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Dracula therapy: Fighting ageing with own blood

2011-11-18T20:51:00.001-08:00

New Delhi: For ages, blood sucking has been the preserve of vampires, but medical science has now put `dracula therapy` to good use - to fight ageing. A test tube full of your own blood could be used to get rid of wrinkles, say doctors.

"Dracula therapy, as the name suggests, is a therapy that uses blood. We extract nearly 15-20 ml (a test tube) of blood from the person`s body, and after processing it with growth hormones in a laboratory, the blood is injected on the person`s face," AS Bath, senior consultant and head of department of plastic and cosmetic surgery at BLK Super Speciality Hospital here, told a news agency.

Platelet rich plasma (a component of blood) is extracted from the blood, after which drugs are used to release a growth factor in it. The fresh solution is then injected on the face using micro-needles after applying local anaesthesia.

"The concept is that your own blood with additions of growth hormones will help stimulate the growth of fresh cells, DNA repair, heal scars and treat wrinkled skin without any chemicals or surgical procedure. And that too there are just three sittings required without any hospitalisation," Bath explained.

Apart from being non-invasive, the technique also reduces the chances of allergic reactions; as the body gets back its own blood, allergic reactions are not there.

Introduced in Britain by London-based French cosmetic doctor, Daniel Sister, the technique has found many enthusiasts in India, say doctors. Women who had been opting for botox and laser therapy now have a painless technique to vouch for, feel experts.

"We have conducted eight such therapies in the last three months. Botox paralyses the facial muscles to stop wrinkles. But with dracula therapy, your own blood is used to replenish the damaged skin cells, making the skin look baby-soft and natural," said Datinderjeet Singh Tulla, consultant at the department of plastic and cosmetic surgery at the same hospital.

A single sitting for the therapy costs around Rs.25,000. And the trend is catching up among women in their 30s who have the urge to look their best in the social space.

"It would be wrong to say that it`s just a trend in the West to try cosmetic surgery. In urban India, people now want to fight ageing and score with looks wherever possible," Tulla says, adding that his clients have ranged from a hospital nurse to a documentary filmmaker.

"More middle-aged women want to try this technique," Tulla said.

But some precautions are needed with the technique that is touted to be the generation next of plastic surgery, experts believe.

"Surely it is a promising technique. But knowing that we have Indians willing to experiment with looks, people should check that the clinics where blood is processed is certified and has a hygienic laboratory," advises Bath.

The laboratory should have sterile and aseptic conditions, a licensed blood bank for preparing the serum should be involved in the process, and the surgeons performing the technique should also be certified.

The blood has to be fresh and processed for plasma within hours; otherwise the chances of infection are also there.

"Since we don`t have strict licensed norms for clinics in India, the technique is likely to be used for commercial purposes in times to come. After the age of 18, anybody could try it," Bath added.

IANS

Chocolate better cure for common cold than echinacea

2011-03-06T01:40:00.000-08:00

PEOPLE who buy echinacea to stave off a common cold are wasting their money and should buy chocolate instead, two separate scientific studies have claimed.

Echinacea, which is believed to minimise the impact of a common cold, was studied by scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health.

They found the over-the-counter herbal treatment only slightly delayed cold symptoms

In tests of 719 people, aged between 12 and 80, volunteers were randomly given either no pill, a pill they knew contained echinacea, or a pill that could have been echinacea or a placebo.

Those who received echinacea saw the duration of their cold reduced by seven to 10 hours.

"Trends were in the direction of benefit, amounting to an average half-day reduction in the duration of a weeklong cold or an approximate 10 percent reduction in overall severity," said Bruce Barrett, the lead researcher, writing in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

"However, this dose regimen did not make a large impact on the course of the common cold, compared either to blinded placebo or to no pills," he concluded.

In the UK, scientists at a British-based drugs company called SEEK, working with experts at Hull Cough Clinic, said that a naturally-occurring substance in cocoa - theobromine - has been shown to prevent the key features of a persistent cough.

Seek was developing a medication based on theobromine, which is found in significant quantities in cocoa-based products and which it says "has been shown to inhibit the inappropriate firing of the vagus nerve, which is a key feature of persistent cough.”

Professor Alyn Morice from the clinic, said, "Due to the drawbacks of current opioid drugs such as codeine, we are in desperate need of a non-opioid treatment with a drastically improved side effect profile for patients."

NewsCore

Key protein which piles on lost weight

2011-02-25T13:32:00.000-08:00

London: The presence of a protein will help doctors determine which women will be more susceptible to weight gain after quitting a diet.

The discovery opens the way for a simple blood test that would tell a dieter whether she will need help to maintain her new slimline shape.

Researchers from eight European countries, including Britain, analysed the blood of 96 dieters who had already lost weight. Half successfully kept it off, or lost even more. But the others regained the lost pounds, the journal Public Library of Science ONE reports.

Testing their blood for 34 proteins revealed levels of a substance called angiotensin-converting enzyme to be linked strongly to whether a woman's weight fluctuated or remained stable, according to the Daily Mail.

While dieting, women who later kept the pounds off tended to experience large drops in levels of the enzyme, which is more usually involved in constricting the blood vessels.

However, repeated rapid weight gain and loss associated with dieting can double the risk of death from heart disease, including heart attacks, and the risk of premature death in general.

Susan Jebb, a British expert on the research team, said: "Despite what we might think, people are not bad at losing weight - where they really struggle is in keeping it off."

IANS

Electrical stimulation therapy for paralytics

2011-02-25T13:14:00.000-08:00

In a study, Toronto scientists found that a new treatment approach, which uses tiny bursts of electricity to reawaken paralyzed muscles "significantly," reduced disability and improved grasping ability in people with incomplete spinal cord injuries.

They reported that functional electrical stimulation therapy (FES) worked considerably better than conventional occupational therapy alone to increase patients' ability to pick up and hold objects.

FES therapy designed by Popovic and colleagues uses low-intensity electrical pulses generated by a pocket-sized electric stimulator.

Unlike permanent FES systems, the new therapy is for short-term treatment.

The therapist uses the stimulator to make muscles move in a patient's limb. The idea is that after many repetitions, the nervous system can 'relearn' the motion and eventually activate the muscles on its own, without the device.

The randomized trial involved 21 rehabilitation inpatients who could not grasp objects or perform many activities of daily living.

All received conventional occupational therapy 5days per week for eight weeks. However, one group also received an hour of stimulation therapy daily, while another group had an additional hour of conventional occupational therapy only.

Patients who received only occupational therapy saw a "gentle improvement" in their grasping ability, but the level of improvement achieved with stimulation therapy was at least 3 times greater.

The study was published online in the journal Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair.

ANI

Higher vitamin D intake cuts cancer risk

2011-02-25T13:08:00.000-08:00

Scientists have reported that markedly higher intake of vitamin D is needed to reach blood levels that can prevent or markedly cut the incidence of breast cancer and several other major diseases than had been originally thought.

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine and Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha conducted a study to reach that conclusion.

"We found that daily intakes of vitamin D by adults in the range of 4000-8000 IU are needed to maintain blood levels of vitamin D metabolites in the range needed to reduce by about half the risk of several diseases - breast cancer, colon cancer, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes," said Cedric Garland, professor of family and preventive medicine at UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center.

"I was surprised to find that the intakes required to maintain vitamin D status for disease prevention were so high - much higher than the minimal intake of vitamin D of 400 IU/day that was needed to defeat rickets in the 20th century."

"I was not surprised by this," said Robert P. Heaney, of Creighton University, a distinguished biomedical scientist who has studied vitamin D need for several decades.

"This result was what our dose-response studies predicted, but it took a study such as this, of people leading their everyday lives, to confirm it."

The study reports on a survey of several thousand volunteers who were taking vitamin D supplements in the dosage range from 1000 to 10,000 IU/day. Blood studies were conducted to determine the level of 25-vitamin D - the form in which almost all vitamin D circulates in the blood.

"Most scientists who are actively working with vitamin D now believe that 40 to 60 ng/ml is the appropriate target concentration of 25-vitamin D in the blood for preventing the major vitamin D-deficiency related diseases, and have joined in a letter on this topic," said Garland.

"Unfortunately, according a recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, only 10 per cent of the US population has levels in this range, mainly people who work outdoors."

Interest in larger doses was spurred in December of last year, when a National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine committee identified 4000 IU/day of vitamin D as safe for every day use by adults and children nine years and older, with intakes in the range of 1000-3000 IU/day for infants and children through age eight years old.

While the IOM committee states that 4000 IU/day is a safe dosage, the recommended minimum daily intake is only 600 IU/day.

"Now that the results of this study are in, it will become common for almost every adult to take 4000 IU/day," Garland said. "This is comfortably under the 10,000 IU/day that the IOM Committee Report considers as the lower limit of risk, and the benefits are substantial." He added that people who may have contraindications should discuss their vitamin D needs with their family doctor.

"Now is the time for virtually everyone to take more vitamin D to help prevent some major types of cancer, several other serious illnesses, and fractures," said Heaney.

The findings are published February 21 in the journal Anticancer Research.

ANI

Cycling is biggest cause of heart attack!

2011-02-25T13:04:00.000-08:00

London: Cycling has always been touted as being good for health, but now a study has found that it is actually one of the biggest triggers of heart attacks.

The study, which analysed 36 pieces of research on everyday risks, proves that the "final straw" in bringing on a heart attack is spending time in traffic as a driver, cyclist or commuter.

But of the three, cyclists are in greatest danger because they are more heavily exposed to pollution and are subjecting themselves to another major heart attack trigger, exercise.

Traffic exposure was blamed for 7.4 percent of heart attacks, followed by physical exertion with 6.2 percent, while air pollution triggered between 5 percent and 7 percent of heart attacks, and drinking alcohol or coffee accounted for 5 percent.

Other risk factors included negative emotions (3.9 percent), anger (3.1 percent), eating a heavy meal (2.7 percent), positive emotions (2.4 percent) and sexual activity (2.2 percent).

Cocaine was to blame for 0.9 percent of heart attacks, but this was because of limited exposure to the drug among the population.

According to the study, led by Dr Tim Nawrot, from Hasselt University in Belgium, on an individual basis, taking cocaine was shown to raise a person''s risk of having a heart attack 23-fold.

In comparison, air pollution led to a 5 percent extra risk, but since far more people are exposed to traffic fumes and factory emissions than cocaine, air quality is a far more important population-wide threat.

Professor David Spiegelhalter, a risk expert from Cambridge University, said it was difficult to "disentangle" the risk factors in the study for certain situations, such as driving or cycling to work in heavy traffic.

"A lot of other factors are contributing to the overall risk; air pollution, stress, physical exertion, even anger which is another well-known trigger for a heart attack. It''s a complex mix," the Daily Mail quoted him as saying.

Judy O''Sullivan, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said the benefits of exercising outdoors outweighed the risks from air pollution for most individuals, and urged people not to be put off running, walking or cycling in towns and cities.

ANI

Top Ten Facts About Brain Tumors

2010-12-27T15:21:00.000-08:00

1. The most common brain tumors are cancers from other parts of the body (e.g. lung, breast, colon or prostate) that spreads to the brain.

2. Primary brain tumors originate in the brain and there are over 126 such tumors listed by WHO.

3. Glioma is the commonest primary brain tumour and originates from supporting brain cells that are called glial cells and 50% of all brain tumors begin as benign tumors.

4. Another brain tumour called ‘Astrocytomas’ are so named because their cells look like stars ; the word ‘astro’ in Latin means "star".

5. A primary brain tumour usually is restricted to brain and does not spread to other organs. If brain death occurs in these patients, it is possible to donate their organs.

6. In most instances the cause of brain tumor is not known and they do not discriminate among gender, class or ethnicity.

7. Each year approximately 200,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with metastatic or primary brain tumor.

8. Common symptoms of a brain tumor include headaches, seizures, personality changes, eye weakness, nausea or vomiting, speech disturbances, memory loss.

9. The survival from brain tumor at five years is approximately 30%.

10. Brain tumors can be treated by surgery, radiation therapy, stereotactic radiotherapy, chemotherapy or by using these in combination. The most important issue when treating these patients, besides trying to cure them, is to ensure that the quality of life is not compromised.

Brain Structure Linked to Humans' Social Behavior

2010-12-27T14:58:00.000-08:00

Researchers have identified a tiny structure in the human brain that determines humans' social network size. Amygdala, a small almond shaped structure within the temporal lobe, indicates the complexity of social network among humans, says scientists at the Northeastern University.

"We know that primates who live in larger social groups have a larger amygdala, even when controlling for overall brain size and body size," said Lisa Feldman Barrett.

"We considered a single primate species, humans, and found that the amygdala volume positively correlated with the size and complexity of social networks in adult humans," she added.

According to Bradford C. Dickerson, "This link between amygdala size and social network size and complexity was observed for both older and younger individuals and for both men and women."

"This link was specific to the amygdala, because social network size and complexity were not associated with the size of other brain structures," he added.

Barrett noted that more research is required to understand more about how the amygdala and other brain regions are involved in social behavior in humans.

"We and other researchers are also trying to understand how abnormalities in these brain regions may impair social behaviour in neurologic and psychiatric disorders."

The study appears in Nature Neuroscience.

Source-ANI

New research paves way for drugs to treat age-related memory loss

2010-05-20T02:18:00.000-07:00

Researchers at Princeton University have shown that two methods of extending life span have very different effects on memory performance and decline with age.

While the nematode C. elegans is already well known for its utility in longevity research, previously it was not known how the memory of C. elegans compares with that of other animals, or whether longevity treatments could improve learning and memory.

To answer these questions, Amanda Kauffman and colleagues, of Coleen Murphy''s lab at Princeton, designed new tests of learning and memory in C. elegans, then used these tests to identify the necessary components of learning, short-term memory, and long-term memory. They found that the molecules required for learning and memory appear to be conserved from C. elegans to mammals, suggesting that the basic mechanisms underlying learning and memory are ancient.

The authors also determined how each of the behaviors declines with age, and tested the effects of two known regulators of longevity -- dietary restriction and reduced Insulin/IGF-1 signaling -- on these declines. Surprisingly, very different effects on memory were achieved with the two longevity treatments: dietary restriction impaired memory in early adulthood but maintained memory with age, while reduced Insulin/IGF-1 signaling improved early adult memory performance but failed to preserve it with age.

These results suggest not only that longevity treatments could help preserve cognitive function with age, but also that different longevity treatments might have very different effects on such declines.

Murphy said: "Since one of the most devastating age-related declines is the loss of memory, it is exciting that we now can use C. elegans as a model to understand not only longevity but also memory function.

"We hope to use the system now to identify new drugs and treatments for age-related cognitive decline. Maybe targeting more than one longevity pathway would be the right approach."

The study will publish in the online, open-access journal PLoS Biology.

(ANI)

Eating Nuts May Help Cholesterol Levels

2010-05-20T02:03:00.000-07:00

(HealthDay News) -- An analysis of studies has produced what its authors describe as a precise description of the beneficial effects of nut consumption on cholesterol and other heart-related fats.

It provides "the best evidence yet that eating nuts reduces LDL cholesterol and improves the blood lipids profile," said Dr. Joan Sabate, who chairs the nutrition department at the Loma Linda University School of Public Health in California and was a co-author of the report, published May 10 in Archives of Internal Medicine.

Sabate and fellow researchers at the university pooled data on 583 men and women who had participated in 25 nut consumption trials. The results showed that eating about 2.3 ounces of nuts a day -- a third of a cupful -- reduced total cholesterol levels by 5.1 percent and "bad" LDL cholesterol by 7.4 percent.

That amount of nut eating also improved the ratio of LDL cholesterol to "good"HDL cholesterol by 8.3 percent and caused a decrease of 10.2 percent in triglyceride levels among people with high levels of those blood fats.

Sabate is a leading figure in the somewhat limited field of nut nutrition. His first report on the beneficial effects, published in 1993, led to other studies that eventually prompted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to issue a qualified health claim for nuts a decade later.

The 2003 FDA statement said that "scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces of most nuts per day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease."

On food labels, that claim is followed by a caution: "See nutrition information for fat content."

The FDA statement was issued in response to a petition filed by the International Tree Nut Council Research and Education Foundation, which supports the work done by Sabate and other nut nutrition researchers. The foundation helped fund the latest report.

The new study found that the benefits from eating nuts was greatest among thin people, those with high LDL cholesterol and those consuming a fat-rich diet.

But enthusiasm for nuts should be restrained, Sabate said. They are highly caloric, and thus can contribute to obesity. A 3-ounce-a-day limit was recommended.

Jeannie Gazzaniga-Moloo, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association who is in private practice in Sacramento, Calif., said that "nuts can be a very healthy addition to any diet," but she recommends eating somewhat less of them.

She said she suggests that her clients consume about an ounce a day of nuts -- about 22 walnuts, for example, providing about 150 calories -- as part of their daily diet. "They are rich in protein and dietary fiber as well as numerous proteins and in various vitamins," Gazzaniga-Moloo said.

"They should eat the nuts they enjoy," she said. "They can try a variety."

Sabata said that the type of nuts eaten doesn't seem to matter. The study found essentially the same results for walnuts, almonds, peanuts, pecans, hazelnuts, macadamias and pistachios.

"Nuts are a matrix of healthy nutrients, and the most obvious reason for the cholesterol-lowering effect is their unsaturated fat content," Sabate said. "Nuts also contain fiber, vegetable protein, phytoesterols and other antioxidants."

The best evidence for the beneficial effect of nuts, though, has come from studies of walnuts and almonds, he added.

More information

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has more about cholesterol. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForWomen/ucm118506.htm

Frequent Alcohol Use Linked to Faster HIV Disease Progression

2010-05-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

HIV disease tends to progress at a faster rate in infected individuals who consume two or more alcoholic drinks a day, according to a new study in AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses, a peer-reviewed journal published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.

The article, entitled "Alcohol Use Accelerates HIV Disease Progression," clearly demonstrates that frequent alcohol use, defined as two or more drinks daily, is associated with declining CD4+ cell counts (which indicate a weakened immune system) in individuals with HIV disease who either are or are not receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Based on the results of a 30-month prospective study, the authors, Marianna Baum, Carlin Rafie, Sabrina Sales, and Adriana Campa, from Florida International University (Miami), Shenghan Lai, from Johns Hopkins University, and John Bryan Page, from University of Miami, Florida, conclude that alcohol has a direct effect on CD4 cells and that the accelerated decline in CD4+ cell counts in frequent alcohol users is not simply due to poorer adherence to ART in this population.

Another article by Natascha Ching, Karin Nielsen-Saines, Jaime Deville, Lian Wei, Eileen Garratty, and Yvonne Bryson, from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, demonstrated that children who were infected with HIV while in utero via maternal-fetal transmission, were subsequently given antiretroviral therapy, and had no detectable HIV in their blood, still produced neutralizing antibodies against HIV, suggesting that low levels of viral replication might still be occurring despite drug therapy. In the article, the authors present data to support their conclusion that the children's CD4 T-cells may contain latent HIV reservoirs that formed early in life before antiretroviral therapy was initiated.

"It is important that HIV infected individuals make informed decisions relating to alcohol consumption. This article will help to achieve that goal," says Thomas Hope, PhD, Editor-in-Chief of AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses and Professor of Cell and Molecular Biology at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL.

Story Source:

Adapted from materials provided by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Journal Reference:

Natascha Ching, Karin A. Nielsen-Saines, Jaime G. Deville, Lian S. Wei, Eileen Garratty, Yvonne J. Bryson.Autologous Neutralizing Antibody to Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 and Replication-Competent Virus Recovered from CD4 T-Cell Reservoirs in Pediatric HIV-1%u2013Infected Patients on HAART.AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses, 2010; 100510181623043 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2008.0274

New tool tracks eye disease before symptoms show up

2010-04-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Washington, April 30 (IANS) A new non-invasive tool can detect signs of eye disease at early molecular stages, before symptoms can be seen using traditional methods, say opthalmologists.

In fact, this tool even promises to detect some eye diseases so early that they may be reversed before any permanent damage can occur.

Its use may well extend to other areas of the body in the future, and this tool may also give physicians a more precise way of evaluating the effectiveness of therapies.

'Quantitative knowledge of the dynamic molecular changes in health and disease will not only advance our understanding, but also change the way medicine will be practiced in the future,' said Ali Hafezi-Moghadam, study co-author and ophthalmologist at Harvard Medical School, Boston.

To make this discovery, Hafezi-Moghadam and colleagues combined fluorescent microspheres with molecules found on the surface of immune cells.

These molecules are up-regulated early in inflammation. The scientists took this compound and combined it once more with custom-designed imaging probes.

Then they used both single and double-combined probes targeting endothelial markers in the eyes of test animals because of the eye's unique accessibility to light-based imaging.

The endothelium is the thin layer of cells that line the interior surface of blood vessels, says a Harvard release.

Results showed a strikingly superior sensitivity of the double-conjugated probes that allowed detection of molecules that may be expressed at very low levels, which occur in many diseases.

'This tool is a total game-changer: it detects inflammatory eye disease at the molecular level before damage occurs,' said Gerald Weissmann, medical specialist and editor-in-chief of The FASEB Journal, which published these findings.

Meditation a good way to ease pain

2010-04-05T20:59:00.001-07:00

Meditation can help enhance the ability to moderate reactions to pain, according to new study.

In the study, published in The Journal of Pain, boffins from the University of North Carolina measured pain ratings in students interested in learning meditation who recruited for the study. Subjects were trained in meditation for three consecutive days and were given experimental pain stimuli.

Results of the trial showed that relaxed states promoted by the brief mindfulness meditation sessions reduced the reported pain ratings. Participants had less pain to both low and high pain intensities and showed significant reductions in anxiety after each meditation stimulation. The authors concluded that decreases in anxiety and increases in the ability to sustain personal focus can attenuate the feeling of pain.

In assessing their findings, the authors noted that the analgesic effects of meditation can be realized even after a short period of time learning the technique. Also, the results provide additional validation of the benefits of cognitive techniques for controlling pain.

ANI

Breakthrough in fight against cancer!

2010-04-05T20:57:00.001-07:00

In a major breakthrough that may pave the way for an effective treatment against cancer, British scientists have discovered a new group of molecules, which they claim could prevent the deadly tumours from spreading.

A team, led by Dr Gerd Wagner of University of East Anglia has discovered that a synthetic version of a molecule in cancer cells can block an enzyme, which affects how cells attach and invade other cells and spread around the body.

It could be the key researchers have been searching for to prevent cancers from spreading, say the scientists.

"In cancer cells you find the natural molecule UDP-Galactose. We have made a synthetic modification of this molecule and this works as a blocker.

"The expectation is, in the next step of research, that this could be a blocker of this cellular spreading of cancer cells as well.

"What is the really new thing, and really exciting, is this mechanism by which these blockers work is completely new. It is a very early step in the drug development process.

"The enzyme targeted by our molecules is particularly important in lung cancer. It is a general mechanism found in many other cancers, including breast cancer," Dr Wagner was quoted by the 'Daily Express' as saying.

How can you fight depression through day-to-day activities?

2010-03-23T02:20:00.001-07:00

On a day-to-day basis, separate from, or concurrently with therapy or medication, people suffering from depression have their own methods for getting through the worst times as best they can. The following comments and ideas on what to do during depression were solicited from people in the alt.support.depression newsgroup. These recommendations might work for you, or might not. Just keep trying them, modifying them for your own lifestyle and personal preferences, until you find the set of techniques that work for you most efficiently.

Write. Keep a journal. Somehow, writing everything down helps organizing better your thoughts and feelings, keeping the misery from running around in circles.

Listen to your favorite "help" songs (a bunch of songs that have strong positive meaning for you and relief for the depression nightmare).

Read (anything and everything). Go to the library and check out fiction you've wanted to read for a long time. You also might find useful reading books about depression, spirituality, and morality; or on the people who suffered from depression but still managed to do fairly well with their lives, like Winston Churchill and Martin Luther, for example.

Sleep for a while. Even when busy, do your best to get a good sleep. Notice if what you do before sleeping changes how you sleep in terms of length and rest quality. Follow the pattern, which helps you and verify how consistent the results are.

If you might be a danger to yourself, don't be alone. Find people. If that is not practical, call them up on the phone. If there is no one you feel you can call, suicide hotlines can be helpful, even if you're not quite that badly off yet. You will get professionals and trained volunteers to talk to you and may be show a different angle to your troubles, to start with.

Hug someone or have someone hug you. Personal touch is so important, and we almost lost it in our high-tech individualistic society.

Remember to eat. Notice, how eating certain things (e.g. sugar or coffee) may influence on our mood and feelings. Keep “comfort food” always handy in the house to be able to get it as needed.

Make yourself a fancy dinner, maybe invite someone over.

Take a bath or a perfumed bubble bath. Go to spa, massage, or hot springs resort. You may find that spending just couple of hours there may change your mood and bring calmness to your life.

Mess around on the computer. Talk to friends in social networks, blog, answer surveys, watch cartoons, and look if you can find relief in virtual life.

Rent comedy videos. Try to concentrate on the fun of what you are watching.

Go for a long walk. Look around, notice people, nature, birds. Watch the sky and the moon at night.

Dance. Dance alone at home, or go out with friends. Experiment with different music and its influence on your well-being. Try 5-rithms, Ecstatic, or Zen Dancing, as it is the best if you want to dance alone.

Eat well. Try to alternate foods you like with the stuff you know you should be eating.

Spend some time playing with a child. There is no other activity, more rewarding emotionally.

Buy yourself a gift. O yes, shopping therapy works excellent for some people. Do not have money – try windows shopping, or browse goodies on eBay or Amazon. Do not worry that you might not actually need the staff. If you just want it – buy it. That works pretty good as clothes for women, or electronic gadgets for men.

Phone a friend. Hopefully, you do have a close friend who will be able to listen to your troubles, or an opposite, will talk you out of your problems.

Read the newspaper comics page. Stupid jokes? So what? May be that what you need at the moment?

Do something unexpectedly nice for someone or for yourself. Break the boring routine, go out, and be creative.

