep in mind that the first and most vital step to proper digestion and improved digestive health begins in your mouth.

Try eating your meals with the use of chopsticks. Although this may seem frustrating at first, in time you will adjust and learn how to maneuver food with ease and will consume meals gradually and take smaller bites. Eating with chopsticks controls your eating speed and bite size, and forces you to eat with more attention.

Take digestive enzymes with each meal to improve your digestive health. Digestive enzymes improve your nutrient extraction from the foods you consume and help in the prevention of bloating, gas and digestive distress.

Utilize apple cider vinegar in salads as a prebiotic that will feed healthy microflora to improve proper digestion.

Include ground flaxseed meals in your everyday meals. Sprinkle it as a topping on yogurt, salads and any dish of your food. Ground flaxseed oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as a great source of dietary fiber.

Exercise daily to increase movement inside your bowels and improve your digestive health. Daily activity improves the usual rhythm of your digestive system and assists in moving food through your digestive system.

How to Avoid Tooth Decay

The best way to prevent tooth decay is to brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after each meal.

Flossing once a day helps prevent gum disease , consider adding a fluoride mouthwash or gel to your every day brushing routine, avoid foods high in sugar and starch, especially when eaten between meals, it increase the risk of cavities, eating a bit of cheddar cheese or any type of cheese at the end of a meal aids protect the teeth, drinking green or black tea following eating can help destroy the germs that cause cavities, gum diseases and bad breath. Another important thing to remember is drinking water is also helpful for rinsing food particles from the mouth.

Saliva shows to have a buffering effect on acid production, and acts as a remineralizing agent. Chewing sugarless gum also increases salivation and thus aids to lower the risk of tooth decay.

Excellent Diet Tips For Men Look Younger

Diets are about more than just losing weight and looking better. Consuming a healthy, balanced diet will help men feel more energetic. Proper nutrition can help reduce the risk of everything from heart disease to prostate cancer. It is important to view the change in your diet as a lifestyle change. These simple tips can help you improve your health and, ultimately, live longer look younger.

More Water: Drink at least 10-12 glasses of water everyday. It will keep your digestive tract clean and stimulate more digestion in your body. It will also produce better circulation of blood in your body and keep you wrinkle free that makes men look younger.

Aerobic Exercises: Successively and brisk walking are best aerobic exercise for an aging man. These workouts will generate more metabolisms in body and makes men look younger.

Have a Balanced Diet: Green veggies and fruits are the best diet to look and feel younger, as they are high in protein and vitamin content. Stay away from red meat because they are the rich source of fats. Foods such as raw nuts and seeds, barley greens, olive oil and berries should be consumed more by men to get attractive face.

Red Wine: Moderate consumption of red wine is very much beneficial for staying young and healthy. It can also improve longevity for men look younger.

Resolutions for a Healthy New Year in 2010 As 2009 draws to an end it is customary to make resolutions for the coming year. Good health is always a worthy aim and great gift to give yourself and your loved ones.

Resolve to get more exercise in 2010. It is recommended that adults are active for at least 2.5 hours a week. Anything that makes you move is good -- walking, biking, hiking, WiFit, or dancing. Encourage your kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.

Resolve to eat healthier. This should include eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, but also limiting portion sizes of foods high in fat and sugar.

Resolve to quit smoking.

Resolve to get appropriate vaccinations. All of us need to get the seasonal flu and H1N1 flu vaccinations. Children need to get appropriate vaccinations to prevent mumps, chicken pox, meningitis, etc.

Resolve to not drink and drive.

Resolve to always fasten your seat belt.

Resolve to use helmets when biking, skiing, etc to avoid head injuries.

Resolve to manage stress. Don’t over-commit yourself or your family.

Resolve to practice safe food preparation. Cook foods to proper temperatures. Don’t leave foods out too long which need refrigeration.

Resolve to practice safe use of space heaters, fireplaces, and candles to avoid house fires or carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your smoke and CO detectors are functioning properly.

source: examhealth

Top 10 Ways to Detoxify Your Diet For Healthy Living

by Janelle Sorensen

I will openly admit I love cheese puffs, cheese curls, pretty much any kind of baked cheese snack - the more neon in color, the better. I also really love artisanal cheeses - and, oddly, cheese puffs, cheese curls, and their brightly colored cousins really taste nothing like any type of real cheese. How do we come to crave these fake flavors? (I know I'm not the only one). More importantly, when did food become so un-natural?

And, our food hasn't simply become more synthetic than ever before, it's also laced with ingredients and contaminants that pose distressing health risks. They aren't like salmonella, e-coli, or other pathogenic pollutants that can cause immediate illness or even death. These toxic impurities are more insidious - subtly causing harm over time.

Reduce your exposure to unwanted ingredients by following these 10 tips to detoxify your diet.

1. Ease up on animal fats. Animal products can contain synthetic hormones, antibiotics and organochlorine chemicals, such as dioxin, DDT and other pesticides, which concentrate in animal fat. The same chemicals that accumulate in animal fats are transferred to our own when we eat them. Then they linger there for years quietly causing damage. When you buy meat, poultry or dairy, look for low fat options (get the unsaturated fats your body needs from plant sources like walnuts, flax seeds, and avocados). Trim all fats and skins and broil meats and fish so that the fats drain away. Avoid frying, which will lock in the contaminants. You can also do your body a favor by reducing how much meat you eat. Making even one vegetarian meal a week can make a big difference.

2. Select safer seafood. Eating seafood is the primary way we are exposed to methylmercury, a potent neurotoxin. Fish can also be contaminated with PCBs, which the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the Environmental Protection Agency have declared a probable carcinogen. Use the Environmental Defense Fund's Safe Seafood Selector to find species that are lowest in chemical and heavy metal contamination and that are fished in ways that are not harmful to our Oceans. Or access the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch, one of the more popular seafood guide's online, who have now made it possible to get their website information with ease when you're standing in front of the seafood case by using their free iPhone app.

3. Go organic. According to the Environmental Working Group, you can lower your pesticide exposure by 90 per cent simply by avoiding the most contaminated conventionally grown produce: peaches, apples, sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, lettuce, imported grapes, carrots, and pears. If you're really craving one of these foods, opt for organic. Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables that have the lowest levels of pesticide residue include: onion, avocado, sweet corn, pineapple, mango, asparagus, sweet peas, kiwi, cabbage, eggplant, papaya, watermelon, broccoli, tomato, and sweet potato. You can download the EWG pocket guide that lists these and the dirty dozen from Foodnews.org.

4. Prep your produce. Wash all fruits and vegetables well to remove surface chemicals (and pathogens). It's easiest and most efficient to wash everything right when you bring it home. You should even wash foods with inedible peels - like melons, bananas, and oranges. If there's a contaminant on the surface, you can get it on the knife you use to cut it or on your hand, and then spread it to the part you eat.

5. Ban the can. Canned foods and beverages are lined with a resin that contains bisphenol-A, a hormone-disrupting chemical that's building up in our environment and our bodies. Most manufacturers are beginning to explore safer alternatives, but in the meantime you should choose foods that are fresh, dried or frozen or packaged in glass jars or tetra packs.

