Health And Fitness

calcium in a balanced way - Health and Beauty Tips

2009-07-16T14:18:00.001-07:00

Our bones and teeth contains 99 percent of total calcium of our body and only 1 percent goes in the rest of the parts like muscles, blood, cells etc.

We need very good care of our bones and teeth and should take that diet which is full of calcium supplements. Do not ever hesitate to take those food items, which contain calcium in excess. Some people wrongly assume that some food items like drinking milk make us fat. If we will finely drain the cream and reduce the calorie level from milk then it will not make as fat.

Any food item having calcium in it actually helps our body to reduce the fats level. Calcium increases our digestion process and helps to reduce or finish fats. If we will make calcium one of the necessary elements of our everyday life, then it will help us in reducing extra weight.

We have so many sources to get calcium, like green vegetables, almonds, oranges, some other fresh fruits, and especially dairy products, milk, yogurt, cheese, ice-cream etc.

So if you will eat & drink any source of calcium in a balanced way, you will not face any problem.

What colour are you eating

2009-07-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

What colour are you eating?

The colour of the food you eat affects your mind and body
Every living being on this planet carries a different vibration, so colours really do play an important role in our life. The body’s functions are dictated by the chakras , the main energy centre of the body. If you are eating the same foods all the time you will not be providing your body with the colours and vibrations which it requires. Eating different coloured food can keep you healthy, as well as change your mood and behaviour.

Here is a list of colours, which can change your life.

Blue/Purple
Blue is considered to be peaceful and calming and they have same affect on our health. The blue/purple colour in food is due primarily to their anthocyanin content. Anthocyanins are antioxidants that are particularly heart healthy and may help support healthy blood pressure. Out of all the blue and purple food available, blueberries are considered to have the highest antioxidant activity. An analysis of the latest data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES), a survey of eating and health habits, found that people who eat purple and blue fruits and vegetables are at a reduced risk for both high blood pressure and low HDL cholesterol and are also less likely to be overweight.

Dr. Bhavesh Saxena, a food and health expert, says “The darker the blue colour, the more beneficial it is. Blue and purple colour foods helps people suffering from heart diseases by preventing clot formation, and they also lower the risk of cancer.”

Foods that contain blue and purple colours are raddish, eggplant (especially the skin), blueberries, blackberries, prunes, plums, pomegranates and purple grapes

Green
We all know that we should eat our greens as green symbolises nature. The natural plant pigment chlorophyll colours green fruits and vegetables. The green foods represents foods rich in isothiocyanates, which induce enzymes in the liver that assist the body in removing potentially dangerous compounds. Green vegetables and fruits contain isothiocyanates, which have anticancer properties

Dr. Ashok Agarwal, a food and nutrition secialist, explains “They are excellent sources of vitamin K, folic acid, potassium, as well as carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids. Folic acid is needed to prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy, while vitamin K is essential in blood clot formation. Diets high in potassium are associated with lowering blood pressure. The colour green makes you feel healthier overall and has the potential to help you eat healthier foods. “

Foods that contain the green colour are: Broccoli, cabbage, cucumbers, brussels and sprouts

Red
It is known fact that restaurants usually splash red colour around the décor since it encourages patrons to eat more and to eat faster. Lycopene is the predominant pigment in reddish fruits and veggies. It is a powerful antioxidant that has been associated with a reduced risk of some cancers, especially prostate cancer, and also provides protection against heart attacks. Tomatoes help support the health of prostate and breast tissue.

Dr. Ashok Agarwal, food & nutrition specialist, says, “Cooked tomato sauces are associated with greater health benefits as compared with the uncooked version as the heating process allows lycopene, to be more easily absorbed by the body, Obtaining optimal benefit from nutrients in food, especially produce, depends on proper selection, storage, and cooking of the produce.”

Foods that contain red colour are: Tomatoes and tomato products, watermelon, guava, cranberries, red onions, red chili peppers, red apples, red grapes, cherries, etc.

Yellow/Green
Yellow is an energising colour, it stimulates the appetite and is said to help improve memory.

Dr. Bhavesh Saxena, M.B.B.S & food expert says, “With a variation of the green colour, these foods exhibit a richness in lutein, which is particularly beneficial for eye health and is also high in vitamin C.”

Foods that contain yellow/green colours are: Avocado, kiwifruit, spinach, pistachios, etc

Orange
The orange group foods are also rich in beta-carotene, which are particularly good antioxidants. These foods are commonly considered eyesight foods because they contain vitamin A.

“Orange fruits and vegetables also play a part in preventing cancer, particularly of the lung, esophagus, and stomach. They may also reduce the risk of heart diseases and improve immune function," adds Dr. Agarwal.

Foods that contain the colour orange are: Carrots, mangoes, cantaloupe, winter squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, apricots, etc.

70 Uses Of Salt

2009-07-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

Soak stained hankies in salt water before washing.
Sprinkle salt on your shelves to keep ants away.
Soak fish in salt water before descaling; the scales will come off easier.
Put a few grains of rice in your salt shaker for easier pouring.
Add salt to green salads to prevent wilting..
Test the freshness of eggs in a cup of salt water; fresh eggs sink; bad ones float.
Add a little salt to your boiling water when cooking eggs; a cracked egg will stay in its shell this way.
A tiny pinch of salt with egg whites makes them beat up fluffier.
Soak wrinkled apples in a mildly salted water solution to perk them up.
Rub salt on your pancake griddle and your flapjacks won't stick.
Soak toothbrushes in salt water before you first use them; they will last longer.
Use salt to clean your discolored coffee pot.
Mix salt with turpentine to whiten you bathtub and toilet bowl.
Soak your nuts in salt brine overnight and they will crack out of their shells whole. Just tap the end of the shell with a hammer to break it open easily.
Boil clothespins in salt water before using them and they will last longer.
Clean brass, copper and pewter with paste made of salt and vinegar, thickened with flour
Add a little salt to the water your cut flowers will stand in for a longer life.
Pour a mound of salt on an ink spot on your carpet; let the salt soak up the stain.
Clean your iron by rubbing some salt on the damp cloth on the ironing surface.
Adding a little salt to the water when cooking foods in a double boiler will make the food cook faster.
Use a mixture of salt and lemon juice to clean piano keys.
To fill plaster holes in your walls, use equal parts of salt and starch, with just enough water to make a stiff putty.
Rinse a sore eye with a little salt water.
Mildly salted water makes an effective mouthwash. Use it hot for a sore throat gargle.
Dry salt sprinkled on your toothbrush makes a good tooth polisher.
Use salt for killing weeds in your lawn.
Eliminate excess suds with a sprinkle of salt.
A dash of salt in warm milk makes a more relaxing beverage.
Before using new glasses, soak them in warm salty water for awhile.
A dash of salt enhances the taste of tea. ?
Salt improves the taste of cooking apples.
Soak your clothes line in salt water to prevent your clothes from freezing to the line; likewise, use salt in your final rinse to prevent the clothes from freezing.
Rub any wicker furniture you may have with salt water to prevent yellowing.
Freshen sponges by soaking them in salt water.
Add raw potatoes to stews and soups that are too salty.
Soak enamel pans in salt water overnight and boil salt water in them next day to remove burned-on stains.
Clean your greens in salt water for easier removal of dirt.
Gelatin sets more quickly when a dash of salt is added.
Fruits put in mildly salted water after peeling will not discolor.
Fabric colors hold fast in salty water wash..
Milk stays fresh longer when a little salt is added.
Use equal parts of salt and soda for brushing your teeth.
Sprinkle salt in your oven before scrubbing clean.
Soaked discolored glass in a salt and vinegar solution to remove stains..
Clean greasy pans with a paper towel and salt.
Salty water boils faster when cooking eggs.
Add a pinch of salt to whipping cream to make it whip more quickly.
Sprinkle salt in milk-scorched pans to remove odor.
A dash of salt improves the taste of coffee..
Boil mismatched hose in salty water and they will come out matched.
Salt and soda will sweeten the odor of your refrigerator.
Cover wine-stained fabric with salt; rinse in cool water later.
Remove offensive odors from stove with salt and cinnamon.
A pinch of salt improves the flavor of cocoa.
To remove grease stains in clothing, mix one part salt to four parts alcohol.
Salt and lemon juice? Removes mildew.
Sprinkle salt between sidewalk bricks where you don't want grass growing.
Polish your old kerosene lamp with salt for a better look.
Remove odors from sink drainpipes with a strong, hot solution of salt water.
If a pie bubbles over in your oven, put a handful of salt on top of the spilled juice. The mess won't smell and will bake into a dry, light crust which will wipe off easily when the oven has cooled

Fitness Guidelines

2009-07-16T14:13:00.000-07:00

There are so many a time you might have come across people symbolize human body as a machine. If not treated with care, it breaks down. Well, it is true. Keeping yourself fit and healthy is indispensable and needs to be dealt with seriously. We often ignore the important of fitness, whereas undoubtedly fitness is essential for excellent performance of the body. Fit energetic people possess a lot of stamina and resistance in their bodies and can persistently carry out various tasks without getting tired sooner. Though there are certain rules for one to tag along in order to maintain fitness and good health.

Fitness Guidelines:

• Proper food
Remember, the food you eat determines what you are! This means that your health can be reasonably judged by the kind of food you eat. Make it a habit of eating the right food and in the correct amount. Mainly, human body stays fit if a person adds fresh fruits and vegetables (anytime at breakfast, lunch or dinner) to his diet chart. Wheat, Rice, meat –then again, considered healthiest foods – should be made an essential component of the diet. One should always bear in mind that the intake of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and minerals should all be in a proper proportion. Want to keep the doctor away, have an apple everyday!

Not just that, try to maintain a proper timing of taking the meal every day. Skipping meals - which now has become a common habit in many - may lead to devastating effects. If possible a dietician may be consulted for marinating a balanced diet, with all the essential nutrients.

• Right exercises
Adopt exercising in your daily routine. It should be made an integral part of your every day life. There are plenty of exercises. But right exercises at the right time will only result in eventual body fitness. Fitness experts recommend doing exercises early in the morning since your body is fresh and relaxed after a good night’s sleep.
Commonly recommended exercises include Forward bend, Side stretch, Push ups, Front press and others. Apart from these, early morning walk, swimming, cycling, skiing, jogging even dancing are considered some good methods of exercising.

• Sports- As the proverb goes ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.’ It specifies that games and sports in a person’s life are as indispensable as eating food and breathing air. You don’t have to know many sports for this purpose. Even if you outshine at any one particular type of sport which can be anything like Cricket, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Rugby etc. you can get a way with it!
There is not better exercise than playing sports.

• Mental Fitness

When we talk about fitness, it just doesn’t refer to your physical being, keeping the mind fit is equally important for a healthy being. The suggested method to keep your mental health perfect is by reducing your work load and pressure, since it can be very distressful and disturbing. So to keep the mental condition calm, quiet and energetic, meditation is required. Just try it and you will never be at a loss! Consider doing Yoga for a change. Yoga just not helps you remain physically fit. It provides you a greater degree of mental relaxation.Your body is God’s gift to you. So cherish it and take care of your well-being. Stay hale and hearty and enjoy your, life to the fullest.

Increase Your Fitness Level

2009-07-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

Increase Your Fitness Level

"To climb steep hills requires slow pace at first."
-Shakespeare, Henry VIII. Act I. Sc. 1

Walk 10 Minutes a Day and Increase Your Fitness Level Old thinking was to work out in a sweat-filled gym for hours a day. No pain, no gain. New studies show that even short bouts of activity can increase your fitness level, especially if you're new at working out.

Park and Walk
Whenever you have an errand, park your car as far away as you can handle and walk to the store. At the mall, park at the farthest end and walk the length of the mall. Use every opportunity to walk. At the end of the day, it all adds up to better fitness.

Crunch in Bed
Before you even get out of bed in the morning, do 10 stomach crunches while lying flat on your mattress. Increase daily by one until you get up to 100. Think you'll never get there? Try it. You may eventually have to set your clock to wake up 15 minutes earlier, a small price to pay for a flatter stomach.

Play sport that enjoy e.g. cricket, basketball, football and more

Be Happy, Boost Weight Loss

2009-07-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Researchers tell us that we think 400 words per minute and speak about 125 words per minute. What those figures don't reveal is how many of those words are positive and how many are negative.

All people can use the strength and power of positive words to enhance their lives. Positive words can be particularly helpful when we are trying to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Most people are not aware of the things they think and say on a continual basis. Our thoughts and words have a powerful impact on our attitude and behaviors.

The Journal of the American Dietetic Association reports that people tend to eat an average of 118 calories more per day when they are moderately depressed or anxious. If this impulsive eating continues, this amount of additional calories is enough to put on an extra 12 pounds a year! To prevent this from taking place, you must first become aware of the words and thoughts that run through your mind every day.

This means you must make a conscious effort to examine your thoughts and words. This is not an easy task! It takes concentration and determination to be cognizant of what you are thinking and saying, especially when you are not in the mood.

What can you do to change the direction of your life? There are some things that you can do on a daily basis that will make your words and thoughts more positive. The more you do these exercises, the easier it will be to make positive behaviors a permanent part of your life. Consistency and repetition will help make your lifestyle changes permanent.

1. When you wake up in the morning (and before you go to bed), write a list of 10 positive things about yourself. In the beginning, it may be difficult to complete this list. The more you do the exercise, the easier the process will get. If possible, list different positive things each time.

2. Establish a secret signal to yourself each time that you catch yourself saying or thinking something negative. Some examples could be snapping a rubber band, putting away your money or rubbing your knee. Do anything that will act as a wake-up call to stop the negative behavior.

3. Ask a trustworthy friend or relative to listen to you speak. Ask them to be honest with you whenever they hear you say something negative. Carry around a small tape recorder and tape yourself, so you can listen to what you say. Also, write down your thoughts and reread what you have written to see if you are being negative. Give yourself a reality check!

4. Learn how to breathe. Breathe from your stomach and exhale through your nose. Deep breathing helps to put energy and oxygen back into your system. When you are breathing, think positive thoughts. Create a mantra that works for you and repeat it while you are breathing. Here's one example: "I am a bountiful, beautiful person. I am healthy and full of positive energy."

The more you work on establishing positive thoughts, the healthier you will become. Imagine you can control your destiny by living your life in a happy and healthy manner. Consistency and repetition will make your lifestyle changes permanent.

declare your independence from those flabby abs!

2009-07-16T14:10:00.002-07:00

It's time to declare your independence from those flabby abs!

Far too many people spend hours trying to tighten that tummy, only to see the same old pudgy pooch day after day. Where are the fruits of your labors, you wonder.

Well, fitness expert Michael Stefano has the answer. The author of The Firefighter's Workout (HarperCollins) has put together a checklist for flat abs that will guarantee results. But if you're not focusing on all five aspects, then you probably aren't getting any closer to that six-pack.

The Flat Abs Checklist

1. Eat Right: Find a nutritional program that works for you and stick to it.

2. Exercise: Three times a week, perform some type of aerobic conditioning or circuit training for 20 to 30 minutes.

3. Ab/Core Routine: Include 2 abdominal exercises in your routine.

4. Good Posture: Perform a posture check.

5. Reduce Stress: Relax with exercise, deep breathing or meditation.

"If you don't take this five-step approach, you're going to be missing something," Stefano tells eDiets. "No matter how much you exercise, if you miss one of these steps you're going to handicap yourself. You can't take a one-prong approach.

"Too many people think you can just do sit-ups and bike kicks to flatten your abs. Sure those exercises will tone and tighten the abs, but you have to take steps to reduce the fat."

Stefano says that far too often people believe that doing ridiculous amounts of sit-ups is the only way to get fab abs. Sure, their stomach muscles are rock hard, but they're hidden beneath that beer belly.

"Unless you're already lean, just doing sit-ups, bike kicks or any abdominal exercises will have no effect at all on the reduction of body fat," he says.

While most people are well aware of the need for a healthy eating regimen, a regular aerobic workout and an ab/core routine, many exercise enthusiasts may not realize the importance of good posture and stress reduction techniques. If you're constantly slouching and not standing up straight, you'll have that pot-belly appearance. Good posture promotes a taller, leaner and more youthful look.

Stress increases the production of insulin (the fat storage hormone) and cortisol, which is associated with increased appetite and increased fat deposits, typically around the trunk and abdomen. Stefano points out that the effects of cortisol can be combated by meditation. When you do relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation, a hormone known as DHEA is released. This hormone reduces blood cortisol levels and fights against the negative effects of stress.

By following all five steps, you'll be on your way to fabber abs. Get started with the following ab/core routine. Perform two sets of 20 for each exercise. Rest one minute between sets. Do this routine two to three times a week.

CRUNCH
Lie on your back on a mat or padded carpet with your knees partially bent, feet flat on the floor, arms folded across your chest (least intense). Be sure the feet are not too near your buttocks. Exhale as you press the lower back into the floor and begin to raise your head, shoulders and chest off the floor in one unit, concentrating on bringing the ribs towards the hips. Pause briefly as you feel your abdominal muscles contract. The movement need only be a few inches. Inhale and slowly curl back down, trying not to let your head and shoulders touch the floor, maintaining tension in the abdominal muscles for the entire set. Repeat to muscle fatigue.

Trainer's Notes:
Be sure to keep the knees only partially bent with the heels at least one foot from your butt. This engages the oblique muscles as well as the rectus abdominus. To increase intensity, lengthen the pause when the abs are flexed to 2 seconds, or place your hands behind your head (as in the bicycle kick). Extend the arms overhead to maximize intensity levels.

Goal: 2 sets of 20 to 30 repetitions

BIKE KICK
Lie on your back on a mat or padded carpet with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Press the low back into the floor, engaging the abdominal muscles, as you put both hands behind your head (don't pull on the head). Bring the right elbow over to the left knee, and then bring the left elbow over to the right knee in a twisting, bicycle pedal motion. Continue to breathe naturally. Alternate opposite elbow to opposite knee with hands interlaced behind the head in a slow and controlled manner, and to muscle fatigue, with full extension of each leg on every repetition.

Trainer's Notes:
Be sure to breathe naturally and not hold your breath at any time during this exercise. Full extension of the legs will increase intensity (as shown), as will performing the motion very slowly. Keep the knees bent throughout the movement, while you tap the feet to the floor (instead of extending the leg straight out), to decrease intensity.

Goal: 2 sets of 20 to 30 repetitions

Beauty tips for Lovely Lips

2009-07-16T14:10:00.001-07:00

Beauty tips for Lovely Lips

" A beautiful smile lights up a day"

Lips

A beautiful smile lights up a day. It makes your face more beautiful and lively. Your lips are the most important and exquisitely sensitive part of your body. And therefore you have to take special care of your lips.

When you come across someone, the first thing that catches your attention is the face. Soft healthy pink lips usually draw attention. They lend a fresh invigorating look to your face. Lips are the most sensitive part of our body and therefore require constant nurturing. Thus, it is of prime importance to pay attention to your lips. Dry chapped lips spoil the whole look and make your face appear dull, pale and unattractive.

Lips will look beautiful and attractive only if they are healthy. Applying makeup on dry chapped dark lips will not make them appear eye-catchy. It can only invite unwanted attention that brings forth the fact that your lips are dry and chapped.

Luscious lips also provide you the opportunity to stand out in the crowd. They bring you in the limelight.

Beauty tips for Eyes

2009-07-16T14:09:00.002-07:00

Beauty tips for Eyes:

Beauty tips for Eyes

"Create Beautiful Eyes And Look Drop Dead Gorgeous"

Great eye beauty tips for today’s modern woman who wants to look good and has the confidence to face the world knowing she looks her best

People look directly into your eyes. Enhance them and you will attract attention. This is looking good made easy.

Body building

2009-07-16T14:09:00.001-07:00

So, you want to pack on some serious mass and carve out those abs? Here's a step-by-step introduction to the iron game that will get you started on the right foot. Don't expect overnight miracles - building a body takes time, focus and consistency. The good news is that the first 6-12 months is the time when you will probably make the most dramatic gains. However, it is important to learn proper form and basic safety rules now to make sure you don't injury yourself down the road when you're pushing heavier weights around.

EYE CARE

2009-07-16T14:08:00.001-07:00

EYE CARE

Your eyes are the windows to your soul. And healthy, sparkling eyes are the sign of a well-adjusted, happy, human being. Needless to say that this is a very attractive quality as well as a sign of true beauty. Something that every person aims for.

Now how does one go about achieving this It's quite simple really. One must try to remain calm and relaxed in the most adverse circumstances. Life does not always go the way we want, but always works out best in the long run. If we are accepting and content with our lot then our path automatically smoothens out. But this is the way to true inner beauty. Let's see how we can handle these windows to our soul externally.

The easiest way is through make-up. You can always emphasize or intensify the shape and colour of your eyes with the help of a kohl pencil, eyeliners and eye shadows. But the best way to maintain that inner sparkle is to take care of your health. Avoid long hours and do not overstrain your eyes.

Few Fat Burning Foods!

2009-07-16T14:07:00.000-07:00

Healthy eating habits prolong life expectancy. For healthy eating...try including fat burning foods such as spinach, melons and pepper in your regular diet. This article suggests a few fat burning foods the reader can include in his/her diet.

Obesity is one of the major health problems that is seen among young children, adolescents and the adults. The only ways to treat obesity is by cutting down on fat and high calorie foods and regular exercise. Exercise alone would not be enough to reduce weight and burn fat; you would have to follow a strict regime of low calorie food.

Wondering what fat burning food means? There are certain kinds of food that have properties that help you melt body fat but at the same time add zip to your system. The fat burning foods have an ability to suppress one’s appetite. These foods help the body to function efficiently and reduce the urge for junk food. If you are really planning for a weight loss program, make sure to include a few fat burning foods. Fat burning foods are also know as negative calorie foods

A Few Fat Burning Foods

The fat burning foods mentioned here are clinically tested and proven to promote weight loss in an individual who consumes them on a regular basis. Here are a few foods that are strongly recommended as fat burning foods.

Start your day with a cup of strong coffee. Coffee or caffeine has its own potential dangers so limit it to a cup or two in a day. Studies reveal coffee helps speed up metabolism and is therefore known as a metabolic enhancer.

For breakfast, try having a bowl of fruits such as apples, figs, grapefruit and berries such as strawberry, mulberry and raspberry. To sweeten the fruit plate add few slices of kiwi. Grapefruit is rich in galacturonic acid that dissolves fat and fights cholesterol. The fructose sugar in berries is a natural sweetener that satiates the urge to have sweet food. Apples not only help in elevating the blood sugar, but are also rich source of fiber.

Dishes made from buckwheat and barley would make a nutritious and filling lunch. For a side dish have a vegetable salad made of beans, broccoli, cottage cheese or tofu, cabbage and carrots. Broccoli is rich in vitamin C and calcium, while beans are a good source of plant fiber. Cottage cheese is low in fat and contains calcium and vitamin B.

How about baked or BBQ corn for an evening snack? If you like to eat it raw, that is the best way to consume it. This grain is a source of minerals such as iron, zinc and potassium. It will reduce your appetite and also burn unhealthy pounds.

Now it's dinnertime! A salad bowl of cooked or baked chicken, pasta, chopped onions and lettuce sprinkled with pepper, herbs and salt, would be a wholesome and healthy dinner. This meal not only helps in burning fat but also is filling.

Before going to bed, instead of coffee, a cup of hot/cold oat porridge would do wonders to your sleep.

The other fat burning foods includes fish, turkey, potatoes, rice and vegetable soups. Wondering how potatoes fall into this category? Have baked or steamed potatoes once in a while without butter or any kind of topping. Potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals. Also try including sweet potatoes in your diet. Tomatoes are high in potassium and low in sodium and fat. Instead of white bread, have whole grain bread. It is the natural source of fiber and complex carbohydrates.

Glowing skin

2009-07-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

I have some tips for glowing skin and would love to hear from you guys, too. So chk out the list below and add some tips of ur own.

1) Mix of besan and milk w/ a pinch of haldi.
2) Mix of honey and milk....my fav.
3) Exfoliating using sugar and lemon juice.
4) Mix of glycerine and rose water at night....really makes your skin soft and supple.

I have also heard wonderful things about Kaya's bridal glow package. It is said to keep that glow for many days.

So, what are some of your beauty secrets for the special glow?

10 Reasons To Eat Fruit

2009-07-16T14:05:00.000-07:00

Fruit consists for the largest part of water
Just like the human body does. If you think about it, it's logical to consume food that contains as much water as your body does...

Fruit Stimulates Our Memories
If you didn't know yet: fruit is the ultimate brain fuel. Fruit has a positive effect on our brains and makes you recall information easier and faster...

The Miraculous Healing Effects Of Fruit
Spectacular stories about people that cured from cancer by a strict diet of raw fruits and/or vegetables are well known but do we want tobelieve them? We still don't know that much about fruit and its contents...

Fruit Is 100% Bad-Cholesterol Free
No doubt about this reason. Too much cholesterol is not good for our bodies and fruit doesn't contain much cholesterol. Animal products like meat and dairy contain a lot of cholesterol...

Fruit Makes You Feel Better
Several stories have told us about people that were frequently depressed and how they got out of their depression slowly but surely after consuming substantial amounts of fresh fruit on a regular basis. Eating a lot of fruit can have a mysterious healing effect on human beings...

Ethical Reasons To Eat Fruit
Fruit doesn't have to be killed and slaughtered before you can eat it. The fruits are just hanging there waiting to be picked by you...

Fruit is not expensive at all
Did you always think that fruit is an expensive product? Take a good look at how much money you spend on other food. It could be worth something to replace some of those expenses with fruit...

Fibers
We do know now that a diet with plenty of fibers helps against corpulence, high blood pressure, and other factors that increase the chance for a heart disease. The food that contains these healthy (natural) fibers is.... right: FRUIT!

Fruit Is The Most Natural Food
Fruit is food that has been made by plants to be eaten by animals and humans in order to spread its seeds...

The Human Diet
Here at The Fruit Pages we are convinced that a good human diet should consist of freshly squeezed fruit juices, bread, vegetables and some water. Since it is hard for the average homo sapiens to conform him or herself to such a severe diet, we suggest that one starts by eating five to nine pieces of fruit a day...

Dangerous in Shampoo

2009-07-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

Just for your info - please take note of the shampoo you use to
wash your hair everytime !

Check the ingredients listed on your shampoo bottle, and see if they
have this substance by the name of Sodium Laureth Sulfate, or simply SLS. This substance is found in most shampoos, and the manufacturers use it because it produces a lot of foam and it is cheap. But the fact is that SLS is used to scrub garage floors, and it is very strong. it is also proven that it can cause cancer in the long run, and this is no joke !
Shampoo brands such as Vo5, Palmolive, Paul Mitchell, the new Hemp
shampoo, Pantene Pro-V etc contain this substance.
So this guy from globe centre called one company, and told them that their product contains a substance that will cause people to have cancer. They said "Yeah, we knew about it but there is nothing we can do because we need that substance to produce foam."
By the way, the toothpaste Colgate also contains the same substance to produce the "bubbles".

Those people said that they are going to send this guy some information. Research has shown that in the 1980s, the chance of getting cancer is 1 out of 8000 , in the 1990s, the chances of getting cancer were 1 out of 3, and by now you could imagine the rate!! which is very serious. hopefully, we can stop "giving" ourselves the cancer virus.

"CLINICPLUS" Shampoo also contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS)
substance in it. Please.... Try to avoid that .. for your own good

Why women love make-up?

2009-07-16T14:03:00.000-07:00

Ever wondered why women love make-up? Well, the answer lies in their brain, say Japanese scientists, who found that women anticipate a rush of anticipation and optimism as they prepare to apply make-up.

he findings are based on two years of research by cosmetics giant Kanebo.

The company's 'Cosmetics, Beauty and Brain Science' project determined that there are distinct cognitive activities involved in a woman's perception of her face with and without make-up.

The researchers used a brain scanner and monitored activity in the caudate nucleus of the brain and found that when a woman sees her own face without make-up, she anticipates how she will eventually appear to others and a 'reward system' is activated, releasing dopamine to give sensations of pleasure.

"We know from previous research that when this area of the brain is activated we can derive pleasure from certain activities," the Telegraph quoted Keishi Saruwatari, of Kanebo's laboratories, as saying.

"We interpret that as meaning that when a woman looks at her face she is imagining how she will look when she has applied her make-up.

"There is a mixture of expectation, encouragement and ambition," he said. "Make-up contributes to building relationships with others and feelings of pleasure in women," Saruwatari added.

Beauty tips from celebs!

2009-07-16T14:02:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Lopez

So you have always wanted to look radiant a la your favorite celebrity. Ofcourse expensive products and a slew of stylists, we bring you a lowdown on our gorgeous diva’s beauty tips
Jennifer Lopez, the new mum on the block, makes sure that she gets at least 8 hours of sleep a night, drinks lots of water and uses a good cleanser to ensure her beauty. But in a recent interview, the glamazon revealed, “I make a lot of time for baths. They’re the only thing I do to de-stress. I swear by Jo Malone bath oils. My favorites are Grapefruit, Lime, Basil and Mandarin, and Red Roses,” Fabulous magazine quoted her, as saying. She also said that the secret behind her perfect hair and gleaming face is extensive moisturizing.

Catherine Zeta Jones

The most gorgeous actress believes in her grandmother’s remedies. To keep that perfect smile, she brushes her teeth with mashed-up strawberries. Strawberries contain Malic Acid, which acts as a mild astringent when mixed with baking soda. To keep her hair healthy looking and shiny, Catherine brushes castor oil through it. Catherine obviously knows her ancient Egyptian history - castor oil was used by the Pharaohs to prevent hair loss.
The glam doll item girl turned rock star says, “ I don’t use too many cosmetics. I moisturize my skin regularly and don’t use soap. I recommend to people to use something mild on their face, if they wash it frequently. While buying cosmetics make sure you invest in a good brand, which will not harm the skin.
America's Sweetheart, 40, is famous for her perfect smile, but her favorite celebrity beauty tip concerns her nails. She soaks them in olive oil for a few minutes every week. Olive oil moisturizes your nails without weakening them, and softens your cuticles too. It also prevents "hang nails" that are caused by dry skin.
The 80s supermodel and mom of two, 41, keeps her complexion fresh by spraying her face with a mist of whole milk and mineral water. This creates a dewy, fresh-faced effect that lasts all day long!

Look Good Tips!

2009-07-16T14:01:00.000-07:00

The greatest treasures are those invisible to the eye but found by the heart.”

“It is better to be beautiful than to be good, but it is better to be good than to be ugly.”
Oscar Wilde
Q: I have a round face with big cheeks. And i have simple long straight hair. the whole combination of straight hair and big cheeks make my face look bigger plus my hair looks sticky from the scalp area. please suggest me the appropriate hair style without reducing my hair length which would make my cheeks look slimmer too.

