Women Health and Environment

Stronger Bones

2007-05-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

For many people, healthy bones fall into that category of things to deal with "when the time comes." In fact, we rarely even think about our bones-until we break one. Clearly, by waiting until orthopedic problems occur (usually in the later seasons of life), we severely limit our options for improvement.

We tend to think of our bones as unchanging because they are hard. However, bones do change in response to a number of things, such as exercise, nutritional status, and injury. Just like our other tissues, our bone tissue constantly renews and repairs itself.

Bone is made of a protein called collagen, which is arranged in a mesh or matrix. Minerals in our bodies, in the form of salts (such as calcium phosphate, magnesium, sodium, and potassium salts) are incorporated into the matrix and make it hard. Calcium is the major mineral in our bones, and bones serve as the body's calcium "reservoir." In fact, over 99 percent of the body's calcium is located in the skeleton and teeth.

The density of our bones is affected by age, heredity, sex hormones, physical activity, diet, lifestyle choices, and some medications. In women, 99 percent of total bone mineral content has been deposited by the time the early twenties hit. Bone density slowly builds until around age 30 at which point bone formation and bone breakdown are balanced. After menopause, however, bone loss exceeds bone formation leading to an overall decline in bone density. Men don't experience this decrease as early, but some men may show decreased bone density by age 50. By age 65 or 70, men and women lose bone mass at similar rates. Once bone is lost, it cannot be completely replaced.

Breast Cancer Risk Raised by Hormone Replacement Therapy

2007-04-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Research on two continents has signaled more bad news for hormone replacement therapy, taken for at least five years, may make ovarian cancer more likely offering the strongest evidence yet that the drugs can raise the risk of breast cancer and are tied to a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer. But doctors stressed that younger women who need the drugs to relieve serious symptoms of menopause should still consider taking them because new, lower-dose formulations are available and doctors now know to prescribe them for shorter periods of time.

The finding comes from Valerie Beral, M.D., and colleagues with the U.K. Million Women Study. They invited more than a million women living in Britain to take part in the study, starting in 1996. Dr Valerie Beral and colleagues at the Cancer Research UK Epidemiology Unit in Oxford, said their findings suggested that that as many as 1,000 extra women in Britain had died from ovarian cancer between 1991 and 2005 because they were using hormone replacement therapy.
Based on those findings, the researchers write that "since 1991, use of HRT has resulted in some 1,300 additional ovarian cancers and 1,000 additional deaths from the malignancy in the U.K." However, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine notes that short-term HRT use probably isn't harmful for women using HRT to ease menopause symptoms.

"The effect of HRT on ovarian cancer should not be viewed in isolation, especially since use of HRT also affects the risk of breast and endometrial cancer," Dr Beral's team wrote. "The total incidence of these three cancers in the study population is 63 percent higher in current users of HRT than never users," they added. "Thus when ovarian, endometrial and breast cancer are taken together, use of HRT results in a material increase in these common cancers."

Stopping hormone use may have stopped some cancers from growing and caused them to disappear, scientists speculate. Or it may have just slowed them down so that they will not appear until years later, said Ahmedin Jemal, a researcher with the American Cancer Society. Only time will tell which is true, he said.

Preventing Cold and Flu Viruses

2006-12-01T18:22:00.000-08:00

Cold and flu germs are inhaled with every breath we take. Even in the warm and sunny months of the year, these germs are taken in. So why do we continually get colds and flu? Our body's immune system works hard to try and fight off these unwanted cold and flu viruses.

When a person gets sick, they slow down and will more than likely stay home in hope that they will get better and be able to return to their daily activities soon.
Is it just bad luck that a person can get a cold or flu as many people think? Well, extensive research tells us differently. It has been proven that some things can be done to prevent cold and flu viruses. Becoming a willing host is not one of them.

