Healthy Habits

Michelle Obama's Secrets

2011-08-30T03:53:00.000-07:00

The First Lady’s number one health rule: Give yourself permission to be happy.

Ascariasis

2011-08-18T06:19:00.000-07:00

Introduction

Roundworms are almost worldwide in distribution and are abundant in the surface layers of soils. Roundworm infections are common and frequently go unnoticed, but several species cause serious diseases.

It is a helminthes infection of the small intestine. A person becomes infected by swallowing infective eggs. Symptoms are variable, often vague or absent. Live worms passed in stools or vomiting are frequently the first recognized sign of infection. Pulmonary signs too are present. Heavy parasite burdens may cause digestive and nutritional disturbance.

Causative organism- Ascaris lumbricoides

Mode of transmission

• By ingestion of infective eggs from soil contaminated with human faeces containing eggs, but not directly from man to man. Salads and other foods eaten raw are the common vehicles. Contaminated soil may be carried long distances on feet or footwear into house, transmission of infection by dust is also possible.

• Children of 3-8 years whose fingers become contaminated while playing on open ground are also the source. The worms can live 1-2 years in their host.

Symptoms

Symptoms are ordinarily mild

1. Live worm passed in stools

2. Pulmonary signs

     • Loeffer’s syndrome with irregular respiration, spasms of coughing
     • Fever and pronounced blood eosinophilia

3. Digestive, nutritional disturbances

     • Abdominal pain
     • Vomiting
     • Restlessness
     • Disturbed sleep

4.Serious complications

     • Bowel obstruction

• Occasional death due to migration of adult worms into liver, gall bladder, peritoneal and rarely from perforation of the intestine.

Diagnosis

Tests to diagnose this condition include:

     • Stool ova and parasites exam
     • Abdominal x-ray
     • Complete blood count.

Treatment

Piperazine hexahydrate or piperazine salt (citrate, adipate, or phosphate) can be used for the treatment of Ascariasis. During pregnancy, unless infection is heavy and ladies health is at risk, treatment is generally postponed until after delivery of the baby.

Prevention

• Provision of adequate facilities for proper disposal of faeces and prevention of soil contamination in areas immediately adjacent to houses, particularly in play areas of children.

• In rural areas contribution of privies should be done in such manner as to prevent dissemination of ascarid eggs through overflow, drainages. Treatment of night soil, such as composing, should be practiced where such facilities are lacking and in areas where human faeces are used as fertilizer.

• All persons (particularly children and food handlers) should be educated about the use of toilets facilities and washing hands after defecating. Encouragement of satisfactory hygienic habits on the part of children in particular, should be done. They should be trained to wash their hands before handling and not to eat food which has been drooped on the floor.

Childhood obesity

2011-08-18T05:39:00.000-07:00

Childhood obesity is a condition where excess body fat negativelyaffects child health. The factors effecting childhood obesity are hereditary, no physical activity and no proper diet. Children with obesity, suffer from some of the diseases, that earlier used to affect only adults, like diabetes. Obesity can be controlled by maintaining a strict and balanced diet. Child obesity increases the risk of obesity in adults. Inactivity usually coupled with excessive TV watching or sitting in front of a computer game must be changed for the child to eventually reach the long term weight goal. The conclusion that sedentary hobbies have a profound inclination toward obesity in children.

Low sodium diet

2011-08-18T05:32:00.000-07:00

Sodium is found in salt. 5 gms that is 1 teaspoon of salt contains about 2,000 – 3,000 mg of sodium. The recommended daily intake of sodium is 5gm that is around 2300mg. Limiting the salt in our daily diet is low sodium diet. Too much sodium in your diet is not good for health. It may cause your body to retain excess fluid. Limiting the salt intake is important for patients with kidney disease, liver and heart disease.

Normal sodium intake recommendations:

0 - 12 months	1 gm
1 - 3 years	2 gm
4 - 6 years	3 gm
7 - 10 years	5 gm
Above 11 years	5 to 6gms

Role of sodium:

The amount of sodium in the body is regulated by kidneys. When there is too much of sodium in the body kidneys filter some out and the excess sodium is excreted in the urine. When the body doesn’t have enough sodium, the kidneys help to conserve sodium and return the needed amount into the blood stream. When kidneys are not working properly or not able to filter, sodium begins to build up in the blood. Sodium in the blood pulls up out and holds the water from cells in the body and leads to edema. This in turn increases the volume of the blood and puts pressure on the circulatory system.

Benefits of low sodium diet:

A low sodium diet for kidney patients is necessary to prevent fluid retention.
A low sodium diet helps to reduce blood pressure.
A low sodium diet is good for people who are at the risk of heart diseases.
It helps in management of hypertension.

Tips to follow a low sodium diet:

Choose the foods which are naturally low in sodium.
Don’t add too much of salt to you food.
While you shop , read the nutrition fact labels so that one can determine sodium content in the food.
Avoid fat free dressings as these contain lot of sodium.
Avoid eating pickles.
Avoid foods containing preservatives especially in canned foods and processed foods as they have high sodium content.
Limit use of condiments that are high in sodium.
In the market salt substitutes are available such as potassium chloride and magnesium chlorine. However some people may not tolerate the salt substitute so one should be careful in adding those to their dishes. Use unless a healthcare provider prescribes.
Frozen prepared food items should be avoided.
Avoid soups as they are high in salt.
Salad dressing and dip contain high in salt should be avoided.
French fries, potato chips , papads should be avoided as they contain salt.

Low Sodium Foods:

Fruit drinks, Apple, Banana, Blackberries, Broccoli, Cherries, Black Berries, Coffee, Chick Pea, Walnuts, Straw berries, Peaches, Prunes, Rice, Cucumber, Watermelon, Wheat, Honey, Barley, Jam, Pop corn unsalted, Nuts unsalted, Puffed rice.

Medium Sodium Foods:

Egg limit 1 per day
Limit one choice per day should be around ½ serving. celery, carrots, Mustar greens,Frozenpeas, Turnip.
Low fat milk limits 2 cups per day.

High Sodium content foods:

Buttermilk, Olives, Pickles, Canned vegetable juices, salted butter, salted margarine, sauces, Marinades, Salt biscuits, Potato chips, cheese, Instant pudding, Soft drinks, Fish ,oysters.

Athlete foot

2011-08-18T05:16:00.000-07:00

Take 10-15 drops of vinegar solution add it in a half bucket of water. Wash your toe fingers with this solution. This is an affective remedy for curing athlete foot.
Tea tree oil has anti-germ properties and are very effective in the treatments of athlete foot.
clean your feet in a mild solution of boric acid. It is an effective home remedy for athlete foot.
Add 2-3 tablespoon of salt in half bucket of warm water and soak your feet in this solution. It removes germs and fungus between the toe.

Ear infection

2011-08-18T05:13:00.000-07:00

Put few drops of olive oil in the infected ear it gives relief from ear infection and helps in moving out ear wax.
Garlic is effective herbal remedy for ear infections. Pour 2 to 3 drops garlic juice in to infected ear it gives relief from the pain and infection.
Prepare a mixture of warm olive oil and few pieces of garlic. Put few drops of this solution in the infected ear. It provides relief in ear infections.

Dental caries

2011-08-18T05:08:00.000-07:00

Dental caries is the biggest problem in every age group. Dental caries is not only due to intake of more sweets, it can be due to several reasons like:

• Improper Brushing

• Irregular teeth

• Irregular gaps in between the teeth

• Bad oral habits

• Improper Oral hygiene

Based upon the area of dental caries cavities are classified by G.V black as follows:

• Class 1 cavity - Caries is present on occlusal portion and buccal or lingual pits.

• Class 2 cavity - Caries present on posterior interproximal area.

• Class 3 cavity - Caries present in anterior interproximal area.

• Class 4 cavity - Caries present in anterior interproximal including the incisor area.

• Class 5 cavity - Caries present on gingival at facial or lingual area.

• Class 6 cavity - Caries present on cusp tip.

Whenever we go to Dentist for dental fillings, we always tell Dentist that filling should not be visible. Eventually, we opt for tooth colored fillings. Types of dental fillings available are:

1. Silver Filling or metal Filling or Amalgam fillings.

2. Tooth colored filling or white filling or Composite resin fillings.

Advantages of Silver Filling:

1. Silver filling is the strongest filling ever known

2. It is less technique specific

3. It has tolerant to moisture present in oral cavity while placing the filling in tooth.

4. It does not get discolored while coming in contact with food ingredients such as Tamarind.

5. It takes time to get hard, for this reason it can be packed easily even in larger cavities.

6. It is inexpensive and versatile Filling.

Disadvantages of Silver Filling:

1. It contains mercury which is still in question that whether the use of silver fillings should continue or not.

2. Amalgam filling cannot be used in Anterior or front teeth due to its color.

3. Amalgam filling requires more space to get filled in tooth. In this case, Dentist sometime has to even cut healthy tooth while preparing the cavity.

Advantages of Tooth colored Fillings:

1. Tooth colored fillings can easily be used in anterior teeth or front teeth because of its color.

2. These fillings contain fluoride which does not allow carious lesion to proceed further and hence prevents further damage.

3. It can be completed in Single visit.

4. It does not cause tooth sensitivity.

Disadvantages of Tooth colored Fillings:

1. These fillings are very technique sensitivity. While doing tooth colored filling, if moisture comes in contact they lose half of its strength.

2. Tooth colored fillings get discolored if comes in frequent contact with food ingredients like tamarind.

3. It is expensive, and not recommended on tooth bearing heavy occlusion forces.

4. These fillings shrink with time which allows the micro leakage of food particles beneath the cavity. This is the main reason of dental caries beneath the cavity.

Post Dental Filling Prevention Measures:

1. Avoid tea, coffee for 1 or 2 days.

2. Avoid intake of food which requires hard chewing like mutton, chicken especially when filling is done in front tooth.

3. Avoid sticky food like chewing gum and sweets for 1 day.

4. Do not prick any instrument in filled tooth.

Insomnia

2011-08-18T05:02:00.000-07:00

Drink one glass of milk add half tablespoon of honey before going to bed every day it helps in treating insomnia.
Grind some fried cumin seeds to a fine powder and mix them with the pulp of a ripe banana. Eat this at night to treat insomnia. This is very effective home remedy for insomnia.
Take one glass of milk with half tablespoon honey at night.This will help in curing insomnia
Eat bottle-gourd vegetable as it cures insomnia. Rub your scalp everyday with sesame oil containing one tablespoon bottle gourd juice. This is another easy and effective home remedy for insomnia.
Rub one tablespoon of curd on forehead. This will bring good sleep.
Prepare a tea using one teaspoon honey, half tablespoon aniseed, and milk. Drink this herbal tea at night before going to sleep. This is very common natural remedy for curing insomnia.

Knee pain

2011-06-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

The knee joint is a largest hinge synovial joint consisting of 4 bones and is also a major weight bearing joint of the body. The 4 bones are femur (thigh bone on the top), the tibia (shin bone below), fibula (outer shin bone), and patella (knee cap in front). Knee injuries are most common during sports.

Causes:

• Knee pain may occur due to Knee injury, Fractures, Inflammation of lateral/medial ligament of knee, Twisting injuries to knee, Bursitis, Ligament sprains, Repetitive strain injury, Overuse syndrome, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Patellar fracture, Excessive jumping, Muscle strain, Tendonitis, Meniscus tears.

Symptoms:

• Pain, Swelling, Stiffness, Weakness, Redness and Warmth on the knee.

• Pooping/Crunching sounds in the knee while movement.

• Pain /Inability to straighten the knee or Locking while straightening the knee.

• Painful knee movements and Difficulty while walking. Any deformity/ Unusual symptoms of knee.

Diagnosis:

• X ray, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), Menisci tear can be diagnosed through arthroscopy, arthrography.

Treatment:

NOTE: The treatment to the fractures, severe pain and post-operative cases should be followed by the advice of the doctor.

• R I C E treatment program is to be followed for pain reduction.

1. Rest the knee. Using of knee caps while walking gives stability.

2. Ice application to the painful knee area is to be done for 15-20 min with certain gap.

3. Elevation of the knee joint helps reduce swelling and induce healing.

• Analgesics, Anti-inflammatory drugs, Cortisone injections given under doctor’s supervision.

• Joint mobilization, Soft tissue massage, Electrotherapy modalities done by the physiotherapist.

• Strengthening exercises

1. Quadriceps

- Sit in a chair comfortably at its edge. Slowly lift the feet off the floor keeping knee extended and straight along with tightening of thigh muscles. Hold and relax.

- Lie on the back bending one (left) knee to 90 degrees and foot flat on the floor. Keeping another leg (right) straight, slowly lift it up to a certain height. Hold and relax.

- Sit/Lie on the floor/bed. Keep your leg straight and place a rolled towel underneath your thigh. Then slowly raise your foot off the floor pressing the towel with the thigh. Hold and relax.

2. Hamstrings

- Sit/ Lie on your back. Bend one of your knees to 45 degrees keeping only toes off the floor. Then slowly pull your heel back towards your buttock as if sliding/ digging the heel into the floor. Hold at a point and relax.

- Lie on your stomach. Slowly lift one foot off the floor tightening the back thigh muscles. Hold and relax.

- Place left foot on the heel of the right foot. Then slowly try to lift your right heel towards your buttocks with the resistance of the left one (press the left foot to the right heel against each other to resist).

- Backward walking also strengthens hamstrings resulting in giving less strain to your knees.

3. Hip adductors (inner quadriceps)

4. Hip abductors

• Stretching exercises

1. Quadriceps stretch 2. Hamstrings stretch

• Balancing exercises

Stand straight and take support of the chair. Stand with one leg for one minute and switch to other side. Slightly increase your balance removing the chair support.

Calcium rich food

2011-06-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

Calcium is needed for growth and bone development. Deficiency of calcium leads to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis makes the bones thin. It is more common in women.

More calcium is required during pregnancy, lactation. Even children and elderly require more amounts of calcium.

Milk, curd, nuts, milk products, green leafy vegetables and ragi are some of the sources of calcium. Doing exercise reduces calcium loss from bones.

Root Canal Treatment

2011-06-03T12:15:00.000-07:00

Root canal treatment is a method to clean roots by gaining access from the tooth with the help of Dental instruments and specific equipments. When the carious lesion reaches pulp (where all blood vessels are present), then the only option left is RCT. Sometimes carious lesion even extend from root to apex (where root ends), then extraction is advisable as RCT will have poor prognosis in this case.

Time taken or sittings involved during RCT depends upon the extent of infection in tooth.

Steps involved in RCT are as follows:

Gaining Access to Root canals: Access from the surface of the tooth(crown) is gained with the help of Drilling instrument . Normally there are 3 canals in molars, 2 canals in premolars and 1 canal in Incisors and canine. Number of root canals can vary in tooth from person to person, it is never fixed.

Cleaning and Shaping of Root canals:

Once the access is gained, then with the help of instrument known as files as shown in figure, Canals are cleaned. To avoid friction and proper cleaning disinfectant solution known as sodium hypochlorite is used. It removes all the debris and infection from the canals and makes them sterile. It usually takes 2 sittings, but if infection is less than it can be completed in 1 sitting also. After the thorough cleaning, temporary filling is placed in tooth and patient is asked to come after 2 days.

Filling of Root canals:

Once the canals are cleaned, and then canals are properly dried with the help of paper points and filled. Canals are filled tightly with Gutta percha points (GP points). After filling of root canals, Permanent filling is placed in tooth; normally permanent filling does not last long. Always Crown is mandatory after RCT as tooth becomes weak from inside. To avoid further fracture of tooth, crown is mandatory.

Celiac disease

2011-06-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Celiac disease: In celiac disease one cannot digest gluten properly. It is an autoimmune disorder of small intestine. Symptoms of celiac disease include diarrhea and fatigue. In celiac disease absorption of all the macronutrients is reduced.

Dietary guidelines:

Iron deficiency anemia is common with celiac disease. optimize dietary sources with iron.
The gluten free diet are low in iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium , vitamin b12 and fiber. Hence daily vitamin and mineral supplementation is necessary.
Eat sprouted nuts and seeds.
Add omega 3 rich foods in your diet.

