December 2010

Saw Palmetto Berries Effective in Treating Enlarged Prostate Gland

Saw Palmetto Berries is found useful in the treatment of enlarged prostate gland in men.

Saw Palmetto Berries is a fruit of a bush of the North Atlantic coast of the USA and southern California. The berries have long been used for healing in traditional medicine and recent medical trials have tended to confirm their therapeutic use on urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate gland. Scientists have begun to identify the ways in which compounds contained in the berries may work at cellular level. The berries are available as a supplement.

Properties: diuretic, tonic and sedative.

Health Benefits:
It benefits in men suffering from an enlarged prostate gland, saw palmetto extract mat stimulate complete emptying of the bladder and reduce the frequency of urination so that the sufferer feels better.

Some studies suggest that compounds in the berries act at enzyme level to inhibit the proliferation of prostate gland cells, which leads to enlargement. In herbal medicine, extract of saw palmetto is also used to ease chronic catarrh and respiratory symptoms and to promote tissue building.

Note: At high daily doses, saw palmetto berries mat cause slight stomach upset but these symptoms are rare.

By - Dr.N.Dave

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Tips to speed up your metabolism naturally after 40

Metabolism slows with age, but you can fight back with these tips to speed up your metabolism naturally.

As menopause looms, many women begin gaining weight, though they haven't changed their diet. It's all due to drastic hormonal changes which can decrease metabolism and cause other trouble including night sweats, moodiness, diminished sex drive and loss of energy. As Dr. Oz explains today, there are ways to battle this change and regain some of your old energy.

Dr. Oz says that after 40 your metabolism winds down by about 5% every 10 years. Managing your weight after menopause is a combination of boosting your metabolism and getting the right nutrients for your changing body. Working some key foods into your diet will help keep your hormones - and your metabolism - in balance.

Since your metabolism has slowed, Dr. Oz says it's often a good idea to cut around 100 calories from your diet. To protect against hunger, he says that foods containing soluble fiber are a great defense against both belly fat and hunger. Fiber fills you up so you stay satisfied and eat less. He recommends 25 grams of fiber every day once you reach 40 and you can find fiber in foods like brown rice, and even raspberries.

Exercise is also critical in battling an aging metabolism. It acts as a mood enhancer because working out causes a spike in seratonin levels. Seratonin is a chemical in the brain which combats depression, so if you're feeling down, going for a run is a much better solution for your body and mental health than sitting down with a pint of ice cream. Further, muscle burns 3 times more calories than fat, helping to keep you trim even when you're resting. It's common to lose muscle mass with age, so exercise to fight this loss.

Some foods are a natural metabolism booster, such as black pepper. It contains the alkaloid piperine which has been shown to speed up metabolism. Oolong tea is another option. It's low in caffeine but, according to Dr. Oz, it contains polyphenols that help block fat-building enzymes. Research has shown that your metabolism is boosted for 2 hours after just one cup.

You can fight back against the changes of menopause through diet and exercise. Maintaining your metabolism and your weight may not be as easy, but with some extra work, you can manage your menopause.

source: americanhealthandbeauty

Magnesium prevent risk of sudden heart failure in women Magnesium is an essential mineral that is required to sustain healthy blood vessels, generate cellular energy, and maintain healthy nerve and muscle function. Required to perform more than 300 critical biochemical reactions throughout the body, magnesium is especially important to heart health as it is known to help maintain healthy heart rhythm and blood pressure.

The results of research conducted at the Harvard Medical School show the importance of magnesium to lower risk of death from sudden cardiac death. Adding more magnesium-rich foods to your diet will dramatically improve your chances of surviving a heart attack.

High Magnesium from Diet Critical to Heart Health
Obtaining sufficient magnesium from your diet can be difficult due to poor farming practices that provide 75% lower yield of the mineral in harvested crops as compared to a century ago. The result of a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition provides evidence that women with the highest dietary intake of magnesium were 41% less likely to suffer a fatal cardiac event.

The study followed more than 88,000 women over a period of 30 years and examined magnesium intake as well as other vital nutrients and lifestyle factors. Women in the highest quartile for dietary magnesium consumption experienced the highest degree of protection from sudden cardiac death. The study authors determined that 291 lives were spared in the study group for those women with the highest magnesium intake.

The study authors concluded: "In this prospective cohort of women, higher plasma concentrations and dietary magnesium intakes were associated with lower risks of sudden cardiac death. If the observed association is causal, interventions directed at increasing dietary or plasma magnesium might lower the risk of sudden cardiac death."

Adding Magnesium to Your Diet
Rich sources of magnesium can be obtained from a diet high in green leafy vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds. The minimum recommended daily allowance for the mineral is set at 320 mg per day for women while men need 420 mg. Studies indicate that the vast majority of adults are deficient in their daily intake, despite their best efforts to eat a diet enriched with magnesium.

Magnesium exists is a number of different forms in nature and current research demonstrates that it is important to consume a variety of different food sources to ensure maximum bioavailability. Many people are best advised to supplement as diet may not be a reliable source of this critical mineral.

Magnesium Improves Insulin Resistance
Magnesium works together with calcium to regulate blood sugar and assist the normal function of insulin. The results of a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology show that women with the highest intake of magnesium from diet or supplements are associated with a 27% lower risk of developing suboptimal insulin function. Those individuals with the lowest levels of circulating magnesium are 25% to 38% more likely to develop insulin resistance resulting in poor blood glucose regulation.

We don`t traditionally think much about our daily intake of magnesium, yet research confirms the essential and critical nature of this mineral. Important to a wide variety of organic functions throughout the body, magnesium has risen to superstar status for its demonstrated ability to prevent sudden heart failure and regulate insulin function. Carefully monitor your diet and supplement as necessary to ensure proper magnesium intake and dramatically lower your risk of sudden cardiac death.

source: Natural News

New Device Stops Snoring in Sleep Apnea Patients

Inspire Medical Systems will soon begin to test a device that could go a long way to prevent snoring.

Though not always, snoring is often a symptom of a condition known as sleep apnea that affects 12 million Americans. Sleep apnea causes high stress levels and increased susceptibility to serious health problems like heart disease and diabetes. Lack of sleep contributes to employment issues like lowered productivity. At home snoring keeps bed partners awake at night.

The new device electronically stimulates nerves leading to the tongue, causing the muscle to constrict. One of the common causes of sleep apnea is a relaxation of the tongue that causes it to cover air passages. Keeping the tongue a bit stiffer while breathing may be enough to ensure easy breathing and sound sleep.

The device has the characteristics of a pace maker in that it will be capable of sending a low voltage charge to the right place (the tongue) at the right time (when a breath is drawn). A unique feature of the anti-snoring unit is that it can be activated via a remote control and set to turn on and off at particular times.

Doctors at Inspire hope that this will be a viable cure for sleep apnea sufferers. Most sleep apnea patients are prescribed a CPAP device which regulates air flow in and out of the nose. Although millions of patients use CPAP’s and have been able to control their symptoms, many find them cumbersome, uncomfortable or unworkable because of their physical characteristics.

source: personalfinancebulletin

New technology to grow eggs on women’s arms Doctors at Army Hospital Research and Referral have found a procedure to help women cancer survivors conceive. Every year, cancer treatment causes premature menopause and infertility in thousands of women of reproductive age in India. The eggs will be grown in a woman's forearm, which, the doctorsat the hospital claim, is a first-of-its-kind procedure in the country.

"In January we will transplant her preserved ovarian tissue under the skin of her forearm to harvest eggs, which will help her conceive in future. This is the first time that this type of transplant is taking place in the country," said Lieutenant General Naresh Kumar, commandant, Army Hospital Research and Referral.

The ovarian tissue of cancer patients will be preserved in the lab before treatment, which can later be grafted on their forearm or abdomen when they would want to have children.

“The tissue will be pre-tested to avoid possibility of any cancer cells in them, and to help the ovarian tissue to produce eggs, specifics drugs will be administered to these women," said lieutenant-general Kumar.

The procedure brings a ray of hope for many couples, as premature menopause and infertility is a potential side-effect of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, etc.

