Increase Your IQ Right Now July 5, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentYou can increase your IQ (intelligence quotient) in the next ten minutes.
Throughout this site, there are many brain power exercises and techniques designed to help you long-term, but what if you need a quick brain fix right now? What if there is an important meeting coming up, or a crucial test, or just a chess game you don’t want to lose? Can you really boost your IQ quickly? If what you want is results, and not an argument about the definition of intelligence, the answer is absolutely yes.Try some of the following.
Breath To Increase IQ
Breath deep. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve the functioning of your brain immediately. By breathing deeply we relax and put more oxygen in the blood (therefore in the brain), both of which help. Relaxation has been proven to improve brain function. Low oxygen levels in the blood have been shown to decrease it. Since most of us are in the habit of breathing too shallowly, this is a quick way to increase IQ. By the way, if you breath through your nose, you are more likely to breath deeply.
Meditating also helps, primarily because of the deep breathing aspect. The state of mind achieved through a simple breath-watching meditation allows true relaxation, and is conducive to creative problem solving. Just close your eyes and breath through your nose, deeply at first, then in whatever way is comfortable. As thoughts arise, dismiss them and return your attention to your breath. Do this for at least a few minutes.
Self-Hypnosis may help you increase you intelligence quotient. At HypnosisDownloads.com they have an audio download that will help you improve concentration, and one to program your brain with problem solving techniques. I have to tell you that I haven’t tried them yet, but they are inexpensive and they guarantee they’ll work or they’ll refund your money.
Move Your Body To Increase IQ
Sit up straight, and close your mouth. Good posture affects our state of mind, and helps us to think more clearly. Try an experiment to prove this to yourself. Do math problems in your head; first while slouching, with your mouth open; then while sitting up straight with your lips together. You’ll get the point.
Exercise a little. Physical activity-just enough to get the blood pumping-can “wake up” your brain enough to help you think better. Walking seems to work best, but any aerobic activity can help increase your IQ.
Sleep well. You knew this one, right? Just remember, the evidence shows us that the quality of sleep is very important, not just the quantity.
What You Eat Can Increase Or Decrease Your IQ
Consume ginkgo biloba. Whether in capsules or tea or off a neighbors tree, ginkgo leaves have been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, helping memory and concentration. The effect is quick, and doesn’t seem to diminish with regular use.
Drink coffee. Everything from test scores on college exams to chess games have been shown to improve after a cup of coffee or other drink containing caffeine. It is a temporary effect, however, and caffeine may have adverse long-term effects for regular users.
Avoid Sugar. Actually any simple carbohydrates taken in large quantities can give you that sluggish feeling that makes it difficult to think. This is due to the insulin that is dumped into your veins after the sugar is. Don’t eat white flour, sugar, potatoes, and other carbs before an important meeting, or anytime you need full use of your intelligence.
Jaundice April 30, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentWhat is jaundice?
Jaundice is not a disease but rather a sign that can occur in many different diseases. Jaundice is the yellowish staining of the skin and sclerae (the whites of the eyes) that is caused by high levels in blood of the chemical bilirubin. The color of the skin and sclerae vary depending on the level of bilirubin. When the bilirubin level is mildly elevated, they are yellowish. When the bilirubin level is high, they tend to be brown.
What causes jaundice?
Bilirubin comes from red blood cells. When red blood cells get old, they are destroyed. Hemoglobin, the iron-containing chemical in red blood cells that carries oxygen, is released from the destroyed red blood cells after the iron it contains is removed. The chemical that remains in the blood after the iron is removed becomes bilirubin.
The liver has many functions. One of the liver’s functions is to produce and secrete bile into the intestines to help digest dietary fat. Another is to remove toxic chemicals or waste products from the blood, and bilirubin is a waste product. The liver removes bilirubin from the blood. After the bilirubin has entered the liver cells, the cells conjugate (attaching other chemicals, primarily glucuronic acid) to the bilirubin, and then secrete the bilirubin/glucuronic acid complex into bile. The complex that is secreted in bile is called conjugated bilirubin. The conjugated bilirubin is eliminated in the feces. (Bilirubin is what gives feces its brown color.) Conjugated bilirubin is distinguished from the bilirubin that is released from the red blood cells and not yet removed from the blood which is termed unconjugated bilirubin.
Jaundice occurs when there is 1) too much bilirubin being produced for the liver to remove from the blood. (For example, patients with hemolytic anemia have an abnormally rapid rate of destruction of their red blood cells that releases large amounts of bilirubin into the blood), 2) a defect in the liver that prevents bilirubin from being removed from the blood, converted to bilirubin/glucuronic acid (conjugated) or secreted in bile, or 3) blockage of the bile ducts that decreases the flow of bile and bilirubin from the liver into the intestines. (For example, the bile ducts can be blocked by cancers, gallstones, or inflammation of the bile ducts). The decreased conjugation, secretion, or flow of bile that can result in jaundice is referred to as cholestasis: however, cholestasis does not always result in jaundice.