Foods to eat:

Rice
Rice bran
Arrowroot
Flax seeds
Soy
Legumes
Potato
Corn
Sago
Sorghum
Amaranth
Tapioca
Millets
Malt vinegar

FENUGREEK

2011-06-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

Fenugreek has been associated with number of health benefits. It is a common herb and used as a condiment for seasoning in Indian homes. This seed when used in cooking imparts a characteristic flavor and tang to food. Fenugreek leaves are well known for their high nutrient content of minerals and vitamins like potassium, calcium, magnesium, selenium, Iron and vitamin C, riboflavin, folate, vitamin B6. These leaves also have high fiber content and also Vitamin C. Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of fiber. It contains mucilaginous fiber and total fiber to the extent of 20% and 50% respectively. This mucilaginous fiber is recognized medically for its anti-inflammatory properties. Fenugreek seeds have many medicinal values. These include in the treatment of digestive problems, diabetes, kidney problems, wounds, cellulites, tuberculosis. A PASTE OF Fenugreek leaves or seeds , applied on face prevents pimples, dryness of skin, blackheads and it also have anti aging factors. The Fenugreek seeds contain “Diosgenin” which is more of a raw material substance used in medical steroids by pharmaceutical industries.

Fenugreek seeds aids in proper digestion: It maintains good metabolism and prevents constipation. The soluble fiber found in Fenugreek seed extract may help slow digestion and absorption of food. It also helps to treat colon disorders. It also increases appetite.
Fenugreek seeds are effective in treatment of skin disorders: It relieve skin inflammation. It is also used in the treatment of eczema, gout, boils and burns.
Fenugreek seeds reduce fever: Fenugreek seeds with lemon and honey help to reduce fever and weakness .In fever it is beneficial to consume tea added with fenugreek seeds that helps to lower the intensity of temperature rising.
Fenugreek eases menopause symptoms: It is effective in treating the menopause symptoms including anxiety, hot flashes and insomnia this is because of its natural estrogen.
Fenugreek may help in preventing cancer: It is an effective antioxidant. It also have anti carcinogenic properties some studies have shown that this may be due to presence of Diosgenin.
Fenugreek also acts as a natural blood purifier and helps to prevent acne. Its also very effective in curing of oily skin.
Fenugreek can also be used for excessive hair fall. It is believed to enhance hair growth both in men and women. Fenugreek powder mixed with curd helps in controlling your dandruff problem.
These seeds help in lowering the risks of heart diseases.
Fenugreek seeds help to increase production of milk in lactating mothers. The seeds contain a chemical known as Diosgenin which acts as similar to estrogen and hence promote milk production during breastfeeding.
It is also used in the treatment of arthritis and asthma.
Fenugreek seeds help in management of Diabetes: The powder of seeds in the diet reduces blood sugar and urine sugar with improvement in glucose tolerance and diabetic symptoms in both insulin and non-insulin dependent patients. It also lowers the levels of serum lipids such as cholesterol and triglyceride. Depending upon the severity of diabetes the quantity of fenugreek seeds to be taken varies from 25g to 50g.The Fenugreek seeds powder can be incorporated in food preparations such as vegetable curries, roti and dhal etc. Seeds can also be taken as such after overnight soaking in water.

MASSAGE AND HOT STONE MASSAGE THEREPY

2011-06-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

Massage is one of the oldest healing arts practiced in all cultures and regions in the world. It is the procedure of systematic placing the hands on the body and applying techniques to treat the body and the person to relieve ailments and stress.

Massage has been a part of Ayurveda and Indian traditional medicine system since ages. It was practiced and taught by Vedic Rishis, who led the foundation of the Vedic civilization in India. Today massage is widely recognized as a cost effective preventive medicine and therapy.

Massage therapy has been attested by billions in relieving stress and tension in everyday life. Being accepted in many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial for many chronic conditions like low back pain, arthritis, fatigue, diabetes, immunity suppression, depression, etc.

Massage therapy involves the following:

• The application of physical touch to affect the various systems of the body, e.g., muscular, circulatory.

• The manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the hands for therapeutic, pleasing, relaxing and healing effects.

• Expression of the caring through the hands.

Massage and body work treatments can

• Alleviate low back pain

• Ease medication dependence

• Enhance the immunity of the body

• Improves the condition of the skin- body’s largest organ

• Increase joint flexibility

• Lessen depression and anxiety

• Promotes tissue regeneration and reduces scar marks and stretch marks

• Improves the circulation of fluids inside the body

• Reduces spasms and cramps

• Relax and softens injured, tired and overused muscles

• Relieves migraine pain.

There is no denying the fact that the massage or the bodywork has got immense power. It has got immense healing relieving properties. Massage therapy can be a powerful in every individual’s healthcare regime.

Massage isn’t a pointless indulgence in sensory experience. It is an assurance keeping you in touch with your body.

Another therepy of best massage is hot stone massage therepy

Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is a variation on classic massage therapy. Heated smooth, flat stones are placed on key points on the body. The massage therapist may also hold the stones and use them to massage certain areas of the body.

The use of hot stones for healing dates back to ancient times, but it wasn't until Arizona massage therapist Mary Nelson introduced her hot stone massage technique, called LaStone Therapy, that the use of hot stones for massage caught on.

Nelson conducts workshops to train other massage therapists in LaStone. While LaStone continues to be popular, massage therapists and spas have also developed their own versions of the hot stone massage using heated, smooth rocks.

How Does Hot Stone Massage Work?

The hot stones are usually made of basalt, a type of rock that is rich in iron, so they retain heat. River rocks are normally used because they are so smooth - they have been smoothed over time by the river's current.

The stones are immersed in water and heated in an electric heating device until they are within a certain temperature range. The stones may be placed at specific points on the back, in the palms of the hand, or between the toes.

The heat warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if desired.

The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system.

Some massage therapists place stones on points that are thought to be energy centers of the body to rebalance the body and mind.

People should Get Hot Stone Massage because

Many people find the warmth of the hot stones to be comforting and get it for relaxation.

Hot stone massage is suited to people who tend to feel chilly or who have cold feet. It's also suited for people who have muscle tension but prefer a lighter massage. The heat relaxes muscles, allowing the therapist to work the muscles without using deep pressure.

People also get hot stone massage for a variety of health conditions:

Back pain and aches

Poor circulation

Osteoarthritis and arthritis pain

Stress, anxiety and tension

Insomnia

Depression

Feeling of Hot Stones ?

The hot stones are never rough. They are always flat and smooth. The hot stones used on the back are about the size of a large egg, only flat.

The stones are heated in an electrical heating unit that either provides a temperature reading or has an adjustable thermostat control.

The massage therapist always holds the stones first before touching them to your body, which ensures that the temperature will not be too hot. Everyone, however, has their own comfort range. Be sure to speak up if the stones are too hot for you.

Cool marble stones are occasionally used during a treatment, particularly if there is inflammation.

Expections During Hot Stone Massage

The massage therapist often begins by applying oil to the body, which allows the hot stones to glide smoothly along the muscles. You are lying face down, and the massage therapist often then uses the hot stones to massage the back.

After the hot stones have relaxed the muscles, the massage therapist may put down the stones and use his or her hands to directly massage the skin.

The hot stones may then be placed back on to the body and left for a short period of time.

You are then asked to turn over onto your back. The massage therapist may place small hot stones between your toes or in the palm of your hand and repeats the sequence.

A typical hot stone massage is between 60 and 90 minutes long .

Precautions to take

Massage is not recommended for certain people:

People with infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds

Immediately after surgery

Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor

People prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage

Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.

Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

Some Additional Hot Stone Massage Tips

Don't eat a heavy meal before the massage

If it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

Fish oil - Health benefits

2011-05-24T05:13:00.000-07:00

Fish Oil

Fish oil, made from the tissue of oily fish-such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, lake trout and sardines-has many health benefits. Fish oil contains important Omega-3 fatty acids , most notably eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and decosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to have health benefits ranging from reducing the risk of heart attack and coronary heart disease to combating depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Fish Oil Benefits

Heart Problems

The intake of the recommended amount of DHA and EPA has been shown to have many heart healthy benefits. Consumption of dietary fish or fish oil supplements can lower triglycerides-a certain type of blood fat-and increase "good" cholesterol, while slightly thinning the blood. All of these factors help reduce the risk of heart attack. Fish oil also helps to prevent dangerous abnormal heart rhythms that can cause sudden cardiac death, and strokes in people with known cardiovascular disease. In addition to the numerous benefits already mentioned for the heart, fish oil can also slow the hardening of arteries and slightly lower blood pressure-two more important factors of heart health.

Inflammation
Omega-3 fatty acids are not only good for the heart; they also help to reduce inflammation. This is perhaps one of the most valuable benefits of the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, as inflammation is associated with many serious diseases. Heart disease, cancer, autoimmune diseases, psoriasis, and Alzheimer's, for example, are characterized by increased levels of pro-inflammatory markers. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil reduce inflammation by preventing production of pro-inflammatory signaling molecules. This may help to prevent serious illness associated with inflammation.

Arthritis
The ability of fish oil to reduce inflammation is not only good for preventing serious illnesses, such as heart disease and cancer. Fish oil is also effective in reducing the symptoms and pain of arthritis. Morning stiffness and joint tenderness was shown to decrease with regular intake of fish oil supplements. Fish oil does not act as a painkiller, and it takes regular use before a difference is noticed. However, fish oil is a viable, natural way to reduce the pain and symptoms associated with arthritis if one is dedicated to the long term outcome rather than focused on immediate cessation of symptoms.

Anti-aging
As if the benefits of fish oil on heart health and arthritis were not enough, it is believed that fish oil also helps with anti-aging as well. Omega-3 fatty acids slow the rate at which protective caps on the end of chromosomes shorten, thus increasing the lifespan of cells. The caps, or telomeres, are made from copied strands of DNA and prevent the chromosomes from becoming damaged. When a cell divides, its telomere gets shorter until it can get no shorter and the DNA becomes damaged. When the DNA is damaged the cell no longer divides. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil slows the deterioration of the telomeres, resulting in longer life of cells.

Age-related macular degeneration - better sight Prolonging the life of cells is not the only anti-aging benefit of fish oil. Fish oil has also been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. A major component of the eye's retina is DHA, accounting for 60% of the fatty acids in the retina. Macular degeneration is a common cause of blindnessin the elderly and has no effective treatment. Omega-3 fatty acids help support healthy circulation and blood vessel strength, as well as naturally lowering cholesterol levels-all of which are causes of macular degeneration. Due to the benefits of fish oil, it may prove to be the first effective treatment against macular degeneration.

Fish oil benefits to pregnant women and the unborn children
The benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are not only for the aging or those facing serious medical issues. Fish oil has also been shown to be beneficial to pregnant women and the unborn child. It is recommended that apregnant woman have 900 mg of fish oil per day, which is equivalent to a serving of salmon per day. The benefits to the unborn child are numerous and include: a healthier brain with increased intelligence; good nervous system development; better eyesight from retina formation; fewer behavioral problems after birth; and better sleeping patterns as a new born. The mother also receives benefits from her consumption of fish oil. These benefits include: a lower chance of developing preeclampsia; a decreased chance of preterm labor; and a greatly reduced incidence of breast cancer. With benefits such as those, all pregnant women should adhere to the recommended daily dosage of fish oil and thus increase her odds of delivering a happy and healthy child. The reason fish oil is so beneficial to the unborn child is because 70% of a newborn's brain, retina and nervous system are made up of the Omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA. Therefore, increasing the amount of these fatty acids present in the mother's diet, and therefore being given to her unborn child, aides in the child's development of the brain, retina and nervous system.

Low Calorie Salads

2011-05-24T04:46:00.000-07:00

What is better than snacking on a salad? The answer is snacking on low calorie salad which also supports fat loss! Salads provide us with the required fiber by our body. It is a low calorie food which is tasty too! There are many ways in which you can make healthy salad recipes.

Some of the low calorie salad recipes for fat loss are as stated below:

German Potato Salad

Ingredients

3 cups diced peeled potatoes

4 slices bacon

1 small onion, diced

1/4 cup white vinegar

2 tablespoons water

3 tablespoons white sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Place the potatoes into a pot, and fill with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until easily pierced with a fork. Drain, and set aside to cool.Place the bacon in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry until browned and crisp, turning as needed. Remove from the pan and set asiAdd onion to the bacon grease, and cook over medium heat until browned. Add the vinegar, water, sugar, salt and pepper to the pan. Bring to a boil, then add the potatoes and parsley. Crumble in half of the bacon. Heat through, then transfer to a serving dish. Crumble the remaining bacon over the top, and serve warm.

Black Bean Salad with Feta Cheese

Ingredients

1 can of drained black beans

1 chopped red bell pepper

2 chopped green onions

1 cup finely chopped cabbage

2 ounces feta cheese

one-fourth cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

1 minced garlic clove

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

salt and pepper to taste.

Directions

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl gently. Cover it and chill for sometime in the fridge. Enjoy this low calorie salad!

Corn Salad

Ingredients

100 grams fresh corn

1 chopped onion

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons vinegar

2 tablespoons fresh basil

salt and pepper to taste.

Directions

Boil the corn and drain. After the corn has cooled, mix the corn kernels, onions, olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper according to taste. Cover and keep in fridge to chill. Put in the fresh basil before you serve this salad. This is a simple to make and a low calorie salad recipe. You can add in green or red bell peppers if you like!

Cool Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

1 cup diced cucumber

1 diced onion

half cup of diced bell peppers (red and yellow),

2 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

salt and pepper to taste.

Directions

Mix all the above ingredients cucumber, onion, bell peppers, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, salt and pepper gently in a large salad bowl. Cover and refrigerate. Eat this healthy salad recipe chilled!

Tuna Salad

Ingredients

200 grams pasta

half tin of drained tuna

1 small chopped green bell pepper

1 chopped tomato

1 tablespoon vinegar.

Directions

Cook the pasta as per instructions on the packet and drain it. Combine the tuna, tomato, bell pepper and mix well in a large bowl. Add the vinegar and serve! This salad is healthy because tuna is a low fat fish and high in proteins!

Beet Salad

Ingredients

Half cup peeled and shredded beet

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1 sliced onions

half grated apple

2 tablespoons vinegar

1 tablespoon oil

1 tablespoon brown sugar

salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Heat oil in a skillet and stir fry the onions and cabbage till soft. Mix apple, sugar and vinegar together separately and then add this mix to the onions and cabbage in the skillet. Add the shredded beet also. Sprinkle the salt and pepper. Cook for a minute and serve. Another option is to cool and chill in the fridge and then eat.

Chicken Salad

Ingredients

1 cup cooked bite sized chicken

half cup sliced mushrooms

half cup grated carrots

half cup shredded cabbage

1 green sliced onion

1 tablespoon cilantro

2 tablespoons low fat salad dressing

black pepper.

Directions

Mix all ingredients except green onions in a bowl. Garnish with green onions and pepper. This is a healthy salad recipe.

These low calorie salad recipes for fat loss can be eaten as dinner or lunch or just as a snack. Salads are always healthy, just be careful of what dressing you put on it!

Cabbage and Jicama Cole Slaw

Ingredients

2 cup shredded savory or green cabbage
1 cup shredded Radicchio or red cabbage
1 cup julienne jicama
1/2 yellow sweet bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into match-stick size pieces
1/2 sweet onion, peeled and cup into match-stick size pieces
1 large carrot, coarsely grated
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
Coarse salt and freshly-ground black pepper
3 tablespoons fat-free mayonnaise
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil

Directions

In a large bowl, combine cabbage, radicchio, jicama, bell pepper, onion, and carrot. Add basil and mint. Sprinkle with coarse salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, rice vinegar, and sesame oil; pour over the salad mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate approximately 1 hour before serving. To serve, toss salad again

Caesar Salad - Low-Fat Caesar Salad Recipe

Ingredients

1 to 2 finely chopped or minced garlic cloves with inner green germ removed)
1 anchovy fillet, mashed
Pinch of coarse salt
Juice of one (1) lemon
3 drops Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup low-fat or light mayonnaise
2 to 3 tablespoons water (to achieve desired thickness)
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano), divided
Romaine lettuce, hearts and tender leaves only
Coarsely ground black pepper

Directions

To make dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, anchovy, and salt until blended. Whisk in the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and water. When the dressing is well combined and to the desired thickness you wish, whisk in 2 tablespoons freshly-grated Parmesan cheese.
To assemble salad: Separate the Romaine leaves and discard the coarse outer leaves. Wash, drain, and pat with paper towels or spin dry the remaining leaves. Note: Lettuce should be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to use. Tear into bite-size pieces and set aside.
In a large salad bowl, add the Romaine lettuce pieces and the dressing, a little at a time; toss until coated.
To serve: Divide the salad between chilled salad plates and sprinkle each salad with the remaining Parmesan cheese and coarsely ground pepper. Serve immediately with chilled forks.

Laser skin resurfacing

2011-05-23T05:31:00.000-07:00

Laser resurfacing is a new treatment for reducing facial wrinkles and skin irregularities including blemishes and acne scars. Laser skin resurfacing removes skin very precisely layer by layer, thus gradually minimizing the problems and resulting in the lightening of the skin (hypopigmentation).

