Showing posts with label Family Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family Health. Show all posts

Friday, April 12, 2013

Drive? Is Low Libido Really The Problem?

By John Smith

I've been coming across a lot of articles lately that all talk about the huge need of Viagra for men. You see, the world and even the internet is stocked full with what is mostly just really good ad campaigns. Don't get me wrong. As a guy, I think the idea of Viagra 500mg pills is great, but is it really necessary? Advertising isn't just on the TV any more. It's all over the place, in your morning coffee, in your breakfast cereal, in your house cleaning items, on your facebook, on your phone calls-basically it's everywhere. When you are making a decision on what is good for your body and what is not, don't always go by what you read. Make a careful decision and council with the right people. I have the hardest time researching health issues on the internet because I know that most the time what folks have to say is basically just promoting a product and a lot of fluff to go with it.

Take the subject of Viagra for men, for example. Yes, there are times and situations when it's required, and under these circumstances it is no joke, but most the time you will hear people talking about viagra so casually, that I think we miss the purpose behind it all together. What started out as a pill to help those with ED, has now become crass joke or a quick-pop-solution for a date gone bad. You just can't expect to base your entire life on what you read because most of the information that we have has been pumped up to not only make you want to buy the product but to make a lifestyle out of it.

After some of the stuff that I read about Viagra 500mg pills, I decided to research the matter a bit. Some articles say that the pill should be used for men who have a low libido, and others say that it is only for ED. On the subject of low libido, some health experts write that 1 out of 4 men have it, other say that 1 out of 5 have it, and yet others say that 1 out of 7 have it. Who is right? We really can't say. What I would say, however, is be careful before you buy. Viagra should not be used as the pass time pill for a quick recreation that most people and internet articles put it out to be.

This is a pill popping world and we have a prescribed pill for just about every problem. Whether it's a common cold, a mild headache, and slight or severe depression everything comes with a prescription and is followed by a pill-sex is now in the same boat. There's a large number of young men who use Viagra more times than those over 40, just because they've heard it's a great rush. But they don't realise that there are adverse repercussions to such self-medication. What happened to the days of us working through our problems instead of looking for pills to do the work for us? A momentary infilling of Viagra might boost sexual performance for a hour or so, but is it really benefiting the body in the long run?

The use of Viagra for young men is not advised, because, let's face it-it's just not made for that. It's rare that young men have problems with genuine ED at all. If you have been examined by a doctor and have ED, then by all means, I give you the green on the blue pill. But if you're just experiencing a low in your sex life and the doc has said that it really has nothing to do with ED, then don't go rushing for the blue pill. There are other reasons for a lack of sexual drive, and the best part about these other reasons is that you can do something about it. You can feel strong enough to change your life with your own hands instead of relying a pill. Some of these other reasons are:
  • Alcohol, smoking, or drug abuse
  • Guilt of an extramarital relationship or pressure to perform with an extramarital partner
  • Overwork
  • Anxiety and tension
  • Lack of exercise
Problems in your sex life could also be related to the side-effects of an illness or disorder. In these cases, it would definitely be best to not go the way of the crowd and depend on ED drugs, because doing so could make things worse. It's very common that people who complain of having problems with sex actually have underlying cardiac problems or diabetes. So while I'm not saying to throw Viagra and it's kin out the door all together, I will say this-don't go by everything you read. Play it safe and keep in control of your own life without having to rely on doctors and medications to do it for you.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Keep a first aid kit to ensure instant health injury relief

Whether you are an active individual or part of a lively family, getting into scrapes happens to all of us. But knowing you have an up to date first aid kit to hand could often mean the difference between life and death should the unexpected happen.

No one likes the idea of getting into an accident, but however cautious you are accidents happen. So whether you have a cut finger or one of the family has a fall while playing in the garden, it's good to know that you have a well-stocked, up to date first aid emergency kit to clean, protect and sooth any injuries. Being prepared gives you the peace of mind that you can be effective in any emergency situation.

Store everything together

Like many people, your medical supplies are probably stored in a variety of places around the house kitchen draws, bathroom cabinets or even shelves in the bedroom. However first aid kits, or having one place to keep all your medical items, are a much better idea. For a start you will know that everything is in one safe place; a place that every member of the family will know about should there be an accident. It also means that your individual items will be stored properly, won't get damaged and will make it easier to find the exact item you want in an emergency situation.

Your kit could be a lifesaver!

The best first aid kits are ones that are well equipped with a good variety of supplies, covering injuries that involve bleeding as well as internal injuries such as a broken bone or pulled muscle. A good first aid kit will help you prevent infection, stop any excessive loss of blood, reduce scarring, help prevent an injury turning into a chronic problem and in the extreme, may even help prevent death.

Building the ideal first aid kit.

It is quite easy to buy a ready-made first aid kit in the shops, but it is just as simple to put together your own. It may be best to include some staple items such as plasters in a variety of sizes, sterile gauze dressings including eye dressings and a selection of bandages and safety pins. Add to that some alcohol-free cleansing wipes and adhesive tape, as well as creams that combat skin rashes, insect bites and some antiseptic cream. Items such as tweezers, scissors and a good thermometer are also handy to have available in your kit, as well as a selection of pain killers, decongestant and antihistamine tablets.