For the immune system to become stronger, there are four key categories to consider: Sleep, nutrition, exercise and stress management.
If a person loses sleep their body is unable to repair and restore all of its functions, including the immune system. We all know this from first-hand experience: just a couple of poor nights sleep and before you know it, we find ourselves fighting off a sore throat or cold. This is what is known as being a willing host.

Foods can contribute significantly to better immune function. All the necessary anti-oxidants can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables. Chicken soup, garlic, green tea, mushrooms and cayenne pepper are all recommended for preventing and fighting off cold and flu viruses.
Several herbal supplements and naturopathic remedies stimulate immune system function. Ginseng and Echinacea have been found to be of benefit after being tested in several clinical trials. These products are very well known because they have a good reputation for working, and they are available in health food stores and pharmacies.

There are other nutritional products that can be beneficial in preventing cold and flu viruses. They are vitamins A, C, E, zinc, astragals, aloe vera and beta-glucan.
Junk foods and sugar should not be part of your diet if you are trying to prevent cold and flu viruses. Other harmful addictive substances and tobacco can damage the body's immune system.
Exercise is also a highly significant and well-known method of preventing colds and flu. People, who run often and participate regularly in any form of exercise, very rarely get any type of cold or flu virus.

Excessive levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, can be associated with some cancers, post-traumatic stress disorder, Type two diabetes, anxiety and depression. Health practitioners recommend natural stress management strategies as an important part of maximum health.

For the most part, it is the simple yet practical choices that we make which will determine whether one will come down with any type of cold or flu virus. A person cannot get more natural remedies for preventing any type of cold and flu viruses than, plenty of sleep, good diet, and the right amount of exercise and stress management. Not to mention that they are known to work, and there are no negative side effects.

SIDS: 8 Ways To Reduce The Risk Of This Silent Killer

2006-11-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

It is any parent's worst nightmare. This one devastating condition can bring so much fear and anxiety to parents around the world. It is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the diagnosis for the sudden death of an infant under one year of age that remains unexplained after a complete investigation. It is the leading cause of death in infants between one month and one year of age. African American babies are at a higher risk than Caucasian babies, and more boys are victims than girls.

Some of the risk factors for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome are:
• Babies who sleep on the stomach rather than their back are more likely to die of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
• Mothers that smoke during pregnancy are three times more likely to have a baby die of it. Also, babies exposed to tobacco smoke have been shown to have a higher risk.
• Mothers who are under the age of 20 for their first pregnancy have a higher risk of their baby dying of it.
• Low birth weight or premature babies are at higher risk.

No one knows for sure what causes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Some scientists believe that these babies are born with an abnormality in the brain stem that controls breathing and waking during sleep. The abnormalities could come from toxic substances during pregnancy, such as tobacco smoke. This can reduce the amount of oxygen the fetus receives. These scientists also believe that this abnormality alone is not enough to cause death. Other factors involved must trigger a death, such as respiratory infections and breathing excess carbon monoxide trapped in bedding when sleeping on their stomachs. A normal infant's brain would trigger the baby to wake and begin to cry, causing it's breathing pattern back to normal. A baby with a flawed brain stem, however, might lack this protective mechanism and succumb to this horrible condition.

What Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Is:
• The major cause of death in infants from one month to one year of age, with most deaths occurring between 2 and 4 months
• Silent and sudden - the infant seems healthy before death
• Unpredictable and unpreventable
• An infant death that leaves intense grief for parents and family

What Sudden Infant Death Is Not:
• Caused by vomiting and choking
• Caused by minor illnesses such as colds or infections
• Contagious
• Child abuse
• The cause of every unexpected death of an infant

8 Ways To Reduce The Risk:
1. Be sure you get early prenatal care, including frequent doctor visits and healthy nutrition. Don't use drugs or alcohol.
2. Use a firm mattress in the crib or bassinet. Do not put fluffy blankets, comforters, or sheep skin under or over the baby. Also no stuffed toys or pillows in the crib.
3. Always put your baby to sleep on his back.
4. Avoid too much heat in the baby's room. Adjust the temperature to what is comfortable for you, and don't overdress your baby at nighttime.
5. Take your baby to the doctor for scheduled well-baby visits and immunizations.
6. Never smoke around your baby or allow anyone else to smoke around your baby.
7. Breastfeed your baby, if possible, to get him off on a strong, healthy start.
8. Encourage your baby to have plenty of tummy time. This helps strengthen neck, arm, and shoulder muscles.