A: Just changing the hairstyle will not be of much help. You can reduce the flab on the cheeks and change the shape of your face by regularly doing facial exercises.You could call for a CD on facial exercises.

Q: I have dark circles under my eyes.Pls suggest something.

A: Apply the juice of cucumber and potato mixed in equal amts. over your eyes and leave it on for 20 mins. each day. Also massage your eyes with almond oil every night.

Q: I have got allergic dry and sensitive skin.i am 26yrs old and i want to go for beauty facial. what kind of facial will suit me.give me suggestions for skin care.

A: Since your skin is allergic you have to be very careful about it. The parlours are not eligible to give you the facials as per your skin. Visit a good cosmetologist for your facial. As for your skin care stick to natural fruits and juices like tomato, cucumber, watermelon, curds, aloe vera juice , etc for regular skincare.

Q: Q.suggest some haircuts which will suit with straight hairs.

A: Go to a good salon and you will get the correct advise.

Q: I had used melacare on my hands but inspite of using spf 50 they have tanned all the more I am using depiderm a uriage product for face and that has given good results but since it is very costly I cannot use it for hands pl suggest a good cream for hands.

A: You could use kojic cream

Q: I need to loose weight but i am on an anti epilipsy pill that causes me problems as well as water retention.

A: Consult your doctor for the same. You can eat sensibly and start regular exercises which will definitely help.

Q: I got recently married but my husband has a ballhead(more). Please suggest me that how can get the original hair on scalp on ball head.

A: Apply mintop lotion on scalp every night. Have vit-E daily for good growth of hair. Certain exercises and asanas also should be done.

Q: I have a lot of pimples and their blemishes in my face from last 2 yrs.i have done a lot of treatment for it but none of them worked. what should i do to remove them?

A: Use salis facewash. Use clindac gel during daytime and benzoyl peroxide overnight for pimples. Apply retino a 0.025% on face for a month.

Q: I am fair but my lips are very dark i tried many ways but no use pls suggest me a good remedy

A: You cant do much about the colour of your lips. You can camouflage it with lip gloss or lipstick.

Q: I have a lot of Dandruff and my hair is dropping alot these days.Please suggest something to stop this and for my hair growth.

A: Apply the juice of fresh amla and lime mixed together on the scalp overnight. Wash off the next day . Try this every alternate day. You will get rid of dandruff and also your hairfall will be taken care of.You will have a luxuriant growth of hair

New Dads-Specially For You Daddy

2009-07-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

New Dads-Specially For You Daddy

I was reading about this too I'm sharing again with you all I enjoyed reading all this and I wish to read this again with my husband one day
Now that the baby is here,it is your turn to bond!Your partner might already be well acquainted with the bundle that she has been carrying around for months,but now it is your turn to reap the benefits of this long-awaited moment!Here are few pointers to help you along :

Remember that babies aren't really breakable.Don't be afraid to hold yours!Ask someone who is around to show you some great holds for little ones whether it be a midwife,doctor,nurse,mum,relative,friend and etc.

If you are feeling left out,talk to your partner about it.Chances are it's not on purpose.

New mums often have emotional ups and downs that are not predictable.Be supportive and offer an ear when possible.Learn the warning signs of post-natal depression and seek help if the situation is heading out of control.

Be aware that new dads can also experience the blues or post-partum depression.Much in your life has changed and it's important to realise this help if you need it.

Support her with breastfeeding.Tell her that you're proud of her.Take a breastfeeding class during the prenatal if possible.At the same time,if the mother chooses not to breastfeed then accept and respect that decision.

Remember that the only thing you can't do is breastfeed.You can change diapers,soothe a crying baby,carry the baby,play with the baby etc.

Help with the other children or household.Remind mum to let the house go and to focus on her recovery and the new baby.

Mum is going to need extra sleep and care while her body recovers from birth.Get up with the baby when you can.Bring the baby to her in the middle of the night if possible.If you must go back to work,check with her during the day.Perhaps surprise her with some healthy take-away food or fresh flowers.

Remember that adding a new baby to the mix is always going to stir your life up a bit,even it's not your first baby baby.Learning to live with another human being takes time.Give yourself a break if you need it as well!

If you need help,ask for it.Know who to call in your area for help and support whether it be a doctor or midwife,lactation consultant or the local babysitter.

Seek out support from peer groups in your community and encourage your partner to do the same.Often times,people are unprepared for the changes their lives undergo once a new child enters the equation

Kitchen Hair fixes!

2009-07-16T13:59:00.000-07:00

Reach out for these kitchen hair fixes for shiny supermodel tresses
Winter can be pretty harsh on your hair. And splurging on expensive products is not the way to go. I, for one, realized that when I saw my mother's long shiny tresses. And here I was running from pole to post trying one expensive product after other...well, there were results, but I realized that I was sitting on a treasure trove of products in my kitchen. So before you mourn your lackluster strands, head to the kitchen and try these simple solutions to lock in shine the natural way.

The Alluring Avocado
Mash an avocado (one avocado for short hair, two for long) in a bowl until it forms a thick paste. Spread the paste on your hair from root to tip and leave on for 20 minutes. Shampoo and rinse. Avocados are high in fatty acids and nutrients. Feed your hair!

Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar
Mix half a cup of apple cider vinegar with one quart of water and use as a hair rinse after your regular shampoo. Rich in alpha-hydroxy acids, apple cider vinegar helps break down residue build-up leaving your hair soft and full of shine. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar and it will be shining in no time.

Eggs Over Olive Oil
Beat together two eggs for short hair, three for long, and add in three tablespoons of olive oil. Coat your hair from root to tip and leave on for 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse. Eggs contain eleven essential nutrients and are packed with protein. Combine them with olive oil for conditioning and nourishment and you have one powerful duo.

Coconut Craze
Warm three tablespoons of coconut oil and gently comb into your hair from root to tip. Wrap your hair in a hot towel and let the oil sit for 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse. Loaded with antioxidants, coconut oil works to smooth dry and damaged cuticles and lock in shine.

20 Skin Care Tips...

2009-07-16T13:58:00.002-07:00

20 Skin Care Tips...

Healthy skin is a part of the happy life one is leading. Everybody loves to have glowing, pinkish and healthier looking skin. It is not true that you have to spend a lot of money on skin care products. You are natural and what suits you the best for your skin is natural remedies plus a few skin care products. I have mentioned some of the skin care tips I follow in order to maintain my skin. I used to spend a lot of money on skin care products, but now these simple steps are more than enough to achieve a healthy looking skin.

1. Wash your face with a good cleanser in every morning and night.

2. Scrub your skin with a natural scrub at least once a week.

3. Apply honey on skin two times a week in the morning or night. Massage for five minutes in circular motions and rinse off with warm water.

4. If you have acne on your back, the most probable reason for that is not cleansing the leftovers of shampoo on skin after bathing. Thus, always wash your back with soap after having a bath.

5. If you have blemishes, dark spots on skin, apply some olive oil and massage before going to bed. This remedy is not recommended for facial skin since olive oil speeds up hair growth on skin.

6. If you are suffering from facial acne choose a good cleanser specially created for acne prone skin.

7. Make it a habit to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Water performs wonders on your skin.

8. Have a separate towel for yourself to wipe face and body.

9. If you have dry skin, apply Vaseline on skin and massage for a few minutes before going to bed. You will see an amazing difference in the morning when you wake up.

10. Once a week apply tomato juice mixed with a few drops of lime juice on your face and neck. Leave for 20 minutes and rinse off. This remedy is recommended for those who have oily skin with blemishes.

11. A natural scrub for skin: get one cup of white sugar and mix it with a half cup of lime juice. Then you can use it to scrub your body as well as your face.

12. Learn to do a few selected yoga exercises.

13. Drink natural fruit juices made of papaya, pineapple, lemon or oranges. These fruits contain vitamins necessary for a healthy skin.

14. Eat a healthy, balanced meal and avoid fast food.

Reset Your Sleep Cycle

2009-07-16T13:58:00.001-07:00

Reset Your Sleep Cycle
FREE DAILY FITNESS TIP
By Jennifer Gruenemay, ACE-Certified, LifeScript Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 27, 2006

ItÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s REALLY difficult to wake up in the mornings for some people Ã¢â‚¬â€œ a lot of people, in fact. We often wander through our day bleary-eyed and with dark circles under our eyes. As busy adults, weÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re perpetually starved for sleep. WhatÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s at the root of this problem? Everyone has a circadian clock, which is an internal body clock that keeps you on a schedule. After a weekend of sleeping in, it can be really difficult to change your wake-up time to an earlier hour because your circadian clock has been programmed to sleep late and ignore the alarm clock. However, by getting to bed on time and consistently waking up at a set hour, you can reset this clock in as little as a few days. First of all, go to bed at a reasonable hour every night. If youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re staying up late to watch your favorite shows, think about investing in TiVo and watching your programs when you actually have time (like on the weekends). Once you figure out how to get to bed at a reasonable hour, itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s time to give yourself a set time to wake up, too, even on the weekends. DonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t groan Ã¢â‚¬â€œ youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢ll be amazed at how much better you feel when you get on a regular sleep cycle.

Think Balance

2009-07-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

Think Balance

FREE DAILY DIET TIP
[i]By Jennifer Gruenemay, ACE-Certified, LifeScript Staff Writer[/b]
Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Is it true that you need to balance the carbs you eat with some protein and fat? Absolutely! Pairing protein and fat with carbs makes a lot of sense, whether youÃ¢â‚¬â„¢re watching your blood sugar or trying to combat post-meal fatigue. Each carbohydrate food produces its own unique blood sugar reaction in the body (known as its glycemic index) when eaten alone, and many carbohydrates will cause blood sugars to spike and then crash, leaving you tired after your meal. Watermelon is a great example of a food that will cause such a reaction, due to its high sugar content. But what if you paired that watermelon with a turkey burger and black beans? The protein and fat in the burger and beans helps balance out the watermelonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s effect on your blood sugar, bringing the glycemic index of the whole meal down to an acceptable level. As a basic rule of thumb, you should always try to balance out your high-carb meals with some amount of protein and/or fat. This will help you sustain your energy all day long, without allowing a blood sugar low. That means eating peanut butter with your bananas, cream cheese on your bagels, beans with your rice, cheese with your crackers, meat sauce with your pasta, and the countless other ways you can pair up your foods for balanced meals.

Green Tea - 24 Reasons!

2009-07-16T13:56:00.002-07:00

Green Tea - 24 Reasons!

Green tea has increasingly become a very popular drink worldwide because of its immensely powerful health benefits.It is extraordinarily amazing what green tea can do for your health.And if you're not drinking 3 to 4 cups of green tea today, you're definitely NOT doing your health a big favor.Here Are The 25 Reasons Why

You Should Start Drinking Green Tea Right Now:

1. Green Tea and Cancer

Green tea helps reduce the risk of cancer. The antioxidant in green tea is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E. This helps your body at protecting cells from damage believed to be linked to cancer.

2. Green Tea and Heart Disease

Green tea helps prevent heart disease and stroke by lowering the level of cholesterol. Even after the heart attack, it prevents cell deaths and speeds up the recovery of heart cells.

3. Green Tea and Anti-Aging

Green tea contains antioxidant known as polyphenols which fight against free radicals. What this means it helps you fight against aging and promotes longevity.

4. Green Tea and Weight Loss

Green tea helps with your body weight loss. Green tea burns fat and boosts your metabolism rate naturally. It can help you burn up to 70 calories in just one day. That translates to 7 pounds in one year.

5. Green Tea and Skin

Antioxidant in green tea protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which cause wrinkling and skin aging. Green tea also helps fight against skin cancer.

6. Green Tea and Arthritis

Green tea can help prevent and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Green tea has benefit for your health as it protects the cartilage by blocking the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

7. Green Tea and Bones

The very key to this is high fluoride content found in green tea. It helps keep your bones strong. If you drink green tea every day, this will help you preserve your bone density.

8. Green Tea and Cholesterol

Green tea can help lower cholesterol level. It also improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol, by reducing bad cholesterol level.

9. Green Tea and Obesity

Green tea prevents obesity by stopping the movement of glucose in fat cells. If you are on a healthy diet, exercise regularly and drink green tea, it is unlikely you'll be obese.

10. Green Tea and Diabetes

Green tea improves lipid and glucose metabolisms, prevents sharp increases in blood sugar level, and balances your metabolism rate.

11. Green Tea and Alzheimer's

Green tea helps boost your memory. And although there's no cure for Alzheimer's, it helps slow the process of reduced acetylcholine in the brain, which leads to Alzheimer's.

12. Green Tea and Parkinson's

Antioxidants in green tea helps prevent against cell damage in the brain, which could cause Parkinson's. People drinking green tea also are less likely to progress with Parkinson's.

13. Green Tea and Liver Disease

Green tea helps prevent transplant failure in people with liver failure. Researches showed that green tea destroys harmful free radicals in fatty livers.

14. Green Tea and High Blood Pressure

Green tea helps prevent high blood pressure. Drinking green tea helps keep your blood pressure down by repressing angiotensin, which leads to high blood pressure.

15. Green Tea and Food Poisoning

Catechin found in green tea can kill bacteria which causes food poisoning and kills the toxins produced by those bacteria.

16. Green Tea and Blood Sugar

Blood sugar tends to increase with age, but polyphenols and polysaccharides in green tea help lower your blood sugar level.

17. Green Tea and Immunity

Polyphenols and flavenoids found in green tea help boost your immune system, making your health stronger in fighting against infections.

18. Green Tea and Cold and Flu

Green tea prevents you from getting a cold or flu. Vitamin C in green tea helps you treat the flu and the common cold.

19. Green Tea and Asthma

Theophylline in green tea relaxes the muscles which support the bronchial tubes, reducing the severity of asthma.

20. Green Tea and Ear Infection

Green tea helps with ear infection problem. For natural ear cleaning, soak a cotton ball in green tea and clean the infected ear.

21. Green Tea and Herpes

Green tea increases the effectiveness of topical interferon treatment of herpes. First green tea compress is applied, and then let the skin dry before the interferon treatment.

22. Green Tea and Tooth Decay

Green tea destroys bacteria and viruses that cause many dental diseases. It also slows the growth of bacteria which leads to bad breath.

23. Green Tea and Stress

L-theanine, which is a kind of amino acids in green tea, can help relieve stress and anxiety.

24. Green Tea and Allergies

EGCG found in green tea relieves allergies. So, if you have allergies, you should really consider drinking green tea.

25. Green Tea and HIV

Scientists in Japan have found that EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) in green tea can stop HIV from binding to healthy immune cells.

How to Speed Up Your Metabolism

2009-07-16T13:56:00.001-07:00

How to Speed Up Your Metabolism

* Don't skip breakfast. You will lose weight more quickly if you have a bite to eat in the morning.
* Drink hot water with lemon
* Eat hot meals rather than cold. Your metabolism speeds up very slightly when you eat and again if the food is hot.
* Do at least thirty minutes of cardiovascular exercise, five days a week. This will condition you to burn fat more efficiently.
* Don't deprive your body of carbohydrates, no matter what they say.
* You need carbs for energy and will feel terrible without them.
* Wear a pedometer and see that you take 1,000 steps every day.
* If you have a sit-down job, get up every hour and walk around for five minutes or so.
* Dedicate two hours a week to weight training, concentrating on the larger muscles. Every other day is optimal.

Importance of having Breakfast

2009-07-16T13:55:00.002-07:00

Breakfast can help prevent strokes, heart attack and sudden death. Advice on not to skip breakfast!

Healthy living
For those who always skip breakfast, you should stop that habit now! You've heard many times that "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Now, recent research confirms that one of the worst practices you can develop may be avoiding breakfast.

Why?

Because the frequency of heart attack, sudden death, and stroke peaks between 6: 00a.m. and noon, with the highest incidence being
between 8: 00a.m. and 10:00a.m.What mechanism within the body could account for this significant jump in sudden death in the early
morning hours?

We may have an Answer.

Platelet, tiny elements in the blood that keep us from bleeding to Death if we get a cut, can clump together inside our arteries due to
Cholesterol or laque buildup in the artery lining. It is in the morning hours that platelets become the most activated and tend to form these internal blood clots at the greatest frequency.

However, eating even a very light breakfast prevents the morning platelet activation that is associated with heart attacks and strokes. Studies performed at MemorialUniversity in St.Johns, Newfoundland found that eating a light, very low-fat breakfast was critical in modifying the morning platelet activation. Subjects in the study consumed either low-fat or fat-free yogurt, orange juice, fruit, and a source of protein coming from yogurt or fat-free milk. So if you skip breakfast, it's important that you change this practice immediately in light of this research.

Develop a simple plan to eat cereal, such as oatmeal or Bran Flakes, along with six ounces of grape juice or orange juice, and perhaps a piece of fruit. This simple plan will keep your platelets from sticking together, keep blood clots from forming, and perhaps head off a potential Heart Attack or stroke. So never ever skip breakfast

Broccoli cuts diabetic risk of heart disease

2009-07-16T13:55:00.001-07:00

Broccoli cuts diabetic risk of heart disease

Now there is another good reason to eat your greens. Broccoli, the superfood already credited with the potential to fight cancer, cataracts and stomach ulcers, has been found to aid diabetics.

Researchers believe a compound in the vegetable could reverse the negative effects of diabetes on the heart.

While studies are at an early stage, scientists believe broccoli could be a significant weapon in the battle against heart disease.

Diabetes raises the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease five-fold.

A team from the University of Warwick found that the compound sulforaphane, found in broccoli, can encourage the body to produce enzymes that protect the blood vessels.

It also reduces levels of the molecules which cause significant cell damage.

Previous research has shown that a diet rich in vegetables, particularly brassica vegetables like broccoli, is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.

In the current study, published in the journal Diabetes, Professor Paul Thornalley and colleagues tested the effects of sulforaphane in the lab on blood vessel cells damaged by high glucose levels – hyperglycaemia.

They found that adding the compound reversed the increase in molecules in the body called reactive oxygen species (ROS) by 73 per cent. Hyperglycaemia – a serious problem among diabetes – can cause ROS levels to increase threefold and such high levels can damage human cells.

The researchers also found sulforaphane activated a protein in the body which protects cells and tissues from damage.

Prof Thornalley said: "Our study suggests compounds such as sulforaphane may help counter processes linked to the development of vascular disease in diabetes.

It will be important to test if a diet rich in brassica vegetables has health benefits for diabetic patients. We expect it will."

The finding could be welcome news for the almost 200,000 people in Scotland with diabetes.

Dr Iain Frame, director of research at Diabetes UK, pointed out that the current research had focused on cells grown in a lab, some way from real life.

"However," he said, "it is encouraging to see that Prof Thornalley and his team have identified a potentially important substance that may protect and repair blood vessels from the damaging effects of diabetes.

"It also may add some scientific weight to the argument that eating broccoli is good for you."

Drink Water On An empty Stomach

2009-07-16T13:54:00.001-07:00

Drink Water On An empty Stomach

It is popular in Japan today to drink water immediately after waking up every morning. Furthermore, scientific tests have proven a its value. We publish below a description of use of water for our readers. For old and serious diseases as well as modern illnesses the water treatment had been found successful by a Japanese medical society as a 100% cure for the following diseases:

Headache, body ache, heart system, arthritis, fast heart beat, epilepsy, excess fatness, bronchitis asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and urine diseases, vomiting, gastritis, diarrhea, piles, diabetes, constipation, all eye diseases, womb, cancer and menstrual disorders, ear nose and throat diseases.

METHOD OF TREATMENT

1. As you wake up in the morning before brushing teeth, drink 4 x 160ml glasses of water .....interesting

2. Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45 minutes

3. After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal.

4. After 15 minutes of breakfast, lunch and dinner do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours

5. Those who are old or sick and are unable to drink 4 glasses of water at the beginning may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 4 glasses per day.

6. The above method of treatment will cure diseases of the sick and others can enjoy a healthy life.

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure/control/reduce main diseases:

1. High Blood Pressure - 30 days

2. Gastric - 10 days

3. Diabetes - 30 days

4. Constipation - 10 days

5. Cancer - 180 days

6. TB - 90 days

7. Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment only for 3 days in the 1st week, and from 2nd week onwards - daily.

This treatment method has no side effects, however at the commencement of treatment you may have to urinate a few times.

It is better if we continue this and make this procedure as a routine work in our life.

Drink Water and Stay healthy and Active.

This makes sense .. The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals ..not cold water. Maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose, everything to gain...

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you.

It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion.
Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

Vitamin D may reduce the risk of cancer

2009-07-16T13:53:00.000-07:00

Vitamin D may reduce the risk of cancer

Cancer researchers urged people on Wednesday to take more vitamin D to lower their risk of colon, breast and ovarian cancer, saying studies showed a clear link.

"Our suggestion is for people to increase their intake," through diet or a vitamin supplement, Dr. Cedric Garland said in a telephone interview.

Garland's research team reviewed 63 studies, including several large long-term ones, on the relationship between vitamin D and certain types of cancer worldwide between 1966 and 2004.

He said the benefit of vitamin D was as clear as the harmful link between smoking and lung cancer.

"There's nothing that has this ability to prevent cancer," he said, urging governments and public health officials to do more to fortify foods with vitamin D.

Garland is part of a University of California at San Diego Moores Cancer Center team that published its findings this week online in the American Journal of Public Health.

The paper concluded that vitamin D deficiency may account for several thousand premature deaths from colon, breast, ovarian and other cancers annually.

Vitamin D is found in milk, as well as in some fortified orange juice, yogurt and cheeses, usually at around 100 international units (IU) a serving.

People might want to consider a vitamin supplement to raise their intake to 1000 IUs per day, Garland said, adding that it was well within the safety guidelines established by the National Academy of Sciences.

The authors said that taking more vitamin D could be especially important for people living in northern areas, which receive less vitamin D from sunshine.

African Americans, who don't produce as much of the vitamin because of their skin pigment, could also benefit significantly from a higher intake, the authors said.

Health Care Tips - Must Read It

2009-07-16T13:52:00.000-07:00

Health Care Tips

* For building iron in your body eat plenty of spinach juice.

* If you exercise with music, you will exercise longer and enjoy it more. Choose something upbeat and energizing.

* On a busy day, take 20 minutes to go for a brisk walk to help reduce stress.

* Eat most of your fat and calories for the day, in the morning. Doing this will put your metabolism into high gear. Then eat lean the rest of the day.

* While running, if you have stomach cramps, stop and bend forward from the waist. Breath in and out, slowly and deeply while contracting your abdominal muscles.

* While doing housework, increase the pace to get some extra exercise and calorie burning.

* If you are having problems with migrain headaches, drink some hot tea with honey and this should help ease the pain.

* Always take the steps instead of the elevator if you plan on cutting down those extra calories.

* Eat a bowl of oatmeal each day to lower your cholesterol.

* Drink plenty of water since it helps liver function well and your body will benefit and that will show from your glowing skin. So also drink plenty of water before, during and after exercising.

* To lower blood pressure, improve your mood and relieve depression, exercise regularly.

* If you experience pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat or increased fatigue while exercising, call a doctor immediately.

* Begin your workout with warm-up exercises and end with cool-down exercises.

* If you suffer from eczema, avoid heat and sweating.

* Wear loose, lightweight clothing while exercising. Choose natural fabrics that will breathe.

* When it is hot outside, drink more water and avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages.

* Ear ache - place a piece of potato (raw) in the ear-remove later.

* Breathe naturally while doing stretching exercises. Never hold your breath.

* Make soups the day before and refrigerate. Skim the fat off the top before reheating.

* To feel as though you are eating more, slow down and chew thoroughly. Take at least 20 minutes to eat a meal. Taking longer to eat will make you feel fuller and also helps in digesting food properly.

* When going to see a doctor, write down the questions you want to ask. Also, write down the answers. If you don't understand the answer, ask again! Take along any medication bottles you are taking.

* Keep your attitude positive and smile.

* urning down the lights an hour or two before bedtime will help you get a better night's sleep.

* Avoid smoke-filled rooms and breathing or exercising near busy roads. Exercise in clean environment.

For stress-free, beautiful hair...

2009-07-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Amla powder can be added to oil or henna. You can add 10 to 15 gms of amla powder to 100 ml pure coconut oil or sesame seed (til) oil. Put the mixture in a glass jar with a tightly fitting lid and keep it in the sun for 15 days, shaking it daily to stir the amla. Then, strain the oil and keep. It can be applied on the hair to nourish it.

Amla can also be added to henna paste. You can buy whole dry amla. Soak a handful of amla in about 3 cups of water overnight.

Grind the amla the next day. Do not throw away the water. Both the water and the ground amla can be added to henna paste, along with 4 teaspoons each lemon juice and coffee, 2 raw eggs and 2 teaspoons oil.

Amla is said to check graying and also keeps the scalp healthy. Of course, henna will leave a reddish brown colour on white hair, but will not colour dark hair.

Give me some tips for frizz-free and split-end free long hair. — Prakriti

Cut off the split ends. Avoid tying the hair with rubber bands. Avoid hair dryers and brushes for some time. Use a wide toothed comb. Twice a week heat pure coconut oil and apply on the scalp and hair. Apply on the ends too. Then dip a towel in hot water, squeeze out the water and wrap the hot towel around the head, like a turban.

Keep it on for 5 minutes. Repeat the hot towel wrap 3 or 4 times. This helps the hair and scalp absorb the oil better. Use a mild herbal shampoo. Use less shampoo and rinse well with water.

Avoid very hot water to wash the hair. After shampoo, apply a creamy conditioner, taking less quantity and massaging it lightly into the hair. Apply on the ends too. Leave on for 2 minutes and rinse off with plain water. Applying egg yolk half an hour before shampoo would also help.

Tell me home remedies to make my hair straight and long. — Monika

Home remedies soften the hair, but do not straighten it. You can use a hand-held dryer at home to straighten the hair. The effect will last till the next shampoo. After washing the hair, while the hair is still damp, divide it in sections. Hold the end of a section with a comb or brush.

Holding it straight and slightly downwards, use the hand held dryer to dry the hair. Repeat this with each section. Hold the dryer at least 6 inches away from the hair. However, excessive use of the hair dryer can cause dryness. Diet is important for hair growth. Have a small bowl of sprouts daily and include fresh fruits, salads, leafy green vegetables, curd, in your diet.

I will make a post for removing pimples

2009-07-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

I will make a post for removing pimples...but i found two solutions for now:

Mix nutmeg powder with a little unboiled milk and apply on acne or pimples and wash after an hour this remedy when done once or twice a week will not leave any acne marks on the skin .

But one that i use would be garlic juice...i know it smells horrible but it will really help...it really works and i have a bit of oily skin as well but do try it first, check it out and then use it once or twice a week!

Also if u steam ur face (with drops of lemon) that will help...like u say u have oily skin and oily skin attracts dirt and the pores are blocked by this that's why u get blackheads and pimples...make sure u do this and don't forget to drink 8 glasses of water regularly!!

you could do apart from a heathy diet and lots of water

2009-07-16T13:48:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things you could do apart from a heathy diet and lots of water:

1) Avoid touching your face or picking on any bumps or acne – that will only aggravate the problem.

2) use a mild soap-free cleanser to cleanse your face at least 2-3 times a day.

3) Apply a mixture of turmeric and neem on the face to get rid of pimples.

4) If you have acne or very acne-prone skin then consult with a good skin clinic for monthly salicylic peels that help in unclogging your pores and prevent acne breakouts. There is Kaya Skin clinic, which offers a range of services.

Pimples Solution!!

2009-07-16T13:47:00.002-07:00

Pimples is a unique skin disorder.Pimples are lesions that occur when the skin’s pores are obstructed or infected.They can form for a variety of reasons.However,the mechanism involved in causing some pores to collapse and block drainage of natural oils is not really understood. Pimples may also crop up for genetic reasons. It is not clear how it can be inherited from one’s parents, but studies do indicate a high occurrence of pimples in children whose parents had it,too.
The pimples associated with adolescence almost certainly occur because of hormonal changes that take place during puberty. Both males and females get an overdose of the male hormone testosterone during this period,causing excessive generation of sebaceous fluids that invariably cause pimples.

1.The most basic form of pimple prevention is hygiene and preventive skin care. Regular washing of the affected areas with mild soap is a must.The soap need not necessarily contain any chemicals designed to prevent pimples .However, face washing should not be overdone or the skin will become dehydrated .

2.Care should be taken on makeup,moisturizers and other skin care products.If these products are oil based,it would just make the problem worse. Use water based products instead.

3.Generally we rub, press or squeeze our pimples.Don’t when we do this,we risk spreading the bacteria to other areas.

4.Lemon juice diluted in water can be applied externally because of its antiseptic
quality.

5.Tea Tree oil can also be applied directly to infected pores.

6.Vitamin A tablets are also a natural and effective cure. Vitamin A promotes healthy skin.

7.Before bathing, apply a mixture of fresh tomato pulp, honey and rose-water to your face and keep for twenty minutes before washing off.

8.Juice of raw papaya is the best treatment for pimples.Apply fresh juice of raw papaya on pimples and get a good result.

9.Directly rub potato slices all over the face, helps to get rid of blemishes and
pimple scar.

10.Drink plenty of water and vegetable or fruit juices.

11.Use cucumber or other fruit and vegetable packs to cure pimple scars.

12.Maintain a diet that is rich in cottage cheese, salads, fresh juices, fish and
yogurt.These help to cleanse your system and ward off pimples.

13.Another overnight home remedy for pimples is to put a dab of toothpaste on it to help dry it out. Calamine lotion also will have the same drying effect.

14.Pound orange peel with water and apply to affected areas.

15.Another useful remedy for pimples is zinc. Which can be taken in a dose of 50 mg daily for a month and then reduce the dose.

16.You can clean your skin with apple cider vinegar as an overnight home pimple remedy.

17.Aspirin contains Beta hydroxy acid which is a powerful defoliant ,so you can crush 1to 2 Aspirin tablets mix with a little water and apply on pimples for 15 minutes and wash.

Finally,certain medications may temporarily alter the hormonal changes prevalent during adolescence and cause pimple outbreaks. If this is the case, a simple adjustment in medication may be all that is required.

just a balanced diet will keep you healthy!!!

2009-07-16T13:47:00.001-07:00

just a balanced diet will keep you healthy!!!

broccoli, carrot, mushrooms, cucumber etc. have proteins...you can find out very easily about vegetable proteins online...there are great sources out there.....though fish is the best source of protein you can have vegetables and get proteins too...in the veg. proteins you will lack some minerals and certain type of protein, which can only be found in meat....that's why vegans can't have some injections or treatment because of their diet....it always is best to have a balanced diet....not too meaty and not too veggie....just a balanced diet will keep you healthy!!!