Get involved in physical activities, get exercise at home, play active sport on WII. Get out to the fitness club and work to feel your body. Maybe, you get better, when depressive state will evaporate with your dew.

If you have garden or backyard, get there, pull the weeds, or cut the grass. Therapeutic gardening is a scientifically proved approach to get better with depression.

Sing. If you are worried about responses from critical neighbors, go for a drive and sing as loud as you want in the car. There's something about the physical act of singing old favorites that's very soothing. Maybe the rhythmic breathing that singing enforces does something for you too. Lullabies are especially good.

If you cannot force yourself to any activities, try again. Pick a small and easy task, like sweeping the floor, and do it. This helps you feel better because you actually accomplish something, instead of getting caught up in abstract worries and huge ideas for change. For example say "hi" to someone new if you are trying to be more sociable.

If you can meditate, it's really helpful. But when you're really down you may not be able to meditate. Your ability to meditate will return when the depression lifts. If you are unable to meditate, find some comforting reading and read it out loud.

Bring in some flowers and look at them.

If you're anxious about something you're avoiding, try to get some support to face it.

Getting Up. Many depressions are characterized by guilt, and lots of it. Many of the things that depressed people want to do because of their depressions (staying in bed, not going out) wind up making the depression worse because they end up causing depressed people to feel like they are screwing things up more and more. So if you've had six or seven hours of sleep, try to make yourself get out of bed the moment you wake up...you may not always succeed, but when you do, it's nice to have gotten a head start on the day.

Volunteer work. Doing volunteer work on a regular basis seems to keep the demons at bay, somewhat... it can help take the focus off of yourself and put it on people who may have larger problems (even though it doesn't always feel that way).

In general, it is extremely important to try to understand if something you can't seem to accomplish is something you simply CAN'T do because you're depressed (write a computer program, be charming on a date), or whether its something you CAN do, but it's going to be hell (cleaning the house, going for a walk with a friend, getting out of bed). If it turns out to be something you can do, but don't want to, try to do it anyway. You will not always succeed, but try. And when you succeed, it will always amaze you to look back on it afterwards and say "I felt like such shit, but look how well I managed to...!" This last technique, by the way, usually works for body stuff only (cleaning, cooking, etc.). The brain stuff often winds up getting put off until after the depression lifts.

Do not set yourself difficult goals or take on a great deal of responsibility.

Break large tasks into many smaller ones, set some priorities, and do what you can, as you can.

Do not expect too much from yourself. Unrealistic expectations will only increase feelings of failure, as they are impossible to meet. Perfectionism leads to increased depression.

Try to be with other people, it is usually better than being alone.

Participate in activities that may make you feel better. You might try mild exercise, going to a movie, a ball game, or participating in religious or social activities. Don't overdo it or get upset if your mood does not greatly improve right away. Feeling better takes time.

Do not make any major life decisions, such as quitting your job or getting married or separated while depressed. The negative thinking that accompanies depression may lead to horribly wrong decisions. If pressured to make such a decision, explain that you will make the decision as soon as possible after the depression lifts. Remember you are not seeing yourself, the world, or the future in an objective way when you are depressed.

While people may tell you to "snap out" of your depression, that is not possible. The recovery from depression usually requires antidepressant therapy and/or psychotherapy. You cannot simple make yourself "snap out" of the depression. Asking you to "snap out" of a depression makes as much sense as asking someone to "snap out" of diabetes or an under-active thyroid gland.

Remember: Depression makes you have negative thoughts about yourself, about the world, the people in your life, and about the future. Remember that your negative thoughts are not a rational way to think of things. It is as if you are seeing yourself, the world, and the future through a fog of negativity. Do not accept your negative thinking as being true. It is part of the depression and will disappear as your depression responds to treatment. If your negative (hopeless) view of the future leads you to seriously consider suicide, be sure to tell your doctor about this and ask for help. Suicide would be an irreversible act based on your unrealistically hopeless thoughts.

Remember that the feeling that nothing can make depression better is part of the illness of depression. Things are probably not nearly as hopeless as you think they are.

If you are on medication:

a. Take the medication as directed. Keep taking it as directed for as long as directed.

b. Discuss with the doctor ahead of time what happens in case of unacceptable side-effects.

c. Don't stop taking medication or change dosage without discussing it with your doctor, unless you discussed it ahead of time.

d. Remember to check about mixing other things with medication. Ask the prescribing doctor, and/or the pharmacist and/or look it up in the Physician's Desk Reference. Redundancy is good.

e. Except in emergencies, it is a good idea to check what your insurance covers before receiving treatment.

Do not rely on your doctor or therapist to know everything. Do some homework; find the information on your depression type and everything associated. Note that not everything you are reading is true, or absolutely true, or should be true for you. Apply your critical thinking to all the information acquired.

Feel free to seek out a second opinion from a different qualified medical professional if you feel that you cannot get what you need from the one you have, or you want be absolutely confident that your diagnosis is correct.

Skipping appointments, because you are "too sick to go to the doctor" is generally a bad idea…

Do not try to keep everything in your head, write them down, or record audio reminders on your mobile phone. Try concentrating and working out one task at a time. Trying to do too many things can be too much. Have a short list of things to do "now" and a longer list of things you have decided not to worry about just yet. When you finish writing the long list, put it aside for a while. Also, keep a list of what you have already accomplished too, and congratulate yourself each time you get something done. Don't take completed tasks off your to-do list. If you do, you will only have a list of uncompleted tasks. It's useful to have the crossed-off items visible so you can see what you have accomplished.

Get a pet. Pet therapy works excellent for some people. The most popular doctors are definitely cats and dogs.

Make your own list of recommendations and share with other people. Every depression is unique and individual, as all people are different. But you will be surprised of how much common you can find with other human beings.

Source: http://depressivedisorder.blogspot.com/2010/03/45-lifestyle-recommendations-on-how-to.html

Cancer genes switched off in humans

2010-03-22T04:31:00.001-07:00

Cancer genes switched off in humans (Getty Images)

For the first time, researchers have used short sequences of RNA that can effectively treat skincancer in people by silencing specific genes behind tumour production.

Mark Davis from the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena and his colleagues have used the technique, called RNA interference (RNAi), to deliver particles containing such sequences to patients with the skin cancermelanoma.

When analysing biopsies of the tumours after treatment, they found that the particles had inhibited expression of a key gene, called RRM2, needed for the cancer cells to multiply.

The researchers created the particles from two polymers plus a protein that binds to receptors on the surface of cancer cells and pieces of RNA called small-interfering RNA, or siRNA, designed to stop the RRM2 gene from being translated into protein.

The siRNA works by sticking to the messenger RNA (mRNA) that carries the gene's code to the cell's protein-making machinery and ensuring that enzymes cut the mRNA at a specific spot.

When the components are mixed together in water, they assemble into particles about 70 nanometres in diameter. The researchers can then administer the nanoparticles into the bloodstream of patients, where the particles circulate until they encounter 'leaky' blood vessels that supply the tumours with blood.

The particles then pass through the vessels to the tumour, where they bind to the cell and are then absorbed. Once inside the cell, the nanoparticles fall apart, releasing the siRNA. The other parts of the nanoparticle are so small, they pass out of the body in urine.

"It sneaks in, evades the immune system, delivers the siRNA, and the disassembled components exit out," Nature quoted Davis as saying.

When researchers analysed tumour samples from three of the patients who volunteered samples, they found fragments of the mRNA in exactly the length and sequence they would expect from the design of their siRNA.

And in at least one patient, the levels of the protein were lower than they were in samples of the tumours taken before treatment.

They also found that patients who were given higher doses had higher levels of siRNA in their tumours. "The more we put in, the more ends up where they are supposed to be, in tumour cells," said Davis.

Davis says that by targeting specific genes he hopes these treatments will not have major side effects. "My hope is to make tumours melt away while maintaining a high quality of life for the patients. We're moving another step closer to being able to do that now," he said.

The study has been published in Nature.

Weight loss tips

2007-11-05T23:17:00.001-08:00

Some Tips Now from
http://www.healthyweightforum.org/eng/we ight_loss_tips/

Tip #1
To make a delicious low fat mayonnaise simply combine one teaspoon Dijon mustard or one teaspoon satay sauce with low fat yoghurt.

Tip #2
Avoid skipping meals. Eating increases your matabolism, thus skipping meals can 'trick' your body into slowing down its metabolism in an attempt to conserve calories during a period it perceives as a situation where limited fuel is available.

Tip #3
Stuffing vegetables such as capsicum and zucchini with tasty fillings of mince chicken, meat or tuna are easy to do and very healthy and low fat.

Tip #4
Pita bread roll ups or wraps with salad fillings, are great for picnics, school lunches or to take to work.

Tip #5
Exerise, exercise, exercise! Exercise increases your metabolism and burning off excess fat. When is the best time to exercise? Our metabolism slows down about 8 hours after we wake up, so 30 minutes of exercise in the evening, before dinner will increase your metabolism for about two to three more hours just when it was starting to slow down. This produces a significant increase in fat burned off, even after the exercise is over.

Tip #6
Adding alfalfa or mung beans to your salad brings in extra iron.

Tip #7
Good cooking and healthy eating begins with learning about nutrition and how to prepare healthy recipes.

Tip #8
Plan the week's family menus in advance and just purchase those ingredients at a once weekly shopping trip.

Tip #9
Be positive! The more you feel good about yourself the easier and faster it is to lose weight.

Tip #10
Learn how to make over family favourite recipes by cutting out fats, salt and sugar. Substitute non fat yoghurt for cream, stir fry minus oil and use herbs and spices instead of salt for flavour.

Tip #11
Please consult your doctor before beginning an exercise or weight loss program.

Tip #12
Eat slowly and chew each bite completely to decrease your appetite

Tip #13
Eat three small meals and two snacks daily instead of two or three huge meals.

Tip #14
It's a myth that you need oil to stir fry! Use chicken stock instead and cut down on hidden fat.

Tip #15
There is more fat in a plate of toasted muesli than a plate of bacon and eggs! Purchase non-toasted muesli instead.

Tip #16
Avoid removing the skins of fruits and vegetables - most of the nutrients are concentrated just under the skin.

Tip #17
Hot water with a squeeze of lemon before breakfast get the metabolism going for the day, helps prevent constipation and is excellent for the skin.

Tip #18
The best source of vegetable protein is from soya beans or tofu. All legumes provide some protein, so include lentils, lima beans etc into casseroles and soups.

Tip #19
Find a weight loss "buddy," club, or support group. This will help you stay with your weight loss program.

Tip #20
Though difficult, try not eating 3 hours or more before bed time.

Tip #21
I cut up a whole watermelon and leave it in the fridge to snack on over a few days. it is sweet, juicy, yummy and filling. it really has helped me because when i go to the fridge looking for something when i see the watermelon it stops me having something more calorie laden. having it handy so that it is just as easy to eat as a biscuit or whatever makes the world of difference. eating at night time is my downfall too. i cant just not eat at night so i allow for it in my daily eating. i have those 97%fat free rice crackers and/or fruit or air popped popcorn. for me i just cant not eat at night time. i find i dont sleep very well if i go from dinner time to breakfast without anything. although we do eat dinner very early (around 5.30) because we like to eat with the kids. i think it is best to know your weaknesses and try to work around them. also, i dont think it can be said too many times - drinking water makes all the difference.

- calken, forum member

Tip #22
Make pasta your fast food choice - you can prepare a pasta meal and salad in 10-12 minutes.

Tip #23
Chilli helps to speed up metabolism - even the milder varieties.

Tip #24
Omelettes can be made just using egg whites! A dramatic reduction in fat.

Tip #25
Limit salt in cooking. Other names for salt include baking soda, baking powder, MSG and soya sauce.

Tip #26
For low fat gravy, drop ice cubes into the baking tray. Fat will stick to the ice cubes and can then be removed.

Tip #27
Chew sugarless gum. It speeds up the digestive system, burning more calories, and sometimes kills a craving.

Tip #28
Drinking hot water as appose to cold water can increase the speed of your metabolism and burn more calories.

Tip #29
Make casseroles the day before use. Refrigerate and skim fat from the top before re heating.

Tip #30
Always eat before you go food shopping and always prepare a shopping list. Only purchase food which relates to your weekly menu plan and don't be tempted to buy goodies.

Why Men Become Overweight

2007-11-05T23:16:00.000-08:00

Diet Advice 4 Men-Some SuggestionS!

Why Men Become Overweight
In my experience, most men become overweight for 4 reasons.

They drink too much
They take less exercise than a brick
They eat too much red meat
They eat too much fast food

Weight Loss Advice for Men

Be sensible about alcohol.
You don't have to give up

Take some regular exercise.
You don't have to jog your butt off

Eat less red meat.
You don't have to eat lentils

Eat less fast food
Home cooked food isn't necessarily slow food

Remember - Heart Attacks Kill Men
They kill women, too. But not as quickly.

One of the main causes of heart disease is bad eating habits, like:

Too much fast food.
Too much saturated fat.
Not enough fresh fruit & vegetables.
And of course insufficient exercise!

Check Your Cholesterol and Weight Stats
Get your cholesterol & blood pressure checked every year
It's a fast, simple procedure.
Watch your waist-hip ratio
The bigger your belly, the greater the heart-risk.......

SO start workout friends :))

from
http://www.annecollins.com/diet_tips/die t-tips-for-men.htm

scientific reasons for having sex?

2007-11-05T23:14:00.001-08:00

The reasons for not engaging in sex include transmission of diseases, heart attack due to exertion, and many others. The reasons for engaging in sex are numerous. Among these are:

Sex helps boost the immune system. According to Dr Carl Charnetski of the Department of Psychology at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, people who reported one or two sexual "episodes" per week enjoyed higher levels of Immunoglobin A. This is an antibody that helps fight disease.

Sex helps boost longevity. In one study cited by Dr Charnetski, men who had more orgasms over a 10 year period boosted their longevity compared with those who had fewer.

Sex helps ward off cancer. In another study cited by Dr Charnetski, men who had more ejaculations over a 35 year period had 33 per cent less prostate cancer compared to those with fewer ejaculations.

Sex results in a more youthful appearance. According to a study by Dr David Weeks, a clinical neuropsychologist at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital in Scotland and co-author of Superyoung (1999), men and women who reported having sex an average of four times per week looked approximately 10 years younger than they really were.

Sex helps reduce stress. Numerous studies show that it does this through lowering anxiety levels, boosting relaxation, and aiding sleeping.

Sex helps fight depression. A study by Dr Gordon Gallup of the Department of Psychology at the State University of New York at Albany found that women who regularly engage in heterosexual sex in which they come in contact with semen were significantly less depressed than those women that did not. he causal relationship is unclear. Dr Gallup speculates that "possibly because when absorbed through the vagina, semen may have an effect on mood in women". However, Dr Gallup is quick to point out: "Regardless of the findings, this study does not advocate that people abstain from using condoms. Protecting oneself from an unwanted pregnancy or a sexually transmitted disease is far more important."

Sex helps coping with middle age. This is the inference drawn from research by Dr GA Bachmann at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick, New Jersey and published first in 1995 in the International Journal of Fertility and Menopausal Studies and continuing in The Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2006.
Sex is good exercise. Exercise helps circulation, lowers cholesterol, and releases helpful endorphins.

Sex helps in losing weight. Well, at least a little. One burns approximately four to five calories per minute or perhaps 300 calories per hour during sex (depending upon how, shall we say, "vigorous" the sex is). About 7,000 to 8,000 excess calories must be burned to lose one kilogram of fat (3,500 to lose one pound). You do the calculations.

A Guide to Ending Neck and Back Pain

2007-11-05T23:13:00.001-08:00

A Guide to Ending Neck and Back Pain

Have you ever woken up with a sharp pain in your neck or a muscle spasm in your back? It's awful! Back pain is the most common culprit for absenteeism in the workplace and it may cause you to miss out on many other activities in your daily life.

It's important for us to take good care of our necks and backs. An estimated 8 out of 10 people will experience neck or back pain at some point in their lives. Most episodes will resolve themselves without treatment, but sometimes the pain become chronic.

Common Causes of Neck and Back Pain:

Muscle strain is one of the most common causes of neck and back pain. Because the muscles in the back are shorter than other muscles, they are more prone to spasm. Muscle spasms can be described as a sudden and often painful muscle contraction They can happen anywhere on the body, but back and neck spasms can be especially debilitating because it's nearly impossible to totally avoid using the muscles in your back. Sometimes a spasm can occur at random, or when your neck or back muscles are held in an uncomfortable position too long, such as crooking your neck to talk on the phone or sleeping in an awkward position.

Herniated discs, also called slipped discs or ruptured discs, are another common cause of back pain, and can be a bit more serious if untreated. Between our vertebrae are shock-absorbing cushions called discs. As we get older, the discs become more brittle and less resilient to strain. When a disc gets ruptured, it bulges through and puts pressure on surrounding nerves, causing back pain that often radiates down into a leg because of the compression on the nerves. If you discover you have a herniated disc, it doesn't always mean that you need surgery, but it does mean that you need to take special care of your back, which may include physical therapy, rest or special exercises. If you think you have a herniated disc, see your healthcare professional immediately. Disc problems typically only get worse if you ignore them.

Fractures are also responsible for neck and back pain. A fall or a severe jolt can crack vertebrae, putting the spinal cord at risk. Sometimes surgery is necessary to put the vertebra back in place.

Easy Ways To Alleviate or Prevent Neck and Back Pain:

Avoid sitting in one position for long periods of time. In the office or at home, stand up and walk around at least once an hour. If you must sit, make sure you have adequate lumbar support. When reading, use a Neck Correct Reading Stand to reduce neck and strain. The durable plexi-glass stand holds reading material in a comfortable position.

Sit up straight. Mom was right! Sitting up straight helps relieve the pains commonly associated with sitting. By using the muscles you aren't using when slouching, the overworked, strained ones get a break. Try a Posture Rite Lap Desk. It's ideal for reading, writing or eating in bed or in a wheelchair. A Posture Rite Lap Desk with an optional 20-degree tilt allows your neck and back to remain aligned while you use it!

Use the right pillow. It's imperative that you have a good, firm pillow to adequately support your neck while you sleep. And many people find that the right pillow can actually improve the quality of their sleep. An Allergy-Free Orthopedic Pillow with a raised outer edge and concave center supports the neck whether you're sleeping on your back or your side and restores the natural curve of the spine. What's more, the cover is impermeable to dust mites and other allergens, so you get a great night's sleep!

Support your neck on long car or plane trips. A Comfort Head Rest will cradle and support your neck on your journey, so you arrive refreshed and pain-free! Also, use those footrests on the airplanes—they help relieve back strain.

The 10 Best Ways to prevent Heart Disease

2007-11-05T23:08:00.000-08:00

Years of research have been unable to completely explain the cause of heart disease, also called atherosclerosis or "hardening of the arteries." However, multiple "risk factors" have been identified. The more risk factors a person has, the greater the likelihood they will develop heart disease.

Known risk factors include: high cholesterol, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, elevated homocysteine, cigarette smoking, chronic emotional stress ("Type A personality"), sedentary lifestyle and a family history of heart disease (genetics). Fortunately, all of these risk factors can be modified and possibly eliminated.

How do these risk factors lead to heart disease? Most of them appear to work through a final common pathway-the release of toxic substances that irritate the lining of the arteries. This irritation leads to a build up of inflamed clumps of cholesterol and calcium-called plaque--in the arterial walls. When the plaque gets thick, it causes a partial obstruction, slowing the blood supply to tissues and organs downstream. If the blood supply is completely shut off, the result can be a heart attack or stroke.

The ten daily recommendations consist of different ways to

(1) insure a good oxygen supply to the tissues,

(2) lower cholesterol,

(3) eliminate the toxins that irritate the arterial walls and

(4) keep the blood naturally thin and less likely to clot.

By making some simple changes in your diet, taking a few nutritional supplements, exercising regularly and engaging in nurturing social activities, you can maximize your chances at living a long and healthy life.

To keep your heart and blood vessels healthy, try to include the following 10 things EVERY DAY:

Get some exercise-enough to breathe deeply for 20 minutes: for example, skip the elevator and climb the stairs; take a walk during lunch; ride your bike to work.

Replace greasy, fried foods and refined carbohydrates (sugar and flour) with a couple of servings of colorful fresh fruits and vegetables.

Add a tablespoon of fiber from oat bran, psyllium seed husks or freshly ground flax seeds.

Add a freshly minced garlic clove to your dinner, OR take two garlic tablets containing a total of 6000 mcg of allicin.

Eat a serving of deep sea/cold water fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna or sardines, OR take a supplement of fish oil providing 1000 mg EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and 500 mg DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

Drink a glass or two of fresh citrus juice OR take a supplement of 1000 mg Vitamin C and 1000 mg citrus bioflavonoids.

Drink a small glass of red wine, a large glass of unsweetened purple grape juice, OR a supplement of 100 mg pinebark (Pynogenol™) or grapeseed (proanthocyanidin) extract.

Take 400 IU of natural Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) with 50mg Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone).

Take a supplement of vitamin B complex containing at least 800 mcg folic acid, 25 mg B6 and 50 mcg B12.

Share your feelings: take some quality time to connect with a friend or loved one.

Feed Your Skin, and Water it Too!

2007-11-05T23:02:00.001-08:00

Feed Your Skin, and Water it Too!

Natural creams and lotions are great for your skin, but if you want your skin to look good day after day and year after year, you have to work on it from the inside out. Ayurveda - the 5,000-year-old system of holistic healing from India - contends that a balanced diet, proper digestion and regular elimination are vital for clear glowing skin. "Ama" - the residue of improper digestion that can accumulate in the body - is the Number one enemy of healthy skin, leading to lifelessness and breakouts, according to Ayurvedic dermatologist Rama Kant Mishra.

So what should you feed your skin to keep it looking good?

To follow Ayurvedic principles for diet, you first need to figure out which of the following three categories your skin falls into:

If your skin is dry, thin and sensitive, susceptible to dullness and wrinkles, you have Vata type skin. Pitta skin tends to be reddish, warm and extremely sensitive, prone to breakouts and easily affected by the foods you eat, heat and sun. Kapha skin tends to be lustrous, oily, and thick in texture. It is prone to clogged pores, breakouts and toxic buildup.

Once you've determined the predominant Ayurvedic category your skin falls into, you can try some of these suggestions for feeding your skin right -

*

Individuals with Vata skin may need to include judicious amounts of healthy fats in their diets to restore natural luster to the skin. Ayurveda suggests Ghee (clarified butter), or you can use olive oil or sesame oil.
*

Green leafy vegetables should be eaten daily by all skin types. Rather than eat them raw, try steaming them lightly. Carrots are also nourishing for all skin types.
*

People with Pitta skin should stay away from hot, spicy foods to avoid skin irritation.
*

Kapha skin types can enhance the digestive fire by taking a bit of fresh ginger mixed with a little limejuice before meals.
*

Juicy fresh fruits are excellent for all skin types; they act as cleansers and re-hydrate the skin from within.
*

Roses are considered cooling. People with Pitta skin can eat rose petal jam on its own or mixed into warm milk.
*

Spices recommended for each skin type should be incorporated into the daily diet. In addition to having therapeutic properties of their own, some spices act as "carriers" of the benefits of other foods, especially when sautéed in a small amount of Ghee. Cumin and coriander are considered good for all skin types; they enhance digestion and cumin is also effective as a toxin hunter. Generally, people with Vata skin can add moderate amounts of black pepper, ginger and turmeric. Pitta skin benefits from cooling spices such as fennel and licorice, and Kapha skin from pungent spices such as pepper, ginger, cloves and turmeric. Spices should be cooked, not eaten raw. Herbal teas that incorporate spices are a quick, simple way of including them in your diet.
*

In general, weight your diet with fresh, light, nutritious foods - vegetables, grains, lentils and legumes - and go easy on heavy, deep-fried foods. For more detailed information on eating for personal balance, visit http://www.mapi.com and click on the links for Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Water is considered a life-giving force in ayurveda, very important in maintaining skin health as well as overall health. Says Mishra, "It's not always enough to just drink eight glasses of water everyday. For the body, and the skin, to realize fully the life-giving properties of water, people with different types of skin need to consume it differently."

Ayurveda is very firm on one aspect of drinking water, and, indeed, all beverages. Ice-cold drinks are not recommended because they inhibit the digestive fire and lead to imperfect digestion of food, which can show up on the skin.

One internal water therapy recommended by Mishra is drinking 6-8 glasses of boiled water everyday. Use pure drinking water, and boil it for five minutes. People with Vata type skin should drink the water warm, Kapha skin types can sip it hot, and Pitta skin types should cool it to room temperature before drinking. The water should be boiled fresh each day, and should not be ingested on a completely empty stomach. This therapy helps the water flush toxins from the body and moisturize the skin from within, keeping it hydrated and lustrous.

Combining boiled water with herbs suitable for the skin type enhances the benefits. Mishra suggests the following procedure -

Boil one liter of water for five minutes, then pour it into a thermos or other type of heat-retentive container. Add the recommended herbs and spices and steep. Keep the container closed. Strain and use the spice-infused water as needed. Drink at the temperature recommended above for each skin type.

Basic combination of recommended herbs and spices:

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
2 pinches of ground licorice root

Vata skin types can add 1/4 teaspoon cardamom seeds, Pitta skin types 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds and Kapha skin types a one-inch slice of peeled fresh ginger root.

**************************************** *************************
This information is written by Vasu Nargundkar for boloji.com/

Tips for Healthy Hair

2007-11-05T23:01:00.002-08:00

No matter what type of hair nature blessed you with, there are things you can do to keep it healthy, lustrous, looking its best. Here are some tips for a healthy head of hair from the tradition of Ayurveda, the 5,000-year old healing tradition that originated in India:

1. Like everything else about true, lasting beauty, healthy hair begins within your body. Start with your diet. Include lots of green leafy vegetables and sweet juicy fruits. Dairy products such as milk and fresh yogurt will also help. Fresh coconut is also considered excellent "hair food" – sprinkle grated coconut over salads, diced fresh fruit, or rice.