The Top 4 Medicinal Mushrooms for Long Term Health

2006-11-27T18:59:00.000-08:00

The immune system is one of the most complex parts of the human body, protecting us from colds, flu and a host of other viral, parasitic and bacterial pathogens. Some experts go so far as to believe that the immune system is the entire body, that all body parts and systems work together synergistically to protect the whole organism. Most people are familiar with herbs such as Echinacea and Ginseng to strengthen the immune system, but we don't usually think about the proven power of medicinal mushrooms for long term immune health. In fact, until recently many in the West associated all mushrooms with poison!

Many mushrooms have therapeutic value and a vast amount of research shows how they profoundly affect the immune system, but the top four to power up your body's defenses are Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, and Cordyceps.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) mushroom is considered in Traditional Chinese Medicine to be one of the best tonics of the herbal kingdom. A tonic is defined as a herb that strengthens and enlivens either specific organs or the whole body. Reishi has strong anti-allergenic properties and inhibits inflammation by reducing the release of histamine, a major inflammatory compound. Reishi supports the immune system by regulating the level of antibodies known as immunoglobulins and increasing the immune system's destruction of tumor cells. It also reduces joint inflammation and protects and supports the heart, liver, stomach, lungs and kidneys.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) mushroom contains important cancer preventive properties. It also increases immune system activity against bacteria. Shiitake works by augmenting the levels of specific white blood cells, such as granulocytes and lymphocytes. Shiitake slows or prevents the rate of re-infection by herpes virus.

Maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushroom has a balancing effect on the immune system that makes it is particularly helpful for people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Maitake has powerful anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties. It is a broad spectrum immune enhancer, increasing macrophage, cytotoxic T-cell, and Natural Killer cell activity.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) mushroom is the great "strengthener" in Chinese medicine that supports the lungs, liver, and kidneys. Because it also enhances physical stamina and mental energy it is useful in cases of exhaustion and long term illnesses. Cordyceps has been shown to increase Natural Killer cell activity by up to 230%.

Western interest in medicinal mushrooms is exploding with clinical trials proceeding in numerous universities and research centers. And no wonder. Mushrooms, especially the top four described here, are effective, safe and relatively inexpensive compared to pharmaceutical alternatives. So don't forget the misunderstood mushroom - your immune system will thank you.

Bad Breath Can be Treated and Prevented

2006-11-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

From time to time, most adults suffer bad breath and the condition that causes bad breath is called Halitosis. In fact, statistics reveal that up to 25 per cent of adults suffer from halitosis. There are many reasons related to bad breath. Bad breath usually arises because of the breakdown of protein by bacteria in the mouth.

Most cases of bad breath are not serious and they usually relate to dental hygiene such as gum disease and periodontal diseases. After waking up, it is also common to have bad breath due to bacteria that is present in plaque (morning breath). The reason is that the mouth often dries out when we sleep and creates a fertile breeding ground for bacteria in plaque on the teeth and at the back of the tongue. As a result, the bacteria produces number of odors, including volatile sulphur compounds which are believed to be the main cause of bad breath.