"The woman, who is cancer-free, will undergo a surgery under local anaesthesia, wherein we'll implant an ovarian piece beneath the skin of her forearm. The eggs should develop after some days. She will notice a pea-sized lump at the transplant site, from where we'll extract eggs later for in-vitro fertilisation," said Kumar. The entire process is expected to take three to four months and costs between R1.5 lakh to R2 lakh.

source: hindustantimes

Bulgur Wheat Prevents Peaking of Blood Sugar Levels

Bulgur wheat is a cracked wheat that is boiled and dried to form coarse granules, which are soaked before eating. Slightly chewy texture when cooked.

Bulgur wheat a good source of starch, vegetable protein, vitamin (especially the B group and E) and minerals including iron.

Health benefits

It provides slow-release energy avoiding peaking of blood sugar levels, and helpful in the prevention and control of diabetes. It is a valuable protein source for vegetarians, and contains vitamins and minerals essential for good health and prevention of disease.

It requires soaking in boiling water for 15-20 minutes when the Bulgur wheat expands and absorbs water. It can be used as a substitute for rice in pilaf, etc.

People with coeliac disease must avoid eating due to presence of gluten in it.

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How to save a person having a Heart Attack?

First aid for heart attack include:

Have the person sit down, rest, and try to keep calm.

1. Ask the person to cough vigorously.

2. Loosen any tight clothing as possible.

3. If possible ask the person to take any chest pain medication for a known heart condition.

4.Help the person take the medication (usually nitroglycerin, which is placed under the tongue).

5. If the pain does not go away promptly with rest or within 3 minutes of taking nitroglycerin, call for emergency medical help immediately.

6.If the person is unconscious and unresponsive, call 911 (or your local emergency number), then begin doing CPR.

7.If an infant or child is unconscious and unresponsive, perform 1 minute of CPR, then call 911 right away.

According to the American Heart Association, over 1 million people have heart attacks every year. Half of them die from the attack; others are left permanently disabled. Taking steps to prevent heart disease, recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack and knowing how to respond can save a life.

Considerations
If you suspect someone is having a heart attack, quick action can save a life. Even if you are not sure, don't wait. One of the main reasons people die from heart attacks is, they don't get proper help fast enough. After a heart attack, almost half die within the first hour after experiencing symptoms and never make it to the hospital.

Getting help within the first hour is a primary step for saving a life. The first thing to do is call 911 immediately. Do not try to drive the person to the hospital. Ambulances are staffed with trained medical personnel and stocked with equipment to save a life. This means the person can be treated while en route to the hospital, which is not in case if you drive her yourself. Everyone should be trained in CPR, especially if you or someone you know is at risk for heart disease. After calling for help, administering CPR can be the difference between life and death.

Read More on Heart Health

Do you have a noisy stomach?

Bowel sounds or growling noise coming from the stomach is called borborygmi. These sounds are caused by muscular contraction of gastrointestinal tract to move the contents of the stomach and intestines downward. These bowel sounds are normal. Absence of bowel sounds may indicate obstruction on the digestive tract.

The normal bowel sounds are high pitched, gurgling noises that are caused by air mixing with fluid during peristalsis. This noises vary in frequency, pitch, and intensity and happens irregularly from 6 to 35 times per minute. The loudest time is before mealtimes.

Bowel sounds are categorized as normal, hyperactive, or hypoactive. Hyperactive bowel sounds-loud, high-pitched, tinkling sounds are caused by diarrhea, constipation, or early intestinal obstruction.

Hypoactive bowel sounds are seldom heard when there is ileus, bowel obstruction, or peritonitis . Use of narcotics and other medications can depress peristalsis.

by - Hernani C. Bandoy RN

What happens when you swallow toothpaste?

Ingestion of toothpaste can lead to flourosis and white spots in primary teeth. Large quantities will lead to gastrointestinal side effect such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

By Don Oldenburg
Washington Post Staff Writer

"If a child was to take a big spoonful of this fluoride, I don't think he could swallow it," she says, "but if he did get it down, it is a poison and the child could die. If a child ingested a whole tube of toothpaste, he should be taken right to the emergency room and he would either get his stomach pumped or get some kind of antidote."

Three ingredients found in most toothpastes pose health risks if too much is ingested, according to Miskewitz. Sorbitol, a liquid that keeps toothpaste from drying out, is a laxative that could cause diarrhea in children. Sodium lauryl sulfate, an ingredient that makes toothpaste foam, can also be a diarrheic. But the fluoride poses the most danger if too much toothpaste is swallowed -- particularly to younger children.

"Small amounts of this material go a long way in causing disruption in their bodies because they are so small," Miskewitz says. "The fluoride in toothpaste is considered a drug. Even though it is an over-the-counter drug, we are altering the body when we brush our teeth with a fluoride toothpaste or tooth gel. . . . As normal consumers, you're not aware of these things. But I'm sure our 800 number is going to get more calls as products with the new warnings show up on store shelves."

This summer, as toothpaste shipments with the new labeling replace older inventories, consumers will see nearly twice the warnings displayed on the back of tubes and cartons -- the ADA's general warnings along with the new FDA-required statement that starts with: "Keep out of the reach of children under 6 years of age."

Research has shown that because they aren't yet in control of their swallowing reflex, children 4 to 6 years old typically swallow toothpaste when brushing. "That's why it's recommended that kids get only a pea-size amount of toothpaste," says Miskewitz, "because most of that goes down their throats."

A 1995 study at the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry found that about half the children this age don't spit out or rinse out -- they swallow the toothpaste instead. Making matters worse, they tend to use too much toothpaste on their own -- especially when they use flavored children's toothpastes.

While the cavity-preventing effectiveness of fluoride has been demonstrated, too much fluoride not only can be dangerous, it can cause a condition known as fluorosis that discolors or spots developing teeth. Research conducted by the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Connecticut Health Center concluded that brushing with more than a pea-size amount of toothpaste more than once daily contributed to most of the fluorosis cases it observed in young children. In areas where the drinking water contains fluoride, children who swallow even the pea-size amount of toothpaste are getting too much fluoride and are at risk for fluorosis.

"I haven't heard of problems beyond fluorosis, but that's a valid concern. There are some kids getting too much fluoride," says Nancy Rosenzweig, vice president of corporate communication and market development at Tom's of Maine, which in 1975 introduced the first "natural" toothpaste on the market.

"That's why Tom Chappell started making toothpaste. He was in his bathroom reading ingredient labels and saying 'You know, there's a lot of stuff in here that you really shouldn't be putting into your mouth.' "

Besides its natural toothpastes that contain fluoride, the small Kennebunkport-based company makes a nonfluoride toothpaste in flavors including "cinnamint" and "fennel." When Tom's recently began marketing its new line of natural toothpaste for children, it left out the synthetic sweeteners, neon colors and bubble gum flavors. But the toothpastes, called Silly Strawberry and Outrageous Orange, contain the same levels of fluoride as competitors' toothpastes.

"It is always kind of a trade-off," explains Rosenzweig. "We made a decision to have only fluoride toothpaste for children because that has been proven to be the overall benefit of toothpaste for children. We feel the benefit outweighs the negative."

As for natural fruit flavorings being more attractive to a child's taste buds than mint-flavored adult toothpastes, Rosenzweig says Tom's chose wholesome flavors that would lure children to brushing. "You have to get the education across to your kids that you don't suck the toothpaste down, just as you have to work with your kids to brush their teeth," she says. "The alternative is they don't brush. I guess we don't feel like the risk factor is that high to make that trade-off."

In fact, many in the toothpaste industry feel the new FDA warnings may be overstating the risks.

"Our position was that they went a little too far," says Clifford Whall, director of product evaluations on the ADA's Council on Scientific Affairs. "There wasn't really a need for the cautionary statement about the danger of poisoning if you've ingested too much.

"If children were to sit around the bathroom eating toothpaste, which younger children could do, there is not enough fluoride in the toothpaste to cause them any acute harm. That just doesn't happen. . . . If you tried to eat a lot of toothpaste, you'd throw it up."

While Whall concedes that poison control centers do receive reports of fluoride "poisonings" every year, he says the ADA isn't aware of any of those cases resulting in adverse effects. "It just hasn't proven to be that kind of a problem. . . . We didn't think you needed a label like that because it could unnecessarily scare consumers into not using toothpaste."

source: fluoridealert.org

Failing to lose weight, here's Why?