2. Cut down on refined, processed and canned foods. Ayurveda considers foods with artificial preservatives and chemical additives stripped of their inherent "intelligence" and therefore not helpful in supplying nutrition to your body and mind. Ice-cold beverages also hamper the process of digestion and assimilation of nutrients.

3. Cooking with certain spices adds flavor to your food and provides nourishment for your hair. Cumin, turmeric and black pepper are some "hair-friendly" spices. Add a healthy pinch of each to single-portion soups and stews as they are cooking. Sauté 1/8 –1/4 teaspoon each of the three spices in a teaspoon of ghee (clarified butter) or olive oil and add to cooked veggies. Roasted ground cumin and ground black pepper can be sprinkled over fresh yogurt.

4. Stress can be seriously injurious to long-term health and color of hair. Try and manage your time and tasks to minimize time-related pressures. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation. Seek out tranquil sights in nature to help restore balance to your mind. Relaxing or uplifting music can be therapeutic. Get adequate, good quality sleep to help the natural process of rejuvenation.

5. Ayurvedic herbs that help hair health include Eclipta alba and Gotu Kola. Eclipta alba is called "Bhringaraj" – literally, king of tresses. It nourishes the hair and helps resistance to stress as well. Brahmi, sometimes called Gotu Kola, also helps balance the mind and nourishes the hair and scalp. Since Ayurveda considers the health, color and luster of hair so dependent on overall mind/body health, synergistic Ayurvedic herbal preparations for hair can also include herbs such as Country Mallow, which is supposed to strengthen the physiology, and Winter Cherry, which aids resistance to stress.

6. Stay away from harsh chemical topical products that can damage hair over time. Look for gentle, natural cleansers and conditioners, especially if you wash your hair more than three times a week. Shampoos and conditioners that contain nourishing botanicals are even better. Read labels carefully – sometimes, products that say "herbal" or "natural" can include no-no chemicals.

7. A warm oil scalp massage two or three times a week will help stimulate and moisturize the scalp. You can use good quality coconut, almond or olive oil Ayurvedic hair oils also contain some of the herbs mentioned earlier. Apply some mildly warmed oil to your hair and gently massage into your scalp evenly with your fingertips. Leave on overnight if you can, if not, leave on for at least an hour or two, then get it out by shampooing your hair. The scalp massage helps you relax and aids sound sleep as well.

8. Never attack wet hair with a brush, no matter how rushed for time you are. Tangles in wet hair are best removed with a wide-toothed comb. Use a wooden comb if you can find one; it won't generate static electricity. Excessive blow-drying can damage hair in the long-term, making it brittle and causing split ends. If you can, let your hair dry naturally, then brush into place.

9. Last, but not least, brushing your hair regularly to stimulate the scalp will keep it looking healthy and lustrous. Brush each night in all directions in turn – left to right, right to left, front to back and back to front Use smooth long strokes from scalp to hair-tips.

Why walking ?--

2007-11-05T23:01:00.001-08:00

Why walking ?--

Walking is the most natural exercise known to man.

Besides this, here are the other benefits of walking---

1 ) Walking improves circulation--

Calf muscles are man's second heart. On walking, these muscles pump the blood to the heart with all force. This leads to greater heart exercise, increased oxygen requirement & better blood circulation.

2) Walking is good for the heart--

The increased oxygen requirements lead to exercise for the heart. On a long term basis, it leads to a better circulation for the heart. Thus it reduces the chances of a heart attack.

3 ) Walking cuts fatigue--

Once daily brisk walking has become a habit, you start reaping the benefits.
Soon there is no need of any laxatives.
No more low back ache.
No more of that catch while bending.
Above all, in shape body is not easily fatigued.

4 ) Psychological benefits --

Many studies have shown enormous psychological benefits of walking. It has been shown that daily walking habit reduces anxiety, tension & improves mood.

What is "brisk walking"?

It has been shown that what works best is not walking but "brisk walking". Scientifically, it correlates with the pulse rate that you should achieve for the maximum benefit. However, simply speaking, brisk walking means : a level that's not just strolling; but not out pf breath either.

5) Walking improves the posture.

How many minutes a day should one walk briskly?

No study has established the exact time for the maximum benefit. However 45minutes to 1 hour is a good guide.

You can even incorporate it in your daily life style. That way you will automatically walk briskly to the office & for that matter anywhere. A short brisk walk is is worth two miles of ambling. That way you will easily get minimal amount of good exercise every day. And, as striding becomes a habit, you will soon get more exercise, willingly.

Natural Eye Care Tips - Dark Circles.

2007-11-05T23:00:00.001-08:00

Natural eye care tips for dark circles mainly focus on herbal methods to cure it. Dark circles under eyes are a condition of skin in that area caused by differant issues.
Natural tip- A drop of almond oil gently dabbed above and under the eyes keeps the skin there smooth and supple. Regular application is a good preventive measure. Almond oil is very fine-textured oil that is easily absorbable, giving the skin a plump, healthy feel. Don't rub very hard the area around the eyes. Apply used chamomile tea bags after you have chilled them. Tannic acid in the tea has an astringent effect that will shrink swollen tissues. Chilled cucumber slices can also be placed over the eyes, but their action is gentle and only useful for crow's feet a few days old. Grated potato wrapped in a cheesecloth works faster.
Darkcircle causes
Darkcircles under the eyes is a very common problem and a major concern for ladies. Darkcircles makes you look and feel older, tired and depressed. There are many causes for darkcircles including -
allergies
stress
lack of sleep
poor health and
it may also be inherited from your parents.
Darkcircles might get worse with age due to puffiness under the eye or through extra pigmentation.
Natural eye care tip - Darkcircles under eye - Treatments and Remedies
1. Powdered fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and milk are said to tackle darkcircles. Apply a paste of fenugreek mixed in milk on dark circles in the night. Wash off in the morning and watch dark circles vanish for good.
2.Soak cotton wool in cucumber juice or potato juice & apply around the eyes to get rid of darkcircles.
3. Freeze grated cucumber. Massage the grated cucumber ice cubes on the eyes.
4. For eye puffiness, any tea bag (herbal is better, especially eye bright), slightly cooled, placed on the eyes while you rest.
5. To lighten darkcircles under your eyes, wrap a grated raw potato in cheesecloth and apply to eyelids for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.
6. The best overall eye tonic for under eyes darkcircles cure is eye bright (an herb). Make a tea of it and either use the tea bags or soak cotton balls or soft gauze in the tea and apply to eyes as a compress while lying down.
Find more tips on darkcircles:
Some Tips for treating darkcircles::
** Use sunscreen every day and moisturize in the night preferably using a good under eye cream.
** Get enough sleep. Try to have regular sleeping hours. Odd sleeping hours can flare-up the problem of darkcircles under eye.
** Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Iron deficiency can be a cause for darkcircles around the eyes.
** Drink 8 x 8 glasses of water each day to hydrate the skin.
Darkcircles and eye Makeup Remover
A great way to get off eye makeup is to mix water and baby bath. Removes it in seconds, even waterproof.
Using concealer to hide the under eye darkcircles:
The fastest cure for dark circles is to apply concealer. The most common mistake women make when applying concealer is choosing a color that's too light -- this only achieves a "reverse raccoon" effect.
Another common problem related to under eye darkcircles:
putting the concealer only under the eye? You should apply it all around the eye area, and be sure to blend well. Set the concealer with a light dusting of translucent face powder so that it stays put. And to avoid drawing attention to your under eye area, don't apply eyeliner or mascara to your lower lashes. The natural eye care tips on dark circles are finished here.

Tips for Fair Skin!

2007-11-05T22:59:00.000-08:00

I havent tried all of these put the almonds seem to make ur skin soft and very touchable...
Give it a try and holla back at ya gurl wid any info...

Tips 1:
Soak 4 almonds overnight. Make a very fine paste with them, using milk to grind them.Apply this paste on the neck and face before going to bed. Wash with cold water in the morning. Repeat daily for 15 days, followed by twice a week.

Tips 2:
Take 1 tbsp of gram flour and 2 tsp of raw milk and 2-3 drops of lime juice. Mix well and apply. Wash after 15 minutes. Repeat for 4 weeks and follow up with once a week.

Tips 3:
Grind a cup of mint leaves to a fine paste. Apply and leave for 20 minutes. Wash. Continue for 15 days.

Tips 4:
Grate a tomato. Add 2-3 drops of lime juice. Apply and wash after 20 minutes. Do this morning and evening for 15 - 20 days. Apply well on the neck area also.

Tips 5:
Diluted Vinegar
Potato juice with 2-3 drops of lime juice.
Cucumber juice with 2-3 drops of lime juice.
Diluted lime juice.

Glow ur face
If u want to get a glow on ur face and get rid of pimples then here is a excellent way to do so,
1 spoon of yogurt
a pinch of haldi (turmeric powder)
and a few drops of rose water
and don't forget to add sandalwood in it as well, one and a half spoon
and fer u will see a difference with in few days.

Brain damaging habits

2007-11-05T22:58:00.001-08:00

Brain damaging habits
Damaging Habits

1. No Breakfast
People who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level. This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain
degeneration.

2. Overeating
It causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.

3. Smoking
It causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.

4. High Sugar consumption
Too much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may interfere with brain development.

5. Air Pollution
The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain efficiency.

6. Sleep Deprivation
Sleep allows our brain to rest. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells.

7. Head covered while sleeping

Sleeping with the head covered, increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects.

8. Working your brain during illness.
Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as damage the brain.

9. Lacking in stimulating thoughts
Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.

10. Talking Rarely
Intellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain.

```Food Poisoning```

2007-11-05T22:57:00.002-08:00

```Food Poisoning```

Do you realize the many ways that bacteria can contaminate the food YOUR FAMILY eats? Do you know how to tell if your food is THOROUGHLY cooked to keep YOUR family safe from Food Poisoning? Do you know what to do if you or SOMEONE YOU LOVE gets Food Poisoning?
When it comes to food preparation and storage, "Common Practices" could be POISONING your family!
Here's how to avoid the problem entirely:

1. Plan For Safety
Make sure you have the right equipment, including cutting boards, utensils, food thermometers, cookware, shallow containers for storage, soap, and paper towels. Make sure you have a source of clean water. Plan ahead to ensure that there will be adequate storage space in the refrigerator and freezer.

2. Shop Smart
Prevention of food poisoning starts with your trip to the supermarket. Pick up your packaged and canned foods first.Buy cans and jars that look perfect. Do the cans have dents?Don't buy canned goods that are dented, cracked, or bulging.These are the warning signs that dangerous bacteria may be growing in the can. Are the jars cracked? Do they have lids that are loose or bulging? The food may have germs that can make you sick. Look for any expiration dates on the labels and never buy outdated food. Likewise, check the "use by" or"sell by" date on dairy products such as cottage cheese,cream cheese, yogurt, and sour cream and pick the ones that will stay fresh longest in your refrigerator.

3. Store Food Properly
After shopping, get home as soon as you can. Then put food into the refrigerator or freezer right away. Make sure to set the refrigerator temperature to 40° F and the freezer to0° F. Check temperatures with an appliance thermometer. Be sure to refrigerate or freeze perishables, prepared foods,and leftovers within 2 hours of shopping or preparing. Place raw meat, poultry, and seafood in containers in the refrigerator, to prevent their juices from dripping on other foods. Raw juices may contain harmful bacteria. Eggs always go in the refrigerator.

4. Prepare Food Safely
Wash hands and surfaces often. Bacteria can be spread throughout the kitchen and get onto cutting boards, utensils and counter tops. To prevent this, wash hands with soap and hot water before and after handling food, and after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or handling pets. Wash everything else before and after it touches food. Use paper towels or clean cloths to wipe kitchen surfaces or spills.Wash cloths before you use them again for anything else. Use the hot cycle of your washing machine. Wash cutting boards,dishes, utensils, and counter tops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item and before you go on to the next item. A solution of 1 teaspoon of bleach in 1 quart of water may be used to sanitize washed surfaces and utensils.

5. Cook Food Thoroughly
Cook food thoroughly until it is done. Cooked red meat looks brown inside. Poke cooked chicken with a fork. The juices should look clear, not pink. Dig a fork into cooked fish.The fish should flake. Cooked egg whites and yolks are firm,not runny. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat, poultry, casseroles and other food. U sea thermometer with a small-diameter stem. Insert the thermometer 1 to 2 inches into the center of the food and wait 30 seconds to ensure an accurate measurement. Check temperature in several places to be sure the food is evenly heated.

6. Chill Food Promptly
Place food in the refrigerator. Don't overfill the refrigerator. Cool air must circulate to keep food safe.Divide food and place in shallow containers. Slice roast beef or ham and layer in containers in portions for service.Divide turkey into smaller portions or slices & refrigerate.Remove stuffing from cavity before refrigeration. Place soups or stews in shallow containers. To cool quickly, place in ice water bath and stir. Cover and label cooked foods.Include the preparation date on the label.

7. Transport Food Safely
Keep cold food cold. Place cold food in cooler with a cold source such as ice or commercial freezing gels. Use plenty of ice or commercial freezing gels. Cold food should be held at or below 40° F. Hot food should be kept hot, at or above140° F. Wrap well and place in an insulated container.

8. Reheat Food Correctly
Heat cooked, commercially vacuum-sealed, ready-to-eat foods,such as hams and roasts, to 140° F. Foods that have been cooked ahead & cooled should be reheated to at least 165° F.Reheat leftovers thoroughly to at least 165° F. Reheat sauces, soups, and gravies to a boil.

9. Serve Food The Safe Way
Use clean containers and utensils to store and serve food.When a dish is empty or nearly empty, replace with fresh container of food, removing the previous container. Place cold food in containers on some ice. Hold cold foods at or below 40° F. Food that will be portioned and served should be placed in a shallow container. Place the container inside a deep pan filled partially with ice to keep food cold. Once food is thoroughly heated on stovetop, oven or in microwave oven, keep food hot by using a heat source. Place food in chafing dishes, preheated steam tables, warming trays and/or slow cookers. Check the temperature frequently to be sure food stays at or above 140° F.

10. Complete Your Meal Experience Safely
Cooked foods should not be left standing on the table or kitchen counter for more than 2 hours. Disease-causing bacteria grow in temperatures between 40° F and 140° F.Cooked foods that have been in this temperature range for more than 2 hours should not be eaten. If a dish is to be served hot, get it from the stove to the table as quickly as possible. Reheated foods should be brought to a temperature of at least 165° F. Keep cold foods in the refrigerator or on a bed of ice until serving. This rule is particularly important to remember in the summer months. Leftovers should be refrigerated as soon as possible. Meats should be cut in slices of 3 inches or less and all foods should be stored in small, shallow containers to hasten cooling. Be sure tor remove all the stuffing from roast turkey or chicken and store it separately. Giblets should also be stored separately. Leftovers should be used within 3 days. Discard any food left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. : Read more tips from : http://online-articles.org/cooking-tips/ site-map.php

How To Survive A Heart Attack When Alone

2007-11-05T22:57:00.001-08:00

How To Survive A Heart Attack When Alone
EVERYONE MUST KNOW THIS

Let's say it's 6.15p m and you're going home (alone of course), after an unusually hard day on the job. You're really tired, upset and frustrated.

Suddenly you start experiencing severe pain in yourchest that starts to adiate out into your arm and upinto your jaw. You are only about five miles from the hospital nearest your home. Unfortunately you don't know if you'll be able to make it that far. You have been trained in CPR, but the guy that taught the course did not tell you how to perform it on yourself.

HOW TO SURVIVE A HEART ATTACK WHEN ALONE

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. Tell as many other people as possible about this. It could save their lives!!

A cardiologist says If everyone who gets this mail
sends it to 10 people, you can bet that we'll save at
least one life.

BE A FRIEND AND PLEASE SEND THIS ARTICLE TO AS MANY FRIENDS ! AS POSSIBLE ....

"One meets his destiny often on the road he takes to avoid it"

When A Friend Has AIDS............

2007-11-05T22:46:00.000-08:00

I wish this could never happen even with any enemy but truth AIDS is a disease which is spreading fast and fast........When i was reading some information about Aids came to know about this topic where the writer has expressed few very good points wants to share with all my friends..............God Save the world from AIDS but same time its BETTER to CARE than CURE............................

Mark and I had been friends for sometime and I knew that he was often unwell, but I had never asked about it – I knew that when he wanted to, he would tell me, although I had often wondered whether it could be HIV.
One evening, we went out to dinner. We did this regularly and I did not expect that evening to be any different – a quiet meal, some laughs, some serious discussion. But during the course of the meal, Mark said to me ‘I suppose you have realised by now that I am HIV+’. So here it was – laid out in front of me and confirmed. But it was only then that I realised that despite everything I thought I knew about HIV and AIDS, I was not prepared for this; I did not know how to respond. All I could do was respond from my heart and whether it was right or not, I do not know.
But what I do know is that it blew my mind because here was one of my closest friends telling me that he was dying. I’m a practical person and fully accept that we are all dying and each day is one step closer to the grave. But this was something completely different – it was now on my doorstep and had become a personal matter; it was no longer that person who you hardly knew or who was a friend of a friend who you had met once briefly and I realise how inadequate I felt.

AIDS is now a fact of life and brings new challenges for each of us; not only those who are ill, but their friends and loved ones as well.

When someone you know is ill, you will feel helpless and useless. Here are some thoughts and suggestions that may help you:

Don't avoid your friend. Be there. It gives hope. Be the friend you've always been, more so now

Touch your friend. A simple squeeze of the hand or a hug can let them know you still care

Weep and laugh with your friend.

Tell your friend what you'd like to do to help. Keep any promises you make.

Spend time sharing a meal together

Be creative. Bring books, magazines, taped music. All of these become important and can bring warmth and joy.

Bring along another friend who hasn't visited before.

If there are young children living with your friend, offer to take them to or pick them up from school or take them on an outing.

Include your friend in your holiday plans if they are fit enough to travel with you.

Offer to help answer any letters or phone calls your friend may have difficulty dealing with.

Offer to do household chores. This may be appreciated more than you realize. But don't take away chores that your friend can still do.

Send a card that says, "I care!"

Don't be reluctant to ask about the illness. Your friend may need to talk. Find out by asking, "Do you feel like talking about it?"

What's in the news? Discuss current events. Help your friend from feeling that the world is passing him or her by. Keep your friend up to date on mutual friends and other common interests.

Like anyone else, a person with AIDS can have both good and bad days. On good days treat your friend the same as your other friends. On the bad days, treat him or her with extra care and compassion.

Talk with your friend about the future: tomorrow, next week, next year. It is helpful to look toward the future without denying the reality of today.

Don't feel that you both always have to talk. It's okay to sit together reading, listening to music, watching television.

Take a positive attitude with you. It's catching.

If your friend expresses concern about his or her looks, be gentle, but acknowledge these feelings. Just your listening is often all that is needed.

Be sure to include your friend in decision making whenever possible. Illness can bring about a loss of control over many aspects of life.

Be prepared for your friend to get angry with you for no obvious reason, although you have been there and done everything you could. Permit this, but don't take it in a personal way.

Don't lecture or become angry with your friend if he or she seems to be handling the illness in a way that you think is inappropriate.

Do not confuse acceptance of the illness with defeat.

Don't permit your friend to blame him or herself for the illness. Remind your friend that lifestyles don't cause disease, germs do.

Check in with the people who are taking care of your friend. They too may be suffering. They need a break from the illness from time to time.

Finally, recognize your own feelings and respect them. Share your grief, anger and helplessness

**************************************** *********************
references:

http://www.lowdown.co.zm/2004/2004-12/ai ds.htm

Hope you will love the efforts :))

What are the early symptoms of HIV infection?

2007-11-05T22:45:00.000-08:00

What are the early symptoms of HIV infection?

Many people do not develop any symptoms when they first become infected with HIV. Some people, however, get a flu-like illness within three to six weeks after exposure to the virus. This illness, called Acute HIV Syndrome, may include fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, diarrhoea and enlarged lymph nodes (organs of the immune system that can be felt in the neck, armpits and groin). These symptoms usually disappear within a week to a month and are often mistaken for another viral infection.

During this period, the quantity of the virus in the body will be high and it spreads to different parts, particularly the lymphoid tissue. At this stage, the infected person is more likely to pass on the infection to others. The viral quantity then drops as the body's immune system launches an orchestrated fight.

More persistent or severe symptoms may not surface for several years, even a decade or more, after HIV first enters the body in adults, or within two years in children born with the virus. This period of "asymptomatic" infection varies from individual to individual. Some people may begin to have symptoms as soon as a few months, while others may be symptom-free for more than 10 years. However, during the "asymptomatic" period, the virus will be actively multiplying, infecting, and killing cells of the immune system.

What Happens Inside the Body?

Once HIV enters the human body, it attaches itself to a White Blood Cell (WBC) called CD4. Also, called T4 cells, they are the main disease fighters of the body. Whenever there is an infection, CD4 cells lead the infection-fighting army of the body to protect it from falling sick. Damage of these cells, hence can affect a person's disease-fighting capability and general health.

After making a foothold on the CD4 cell, the virus injects its RNA into the cell. The RNA then gets attached to the DNA of the host cell and thus becomes part of the cell's genetic material. It is a virtual takeover of the cell. Using the cell's division mechanism, the virus now replicates and churns out hundreds of thousands of its own copies. These cells then enter the blood stream, get attached to other CD4 cells and continue replicating. As a result, the number of the virus in the blood rises and that of the CD4 cells declines.

Because of this process, immediately after infection, the viral load of an infected individual will be very high and the number of CD4, low. But, after a while, the body's immune system responds vigorously by producing more and more CD4 cells to fight the virus. Much of the virus gets removed from the blood. To fight the fast-replicating virus, as many as a billion CD4 cells are produced every day, but the virus too increases on a similar scale. The battle between the virus and the CD4 cells continues even as the infected person remains symptom-free.

But after a few years, which can last up to a decade or even more, when the number of the virus in the body rises to very high levels, the body's immune mechanism finds it difficult to carry on with the battle. The balance shifts in favour of the virus and the person becomes more susceptible to various infections. These infections are called Opportunistic Infections because they swarm the body using the opportunity of its low immunity. At this stage, the number of CD4 cells per millilitre of blood (called CD4 Count), which ranges between 500 to 1,500 in a healthy individual, falls below 200. The Viral Load, the quantity of the virus in the blood, will be very high at this stage.

Opportunistic infections are caused by bacteria, virus, fungi and parasites. Some of the common opportunistic infections that affect HIV positive persons are: Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), Tuberculosis (TB), Salmonellosis, Bacillary Angiomatosis (all caused by bacteria); Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Viral hepatitis, Herpes, Human papillomavirus (HPV), Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) (caused by virus); Candidiasis, Cryptococcal meningitis (caused by fungus) and Pneumocystis Carinii pneumonia (PCP). Toxoplasmosis. Cryptosporidiosis (caused by parasites). HIV positive persons are also prone to cancers like Kaposi's sarcoma and lymphoma.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC), Atlanta has listed a series of diseases as AIDS-defining. When these diseases appear, it is a sign that the infected individual has entered the later stage of HIV infection and has started developing AIDS. The progression of HIV positive persons into the AIDS stage is highly individual. Some people can reach the AIDS stage in about five years, while some remain disease free for more than a decade. Measurement of the viral load and the CD4 count helps a doctor in assessing an infected person's health condition.

What are the later symptoms of HIV/AIDS?

* Lack of energy
* Weight loss
* Frequent fevers and sweats
* A thick, whitish coating of the tongue or mouth (thrush) that is caused by a yeast infection and sometimes accompanied by a sore throat
* Severe or recurring vaginal yeast infections
* Chronic pelvic inflammatory disease or severe and frequent infections like herpes zoster
* Periods of extreme and unexplained fatigue that may be combined with headaches, lightheadedness, and/or dizziness
* Rapid loss of more than 10 pounds of weight that is not due to increased physical exercise or dieting
* Bruising more easily than normal
* Long-lasting bouts of diarrhoea
* Swelling or hardening of glands located in the throat, armpit, or groin
* Periods of continued, deep, dry coughing
* Increasing shortness of breath
* The appearance of discoloured or purplish growths on the skin or inside the mouth
* Unexplained bleeding from growths on the skin, from mucous membranes, or from any opening in the body
* Recurring or unusual skin rashes
* Severe numbness or pain in the hands or feet, the loss of muscle control and reflex, paralysis or loss of muscular strength
* An altered state of consciousness, personality change, or mental deterioration
* Children may grow slowly or fall sick frequently. HIV positive persons are also found to be more vulnerable to some cancers.

**************************************** *******************
This information is taken from

http://www.youandaids.org/About%20HIVAID S/Symptoms/index.asp

IF you cut a TREE..................