How is the cause of jaundice diagnosed?
Many tests are available for determining the cause of jaundice, but the history and physical examination are important as well.
History
The history can suggest possible reasons for the jaundice. For example, heavy use of alcohol suggests alcoholic liver disease, whereas use of illegal, injectable drugs suggests viral hepatitis. Recent initiation of a new drug suggests drug-induced jaundice. Episodes of abdominal pain associated with jaundice suggests blockage of the bile ducts usually by gallstones.
Physical examination
The most important part of the physical examination in a patient who is jaundiced is examination of the abdomen. Masses (tumors) in the abdomen suggest cancer infiltrating the liver (metastatic cancer) as the cause of the jaundice. An enlarged, firm liver suggests cirrhosis. A rock-hard, nodular liver suggests cancer within the liver.
Blood tests
Measurement of bilirubin can be helpful in determining the causes of jaundice. Markedly greater elevations of unconjugated bilirubin relative to elevations of conjugated bilirubin in the blood suggest hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells). Marked elevations of liver tests (aspartate amino transferase or AST and alanine amino transferase or ALT) suggest inflammation of the liver (such as viral hepatitis). Elevations of other liver tests, e.g., alkaline phosphatase, suggest diseases or obstruction of the bile ducts.
Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography is a simple, safe, and readily-available test that uses sound waves to examine the organs within the abdomen. Ultrasound examination of the abdomen may disclose gallstones, tumors in the liver or the pancreas, and dilated bile ducts due to obstruction (by gallstones or tumor).
Computerized tomography (CT or CAT scans)
Computerized tomography or CT scans are scans that use x-rays to examine the soft tissues of the abdomen. They are particularly good for identifying tumors in the liver and the pancreas and dilated bile ducts, though they are not as good as ultrasonography for identifying gallstones.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans are scans that utilize magnetization of the body to examine the soft tissues of the abdomen. Like CT scans, they are good for identifying tumors and studying bile ducts. MRI scans can be modified to visualize the bile ducts better than CT scans (a procedure referred to as MR cholangiography), and, therefore, are better than CT for identifying the cause and location of bile duct obstruction.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and endoscopic ultrasound
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) provides the best means for examining the bile duct. For ERCP an endoscope is swallowed by the patient after he or she has been sedated. The endoscope is a flexible, fiberoptic tube approximately four feet in length with a light and camera on its tip. The tip of the endoscope is passed down the esophagus, through the stomach, and into the duodenum where the main bile duct enters the intestine. A thin tube then is passed through the endoscope and into the bile duct, and the duct is filled with x-ray contrast solution. An x-ray is taken that clearly demonstrates the contrast-filled bile ducts. ERCP is particularly good at demonstrating the cause and location of obstruction within the bile ducts. A major advantage of ERCP is that diagnostic and therapeutic procedures can be done at the same time as the x-rays. For example, if gallstones are found in the bile ducts, they can be removed. Stents can be placed in the bile ducts to relieve the obstruction caused by scarring or tumors. Biopsies of tumors can be obtained.
Ultrasonography can be combined with ERCP by using a specialized endoscope capable of doing ultrasound scanning. Endoscopic ultrasound is excellent for diagnosing small gallstones in the gallbladder and bile ducts that can be missed by other diagnostic methods such as ultrasound, CT, and MRI. It also is the best means of examining the pancreas for tumors and can facilitate biopsy through the endoscope of tumors within the pancreas.
Liver biopsy
Biopsy of the liver provides a small piece of tissue from the liver for examination under the microscope. The biopsy most commonly is done with a long needle after local injection of the skin of the abdomen overlying the liver with anesthetic. The needle passes through the skin and into the liver, cutting off a small piece of liver tissue. When the needle is withdrawn, the piece of liver comes with it. Liver biopsy is particularly good for diagnosing inflammation of the liver and bile ducts, cirrhosis, cancer, and fatty liver.
How is jaundice treated?
With the exception of the treatments for specific causes of jaundice mentioned previously, the treatment of jaundice usually requires a diagnosis of the specific cause of the jaundice and treatment directed at the specific cause, e.g., removal of a gallstone blocking the bile duct.
Hair Loss Treatment For Women - Critical Elements You Need To Know April 9, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentHair loss is a condition that effects both men as well as women. Despite the fact that hair loss might not be as prevalent as hair loss in men, the fact of the matter is that thinning hair is a traumatic occurrence for most women. If you happen to be one of those women that is suffering from hair loss, you should do some research into the possibility of getting a hair loss treatment for women.