Laser skin resurfacing is also known as lasabrasion, laser peel or laser vaporization.

The laser resurfacing techniques involve the direction of short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin surfaces. The two types of laser most commonly used for this technique are carbon dioxide and erbium. These laser vaporize superficial damaged skin cells and reduce the risk for the patients as it limits the amount of heat absorbed by the skin.

Laser skin resurfacing treatment is recommended for the persons having fine lines or wrinkles around or under the eyes, forehead and mouth; scars from skin; a non-responsive skin after the facelift. This treatment is not recommended for active acnes, stretch mark or in case of candidates having very dark skin.

However the possible complications of laser skin resurfacing include:

• Appearance of small, while bumps (Milia) in the laser treated areas during healing. These can be removed by gentle cleaning with the wash clothes.

• Hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation may result in the laser treated areas.

• Reappearance of cold sore may occur. This is more common in laser skin resurfacing around the mouth.

• The risk of bacterial infections also prevails.

• Swelling of the treated area.

• Scarring may also occur in the laser exposed areas.

Cessation of smoking is highly recommended because smoking is known to have harmful effects on the healing process.

However it is important to learn that skin treated with laser may react in different ways. Most common is chances of getting mild sunburn. Therefore daily sunscreen (broad spectrum with SPF greater than 15) application is necessary after healing to protect the newly resurfaced laser skin. Liberal moisturizer application is also recommended after healing.

Oral thrush

2011-05-23T05:29:00.000-07:00

Oral thrush is also known as thrush mouth. It is very common fungal infection caused by fungus Candida albicans that develops creamy white lesions in the mouth. Oral thrush is a minor problem for healthy children and adults, but for people with weakened immune systems, oral thrush can be a serious problem.

Symptoms:

Oral thrush typically causes creamy white lesions inside the mouth, particularly on tongue and inner cheeks, gums and tonsils, and sometimes even the roof of mouth. These lesions will be painful, and may bleed slightly if rubbed them or scrape them. Symptoms may begin suddenly and persist for a long time. In adults, thrush can cause an uncomfortable burning sensation in the mouth and throat.

The most common symptoms are

1. White skin plaques
2. White patches on Tongue
3. White patches on Throat
4. Inner lip rash
5. Lip rash at corners of mouth
6. Discomfort related to chewing and eating

Risk Factors:

1. Infants are more prone to oral thrush

2. The person with diabetes with high blood sugar level will give the Candida Albicans organism a perfect environment to thrive.

3. Taking Antibiotics or steriods will destroy the healthy organisms in the body that prevent infections such as oral thrush.

4. People with a symptom of dry mouth relating to side-effects of their medication (eg anti-psychotics) or medical conditions (eg Sjőgren’s Syndrome).

5. Continuous drug users

6. Nutrition defiency people

7. People with immune deficiency.

Diagnosis:

Oral thrush can usually be diagnosed simply by looking at the white lesions in the mouth. But sometimes a small sample is examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.

Thrush that extends into the esophagus may be serious. To check the condition doctor will perform the following tests.

1. Throat culture Test - swabbing the back of your throat with sterile cotton and observe the microorganisms under a microscope.

2. Endoscope Examination - Doctor examines stomach, esophagus, and small intestine using a lighted, flexible tube with a camera on the tip (endoscope).

Treatment:

1 The medications used in oral thrush includs prescription topical or oral antifungal medications, such as fluconazole
2. Treatment procedure includes eating yogurt or taking acidophilus supplements.
3. Antiseptic mouth washes will be recommended for patients with oral thrush.

Prevention:

• when the person taking antibiotics take yoghurt to prevent oral thrush
• Quit smoking
• Good diabetic control
• Reduce sugar in diet
• Avoid or treat nipple infections (i.e. Candida of the nipples)

Drug interactions in upper Gastrointestinal tract disorders

2011-05-23T05:10:00.000-07:00

Antacids: Neutralise gastric acid, aluminium containing antacids contribute aluminium to the diet and may cause constipation or lead to phosphorous deficiency. Longterm or inappropriate use can lead to Aluminium toxicity. Calcium containing antacids contribute calcium to diet and may cause constipation . Magnesium containing antacids contribute magnesium to diet and may cause diarrhoea. Longterm use may lead to magnesium toxicity.

Antiboitics: When amoxylin is given without regard to food nausea and diarrhoea are common side effects.It is better to take medicine with food to reduce nausea.

Clarithromycin: when taken it may cause taste alteration nausea and diarrhoea.

Metronidezol: May cause taste alterations and no alcohol should be used during treatment if alcohol is given and for 24 hrs afterwards alcohol can react with metronidezole and result in nausea , vomiting, headache, cramps .

Antisecretary agents: Inhibit gastrophasis secretion . Citnitidine may increase formation of toxic metabollites. Nizartidine when taken with tomato based juices its potency is reduced.

Omeprazole and rebeprazole: They inhibit secretion of acids may interfere with iron absorption. When iron supplements are necessary they should be given 2 hours before or after taking protonpump inhibitors.

Constipation

2011-05-23T05:06:00.000-07:00

Difficulty in passing a stool or having difficulty in bowel movement is called constipation. Sometimes this may be painful. Most people do not have bowel movements regular. Generally bowel movements decreases with age. Constipation may be caused due to many factors. Due to some medications, eating high fat foods, eating foods which are low in fiber or drinking liquids only. Fiber is most important part in the diet that prevents constipation. Both soluble and insoluble fibers are necessary for regular bowel movements. Also intake of fluids should be adequate.

Dietary recommendations:

Eat small frequent meals.
When you add more fiber to your diet. Drink plenty of water. Water helps to fluch out toxins.
Avoid soft drinks
Avoid refined and processed foods.
Avoid coffee.
Psyllium husk rich in fiber ease constipation. It adds bulk to stool also improves bowel movement.
Avoid eating sugar as it upsets the balance of bacteria in your digestive system. This may lead to bloating and constipation.
Include high fiber fruits and vegetables in your diet.
Avoid drinking alcohol.
Avoid foods which have high amount of food additives.

Hernia

2011-05-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

Hernia is often referred to as a 'rupture'. The term hernia is most commonly used to describe to the protrusion of the intestine through a weak area in the abdominal wall. This will cause bulging of the abdominal wall. This bulging increases the pressure in the abdomen.

Types:
The types of Hernia relates to its location on the body. These include:

Inguinal Hernias: This type of hernias are more common in men than women because the canal is bigger. These are the common type of hernia. The canal contains the spermatic cord and blood vessels. When an inguinal hernia occurs part of the intestine protrude down the canal and into the scrotum.

Femoral Hernias: This type of hernia is more common in women, femoral hernias occur when part of the intestine protrudes through the femoral canal and protrudes at the top of the thigh.

Umbilical Hernias: An umbilical hernia occurs when the abdominal wall is weakened at the point of umbilical cord. Umbilical hernias are most common in children.

Obtuator Hernias: The Obtuator hernia occurs when part of the intestine passes through the gap between the bones of the front of the pelvis.

Risk factors of Hernia:

Any person can get hernia from children to old age. Some of the factors which increases the risk of Hernia are:

1. Obesity
2. Previous abdominal surgery or abdominal injury
3. Straining to lift heavy objects
4. Because of constipation straining during bowel movements.
5. A chronic cough, such as smokers cough
6. Male are 12 times more prone to hernia when compared to females

Symptoms:
Symptoms of a hernia include pain or discomfort and a localized swelling somewhere on the surface of the abdomen or in the groin area.

Treatment:
The best treatment of hernia is by surgical repair. There are no drug treatments for this condition. Surgery gives relief to the pain and swelling. There are no side effects for surgery.

Prevention:
Life style modifications can prevent hernias. Regular exercise can prevent hernia. Another important factor is avoid risk factors which is mainly involved in hernia.

How to Stop Snoring in Men

2011-04-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

Snoring is a noise produced when an individual breathes (usually while inhaling) during sleep.

Causes for snoring:

Age: Your throat becomes narrower after you reach middle age and beyond, and the muscle tone in throat also decreases.

The way you’re built: Men have more chances to get narrower air passages than women and are more likely to snore. Some of the conditions which cause snoring are a narrow throat, a cleft palate, enlarged adenoids which can be hereditary.

Nasal and sinus problems: Blocked airways cause breathing difficulty and create a vacuum in the throat leading to snoring.

Overweight: Fatty tissue and poor muscle tone contribute to snoring.

Alcohol, smoking, and medications: Alcohol intake, smoking and certain medications leads to more snoring.

Sleep posture: Sleeping flat on your back causes the flesh of your throat to relax and block the airway.

Remedies to overcome snoring:

Lose weight: weight loss can reduce fatty tissue in the back of the throat and decrease snoring. Follow Healthy Weight Loss tips.

Clear air passages: Having a stuffy nose can cause breathing difficult and creates a vacuum in your throat which results in snoring. You can try nasal decongestants or nasal strips to help you breathe more easily while sleeping.

Quit smoking: smoking increases the chances of snoring. Smoking causes airways to be blocked by irritating the membranes in the nose and throat.

Establish regular sleep patterns: Create regular sleep patterns can promote better sleep and therefore minimize snoring.

Maintain humidification in bed room: Dry air can irritate membranes in the nose and throat.

Reposition: Elevating your head four inches may ease breathing and encourage your tongue and jaw to move forward.

Avoid the following substances to reduce snoring:

Research shows that consumption of certain foods and medicines right before bedtime can make snoring worse.

• Large meals
• Dairy products
• Soymilk
• Alcohol
• Sleeping pills and other relaxants
• Antihistamines
• Caffeine

Exercises to stop snoring:

Following exercises can help you to stop snoring. Start slow and gradually increase the number of sets as you can do every day.

• Repeat each vowel (a-e-i-o-u) out loud for three minutes throughout the day.
• Place the tip of your tongue behind your top front teeth. Slide your tongue backwards for 3 minutes a day
• Close your mouth and purse your lips. Hold for 30 seconds.
• Open your mouth, move jaw to the right and hold it for 30 seconds. Repeat on left side
• With mouth open, contract the muscle at the back of your throat repeatedly for 30 seconds.

Medical treatment for snoring:

Consult an ENT doctor when your own efforts are failed. If you are interested to try a dental appliance for snoring, you need to see a dentist.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure: To keep airway open during sleep, a machine blows pressurized air into a mask that you wear over your nose.

Dental appliances, oral devices, and lower jaw-positioners will help to open your airway by bringing your lower jaw or your tongue forward during sleep.

Traditional surgery: Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, Thermal Ablation Palatoplasty, tonsillectomy, and adenoidectomy, increase the size of your airway by surgically removing tissues or correcting abnormalities. Pillar procedure is also an effective surgery in which small plastic implants are inserted into the soft palate.

New developments: Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty and somnoplasty remove parts of the soft palate to reduce snoring using lasers or radiofrequency signals.

Home Remedy-Piles

2011-04-06T04:40:00.000-07:00

Drink radish juice 1/4 cup two times a day it is foremost home remedy for piles.
Sesame seeds are very helpful in treating piles. Take 15-20 sesame seeds in a glass of water and boil it. Strain and allow it to cool, take this mixture 2-3 times a day at least for a month.
Buttermilk with rock salt is also very good remedy to reduce constipation in piles.
Figs are also good for the treatment of piles.Soak figs in water and keep it overnight. Strain the mixture and drink in empty stomach early in the morning. This will prevent constipation and treat piles as well.
Take onion juice or raw onion soaked in water containing sugar.Onion will stop the blood flow during the passage of stool. This can be taken 2-3 times a day at least for a month.
Jambu fruit are also used for the treatment of piles. It is one of the best home remedies for hemorrhoids.

Home remedies for BODY ODOUR

2011-04-06T04:27:00.000-07:00

Add rosemary oil in a small quantity of water you can use this mixture to get rid of body odor. Apply on underarms and thighs.
Prepare a mixture of few drops of glycerin and radish juice. It acts as a good home remedy for controlling body odor. Apply this mixture on feet, underarms, neck etc.
Prepare a mixture of white vinegar and alcohol. This is a natural and safe home remedy for controlling body odor and perspiration.
Turnip juice is most effective in controlling body odor and perspiration.
Tomato is the best remedy of controlling bad odor. Add 2 cups of tomato juices in bath tub and enjoy a refreshing bath.
Take 2 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and apply this mixture on the sweat prone areas. It is very helpful especially in summers for controlling body odor.

Home Remedies for your teeth

2011-04-05T05:10:00.000-07:00

Home remedies for Teeth whitening:

• Strawberry paste is known for its teeth whitening effect. It has enzymes, which makes teeth bright and shiny. Crush some strawberries and make paste out of it, then apply this paste on toothbrush and brush your teeth. But after brushing with strawberry paste, brush your teeth with normal toothpaste. Continuous use of strawberries makes teeth look white and bright.

• Soda bicarbonate is another whitening agent which is known for its bleaching properties. It is easily available in every kitchen; apply it on the toothbrush to remove stains. Prolonged use of soda bicarbonate makes teeth white.

• Lemon is also used for teeth whitening. Rubbing lemon peel on teeth removes stain ,but prolonged used can even makes teeth sensitive because of citric acid.

• Eating apple regularly removes yellow satins from teeth.

Home remedies for tooth ache:

• Ice pack is an excellent remedy for suppressing pain. Pack ice cube in some cotton cloth and then apply on affected tooth, it will take few minutes to calm down.

• Clove has analgesic properties. Apply clove oil or place clove near the affected tooth to reduce pain.

• Oregano has antibiotic properties. Apply oregano oil on the affected tooth to drain abscess. Hence after it will reduce pain.

• Pour few drops of vanilla extract on the tooth, in few minutes pain will reduce.

• Take pinch of turmeric powder and mix it with mustard oil, it acts as excellent remedy for toothache. This paste you can apply twice a week to reduce caries and other teeth problems.

Home remedies for Gum diseases:

• Vitamin C is effective in curing gum disease. Include oranges and Amla in your diet to get rid of Gingivitis. If condition is severe then take vitamin C tablets after the prescription of doctor.

• Gum massage with gum paints or gum oil increase the blood flow and helps in curing gum diseases.

• Warm saline rinses twice a day is effective in removing bacteria present in mouth.

Rectal Abscess

2011-04-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

Rectal abscess is a condition where pus will be collected in the recta area .It is mainly caused by a bacterial infection which results in localized collection of pus (abscess).An abscess of the rectum is very uncomfortable, embarrassing, and even painful. With out treatment Rectal abscess can spread through out the body especially in the groin and rectal lumen.

Causes:

Rectal abscess is mainly caused by the following bacteria.

• Escheria coli
• Streptococcus
• Staphylococcus
• Proteus vulgaris

The main cause of rectal abscess is hard and large stool because of constipation and anal sex.

Symptoms:

• Anal and rectal pain
• Severe Bleeding
• Blood in the stool, in the toilet, or on the toilet paper.
• Rectal warmth
• Rectal Swelling
• Pain in the anal area or buttocks
• Lower abdominal pain
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Fatigue

Diagnosis:

Rectal abscess is detectable on physical examination. The external opening of a fistula generally appears as a pink or red, elevated, discharging sinus or ulcer on the skin near the anus. A proctosigmoidoscopy may be performed to exclude associated diseases. Diagnosis includes CT scan, MRI, and or Trans rectal ultra sound.

Certain people are more likely to develop perirectal abscesses with the following medical problems:

• Diabetes problem
• AIDS or HIV infection with low white blood cell counts
• Crohn disease
• Persons on medications that suppress the body’s immune system, such as steroids (prednisone, methylprednisolone), or those undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

Treatment:

Two types of treatment are there and these treatments will be discussed below:

Self care at home:

• Nonprescription pain medicine, such as Tylenol may help control the pain and fever.
• If the abscess opens by itself, there will be a release of pus and possibly some relief of pain and fever.

Medical treatment :

• Rectal abscesses, unfortunately, cannot be treated by a simple course of antibiotics or other medications. Even small abscesses will need the attention of a surgeon immediately. Treatment is possible in an emergency room under local anesthesia, but it is highly preferred to be formally admitted to a hospital and to have the surgery performed in an operating room under general anesthesia.

• Blood tests and several tests may be required to evaluate your progress after treatment.

Lentils-some basic facts

2011-03-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a surprising fact: Canada is the world's largest exporter of lentils, distributing this healthy legume to over 100 different countries annually. Despite that, lentils are under-appreciated in this country. They're staple food for much of the rest of the world, and for good reason: 100 grams of lentils provide 26 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of iron (60 percent of your daily needs). This makes them a great choice for vegetarians, who often struggle to get enough of these body-building nutrients, but they are a great addition to any diet as a healthy and affordable source of protein.