2007-11-05T22:41:00.001-08:00

If you cut a tree; You cut your own mother

+ You’re not just cutting the tree’s artistically slender branches; but by doing so you’re infact barbarously cutting the inimitably priceless hands of triumphantly vivacious Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just plucking the tree’s gorgeously affable leaves; but by doing so you’re infact torturously plucking the unparalleled divine sensitivity; of spellbindingly undefeated Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just indenting the tree’s poignantly gregarious trunk; but by doing so you’re infact sadistically indenting the unassailably jubilant chastity of unbelievably proliferating Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just abusing the tree’s incongruously uninhibited contours; but by doing so you’re infact outrageously abusing the pricelessly unabashed swirl of peerlessly undefeated Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just defecating on the tree’s innocuously protruding and sprawled roots; but by doing so you’re infact sacrilegiously defecating on the unshakably redolent embodiments of wondrously enthralling Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just chopping the tree’s merrily swaying tendrils; but by doing so you’re infact deliriously chopping the perennially fructifying innocence of gloriously Omnipotent Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just trimming the tree’s ecstatically liberated outgrowths; but by doing so you’re infact unnecessarily trimming the beautifully venerated womb of victoriously blessing Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just kicking the tree’s bountifully untainted stem; but by doing so you’re infact ruthlessly kicking the sacredly spawning bosom of brilliantly unfettered Mother Nature,

You’re not just peeling the tree’s rustically majestic corrugations; but by doing so you’re infact pervertedly peeling the invincibly silken skin of effulgently burgeoning Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just burning the tree’s unflinchingly valiant wood; but by doing so you’re infact insanely burning the fearlessly formidable strength of ebulliently cavorting Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just victimizing the tree’s indisputably royal foliage; but by doing so you’re infact truculently victimizing the insuperably unbridled sensuality of ubiquitously ever-pervading Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just disorienting the tree’s ardently boisterous nests; but by doing so you’re infact hedonistically disorienting the eclectically fascinating solar plexus of royally everlasting Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just ridiculing the tree’s endlessly inscrutable labyrinth of hollows; but by doing so you’re infact nefariously ridiculing the unfathomably enigmatic belly of stupendously ameliorating Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just jailing the tree’s effervescently nubile body with an unceasing jugglery of devilishly stabbing electric wire; but by doing so you’re infact unforgivably jailing the infallibly supreme identity of impeccably Omnipresent Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just nailing the tree’s immortally fragrant heart; but by doing so you’re infact diabolically nailing the celestially undaunted fabric of ecstatically frolicking Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just dumping the tree’s philanthropically unimpeachable cradle with your fetid garbage can trash; but by doing so you’re infact reproachfully dumping the mellifluously humming mouth of exuberantly evolving Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just bombarding the tree’s timelessly gargantuan splendor; but by doing so you’re infact baselessly bombarding the perennially beautiful virility of unlimitedly stupefying Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just spitting upon the tree’s resplendently beaming face; but by doing so you’re infact unpardonably spitting on the impregnably spotless heavenliness of vivaciously magical Mother Nature,

+ You’re not just uprooting the tree from its very eternally compassionate soil; but by doing so you’re infact sinfully uprooting the quintessentially blessed existence of benevolently healing Mother Nature,

So always remember O! salaciously greedy man; that the next time you wretchedly pulverize; abuse; trade and victimize Mother Nature; you’ll be infact demonically asphyxiating your very own Omniscient mother to the most ghastly death; as your’s and everyone else’s mother was first and foremost born out of the womb of Mother Nature; was first and foremost the child of unconquerable Mother Nature Divine…

Dental Care Tips-3

2007-11-05T22:31:00.002-08:00

Now some Personal Care Tips: Dental Care

What

* Brush teeth, tongue and gums at least twice a day for two to three minutes.
* Use a small amount (for children aged 3 - 12 the size of a match head and 12 and older the size of a small pea) of fluoridated toothpaste that is approved by the Canadian Dental Association.
* Clean between teeth with dental floss daily.
* Visit your dentist every 6-9 months.
* Limit sugary or starchy foods and drinks.
* Change your toothbrush every 2-3 months and after a cold or flu.
* Drink tap water every day (to get fluoride).
* When you can't brush your teeth, rinse your mouth with water, eat a small piece of cheese or chew sugarless gum to help clean your teeth.
* Allow your brush to air dry between uses.

Why

* To have fresh breath and an attractive smile you need a clean mouth.
* Brushing and flossing will remove plaque.
* To have a clean mouth you must remove the plaque from between the teeth and under the gum line.
* Plaque is a thin, sticky film that contains the bacteria which causes tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath

Dental Care Tips-2

2007-11-05T22:31:00.001-08:00

More information for friends from Better Health Channel

Dental care - tips if teeth are knocked out

If permanent teeth are knocked out, there is an excellent chance that they will survive if they are immediately placed back in the tooth socket and dental advice is sought straight away. Every minute the tooth is out of the socket, the less chance it has of surviving.

First aid for permanent teeth
If your child has a permanent tooth knocked out:

* Handle the tooth by the crown not the root.
* Gently rinse the tooth in milk or normal saline solution if it has debris on it. Rinse for a few seconds only.
* Replace the tooth in its socket, if the person is conscious - make sure it is facing the right way around.
* Hold the tooth in place with some foil or by getting the child to gently bite on a handkerchief.
* Contact your dentist immediately.

If you can’t put the tooth in its socket
If you can’t replace the tooth:

* Wrap it in glad wrap or store it in milk or normal saline solution.
* Contact your dentist immediately.

What not to do
Do not try and clean the tooth with vigorous scrubbing or cleaning agents.

Why you shouldn’t replace milk teeth
You should not attempt to put a milk tooth back in its socket because:

* It may fuse to the socket, which leads to difficulties when it is time for the tooth to be shed.
* It may damage the permanent tooth underneath the socket.

Where to get help

* Your dentist or dental therapist.

Things to remember

* Permanent teeth should be replaced in the socket as soon as possible.
* Every minute counts when trying to save a permanent tooth.
* Always seek immediate advice from your dentist.
* Milk teeth should not be put back in their socket.

Dental Care Tips For UR Smile !!!

2007-11-05T22:30:00.000-08:00

Dental Care Tips For UR Smile !!!

Dental Care Tips

While the following brushing and flossing tips may contain useful general guidelines, you should see a dental hygienist to ensure that you use a technique that is appropriate for you!
Brushing Tips

* Use a soft bristled brush, preferably one with rounded, synthetic bristles. Look for the American Dental Association seal of approval. Replace your toothbrush approximately every two to three months or as soon as the bristles are worn or bent. A worn-out toothbrush does not clean your teeth properly, and may actually injure your gums. You should also replace your toothbrush after you've had a cold.
* Be sure your brush is the right size (in general, smaller is better than larger).
* Place the bristles at a 45 degree angle to the gum line, and slide the tips of the brush under the gums.
* Gently jiggle the bristles or move it in small circles over the tooth and gums.
* Brush the outside, the inside, and the chewing surfaces of your teeth. For chewing surfaces, use a light back and forth motion.
* For the front teeth, brush the inside surfaces of the upper and lower jaws: Tilt your brush vertically and make several strokes up and down with the front part of the brush over the teeth and gum tissues.
* Brushing your tongue will help freshen your breath. Debris and bacteria can collect on your tongue and cause bad breath.
* Since your toothbrush will only clean one or two teeth at a time, change its position to clean each tooth properly.
* Brush at least once every day, preferably at bedtime. Adding a brush time after breakfast increases your chances of thorough daily plaque removal.
* Take your time: A thorough brushing should take at least 3 minutes.
* Don't brush your teeth too vigorously, and don't use a hard bristled toothbrush, since it causes the gums to recede and exposes root surfaces. It also wears down the tooth structure. Both of these conditions can lead to tooth sensitivity.
* A pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste is sufficient.
* Replace your brush when the bristles begin to spread, as a worn out toothbrush will not properly clean your teeth.

Flossing Tips

* Wrap about 18 inches of floss around the middle fingers of your hands.
* Hold the floss tightly, using your thumbs and forefingers, and gently guide it between your teeth. Don't "snap" the floss as this can cut the gums!
* When the floss reaches the gumline, curve it into a C-shape against one tooth and gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth until you feel pressure against the tooth.
* Gently scrape the side of the tooth with the floss.
* Repeat this method on all your teeth.
* Move to a clean area of floss after one or two teeth.

If you have more valuable information regarding the dental care please post :)) Dental Docs are especially invited with special invitation ...........................Thanks

A Report on Sex & LieS..UR STAND?

2007-11-05T22:29:00.001-08:00

Hi Friends,

Just wanna discuss this report which was published in one english journal................................. ........................................ .that.........

About heterosexual people

Ø 34% men and 10% women have told lies in order to have sex

Ø 68% of men and 59% of women have been involved with >1 person that their current partner does not know about.

Ø 47% of men and 42% of women would underestimate the # of previous sex partners in order to convince someone to have sex.

About Homosexual the percentage is quite high ........................................ ........................................ ..So what do U think about this human behavior?

Diet Advice for Men

2007-11-05T22:28:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

Some Diet Advice for Men Stay Fit Stay Healthy :)) Always.................................. ........................................ ..............

Why Men Become Overweight

In my experience, most men become overweight for 4 reasons.

* They drink too much
* They take less exercise than a brick
* They eat too much red meat
* They eat too much fast food

Weight Loss Advice for Men

Be sensible about alcohol.
You don't have to give up

Take some regular exercise.
You don't have to jog your butt off

Eat less red meat.
You don't have to eat lentils

Eat less fast food
Home cooked food isn't necessarily slow food
Remember - Heart Attacks Kill Men

They kill women, too. But not as quickly.

One of the main causes of heart disease is bad eating habits, like:

* Too much fast food.
* Too much saturated fat.
* Not enough fresh fruit & vegetables.

And of course insufficient exercise!

Check Your Cholesterol and Weight Stats

* Get your cholesterol & blood pressure checked every year
It's a fast, simple procedure.
* Watch your waist-hip ratio
The bigger your belly, the greater the heart-risk.

This Information is taken from http://www.annecollins.com/diet_tips/die t-tips-for-men.htm/

For friends :))

I strongly recommend to visit these given below websites for more valuable information as these all websites are having wonderful information regarding the same................:)) If you find it good please post your views also.................................... .......................Thanks a tone

http://www.annecollins.com/diet_tips/die t-tips-for-men.htm

http://chris.pirillo.com/2006/06/05/50-w eight-loss-tips/

http://www.healthyweightforum.org/eng/we ight_loss_tips/

Thanks!!!

Tips to put on weight...:)

2007-11-05T22:27:00.001-08:00

i. Eat more calories

This involves some calculation. The approximate normal daily caloric requirement for an average male who performs light activity is 2,200; for a female, it is 1,900.You need to eat around 1,000 extra calories per day to gain less than half a kilo a week.

Do the math. Eat larger portions and eat at least five meals a day.

Your actual caloric requirement can differ depending on your height, weight, activity level and your body's metabolic rate.

ii. Make smart choices

For example, choose dairy products, fish and meat over bread. Choose eggs over vegetables.

Eat foods with high protein content such as beans, pulses and peas, and foods with high starch content such as potatoes, rice and tapioca.

iii. Protein is important

Increase your protein intake. Your body needs a lot of protein to build new muscle. But since most of the calories for weight gain comes from carbohydrates and fats, do not replace them with protein.

iv. Snack a lot

Consume a lot of high-calorie snacks (not junk food) such as cheese sticks, milk shakes, muffins, dried fruits, yoghurt and breakfast bars.

v. Fluids help too

Drink a lot of fluids that supply nutrients and calories; milk, fresh fruit juices and energy drinks are good examples.

vi. Intensify workouts

Aerobics are great, right? Not for weight gain!

You need to exercise really hard and intensely to gain muscle mass.

vii. Weights are the way to go

Focus on free weight exercises (which do not require machinery) that target your large muscle groups. For example, you need dumbells, not fancy gym machines.

Free weights put the most stress on muscles and stimulate the maximum number of muscle fibres.

The best weight training exercises for building muscle mass are free weight exercises like squats, dead lifts, bench presses, barbell rows, pull ups and bar dips.

These exercises are best done under supervision, but they don't need machinery.

viii. Space out your workouts

If you have a high basic metabolic rate -- which means you expend a lot of energy even at rest -- you need short intense workouts instead of long periods of low-stress activity.

ix. Creatine?

Creatine supplements can help some athletes gain weight. It is not known if it is because it gives them spurts of energy or because it adds water weight.

More research is needed in this area before Creatine becomes that magic pill. Creatine supplements are available at all major health food stores, but do not take it without consulting your doctor.

x. Be consistent

It might take a long time, usually a few months, for the weight to actually show. Some people get frustrated and quit when they fail to see drastic results.

Your body will only responds to a consistent schedule. No weight gain programme will work for you if you are not regular.

Heredity does pay a major role in determining your weight. Effective weight training and a smart diet can help you exceed your genetically predetermined weight.

This article is by Dr Roopa Nishi Viswanathan who is an MBBS from KEM Hospital, Mumbai, with a Masters in Nutrition from the University of Texas at Austin.

YouR Food HabitS And You- DiscuSS

2007-11-05T22:26:00.000-08:00

TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY EATING By National Health and Medical Research Council................................. ........

Here are some quick tips to help keep your diet healthy.

Follow the NHMRC Dietary Guidelines
By following the National Health and Medical Research Council's updated Dietary Guidelines for Australian Adults (2003) and Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand Including Recommended Dietary Intakes (2006), your diet should be healthy and balanced against your level of daily physical activity.

1. Enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods.

2. Eat plenty of vegetables, legumes and fruit.

3. Eat plenty of cereals (preferably wholegrain), including breads, pasta, rice and noodles.

4. Include lean meat, fish, poultry and/or alternatives.

5. Include milks, yogurts, cheeses (and/or alternatives), preferably reduced-fat varieties.

6. Drink plenty of water.

7. Limit saturated fat, and moderate your total fat intake.

8. Choose low-salt foods.

9. If you drink alcohol, limit your intake.

10. Eat only a moderate amount of sugars and foods containing added sugars.

11. Maintain a healthy body weight by being physically active and eating according to your energy needs.

12. Care for your food: prepare and store it safely.

13. For infants, the NHMRC encourages and supports breast feeding for a healthy nutritional intake.

Eat the right amounts of fruit and vegetables
The NHMRC recommend that adults eat a minimum of 5 servings of vegetables and 2 serves of fruit every day.

Examples of a serve of vegetables are: half a cup (75 g) of cooked vegetables or green leafy vegetables such as spinach or broccoli, one cup of salad vegetables or one medium potato.

A sample serve of fruit would be a medium apple, banana, orange or pear, a cup of diced pieces of fruit or canned fruit, or 4 dried apricots.

Cereals: the bulk of your diet
In the NHMRC dietary guidelines, cereals include grains like rice, oats and corn, breads, breakfast cereals, pasta, noodles and flour. Their recommendation is that women eat 4-9 serves of cereals a day, and that men eat 4-12 serves a day. Select a number of serves of cereals that is balanced against your level of physical activity.

One serve of cereals can be 2 slices of bread, 1 cup of porridge or breakfast cereal, 1 medium bread roll or 1 cup of cooked pasta, rice or noodles. To achieve the suggested intake of cereals, you might consider having some bread with every meal, eating breakfast cereal everyday, adding wholegrain cereal to extend soups and casseroles, and serving rice or pasta to accompany hot dishes.

Chew the fat in moderation
Most Australians have a diet that is relatively high in fat compared to world standards. Too much fat can make us fat, especially if combined with a low level of physical activity. Eating too much of certain types of fat, especially saturated fat and trans fats, can increase our risk of heart disease and a number of other diseases.

Total fat (saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) accounts for around one-third of the total food energy intake of Australian adults.

The NHMRC recommends that anyone who is overweight should reduce the total fat in their diet so that it makes up only 20-25 per cent of their total food energy intake.

In Australia, our current intake of saturated fat is about 12.5 per cent of total energy intake, higher than the recommended maximum level of 10 per cent. It is slightly higher in children. Among the major sources of saturated fat in the adult diet are cheese, butter, cream, meat, chocolate and potato chips.

Trans fatty acids are made when hydrogen is added to vegetable oil in a process called hydrogenation. This makes the fat more solid and less likely to go rancid. Unfortunately, trans fats are an even worse risk for heart disease than saturated fats, because not only do they increase our levels of 'bad' (LDL) cholesterol, but they also decrease our levels of 'good' (HDL) cholesterol. Trans fats are common in cookies, crackers, cakes, potato chips and margarine.

Watch your sugar intake
Excess energy intake in any form, including excess sugar, can result in weight gain or obesity, especially when combined with low levels of physical activity.

Sugars in food can improve the way a food tastes, so are often added to various foods. However, foods with high levels of refined sugars are very energy dense and often have lower levels of other nutrients. Eating a lot of food that is high in sugar can ‘displace’ more nutritious foods from your diet. The NHMRC guidelines suggest that you be watchful of the amount of sugars and sugary foods that you eat, aiming to have no more than a moderate level in your diet.

Include calcium for your bones
Milk and foods produced from milk — cheese, yogurt, ice-cream and some custards — are the richest source of calcium in the Australian diet.

Calcium is a mineral that is important for healthy bones throughout life. Adequate calcium in the diet is also important for helping to avoid excessive thinning of bone in later life.

The Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand Including Recommended Dietary Intakes, 2006 have increased the amount of calcium recommended for most people. These recommendations are given below.

Adults Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) for calcium
Women: 19–50 years 1000 mg/day
Women: 51 years and over 1300 mg/day
Men: 19–70 years 1000 mg/day
Men: Over 70 years 1300 mg/day
Source: Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing and NHMRC. Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand, including Recommended Dietary Intakes, 2006. Endorsed 9 September 2005.

Examples of portions of these foods which would provide roughly 300 mg of calcium include one cup (250 mL) of milk, 200 g of yogurt, and 40 g of hard cheese. Whenever possible, select reduced-fat varieties of these foods.

Alternative, non-dairy sources of calcium that provide 300 mg of calcium include 150 g of almonds, 150 g of pink salmon with bones or 1 cup (250 mL) of calcium-fortified soy drink.

Don't overlook iron
The NHMRC Dietary Guidelines for Adult Australians describe a low intake of iron as common in Australia. This is particularly an issue in some groups of the population such as girls, women and vegetarians. Iron deficiency can cause fatigue and listlessness, and can sometimes lead to anaemia.

Australians are advised by the NHMRC to consume lean red meat — the best source of dietary iron — 3-4 times every week.

Prevent weight gain: get active!
A key message of the NHMRC dietary guidelines is to prevent weight gain by eating according to your energy needs. General health benefits for adults can be gained from a daily total of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most, or preferably all, days of the week.

The NHMRC advises that you can achieve this by taking simple steps to incorporate more activity into your daily routine, for example, by reducing the amount of time you spend being physically inactive — watching TV, working on a computer, driving a car — and replace this with any form of physical activity that suits your lifestyle, even active household chores can contribute. You don't need to go to the gym or play an organised sport to increase your level of physical acivity.

It’s all about combining a healthy diet with an active lifestyle. Working in a sedentary (non-physically active) job means balancing your day by being physically active in your non-work time, and always aiming to moderate your food energy intake to meet your energy needs.

Anti-ageing hormone a scam?

2007-11-05T22:25:00.000-08:00

Human growth hormone is being sold in increasing amounts as a cure-all for the ravages of ageing, but new research shows no evidence for these claims - and even possible dangers from the treatments.

Advertisement
So concludes a study from Stanford University researchers reported in the January 16 Annals of Internal Medicine.

Growth hormone is widely promoted on the Internet and its use as an anti-ageing drug has been touted on television as well as in the print media.

However, Dr Marc Blackman, clinical director of the US National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, who was not involved in the new study, said: "I'm concerned this is a substantial and growing problem. In an ageing society, wanting to age healthfully and well has included the use of this very powerful hormone, the effectiveness and safety of which are still under investigation and have not been proved for this purpose."

The negative side effects of growth hormone include joint swelling and pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and a trend toward an increased risk of diabetes or pre-diabetes, according to the study.
Not the fountain of youth
"Human growth hormone is not the fountain of youth," said the study's lead researcher, Dr Hau Liu, a research fellow in the division of endocrinology at Stanford's Centre for Primary Care and Outcomes Research.

Liu noted that as many as 30 000 people in the United States are taking growth hormone to try to stop the ageing process. "They are spending anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars a month," he said. "They are spending this amount of money and getting only a slight, if any, benefit, but increasing the risk of serious side effects."

The researchers looked at 31 studies that included just 220 patients. "There is very little scientific evidence evaluating growth hormone for ageing," Liu said. "This limited evidence suggests that there is very modest benefit and a potential for side effects."

Growth hormone caused small changes in body composition, such as a small gain in muscle mass and a small decrease in fat - about 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds), Liu said. This is no more than you would get from moderate exercise, he noted.
Potential for serious side effects
However, there was a potential for some serious side effects, including, in men, the risk for abnormal breast development, Liu said. These side effects are reversible when one stops taking the hormone, he said.

Liu noted that growth hormone is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use as an anti-ageing medication.

"If you want to increase your probability of living a long, healthy life, [then] eat right, get some exercise, get enough sleep. Those things probably increase your probability of living a long, fruitful life," Liu said.

One expert believes that growth hormone has no place as an anti-ageing remedy and may come with dangers.
Not a magic bullet
"The hucksters touting growth hormone as a magic bullet against ageing claim that thousands of studies have been conducted on the hormone. Liu demonstrates definitively that this is not true - only a handful of studies have ever been conducted using growth hormone in adults," said S. Jay Olshansky, a professor of public health and senior research scientist at the Centre on Aging at the University of Illinois, Chicago.

Olshansky also accused people who dispense growth hormone of acting irresponsibly.

"If those running anti-ageing or so-called longevity clinics continue to openly and brazenly administer growth hormone to their patients as an anti-ageing intervention, they will not only be openly violating the law, they may very well be jeopardizing the health of their patients," he said. "This thorough analysis suggests that the time has arrived for the FDA and the US Drug Enforcement Agency to crack down on this illegal and potentially harmful activity."

As men and women age, there is a progressive slow decline in the release of growth hormone, Blackman said. By the time people reach their late 60s or 70s, the reduction in the production of growth hormone is as much as 50 percent to 75 percent less than when they were in their 20s, he explained.

He noted that there are older people with a deficiency in growth hormone who can be successfully treated by replacing growth hormone. However, taking growth hormone to retard ageing is not a proven therapy

SO what do u think about such medicines and its side effects?

Home Remedies 4 Skin Whitening CaRE

2007-11-05T22:21:00.000-08:00

Home Remedies for Skin Whitening Care

Here are some simple home remedies for skin whitening that you can do to lighten the skin tone and get a lighter complexion. However, they must be done regularly and best results are obtained if they are inculcated as a part of daily routine.

Mix 1 tsp of milk powder, 1 tsp of honey, 1 tsp of lemon juice, and ½ tsp of almond oil. Apply on face and wash off after 10-15 minutes. This pack helps bring shine to the skin and also removes tan.

Mix oatmeal with curd and tomato juice and apply on the face. Keep it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. It helps remove the tan and lightens the skin.

Place sliced raw potato on the face. It helps reduce blemishes and other marks.

Applying turmeric powder along with lime juice removes the tan. Lime juice is a natural bleach.

Dried orange peels mixed with curd also help reduce blemishes and scars. Wash off this mixture with cold water after 15 minutes.

Soak 4 almonds overnight. Grind into a fine paste using milk. Apply on face and neck and leave it overnight. Wash with cold water in the morning. Do this daily for 15 days, followed by twice a week.

A tbsp of gram flour mixed with 2 tsp of raw milk and 2-3 drops of lime juice works well for lightening dark skin. Apply this mixture and leave it for 15 minutes before washing off. Repeat for 4 weeks and follow up with once a week.

Apply a paste of fresh ground mint leaves and leave it for about 20 minutes. Wash with cold water, continue for 15 days.

Apply a mixture of grated tomato with 2-3 drops of lime juice on the face. Leave it for 20 minutes before washing off. Do this twice a day for 15-20 days for best results.

Diet for Getting Rid of Dark Skin

Although there are no particular foods that will lighten your skin instantly, a balanced diet definitely helps by giving your skin a healthy glow. Drinking an optimum amount of water hydrates your skin and keeps it blemish free. Some recommendations regarding diet are as follows –

Avoid excessive consumption of heavy and oily foods.

Incorporate whole cereals, pulses, fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.

Drink at least 4-5 liters of water every day. Water washes out the toxins from the body.

Other suggestions for Dark Skin

1)
Use a good quality sunscreen when going out in the sun to protect the skin from tanning as well as the sun's UV rays.

Be regular and persistent with the home remedies for skin lightening as suggested above.

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ReferenceS:

This article is taken from one of the best websites on internet and my favourite geoamaan.com

for more information please visit the given link :))
have a beautiful Day Ahead
http://www.geoamaan.com/entry/1/39/

Hair Styling Tips For Men

2007-11-05T19:11:00.002-08:00

Hair Styling Tips for Men

Hair Styling Tips for MenThe beauty industry produces many specialized products and tools for the care of men’s hair. Here are some tips to help put some of those tools, products and your own personal style to use.

1. Use Hair Product Sparingly

Do not pay attention to the amount of product the bottle says to use. Start out with a very small, less than dime sized amount of product for short hair and work up for longer hair exercising moderation.

2. Get your Hands Dirty

Spread your hair care product between your fingers and hands for even distribution. Do not be afraid to put down your brush and comb and use nothing but your fingers as styling tools.

3. Blow Dry Thinning Hair for a Fuller Look

For hair that is thinning on top, try blow drying after a wash and full body condition and comb the hair in front straight back. Use mousse or a light hairspray to keep the style in place. The blow dryer will keep hair from matting together and appearing thinner than it is.

4. Use a Cap to Dry your Hair

If you do not like the way your hair looks after it is freshly washed because it has too much body and fluff for the style you are going for, consider tossing on a cap and letting it air dry. A cotton stocking cap will work, but a simple and classic baseball cap does the trick as well. Try to find a cap that will breathe, and that is easy to wash. Only use the hat to set your hair, and it will not get the dirt and grime of a regular-wear hat attached to it.

5. Wash your Hair the Night Before to Achieve a Better Bed-head Style

Sometimes styling products are not enough to get that bed-head look. The best idea is to make the style authentic and simply sleep on it. If you are attached to your morning shower, still take it. Simply don a cap or shower cap when showering.

6. Don’t be Afraid to Pull it up

Long hair on men is fashionable, but that doesn’t mean it has to get in the way. Try utilizing packs of black hair ties for a simple solution to hair in the face.

7. Hair Should Never Crunch

With short hairstyles it is easy to overdo hairspray, gels, mousse, and style sticks. Even short hairstyles should have movement. Stick to a hair product that is not sticky, and does not flake.

8. Split Ends Need to be Dealt with

If you are growing your hair out and you notice your ends are getting frizzy but you don’t want to go and get a professional trim, simply trim the ends yourself. Use sharp hair cutting scissors and only cut the very ends that are damaged.

Staying Young, Happy & Healthy

2007-11-05T19:11:00.001-08:00

Throw out non-essential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay himher.

Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. If you really need a grouch, there are probably a few dozen of your relatives to do the job.

Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening ...whatever. Just never let the brain idle.

Enjoy the simple things. When the children are young... that is all that you can afford. When they are in college... that is all that you can afford.

When they are grown and you are on retirement.. . that is all that you can afford!

Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. Laugh so much that you can be tracked in the store by your distinctive laughter.

The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is with us our entire life is ... ourselves.

Surround yourself with what you love, whether it is family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies ... whatever. Your home is your refuge.

Cherish your health. If it is good ... preserve it. If it is unstable ... improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve ... get help.

Don't take guilt trips. Go to the mall, the next county, a foreign country... but not guilt.

Tell the people you love, that you love them ... at every opportunity.

Remember ...

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Lab Grows Human Liver

2007-11-05T19:10:00.002-08:00

In the near future you might not have to wait for a liver for transplant, one will be grown for you smilie

Fiona MacRae, Daily Mail Smile

Scientists have grown a miniature human liver from stem cells, which can immediately be used to test drugs, reducing the need for animal experiments.

Within 15 years the experts hope to provide whole sections which can be used to repair damaged livers. And some years after that, they expect to produce entire organs for lifesaving transplants.

The technique, which created the mini-liver, the size of a 25 paise coin, will be developed to create a full-size functioning version.

In what was described as a ‘Eureka moment’ by researchers from UK-based Newcastle University, the tissue was created from blood taken from umbilical cords just a few minutes after birth.

In its current form, use of the mini organ in drug trials could avert disasters in which human volunteers suffer appalling damage.

Within five years, pieces of artificial tissue could be used to repair livers damaged by injury, disease, alcohol abuse and paracetamol overdose.

The transplant breakthrough will come too late for patients currently awaiting a liver swop. But for future victims of disease, the chances will be far better.

HOW THE SCIENTISTS DID IT…

The liver tissue is created from stem cells – blank cells capable of developing into different types of tissue – found in blood from the umbilical cord.

Working in collaboration with experts from the US, the Newcastle scientists have succeeded in separating the stem cells from blood removed from the umbilical cord minutes after birth.

They are then placed in a ‘bioreactor’ – a piece of electrical equipment developed by NASA to mimic the effects of weightlessness. Inside this, the freedom from the force of gravity allows them to multiply more quickly than usual.

Various hormones and chemicals are then added to coax the stem cells into turning into liver tissue. Other researchers have grown heart tissue from stem cells, and injections of stem cells have successfully been used to strengthen damaged heart muscle.

WHAT IT MEANS FOR MEDICINE SCIENCE

Currently, experiments on new drugs are carried out in the test tube, before being tried out first on animals, then on humans. The effects of these tests, however, can be catastrophic at times wherein volunteers are left fighting for their lives. But lab-grown human tissue could iron out any difficulties before drugs are given to humans.

The researchers envisage sections of artificial liver being used to keep patients needing transplants alive – in much the same way as a dialysis machine is used to treat kidney failure. This technique would take advantage of the liver’s remarkable ability to regenerate itself.

Patients would be hooked up to an artificial liver which would take over all the functions usually carried out by their own liver.

With several ‘dialysis’ sessions a day over a period of several months, the patient’s own liver would be given enough resting time to regenerate and repair any damage. Alternatively, vital months could be bought in search for a suitable donor for transplant.

THE FUTURE

While other researchers have created liver cells using stem cells taken from embryos, the Newcastle team are the first to create sizeable sections of tissue from stem cells from the umbilical cord.

They believe their technique is better suited to growing larger sections of tissue.

Use of cord stem cells is also more ethically acceptable than the use of embryo stem cells – a process which leads to the death of the embryo.

The Newcastle researchers foresee a time when cord blood from millions of babies born each year is banked, creating a world-wide donor register for liver dialysis and transplant.

Computerised registers could then be created to match the cord blood with tissue type or immune system of patients with liver problems.

The method is already used to treat leukaemia, with more and more parents freezing their children’s cord blood in such banks around the world.

“One hundred million children are born around the world every year – that is 100 million different tissue types,” said Colin McGuckin, professor of regenerative medicine at Newcastle University. “With that number of children being born every year, we should be able to find a tissue for me and you and every other person who doesn’t have stem cells banked.”

Co-researcher Dr Nico Forraz said: “Our dream is that every city would have such a bank. If you could type the blood, all you would have to do is dial it up on your computer and fly it from Bristol to ewcastle or even Newcastle to Mumbai.”

Importance Of Having Breakfast

2007-11-05T19:10:00.001-08:00

Breakfast can help prevent strokes, heart attack and sudden death. Advice on not to skip breakfast! Tips for healthyliving..For those who always skip breakfast, you should start kicking that habit now!!
You've heard many times that "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Now, recent research confirms that one of the worst practices you can develop may be avoiding breakfast.
Why?

Because the frequency of heart attack, sudden death, and stroke peaks between 6:00a.m. and noon , with the highest incidence being between 8: 00a.m. and 10:00a.m.What mechanism within the body could account for this significant jump in sudden death in the early morning hours? :-(
We may have an answer .
Platelet, tiny elements in the blood that keep us from bleeding to Death if we get a cut, can clump together inside our arteries due to cholesterol or laque buildup in the artery lining. It is in the morning hours that platelets become the most activated and tend to form these internal blood clots at the greatest frequency.
However, eating even a very light breakfast prevents the morning platelet activation that is associated with heart attacks and strokes . :-)
Studies performed at Memorial University in St.Johns , Newfoundland found that eating a light, very low-fat breakfast was critical in modifying the morning platelet activation. Subjects in the study consumed either low-fat or fat-free yogurt, orange juice, fruit, and a source of protein coming from yogurt or fat-free milk.
S o if you skip breakfast, it's important that you change this practice immediately in light of this research.Develop a simple plan to eat cereal, such as oatmeal or Bran Flakes ,along with six ounces of grape juice or orange juice , and perhaps a piece of fruit .
This simple plan will keep your platelets from sticking together, keep blood clots from forming, and perhaps head off a potential heart attack or stroke.
So never ever skip breakfast

Food allergy

2007-11-05T19:08:00.000-08:00

Intoduction

Many people believe they're allergic to specific foods. But true food allergies aren't nearly as common as you might think. About 1 percent of adults and 5 percent of children actually have a true food allergy — an adverse reaction to a food that is triggered by the immune system. Far more people have a food intolerance, an unpleasant reaction to food that doesn't involve the immune system.

This is little consolation if you've had a bad experience with a particular food and fear a recurrence. But it is an important distinction, because a true food allergy — also called a hypersensitivity — can cause serious problems and even death.

If you experience a reaction to a particular food, tell your doctor about it. Tests can help diagnose a food allergy, so you can take steps to avoid a repeat problem.

Signs and symptoms

For most people, an adverse reaction to a particular food is uncomfortable. But, for some people, a food reaction can be frightening and even life-threatening. Symptoms of a food allergy usually develop within about an hour after eating the offending food.

The most common signs and symptoms of a true food allergy include:

* Hives, itching or eczema
* Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body
* Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
* Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
* Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting

In a severe allergic reaction to food — called anaphylaxis — you may have more extreme versions of the above reactions, or you may experience the following life-threatening signs and symptoms:

* Constriction of airways, including a swollen throat or a lump in your throat, that makes it difficult to breathe
* Shock, with a severe drop in blood pressure
* Rapid pulse
* Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness

As many as 150 to 200 people die of food-related reactions each year in the United States.

Oral allergy syndrome
A mild type of food allergy known as oral allergy syndrome causes tingling or itching around the mouth after eating certain fresh fruits and vegetables. It's caused by cross-reactivity between proteins in fresh fruits and vegetables and those in certain pollens. For example, if you're allergic to ragweed, you may also react to melon.

Eyebrow Waxing

2007-11-05T19:06:00.000-08:00

Eyebrow Waxing
By Joanne Elliott

Unless you have very sensitive skin, waxing is a quick and relatively easy alternative to plucking your eyebrows. Although it is generally best to get eyebrows waxed professionally it can be expensive - up to around $15 as a general rule, although salons do differ. If you have a tighter budget, or if you are feeling fairly brave, here are some simple steps for you to try at home...

1) Preparing the Eyebrow

Brush the eyebrow into place with a baby toothbrush or clean mascara wand, so that their natural shape is neatly defined. Next, apply an astringent such as witch hazel to anesthetize the sensitive skin under the brow. Work out your natural brow shape by standing several feet away from a mirror, and following these simple steps…

Working out the length of the eyebrow

Hold a ruler parallel to your nose, and level with the inner corner of the eye, to work out where the brow should begin. If your eyes are close together, make the gap between the brows wider. If your eyes are far apart, don’t wax the start line of the brow too much so that they are closer together. Mark the correct point with a dot.

Working out the curve of the eyebrow

You can work out where the highest point of the curve/ arch should be by holding a ruler from the edge of the nostril past the outer edge of the iris (the colored part of the eye) and up to the eyebrow. Mark the spot with a dot.

Final planning

Now link up the dots in a gentle arch to draw on the ideal shape of the eyebrow that you want to achieve. This will give you a guideline to go by when applying the wax. You should aim for a smooth arched brow that tapers slightly at the outer ends.

2) Applying the Wax

Buy a professional waxing kit - basically a jar or tub of wax which can be warmed up in boiling water and applied with a small applicator or spatula, and (usually muslin) removal strips. Each product varies slightly, so be sure to read the manufacturers directions carefully.

Warm up the wax to optimum temperature and use the small spatula to apply a thin layer of wax to the growth. Make sure that you only use a small amount of wax on the spatula to avoid the wax dripping when it is applied. Apply wax with the hair growth under the eyebrow, (i.e. in the same direction that the hair grows in). You don’t need to use much, and you should not let the wax dry.

3) Removing the Hair

This is the painful bit! Ouch!!

Never wax above the eyebrow, only ever shape from below. Waxing from under the brow will widen your eyes and help to get the line even. This will make you look younger and much more glamorous if done correctly! As soon as it is applied remove the wax against the hair growth, (i.e. in the opposite direction that the hair grows in). This is done by gently smoothing a piece of cotton muslin over the waxed area, pulling the skin taut with one hand, and pulling the muslin off with the other.

It is a good idea to take a little hair off at a time, especially if you have fairly this growth. You will be surprised how much difference a little hair removal will make to your appearance.

4) The Aftermath

Any straggly hairs left over after waxing can be easily plucked out using a set of good tweezers. Apply a soothing balm like tea tree oil onto the area afterwards. You should avoid direct sunlight, acid based facial treatments, and liquid makeup for several hours.

To give the gorgeous new eyebrow shape emphasis, use an eyebrow pencil or tinted brow shadow to subtly fill in any gaps, and even out the natural color tone. Don’t worry if you make mistakes, even if you have bald patches or empty spaces. Practice makes perfect, and anyway, the hair will have grown back before you know it!!

ARE YOU AFRAID OF AGEING?

2007-11-05T19:05:00.002-08:00

Here is how you can slow down the process

Most of us fear growing old and want to try and fight the process as much as we can. We are looking for a relatively safe and convenient way to delay the process and remain looking and feeling youthful for as long as we can. Genetics only accounts for one-third of our health so it's basically up to us to make lifestyle choices that can have a major impact on how well and long we live. While the use of cosmetic products can combat the physical signs of ageing, one needs to try other methods to remain young at heart.

Here are some ideas to help you stay younger:

SHARPEN YOUR MIND

The sharper your mind, the better your over-all wellbeing. Practicing mental exercises can help improve your memory. The more active your mind the better your brain efficiency. Try various methods such as playing a game of scrabble or taking up a language course. Another effective and simple way is reading various types of books or playing chess or cards.

MAINTAIN GOOD RELATIONS

Studies have shown that people who are more social have a greater life-expectancy than those who prefer to remain isolated. If you are in a relationship, get intimate with your partner. It lowers blood pressure, promotes good sleep and boosts the immune system.
If you're still single, you can surround yourself with friends and constantly keep yourself busy with activities.

BECOME A GOOD LISTENER

While talking comes easy to most, it is harder to be a good listener. Try and show some empathy when talking to friends and loved ones. We often tend to interrupt people or reach our own conclusions. Instead, try to connect with someone by simply listening and understanding his/her point of view.

REDUCE YOUR STRESS

While we cannot completely lead a stress-free existence, we can learn to respond in better ways to the stress in our life. Make your home space clutter-free so that you can relax easily. When it comes to doing chores prioritise so that you are not stuck with a long list of things to complete everyday. Another great idea is to take some time out from your daily activities to meditate. Regular meditation not only reduces stress but also boosts the immune system.

BE OPTIMISTIC

Those who think positively generally lead a happier and longer life. No matter how bad things may get at a time, try to see the cup half full. While we cannot control everything that occurs in life, we can choose how we react to it. We shouldn't let small things get us down, but instead try and look at the bigger picture. Make sure that you are not always doing what other people want you to but are taking care of your own needs also.

CONTROL YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Our environment has a big influence on how we think and feel. Factors like noise or cluttered spaces can hinder us from being at peace. Try and design your bedroom far from the various sources of noise pollution like traffic. Once in a while take a break from the city and take a vacation at a peaceful destination. If you don't have much time off then make a weekend trip and put off your mobile phone for a while and enjoy the tranquility.

A Chunk Of Chocolate Does Your Heart Good

2007-11-05T19:05:00.001-08:00

A Chunk Of Chocolate Does Your Heart Good

A study has found those who regularly eat chocolate or drink cocoa have a lower risk of blood clotting problems which can trigger deadly heart seizures.

The message will be welcomed by Britons, the biggest chocolate eaters in Europe. We consume an average 22lb of chocolate each per year.

The latest findings from the U.S. actually arose by accident out of other research into aspirin.

The trial, conducted at Johns Hopkins University, involved hundreds of volunteers who were asked to start exercising, stop smoking and cut out wine, chocolate and caffeine prior to the start of the trial.

This proved to be too much for 139 men and women, who were unable to give up their regular chocolate treat, so they had to be excluded from the trial.

However, lead researcher Diane Becker decided to monitor their blood anyway to see if the chocolate had any effect on them.

She looked at the activity of platelets, which can clump together and so cause clots. If one of these clots leads to a blockage it can trigger a heart attack.

The team found the blood of those who were having a regular nibble of chocolate typically took an average of 130 seconds to clot when placed in a hair-thin tube.

By contrast, those who stayed away from chocolate had blood that clotted within 123 seconds.

In a second test, scientists analysed the participants' urine for chemical by-products of platelet activity.

It emerged that levels were 60 per cent higher in the group that abstained from chocolate, Dr Becker told the American Heart Association's annual conference in Chicago.

She said the group of 'chocolate offenders' had revealed how chemicals in cocoa beans have a similar effect to aspirin, by helping reduce the risk of blood clotting.

She said she would not advise people to eat lots of chocolate, since it often contains high levels of sugar, butter and cream.

But the equivalent of two tablespoons a day of dark chocolate may be just what the doctor ordered.

'Eating a little bit of chocolate or having a drink of hot cocoa as part of a regular diet is probably good for personal health, so long as people don't eat too much of it,' she said.

The study is not the first to suggest that chocolate may have a positive effect on health.

Last year, a team from Georgetown University in the U.S. said an ingredient found in chocolate could help beat cancer.

Scientists have found the chemical, called pentamer, which occurs naturally in cocoa may help stop the spread of tumour cells.

Other studies have also shown that the high levels of antioxidants in chocolate may protect the heart and arteries from damage.

These flavonoids, which are also found in tea, fruit and wine, can help protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules in the body.

However, researchers at the University of Glasgow warned that adding milk may cancel out these benefits, so advised people to opt for dark chocolate if they want to boost their antioxidant levels.

Biggest Brain Damaging Habits

2007-11-05T19:02:00.000-08:00

1. No Breakfast
People who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level. This leads to an insufficient
supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration.

2. Overeating
It causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.

3. Smoking
It causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.

4. High Sugar consumption
Too much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may
interfere with brain development.

5. Air Pollution
The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the sup ply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain efficiency.

6. Sleep Deprivation
Sleep allows our brain to rest. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells.

7. Head covered while sleeping
Sleeping with the head covered, increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects.

8. Working your brain during illness.
Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as
damage the brain.

9. Lacking in stimulating thoughts
Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.

10. Talking Rarely
Intellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain
__________________

8 Hair And Skin Myths, Busted

2007-11-05T19:01:00.000-08:00

We all have certain fixed ideas about what's good for us and what isn't. These ideas are often fuelled by folklore, incomplete knowledge from various publications or the Internet, incorrect interpretation of this knowledge and, of course, misinformation and exaggeration by television commercials. To set the record straight -- at least as far as skincare goes -- here are a few common myths and the truth behind them.

Myth: "My sunscreen will prevent tanning"

Fact: No sunscreen prevents tanning. It only decreases sun induced skin damage such as sunburn and delays photo-aging. Only a physical block like dark cloth or an umbrella can protect you.

Myth: "The longer I keep hair oil on, the better it is for my hair"

Fact: You actually need hair oil only for half an hour to an hour. It merely smoothens frizzled hair cuticles and is not absorbed into the hair shaft or scalp. In fact, keeping oil in your hair for a longer period or overnight traps dirt, causes build up of residue and leads to blackheads and acne on the forehead.

Myth: "My skin is normal / oily, so I don't need moisturizer"

Fact: Moisturiser does not add oil to the skin -- it hydrates, ie makes water molecules move into the cells of your skin, making it look smoother and softer. In fact, even oily skin needs frequent cleansing to remove excess oil and sebaceous secretion, followed by an application of moisturiser.

Myth: "Applying cream at night is bad as it prevents my skin from breathing"

Fact: Most of the skin's self-repairing activity occurs at night and nourishment given at this time can only maximise benefits. Most night creams are non oil-based, non-greasy formulations that do not block pores and supply essential rejuvenating substances.

Myth: "Home / natural remedies are 100 per cent safe"

Fact: If you have sensitive skin, even homemade packs and natural cleansers (eg turmeric, multani mitti, besan) can cause allergies or irritant reactions. Not all skin types are alike, so what works for most people may backfire for you. Always perform a test patch of a home remedy before applying it all over your face.

Myth: "Shampooing frequently increases hair fall"

Fact: Shampooing only dislodges hair that is already dead (Telogen Hair), which otherwise would have shed off on its own without your realising it. Live hair, in its growing stage (Anagen Hair), cannot be pulled out by shampooing. It is normal to lose 100 strands of hair per day.

Myth: "Fairness cream will transform me from a black beauty to a swan"

Fact: No one is going to offer you a movie role after three months of applying any cream in the world. Your skin colour is largely genetic and fairness products can make a difference of a few shades. Be realistic in your expectations. Yes, with intensive skin improvement, under a dermatologist's supervision, your skin can definitely become more even toned, less patchy, healthier and up to 30 to 35 per cent lighter -- but no one can make you Snow White -- that's a fairy tale!

Myth: "Stress causes greying of hair"

Fact: Stress only causes falling of hair. This affects only black hair, which is how the grey begins to show more as the black hair decreases. Greying, especially premature greying, is determined more by your genes.

-- The writer is an M B B S, DDV and DNB in dermatology.

Five Easy Steps To A Healthy Heart

2007-11-05T19:00:00.000-08:00

A five-course strategy

Eating a healthy, well balanced diet helps one to feel more energetic and improve both our long term and short term health. Healthy eating doesn't just mean cutting down on foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt. A healthy diet is all about balance and variety.

So, simply fine tune your diet by making small changes or using substitutes to get started. Once you know which foods to emphasize and which to limit or avoid, you can make your meal well planned which keeps you on track.

FIVE EASY STEPS TO A HEALTHY HEART

1. EAT MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Eat atleast five portions of vegetables and/or fruits a day. Vegetables and fruits are low in calories, are good sources of vitamins and minerals, and are rich in dietary fiber. A diet rich in fibre particularly soluble fibre helps to lower blood cholesterol and reduces risk of cardiac diseases.

CHOOSE
Fresh fruits and vegetables Oats, apples, guava, beans, peas, cabbage, spinach, ladies finger- rich in soluble fibre Canned fruits or vegetables in water or juice

LIMIT OR AVOID
Coconut, heavy gravies Canned fruits and vegetables with heavy syrup

2. CHOOSE LOW FAT PROTEIN SOURCES

A few simple changes in protein diet can reduce fat intake considerably. Some of the good sources of protein in non-vegetarian diets are meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, eggs and in vegetarian diets are legumes, beans, peas, lentils.
Replace whole milk with skimmed milk as it contains same amount of calcium, protein and B vitamins and less fat. Similarly, natural low fat yogurt, cottage cheese are high in calcium and good substitute for cream.

CHOOSE

Vegetarian:
Cow milk, skimmed milk Low fat yoghurt, low fat cheese, skimmed milk, paneer, legumes, flaxseed, walnuts, soyabean
Non- Vegetarian:
Egg whites Chicken, turkey- contain less fat but remove skin and any visible fat before cooking Lean cuts of meat Cold water, fatty fishes eg. Mackerel, salmon, tuna, herring, sardines - good omega 3 content

LIMIT OR AVOID

Vegetarian:
Whole milk Whole milk paneer, high fat cheese
Non- Vegetarian:
Whole eggs with yolk Red meats eg. Lamb, pork, beef -high in saturated fats Sausages, bacon, minced beef Liver and shell fish

3. LIMIT SATURATED FAT AND CHOLESTEROL

Another essential factor in the healthy diet is to reduce the amount of saturated fat. This lowers your blood cholesterol levels - reducing the risk of heart disease.You should not cut down on fat completely from diet as it is necessary for certain fat-soluble vitamins.

Avoid cholesterol rich foods, which are found only in animal foods like liver, shellfish, eggs, cheese, butter, ghee, mayonnaise etc. Among fats monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like olive oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, peanut oil should be used in place of saturated fats like coconut oil and palm kernel oil. However, moderation is the key as all fats are caloric dense. Recommended saturated fatty acid should be less than seven per cent of your total daily calories. Trans - fatty acid less than one per cent of your total daily calories. Cholesterol should be less than 300 mgs a day.

4. SELECT WHOLE GRAINS

Whole grains are good sources of fibre, vitamins, minerals like thiamin, riboflavin, nacin, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc, vitamin E, iron. These various nutrients help in regulating the blood pressure and therefore the heart health.
Lots of care should be taken while selecting bakery items like biscuits, kharies, rusk, cakes, pasteries, muffins, doughnuts, etc, as these are made out of refined flour and are loaded with hidden fat. Check out the food labels carefully before selecting them.

CHOOSE
Whole wheat flour Whole wheat bread Brown rice Whole grain pasta, oatmeal

LIMIT OR AVOID
Refined wheat flour (maida) White bread White polished rice Maida pasta

5. PRACTICE MODERATION IN COOKING

Cooking your own food provides you a complete control on fat intake and makes it easy for you to limit the quantity of saturated fat, salt and sugar. Excessive salt intake leads to high blood pressure, which in turn adds extra load on your heart causing coronary heart disease. Therefore cut down on excessive salt intake. Recommended daily intake six gm (2,300 mg sodium).

Multivitamins/Minerals

2007-11-05T18:59:00.002-08:00

Claims, Benefits: Provides nutrients to supplement a healthy (or unhealthy) diet.

Bottom Line:Many people should take a basic supplement, especially people over 60, women of child-bearing age, vegans, and anyone not eating a balanced diet. It needn't cost more than pennies a day.

The Wellness Guide to Multivitamin/Mineral Pills

It’s possible—and preferable—to get your nutrients from a healthy, balanced diet. But surveys show that many Americans fall short in a variety of key vitamins and minerals. Moreover, recent research has underscored the importance of some of these nutrients, notably vitamin D and folic acid. And some studies suggest that people who take multivitamin/mineral pills have a lower risk of several diseases, including colon cancer and possibly cardiovascular disease, and may have a better immune response.

Consider taking a multi if you are in one of these groups:

• People over 60. Most don’t get the nutrients they need, for a variety of reasons. For instance, aging itself may make it more difficult to absorb and utilize certain nutrients. The major problem nutrients for older people are vitamins D, C, B6, B12, and folic acid, as well as minerals such as zinc, calcium, and magnesium.

• Women of childbearing age. They need 400 IU daily of folate (the form in supplements is called folic acid). This B vitamin helps prevent neural tube birth defects; women need to build up their folate stores at least several weeks before becoming pregnant. The folic acid in supplements and fortified foods is better absorbed by the body than the folate found naturally in food (this is also true of vitamin B12). In addition, many premenopausal women do not consume enough iron and can benefit from the amount in a basic multi.

• Pregnant or breast-feeding women should probably take a multi, but should discuss their special needs with their doctors.

• Strict vegetarians, who eat no animal products, may not get enough vitamin B12, zinc, iron, and calcium.

• People on weight-loss diets, as well as heavy drinkers or smokers, are likely to have a shortfall of vitamins and minerals.

• Anyone not eating a balanced diet (at least five fruits and vegetables a day, as well as whole grains, low-fat dairy, and small servings of lean meat, poultry, or fish) may not be getting enough folic acid, B6, and B12. These B vitamins play a role in lowering homocysteine levels in the blood and thus may help reduce the risk of heart disease and, recent studies suggest, Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis. Folic acid may also help prevent cervical and colon cancer. Most multivitamin supplements have 100% of the daily recommended intake of these Bs.

Not everyone needs a multivitamin/mineral. But the above list includes more than half of all Americans, for whom a basic multi may make sense.

But keep in mind: Even if you take a multi, you still need to have a healthy, balanced diet. These pills are not magic bullets. Foods—particularly fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—provide fiber as well as countless beneficial phytochemicals not found in any pill.

Twelve things you should know:

• The labels on multivitamin/mineral pills list the amount of each nutrient and the percentage of the “Daily Value” (the FDA’s reference values used on foods and supplements) that represents.

• A multi need not cost more than a few cents a day. You don’t need a fancy multi. Most store-brand and generic products are fine.