Different Kinds of Hair Loss Treatment for Women
There are various types of hair loss treatment for women that are offered on today’s market. Nevertheless, you should bear in mind that not all types may be a suitable option for you and your present situation. To come to any type of informed conclusion you would first need to consult a doctor that specializes in the area of hair loss treatment for women.
Rogaine As a Hair Loss Treatment for Women
Rogain is an over the counter hair loss treatment for women. Rogain can be used as a topical agent on the balding areas of the head. Even so, this type of substance might not be a good option for women who are pregnant or for those who are nursing their children as various studies have indicated that this particular substance might be harmful for the baby as well as for the mother.
Women that have heart problems are also counseled not to use this type of substance. If you are not certain that Rogaine is right for you, then it is best for you to consult with you physician prior to attempting to utilize this product on your scalp.
Hair Weaving - Is it Good Hair Loss Treatment for Women?
Contrary to the prevalent belief that weaving the hair may prevent hair loss, hair weaving might not be of benefit to you. According to various published studies, doing hair weaving might cause traction alopecia which is the loss of hair through extended tension on growing hair. Hair weaving is said to be particularly harmful for women who have fine or thin strands of hair.
Hair Transplants
For women who have attempted various other hair loss treatments without any positive results, hair transplantation might be a better solution to their hair loss problem. Hair transplants as a hair loss treatment for women is more costly than other types of treatments but it might have a more permanent effect. If you are highly concerned for the condition of your hair, you might want to speak to your physician about this kind of hair loss treatment for women.
Hair Loss: Causes, Prevention & Treatments April 9, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentBeautiful shining hair is akin to beauty & health. However, many people experience unjustified loss of hair loss, which negatively affects their social life and self perception. Hair loss can be attributed to several reasons including hormone changes, dandruff, exposure to chemicals, side effects of strong medications, side effects of radiation, etc. Sometimes hair loss can be the most visible aspect of some serious diseases, inadequate nutrition, or serious physical conditions.
Causes of Hair Loss
Stress & associated hormone changes
Side effects of some medicines
Ill health of liver, kidney and other internal organs
Radiation
Dandruff & other skin diseases
Incomplete nutrition – lack of proteins, minerals (like zinc) & vitamins
Exposure to chemicals
Excess use of shampoo, soap
Application of too much or too little oil
Kinds of Hair Loss
Hair loss can be classified into different kinds according to the nature of hair loss.
Alopecia areata is characterized by loss of hair in circles. This is mainly induced by stress and mental trauma. Certain physical conditions like Systematic Lupas Erythematosus (SLE) can also be a cause of this condition.
Alopecia totalis is characterized by total loss of hair from the head, leaving behind a bald head and even barren eyebrows. The skin of head turns smooth.
Diffuse alopecia condition has unhealthy, thin and short hair.
Trichotillomania is another condition, prevalent among children, characterized by the children pulling their hair and eating it. Children do this without their conscious knowledge and the hair they eat can remain in the stomach as a ball of hair, leading to pain.
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss found among men. This is caused by excess activity of androgen, a hormone. Women too can suffer from this problem.
Holistic Food to Prevent Hair Loss
Every nutrient that helps in normal body functioning is also required for proper hair growth. Proteins, carbohydrates, lipids (fat), minerals and vitamins play important roles in body functioning and hair growth as well. Inadequate nutrition also first reflects on the hair.
The Essential Food Items to Take to Prevent Hair Loss
Include in your diet a good mixture of everything listed below. Take a mix of everything in moderation. Curcuma longa, cumin seed, etc are good spices to prepare food. Similarly, gooseberry (Embellica officinale), dried grapes, pea (small green pea), etc also promote good physical health and hair growth.
Green and colored vegetables
Wholegrain rice and wheat
Carbohydrate rich root items – tapioca, sweet potato, etc
Egg
Milk and dairy products
Fruits – especially orange, grapes, and other slightly sour fruits
However, the quality of the atmosphere, ground, etc under which the plants grow also affect the quality of the food you take. Food crops grown with excess use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, etc have very limited quality.
Food Items to Avoid
If you care about your hair and physical health, avoid the following items.
Soft drinks
Fast food
Overly cooked food
Processed food (canned, packaged)
Agreed, these items are good for your tongue. However, what is good for your tongue may not be good for your body, blood and hair.
Hair Care Precautions
Note the following points to take good care of your hair.