Five reasons why lentils are a superfood
1. High source of vegetarian protein: Protein induces satiety (the feeling of fullness) faster than fats and carbohydrates, and also keeps blood insulin levels from spiking. Frequent insulin spikes can lead to constant elevated blood glucose, and even diabetes.

2. Great source of fibre: The colon is the main exit route for moving toxins and excess cholesterol out of your body, and fibre is what binds these wastes for healthy elimination, making it the ultimate cleanser. This intestinal detox pathway must be functioning properly in order to clear out your whole body's toxins effectively. The green lentils in the salad below have the highest fibre content of any lentil.

3. Get rid of that spare tire: In a recent 18-month study, folks who enjoyed lots of pulses (edible seeds of leguminous plants) like lentils lost more belly weight! Their fibre intake was higher, vitamins and minerals like chromium were better maintained, and the glycemic index of their meals was lower. The glycemic index measures how fast a food raises your blood sugar. If your blood sugar goes too high, then insulin will shuttle more fat around your middle.

4. Maintain normal blood pressure: Lentils are packed with potassium, which is needed in balance with sodium to maintain a smooth heartbeat and normal blood pressure. These two electrolytes keep your heart beating properly.

5. Improve liver function: Lentils contain high amounts of choline, which the liver uses to package fat for distribution throughout the body. Choline helps prevent build-up of fat in the liver, which can lead to a condition known as fatty liver. If fat infiltrates the liver, it can lead to cell death and hinder the liver’s ability to properly filter toxins. So clean up your act with choline!

SALMAN KHAN FITNESS AND BODY BUILDING SECRET

2011-03-12T03:46:00.000-08:00

Most of the popular Bollywood Actors like Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Akshay Kumar, Shah Rukh Khan, John Abraham, Arjun Rampal and Aamir Khan take good care of their bodies. And probably that is the reason why they look much younger to than their age.

Salman Khan’s Fitness Trainer:

This is what Style and Fitness Guru - Salman Khan has to say.........

“I cycle, swim, go to the gym, eat the right kind of food and sleep late as I don’t get sleep easily and wake up early, that’s the secret behind my age.”

Salman's physic trainer, Manish Advilkar , has this to tell all his fans across the world.

Manish Advilkar also trained Salman over six tedious years. When he first call me , I concentrated on fine-tuning is exercise routine, making it more structured and streamlined,"says Advilkar.

Today, of course his body speaks for his dedication. No matter how punishing his shooting schedule, Salman will find time to exercise...

He even calls me up at 3-4 am for a training session.

“He does unbelievable stuff like 1,000 push-ups a day or 2,000 sit-ups a day” says Manish Advilkar, Discipline and dedication have been the two pillars of Salman’s fitness success.

“His body structure is not like a body builder's but good muscles, perfectly in shape and no fat” says personal trainer D’Souza.

Work keeps Salman busy most of the times. Thus, at times he starts his workout as late as 2 am. Salman works out for at least two hours continuously. His workout includes one hour of cardio, concentrating on any two body parts each time- triceps, legs, back and biceps

He is very particular and serious about his workout and once in the gym, nothing affects his concentration. While in the gym, if someone approaches him for an autograph or a photograph, he asks them to wait until he is finished with his training. He has got perfect abs and works a lot to keep them in shape. “He does five hundred crunches, pull-ups and chin-ups” adds D’Souza.

PUNISHING ROUTINE:
Exercise releases endorphins ,those feel good hormones in the brain, and riding the wave , trainer and pupil sculpt the body that earned bollywood star the moniker, "Shirtless Wonder".

While weights have gained for Salman the contours the camera captures so vividly, his cardiovascular routine is punishing too. When the mood overtakes Salman , he goes cycling three hours to panvel,"explains Advilkar."personally, I would find that a real challenge too."

NAMES OF HEART DISEASES

2011-01-29T02:14:00.001-08:00

There are many different types of heart disease and they each have their own symtoms and diagnosis that shows what each type is capable of. This guide will go over the many types of heart disease and show you what you need to do in order to avoid the problem and correct it if you already have it. The following list of heart diseases are all curable so be sure to do whatever it takes in order for you to get better. The body is one of the most important things we know of and you only get one chance to keep it alive.

Valvular heart disease

Valvular heart disease is a condition in which the valves of the heart no longer open and close like they’re supposed to which can either restrict blood flow to the rest of the body or cause excess blood to spill into the wrong parts of the heart. If you’ve had any of the following illnesses then you may be likely to get heart valvular disease: Chomosome 18 Trisomy Syndrome, Holt-Oram Syndrome, Pancreatic Cancer, transposition of great arteries, Takayasu’s arteritis, Scheie Disease, Multiple Letigines Syndrome, Chromosome 13 Trisomy Syndrome, Congenital Rubella, DiGeorge’s Sydrome, Pneumothorax, or Endocarditis.

Infective Endocarditis

Infective Endocarditis is a condition when bacteria attaches onto a heart valve. Since there’s not blood that directly comes in contact with these valves themselves, white blood cells (the body’s warriors) can’t get to the valves to fight off the infection. Another problem with this is that antibiotics have to travel through the blood as well so it’s really hard to fight off the infection on both fronts of the war. If you’ve had rheumatic fever then the chances of getting a bacteria infection on your heart valves are even higher because the tissue itself is damaged.

Congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease (also known as congenital heart defect and congenital heart disorder) is a condition in which the structure of a newborn baby’s heart isn’t constructed like it should be. Because of this, there is a wide variety of problems that can arise including blood not getting through to the heart or blood getting to the heart but not in a normal pattern (irregular pulse). Among all of the different types of birth defects, heart-related illnesses are the most common and are also what causes the most amount of deaths in newborns due to birth defects.

Coronary heart disease

Coronary heart disease is a condition in which the small blood vessels in the heart that are responsible for transporting blood and oxygen to the heart become even more narrow than they already were. This can cause irregularities in the amount of blood and oxygen that gets to the heart which can potentially cause heart failure.

Atrial myxoma

An atrial myxoma is a condition in which the wall of the heart that separates in into two parts, known as the atrial septum, grows a non-cancerous tumor. It doesn’t matter which side of the heart the atrial myxoma is on, although nearly seventy-five percent are on the left side. It hasn’t been proven but it seems that atrial myxomas on the right side of the heart increases the risk of the tricuspid valve in the heart of becoming more narrow at its opening and it can also trigger irregular heart beats known as atrial fibrillation.

HOCM
HOCM, also known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, is a disorder in which the muscle of the heart, known as the myocardium, gets thicker for some unknown cause. If you’ve ever seen a young athlete who is in great shape all of a sudden have a heart attack, HOCM is the culprit. HOCM is also known for causing surprise heart attacks in any age group and likes to eliminate the body’s mechanism for showing symptoms of this disorder.

Long QT Syndrome

Long QT Syndrome is a disorder in which a congenital heart condition at birth hides and remains dormant until later on in life, at which time the syndrome springs up out of no where and causes sudden fainting, ventricular fibrillation, and even sudden death. Long QT Sydrome can sometimes be triggered by exercise or some sort of excitement that involves the heart, including sex.

Supraventricular tachycardia

Supraventricular tachycardia is a condition in which the heart beats at a very fast rate and the heart beat seems to be coming from the atria or the AV node. A doctor will be able to distinguish the sound he hears from the possibly more dangerous form of ventricular tachycardias, in which the heart beat seems to come from ventricles in the heart, which are below the atria or AV node.

Atrial flutter

Atrial flutter is the condition of experiencing random irregularities in heart rhythm and can be detected by an excited pulse or a weird heart beat. Often, people who experience atrial flutter have or have also had some sort of heart disease including hypertension, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathy, although it is entirely possible for someone who has not experienced any form of heart disease to hear an atrial flutter. Usually, the atrial flutter will go away but there have been cases where it sticks around for months or even years.

Constrictive pericarditis

Constrictive pericarditis is a condition in which the pericardium of the heart become inflamed which is usually a result of either an infection, heart attack, or heart surgery. About half of all cases of this illness are attributed to infections and more often than not, tuberculosis.

Arthritis

2011-01-29T01:38:00.000-08:00

What is arthritis? What causes arthritis?

Arthritis is a joint disorder featuring inflammation. A joint is an area of the body where two different bones meet. A joint functions to move the body parts connected by its bones. Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or more joints.

Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint. Joint pain is referred to as arthralgia.

There are many types of arthritis (over 100 identified, and the number is growing). The types range from those related to wear and tear of cartilage (such as osteoarthritis) to those associated with inflammation resulting from an overactive immune system (such as rheumatoid arthritis). Together, the many types of arthritis make up the most common chronic illness in the United States.

The causes of arthritis depend on the form of arthritis. Causes include injury (leading to osteoarthritis), metabolic abnormalities (such as gout and pseudo gout), hereditary factors, the direct and indirect effect of infections (bacterial and viral), and a misdirected immune system with autoimmunity (such as in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus).

Arthritis is classified as one of the rheumatic diseases. These are conditions that are different individual illnesses, with differing features, treatments, complications, and prognoses. They are similar in that they have a tendency to affect the joints, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons, and many have the potential to affect other internal body areas.

What are arthritis symptoms and signs?

Symptoms of arthritis include pain and limited function of joints. Inflammation of the joints from arthritis is characterized by joint stiffness, swelling, redness, and warmth. Tenderness of the inflamed joint can be present.

Many of the forms of arthritis, because they are rheumatic diseases, can cause symptoms affecting various organs of the body that do not directly involve the joints. Therefore, symptoms in some patients with certain forms of arthritis can also include fever, gland swelling (swollen lymph nodes), weight loss, fatigue, feeling unwell, and even symptoms from abnormalities of organs such as the lungs, heart, or kidneys.

What is the treatment for arthritis?

The treatment of arthritis is very dependent on the precise type of arthritis present. An accurate diagnosis increases the chances for successful treatment. Treatments available include physical therapy, splinting, cold-pack application, paraffin wax dips, anti-inflammatory medications, immune-altering medications, and surgical operations.

KIWI : A Nutritional fruit

2010-09-23T10:52:00.000-07:00

KIWI FRUIT:

Kiwifruit can be medium or small in size, although most are small. They are brown and fuzzy on the outside and bright green on the inside with tiny black seeds. The shell or skin of the fruit can be eaten or peeled. Kiwifruit is available all year. Choose firm, plump, light brown kiwi that gives slightly to the touch. Wash kiwis in cold water before using.

Kiwifruit is a member of the botanical family Act inidia and there are 400 different varieties. The Hayward variety is the most popular U.S. variety. The flavor is a mixture of peaches, strawberries, and melon with a soft and juicy texture. It's one of the most popular fruits today.
Store unripe kiwis at room temperature until skin indents slightly when touched. Place kiwi in a paper bag with an apple or banana, or in a ripening bowl to speed ripening. Ripe kiwis can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

Kiwi fruits are rich in many Vitamins, falconoid and minerals. In particular, they contain a high amount of Vitamin C (more than oranges), as much potassium as bananas and a good amount of beta-carotene.
Studies in Italy, though, performed on 6-7 year old children, have also demonstrated additional health benefits to the respiratory tract. In particular, children that were fed 5-7 portions a week of citrus and kiwifruits had 44% less probability wheezing compared to children eating less than once a week.Shortness of breath was reduced by 32%,night time cough by 27%, severe wheeze by 41%, chronic cough by 25%, and runny nose by 28%. This results is not only traceable to the content in Vitamin C or Potassium, but in substances which are still largely unknown contained in kiwi fruit.
These substances are most likely falconoid that help protect our cells from oxidative damage, and are therefore considered very helpful in protecting our DNA from mutations and damage.

Common Names:

Kiwifruit, kiwi, Chinese gooseberry, Yang-tao.

Kiwi Food Facts:

The kiwifruit is native to the Yangtze River valley of northern China and Zhejiang Province on the coast of eastern China. The first seeds were brought out of China by missionaries to New Zealand at the turn of this century.
Early nurserymen in New Zealand, such as Alexander Allison, Bruno Just, and Hayward Wright, recognized the potential of the fruit and it soon became a popular backyard vine. Several plants were sent to the Chico Plant Introduction Station in California and exist to this date.
In addition to New Zealand and California, kiwifruit is also grown commercially in such areas as Italy, South Africa and Chile.
Did you know kiwifruit could also be used as a natural meat tenderizer? That's because kiwifruit contains an enzyme called Actinidin. Just cut in half and rub kiwifruit over the meat, or peel and mash with a fork then spread it on the surface of the meat and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes or longer. The enzyme Actinidin also breaks down protein in dairy products. That's why when kiwifruit is combined with low fat ice cream, yogurt, or sour cream, it's best to serve and eat it right away.
Like all berries, kiwi pack a big nutrition punch. A serving of green kiwifruit (two medium) is just 92 calories, yet it provides almost double the Daily Value for vitamin C. That's as much C as in two oranges. Kiwi also contains 10 percent of the DV for vitamin E, as well as lute in, an antioxidant that helps protect eyes against age-related macular degeneration and may help prevent certain cancers.
Nutritionally, gold kiwi fruit is slightly different. It contains a little more of vitamins A, C, E and foliate than its green counterpart, but has less potassium and only half the fiber. Its flavor is even different, with a more tropical taste and without the tartness of green kiwi.

Protection from Age-Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD):

A series of studies published by the Archives of Ophthalmology have proven that consuming 3 or more servings of fruit per day (including kiwi fruits) can reduce by 36% the risk of developing an eye-related disease called ARMD(the primary cause of vision impairment in adults), if compared to people who only consume 1.5 servings of fruit per day.The study was conducted on 110.000 women and men and lasted several decades. Surprisingly, the study found that while vegetables were not correlated with an improved resistance to the disease, fruits containing high amount of Vitamin C,A and E (the most common antioxidant vitamins) helped significantly in protecting against ARMD.

Anti Oxidant properties of Kiwi Fruit:

It is important to note that kiwi fruits contain a remarkable amount of Vitamin C, E and A. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that has been proven to protect our body from free radicals, dramatically improving the health of individuals who consumed it regularly against all kinds of disease, from cardiovascular problems to cancer and obesity.Vitamin E has been proven to have similar effects, but is fat-soluble and thus is complimentary to Vitamin C in its functions. Kiwi fruits contain both these vitamins in high amount, which help protect our body against free radicals from all fronts.
Kiwi fruits have a high fiber content
The high content in dietary fiber helps improving diseases such as diabetes, by controlling sugar levels, and colon cancer, since fiber binds to toxic compounds in the colon and helps us expel them.
Fiber has also been proven to reduce cholesterol levels, improving the conditions of patients with cardiovascular diseases and lowering the probability of heart attacks.

General Nutritional Facts:

· Fat free
· Cholesterol free

· Saturated fat free

· Sodium free

· Cholesterol free
· High in fiber
· Kiwis are an excellent source of vitamin C
· A good source of vitamin E
· A good source of potassium

Summary of Kiwifruit Health Benefits:

Eating kiwi fruit is clearly a healthy choice, and it is particularly useful in these cases:
· Prevents Asthma
· Prevents wheezing and coughing, especially in children· Protects our DNA from mutations
· Provides a healthy amount of antioxidants and vitamins
· Helps prevent colon cancer thanks to a high fiber content

Serving Suggestion:
Kiwi can be used as a tart topping, garnish for seafood and meat entrees and as a salad bar ingredient. You can peel and slice a kiwi, or eat with the skin on! Make a unique salsa with chopped avocado, chilies and gold kiwi. Or cut up and mix with vinegar and sugar for a marinade or dipping sauce for meat or poultry. Or just enjoy out of hand; to avoid having to peel it, simply cut it in half and eat with the skin on, or use a spoon to scoop it out of its own ready-made cup.

Peel and slice some kiwifruit, and mix it with bananas for a potassium-rich fruit salad; kiwifruit's tartness complements the bananas mellow flavor.

Organic Food

2010-05-28T02:46:00.000-07:00

Organic food-

Organic food is termed as certified food, which is produced in accordance with some production standards. It is grown in organic farms and vigorously monitored by the officials of a certification body, during the production. Organic foods are made in a way that limits or excludes the use of synthetic materials during production. For the vast majority of human history, agriculture can be described as organic; only during the 20th century was a large supply of new synthetic chemicals introduced to the food supply. This more recent style of production is referred to as "conventional." Under organic production, the use of conventional non-organic pesticides, insecticides and herbicides is greatly restricted and saved as a last resort.
Organic food production methods resulted in: (a) higher levels of nutritionally desirable compounds (e.g., vitamins/antioxidants and poly-unsaturated fatty acids such as omega-3 and CLA); (b) lower levels of nutritionally undesirable compounds such as heavy metals, mycotoxins, pesticide residues and glyco-alkaloids in a range of crops and/or milk; (c) a lower risk of faecal Salmonella shedding in pigs. Organic food consumption has become the trend of the time, owing to the multiple health benefits that it offers. Organic food is absolutely natural and is packed with loads of vital nutrients required by the body.