Always ensure that first aid kits are well stocked and stored in a cool place that the whole family is aware of. However, do make sure that the kit itself is securely stored out of reach from very small children, to ensure their own safety. Remember to regularly check use by dates, replace items as and when you need to and consider having smaller versions of your first aid kit for both the car and holiday travel.

AUTHOR BIO:
Mary has worked in the medical profession for many years and is always encouraging her patients to be prepared for all kinds of emergencies in the home. For help with putting together your own first aid kit, view here.

Friday, March 29, 2013

Less Microwaving - Push for Fresh Fruits for Better Health

Let's be honest no one thinks that popping a frozen dinner into the microwave is the best way to go about improving his or her health. The larger problem is that microwaving is just too easy a notion mothers in the 1950s would've been all too happy to test out. Invented the mid-60s to make things just that easy they've become a crutch for a society that is today too busy and too tempted to make healthy eating choices. It doesn't hurt that many microwavable food items, like Pop Tarts, are designed to make us crave them.

Vitamins and nutrients

Fruits have long been known to provide vitamins and nutrients that processed foods just don't offer, and they do it with a portability that many microwavable food items are only now beginning to rival. According to the United States government, a diet rich in fruit may reduce the risk for heart attack and stroke, as well as various types of cancers. High-fruit diets provide fiber, which can help with obesity and type 2 diabetes, while the potassium content in some fruits may help lower blood pressure. The risk of developing bone loss and kidney stones is also shown to decrease with a high potassium diet.

Unlike microwavable fare, fruits are generally low in not only calories, but also sodium and fat as well. If you have cholesterol be concerns, you should be aware that no fruits contain it. While many processed foods have nutrients added, fruits naturally contain vitamin C and other often under-consumed nutrients like potassium and folic acid.

Make the effort

Perhaps the biggest obstacle to eating a diet rich in fruits is cost and availability. In cold weather states, fruits have in the past been difficult to come by, and at an increased cost. Fortunately, stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joes are increasing their reach, providing shoppers with greater opportunity to buy. Improving technologies in plant biology are also helping keep fruit on the shelves longer.

In the end, however, fruits biggest selling point is their taste. From apples and oranges to peaches and bananas, the vast array of fruits available are sure to leave most any person with some that please their palate. Even if you don't wish to just grab an apple and bite in, fresh fruits can often be made into sauces and jellies with relative ease. And even if you're putting them in a pie, they provide the same nutrients, albeit with additional calories.

While it may make sense to have a granola bar packed along with you on a hike, processed foods are a disastrous temptation when kept in the household. Make an effort to keep fresh fruits and vegetables on hand at all times to help model behavior for children, and to keep them healthy. Without adult support, children often gravitate toward sweeter, more fattening foods, which can manifest itself in health problems sooner than later. For a healthy diet, fresh fruits are the way to go.

Matt Anton is a partner in the online marketing venture BacklinksVault, and has extensive experience with nutrition and fitness, including health and diet concerns.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

The advantages of dental implants

Dental implants are becoming popular because they look and feel just like natural teeth. No one will know you have artificial teeth as long as you keep the secret to yourself. You will be able to eat better and speak naturally, and your facial contour will also improve. The only thing that deters people from receiving them is the high cost. A single implant can cost as much as £1,200 in the UK. The good news is that the prices are coming down.

Dental implants have several advantages over traditional teeth restoration techniques like bridge and denture. Here are some of them.
  • Look and feel like natural teeth: Dental implants look and feel like so natural that you won't feel the difference most of the time. Not only will you be able to eat better (than with bridges and dentures), but you will also be able to speak without any difficulty.
  • Last much longer: Dental implants last at least ten years, which is much longer than bridges and dentures. They also do not need much repair and maintenance. In fact, you can treat them just like your treat your natural teeth most of the time.
  • Adjacent teeth are unaffected: Dental implants are attached directly in or on your jawbone and do not need the support of adjacent teeth (unlike bridges that do). This leaves your neighboring teeth untouched and safe from stress and deterioration. With traditional methods, adjacent teeth often the victims of their own generosity (by providing support).
  • Preserve the jawbones: Dental implants are attached in or on the jawbone and they protect and preserve the latter. Because they fill the space left vacant by the lost natural teeth, the jawbones retain their natural shape and strength.
  • Protects and improves facial contours: Dental implants fill the gap between the teeth permanently. This helps improve your facial contours, which can prevent premature wrinkling of the skin on your face in the long run.
Dental implants may be costlier than traditional restoration techniques, but the overall benefits can outweigh the cost, from whatever angle you look at it. Therefore, you should choose dental implants over traditional techniques if you are in of teeth restoration. If you re worried about the cost, then view dentimplants.co.uk to learn about dental implants that are affordable.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

HOW TO BREASTFEEDING NEW BORN

Breast feeding is very essential for your newborn baby to become healthy. Because babies can loss their birth weight in first few weeks. New parents are feel uncomfortable to feed their baby with their breast but don't be like, it will lead your baby into unhealthy and also cause many problems to mother. I hope this will help to know about how to breastfeed a newborn, how often and how long need to feed your baby.

Minimum 8 times and maximum 12 times in a day you have to feed your baby. Take 2 to 3 hours gap between every feeding it is for day time, At night you have to feed your baby for every 4 hours. When you saw a sign hungry with your baby like hand into mouth, you can start your feeding no need to wait until the going into cry. Some babies are sleepy they won't cry so you have to wake up your baby and then give milk. Leave your baby for long time with your breast after that you can feed your baby into another side. Frequent feeding will also increase your milk supply then you can give enough milk to your baby.