6. Bulk up. Bulk foods are often less processed so you reduce your exposure to questionable food additives. Buying it bulk can also save you up to $500 a year! Bulk cook staples like beans and other legumes and store them in your freezer in serving sizes that are appropriate for your family size. You can also buy dried pasta, nuts, seeds, and many other staples in bulk.

7. Cook your cuisine safely. If you enjoy grilling or well-done meat, be advised - you are adding to your cancer risk. Grilling creates smoke laden with carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, which end up on the surface of whatever you're cooking. When meat, chicken and fish are cooked at high temperatures for a long time (aka "well-done"), it creates carcinogenic heterocyclic amines, or HCAs.

8. Read a food label - for real. Ever stop to read the ingredients label on packaged, processed foods? It's usually a mouthful of words most of us have a hard time pronouncing, so what exactly are you eating? You can learn which food additives are safe and which are not by visiting The Center for Science in the Public Interest's food safety guide, but it's even easier to simply choose whole foods. Whole foods are not processed, so they have all their natural nutritional gifts. Look for foods made from whole grains (think whole wheat bread, oatmeal and brown rice) - and it should say "whole" on the label. Make more foods from scratch (it's easier than you think). You'll end up saving money, eating healthier and reducing all the waste created from packaging and processing foods.

9. Wet your whistle with water. Americans drink an overwhelming amount of sodas, sports drinks, energy boosters, juices (that often contain little juice), and other bottled beverages. The first problem with this is that most of these drinks are loaded with sweeteners and artificial flavors and colors. The second is that they're bottled in plastic, which can leach additional chemicals into the drink. Your body is 70-75% water, so hydrate it with water! And, skip the single-use bottled water. Again, it can be contaminated by the plastic bottle. Also, it's less regulated than tap water. Make an investment in a water filter and reusable stainless steel water bottles. They quickly pay for themselves.

10. Eat-in more often. When you eat at a restaurant or pick something up from a deli you have very little control over what you're getting. Save money and protect your health by making food at home.

source: blogs.webmd

Cholesterol level rise sharply around menopause It has long been known that a woman's risk for heart disease rises after the onset of menopause. But is that the result of falling levels of the hormone estrogen that accompany menopause or actually a consequence of aging?

The answer to the question has long eluded researchers. Conflicting evidence has caused some to suggest that heart risk has an effect on menopause instead of the other way around, pushing women into an early end to their menstrual periods. A decade of controversy surrounding the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy—including whether it protects women against heart attacks—has fueled the confusion.

Now a provocative study led by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh sheds new light on the issue, demonstrating that a woman's LDL or bad cholesterol rises markedly during the year before and after menopause begins—the time period that coincides with a significant drop in levels of estrogen.

In the study involving 1,054 women, average LDL levels ranged between 113 and 116 during three to five years before the last menstrual period, and then rose to above 125 by the year after menopause before leveling off in the subsequent three to five years at just below 130.

Current government cholesterol guidelines regard 130 as borderline optimal for most people, with levels below 100 viewed as optimal. For patients with other risk factors such as high blood pressure or being overweight or having a family history of heart disease, the predominant advice is to get LDL levels below 100.

"The data underscore the need to monitor LDL cholesterol levels as women approach the menopause transition," says Kim Sutton-Tyrrell, an epidemiologist at the University of Pittsburgh and senior author of the study. The findings were published this month in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

The study "helps to understand the role of a woman's natural estrogen in protecting the heart and affecting risk factors for coronary disease," says JoAnn Manson, chief of preventive medicine at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, who wasn't involved with the study.

Dr. Manson said the findings point out the importance of "knowing your numbers" when it comes to cholesterol and other heart-related risk factors as women enter menopause. Many women and their doctors don't think to get a cholesterol check at that time of their lives, she added. She also says that exercise is a fundamental strategy to respond to the impact of menopause on heart risk.

"Physical activity is so key," she says. "It will do a lot to avoid weight gain and build muscle mass, which helps boost the metabolic rate." Reducing the amount of visceral fat—that which accumulates around the waistline—can help improve cholesterol levels.

For patients unable to keep cholesterol levels in check with exercise and healthy diets, widely used cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins are an option, researchers say, but they caution that the study's findings aren't a call for women at menopause to seek out a prescription medication before trying other prevention strategies.

The new study is from a broader inquiry called the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, or SWAN, which began in 1995 and is sponsored by the National Institute on Aging. Researchers are following more than 3,300 women though their transition to menopause.

Participants were considered to have entered menopause when they had gone 12 months without a menstrual period, irrespective of their age. The average age of menopause is 51: It typically occurs between ages 45 and 55.

Estrogen's association with heart protection is well-established. For instance, in a separate 29,000-patient study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology last May, a team led by Dr. Manson found that women who had their ovaries removed during a hysterectomy, and thus had dramatically lower levels of natural estrogen, had a higher risk of death from any cause as well as from fatal and non-fatal heart attacks compared to women who had a hysterectomy that spared their ovaries.

But researchers cautioned that the new data don't affect recommendations from a variety of health-care groups, including the American Heart Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, against using hormone replacement therapy as a strategy to prevent heart disease.

Hormone replacement therapy may have heart benefits if initiated in early menopause, but concerns about breast cancer and other risks weigh against its use except for short-term treatment of hot flashes and other menopause symptoms.

source: online.wsj

Kids exposed to smoke more prone to emphysema

Regular exposure to tobacco smoke at home places young children at an increased risk of developing emphysema in adulthood, a new study finds.

Previous studies had linked exposure to secondhand smoke during childhood to various health conditions.

"Some known harmful effects of tobacco smoke are short term, and this new research suggests that effects of tobacco smoke on the lungs may also persist for decades," said lead researcher Gina Lovasi.

According to the study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, early-life exposure to tobacco smoke may cause permanent and irreversible damage to the lungs, leading to emphysema in the long run.

Despite the considerable emphysema-related changes in the lungs of the studied children, no evidence of declined lung function was reported in this group.

Considering the high prevalence of asthma and other respiratory diseases in children exposed to tobacco smoke at home, scientists urged parents and family members to quit smoking in order to protect their children against the damage caused by tobacco.

source: presstv.ir

Get Rid of Darkness Around Your Eyes Naturally

Dark circles under the eyes are most frequently caused by allergies, illness, a lack of sleep, or heredity. Knowing the cause of dark circles can help you understand how to get rid of them. For instance, if allergies are the culprit, all you may need to see results is a more effective allergy medication. However, if you think your dark circles are the result of sleep deprivation, you need to make an effort to go to bed earlier or reduce the amount of caffeine in your diet in order to get the rest you need.

In the morning, wash your face with cold water to facilitate blood vessels constriction. Then, apply an eye cream that contains Retinol and/or vitamin K.

If you are looking for an all-natural way to get rid of dark circles under your eyes, try applying cucumber slices, damp caffeinated tea bags, or an ice cube wrapped in a soft washcloth to your eyes for 10-15 minutes each day. However, if these home remedies seem to make your condition worse, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist. You may be suffering from a more grave skin condition that is causing the dark circles under your eyes.