• Look for “USP” on the label. This means the product meets the standards of the U.S. Pharmacopeia, including one for disintegration, and has been tested under controlled laboratory conditions. Most brand-name vitamins aren’t labeled USP, because the manufacturers either don’t want to do the tests, or prefer to guarantee the products via the brand names. Generic or store brands are more often labeled USP, and are cheaper.

• Most important: Look for 100% of the Daily Value of the following vitamins: Vitamin D, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, B12, and folic acid (another B vitamin). Plus at least 20 micrograms of vitamin K, for strong bones.

• Lower levels of vitamin A. The multi should contain no more than 5,000 IU of vitamin A (that’s 100% of the Daily Value), but at least 40% of this should be in the form of beta carotene (the label will say, for instance, “50% as beta carotene” under vitamin A). Getting more than about 6,000 IU of vitamin A itself from food and supplements increases the risk of fractures in people over 50. Beta carotene is safe for your bones, though high doses (more than in a basic multi) may increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers.

• Look for up to 100% of the Daily Value of these minerals: copper, zinc, iodine, selenium (preferably from yeast, but not more than 200 micrograms ), and chromium (not more than 200 micrograms). Most multis also contain some magnesium.

• Most multis contain 100% of the Daily Value of vitamins C and E, but this may not be enough to provide their full anti-oxidant effects. We recommend 250 to 500 milligrams of C a day, but that you get the additional C from fruits and vegetables, if possible. Recent research on the potential benefits of larger doses of vitamin E has yielded disappointing or conflicting results.

• Calcium is bulky, so a multi will contain only a small amount of it. Unless you consume enough dairy products, collards broccoli, fortified OJ, and salmon or sardines (with bones), you should take a separate calcium supplement. Everyone needs at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day from food and/or supplements. Women over 50 and men over 65 need 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams a day.

• Premenopausal women should look for 100% of the Daily Value of iron. In contrast, people with the genetic disorder hemochromatosis (who absorb too much iron) should avoid supplemental iron. Men and postmenopausal women need only 45% of the Daily Value, and may be better off with a multi containing no iron.

• More than 100% of the Daily Value isn’t necessarily better. Higher doses of the B vitamins are okay, but large doses of copper, for instance, can interfere with the absorption of zinc, and vice versa. And large doses of vitamin A or zinc, for instance, can be dangerous.

• Take your multi with food. If it contains iron, don’t take a calcium supplement at the same time, since iron interferes with calcium absorption.

• Words you don’t need to see listed on the bottle: “high-potency,” “senior formula,” “stress formula,” “starch-free,” “natural,” or “slow-release.” Added ingredients such as enzymes, hormones, amino acids, PABA, ginseng, and other herbs serve no purpose and add to the price.

Source: UC Berkeley Wellness Letter, August 2004

Being Negative Could Cause Coronary Heart Disease

2007-11-05T18:59:00.001-08:00

Men with negative personalities may face risk of developing coronary heart disease, says a new study.

Researchers led by Edward Suarez at Duke University studied 2,105 white men who had served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War.

The men got heart checkups and completed personality surveys to gauge their anger, hostility, depression and anxiety over a period of 15 years, reported the online edition of health magazine WebMD.

Each of these traits independently predicted heart disease. But the mix of these traits "was the most powerful predictor of heart disease", said Suarez.

Suarez and colleagues are designing a comprehensive intervention programme to help patients handle negatsive feelings and cut heart risks.

"We want to help people at earlier points in their life by teaching them ways to cope with problems and how to make wiser choices that promote health," said Suarez.

"By helping them before they show clinical signs of heart disease, we may be able to help them avoid the disease altogether," he added.

But the study, published online in Psychosomatic Medicine, doesn't warn against normal negative behaviour most people experience from time to time.

The study has certain limitations since all participants were male veterans and most were white. It's not clear if the findings apply to women or other groups of people.

The researchers also warn that several other factors — including smoking, diabetes, and excess weight — also affect heart disease.

How to get rid of ACNE (PIMPLES)???

2007-11-05T18:05:00.001-08:00

ACNE (PIMPLES) Acne is a common problem faced by almost all teen-agers and youth. What is acne and why do we get them. Acne is actually caused because of hormone imbalance. Your skin breaks out because of a hormone called testosterone. Both men and women have testosterone in their systems. In fact, did you know that in order to make testosterone, boys bodies have to make female hormones first? If you have acne, you haven't got abnormal levels of testosterone. You've got skin that reacts abnormally to this hormone. You start producing testosterone around the time you start sprouting body hair. Testosterone tells glands in your skin, called sebaceous glands, to produce oily stuff called sebum. To add to the problem the inside of the tubes that hold each hair become gummy and get partially blocked - giving you blackheads. Put together if sebum blocks the tubes --- you have big acne.
So go to your pharmacist or doctor to get your acne treated. Here are a few tips that will help you know how to treat acne at home.
1. If you have red angry looking acne, don't touch it. If you squeeze now, all you'll do is force the contents deeper into the skin that will make matters worst. And all you'll end up with is redder, angrier acne than you had before. Don't do it.

2. If you have a yellow custard top? Go for it. These beauties CAN be squeezed but there's an art to it. Here's how. Wash your hands thoroughly to avoid trouble and infection. Put a tissue over your finger. Why? Because you want the contents of the spot on the tissue, not splattered all over the mirror. Using the side of your thumb and the end of your finger, very gently start to squeeze. Don't whatever you do, use your nails as this will damage your skin. Stop when you're applying a lot of pressure and nothing is happening and you see clear fluid, rather than yellow grotty stuff and the spot begins to bleed. When you've finished dab it with antiseptic. Once the custard bit is out, the spot will heal more quickly than an unsqueezed yellow top would, providing that you now leave it well alone. Now wash your hands again.

3. Whiteheads and blackheads. If acne is left untreated they may cause this problem. Here the rule is if they're black, squeeze but if they're small, white raised lumps leave them alone. All that stuff about clean hands, tissues and stopping if nothing is happening or you see blood, apply here too.

Tips for acne treatment 1. DON'T TRY TO WASH IT AWAY
Acne isn't caused by dirt. In fact people with oily skin have cleaner skin than average because they wash it more often. But it's a fact that washing too much can make acne worse because it makes the skin dry and sore. So, wash no more than twice a day, using mild soap and water. If you have patches of dry skin, don't worry about putting moisturizer on. It won't make your acne worse. If you're still concerned, use an oil free moisturizer.

2. DON'T NUKE 'EM
There are lots of over the counter creams, gels, lotions and potions. Most contain a powerful bleaching agent called benzoyl peroxide. You'll find the strength written on the label. You might be tempted to go straight for the highest sort, working on the 'let's nuke 'em principle. The likely result is that you'll irritate your skin like mad. It may also go all dry and scaly on you. But if you still are willing to bleach then use the mild one.

3. MAKE A DATE - THE TWO MONTH RULE
If you have been using over the counter remedies for two months and there is no real improvement in your spots, this is the moment to go and make an appointment with your doc.

4. YOUR DOCTOR - THE TWO MONTH RULE
The thing you are most likely to be given by the doctor is a prescription for antibiotics. These will either be topical (which means something you put on your skin) or tablets you have to take every day. Whatever treatment your doctor or pharmacist recommends, follow the instructions carefully and keep using for at least two months. There should be a noticeable improvement by this time. If not, go back to discuss other possible treatments Antibiotics are perfectly safe to take. You should take them for at least two months and then go back to your doc. If they seem to be working, he will probably tell you to keep taking them and give you some more. If they aren't doing their stuff, don't despair - he has loads of other spot busters in his black bag.

5. YOU ARE NOT AN ALIEN - BUT JUST BE PATIENT
Hundreds of thousands of teenagers seek help for acne. You are not alone. You are not an alien. And if people really care about you, they don't even notice your acne, however bad you think they are. But you will need to be patient. Most treatments take time to work. At least two months. And some treatments, like antibiotics will work well but may have to be taken for months, or even years.

6. THE MONTHLY CURSE... OR EXAMS
Acne does tend to get worse just before a period. It's because there is a surge in hormone levels at this time. But boys don't get away lightly either. Being hot and sweaty (particularly after sports like football) makes acne worse. And for everyone, stress - particularly at exam times - is a cue for a mega breakout. This is normal - and of course, even more reason for feeling stressed. Go chill. They'll get better - promise.

7. WATCH WHAT YOU PUT ON YOUR SKIN AND HAIR
Some beauty products are big no-nos. These include pomades and defrizzing agents for hair that tend to cause an outcrop of blackheads along the hairline and some of the heavier cosmetics. And be wary of suntan oils. Not all will make you break out, but some may. Try a friend's first before you buy. By the way, the sun might dry up acne and a tan might hide them, but your skin is still vulnerable in the sun and needs protection.

8. CARRY ON KISSING
You can't catch acne during kissing - go for it!

9. CARRY ON EATING CHOCOLATE
It's a myth that eating chocolate and fried foods causes acne. However, eating a good diet improves your general well-being and this is reflected in your skin.

Common Questions asked about acne problem Does wearing make up cause acne?
It is not necessary that wearing make up causes acne. Acne is caused because of hormonal imbalance mostly during puberty. But you have to take special care while you apply make up and thereafter if you have acne. Make sure you wash any make up tools, including sponges and brushes as often as possible as these become a breeding ground for bugs which can cause your spots to pop up. Stop wearing make up if you have too many spots and you can resume after you have treated them. Don't forget to clean the make up after you come home and and make sure you cleanse your face properly each night.

Do skin toner and moisturizer cure acne?
One thing that you need to know is acne is not caused by dirt, so no amount of cleaning and toning is going to get rid of them. So for treating acne you must consult your doctor and eat lots of healthy food and drink lots of water. That is the natural way to keep you face spot free.

Is it ok to do facial?
It can be a real treat to have the facial done, as they can be very relaxing and make you feel properly pampered. However, you should be aware that they should not be used to help 'treat' spots, as this can be quite dangerous if the beauty therapist is not trained. Sometimes a beauty therapist will also squeeze out any spots and blackheads that if it's not done properly, may cause a bigger problem than before.

What is the best way to cover up spots?
Foundation is okay to use and may give you more confidence if you've got a hot date, but remember to look for oil-free one. Whatever you use to put on your skin, wash your hands or sponge before applying foundation.

FOOD AS MEDICINE

2007-11-05T18:04:00.000-08:00

HEADACHE? EAT FISH!
Eat plenty of fish -- fish oil helps prevent headaches.
So does ginger, which reduces inflammation and pain.

HAVE FEVER? EAT YOGURT!
Eat lots of yogurt before pollen season.
Also-eat honey from your area (local region) daily.

TO PREVENT STROKE DRINK TEA!
Prevent buildup of fatty deposits on artery walls with regular doses of tea. (actually, tea suppresses my appetite and keeps the pounds from invading.... Green tea is great for our immune system)!

INSOMNIA (CAN'T SLEEP?) HONEY!
Use honey as a tranquilizer and sedative.

ASTHMA? EAT ONIONS!!!!
Eating onions helps ease constriction of bronchial tubes. (when I was young, my mother would make onion packs to place on our chest, helped the respiratory ailments and actually made us breathe better).

ARTHRITIS? EAT FISH, TOO!!
Salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines actually prevent arthritis. (fish has omega oils, good for our immune system)

UPSET STOMACH? BANANAS - GINGER!!!!!
Bananas will settle an upset stomach.
Ginger will cure morning sickness and nausea.

BLADDER INFECTION? DRINK CRANBERRY JUICE!!!!
High-acid cranberry juice controls harmful bacteria.

BONE PROBLEMS? EAT PINEAPPLE!!!
Bone fractures and osteoporosis can be prevented by the manganese in pineapple.

PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME? EAT CORNFLAKES!! !!
Women can ward off the effects of PMS with cornflakes, which help reduce depression, anxiety and fatigue.

MEMORY PROBLEMS? EAT OYSTERS!
Oysters help improve your mental functioning by supplying much-needed zinc.

COLDS? EAT GARLIC!
Clear up that stuffy head with garlic. (remember, garlic lowers cholesterol, too.)

COUGHING? USE RED PEPPERS!!
A substance similar to that found in the cough syrups is found in hot red pepper. Use red (cayenne) pepper with caution-it can irritate your tummy.

BREAST CANCER? EAT Wheat, bran and cabbage
Helps to maintain estrogen at healthy levels.

LUNG CANCER? EAT DARK GREEN AND ORANGE AND VEGGIES!!!
A good antidote is beta carotene, a form of Vitamin A found in dark green and orange vegetables.

ULCERS? EAT CABBAGE ALSO!!!
Cabbage contains chemicals that help heal both gastric and duodenal ulcers.

DIARRHEA? EAT APPLES!
Grate an apple with its skin, let it turn brown and eat it to cure this condition. (Bananas are good for this ailment)

CLOGGED ARTERIES? EAT AVOCADO!
Mono unsaturated fat in avocados lowers cholesterol.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? EAT CELERY AND OLIVE OIL!!!
Olive oil has been shown to lower blood pressure.
Celery contains a chemical that lowers pressure too.

BLOOD SUGAR IMBALANCE? EAT BROCCOLI AND PEANUTS!!!
The chromium in broccoli and peanuts helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.

Kiwi: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, Vitamin E &fiber. It's Vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

Apple: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low Vitamin C content, it has antioxidants &flavonoids which enhances the activity of Vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

Strawberry: Protective fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits &protects the body from cancer causing, blood vessels clogging free radicals. (Actually, any berry is good for you..they're high in anti-oxidants and they actually keep us young....... ..blueberries are the best and very versatile in the health field....... .they get rid of all the free-radicals that invade our bodies)

Orange: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2 - 4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessen the risk of colon cancer.

Watermelon: Coolest Thirst Quencher. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients
found in watermelon are Vitamin C &Potassium. (watermelon also has natural substances [natural SPF sources] that keep our skin healthy, protecting our skin from those darn suv rays)

Guava &Papaya: Top awards for Vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high Vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber which helps prevent constipation.

Papaya is rich in carotene, this is good for your eyes. (also good for gas and indigestion)

Tomatoes are very good as a preventative measure for men, keeps those prostrate problems from invading their bodies

Home Remedies for Younger Skin.....

2007-11-05T18:03:00.000-08:00

Home Remedies for Younger Skin.....

When we are younger, we all believe that we will have young, supple skin forever. That's why it comes as something of a shock when we look in the mirror one day and see the appearance of the first fine line or wrinkle, which then seems to rapidly spread across the face. There are many things that can contribute the appearance of wrinkles, lines, blotches and other blemishes. Firstly, of course, it is a natural process for aging skin because as we grow older our skin elasticity gets weaker so it is harder for the skin to spring back into place. Other factors can include:

- Smoking
- Unprotected sun exposure (UV rays)
- Stress
- Poor facial/skin care

No matter how old we are, we all want to enjoy the benefits of healthy skin - that's why the anti aging skincare industry has become a multi-billion dollar one. The good news is that you can use natural skin care combined with a change in lifestyle to improve the texture, tone, and feel of your skin, and to reduce lines and wrinkles that can make your skin look aged.

Home remedies and a healthy lifestyle can help you feel and look younger

We've all heard of 'old wives tales' and many people treat them with severe skepticism. But, as the saying goes, there is no smoke without fire, and many of the home remedies that are regarded as old wives tales really do have substance to them. You can look young without having to refinance your home by using some of these incredibly simple methods.

Apple Juice
You can treat fine lines, fine wrinkles, and cracked skin by applying the juice of green apples to your face each day. You should leave the juice on for around ten to fifteen minutes each day before rinsing off. This is one of those home remedies that can help you to look younger and add a real zing to your day. The aroma and zest of the apples will put a spring in your step while the juices get to work on your skin.

Pineapple
If you want another fruity way to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, you can use the juice or the core of a fresh pineapple. Apply the juice either by hand or by rubbing the core over your face, and leave it on for ten to fifteen minutes. You can enjoy the tropical aroma of this home remedy while the pineapple juice helps to improve the tone and texture of your skin, enabling you to feel fresh and look younger.

Nourishing face mask
If you want to enjoy a more luxurious home remedy, you can make up your own face mask. This will leave your skin feeling supple and revitalized, and can help you to look younger by replenishing your skin. You simply combine a couple of tablespoons of natural whole yogurt with a tablespoon of pure liquid honey. You then squeeze in some cucumber juice and give the whole mixture a good stir. Chill the mixture in the fridge for a short while (you don't want to get it too cold, but refrigerating it for a short while will help to 'set' it so that it won't slide off your face). Apply the mixture to your face liberally, lie back, pop a couple of cucumber slices onto your eyes to soothe them, and simple relax for about fifteen minutes.

Afterwards, rinse the facemask off your face and pat dry. You can then moisturize your face, and you should be left with smoother, softer, and suppler skin. You can do this once or twice a week to help keep your skin nourished and replenished.

Cucumber
If you are having problems with discolored age spots, you may find that cucumber juice is very effective in bleaching out these age spots. Simply combine cucumber juice with water (one tbsp of juice to two tbsp of water), and apply to the affected areas twice daily. Dab the solution on in the morning and at night, and allow to dry on the affected area.

Papaya Juice
This fruit contains an enzyme that can remove dead surface skin. So, if you have rough skin or blemishes, fresh papaya juice rubbed into the skin can remove the affected skin and leave you with softer, smoother skin.

Other home remedies to help your skin look younger

When talking about home remedies in relation to skin care, many people instantly imagine creams, potions and lotions. However, part of helping your skin to look younger is combining remedies like the ones above with an improved lifestyle and some other simple procedures. By following the steps below you can enjoy younger looking skin for longer:

Massage
A five minute facial massage each day can help to keep your skin looking younger and wrinkle-free for longer. You should take off all make-up, wash your face, and remove any excess oils by using a suitable cleanser (or use the juice from a fresh lime to do this). Starting from your neck up, gently yet firmly massage in an upward motion right up to your hairline. Once you have done this, rinse your face and apply a suitable moisturizing cream or lotion. When you apply your cream or lotion, apply it in using the same upward motion so that it is massaged into the skin.

Water
If you start to dehydrate on the inside, the effects will also show on the outside, and dehydrated skin can experience all sorts of problems, from dryness and roughness to loss of elasticity and increased wrinkling. It is vital to drink around eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin in top condition.

Diet
Your diet can have a surprising effect upon the condition of your skin. Most people associate rich, fatty foods with weight gain and sluggishness, but these foods can also result in poor skin condition. Plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and vitamin-E rich foods can help to keep your skin in good condition and help keep signs of aging at bay.

Protection from the sun
The UV rays from the sun can have a very harmful effect upon the sun, and not only do unprotected sun worshippers risk cancer, but they are also likely to see their skin wrinkle and age very prematurely (depending on the amount of time spent in the sun). You should try and avoid being out in the intense midday sun at all, as this is when the heat and rays are at their worst. However, whatever time of day you go out, you should wear an appropriate SFP sunscreen or moisturizer to stop your skin from burning and losing its elasticity.

Quit smoking
If you smoke, you've probably heard many reasons why you should give up this habit. One of them is that smoking can age your skin prematurely and leave you with deep and numerous wrinkles. Quitting smoking can help you enjoy younger looking skin for longer, as well as help you with your health.

Reduce stress
Stress is another factor that can affect our skin and leave us looking and feeling old before our time. In order to try and enjoy younger looking skin, you need to take the time to relax and de-stress. Make sure that you put a little time aside each day to really relax and get things into perspective. Whether your idea of pure relaxation is a long, luxurious bubble bath or curling up with a good book, take the time to try and relax each and every day.

Use these tips to enjoy younger, fresher and more rejuvenated skin

The tips above are designed to help you make the most of your precious skin, and to keep it looking and feeling good for as long as possible. By combining the simple skin treatments listed earlier with the lifestyle tips outlined above, you could enjoy more resilient, supple and fresher looking skin.

These steps are really simple to take, and will cost next to nothing to try. Taking five or ten minutes a day to look after your skin can make a real difference to the appearance of your facial skin. By keeping your skin clean, well nourished, hydrated, and moisturized you should be able to make it look and feel softer, smoother, and younger than ever.

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References:

Reno Charlton is an experienced freelance copywriter and an award-winning children's author from the United Kingdom. She has written skin care articles for consumers with tips on http://www.look-younger-now.com/ , http://www.look-younger-now.com/wrinklec ream.htm , and treating age spots .

And you thought tsunami as disaster...

2007-11-05T17:18:00.000-08:00

And you thought the tsunami was a disaster...

Just think if a tsunami like the one that occurred back in December, 2004 happened once every 18 days. Imagine if 217,000 people died a death more painful and agonizing than that of the victims of the tsunami. What would we do about it? Would the money pour in as much as it did during/after the tsunami disaster?

I came across this startling fact today. We all knew it was bad... but this is truly disheartening.

The number of people killed in the tsunami is the same as the number of people in the world who die of AIDS every 18 days.
-NBC News Chief Health and Science Correspondent Robert Bazell in a Jan. 5 e-mail to veteran gay activist Larry Kramer.

Additional Facts (Source: avert.org)

Total number of AIDS deaths between 1981 and the end of 2003: 20 million.
Number of children orphaned by AIDS living in Sub-Saharan Africa at the end of 2003: 12 million.
By December 2004 women accounted for 47% of all people living with HIV worldwide, and for 57% in sub-Saharan Africa.
In 2003, young people (15-24 years old) accounted for half of all new HIV infections worldwide, more than 6,000 became infected with HIV every day.
An estimated five million people in low and middle income countries do not have the AIDS drugs which could save their lives.

What is acupuncture?

2007-11-01T07:12:00.000-07:00

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a Chinese therapy that has been used for centuries. It is based on the theory that there is energy, called chi or qi, flowing through your body. Chi is thought to flow along energy pathways called meridians. Acupuncturists believe a blocking or imbalance of the flow of chi at any point on a pathway may result in illness. Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners believe acupuncture unblocks and rebalances the flow of chi to restore health.

People often use acupuncture to relieve pain. Western medical researchers who have studied acupuncture believe that it may reduce pain through body chemicals that have calming effects (opioid peptides), or by affecting glands (such as the hypothalamus) that produce substances the body uses.

Traditional Chinese acupuncture usually is done by putting very thin needles into the skin at certain points on the body to produce energy flow along the body's meridians. Other types of acupuncture may use heat, pressure, or mild electrical current to stimulate energy flow along these meridians.

What is acupuncture used for?
People use acupuncture to relieve pain and treat certain health conditions. You can use it by itself or as part of a treatment program. Studies have found promising results for the use of acupuncture in treating nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy and postsurgery pain. Acupuncture also may be useful for:

* Stroke rehabilitation, which involves relearning skills that a person lost because of brain damage from a stroke.
* Headache. A recent study shows that adding acupuncture to standard treatment leads to significant, long-lasting relief from chronic headaches, especially migraines. 1
* Menstrual cramps.
* Tennis elbow.
* Fibromyalgia, or widespread pain and tenderness of muscle and soft tissue.
* Myofascial pain, which is caused by spasm in the muscles.
* Osteoarthritis, or the breakdown of the tissue (cartilage) that protects and cushions joints. A recent study found that acupuncture can reduce knee pain and increase movement of the knee in people with osteoarthritis. 2
* Low back pain.
* Carpal tunnel syndrome, or pressure on a nerve in the wrist that results in tingling, numbness, weakness, or pain of the fingers and hand.
* Asthma, or inflammation in the tubes that carry air to the lungs, resulting in periodic episodes of difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing.
* Dental pain.
* Reducing labor pain.

Is acupuncture safe?
In general, acupuncture is safe when done by a certified acupuncturist. A state license ensures that the acupuncturist has a certain level of training and follows certain practice guidelines. However, acupuncture is not licensed in a few states.

Complications or adverse events may rarely occur. If the acupuncturist uses nonsterilized needles, there is a risk of infection; however, most acupuncturists today dispose of their needles after one use. Make sure the practitioner you visit uses sterilized or disposable needles. Talk with your doctor if you have other questions about the safety of acupuncture.
Acupuncture may be a valuable treatment for certain health conditions and merits further use and study. Your doctor may recommend it along with conventional medical treatment for many illnesses.

Always tell your doctor if you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining an alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on an alternative therapy.

Seven things that you shouldn't be doing before or after any meal!

2007-10-13T16:26:00.001-07:00

1.Don't smoke- Experiment from experts proves that smoking a cigarette after meal is comparable to smoking 10 cigarettes (chances of cancer is higher).

2.Don't eat fruits immediately - Immediately eating fruits after meals will cause stomach to be bloated with air. Therefore take fruit 1-2 hr after meal or 1hr before meal.

3.Don't drink tea - Because tea leaves contain a high content of acid. Thi s substance will cause the Protein content in the food we consume to be hardened thus difficult to digest.

4.Don't loosen your belt - Loosening the belt after a meal will easily cause the intestine to be twisted & blocked.

5.Don't bathe - Bathing will cause the increase of blood flow to the hands, legs & body thus the amount of blood around the stomach will therefore decrease. This will weaken the digestive system in our stomach.

6.Don't walk about - People always say that after a meal walk a hundred steps and you will live till 99. In actual fact this is not true. Walking will cause the digestive system to be unable to absorb the nutrition from the food we intake.

7.Don't sleep immediately - The food we intake will not be able to digest properly. Thus will lead to gastric & infection in our intestine.

Tips to Get Rid Of Pimples!

2007-10-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

Most of the pimple products on the market are just there to rip you off. There is no guaranteed cure for pimples, and there probably never will be. Keeping your face clean and moisturized is about the most important thing you can do.

Drink 8 or more glasses of water a day.

Sleep more.Your body will be more prepared to deal with problems.

Avoid touching your face, as this just spreads bacteria.

Only use oil-free products on your face.

Always use toner and moisturizer

Wash your hands often to rid them of oils.

Vinegar works well, too.

Try Off EZY Wart Remover with 17% salicylic acid medication to each pimple individually. Do not use it everywhere, as it will sting. Apply calamine lotion around the area.

See a doctor about serious acne.

Try not to wear makeup. It clogs pores and can lead to breakouts.

Eat foods high in protein, iron, fiber, and zinc.