Sit comfortable at the time of breast feeding, fit a baby into your breast and latch nipple in a correct position on your baby mouth. And then put your hand on babies back shoulder for support. Your baby mouth needs to cover your whole areola not only the nipple of your breast. Feed at least 20 to 45 minutes or continue until your baby stop feeding. Some babies are need to feed at both breast and some babies are satisfied after feeding with one breast, at that time you have to feed in another breast at next time of feeding. At the time of breast feeding every mom's hold their child at different position like cradle hold, cross cradle hold, clutch and side laying position. The position is whatever it may be but the only thing is it should be comfortable for you and your baby. After finishing feeding remove your breast as gently from your baby mouth.

After your delivery your body will contain some special milk it is good for your baby health, so you can feed your baby in a delivery room itself. New mom feels uncomfortable but it is a learning skill you have to practice for that. And one more thing new moms need more energy for frequent feeding. So they need to take more meals and healthy snacks between them. With early born babies it is hard to baby as well as mother that time they have to take more nutrient foods for their baby growth and also for mother health. Please be aware with this, and don't feel shy to breastfeed it is about your baby healthy. Learn the hungry sign of your baby and give enough milk to him/her because the breast milk can easily digested. Like that learn that when to wake up and how close to your baby.

Sunday, March 17, 2013

Milk can lead to anemia

In the event that a child under school age drink more than two glasses of milk a day, his body decreases the amount of iron, which can lead to anemia.

According to the study, which was attended by 1,300 children of preschool age, children should not drink more than two glasses of milk a day. Milk contains calcium and vitamin D, needed for bone growth. However, excessive intake of milk in the body is accompanied by a decrease in the amount of iron, and iron deficiency leads to movement disorders.

Children who drank three or more glasses of milk per day had reduced levels of serum ferritin, which reflects the state of body iron stores. The more milk the children drank, the lower ferritin levels fell.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting consumption of cow's milk for preschoolers to two glasses a day. However, the Committee on Nutrition believe that children who drink at least four glasses of milk a day, should be given supplements of vitamin D. Supplementation with vitamin D is required blacks children and children who spend little time in the sun, because vitamin D is produced in the skin by sunlight.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Negative health impacts of bad teeth and gums

Most people are aware that they should brush their teeth and floss to keep their teeth and gums healthy, but you may be surprised to find out that taking good care of your oral health can also help to reduce your risk of other medical conditions, some of which are very serious and potentially deadly.

How does poor oral health affect general health?

Dentists often say that the mouth is a window to the rest of the body and a healthy mouth often reflects a healthy body. In recent years there have been several studies published in journals, which suggest a link between oral health and general health, with many implying that neglecting your oral health increases your risk of medical conditions. One of the most common associations is oral health and heart health, with some studies suggesting that poor oral health increases the risk of heart disease.

Experts believe that oral health has a significant bearing on general health because bacteria from the mouth can travel to other parts of the body via the bloodstream; the bacteria associated with gum disease can travel around the body, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke because they may trigger an inflammatory response. Researchers have found that people who have poor oral health are more likely to suffer from heart disease and further research in this area is being carried out.

Gum disease and diabetes

Diabetes is a very common condition and it can increase the risk of gum disease, as well as other health problems, such as foot problems and issues with vision. Dentists can often spot warning signs of diabetes in people who have not yet been diagnosed by examining the mouth.

Gum disease and pregnancy

Gum disease is more common among pregnant women because pregnancy increases the risk of gum disease as a result of hormonal changes in the body. Studies have suggested that poor oral health during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight, as well as complications during labour and birth. Pregnant women are advised to visit their dentist on a regular basis.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Five Reasons You Should Get Vaccinated

From the dawn of time, the human population has periodically been decimated by outbreaks of serious disease. In the 1600s, bubonic plague was rife across Europe and millions perished from the disease. The influenza virus has also been a deadly killer over the centuries and even today, people still die from the more serious strains of the flu. But thankfully for mankind, many of the most serious diseases such as yellow fever, typhoid and diphtheria have been all but eradicated as a result of widespread vaccination programmes.

Why Bother With Vaccinations?

Even though serious diseases such as measles and mumps have mostly been vanquished in modern society, they haven't disappeared completely, which is why vaccination programmes are just as vital today as they were a few decades ago. Without protection from vaccinations, you and your family are at risk of serious disease or even death.

Vaccinations Are Safe

Millions of people are vaccinated every year and even though there are inevitably a small number of people who experience bad reactions to the vaccine, vaccinations are considered to be very safe. All vaccines have been rigorously tested and are among the safest types of medicine available today. You could opt out of a vaccination program, but the risk of suffering any side effects from the vaccine is far smaller than your risk of catching a serious disease.

Vaccines Offer Protection to the Vulnerable

All vaccine preventable diseases are serious. If a healthy adult catches a deadly strain of the influenza virus, they are likely to become extremely ill, but if a vulnerable person with a weakened immune system, a child or someone elderly catches the flu, they are far more likely to die as a result of the disease. Vaccinations offer protection to those most at risk of complications or death from serious diseases, so why die needlessly for the sake of a simple injection?