While eating a healthy diet will help boost your energy and ward off illness, it’s also a great way to reduce the appearance of dark circles under your eyes. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables to prevent the vitamin deficiencies that may affect your skin’s appearance. Reducing your salt intake will help improve the look of your skin, since too much salt can cause the body to retain water in undesirable places.

If you are feeling very self-conscious about dark circles under your eyes, you can try to use makeup to help camouflage the problem. Usually, a yellow or flesh-toned concealer will be the most effective in reducing the appearance of skin discoloration. Look for a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than the foundation.

How Chicken pox is Transmitted Chicken pox is an acute contagious disease, usually transmitted through the air. When a person with chicken pox coughs or sneezes, they expel tiny droplets that carry the chicken pox virus (varicella-zoster virus, VZV). If a person who has never had chicken pox inhales these particles, the virus will enter the lungs and is carried through the blood to the skin where it causes the typical rash of chicken pox.

The infected droplets will cause an initial infection in the respiratory epithelium. The incubation period (the time between exposure to the virus and appearance of symptoms) is between 10 - 20 days.

Before the typical rash appears, patients usually develop a fever, headache, swollen glands and other flu like symptoms.

Skin vesicles contain the virus but are not the primary sources of the virus. Scabs are also not infectious. Patients are contagious from 2 days before the onset of the rash until all lesions have crusted.

Amazing Health Foods Tips To Boost Your Memory

There is a type of food which can improve memory that can be represented in the form of sugar. Glucose is needed by the brain to be able to function properly. For elderly, foods containing sugar are effective to them because it enhances not just the memory but mental processes like thinking and learning.

Glucose level must be within the normal limits in order for the brain to function well. Harm in the memory will happen if there is too much glucose in the brain. Sources of glucose are found in carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits and vegetables. These are not only rich in glucose but it also contains vitamins and minerals for proper brain function.

Jogging on the other hand, clears your mind away from stress or heavy emotions. Since your body is doing a lot of work processes, it somehow clears your mind in order to think properly and find the best solutions to some problems you’ve been carrying in your mind.
Here are the lists of some foods that can help you to improve your memory such as:

• Apples contain high amount of quercetin this is an antioxidants that can protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
• Blueberries contain anthocyanin this is known for memory boosting.
• Grapes also contain quercetin and anthocyanin.
• Cherries are a good source of anthocyanin
• A Red beet is also a good source of folic acid and anthocyanin
• Spinach helps prevent memory loss
• Broccoli contains quercetin and folic acid
• Onions contain an anthocyanin and quercetin, and can help to boost memory
• Eggplant also contains nasunin, an antioxidant that protects the lipids in brain cell membranes.

Acne Treatment: Tips That Works Best

Severe inflammatory acne needs medical supervision. Antibiotic tablets and creams soothe the skin. In mild cases, over the counter pimple creams work. But what works best is a little bit of awareness.

Watch your diet: What you eat reflects on your skin. There is no conclusive study to prove it, but diet influences hormones which are responsible for flare up acne. So say no to high-fat, high-salt, junk food. Snacking on chips, fries, etc is a free invitation to pimples. Instead, dig in to fresh fruits, salad, fiber rich foods, raw vegetables. As an added incentive, you will be eating away to glory and not be burdened with calories either.

Sometimes just eliminating dairy products helps control acne. Most dairy products are rich in saturated fats which intensify acne. After the acne clears up, try reintroducing dairy products to see if acne returns.

Clean your inside: Undergo a blood, liver and colon cleaning routine. When too many toxins are produced in the body, they get discharged through the skin. In fact, most skin disorders are a result of stress, hormonal imbalance and too many toxins in the body. Drink lots of water (about a liter) on waking up.

Personal hygiene: Never squeeze or scratch your pimples. Wash your face as often as possible and dab it dry with a soft towel. Soapsuds and face washes will not wash away your pimples. This will only result in the depletion of essential skin oils.
Keep your scalp clean. Dandruff-infested hair often aggravates pimples. Shampoo your hair at twice a week to avoid dirt from the hair from infecting the pimples. Avoid wearing too much make up and if you must, make sure you use cosmetics that are water-based and not oil-based.

Combat constipation: Drink a glass of vegetable juice daily. A glass of spinach and tomato juice works as an effective laxative. Wash a few spinach leaves thoroughly, blend them with tomatoes into a paste, Add water. Add limejuice and black salt to taste.

Beneficial supplements: Vitamin A is highly beneficial for a clear and glowing skin. It is recommended in the form of beta-carotene, Dermatologists prescribe its derivative form, ‘acutane’ for cystic acne. ‘Retin A’ is yet another effective derivative in combating acne occurring during puberty.

The mineral zinc not only boosts immunity but also suppresses bacterial activity. Most people suffering from acne are found to be deficient in zinc. A high potency B-complex is highly recommended for controlling facial oiliness. Vitamin C also helps prevent the spread of acne.

Aromatherapy: Aroma therapists use tree oil, as it is natural antibiotic and antiseptic. You can add 10-12 drops of tree oil to half cup of warm water. Dip a cotton ball in it and dab it on the affected area. It prevents acne from spreading.

Try all the suggestions given above and soon you will be able to keep those menacing pimples from ruining your appearance.

Treadmill A Excellent Source of Fitness

Treadmill exercise is a great way to get into shape. It may not be as beneficial as going to the gym and doing weight training, but any workout routine is better than just sitting around. With a treadmill you can workout right at home in your free time instead of having to run to the gym. It is also easier to jump on the treadmill than it is to go outside when it is either extremely hot or cold. You can find many benefits of treadmill exercise that may just get you to try it.

What is the Benefit of Treadmill Exercise?

There are two basic possibilities for exercising on a treadmill, which are to walk on it or to run or jog on it. Some will say that it is only truly beneficial if one runs or jogs on the treadmill, but this is simply not true. With regard to what the benefit of treadmill exercise is, the answer is many things, and this refers to both running and walking on the treadmill.

First of all, exercising on a treadmill burns calories, period. Running on a treadmill burns more calories than jogging does, which in turn burns more calories than walking does. However, the bottom line is that you are burning calories in all cases, and this is what truly matters. Perhaps it may take longer to see results if you are simply constantly walking on the treadmill, but you will see results nonetheless.

Walking on a treadmill is just like walking anywhere else however with this you have the added benefit of being able to control the speed, the incline, and most importantly, the conditions underfoot. In regards to a benefit of treadmill exercise, you can receive similar conditions as you would walking in the mall, for instance, or if you're ambitious and set the treadmill to a steep incline, the benefits rival walking up a steep hill.

Walking is considered to be excellent exercise as well, especially when done for a sustained period of time and when done regularly. Therefore, anybody can reap a benefit of treadmill exercise by setting it on a slow to moderate walk, even older people with limited mobility and pregnant women who are trying to keep healthy in a safe way.

Running is, quite obviously and admittedly, a terrific form of exercise. The benefit of treadmill exercise at a running pace can be clearly seen when comparing calories burned per hour of activity, as running is said to burn about 700 calories per hour whereas biking is said to only burn about 500 calories per hour.