Gently dry your hair with a clean towel after bathing
Always use a clean comb
Don’t comb wet hair
Don’t comb your hair too often
Comb your hair in the direction of its growth and not against it
Don’t use shampoos that contain chemicals – better option is natural shampoos prepared from hibiscus leaves, henna, grounded small green pea, etc
Apply enough oil on hair 30 minutes before bathing – coconut oil, sesame oil, etc are enough
Be gentle on your hair. Don’t rub your hair violently and use hair dryer sparingly. Shampoos that contain chemicals actively destabilize your hair. You can prepare natural herbal shampoo from materials available from your backyard itself and it is better than any shampoo that you pay big prices for.
Ayurvedic Means of Hair Care and Hair Growth Measures
Ayurveda suggests different hair oils for healthy hair growth. Amalaki (Emblica officinale) is a major component of Ayurvedic hair oils. Massage your scalp with these oils and you can see healthier hair growth.
Treatments for Hair Loss
Allopathy medicine has quite a few treatments for hair loss, which are listed below.
1. Minoxidil – this medicine prescribed for blood pressure is prescribed for hair loss too. Apply the medicine on your scalp. Effectiveness is 10-20%. Hair loss will come back once you stop using the medicine.
2. Finasteride – this medicine usually prescribed for prostrate enlargement is handy treatment against hair loss. Temporary loss of libido and lowered quality of semen are the usual side effects of using this medicine. Women shall not use this, as it can cause the women to give birth to handicapped child.
3. Hair transplantation – hair from one part of the head is transplanted to other parts of scanty hair growth. Strip incision, laser grafting, punch grafts, etc are the main types of hair transplantation treatments. The possibility of hair fall in two-three years and the scars at the areas where hair is taken are to be taken care of.
4. Scalp Reduction – a kind of plastic surgery, where skin of hairless area is removed and the skin from hairy area is stretched. The success depends on hairless area of head and the elasticity of skin.
5. Hairpiece or toupee – wigs are attached to the skin, without being noticed. Can wear and tear in the long run.
Ways to Stop Constipation April 9, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentHere is how to build a natural smoothie that can stop constipation, relieve acne, improve your skin and give you more energy. The smoothie base is liquid slurry that can be used to add more natural ingredients.
The liquid base can be made from various fresh juices or rice, oat, or almond milks. I stay away from milk since milk creates mucus along the gastrointestinal lining. Choose and mix any of the following liquids and pour them into a blender.
cruciferous veggies (broccolli, cauliflower), fiberous proteins like beans and legumes, and whole grains and nuts…all these items increase your fiber, which you need….imho, these supplements cause more problems than they are ever worth.
Eat fresh fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, grapes, cantaloupe, prunes strawberries, pears, apples, oranges, (Eat a piece of fruit before you eat breakfast and throughout the day.) greens, green beans, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, lettuce, carrots, peas, and squash.
If you are on a low or no fat diet, add some of the essential fats, such as omega 3 or omega 6. These are important for many body functions. Start by taking one or two tablespoons of cold-pressed flaxseed oil every day. You can add it to a blender drink, such as a smoothie or shake, or in cottage cheese. Ground flaxseed can also be used as it contains mucilage which is soothing and coats the intestinal tract. It provides both bulk and softness in the stool. If you use flaxseed, be sure to drink plenty of water, too, as it can cause constipation. The omega 6 fatty acids are found in Evening Primrose Oil (take 500 mg three times daily), black currant seed oil, and Borage Seed Oil.
The tests the doctor performs depend on the duration and severity of the constipation, the person’s age, and whether blood in stools, recent changes in bowel habits or weight loss have occurred. Most people with constipation do not need extensive testing and can be treated with changes in diet and exercise. For example, in young people with mild symptoms, a medical history and physical exam may be all that is needed for diagnosis and treatment.
Try to determine which cause fits your situation and then take corrective action. Establish a specific time for going to stool and do not be rushed. Drink plenty of water, eat a diet high in fiber, and exercise regularly and check your medications. Taking laxatives regularly may establish a laxative habit. It would also be beneficial if you stay away from beef for at least a week. Lean chicken and fish is ok, but not too much. Eating a vegetarian diet is by far the best cure for constipation.
Brown sesame seeds - are high in lecithin, vitamin C, E, and Calcium. They improve liver function and help in constipation.
Colonix from DrNatura.com works by physically cleaning you out with psyllium fiber, as well as eliminating parasites with Paranil, an herbal preparation. Believe it or not, parasites may be a large part of your problem. Kleri-Tea helps restore regular bowel function. We’re proud of how our wonderful Colonix system helps stop constipation, and we’re delighted with how much our product has meant to thousands of people.
Ways to Get Rid of Bad Breath – No Need to Feel Embarrass April 9, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentFixing bad breath depends on what’s causing it. In 80 to 90 percent of cases, it’s due to something in the mouth. Most often, bad breath is the result of nothing more serious than a dirty mouth. Plaque, the nearly invisible film of bacteria that’s constantly forming in your mouth, is often responsible. Another possible source of stink can be decaying food that’s trapped between teeth.