Great hair and skin = WATER,MILK AND ALMONDS!!!!

2009-07-16T13:46:00.001-07:00

Great hair and skin = WATER,MILK AND ALMONDS!!!!

After losing all confidence in my looks as my hair was falling out, not growing. My skin dry, and brittle with spots and blemishes and scale like look to it....and genrally feeling 'low'!!!

I decided to have a chat with my auntie who is a health freak with shiny thick gorg hair, amazing glowy skin and a equally amazing glow to her!!

She let her secrets pour out and I am here to let you all know how I mamaged to get my confidence back so quickly!!

For amazing glossy thick hair and fast growth it is important to have healthy diet...i have cut alot of junk out but eat more often now and healthy...but the main things I have stuck by and swear have helped my skin and hair (people comment on my skin now and ask why it is so glowy, spots hjave dissapeared and blemishes are fading and itis so soft and glossy...i swear I dont even wear makeup now...I would not even leave the house without it before!!!)

Changes I made:

1) I drink a big glass of milk...cold or hot every morning and a small glass every night!

2) I eat a handful of almonds (bout 6) in the morning before going to work with the milk and 6 at night before bed

3)Most importantly for skin I drink approx 3 litres of water a day....cold, hot with lemon, hot by itself (anything I just drink it all day throughtout my meals (I am addicted now and notice my skin getting beter every single day!!!!)
BUT DONT DRINK TOO MUCH WATER ALL AT ONCE...OR U WILL MAKE YOURSELF ILL!!!

4) eat loads of fruit and vegtables, I have (sunflower,pumpkin,linseeds,hemp seeds and pine nuts, walnuts) with yogurt nearly everyday. I eat roti, rice, cooked vegtables and meat aswell, salmon, cod, tuna,sardines etc!!

My nails and skin on my body as a whole has become really nice!!
The most important thing is to eat well but healthy!! Also I use almond oil on my hair three times a week!! also keep active and try to walk everywhere when possible (just remember to be safe thou and dont walk alone in dangerous areas!!) take the stairs, do loads of housework...etc!!

Crack heel solution

2009-07-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

Crack heel solution

For many years I’ve had cracked heels that has caused me much discomfort. In summer, the problem becomes worse and I haven’t been able to wear open footwear as my cracked heels would get worse. I tried many different products but nothing seemed to work until I tried BENCOOLEN Virgin Coconut Oil Cracked Heel Repair Cream. Now I can wear my favourite pair of sandals for my summer walks. For those affected like me, I hope this helps. They have recently opened their online store at Cracked Heels | Virgin Coconut Oil Cracked Heel Repair Cream.

Fashion Beauty advice!!

2009-07-16T13:42:00.000-07:00

Fashion Beauty advice!!

To have dry skin or oily skin is natural and can be like that over a period of time....u want to eliminate dry skin and have normal skin....for u to do that is to have a good well-balanced diet.....exerise.......and also take care outside like regular bath and messaging ur skin and cleaning pores etc....this sounds a lot though but it isn't much...u want to be a model i guess.......but don't worry sometimes u can't get rid of the skin type u have but u can control it...!!!

different hair fall reasons for men n women.....??

2009-07-16T13:41:00.002-07:00

different hair fall reasons for men n women.....??

Is there a difference between the reasons for hair-fall in men and women.......
what do u think are the causes for hair fall in men n women seperately......

5 ways to cut on flab

2009-07-16T13:41:00.001-07:00

5 ways to cut on flab

The only way to lose weight is to eat less and exercise so that you burn more calories than you consume. But this simple arithmetic is very difficult to put into practice. Every day, situations crop up that make it impossible for you to find time for the gym or have a healthy tuna salad for lunch. The challenge lies in finding the perfect diet-activity balance that works for you.

There are hundreds of fad diets and weight-loss programmes that promise quick and easy weight loss, but in most cases, the weight lost comes back. “The basic foundation of every successful weight-loss programme still remains a healthy diet combined with exercise. You have to change your lifestyle to lose weight and then keep it off,” says nutritionist Ishi Khosla.

Some sustainable ways to lose weight and keep it off is eating a wide variety of nutritionally dense foods and following the five basic principles of healthy eating.

1. Know when to stop eating

Inactive men need about 1,800 calories and women up to 1,600 calories a day. Eating 300 to 400 fewer calories a day will help you shed 2 kg in a month, but to ensure you don’t have deficiencies, opt for nutritious foods that are low in calories, such as vegetables and wholegrains and legumes.

2. Get moving now

There is no getting away from it. Do at least 45 minutes of exercise at least five times a week. “It’s a myth that exercise makes you hungry and you end up eating more and putting on weight. In fact, exercise pushes up the basal metabolic rate and makes you burn up more calories through the day, even when you are not exercising,” says Dr Parmeet Kaur, chief of dietetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

3. Don’t fall for fad diets

Fad diets don’t work for long as they usually exclude certain types of foods, or at times, entire food groups. “Fad diets are not balanced and deprive people of important nutrients, creating a nutritional gap. They are also difficult to follow and cause people to give up and gain weight again,” says Khosla.

4. Cut back on fat and sugar

The best way to keep weight off is to make small dietary changes, such as avoiding — but not totally giving up — fried foods and desserts, that often contain more calories than the rest of the meal without the nutrition. Replace desserts with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and legumes; eat small, single servings of foods high in fat or calories; choose low-fat or double-toned milk products and reduced fat cheeses; ration edible oils and have a mix of them; choose roasting or steam foods as a cooking option; avoid sugary drinks, including sweetened fruit juices; and avoid alcohol. “People end up drinking a lot of calories, so it is important to keep track of what you are drinking too,” says Khosla.

Most packaged food labels list the amount of nutrients and calories the food gives you, so do read up. “But don’t follow labels blindly, as sugar-free may have fructose, which is worse with insulin resistance than glucose,” says Khosla.

5. Avoid diet pills

Diet pills available over the counter do not make a big difference to how much you lose or how long you can keep the weight off. However safe they may claim to be, never have them without prescription. “Diet pills are needed only for the morbidly obese or those who have hormonal imbalances and should never be had without prescription as they can cause side effects, such as high blood pressure, even in healthy people,” warns Khosla.

Also, be careful about taking cough or cold medicines with over-the-counter diet pills as these medicines may contain the same molecule as the one used in diet pills, or a similar drug with the same effects. “If you take more than one medication together, it may interact and cause problems, so don’t look for short-cuts to lose weight,” says Kaur.

Most advertisements that promise quick-fix weight loss solutions using machines and gizmos don’t work.

Finasterid can be obtained through a prescription and it is in the form of a tablet taken daily.

"If the treatment is stopped, the hair loss as a rule will start again," said Garcia Bartels. The price of the drug - about 150 euros ($220) for a three-month supply - is high. Somewhat more economical is Minoxidil, which is a lotion that must be applied to the scalp twice a day. Originally developed as a blood pressure medication, Minoxidil was found to have the side effect of hair growth.

Minoxidil's success rate is however lower: while hair loss is stopped in 80 percent of the people who use finasterid, the rate is 70 percent among people who apply Minoxidil. Additionally, 70 to 80 percent of finasterid users experience hair re-growth. This is true for 50 to 60 percent of Minoxidil users.

Apart from these medicines and the toupee, there is another way of achieving a full head of hair again - hair transplantation. This involves removing pieces of skin with hair follicles from another part of the body, typically the back of the neck, and transplanting them at the bald spots.

"Such measures come into play only if the hair loss has ended," said Garcia Bartels. Otherwise, the remaining original hair will continue to fall out around the newly transplanted hair.

Hair transplantation is a very costly solution of baldness. The cost of refilling in a small spot with hair can run over 1,000 euros.

"The results that I have seen thus far are not especially satisfying," said Hofmann. Apparently, it is better when a man accepts his baldness.

"The problems that men have with hair loss decline anyway as they get older," said Henss. "Perhaps time does not grant a full head of hair, but it does heal all wounds."

Home made scrubs for perfect skin

2009-07-16T13:40:00.001-07:00

Beauty scrubs help in exfoliating dead skin cells to reveal a fresher and healthy skin.

Exfoliation of the skin, both of the body and face, is an important aspect of skin care regime as exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells to reveal a fresher looking healthy skin. Exfoliated skin also helps in better absorption of skin care products.
Skin exfoliation can be done at home with scrubs made of natural ingredients. But exercise caution in usage, find out from your dermo if your skin type needs regular exfoliation.

Use of scrubs on a daily basis is not advisable as it will strip the skin off essential oils, instead make it a weekly affair if you have dry skin and bi-weekly if you have oily skin. If you experience unusual dryness and irritation, it’s a warning to go easy on scrubbing. Avoid scrubs with a lot of artificial ingredients. Opt for scrubs, and there are plenty available in the market, with natural ingredients. Or better still make them at home.

Here are some easy-to-make face and body scrub recipes

Oats and roses scrub

1/4 cup oats

1/4 cup milk powder

1 tbsp rock salt

1tbsp cornmeal

1tbsp crushed and dried rose petals/dried and powdered lemon or orange peel

1tsp dried and powdered neem leaves

Gently mix all ingredients in a mixer. Don’t make the mixture smooth, leave it in a granular stage. Gently massage this on to moist body and face. Leave to dry. Rinse well. Regular use will make your skin smooth and baby-soft.

Rice and sugar scrub

5 tablespoon baby oil

4 teaspoon coarsely ground rice flour

2 teaspoon lemon juice

2 tablespoon sugar

Mix all the ingredients, and gently massage your body and face. Rinse off with tepid water. If you have pimples/acne, avoid using this scrub.

Honey and olive oil scrub

2 tbsp honey

3 tbsp oatmeal

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp coarse brown sugar

1 tsp lemon juice

Mix all ingredients, except the oatmeal. Once a smooth paste is made, add in oatmeal. Gently scrub all over body and face. Rinse off with lukewarm water.
This scrub will make your skin glow with health.

Pineapple and papaya scrub

1 cup diced pineapple and papaya

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp baby oil

2 tbsp oatmeal and sugar

Crush the pineapple and papaya pieces and squeeze out the juices into a jar. Add oatmeal, sugar, baby oil and honey to the fruit pulp. Make a coarse mix. Moisten your face and body. Massage onto your body and face in a circular motion. Leave it on for 5 minutes. Rinse off with cool water. Lightly massage the fruit juice all over your body and face. Leave for 15 minutes. Take a cold shower. If you regularly follow this ritual, you an be rest assured that your skin will remain satin smooth and healthy

Vitamin essentials

2009-07-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

Vitamin essentials

After several bouts of cold and fever, 32-year-old Shalini Ravindranath learnt that her immunity level was very low Doc- tors asked her to up her intake of Vitamin C help her cope with her repeated illnesses.

She did exactly that. A year later when the shivering and sneezing continued, Shalini couldn't figure out why she felt constantly nauseous and had an upset tummy "Little did I know that I was not supposed to take that prescribed dosage of Vitamin C for an entire year, instead of just three months," she says.

"My doctor asked me to stop taking it immediately and get on to a balanced diet." Graphic designer Abhinav Murthy faced a similar experience when he broke out into a severe case of adult acne. He decided to selfmedicate and began popping VitaminE for almost six months.

While his skin did get better, his eyesight seemed to be getting weaker "It was not until that my vision started getting blurry and I had a constant headache that I thought I should get my eyes checked," he says.

A visit to the doctor revealed that he had been overdosing on Vitamin E. While the recommended dosage was 500 milligrams a week, Abhinav had been popping the same everyday "I was shocked to realise that vitamins could actually do damage," he says.

"And if there's one thing that I have learnt, it's not to self-medicate." We all pop multivitamins often. We drink that extra glass of orange juice and even massage vitamin oils into our skin. So where exactly did Shalini and Abhinav go wrong?

Food for thought

"Too much of anything is bad news. And the same holds for vitamins as well," says nutritionist Dr Shikha Sharma.

"Supplements and additional doses of vitamins should be limited and not be taken unless under supervision as they can have side effects that range from liver malfunetions, joint pains to severe diarrhoea."

She goes on to add that only under three circumstances should you increase your intake of vitamin through supplements:

1) If you're pregnant, especially if you have low haemoglobin levels.

2) If you've been through a severe illness and your doctor has prescribed certain vitamins for a certain period of time

3) If there is a malnourished child you come across, who does not have access to proper nutrition (this too only under a doctor's supervision)

"For the rest, it's important to eat right and not pop pills as and when you feel like it," adds Dr Sharma.

Fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and meat are well-known sources of vitamins, but it's the way these vitamins are absorbed in the body that makes the difference.

Vitamins can be divided into two categones: M Fat-soluble vitamins - that includes Vitamins A, D, E and K that are absorbed by the fat tissues and are mostly found in fatty foods and fish-liver oils M Water-soluble vitamins - that includes Vitamins B and C that are not stored in the body and must be replaced everyday.

They can be found in grains, poultry and citrus fruits. While an excess of water soluble vitamins do not do very much damage to the body, an increased intake of fat soluble vitamins can lead to a number of local diseases which include: Vitamin A - Headache, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, liver damage, loss of hair and menstrual irregularities Vitamin D - Weight loss, pallor, constipation, fever, and calcium deposits throughout the body (may be mistaken for cancer), deafness, nausea, kidney stones, fragile bones, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, nausea, diarrhoea and excessive thirst Vitamin E - Weakness, fatigue, exacerbation and hypertension Vitamin K - Can lead to liver enlargement In case of an excess of water soluble vitamins too, there are certain side effects that can expunge all the good they are meant to do.

An excess of Vitamin B leads to transient flushing, headache, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and anorexia while extreme Vitamin C can cause an increase in the uric acid levels, kidney and bladder stones and urinary tract irritation.

Small supplement

"Most vitamins and supplements are easily available over the counter and so they are easy to access," says Bangalore-based nutritionist Dr K R Anandamani.

"But nothing, absolutely nothing can beat the fact that eating natural and whole food is the best and most effective way of allowing your body access to vitamins."

She goes on to add that self-medicating or binging on vitamin pills has a placebo effect. "It's only right to do it if, say, you're travelling and don't have the time to eat right."

While there are a number of studies that insist that a multivitamin a day is essential to fulfil the daily requirement of nutrients, there are newer ones that refute the claim.

A report in the Journal of American Medical Association in February 2007 claimed that taking antioxidant vitamins actually increased a person's risk of dying to up to 16 per cent.

Another research by the University of Washington in 2007 stated that high doses Vitamin E taken over 10 years slightly elevates lung cancer risks in smokers. While doctors in India do not go as far as this, most of them feel that supplements should be taken only if there is a case of bad nutrition. And that the pill-popping culture is purely western. "

As Indians we don't live on a diet of potatoes and bread everyday, so vitamin supplements are hardly needed unless the case is severe," says Dr Sharma.

"Moreover, we do include a lot of green leafy vegetables and fruits in our diet, which keeps our balance intact." Although there may be some people who need more than the standard recommended amounts of certain vitamins, there are a number of ways to get the nutrients.

While there are no perfect diets to follow, doctors definitely feel that there are plenty of options out there for people who want to take just a little bit of care of their health. One things is for certain: getting vitamins from pills is not as effective as getting them from food.

Here's a list of the right things to eat if you like to get those vitamins right:

Food source

A: carrot, spinach, sweet potatoes, broccoli, oatmeal, peaches, apricots, mangoes, papaya, pumpkin Milk, meat, eggs, cheese, peas, fish, brewer's yeast, milk, legumes, potatoes and peanuts, brown rice, fish, butter, wheat germ, whole grain cereals, and soybeans

C: Guava, capsicum, strawberry, citrus fruits including oranges and lemon, pineapple, green leafy vegetables, raw cabbage

D: Cod liver oil, milk, sardines and mushrooms

E: wheat germ, nuts, seeds, whole grains, green leafy vegetables, vegetable oil and fish-liver oil, nuts

K: Alfalafa, soyabean, cheddar cheese, oats, cauliflower, wheat germ, lettuce, beef

The fruits you should have!

2009-07-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

We all know that fruits are good for health. Fruits provide vitamins, minerals and energy. Fruits have to be a part of your daily diet. But do you know what fruits are absolute must-haves in your fruit basket? Experts have listed the following five as the ‘best’ in terms of health benefits.
Guava: (Amrud in Hindi. Peru in Marathi): This is the uncrowned king of the fruit basket. We are lucky that being a tropical fruit, guavas are available almost throughout the year in our country. A guava tree is one of the most common fruit tress growing in many a backyard. Even in a concrete jungle like Mumbai, one frequently comes across guava trees. Why is guava the star? Recent reports suggest that guavas are packed with anti-oxidant properties and are abundant in Vitamin C. In fact it is said that it beats other fruits hollow when it comes to Vitamin C. Guavas are also the richest in fibre and have age and inflammation fighting properties. Not surprising then that this fruit is the top chartbuster here!

Lychee: Lychees are beautiful to look at, and taste great too. But did you know that just three lychees can meet a third of your Vitamin C requirement of the day? 100 gms of fresh lychees gives you 72 mg of Vitamin C. Other good points of lychees include copper, potassium and riboflavin. Avoid lychee juices and stick to the whole fruit.

Papaya: Another one from the wonder fruits stable. Papayas are wonderful for your skin as they help you fight wrinkles. Vitamin C, folate and potassium are present in papayas. Papayas contain papain, a natural digestive aid, which helps to cleanses the digestive track. Other nutrients include Vitamin A, E and carotenoids and lycopene. In comparison to an orange papaya has 13 times more Vitamin C and 50 times more potassium and four times more Vitamin E than oranges and apples. All this at a lower calorie count.

Banana: Easy to afford and easily available, bananas are a universal favourite. Quick to digest, bananas come with a host of vitamins, A, B, C and also calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and zinc. Experts say that the fiber in a banana is good for your heart. People suffering from acidity are often asked to consume bananas, as they are said to protect from stomach ulcers. Raw bananas are also used in Indian cooking and are high in iron content.

Pomegranate: Red wine and green tea are said to be high in anti-oxidants. But did you know that the content of anti-oxidants in pomegranates are almost three times higher! So next time say ‘cheers’ with pomegranate juice. Also indulging in this juice frequently is extremely beneficial for your heart and it cuts down the risk of artery clogging. Additionally they contain Vitamin B, C, calcium and phosphorous. It also contains a powerful agent that helps fight against prostrate cancer. It is also said to be effective against anaemia, intestinal parasite irritation, piles, asthma, diarrhoea, morning sickness and poor appetite.

Hair Problems? Falling hair or dandruff...then help is at hand!!!

2009-07-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Hair raising woes?

Plagued by hair problems? If falling hair and dandruff are the bane of your life, try these home remedies.

Falling hair

Soak methi (fenugreek) seeds and curry leaves in coconut oil, overnight. Next morning warm it a little and massage it on to your scalp. The massage should be gentle, yet it should leave your scalp tingling. Rinse off with a herbal shampoo. Alternatively you could rinse it with the juice of crushed red hibiscus leaves. Follow this regularly for best results. It will keep your scalp healthy and prevent hair fall.

Mix as per your hair length, castor oil, olive oil and coconut oil in equal measures. Warm and massage on to your scalp. This will arrest hair fall and promote hair growth.

Boil dried pieces of amla in coconut oil. After it cools, mix in a few drops of lemon juice and massage on to scalp. This will stop hair loss and also help in hair growth.

If you can tolerate the smell of mustard oil here’s a remedy. Boil mustard oil and while it is boiling, keep adding fresh henna, basil and curry leaves to it. After the leaves are burnt black, switch off the gas. Cool, strain and use twice to thrice a week for best results.

Extract the milk of freshly grated coconut. Apply it to your scalp and wash it off with the hibiscus leaf extract mentioned above. Coconut milk is a great of nourishment for your scalp. Coconut milk can be applied to infants’ scalp too.

Dandruff

Prepare this hair pack and apply regularly on a weekly basis to prevent dandruff as well as hair loss. In a bowl of warm coconut oil, quantity as per your hair length, add an egg with the yolk and a tbsp of lemon juice. Blend well and massage on scalp. Rinse off with a mild shampoo.

Prepare an extract of aloe vera gel. Add lime juice to it and apply to your scalp. Rinse well with cool water.

Warm coconut oil and add lemon juice to it. Massage on to your scalp and cover it with a hot, moist towel. Wash with mild shampoo after an hour. Follow this practise regularly till you see results.

Add a tbsp of vinegar to warm coconut oil and massage on to your scalp. Rinse off after an hour. After which apply a solution of water and lemon juice to your scalp. Leave it for 10 minutes and rinse off with cold water. It will leave your hair squeaky clean, shiny and if done regularly free you from dandruff.

Beauty tips by Deepika Padukone

2009-07-16T13:31:00.000-07:00

Runway queen-turned-Bollywood star Deepika Padukone speaks about the secret of her radiance.

What keeps you looking this good?

My daily skincare regimen involves cleansing, toning and moisturising. Healthy skin needs mild cleansing, for which I use gentle soaps. I use products that are mild and do not strip my skin of essential proteins. I am not much of a make-up user and stick to basics like a moisturiser, lip balm and a neutral foundation.

I don’t go for regular facials, but do indulge in clean-up sessions once in a while. Also, I am very particular about taking off the make-up before I go to bed. As a ritual, I like to luxuriate in a relaxing body massage with lukewarm coconut or baby oil every week. I think working towards maintaining a healthy body should be a priority for everyone. It is also equally important to maintain a high emotional quotient and a positive attitude towards life.

How do you take time out for yourself after a hectic work schedule?

I take care of myself with homemade remedies and a balanced diet. Working towards maintaining a healthy body should be a priority for everyone. I try and work out as often as possible. Since, I travel regularly, it becomes difficult for me to have a daily workout routine, but whenever I hit the gym I do cardio training and some light weights.

Thanks to my years dedicated to badminton, I have an athletic body. Also, since relaxation matters, no matter how busy my shooting schedules are, I always keep some quality time aside for family and friends.

What is your beauty advice for all the girls out there?

A healthy lifestyle, nutritious diet and the correct skincare and fitness regimen all go hand in hand to make possible a beautiful you today and tomorrow. I am a firm believer in skincare the natural way. I am careful about using skincare products that are the right mix of nature and science.

One should never try to go overboard on any products, as I think the more you try to be experimental with your skin, the worse it gets. Just stick to the basics of skincare and witness the splendid results. There are a host of natural effective products available that are a better bet than harsh chemically enhanced ones.

How important is a healthy diet for looking beautiful?

A healthy diet is the first step towards a healthy and fit body. I take a balanced diet with carbs and proteins, and I’m very particular about dietary proportions. I have three main meals in a day, breakfast being the most important of them all. I try to keep my meals balanced and simple.

What are your reasons for being associated with the brands that you represent?

I associate myself with a brand that I can identify with. I have felt in tune with these brands and hence the association. Brands which signify style, good looks, youth, fun and have a universal appeal are the ones that I associate myself with. (Deepika endorses Fiama Di Wills, Kingfisher, Maybelline, Levi’s Strauss, Tissot, Pepsi.) I am also very conscious of the quality of the brands I endorse.

Natural Beauty Care Tips for Healthy Facial Skin, Body and Hair

2009-07-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

1970s Style Disco Makeup and Era Fashions that have a Vintage Flair.

The Sixties left the coming decade with an taste for the natural, and the Seventies era particularized the “Natural Look” to makeup and hair. Hair was long, smooth, often very straight, but ideally with a flip on the ends. Think the Mary Tyler Moore show, and you've got the early to middle '70s in a nutshell. The longer hairstyles still required the large curlers (which could really damage your hair with daily use) used in the '60s to create big waves, but electric curling irons were added to the mix when Farrah Fawcett Majors became on of the decade's "It" girls. The flicked up hair cuts worn to some extent by all of Charlie's Angels was applied to bangs or wings on the sides of the head. Farrah combined flicks on both sides with a high lofted center and amazing, wavy curls in streaky golden hair. Never mind that the fabulous Angel had stylists galore to keep her look fresh and "natural"; everybody wanted to look like that. And 'that' entailed more than a superb and constantly-renewed layered haircut: it meant hours with the curling iron, plenty of hair spray or mousse and strict avoidance of anything athletic, outdoorsy or the least bit—well, you know—natural.

1970s make-up styles had a natural, surfer appeal
Along with the "natural" hair of the '70s came a natural look in skin and cosmetics. Earlier decades had made fashionable the dead white complexion, the flawless matte of a movie star skin, and the rosy blush of innocence through the magic of foundation. In the Seventies, it was cool to resemble to surfers at Venice Beach: an all over tan, a golden glow around the face, and minimal looking make up were the things to strive for. Bronzers made an appearance, fake tanning fluids turned thousands of young women bright orange, and women who today look with alarm at the spots appearing on middle aged skin laid out all summer covered all too lightly in a bikini and a slick coat of baby oil.

1970s makeup mavens lightened up on the eye makeup, with mascara nearly disappearing for daywear except for something to lengthen, not necessarily thicken the eyelashes. White or pale blue eyeliner was sometimes used on the inside lid to make the eyes appear larger, but dark eyeliners were out of fashion. Pearlescent colors were popular for eye shadow, nail polish and lipstick, and liquid eye shadows became the rage. When foundation was worn at all, it was not matted down with powder, but left alone to shine a bit.

Updated skin care and skin appearances in the 70’s
Skin care became more of a concept in the Seventies. In earlier decades, women were concerned about keeping their skin clean and moisturized: most women's skin care arsenal consisted of a bar of soap and a big jar of vintage Ponds cold cream. In the Seventies, products that had been available in spas were being sold to the general public; face masks, toners, astringents and a thousand other cosmetic skin care preparations found their way onto women's shelves—and into their faces. Natural products like oatmeal, avocado and milk were popularized as the public was made more aware of how what they put on their skin might affect their overall health.

Disco Fashions, Hair and Cosmetics that Danced the Night Away
Just a wee bit off the mainstream, ethnic inspired fashions were making statements on the street, at school and even at work. Afros were popular for African Americans, showing a new pride in natural hair that had often been suppressed by ironing or chemical straighteners. In solidarity, some Caucasian men wore Afros, too. Clothing fashions for women included turbans, tunics worn over lounge pants, chunky beaded jewelry and woven handbags.

Disco was big in the '70s, and the film Saturday Night Live helped create a subculture that sent some young people to discos in micro-minis, heels too clunky to dance in and blinding white disco costumes. Makeup was essentially the same, as was women's hair; it was the disco clothing styles that made it all happen, man. The classic retro '70's outfit for men is still the white disco suit, open-necked, with gold chains.

There are several skin care tips that I can share

2009-07-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

There are several skin care tips that I can share. You guys can try them out.

• Regular use of sunscreen is very essential to prevent sundamaged skin, photoageing and pigmentation. Apply a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15 and apply it at least 20 mins before stepping out.
• Drink at least 3 liters of water every day; remember your skin is always thirstier than you are.

• Protect your skin from harmful ultra violet (UV) rays. UV rays causes skin cancer and also makes your skin to age faster with unsightly wrinkles. Use sunscreen.

• Peel, grate and squeeze the juice of a cucumber. Mix it with ½ tsp each of glycerin and rose water. Apply this if you are suffering for sun burns.

• Ensure that your diet contains Vitamin A (carrots, papaya, black grapes, green leafy vegetables) and vitamin C (citrus fruits, lime juice, gooseberries, mangoes).

• CTM girls. That is the mantra for the year, and not only summers. What is CTM you ask – Cleanse, Tone, Moisturise – your way of giving your skin some TLC  Brands I like – Cleansers (Neutrogena, Lakme Strawberry Face Wash, Biotique), Toners (Kaya, Neutrogena), Moisturisers (L’Oreal Happy Derm, Neutrogena, Kaya)

• Have two or three baths in a day. Trust me it helps… and makes you feel better too…

• Wear loose cotton clothes

Also, it’s a good idea to know your skin.

Treatment for hair...

2009-07-16T13:25:00.002-07:00

Treatment for hair...

Which is the most powerful treatment according to you?

1.Home made treatment

2.Parlour

3.Hair specialist

4.All of the above

Coca-Cola Disadvatages

2009-07-16T13:25:00.001-07:00

Have a look at the wrapper on a Coca-Cola 1.5 liter bottle and in the ingredients label you will find phosphoric acid in it. Minute quantities of ethylene glycol are also used (which is acknowledged in the soft drink world for making it really chill). This is popularly known as anti-freeze which prevents water from freezing at 0 deg C and instead drops it 4-5 degrees with minute quantities. This chemical is a known slow poison in the caliber of arsenic.

So, if you manage to drink about 4 liters of Coke within an hour or so, you can die. Read along and give up these dangerous things. Be natural; have flavored milks, tender coconuts, buttermilk, lassi and plain water instead of these "soft" drinks. Guess what's the pH for soft drinks, e.g. Coke? PH 3.4! This acidity is strong enough to dissolve teeth and bones! Our human body stops building bones at the age of about 30. Soft drinks do not have any nutrition value (in terms of vitamins & minerals). It is high in sugar content, carbonic acid, chemicals i.e. colorings etc.

Some like to take cold soft drinks after each meal. Guess what's the impact?

Our body needs an optimum temperature of 37 degrees Celsius for digestive enzyme functioning. The temperature of cold soft drinks is very much below 37 degrees or even close to 0 degrees Celsius. This will dilute the enzymes & stress the digestive system. The food taken will not be digested. In fact it will be fermented! The fermented food produces gases, decays and becomes toxin, gets absorbed by the intestine, circulates in the blood st ream and is carried to the whole body. Hence toxin is cumulated in other parts of the body, developing into various diseases. Think before you drink coke/Pepsi (or any soft drink) again.

Have you ever thought what you drink when you drink an aerated drink? You gulp down carbon dioxide, when nobody in the world would advise you to drink CO2. Two months back, there was a competition at Delhi University "Who could drink the most Coke?" The winner drank 8 bottles and fainted on the spot-too much CO2 in the blood. Thereafter, the principal banned all soft drinks from the college canteen!

While this might have been an extreme measure, their results do provide some food for thought. Did you know that soft drinks use chemicals in them that cause immense harm to you. Someone put a broken tooth in a bott le o f Pepsi and in 10 days it DISSOLVED! Can you believe it? Teeth and bones are the only human parts that stay intact for years after death. Imagine what the drink must be doing to your soft intestines and stomach lining!

Event that sparked off life

2009-07-16T13:24:00.001-07:00

Event that sparked off life

Scientists have identified the single chance encounter about 1.9billion years ago to which almost all life on earth owes its existence.