Of course these estimates vary from one situation to another and should therefore only be taken as estimates, but here again is another benefit of treadmill exercising, which is that most treadmills have counters which show your total calorie burn for the session, as well as the distance traveled, your current speed, and if you clasp your hands around the handle bar, your current heart rate.

These measures of current activity and progress throughout ones session are incredibly beneficial, especially for those exercisers who want to know throughout their workout how hard they are working out and how much of a difference they are making to their bodies.

Conflict Between Bipolar Disorder and Multiple Personality Disorder

From high to low, from mania to depression, and from recklessness to listlessness. These are the extremes associated with bipolar disorder, a mental illness characterized by mood unsteadiness that can be serious and disabling.

Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depression or manic-depressive illness manic behavior is one extreme of this disorder, and depression is actually the other.

Dissociative identity disorder - previously known as multiple personality disorder is fairly common effect of severe trauma during early childhood, usually extreme, repetitive physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse. Most of us have experienced mild dissociation, which is like daydreaming or getting lost in a moment while working on a project.

However, dissociative identity disorder is a serious form of dissociation, a mental process, which produces a lack of connection in a person's thoughts, memories, feelings, actions, or sense of identity. Dissociative identity disorder is thought to stem from a trauma experienced by the person with the disorder.

mdinfo

Best Treatment For Breast Cancer And Risk

Age and health history can affect the risk of developing breast cancer.

Anything that increases your chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; not having risk factors doesn't mean that you will not get cancer. People who think they may be at risk should discuss this with their doctor. Risk factors for breast cancer include the following:

* Older age.
* Menstruating at an early age.
* Older age at first birth or never having given birth.
* A personal history of breast cancer or benign (noncancer) breast disease.
* A mother or sister with breast cancer.
* Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast/chest.
* Breast tissue that is dense on a mammogram.
* Taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
* Drinking alcoholic beverages.
* Being white.

The best treatment options for breast cancer come with early diagnosis. One of the most vital elements of the treatment decision will depend on the stage of the breast cancer, which is an indication of whether or not the breast cancer has spread and, if so, how far and to what areas of the body. However, the proper treatment protocol will depend on a number of factors, including:

• Location of the tumor within the breast
• Size of the tumor
• Stage of the disease (information on the size of the tumor and on whether or not the disease has spread to the nearby lymph nodes or other areas of the body)
• Type of breast cancer
• Estrogen-receptor status and progesterone-receptor levels
• HER2/neu status. Protein that promotes growth.
• Patient’s age, general health and menopausal status
• Personal opinions and preferences of the patient

The kind of treatment for breast cancer varies with the location, type and severity of the tumor. Breast cancer is staged according to the information gotten in the biopsy and staging tests, including imaging, history, physical examination and blood tests. After staging, a treatment plan will be designed for the patient.

Therapy options for breast cancer include chemotherapy, breast cancer surgery, radiation therapy, biological therapy and hormonal therapy. Most breast cancers are treated with a combination of the options based on the stage and type of cancer.

More Information
source: canver.gov

Resolution For Fast Weight Loss: Diet, Exercise or Surgery

Losing weight is like some other skill; you learn it and use it. Achieving such goal is somehow possible however you should start first by consulting a dietician for you to have a guideline on what food you should be consuming followed by a regular exercise. If this won’t work there are also available surgical methods that can reduce your weight.

Obesity is described as having an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity is more than just a cosmetic worry, though. It increases your risk of diseases and health related problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

The goal of obesity treatment is to attain and maintain a healthier weight to reduce your risk of serious health problems and enhance your quality of life. You may require working with a team of health professionals, including a nutritionist, dietitian, therapist or an obesity specialist, to help you understand and make changes in you’re eating and activity habits.

Treatment methods include:

• Dietary changes- To build your overall diet healthier eat more plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Also give emphasis to plant sources of protein, such as beans, lentils and soy, choose lean meats, and try to include seafood twice a week. Reduce salt and added sugar. Attach with low-fat dairy products. And make certain fats come from healthier sources, such as nuts and olive, canola and nut oils.

• Exercise and activity- Increased physical activity or exercise is also an important part of obesity treatment. Most people who are able to continue their weight loss for more than a year get regular exercise, even simply walking.
• Behavior change- To lose weight and stay it off, you needs to make changes in your behavior and attitudes toward food and exercise.

• Prescription weight-loss medications- It's best to lose weight by a healthy diet and regular exercise. But in certain situations, prescription weight-loss medication may be an alternative. Keep in mind, though, that these medications are intended to be used along with diet, exercise and behavior changes, not instead of them. If you don't make these other changes in your life, medication is doubtful to work.

• Weight-loss surgery- In some cases, weight-loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, is a choice. Weight-loss surgery offers the best chance of losing the majority weight, but it can pose serious risks. Weight-loss surgery restricts the amount of food you're able to comfortably eat or inhibits the absorption of food and calories, or both.

Key Facts Myths Of Cerebral Palsy Affecting Kids

Cerebral palsy is a group of conditions caused by brain damage that affects a child's ability to control movement and posture. Depending on the area and severity of the brain injury, a child who has cerebral palsy may also develop other effects and conditions.

CP is damage to the brain, primarily to the part of the brain that controls motor functions. However other parts of the brain may also be affected. In such cases the person affected has more than one handicap.

The extent of the damage varies from person to person. Mild disability might mean fine motor skills, like using scissors or writing, are difficult. Severe disability can mean poor movement of all four limbs, the trunk and neck. The child may even have difficulty in swallowing.

When movement on one side is affected the child is said to have Spastic Hemiplegia. The child may not be able to move the right hand and right leg; sometimes only the left hand and leg are affected. In cases of Spastic Quadriplegia all four limbs are affected. In cases of Paraplegia the lower limbs are affected.

Thus no two C.P. children are ever alike.

Facts

*The medical term for ‘Spastic’ is Cerebral Palsy.
*Cerebral Palsy means damage to the brain.
*Early detection and treatment is vital.
*Drugs and Surgery cannot cure this condition.
*A C.P. child generally has more than one handicap.
*There are approximately 10,000 C.P. children in Tamil Nadu.
*Special schools provide for the needs of CP children.
*At a special school the treatment of a C.P child focuses on speech, movement & education.
*Given the right input, the sky is the limit for a C.P. child.

Myths

Parents of the Cerebral Palsied often say, “ There is no one like this in our family.” They assume CP has something to do with heredity. Another myth that circulates is that surgery can cure it. Cerebral Palsy is:

*Not hereditary
*Not contagious
*Not progressive
*Not the primary cause of death
*Not curable by drugs or surgery. These might be recommended to avert further complications.

For more information log on to Web Health Central

source: webhealthcentral

Excellent Tips For Bright Whitening Teeth

Get Rid of That Yellowish Teeth

Whitening your teeth at home is the best way to maintain a beautiful, if left untreated it would be difficult to remove.

Useful Tips:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day using whitening toothpaste to maintain your whitened teeth.

• You can also buy bleaching products for your teeth; it may help you depending on the discoloration of your teeth.

• Baking soda can be a substitute to whiten your teeth but use in only in small amount.

• Quit smoking to prevent future teeth discoloration.