Chronic bad breath
Chronic bad breath is most often caused by bacteria or gum disease. There are some clinics that can perform specialized testing to determine which strain of bacteria is causing the bad breath and then prescribe a personalized treatment. Chronic halitosis can also be caused by certain drugs and medical conditions. If you have a case of bad breath that just won’t quit, have a dental exam as well as a physical.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Here are three common causes of bad breath:
foods and drinks, such as garlic, onions, cheese, orange juice, and soda
poor dental hygiene (say: hi-jeen), meaning you don’t brush and floss as you should smoking and other tobacco use Poor oral hygiene leads to bad breath because when you leave food particles in your mouth, these pieces of food can rot and start to smell. The food particles may begin to collect bacteria, which can be smelly, too. Plus, by not brushing your teeth regularly, plaque (a sticky, colorless film) builds up on your teeth.
Bad Breath can be stopped by brushing your teeth more often. Most dentists will tell you to brush three times a day, once after every meal. Don’t forget to floss and brush your tongue. The plaque found on your tongue and between your teeth is a part of the problem.
Don’t let your tongue become a dirty carpet.
Bad breath often strikes when people aren’t properly taking care of their oral health. The odor is usually caused by decaying food particles and bacteria in your mouth. That’s why brushing and flossing your teeth is so important, but don’t forget to gently brush your tongue to get rid of even more bacteria.
One of the easiest ways for a quick fix to your breath would be to keep some parsley handy. The green leafy herb that so many people use for garnish actually has a very productive purpose. Chewing on a sprig of parsley helps to absorb the substances that create the lack of freshness in your mouth, and as a bonus has several vitamins that your body could use anyway.
Eat a healthy breakfast
Quite apart from the well documented health benefits, a healthy breakfast can help with bad breath. Eating a coarse breakfast cereal like muesli, or a variety of hard fibrous fruit can help to clean the tongue as you chew and rid the mouth of odour-causing bacteria. Make sure you brush your teeth after breakfast though, so that you get rid of any food stuck in your teeth. You should wait an hour after eating before brushing your teet
Allowing a piece of chocolate to melt completely in your mouth can be helpful in ridding your breath of onion or garlic overtones. Gum and mints can also prove successful, so long as they are sugar-free - sugary gums and mints sometimes serve only to complicate your dragon breath.
Back Pain Relief through Massage, Relief Tips, and Remedies April 9, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentBack Pain Relief through Back Massage. Massage therapy is often used by physical therapists with many other forms of active and passive therapy plus exercise and weight training to alleviate back pain. Massage therapy is also a stand-alone therapy that is used by licensed massage therapists. Massage therapists use oils for the purpose of decreasing friction during a massage. Reducing friction makes the massage more comfortable to the person receiving the massage, but the oils and reduction of friction also make the massage less effective. The less oil that can be used during a massage, the better the massage results will be.
The idea of a massage is to increase blood flow to the muscles and to relax the muscles so that the increased blood flow will continue once the massage is completed. Even those who are not trained in giving massages can help their loved ones who are suffering from back pain. Gently massaging taut muscles helps them to relax. Massages given by the untrained should be very gentle, and undue pressure should not be exerted on sore back muscles. It is possible to inflict further damage, so keep it very gentle.
Those who have been trained to give massages for the purpose of reducing pain will exert more pressure and massage tissues that are much deeper than those that can be reached by the untrained. Even very deep massages can be accomplished by well-trained masseurs without inflicting any pain. A massage given by a well-trained professional can provide almost instantaneous relief of back pain. Various back massage techniques are used. Some techniques are designed to simply relax tense muscles. Other techniques are used to promote better blood circulation and help to drain lymph glands.
Back Pain Relief Tips
Back pain just happens, and it happens to almost everybody at one time or another. “Relief” is the cry of those who suffer from back pain and back pain might be described as minor by others; but, never by the one who is suffering. Back pain not only hurts, it interferes with normal daily activities.
There are some ways to help relieve back pain until you can get the help you need. Most of the time minor back strains will simply right themselves within a few days.
1. Take Aspirin or Tylenol to help relieve some of the pain. If you have medical conditions that do not allow you to take these over-the-counter medications, you should consult with your doctor. Most people have no problem using one or the other. Neither aspirin nor Tylenol should be taken in greater dosages or more frequently than that advised on the labels.
2. Fill a tub with warm water and add a cup or two of Epson salt. Soak in the tub and add more warm water as needed. Your body will absorb magnesium from the Epson salt and magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant.
3. Use one of the over-the-counter analgesic topical rubs that are designed to help provide relief to strained muscles. Always read the directions and any warnings listed on the label.