Vaccines Protect Your Family

When the main breadwinner of a family becomes seriously ill from an entirely preventable disease, it puts their family at risk. An ill person cannot work and if the disease causes life changing complications, the end result can be devastating. You might not think you are at risk of catching a disease such as tuberculosis, but these diseases are still out there and people who shun vaccinations are at risk of infection.

Preventable Disease is a Drain on Society

Treating serious diseases such as influenza, typhoid and cholera costs the economy billions every year. The direct medical costs alone are staggering, but when you take into account the indirect costs of preventable diseases such as influenza, which can cause a reasonably healthy person to be off work for up to two weeks, it is not difficult to see just how important vaccination programmes are in modern society.

Children and Vaccinations

There have been many scare stories surrounding childhood vaccinations and many parents have avoided having their child vaccinated. As a result of a lower take-up of some children's vaccination programmes, certain diseases such as measles and mumps have been making an unwanted return. Vaccine preventable childhood diseases can cause long-term and devastating health problems in children, but thanks to effective childhood vaccination programmes, horrible illness such as polio and whooping cough have all but disappeared. However, if parents decide to boycott vaccination programmes for fear of side effects, it won't be long before such diseases start to reappear once again.

Holiday Vaccinations Are Also Important

For most people heading off on their holidays, thoughts of serious illness and disease are the last thing on their mind, but holiday vaccinations are just as important as any other form of immunisation. Diseases such as hepatitis, yellow fever and diphtheria are rife in some parts of the world and if you become infected, you could end up taking home more than a sun tan.

Author: Carlo Pandian is a freelance blogger covering health, well being and medicine. He also reviews private vaccinations services at Blossoms Healthcare and loves involving doctors in Q&A sessions with online patients. When he’s not online, Carlo spend his time visiting London and the contemporary art museums in town.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Choosing a Pair of Killer Sunglasses

It is easier to select a pair of sunglasses you love if you give a thought to the possible choices before visiting a shop. The three things that you should consider are comfort, protection, and style.

Sunglass lens tints

The first thing that you look for as soon as you come across a nice pair of glasses Oakville is probably the color of the lens. Colors are usually applied to the lenses of sunglasses so that they absorb light as it flows through them. The color chosen by you is a matter of your personal taste. You need to consider some important benefits related to color:
  • Gray colored-lens lowers the brightness, but will not distort the color.
  • Amber and brown tints bring down glare that is created by the sunlight's blue frequency which makes things appear hazy. These tints distort colors more than the gray tints.
  • Yellow colored-tints bring down the haze coming from blue light better than brown colored-lenses. The view is really sharpened, but there is more distortion of color.
  • Lenses that are tinted green help in filtering out some amount of blue light and reduce the glare. These lenses provide better contrast between the objects.
  • Lenses of rose color can be a good option if you are involved in water sports or different outdoor activities, as they provide nice contrast on objects seen against the background of green or blue colors.
Sunglasses with polarized lenses

If the lens has a polarized film, it brings down the glare that occurs when the light bounces off on objects like highways, water, and similar surfaces.

Sunglasses with scratch-resistant lenses

These glasses come with a thin layer of coating that is applied to lenses to make them resistant to scratches. Remember that plastic lenses tend to scratch more easily than hard glass lenses.

Sunglasses with photo-chromatic lenses

Photo-chromic (or photo-chromatic) lenses turn darker when exposed to UV radiation. The shift quickly happens as your surroundings turn from bright to dim. These are preferred by people who want their glasses to be used as regular ones and as sunglasses.

Choose sunglasses that suit your style

You find different styles in sunglasses every year. The selections these days are so different from each other that not a single pair will ever go out of fashion. You don't have to spend a lot on these glasses to maintain a good collection, as you find effective ones based on your budget.

Specialty and designer sunglasses such as the ones for sports are priced higher than most sunglasses today, but it is easy to find all types of fashion glasses at affordable rates. Make sure you carefully watch the UV ratings. Unless you know already which frame suits you the best, go shopping for glasses Oakville and try on as many frames as possible.

About the author
Grace is an enthusiastic blogger and likes to write about healthcare. To get world class designer oakville glasses contact an expert optician at Next Optical Store.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Asthma Relief at Home

When it comes to asthma inhalators are a must have for anyone suffering its effects, however there are ways to avoid some of what this condition deals to the human body. While asthma care centers exist and they are very good at what they do the bulk part of the asthma relief is usually done in domestic conditions since our lives need to go on as seamlessly as possible. You will need to find ways to avoid stress as well as knowing how to deal with the onset and asthma triggers which lead to attacks since this is a condition which so far requires a lot of care. We have prepared some tips with which we hope to alleviate your situation:

1. Peak Flow Meters

When it comes to asthma these are cheap and useful devices used to measure the exhaled air through your lungs. It is a simple construction which allows you to measure the peak expiratory flow also known as PEF. This small device allows you to have a relatively accurate understanding of the condition of your asthma and whether its worsening or getting better by measuring and monitoring your PEF.

2. Developing a plan

When it comes to asthma you should be aware that special care is needed which will help you prevent and manage your asthma attacks. You should speak to your doctor or health care provider regardless of what country you live in for ways your condition can be alleviated. You will need to provide them with as much personal information as you can to allow your doctors a better chance to understand what is causing your asthma attacks.