Too Fat? Your ‘Thrifty’ Gene May Be to Blame

People who struggle with weight issues could have their ancestors to blame. Scientists have identified a “thrifty” gene that helps the body store fat and can cause someone to gain weight, even when following a healthy diet.

A new study has found that a “thrifty” gene that once helped our ancestors survive famines could be to blame for obesity.

Researchers at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies found that mice bred to lack the CRTC3 (thrifty) gene were able to eat a diet high in fat, while normal mice who had the CRTC3 gene and ate the same diet packed on the pounds.

Study findings also revealed that animals without the CRTC3 gene were leaner than those with the gene, which also raises their risk of diabetes.

“If you feed them a diet that has up to 60 percent of calories from fat, their normal brothers and sisters that have the CRTC3 gene gain weight and become obese, insulin resistant and some go on to develop diabetes, but those who don’t have the CRTC3 gene remain lean and insulin sensitive,” lead researcher Dr. Marc Montminy told Reuters.

In their attempt to determine whether the same effects manifested in humans, scientists found that Mexican Americans who have a mutation of the thrifty gene have a higher risk of becoming obese. However, the CRTC3 gene did not seem to affect non-Hispanic whites with the genetic variant the same way, further proving that obesity is very complex.

The CRTC3 gene “slows down the rate at which the fat cells burn fat,” Dr. Montminy told Reuters. Having the gene could have been an advantage to our ancestors, who sometimes were forced to go a long time in between meals, but can be a disadvantage in modern first world countries, where food is abundant.

Dr. Montminy noted that given the study findings, pharmaceutical companies may focus future research at offsetting the effects of the CRTC3 gene to treat and prevent obesity.

source: weightlosssurgerychannel

Nipple Sensation Might be Lost After Breast Reduction Surgery Breast reduction/loss of sensation

That depends on the how the surgery is done and the skill of the surgeon, but most of the time, no, the sensation in the nipple is not lost. There is always that risk, however and when the surgeon has you sign the consent for the surgery, they will explain that possibility to you.

The Anatomy of Nipple Sensation
All sensation is based upon nerve connectivity, and in particular, a certain set of nerves called the fourth intercostal nerve branch provides sensation to the nipple. These nerves extend from the chest wall to the nipple and if any of them are severed or damaged - or if their blood supply is cut off - the result may be diminished nipple sensation.

Surgeons must use careful techniques in order to avoid damaging this nerve branch and to promote proper healing and nipple sensitivity. Depending on the specific type of breast surgery being performed, some methods are better at preserving nerves than others. The following are a few cases in which permanent sensation loss may occur, along with techniques surgeons can use to help preserve feeling.

With Breast Augmentation
With breast augmentation, the nerves below the nipple are not typically cut, but can be damaged or stretched when the surgeon maneuvers the implant inside the breast. This is particularly true in cases where larger breast implants are used. While there is some debate about incision location and implant placement affecting post-operative nipple sensitivity, the strongest evidence supports the size of the implant as being the major determining factor in sensation loss.

Essentially, the larger the implant placed in the breast pocket, the more pressure that the implant puts on the nerves and tissue within that pocket. If there is a large implant and a smaller breast pocket, the risk is even greater.

There has also been evidence that placing breast implants under the pectoral muscles preserves sensation more than sub-glandular placement. This may be because, when the implant is under the muscle, it places less pressure on the fourth intercostal nerve branch. Choosing a moderately sized implant and placing the implant below the muscle may help reduce the risk of sensation loss.

With Breast Reduction
Unlike breast augmentation, breast reduction carries significantly more risk for decreased nipple sensation. This is because the nerves may need to be cut in order to sufficiently remove enough breast tissue. In more extreme cases, a plastic surgeon may need to remove the nipple entirely to reposition it. Called a free nipple graft, this method allows the surgeon to remove more tissue, but it severs the blood supply and nerves, almost guaranteeing loss of nipple sensation.

The more common pedicle method of breast reduction in Seattle is a much better way to preserve nipple sensation. Instead of completely severing the nipple from the nerves and surrounding tissue, the surgeon will leave the nipple attached to a section of tissue called a "pedicle" that contains the milk ducts, nerves, and blood supply. Because the nerves remain intact, it is far less likely that patients will permanently and fully lose sensation.

With Breast Lift
Breast lifts are often very similar to breast reduction, in that the nipple may need to be moved, increasing the chances of nerve damage and stretching. Some surgeries will sever the nerves, requiring months of healing for the nerves to (hopefully) regenerate and sensation to return. Typically, the more dramatic the lift and the more the nipple needs to be moved, the greater the patient's chances of losing nipple sensation. However, in many cases, the surgeon can use a similar technique to the pedicle method to maintain the nerve connection to the nipple when performing the breast lift.

What You Can Do
All breast surgeries usually result in temporary sensation loss, since incisions can damage surface nerves. However, these nerves typically grow back, returning sensation over a period of about 3 to 6 months on average.

In general, if you are concerned about nipple sensation when considering breast surgery, discuss your options with your plastic surgeon. He or she can advise you about certain methods that may be right for you.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Wandra Miles specializes in Seattle breast reconstruction surgery. Dr. Miles also performs breast augmentation, breast lift, liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and face lifts. Her office is located in Seattle, Washington and serves Tacoma, Bellevue and Olympia. Dr. Miles also spends time in Ketchikan, Alaska consulting with patients.

Article source: ezinearticles

Clementines a great citrus health fruit

Clementines is a popular citrus fruit that is a cross between a tangerine and an orange. They are cultivated in Israel, Spain, Morocco, Cyprus and some Mediterranean countries.

They are rich source of vitamin C, soluble and insoluble fibre, potassium and fructose.

Health benefits
Vitamin C is vital for health and possesses antioxidant and anti-infective properties, which are believed to protect against a number of disease and conditions. Insoluble fibre promotes regular bowel function and may help to protect against cancer. Soluble fibre lowers blood cholesterol levels and may protect against heart and circulatory disease. Fructose is a readily available energy source.

Daily consumption reduces vision loss related to aging. It is also beneficial to skin.

Clementines usually just eaten raw. The segments can be used to decorate desserts.

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How to turn dark lips into its original color

Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes pigmentation, which in turn results in darkening of the skin as well as the lips. If you spend numerous time outdoors, make sure that your lip balm has an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.

Here are some tips to lessen the darkening:

* You can apply a mixture of lemon juice and glycerin to your lips daily. Lemon juice is a natural bleach while glycerin helps to moisturize your lips.

* You can exfoliate your lips with a toothbrush and some Vaseline. The skin on your lips is very delicate so make sure that you use a soft toothbrush (meant for toddlers) to exfoliate it gently.

* You can make your own natural lips scrub using almond oil, honey and sugar. Honey has antioxidants that protect your lips from damage caused by free radicals. Almond oil is a good moisturizer and sugar gives the mixture roughage and at the same time is easy on your skin.

* Dryness and dehydration contribute to darkening of the skin. Before going to bed every night make it a point to apply some Vaseline petroleum jelly to your lips.
Using a humidifier in your room can also be beneficial as it will keep your skin hydrated.

* Make it a point to drink enough water and other fluids. Fruit juices and milk shakes will help as they will not only provide you with the much needed fluid content, but they are also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy skin.

* Your diet is very important and unhealthy eating habits can aggravate the condition. Try to follow a balanced diet with a large amount of fresh fruits like oranges, grapefruit, apples, water melons, etc. and vegetables like to radish, turnips and lettuce.

* Stop smoking. Your lips will not undergo improvement until you stop smoking. The stains are caused by nicotine, and they will only keep getting darker and darker. If you quit smoking and then start trying these remedies, stains caused by smoking should decrease within a month.

All the best!

Home remedy for the numbness of the hands

Numbness in hands describes a loss of sensation in your hands or fingers. Numbness in hands is frequently caused by irritation or compression of a branch of a nerve traveling to the arms, hands or fingers. Numbness in hands may be accompanied by tingling, burning, weakness or at times sharp pain. If you experience hand numbness, seek advice from your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Conditions that cause hand numbness varies from serious to benign---keeping hands in one position too long, neck and back injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetes, stroke, B12 deficiencies and multiple sclerosis, to name a few.

Here are some best home remedies for hand numbness:

* Treat hand numbness by making simple changes in every day life.