Also, eating certain foods such as onion, garlic, pastrami and curries can also cause bad breath as the chemicals in the food enter the bloodstream but are breathed out through the mouth from the lungs. The elderly are also believed to suffer more from bad breath because of their reduced saliva production. Medications too contribute to bad breath as they can cause the mouth to be dry. These include antidepressants, diuretics and antihistamines. But according to medical studies, up to 10 per cent sufferers of halitosis may be due to a more serious underlying medical problem. The best way to ascertain if one has halitosis due to oral reasons is by going to dentist who will then use a halimeter to assess the condition. A specialised device designed to measure the volatile sulphur compounds, the halimeter measures the air that the patient blows into the machine through a straw-like tube. The machine then calibrates how much sulphur compound there is.

Most bad breath can be cured by having better oral and dental hygiene. In particular, it would be good to clean between the teeth with dental floss, wood sticks or an effective inter-dental brush. In fact, most people do not brush their teeth properly. On average, most people spend just 45 seconds brushing their teeth but in fact, they should take up to three minutes to cover all the tooth surfaces in their mouth. Many also do not realise that a toothbrush should be changed every three to four months.

Tongue cleaners are useful in removing the coat that build up on the surface of the tongue, possibly due to the mucus that drips down from the back of the nose. Cleaning the back of the tongue is also a good way to prevent bad breath. This can be done with a toothbrush. But those who feel discomfort when doing so may prefer to use a mouthwash. Other ways to prevent bad breath include drinking more fluids and rinse the mouth after eating milk products., fish and meat. More fresh and fibrous vegetables should also be consumed. Drinking excessive coffee should also be avoided.

Asthma: A Preventable Condition Without A Cure

2006-11-14T05:09:00.000-08:00

Asthma is a respiratory condition that, unfortunately, is becoming more common the world over. Today there are over 100 million sufferers world wide, and this figure is on the rise to the tune of 50% every decade.
Asthma can be defined as a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, that is characterized by spasm of the bronchi (airway tubes)with inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes leading to an over production of thick phlegm in the lung and airways.

This phlegm sets off a response within the body characterized by typical asthma symptoms such as chronic coughing (especially at night), wheezing, difficulty in breathing and the difficult expectoration of thick, sticky phlegm. If not treated immediately, breathing can be impeded to the point of respiratory failure.
There are certain factors that can predispose one to having asthma. A family history of asthma or some history of allergies, definitely increases your chances of having asthma.

If you were weaned and introduced to solid food at an early age (6 months or less)the chances of you having food allergies and possibly asthma as a consequence increases dramatically. This is due to an immature digestive system being asked to digest foods it is not capable of at that time.
This places a significant stress on the under developed immune system of the baby that can lead to allergies and asthma.

Another common food related factor are food additives such as food colorings and preservatives. These factors are especially problematic for an asthma sufferer as they are in virtually everything that we eat and drink. This places a cumulative daily stress on the already stressed immune system of the asthma sufferer.
Some other dietary factors worth considering are, excessive salt intake and its connection to asthma and asthma mortality rates and dairy products which are notorious for their ability to produce phlegm.

And then there are the obvious airborne environmental allergens that we are forced to contend with. Dust, dust mites, pollens, cockroach waste and pet hair as well as allergens like pesticides (to kill the cockroaches) cleaning chemicals, perfumes and fuels (gas, petrol) pollution (air, water). The list is endless.
And if that is not enough asthma can occur as a result of excessive exercise, cold temperature, sudden emotional upset and can also be a part of a viral infection, that can occur during the virus as well as post viral.

Treatment for asthma is based around a treatment program that attempts to lessen the symptoms medicinally, while simultaneously removing whatever allergy provoking substances are in the asthmatics environment.
Most people these days look to a combination of conventional medicine (puffers for example) and alternative/herbal medicine. The combination works especially well, with many traditional herbs such as Ephedra and Gingko Biloba having a long tradition of effectively treating asthma and respiratory disorders.

As far as removing asthma causing substances from the environment, this can be a difficult. The obvious methods revolve around adequate and appropriate cleaning. Appropriate cleaning would be cleaning that doesn't complicate things by introducing another toxic substance into the picture.
Some mould cleaners are known to irritate allergy and asthma sufferers, yet we need to remove the mould from the asthmatics environment.
Fortunately these days there are many products that have been created that take this into account. Always use hypo-allergenic cleaning products.