It saw an amoeba-like organism engulf a bacterium that had developed the power to use sunlight to break down water and liberate oxygen.
The bacterium was probably intended as prey but instead it became incorporated into its attacker’s body — turning it into the ancestor of every tree, flowering plant and seaweed on earth. The encounter meant life on the planet could evolve from bacterial slime into the more complex forms we see today. “That single event transformed the evolution of life on earth,” said Paul Falkowski, professor of biogeochemistry and biophysics at Rutgers University in New Jersey. “The descendants of that tiny organism transformed our atmosphere, filling it with the oxygen needed for animals and, eventually, humans to evolve.”
It had been thought such organisms emerged many times over on the early earth, but the unique nature of the event has become clear from studies of chloroplasts, the bodies in plant cells that absorb sunlight and use its energy to generate nutrients and oxygen. They show that the genes within chloroplasts, and the proteins they produce, are so similar in all plants, ranging from tiny algae to oak trees, that they must all be the direct descendants of a single cell.
“It is an astonishing thought that a single random encounter between two tiny cells so long ago could have had such huge consequences,” said Falkowski, who will describe the latest research to next month’s meeting of the American Geophysical Union. Falkowski’s group at Rutgers is one of several around the world using powerful scientific tools such as DNA analysis to work out how life evolved after earth was formed about 4.5billion years ago.
They have also refined methods for dating ancient rocks using radioactive isotopes. This method can show as well how much oxygen was in the atmosphere when the rocks were formed. Such evidence suggests primitive life emerged up to 3.5billion years ago — but only as bacterial-type organisms. Then, more than 2.2billion years ago, one group, the cyanobacteria, evolved the ability to use sunlight to break down water, making nutrients and liberating oxygen.
This event was a breakthrough, but cyanobacteria were inefficient, so oxygen levels remained minimal. It took several hundred million more years before the chance encounter that would lead to flowering plants took place — a hiatus showing how unlikely it was to happen at all.
Nick Lane, a researcher at University College London, said a picture of life evolving through a series of unique chance events was emerging. “Oxygen energises all life, and makes it big,” he said. “Nothing else can provide the energy needed to fuel the demands of multicellular organisms. True photosynthesis evolved only once, and the chance encounter that gave rise to plants also happened just once. These were two freak accidents in the 3.5billion-year history of life on earth.”

Wider cholesterol drug use save lives

2009-07-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

Wider cholesterol drug use save lives

NEW ORLEANS: People with low cholesterol and no big risk for heart disease had dramatically lower rates of heart attacks, death and stroke if they
took the cholesterol pill Crestor, a large study found.
The results, reported on Sunday at an American Heart Association conference, were hailed as a watershed event in heart disease prevention. Doctors said the study might lead millions of more people, as many as 7 million more in the US alone, to consider taking cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, sold as Crestor, Lipitor, Zocor or in generic form.

"This takes prevention to a whole new level, because it applies to patients who we now wouldn't have any evidence to treat,'' said Dr. W. Douglas Weaver, a Detroit cardiologist and president of the American College of Cardiology.
The study also gives the best evidence yet for using a new test to identify people who may need treatment, according to a statement from Dr. Elizabeth Nabel, director of the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The new research will be considered by experts reviewing current guidelines.
However, some doctors urged caution. Crestor gave clear benefit in the study, but so few heart attacks and deaths occurred among these low-risk people that treating everyone like them in the United States could cost up to $9bn a year, "a difficult sell,'' one expert said.
About 120 people would have to take Crestor for two years to prevent a single heart attack, stroke or death, said Stanford University cardiologist Dr. Mark Hlatky. He wrote an editorial accompanying the study published online by the New England Journal of Medicine.
"Everybody likes the idea of prevention. We need to slow down and ask how many people are we going to be treating with drugs for the rest of their lives to prevent heart disease, versus a lot of other things we're not doing'' to improve health, Hlatky said.
Statins are the world's top-selling drugs. Until this study, all but Crestor have already been shown to cut the risk of heart attacks and death in people with high LDL, or bad cholesterol.
But half of all heart attacks occur in people with normal or low cholesterol, so doctors have been testing other ways to predict who is at risk.
One is high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, or CRP for short. It is a measure of inflammation, which can mean clogged arteries as well as less serious problems, such as an infection or injury. Doctors check CRP with a blood test that costs about $80 to have done.
A co-inventor on a patent of the test, Dr. Paul Ridker of Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, led the new study. It involved 17,802 people with high CRP and low LDL cholesterol (below 130) in the US and 25 other countries.
One-fourth were black or Hispanic, and 40% were women, important because previous statin studies have included few women. Men had to be 50 or older; women, 60 or older. None had a history of heart problems or diabetes.
They were randomly assigned to take dummy pills or Crestor, the strongest statin on the market, made by British-based AstraZeneca PLC. Neither participants nor their doctors knew who was taking what.
The study was supposed to last five years but was stopped in March, after about two years, when independent monitors saw that those taking Crestor were faring better than the others.
Full results were announced Sunday. Crestor reduced a combined measure, heart attacks, strokes, heart-related deaths or hospitalizations, or the need for an artery-opening procedure, by 44%.
"We reduced the risk of a heart attack by 54%, the risk of a stroke by 48% and the chance of needing bypass surgery or angioplasty by 46% ," Ridker said.
Looked at another way, there were 136 heart-related problems per year for every 10,000 people taking dummy pills versus 77 for those on Crestor.
Remarkably, every single subgroup benefited from the drug. "If you're skinny it worked, if you're heavy it worked. If you lived here or there, if you smoked, it worked," Ridker said.
AstraZeneca paid for the study, and Ridker and other authors have consulted for the company and other statin makers.
One concern: More people in the Crestor group saw blood-sugar levels rise or were newly diagnosed with diabetes.
Crestor also has the highest rate among statins of a rare but serious muscle problem, so there are probably safer and cheaper ways to get the same benefits, said Dr. Sidney Wolfe of the consumer group Public Citizen.
"It is highly unlikely that (the benefits are) specific to Crestor,'' said Wolfe, who has campaigned against the drug in the past.
Researchers do not know whether the benefits seen in the study were due to reducing CRP or cholesterol, since Crestor did both.
This study and two other government-sponsored ones reported on Sunday "provide the strongest evidence to date'' for testing C-reactive protein, and adding it to traditional risk measures could identify millions more people who would benefit from treatment, Nabel's statement says.

A world away, lifesaver becomes blood broher

2009-07-16T13:22:00.002-07:00

A world away, lifesaver becomes blood broher

DALLAS: In 2000, after 31 years of robust health, James Chippendale, a wealthy Dallas business executive who had traveled much of the world, was
found to be suffering from a lethal form of leukemia. Chippendale’s doctors told him that his only chance of survival was a bone marrow transplant, and that the likelihood of finding a matching donor seemed bleak.
“I was a hard match,” Chippendale said, “and there was nothing for me in the United States. So we had to go on the international registry.”
More than 5,000 miles and a world away, Klaus Kaiser, a man who repairs bicycles in a German village, had unsuccessfully tried to be a marrow donor for a friend with a blood disorder. Each year Kaiser received a form asking if he wanted to continue being listed on the donor registry. And each year he checked the box marked “yes”.
On paper at least, or more accurately on sophisticated medical computer screens, Kaiser’s marrow seemed a perfect match for Chippendale. In November 2000, doctors extracted marrow from Kaiser’s hip bone and flew it 5,214 miles to Dallas, where Chippendale and his medical team waited anxiously at Baylor University Medical Center. The bone marrow transplant was a success, and today, Chippendale said, his doctors tell him he is cancer free.
Two years after the transplant, Kaiser received a telephone call from the donor organization that had found him. “They asked if I wanted to get to know the person who received my bone marrow,” he said. “It made me so happy, because I knew then that it had helped. I didn’t know before.”
A short time later, a letter appeared in Kaiser’s mailbox in Gutter, a town of 150 people west of Berlin. Kaiser did not speak or read English; he did not have to. Chippendale had had a friend translate into German the words he had written to the man who had saved his life.
When the letter arrived, Kaiser said, “it felt like a close family member emerged from somewhere”.
But Chippendale knew that a letter could not begin to express his gratitude. He enrolled in night classes to learn as much German as he could and bought a plane ticket. His arrival in Gutter in early 2003 was cause for a villagewide celebration, with songs and beer lifted high in steins.
“The whole family was there,” Kaiser said, “and we were full of joy when we met James in person. For me, James is my blood brother.”
“After the transplant,” Kaiser said, “the physician thanked me for the donation in the name of mankind. I am very proud of James. He tries to give back to the world what he got from me. I am very happy that we have become such great friends.”

Lungs 'boosted by breastfeeding'

2009-07-16T13:22:00.001-07:00

Lungs 'boosted by breastfeeding'

LONDON: A new study by UK and US scientists has revealed that the sheer physical effort involved in breastfeeding may leave babies with stronger
lungs well into childhood.
Previous studies have established that breastfeeding protects babies from respiratory problems early in life, but the relationship with lungpower later in childhood is less clear-cut.
For the study, the researchers followed a total of 1,456 babies from the Isle of Wight all the way through to there 10th year to test this.
A third of them had been breastfed for at least four months, and on average, these children could blow out more air after taking a deep breath, and could blow it out faster.
This happened regardless of whether their mother was asthmatic or suffered from allergies.
Other studies have suggested that immune chemicals in breast-milk may have a protective effect against asthma.
However, the scientists from Southampton University and the College of Veterinary Medicine in Michigan State University, said that the changes in lung volume they found were not completely characteristic of an asthmatic response, suggesting that other factors might be at work.
Dr Syed Arshad, from Southampton and the David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre on the Isle of Wight, said that the physical effort needed to extract milk from the breast might be involved.
On average, babies needed to generate three times the sucking power compared to bottle-feeding, and feeding sessions tended to last much longer.
"What they are doing is very similar to the kind of exercises we suggest for pulmonary rehabilitation in older patients. I'm not aware of anyone suggesting that this might be the reason before," BBC quoted Arshad, as
saying.
These researchers have now approached a bottle manufacturer with proposals to create a bottle, which mimics the effort needed to breastfeed.
He said that it was now feasible to conduct lung function tests on infants, which meant that a trial to see if it made a difference could be concluded within a year.
Dr Elaine Vickers, from Asthma UK, said that the study added to the evidence that breastfeeding has "long-lasting benefits" for children.
"While the results of the study don't focus specifically on asthma, the researchers were able to demonstrate that children breast-fed for four months or longer had better lung function than those who weren't breast-fed at all, or who were breast-fed for less than four months," she added.
The study is published in the journal Thorax.

Eye disorders common among kids

2009-07-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

Eye disorders common among kids

SYDNEY: Eye disorders, along with allergies and asthma, are most common among children, according to a new report.

It said more than 411,000 children suffered from with long-term eye disorders.
"Most of these children have either long or short-sightedness," said Robert Long of the Australian Institute's Health and Family Welfare (AIHW). About one in six 10-14 year olds wear glasses or contact lenses to correct sight.
"There are also about 4,20,000 GP visits each year that deal with children's eye problems, with most of these (62 percent) being conjunctivitis infections," Long said.
In 2006-07 about 600,000 eye-related Medicare services were provided to children. The vast majority of these were for optometry services such as eye exams and prescribing glasses.
Nationally, there were nearly 9,000 hospitalisations in 2006-07 for children with eye diseases and disorders, according to an AIHW release.
Rates of congenital eye malformations decreased between 1998 and 2003, although they were still the most common reason for eye-related hospitalisation among infants.
Cases of eye-related cancers and eye-related deaths remain very low for children.

Sea census unveils marine treasures

2009-07-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

Sea census unveils marine treasures

WASHINGTON: A city of brittle stars off the coast of New Zealand, an Antarctic expressway where octopuses ride along in a flow of extra salty water and a carpet of tiny crustaceans on the Gulf of Mexico sea floor are among the wonders discovered by researchers compiling a massive census of marine life.

“We are still making discoveries,” but researchers also are busy assembling data already collected into the big picture of life in the oceans, senior scientist Ron O’Dor said. The fourth update of the census was released on Sunday ahead of a meeting of hundreds of researchers that begins on Tuesday in Valencia, Spain. More than 2,000 scientists from 82 nations are taking part in the project, which is to be completed in 2010.

A discovery that delights O’Dor is that many deep-ocean octopuses share an Antarctic origin. As the Antarctic got colder, ice increased and octopuses were forced into deeper water, he said. Salt and oxygen are concentrated in the deeper waters, he said. This dense water then flows out, carrying along the octopuses that have adapted to the new conditions, enabling them to spread to deep waters around the world.

Deep-water octopuses worldwide, he pointed out, lack the ink sack that allows their shallow-water cousins to shoot out a camouflage screen. After all, if they live where it is dark, ink is unnecessary, said O’Dor, a Canadian member of the research team.

Patricia Miloslavich, a senior scientist from Venezuela, is pleased with newly discovered mollusks, from snails to cuttlefish to squids. Once the census is complete, the plan is to publish three books: a popular survey of sea life, a second book with chapters for each working group and a third focusing on biodiversity. O’Dor said also researchers are working with the online journal PLoS ONE, which is open to anyone and thus would make the results readily available.

Scientists at this week’s sessions will hear about the discovery of what the researchers call a brittle star city off the coast of New Zealand. The brittle stars, animals with five arms, have colonized the peak of a seamount — an underwater mountain — where the current flows past at about 2.5 miles per hour.

The deepest comb jellyfish ever found was discovered at a depth of 23,455 feet in the Ryukyu Trench near Japan. The discovery raises questions about the availability of food resources at such depths, which had not been thought capable of supporting predators like this one.

Headphones affects heart devices

2009-07-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

Headphones affects heart devices

NEW YORK: Headphones from iPods or other digital music players may damage hearing, but music lovers who have a pacemaker or an implanted
defibrillator are better off keeping them in their ears.
A small, new study revealed that placing the ubiquitous ear buds or other headphones too close to the chest could interfere with the proper functioning of the devices used to keep hearts beating at their proper rhythm.
Patients should not place the headphones, which contain magnets, in shirt pockets or d**** them over their chest, lest they risk havoc with their heart-rhythm devices, researchers said on Sunday.
Pacemakers treat slow heart rhythms, while implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) jolt dangerously racing hearts back into a normal rhythm.
“For patients with pacemakers, exposure to the headphones can force the device to deliver signals to the heart causing it to beat without regard to the patients’ underlying heart rhythm,” said William Maisel of Beth Israel Medical Center in Boston and the study’s lead investigator.
Exposure of ICDs to magnets in headphones may deactivate them, causing the device to stop looking for abnormal heart rhythms, Maisel explained.
Results of the 60-patient study were presented at the American Heart Association scientific meeting in New Orleans. Researchers tested eight different models of MP3 player headphone with iPods. They found a detectable interference with the heart devices in 14 patients — 30% of ICD patients and 15%of the pacemaker patients.

Eye disorders common among kids

2009-07-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

Eye disorders common among kids
It said more than 411,000 children suffered from with long-term eye disorders.

"Most of these children have either long or short-sightedness," said Robert Long of the Australian Institute's Health and Family Welfare (AIHW). About one in six 10-14 year olds wear glasses or contact lenses to correct sight.

"There are also about 4,20,000 GP visits each year that deal with children's eye problems, with most of these (62 percent) being conjunctivitis infections," Long said.

In 2006-07 about 600,000 eye-related Medicare services were provided to children. The vast majority of these were for optometry services such as eye exams and prescribing glasses.

Nationally, there were nearly 9,000 hospitalisations in 2006-07 for children with eye diseases and disorders, according to an AIHW release.

Rates of congenital eye malformations decreased between 1998 and 2003, although they were still the most common reason for eye-related hospitalisation among infants.

Cases of eye-related cancers and eye-related deaths remain very low for children.

Pharma Companies Conducting Unethical Clinical Trials

2009-07-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

Pharma Companies Conducting Unethical Clinical Trials

In one of the most shocking stories in modern day India, a BBC investigation has revealed that Pharmaceutical companies have been recruiting patients without their consent for drug trials which has become a big business in India today.

According to the BBC, six years ago an experimental drug from the US called M4N was injected into cancer patients in India without being properly tested on animals first. Later it was discovered that several patients had not known they were part of a clinical trial.

In almost all cases the poor patients have no idea that experiments were being carried out on them.

BBC's Reporter Paul Kenyon tracked down a drug trial being conducted for a major drug company in a psychiatric unit at a hospital in Gujarat to test an anti-psychotic drug developed by the drug pharmaceutical company Johnson and Johnson.
But the patient said that he had no idea that he was part of a clinical trial.

"I didn't know that experiments were being carried out on me. I was told that the old drugs were discontinued and were no longer available in the pharmacies.

"I don't know a lot about all these things. I am poor and I live in a small hut and I don't understand many things. The doctors are intelligent. They write the drugs for me so I have to take them accordingly."

Incidents like these underline the fact the in the greed to earn money the Pharmaceutical companies have lost any little value for human life. Not surprisingly the value for life is much less in India than anywhere in the West. While our economies grow at 8% the unchecked menace of various Pharmaceutical companies thrive unnoticed

Maintain A Healthy Back: Some Tips

2009-07-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

Maintain A Healthy Back: Some Tips

One of the most common ache or pain, suffered by almost one in three adults, is a pain in the back. Highlighting the danger areas for backs, treatments for back pain and some useful tips to help you maintain a pain-free back…

* Correct posture is most important, so keep yours in check. Pull in your stomach and bottom, keeping back straight, then relax shoulders down and stretch your neck up as if you were balancing books on your head.
* Watch your weight - extra pounds add stress to the spine.
* Choose chairs with straight backs, which are, firm and provide support to your lumbar region. If the chair does not offer this support, place a small cushion in this area when sitting for a long time.
* Avoid sitting in one position for long periods. If convenient, get up and walk around occasionally.
* Kneel or bend at the knees when picking things up, keeping you back straight and using both hands to lift to avoid twisting.
* Vary tasks so that you are not in the same position for too long.
* Select a firm, but not hard, mattress which gives support but also eases a little at the hip and shoulder; turn your mattress regularly and renew a worn out sagging mattress at least every ten years.
* Sit or kneel on a cushioned pad when you do work which involves bending down, like gardening.
* Divide shopping bags between both hands to get an even distribution of weight, or use a trolley when possible.

Crestor reduces risks of heart disease by 44 percent: study

2009-07-16T13:12:00.002-07:00

Crestor reduces risks of heart disease by 44 percent: study

The world's most popular anti-cholesterol drug Crestor could reduce by 44 percent the risk of heart problems among patients who currently don't face a high risk of getting a heart disease, according to a new study.
Crestor reduces risks of heart disease by 44 percent: study Enlarge photo

Have your say: Heart Disease & Angina

The results of the study named JUPITER were presented at an annual meeting of the American Heart Association in New Orleans and were published online by the New England Journal of Medicine.

The study of 17,802 men and women aged 50 and more demonstrated that 20 milligrams of Crestor taken daily significantly reduced the combined risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, arterial revascularization, hospitalization for unstable angina, or death from cardiovascular causes by 44 percent compared to placebo among men and women with elevated hsCRP but low to normal cholesterol levels.

CRP is a protein produced by the liver that plays an important role in inflammatory processes and serves as a biological marker to measure the risk of artery blockage.

The research also showed that for patients in the trial taking Crestor the combined risk of heart attack, stroke or death from heart disease was reduced by 47 percent, the risk of heart attack was cut by more than half, the risk of stroke by nearly half and total mortality was reduced by 20 percent.

"These results provide new information about Crestor's effects on CV risk," said Howard Hutchinson, chief medical officer for pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca, which markets Crestor.

"The JUPITER trial confirmed that Crestor dramatically reduces LDL-C cholesterol levels and has now demonstrated a nearly 50 percent reduction in the risk of heart attack and stroke in a population of patients who had elevated hsCRP but low to normal cholesterol levels," Hutchinson added. "As is appropriate, the medical community, regulators, and guideline committees will now carefully consider these data and any implications for treating patients."

The study showed that a daily dose of 20 milligrams of Crestor was well tolerated in nearly 9,000 patients during the course of the trial.

There was no difference between treatment groups for major adverse events, including cancer or myopathy, the report said.

But there was a small increase in physician reported diabetes consistent with data from other large placebo controlled statin trials.

Crestor has now received regulatory approval in over 95 countries. Nearly 15 million patients have been prescribed Crestor worldwide.

Excessive dry skin !

2009-07-16T13:12:00.001-07:00

Excessive dry skin !

Excessive dry skin is a very common problem for many people and if you are one of the
Apple Cider Vinegar can do wonders for your skin. In fact, it is the best treatment for acne that I have ever found; hands down. And the best part... it's 100% all natural!

There are two ways to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your skin care regimen. To help clear acne, apple cider vinegar can be taken orally or applied topically. For best results, I recommend trying both!

Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar to Improve your Skin

When ingested, apple cider vinegar promotes liver health. Proper liver function is absolutely essential for clear and beautiful skin. Why? The livers job within the body is to remove toxins from our system. An overload of toxins, caused by a poorly functioning liver is a very common cause of acne.

Furthermore, apple cider vinegar helps regulate digestion which is another key for clear and beautiful skin. For optimum benefit, take approximately 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar 3 times a day.

Applying Apple Cider Vinegar Topically to Improve Acne

I have personally seen the best results when applying apple cider vinegar topically. Not only did my acne drastically improve, but my facial redness disappeared as well. In addition, my skin became much less oily and shiny as it was able to perfectly control my skins pH levels.

That's one of the great benefits of apple cider vinegar. Instead of just healing acne alone, it improves all aspects of your complexion. After all, what's the good in clearing up your acne if in doing so you turn your skin so red and oily that your entire face looks like a giant zit!

What's the best way to apply ACV (apple cider vinegar) for the best results?

When first starting out, dilute the vinegar with water to an approximate 10% solution. Apply the concoction with a cotton pad 1-3 times daily. Treat the ACV as a toner and leave it on your skin throughout the day.

Once your skin gets used to the 10% solution, if needed, you can gradually increase the amount of ACV until you are using it in its original form.

Negatives of Using ACV for Skin Care

As with anything else, there are some negatives associated with using apple cider vinegar as a natural organic skin care solution. First of all, it tastes really bad... plain and simple! The best way to deal with this negative aspect of ingesting ACV is to either drink it in shots or combine it with large amounts of water to minimize the bad taste.

I personally like to take it in shots and then chase it down with honey. I've also tried adding a small amount of ACV to all my bottles of water that I drink throughout the day.

When applied topically, the smell of the apple cider vinegar on your skin takes some time to dissipate. For the first few hours it will be somewhat noticeable to those around you. It's not a big deal if you don't mind smelling like a salad!

Here's a little trick: Apply the ACV immediately when you wake up so that by the time you are ready to go out the smell will be gone. This always seemed to work for me.

Finally, for the first few weeks of applying ACV on the skin, the fumes will burn your eyes. It's an effect very similar to the one experienced from cutting fresh onions. Once you get used to the ACV, this will no longer be a problem.

Despite some of the negatives, the benefits of apple cider vinegar make this a natural organic skin care nutrient that must be tried. I doubt you will be disappointed!

Dry Skin Remedies That Are Within Your Grasp

2009-07-16T13:11:00.001-07:00

Dry Skin Remedies That Are Within Your Grasp
Excessive dry skin is a very common problem for many people and if you are one of them and anxiously looking for dry skin remedies then relax, it is not very much difficult to find them.

Our skin needs enough water to remain healthy. Normally you need 10% to 35% of water in the outer layer of your skin to keep it at a good shape. Beside this, there is a certain level of sebum generation that needs to be maintained.

Sebum is an oily substance that is produced from sebaceous glands. It is formed by wax, fatty acid, natural oils, sugar etc. without roper amount of sebum your skin can start to get drier which can be a big problem.

Now many companies offer their version of dry skin remedies which promises to deliver the best result. But using those products can mean taking yourself into a greater risk of side effects as well.

So go for natural dry skin remedies that are within your grasp. Honey, oatmeal, yogurt and olive oil is some of the natural ingredients that can help you a lot.

Honey can be used as a moisturizer which helps your skin to remove dead cells and develop skin tissues. A natural skin cleanser can be yogurts which help to moisturize your skin as well.

Olive oil can help your skin in soothing and soften by working as an emollient. Olive oil is not only an internal remedy for dry skin but it is an ingredient that can help reducing itching caused by eczema as well.

There are some herbal ingredients which can work as natural or internal remedy as well. Dandelion, Calendula, Peppermint, Marshmallow, Borage etc are some of them.

Soap contains drying agent which can stimulate your skin dryness. So instead of using soap, you can go for cloth tea bag or oatmeal flour. Aloe Vera, mango Pulp, Rose Petals, Fennel seed, Coriander seed, Chamomile, G**** pulp, lavender flower, Comfrey root, Apricot pulp, apple etc are some other ingredients that are useful for dry skin cure.

So dry skin remedies are not that difficult to find. They are very much available for you. The natural ingredients are the best for the purpose. So go for herbal or natural cure for your dry skin.

Iodine explained

2009-07-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

Iodine explained
Iodine is found in dairy products, seafood, kelp, eggs, some vegetables and iodised salt. It is important for essential hormone development in the human body. If you don’t have enough iodine in your diet, it can lead to an enlarged thyroid gland (goitre) or other iodine deficiency disorders. Iodine deficiency is the world’s leading cause of mental retardation in children.

Iodine is found in food as iodide. Our bodies need it to make thyroid hormones. The thyroid is a gland in the throat that regulates many metabolic processes, such as growth and energy use.

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism
The thyroid hormones regulate the body’s metabolic rate and promote growth and development throughout the body, including the brain. If there isn’t enough thyroid hormone circulating in the blood, the brain (via the pituitary gland) sends a chemical message (thyroid stimulating hormone) to the thyroid gland, which then releases a measured dose of these hormones.

The two main thyroid hormones, thyroxine and tri-iodothyronine, are synthesised from the amino acid tyrosine in combination with iodide. Thyroxine (T4) contains four iodine atoms and tri-iodothyronine (T3) contains three. If a person’s diet is too low in iodine, the thyroid gland gets larger and larger in an attempt to make more thyroid hormone. This overgrowth of the thyroid gland is called goitre.

Long-term deficiency can be serious
An enlarged thyroid gland, or goitre, isn’t the only side effect of not having enough iodine in the diet. If the deficiency is long term, hypothyroidism develops. Symptoms include dry skin, hair loss, fatigue and slowed reflexes.

Goitres can also increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Goitre can be associated with hyperthyroidism, a condition in which too much thyroid hormone is produced.

Iodine deficiency in babies and children
In the developing foetus, baby and young child, the effects of iodine deficiency are serious. They include stunted growth, diminished intelligence and retardation. Lack of iodine is a major problem in developing countries. It is the world’s number one cause of preventable intellectual disability in children. There is evidence that some levels of iodine deficiency may be too mild to cause goitre but may still retard brain development.

In Australia, studies conducted over the last decade in New South Wales and Victoria (where approximately 60 per cent of the Australian population live) indicate the presence of mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency in all groups tested. Western Australia and Queensland appear to have adequate intakes, while South Australia is borderline.

How much iodine do we need?
The recommended daily intake (RDI) for iodine depends on your age and life stage. The amount we need is very small when compared to other nutrients and is measured in micrograms (mcg, or µg):

* Younger children (1 to 8 years) – 90µg
* Older children (9 to 13 years, boys and girls) – 120µg
* Adolescents (14 to 18 years) – 150µg
* Men – 150µg
* Women – 150µg
* Pregnancy and breastfeeding – 220µg and 270µg respectively.

If you don’t get enough iodine in your diet, you may need to consider taking a supplement. For most people, an additional 50µg per day would be ample.

Sources of iodine
Iodised salt is perhaps the most common source of iodine in the Western diet and can provide enough iodine to avoid low thyroid activity.

Iodine is also found in seawater so any type of seafood provides a rich source, particularly seaweed (kelp). Since an adult only requires around one teaspoonful of iodine over a lifetime, eating fish twice a week is likely to be enough to fulfil the average iodine requirement. Take care when choosing the seafood you will eat, as some fish may contain high levels of mercury or chemicals from inland waterways such as PCBs.

Although it comes from the ocean, sea salt is not a good source of iodine.

Iodine intake in Australia has dropped
Low dietary levels of iodine were thought to be a problem in the past or in developing countries only. However, some researchers suspect that iodine intake levels in Australia have dropped considerably, perhaps by as much as half, over the past few decades. Ongoing research is underway to look at the problem and what might be done about it.

Some reasons for low iodine intake may include:

* Consuming most of our salt in processed foods, as manufactures do not used iodised salt in processed foods such as bread
* Less iodine in milk because of changes in treatment methods
* A possible reduction of iodine levels in Australian soils
* A reduction in the use of salt in cooking and table salt (particularly iodised salt).

How to get enough iodine in your diet
The best way to get the nutrients your body needs is as part of a healthy, well-balanced diet. Some suggestions to make sure you get the required daily amount of iodine include:

* Seafood – dietitians recommend two to three meals of seafood per week to get the beneficial fish oils. This will also provide you with a good source of natural iodine.
* Iodised salt – can be added to food as a replacement for non-iodised table salt, in moderation.
* Seaweed (kelp), dairy products and eggs – provide additional dietary sources of iodine.
* Some vegetables – may contain iodine, but only if they are grown in iodine-rich soils.
* Supplements – may be necessary if your dietary intake is inadequate. Many multivitamin capsules and tablets supply 100–150mcg of iodine.

Pregnancy and iodine
Pregnant women need higher levels of iodine, as lack of this nutrient can retard normal development in a baby. Eating two serves of seafood each week will not be enough to meet a woman’s iodine requirements during pregnancy – you would need to eat almost nine cans of tuna a day to reach the recommended level (220mcg). Supplements will most likely be needed in addition to dietary sources. This is particularly the case if you live in areas with known low intake levels such as Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Tasmania.

Seafood is a valuable source of iodine, but pregnant women or women intending to become pregnant within the next six months should take care to avoid seafood that may contain large amounts of mercury. Mercury can be passed through the placenta and may affect the brain development of your baby. Some fish that contain high levels of mercury include shark, orange roughy, swordfish and ling.

Vegetarian diet
Vegetarians may be at risk of iodine deficiency if they do not eat seafood. Vegetarians can get iodine from iodised salt or seaweed.

Food allergy and intolerance

2009-07-16T13:09:00.000-07:00

Food allergy and intolerance
Some people are sensitive to particular foods like nuts, shellfish and cereals. The symptoms of food allergy can include breathing problems, stomach upsets and skin rashes. They are caused by an immune system response or a chemical reaction in the body. Some severe food allergies can be life threatening. Professional diagnosis is important, because other medical conditions may share the same symptoms.

Most reactions to food are actually food intolerance. About one in 20 children and one in 100 adults have food allergies.