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene to prolong the effectiveness of the whitening treatment.

• Use a straw when drinking soft drinks, coffee, and tea as it might increase the chance of staining.

• If you have gum problems or worn out tooth enamel do not use home whitening products.

• Avoid/ minimize eating sweets and sugars to prevent teeth decay.

• Submit yourself to a regular dental cleanings to remove food and tobacco stains.

• Always discuss with your dentist what method of teeth whitening will be best for you.

• Limit the intake on foods and drinks that might leave stains on your teeth.

For immediate and best effects, teeth whitening is best implemented at the dental office. For homecare, there are available remedies as well. One is by using whitening brush-on gels or pens but you can only expect that your teeth will be whiten in about two or three shades lighter.

These method is not effective for excessively yellow or brown teeth. Just remember that the teeth is cleaned already before the application of the whitening gel. Afterwards, refrain from eating or drinking at least 45 minutes. This method takes several application and mostly the result is temporary.

For whitening toothpastes, this give one shade lighter. After toothbrushing with the said product, refrain also from eating for at least 30 minutes to take effect.

Cause of low white blood cells in human body A low white blood cell count in the body is called Leukopenia. A decrease in the peripheral white cell count may occur because of decreased numbers of any of the specific types of leukocytes, but most often it involves the neutrophils (neutropenia). For instances: leukemia, allergies, autoimmune diseases that attack bone marrow or white blood cells, drugs such as prednisone, chemotherapy, HIV/AIDS, influenza, sepsis, typhoid, dengue, tuberculosis, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, folate deficiencies and among others.

Treatment includes medications known as growth factors which consist of cytokines that stimulate the bone marrow to form more white cells. Drugs such as pegfilgrastim and filgrastim are usually prescribed as well as antibiotics and antimicrobial medications. If the cause of leukopenia is chemotherapy, the dose is reduced or delayed. A nutritious diet is also included.

Pulse rate of a human being while running

You run the best track workout of your life. Four repeat miles, and you feel like Moses Kiptanui. You hang around in your sweat-drenched clothes, talking splits with the other runners, and savoring the atmosphere. The next morning you wake up with the Russian Army marching down your throat. You have the flu.

Therefore it is recommended to monitor your pulse rate while running or going cardio.

A normal resting pulse rate is anywhere from 60-100 beats per minute. For a well-conditioned athlete, heart rates in the 50s or even 40s can be considered to be normal. Aerobic exercise like running produces the maximum heart rate at 190 beats per minute. The amount and type of muscle groups contribute to the brain's decision making on how fast the heart needs to pump.

Essential Tips To Breath Easier In Big Cities

It's true that big sities like New York City is no Santa-Fe/Espanola, which is ranked as the cleanest metropolitan area in the U.S. by the American Lung Association. In fact, NYC is ranked number 18 on the list of most polluted metropolitan areas. Even so, a humidifier won't make a difference for your struggling lungs.

Humidifiers do not clean the air; they add warm or cool moisture. This increase in humidity can help prevent dry skin, noses, and throats, especially when exposed to heated air during the cold months. Humidifiers can also make it more comfortable for those with colds or sore throats to breathe — but they do not cure these illnesses, nor do they purify air.

What you're probably looking for are air filters, especially HEPA filters that can remove microscopic particles. These devices can make the air cleaner, and are sometimes recommended for people with asthma and/or severe allergies. However, they tend to be expensive (good ones can cost hundreds of dollars), and need to be cleaned frequently if they're going to continue to work at maximum efficiency. While owning an air filter won't hurt, no evidence exists that they offer significant health benefits for people without breathing problems.

The American Lung Association encourages everyone to get involved in the fight for cleaner, healthier air. Here are some simple, effective tips for protecting you and your family from the dangers of air pollution:

• Plan outdoor exercise or strenuous work in the mornings or night, when pollution levels are lower.

• If possible, avoid rush hour traffic and streets that are especially congested; instead, choose roads and sidewalks off the beaten path.

• Check your local weather for smog alerts (most likely to occur from May to September). On smog alert days, children, the elderly, and folks with heart and lung problems need to be especially careful to avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

• Support laws and regulations to control air pollution.

• Walk, bike or carpool. Combine trips. Use buses, subways, light rail systems, commuter trains or other alternatives to driving your car.

• Fill up your gas tank after dark. Gasoline emissions evaporate as you fill up your gas tank. These emissions contribute to the formation of ozone, a component of smog. Fill up after dark to keep the sun from turning those gases into air pollution.

• Don't allow anyone to smoke indoors and support measures to make all public places smokefree. Dangerous particles from cigarette smoke can remain in the air long after a cigarette has been extinguished.

All that said, if you would like to buy a humidifier or an air filter to see if they let you breathe easier, go for it. You may also find that potted plants lend your bedroom the illusion of "greener pastures," so to speak. The city can feel grungy sometimes; experiment with your surroundings so that you're comfortable, and sleep well!

Source: lungusa.org

Prevent Asthma Attacks During Cold Seasons

Asthma sufferers face asthma triggers from many dissimilar fronts. Allergies to pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mites can also provoke asthma attacks. Even the weather itself can pose dangers to asthma sufferers, and the winter months are certainly no omission.

Try wearing a long, thick scarf that you can effortlessly wrap around your nose and mouth too. If it helps, wear ear muffs to keep it up or locate your hood up to keep it in place. This provides a barrier between your lungs and the harsh cold air, warming it up earlier than you breathe it in. In addition, before you venture out make sure you take asthma medication (not once you're out there and can feel the effects).

If you can take a Thermos flask or a travel mug occupied with hot tea with you then this can help immensely. Cold and dry air together are terrible triggers for asthma, so keeping your esophagus warm should help warm up your airway as it's next door, and inhaling a bit of the steam before you take a sip will help too. If you have time, try making some chicken broth as this has magnificent anti inflammatory properties as well as enhancing your immune system, so you could fend off some nasty colds and coughs at the same time.

Source: mdinf - by Abigail A. Fernandez PTRP

Why do some women suffer from depression after giving birth to their babies?

This condition is called post partum depression or baby blues. This condition is considered to be a normal part of new motherhood—probably caused by the hormonal changes that occur following birth.

The rapid hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy and delivery can trigger depression. After giving birth, women experience a big drop in estrogen and progesterone hormone levels.

Thyroid levels may also drop, which leads to fatigue and depression. These hormone dips—along with the changes in blood pressure, immune system functioning, and metabolism that new mothers experience— all of these play a part in postpartum depression. It has been theorized that women who are more sensitive to these hormonal imbalances develop postpartum depression.

SOURCE: Mdinfo - by Roel S. Cloma RN

Makeup tips to look great in pictures

To make sure you don't over or under do it:

Even Out
Apply face lotion to plump skin and soften wrinkles. Then cover undereye circles with concealer--the camera accentuates darkness. For color photos, which intensify red and blue tones, choose a pink- or peach-based cover-up; black-and-white enhances purple hues, so opt for yellow based. Avoid translucent powders, which have a colorless base--they appear pasty and zap color. Instead, use one that's yellow based. Try Aveda Inner Light Loose Powder in Teak ($19; aveda.com) and Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Loose Powder ($32; bobbi browncosmetics.com).