* Change sleeping positions to prevent hand numbness and don't keep the hand in similar position.

* Take breaks if you do repetitive events, like typing or cleaning, to prevent hand pain.

* Use a combination of hot and cold treatments for numb hands. Cold therapy reduces pain caused by hand numbness and heat relaxes hand muscles, -- use products like Icy Hot to create the same cold/heat sensation or purchase gloves from drug stores designed for treating hand pains.

* Simple forearm and hand exercises actually treat and prevent hand numbness.

More Causes

There are several things that may cause numbness in a hand. Left hand numbness could be caused by a stress motion disorder. Carpal tunnel syndrome, for instance, could cause numbness in an individual’s left hand.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a widespread repetitive-stress motion disorder. It is caused by nerve compression and can be painful. With carpal tunnel syndrome, symptoms typically start gradually. At first, an affected individual can notice numbness and tingling in the hand. Eventually, symptoms move on to continuous pain, frequently leaving the numbness and tingling behind.

Another cause of hand numbness could be nerve damage or disease. In such cases, numbness is frequently connected with pain described as prickling pins-and-needles in the hand. Burning sensations are common with such conditions.

If numbness starts in the hand and moves to a different part of the body, it could be related to a circulatory, neurological, or muscle-related condition.

Without a doctor’s examination, it is difficult to determine the cause of left hand numbness. Though you can have the symptoms of a specific illness or condition, the cause of left hand numbness could be something completely different from what you might expect. To protect your health, consult with a doctor to determine the cause of your prolonged numbness.

Cancer-Causing Chromium-6 Widespread in U.S. Drinking Water

WASHINGTON, DC, - Tap water from 31 of 35 U.S. cities tested contains hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, according to laboratory tests commissioned by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group and revealed in a report Saturday. The highest levels were detected in Norman, Oklahoma; Honolulu, Hawaii; and Riverside, California.

The cancer-causing chemical is best known to the general public from the 2000 movie "Erin Brockovich," starring Julia Roberts.

The film dramatized the plight of the cancer-stricken residents of Hinkley, California, who in 1996 won a $333 million settlement from Pacific Gas and Electric Co. for contaminating their tap water with hexavalent chromium.

The Environmental Working Group says, "Despite mounting evidence of the contaminant's toxic effects, including a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency draft toxicological review that classifies it as 'likely to be carcinogenic to humans' when consumed in drinking water, the agency has not set a legal limit for chromium-6 in tap water and does not require water utilities to test for it."

Hexavalent chromium is discharged from steel and pulp mills as well as metal-plating and leather-tanning facilities. It can pollute water through erosion of soil and rock, the EWG report shows.

Full Information

Family Stress Causes Angina Pain Study Shows Demanding Relationship With a Partner May Have an Impact on Heart Health

Just in time for those holiday family gatherings comes news that family stress -- especially stress involving spouses and children -- may hurt the heart.

People in a Danish study who reported having a worrisome or demanding relationship with a partner had a more than threefold increased risk for developing the severe chest pain condition known as angina.

Angina is both a warning sign and symptom of heart disease.

Researchers followed more than 4,500 men and women in their 40s and 50s with no known heart problems for six years. Those with the most stressful close family relationships had the highest risk of developing angina.

Study researcher Rikke Lund, MD, PhD, says it has long been known that positive social relationships are good for the heart. “We wanted to look at it another way and examine the impact of difficult social relationships on cardiovascular risk,” she tells WebMD.

Family Stress and the Heart

The randomly selected study participants were followed from 1999 to 2006, when they were asked about both their heart health and the quality of their relationships with the people in their lives, including partners, children, other relatives, friends, and neighbors.

Participants were specifically asked about the level of demand placed on them by family members and friends, the degree of worry associated with each relationship, and the degree and frequency of conflict.

During the six years of follow-up, roughly one in 10 study participants developed chest pains associated with angina.

Not surprisingly, older participants were more likely to report the condition than younger ones.

Having a worrisome or demanding relationship with a spouse or partner was associated with a more than 3.5-fold increase in angina risk, while a similar relationship with a child was associated with a twofold increase in risk.

The association was not quite as strong for other family members, and the impact of worries and demands involving non-family members was negligible.

Surprisingly, conflict with family members was much less strongly linked to angina risk than being in a worrisome or demanding relationship. People who reported having frequent arguments with a partner had a 44% increase in angina risk.

Second Opinion

Psychologist William R. Lovallo, PhD, who wrote the 2004 book Stress and Health: Biological and Psychological Interactions, says the study provides more evidence linking social relationships with health.

But he adds that it is not clear if the quality of these relationships has a direct impact on conditions like angina.

Lovallo is with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Oklahoma City and the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center.

“It is tempting to assume that bad social relationships cause medical symptoms, but we have to be careful about making this association,” he tells WebMD.

Lovallo cites earlier research by the same investigators suggesting a link between hostility and poor health.

“It would come as no surprise that people who are hostile by nature would have more difficulties in social relationships,” he says. “So it may not be the social relationships that lead to symptoms like angina.”

But cardiologist Nieca Goldberg, MD, says stress clearly has a negative impact on the heart. She says it is increasingly clear that interventions to relieve stress, such as meditation and cognitive behavioral therapy, can benefit the heart.

“The biggest challenge for me is getting patients to accept that they need to take steps to lower stress,” says Goldberg, who is a spokeswoman for the American Heart Association. “I live and work in New York City where most people view stress as a fact of life. But worry and stress are not good for the heart, no matter where you live.”

source: webmd

Healthy Diet Tips For People Working in Night Shifts

So you're stuck on the late night shift again? If that makes you tired and more inclined to eating a big meal to boost your energy, stop right there.

Night shift workers are probably losing their good health faster than you can say “Hello”. Long hours of work along with a hectic work schedule, have put an increasing number of young professionals burning the midnight oil at risk of major health disorders.

Researchers have found several negative health effects in shiftworkers and workers on extended hours. Some of these are:

* Increased heart disease
* Gastric ulcers and gastro intestinal problems
* Social problems and minor psychiatric disorders
* Sleep disorders and increased fatigue
* Increased error rates and accident rates.

Some personal factors can make workers more susceptible to problems when doing shift work or extended hours. These include:

* A heavy domestic work load
* Psychiatric illness
* A history of alcohol or drug abuse
* Epilepsy
* Diabetes
* Heart disease

People vary in how they cope with shift work depending on their health, fitness, age, lifestyle, and domestic responsibilities; some adapt well, others do not.

Whilst we cannot change our inbuilt characteristics, it is possible to alter our behavior or make lifestyle changes that may make shift work more tolerable. To be able to work in night shifts without compromising on health, there are certain steps one can take to keep healthy:

1. One should eat dinner, before beginning the shift, at 7 or 8 pm rather than late at night when it is almost 12.

2. Many people avoid eating or eat a fatty snack food because they do not want to feel heavy before a shift. In that case, food choices like brown rice, poha (flattened rice) with vegetables, besan cheela (gram flour pancake) made on non stick pan, vegetable dalia (wheat porridge), cereal with milk can be some of the options which are not heavy like a full meal and yet are very satisfying.

3. One should keep oneself hydrated through the night with water, lemon water, coconut water, herbal tea, soups, ginger drink, barley drink made fresh in the café.

4. If one feels hungry at night one can eat a combination of nuts and murmura. For example: a dry snack can be made using any of the ingredients like peanuts, roasted flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts, raisins, puffed rice, roasted chana, roasted corn, roasted moth and other dals.

5. One should try to manage hunger by drinking more fluids than eating starchy foods.

6. Drinking luke warm water before eating is a great idea for improving digestion as it lubricates and activates the intestine, especially at night.

7. One needs to control the amount of tea and coffee consumed, 2 cups of strong tea or coffee are enough in 24 hours. More than that, it tends to cause acidity, gas, bloating, restlessness and interference in sleep.

8. Foods which are to be controlled are white bread, white flour, biscuits, sugary foods, french fries, fried cutlets and fried bread. Such foods can very severely affect the cholesterol levels and since they are eaten at night with a stressful work environment, they are even more likely to create heart blockages.

9. When reaching home in the morning, one can have a cup of hot milk or hot barley with nuts or jaggery, high fiber biscuits and go to sleep.