Organic farming :

Organic farming is the form of agriculture that relies on crop rotation, green manure, compost, biological pest control, organically approved pesticide application and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity and control pests, excluding or strictly limiting the use of synthetic fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, plant growth regulators, livestock antibiotics, food additives, and genetically modified organisms.

List of organic food..

Organic Spices:
Turmeric, Ginger, Garlic, Pepper, Fenugreek, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Cumin, Chili, Nutmeg, Coriander, Mustard, Tamarind, Vanilla, Sesame
Organic Cereals & Foods:
Rice, Basumati Rice, Ragi, Millets, Maize, Jowar, Bajara, Sorghum, Tamarind, Onion, Honey, Cashewnut
Organic Herbs:
Aloe vera, Bacopa, Gotu kola, Neem, Amla, Triphala, Basil, Senna, Andrographics, Ashwagandha, Asparagus, Soap nut, Shikakai, Bael, Mucuna, Eclipta, Tinospora, Garcinia, Nux vomica
Organic Pulses:
Red Gram, Green Gram, Black Gram, Horse Gram, Chick pea, Kidney beans, Arhar, Country Pea, Cow Pea
Organic Oil Seeds:
Sesame, Niger, Castor, Mustard, Neem, Amla, Karanja (Pongamia), Sal Seeds, Madhuca seeds
Organic Wild Collection:
Gum Resins, Annato, Arjuna, Ashok, Babul, Phyllanthus, Tribulus, Vasaka, Vitex Negundo
Organic Herbal Tea:
TONE-UP Tea, Holy Tea, Preventive Tea, Cleansing Tea, Stress Free Tea, Sugar Free Tea, Digestive Tea, Clod Tea, Memory Tea, Appetizer Tea

Advantages of Organic food:
* Organically grown foods are natural, without any sprayed chemical.
* Organically grown foods are nutritious and full of taste although they may not look as colorful and well presented as shop produce.
* Organic foods put less burden on environment. Growing foods organically can protect the topsoil from erosion and is a great way of getting closer to nature.

More facts about organic food:

*The average non organic fruit contains more than 20 pesticides.
*Organic food is much more rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre and retains the levels of nutrients for much longer.
*Your body will be more resistant to disease as it will have higher levels of the essential nutrients it needs to fight off infection.
*You will have more energy through consuming lower levels of toxins and chemicals that slow your body down.
*If you are eating dairy or farm produce then you are also eating the chemicals, drugs and growth hormones given to the animals.
*Organic food producers must meet stringent standards *Organic farms respect our water resources and do not leach nitrogens and other pollutants from their soil.
*Organic food just tastes much better.

Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice

2010-02-27T01:05:00.000-08:00

Aloe vera juice benefits includes or can act as eye wrinkle remover, treating acne and pimples, underarm odor remover, cares for your body and skin, after shave lotion, remove pregnancy stretch, removes dandruff, regenerates cells, prevents wrinkles, help scalps and hair and many more.
Aloe vera juice one of the most important extracts of the Aloe vera plant. This is the most used Aloe vera products. Aloe vera juice benefits are talked world wide and millions are giving reviews that Aloe vera juice are really helpful for them and there are many benefits of Aloe vera juices.
Various forms of Aloe vera juices are available in the market and one can buy the aloe juice from the market and enjoy the Aloe vera juice benefits. It has various medical and cosmetic benefits which can be easily seen and discussed. That the reason Aloe vera juices are so much prevalent and popular in the market. Aloe vera juices are used in number of lotions, creams, gels and shampoos. People can also take aloe juice as diet supplement or directly.
since Aloe vera juice is mixture of almost 70 ingredients in which the prime ingredients are minerals, enzymes, proteins, amino acids, vitamins and polysaccharides which make them highly beneficial and you can benefit from drinking Aloe vera juice directly or as a supplemental diet.
• Aloe vera juices help to improve general immune system and organism condition improvement. Keeps keeping your stomach cool.
• Aloe vera juice benefits include prevention from the cancer and fight with cancer.
• It is used to control the stomach acids and maintain the balance in the stomach. This is one of the important benefits of drinking Aloe vera juice.
• Aloe juice stimulates tissue regeneration- help stomach and other body parts also. Highly effective and shooting for your skin.
• Aloe vera juice benefits include absorption of nutrients and neutralizing toxic and bad elements. This is also one of the benefits of drinking Aloe vera juice.
• Aloe vera juice is also helpful for diabetic patients.

Top Heart-Healthy Foods: Best Foods for Cardiovascular Health

2010-01-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

There really is an abundance of fruits and vegetables in many colors, shapes, sizes that are good for your heart. You can definitely reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease by eating these foods every day.
25 Top Heart-Healthy Foods
1. Salmon Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids.
Menu Idea: Grill salmon with a yummy rub or marinade. Save a chunk to chop for a pasta or salad later on.
2. Flaxseed (ground) Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids; fiber, phytoestrogens.
Menu Idea: Ground flaxseed hides easily in all sorts of foods -- yogurt parfaits, morning cereal, homemade muffins, or cookies.
3. Oatmeal Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids; magnesium; potassium; folate; niacin; calcium; soluble fiber.
Menu Idea: Top hot oatmeal with fresh berries. Oatmeal-and-raisin cookies are a hearty treat.
4. Black or Kidney Beans Nutrients: B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate; magnesium; omega-3 fatty acids; calcium; soluble fiber.
Menu Idea: Give soup or salad a nutrient boost -- stir in some beans.
5. Almonds Nutrients: Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols.
Menu Idea: Mix a few almonds (and berries) into low-fat yogurt, trail mix, or fruit salads.
6. Walnuts Nutrients: Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; folate; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols.
Menu Idea: Walnuts add flavorful crunch to salads, pastas, cookies, muffins, even pancakes.
7. Red wine Nutrients: Catechins and reservatrol (flavonoids).
Menu Idea: Toast your good health! A glass of red wine could improve "good" HDL cholesterol.
8. Tuna Nutrients: Omega-3 fatty acids; folate; niacin.
Menu Idea: Here's lunch: Salad greens, fresh fruit, canned tuna. Keep "Salad Spritzer" - a light dressing -- in your office fridge.
9. Tofu Nutrients: Niacin; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium.
Menu Idea: Tasty tofu is easy: Thinly slice "firm" tofu, marinate several hours, grill or stir-fry.
10. Brown rice Nutrients: B-complex vitamins; fiber; niacin; magnesium, fiber.
Menu Idea: Microwavable brown rice makes a quick lunch. Stir in a few chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, spinach).
11. Soy milk Nutrients: Isoflavones (a flavonoid); B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate, calcium; magnesium; potassium; phytoestrogens.
Menu Idea: Soy milk is great over oatmeal or whole-grain cereal. Or, make a smoothie with soy milk.
12. Blueberries Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); anthocyanin (a flavonoid); ellagic acid (a polyphenol); vitamin C; folate; calcium, magnesium; potassium; fiber.
Menu Idea: Cranberries, strawberries, raspberries are potent, too -- for trail mixes, muffins, salads!

13. Carrots Nutrients: Alpha-carotene (a carotenoid); fiber.
Menu Idea: Baby carrots are sweet for lunch. Sneak shredded carrots into spaghetti sauce or muffin batter.
14. Spinach Nutrients: Lutein (a carotenoid); B-complex vitamins; folate; magnesium; potassium; calcium; fiber.
Menu Idea: Pick spinach (not lettuce) for nutrient-packed salads and sandwiches.
15. Broccoli Nutrients: Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); Vitamins C and E; potassium; folate; calcium; fiber.
16. Sweet potato Nutrients: Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); vitamins A, C, E; fiber.
Menu Idea: Microwave in a zip-lock baggie for lunch. Eat au naturale, or with pineapple bits.
17. Red bell peppers Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber.
Menu Idea: Rub with olive oil, and grill or oven-roast until tender. Delicious in wraps, salads, sandwiches.
18. Asparagus Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex vitamins; folate; fiber.
Menu Idea: Grill or steam slightly, then dress with olive oil and lemon. It's a pretty side dish.
19. Oranges Nutrients: Beta-cryptoxanthin, beta- and alpha-carotene, lutein (carotenoids) and flavones (flavonoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber.
Menu Idea: Got orange juice? Check out the new nutrient-packed blends.
20. Tomatoes Nutrients: Beta- and alpha-carotene, lycopene, lutein (carotenoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber.
Menu Idea: For a flavor twist, try oil-packed tomatoes in sandwiches, salads, pastas, pizzas.
21. Acorn squash Nutrients: Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex and C vitamins; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium; fiber.
Menu Idea: Baked squash is comfort food on a chilly day. Serve with sauteed spinach, pine nuts, raisins.
22. Cantaloupe Nutrients: Alpha- and beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex and C vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber.
Menu Idea: A fragrant ripe cantaloupe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, potluck dinners. Simply cut and enjoy!
23. Papaya Nutrients: Beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein (carotenoids); Vitamins C and E; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium.
Menu Idea: Serve papaya salsa with salmon: Mix papaya, pineapple, scallions, garlic, fresh lime juice, salt and black pepper.
24. Dark chocolate Nutrients: Reservatrol and cocoa phenols (flavonoids).
Menu Idea: A truffle a day lowers blood pressure, but choose 70% or higher cocoa content.
25. Tea Nutrients: Catechins and flavonols (flavonoids).
Menu Idea: Make sun tea: Combine a clear glass jar, several tea bags, and hours of sunshine.

Swine Flu H1N1

2009-11-06T11:03:00.000-08:00

What is swine flu?
•Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by Type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs.
•Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.
Is the current swine flu virus contagious?
•Various international agencies (US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, World Health Organization) have determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.
•WHO has escalated the world Pandemic Phase from Phase 3 to Phase 4 (in a 6-scale Phase), indicating that a worldwide pandemic due to swine flu H1N1 is possible.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?
•The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.
•Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people.
•Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
How does swine flu spread?
•Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads.
•Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza.
•Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with live flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
How are human infections with swine influenza diagnosed?
•To diagnose swine influenza A infection, a respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness (when an infected person is most likely to be shedding virus).
•However, some persons, especially children, may shed virus for 10 days or longer.
•Identification as a swine flu influenza A virus requires sending the specimen to a hospital laboratory for testing.
How can someone with the flu infect someone else?
•Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick.
•That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.
How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?
•People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset.
•Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
Is there a vaccine for Pandemic Flu?
•Because the virus is new, there will be no vaccine ready to protect against pandemic flu.
•Vaccine against Swine Flu virus H1N1 needs at least 6-12 months to be produced.
•Seasonal flu vaccine or past flu immunization will not provide protection.
Are there medicines to treat swine flu?
•Yes. The US CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) or zanamivir (Relenza®) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses.
•Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body.
•If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications.
•For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).
What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
•The virus can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with the virus and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
•Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. The virus can then be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk, doorknob, child’s toy or phone handset and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.
How long can viruses live outside the body?
•We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks.
•Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
•Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
•Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
•Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. The virus can spread this way.
•Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
•If you get sick with influenza, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?
•If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill.
•Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket.
•Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
•Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner.
•When you wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores.
•If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
What should I do if I get sick?
•If you live in areas where swine influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
•If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.
•If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs (next 2 slides), seek emergency medical care.
In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
•Fast breathing or trouble breathing
•Bluish skin color
•Not drinking enough fluids
•Not waking up or not interacting
•Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
•Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
•Fever with a rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
•No. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You can not get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe.
•Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F (72°C) kills the swine flu virus as it does other bacteria and viruses.
Household Cleaning, Laundry, and Waste Disposal
•Throw away tissues and other disposable items used by the sick person in the trash. Wash your hands after touching used tissues and similar waste.
•Keep surfaces (esp bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, children’s toys, phone handles, doorknobs) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.
•Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first.
•Wash linens (such as bed sheets and towels) by using household laundry soap and tumble dry on a hot setting. Avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating yourself. Clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub right after handling dirty laundry.
•Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.

HOW TO SURVIVE A HEART ATTACK WHEN ALONE

2009-02-28T04:11:00.000-08:00

Since many people are alone when they suffer a heart attack, without help,the person whose heart is beating improperly and who begins to feel faint, has only about 10 seconds left before losing consciousness. However, these victims can help themselves by coughing repeatedly and very vigorously. A deep breath should be taken before each cough, and the cough must be deep and prolonged, as when producing sputum from deep inside the chest.
A breath and a cough must be repeated about every two seconds without let-up until help arrives, or until the heart is felt to be beating normally again. Deep breaths get oxygen into the lungs and coughing movements squeeze the heart and keep the blood circulating. The squeezing pressure on the heart also helps it regain normal rhythm. In this way, heart attack victims can get to a hospital.

DIABETES

2007-10-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

Diabetes is a disease in which your blood glucose, or sugar, levels are too high. Glucose comes from the foods you eat. Insulin is a hormone that helps the glucose get into your cells to give them energy.

Types and Causes
1) This type of diabetes is an autoimmune disease. Your immune system turns on itself and destroys the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Although type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood or teen years, it can appear later.

2) In this type, your pancreas makes some insulin, but not enough. Your cells also can become resistant to insulin's effects, keeping insulin from escorting enough glucose into your body's cells. Type 2 diabetes generally develops after age 40. However, doctors are seeing a rise in childhood type 2 diabetes that parallels the rise in obesity among youth. A form of type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, develops during 2 percent to 5 percent of pregnancies. In gestational diabetes, your body doesn't effectively use the insulin you produce. The cause may be metabolic changes that occur due to the effects of hormones in pregnancy. Gestational diabetes usually disappears after pregnancy, but more than half of women who experience it eventually develop apermanent type 2 diabetes.

Diet for Diabetes:
Diet plays a significant role in controlling the diabetes. The diabetic diet may be used alone or else in combination with insulin doses or with oral hypoglycemic drugs. Main objective of diabetic diet is to maintain ideal body weight, by providing adequate nutrition along with normal blood sugar levels in blood. The diet plan for a diabetic is based on height, weight, age, sex, physical activity and nature of diabetes. While planning diet, the dietician has to consider complications such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels.
Fiber should be at least 40 gm / day
Instead of 3 heavy meals, we should go for 4-5 small mid intervals
Replace bakery products and fast foods by simple whole cooked cereals, and don't eat carbohydrates 2 hours before bedtime.
Consume fresh fruit and vegetables

Objectives :
To maintain adequate nutrition.
To achieve and maintain desirable body weight.
To maintain normal blood sugar levels.
To prevent, delay or minimize the onset of chronic degenerative complications.

In case of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus, the energy intake is based on needs for normal growth and development, physical activity and maintenance of desirable body weight.
In case of non insulin dependant diabetes mellitus, the majority of patients are overweight or obese. Therefore, calorie restriction is required to achieve a desired weight.
Type of carbohydrate and amount of fibre: More of carbohydrate must be given as complex starches rather than simple sugars as they breakdown more slowly to release glucose in blood. The presence of fibre in complex carbohydrate like grains, vegetables and other starches slows the glucose absorption. One should emphasise more on the high fibre foods instead of high fibre supplements available in the market.
Food groups High fibre foods Low fibre foods Cereals Whole cereals like whole wheat, dalia, whole wheat flour Refined cereals like rice, bread, maida, suji, noodles, macaroni, etc Milk and milk products - Milk and milk products Pulses Whole dals and dals with husk Washed dals Meat, fish and poultry - Eggs, chicken, fish Vegetables Vegetables like peas, beans, lotus stem etc. Vegetables like potato, lauki etc. Fruits Fruits like apple, cherries, pears, peaches, plums, guava etc. Fruit juices and fruits like banana and papaya Fats - Fats

Diet plan (for NIDDM)
Early morning Tea (preferably without sugar)
Breakfast Dalia (salted)/ Paneer on toast Tea without sugar Apple
Lunch 2 chapatti Channa curry / or any other whole dal Beans sabzi /
or any other sabzi (avoid potatoes) Curds / ghia raita Salad
Tea Tea Salty biscuits
Dinner Vegetable soup / tomato soup / chicken soup 2 chapatti / missi roti
(combining wheat flour with channa flour and soya flour)
Palak paneer sabzi / paneer bhurji(non oily) Curds

Diet plan (for IDDM)
Early morning Tea (without sugar)
Breakfast Corn flakesBoiled eggToast
Mid-morning Fruit chat
Lunch 2 chapatti (add extra chapatti if required)Lobia curry / or any
other whole dalCapsicum sabzi / karela / or any other sabziCurds
/raitaSalad
Tea Tea / milkVegetable sandwich
Dinner 2 chapattiDry dalCabbage sabzi / or any other sabziSalad

Foods to be avoided
Glucose, sugar, honey, all sweets, chocolates and candies.
Foods to be restricted
Potatoes, yam, arbi, sweet potatoes, mangoes, grapes, bananas, alcoholic beverages, fried foods, paranthas, poories, pakoras, mathris, deep fried foods, dry fruits,salad oils, cakes and pastries.
Foods to be used freely
Green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, cucumber. radish, soups, buttermilk, tea and coffee without sugar.