Define
Facial features tend to seem smaller in pictures. Line your top and bottom lids using a charcoal, brown, or navy pencil; black is too harsh in photos. Try Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil ($16; sephora.com) and Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes ($16; sephora.com). Use a lip pencil no more than two tones deeper than your natural lip hue to line and fill in lips.

Brighten
To keep the flash from washing you out, wear a foundation a shade darker than normal and dust bronzing powder over your cheeks, chin, and nose. Opt for matte formulations--anything too glimmery contains light-reflecting particles that can cause a glare. Color is also key: Choose a soft sand shadow for lids and a light pink for your lips.

Some serious health effects of junk foods on health

Junk food is bad for people of all ages, but typically for teenagers and young children because it ends up effectively ruining their health for good. It’s up to their parents and other responsible adults to make sure that they eat a balanced diet, one that is nutritious and healthy.

The following are some dangers of junk foods on our health:

Obesity: Junk food enthusiasts are prone to put on weight, particularly when they eat this kind of food very often. The fat and processed flour merely make you fatter and fatter, as does the oil and grease that are used for fries and other deep-fried foods.

Lethargy: Processed food tends to bring down your energy levels and make you lethargic since they are filled with carbohydrates that spike your blood sugar levels. Soon after you eat junk food, you feel yourself lulled into stupor since your sugar levels rise and fall dramatically.

Diseases: Junk food causes diseases similar to diabetes and heart ailments. You’re more likely to get diabetes, particularly if you don’t exercise and have a family history of this disease. The fat from junk food raises your cholesterol levels and your clogged arteries cause heart attacks and bring on strokes which could incapacitate you, or worse, even kill you.

Poor nutrition: When you eat too much junk food, you abandon to eat the nutritious kind like fruits and vegetables and other wholesome food. This means that your body does not get the essential nutrition it needs and you end up with a weak immune system. So you’re frequently prone to illnesses like colds and fevers which although not serious, tend to have a nagging effect on your life. They prevent you from being as lively and organized as you would like to be.

Constipation and other ills: Processed foods have no fiber content whatever and that is why you feel constipated when you go on a junk food binge. Your sodas and colas as well contain phosphorous and other chemicals which ruin your teeth and eat away at your bones, making your entire skeletal structure weak and leaving you prone to recurrent sprains and fractures.

Aside from the ailments mentioned from Salvador, you are also increasing your chances of cancers, faster aging, and all sorts of other ill health effects.

While on this type of diet, your body is not getting the right types and amounts of nutrients, which means that it also will not be able to function optimally.

Source: mdinfo - by Evita Ochel CHN/RNC and Salvador Z. Valladores RN

Health Benefits of Some Super Herbs to Cure Diseases

Herbal unlike synthetic medicines is the most modern medicines, helps to promote the natural functions of the body and also our ancient culture has used plants for the prevention and cure of disease.

Herbal medicine is defined as the use of a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. It helps to treat many conditions like asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, and irritable bowel syndrome, among others while synthetic medicines refers to drugs whose origins are not primarily organic, but rather are produced via chemical synthesis which you can be bought over the counter at any drug stores, or probably be prescribed to you by your doctor.

Herbal and Synthetic medicines are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider. Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before having a self-medication.

The qualities of herbs which make them beneficial in treating diseases include:

• Adaptogenic herbs helps to increase the resistance and resilience to stress, enabling the body to adapt around the problem and avoid reaching collapse.

• Anthelminitic herbs gradually help to restore proper functioning of the body, and increase health and vitality.

• Anti-inflammatory herbs help destroy or expel intestinal worms and reduce the inflammatory response of the tissue directly.

•Antimicrobial herbs help the body destroy or resist pathogenic (disease-causing) microorganisms and help the body stronger to fight infective microorganisms.

•Antispasmodics herb helps to ease cramps in smooth and skeletal muscles as well as physiological tension.

•Astringents herbs serve as a barrier against infection which is helpful to open wounds and burns.

•Carminative herbs it helps to stimulate the digestive system work properly.

•Diuretic herbs helps to eliminate body waste and support the whole process of inner cleansing to prevent potentially corrosive gastric acids, help prevent diarrhea, and reduce the muscle spasms that cause colic.

•Emmenagogues herbs give remedy that affects the female reproductive system.

•Expectorants herbs soothe the removal of the phlegm from the lungs.

•Hepatic herbs help strengthen the liver and in some cases increase the flow of bile.

• Hypotensive herbs are plants use to lower abnormally elevated blood pressure.

•Laxative herbs help to promote bowel movement.

•Nervines help strengthen, restore, and ease anxiety and tension of the nervous system.

•Stimulants help quicken the mind and body.

•Tonics herbs like ginseng helps build vital energy.

source: Mdinfo- Maria Teresa B. Arguelles Pharmacy

Weight training, fitness tips for men over 40

It’s still ok at age 40 and above to do weight lifting but that would depend if on your health condition.

Here are some weight training & fitness tips for men over 40:

Diet
At this age its best to take a balanced diet that comprises of all required nutrients. Now, these include vitamins, minerals and most of all fibers. In order to balance your weighty that is very important over 40, you must have your meals on time and avoid Tran’s fats. Comprise a lot of raw fruits & vegetables, lean proteins and nuts in you diet.

Though you might be taking a perfectly balanced diet, having multivitamin & mineral supplements adds to your well being and the total health.

Better watch for some things: But in order to take care of their fitness, men over 40 must check on their weight. Be sure that you do not gain much and if you go for peeing too many times in the night, this calls for a medical check up. Stay away from smoking and limit your alcohol intake.

Exercises
Presently, there are several weight training routines that you can look up to. These include the following:

• Back squats
• Power snatch
• Sit ups
• Chest press
• Leg curls
• Bicep curls
• Lower back extension
• Leg presses

Consider the following tips when it comes to weight training for men fitness over 40.

• Avoid making them too hard for your self and you might start with the moderate intensity exercises and shift to the high intensity slowly.

• You ought to exercise 30 minutes daily I case you are doing moderate ones. Also, for the high intensity ones, you may only workout 3 times in a week.

• And instead of doing the wrong exercises seek for some guidance from the professional trainers.

• Therefore, constancy is very important. If you pick up any exercises or diet, you must do it properly and consistently.

Best of luck

MRI tests identify common symptom of autism

Magnetic resonance image tests have allowed researchers to identify the symptoms of autism and analyze the ways in which the condition affects cognitive processing, according to a new study.

A study published in the December 14 issue of the journal Brain found that MRI tests were able to identify distinct differences in the brain activity of autism patients when they were engaged in self-reflective thought, Science Daily reports.

The team of British researchers, led by Michael Lombardo of the Autism Research Center at the University of Cambridge, measured the cognitive function of 66 males, half of whom were diagnosed with autism, while they answered questions about their own thoughts, opinions and physical characteristics or those of the Queen of England.

Specifically, the scientists focused the MRI tests on an area of the brain called the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VPC), which has previously been found to be linked with thoughts about oneself.