10. On waking up, one can do some yoga steps like pranayam and body stretches, take a shower and eat a normal meal.

source: lifemojo

When should a child not be vaccinated?

In a few cases, it's better to wait to get a vaccine. Some children who are very sick should not get a vaccine at all. Reasons that you should wait or not get a vaccine may include:

•Being sick with something more serious than a cold

•Being pregnant (for some vaccines)

•Having a bad reaction after the first dose of a vaccine

•Having a convulsion (sudden jerky body movements) that is thought to be caused by a vaccine.

More Information: my.clevelandclinic.org

Cause of Chest Pain When You Eat There's a lot of disease and conditions that may cause chest pain, and according to your situation, you're experiencing Esophageal cause of chest pain which is also called GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). It is cause by failure of the sphincter at the lower end of the esophagus to close properly.

As a result, there is regurgitation of gastric acid from the stomach at times into the lower esophagus producing spasm or inflammation of the lining that may produce
chest pain that is very similar to angina pectoris.

In fact, esophageal disorders often coexist with coronary artery disease. Chest pain from esophageal disorders is usually precipitated by eating of food, or by lying down after eating, and it can be relieved by antacids and milk, it is accompanied by heartburn and difficulty swallowing also called dysphagia. Certain kinds of food more characteristically produce esophageal pain examples are, alcohol, spicy food, coffee and sodas.

Esophageal pain may last for hours and fluctuate in intensity. GERD may be treated with proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec. However, you have to consult a
specialist advice if symptom tends to manifests in a significant period of time.

Reviewed by: Mixieann S. Caliguiran - AMT

Cherry juice for pain free life

Here is one more reason to include delicious cherry juice as an important part of a healthy diet.

Cherry juice with its high nutrition content, natural anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants [compounds that protect against cell damage inflicted by molecules called oxygen-free radicals, which are a major cause of disease and aging.] not only helps people live a healthy, pain-free life, but is beneficial to athletes as well.

According to a new study, cherry juice at the end of an exhausting marathon finish line boosts stamina, improves endurance, and helps long distance runners recover their strength faster.

Lead author of the study, Glyn Howatson, exercise physiologist and laboratory director in the School of Psychology and Sports Sciences, Northumbria University stated, "Participating in long-distance endurance events, such as a marathon, causes a degree of muscle damage andinflammation for the runners.

"It takes several days to recover and during that period the runners ability to conduct physical activity can be vastly inhibited.

"The phytochemicals, in particular, anthocyanins found in Montmorency cherries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidating properties, which the research has shown to be effective in helping exercises to recover from strenuous physical activity.”

Properties of cherry juice examined
In a bid to ascertain whether tart cherry juice influences the recovery process following a marathon, the researchers conducted a study.

Physiologists examined the properties of the tart juice in 20 athletes who ran in the London Marathon.

In the experiment, the runners were assigned to drink either 50 ml of tart cherry juice or a calorie matched placebo two times daily for five days before taking part in the race and for two days afterwards.

As a part of the investigation, blood samples were taken six days prior to the race, immediately on completion of the event, and then at one and two days after the marathon.

Experts then analyzed the samples for muscle damage. In addition, markers for muscle soreness were measured one day before the marathon and again after the completion of the race.

Outcome of the study
The investigators noted that the group who drank the cherry juice recovered their strength faster, 48 hours after the marathon, compared to those who drank the fake drink.

In addition, it was observed that inflammation levels and oxidative stress that can be an outcome of strenuous physical activity was lower in the cherry juice group.

The researchers concluded that cherry juice appears to increase total antioxidant status offering greater defence against oxidative stress, thereby aiding in the quick recovery of muscle function after the marathon.

Implications of the study
According to experts, the findings of the study suggest that cherry juice could be beneficial in treating people afflicted with inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis
.

Howatson stated, "People are increasingly looking at natural remedies
, or neutraceuticals, to treat their conditions, and scientific studies, such as the research into tart cherries, examine the potentially untapped treatments held in natural resources, that can provide adjunct therapy for the management of disease, which can help reduce negative symptoms and improve quality of life.”

The research was sponsored by St. Mary’s University College Research Scholarship fund.

Click For More Amazing Health Foods

source: themedguru

Fluoridized Water Causes Brain Damage in Kids

A new study pre-published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives confirms that fluoridated water causes brain damage in children. The most recent among 23 others pertaining to fluoride and lowered IQ levels, the new study so strongly proves that fluoride is a dangerous, brain-destroying toxin that experts say it could be the one that finally ends water fluoridation.

"This is the 24th study that has found this association," explained Paul Connett, Ph.D., director of the Fluoride Action Network (FAN). "[B]ut this study is stronger than the rest because the authors have controlled for key confounding variables and in addition to correlating lowered IQ with levels of fluoride in the water, the authors found a correlation between lowered IQ and fluoride levels in children's blood."

For the study, researchers evaluated 512 children ages 8-13 in two Chinese villages, one village with higher than average fluoride levels and the other with lower than average fluoride levels. After accounting for external variables like lead exposure, iodine deficiency and other conditions that might affect brain health, the team still found that the number of higher intelligence children in the low fluoride community was 350 percent higher than the number in the high fluoride community.

"In this study we found a significant dose-response relation between fluoride level in serum and children's IQ," wrote the study authors.

Though there have been numerous studies over the years the identify fluoride as a neurotoxin, most mainstream medical professionals in the U.S. have ignored them and continue to support water fluoridation. But the evidence continues to mount, and sooner or later the medical community will have to come to grips with the truth about fluoride.

"This should be the study that finally ends water fluoridation," explained Tara Blank, Ph.D., Science and Health Officer at FAN. "Millions of American children are being exposed unnecessarily to this neurotoxin on a daily basis. Who in their right minds would risk lowering their child's intelligence in order to reduce a small amount of tooth decay, for which the evidence is very weak."

To learn more about the dangers of fluoride, visit: fluorideaction.org

When should you take out your new born baby?

There are no hard and fast medical rules about how long to wait before taking a newborn out into the world or letting outsiders near the baby. In fact, if it’s not too hot or cold out, you should feel free to take your baby outside — you both would both probably enjoy a stroll outside and some fresh air!

But if you visit public places, like malls, movie theaters, and airplanes, be careful to avoid exposing your newborn to infections that people carry. A newborn's immune system is still developing and may not be able to fight off infections. Some doctors prefer for you to wait until the baby is a few months old before going to crowded public places.

If you go out with your baby, it's wise to take these precautions:

* Make sure your baby's vaccines are up to date.

* Avoid exposing your child to people who are sick, even with things like diarrhea or runny noses.

* Ask anyone who holds, touches, or feeds your newborn to wash his or her hands first.

* Make sure that your baby is appropriately dressed when you go outdoors.

Your doctor may advise you to take extra precautions if your child was premature or has a condition that affects the immune system, like HIV.

If you have any questions, talk with your doctor.

Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD

What happens when your appendix burst? The appendix is a closed-ended, narrow tube up to several inches in length that attaches to the cecum (the first part of the colon) like a worm. (The anatomical name for the appendix, vermiform appendix, means worm-like appendage.)

The inner lining of the appendix produces a small amount of mucus that flows through the open center of the appendix and into the cecum. The wall of the appendix contains lymphatic tissue that is part of the immune system for making antibodies. Like the rest of the colon, the wall of the appendix also contains a layer of muscle, but the muscle is poorly developed.

Researchers in the United States say the appendix produces and protects good germs for the gut by "rebooting" the digestive system.

An inflamed appendix will likely burst if not removed. Bursting spreads infection throughout the abdomen, which is dangerous.

When your appendix bursts, you get a sharp pain in the lower lefthand side of your abdomen and it poisons your blood.

source: Mdinfo

Orange Juice Calms Oxidative Stress

A study shows that a glass of orange juice can calm oxidative stress that comes from eating a high fat and high carbohydrate meal that can also lead to heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Flavonoids in orange juice, naringenin and hesperidin, may be responsible for the potent effect on neutralizing oxidative and inflammatory stress that occurs from consuming unhealthy foods, shown in a small study.

The finding, from University at Buffalo endocrinologists, shows for the first time how orange juice, taken with a high fat high carbohydrate meal, could reduce inflammation in the lining of the blood vessels from oxidative stress, in turn reducing risk of heart attack and stroke.