Health Tip - Apple Cure

2007-10-08T00:36:00.000-07:00

Consuming flavonol-rich foods like apples and onions reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer,a new study conducted by a group of international researchers has revealed.

2007-09-04T01:48:00.000-07:00

GOOD AND BAD FOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH
If we talk about some good food for health :
Black raspberries
Strawberries
Blueberries
Flax Seeds
Green Leafy Vegetables
Tomatoes
Broccoli sprouts
Butter
Cheese
Potato Chips and French Fries
Doughnuts
Salt
Sausage, hot dogs
Pickled, smoked or barbequed meat

TRY OUT THESE JUICES-THEY REALLY HELP

2007-08-22T21:54:00.000-07:00

JUICE OF CARROT,TOMATO AND APPLE:
IMPROVES SKIN COMPLEXION AND BAD BREADTH

JUICE OF CARROT, GINGER AND APPLE:
BOOSTS AND CLEANSE OUR SYSTEM

JUICE OF APPLE, CUCUMBER AND CELERY:
PREVENTS CANCER,REDUCES CHOLESTEROL,IMPROVES STOMACH UPSET AND HEADACHE

JUICE OF BITTER GOURD,APPLE AND MILK:
REDUCES BAD BREADTH,ALSO REDUCES INTERNAL BODY HEAT

JUICE OF ORANGE,GINGER AND CUCUMBER:
IMPROVES SKIN TEXTURE,MOISTURIZER AND REDUCES INTERNAL BODY HEAT

JUICE OF PINEAPPLE,APPLE AND WATERMELON:
TO DISPEL EXCESS SALT,NOURISHES THE BLADDER AND KIDNEY

JUICE OF APPLE CUCUMBER AND KIWI:
TO IMPROVE SKIN COMPLEXION

JUICE OF PEAR AND BANANA:
REGULATES SUGAR CONTENT

JUICE OF CARROT,APPLE,PEAR AND MANGO :
CLEARS BODY HEAT, COUNTERACT TOXICITY,REDUCES BLOOD PRESSURE AND FIGHT OXIDIZATION

JUICE OF HONEYDEW,WATER MELON,GRAPE AND MILK:
RICH IN VITAMIN C AND B2,THAT INCREASES CELL ACTIVITY AND STRENGTHENS BODY IMMUNITY

JUICE OF PAPAYA,PINEAPPLE AND MILK:
RICH IN VITAMIN C,E,IRON.IMPROVES SKIN COMPLEXION AND METABOLISM

JUICE OF BANANA,PINEAPPLE AND MILK:
RICH IN VITAMIN WITH NUTRITIOUS AND PREVENTS CONSTIPATION

The Beauty Foods

7 ways to be Happy and Peaceful

2007-08-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Happiness is difficult to define and even harder to measure. We experience it as a combination of elements, in the same way that one wheel or spring inside a watch doesn't keep time — it is a result of the synchronicity of the whole. As a relative state, happiness is what psychologists call our "subjective well-being" and, fortunately for us, it is a state that we can actively change for the better.
These are a few ways which will make you feel happy:
1.Play with kids :according to psychologists playing with kids or just watching them has positive effects on your mind.

2.Mediatate: or Sit in a room for few minutes and think about the good things.Count your blessings once a week and this will make you happy.
3.Play a sport: Work out as hard as you can. Take a walk so your stress will take a hike. Moving your body releases endorphins, the quintessential feel-good chemicals found in your brain.
4.Be Happy and positive:Happiness can lead to success, rather than just the other way around. Happy individuals are predisposed to seek out new opportunities and set new goals.

5.Do new things or try to do old things in new ways :Learn new things like new game

6.Talk about the good and bad things with others :Talking about things makes your heart lighter and helps you overcome negative thoughts.Talking about a negative experience made the emotional intensity of that memory fade faster than if the event had not been recounted.

7.Be flexible and have balance between work and home :People who establish boundaries between work and home are more connected to their families and have less conflict than those who integrate the two.
Happiness is not rocket science,it is a state of mind.It all depends on you to make yourself happy.

Mushroom - Health Benefits

2007-08-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

"Mushrooms are really good for health."

Mushrooms are also a good source of riboflavin and niacin and contain no fat or cholesterol.

Mushrooms contains Nutrients like:Vitamins and Minerals And also some Antioxidants:

1. Its a valuable source of fibre.

2. If you take 100gms of uncooked mushrooms,it contains B vitamins, copper,pantothenic acid, niacin and folate.

3.If you take about 100 gram of fresh, uncooked White Button and/or Brown Crimini Mushrooms this provides both essential and trace minerals Iron, Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Copper and Selenium.

4.Mushrooms also contain a powerful antioxidant called l-ergothioneine.

"A healthy diet containing foods high in potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure (hypertension), a risk factor for stroke and heart disease.Mushrooms have high medicinal value and can help lose weight ."

Some of the types of mushrooms which are really good for health:

Recent studies have shown shiitake and reishi mushrooms are potential cancer-fighters. Reishi extracts have been shown to stop the growth of cancerous tumors and also produce an antihistamine action which can help to control allergies. Shiitake mushrooms contain a compound called lentinan, which is being used as a cancer treatment in Japan.

Let's study them in detail...

REISHI:

Reishi is rich in active organic compounds such as polysaccharides, amino acids, proteins, triterpenes, ascorbic acid, sterols, lipids, alkaloids, glucose, courmarine glycoside, volatile oil, riboflavin and more. These compounds are being studies for their positive effects on the immune system, including anti-tumor activity. Reishi is used as a daily tonic to maintain and improve good health increasing longevity, in the treatment of cancer and resistance to and recovery from diseases.

SHITAKE:

The shitake mushroom is closely related to Reishi. Shitake is Japan's largest agricultural export and is now the most popular and most cultivated exotic mushroom in teh world. The mushroom was used not only as a food but was taken as a remedy for upper respiratory diseases, poor blood circulation, liver trouble, exhaustion and weakness and to boost chi, or life energy. It was also believed to prevent premature aging.

SOYA BEAN -A COMPLETE PROTEIN

2007-08-12T23:01:00.000-07:00

SOYA BEAN -A COMPLETE PROTEIN
Soybeans are generally considered to be a source of complete protein.

A complete protein is one that contains significant amounts of all the essential amino acids that must be provided to the human body because of the body's inability to synthesize them. For this reason, soy is a good source of protein, amongst many others, for many vegetarians and vegans or for people who cannot afford meat. However, the phrase complete protein can be misleading since proteins vary in their protein values. Soy protein is similar to that of other legume seeds, but has the highest yield per square meter of growing area, and is the least expensive source of dietary protein.

SOME OF ITS PRODUCTS:

SOYA MILK

This milk can be used for feeding infants and as supplement to diets of weaned infants and pre school children. This milk is also good for grown up. Commercially available Soya milk is prepared by heating at 14lb pressure for 30 minutes to destroy trypsin, growth inhibitors and haemagglutins and fortifying with sugars, vitamins and minerals. Soya bean milk can be prepared from soya bean. Its vitamin content is similar to that of cow's milk.
Soya milk can be substituted in-patients who have allergy to milk protein. It is available in different flavours and plain. Soaking the pulse and grinding and straining it can make soya milk at home. Soya curd can be made from this soya milk.
It is the cheapest high quality vegetable protein.

TOFU OR SOYA CHEESE:

Curdling fresh hot soya milk can make tofu or soya cheese. Tofu is prepared by adding calcium or magnesium salts to Soya milk. Fresh tofu can be preserved in a refrigerator for a day.
The other products made from soya bean are natto, tempehe, miso and soya sauce. These products are generally used in Chinese preparation. Like all other pulses soya bean can also be sprouted. Sprouting enhances the vitamin C content. Soya sprouts must be cooked in low heat.

SOME OF ITS ADVANTAGES:

They can be used in salads, soups or stir-fried.
It is a good source of thiamine, niacin, folic acid and a fair source of riboflavin. Soya bean should be cooked well for digestion and absorption.
Good for patient having hyper cholesterolaemia.
Soya milk is used in lactose intolerance both primary and secondary.
Soya milk preparations are used in galactosaemia.

( Note: soya milk do have galactose but in less quantity)
Commercially available products in India are Nutri nuggets, Nutrila, Meal maker, Crunchies etc. Soya bean reduces iron absorption.
Soya flour can be added to wheat flour to make chapathi.

Green Vegetables-good for health

2007-08-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Green leafy vegetables contain significant amounts of protein, minerals and fibre. The darker the leaves, the more nutrients the vegetable usually has.

Eating green vegetables provides many health benefits.

1. They help your immune system, provide antioxidant protection and rejuvenate your cells. . As we naturally eat heavier, richer, cooked foods in winter it is important to keep eating a proportion of raw greens.

2.They provide balance to our meals and aid digestion and detoxification.

Some of the Examples of dark green leafy vegetables and the best way to eat them:

Arugula Arugula is a spicy little leaf, which some describe as bitter and others characterize as having a "peppery-mustardy" flavor. Because it is so potent on its own, it is often mixed with milder greens to produce a nice balanced salad. It can also be sautéed in olive oil. You can substitute most any green for arugula, but the closest matches are Belgian endive, escarole, and dandelion greens. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and calcium. Arugula can be eaten raw in salads or added to stir-fry, soups, and pasta sauces.

Chicory has a slightly bitter flavor and is rich in vitamins K, C, and calcium. Chicory is best eaten with other greens in salad or when added to soups and pasta sauces.

Collard Greens unlike their cousins kale and mustard greens, have a very mild, almost smoky flavor. Although they are available year-round they are at their best from January through April.
Like kale, collards are one of the non-head forming members of the Brassica family along with broccoli and cauliflower.
Have a spinach-like flavor and are rich in vitamin A and calcium. They are best if you boil them briefly and then add to a soup or stir-fry. You can also eat collard greens as a side dish. Just add your favorite seasoning and enjoy!

Dandelion Greens have a bitter, tangy flavor and are rich in vitamin A and calcium. They are best when steamed or eaten raw in salad.

Kale has a slightly bitter, cabbage-like flavor and is rich in vitamin A, C, calcium, folic acid, and potassium. Kale is tasty when added to soups, stir-fries, and sauces.
Mustard Greens have a hot, spicy flavor and are rich in vitamin A, C and calcium.Leaves of the mustard plant, mustard greens are a very popular vegetable in the South. The leaves have a pungent mustard flavor, and may be found fresh, frozen, or canned. Mustard greens must be washed thoroughly, then may be steamed, sauteed, or simmered. They're usually cooked with seasonings and ham, pork, or bacon. They are delicious eaten raw in salads or in stir-fries and soups.

Spinach has a sweet flavor and is rich in vitamin A, C, iron and calcium. Spinach tastes great eaten raw in salads or steamed.

Swiss Chard tastes similar to spinach and is rich in vitamins C, K, and calcium. It is beststir-fried or eaten raw in salads.

Shoe selection is important for foot care

2007-08-07T00:24:00.000-07:00

Many people do not give much thought to shoe selection. If you only consider style and fit when buying shoes, you may invite foot problems.
Properly caring for your feet can prevent serious problems. Here are some tips to follow to keep your feet healthy and pain free:
* Wear shoes that fit your lifestyle. Save high heels for special occasions.
* Wear shoes geared for the sports and activities that you enjoy. For example, wear running shoes when you run, not when you play tennis.
* All shoes should fit comfortably and provide proper support, cushioning, and room for your toes. Replace or throw away worn shoes.
* Practice daily healthy foot hygiene. Wash your feet with warm water and a mild soap or cleanser. Thoroughly dry them with a clean towel. Use a moisturizing lotion to help prevent dryness. Avoid moisturizing the areas between the toes. Use cornstarch or baking powder to help keep your feet dry.
* Wear clean socks every day that draw the moisture away from your feet. Cotton and wool socks and stockings are best. Change socks daily or more frequently if they become damp.
* Trim toenails often. Always cut toenails straight across leaving them a little longer at the corners. Use nail clippers to make neat cuts. Do not cut too close or tear away a nail with your fingers or dull scissors. Finish the edge with a nail file.
* Examine your feet regularly. Check for cuts, scrapes, bruises, calluses or corns. Swelling or redness may be signs of infection.
* Get plenty of exercise. Your feet need plenty of exercise to maintain good circulation. They also need rest.
* Take care to avoid injury and extremes of hot and cold temperatures.
To take proper care of your feet,shoes are the most important thing.Shoes makes you feel comfortable and improves your efficiency.You can buy shoes online and select the shoes from the wide variety available on shopping.com.
Shoes for all age groups are available.
Apart from the usual men,women,boys and girls range shoes for infants and toddlers are also available online.
For proper care of your feet,selection and quality of shoes is very important,which is available here.This site has the option were,you get to know the most popular shoes among various brands.shoes are not only fashion accessories but also help in making you comfortable resulting in improved performance.

PAPAYA- A Beneficial Fruit

2007-08-04T11:07:00.000-07:00

A papaya plant is actually an overgrown herb, known as an herbaceous perennial.

Papaya is an excellent source of:Vitamin A, C & E,Folic Acid,Potassium,Copper,Beta-carotene,Calcium,Phosphorus,Iron,Fiber
To prevent constipation and for all stated health benefits, here are three simple papaya recipes:

1. Papaya Milk Energy drink. Cut papaya and blend with milk in a 50/50 mix. Add honey if desired. Papaya milk is a good energy drink for growing children.
2. Papaya Salad (Thai Style). Shred green papaya and cut some tomatoes. For dressing, add chopped garlic, 2 tablespoon fish sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice, cilantro, Thai basil, 1 teaspoon chopped mint, chili padi (optional) and sugar to taste.
3. Unripe papaya juice. Peel off skin and put in blender. This recipe is especially good for the lymphatic system and after a meal that is heavy in gluten.

Don’t miss out on all the goodness and benefits from including papaya in your diet. Papaya is best eaten in the morning or by lunch time , allowing you plenty of time for bowel movements.

PAPAYA FACTS
Generic name is CARICA PAPAYA.
Loaded with carotene which is converted to vitamin A in our body necessary for vision.
100grams of papaya contains only 32kcal because of its low calorie content it is known as dieter's food .
Papaya is a good source of beta carotene which helps to prevent free radical damage.
Papain is present in papaya which is an excellent aid to digestion,as the role of papain is to digest the protein in food.
Papain also has pain relieving properties and has been used to ease the discomfort of slipped discs.
Papaya is a rich source of vitamin c approximately 57mgs per 100gms.
Papaya has two forms ripe and unripe or green ,the unripe green papaya is used as a vegetable source.
Pieces of Papaya laid on wounds is reported to help speed up healing.

TOP 10 WAYS TO SLEEP BETTER

2007-08-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

TOP TEN WAYS TO SLEEP BETTER

****************************************************
10. Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol & Tobacco

9. Cognitive Behavior Therapy

8. Create a Sleep-Conductive Environment

7. Don’t Nap During The Day

6. Exercise Regularly

5. Have a Bedtime Schedule

4. Keep Bed a Place For Sleep

3. Medication

2. Relaxation: Massage, Warm Bath

1. Warm Milk or Herbal Tea

Facts about Fat

2007-07-31T04:27:00.000-07:00

We know for certain that some fats worsen cholesterol levels and increase the risk of disease; these have been labeled as ‘bad fats’ and these bad fats are solid or semi-solid at room temperature and you can count trans-fats and saturated fats in this group. Avoid trans-fats completely, while moderating your intake of saturated fats.

Saturated fats -

Are the ones found in such dairy products as whole milk, butter, cheese, and ice cream.

Also found in red meat, chocolate, coconuts, coconut milk, coconut oil and palm oil.

Trans-fats -

The ones to avoid, can be found in most margarines, in vegetable shortening and also partially hydrogenated vegetable oil.

Tran fats are emplyed for deep-fried chips or fish, many fast foods and most commercial baked goods.

'Good fats' are liquid at room temperature and unsaturated, either mono-unsaturated or poly-unsaturated fats. They improve cholesterol levels and lower the risk of disease.