The researchers found that non-autistic volunteers exhibited more brain activity in the VPC when they were asked questions about themselves than when they thought about the Queen. However, the cognitive response was unchanged in those with autism throughout the questioning, according to the news source.

"Navigating social interactions with others requires keeping track of the relationship between oneself and others," said Lombardo.

He continued, "The atypical way the autistic brain treats self-relevant information as equivalent to information about others could derail a child's social development, particularly in understanding how they relate to the social world around them."

According to the National Institutes of Health, the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, the Autism Screening Questionaire, hearing evaluations and blood lead tests are the most common screening methods to diagnose autism in young children.

Autism by the numbers

According to figures released last week by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in every 100 American children has autism.

The figure, which was announced on Friday, constitutes a small change from conclusions health officials made in October, estimating about one in 100 children were affected by the disorder, MSNBC.com reports.

However, the prevalence of autism has increased since the CDC began diagnosing children with an autism spectrum disorder in 2006.

Cathrine Rice, a CDC behavioral scientist, told the news source the increase in the past few years may be caused by more thorough diagnostic testing for the disorder or improvements in record keeping in the 11 states that were studied.

"At this point it's impossible to say how much is a true increase and how much is identification," she commented.

The new estimate was based on a study of medical and school records of about 2,800 children in Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Wisconsin.

In recent years health officials have encouraged more intensive screening for children with autism, believing that early therapy can improve a child's development, according to the news provider.

Researchers at the CDC have noted that parents of autistic children most commonly report anomalies in their child's development before the child turns 2 years old. However, the average age of diagnosis is about 4.5 years old.

Though scientists are investigating possible genetic and environmental causes for autism, currently, no blood or genetic tests can confirm the presence of the condition. Physicians diagnose the disorder by making judgments about a patient's behavior, recognizing language and social impairments as well as abnormal, repetitive actions.

According to the Autism Society of America, by 2017, the annual cost of treating autism will total more than $200 billion, though price tag of lifelong care can be reduced by two-thirds with early diagnosis and intervention.

SOURCE: privatemdlabs

Tomato seeds prevents blood clotting

A natural ingredient found in tomato seeds has been identified by British scientists as a key component to a long and healthy life.

The gel prevents the blood from becoming sticky and clotting and so is being promoted as a natural alternative to aspirin.

It was discovered by food researchers investigating the benefits of a Mediterranean diet.

Patented as Fruitflow, it is already being used in one fruit juice product and is now expected to be added to dairy drinks, spreads and other foods.

EU health watchdogs have accepted thatthe ingredient does improve blood flow and have approved the use of such claims on packaging.

Fruitflow was discovered in 1999 by Professor Asim Dutta-Roy at the Rowett Institute in Aberdeen.

It is derived from the gel around tomato seeds. Clinical trials have shown it can help maintain a healthy blood circulation by preventing the clumping of blood platelets which can lead to clots.

Both Fruitflow and aspirin work by changing the characteristics of platelets, which are tiny cells in the blood. Normally they are smooth, but inflammation in the blood vessels - linked to smoking, high cholesterol and stress - causes them to become spiky and so stick together, forming clots.

Aspirin strongly blocks one set of signals that causes this to happen. Fruitflow more gently damps down three others, enough to reduce the risk of clotting.

Currently, millions of older people take small doses of aspirin daily to improve blood flow.

However this can have unwelcome side effects such as bleeding in the stomach and the creation of ulcers. Professor-Dutta-Roy said: 'To date, no side effects have been demonstrated during the development of Fruitflow.'
Research shows that a smoother blood flow can be seen within three hours of taking Fruitflow and the results can last up to 18 hours, making it ideal for daily consumption.

The gel, which is colourless and tasteless, is extracted from tomato seeds and can then be added to a range of foods without changing their characteristics.

It is currently added to Sirco, a range of 100 per cent pure fruit juices available from Waitrose, Ocado and some health food shops.

source: dailymail.co.uk

Is it more important to eat healthy foods or low-calorie foods?

Both factors are important. Beware of packaged foods that say "low calorie," and opt for whole foods instead. Processed foods can contain tons of salt, refined sugar, and fat, even if they are low in calories. A better choice is always whole foods--fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

While you need to eat a variety of healthy foods, also remember that even nutritious foods can have high calorie counts. For example, a watery vegetable like a cucumber (one cuke has 16 calories per cup) has fewer calories than the same-size serving of cooked brown rice (216 calories). Both foods are great sources of vital nutrients like vitamins and minerals, but you should keep an eye on portion sizes of the foods that have more calories, like brown rice.

The best nutrition comes from eating a balanced diet of whole foods.

Source: Dr. Pamela Peeke, MD, MPH, is a member of Prevention's advisory board and the author of Body for Life for Women (Rodale Inc.).

Travel Nurse May Be The Right Career Choice For You

Travel nursing and the Travel Nursing Industry developed in response to the nursing shortage in which nurses travel to work temporary short-term nursing positions. The current severe shortage of nurses in the United States has increased the need for this type of position. To recruit qualified Registered Nurses, LPN/LVNs and Allied Health professionals hospitals and travel nurse recruitment/staffing agencies are offering incentives including higher wages, relocation assistance, furnished housing, and bonuses.

Nurse travel jobs are short term assignments in a location and setting of your choosing. With nurse travel jobs, you can broaden your knowledge base, or simply try a new practice setting. Nurse travel jobs are a great way to get the valuable experience you'll need to advance your career. Plus, nurse travel jobs can pay more on average than regular nursing staff positions.

Travel companies choose your assignment for you.

Based on what you want from a travel nursing assignment and your desired location, your recruiter will match your requirements with the jobs that are available in your specialty in your desired locations. While your recruiter will be a great resource with regards to providing details on specific assignments, you get to chose whether or not you want to interview with a facility and whether the job is right for you.

Travel Nurse

With Travel Nurse, you will always have a talented and quality team of experts to support you at each step in your journey.

Travel Nurse major goal is to provide you with the highest level of service in the traveling healthcare business. Healthcare professionals nationwide depend on them to deliver great traveling job experiences. Likewise, hospital recruiters turn to them for help with their healthcare employment needs - travel nursing jobs as well as allied professionals including surgical tech, and therapist positions.

If you are looking for a travel nursing agency that works harder for you, contact Travel Nurse today.

Some of the highlights and benefits of Travel Nurse:

• Excellent Pay
• Guaranteed Pay
• Your Way is Paid
• Completion Bonus
• Extension Bonus
• Tax Advantage
• Private Housing
• Loyalty Program
• Travel Money $$
• Insurance & Health Care Benefits
• 401(k) Available on Day One!
• Housing & Insurance Subsidies
• Referral Bonuses
• Credentialing Assistance
• Free Continuing Education Credits

More information in detail log on to - Travel Nurse

Green food supplements are most amazing all time natural food supplements

Green food supplements are one of the most amazing and all natural food supplements that you can take and what's more taking this health food supplement daily has excellent benefits. These all natural food supplements use the power of nature to help provide your body with the vitamins, minerals and enzymes it desperately needs. Providing these through diet alone can be quite difficult so these supplements are well worth taking.

What is contained in green food supplements?