To find the benefits of orange juice for promoting blood vessel health despite eating an unhealthy meal, 10 study participants between the ages of 10 and 40 were given a meal consisting of 81 grams of carbohydrates, 51 grams of fat and 32 grams of protein. One group drank water, one drank orange juice not from concentrate, and another group was given a 300 calorie glucose drink.

Blood tests showed significantly less blood vessel inflammation in the study group given orange juice, measure by blood tests at intervals. Orange juice also blocked SO3, an important mediator of insulin resistance that plays a role in the development of type 2 diabetes.

Before the meal, there were no differences in inflammatory markers among the study participants. After eating the high fat high carbohydrate meal oxygen free radicals increased 62 percent with water, 63 percent with the glucose drink, and 47 percent among the study group given orange juice.

Paresh Dandona, MD, senior study author says, "These data emphasize that a high-fat, high-carbohydrate meal is profoundly and rapidly proinflammatory, and that this process occurs at the cellular and molecular level", adding that the effect of oxidative stress from an unhealthy high fat high carbohydrate diet leads to an “increase in the mediators of insulin resistance after a single meal, and the equally remarkable prevention of these changes following the intake of orange juice."

Regular consumption of unhealthy foods leads to blood vessel damage and inflammation from oxidative stress, raising the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Consuming healthy foods is an important part of heart disease prevention.

The new study shows that orange juice, taken with a high fat, high carbohydrate meal could help prevent inflammation and heart disease. Flavonoids in orange juice seem to have a positive effect for reducing oxidative stress that can lead to atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes.

source: emaxhealth

How to know if you are having a heart attack in progress?

How do I know if I'm having a heart attack?

The pain of a heart attack can feel like bad heartburn. You may also be having a heart attack if you:

* Feel a pressure or crushing pain in your chest, sometimes with sweating, dizziness, nausea or vomiting
* Feel pain that extends from your chest into the jaw, left arm or left shoulder
* Feel tightness in your chest
* Have shortness of breath for more than a couple of seconds
* Feel weak, lightheaded or faint
* Have sudden overwhelming fatigue

Don't ignore the pain or discomfort. If you think you are having heart problems or a heart attack, get help immediately. The sooner you get treatment, the greater the chance that the doctors can prevent further damage to the heart muscle.

More Information: familydoctor.org

The Most Common Metabolic Causes of Weight Gain

Hypothyroidism

Over 26 million Americans suffer with hypothyroidism, and less than one third of them are being properly diagnosed or treated! This is the case despite most of them having what their doctors mistakenly consider to be normal blood tests. As long as your thyroid function is inadequate, it will be nearly impossible for you to keep your weight down. The symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance with low body temperature (under 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit), achiness, and poor mental function.

Nutritional deficiencies

When you are deficient in vitamins or minerals your body will crave more food than you need and your metabolism will be sluggish.

Poor sleep

The expression “getting your beauty sleep” actually has a basis in fact. Deep sleep is a major trigger for growth hormone production and sleep also regulates the appetite-controlling hormones leptin and ghrelin. Growth hormone stimulates production of muscle (which burns fat) and improves insulin sensitivity (which decreases the tendency to make fat). One hundred years ago, the average American got 9 hours of sleep a night. Because it raises growth hormone, getting the 8-9 hours of sleep a night that the human body is meant to have can powerfully contribute to your staying young and trim!

Yeast overgrowth

Clinical experience has shown that fungal (also known as Candida or yeast) overgrowth contributes powerfully to both sugar cravings and weight gain. Although we do not know the mechanism for this, we have repeatedly seen excess weight drop off once this overgrowth is treated and eliminated.

Insulin resistance

This causes your body to make very high levels of insulin, which causes your body to make fat.

TREATMENT
Medications

Thyroid hormone

If you have symptoms of hypothyroidism, take a therapeutic trial of thyroid hormone. The form that I recommend is Armour thyroid, and it should be adjusted to the dose that feels best while keeping the Free T4 blood test in the normal range.

Metformin

If you are insulin resistant, take metformin 500-1,000 mg a day to help restore your body’s sensitivity to the insulin you make. Check a “Fasting Insulin” blood test one morning before you eat or drink anything. If it is over 10 McU/ml (drawn fasting in the morning), you are insulin resistant. In woman who have a high testosterone from the insulin resistance (known as polycystic ovary syndrome, or "PCOS," and sometimes associated with increased facial hair), the metformin can improve overall well being and even restore fertility. Give it 3 months to work, and be sure you are taking 500 mcg of vitamin B12 a day with it as the metformin depletes vitamin B12.

Recommended Supplements

Multi-nutrient powder

To help prevent nutritional deficiencies, take a good multi-nutrient powder.

Herbal sleep aids

Herbal sleep aids can help you sleep.

Other Therapies & Advice

Check for Candida.

How to Prevent Breast Sagging?

Here are some ways that may help you:

Exercises

* Push-ups: Whether you do typical push-ups, where your toes and hands touch the floor, or modified ones, where you’re supported by your hands and bent knees with your back in a straight position, this is a great exercise that does not require any equipment, just proper positioning.

* Dumbbell fly: You will need two light dumbbells (about 5-8 pounds) and a bench. Lie back on the bench with arms out to your sides, palms up and elbows slightly bent. Bring the dumbbells together over your head, keeping your elbows bent. Perform 3 sets of eight to twelve reps.

* Incline press: With a bench inclined no more than 30 degrees, plant your feet on the floor while lying on the bench. Hold a barbell with enough weights wider than shoulder width, lifting it off a rack and lowering it to your upper chest. Touch your chest with the barbell, hold it for a count of two, then lift the bar. Do not lock your elbows while performing this movement. Again, perform 3 sets of eight to twelve reps.

* Cream: Moisturize your breasts twice a day, to keep the skin nourished.

* Keep your weight steady: Because breast tissue is made up mainly of fat cells, repeatedly gaining and losing as little as five pounds can cause breast skin and the connective tissue inside your twins to lose elasticity, making your mammary appear softer and losses over time.

* Support your breast: A supportive bra in your correct size will take the weight off breast ligaments, preserving your twins firmness. Even with larger breasts it's still possible to keep them from drooping badly by keeping a bra on as much as possible - even in bed. Many sleep bras are comfortable and thin, while providing the necessary support.Whether you're an A or D cup, wear a bra with top notch support. And whenever you go to the gym, opt for a sports bra that's design like an regular bra.

* Surgery: Much further down the road you may wish to have a surgical procedure done which involves removing some of the fat from your breasts and inserting a tuck to bring them upward.

Consequences of Vitamin D Toxicity Vitamin D toxicity, also called hypervitaminosis D, is a potentially serious but treatable medical condition that occurs when you get too much vitamin D.

Vitamin D toxicity usually results from taking an excessive amount of vitamin D supplements — not from your diet or too much sun exposure. That's because your body regulates the amount of vitamin D produced from sun exposure, and even fortified foods don't contain large amounts of vitamin D.

Although vitamin D toxicity is rare even among people who take supplements, you may be at greater risk if you have health problems, such as liver or kidney conditions, or if you take thiazide-type diuretics. As always, make sure your doctor is aware of any vitamins or supplements you take.

The main consequence of vitamin D toxicity is a buildup of calcium in your blood (hypercalcemia), causing symptoms such as:

* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Poor appetite
* Constipation
* Weakness
* Confusion
* Heart rhythm abnormalities
* Kidney stones

Treatment of vitamin D toxicity may include stopping vitamin D supplements and restricting calcium intake, as well as taking medication. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Supplements can be a reasonable way to meet recommended levels — as long as you pay attention to how much you take. The Institute of Medicine currently recommends that children and adults up to age 70 get 600 international units (IU) of vitamin D daily. The recommendation for adults over age 70 is 800 IU daily.

Finally, keep in mind that doctors may recommend higher does of vitamin D for a short time to treat an underlying medical problem such as vitamin D deficiency. However, such therapeutic doses are given under the care of a doctor.

source: mdinfo

Precautions to take when using eye cosmetics: FDA Advice

What precautions should you take when using eye cosmetics?

If you use eye cosmetics, FDA urges you to follow these safety tips:

* If any eye cosmetic causes irritation, stop using it immediately. If irritation persists, see a doctor.