Mono-unsaturated fats -

As they are in olives or olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and nuts in genral, like cashews, almonds, peanuts, and most other nuts.

Avocados also contain mono-unsaturated fats.

Poly-unsaturated fats -

Considered the best, found in corn, soybean, safflower, and cottonseed oils, and, of course, fish.

Cardio exercise to spice up your sex life

2007-07-30T04:06:00.000-07:00

Well-toned muscles, good posture, stamina and flexibility can do wonders for sessions between the sheets! Exercise helps to knock off the excess weight and tighten your muscles, giving your body shape and strength.
So if you want what it takes to last through a memorable rendezvous, try these exercises 3-4 times a week.
Cardio exercise
Walking, running, aerobics, swimming and cycling all fall under this category. It boosts hormones, flushes out stress, works away fat, rejuvenates the body, boosts your confidence and literally puts you in the "pink of health". Since a passionate session requires stamina, improving cardiovascular fitness, will help you perform longer and more often.
Pick your choice of cardio exercise and do it at least 3-4 times a week for a minimum of 30 minutes at a brisk pace without a break.

Yoga for lower back pain

2007-07-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

Here are a few yoga poses that will also help your lower back pain.

1. The Corpse Pose: A very common yoga relaxation pose, you begin by lying on your back with your legs stretched out to the sides (making a V shape), do the same with your hands. Next, turn your head 90-degrees left and then right and bring it back to the center so you are looking straight up, this helps to position the spine for the pose. Next, imagine your body being pulled from your feet and head, your arms and legs, your shoulders from your neck and so on…such that you are stretching your various body extremities away from each other. Hold the pose for a few minutes and then sit up.

2. Vatayanasana (The Wind Pose): Especially useful for stretching the lower back, freeing up the sciatica and improving digestion, the Wind Pose begins with you lying on your back with knees bent and then grabbing one knee with both hands pulling it up to your chin such that your leg presses against your chest. Do the same with the other leg. Movement should be slow and deliberate. Carry this pose on for 5-minutes.

Leg raises and Triangle Pose are additional yoga poses that you can use to improve your lower back strength and resistance to factors causing pain

PRANAYAMA IN THREE EASY STEPS

2007-07-27T22:49:00.000-07:00

PRANAYAMA IN THREE EASY STEPS
Pranayama is a breathing practice in Yoga. It is particularly useful in situations where you feel threatened, because it helps you retain your calm. Pranayama is often recommended to the beginning occultist.

Preparation
Wear loose-fitting clothes or no clothes at all. Make sure your nose is clear, so you can breathe freely. If you have a cold, you will have to wait till you are recovered. Not only is it impossible to do pranayama when you cannot breathe through your nose but if you have a sore throat the first deep breath will send you into a violent cough attack.

Step One

The purpose of the first step is to learn to distinguish between belly breathing and chest breathing.
Lie on your back on a comfortable flat surface. Relax and start following your breath. Put one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Relax.
Belly breathing: When you inhale, the hand on your belly rises, while the hand on your chest remains still. As you exhale, the hand on your belly goes down again, whereas the hand on your chest remains still. Repeat this for 5-10 breaths.
Chest breathing: When you inhale, the hand on your chest rises, while the hand on your belly remains still. As you exhale, the hand on your chest goes down again, whereas the hand on your belly remains still. Repeat this for 5-10 breaths.
Alternate between belly and chest breathing for 5-10 minutes. Repeat every day. It is vital that you master this step before going on to step 2.

Step Two
Purpose of step two is to combine belly and chest breathing in one breath. This is called Yoga breathing.
Lie on a comfortable flat surface. Relax and follow your breath. Put one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Relax.
Yoga breathing: Start inhaling with belly breathing. When you feel that you cannot inhale any more this way, go over to chest breathing until the chest part of your lungs are full. Then you exhale using chest breathing first and then belly breathing until you have emptied your lungs completely.
Breathe very slowly. If you feel dizzy, you are breathing too fast. If you feel out of breath, you are breathing too slowly. Follow your body's signals.
If you have problems distinguishing between belly and chest breathing, go back to step one again.

Step Three
Sit or stand with your spine upright.
Use Yoga breathing and follow a set pattern. To do this you need to somehow count the rythm. . Be careful not to hold your breath for too long. Again, listen to your body's needs.
Yoga breathing should be a more or less effortless process, so your breath should not be louder than usual. You mayexperience problems with starting the exhalation inaudibly. If you experience this , there is a trick to it: you inhale just a wee bit before exhaling. You are supposed to be able to use pranayama in virtually any situation, so to practise making it an "invisible" process is definitely worthwhile. That way you can use it, for instance when you walk up to the platform before making a speech or when listening to someone in an argument.

Practice It is a good idea to practise step one for a week, then combine step one and step two for one week, and then try all three steps in your daily session during the third week. This way you repeat the first basic steps every time. I followed this advice and feel that I have learnt the basics quite well. I still feel the need to practise distinguishing between belly and chest breathing from time to time. Pranayama works better if you practise it regularly. Do not do it all the time, but a few times a day will not hurt, quite on the contrary.

TYPES OF EXERCISES

2007-07-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

There are 3 major types of exercise:

* Cardiovascular or aerobic exercise like Jogging and brisk walking stimulates the heart and lungs, and builds endurance so that you can exercise longer each time you do it. Basketball.

* Flexibility exercise like Dancing and Yoga stretches and flexes muscles; helps promote balance and overall grace.

* Strengthening like Weight lifting exercise increases muscle strength.

A good variety of plain, unrefined plant food for Americans

2007-07-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

A good variety of plain, unrefined plant food is more nutritionally balanced than the animal products and manmade processed foods. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, nuts, and seeds contain high-quality protein, a better fatty-acid profile (thus decreasing the risk of heart disease and cancer), no cholesterol, plenty of complex carbohydrates and fiber, and are rich in vitamins and minerals and water.

Animal products and man-made foods are often high in fat, cholesterol, sugar, salt, and harmful additives, and are lacking in fiber. Sometimes we cannot obtain an ideal diet. People shouldn't be made to feel guilty about what they eat if they are doing the best that they can with what knowledge and resources they have. Certainly it is not unhealthful to use some refined products like white flour, sugar, or oil in small amounts to prepare healthful and tasty dishes. A moderate amount of salt can be used by most people. The problem is that the average American taste bud has been conditioned through overuse to expect and demand far too much of these things. It would be well to gradually re-educate people to require much less.

The U.S. Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs in 1977 issued these recommendations to all Americans: Reduce salt intake by about 50-85 percent, cut fat consumption by at least 10 percent, slash sugar ingestion by 40 percent, and limit cholesterol to 300 mg. daily (equivalent to one egg).

These guidelines suggest that major changes are in order for the average American diet. The benefits of making such significant changes in the types of food in the diet are amazing. The Adventist Health study has shown that pure vegetarians (no animal products) have only one-third as many deaths from cancer and one-fourth as many deaths from coronary heart disease as non-vegetarians. In these studies other variables such as tobacco and alcohol were accounted for, so that we know that the tremendous health advantage of the pure vegetarian group is due to the fact that they are not using animal products in their diet. These same studies have shown that the vegetarians who do not smoke or drink have only 14 percent as many heart-attack deaths and 9 percent as many cancer deaths and live an average of l2 years longer than the general population.

Traditionally, most people measure the nutritional status of their diet by the Four Food Group Plan. The four food groups are: Milk and milk products, meat or protein, fruits and vegetables, and bread and cereals. The idea is to eat a certain number of servings from each group every day to ensure balanced nutrition. This plan does ensure that we will meet the daily requirements for all nutrients. Its chief drawback is that it does not guard very well against overnutrition, which is the greatest nutritional problem in the U.S. today. We can easily consume too much protein, fat, cholesterol, and salt on this plan.

Do we really need four food groups when we can obtain all our nutrients from just two groups-the fruit and vegetable and bread and cereal group—just as the vegetarians do who are so much healthier than the nonvegetarians? It is an elemental fact of nutrition science that there is no such thing as an essential food. There are only essential nutrients. We can get them all from two groups or four.

Well Balanced-Diet

2007-07-25T10:32:00.001-07:00

One way to assure variety and a well-balanced diet is to select daily servings of foods.....

1.Fruits and Vegetables
2.Breads and cereals
3.Milk and cheeses
4.Meat, poultry, fish, dry beans
5.Fats, sweets, and alcohol

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber; some provide starch or protein. Peels and edible seeds are especially rich in fiber. Deep-yellow vegetables are good sources of vitamin A. Dark-green vegetables are a source of vitamin A and C, riboflavin, folic acid, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Vitamin C is provided by melons, berries, tomatoes, and citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons). Certain greens--collards, kale, mustard, turnip, and dandelion--provide calcium. Nearly all vegetables and fruits are low in fat, and none contain cholesterol.

BREAD AND CEREAL group: Foods in this group provide starch, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, iron, magnesium, folacin, fiber, and protein.

MILK AND CHEESE group: Milk and most milk products are calcium-rich foods. They contribute riboflavin, protein, and vitamins A, B-6, and B-12.

MEAT, POULTRY, FISH, AND BEAN group: It's a good idea to vary your choices in this group. Each food has a distinct nutritional advantage. Red meats are good sources of zinc. Liver and egg yokes are valuable sources of vitamins, but are high in cholesterol. Dry beans, peas, soybeans, and nuts are worthwhile sources of magnesium. All foods of animal origin contain vitamin B-12. Foods of vegetable origin do not.

FATS, SWEETS, AND ALCOHOL: Most foods in this group provide relatively low levels of vitamins, minerals, and protein compared to calories. Vegetable oils generally do supply vitamin E and essential fatty acids.

What is a Nutrient ?

2007-07-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

A nutrient is a substance that promotes body growth or improvement or repairs the natural waste of the body. You need more than 40 different nutrients for good health. These include:
Energy sources (measured in calories)

Carbohydrates (starches, sugars)
Fats
Proteins
Vitamins
Minerals
Amino acids (from proteins)
Essential fatty acids (from fats and oils)
Water

CARBOHYDRATES:

Iinclude starches, sugars, and dietary fiber. Starches and sugar supply the body with energy. Dietary fiber provides bulk in the diet, which encourages regular elimination of wastes.

FATS :

Provide energy and are carriers of fat-soluble vitamins. Fats also add flavor to foods. Some fats help form cell membranes and hormones.

PROTEINS:

Are the building blocks of the body. They are needed for growth, maintenance, and replacement of body cells. They also form the hormones and enzymes used to regulate body processes. Any extra protein is used to supply energy or is changed into body fat (stored energy).

VITAMINS:

Are organic substances needed by the body in small amounts. They do not supply energy, but they help release energy from carbohydrates, fats, and protein. They also help in other chemical reactions in the body.

MINERALS:

Are also needed in relatively small amounts and do not supply energy. They are used to build strong bones and teeth, and to make hemoglobin in red blood cells. They help maintain body fluids and help in other chemical reactions in the body.

WATER :

Is often called the "forgotten nutrient." It is needed to replace body water lost in urine and sweat. Water helps to transport nutrients, remove wastes, and regulate body temperature.

Diet for Senior Citizens

2007-07-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

Fortunately, there are nutritional guidelines for seniors that can be derived from conventional wisdom. They are as follows:

Eat a variety of foods from five of the six major food groups (fruits; vegetables; breads and cereals; milk and cheeses; meat, poultry, fish, and dry beans) to obtain all the nutrients needed for good health.

Avoid foods high in cholesterol.

Limit total fat intake to less than 30% of your calories and keep intake of saturated fats to less than 10%.

Increase your intake of dietary fiber.

Be selective of foods that cause gas problems.

Prepare moister or softer foods, or smaller portions, if you have difficulty with dry foods.

Limit the use of salt and sodium compounds.

Increase your calcium intake, especially women.

Avoid too much sugar.

Drink at least eight (8 ounce) glasses of water daily.

If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation.

Drugs interact adversely with certain nutrients. If in doubt, before you take them, find out.

10 Easy steps to control your FAT

2007-07-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

Weight loss is an excellent resolution to have in spite of how difficult it may seem. Although there are many diets and fads that come and go, even a 10-pound weight loss can improve your health and your risk for diseases associated with obesity, diseases like Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.

Here are ten easy steps to jumpstart your weight management program.

1.Accept that weight management is an achievable goal :

If you approach weight management with the concept that small steps will add up to make a big difference over time, then the idea of losing weight does not seem so complex.

2.Make a plan to succeed:

Identify 10 food items that you currently purchase that you know are bad for you and that you can live without. Make a consistent plan to start eliminating 2 of these items each week from your grocery list.

3.Contact a nutritionist and make an appointment:

Every individual should have a customized plan tailored to their age, weight, height, metabolism and activity level. This plan is best created with a professional who will dedicate time to working with you one on one.

4.Schedule regular exercise:

Make it a goal to double the distance that you walk each day until you are walking at least 30 minutes each day.
5.Set realistic goals:

Rapid weight loss that can't be sustained only results in frustration. The goal should be to lose approximately 2 pounds every week. Depending on how much you choose to lose, over the course of a year this would result in a substantial amount of weight loss.

6.Develop a support system:

It is important to join a support group and to develop a network of individuals who are committed to your success. Some of the most accessible groups exist at Weight Watchers, Ediets.com and faith-based organizations. Inquire within your health plan for resources that also may be able to help you maintain your goals.

7.Weigh in regularly:

It is important to check your weight regularly. Every week you should check your weight in the morning before you get dressed on the same scale.

8.Positive Reinforcement:

Feel good about the success that you are making and provide a small reward for yourself each week that is not food related. Some excellent suggestions include a manicure, a massage, taking a scenic walk, purchasing a new CD or new clothing item.
9.Congratulate yourself:

Weight loss is similar to a marathon that is not always won by leaps and bounds. The goal is to stay focused on your goal even if there are small setbacks from time to time.

10.Love Yourself: while absolute weight loss is a goal, it is important to love yourself no matter what your size may be.

The Beauty Foods

2007-07-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

What To Eat Each Day For Looks And Health
Apple Cider Vinegar
Beside having amazing healing properties, apple cider vinegar keeps skin supple. It's heavy concentration of enzymes helps peel off dead skin cells. It breaks down fat and helps food digest properly.
Carrots
Maintain the outer layer of the skin to prevent premature aging. What you'll find in is the same as you'll get in Retin A.
Cheese
To ensure a happy smile, add a slice or two of hard cheeese into your diet. Choose Swiss, cheddar, or gouda to block bacteria in the mouth and prevent cavities.
Citrus Fruits
Hold the skin cells together by forming collagen. Collagen cannot be added to the skin topically, which is why fruits and fruit juices are such an important part of the daily diet.
Cranberries
Keep urinary tract lining healthy.
Garlic
Helps combat wrinkles and restores tissue.
Nonfat Yogurt
High in calcium, which keeps your smile white and your teeth cavity-free.
Sweet Potatoes
Vitamin A is known to be a remarkable anti-wrinkling agent. Sweet potatoes are full of this important vitamin. The pleasing results is clearer, smoother skin.
Tomatoes
These "love apples" will keep you loving your skin. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
Wheat Germ
If you want to get rid of pimples quickly and efficiently, make sure to include two or three tablespoons a day in your diet. Add it to cereal, yogurt, and cottage cheese.
You should choose foods that you enjoy, of course, but you need to include the following:
Vegetables
Three to five servings daily. Try to include one serving of raw, leafy greens.
Meat
Have no more than three three ounce servings a day. Cut off all fat. Try to make two servings of turkey or chicken. One serving of fish a day is ideal.
Fruits
Two to three servings daily. A 1/2 cup of chopped or sliced fruit is a serving. Fruit salad
Dairy
At least two servings daily. A serving would be eight ounces of milk or yogurt.
Fats
Salad dressing, cooking oil, butter, and mayonnaise should be limited to two servings a day.