3. Keep track

There is a reason for that since it will allow you understand and keep a record of when the attacks occur. You should record the initial time when the attack starts and you should measure your PEF as well as other details which will allow you to collect this data for an accurate understanding and information which your doctor will be able to use to deduce ways to find solutions.

4. Controlling possible asthma triggers

This is a crucial step when it comes to attacks since knowing what onsets the attack will help you prevent it in the future. Most often it is stress and this can help, though sometimes the reasons for an attack are certain allergens of which you will need to be aware so you can treat the problem effectively.

5. Air filtration

This can be very useful in cases of allergens being the prime reason for asthma attacks. They are relatively cheap and they offer a good way of keeping most of these out of the air around your home. There are multiple technologies out there currently being used for air filtration from small, stationary units to larger ones which offer better quality of air. You should consider those if you know the reason for your asthma attacks are airborne allergens such as pollen and other substances.

This guest post has been written on behalf of: www.handymoves.co.uk

Saturday, December 15, 2012

A Positive Approach to Cope with Fertility Problems

Whether you have been diagnosed with a fertility problem or undergoing tests and treatments for infertility, it can be a stressful experience for you. How do you cope with such a situation? How do you handle the physical and emotional burden? Appropriate and adequate information, help and support can work as the saviour in such circumstances.

What could help couples in such situations? Here are a few tips that will be useful if you were trying to get pregnant for a considerable period with no results or if you are undergoing fertility treatments.

Prepare yourself: Diagnosis, tests and treatment for infertility may lead to anxiety and stress. Couples often have the question – 'why us'; there is often no answer for this. However, it is better to be aware of the details of the problem and the solution. Ask your fertility specialist about the steps in the test and treatment plan.

When you know about the fertility medications and treatments that the doctor plans to use in your case, you may feel less anxious. Moreover, it also helps you make informed decisions about how far you want to continue with the treatment.

Get help and support: Talking to a close family member or friend may be helpful in coping with the situation. Men and women often feel that they have failed because they cannot have a baby. Talking to a near one about your feelings helps you in releasing the thoughts that cause pain and sorrow.

At times, couples find it easier to discuss about their infertility problems with others in similar situations. The similarity in circumstances enhances effective communication between the couples.

You may talk to your general practitioner or avail of the counselling services at the fertility clinic you visit. This will be necessary before, during and after the fertility treatment. A specialist counsellor will have a clear idea about the pressures you have to endure in such a situation. He/she will also help you find ways to let go of the negative feelings.

Seek alternatives: Assisted Reproductive Technology can be an option if medications and other treatments have failed in your case. Your fertility specialist will be able to provide details about the suitable procedures.

You may also consider surrogacy, when a surrogate mother carries and gives birth to your baby. If it is a direct procedure, the egg from the surrogate mother will be fertilised by the sperm from the male partner and placed inside her uterus. If it is a host procedure, the gamete or embryo will be placed inside the uterus of the surrogate mother.

Another option you may also consider is adoption. This will fulfil your wish of becoming a parent and also help in providing a home and family to a child who does not have these. Whether you opt for adoption or surrogacy, seek advice before you make any decision.

Daniel Smith is a professional writer. In this article he has given idea on Women's Health, in particular surrogacy. The author is solely responsible for the views and images provided in the article. Google+ Twitter

Friday, November 16, 2012

Good sleep will save from diabetes

U.S. researchers have found that a 7-hour night's sleep can prevent the development of diabetes in adolescents.

What is diabetes
Diabetes - a disease in which there is a persistent increase in the level of glucose in the blood. Distinguish type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. With type 1 diabetes is a destruction of the pancreatic cells, which produce insulin . Insulin is needed by the body to lower blood glucose. The remaining cells of the pancreas can not meet the body's need for insulin, so most of the glucose does not enter the cells, and stays in the blood.


With type 2 diabetes, pancreatic cells do not suffer, and the body is enough insulin. However, the cells lose their sensitivity to insulin - is developing the so-called insulin resistance . If we imagine that insulin - is a key that opens the cell for glucose, insulin resistance is at a key does not fit the lock and can not open the cage. As a result, glucose does not enter the cells, and stays in the blood.

The essence of the study
The study involved 245 healthy students. Average duration of a night's sleep during the week was 6.4 hours, and during the week of sleep was significantly less than the weekend.

The less sleep a student, the more pronounced was insulin resistance. As researchers found, the extra hour of sleep for teens who usually sleep at 6:00, will reduce insulin resistance by 9%. Since insulin resistance leads to diabetes, the more sleep to prevent the disease.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Normal cherry save from pain in the legs

U.S. researchers have found that cherries reduce the risk of gout attacks.

What is gout

Gout - a disease which is characterized by acute onset: severe pain in the joints , swelling, redness and increased temperature of the skin over them. As a rule, in the pathological process involves joint of the big toe, also can be affected by the ankle, wrist, knee joints and joints of the hand. Gout is more common in men, women are exposed to the disease after menopause.

Gout is caused by deposits of urate crystals in the joints - uric acid - which leads to the development of inflammation and the appearance of severe pain. Urate crystals are formed when the level of uric acid in the blood. Increased levels of uric acid may be associated with an increase in its production in the body or in violation of excretion by the kidneys.

The essence of the study

The study involved 633 patients suffering from gout. The average age of the patients was 54 years, most of them were men. Follow up of patients was carried out in a single year. Each participant provided the authors of the study data is the start time of gout symptoms, take medication, risk factors, as well as on the use of cherries or cherry extract.