* Avoid using eye cosmetics if you have an eye infection or the skin around the eye is inflamed. Wait until the area is healed. Discard any eye cosmetics you were using when you got the infection.

* Be aware that there are bacteria on your hands that, if placed in the eye, could cause infections. Wash your hands before applying eye cosmetics.

* Make sure that any instrument you place in the eye area is clean.

* Don't share your cosmetics. Another person's bacteria may be hazardous to you.

* Don't allow cosmetics to become covered with dust or contaminated with dirt or soil. Keep containers clean.

* Don't use old containers of eye cosmetics. Discard mascara three months after purchase.

* Discard dried-up mascara. Don't add saliva or water to moisten it. The bacteria from your mouth may grow in the mascara and cause infection. Adding water may introduce bacteria and will dilute the preservative that is intended to protect against microbial growth.

* Don't store cosmetics at temperatures above 85 degrees F. Cosmetics held for long periods in hot cars, for example, are more susceptible to deterioration of the preservative.

* When applying or removing eye cosmetics, be careful not to scratch the eyeball or other sensitive area. Never apply or remove eye cosmetics in a moving vehicle.

* Don't use any cosmetics near your eyes unless they are intended specifically for that use. For instance, don't use a lip liner as an eye liner. You may be exposing your eyes to contamination from your mouth, or to color additives that are not approved for use in the area of the eye.

* Avoid color additives that are not approved for use in the area of the eye, such as "permanent" eyelash tints and kohl. Be especially careful to keep kohl away from children, since reports have linked it to lead poisoning.

source: FDA

Pediatric brain cancer cracked Genome code for most common form of pediatric brain cancer cracked

The genetic code for medulloblastoma, the most common pediatric brain cancer and a leading killer of children with cancer, have been decoded by scientists at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.

The genetic "map" is believed to be the first reported of a pediatric cancer genome.

Notably, the findings show that children with medulloblastoma have five- to tenfold fewer cancer-linked alterations in their genomes compared with their adult counterparts, the scientists said.

"These analyses clearly show that genetic changes in pediatric cancers are remarkably different from adult tumors. With fewer alterations, the hope is that it may be easier to use the information to develop new therapies for them," said Victor Velculescu, associate professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.

The Johns Hopkins team used automated tools to sequence hundreds of millions of individual chemicals called nucleotides, which pair together in a preprogrammed fashion to build DNA and, in turn, a genome.

Combinations of these nucleotide letters form genes, which provide instructions that guide cell activity. Alterations in the nucleotides, called mutations, can create coding errors that transform a normal cell into a cancerous one. The scientists at Johns Hopkins have previously mapped genome sequences for pancreatic, adult brain, breast and colon cancers with similar methods.

For the study, scientists sequenced nearly all protein-encoding genes in 22 samples of pediatric medulloblastoma and compared these sequences with normal DNA from each patient to identify tumor-specific changes or mutations. Each tumor sample had an average of 11 mutations. There were 225 mutations in all.

Then, the investigators searched through a second set of 66 medulloblastomas, including some samples from adults, to find how these mutations altered the proteins made by the genes.

The team found that most of the mutations congregate within a few gene families or pathways. The most prevalent pathway ordered the way long strands of DNA, that make up chromosomes, are twisted and shaped into dense packets that open and close depending on when genes need to be activated. Such a process is regulated by chemicals that operate outside of genes, termed "epigenetic" by scientists.

Within the epigenetic pathway, two commonly mutated genes were both involved in how molecules called histones wrap around DNA.

"These epigenetic changes may be more important than we thought in childhood cancers," said Will Parsons, an assistant professor at Texas Children's Cancer Center and Baylor College of Medicine.

Mutations in MLL2 and MLL3 were identified in 16 percent of the entire set of 88 medulloblastoma samples. Add to this three other epigenetic alterations found by the scientists in the genome scan, and the total set accounts for 20 percent of mutations in all the brain cancer samples.

Second to epigenetic pathways were gene mutations in pathways such as Hedgehog and Wnt that control tissue and organ development in humans and other animals. Both pathways have previously been linked to childhood medulloblastoma.

The study has been published online in the Science Express.

source: ANI

Acai Berry Extract Shown to Improve Brain Housekeeping

A significant pathway that leads to declining brain health occurs when the normal cellular housekeeping cycle is disrupted in a process known as autophagy.

Researchers from the USDA`s Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging have found that berry extracts can enhance the process of housekeeping in aging adults in part due to their powerful antioxidant properties.

Anthocyanins in the skins of the berry protect against the pro-inflammatory agents including COX-2 and TNF-alpha. The researchers conclude: "these results suggest that Acai may contribute to `health span` in aging, as it is able to combat some of the inflammatory and oxidative mediators of aging at the cellular level". Acai berries can be consumed in their natural form, as a concentrated drink or as a supplemented extract.

The purple compounds found in the skins of many fruits and vegetables are important to brain health as they are able to cross the critical blood-brain barrier. Extensive research demonstrates that these chemical structures help to reduce brain inflammation and bind with iron to protect sensitive brain cells. Be certain to include a variety of purple foods to naturally protect your brain and lower your risk from devastating diseases that threaten your ability to walk, learn, think and make new memories.

Click For More Amazing Health Foods

source: naturalnews

Barack Obama signs "hunger-free" act for kids Thousands of Middle Tennessee children will soon have greater access to healthier meal options. Monday, Dec. 13, President Barack Obama signed into law the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. The new legislation will enhance the quality of school meals, set new safety guidelines for school food, and, for the first time, establish nutrition standards for all solid foods sold in schools.

In the White House’s online newsroom, U.S. Senator Bill Frist is quoted as saying:

“As Vice Chair of the Partnership for a Healthier America, I join President Obama and the First Lady in celebrating the signing of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act. This bi-partisan legislation will significantly enhance the quality of food for our children for generations to come and is a dramatic step forward in reducing childhood obesity. As a physician, I know smart nutrition leads to healthy and productive lives. With 36.5% of our children in Tennessee being overweight, this act goes a long way in ensuring that kids in Tennessee and around the country will have the healthy nutrition they deserve.”

Other key law makers, as well as thousands of state and national agencies echoed support for the law and the perceived impact it will have on the health of our nation’s youth.

The legislation is three-fold:

It will improve access for students to school lunches through use of Medicaid and census data; by allowing reimbursements for Child and Adult Food Program providers; and by providing funding for innovative state and local projects aimed at promoting food security for low-income children.

It will increase the focus on nutrition quality and children’s health by increasing the reimbursement rate for school lunches; removing junk food from schools by applying nutritional standards; promoting nutrition and wellness in child care settings; connecting more children to healthy produce from local farms; strengthening school wellness policies; and supporting breast-feeding for low-income women.

Finally, it will improve program management and integrity by supporting schools’ food service budgets; providing professional standards training programs for school food service providers; streamlining administrative tasks; increasing the efficiency and modernizing the WIC program; and improving food safety requirements for school meals.

The legislation is full funded by existing grants and funding. Lawmakers say it will come at no additional cost to taxpayers, and in fact, will save $4.5 billion over the next 10 years by better management of existing funding.

source: examiner

Hot Water or Cold Water Bath Which Works Best?

It is necessary to make the skin bath but still many women ignore it. Most of the women take shower in 5 minutes and they literally forget that when did they had the bath properly. Like other daily tasks women consider it to be there daily routine and they bath rapidly to complete it as a task.

Like other places of the room, bathroom is also a place and it is always personal. Many people do not even think about there bathroom. Bath properly. Water should neither be very hot nor be very cold. You can make your bath bag at home only.

Hot Water Bath

A Hot bath or shower consists of a water temperature ranging between 96 F to 105 F. Hot baths or hot water showers can stimulate the immune system and increase circulation. By soothing nerves, hot water calms and relaxes the body.

Hot water baths lasting two to fifteen minutes are employed in the treatment of chronic rheumatic manifestations in joints, fibrous tissue, and muscles; for the relief of muscle spasms, and of colic in the gastric, intestinal, gall bladder, or urinary tracts. Hot water can also cleanse the skin, and moisturize it too; pores are opened and take in water.