Green food supplements are made from super green foods which help to alkalize, energize and nourish the body's cells along with balancing the body's pH level. Listed below are some of the main ingredients contained in green food supplements.

o Chlorophyll which is contained in the green part of plants has been found to aid in the healing of intestinal ulcers, liver disorders, eczema, gastritis, asthma, constipation, bleeding gums, and burns.

o Alfalfa which is one of the most mineral rich green foods contains Vitamins A and C, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus which are all needed to maintain a healthy body.

o Barley grass is another of the super green foods used in these all natural food supplements. Barley grass is a source of chlorophyll and it supports the body's immune system and helps with cleansing.

o Green tea is also used. This is a very powerful antioxidant and has been shown to help with diabetes.

o Kelp is a seaweed that is used in green food supplements. Kelp is a rich source of vitamins and minerals and this seaweed has been used in the treatment of under active thyroid problems.

o Spirulina is high in protein and it helps protect the body's immune system as well as lowering cholesterol and helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.

o Tumeric root is an antifungal and an antiparasitic. It helps to cleanse the blood and has been used in many herbal medicines.

o Wheatgrass is another of the super green foods which helps to create a very unfavourable environment for bacteria.

source: nation.ittefaq

Is vaginal itching always a sign of an infection?

Not always: Vaginal itching that occurs without discharge or an unpleasant odor is called noninfectious vaginitis. It's caused by a variety of things: hormonal fluctuations; reactions to soaps, detergents, condoms, or douching; tight-fitting clothes; skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis; and perspiration.

An anti-itch cream applied externally should provide relief quickly. To prevent a recurrence, avoid irritants such as scented pads or tampons, scented toilet paper, and antibacterial soaps. If you must use soap, mild kinds such as Neutrogena or unscented white Dove are best. If the itching doesn't subside in 4 to 6 weeks or is accompanied by unusual discharge, talk to your doctor to rule out an infection such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), a yeast infection, or trichomoniasis.

BV is actually more common than yeast infections and is associated with sexual activity and douching, both of which may reduce the protective bacteria in the vagina. A fishy vaginal odor and white or gray milklike discharge are key symptoms. Left untreated, BV can lead to complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal pregnancy, or, if you are pregnant, preterm labor. Antibiotics taken either orally or vaginally will clear it up.

Yeast infection can occur as a result of antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, and tight clothing, all of which make the vagina more susceptible to an overgrowth of yeast, which is normally found in the vagina. Symptoms include a white, cottage cheese?like discharge, itching, redness, and irritation. It's treated with antifungal cream, vaginal suppositories, or prescription oral medications.

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. Itching and redness are usually accompanied by a yellow-green discharge. Treatment requires an antibiotic.

Source: Mary Jane Minkin, MD, is a board-certified obstetrician/gynecologist and a clinical professor at Yale University School of Medicine.

Quick dietitian tips to avoid holiday overeating

CHICAGO (AP) - It's easy to overeat during the holidays. But Venita James, a dietitian at Fantus Health Center in Chicago, has some tips.

She says never go to a party hungry. Have a healthy breakfast and a light snack during the day.

Avoid sampling all the appetizers. Eat small portions and include carbohydrates, protein and vegetables. If you go back for seconds, go for the vegetables.

Avoid fried items and remove the skin from chicken or turkey. Go for the fruit instead of the high calorie desserts.

Drink water instead of soft drinks or alcohol.

Remember to eat slowly and enjoy the food.

The Fantus Health Center is 1 of the 16 Ambulatory and Community Health Network (ACHN) health centers within the Cook County Health and Hospitals System.

Have Italian Dishes For Christmas Celebration

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY – According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 17.8 million Italians live in America. While they will most likely be having an Italian Christmas celebration, others can do so, as well. For those who are not Italian but may want to embrace the culture, or simply try something new this year, having an Italian Christmas celebration will not disappoint.

“Italian Christmas celebrations are always so much fun because the food is like no other,” says John Kuropatwa, executive chef of Spigola Ristorante, located in Hamilton Township, New Jersey. “Once you try an Italian holiday celebration, you may never want to go back. The food and fun are that great.”

In Italy, Christmas is called “Natale” which, translated, means “birthday.” While the yule log is burning, many Italians will serve up fancy favorites such as panettone, a cake that contains candied fruit and raisins, and panforte, a type of gingerbread made with honey and almonds. Throwing an Italian holiday party is easy and provides your guests with a chance to try something a bit different. Some popular dishes to consider for your celebration include:

· Appetizers – shrimp cocktail, stuffed mushrooms, sliced vegetables, olives, Italian cheeses

· Main course – manicotti, yams, baked ziti, stuffed artichokes, ravioli

· Desserts – pastries, Italian cookies, roasted nuts, homemade pies

Here are a tasty recipe to try this year at your Italian Christmas celebration:

Zuppa di Pesce

For the sauce:

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 large yellow onion

8 large cloves garlic

4 cans crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried basil

2 bunches fresh basil

4 Tbsp. sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

For the rest:

1 lb linguine

12 mussels

12 clams (topneck or littleneck)

12 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

12 dry sea scallops

1 1/2 lb of firm-fleshed fish filets such as whiting, red snapper, or sea bass, cut into chunks

6 squid bodies, cut into small rings

Soak the clams and mussels in cold water with a pinch of cornmeal or flour for 30 minutes. This will help remove any sand in the shellfish. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any debris before adding them to the sauce.

While the clams and mussels are soaking, heat the olive oil in a large pot over low heat. Cut the onion into thin slices and finely chop the garlic. Add the onion to the oil in the pot, and cook until it is a very light brown, stirring frequently so it doesn't burn. Add the garlic and ½ of the fresh basil, and continue to cook until the garlic becomes golden. Continue stirring so that the mixture does not burn.

Add the tomatoes, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Raise the heat to medium, so that the sauce begins to boil. Once the sauce starts bubbling, lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, to reduce and allow the flavors to deepen.

While the sauce is cooking, fill a large pot with cold water and place on the stove over high heat. Salt the water, and cover. When the water comes to a boil, add the linguine and cook until it is al dente, stirring occasionally so that the pasta does not stick. Drain the pasta, toss with a tablespoon or two of olive oil, and reserve

After the sauce has cooked for at least 20 minutes, turn the heat up to medium, and add the fish and clams to the sauce. Cover the pot and let the clams, fish, and sauce cook for about 5 minutes. Then add the mussels to the sauce, replace the lid, and let cook for another 5 minutes. Then add the shrimp and scallops. Cook for 2 minutes and add the squid and the rest of the fresh basil. Continue to simmer until the shrimp are pink, the fish is cooked through, and the clams and mussels have opened. Discard any clams or mussels that did not open.

Remove as much of the seafood from the sauce as possible, setting it aside. This will make it easier to toss the pasta and less likely to break up the fish filets. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss together to evenly coat the pasta. Dish out each serving and put an equal amount of the seafood on top of each plate.

“Most people love Italian food, but they don’t always think about it as being an option for a Christmas party,” adds Kuropatwa. “Choosing it this year will make for a tasty holiday that will not only be remembered, but will be eagerly replicated by others.”

source: healthnewsdigest

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