Allergy is on the increase
Allergies in general are on the increase worldwide and food allergies have also become more common, particularly peanut allergy in preschool children. About 60 per cent of allergies appear during the first year of life. Cow’s milk allergy is one of the most common in early childhood. Most children grow out of it before they start school.

Food allergy can be inherited
Children who have one family member with allergic diseases (including asthma or eczema) have a 20-40 per cent higher risk of developing allergy. If there are two or more family members with allergic diseases, the risk increases to 50-80 per cent.

Allergy is an immune response
Allergies are an overreaction of the body’s immune system to a specific part of a food, usually a protein. These proteins may be from foods, pollens, house dust, animal hair or moulds. They are called allergens. The word ‘allergy’ means that the immune system has responded to a harmless substance as if it were toxic.

Food intolerance is a chemical reaction
Food intolerance is a ‘chemical’ reaction that some people have after eating or drinking some foods; it is not an immune response. Food intolerance has been associated with asthma, chronic fatigue syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Food intolerance is much more common than food allergy.

Symptoms can be similar
It can be difficult to tell the difference between the symptoms of food allergy and food intolerance. Usually symptoms caused by food allergy develop very soon after consuming the food but, while symptoms caused by food intolerance can be immediate, they may also take 12-24 hours to develop. Food intolerance reactions are usually related to the amount of the food consumed. They may not occur until a certain amount (threshold level) of the food is eaten, but this amount varies for each person.

The symptoms of food allergy and intolerance can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see your doctor for a medical diagnosis.

Symptoms of food intolerance
Symptoms of food intolerance can include:

* Nervousness, tremor
* Sweating
* Palpitations
* Rapid breathing
* Headache, migraine
* Diarrhoea
* Burning sensations on the skin
* Tightness across the face and chest
* Breathing problems - asthma-like symptoms
* Allergy-like reactions.

Symptoms of food allergy
The symptoms of food allergy can be life threatening. Common symptoms include:

* Itching, burning and swelling around the mouth
* Runny nose
* Skin rash (eczema)
* Hives (urticaria - skin becomes red and raised)
* Diarrhoea, abdominal cramps
* Breathing difficulties, including wheezing and asthma
* Vomiting, nausea.

Affected body parts
Various sites on the body can be affected by an allergic reaction to food, including:

* Eyes - itching, watering
* Nose - stuffiness, sneezing
* Mouth - itching, swelling
* Throat - swelling
* Digestive system - stomach pains, vomiting, diarrhoea
* Skin - rashes, such as hives (urticaria) or atopic dermatitis
* Lungs - asthma, more common in children than adults
* Central nervous system - headache, irritability, fatigue, convulsions.

Anaphylactic shock is life threatening
Anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock, is a severe allergic reaction that needs urgent medical attention. Peanuts, other nuts, insect stings and some medicines are the most common allergens that cause anaphylaxis. Within minutes of exposure to the allergen, the person can have potentially life-threatening symptoms, which include:

* Difficult or noisy breathing
* Swelling of the tongue
* Swelling or tightness in the throat
* Difficulty talking or a hoarse voice
* Wheeze or persistent cough
* Loss of consciousness or collapse
* Becoming pale and floppy (in young children).

Several factors can influence the severity of anaphylaxis, including exercise, heat, alcohol, the amount of food eaten, and how food is prepared and consumed.

To prevent severe injury or death, a person with anaphylaxis requires an injection of adrenalin. Injections of adrenaline, which can be given by the person themselves or their family or carer, are available on prescription or directly from a pharmacy.

Food allergy - common causes
Nuts, eggs, milk or soy cause about 90 per cent of food allergies. Peanut allergy is one of the most common allergies in older children. These foods commonly cause allergies:

* Eggs
* Peanuts
* Milk
* Other nuts
* Sesame
* Gluten
* Fish
* Grains such as rye, wheat, oats
* Soy
* Molluscs such as oysters, mussels, clam, squid and octopus
* Crustaceans such as lobster, prawn, crab, shrimp
* Fruit, berries, tomato, cucumber, white potato or mustard
* Food additives like benzoates, salicylates, MSG and sulphite derivatives.

Food intolerance - common causes
The foods that tend to cause intolerance reactions in sensitive people include:

* Dairy products, including milk, cheese and yoghurt
* Chocolate
* Eggs, particularly egg white
* Flavour enhancers such as MSG (monosodium glutamate)
* Food additives
* Strawberries, citrus fruits and tomatoes
* Wine, particularly red wine
* Histamine and other amines in some foods.

Finding the allergen
When symptoms appear within a few minutes of eating the particular food, this makes pinpointing the allergen an easy task. However, if the cause is unknown, diagnostic tests may be needed such as:

* Keeping a food and symptoms diary to check for patterns.
* Removing all suspect foods for two weeks, then reintroducing them one at a time to test for reactions (except in cases of anaphylaxis). This must only be done under medical supervision.
* Skin prick tests using food extracts.
* Blood (RAST) tests.

Avoiding the food
The easiest way to treat a food allergy or intolerance is to eliminate it from the diet. Sometimes, the body can tolerate the food if it is avoided for a time, then reintroduced in small doses, particularly in food intolerances. Before you eliminate foods from your diet, seek advice from a doctor and dietitian.

Preventing food allergy in children
Allergy prevention in children is an active area of research. Findings to date indicate that:

* Prenatal - there is no conclusive evidence that avoiding allergens in pregnancy will help prevent allergies in your child.
* Postnatal - exclusive breastfeeding during the first four to six months appears to protect against the development of allergies in early childhood. Exposure to cigarette smoke and starting solids early can increase the risk of developing allergies in early childhood.
* Breastfeeding - if a baby is known to be allergic to a particular food, a breastfeeding mother should avoid eating that food.
* Soy formula - studies have shown that using soy milk formula does not prevent the development of allergies in children.
* Partially hydrolysed formula - these are cow’s milk based and have been processed to break down most of the proteins that cause symptoms in infants who are allergic to cow’s milk. They reduce the risk of developing eczema and cow’s milk allergy in infancy and early childhood.

Tips to avoid foods that may cause allergies
To avoid allergic foods, learn the terms used to describe these foods on food labels, for example:

* Milk protein - milk, non-fat milk solids, cheese, yoghurt, caseinates, whey, lactose
* Lactose - milk, lactose
* Egg - eggs, egg albumen, egg yolk, egg lecithin
* Gluten - wheat, barley, rye, triticale, wheat bran, malt, oats, cornflour, oatbran
* Soy - soybeans, hydrolysed vegetable protein, soy protein isolate, soy lecithin
* Salicylates - strawberries, tomatoes.

Food laws and labels
Since December 2002, the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code requires food labels to declare certain foods and certain substances in foods, including:

* Cereals which contain gluten and gluten products
* Crustacea and their products
* Eggs and egg products
* Fish and fish products
* Milk and milk products
* Nuts and sesame seeds and their products
* Peanuts and soybeans and their products
* Added sulphites in concentrations of 10mg/kg or more
* Royal jelly presented as food or present in food, bee pollen and propolis.

These foods must be declared if they are:

* Used as an ingredient
* Part of a compound ingredient
* A food additive or part of a food additive
* A processing aid or part of a processing aid.

Where to get help

* Your doctor
* An accredited practising dietitian, contact the Dietitians Association of Australia
* Nutrition Australia Tel. (03) 9650 5165
* Better Health Channel has produced a range of recipes for people with special dietary requirements.

Things to remember

* A food allergy occurs when the immune system reacts to a harmless food as if it were toxic.
* Food intolerance occurs when the body has a chemical reaction to eating a particular food or drink.
* The symptoms to a food allergy or intolerance are often similar, but food intolerances do not cause severe reactions such as anaphylaxis.
* Learn to read food labels so you can avoid foods that cause allergies.

Head injuries - first aid

2009-07-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Head injuries - first aid
The brain is a soft and delicate organ. A hard blow to the head can injure the brain or spinal cord even when there are no visible signs of trauma to the scalp or face. That’s why all head injuries are considered serious and you should consult with your doctor or nearest hospital emergency department.

Two types of head injury
Head injuries are classified as:

* Open – with bleeding wounds to the face or head
* Closed – no visible signs of injury to the face or head.

Closed head injuries explained
The soft, jelly-like brain is protected by the skull. The brain doesn’t fill the skull entirely – it floats in a clear, nourishing liquid called cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid acts as a shock absorber, but its protective value is limited. For example, the kinetic energy of a small knock to the head or face can be absorbed by the cerebrospinal fluid, but a hard impact can smash the brain against the inside of the skull. This can bruise the brain or tear blood vessels. If blood and blood serum start to escape, the swelling is contained within the skull. Intracranial pressure (pressure inside the skull) can cause permanent damage by literally crushing the brain.

Symptoms of serious head injury
Remember that blood is not a reliable indicator of the seriousness of the head injury. Apart from wounds, other symptoms of serious head injury can include:

* Altered consciousness – for example, the person may lose consciousness or may be conscious but confused or drowsy.
* Skull deformities – compressions or deformities are signs of fractures.
* Clear fluid from the ears or nose – a skull fracture, especially a fracture to the base of the skull, can allow cerebrospinal fluid to leak from the ears or nose.
* Black eyes and bruised skin behind the ears – this indicates that the force of the blow was sufficient to rupture blood vessels around the eyes and ears.
* Vision changes – the pupils of the eyes may be dilated to different sizes in a person with a serious head injury. The person may complain of double or blurred vision.
* Nausea and vomiting – these are common side effects of serious head injury.

First aid for serious head injury
In cases where there is a serious head injury, always call an ambulance.

If the injured person is conscious, encourage them to minimise any movement of their head or neck. Control any significant blood loss from any head wounds. Reassure the person and try to keep them calm.

If unconscious, the person should not be moved unless they are in immediate danger. Any unnecessary movement may cause greater complications to the head injury itself, the spine or other associated injuries. Your role is to protect the injured person from any potential dangers at the scene. You should also monitor their airway and breathing until the arrival of an ambulance.

If the person’s breathing becomes impaired due to a problem with their airway, you may need to very carefully tilt their head back (and support it) until normal breathing returns.

If the person stops breathing or has no pulse, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may be required. See the Better Health Channel fact sheet Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for guidelines.

First aid for concussion
Concussion is a brief period of unconsciousness (less than five minutes) after sustaining a blow to the head. First aid suggestions include:

* Lie the person down, with their shoulders and head slightly raised.
* Control any bleeding.
* Check for signs of serious head injury.
* If the injury occurred during sport, don’t allow the person to ‘play on’ under any circumstances, even if they insist they feel fine.
* Always seek medical attention following concussion, even if the person only lost consciousness for a few seconds.
* Be alert for any danger signs over the next one or two days – for example, persistent vomiting, loss of coordination or bad headaches. Seek medical attention immediately.

Spinal injuries – symptoms
A person who has sustained a head injury may have also injured their spine. In elderly people, the force required to cause neck injuries is much less than in younger people.

It is important to keep the person’s head in line with their neck. Avoid twisting their head or allowing their head to roll to the side. If you can, roll a t-shirt, towel or similar soft item and place it around their neck to keep their head straight. Don’t try to move them unless there is dire need.

Signs and symptoms of spinal injuries could include:

* Their body is lying in an awkward, unnatural position.
* Their skin is clammy and cool.
* If conscious, they may report unusual tingling sensations in their limbs or an absence of any sensation including pain.
* They can’t move their limbs.

Toddlers and head injuries
Toddlers fall over all the time. Suggestions for parents include:

* A fall from the child’s own height usually isn’t enough to cause a serious head injury.
* The size of a bump on the head has no connection with the severity of injury.
* Minor head injuries, like a bump on the head, can be treated with cuddles and an age-appropriate dose of children’s pain-killing syrup.
* Seek medical attention immediately if the child shows any signs of serious head injury, particularly if they are unusually drowsy or vomiting, if you think the fall was heavy enough to have caused harm or if the child appeared to be unconscious – did not immediately cry after the fall. Examples of a heavy fall would be falling down some stairs or rolling from a normal height change table to a hard floor. If in doubt, see your doctor anyway.

Altitude sickness

2009-07-16T13:07:00.002-07:00

Altitude sickness

Mountain climbers are at risk of developing altitude sickness, which may be harmful or even fatal if its onset is ignored. Ascending to heights greater than 2,500m can trigger a range of symptoms including headache and vomiting. This is caused by going up too rapidly, which doesn't allow the body enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure. In severe cases, fluid builds up within the lungs, brain or both. Men are at greater risk of altitude sickness than women, for reasons unknown. It is important to remember that being young and fit doesn't reduce your risk, and just because you haven't experienced altitude sickness in the past, doesn't mean you are immune to the condition during future climbs. The only sure method of prevention is to make sure you take plenty of time during your ascent. Altitude sickness is also known as mountain sickness.

Symptoms
The initial symptoms of altitude sickness can include:

* Headache
* Lethargy
* Drop in performance
* Lack of coordination
* Insomnia
* Appetite loss
* Dizziness
* Nausea
* Vomiting.

Symptoms of severe altitude sickness
There are two main types of severe altitude sickness, including high altitude pulmonary oedema (fluid within the lungs) and high altitude cerebral oedema (fluid within the brain). In most cases, both conditions occur at the same time. A person with pulmonary oedema may drown if their lungs fill with too much fluid. Symptoms of severe altitude sickness include:

* Breathlessness
* Heart palpitations
* Blue-tinged skin and nails due to lack of oxygen (cyanosis)
* Frequent coughing because of fluid in the lungs
* Sputum may be frothy or tinged pink with blood from the damaged lung tissue
* Irrational behaviour, such as refusing to acknowledge symptoms
* Inability to sit up or walk in a straight line.

Prevention strategies
The best way to prevent altitude sickness is to go up slowly. Once you are more than 3,000m above sea level, only advance 300m or less per day. Be sure to take an extra day of rest and acclimatisation for every subsequent 1,000m. Other suggestions include:

* See your doctor for information and advice before your trip.
* Some climbers believe that switching to a high-carbohydrate diet before they go trekking helps to reduce the risks.
* Be prepared. Pack all necessary first aid items, including medications.
* Remember that medications such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone are best used as a treatment for mild altitude sickness, not as a prevention measure. These medications could mask the early warning signs.
* Acetazolamide may be recommended as a preventative, if you are flying into a location at altitude, and will not have time to adjust.
* Only climb with experienced guides.
* Increase your fluid intake. You may need up to seven litres every day.
* Avoid cigarettes and alcohol.
* Sleeping tablets must not be used, as they can lead to and increase in hypoxia due to their central nervous system depressing action.
* Be aware that you are at increased risk of altitude sickness if you have experienced it before.

First aid
Use the 'buddy system', because you will most likely refuse to acknowledge your own symptoms of altitude sickness. It is not unusual for affected climbers to stubbornly refuse to go down. If one of your party is showing the signs of altitude sickness, first aid suggestions include:

* Don't climb any higher. Camp and wait until the symptoms subside. This can take a couple days.
* Make sure they avoid alcohol and cigarettes.
* Give them aspirin or paracetamol in the usual recommended doses.
* Encourage them to breathe deeply every few minutes to decrease the level of carbon dioxide in their blood.
* Give them the recommended doses of the drug dexamethasone.
* In severe cases of altitude sickness, descend immediately. Aim for a descent of around 500m to 1,000m.
* Give them diuretic drugs (which promote more urine) to reduce the risk of fluid accumulation.
* Administer oxygen from a portable oxygen cylinder.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy uses specially designed chambers or rooms that can withstand high pressures. Air at sea level contains 21 per cent oxygen, while hyperbaric oxygen therapy can deliver up to 100 per cent pure oxygen. This form of therapy floods the body with oxygen and relieves the symptoms of altitude sickness. A portable oxygen cylinder enables oxygen to be administered via a facemask or hood.

Important warning
Never use oxygen therapy or altitude sickness medications to continue an ascent once symptoms have occurred. The result can be fatal.

Where to get help

* Your doctor

Things to remember

* Mountain climbers are at risk of developing altitude sickness.
* Altitude sickness is caused by ascending too rapidly, which doesn't allow the body enough time to adjust to reduced oxygen and changes in air pressure.
* Symptoms include headache, vomiting, insomnia and drop in performance and coordination.
* In severe cases, fluid can build up within the lungs, brain or both, which can be fatal.
* First aid options include descending immediately, medications and the use of oxygen administered from a portable container.

Travel health tips

2009-07-16T13:07:00.001-07:00

Travel health tips
People who travel overseas have up to a 50 per cent chance of suffering a travel-related illness. While most travel-related illness is minor, some very serious infectious diseases are endemic in some parts of the world. All travellers should be prepared for travel and be aware of health issues and measures to protect themselves from sickness.Before you travel
There are many things you can do to prepare for a healthy holiday:

* Have a medical check-up. Make sure you are healthy before you travel.
* Update your vaccinations and ask about other immunisations.
* Pack a medical kit for yourself and any children travelling with you. Make sure you pack enough of any medications you need, or take a prescription.
* Organise travel insurance, including cover if you need to be evacuated to a suitable hospital.
* Have a dental checkup.
* Have a vision check and pack a spare pair of glasses.

Vaccinations
You may want to arrange vaccinations or drugs to protect against diseases such as hepatitis, typhoid or malaria. In fact, some countries legally require travellers to have certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever. As you will need to have some vaccinations weeks or months before travel, it is best to see your doctor six to eight weeks before you go. However, if you have to travel at short notice, you can still have some vaccines. Your doctor will be able to advise which vaccines are suitable depending on:

* Your medical history and age
* Your destination and likely accommodation
* The season in which you are travelling
* The length of stay
* The type of travel, for example bus tour or backpack.

Tips for older travellers
For older people, the risk of death or serious illness while travelling is the same, or even less, than staying at home. However, planning is important and older travellers should consider the following before they travel:

* See your doctor for a checkup and discuss your fitness for the trip you are planning.
* See your dentist and optometrist.
* Pack a spare pair of glasses, any medications you need and a small medical kit.
* Organise travel health insurance with pre-existing illness cover if needed. Make sure it covers emergency evacuation.
* Make sure routine immunisations are up-to-date and get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia.
* Consider your back - use luggage with built in wheels.
* Take clothes and hats to suit the climate.
* If concerned about your health, consider taking an organised holiday.

Tips for travellers with a disability
Travellers with a disability will need to make sure in advance that their needs can be accommodated while travelling and should consider the following:

* Make arrangements for wheelchairs, guide dogs, and seating needs well in advance.
* Find out about the medical facilities in the areas you will be visiting.
* Get a letter from your doctor detailing your medical requirements or conditions.
* Carry a Medic-alert tag.

While you are there - eat and drink wisely
The most common travel related illnesses are gastrointestinal diseases usually picked up from poorly prepared foods or untreated water. To avoid the diarrhoea, stomach pains, nausea and vomiting associated with these illnesses:

* Use boiled or bottled water, or water purifiers or tablets.
* Avoid ice in drinks.
* Avoid unpasteurised milk and dairy products.
* Avoid fruit and vegetables that have been washed in the local water.
* Eat thick-skinned fruit and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas, oranges and mandarins.
* Make sure food is cooked thoroughly and eat it while it’s hot.
* Avoid shellfish.
* Don’t buy food from street stalls - hotels and busy restaurants are safest.
* Take care with personal hygiene.

While you are there - avoid insect bites
Some serious infectious diseases such as malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever, are transmitted by insect bites. While there are vaccines and drugs available to help protect against some of these diseases, travellers are advised to always protect against mosquito bites. Some tips include:

* Wear mosquito repellent that contains at least 30 per cent DEET.
* Stay indoors between dusk and dawn. The mosquitoes carrying the malaria parasite generally feed at this time.
* Apply repellent, such as permethrin, to your clothes and bedding.
* Wear socks, long pants, and long-sleeve shirts when outdoors.
* Use a bed net.
* Stay in airconditioned, screened accommodation.

Protect yourself against sexually transmitted diseases
HIV-AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases are endemic in many countries, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia. Safe sex practices are essential.

Where to get help

* Your doctor
* Travel Clinics Australia Tel. 1300 369 359 (for appointments)
* Travel Clinics Infoline Tel. 1900 969 359 (calls charged at 99 cents per minute incl. GST - higher rates from mobiles & public phones) or website
* Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Travel Advice Tel. 1300 139 281

Things to remember

* Overseas travellers have a 50 per cent chance of suffering from a travel-related illness.
* The most common travel-related sickness is gastrointestinal infection which is generally picked up from poorly prepared food and untreated water.
* Have a medical checkup to make sure you are healthy before you travel.
* Discuss vaccinations with your doctor.
* Be prepared and aware of health issues when travelling

Tips for preventing and controlling Heartburn

2009-07-16T13:06:00.001-07:00

Tips for preventing and controlling Heartburn

Tips for preventing and controlling Heartburn (Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease)

1. Check your medicines: Avoid drugs, particularly painkillers that may contribute to heartburn.

2. Examine your diet: Avoid foods that seem to trigger heartburn like caffeine, chocolate, high-acid foods (such as citrus and tomato juices) and mint-flavored foods. Dairy foods can be triggers in people who are lactose-intolerant. Avoid fatty foods, especially animal fat. Also, it is a myth that carbonated drinks relieve heartburn. Just the opposite is true.

3. Quit smoking: Tobacco irritates the digestive tract and contributes to heartburn.

4. Avoid alcohol: It can cause and aggravate heartburn.

5. Lose weight: Losing weight even a little can alleviate heartburn.

6. Change your eating habits: Eat small, frequent meals rather than three large ones. Don't eat late at night, and don't lie down right after eating.

7. Prop yourself up: Elevate the upper portion of your body when you sleep. An extra pillow under your head won't do it. Your chest and shoulders need to be elevated, too.

8. Exercise: A regular aerobic exercise program, even a brisk daily walk, helps many people with heartburn. It reduces stress and helps you lose weight. However, don’t exercise right after a meal.

9. Reduce stress: Stress doesn’t cause heartburn, but it can make it worse. So stress-reduction may help you control heartburn.

Side Effects of Sulfur Soap

2009-07-16T13:05:00.000-07:00

Side Effects of Sulfur Soap
Are you looking for a great acne treatment that really works? If so, you'll find that sulfur soap is a wonderful choice for acne treatment, especially since it has been proven to be so effective for many people. Whether you are dealing with oily skin, blackheads, clogged pores, or even whiteheads, you'll find that this treatment can be very effective for you. There are a variety of different soaps out there that you can choose from that include sulfur. However, before you decide that these soaps may be a great acne treatment for you, you'll want to take a closer look at information about the ingredient as well as possible side effects, such as sulfur soap and acne redness. So, here's a closer look at sulfur soap and important information you need to know.
It's Approved by the FDA
First of all, it's definitely great to know that sulfur soap is actually approved by the FDA. This is great information to know, since the FDA is very carefully to only approve products that a effective and that are not harmful to your health.

Why this Soap Works
Of course you are going to want to know why exactly this soap works to get rid of acne. Well, the reason that it works is because it actually gets to the very bottom of the acne problem and gets rid of it from the bottom up. It doesn't just treat the symptoms of acne, but it treats that actual problem. It is an antiseptic and an anti bacterial as well, which means that it is great for getting rid of bacteria that can get into pores, causing acne. The sulfur helps to get rid of dirt and oil that are on the skin so that they don’t clog up the pores and cause problems. Also, when sulfur is used in soap in combination with salicylic acid, it also helps to make sure that dead skin cells are sloughed away so they don't fall into pores and cause more clogged pores.
A Word About the Side Effects
Although sulfur soap definitely has a lot to off you and it is a great effective treatment for acne, you need to realize that there are some side effects that some people experience, such as the idea of sulfur soap and acne redness. Although redness is one of the most common side effects that are experienced, it is not the only common side effect that can occur. There are many people who end up dealing with bad dry skin problems and others that end up dealing with skin that peels as well. These are the main side effects, but more drastic and dangerous side effects may occur if the user is allergic to the product. If this occurs, the user should make sure to get medical attention as soon as they can.

How You Should Use It
So, how should you go about using this soap? Well, it's really quite simple. You wash your face and even your body with the soap, just like you would with any other type of soap. Just make sure you rinse it all off very thoroughly. Using it 2-3 times a day is usually recommended for the best results, but whenever you end up sweaty, it's a good idea to wash again to make sure you get rid of the oil that can clog up pores

Yeast Infection

2009-07-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

Yeast Infection

The existing fungi in your skin cause yeast infection. Areas which is moist, is the right place for the fungi to grow. The higher the moisture level the greater the expected growth. Any change in site of the fungal growth can cause a yeast infection. Though our skin is ready and geared to tackle any fungal complications, any break in the skin can however cause organisms to enter.
Interestingly only adult women get yeast infection but never a child. Children get oral thrush but never in any other part of the body. Parents have surely heard of such misconceptions sometime during the growing years of their child. Unfortunately children, like anyone else, may be affected by Candida infection, which may not be limited to the oral area. For such infections to occur and spread, all that is needed is a warm and damp environment.
Reasons for Yeast Infection:

Since Candida thrives in wet and warm places, a child’s diaper is the best place, as the child is just learning to develop toilet habits. The cute folds and the areas which are usually covered by diapers are the ideal places where Candida can breed. In appearance it is somewhat similar to thrush with the same white lumpy looks and smelling somewhat like bread that’s baking in the oven. As a preventive step against yeast infections, keep the baby dry and clean all the time, especially during the warm and humid summer months.
Why does yeast infection affect only women? Well, because their genital area has more folds for the Candida to thrive. Since boy babies also wear diapers which keep them warm and moist, it can affect them too. Think about it: the same environment which causes diaper rash would also result in Candida overgrowth. So you ought to take the same preventive measures you take for you baby girl for your baby boy too.
Early signs of yeast infection:

It all depends on the area of infection and the symptoms would vary accordingly. In the case of a vaginal infection, the symptoms include a burning sensation accompanied by thick and white or thin and watery discharge. What are the symptoms when the infected area is the mouth? You could see some thick white patches on top of swollen red skin in the mouth. Though it may not itch as it does with other outer skin infections, but the area becomes very sensitive and may even bleed with the removal of the white part. Because this causes pain during eating and drinking, ensure the child is well hydrated.
Parents should watch out for reasons for yeast infections. While an infection need not be dangerous or fatal it but may result in complications if left unattended. Some of the most common symptoms are mentioned above but if you are unsure speak to your physician.

Mediterranean-Style Diets Help Fight Disease

2009-07-16T13:03:00.000-07:00

Mediterranean-Style Diets Help Fight Disease

Eat like a Greek: A Mediterranean-style diet is associated with a lower cancer risk.

Researchers reporting in the British Journal of Cancer analyzed the food intake and medical records of almost 26,000 people and found that those who included more olive oil, beans, fruits, and fish had a 12 percent lower incidence of the disease than those who ate the least. See why:

Olive Oil: Contains phenols, antioxidants that can prevent damage from free radicals that can lead to cancer.

Beans: Are chock-full of nutrients that are associated with a decreased risk of colorectal cancer.

Fruits : Have phytochemicals, compounds that color fruits, and antioxidants, which sweep away free radicals.

Fish: Some researchers believe that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may reduce breast and colon cancer risk.

Mobile Phone Ups Cancer Risk In Kids

2009-07-16T13:02:00.002-07:00

Mobile Phone Ups Cancer Risk In Kids

According to a research conducted at University Hospital in Orebro, it was found that those kids or teens that use mobile phones have an increased chance of developing brain cancer. This study also emphasized on the fact that kids are five times more likely to suffer from this disease due to the more use of mobile.

In the research it was found that people who started using mobile before the age of 20 had more than five-fold increase in glioma. Glioma is a cancer of the glial cells which support the central nervous system.

It was also found that the risk increased more than four times higher, in case of using cordless phone in many homes. People who started using mobiles phone at the young age were five times more likely to suffer from acoustic neuromas.
According to the Professor Hardell, “This is a warning sign. It is very worrying. We should be taking precautions.”
The result also emphasized that the who used mobile phones for more than 10 years are more likely to get gliomas and acoustic neuromas.

Chocolate, Benefits And Health Factors

2009-07-16T13:02:00.001-07:00

Chocolate, Benefits And Health Factors

There are a lot of reasons for hard core chocolate lovers that can simply amaze them. Researchers have come out with excellent news that chocolates are an essential food for health. There are some positive findings about the chocolates that may astound the people who take chocolates as an unhealthy food.

* Chocolate includes antibacterial agent and phenyl ethylamine that helps to prevent tooth decay and elevate the mood as well.
* The sensational smell of chocolate can raise theta brain waves which results in the relaxation of mind and soul.
* Before meal, take a cup of hot chocolate that can help to reduce the appetite.
* Men who love to eat chocolate everyday have an advantage of living a longer life than those who do not eat chocolates.
* Chocolates raise the levels of antioxidants in the blood and build up the brainpower.
* Chocolates contain neurotransmitter and serotonin that help to lower down the level of anxiety and depression.

Researchers have showed that the high blood pressure people should take flavonol-rich dark chocolate that can reduce the blood pressure and provide cardiovascular benefits. Flavonoid is highly rich in foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, and red wine.
There are some people who avoid the intake of chocolate because they fear from one of the ingredients of chocolate; cocoa butter. They regard it as an unhealthy fat. Indeed, this is a myth as coca butter is healthy for body that is made up of healthy fatty acids like oleic acid, stearic and palmitic acids. It contains vitamins like A, B1, C, D, potassium, sodium and iron.
If you are a die hard fan of chocolates but still stay away from eating your favorite chocolates then the above positive features of chocolates can definitely remove your myths about chocolates.

Anti-Aging Tips - Makes You Always Look Great

2009-07-16T13:00:00.002-07:00

Anti-Aging Tips - Makes You Always Look Great

1. Remain Active - Those who remain active in their life will likely to be happier and appear young then those who remain un-active and spend their life inside the home. So from now onwards spend your life by remain active with the positive attitude.
2. Take enough sleep - Getting enough sleep is yet another important factor in your life. By taking enough sleep you will remain active and refresh through out the day.
3. Quit smoking - Smoking is injurious to health, everyone knows that but instead of leaving this bad habit, everyone smoke daily. Some people are so habitual that they can smoke more than once in a day. Smoking has very bad effect on your heart and lungs but it can also prematurely age your skin and give you wrinkles around the mouth from constantly puffing.
4. Drink Enough Water – Everybody have to drink enough water in a day to remain fit and fine. Water can improve your look by making your skin healthy and it is also necessary for your other body functions.
5. Take note of your posture – Always look positive such as sit up straight and walk with your shoulders back with full of confidence.
6. Lower your stress – Do not take lot of stress in you life. Always avoid stressful situations and take out some time in your busy schedule to relax your body.
7. Get energized - Find ways to get yourself up, moving and motivated each day whether it’s through a workout or from any favorite activity.
8. Find happiness - Try to do those things which make you feel happy. Reach out to friends and family for companionship, find new groups to meet up with and make an effort to do things in your life you truly love and you’ll take years off your age.
9. Get involved - Don’t waste your time always getting involved in some useful works. Find and join the groups who have same interests like yours and participate in extra curricular activities.
10. Make your health a priority – Like your work, take health as your priority. Always take out some time for your routine checkups. Always pay attention to your health issues and take preventative measures.