Hot baths with temperatures above 101 F put a strain on the heart as it works to dilate blood vessels in order to cool the body. Women suffering from heart disease or conditions that effect the arteries or the central nervous system need to avoid these water temperatures.

Bathing with hot water makes the skin rough, scaly and itchy which also makes the skin loose and causes wrinkles. Because hot water has the tendency to take away the moisture from the skin. That is why while bathing in winters don't use extremely hot water or harsh soaps.

Add two spoon olive oil in the water before taking bath, it will protect the skin from getting dry and becoming loose.

Cold Water Bath
The Cold bath or showers, which consists of temperatures varying from 50 F to 70 F may be used to, stimulate a woman’s metabolism. The feeling of exhilaration is achieved with cold water temperatures because the circulation becomes rapid in the body. The cold water temperatures are used as a metabolic stimulant, for obesity, and for atonic states.

A study performed at the University of Hull found the regime of cold showers taken by athletes could reduce stress levels and create mental toughness. Cold baths and showers can wake both you and your muscles up during morning hours, revitalize the body after work; help cool down a sunburn and prevent it from penetrating to deeper layers of the skin, and it can temporarily alleviate skin irritations such as insect bites and minor skin allergies. But a word of caution, be sure that your heart, arteries and blood pressure can stand the shock.

Because of the sudden drop in body temperature, the increase in pulse and respiration, as well as the dilation of blood vessels, this temperature should only be used for short periods of time, not over 3 minutes, more as a dip than an actual immersion. After the cold water experience, always towel dry completely and quickly. The use of cold water temperatures should only be used by the healthiest of individuals, consult your doctor if you have concerns.

Neutral Bath
The Neutral bath or shower, usually consists of temperatures at the body’s normal surface area, that of 93 F. Usually water at this temperature produces little physiological change. However, they can often calm nervousness and emotional upsets, reduce some joint swelling, and cleanse the body. Another use for neutral temperatures of water, it’s the best temperature for water aerobics and exercise.

Today women can visit spas and salons and see the broad array of treatments offered. Many rely on varying water temperatures. The study of Hydrotherapy is the therapeutic use of water, steam, and ice and has been used for centuries to treat injuries and ailments. Many cultures, such as the Chinese, Japanese, Native Americans, as well as ancient Romans used water therapy for healing purposes. The ancient Greeks took therapeutic baths. Midwives have used warm water baths to assist in relaxing laboring mothers, making deliveries easier for the mother and gentler for the baby.

There are 3 categories of external hydrotherapy used in the medical profession, spas, and salons:

* Hot Water
* Cold Water
* Alternating temperatures of Hot and Cold Water

Today hydrotherapy can be found in spas and salons, but is virtually used in every physical therapy department in hospitals and medical centers. Because of the readily available substance, water at varying temperatures can be used to help the sick or help the average woman if fighting off the aging process.

The use of hot and cold water in hydrotherapy is used to relax muscles, stimulate circulation, and increase metabolism. Contrast hydrotherapies, which typically involve compresses or immersion, alternating hot temperatures and cold temperatures can dramatically stimulate local circulation. A 30-minute treatment of hot and cold compresses (four minutes hot, one minute cold) to the face, for example, can increase blood flow to the skin by 95%. Increased blood flow means the creation of collagen, more elasticity in the skin and less wrinkling.

Generally speaking, most baths and showers at all temperatures are drying to the skin. So ladies, you must always apply a moisturizer after every bath or shower. And although, most women and men alike prefer a comfortable water temperature of 98 F to 100 F, the healing effects of hot water temperatures for relaxing purposes, cold water temperatures for revitalizing the muscles, and alternating the two temperatures for increased circulation; has great physiological effects on the body.

Applying oil on the body before bathing gives relaxation from many diseases. Well water is best for bathing. But ill children and old people should definitely bath with less cold water.

Experience A Healthy British Curry Diet

While there are a lot of misconceptions about this dish because of the ingredients that make it up, curry can be a healthy dish and it has really been like that for so many years.

The diet of the Subcontinent the homeland of British curry is actually a healthiest one out there because they value balance in their culture, society and life. It follows then that they incorporate balance on what is on the plate before they spoon it in their mouths.

They take the elements of their surroundings the clear water that surrounds their home, the freshest vegetables from their tilled soil, the tastiest meat from their flock, and the spices that have been nursed by the sun. They take everything that is from nature and churn up a plate of a well balanced dish that captures the essence of their world.

It is also the core of the belief of the people that live in the subcontinent that you are what you eat and so they painstakingly make it a point to scrutinize every bit of thing that they cook and serve everyone else because they want to come up with the best possible body and being they could have through the food that they eat.

Making curry is not difficult. Making it tasty can be difficult and making it healthy at the same time can be tough. Thats the normal perception.

But the truth is you dont have to compromise your health for a delicious curry. Naturally spices are healthy ingredients. Spices make curry and if these are mixed, blend and cooked the right way the original healthy proportions retain, said a spokesman of the site.

The question is what is the right way? One of the healthy cooking methods is slow cooking. When cooking curry we have various spices on our cooking-pan. Each spice require certain amount of heat to release its flavour, naturally kept frozen inside it. So we want to create a generic temperature for all of them. That would require a detailed knowledge of all the spices and a sharp attention while cooking. Often its not possible to do so. A slow cooking prevents a spoilt temperature for the spices and give them more rooms to fine tune with the heat.

There are more healthy cooking methods that we aim to reinvent and explore in our site, for the curry lovers he added.

Naturally High Hemoglobin Not A Worry For Kidney Patients

Naturally occurring high hemoglobin levels don't pose a threat to chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients on dialysis, and there is no need to lower these levels, a new study suggests.

Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Progressive anemia (red blood cell deficiency) is common in most patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. The anemia must be treated with medications, but treatment is controversial because restoring hemoglobin levels to the normal range of about 14 g/dL may lead to dangerous blood clots or even increased risk of death, according to the researchers.

They wanted to find out if chronic kidney disease patients with naturally high levels of hemoglobin were also at risk. They examined four months of data from 29,796 dialysis patients in 12 countries enrolled in an international dialysis outcome study.

During those four months, 1.8 percent of the patients maintained hemoglobin levels greater than 12 g/dL without the use of medications. These patients were more likely to be men, to have been receiving dialysis for more years, and to have underlying cystic kidney disease.

High levels of hemoglobin were also associated with conditions that lower oxygen levels in the blood, such as lung disease, cardiovascular disease and smoking, according to an American Society of Nephrology news release.

After adjusting for age, sex and other coexisting conditions, the researchers found patients with naturally high levels of hemoglobin did not have an increased risk of death, compared to those with lower hemoglobin levels or with those taking medications to maintain hemoglobin levels higher than 12 g/dL.

The study appears Dec. 16 in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology.

Poor diet can trigger mental illness

Change in diet is known to ease abnormal behaviour in the mentally ill. But a study in the US shows that diet might also trigger the onset of mental illness.

Joseph Garner, Purdue University associate professor of animal sciences, fed mice a diet high in sugar and tryptophan that was expected
to reduce abnormal hair-pulling, the journal Nutritional Neuroscience reported.

Instead, mice that were already ill worsened or started scratching themselves. The seemingly healthy mice also developed the same abnormal behaviour, according to a Purdue release.

"This strain of mouse is predisposed to being either a scratcher or a hair-puller. Giving them this diet brought out those dietpredispositions," Garner said.

Garner studies trichotillomania, a disorder in which people pull out their hair. The disorder, which disproportionately occurs in women, is thought to affect 2-4 percent of the population.

Mice that pull their hair out have been shown to have low levels of serotonin activity in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood and impulses and is made from the amino acid tryptophan, which is found in diets.

Garner hypothesised that increasing serotonin activity in the brain might cure or reduce trichotillomania.

The problem is that tryptophan often doesn't cross the barrier between blood and the brain because other amino acids essentially block the door for tryptophan.

Garner modified a mouse diet to increase simple carbohydrates, or sugars, and tryptophan. The sugars trigger a release of insulin, which causes muscles to absorb those other amino acids and gives tryptophan a chance to make it to the brain.

Using eight times as much sugar and four times as much tryptophan, Garner observed a doubling of serotonin activity in the brain. But the mice that barbered did not get better.

"We put them on this diet, and it made them much, much worse," Garner said.

source: hindustantimes

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