Among patients who consumed cherry, 35% eat fresh berries, 2% - the cherry extract and 5% - and fresh berries, and cherry extract. During follow-up registered 1247 gouty attacks, 92% of the attack affected the joint of the big toe.

Findings

These results indicate that fresh cherries and cherry extract reduces the risk of gout attacks. Maximum reduction in risk observed in the use of 30 berries per day. However, it should be noted that the cherries in any case is not a substitute for the standard treatment of gout.

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Nourishing Foods for Long-term Survival

How can we question the act of the Creator who is the author of all things on earth? We are witnessing the increasing number of natural disasters occurring unexpectedly. We won't know wherethe calamities will happen and how they will affect us. However, humans have higher intellect than any other animals on earth - so we are expected to take dominion.

We cannot do and control anything if Mother Nature is in motion, we just can protect our family by being prepared in any disruption that we might have to face. Food and water are the most essential things for survival during calamities. Not all kinds of food can last extensively over harsh climate. In order for us to be prepared for the unknown, know these affordable foods that can be kept for longer duration:
  1. Load your kitchen with brown rice. Brown rice belongs to the group of "super foods" aside from its essential nourishment, it can be kept up to five or more years when properly stored in a sealed and dry container.
  2. Reach out for almond butter and raw almonds. Almonds are good sources of healthy fats, immune boosting nutrients and natural proteins that can nourish the body to survive longer in case of food scarcity. Just make sure to keepthem in a vacuum-sealed plastic bag or container and put them in the freezer. They can last for many months up to 1 year. Almond butter is also a magnificent survival food. It can last to up to 9 months or longer when stored in vacuum sealed jars. Learn more from The Gourmet Survivalist web page for more radiant ideas about raw almonds and almond butter remedies.
  3. Pack more apples. Apples are nutritious and can safely be kept for longer period of time. Pick some varieties of thick skinned, tart and unwashed apples. Wrap them one by one with dry newspapers and keep them in cardboard boxes. Sliced, dried and vacuum sealed apples will also last long inside the freezer.
  4. Horde for carrots. Carrots will stay fresh and nutritious when kept unwashed and covered with mulch. It will last up to six months when properly stored in a dark, cool and well-ventilated area - according to the Sweetwater Organic Farm. They can also be kept in longer duration inside the freezer when peeled, cut and blanched.
  5. Fresh farm eggs. Eggs are surprisingly part of the list but fresh, unwashed farm eggs will last up to 1 year inside the refrigerator. Eggs containenergy-boosting nutrients that are helpful in case of food shortage. The outside unique coating of fresh chicken eggs protects the eggs from contamination and spoilage. When at room temperature, fresh farm eggs can be kept up to 3 months as well.
  6. Save some packs of "super food" seeds in your kitchen. Hemp, Chia and other super seeds are superb endurance foods. These can be stored safely for several years without worries they will get rancid. The good thing is, these seeds are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin and minerals plus other nutrients that will help people survive in their dwellings during calamities for a substantial period of time. You can purchase the seeds from the Natural News Store.
These super foods will have Sildenafil Citrate kind of effect so, natural body heat will surely be ignited which is helpful in beating the freezing cold. There's nothing more natural than a human blanket that can provide sufficient warmth.

By Elena Grace Flores
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Saturday, November 3, 2012

In Thailand, prepare a strict anti-smoking law to protect teenagers

The age limit for the sale of cigarettes to be raised to 20 years, and teenagers up to 18 years will be punished for selling tobacco products

Before the end of this year the Thai health experts are planning to submit to the government a new anti-smoking law, which will replace the relevant legislation in 1992.

How to tell the bill's authors, scientists from Mahidol University, Thailand, in the new edition of the strict limits laid addressed primarily to local teens. In particular, it will be totally banned trade in tobacco products by persons under 18 years of age, and the age limit on the sale of cigarettes to be raised from 18 to 20 years. Appears and the ban on online sales of cigarettes over the Internet.

For offenders in the law will be clearly spelled out the penalties, however, exactly what the author does not specify.

Director of the Centre to organize controlled studies of tobacco products in Thailand Sirivan Pitayarangsan said that in recent years the Thai teenagers started smoking significantly more than in the past. Thus, according to the center for the past year, 9.2% of teenagers between the ages of 15 and 18 are regular smokers. Moreover, the number of adherents of this habit in the country is growing annually by 300 thousand people.

According to another study conducted by the Thai social scientists, about 56% of the two thousand respondents sophomore who formed a task force, acknowledged that the school bought cigarettes from their underage friends. Another 79% of them claim that bought cigarettes in a store near their schools. In this case, according to 74% of teenagers, no one had ever asked them, proof of age.

Mahidol University representatives expect that the proposed measures in the bill will help reduce the number of smokers among teenagers, especially taking into account the fact that adolescents are more likely to buy cigarettes just from their peers. "This ban on the sale of tobacco to minors in any way will not violate their rights" - they say.

However, as experts admit, even such a serious intensification of restrictions may not be sufficient for the southern provinces. Now the number of smokers in this part of Thailand reaches a "record" 26 percent of the population. The root of the problem, experts say, lies in the fact that "adolescent smokers here have too easy access to the abundance of cheap cigarettes smuggled goods."