Blueberries

2009-07-16T13:00:00.001-07:00

Blueberries

Blueberries are a nutritional bonanza of boosting health compounds ranging from antioxidants, anthocyanins, ellagic acid, to phenolic acids. Researchers at Tufts University recently carried an analysis of 60 fruits and vegetables, and rated the brightly colored blueberry with the highest antioxidant capability to wipe out free radicals.

Blueberries has one of the highest antioxidant ability to struggle the oxidative pressures of each day experience to air pollutants, unhealthy food and drink, excessive sun exposure, and man made chemicals that are implicated in everything from wrinkling and aging of skin to diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and others.
The health enhancing effects of eating blueberries have been well recognized for several years now, in being able to protect against the establishment of degenerative health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, macular degeneration, brain illnesses, gastrointestinal health problems, and cancer.
With so many different materials found in blueberries, researchers are not sure which one has the most important and effective health benefits. However, eating the whole fruit is much better for your health than using certain extracts of the berry alone.
If you wish to store your best find, rather than eat them right away, do not wash them before refrigeration. They will keep relatively well, unwashed, in the fridge for 7 to 10 days. Before eating them, stem and reform the shriveled or moldy berries and wash.
Blueberries freeze exceptionally well due to their low water content, and will keep in the freezer for up to a year. They also preserve much of their nutritional content when frozen. Simply put down a single layer of unwashed, dry blueberries out on a cookie sheet and freeze. Washing them before freezing will negotiate the texture and toughen the skins. Transfer the frozen berries into dry pack freezer bags or cartons. Take out what you will be using, wash, and incorporate them into your favorite recipes.
With one of the lowest calorie content found anywhere in a fruit, at about 80 calories per cup, eating them a lot is not going to pack on the pounds. The sweet, luscious blueberry has a nutritional health profile fit for any health conscious dieter. A one cup serving of this fresh fruit also provides 5 grams of fiber and provides you 15 percent of your daily ingestion value of vitamin C.
Blueberries are undoubtedly one of the healthiest fruits in North America, with one of the highest antioxidant content of any known fruit. Blueberries are quite pleasant to eat.
High Antioxidant Value
Blueberries, along with blackberries, strawberries, and plums, have the highest total antioxidant capacity of any food. It is being regarded as one of the super fruits having the promising combination of nutrient value, emerging research evidence for health benefits, versatility for manufacturing popular consumer products, and antioxidant strength.
Neuron Protection
The compound anthocyanin, found in blueberries, is thought to slow down age-related loss in the mental capability of humans. Those who eat more blueberries are considered to have better performance in motor behavioral learning and memory. While it is consider that aging can diminish cognitive and motor functions, blueberries can be of huge help to enhance mental functioning.
Better Balance and Coordination
Blueberries also have positive effects to balance and coordination. In a study by Dr. James Joseph of Tufts University, it was revealed that a diet equipped with blueberries counteracted poor balance and coordination associated with aging.
Prevention of Diseases
A serving of blueberries offers a comparatively low glycemic load while providing a diverse range of nutrients, which also means there are fewer calories in a serving full of phytochemicals and nutrients such as iron, vitamins C and E. Due to the phytochemicals present, the risk of obtaining some deadly diseases may also be prevented.

Malungay or Moringa Oleifera - is the world's richest source

2009-07-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Malungay or Moringa Oleifera - is the world's richest source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fiber, natural phyto nutrients and antioxidants.

Health Benefits of Malungay Leaves:

- Anti-Oxidant

- Increases Energy

- Enhances the Skin

- Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles

- Nourishes the Immune System

- Nourishes the Eyes and Brain

- Promotes Body's Natural Defenses

- Promotes Healthy Circulatory System

- Promotes Healthy Digestion

- Promotes Healthy Cellular Structure

- Promotes Normal Blood Glucose Levels

- Promotes Normal Kidney and Liver Function

- Triggers Metabolism

- Anti-Inflammatory

Malungay Helps cure:

- Kidney disease

- Ovarian Cancer

- Arthritis

- Heart Complications

- Ulcer

- Stomach Pain

- Headache

- Scurvy

- Asthma

and a lot more!!

Note: To enjoy the full potential of Malungay you need to eat atleast 500mg a day. Meaning 12 cups of fresh, uncooked malungay leaves everyday.

Steroids

2009-07-16T12:50:00.000-07:00

Steroids
hat Are They?

Ever wondered how those bulky weight lifters got so big? While some may have gotten their muscles through a strict regimen of weight-lifting and diet, others may have gotten that way through the illegal use of steroids.
Steroids are synthetic substances similar to the male sex hormone testosterone. They do have legitimate medical uses. Sometimes doctors prescribe anabolic steroids to help people with certain kinds of anemia and men who don't produce enough testosterone on their own. Doctors also prescribe a different kind of steroid, called corticosteroids, to reduce swelling. Corticosteroids are not anabolic steroids and do not have the same harmful effects.
But doctors never prescribe anabolic steroids to young, healthy people to help them build muscles. Without a prescription from a doctor, steroids are illegal.
There are many different kinds of steroids. Here's a list of some of the most common anabolic steroids taken today: anadrol, oxandrin, dianabol, winstrol, deca-durabolin, and equipoise.
What Are the Common Street Names?

Slang words for steroids are hard to find. Most people just say steroids. On the street, steroids may be called roids or juice. The scientific name for this class of drugs is anabolic-androgenic steroids. Anabolic refers to muscle-building. Androgenic refers to increased male characteristics. But even scientists shorten it to anabolic steroids.
How Are They Used?

Some steroid users pop pills. Others use hypodermic needles to inject steroids directly into muscles. When users take more and more of a drug over and over again, they are called "abusers." Abusers have been known to take doses 10 to 100 times higher than the amount prescribed for medical reasons by a doctor.
Many steroid users take two or more kinds of steroids at once. Called stacking, this way of taking steroids is supposed to get users bigger faster. Some abusers pyramid their doses in 6-12-week cycles. At the beginning of the cycle, the steroid user starts with low doses and slowly increases to higher doses. In the second half of the cycle, they gradually decrease the amount of steroids. Neither of these methods has been proven to work.
How Many Teens Use Them?

Most teens are smart and stay away from steroids. As part of a 2002 NIDA-funded study, teens were asked if they ever tried steroids-even once. Only 2.5% of 8th graders ever tried steroids; only 3.5% of 10th graders; and 4% of 12th graders.
What Are the Common Effects?

Steroids can make pimples pop up and hair fall out. They can make guys grow breasts and girls grow beards. Steroids can cause livers to grow tumors and hearts to clog up. They can even send users on violent, angry rampages. In other words, steroids throw a body way out of whack. Steroids do make users bulk up, but the health risks are high. It's true, on steroids biceps bulge; abs ripple; and quads balloon. But that's just on the outside. Steroid users may be very pleased when they flex in the mirror, but they may create problems on the inside. These problems may hurt them the rest of their lives. As a matter of fact steroid use can shorten their lives.

Steroids Cause Hormone Imbalances

For teens, hormone balance is important. Hormones are involved in the development of a girl's feminine traits and a boy's masculine traits. When someone abuses steroids, gender mix-ups happen.
Using steroids, guys can experience shrunken testicles and reduced sperm count. They can also end up with breasts, a condition called gynecomastia.
Using steroids, girls can become more masculine. Their voices deepen. They grow excessive body hair. Their breast size decreases.
Teens at Risk for Stunted Growth

Teens who abuse steroids before the typical adolescent growth spurt risk staying short and never reaching their full adult height. Why? Because the body is programmed to stop growing after puberty. When hormone levels reach a certain point, the body thinks it's already gone through puberty. So, bones get the message to stop growing way too soon.
Steroid Abuse Can Be Fatal

When steroids get into the body, they go to different organs and muscles. Steroids affect individual cells and make them create proteins. These proteins spell trouble.
The liver, for example, can grow tumors and develop cancer. Steroid abusers may also develop a rare condition called peliosis hepatis in which blood-filled cysts crop up on the liver. Both the tumors and cysts can rupture and cause internal bleeding.
Steroids are no friend of the heart, either. Abusing steroids can cause heart attacks and strokes, even in young athletes. Here's how: Steroid use can lead to a condition called atherosclerosis, which causes fat deposits inside arteries to disrupt blood flow. When blood flow to the heart is blocked, a heart attack can occur. If blood flow to the brain is blocked, a stroke can result.
To bulk up the artificial way-using steroids-puts teens at risk for more than liver disease and cardiovascular disease. Steroids can weaken the immune system, which is what helps the body fight against germs and disease. That means that illnesses and diseases have an easy target in a steroid abuser.
By injecting steroids by needle, teens can add HIV and hepatitis B and C to their list of health hazards. Many abusers share non-sterile "works" or drug injection equipment that can spread life-threatening viral infections.
Steroids Can Cause Extreme Mood Changes

Steroids can also mess with your head. Homicidal rage can come from how steroids act on the brain. That's right. Non-violent people have been known to commit murder under the influence of these synthetic hormones.
Your moods and emotions are balanced by the limbic system of your brain. Steroids act on the limbic system and may cause irritability and mild depression. Eventually, steroids can cause mania, delusions, and violent aggression or "roid rage."
Steroids' Disfiguring Effects

Last, but not least, steroids have disfiguring effects-severe acne, greasy hair, and baldness (in both guys and girls).
The bottom line is: Science proves the serious risks of steroid use.

What is athlete's foot?

2009-07-16T12:49:00.000-07:00

What is athlete's foot?

Athlete's foot is a rash on the skin of the foot. It is the most common fungal skin infection. There are three main types of athlete's foot. Each type affects different parts of the foot and may look different.
What causes athlete's foot?

Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus that grows on or in the top layer of skin. Fungi (plural of fungus) grow best in warm, wet places, such as the area between the toes.
Athlete's foot spreads easily. You can get it by touching the toes or feet of a person who has it. But most often, people get it by walking barefoot near swimming pools or in locker rooms. The fungi then grow in your shoes, especially if your shoes are so tight that air cannot move around your feet.
If you touch something that has fungi on it, you can spread athlete’s foot to other people-even if you don't get the infection yourself. Some people are more likely than others to get athlete's foot. Experts don't know why this is. After you have had athlete's foot, you are more likely to get it again.
What are the symptoms?

Athlete’s foot can make your feet and the skin between your toes burn and itch. The skin may peel and crack. Your symptoms can depend on the type of athlete’s foot you have.

* Toe web infection usually occurs between the fourth and fifth toes. The skin becomes scaly, peels, and cracks. Some people also may have an infection with bacteria. This can make the skin break down even more.
* Moccasin-type infection may start with a little soreness on your foot. Then the skin on the bottom or heel of your foot can become thick and crack. In bad cases, the toenails get infected and can thicken, crumble, and even fall out. Fungal infection in toenails needs separate treatment.
* Vesicular infection usually begins with a sudden outbreak of large fluid-filled blisters under the skin. The blisters are usually on the top of the foot. But they can appear anywhere on your foot. You also can get a bacterial infection with this type of athlete’s foot.

See pictures of toe web, moccasin-type, and vesicular infections.
How is athlete's foot diagnosed?

Most of the time, a doctor can tell that you have athlete's foot by looking at your feet. He or she will also ask about your symptoms and any past fungal infections you may have had. If your athlete's foot looks unusual, or if treatment did not help you before, your doctor may take a skin or nail sample to test for fungi.
Not all skin problems on the foot are athlete's foot. If you think you have athlete's foot but have never had it before, it’s a good idea to have your doctor look at it.
How is it treated?

You can treat most cases of athlete's foot at home with over-the-counter lotion, cream, or spray. For bad cases, your doctor may give you a prescription for pills or for medicine you put on your skin. Use the medicine for as long as your doctor tells you to. This will help make sure that you get rid of the infection. You also need to keep your feet clean and dry. Fungi need wet, warm places to grow.
You can do some things so you don't get athlete's foot again. Wear shower sandals in shared areas like locker rooms, and use talcum powder to help keep your feet dry. Wear shoes that let air flow easily around your feet.

Causes of Obesity in Men

2009-07-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Causes of Obesity in Men

The prevalence of obesity among American men has doubled in only 25 years, and it’s killing us. A 2004 survey published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that 71% of men 20 years old and over were overweight and 31% were obese. The same survey conducted in the late 1970s had found 47% of men were overweight and 15% were obese.
Science is searching for the causes of obesity and exploring the role of genes, the diets of pregnant women, and the feeding habits of babies. But the bottom line is this: Most of us have settled into sedentary lifestyles and have trouble resisting the temptations of cheap, plentiful food our culture has served up.
The biggest health issues for overweight men

It isn’t good to be fat, but there’s just so much good food and so many ways of entertaining ourselves from a swivel chair or a couch. As a result, a host of health issues linked to obesity threatens us unless we learn how to push back from the table earlier and head out the door for a walk or something faster more often.
“By the time you reach 35,” says George L. Blackburn, MD, PhD, “you don’t need to gain any more weight.” Blackburn holds the S. Daniel Abraham Chair of Nutrition at Harvard Medical School, and he tells WebMD that as men get older, muscle tends to be replaced by fatty tissue. Since fatty tissue doesn’t need the same amount of energy to maintain itself, you gain weight. But if you’ve gained more than 20 pounds since college, Blackburn says, something about your food selection and exercise program is out of balance. “You need to run, not walk,” he says, “to see a health care provider who’s experienced in finding healthy lifestyles.”
While women put weight on their hips, breasts, and limbs, men gather it around the waist, where it circulates through the liver, causing metabolic problems like diabetes. Added weight puts you at risk of heart attack, cancer, hypertension, and sleep apnea. It can also affect your sex life and make it harder to exercise and enjoy your kids.
Can genes cause obesity in men?

How did we get so fat? “Obviously there’s a genetic component to obesity, “ says Barbara Rolls, PhD. Rolls holds the Helen A. Guthrie Chair in Nutritional Sciences at Pennsylvania State University. “But,” she adds, “the surge in obesity clearly can’t be due to genetic changes. We don’t evolve that quickly.”
That said, when it comes to getting fat, not all men are created equal. The genetic differences are clear from studies conducted by Claude Bouchard, PhD, of the Pennington Biomedical Research Center at Louisiana State University. Controlled portions of food were given over 100 days to sets of identical twins. While weight gain was similar for each pair of twins, it varied dramatically among the pairs. Some sets of twins gained as few as eight pounds during the “overfeeding” experiment, while others put on as much as 26 pounds

Can genes cause obesity in men? continued...

We all know a few men who can quaff and stuff it all in their wooden legs and still weigh what they did in college. Some people are more predisposed to gain more weight than others, and research indicates that gaining weight rapidly as an infant is associated with a higher risk of adult obesity.
“We don’t know whether the weight gain in infancy is a cause of obesity, or whether they are both controlled by the same gene or perhaps by cultural practices,” says Nicolas Stettler, MD, MSCE, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania. But it may well be that some of us developed metabolic patterns in infancy that continue to influence our eating habits throughout life.
But genes don’t explain the increase in obesity. “I think we can safely say that at the end of the day, the cause of obesity is eating more than you need for your physical activity,” says Stettler. “We eat more, and the availability of more sedentary entertainment leads people to be more sedentary.”
Bigger portions breed bigger appetites which can lead to obesity

Men eat 70% more at a sitting than women do, Rolls tells WebMD. But, she says, men are “the primordial eating machines.” They tend to listen to their bodies more while women eat what they think they are supposed to eat.
The biggest change in eating habits, Rolls believes, is portion size, which started growing in the 1970s in restaurants and recipe books. Then supersizing really took off in the 1980s. It might seem logical to assume that when a person eats a really big meal that person will back off on subsequent meals or days. But Rolls’ research has shown this not to be the case.
At her laboratory, she feeds human test subjects large portion sizes without telling them and observes how they respond. They respond by pigging out. Over a period of 11 days, in a recent experiment, the overfed group sucked up 5,000 more calories than the “control” group, which was given healthy, complete meals but with half the portion size.
Obviously, there are vested interests in favor of selling more food and drink, even if that does help fuel the obesity epidemic. “From the popcorn stand in movie theaters to fast food, we’ve been had by the most skilled advertising people in the world,” says Blackburn. “They keep telling us that it’s our right to be instantly gratified. Well, there’s a sucker born every minute, and you’re a sucker to let yourself gain more than 20 pounds in 20 years.”
Fighting back: How bigger portions can be used to stem the rise in obesity

When it comes to finding solutions to the fat epidemic, Rolls has done some pragmatic thinking. Her research told her that it would be difficult to convince people to eat smaller meals. So what she has done is focused on encouraging them to eat less energy-dense meals.

Fighting back: How bigger portions can be used to stem the rise in obesity continued...

A bowl of Cheerios, for example, provides the same calories as a couple tablespoons of granola. But, as she points out in The Volumetrics Eating Plan: Techniques and Recipes for Feeling Full on Fewer Calories (Morrow Cookbooks, 2005),eating the larger portion of Cheerios is more satisfying than eating the smaller portion of granola. “Bigger is better if it’s low-cal,” Rolls says. “Big portions of salad and soup can fill you up and displace other, more energy dense foods.”
Blackburn applauds Rolls’ book. But he also thinks the government should intervene to encourage healthier eating by charging a tax on junk food and offering incentives for buying healthy food. “But the people who own the junk food are not going to let you do that,” he says. “They’ll say people like me are crazy and it’s your right to have a miserable life and be able to pig out.”
Looking for a cure for obesity

Genetic research holds out the hope that in 10 or 20 years there may be new drugs to treat obesity. But there are more than 25 candidate genes involved in abnormal weight gain, and each person may have 12 or so of them, all making a very small contribution. So it’s unlikely that drug companies will find blockbuster drugs that can counteract the effects of all these genes together. “It will be very hard to have a medication driven by your personal predisposition,” says Bouchard.
In the meantime, though, according to Blackburn, “The craziest thing you can do is to overeat and under-exercise.

Men and Hair Loss: What Are the Options?

2009-07-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

Men and Hair Loss: What Are the Options?

It may seem a peculiar American vanity that men have in-boxes full of hair loss treatment offers and spend billions of dollars on hair loss treatments each year. Not so. As Gersh Kuntzman illustrates in his book Hair! Mankind's Historic Quest to End Baldness, chrome-dome anxiety has tormented us for ages. Caesar's laurel wreaths? Classic red herring, Kuntzman says.
Baldness is biblical, too -- from the Maccabees to Samson and Delilah (a story Kuntzman calls "practically a commercial for Propecia") -- the Old Testament is littered with hair loss. If there'd been email back then, it's a good bet Elijah would be agonizing over whether or not to Buy Rogaine Online Now.
For as long as men have been fretting over their expanding foreheads, they've been scrounging for hair loss treatments. From hippo fat pomades to the urine of young foals, history is full of just-so-crazy-they-might-work concoctions. They didn’t work. And a quick Googling reveals that most of the products and services marketed today are only slightly less absurd.
In reality, there’s a very limited number of effective treatments for male pattern baldness. Given that two-thirds of American men will experience a significant level of thinning by the age of 35, it's worth running through the options.
The pill to prevent hair loss

Looking for a pill to keep from going bald? Finasteride, known more commonly as Propecia, is taken daily in 1 mg doses. Because it works by lowering dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, it’s assumed it can reduce hair loss for a majority of men. It also often achieves a measure of regrowth.
"I recommend that everyone [with any hair loss] take finasteride," says Robert M. Bernstein, MD. Bernstein is associate clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University and founder of the Bernstein Medical Center for Hair Restoration. "To patients who are younger,” he says, “I also recommend minoxidil. But the mainstay is finasteride. The data show that, over five years, it significantly retards hair loss in 85% of users."
Both finasteride and minoxidil, the only other FDA-approved hair loss product (most commonly marketed as Rogaine), require a commitment. Stop either of these hair loss treatments and your progress vanishes. Within months, you'll lose whatever hair you managed to retain or grow back.
Finasteride does have potential sexual side effects. A very small percentage of men experience decreases in libido and other problems, but this is rare and generally temporary.

Liquid hair loss treatment -- There's the rub

Initially used to treat high blood pressure, minoxidil was the first medication approved by the FDA to treat male pattern baldness. By applying Rogaine (or a generic version) directly to the scalp twice a day, a man in the early stages of hair loss can often stimulate growth. The American Hair Loss Association points out that results of treatment with minoxidil are limited, but it still endorses using it in combination with other treatments or as an alternative if finasteride doesn't work.
"I caution patients to try it for a limited time," Bernstein says. "Because it's not as simple [to use] as a pill, use isn't always regular, and you end up losing whatever you gained."
Side effects of minoxidil are limited to occasional itchiness and dry scalp.
Hair transplants

The good news: Hair transplants don't look like dolls' hair anymore. The bad news: You won't be able to go anywhere to show off your new 'do because you'll be broke. The average recipient of a follicle transplant receives several thousand grafts -- strips of hair removed from bushier parts of the head -- at a cost of several thousand dollars. The cost continues to mount when patients come back for added thickness over the years.
The hair transplant is an expensive procedure that, as with other options, rarely leaves you with a Fabio-like mane. Still, the science has improved dramatically in recent years, and more than a few lusciously locked movie stars are rumored to have gone under the tweezers.
Toupee or not toupee

As with transplants, the word toupee conjures an outdated and disagreeable image. The 70s-style rugs have mostly been traded in for spiffier "hair replacement systems." But the basic concept -- a foreign object atop your head -- can only evolve so far. Of course, the effectiveness of hairpieces is tough to evaluate. You may spot an awful one now and then, but the ones you do spot are just the awful ones. Who knows how many masterpieces slip undetected under the radar?
Barring a hair-tugging spree, there aren't many opportunities to admire the toupee's invisible art. But among those clients willing to own up, the American Hair Loss Association reports that over 70% are ultimately dissatisfied with their experience at hair replacement salons.
Alternative hair loss remedies

One word: boondoggle. From saw palmetto to zinc, a vast array of tinctures, supplements, and shampoos promise to do what the FDA-approved treatments do -- only cheaper and perhaps even better because of some “little-known ancient wisdom.” Turns out that FDA approval isn't for nothing.
"There's never been a single study to show they work," Bernstein says of the alternative remedies. "It's conceivable that some might have some minor impact. But the real problem is that people waste valuable time experimenting with them when they'd be much better off spending their money on something proven to work. The window for Propecia passes, and if you've spent two years with this herbal thing instead, that can make a big difference in the results you ultimately get."
George Cotserelis, MD, is director of the University of Pennsylvania's Hair and Scalp Clinic. He agrees that there's no evidence these alternative hair loss treatments have any effect. "If any of it did work," he says, "I'd be very worried about using that product. The fact that it’s working would mean it's doing something to the testosterone and could be having adverse effects."

Laser combs: The Star Trek solution

For those concerned that the existing treatments lack a certain sci-fi quality, behold the Laser Comb. The Laser Comb recently became only the third hair loss treatment to receive FDA approval. And it is the first that doesn’t use drugs or surgery. By stimulating follicles with a low-level laser, the hand-held device was shown in test trials to increase hair volume in a majority of patients.
The 545 dollar product is a source of great optimism among some -- and some wariness among others. "We've definitely seen some benefit, probably on the order of minoxidil," Bernstein says. "But the study was only six months long. And there's suspicion among many of us about the long-term effectiveness. The process doesn't affect DHT."
Future hope

Even more fantastical than a laser-emitting comb is that longed for promise of a total cure to baldness — hair cloning. By culturing and successfully implanting new hair cells, scientists might be able to grow follicles where once there were none. But don't be fooled by Dolly. Making hair isn't the same as making sheep.
"We've been saying it's 10 years off for many years now. I still say it's 10 years off," Bernstein says. "There are some major scientific barriers to overcome. Then there are the trials to go through, the approval, the cost constraints. But I definitely think it will happen -- someday."
Cotserelis speaks even more guardedly: "Will it be a total cure for baldness? I'd say the future will hold many more treatment options. But there won't be one solution for everyone. You'll still have to use multiple approaches, like you do now."
Get over it

Just letting go is possibly the most challenging of the available options. It’s also the cheapest and ultimately the most effective in the struggle with hair loss. Given the imperfections of surgical, medical, and technological options, there are many who advocate simple acceptance. (BaldRUs.com is one of several sites devoted to embracing the scalp's natural fate.) What's more, the health benefits of happier mirror time -- and fewer years of harmful anxiety -- just might offset the loss of those Samson-like powers.

The new superfruits - For perfect blood pressure

2009-07-16T12:45:00.000-07:00

The new superfruits
For perfect blood pressure

Good: Bananas
Better: Fresh figs

Why: Six fresh figs have 891 mg of blood pressure-lowering potassium, nearly 20% of your daily need--about double what you'd find in one large banana. In a recent 5-year study from the Netherlands, high-potassium diets were linked with lower rates of death from all causes in healthy adults age 55 and older.

You'll also get...a boost to your bones. Figs are one of the best fruit sources of calcium, with nearly as much per serving (six figs) as 1/2 cup of fat-free milk!

Shop for figs that are dry on the surface and feel heavy in the hand. A perfectly ripe fig may have slight cracks that are bursting with the fruit's sweet syrup.

Serve by chopping and adding to yogurt, cottage cheese, oatmeal, or green salads. Or, enjoy them as a savory snack: Cut a slit in the side and stuff with 1/2 teaspoon of a low-fat version of a soft cheese such as chèvre or Brie.
To protect your heart and fight disease

Good: Red g****s
Better: Lychee

Why: A French study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that lychee has the second-highest level of heart-healthy polyphenols of all fruits tested--nearly 15% more than the amount found in g****s (cited by many as a polyphenol powerhouse). The compounds may also play an important role in the prevention of degenerative diseases such as cancer. "Polyphenols act like a force field, helping to repel foreign invaders from damaging your cells," says David Grotto, RD, author of 101 Foods That Could Save Your Life!

You'll also get...protection from breast cancer. A recent test-tube and animal study from Sichuan University in China found that lychee may help to prevent the formation of breast cancer cells, thanks to the fruit's powerful antioxidant activity.

Shop for lychee with few black marks on the rough, leathery shell, which can be anywhere from red to brown in color. Look for fruit that gives when pressed gently. Shells should be intact and the fruit attached to the stem.

Serve by peeling or breaking the outer covering just below the stem; use a knife to remove the black pit. Add to stir-fries or skewer onto chicken kebabs to add a sweet, g****like flavor.

For beautiful skin

Good: Orange
Better: Guava

Why: One cup of guava has nearly five times as much skin-healing vitamin C (it's a key ingredient in collagen production) as a medium orange (377 mg versus 83 mg)--that's more than five times your daily need. Women who eat a lot of vitamin C-packed foods have fewer wrinkles than women who don't eat many, according to a recent study that tracked the diets of more than 4,000 American women ages 40 to 74.

You'll also get...bacteria-busting power. Guava can protect against foodborne pathogens such as Listeria and Staph, according to research by microbiologists in Bangladesh. Also, a cooperative study by the USDA and Thai scientists found that guava has as much antioxidant activity as some well-known superfoods like blueberries and broccoli (though every plant contains a different mix of the healthful compounds).

Shop for guava using your nose. A ripe guava has a flowery fragrance, gives a bit to the touch, and has a thin, pale green to light yellowish rind.

Serve by adding to fruit cobbler recipes (the tiny seeds are edible) or simmer chunks in water as you would to make applesauce. Guava also makes a super smoothie: Blend 1/2 banana, 1/2 ripe guava, a handful of strawberries, 1/2 cup soy milk, and a few ice cubes.
To lower cholesterol

Good: Apples
Better: Asian pears

Why: One large Asian pear has nearly 10 g of cholesterol-lowering fiber, about 40% of your daily need; a large apple has about half that much. People who ate the most fiber had the lowest total and "bad" cholesterol levels, according to a recent study of Baltimore adults.

You'll also get...protection from creeping weight gain. The same researchers found that people who ate the most fiber also weighed the least and had the lowest body mass index and waist circumference.

Shop for pears with a firm feel; fragrant aroma; and blemish-free, yellow brownish skin. Some pears are speckled in appearance; the markings shouldn't affect flavor.

Serve by dicing it into a salad of Boston lettuce, crumbled goat cheese, walnuts, and mandarin oranges. Or, make it a dessert: Add peeled and cored pears to a saucepan with 1 cup white wine, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and enough water to cover the pears. Cover and simmer 40 minutes or until pears are soft.
To fight cancer

Good: Watermelon
Better: Papaya

Why: It is one of the top sources of beta-crypoxanthin, which research suggests can protect against lung cancer. Like watermelon, it is also a rich source of lycopene. "Although there is currently no recommendation for how much lycopene you should consume in a day, research shows that the nutrient may protect against several different types of cancer, including stomach, endometrial, and prostate," says Grotto.

You'll also get...better healing. Papayas may help speed burn recovery when used topically, thanks partly to the enzyme papain, which also aids in digestion. "Papain helps break down amino acids, the building blocks of protein," says Elisa Zied, RD, an American Dietetic Association spokesperson.

Shop for a papaya with yellow golden skin that yields to gentle pressure.

Serve by cutting lengthwise and discarding black seeds. Scoop the flesh using a spoon and sprinkle with lemon juice. Or combine chopped papaya, mango, red bell pepper, red onion, raspberries, lemon juice, and cilantro for a fruit salsa. Serve over grilled fish.

How to gain weight...

2009-07-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

How to gain weight...
Most of the people I meet ask for my advice about how to lose weight and keep it off, but some of my clients are actually trying to gain weight. Being extra-lean genetically is rare, but I do have some clients who say, "I eat a ton and can't seem to keep weight on." I also have clients who've lost weight due to dental surgery, a digestive problem, stress or an illness, who are trying to get back to a healthy weight.

As a sports nutritionist, I also work with professional athletes who tend to lose weight over the course of a grueling season, from both the wear and tear of competing and the intense travel schedule.

Gaining weight might seem incredibly easy (just pig out!) but there's actually a science to it -- IF what you want to gain is lean tissue. It drives me absolutely bonkers when I hear that a doctor or other health professional recommended eating pints of ice cream, double cheeseburgers and mounds of candy as a weight gain prescription. That may be effective for packing on body fat, but if you're looking to build lean tissue (including muscle and bone) and create healthy new cells, high calorie junk food isn't going to cut the mustard. Here's why and how to do it right:

The old phrase, "You are what you eat" is absolutely true. Nutrients from food are literally the raw materials that construct new cells. A junk food filled diet devoid of nutrients does't give your body much to work with (it's like constructing a house with cardboard and tape instead of bricks and mortar). It's not just about calories. For example, muscle is partially made from protein, so constructing new muscle tissue requires this key nutrient. Bottom line: building healthy new cells requires a combo of extra calories and a wide range of nutrients.