4. Lay on your back on a hard surface (the floor or a firm mattress) and lift draw one leg up toward your chest. Catch the leg underneath the knee and draw it as far toward the chest as possible. Hold it for a few seconds. Release that leg and repeat the exercise with the other leg. Repeat several times with both legs.
Back Pain Remedies
There was most likely less back pain in earlier times because people didn’t sit in easy chairs for many hours every day. They sat on the ground or on the floor, and their back muscles developed so that they alone could provide support to the body without the aid of chair backs.
As a nation, we aren’t very likely to return to sitting on the floor or the ground. We are all rather fond of our easy chairs. When back pain strikes (and you will notice I said WHEN, not IF), you need to know what to do about it.
The first thing to do is to stop doing whatever activity you were engaged in when the back pain struck. The quicker you can stop the initial pain, the quicker the muscle is going to heal itself. You aren’t going to heal the muscle using any of the options listed below. The body will heal the muscle. These things will help you deal with the pain while your body does its thing.
1. Take an over-the counter analgesic. There is a variety to choose from and any of them will help you manage your pain. It is very important that you read and follow the directions on the labels of the product you choose. Do not take larger doses or take doses more often that directed.
2. Use an over-the-counter analgesic topical rub. It is also important to read and follow the directions for use on the label of the product that you choose.
3. Take a nice warm bath with a cup or two of Epson salt in it. Your body will absorb magnesium from the Epson salt and magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant.
How To Lose Weight The Easy And Safe Way April 9, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentHow To Lose Weight The Easy And Safe Way
by: Rasheed Aladel
WHAT IS THE BEST DIET
Many people ask me which is the best diet for me to follow, with practically a new diet coming out every year I find myself getting frustrated with the mis- information being put out there. Let me shine some light on some of these fad diets.
Why fad diets don’t work
There’s no question if you follow these fad diets you will lose weight, but I can also guarantee you will not be able to sustain these so-called diets which is why millions of people follow these diets only to pack back on the pounds again.
The simple answer to this is fad diets do not work, the reason they do not work is because you can only follow such a ridiculous routine for only so long successful long-term weight loss is not necessarily about a diet but it’s about long-term happiness.
I even hate that word diets, because it is linked to feelings of restriction and unhappiness but what I do believe in is a sensible nutrition plan which allows you to eat five to six enjoyable small meals a day. To be honest with you I wish all of these fad diets did work then we wouldn’t be experiencing the problems we have today such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Before I explain to you the concept of a healthy eating plan I’ll cover just a few of these fad diets.
THE ATKINS DIET.
I’m sure you’ve all heard of the Atkins diet and heard about the supposed success stories. The problem is that most of these fad diets work on the basis of calorie reduction. with the Atkins carbohydrates are severely limited, the atkins diet requires that you get your calories from just protein and fat.
The way this works is by consuming so much fat and protein it sends a signal to your brain saying that your full when in reality you are not, this can result in metabolic disorders. The Atkins diet will allow you to lose weight but at what cost? the side-effects of the Atkins diet is nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and bad breath (urghh)
I would have to say the Atkins diet is a big no-no, a healthy diet is well rounded and borrows from all the food groups such as carbohydrates, protein and good fats. Tricking your body into believing it is full, when it’s not, will only can catch up with you and make you feel ill through the lack of nutrients received in you diet.
The weight loss achieved in Atkins is mainly muscle mass, and muscle tissue is what helps speed up your metabolic rate, the more muscle tissue you have the more calories you burn. Which is why when people realise they cannot sustain the Atkins diet any more they put the weight on twice as fast because now they do not have the muscle to combat the fat.
Bear in mind when a new diet hits the market and seems too good to be true, your usually right!
THE ZONE DIET
The zone diet is used by many celebrities such as Jennifer aniston, Renee zellweger, Madonna, Cindy Crawford and Winona Ryder. The main concept of the zone diet is a balanced ratio of carbohydrates (40) and proteins (30%) so on this diet you do actually get to eat, which in my eyes is a good start.
The zone diet works by following recipes with a low-carbohydrate diet plan, it does insist on watching your calorie consumption while eating eg. A meal must not exceed 500 calories and a snack must not exceed 100 calories which they call staying in the zone.
I must say weight loss is not the only benefit of the zone diet you also experience improved energy, improved mental clarity and is also ideal for type 2 diabetes sufferers. This diet was implemented to reduce hunger and compulsion to eat. Zone diet recipes are customized to each individual, based on your sex, activity level and proportion of body fat.
The foods the zone diet encourages are fresh vegetables, fruits and nuts, leafy green vegetables, sufficient protein consumption, and eight glasses of water everyday. How weight loss is achieved with the zone diet is similar to the low gi diet.