Dust must be removed. Regular vacuuming is a must. Preferably with a vacuum fitted with an air filter that will stop "micro dust" being put back into the air as you vacuum.
An air filtration system or at least a portable air filter would also help considerably.
Pets should never be allowed in the bedroom, and ideally not in the house, although many asthma sufferers are more likely to put up with their symptoms rather than cast out their pets.

Dietary measures that can help are as much as possible removing foods high in salt, preservatives, coloring, waxes and pesticides. Wherever possible, choose organically grown and processed foods.
If this is not practical, make a habit of gently washing your food before you eat it. A bit of a nuisance for sure, but it really doesn't take all that long and is easy enough to fit into your food preparation routine. And it can make a big difference to your over stressed immune system.

If you go to the bother of carrying out these changes you will be pleased to hear that you should experience a reduction in your asthma symptoms in as little as a month.
As far as what to eat or not eat when you have asthma, most research seems to be indicating that a "Vegan" diet (NO animal food products)is your best option as animal food products often have significant pesticide residues.
If this diet is too harsh and restrictive, and it will be for many, a general reduction of animal food products will help some. Your results will largely be determined by how bad your asthma is and how much of a vegan style diet you can live with. At the very least, you can reduce if not totally eliminate animal food products.

At this point in time there are more questions than answers when it comes to the causes of asthma. The biggest question is why are asthma rates doubling every 20 years?
It seems that as good as our current treatments for asthma are, we can increase their effectiveness dramatically if we practice some preventive care.
Perhaps we will never find a "cure" for asthma. As our world gets more and more complex in terms of the stress and strain we place on our bodies, the answer seems to move farther and farther away.

The most effective treatment for any disease is prevention. Knowing what we do about asthma and knowing the effect that environmental and emotional factors can have on our immune system, if we can begin to clean up our lives on all levels, this may be our best chance of finding the next best thing to a cure for asthma. Permanent prevention.

Prostate Cancer - A Case for Early Detection

2006-11-12T18:05:00.000-08:00

Prostate Cancer, it seems, is one of the most common forms of cancer in men. Some of the platitudes served up in hopes of calming your fears, are just plain dumb. Things like "More men die with prostate cancer than from it" or "It's one of the best cancers to get-it's so slow growing". NONSENSE. Cancer is cancer and NONE of it is good. A positive diagnosis always hits hard, especially if cancer has never been a factor in your family medical history.

It is recommended that males reaching the age of fifty should have a 'PSA' (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test on an annual basis. The 'PSA' test can be affected by a number of internal factors and is NOT a definitive indication that prostate cancer is present. An increase in 'PSA' level should simply act as a red flag that further tests might be advantageous.

On the upside, further testing can show the presence of Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) which is an enlargement of the prostate. Both can normally be treated with prescriptions.
On the downside, further tests may show the presence of cancer. A 'PSA' reading of 4 or less is usually acceptable to most doctors. Any significant jump in 'PSA' level should trigger additional tests.

One such test is known as a Trans Rectal Ultrasound. This test lasts approximately 25 minutes and consists of the insertion of a special camera into a part of the body designed for the expulsion of those portions of our food not required by the body. The camera is attached to a computer screen, allowing the doctor to visually examine the prostate and has an opening through which is inserted a spring loaded rod. This enables him to take a tissue sample directly from the prostate (a biopsy) which is then analyzed in a lab for the presence of cancer. Be advised-it sounds a lot worse than it actually is-NOT at all painful, but, yes, not comfortable and probably mostly embarrassing. However, it can be a life saver.

Results normally arrive within 10 days and can vary. Good news-no cancer. Really bad news-cancer which has erupted from the prostate, spilling cancer cells into the blood stream.
However, there can be good news and bad news--cancer is present, but it is still contained within the prostate, and this is the main thrust of this article.
At this point, Specialists become involved, usually a Radiologist and a Urologist. Do not assume that either one will lay out all possible treatment options available to you for your situation.