Give the treatments time. An acne treatment is not going to work "just like that."

Avoid the use of products with 10% or greater concentration of Benzoyl Peroxide. BP is known to cause dryness,itchyness, and burning sensation of the skin. Consult a medical professional if you experience any of these symptoms.

Accutane is a wonder drug for acne it can almost wipe out breakouts with a 3-6 month treatment and can last anywhere from 1 year to a lifetime!

Wash your face and put baby powder on the area. It's the fastest way to dry those pimples out and get rid of them. Baby powder works like a charm.

If you have pimples that you want to get rid of fast, put ice on them for 30-60 seconds every 30 minutes. And then apply rubbing alcohol.

Warnings

Toothpaste doesn't really work. It's supposed to but doesn't make a noticeable difference.

Don't scratch or pick at your pimples. It will only make the situation worse. Only pop pimple if they are very white and fixing to explode; even then one should wash their hands and avoid having to apply too much pressure.

Don't wash your face too often--it can dry out your skin and cause irritation.

The Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds!

2007-10-13T16:17:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin seeds are one of nature's almost perfect foods. They are a natural source of beneficial constituents such as carbohydrates, amino acids and unsaturated fatty acids. They contain most of the B vitamins, along with C, D, E, and K. They also have the minerals calcium, potassium, niacin, and phosphorous. Pumpkin seeds have mainly been used to treat prostate and bladder problems, but they have also been known to help with depression and learning disabilities.

Native American tribes were among the first people to notice the beneficial aspects of pumpkin seeds. They referred to them as cucurbita and used them to treat kidney problems and to eliminate parasites from the intestines.

Because pumpkin seeds turned up so frequently in folk medicines, scientists began to conduct research on the oil extracted from them. One study showed pumpkin seed oil kept hormones from inflicting damage on the cells of the prostate, which helps to reduce cancer development. Another study revealed that the seeds contain a significant amount of L-tryptophan, which is beneficial in battling depression (although it is believed the seeds don’t have enough to treat major depression, they can be used as a preventive measure). Other studies showed pumpkin seeds can improve bladder and urethra function. And they are thought to help stop the formation of kidney stones, even though the ingredient responsible is unknown. Pumpkin seeds have also been used to treat learning disorders and are generally recommended in some countries as a ‘brain food.’ Other studies have shown they prevent hardening of the arteries and help regulate cholesterol levels.

Using pumpkin seeds in cooking is popular in many cultures. Adding roasted pumpkin seeds to soups and salads provides a nutty flavor; and pumpkin seed oil can be used as a salad dressing when combined with products like honey and olive oil. Roasted pumpkin seeds are of course commonly eaten as snacks, but be aware that while roasting brings out their full flavor, the heat also destroys their natural fatty acids. Thus they are most nutritious when eaten raw. Also make sure to refrigerate pumpkin seeds so the oil does not turn rancid.

When buying pumpkin seed oil it is important to check that the label doesn’t list too much sunflower seed oil. Some manufacturers add a lot of sunflower oil to reduce costs since extracting oil from pumpkin seeds is a tedious and complicated process.

A common folk remedy in Germany uses pumpkin seed oil to treat tapeworms, although some say the act is somewhat risky. A person with tapeworms is given approximately ten ounces of ground pumpkin seeds combined with milk and honey. Two hours later, castor oil is given and the tapeworms are eliminated. Studies in China have shown that pumpkin seeds are beneficial to people with a rare parasitic disease received from snails called schistosomiasis. So far the disease has only been found in Africa and Asia.

Pumpkin seeds have been known to cause upset stomach in some people, but they do not interact with other medications as far as anyone knows.

Coconut......... The Tree of Life!

2007-10-13T16:16:00.001-07:00

Its a bit longish but worth going through
You must have seen toons of a sailor stranded on an Island and surviving on a solitary Coconut Tree

This is how and why .........

Coconut
(Cocos nucifera)

The Tree of Life

The scientific name for coconut is Cocos nucifera. Early Spanish explorers called it coco, which means "monkey face" because the three indentations (eyes) on the hairy nut resembles the head and face of a monkey. Nucifera means "nut-bearing."

The coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations. On many islands coconut is a staple in the diet and provides the majority of the food eaten. Nearly one third of the world's population depends on coconut to some degree for their food and their economy. Among these cultures the coconut has a long and respected history.

Coconut is highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is classified as a "functional food" because it provides many health benefits beyond its nutritional content. Coconut oil is of special interest because it possesses healing properties far beyond that of any other dietary oil and is extensively used in traditional medicine among Asian and Pacific populations. Pacific Islanders consider coconut oil to be the cure for all illness. The coconut palm is so highly valued by them as both a source of food and medicine that it is called "The Tree of Life." Only recently has modern medical science unlocked the secrets to coconut's amazing healing powers.

Coconut In Traditional Medicine

People from many diverse cultures, languages, religions, and races scattered around the globe have revered the coconut as a valuable source of both food and medicine. Wherever the coconut palm grows the people have learned of its importance as a effective medicine. For thousands of years coconut products have held a respected and valuable place in local folk medicine.

In traditional medicine around the world coconut is used to treat a wide variety of health problems including the following: abscesses, asthma, baldness, bronchitis, bruises, burns, colds, constipation, cough, dropsy, dysentery, earache, fever, flu, gingivitis, gonorrhea, irregular or painful menstruation, jaundice, kidney stones, lice, malnutrition, nausea, rash, scabies, scurvy, skin infections, sore throat, swelling, syphilis, toothache, tuberculosis, tumors, typhoid, ulcers, upset stomach, weakness, and wounds.

Coconut In Modern Medicine

Modern medical science is now confirming the use of coconut in treating many of the above conditions. Published studies in medical journals show that coconut, in one form or another, may provide a wide range of health benefits. Some of these are summarized below:

Kills viruses that cause influenza, herpes, measles, hepatitis C, SARS, AIDS, and other illnesses.
Kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, gum disease and cavities, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, and other diseases.
Kills fungi and yeasts that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, diaper rash, and other infections.
Expels or kills tapeworms, lice, giardia, and other parasites.
Provides a nutritional source of quick energy.
Boosts energy and endurance, enhancing physical and athletic performance.
Improves digestion and absorption of other nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose.
Relieves stress on pancreas and enzyme systems of the body.
Reduces symptoms associated with pancreatitis.
Helps relieve symptoms and reduce health risks associated with diabetes.
Reduces problems associated with malabsorption syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
Improves calcium and magnesium absorption and supports the development of strong bones and teeth.
Helps protect against osteoporosis.
Helps relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder disease.
Relieves symptoms associated with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers.
Improves digestion and bowel function.
Relieves pain and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
Reduces inflammation.
Supports tissue healing and repair.
Supports and aids immune system function.
Helps protect the body from breast, colon, and other cancers.
Is heart healthy; improves cholesterol ratio reducing risk of heart disease.
Protects arteries from injury that causes atherosclerosis and thus protects against heart disease.
Helps prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay.
Functions as a protective antioxidant.
Helps to protect the body from harmful free radicals that promote premature aging and degenerative disease.
Does not deplete the body's antioxidant reserves like other oils do.
Improves utilization of essential fatty acids and protects them from oxidation.
Helps relieve symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Relieves symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (prostate enlargement).
Reduces epileptic seizures.
Helps protect against kidney disease and bladder infections.
Dissolves kidney stones.
Helps prevent liver disease.
Is lower in calories than all other fats.
Supports thyroid function.
Promotes loss of excess weight by increasing metabolic rate.
Is utilized by the body to produce energy in preference to being stored as body fat like other dietary fats.
Helps prevent obesity and overweight problems.
Applied topically helps to form a chemical barrier on the skin to ward of infection.
Reduces symptoms associated the psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.
Supports the natural chemical balance of the skin.
Softens skin and helps relieve dryness and flaking.
Prevents wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.
Promotes healthy looking hair and complexion.
Provides protection form damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation form the sun.
Helps control dandruff.
Does not form harmful by-products when heated to normal cooking temperature like other vegetable oils do.
Has no harmful or discomforting side effects.
Is completely non-toxic to humans.
Coconut Oil

While coconut possesses many health benefits due to its fiber and nutritional content, it's the oil that makes it a truly remarkable food and medicine.

Once mistakenly believed to be unhealthy because of its high saturated fat content, it is now known that the fat in coconut oil is a unique and different from most all other fats and possesses many health giving properties. It is now gaining long overdue recognition as a nutritious health food.

Coconut oil has been described as "the healthiest oil on earth." That's quite a remarkable statement. What makes coconut oil so good? What makes it different from all other oils, especially other saturated fats?

The difference is in the fat molecule. All fats and oils are composed of molecules called fatty acids. There are two methods of classifying fatty acids. The first you are probably familiar with, is based on saturation. You have saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats. Another system of classification is based on molecular size or length of the carbon chain within each fatty acid. Fatty acids consist of long chains of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached. In this system you have short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), and long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Coconut oil is composed predominately of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA), also known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCT).

The vast majority of fats and oils in our diets, whether they are saturated or unsaturated or come from animals or plants, are composed of long-chain fatty acids (LCFA). Some 98 to 100% of all the fatty acids you consume are LCFA.

The size of the fatty acid is extremely important. Why? Because our bodies respond to and metabolize each fatty acid differently depending on its size. So the physiological effects of MCFA in coconut oil are distinctly different from those of LCFA more commonly found in our foods. The saturated fatty acids in coconut oil are predominately medium-chain fatty acids. Both the saturated and unsaturated fat found in meat, milk, eggs, and plants (including most all vegetable oils) are composed of LCFA.

MCFA are very different from LCFA. They do not have a negative effect on cholesterol and help to protect against heart disease. MCFA help to lower the risk of both atherosclerosis and heart disease. It is primarily due to the MCFA in coconut oil that makes it so special and so beneficial.

There are only a very few good dietary sources of MCFA. By far the best sources are from coconut and palm kernel oils.

Useful Hair Tips.

2007-10-13T16:15:00.001-07:00

Hair Types
There are a number of ways to keep your hair feeling, smelling, and looking like a million bucks-without spending a million bucks!

Basic maintenance is the best way to keep your hair in tip-top shape. Change your shampoo brand every two or three months to reduce build up. Use brushes made of animal hair rather than synthetic fibers to prevent excess wear and tear on your scalp and hair ends. Allow your hair to dry naturally whenever possible to keep the ends from drying and splitting, and most importantly, visit your hair dresser on a regular basis and make sure those split ends are snipped off.

Most of us have hair concerns that are specific to our hair type. Listed below are tips and recipes that will have your damaged, dry, limp, or oily tresses feeling silky smooth and healthy.

Dry, Frizzy Hair

Shampoo hair every other day; washing your hair too much will make it dry and frizzy. On alternate days, rinse hair and condition the ends. If your scalp becomes oily in between washings, apply shampoo only to the crown of your head and make sure you condition the ends. When blowdrying hair, aim blowdryer nozzle downward and hold hair straight as you're blowing it dry. Our conditioners and moisturizing treatments offer natural solutions to the frizzies.

Oily Hair

Use a shampoo and conditioner designed for oily hair and use conditioner only on the ends of your hair. For very oily heads, massage talcum powder on your scalp with your fingertips and brush repeatedly to remove every trace of powder. Our Oil Reducing Aloe Treatment is great for those days when you've got the "greasies."

Limp, Straight, Fine Hair

If you have very fine, thin hair, your best bet is to use a gentle baby shampoo with a low detergent formula. Most of us with this type of hair long for curly, luxurious locks. For flowing curls that won't hurt your hair, wash our hair, blow dry on a cool setting until hair is just a little damp, then set hair in Velcro rollers for 10-20 minutes. If you don't want defined curls, you can easily maximize the volume of your hair by simply piling your damp, just-washed hair on top of your head and into an elastic band (coated in fabric that won't damage hair when it's removed) and blow dry hair on a cool setting until dry. If you must use hair rollers, invest in the kind that use steam heat, which is gentle on your hair.

Damaged Hair

Damaged hair is usually the result of over processing with chemical treatments such as hair dyes and permanent waves. Natural alternatives such as henna dyes offer a less damaging alternative to metallic dyes and peroxides. Over exposure to the sun and environmental pollutants can also cause hair to become dry, brittle, and weak. Hair is weakest when it is wet. Only brush your hair when it is already dry and always comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb before you brush it. Try our Avocado and Olive Oil Shine Treatment or Banana Almond Conditioner to perk up your distressed tresses.

Swimmers Hair

All you swimmers out there know exactly what we're talking about: green, dry, chlorinated hair. Wear a swimming cap! Also, wash and condition your hair as soon as you're finished in the pool. Once a week, use a deep conditioner specifically made for swimmers.

Get Refreshed 5 Tips for Better Sleep!

2007-10-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

Good, sound sleep means you wake up feeling well rested and refreshed. However, if your nights are filled with frustration and mornings with fatigue, and you’ve checked yourself for the usual culprits like downing 7pm espresso shots or using your bed as a home office, here are some less obvious insomnia-inducing habits that just may be the source. Since these things happen while you’re off in slumberland, they may not be the first to come to mind, but they can cause both sleep and health troubles.

Gerd
Bedtime milk and cookies sounds like the perfect way to wind down before hitting the sack. But that soothing ritual might be costing you more than a few extra calories. When Oprah tells us she doesn’t dare touch food after 8pm, she’s doing it for weight loss reasons. But even if you’re not a dieting diva, eating late is never a good idea. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, if you’re eating a large meal before bedtime, the digestion process can get in the way of your good night’s sleep. Besides disrupting your REM time, you may also be contributing to a more serious condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This occurs when food is pushed back up into the esophagus via stomach acids, causing a burning sensation and sometimes choking and coughing.

Remedy: Do not eat a large meal or snack within two to three hours of bedtime. If this is unavoidable, plan ahead and satisfy your appetite earlier in the evening so all you’ll need is a light snack before going to bed. If you do conk out after your gorge session, be sure to elevate your head with pillows.

Electrical Stimulation in the Bedroom
Everyone likes a little bedroom stimulation now and again, but just be sure those sparks are coming from your partner or spouse, and not from a love affair with technological gadgetry. Are you unwittingly charging your room with electrical current? The average home is filled with electromagnetic interference, as it is generated from every electric appliance. According to theories in quantum physics, electrical charges fill our air and can disturb sleep. Whether you’re an avid tech junkie or just the average consumer, you likely have a TV, radio, CD player, portable phone and perhaps even a computer, printer, scanner and fax all within your compact sleep space. These pieces of electronic equipment ‑- particularly the TV and computer screen ‑- give off high levels of electromagnetic energy even long after they’re turned off. You’re literally jamming up your air with electronic waves.

Remedy: Turn off the electricity. Zero is the best number of electronic equipment to have in your bedroom; however, you can cover both your TV and computer screens with fabric before retiring and place a medium-to-large-size plant in your room for every piece of electrical equipment. Palms, peace lilies and spider plants are said to absorb the most electrical current. Digitally displayed alarm clocks emit a high amount of EMI, and should not be kept close to your head. Put them on the other side of your room or switch to a nondigital clock.

Are You a Stomach Sleeper?
Get in touch with your inner child while you sleep. According to researchers, the best sleeping positions that put the least stress on your joints and organs are on your back or in the semifetal position, where you lay on one side with knees slightly bent, one arm outstretched above the head, the other resting comfortably on the opposing upper arm to cradle the head. Both give your spine and body proper alignment.

However, if your preferred sleep position is on your stomach, you may be asking for trouble. You’ll spend many hundreds of hours smashing your delicate facial skin into a pillow, which helps produce wrinkles, sagging and puffiness, not to mention trauma to your neck, spine and lower back.

Remedy: Change sleep positions. Sleep doctors suggest adhering two tennis balls to your stomach so whenever you try and switch to the old tummy routine, you’ll automatically reposition yourself.

Increased Blood Cortisol Levels
The highly publicized study that linked lack of sleep with extra weight is accurate on one side of the equation. The study does not suggest getting more sleep will help you lose weight. It says if you’re not getting enough sleep, you’ll feel less equipped to handle stress and your intricate hormonal system will react, increasing stress hormones like cortisol. Higher blood cortisol negatively affects your sleep patterns in a round-robin effect. Numerous studies also show that increased cortisol levels both increase appetite ‑- particularly for sugar and starchy carbohydrates ‑- as well as promote stubborn belly fat. If that’s not enough to want to keep them in check, recent studies also indicate a direct correlation between elevated cortisol levels and high blood pressure, diabetes and a decreased resistance to infection.

Remedy: Put in plenty of pillow time. Get yourself to bed at a reasonable hour so that you’re not dreading the sound of the alarm clock come morning. Figure out how many hours of sleep your body operates best with, and once you start getting that magic number, your hormones will readjust and both your sleep and weight will normalize.

Sleep Apnea, RLS and PLMD
People tend to think that sleep problems are a part of life, and don’t often think to discuss them with their doctor. But there are certain medical conditions that could be interfering with your sleep, and, since they happen during sleep, they will most often escape your notice.

Snoring isn’t always just a nuisance. It could be a sign of a larger problem. According to the Sleep Research Society, sleep apnea occurs when airflow to the lungs is briefly blocked, most often in the throat, in repeated episodes of gasping, sometimes up to 50 times an hour. Snorting and gasping are the telltale signs. Obesity; the use of nicotine, alcohol or sedatives; hypothyroidism; sleeping on one’s back; and excessive airway tissue are key factors. Sleep apnea can be dangerous to your health, so if you suspect your snoring may be sleep apnea, contact a doctor.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) sends odd, uncomfortable sensations deep within the leg muscles and knees, creating forceful urges to move, particularly at night. Sufferers may jerk themselves awake with leg spasms or kicking movements, preventing a restful night’s sleep. Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) centers in the lower limbs and consists of spasms that can occur up to hundreds of times a night. The telltale signs of PLMD are crumpled bedcovers at the foot of the bed, along with kicking and jerking during sleep and unknowingly awakening many times during the night.

Remedy: If you suspect you might have any of the above sleep disorders, discuss them with your doctor as soon as possible. He or she can recommend a treatment to help get you back on the track to well-restedness.

The Health Benefits of Herbal Teas!

2007-10-13T16:13:00.002-07:00

There's nothing like a refreshing cup of tea, but did you know that what you drink could help your health? It's true, but it does depend on what sort of tea you choose!

These days, there are a whole host of different types of teas available, so sitting down for a quick cuppa needn’t mean purely having traditional black China tea. As well as speciality teas, organic versions, green tea and teas from different countries, there’s a wide variety of herbal offerings. Herbs have been used for centuries as remedies for various ailments and drinking infusions is a great way of gaining the benefits.

For most of us, using ready-made loose and teabag blends offers a much more accessible and user-friendly option than having to hunt down and pick the required herbs, and it means they're ready to hand when we need them. As a bonus, most are caffeine-free and low in calories, and many are available in organic versions too. Some teas are specially blended together for specific purposes, such as helping sore throats or helping improve a stomach problem. As well as being great hot, you can also drink herbal teas cold, in the same way as iced tea or coffee. Just brew as normal, then leave to cool and serve with ice.

The medicinal benefits available are varied, ranging from refreshing pick-me-ups and relaxing soothers, to extra help for digestion, sleep and your immune system. So pick carefully, or choose a selection in readiness for every health need!

Digestion
Aid your digestion at the end of a meal with a freshly brewed cup of peppermint tea.
Sleep
Encourage restful sleep with a cup of camomile or valerian tea. Or try a special mix designed for consumption at night.
Nausea
Ginger is great for aiding nausea and quietly sipping a hot pure or mixed ginger tea can help relieve feelings of sickness. It's a good alternative to take ginger capsules and a bag can easily be carried around by those likely to suffer travel sickness, or by pregnant women concerned about morning sickness.
Immune system
The popular herb echinacea can also be found in tea form. It's often included with a fruity companion and offers an extra way to boost your immune system and encourage natural cold-fighting abilities.
Concentration
If you have a busy job or are studying hard, then you could give your concentration a natural boost by drinking ginkgo biloba tea. It may even boost your memory skills, too.
Skin cleansing
There are even herbal teas that could offer help for cleansing your skin. In particular, look out for teas such as nettle, lemon balm or red clover.
Calming
Lemon balm produces a sweet aroma and as a tea it’s ideal for calming you down and soothing away any stresses and strains. It’s also believed to have some anti-depressant properties, too.
Headaches
If headaches are a problem, you could give rosemary tea a go. This herb contains antiseptic properties and can help relieve niggling headaches. Sometimes it can taste quite bitter, especially if it’s not blended with another herb, so if you don’t like the taste try adding a teaspoonful of honey to make it more palatable.

Low fat dining tips!

2007-10-13T16:13:00.001-07:00

A lifestyle that includes healthy eating does not mean that you have to give up or abstain from the pleasurable experience of restaurant dining out.

Here are a few basic low fat dining tips:

* Choose restaurants that offer low fat or low cholesterol choices from the menu.
* Find several restaurants that will cater to your needs and make them your favorites. When you become a regular, you become special. Then you won't have to worry about what is in a dish every time you pop in for a meal. Don't forget to tip well when a waiter or waitress has "gone out of their way to help you".
* Ask to substitute salads, grilled vegetables or a baked potato to replace French fries, chips or other fat laden side dishes.
* Ask for any salad dressings or fatty sauces be served on the side. (You are the one in control of how much you add)
* Ask that cheese, butter or added oils be left off.
* If different size portions are offered, go for the smaller size or share an entree with a friend.
* Choose low cholesterol or low fat cooking methods. (Steamed, poached, grilled, baked, roasted, braised, boiled or au jus)
* Beware of dishes that are described with words like fried, creamed, in cheese sauce, scalloped, hollandaise, béarnaise, basted, sautéed, au gratin and anything that states "with or in butter".
* Do not be afraid to ask how the chef or kitchen prepares something or to make low fat special requests. Many chefs are stepping on the healthy eating bandwagon, so don't be timid. If they are health conscious, they will delight in telling you how they can still make low fat gourmet dishes that are tasty.
* If low fat salad dressings are not available, ask for lemon juice or vinegar. (Balsamic vinegar adds great flavor without a sour taste.)
* Limit the amount of butter, margarine, or olive oil used on bread, breadsticks or baked potatoes.
* Ask for mustard, salsa or low fat yogurt instead of mayonnaise, sour cream or butter.
* Ask for low fat milk for your coffee instead of cream.
* Substitute lower fat fruit desserts for pastries and cakes or try a light fruit sorbet.
* These condiments are ok:
o Salsa
o Cocktail sauce (be aware that it is high in sodium)
o Soy Sauce (be aware that it is high in sodium)
o Mustard
o Stone Ground Mustard
o Lemon
o Herbs and Spices
o Vinegar
o Ketchup
o Grated Parmesan Cheese (if used sparingly)
o Horseradish
* Skip these condiments and additions:
o Eggs
o Butter or Clarified Butter
o Margarine
o Real Bacon or Real Bacon Bits
o Cheese
o Hollandaise or White Sauce
o Regular Salad Dressings
o Sour Cream
o Cream Cheese (unless they state that it is low fat or Neufchatel
o Cream
o Whipped Cream

Split Ends: Causes, Cure and Prevention

2007-10-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Causes of Split EndsSplit ends will happen to almost anyone who goes too long between trims, but are more likely to develop in dry or brittle hair, and typical causes of damage include vigorous brushing, brushing hair when it is still wet, coloring and perming which make hair weak, and heat appliances. The intense heat causes a strand of hair to crack at the tip and split vertically up the shaft, thereby getting the name “split ends”.

How to Get Rid of Split Ends
Unfortunately, once your ends have started to split, the split can extend up the shaft unless you take action. The best treatment is to cut off the split end of the damaged fiber.

Preventing Split Ends
To help prevent split ends, treat your hair as you would fine fabric.

* Use shampoos and conditioners containing hair thickeners.
* Squeeze the water from the hair with an absorbent towel. Rubbing the hair can cause wear to the cuticle.
* Gently comb tangles from wet hair with a large-toothed comb, never a brush. Wet hair will stretch and snap easily.
* If your hair is still hard to comb out, try a leave-in conditioner such as L C Legacy Shine & Protect.
* Strive for low-maintenance hair. Hair dryers, curling irons, perms and hair colors all damage hair. If you must blow-dry, use a cool setting and keep the dryer 6 inches from your hair.
* Get a trim every six weeks.

Strawberry Nutrition Facts!

2007-10-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Strawberry Nutrition Facts!

A strawberry is a superstar when it comes to anti-oxidant power, says Dr. Barry Sears in his book The Top 100 Zone Foods. In addition, 1 cup of strawberries gives you a whopping 140 percent of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. Strawberries are also packed with flavonoids, two in particular, called quercetin and kaempferol. Research shows that these two flavonoids help keep “bad” (LDL) cholesterol from oxidizing and damaging artery walls.

Strawberries also contain ellargic acid — also found in raspberries, blackberries, cranberries, grapes, cherries, walnuts, pecans and Brazil nuts — which acts as a scavenger to “bind” cancer-causing chemicals, making them inactive. It inhibits the ability of other chemicals to cause mutations in bacteria. In addition, it prevents binding of carcinogens to DNA and reduces the incidence of cancer in cultured human cells exposed to carcinogens.

Select strawberries that have a full red color and avoid any that are uncolored or white.

5 bad food habits Office-goers must change

2007-10-13T16:10:00.001-07:00

If you, like so many of us, are so caught up with work that you have little time to watch what you eat, it's time to take a breather before your lifestyle takes its toll on your health.

Here are five bad habits which you must avoid to salvage your health.

1. Skipping breakfast
A lot of people leave home with just a cup of tea or coffee and then they wonder why they are always crabby, irritable and low on energy throughout the day.
Skipping this first, most important meal of the day is like starting a car without fuel. Your body is forced to call on its energy reserves and these do not last very long, making you irritable and snappy and lacking in concentration by the middle of the day.
What's more, you will end up eating a lot more servings or calorie-dense foods at lunch, which will cause your sugar levels to go up and then come crashing down, making you feel sluggish and tired.