By reducing your carbohydrates your body will not produce too much insulin (a hormone that tells your body to store up nutrients) consuming too much carbohydrates causes this to happen which is why carbs are seen as the bad guys. The overload of insulin tells the body to convert the carbohydrates you ate into fat stores around your belly, thighs, buttocks and other areas.
Carbohydrates are not totally the bad guys if you limit them and balance them with low-fat protein this will keep your insulin levels balanced. I like this diet because it’s not so much a diet, it’s more of a eating plan. The only problem I have with the zone diet is calculating meals and snacks every day is not totally convenient, with 5 hours of exercise a week and a variety of balanced meals consisting of low gi carbs, protein and veg is a simpler formula to lose weight.
THE SOUTH BEACH DIET
The south beach to me is an improved version of the atkins diet because it does allow “good” carbohydrates like fruit and foods with a low glycemic (Gi) index. The south beach diet gives you the freedom to snack all day if you feel the need to and not to worry about counting calories.
This diet is a complete waste of time because if you give people in search of losing weight the go-ahead to eat a portion as big as they like, they probably will, I know I would if I didn’t know any better. Even eating the healthiest foods if you consume too much you will still put on weight.
WEIGHT WATCHERS
Weight watchers have created their own brand of foods with low calories from full dinners to ice cream. I must say weight watchers have tried to make counting calories as simple as they can here by running a points system.
Their point system runs something like this: each food has a point value ranging from 0 for jelly to 8 for pizza. Depending on your bodyweight, you are allowed a certain amount of points daily, if you stay under your points you lose weight.
With weight watchers you are allowed to bank points and use them over days, exercise also earns you points. When you’re feeling down in the dumps or lacking in the motivation department you can go to daily weight watchers meetings and get great tips and motivation from others who have overcome their obstacles and achieved there goals.
I believe weight watchers has stood the test of time because they focus more on long term healthy eating rather than restrictive dieting, we are all human and sometimes we desire some of our favorite dessert or pizza without having to feel like a failure. I feel this is totally acceptable and is a good approach to achieving your goals.
THE GI DIET
This diet definitely takes the No.1 spot for me, because it’s more of a eating plan than a restrictive diet. The GI diet also teaches you that carbs are not the bad guys after all, it’s the type of carbs you eat that is important.
Put simply the GI diet is a scale which charts how quickly a food is converted into sugar in the body. Foods that chart as a high G.I number are converted into sugar more quickly than foods that have a low G.I number, the scale is based on a rating of 1 to 100.
So why is the G.I number important?
If a food is rated high on the G.I scale your body is more likely to store fat, this is due to insulin which is the primary storage hormone in your body and is used to help get nutrients into the different cells of your body. High G.I foods raise our blood sugar so rapidly that insulin has to be released in our body to bring our blood sugar down to a normal baseline, in order for insulin to bring our blood sugar levels down it has to store the sugar
It’s a simple stimulus - response system that works to keep blood sugar levels in balance in the body.
So how does this affect your fat loss?
I’ll tell you how, just remember when insulin is present in your bloodstream, your body is in STORAGE mode and will NOT release fat from your fat cells to burn. So when your blood sugar levels are high, your body isn’t burning fat.
Another thing is when your blood sugar is high, your body is using that blood sugar for energy instead of using fat. Sugar is the preferred fuel for your body because it’s easier to use, but it confuses the body so the body takes a guess and always releases too much insulin to bring your blood sugar level down but too much insulin results in bringing your blood sugar levels too low leaving you feeling dizzy and lethargic craving for more sugary foods to perk yourself up again, this is where the vicious cycle starts.
How do you stop this cycle?
To stop this vicious cycle you need keep your blood sugar levels stable so your body stays in fat burning mode instead of STORAGE mode. You accomplish this by focusing on eating low G.I carbs (every G.I diet book gives you a list of low G.I foods)
When you eat low G.I foods, the carbs are converted into sugar at a slower, steadier rate into the body, this way your body doesn’t have to panick and send out extra reserves of insulin in an emergency response, also your blood sugar levels will not drop so suddenly leaving you craving for more sugar an hour later.
The steady state you recieve from consuming low G.I foods will allow your body to access stored bodyfat and use this fat for energy instead of constantly relying on blood sugar. The bonus… you don’t get as hungry and you feel more energised throughout the day with a leaner body to go with it.
G.I diet: A eating plan for life
Another advantage of the G.I diet is that it focuses on good amounts of protein, healthy fats and fiber, which is a well balanced diet.
The concept of the G.I diet is scientifically sound because it works and can be maintained for the rest of your life unlike many fad diets which cannot. Eating low G.I foods for fat loss can have a positive impact not only on your fat loss but on your mood and well being as well.