Recall, now in Thailand smoking is banned in all public places, including government offices, shops, rooms of bars, restaurants and cafes. For smokers, the streets are special ashtray with sand, and at the entrances to some of the larger supermarkets have smoking rooms with extractors. In this case, on packs of cigarettes sold in Thailand, require manufacturers to print horrifying pictures related to smoking illnesses psychological impact on the adherents of this bad habit.

By Alexander Semenov

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Lung cancer and stigma: The USA's biggest cancer

The USA's biggest cancer killer gets a disproportionately small share of public attention and research dollars. One big reason is that lung cancer is seen largely as a self-inflicted "smoker's disease," says a new report from FairWarning, a nonprofit online publication. The fact that many people with the disease die too quickly to become advocates for their own cause also plays a role. With many dying within a few months, "there's not much time to fit a walkathon in," one expert says.

Lice treatment: A new prescription lotion for head lice called ivermectin left 75% of kids pest-free two weeks after one treatment in a new study, meaning it may work better than older remedies. But it wasn't tested directly against other treatments and lacks long-term safety data. So some experts say it's still a last resort. (HealthDay)

Mumps outbreak: A mumps outbreak that hit Orthodox Jewish communities in New York and New Jersey in 2009-2010 spread largely through religious schools that used intense face-to-face teaching -- enabling the virus to spread even among people who had been vaccinated, researchers say. (Reuters)

Today's talker: Will your child share Halloween candy today? Or share toys at playtime? It may depend on whether anyone is watching, a new study suggests. The study found five-year-old children were more generous with a stash of stickers when they could see and be seen by the child on the receiving end and when their offerings were put in see-through boxes, rather than opaque containers. It seems children are like adults, a researcher says: "The more others know about their actions, the more likely they are to act generously." (NBC News)

Kim Painter, @USA TODAY

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Breast milk may spread viruses that cause breast cancer

Breast milk and HPV

We all know that faulty genetics is partially responsible for breast cancer in a family. But faulty genetics is not the sole risk factor for breast cancer that spreads from a mother to her daughter(s).

Studies suggest that viruses that cause or increase risk of breast cancer can spread from one generation to another through breast milk.

Dr. W.K. Glenn and colleagues published a study in BMC Research Notes that had found high risk human papillomavirus and Epstein Barr virus in human breast milk and babies drinking the virus-loaded milk may contract the cancer-causing viruses.

The authors reported that multiple viruses including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Epstein Barr virus (EBV) and mouse mammary tumour virus have already been identified in human milk and high risk human papillomavirus (HPV) sequences have already been identified in breast cancer tissue.

Apparently, baby girls who drink milk from their infected mothers may get infected with the viruses. But the current study has found these viruses may also be present in human milk from normal lactating women who had no history of breast cancer.

The researchers found high risk HPV in 15% of milk samples from normal lactating Australian women. Four samples were sequenced and HPV 16 was found in three samples and HPV 18 was found in one sample. Epstein Barr virus was detected in 33% of breast milk samples.

The researchers concluded "The presence of high risk HPV and EBV in human milk suggests the possibility of milk transmission of these viruses. However, given the rarity of viral associated malignancies in young people, it is possible but unlikely, that such transmission is associated with breast or other cancers."

Although HPV was found in non-cancerous tissue, HPV was also found in breast cancer tissue, suggesting that these viruses may play a role in the development of certain cases of breast cancer.

By David Liu, PHD @foodconsumer.org

Saturday, October 6, 2012

With the West Nile virus present in Alachua County

Staff are struggling to determine how best to control the mosquitoes carrying it.

The Alachua County Health Department has seen far higher numbers of culex nigripalpus mosquitoes West Nile's primary carrier this year than in the past five, said health department administrator Paul Myers.

With several flocks of sentinel chickens and a horse testing positive for West Nile virus, the county was placed under a mosquito-borne illness advisory on Sept. 27. The virus was discovered in the area on Sept. 20.

The county also has found non-human cases of eastern equine encephalitis, which is transmitted to people less than West Nile virus but is more lethal.

If virus transmission intensifies or human cases are recorded, the county will be given alert status, Myers said at a Tuesday County Commission meeting.

The county health department's surveillance system for mosquito-borne illnesses includes regular testing of sentinel chickens, which are often the first to show the presence of such diseases.

Myers said the county must reduce its mosquito population, which bloomed after Tropical Storm Debby this summer.

"From Pensacola all the way to Jacksonville, they continue to see human cases, and it's not going to be a surprise to me if we see them in Alachua County," he said.

But culex nigripalpus mosquitoes are tricky to eliminate.

They breed in standing water, from retention ponds to empty flower pots.

Spraying can have mixed results because even at peak flight times like dusk, up to 80 percent of the adult females that bite humans are resting and thus not susceptible to spray, Myers said.

In humans, West Nile virus can cause West Nile fever, which causes flu-like symptoms that can last months and may induce depression, Myers said.

But the biggest danger is West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease, which can cause severe, irreparable neurological damage or even death. People over 50 years old or who have underlying health problems are most at risk.

No human cases have been detected in the county yet, and the last reported human case in the county was in 2003.

The virus incubates for two to 14 days in humans, so people could soon show symptoms.

"I'm not trying to be Chicken Little here, an alarmist, but the potential is there," Myers told commissioners.