Solution: A good breakfast does not have to be elaborate; a glass of skimmed milk with 2 handfuls of corn or wheat flakes and a fruit will suffice. For hot breakfast lovers, an egg, two slices of bread and a fruit or a bowl of oatmeal porridge accompanied by a fruit are enough.

2. Drinking too much tea/coffee
Sipping constantly can be a tough habit to break. But too much of either tea or coffee can do two things:

* It may leave you feeling jittery, irritable, dehydrated, and even interrupt your sleep pattern at night so you do not get deep sleep or do not feel rested the next day.
* If taken with your meals, tea and coffee inhibit the absorption of iron from your food. Your body throws out the nutrient as waste.

Solution: If you cannot cut down on the number of cups, cut down on the size of cups so you drink half the quantity. If you have a choice, opt for water.

3. Not drinking enough water
Most corporate offices are air-conditioned, so we do not really sweat and therefore, do not feel so thirsty. What's more when you are used to drinking water below your requirement, your body adapts and when you do start drinking a little more water, your body treats it as excess -- in fact, initially, the body actually throws it out causing you to run to the toilet every few minutes.
In the long run, not drinking enough water can cause constipation, indigestion, gas, increased hunger pangs, dehydration and can make your skin look dull too.

Solution: Keep a 1 litre bottle of water at your table and aim to finish it before the end of the day. It may take you two to three days to adapt to an increased dose but when you do, you will notice the positive benefits immediately -- better skin, better bowel movements and better control on your hunger pangs.

4. Eating at odd hours
While you cannot be expected to leave in the middle of a meeting because the clock says lunch time, it is definitely possible to try to have a somewhat regular meal timing for the majority of the days in the week.
Having a somewhat fixed meal time helps keep your metabolic rate up and can help prevent gas and acidity, which result from long gaps between meals.
Timely eating will also prevent you from overeating as once your body is used to getting energy at a particular hour, it will stop demanding food at odd hours.

Solution: Try to have a fixed time-frame in which you can have your meal peacefully and finish it in a matter of 15 to 20 minutes.

5. Weekend binging
Most of us put in endless hours during the week eating whatever is available, and then comes the weekend. We go on another binge that we feel we deserve. Hard drinks along with food add to the damage we cause to our health in the long run.

Solution: Try to take some time to relax at the end of each day and don't wait for the weekend to unwind. Take a relaxing massage, watch a movie or a play or read a good book. Eating is not the only way to pamper yourself!

What should you eat before a workout?

2007-10-13T16:09:00.001-07:00

Planning to include an exercise schedule in your to-do list of things? Good.
Now comes the tough part. What should you include in a workout session? Ideally, exercises should be instrumental in building up your stamina and toning your body.
And what should you eat before and after a workout session?

To begin with, always remember this thumb rule -- exercising on an empty stomach is detrimental. However, eating too much just before a workout session isn't good either. Don't eat anything at least 30-40 minutes before you decide to exercise.
Yoga experts believe people should avoid drinking or eating anything at least for an hour before a session. Always have water an hour before an exercise session. And yes, sipping water in small quantities throughout the workout is permissible.
What should you eat before a workout? Ideally, a simple fruit should do the trick. You don't want to feel too heavy but you don't want to feel too hungry either.
However, if you find it difficult to start your day without tea or coffee, don't stop yourself. But wait for at least 40 minutes after your tea/ coffee before you start exercising.
On the other hand, all those corporate executives who prefer to hit the office gym after a hearty breakfast -- say one comprising of bread, eggs and fruit -- need to wait for at least two hours before they can work out. In fact, an ideal pre-workout meal is a combination of carbohydrates, fibre and protein.

An ideal pre-workout Indian breakfast can comprise of a bowl of poha or upma, fresh fruit and a glass of milk topped with almonds. Those of you who are allergic to milk can consume a cup of tea or coffee.
Alternatively, you can opt for a bowl of milk and cornflakes, eggs on lightly buttered toast too.
A post-workout meal should be light. Ideally, this meal should be consumed within two hours of the exercise. Don't remain hungry for too long after an exercise session.
This meal should contain protein, complex carbohydrates and healthy fats too. A vegetable sandwich or a fish sandwich (use wholegrain bread) with fruit or fresh fruit juice should do you just fine.

And yes, before you start your exercise schedule, don't forget to consult your doctor.

Yoga & SexLife

2007-10-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

A sedentary life at home or work, smoking, high blood pressure, certain medications, excessive stress and deficiency of key nutrients (zinc, magnesium, iron, folates, vitamin Bs, vitamin C) can all affect the reproductive system adversely.

To combat this, Shameem Akthar, a certified yoga acharya with the internationally acclaimed Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centre, Kerala (headquartered in Canada), recommends six yoga exercises that focus on the last chakra at the perineum (also referred to as the mooladhara chakra) to rejuvenate and repair the uro-genital system.
By proxy, the adrenal glands (which are involved with our biological response to stress) are also massaged, thus making such yogic therapy to fertility problem a holistic one.
Yogic therapies start at the level where we can exert some control -- and that is in our bodies. A regular mind-body routine also primes the body for nutrient absorption, wrings out stress, clears our arteries and reduces our dependency on medications, thus acting as a perfect complement to any conventional fertility treatment that you may be undergoing. Also, since sexual hormones are part of the reward hormones that boost our self-esteem and make us feel good, getting the entire system back on track with yoga is crucial for our well-being. So, use these fertility poses to revamp your inner self. .

Points to note:
~Yoga is best done early in the morning. You could also time your practice two to four hours after a meal. Remember to do some warm-up exercises before attempting any of these poses (spot walking, a few rounds of surya namaskar or any joint-releasing exercise).
~Always rest in the corpse position after a full yoga session to maximise the impact and allow the blood lactate levels to revert to normalcy.
~Beginners may not be able to execute the pose to the full extent possible and may use props like small cushions or stools to help them achieve flexibility and strength with regular practice.

Killing Sugar

2007-10-13T16:06:00.000-07:00

You may not dip into the biscuit tin at every chance but you could be eating sugar, or its constituents, in foods where you didn’t know it existed. Tomato sauce has 23,6% sugar, corn cereal eight percent. Hidden sugars can also be found in fruit juice drinks, processed food like peanut butter, flavored yogurt, salad dressings, etc.

Too much sugar can play havoc with your weight and hormones; it may also cause fatigue, increased hyperactivity and tooth decay. Refined sugar provides empty calories and if a lot of your food contains sugar, there’s no room for the nutrients you need to stay healthy.

When sugar isn’t needed, it’s stored as fat, and by eating sugar, you’re also raising levels of the hormone insulin in your blood. Insulin stores fat, a risk factor of diabetes, and can damage artery walls, making it easier for cholesterol and fat to build up and cause heart disease.

Too much sugar affects immune systems by causing white blood cells to be sluggish, thus lowering resistance to disease.

Walk your way to good health

2007-10-13T07:07:00.000-07:00

Walking is one of the most hassle-free fitness routines. And all you really need is a pair of shoes, and a place to walk your way to good health for that. You can lose about a kilo a month if you walk briskly for an hour everyday, according to an Arizona State University study.

Walking as a workout helps improve blood and lymph circulation. It goes a long way in reducing the risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures. And for that matter an aerobic workout is also a good way to keep heart troubles at bay and your blood pressure in check.
You can also heighten the benefits of walking if you take your walking workout outside to your neighbourhood park.

One of the best forms of exercise is power walking. It is a full body work out. Other than the leg muscles it also works the muscles of your arms, shoulders and the back.

"While you are walking, you should be able to carry on a conversation while walking and if you cannot it means that you are walking too fast,” says fitness expert, Zorana.

A quick checklist before you start:
* Avoid walking on hard surfaces like cemented tracks and roads.
* It is important to wear comfortable shoes and if they are eight to nine months old.
* Wear loose clothing.
* Take a bottle of water along with you.

Healthy Habits to pass on to Kids!

2007-10-13T04:58:00.000-07:00

Poor nutrition and lack of physical activity

Children in the United States are gaining more weight than ever before. They’re eating too many high-fat, high-sugar foods and are spending less time being physically active. Weight problems that develop during childhood can lead to weight-related illnesses such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes later in life.

Pay attention to the kinds of food you buy. Limit the amount of “junk food” your kids eat. Have plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables available. Be aware that even low-fat foods may include unwanted ingredients such as added sugar.

* Serve a variety of healthy foods and use appropriate portion sizes.
* Encourage your child to drink plenty of water or milk instead of empty-calorie fruit drinks and soda.
* Limit the amount of time your children spend watching television, using the computer or playing video games.
* Make physical activity part of your family’s routine. Take a walk, visit the community pool or go for a bike ride together. Encourage your children to participate in extracurricular activities.

Tobacco, alcohol and other drugs

Kids may become curious about drugs at a young age. In fact, many children have already tried alcohol and marijuana by the time they reach middle school. Studies have shown that the sooner you start talking to your kids about the dangers of using tobacco, drinking alcohol and using other drugs, the more likely it is that they will avoid them.

* Make it clear that your children are not allowed to smoke cigarettes, chew tobacco, drink alcohol or use other drugs. Establish clear consequences if these rules are broken.
* Explain how these substances can hurt your children’s bodies. Encourage them to ask questions. A true story may get your children’s attention more effectively than facts and statistics. Give them real-life examples of people who have experienced negative consequences from using alcohol, tobacco or other drugs.
* Talk to your kids about peer pressure. Role-playing can prepare them to say no if they are offered cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, alcohol or other drugs.
* Know your children’s friends and their friends’ parents. Always ask your kids where they’re going, what they’re doing, who will be there, when they will return and how you can reach them. Let other parents know the rules that you expect your kids to follow.
* Set a good example. Pay attention to how your behaviors may affect your children. For example, when they see you using tobacco, it may send them the message that it’s OK for them to use tobacco, too.

Risky sexual behavior

Each year, approximately one million teenage girls will become pregnant. Three million teens will get a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Even though it may seem embarrassing, you need to talk to your children about the risks and responsibilities of being sexually active. Don’t simply depend on the sexual education taught in schools. You play an important role in helping your kids understand sex in terms of love, intimacy and respect.

* Offer age-appropriate information. A good rule of thumb to follow with younger children is to answer questions about sex when they bring them up. With an older child, you can discuss STDs and other risks of being sexually active and how to minimize those risks. It’s important to talk about this even if your expectation is that your kids are not sexually active.
* Be honest with your children about your family's values, opinions and expectations about sex. You may want to ask your family doctor for help in talking to your kids.
* Think about the messages about sex that your children get in school, on television or in movies. Talk to your kids about these messages and encourage them to ask questions.
* Keep an open mind. If your kids are afraid of how you will react, they’ll be less likely to talk to you when they are feeling pressured, unsure or concerned about issues relating to sex.

Source: American Academy of Family Physicians

Boost your natural Beauty!

2007-10-13T04:55:00.001-07:00

Natural Beauty - Enhance The Looks You Have Visualization
You need to visualize the specific changes if you truly want to change your look. What will any improvements you make look like? See yourself with a streamlined body, healthier hair, clearer skin, majestic posture. These changes are realistic and attainable. Stay away from goals you'll never reach.
Don't compare yourself with someone you've seen on the TV or movie screen or on the cover of a magazine. Accept your uniqueness and capitalize on it.

Mirrors Boost Attitude
The quickest attitude adjustment is through reflection. Women who have low self esteem often avoid mirrors like the plague. However, mirrors can become a big ally.
Mirrors can tell you how you're progressing, in those little ways that may not be noticeable to the casual eye. It is the ultimate objective eye.

Do Everything Better
The way you use your beauty products will make all the difference in results.
For instance, try to duplicate what you see and feel your hair is shampooed at a salon. The product is always handled, never poured directly on hair.
Add a massage to your scalp when washing. While rinsing, lift your hair away from your scalp for about two minutes until it squeaks.

Discover The Virtues of Vanity
Confident women enjoy experimenting as a way of relieving stress and boost morale. Women who care about how they look are fascinating to watch, and teach us about taste and glamour. Vanity is a positive virtue, allowing us to fix our heads as well as our looks.

Look Pretty Amazing
Don't worry about looking pretty. Look pretty amazing show the world you care about yourself. Real beauty celebrates individuality. Rather than running around looking for beauty in pricey external products, discover within yourself. Make the most of what you have. You'll learn to like yourself and that will spark a light within.

Do One Thing For Yourself Everyday
Make yourself do it. It's the ultimate act of self-respect. Soak in the bubble bath or read an inspiring book. These little pleasures allow you to feel special. You can fake it if you, until you actually feel deserving of it. Whatever you choose, follow the action by writing down waht you did and how it made you feel. Make it your own "attitude file". Include stories, quotes from friends and photographs that have made you feel good about yourself.

Project Beauty
Feel good, feel pretty and that's just what the world will see. If you feel ugly, that's what the people will see. Try to look as good as you can. There are ways to live in beauty without being obsessive about it.

Find Supportive Friends
What people say, whether intentional or not, make us feel good or bad about ourselves. Look for people who make you feel good when you're down. This person will give you compliment. If you've done something different or if you're wearing something new, they will notice it. Keep this compliments and they will build your self esteem.

Listen To Your Inner Voice
Each of us has a voice inside our head that will give us advice. This is like a therapist. It will guide us in the right direction. It will calm us down, cheer us up and even help us figure out why we're overeating or not bothering to iron our clothes. The problem is that we often don't take time we need to hear this important information. Schedule some quiet time in a leisurely bath or walk, or even while putting on your makeup. Treat this intuition as an inner cheering section.

Take A Break
At least twice a day, set aside five minutes to recheck your make-up, hair, posture and clothing. No matter how impeccably you started out your day, a touch is both necessary and warranted. Take some deep breaths to renew and restore your appearance.

Cold and Cough Cure!

2007-10-13T04:54:00.001-07:00

Symptoms
Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

* Running or blocked nose
* Sneezing
* Sore throat
* Congestion
* Headache
* Low fever with body pain
* Loss of appetite
* Lethargy
* Insomnia

Causes
The aggravation of kapha due to the intake of cold food, drinks and fried stuff etc causes cough. Seasonal changes is also one of the reasons for cough Improper digestion of food transforms into a mucus toxin (Ama) and this circulates through the body and reaches the respiratory system, where it causes colds and coughs.

Remedies

* The body should be kept warm - especially the feet, chest, throat and head. Sweating is very helpful.
* Take half a teaspoon of ginger juice with half a teaspoon of honey, three times a day (morning, noon and night). In winter, warm the mixture by mixing a teaspoon of warm water in it.
* Mix half a cup of warm water with one teaspoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of honey.
Dosage: Take several times a day.
* In cases of dry cough (especially during the night), peel a small piece of fresh ginger. Sprinkle some salt on it and chew.
* Take equal amounts of cardamom, ginger powder, black pepper and cinnamon (1 teaspoon each). Add sugar equal to the total amount of mixture and grind to make a fine powder.
Dosage: Take half a teaspoon twice daily, with honey or warm water after meals.
* In cases of sore throat, a clove or two cardamoms or a few raisins can be chewed.Gargling with warm salty water two to three times a day is also beneficial.

Dos and don'ts
The food and activities that are to be avoided are as follows:

* Cold foods and drinks
* Ice cream, sweets
Fried foods
* Milk products (cheese, creams, yogurt)
* Sweet fruit juices
* Breads
* Meats
* Nuts
* Pastries
* Sleeping during the day
* Taking a cold shower
* Exposure to cold wind, fans, air conditioners

Following are the substances and activities that should be taken in cough:

* Boiled or steamed vegetables
* Vegetable soup
* Spice teas
* Herbal teas
* Hot milk with a piece of crushed ginger
* Half a teaspoon of turmeric powder mixed in milk provides relief.

9 Reasons Honey is Truly a Miracle Food

2007-10-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

1. Honey is mostly known as a sweetener. It contains about 69%
glucose and fructose.
2. Honey is a universal source of energy that provides 64 calories per
tablespoon. (One tablespoon of sugar will give you about 50
calories.) The sugars in honey are easily converted into glucose
by even the most sensitive stomachs.
3. Honey contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. The vitamin
and mineral content of honey depends on the type of flowers
pollen was gathered from during the making process.
4. Good for your skin: milk and honey are often served together.
Both of these help smooth and sooth skin.
5. Honey has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It has
traditionally been used as a natural treatment for wounds, burns
and ulcers. In recent years there has been renewed interest in the
medicinal properties of honey for wound care.
6. Honey is an excellent ergogenic aid and can boost the
performance of athletes. Honey helps maintain blood sugar levels,
muscle recuperation and glycogen restoration after a workout.
During the ancient Olympics, athletes ate honey and dried figs, to
enhance their performance.
7. Antioxidants: Honey contains nutraceuticals, which are effective
in removing free radicals from our body. As a result, our body
immunity is improved.
8. Honey can help control cholesterol levels and type II diabetes. In
a series of experiments involving healthy subjects and those with
either high cholesterol or type 2 diabetes, honey has proved itself
the healthiest sweetener.
9. Phytonutrients found both in honey and propolis (or ‘bee glue’,
which is found in raw honey) have been shown to possess
cancer-preventing and anti-tumor properties. These substances
include caffeic acid methyl caffeate, phenylethyl caffeate, and
phenylethyl dimethylcaffeate. Researcher has shown these
substances to prevent colon cancer in animals by shutting down
activity of the enzymes, phosphatidylinositol-specific
phospholipase C and lipoxygenase.

20 Things You Didn't Know About Skin

2007-10-13T04:52:00.000-07:00

1. It's your body's largest organ, despite what the readers of Maxim think.

2. An average adult's skin spans 21 square feet, weighs nine pounds,
and contains more than 11 miles of blood vessels.

3. The skin releases as much as three gallons of sweat a day in hot
weather. The areas that don't sweat are the nail bed, the margins of
the lips, the tip of the penis, and the eardrums.

4. Ooh, that smell: Body odor comes from a second kind of sweat—a
fatty secretion produced by the apocrine sweat glands, found mostly
around the armpits, genitals, and anus.

5. Yum! The odor is caused by bacteria on the skin eating and digesting
those fatty compounds.

6. Breasts are a modified form of the apocrine sweat gland.

7. Fetuses don't develop fingerprints until three months' gestation.

8. Without a trace: Some people never develop fingerprints at all. Two
rare genetic defects, known as Naegeli syndrome and dermatopathia
pigmentosa reticularis, can leave carriers without any identifying ridges
on their skin.

9. Fingerprints increase friction and help grip objects. New World
monkeys have similar prints on the undersides of their tails, the better
to grasp as they swing from branch to branch.

10. Blowin' in the wind: Globally, dead skin accounts for about a billion
tons of dust in the atmosphere. Your skin sheds 50,000 cells every
minute.

11. There are at least five types of receptors in the skin that respond
to pain and to touch.

12. One experiment revealed that Meissner corpuscles—touch receptors
that are concentrated in the fingertips and palms, lips and tongue,
nipples, penis and clitoris—respond to a pressure of just 20 milligrams,
the weight of a fly.

13. In blind people, the brain's visual cortex is rewired to respond to
stimuli received through touch and hearing, so they literally "see" the
world by touch and sound.

14. "In the buff" became synonymous for "nude" in 17th-century
England. The term derives from soldiers' leather tunics, or "buffs," whose
light brown color apparently resembled an Anglo-Saxon backside.

15. White skin appeared just 20,000 to 50,000 years ago, as
dark-skinned humans migrated to colder climes and lost much of their
melanin pigment.

16 .I see very, very white people: Albinos are often cast as movie
villains, as seen in The Da Vinci Code, Die Another Day, The Matrix
Reloaded, and—inexplicably—the 2001 flick Josie and the Pussycats.
Robert Lima of Penn State suggests that people associate pale-skinned
albinos with vampires and other mythical creatures of the night.

17. More than 2,000 people have radio frequency identification chips, or
RFID tags, inserted under their skin. The tags can provide access to
medical information, log on to computers, or unlock car doors.

18. Flesh for fantasy: At the Baja Beach club in Barcelona, customers
can get an implanted RFID "debit card" and party until their funds are
exhausted.

19. The Cleveland Public Library, Harvard Law School, and Brown
University all have books clad in skin stripped from executed criminals or
from the poor.

20. Hopefully, they didn't have to reprint it: One such volume is Andreas
Vesalius's pioneering 16th-century work of anatomy, De Humani Corporis
Fabrica (On the Fabric of the Human Body)

Crying Keeps the Doctor Away

2007-10-13T04:51:00.000-07:00

Are you known for your crying bouts? Do people call you a kid, since you cry if you are yelled at or even while you are watching a sentimental movie?Women are known to be more emotional as compared to men and they get hurt or offended more easily. Men are more worried about their ego and image, which enables them to hold back their tears. They find crying feminine and embarrassing.
But psychologists and doctors say that crying is healthy and recommend that people should cry whenever they feel like.

Vent Your Emotions

Think of yourself as a balloon. If you go on blowing a balloon, then it will burst at some point of time.
Your feelings are like air. The more you suppress your emotions, the worse you will feel and you are bound to explode some day. Suppressing your feelings will affect the quality of your life. Not crying can stifle, and in a way, paralyse you.
Crying is all about cleansing your mind and it is considered very healthy. It helps you release stress and gives you a relaxed feeling.

What If I Don't Cry?

If you do not cry, it could have very adverse effects on your health. The stress is likely to build on.
Too much stress can lead to high blood pressure, which in turn can cause heart attacks.
Apart from the physiological problems, you may have mental issues like a feeling of loneliness, depression and inability to cope with stress.
Everyone can cry. Dr. Jagdish Shah, psychologist, Shah Hospital says, "It is just that, in some of us, ego comes in the way. You may feel embarrassed to cry and control your tears. On the other hand, some people have a very positive frame of mind and simply refuse to cry."

How Much is Too Much?

There is no recommended amount on how much or how often to cry. However, it is alright to let go, as and when you feel low, scared or anxious. Once you do that, you are sure to feel relaxed.
Excessive crying could be a sign of a problem. For instance, if you have failed a job interview and you cry over it for five days, then it is considered excessive.
In such cases, support from family and friends will help. Talking it out will help you vent and see the situation in a practical light.
Once you realise this, you will stop wallowing and be able to start anew.
If this does not work, then consult a psychologist for counselling sessions.
So, the next time you are sad, feel free to cry it loud.

(With inputs from: Dr. Jagdish Shah, psychologist from Shah Hospital and Dr. Shalini Suralkar, physician from Hiranandani Hospital)

Top 10 most important health tips

2007-10-13T04:48:00.000-07:00

1. Move More
Make it your daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Move more and feel better!

2. Cut Fat
Avoid the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise.

3. Reduce Stress
Of course, easier said than done.... Stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible.

4. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers.

5. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution deterrent.

6. Wear Your Seat Belt
Statistics show that seat belts add to longevity and help alleviate potential injuries in car crashes.

7. Avoid Excessive Drinking
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer.

8. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't?

9. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Yes, keep on smiling and laughing!

10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. So follow the first 9 tips above :-)

Yoga May Help Treat Depression

2007-10-13T04:39:00.000-07:00

Yoga's postures, controlled breathing and meditation may work together
to help ease brains plagued by anxiety or depression, a new study
shows.

Brain scans of yoga practitioners showed a healthy boost in levels of the
neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) immediately after a
one-hour yoga session. Low brain levels of GABA are associated with
anxiety and depression, the researchers said.

Dr. Chris Streeter, assistant professor of psychiatry and neurology,
believes yoga could prove a useful tool to help people battling
depression and anxiety disorders. "We're not advocating that they chuck
their medication, but I would advise that they could use it as an adjunct
and see how they are doing," Streeter said.

Stop Eating One Bite Meals

2007-10-13T04:36:00.001-07:00

You have just finished a sumptuous lunch and soon after that someone at home calls for a pizza. You just love pizzas but you decide not to overeat and take just one or two bites to satisfy your taste buds. Well, satisfying your taste bud would almost cost you an addition of 80-100 calories to your imaginary nutritionally perfect diet.
You feel you are following the perfect diet to lose weight but you tend to eat a piece of this and a bite of that and unknowingly you are consuming way more than your diet suggests.
Here is a list of the one bite meals that could be ruining your diet.

Breakfast Continues Till Lunch

A dietician has asked you to eat a heavy but healthy breakfast and you religiously eat the right portion of fruits, juices, oats,wheat bread etc.
But then follow the mid-morning hours where you land up eating the deadly bites.
For Example - You start feeling hungry 2 hours after your breakfast but you don't want to eat between meals so you eat one bite of the leftover Pedha, two to three potato chips, half a Gulab Jamun or something fatty.
You are quenching your craving not your hunger. You will still stay hungry and the junk will lead to acidity, so instead you could eat a fruit that you like.

Afternoon Boredom Phase

Afternoons at work or at home is when the futile hunger attacks you and you just want to binge on something fatty.
The most common one bite blunders that you are likely to indulge in the afternoon are Chewda and its varieties, Sev, chocolate, few potato finger chips etc, one cream biscuit, one French fry, one piece of chocolate, half a cutlet etc.
Quit having these and drink Lassi, skimmed milk, or juice.

It's Evening, I need to Snack

You must eat a healthy evening snack instead of popping junk all evening till dinner.
Have one evening snack and finish it off, don't keep munching until dinner.

Dining till Midnight

An early dinner makes you hungry again by 11 in the night.
While watching television you land up taking the bite of that left over chocolate cake or the Malai Sandwich.
Eating sweets at night is very fattening because you don't burn it.
Instead the calorie full sweet, eat yogurt or fruit salad with low fat yoghurt. This will keep you full and quench the craving.

A Check List

Food ---Calories
1 Pedha (the regular size milk Pedha) 110
1 cream biscuit 50-60
1 piece of chocolate cake 100-120
10 potato finger chips 150
2 handfuls of potato chips (20 grams) 110
8 pieces of potato Bhajjiya 370

"6 to 7 small healthy meals a day will keep you going throughout the day because your body will constantly be provided with energy" says Dilip Heble, fitness consultant for Fitness Trends gym.