The Radiologist will lay out options involving radiation as a treatment for your cancer. There are several available and the intensity usually depends on the stage your cancer has reached at the time of diagnosis. Discuss these in detail, making sure you are made aware of the possible side effects of each. Some involve surgery, some do not.
The Urologist will outline your situation and the procedures involved in the surgical removal of the prostate. Should you opt for this procedure, find a Urologist capable of performing "nerve sparing" surgery.

Nerve sparing surgery is very delicate and involves the stimulation of the nerves that control bladder and sexual functions so as to locate them where they surround the prostate. Once located, they can be shaved away from the prostate before it is removed. Even with the nerves only saved on one side, the prognosis for recovery of full bladder control and upwards of 75% of sexual function is excellent. This is not the case if the prostate is simply removed.

Some Recommendations:
1. When you reach 50, have an annual 'PSA' test
2. If there is a family history, start at 40 (or earlier)
3. Depending on where you live, there may be a fee. PAY IT. The investment is worth it if you value living
4. If not satisfied with initial recommendations, get another opinion (or a third)
5. Get complete information before making a decision. What treatments are available? What side effects are possible? What results can be expected?
6. Ask any and all questions you can think of
7. Share your diagnosis with family and close friends.This support group can ease your tensions considerably. If you are not comfortable with this, support groups consisting of survivors and others with the same diagnosis are available in many communities.

Prostate cancer, if undetected, ultimately spreads in many cases to the bones and bone cancer from all reports is extremely painful. It is normally treated with massive doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation with their attendant hair loss, bloating and nausea. The prognosis is never bright.
That bullet called cancer CAN be dodged.

The secret: EARLY DETECTION through annual testing

Health Benefits of Green Tea

2006-11-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Green tea has been around for thousands of years and is more popular than ever. For centuries green tea has been a staple in the diets of many families around the world. And the benefits of this beverage are not just limited to a pleasant drinking taste. Numerous scientific studies have shown that green tea has numerous health benefits and that drinking it can improve your health.

The idea of health benefits related to green tea consumption has been discussed for years. Eastern medicine recognized the benefits of green tea thousands of years ago with Asian families passing down these beliefs through many generations. There are few beverages with such impressive health benefits as green tea. And now it seems the rest of the world has discovered this secret.

As discussed previously, the benefits of green tea are many and far-reaching. The potential health benefits of drinking green tea vary from preventing bad breath to protecting the heart to protecting against some forms of cancer. Many of the benefits attributed to green tea are largely due to its high content of antioxidants. The health benefits of green tea are varied in large part due to its chemical makeup which has a positive effect on so many different bodily systems. Of course the most publicized benefits revolve around anticancer activities, cardiovascular benefits and even the potential of lowering LDL cholesterol levels.

Besides substantial health claims, green tea has been said to aid in weight loss efforts. It appears that much of the fat loss benefits claimed regarding green tea lies in its thermogenic effects. Whether searching for health benefits, weight loss, or both, some studies have recommended as many as ten cups per day to see benefits. Because green tea contains caffeine, this may pose a problem for some people. Decaffeinated green tea is available but that could cancel some of the thermogenic properties if weight loss is the goal. Health food stores also offer capsules as an alternative to drinking the tea although the health benefits may differ.

As with other types of food and drink, organic teas are becoming recognized as a healthy choice with consumers. Many believe that the organic versions are healthier options while providing environmental benefits. In grocery stores everywhere, the tea aisle has become an absolute joy for organic food shoppers. In addition, it is easy to find a variety of sources on the internet of quality organic green tea.

Of course, health decisions should not be based on this information alone. It is prudent to check with a medical practitioner on the potential benefits of including green tea in the diet. A medical professional, an herbalist, or local bookstore can provide complete information about the proven and perceived benefits of green tea. As another resource, the internet is loaded with information and resources on green tea.