Here are My Five "Good Gain" Rules:

1. Don't let over 4 hours go by without eating. Your body needs a continuous supply of energy since it's always on (your heart is always beating, blood is circulating, your bones and muscles are moving). When you skip meals, you deprive your body of the fuel it needs to keep going. The result? Your body dips into its piggy bank, which unfortunately includes muscle (if our bodies only relied on stored body fat as a back-up, losing weight would be incredibly easy -- all you'd have to do is stop eating until you used up all your excess fat. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way!). The best way to prevent your body from losing any important tissue is to consistently eat regular meals and if you're trying to gain new muscle tissue, meal timing is especially critical. Sometimes the people who tell me they "eat like crazy" yet can't gain weight actually forget to eat for 8+ hours on a pretty regular basis, or they eat one big meal a day and consider that "eating a lot." A steady stream of healthy meals is key. (See a list of 12-eat right rules here.)

2. Eat several foods at once. For snacks, aim for at least three food groups like a whole grain, fruit and nut combo versus fruit alone. This provides your body with a broader spectrum of nutrients to work with throughout the day.

3. Boost your calorie intake healthfully. The best way to rack up excess calories without a) having to eat huge quantities of food and b) having to eat junk food is to choose nutrient rich foods that pack a big calorie punch for a small amount. The best options are nuts, seeds and natural nut butters, unsweetened dried fruit, whole grains and lean proteins. For example, a half cup of dried apricots have almost 200 calories compared to just 80 in a full cup of fresh, sliced apricots (note: this is no sugar added dried fruit, just the water removed). Two slices of dense whole grain bread spread with 2 Tbsp of natural almond butter and a handful of dried figs, dates or apricots can easily supply over 500 calories, along with dozens of key vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (and without the saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol or added sugar). Melted dark chocolate (which is high calorie but heart healthy) mixed with whole oats, chopped dried fruit and chopped nuts is another great snack option (and pretty yummy too).

4. Drink your calories. This is the exact opposite of what I tell most people but here's why: liquid calories tend to not be filling, so when you're trying to gain weight, they can add needed calories without making you feel stuffed or bloated. Good choices include 100% fruit juice, low fat milk or milk alternatives (like soy milk) and smoothies. Smoothies are great because you can bolster them with all kinds of goodies like wheat germ, flax oil, nut butter, and protein powder. (See a slideshow of 25 super-healthy smoothies here!)

5. Eat right before bed. Sleep time is when a lot of our healing, repair and regeneration work takes place. It's like rush hour for building muscle and lean tissue, so eating a healthy snack right before bed ensures a fresh supply of nutrients available togo to work inside the body. Once again, it's great timing.

Alternative Remedies for High Blood Pressure

2009-07-16T12:43:00.000-07:00

Alternative Remedies for High Blood Pressure

The following article is about alternative herbal remedies and techniques to control high blood pressure. I suggest , try these remedies, keep a track of the blood pressure, and you may find it is possible to reduce and slowly eliminate the drugs you are taking. It is important to be careful and take the advice of a doctor also. High blood pressure can be life threatening so it is important to regularly test same and keep it under control.

The first steps to be taken in the fight against high blood pressure are the following.
Reduce weight if obese.
Start daily brisk walk, at least for two kilometers a day.
Reduce common salt intake.

Then try
Some meditation. Find a useful LINK here. The idea is to reduce stress. The modern lifestyle contributes to high blood pressure in a major way. Reducing stresslevels is an important step forward.

High blood pressure may be indicative of some other problem with your body . Try to find the cause by clinical investigation. A good doctor should be able to recommend some appropriate tests. Some indications of high blood pressure can be : high frequency of urination, constant headache, tiredness and fatigue, lack of energy, poor concentration and poor mental health.

To control high blood pressure the alternative way , I would recommend the following herbal and natural remedies. It is very important to keep taking normal medication along with these remedies. You may try to reduce the medicines slowly after 2 weeks or so after these remedies start to talk effect. It is extremely important and vital to monitor the blood pressure regularly and take the advice of a doctor during the whole process.

* Try Chewing four to five raw curry leaves twice a day - Morning and Evening.
* Go for Homeopathic medicines . Try visiting a trained homeopath for the medicines best suited to your particular symptoms. The following medicines in different combinations and potencies are very effective in controlling high blood pressure without the aid of normal energy sapping drugs. I give the homeopathic remedies but urge you to consult the doctor for the correct potencies and daily usage. They are Rauvolfia Serpentina, Crataegus Oxycantha, Passiflora Incarnata, Glonoine, Lachesis. The doctor will select what is best for your condition. Homeopathic treatments are very effective in controlling this problem. It is my personal experience that homeopathy can do wonders in many cases. The trick is to stick on with the remedies for at least 2 weeks to find a benefit. Even the sceptics should try them at least once, before discarding them. Start with Rauvolfia Serpentina -Mother Tincture, 10 -15 drops in 50 ml of water thrice a day. You should start experiencing relief within two weeks when you need to consult a trained homeopath for further advice.
* Another home remedy that seems to work with many people is the following. Mix 5 ml of onion juice with 5 ml of honey and take this mixture everyday, first thing in the morning. Try this remedy for 15 days, monitor blood pressure levels regularly and continue, if you experience a benefit.

Herbal Remedies for Diabetes Mellitus

2009-07-16T12:42:00.002-07:00

Herbal Remedies for Diabetes Mellitus

I have scoured the ancient Ayurveda and folk writing of India to look for some herbal cures for mild cases of Diabetes Mellitus. It seems a shame to be on drugs for the whole of ones life, for any problem of the body. At times there may be no recourse but to be on insulin and drugs to control this problem. However there is no harm in trying these herbs. There are many positive cases and at times the patient’s response to these herbs is excellent. However not all humans respond in the same way. So experiment a bit, check your blood sugar levels regularly and try to keep a track of the benefits of these herbs as applicable to your body. If you can find a continuous positive response, you may, after consultation with your physician or doctor start to reduce your allopathic medicines.

Three very effective measures against Diabetes Mellitus are:

Light Daily Exercise: A brisk walk twice a day for a couple of Kilometers each time is very useful in control of blood sugar levels. This is a must for all patients of Diabetes.

Reduce Obesity: If you are overweight for your height and age, you need to reduce your weight. However for patients of diabetes, it is important to reduce the body weight slowly under doctor supervision. The benefits are immense.

Diet Control : Stop over eating and follow a doctors recommended diet strictly.

Some Herbs are found to be effective against Diabetes. I am giving their local name / Latin names and also the method by which the same have to prepared and ingested.

One well known and ancient remedy is Bitter Gourd. This vegetable is an effective cure against diabetes and has been used for time immemorial against this problem. However it may not be effective in all cases but is worth a try. Squeeze and crush the vegetable in a juicer or by hand to collect one ounce (approximately 6 – 7 tea spoons) in a glass. The juice will be very bitter. Drink this juice on empty stomach in the morning and also once in the evening. Try this therapy for at least 30 days to find improvement in blood sugar levels. This therapy is practiced in many households for effective control of diabetes and has been found to be curative also in some cases. So try it.

Fenugreek is also an effective curative herb for this problem. A tablespoonful of fenugreek leaf juice taken early in the morning for about three months has been found to cure early stages of Diabetes Mellitus. The powder of Fenugreek seeds is also effective in this condition. Crush the seeds in a blender and take 5 grams of this powder twice a day with curds to find positive results.

One teaspoon of cinnamon powder taken twice a day , morning and evening with water has also been found to be effective against Diabetes. This is an easy remedy so all patients of this problem , must try it for two to three weeks to find, if it is effective for them or not.

Some other common herbs found useful in treating Diabetes Mellitus are Jamun and its seeds, Gulair (Ficus Glomerata), Coriander seeds, Lettuce, Red rose flower & Fennel seeds. a mixture of the powders from these herbs taken twice a day , is also found to be effective for this problem.

There are a few herbal powders available in the market, which use a combination of two or more of the above herbs. They may be also tried for treatment of this disease. At times for some body types, they can be very effective.

In conclusion, diabetes patient needs to exercise regularly, cut down on white sugar, reduce weight if obese and try some natural herbs. A combination of the above treatment and lifestyle change can work wonders. Take your pick and experiment to find the best solution to your problem.

Home Remedies and Health Tips

2009-07-16T12:42:00.001-07:00

Home Remedies and Health Tips
To get immediate relief from an irritable cough, take a thin slice of freshly cut onion and pour two teaspoons of honey on it. Keep aside for 3- 4 hours and then remove the onion and lick the honey to get substantial relief from an irritable cough.

Chew raw guava leaves to get quick relief from diarrhea. Try it and enjoy relief the natural herbal way.
To cure acidity after meals, drink a glass of water with a piece of jaggery (raw brown unprocessed sugar) dissolved in it, after meals. Try this natural way, to get relief from a very common complaint in the modern world.

Hiccups Problem? Roast some peppercorns and breathe in deeply. This will stop hiccups promptly.

Another quick cure for a loose stomach… Try fenugreek seeds in a glass of semi warm water.

Improve the health of your liver by eating a refrigerated fresh pineapple piece dipped in honey, once a day. Experience a marked improvement within 15 days.

To get relief from chronic constipation, try eating half a cup of blanched spinach.

Chewing cloves is a good way to protect your teeth and get rid of bad breath.

Do you need relief from muscular pain? Try a mustard bath! Take 15- 20 grams of mustard powder, tie it in a piece of cloth, dip it into a bucket of hot water for 10- 15 minutes and then bathe with that water. Get relief from muscular pains and cramps.

Do you know raw cabbage and cabbage juice helps to regenerate the frayed mucosal, inner stomach and intestine linings.

To reduce the sting of a bee bite, apply one tsp of onion juice to the affected area. Then remove the stinger with a tweezers.

To cure bad breath, boil a few (4-6) fenugreek leaves in one glass of water and then gargle with this semi warm water. Try it for 7 days, twice a day, to see substantial improvement.

Soak one teaspoon of wheat in 150 ml of water over night. Drink this water in the morning after filtering out the wheat to get immediate relief from acidity and stomach problems. Try it for 3- 4 days to find substantial improvement.

Add a pinch of asafetida to semi hot water (warm water) and drink it to get relief from menstrual cramps. This is a safe natural remedy to an age old problem and works well with most women.

Chew five basil leaves first thing in the morning daily to keep away infection of the throat, mouth and gums. Make this a regular habit and avoid throat problems.

Indigestion any one? One teaspoon of mint juice mixed with an equal amount of honey and lemon juice is a good cure for this problem. Try it for three days after heavy meals and enjoy the difference.

To get rid of bruises quickly before an important engagement, dip cotton wool in undiluted vinegar and bandage the bruised area with same till dry. Find instant relief.

You can use the white of an egg as an emergency burn ointment.

Asthma patients can get some relief by drinking a teaspoon of honey mixed in a cup of boiled water daily.

To get rid of a persistent cough, eat a guava that has been baked in an oven or over charcoal. Try this home remedy for four to five days to obtain relief.

Rub an aspirin tablet on a bee sting to stop pain. The aspirin acts as a local anesthetic!

Tender coconut water applied on a skin regularly for six months reduces and removes small pox scars.

Drinking wheat grass juice is a health tonic. Drink a glass every alternate day to find an increase in vigor.

For immediate relief from aches in your legs or hands, immerse the affected limb in hot water mixed with salt.

One teaspoon castor oil taken with semi hot (warm) water early in the morning on an empty stomach is an excellent cure for indigestion. It also helps alleviate muscular pains.

To get relief from menstrual cramps, peel a few garlic flakes, fry them in clarified butter, cool add sugar and swallow a couple. Find relief in 15 minutes.

Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

2009-07-16T12:41:00.000-07:00

Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps

One easy and quick fix which every one can try for abdominal cramps is to add 5 grams (One teaspoon) of asafetida powder to 200 ml of warm water (Not hot) and drink same twice with a gap of 30 minutes. This herb has the ability to fix cramps in the abdominal and stomach area and gives partial to total relief in many cases. This home remedy is effective, natural and safe so try it next time.

Another remedy that is effective involves garlic peels. Garlic has many beneficial properties and can also help in alleviating pain and cramps relating to menstrual problems. Peel four to five pieces of garlic and fry them in clarified butter. Let them cool and then sprinkle a little sugar on them. Swallow a couple of pieces and wait for 15 minutes to find relief. For more effective relief, swallow another couple after a couple of hours. You will not believe how effective this can be.

Another quick fix is to apply heat to the abdomen area for partial relief. You can use a hot water bottle, wrap it in a towel and apply directly to affected area for relief.

One cooked banana flower, eaten with curd is a good cure for excessive bleeding during menstruation. This also provides relief from abdominal cramps in certain specific cases so it is worth a try.

I also recommend Homeopathic treatment for a long term cure to the problem of back pain, cramps and general ill health due to menstrual problems. There are many effective homeopathic remedies which work very well for many women. These remedies are safe and very effective. Check out some readymade homeopathic mixtures or visit a homeopathic consultant to get the right combination of homeopathic medicines.

With a little focused effort, you can find relief from this problem and enjoy your life to the full, so start experimenting a bit. For any persistent problem, a professional doctor is best. At times the underlying reasons are not easy to find, so consult a doctor for long term relief.

Control Body Odor, the Herbal Way

2009-07-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

Control Body Odor, the Herbal Way

Body odor can be embarrassing and can cause relationship problems. They can also disrupt the office work environment and cause friction. The normal accepted way to control this body odor is to spray and a lot of cologne and perfume and trust in their efficacy. My way is different.
Bad body odor can happen to anyone at any time. It may be the arm pits that are smelling or maybe the feet. At times, the hair can also smell bad and bad odor can also come through sweat glands on the body. It is important to understand what is causing the bad odor and try to fix that problem rather than try cosmetic solutions which will work only in the short term.
Bad Body odor can be caused by the sweat glands getting rid of toxins which cause bad smell. It can also be caused by a local bacterial infection in the armpits. Certain medicines can also cause a person's body to smell bad as the body secretes them out with sweat. Stress related factors can also cause the body to smell bad.
In my experience, poor diet and stress related factors are the primary cause of bad body odor. Every one sweats and sweat is essential to keep the body cool and to de stress. It is not recommended to use body deodorants that stop sweat formation in armpits ( for example) to try and control body odor. This can cause more harm than good.
I would recommend the following regime to control bad body smell.

* Prepare a mixture of lime juice, sugar and a little salt (home made lemonade) and drink three glasses a day. (if diabetic, take it without sugar). This helps to remove toxins from the body.
* Sip ginger tea before and after meals. This helps in keeping sweat glands in check.
* Cut out spices from your diet. Reduce intake of red meat and foods such as white bread and processed foods. Increase the intake of green vegetables, fresh fruits and raw and boiled vegetables in your diet.
* Reduce intake of coffee and alcohol.

The above dietary changes will have an almost immediate effect on bad odor (odour). The body will start responding positively within a week to ten days and start smelling better.
In combination with the above lifestyle and dietary changes, I would also recommend the following herbal remedies.

* Soak cotton wool pads in apple cider vinegar and apply it to the underarms and feet area. This helps fix the pH balance in the body and helps in reducing bad smelling bacteria and controlling minor infections if any.
* You may alternate usage of apple cider vinegar with diluted lime juice. This will help control infections and provide vitamin C direct to the skin.
* Add rose water to your bath water. Add it to your last rinse and it will help keep your body smelling cool and sweet for a long time.
* Rubbing potato slices to problem areas also helps reduce body odor (odour).
* Get your hair smelling good, by adding lime juice to your last rinse. This will help eliminate bacteria that may be causing bad smell. Lemon juice also helps restore the pH balance of the hair and scalp.
* If your feet are smelling bad, you need to understand that your body is telling you to change your diet. Start wearing cotton socks ( and change them twice a day) so that the feet may breath easy and wear leather shoes, which breathe. Every evening dip your feet in hot water to which alum has been added. Rub some potato slices to the soles to help control the smell. You may also sprinkle some baking soda on your feet before putting on the socks. Baking soda is a well known anti odor agent.

In conclusion, eliminate body odor with dietary changes and herbal remedies. Use perfumes and colognes with discretion. Avoid deodorants and let your body sweat. This is the healthy, natural way

Contact Lenses : When, Where, why and How ?

2009-07-16T12:39:00.001-07:00

Contact Lenses : When, Where, why and How ?

Some possible reasons to wear contact lenses may be tabulated below.
As most people who use contact lenses would know that eye power is measured in diopters and when the difference between the power of the left and right eye is more than four diopters, a person may experience 'double imaging' while using corrective glasses and contact lenses may be recommended.
When eye power is high, corrective glasses would be very thick. This may reduce the field of vision and contact lenses may be recommended. In these cases, contact lenses may actually help to increase field of vision and improve quality of vision.
In specific cases, lenses can help in stabilizing eye power and prevent further deterioration of eye sight. In these cases contact lenses may be highly recommended.
Some professions like acting, modeling, hospitality industry etc may demand a corrective glass free personal appearance, and contact lenses may be the only solution.

Contact lenses surely improve one's looks and appearance, however certain precautions are necessary for a safe experience.
Make sure you never swim with your lenses on. This can cause an eye infection.
Do not sleep with your lenses on, because the oxygenation process may be hampered. This might result in the lens getting stuck to the cornea, which may damage the lens and the eye. So lenses have to be removed when taking a quick nap or when going to bed for the night. This is an important precaution to be taken for a safe experience.
Do not wear contact lenses longer that the time prescribed. Usually, lenses can be used for a maximum of about 12 to 14 hours a day. Consult your doctor for the ideal time for which you may safely wear them.
Do try to avoid lenses if you are a diabetic as the chances of infection are higher. Consult a doctor if you insist on wearing them.

Contact Lenses do give a boost to your self esteem and improve your looks but you need time and patience to look after them. Do you have what it takes to maintain your lenses?
Do not leave your lenses lying around. When not in use, store them in the appropriate container with the cleaning solution. A dusty atmosphere and chemical fumes may damage your lenses, if they are left uncovered. So use the storage box provided.
Maintain hygiene while handling contact lenses. Wash your hands carefully before touching the lenses.
Daily sterilization of your lens is a must for soft lens users. Sterilization refers to cleaning of the lenses with the prescribed cleaning solution, which are sold along with the lenses. This daily routine will help in preventing eye infections.
Clean the lenses daily only with a cleaner prescribed by your doctor. Regular water must not be used for this, as it is not sterile and may damage the lenses. Damaged lenses will create eye problems.
You may need to change the storage fluid daily. If the cleaning solution or the storage fluid is unclean, or the container is dirty, this may damage the lenses and, in turn, your eyes.
The lenses must settle on the eye properly. If they do not do so, please consult an eye doctor immediately. Do not keep waiting, hoping things will settle down automatically.
In case you experience any sort of pain, watering, redness, discharge, decreasing vision or heaviness, remove the lenses immediately and consult your doctor.
The lenses may need to be changed periodically, depending upon their life span.

These days contact lenses may be worn be all age groups. However, parents may have to take care of the lenses for young children and teenagers need to be educated on the merits, demerits and care that needs to be taken. Bifocal contact lenses may be used by elderly people. Everyone has a chance to look attractive and smart, however it is important to balance eye safety with good looks. With proper care, precautions and intelligent usage, contact lenses can add value to one's appearance and enhance personality. If you have the time and inclination, go for them, after consulting your eye doctor.

Herbal Beauty Multiple Tips & Natural Herbal Care

2009-07-16T12:38:00.001-07:00

Herbal Beauty: Multiple Tips & Natural Herbal Care

Find below multiple tips and natural herbal solutions for common beauty issues relating to hair problems, wrinkles, bad breath, cracked skin and acne.

To remove the dark marks caused by a bad sun tan, add 5 table spoons of rose water to one table spoon of lime juice and apply to face or affected area at night. Wash off with water the next morning to find clear beautiful skin.

To keep your skin and body smelling nice the whole day, add dried rose petals to your bath water. You are sure to smell lovely the whole day.. No need for an expensive perfume!

Chewing a cardamom is an excellent remedy for bad breath and also cuts down on excessive thirst.

To get rid of oily hair, just add three teaspoons of lime juice in the final rinse while washing your hair. Your hair will become much more manageable. Try this for two times in a week for two weeks to see astonishing results.

In order to get a cheap and effective face mask, grind a mixture of fruit (orange, lemon) and Vegetable (Cucumber) peels in a mixer. Apply the mixture as a face pack and wash after 20 minutes. Try this once daily, for 7 days to see a marked improvement in facial skin. Find glowing skin in a few days.

Remove scars on your hands and feet the natural way …. Rub them with lemon peels 5- 7 minutes a day, twice a day for 7 days to see a marked improvement.

Try this alternative face mask: Prepare a mixture of sandal wood paste and raw milk in the ratio 1: 3 and rub on your face and hands. Leave for 15 minutes and wash off. Find glowing, beautiful lovely smelling skin. Try this once every two days for ten days and enjoy the difference.

For sparkling teeth , try sprinkling a pinch of soda bicarbonate on your tooth brush and brushing your teeth once a day for 10 days … You will be amazed by the difference you can see after just 5 days .
Use the scrapings of bitter gourd ( Karela) to remove pimples and get rid of acne and black heads. Just rub the scrapings (peels) on your face, once a day for 3- 5 days to see, blackheads vanish and a marked reduction in pimples and acne.

To treat darkened elbows and lower arms, an effective solution is to prepare a paste of fresh milk cream, pinch of turmeric powder and two to three drops of basil ( tulsi) leaf extract . Apply this paste to the darkened are and leave overnight. Wash off in the morning. Repeat for 7 nights to find marked improvement.

To give your hair bounce, mix gram flour ( besan) with Starch from cooked rice and apply to hair . Wash after few minutes to find hair with flair.

To cure bad breath, boil a few fenugreek (methi) leaves in water and then use this water for gargling. You will find a marked improvement within 3 days of this usage.

To prevent pimples and reduce acne, wash your face with raw milk before you go to sleep. This is an effective and easy solution.

To prevent body odor, add a little ‘alum’ to your bath water.

To smoothen wrinkles and moisturize the skin the natural way, peel and core a small apple, mash it well and blend with one teaspoon of honey. Apply this mixture on the face and neck slowly in an upwards direction. Wash off with warm water after 15 minutes to see a marked improvement. Try this thrice a week for 3 weeks and then only once a week to find a distinct lack of wrinkles and moisturized skin.

For healthy and voluminous hair, heat coconut oil, add two flakes of garlic and three peppercorns to it. Cool and apply to your scalp for health hair.

One very effective way to cure bad breath is to eat a green unripe apple. It will naturally cleanse your mouth and give it a fresh feel. If apples are unavailable try a semi hard citrus fruit. It should be equally effective.

Rub your teeth with burnt almond shell powder to reduce the yellow tint. See a marked improvement in 7 days.

To moisturize and make smooth dry cracked skin, apply a mixture of glycerin, fresh cream and honey in the ratio 1: 1: 1. This is an effective cure for cracked heels also.

Tips to remain slim

2009-07-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Tips to remain slim

* First of all we must be determined to remain slim and work towards it. Develop a mind set towards it.

* Set realistic goals.

* Make lifestyle changes like giving up alcohol, smoking, avoiding fatty food, refined food,...

* Include fresh foods as far as possible as processed foods tend to contain high level of salt and sugar

* Do not expect immediate results.

* Never go for crash diets instead reduce weight gradually and slowly.

* Never skip meals as you tend to eat more, the next meal. Do not skip breakfast in particular.

* Include lot of fiber in your diet as it gives a feeling of fullness, thereby preventing you from gorging spicy and fatty food.

* Nuts contain lot of fiber .They are satisfying and cause people to eat less at meal time.

* Take warm lime juice mixed with honey the first thing in the morning.

* Go for skimmed milk.

* As far as possible avoid weight loss supplements.

* When you have cravings for sweets, take a fruit instead.

* When you have cravings for certain type of food like chocolates or ice cream, once in a while, you can take in small quantities .

* Take fruits and vegetables which has lot of water content like watermelons, cucumbers and white pumpkin.

* Keep yourself engaged as boredom leads to overeating.

* Drink lot of water, at least 8 glasses per day.

* Use the stairs instead of lift. Park the car a little far away and walk to your office. Use every opportunity to be physically active.

* Walk, Walk and Walk as much as possible .Even if you are busy, go for walk at least 5 days a week.

* Aerobic exercise like jogging, swimming, cycling, running accelerates weight loss. Consult a physician before starting any weight loss program. Aerobic exercise combined with healthy eating will certainly help in weight reduction.

* Make your exercise session enjoyable.

* Keep yourself free of stress

* Finally, weight loss is a slow process, so do not get disappointed and give up.

Tips to Improve Stamina

2009-07-16T12:36:00.000-07:00

Tips to Improve Stamina

1. Skipping: Start small. Skip for some time daily - as long as you feel comfortable. Each week try to increase the duration a little.This can have a good effect on increasing your stamina.

2. Running on the Spot: Run on the spot for a set period of time, like 2 minutes to start with. Later as days pass by you can increase it to maybe 5 minutes etc.

3. Swimming: Everybody must be aware of the good effects of swimming. It is a very good exercise. If you make a habit to swim atleast 30 minutes everyday it can do wonders for your stamina.

4. Cycling: This is another very good exercise for increasing stamina vastly. All the above mentioned exercises not only improve our stamina, they come with a wide range of other health benefits too.

5. When working out, keep in mind two things: overload and progression. Overload is necessary to improve stamina, but don't overdo it. If you are getting irritable or depressed, they can be the first signs of fatigue. Progression means to keep on improving.

60 Uses Of Salt

2009-07-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

60 Uses Of Salt

Although you may not realize it, simple table salt has a great number of uses other than simply seasoning your food. The following list will give you sixty uses of salt, many of which you probably didn't realize:

1. Soak stained hankies in salt water before washing.
2. Sprinkle salt on your shelves to keep ants away.
3. Soak fish in salt water before descaling; the scales will come off easier.
4. Put a few grains of rice in your salt shaker for easier pouring.
5. Add salt to green salads to prevent wilting..
6. Test the freshness of eggs in a cup of salt water; fresh eggs sink; bad ones float.
7. Add a little salt to your boiling water when cooking eggs; a cracked egg will stay in its shell this way.
8. A tiny pinch of salt with egg whites makes them beat up fluffier.
9. Soak wrinkled apples in a mildly salted water solution to perk them up.
10. Rub salt on your pancake griddle and your flapjacks won't stick.
11. Soak toothbrushes in salt water before you first use them; they will last longer.
12. Use salt to clean your discolored coffee pot.
13. Mix salt with turpentine to whiten you bathtub and toilet bowl.
14. Soak your nuts in salt brine overnight and they will crack out of their shells whole. Just tap the end of the shell with a hammer to break it open easily.
15. Boil clothespins in salt water before using them and they will last longer.
16. Clean brass, copper and pewter with paste made of salt and vinegar, thickened with flour
17. Add a little salt to the water your cut flowers will stand in for a longer life.
18. Pour a mound of salt on an ink spot on your carpet; let the salt soak up the stain.
19. Clean your iron by rubbing some salt on the damp cloth on the ironing surface.
20. Adding a little salt to the water when cooking foods in a double boiler will make the food cook faster.
21. Use a mixture of salt and lemon juice to clean piano keys.
22. To fill plaster holes in your walls, use equal parts of salt and starch, with just enough water to make a stiff putty.
23. Rinse a sore eye with a little salt water.
24. Mildly salted water makes an effective mouthwash. Use it hot for a sore throat gargle.
25. Dry salt sprinkled on your toothbrush makes a good tooth polisher.
26. Use salt for killing weeds in your lawn.
27. Eliminate excess suds with a sprinkle of salt.
28. A dash of salt in warm milk makes a more relaxing beverage.
29. Before using new glasses, soak them in warm salty water for awhile.
30. A dash of salt enhances the taste of tea. ?
31. Salt improves the taste of cooking apples.
32. Soak your clothes line in salt water to prevent your clothes from freezing to the line; likewise, use salt in your final rinse to prevent the clothes from freezing.
33. Rub any wicker furniture you may have with salt water to prevent yellowing.
34. Freshen sponges by soaking them in salt water.
35. Add raw potatoes to stews and soups that are too salty.
36. Soak enamel pans in salt water overnight and boil salt water in them next day to remove burned-on stains.
37. Clean your greens in salt water for easier removal of dirt.
38. Gelatin sets more quickly when a dash of salt is added.
39. Fruits put in mildly salted water after peeling will not discolor.
40. Fabric colors hold fast in salty water wash..
41. Milk stays fresh longer when a little salt is added.
42. Use equal parts of salt and soda for brushing your teeth.
43. Sprinkle salt in your oven before scrubbing clean.
44. Soaked discolored glass in a salt and vinegar solution to remove stains..
45. Clean greasy pans with a paper towel and salt.
46. Salty water boils faster when cooking eggs.
47. Add a pinch of salt to whipping cream to make it whip more quickly.
48. Sprinkle salt in milk-scorched pans to remove odor.
49. A dash of salt improves the taste of coffee..
50. Boil mismatched hose in salty water and they will come out matched.
51. Salt and soda will sweeten the odor of your refrigerator.
52. Cover wine-stained fabric with salt; rinse in cool water later.
53. Remove offensive odors from stove with salt and cinnamon.
54. A pinch of salt improves the flavor of cocoa.
55. To remove grease stains in clothing, mix one part salt to four parts alcohol.
56. Salt and lemon juice? Removes mildew.
57. Sprinkle salt between sidewalk bricks where you don't want grass growing.
58. Polish your old kerosene lamp with salt for a better look.
59. Remove odors from sink drainpipes with a strong, hot solution of salt water.
60. If a pie bubbles over in your oven, put a handful of salt on top of the spilled juice. The mess won't smell and will bake into a dry, light crust which will wipe off easily when the oven has cooled

Fruits that heal ...

2009-07-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

Fruits that heal ...
Corn

Corn
Lower cholesterol, Boost energy levels

Corn contains a type of dietary fiber called soluble fiber. When you eat corn, this fiber binds with bile, a cholesterol-laden digestive fluid produced by the liver. Since soluble fiber isn’t readily absorbed by the body, it passes out of the body, taking cholesterol with it.