Top Sports To Get You In Shape

2007-07-11T01:39:00.000-07:00

If the thought of another hour on the treadmill has lost its appeal, it might be time to switch from a workout that's become a second job to one that feels more like play.
Fitness experts say they're seeing more adults turning to soccer and tennis both for fun and a form of exercise. The trick, however, is to make sure the game you choose isn't the only thing you're doing to keep fit.
"You can't say, 'That's all I'm going to do,'" says Kathy Berlin, fitness director for the Indianapolis-based Athletes Edge at Sports of All Sorts, a sports performance center and fitness club. "You need to think about keeping yourself healthy all around."
That means watching your diet, stretching and warming up, and getting into the kind of shape your sport demands. Because people tend not to be able to control their environments during a game as much as in other fitness activities, they often find themselves in awkward positions and exposed to stresses that may leave them injured and on the sidelines.
Before stepping onto the basketball court, for example, spend 15 to 20 minutes on dynamic stretches, says Cedric Bryant, chief science officer for the American Council on Exercise. Jog around the field's perimeter, jump in place and bring your knees as close to your chest as possible, or try a few butt kicks. If all you do is stretch on the floor, boot the ball around and think you're ready to play, you're asking for trouble.
That's because, "the first time you sprint to get the ball on a break away," he says, "you can strain your hamstring."
Beyond game play and practice, consider spending time on exercises that will lessen your chance of injury. If you're playing soccer, for instance, try core-strengthening exercises, along with moves that work the glutes, Berlin says.
Crunched for time? Exercise in front of the TV. Cross training will balance your routine and cut your risk of overloading the muscles you use in a specific sport, says Dr. Jonathan Chang, of the Pacific Orthopedic Medical Group and a clinical assistant professor at the University of Southern California.
Fitness Fun If you're playing sports to get into shape, you stand to gain a number of health benefits, whether you're diving for a disc or shooting a basket.
Want to build strength and endurance? Try water polo. You'll get a hard cardio workout--players on average reach 92% of their maximum heart rate during a game, says Guy Baker, the U.S. Women's National Team water polo head coach. The sport also will build muscles in your legs, shoulders and chest. Since you're never touching the pool floor and even a foul doesn't halt the game, you're constantly moving,
Golf might not be the first sport to pop into your head if you're focused on getting fit. But, says Rick Martino, director of instruction for the PGA of America, it's a matter of the way you play.
Studies have shown that if you nix the cart and caddy, a round of golf is equal to or better than spending 30 to 40 minutes on the treadmill, Martino says. If that sounds like too much, try taking turns after each hole, with one person walking and the other driving the cart.
Swinging the club builds stability in the legs, hips and core, and increases flexibility in the shoulders. There are mental bonuses too. While the rest of your life might be a blur of commuting, meetings and e-mails, golf is an excuse to spend four hours away from it all with friends. Unless you're really worried about your score, your stress level is bound to fall. And then there's the scenery, which beats an hour in the gym any day.
"You are out in probably some of the most beautiful man-created places you can be," Martino says. "How much prettier can it be than Pebble Beach, Cypress Point and Kiawah Island?"
If you're looking for a more intense workout, consider joining an ice hockey league. You'll get an aerobic and anaerobic workout from all of the hopping on and off the ice and high-intensity skating, says Dr. Michael Stuart, chief medical officer of USA Hockey, the national governing body for ice hockey in the U.S. Players tend to have lean body mass, strong core muscles and great lower body strength.
The sport also gives your neuromuscular skills a workout, as you balance on two sharp edges, maneuver a stick and try to control the puck, all while rapidly accelerating and decelerating. Even goalies, who you might think have it easier during games, get their hearts racing at about 170 beats per minute. Most players, however, are having so much fun they don't even realize what a great workout they're getting, Stuart says.
"The bottom line," he says, "is it's fun. We preach exercise, yet you must enjoy it or you will not be compliant in the long term. If you really love to play hockey or basketball, it's a wonderful way to exercise."
Source-forbes

How To Avoid A Heart Attack

2007-07-06T08:02:00.000-07:00

Sure, many of us can't resist glazed donuts and French fries and don't remember what the inside of a gym looks like. And yes, we're constantly stressed out about work and could stand to lose 10 pounds.
But a heart attack? They happen to other people--not you.
Even if the worst should occur, doctors can use drugs to decrease the damage to your heart, or perform angioplasty or bypass surgery to fix the problem. Right?
Not always. Up to 25% of people who die of sudden cardiac death had no prior symptoms or warnings such as chest pain.
"You can't just rely on the thought that, 'Oh, well, if I have a heart attack the doctors will be there to save me and put me on medications,' " says Dr. Erin Michos, a cardiology fellow at Johns Hopkins Medicine. "Some people don't make it to the hospital. They die at home. Prevention needs to begin early in life."
Heart attacks strike when one or more of the heart's arteries are blocked, severely reducing or stopping blood from reaching part of the heart muscle. They're usually preceded by the buildup inside the artery walls of fatty deposits or plaque, which can rupture, causing a blood clot to form and block the artery. When the blood supply is cut off for more than a few minutes it can be deadly.
Coronary heart disease remains the nation's single leading cause of death, and it's estimated that 1.2 million Americans will have a first or recurrent coronary attack this year, killing 452,000 of them, according to the American Heart Association.
Preventative Measures
If those statistics sound frightening, take heart.
Cardiologists, doctors, nutritionists and other experts say you have the power to cut your risk of having a heart attack.
Instead of looking for the latest quick fix, however, focus your preventive efforts on what's already been proven.
For starters, that means changing your diet. But, as registered dietitian and American Heart Association spokeswoman Ronni Litz Julien points out, today there are lots more do's than don'ts.
She tells clients to get a tablespoon of olive oil a day, either with sautéed vegetables or a salad, and to frequently eat low-mercury fish, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A few eggs a week are no longer forbidden. Neither is meat, if you're eating lean, 4 ounce to 6 ounce cuts. The same goes for nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, cashews and peanuts, as long as you're not demolishing a Costco size container in two days.
A little portion control will go a long way toward helping you keep your weight in check too. Litz Julien recommends that couples eating out order separate salads or shrimp cocktails and split an entrée. When cooking, don't just dump half a bag of rice into the pot--measure it. Aim to always leave something on the plate.
"If you can leave a few bites, you've created a barrier between you and the food," she says. "You're still satiated but you're not so completely full that you have to unbutton your pants."
Source-Forbes

What is Fibre and why is it important

2007-06-29T03:55:00.000-07:00

Fiber is one of those nutrients that many of us know is important but that remains a bit of a mystery. Exactly what is it? What are the best sources of fiber? And what are its health benefits? Here we try to answer these and other questions.

Basically, the term fiber refers to carbohydrates that cannot be digested. Fiber is present in all plants that are eaten for food, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. However, not all fiber is the same, and there are a number of ways to categorize it. One is by its source or origin. For example, fiber from grains is referred to as cereal fiber. Another way of categorizing fiber is by how easily it dissolves in water. Soluble fiber partially dissolves in water. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water. These differences are important when it comes to fiber's effect on your risk of developing certain diseases.

Sources of Fiber

Soluble Fiber :
oatmeal
oatbran
nuts and seeds
Legumes -
*dried peas
*beans
*lentils
apples
pears
strawberries
blueberries

Insoluble Fiber :

whole grains
*whole wheat breads
*barley
*couscous
*brown rice
*bulgur
whole-grain breakfast cereals
wheat bran
seeds
carrots
cucumbers
zucchini
celery
tomatoes

Current recommendations suggest that adults consume 20-35 grams of dietary fiber per day. Children over age 2 should consume an amount equal to or greater than their age plus 5 grams per day. Yet the average American eats only 14-15 grams of dietary fiber a day.
Health Effects of Eating Fiber
Long heralded as part of a healthy diet, fiber appears to reduce the risk of developing various conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, diverticular disease, and constipation. Despite what many people may think, however, fiber probably has little, if any effect on colon cancer risk.
Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet, and you should get a least the minimum recommended amount of 20-35 grams of dietary fiber per day for adults. For children over age 2, the recommended intake is the child's age + 5 grams. The best sources are fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and legumes, and whole-grain foods.
Some tips for increasing fiber intake:
Eat whole fruits instead of drinking fruit juices.
Replace white rice, bread, and pasta with brown rice and whole-grain products.
Choose whole-grain cereals for breakfast.
Snack on raw vegetables instead of chips, crackers, or chocolate bars.
Substitute legumes for meat two to three times per week in chili and soups.
Experiment with international dishes (such as Indian or Middle Eastern) that use whole grains and legumes as part of the main meal (as in Indian dahls) or in salads (for example, tabbouleh).

Improve Your Cholesterol Level

2007-06-28T07:28:00.000-07:00

There are three ways you can make your cholesterol levels better:

Diet, weight control and exercise.
Diet:

Eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains, and use low or non-fat dairy products. You should also substitute olive oil, grapeseed, canola or safflower oil for butter, lard or solid sticks of margarine. Avoid alcohol and sugary foods, as well as foods that contain saturated, hydrogenated, partially hydrogenated fats or transfats. Read food labels to make healthy decisions.

Weight control:

Maintain a healthy weight. Extra weight can increase your blood pressure, level of bad cholesterol and your chance of developing diabetes. Even reducing your weight by 10 percent can improve your health.

Exercise:

Get 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Using your large muscles (also called aerobic exercise) can result in weight loss, better cholesterol levels and a more normal blood sugar. Examples of aerobic exercises include brisk walking, bicycling, hiking and swimming. You should talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

Family history has a very strong influence on your cholesterol levels. It's possible that you can follow all these suggestions and still need to take cholesterol-lowering medication. Talk with your doctor about your cholesterol levels. This will help you understand your cholesterol results and how to reach your goals.

Your health is your most important asset, and it's never too late to make positive changes.

Take Fruit and Vegetable Juices

2007-06-25T00:31:00.000-07:00

Fresh fruit & vegetable juices have been shown to possess remarkable health-promoting properties and has been used for centuries by naturopaths to help treat a range of ailments. Lime juice was, for example, found to be an effective cure for scurvy in the sixteenth century and this saved thousands of sailors' lives on their long voyages around the world. In more recent times, scientists have identified the nutritional and biochemical properties of freshly-prepared fruit and vegetable juices which account for their use in helping treat so many health problems.
However, it is important to note that by 'juice' we are not referring to those that are purchased in tins or cartons. Commercially prepared juices are often so processed that the nutritional content is largely lost and the healthy enzymes are killed by heat sterilisation. In fact, vitamins often have to be added to the juices. These commercial juices may make for a refreshing drink but they do not have the same health benefits as freshly squeezed juices made from a home juice extractor.
Freshly squeezed juices contain naturally occurring vitamins, minerals and enzymes which are far better than synthetic tablets. The nutrients are easily absorbed into the bloodstream and within ten minutes they are nourishing your body's cells.

Why not just eat fruits & vegetables?

Many people ask, 'Why can't I just eat fruits & vegetables?'. The reason is simple; solid foods have to go through the body's digestive tract and this can take several hours and requires a healthy digestive system. Juice, on the other hand, is assimilated and absorbed very quickly into the blood stream without taxing the digestive system. By juicing fruits and vegetables you lose only the fibre, but this means that a much higher quantity of nutrients is available in the juices.

Healthy Fruit Diet

2007-06-23T05:56:00.000-07:00

EAT FRESH FRUITS

We all think eating fruits means simply buying fruit, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths.
You will benefit much more if you how and when to eat.

Correct way of eating….

Fruits should be taken in an empty stomach not as dessert after meal as is often done.
If you eat fruit like that it will also serve as the major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with great deal of energy for weight loss & other life activities.
Fruit is the most important food….

Lets say you eat two slices of bread & two slice of fruit, as fruit digests faster then the bread slice, the slice of fruit digests quickly & is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestine ,but its passage is blocked by the bread which takes longer to digest.
In the meantime the whole meal ferments & turns to acid. Consequently, when the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach & digests juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil.
So it is better to eat your fruit in an empty stomach or before your meal.

You have heard people complaining ---------
Every time I eat water-melon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat banana I feel like running to toilet etc….
Actually this will not arise if you eat your fruit in an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!
Graying hair, balding outburst, dark circles under the eyes, all this will not happen if you eat your fruit in an empty stomach. It is incorrectly presumed that some fruits like orange, lemon are acidic and will enhance acidity in the stomach. Research however shows that all fruits become alkaline in our body.
When you need to drink fruit juice, drink only fresh juice and not from the cans. Don’t drink the juice that has been heated up. Don’t eat cooked fruits because you don’t get the nutrients at all .You only get to taste. So stop making ‘durian porridge’ if you wants nutrients. Cooking food destroys all the vitamins.

Eating the whole fruit or pulp is far better than drinking juice as the fiber is good for your health .If you drink the juice drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mixed with saliva before swallowing it.
A 3-day ‘fruit-fast ‘ is a very simple and effective way to cleanse and detoxify your body. Just eat fruit and drink fresh juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look! .

During fast you can eat different fruits at different time, although occasionally mixed fruit salad will also be permissible and more interesting
If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits you have the secret of beauty, health, longevity, energy, happiness and normal weight.

Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

2007-06-23T01:07:00.001-07:00

Some of your cholesterol is made by your body. The food you eat is responsible for the rest. Food products from animals contain cholesterol — including meats, poultry, shellfish, eggs, butter, cheese and whole or 2 percent milk. And any type of food can also contain saturated fats and trans fats, which cause your body to make more cholesterol.

The American Heart Association recommends that you keep your intake of total fat to between 25 percent and 35 percent, your saturated fat consumption to less than 7 percent, and your intake of trans fat to less than 1 percent of your total daily calories.

At the same time, limit your intake of cholesterol from food to less than 300 mg per day. People with high LDL (bad) blood cholesterol levels or who are taking cholesterol medication should consume less than 200 mg of cholesterol per day.

Eat at least 25 to 30 grams of dietary fiber each day — preferably from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes.

To combat high blood pressure and for overall cardiovascular health, also limit sodium to 2,300 mg or less per day. Some people — African Americans, middle-aged and older adults, and people with high blood pressure — need less than 1,500 mg per day. And if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation (no more than one drink a day for women, no more than two for men).

But a heart-healthy diet isn't just about what you shouldn't eat. It also means eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits, with whole grains, high-fiber foods, lean meats and poultry, fish at least twice a week, and fat-free or 1 percent fat dairy products. Also, the diet should be low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol.

By learning to make smart choices — whether you're cooking at home or eating out — you can enjoy flavorful foods while you manage your cholesterol.

Dietary Guidelines For Americans

2007-06-22T05:37:00.000-07:00

A Healthier You is about our diet—what we eat. But it's not a "diet book." It's different. It's about helping us find our way to better health by making smart choices about nutrition and physical activity—two keys to a healthy lifestyle.

Sure, this raises a number of questions: "What exactly does a healthy lifestyle mean? Deny myself the very pleasures of eating? Is this the end of eating out? What about my hectic life? Seriously, how much physical activity do you really expect me to get each day?" Sometimes, it's hard enough to get everything done in a day—let alone physical activity!

A Healthier You is not about what we deny ourselves, but instead:

It's about choices. The food and physical activity choices we make every day affect our health. The more we know, the better choices we can make.

It's about balance. We need to learn to make more room in our lives for things that make us happy, healthy, and productive.

It's about a healthy lifestyle. To get the most out of our lives starts with small steps— a slow, steady approach to being healthy that we can live with each day—or most days. Hey, nobody's perfect!

At some level, we all know that a lot about being healthy comes down to taking care of ourselves: what we eat, how much we eat, and how much physical activity we get. We don't need to be rocket scientists to figure this out:

Make smart choices from every food group
Find our balance between food and physical activity
Get the most nutrition out of our calories.

Good to know, right? But let's face it, healthy habits take some effort. There's no magic pill that instantly does the trick.

How often have we told ourselves, "I'm going to start eating better and moving more." And, we mean it. We make the pact with ourselves at least every New Year. Too often, however, it's easy to get derailed and fall back into unhealthy habits. We don't mean to. But, the truth is—it takes a real commitment to change our behavior, especially for the long haul.

We basically know that we eat to live, but today, some of us seem to live to eat. Food represents a lot of things to us. To some it's a stress reducer—"I'm stressed. I'm tired and just want to go home and eat." There's often nothing like the emotional comfort of a pint of ice cream. Sometimes, food is our way of celebrating or a reason for coming together for special events like block parties or family reunions. Food is part of our social fabric. It's one way we pass traditions down from generation to generation and sometimes preserve our cultural identities. We hear stories from people talking about how food is part of their heritage. The secret ingredient in Nana's strudel is "love" to be sure, but there's also "lard" in that strudel! From Sunday family dinners serving spaghetti and meatballs to the best barbecue for a handful of nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends…sometimes, the entire neighborhood—we all love to kick back and relax with our favorite foods and enjoy ourselves!

There are ways, though, to make a healthier lifestyle doable and still enjoy Nana's cooking at the reunion. It's the day-in and day-out choices that we really need to think about. Whether this means finding the motivation to be our own personal trainer, using easy-to-make recipes to prepare our own meals in about as much time as it takes to head out to the nearest fast-food place, doing our best to eat healthfully on a budget, or making better choices when eating out—the little things do add up and make a big difference. Self-discipline may take some getting used to, so A Healthier You offers words not only of encouragement but also about the know-how to get started and keep with it!