Green tea is one of the most popular herbal supplements in the world. Adopting tea drinking as a new habit can be quite challenging but the potential health benefits could prove to be phenomenal.

How to choose a pediatrician

2006-11-02T00:17:00.000-08:00

Choosing a pediatrician for your child requires much consideration because the child-parent-doctor relationship lasts from babyhood until adolescence.

Who is a pediatrician?
A pediatrician is a doctor who has specialized medical training caring for babies, children and adolescents. There are general pediatricians but also specialized ones such as pediatric cardiologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, gastroenteritis, developmental experts etc.
Many childhood conditions are managed by your general practitioner. However they will refer you to a pediatrician when necessary. Provided your child is not rushed to hospital for emergency treatment, you will have time to choose a pediatrician. Here are some of the issues for you to consider:

How to find a pediatrician.
Even though your general practitioner may refer you to a particular doctor, you will want to ask around. Often the best way is through word of mouth from other parents, friends or family.You could also Google doctors in your region and check their experience, speciality and research.

Location of practice.
Check what is the distance to your pediatrician from your home or work? Is there easy public transport? Is there a car park nearby?
What are the hours of practice? Who covers over the weekends, after-hours or for emergency back-up?

Type of practice.
Is it a solo or a group practice where there is a mix of recently trained pediatricians with latest knowledge and also older pediatricians with many years of experience?
Are there both male and female pediatricians and do you have a personal preference?
What languages do they speak?
Has the pediatrician special privileges at the hospital covered in your Health Plan?
What is the fee structure?

Little things which tell you about the general management of the practice and their concern for patients are; how old are the magazines in the waiting room? Are there children's books and small sized furniture? Available drinking water? Boxes of tissues? What is the telephone manner of the receptionist when you made the appointment?

Preparing for your visit.
Take pen and paper to write questions or to jot down notes. It is easy to forget information when under pressure or if your child is upset.

• Write down the reason for your visit and your concerns.
• Write down all your questions you want to ask.
• Make a list of all the medications taken by your child; standard and alternative. Note the dose and how often it is taken.
• Notes about your child\'s eating habits and diet.
• Notes about your child\'s behaviour.
• Make a list of complementary therapies.
• Take along your child\'s health record booklet if you have it.

During the visit.
Many doctors now expect their patients to have used the Internet to increase their knowledge re disorders and illnesses. Not everything is accurate so the pediatrician may ask you how much you understand about the disorder.

Write down anything which you believe is important or you might forget. Depending on the reason for your child to see a pediatrician, you will want to understand about various treatment options, drug regimes and their side effects, future implications, referral to allied health therapies such as physiotherapist or speech/language pathologists etc.

After the visit.
How well did the pediatrician communicate with both you and your child? Were your questions answered with patience and care? Do you trust the knowledge and skills of the pediatrician?

If you are unhappy about the pediatrician, you are able to seek a second opinion or discuss the issues with your general practitioner. It may be the case that the pediatrician has excellent knowledge and surgical skills but poor communication.
Ideally you are looking for someone whom you can trust with their knowledge and subsequent care of your child. You are also wanting someone who communicates well with both you and your child so that each visit is as friendly and productive as possible. It is a special child-parent-doctor relationship.

Tips On How To Maintain Proper Posture To Avoid Chronic Back Pain

2006-10-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

Chronic back pain is not just an affliction of the elderly and increasingly, younger people are suffering from it.

Chronic back pain is commonly described as deep, aching, dull or burning pain in one area of the back or travelling down the legs, chronic back pain may manifest itself as numbness, tingling, burning, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the legs.
Chronic back pain is usually non-specific. Back pain used to be associated with old age but increasingly numbers of young men and women suffer from chronic back pain. The estimated yearly prevalence of back pain ranges from 15 to 20 per cent in the United States and from 25 to 45 per cent in European countries. For 40 per cent of patients suffering back pain, four out of 10 experience a recurrence within a year or two. Other important identifying factors of chronic back pain include obesity and smoking.
To treat chronic back pain, the symptoms and signs must be identified.