We all heard a lot about how oat and wheat bran can lower cholesterol. Corn bran is in the same league. In a study at Illinois State University in Normal, researchers put 290 men with high cholesterol on low-fat diets. After two weeks on the diet, some of the men were each given 20 grams ( almost ½ tablespoon) of corn bran a day, while others received similar amount of wheat bran. During the six-week study, those on the corn bran plan had a drop in cholesterol of more than 5 % and about a 13% drop in triglycerides, blood fats that in large amounts can contribute to heart disease. Those who were given wheat bran showed no change beyond the initial drop caused by being on a low-fat diet.

The beauty of corn is that it provides a lot of energy while delivering a small amount of calories. Corn is an excellent source of thiamin, a B vitamin that’s essential for converting food to energy. An ear of corn provides 0.2 milligram of thiamin, 13 % of Daily Value.

And since fresh sweet corn consists primarily of simple and complex carbohydrates, it’s a superb energy source. It fulfills our energy needs without providing us with substantial amount of fat. What little fats there are in corn are the polyunsaturated and monounsaturated kinds, which are far healthier than the saturated fats.

Not all corn is created equal. Whereas yellow corn has more than 2 grams of fiber per serving, white corn more than doubles that, with a bit more than 4 grams per ear. When you buy corn, look for ears that have full, plump kernels and purchase it at the optimum stage of maturity. Under those conditions, the level of nutrients is higher.

Lemons and Limes

Lemons and Limes
Heal cuts and bruises, Prevent cancer and heart disease

You may not like tartness of lemons and limes, but back in the nineteen century people literally craved them, not for the tart taste but for remarkable health benefits these colorful fruits contain.

British sailors, for example, who typically spent months at sea without fresh fruits or vegetables, would drink lime juice to prevent scurvy, a terrible disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. And in California during the Gold Rush, when fruits were equally scarce, miners paid top dollar for lemons.

Of all nutrients we’re most familiar with, vitamin C is perhaps the most impressive. During cold season it’s always in demand, since it lowers levels if histamine, a naturally occurring chemical that can cause red eyes and runny noses. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant, meaning that it helps disarm powerful oxygen molecules in the body that contribute to cancer and heart disease. The body also uses vitamin C to manufacture collagen, the staff that glues cells together and is needed to help heal cuts and wounds.

The pulp and juice from lemons and limes are rich sources of vitamin C. A large lemon, for example contains about 45 milligrams of vitamin C, limes are also good, with s small lime containing about 20 milligrams of vitamin C.

There is more to lemons and limes than just vitamin C. These citrus fruits also contain additional compounds such as limonin and limonene, which help to block some of the cellular changes that can lead to cancer.

Limonene, which is found mainly in the colorful skin, or zest, of the fruit, has been shown to increase the activity of proteins that help eliminate estradiol, a naturally occurring hormone that has been linked with breast cancer. Limonene has also been shown to increase the level of enzymes in the liver that can remove cancer-causing chemicals.

Some innovative organic food companies add citrus zest to baking flower to provide added health benefits.

Whether you’re making a lemon meringue pie or simply adding flavor to store-bought lemon yogurt, be sure to add plenty of zest. The healing compound limonene makes up about 65% of oils in the peel. While fresh citrus peel contains the most healing compounds, dried lemon peel isn’t bad and you can find dried lemon peel in the spice rack at the supermarket.

Avocado

Avocado
Control cholesterol, Lower blood pressure, Prevent birth defects
Avocado has more calories than almost any fruit on the planet – 731! Its also has the dubious distinction of being one of the few fruits with a measurable fat content, with up to 30 grams each. That’s the daily recommended amount for an average adult.
You wouldn’t think that a food that’s so fattening could be good for you. But the word from dietitians, who say that adding a little avocado to your diet every day could actually improve your health.
Avocados are great source of folate and potassium. They also contain high amount of fiber and monounsaturated fat, both of which are good news for people who are concerned with diabetes or heart health.
People with diabetes have traditionally been told to eat more carbohydrates and cut back on fat. Overall that’s good advice, but it’s not necessarily the best advice for everyone.
Doctors have discovered that when some people who have diabetes eat a lot of carbohydrates, they tend to develop high levels of triglycerides, a type of blood fat that may contribute to heart disease. Surprisingly, when people replace some of those carbohydrates with fat, particularly the kind of fat found in avocados, the dangerous fats in the bloodstream tend to decline.
Avocados are rich source of monounsaturated fats, particularly a kind called oleic acid, and these monounsaturated fats improve fat levels in the body and help control diabetes.
In one study, scientists put 160 women with diabetes on a relatively high-fat diet, with about 40% of calories coming from fat. Most of the fat came from avocados. The result was a 20% drop in triglycerides. Women on a higher-carbohydrate plan, by contrast, had only 7% drop in triglycerides.
What’s nice about avocados is that they provide a lot of these monounsaturated fats. Someone on a 2,000-calorie-a-day diet, for example, might be advised to eat 33 grams of monounsaturated fat. You can get about 20 grams from just one avocado.
People with diabetes aren’t the only ones who benefit from eating a little more avocados. The oleic acid in avocados can also help people lower their cholesterol.
In a small study from Mexico, where guacamole is considered almost a food group, researchers compared the effects of two low-fat diets. The diets were the same except that one included avocados. While both lowered levels of dangerous, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the avocado diet raised levels of healthful high-density lipoprotein cholesterol while lowering triglycerides.
Avocados have large levels of potassium, half of avocado provides 548 milligrams of potassium, 16% of the Daily Value. That’s 15% more than you’d get in a medium banana. You can never get too much potassium – even small additions can make bid difference to your hearth’s health.
Avocados one of the perfect foods when you’re eating for two, particularly when it comes to getting enough folate, a nutrient that helps prevent life-threatening birth defects of the brain and spine. Many women don’t get enough folate in their diets, but avocados can go a long way towards fixing that. Half an avocado contains 57 milligrams of folate, 14% of the Daily Value.
Moms-to-be aren’t the only ones who should be dipping their chips in guacamole, though. Everyone needs folate. Its’ an essential nutrient for keeping nerves functioning properly. It also help fight hearth disease.

Parsnips

Parsnips
Prevent colon cancer, Lower the risk of heart disease, Stabilize blood sugar levels, Decrease the risk of stoke

Parsnips are strong-testing, oddly sweet vegetables that don’t usually win any awards for Best-Looking Vegetable in Show. They look like carrots that have seen a ghost.
But despite parsnips’ strong flavor and pale appearance, their nutritional profile is quite attractive. A member of the parsley family, parsnips are good sources of folate, fiber, and phenolic acids, which have been shown in studies to help block cancer.
Dietary fiber is on the top of all healing substances and parsnips are an excellent source. A little more than half of the fiber in parsnips is the soluble kind, which means that it becomes gel-like in the digestive system. This helps block the intestine from absorbing fats and cholesterol from foods. At the same time, it dilutes bile acids in the intestine, which can prevent them from causing cancer.
Soluble fiber has shown impressive ability to relieve or prevent many other conditions as well. Researchers have found that getting enough of soluble fiber in the diet can prevent many intestinal conditions and also can curb the blood sugar swings that occur with diabetes.
Some nutrition experts say that too little folate is our number one nutritional deficiency, particularly among younger folks, who often eat large amounts of fast food that largely devoid of vitamins. Parsnips are a good source of folate, with 1 cup containing 91 milligrams, 23% of DV.
Getting enough folate has been shown to prevent certain birth defects. It’s also strongly suspected of reducing the risk of stroke. Folate decreases blood levels of homocysteine, a chemical that may jam the arteries and stop blood flow.
Obviously, unless you truly have a passion for parsnips, it’s unlikely that you’ll ever eat three or more servings a day. But eating jus a half-cup will provide not only fiber and folate but also 280 milligrams of potassium, this will go a long way toward keeping your arteries clear.
Along with carrots and celery, parsnips are members of the umbelliferae family. Foods in this family contain a number of natural compounds called phytonutrients, which have been shown in many studies to block the spread of cancer cells. Chief among these compounds called phenolic acids. What phenolic acids do is attach themselves to potential cancer-causing agents in the body, creating bigger molecule – so big that the body can’t absorb it.
Research has shown that members of umbelliferae family can also fight cancer by inhibiting tumor growth.
Before storing parsnips in the refrigerator, snip the greens from the top, otherwise, the greens will draw moisture and nutrients from the root itself.
Some of the nutrients in parsnips are water-soluble and are quickly lost during cooking. Its better to cook them unpeeled. Once they tender, let them cook, then scrap or peel the skin away.

Tangerines

Tangerines
Prevent heart disease, Reduce the risk of cancer

At some time in the past, you’ve probably used canned mandarin oranges – tiny sections of orange fruit that look precious and perfect. Mandarin oranges are really small tangerines, or to be more precise, tangerines are really mandarin oranges, since tangerine isn’t a formal botanical term. So mandarin oranges – I’ll still call them tangerines – are actually not that exotic.
But their benefits are anything but commonplace. Tangerines contain quite a large amount of healing compounds. Like oranges, they are rich in vitamin C. One tangerine has 26 milligrams, 43% of Daily Value (DV). Tangerines also contain compound called beta-cryptoxanthin, which turns into vitamin A in the body. Eight ounces of tangerine juice can provide up to 1,037 international units of vitamin A, more than 20% of the DV.
This combination is important, since both vitamins are antioxidants – they can help stop harmful oxygen molecules called free radicals from causing cell damage in the body that can lead to everything from wrinkles and heart disease to cancer.
What makes tangerines really exciting to researchers are two compounds, tangeretin and nobiletin, which appear to be extremely potent against certain types of breast cancer. Researchers at the University of Western Ontario inLondon, Canada, found that each of these compounds was 250 times more potent against one type of human breast cancer cell than genistein, a powerful anti-cancer compound found in soy. When these compounds were combined, they were even more powerful, the researchers found.
Recently, in Japan, researchers at the Tokyo College of Pharmacy found that tangeretin could inhibit the growth of leukemia cells, essentially by causing them to program their own deaths. They also found the compound wasn’t toxic to healthy cells, which is an important goal for any cancer treatment. We need more research into healing power and benefits of Tangerines and no doubt, we will see more research done in the near future.
While the flesh of tangerines contains great share of healing compounds, most of the tangeretin and nobiletin are concentrated in the rind. To add more of these to your diet, use zester to remove strips of the outer rind, then stir them into glass of juice, mix them into rice and pasta dishes, or sprinkle them on salads. You will get extra-zingy flavor along with extra benefits.

Raisins

Raisins
Improve digestion, Lower blood pressure, Keep blood healthy
Raisins may not be much to look at, but they do have quite a history. Prehistoric cave dwellers attributed religious powers to them. They made raisin necklaces and decorations and drew pictures of raisins on cave walls. As early as 1000 B.C., the Israelites used them to pay taxes!
These days raisins occupy a much humbler place in society, but they just as useful as ever. Backpackers and hikers appreciate raisins for being high-energy, low-fat, very convenient snack. They fit easily in a lunch box, they almost never go bad, even if they’re in a pantry for a long time.
Raisins offer more than just convenience. Recent studies suggest that they can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol and even play a role in keeping digestion and blood healthy.
If you have high blood pressure – or even if you don’t, but you want to make sure your pressure stays in a healthy range- raisins are one of the best snacks you can buy. They are good source of potassium, a mineral that has been shown to lower high blood pressure.
In one study, researchers at John Hopkins Medical Institution in Baltimore gave men either potassium supplements or blank pills. Those who were given potassium saw their systolic pressure (the higher number) drop 7 points, while their diastolic pressure went down 3 points. Just ¼ cup of raisins contains 272 milligrams of potassium, 10% of the Daily Value. The researchers concluded that people, especially over the age of 40, ought to be consuming a fair amount of foods, such as raisins that contain high levels of potassium.
When we think of iron-rich foods, things such as red meat and liver usually come to mind. But raisins may be a better source of iron, particularly for people who eat little or no meat. Iron is essential for the creation of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which the body uses to transport oxygen. A quarter-cup of raisins has 0.8 milligram of iron, which is more than 8% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for men and 5% of the RDA for women.
Like other dried fruits, raisins also a good source of dietary fiber, with nearly 2 grams of fiber in ¼ cup. Not only does fiber play role in helping to prevent everyday problems such as constipation but its also lowers cholesterol and risk of heart disease.
Few years ago, researchers at the Health Research and Studies Centre in Los Altos, California, asked people with high cholesterol levels to eat 3 ounces of raisins (a little more than a half-cup) a day as part of a high-fiber, low-fat diet. After a month, the participant’s total cholesterol dropped an average of more than 8 percent, while their harmful low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels dropped 15%.
There is very little nutritional difference between black and golden raisins. The black variety has more thiamin, while the golden seedless type has a bit more vitamin B6. The main difference between them is the way they are dried.
Black, or sun-dried raisins are actually dried in the sun. This is what gives them their dark, shriveled look.
Golden seedless raisins are dried by exposing them to the fumes of burning sulfur in a closed chamber, which gives them their golden hue. In mid-1980’s researchers discovered that some people are sensitive to sulfites compounds and can get an allergic-type reactions when exposed to them If you are sulfite-sensitive, you should stay clear of golden seedless raisins and favor sun-dried varieties.
Raisins contain a type of iron called nonheme iron, which is harder for the body to absorb than the heme iron found in meats. Eating raisins along with foods high in vitamin C, however, will help improve absorption of nonheme iron.
To get the most raisins in your diet, it is often recommended buying snack-size packs. Due to their small size and the fact that raisins almost never go bad, they’re perfect for keeping them in your purse, glove compartment, or desk drawer and eating whenever you are in the mood for a quick snack

Heath leads to Happiness- How to accomplish.

2009-07-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

Heath leads to Happiness- How to accomplish.
Simple Tips for Being healthy & Happy
If you were to meet me in person, I'd probably smile at you - not know who you are, where you're from or what you do. Generally, I'm a happy person and like to spread some cheer throughout.

Here are some simple tips for feeling great, it starts on the inside and spreads out.

* UPKEEP
You don't have to look like a model to feel great and invariably, the one day you leave the house in the worst possible condition - is the day you will run into a client, your bosses boss, an old flame. So when you walk out the door - be content that if you see that person, you can SMILE and say HELLO!!!

* Making sure your clothes are clean and stain-free can always make you feel good.
* Brush your teeth 2 times a day, and carry gum or mints on hand in case you're in a conversation. (That happens when you have onions on your salad or sub.)
* When you brush your teeth - brush your lips too. It will rid dead skin and make you look younger.
* Get your yearly physicals!!!! (AND all those tests!!!)
* Moisturize your skin
* Drink water.
* The tip for this step is: Feeling GREAT is to be comfortable with who you are!!
* YOUR HEART
When you achieve to feel great, your heart is very important. The Beatles said, "Hey, you've got to hide your love away." But to feel GREAT this is not true.

* Do good for people, there are always opportunities, give a homeless person a goody bag (resource attached), open the doors for someone, leave an extra good tip for your lunch server, or have an open mind when you're listening to a friends' problems.
* Don't be afraid. Have confidence and try to do something new. Maybe you want to be an author, better to try and fail - then sit in misery and wondering what if. To feel GREAT you're going to have to try for some things, maybe even out of your comfort level.
* Consider adopting a pet from your local SPCA chapter. Sometimes to love, you need to be loved back.
* Keep a journal. In this journal you can list the ideas and dreams you have. How you would like to help other people. Places you would like to go.
* Prioritize your life. Do you feel guilt for not having time for friend and family? Is your house so clean someone could come in and eat off the floor? Think about the things in your life that ARE important and keep them close. Don't sacrifice your family and friends for a career. Don't sacrifice convenience for your health. Don't hide your emptiness with material things and steps that don't matter.
* The tip for this step is: Feeling GREAT is to realize how special you are and what you say and do in situations can change someone's life, do it with love, do it with your heart.
* TIME
When you feel GREAT you're generally not rushed. You've got some time for unexpected stops, changes in your schedule, a last minute lunch. Don't schedule your time to where there is nothing left.
* Wake up slowly - don't set that clock for your last minute you need for maximum sleep. Give yourself 10 minutes to wake up to music, get prepared for the day.
* If you're always late to work, get up 5 minutes earlier.
* Keep your counters clean - if that task is done, the rest of cleaning is a breeze.
* Start a gift drawer/closet. When you see a bargain AND a perfect gift for a friend, buy it - put their name on it and stick it in the drawer. That will save you time for last minute shopping.
* Decide how long you're going to keep things (bills, magazines, clothes, toys) then throw it out. This step can make your cleaning so much smoother.
* When you're tired, rest. Soak in a hot bath, get a pedicure, go golfing, or do something relaxing. Everyone needs downtime
* If you find yourself dreading a chore, go ahead and tackle it.
* Keep lists. Grocery lists. Drug store lists. Questions for your doctor or pharmacist. Work ideas that hit you at 3:22am.

* Take a day off and do something out of the ordinary. If you have children, share the experience with them. Eat dessert first that night.

* The tip for this step is: Feeling GREAT is to have time to enjoy life.

In the 80's Ferris reminded us, "Life goes by pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."

* SIMPLIFY THINGS
* Clean your sink by lining with paper towels and pour hydrogen peroxide on top of the paper towel and let it soak for 30 minutes.
* Boil cinnamon and water on your stove top for a fresh smell throughout the house.
* Clean your toilet by putting denture tablets in your toilet, let it soak overnight.
* Use toothpaste to remove crayon marks.
* Keep a family calendar
* The tip for this step is: Feeling GREAT is to look for creative ways to do the things that steal your time.
* HAPPINESS
If you're going to feel great you need to determine what it will take to make you feel GREAT.

Consider yourself in the equation, and what you are doing to keep you from feeling GREAT at this time. Make time for you, make sure you are not stretched too thin, and look towards feeling GREAT, find creative ways to live the life you've dreamed of.

* The tip for this step is: Feeling GREAT has a lot to do with how happy you are. Find out if there is anything keeping you from being happy and address it.

Five Super Tips to Cure Headaches

2009-07-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

Five Super Tips to Cure Headaches

It is best to consult a doctor first to find the cause of a specific headache. I give below some tips which will work for most headaches, but to be sure , always try to find the underlying cause.

Super Vinegar Cure
If you are looking for a quick headache fix , try this. Take a small thin towel and dip it in white vinegar. Rinse out the excess vinegar and wrap the towel around your head and relax with your eyes closed for around fifteen minutes. For persistent headaches, repeat every two hours and find relief. Quick and simple isn't it ? Try it at least once and you will love this quick and simple home cure.

Super Herb Cures
Try applying a ginger paste made from dried ginger powder and water on your forehead. The slight burning sensation will cure your headache and fix you like new !
Crushed Onion paste on the forehead can also work wonders. Beware as it might make your eyes overflow with tears but it is sure to make the headache run for cover too.
Prepare a solution with 3 grams of crushed coves and 10 ml cinnamon oil and apply to the forehead. Find relief in ten minutes. Be sure to wash it off after you find relief.

Super Oil Massage
Ask someone to give you a hair massage with sesame , almond or mustard oil. Dip the fingers in the oil and give a gentle massage which is sure to get the circulation going in the scalp and provide relief from headaches . This is an enjoyable way to get some relief and relaxation at the same time.

Super Meditation Cure
Try to close your eyes and sit straight with eyes closed. Focus between the eyebrows and relax. Let the tension flow out of the body and find the headache run away. Find more information on meditation techniques here .

Super Aromatherapy cures.
Sniffing peppermint oil , rose oil , Lavender oil , Chamomile oil can give relief from headaches. Try burning some candles made with these oils to get a fragrant room while the headaches vanish. Try and consult a aroma therapist for a specific oil recommendation best suited to your problem or experiment with a few smells.

Natural Moisturizers for Dry Skin

2009-07-16T12:29:00.000-07:00

Natural Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Does your skin feel like a desert? Not to worry! Soft, supple skin is not a mirage. If you're stuck in a dry spell and searching for relief, try a few of these natural moisturizing techniques to hydrate and revitalize your skin.

Hydrating Facial Mask
In a small bowl, mix one avocado, one raw egg, and one teaspoon of coconut oil to form a creamy paste. Apply the paste to your face and let it work its magic for 25 - 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Raw eggs and avocados contain natural moisturizing proteins, making them a super combo for fresh, luxurious skin. Adding coconut oil provides a boost of antioxidants.

Milk Bath
Fill your bathtub with warm water and add up to five cups of rich, whole milk or buttermilk. Light a few candles, turn on some tunes, and soak yourself for twenty to thirty minutes. Milk contains proteins that can help smooth and rejuvenate dry skin.

Oatmeal and Yogurt Exfoliant
Mix one cup uncooked oatmeal and a few spoonfuls of plain yogurt to create an exfoliating paste. Use as a gentle body scrub to remove dry, flaky skin and dead skin cells. The oatmeal will do the scrubbing while the yogurt does the moisturizing.

Maintain a Healthy Diet
Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat foods high in nutrients. Think fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco - all skin dehydrators, and avoid processed and packaged foods as much as possible.

Foods that help you Fight Fat

2009-07-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

Foods that help you Fight Fat
I have already discussed foods that are good for skin and foods that can be applied directly on the face. In this article I will discuss some easy to consume foods that help in reduction of body fat and curb hunger.

These are easily available foods and fruits that provide necessary vitamins, fiber and calories to keep the body going and provide a full feeling in the stomach. They are not to be taken as an exclusive diet but should be added to the diet. They will help in the reduction of consumption of fatty foods and also help curb hunger pangs which lead to binging and fat gain.

First of all, it is suggested that food may be cooked in Olive oil. This oil has fat burning properties and is also seen to influence distribution of body fat. Substituting greasy oils and butter used for cooking with olive oil, will generally result in a healthy body and significant weight loss over time.

Try and include fish in your diet, twice a week. A medium sized fish is ideal for fat control as it contains a balanced amount of protein and fat. Fish also contains essential minerals, vitamins and Omega 3 fatty acids which are needed by the body. A little fat in the fish is essential to keep the body fit and curb hunger and desire for more fatty foods. Deep fried fish is not suitable for fat control. Rather try grilled fish or fish cooked with a little olive oil.

Including Green leafy vegetables daily in one meal in the day will do wonders for fat loss and hunger control. Spinach, lettuce, cabbage, fenugreek leaves and radish leaves provide much needed vitamins and calcium and a lot of water and fiber. This helps fill the stomach much faster preventing hunger pangs and also provide much needed antioxidants. They may be taken lightly steamed or in a salad ( where possible) without salad dressings. Salads may be dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to make them more palatable.

Snacking between meals is one easy way to gain weight. One fruit that works very well as a snack is G****fruit. Snack on the whole fruit ( not juice) between meals. It provides vitamin C, fiber and absorbs water to provide a full feeling and curb hunger.

Cutting out red meat and deep fried foods from the diet is the way to fat loss. However these need to be substituted with healthy foods such as pulses and legumes. Foods such as beans, Bengal gram, red gram, horse gram, green gram, field bean, kidney beans, soybeans help provide protein with low fat content to the body. They are best taken sprouted, which help in easier digestion.

Breakfasts can be enjoyed with white of an egg omelets (without the yolk). A glass of milk also helps the body to stay fit and full for along period of time. However it is best to avoid shakes. A little cottage cheese also provides much need protein and calcium to the body and can be taken twice a week as a fat buster.

The secret to weight loss is a healthy diet. The diet should be balanced and cooked in healthy oils (preferably olive oil) and combined with light exercise. Daily light exercise, helps use up the calories and provides much needed activity to the body resulting in a fit body and mind.

In conclusion, there is no sure shot formula for weight loss. Some people are born with a high metabolism rate and can consume lots of food without weight gain while others have to fight a constant battle. This is how nature has created humans. Healthy foods combined with light exercise can help a person lead a fit life. That should be our objective.

What is Breast Cancer?

2009-07-16T12:27:00.002-07:00

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer will affect more than 200,000 American women this year. That means about one out of every eight women will be told they have breast cancer at some point in their life. Breast cancer to a lesser extent also affects men.

How Breast Cancer Happens
The breast is made up of five main parts: the lobes, lobules, fat, milk ducts and stroma.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the lobules produce milk, which travels through the ducts to the nipple.

Most breast cancers originate inside the milk ducts, but it can start anywhere in the breast tissue. This happens when cells turn cancerous and start to grow unchecked. As with other cancers, these cells are abnormal and divide and grow rapidly, often resulting in the development of a lump.

Breast cancer can spread via the lymph vessels in the breast. Lymph vessels carry a colorless fluid that supports the immune system and removes waste from the cells. These vessels are connected to the lymph nodes—a type of gland located throughout the body. A lymph gland is often the first place cancer will spread to beyond the breast.

Signs & Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:

A lump anywhere in the breast tissue
Spontaneous clear or bloody discharge from the nipple
Retraction or indentation of the nipple
A change in size or contours of the breast
Any flattening or indentation of the skin covering the breast
Redness or pitting of the skin over the breast.
While these signs and symptoms may be due to cancer, they can be the result of other diseases and conditions.

Only your doctor or an oncologist will be able to tell you if you have breast cancer. If you think you may be at risk, and especially if you have any of the warning signs, call your doctor.

Breast Cancer Screening
A woman's breast screening program may vary, depending on family history and other significant risk factors.

The process typically consists of the following:

Breast Self Examination (BSE). This should be done at least once a month.
Clinical Breast Examination. This is a physical examination performed by your doctor.
Mammogram. A mammogram uses a series of x-rays to capture images of your breast tissue to better see the lump in your breast. The test typically lasts about 30 minutes, and you should avoid drinking caffeine for two days prior to the exam to reduce breast tenderness. And don't wear deodorant, which contains aluminum and can interfere with the quality of the image.
If the mammogram confirms that you have a lump, your doctor will order additional tests to determine if the lump is cancerous.
Biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure that requires removing a sample of the tissue from your breast with a small needle. Depending on how deep the lump is located within your breast, the doctor may have to remove a larger sample to properly test it for cancer.
Regular testing is extremely important. The American Cancer Society recommends the following guidelines for breast cancer screening:
Know how your breasts normally feel and report any changes to your doctor. Starting in your 20s, breast self-examination is very important.
If you're in your 20s or 30s, have a clinical breast exam every three years, and have one every year if you're 40 or older.
And if you can, schedule your routine mammogram right after your menstrual cycle, when your breasts are least tender.
If you're at greater risk of breast cancer because of your family history, genetic makeup, past breast cancer or other significant risk factors, talk with your doctor. You may benefit from more frequent exams, earlier mammograms and/or additional tests.
The most common sign of a potential problem starts with a change in the size, or the feel of your breast, such as a lump. If you find a lump, this does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer, but you should tell your doctor, so it can be further investigated.

Treating Breast CancerIf your tests show you have breast cancer, you should work closely with your doctor to figure out the best treatment for you. To do that, your doctor will consider many different factors including the stage of your cancer, your age, the size and shape of your breasts, and your feelings about your body.

Surgery. The most common treatment for breast cancer is surgery. The two main types are lumpectomy with radiation, and mastectomy. During a lumpectomy, your surgeon will only remove the cancerous lump and as little of the surrounding tissue as possible. This surgery largely keeps your breast tissue intact.
A mastectomy is a more dramatic surgery, because more of the breast tissue is removed. The amount removed depends on how far the cancer has spread. Reconstructive surgery is an option that you should talk to your doctor about.
Radiation or Chemotherapy. After the surgery, it's possible that radiation or chemotherapy will be needed for some period of time to help eradicate any cancer that may have spread in your body.
Remember, the earlier you detect breast cancer through regular exams and screenings, the better chances you have to beat the disease.

Tips to remain slim

2009-07-16T12:27:00.001-07:00

Tips to remain slim
* First of all we must be determined to remain slim and work towards it. Develop a mind set towards it.

* Set realistic goals.

* Make lifestyle changes like giving up alcohol, smoking, avoiding fatty food, refined food,...

* Include fresh foods as far as possible as processed foods tend to contain high level of salt and sugar

* Do not expect immediate results.

* Never go for crash diets instead reduce weight gradually and slowly.

* Never skip meals as you tend to eat more, the next meal. Do not skip breakfast in particular.

* Include lot of fiber in your diet as it gives a feeling of fullness, thereby preventing you from gorging spicy and fatty food.

* Nuts contain lot of fiber .They are satisfying and cause people to eat less at meal time.

* Take warm lime juice mixed with honey the first thing in the morning.

* Go for skimmed milk.

* As far as possible avoid weight loss supplements.

* When you have cravings for sweets, take a fruit instead.

* When you have cravings for certain type of food like chocolates or ice cream, once in a while, you can take in small quantities .

* Take fruits and vegetables which has lot of water content like watermelons, cucumbers and white pumpkin.

* Keep yourself engaged as boredom leads to overeating.

* Drink lot of water, at least 8 glasses per day.

* Use the stairs instead of lift. Park the car a little far away and walk to your office. Use every opportunity to be physically active.

* Walk, Walk and Walk as much as possible .Even if you are busy, go for walk at least 5 days a week.

* Aerobic exercise like jogging, swimming, cycling, running accelerates weight loss. Consult a physician before starting any weight loss program. Aerobic exercise combined with healthy eating will certainly help in weight reduction.

* Make your exercise session enjoyable.

* Keep yourself free of stress

* Finally, weight loss is a slow process, so do not get disappointed and give up.

Men can literally laugh women into bed!

2009-07-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

Men can literally laugh women into bed!

Unlucky in love? Well, try to perk up your sense of humour, for a new study has found that ladies adore men who make them laugh.
According to the research, women think that funny men are smarter and more likely to be honest than more dour counterparts.
The researchers think that the findings could be the reason why so many lonely heart ads placed by women list GSOH (good sense of humour) as a prerequisite for a partner.
Boffins believe ladies have evolved to find intelligence an attractive quality because it suggests that a man will be a good provider for her and her children.
The study included 45 heterosexual women who were asked to read shorts descriptions of themselves compiled by 20 men, 10 of which were scored extremely funny and 10 as only slightly funny.
Then women were asked how intelligent and honest they thought that the men were and how likely they would be to go on to develop a friendship or a long-term relationship with them.
The findings show that men who used the funniest descriptions of themselves were thought to be significantly more intelligent than those who weren't as witty.
The women in the study also judged the men who had a good sense of humour as more honest and said that they would be more likely to become friends with them.
Funnier men were also seen as a better catch for a long-term relationship, according to the findings.
Kristofor McCarty, from Northumbria University, who led the study, said: "A quick browse of lonely-hearts ads will confirm that women look for a good sense of humour in a potential partner -- our research may explain why this is the case."
"The findings provide evidence that women use humour as an indication of a guy's intelligence."
"Intelligence is a very attractive quality as a clever man should be more able to provide resources for his offspring."
"But guys be warned: not just any gag will do. We discovered that the humour must be genuinely funny for the man to be judged as more intelligent."
The study will be presented at British Psychological Society Annual Conference in Brighton.