A diet that focuses on natural, unprocessed foods such as whole grains, quality lean proteins, healthy fats and lots of fiber is no doubt going to be a effective diet
Ringworm treatment at home April 2, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentRingworm is a fungal infection showing as itchy, red, scaly, slightly raised, expanding rings on the trunk, face or groin area. An infection caused by a fungus (not a worm or a parasite). It is extremely contagious and spreads quickly. The most common symptoms are red, itchy, swollen skin in the shape of a ring. The skin in the center of the ring usually appears healthy.
The medical term for ringworm is “tinea.” (Tinea gets us back to worms. Tinea is the Latin name for a growing worm.) Doctors add another word to indicate where the fungus is located. Tinea capitis, for instance, refers to scalp ringworm, tinea corporis to fungus of the body, tinea pedis to fungus of the feet, and so on.
To catch ringworm, you have to be exposed to it and you have to be susceptible. Some people are much more susceptible than others. Those with eczema or other skin problems get ringworm more easily because the protective barrier of the skin’s outer layer is less intact. Children are more susceptible before puberty. Boys get it more easily than girls.
Ringworm of the skin starts as a red, scaly patch or bump. Ringworm tends to be very itchy and uncomfortable. Over time, it may begin to look like a ring or a series of rings with raised, bumpy, scaly borders (the center is often clear). This ring pattern gave ringworm its name, but not every person who’s infected develops the rings.
People will sometimes pick up a case of Ringworm from their pet, but just because a pet has Ringworm does not necessarily mean that the people that interact with that pet will develop the problem. A dog or cat can transmit Ringworm to a person without showing any symptoms at all.
Ringworm is widespread around the world and in the United States . The fungus that causes scalp Ringworm lives in humans and animals . The fungus that causes Ringworm of the body lives in humans, animals, and soil . The fungi that cause Ringworm of the foot and Ringworm of the nails live only in humans.
To avoid ringworm infection, avoid contact with suspicious lesions, wear loose-fitting clothes, avoid sharing clothes, and after showering, dry off completely. Examine all family members for signs of tinea as reinfection may occur.
Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) is primarily caused by Trichophyton. Scalp ringworm is highly contagious and is common among children, especially black children. It may produce a pink scaly rash that may be somewhat itchy, or it may produce a patch of hair loss without a rash. Less commonly it can cause a painful, inflamed, swollen patch on the scalp that sometimes oozes pus. A kerion is caused by an allergic reaction to the fungus.
Nails with ringworm may become thick and discoloured, and will sometimes start to crumble.
Children are most likely to get ringworm. Ringworm of the scalp can spread from child to child when children share hats, combs, or brushes. Ringworm of the body can be spread on towels, clothing, or sports equipment. Personal hygiene is important in preventing the spread of ringworm. Dogs and cats can be infected with ringworm, too, and they can pass it to people through direct contact.
Although unsightly, ringworm usually isn’t serious, except potentially for people with weak immune systems. Treatment usually consists of antifungal medications that you apply to your skin.
Common Methods of Allergy Testing April 2, 2008
Posted by google in : health , add a commentAllergies is the natural response of our immune system trying to defend our body when it feels it is in danger; usually allergies occur when the body does not recognize a substance that is induced in the form through air, orally or directly applied on the skin. Here are some common methods of allergy testing that are sued today in order to determine the allergy type as well as a treatment for it.
The Skin Prick Or Scratch Allergy Testing
This is one f the most common allergy testing applied and it conducted by inducing a small amount of the substance suspected to cause the allergy into the skin in order to make contact and provoke the allergy. This test usually takes about 30 minutes to maximum and hour as the body reacts almost instantly if there are any allergic reactions to the substance used.
This is a fast and sure way to find out if you are allergic to something that you suspect you are but not sure. You can conduct this test with several other suspected substances at the same time in order to find the right culprit and a possible treatment as well.
Intradermal Allergy Testing
This allergy testing is very similar to the skin prick o scratch testing with the only difference that the suspected allergens are injected into the skin in order to provoke the reaction desired. Several tests can be conducted at the same time as it takes approximately 30 minutes for any reactions to occur.
Blood Test
Blood tests or RAST (radioallergosorbent test) is yet another sure way to determine an allergic reaction; this test measures the level of antibodies in the body or more precisely of a specific type of antibodies, which are known as IgE that are only present when an allergic reaction occurs.
Helpful Tip
Allergy reactions can be very tricky at times and it can take several allergy testing procedures to determine the cause of your allergies because it can be anywhere from food to a new lotion you are applying. Also you need to remember that allergies can be formed even later in life for some food items that you were not allergic to before, or any other cause for that matter such as, flowers, perfume animal dander or dust. In fact as we grow older our immune system grows weaker and we are more prone to develop allergies to things that did not bother us before.