But the cost of spraying and uncertainty of its effectiveness made commissioners hesitant to authorize it at Tuesday's meeting.

It would cost $33,000 to spray four key county zones with the highest observed numbers of culex nigripalpus mosquitoes, Myers said. These zones are the city of Waldo, the city of Hawthorne and the northwest and southwest urban fringes of Gainesville.

It would need to be done from trucks because the areas are too small for aerial spraying to be effective, he said. The zones would likely need to be sprayed more than once.

The health risks of spraying are theoretical, while the risk of mosquito-borne diseases are documented and should be weighed more heavily, he said.

Commissioner Mike Byerly questioned whether funding is better used on spraying than, for example, the FluMist immunization program.

The mosquito population could be more of a nuisance issue than a public health one, he said.

Myers said he would give an emergency situation like the presence of West Nile virus higher priority.

This fiscal year's county budget does not provide funding for mosquito spraying. Myers suggested at the meeting looking for sustainable funding alternatives, but said in a later interview that such options are scarce.

The city of Gainesville's mosquito control program does spraying to control adult populations and uses mosquitofish and bacteria to manage larvae numbers, according to its website. It inspects more than 350 breeding sites monthly.

For now, the county will continue its current mosquito plan, which includes surveillance, larvaciding mosquito eggs in the county's 200-plus retention basins, and public education.

The county has warned doctors to watch for potential West Nile virus cases in patients.

Byerly suggested the county focus on public education instead of spraying.

People can best prevent the transmission of West Nile virus by taking personal precautions, such as staying inside at dusk, Myers said.

By Morgan Watkins

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Skin cancer vs vitamin D

REMEMBER when we used to lie out in the sun for hours covered in coconut oil?

If you can, you're pre-skin cancer warnings now appear regularly on our TV and billboards.

Slip, slop, slap is the message we've being given.

But, with vitamin D deficiency more common, many people are also wondering if the sun protection message is affecting their health in other ways.

The sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is both the major cause of skin cancer and the best source of vitamin D, according to the Cancer Council Australia.

"We need to balance the risk of skin cancer from too much sun exposure with maintaining adequate vitamin D levels," it says.

"Sensible sun protection does not put people at risk of vitamin D deficiency."

Why we need vitamin D and how we get it

Vitamin D keeps bones and muscles strong, as well as keep our immune system robust.

Low blood levels of the vitamin have been associated increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment in older adults, severe asthma in children and cancer.

Research suggests that vitamin D could play a role in the prevention and treatment of a number of different conditions, including type 1 and type 2 diabetes, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and multiple sclerosis.

Vitamin D forms in the skin when it is exposed to UV from sunlight.

It can also be obtained from some foods such as fish, egg yolks and fortified dairy and grain products.

Who's most at risk from vitamin D deficiency

Naturally dark skinned people, people who cover their skin for religious or cultural reasons, the elderly and people who are housebound or in institutional care, babies and infants of vitamin D deficient mothers, people with osteoporosis and those who suffer from milk allergies or adhere to a strict vegetarian diet may all be short on vitamin D.

Certain medical problems, including Crohn's disease, cystic fibrosis, and celiac disease, can also affect your ability to absorb vitamin D from the food you eat.

GET THE FACTS

Measuring Vitamin DThe most accurate way to measure how much vitamin D is in your body is the 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test.  

How much sun is enough?

A study by St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney; the Garvan Institute of Medical Research, and the University of NSW suggests that exposure of 5 to 15 minutes of sunlight four to six times a week, outside of the hours of 10am - 2pm, is the best way to boost vitamin D.

By Helen Hawkes

Sunday, September 30, 2012

What to Teach Your Kids When it Comes to Exercise

With millions of obese people in the United States and this number growing each year, it is more important than ever to teach children how to exercise properly and make working out a consistent part of their daily lives.

Teach Through Actions

If it is important to you, it will be important to your kids. Children mimic their parents, so teaching through action is the best way to show your kids how to live. Regular exercise is not only healthy for you but for your child as they begin to learn how and why they should exercise. Involve your kids when you are working out and as you train them, explain why exercise is so important. This is one of the greatest gifts you can give your kids.

Start Out Slow

If you are heavy into weight lifting and working out, keep in mind that children are still growing and developing. There are certain exercises that kids should avoid at varying ages. The younger you start training your kids to workout, the more likely they are to always exercise. Begin slowly, even though you may want to jump right into YOUR routine, your children's muscles are not developed as yours are. Try walking/jogging short distances, some easy yoga and biking to begin with.

Do Everything in Moderation

Teach your kids that everything should be done in moderation, even exercise. Never use phrases like "I'm so fat" or "I wish I were thin!", kids remember everything and when they hear you say these things, it stays with them. Use positive comments such as "I'm doing much better this week than the last" or "I feel great when I exercise".

Don't Give Up

If you don't meet your goals one week, there is always the next! Show your children that just because you don't attain your goals this time, doesn't mean it won't happen. The only way it won't happen is if you give up. Teach your kids to stick with exercising and this will apply to other things in their lives.

Your actions will dictate what your children do in life. Make each lesson count when it comes to exercise and it will carry over into other areas.

Robyn Sorenson is a fitness buff, mother of 2 and writer. Her website bodybuildingdream.com is a place where people can go to find information about exercise and fitness.

By Robyn Sorenson