Tips on how to maintain proper posture to avoid your back from being hurt, take care your posture when sitting, standing or even driving.

Standing:
1. Try to keep with the natural curves in your back at all times
2. Wear comfortable shoes with good arch support
3. If you are standing for long periods of time, change positions and try to place one foot on a stool or low shelf. This takes the strain off the lower back.
4. Don't stand in one place for too long
5. Don't bend forward with straight legs

Sitting:
1. Avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time as it causes postural strain
2. Take frequent breaks to stand and stretch
3. Place both feet flat on the floor when sitting
4. Avoid crossing your legs as it can lead to an imbalance in the pelvis
5. Sit back on the chair as it is important to give your back proper support
6. Adjust your chair so that your knee is slightly higher than your hip;otherwise use a footrest.

Driving:
1. Move your seat forward until your thighs rest comfortably on the seat and your feet are on the pedals
2. Lift the headrest upwards until it is right behind the back of your head
3. Sit upright against the back of the seat
4. Keep both hands on the wheel
5. Don't sit too far backs as reaching for the steering wheel or pedals puts strain on the spine

The Basics of Homeopathy

2006-10-09T18:08:00.000-07:00

Homeopathy is a system of medicinal treatment founded by Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician. He published a paper in 1796 in which he promulgated his principle that "likes are cured by likes". This principle is known as "Law of Similars". Hahnemann claimed that quinine, a medicine widely used for successful treatment of malaria, produced symptoms of malaria in a healthy person. The patients of malaria were treated with a medicine which created the same symptoms as those created by the disease. The observations with quinine and other medicines led Hahnemann to his "Law of Similars".

Four years later Hahnemann advanced his doctrine of "potentization of dynamization" which stated that medicines in small doses effectively exerted their curative power.
The homeopathic system of treatment is based on these two principles - Law of Similars and Potentization.

Potentization is a process by which medicine is diluted in precise steps and subjected to "succussion" (a vigorous shaking action). This process brings about an energetic change that gives medicines a deeper curative effect. Repeated dilution ensures that the medicine has no toxic effect. This allows homeopathic use of many substances which would be unsafe under normal conditions.

Traditionally homeopathic treatment is done to cure the disorders, not just the symptoms. Any physical and emotional disorder produces certain symptoms in the body. In many cases different ailments produce similar symptoms. As a part of the treatment the medicines are prescribed to eliminate the causes of disease or discomfort. If two patients have similar problems, they may still require different medicines depending upon their habits and many other factors. Medicines of higher potency is generally given only after the cause of the disease is established.

Homeopathy is relatively young - just over 200 years old. New medicines and treatments are constantly being evolved and documented. Such research studies are called "provings". As a result of these research studies, Homeopathy is used in a wide variety of health conditions.

Homeopathic medicines do not work strictly by chemical action. At higher potency the medicine is diluted so much that concentration of original medicine reduces to insignificant level. Yet the medicines not only work, they are more effective at higher potency. "Potentization" process brings energetic change in the medicine. In turn the medicine stimulates the body's defense mechanism to fight the cause of disorder. This approach produces more stable cure as compared to treatment with drugs. Direct chemical action of the drugs often produce harmful side effects. Homeopathic medicines on the other hand have no or little side effects. They are safe and non-toxic.

Two centuries of existence has firmly established homeopathy. It is accepted form of treatment in many parts of the world. However, the theory of homeopathy is inconsistent with known laws of science, therefore the critics often dismiss it as pseudoscience and quackery.

Homeopathy has thrived on the basis of its results. Its medicines have relatively slow but lasting effects. It is not trusted to meet emergency situations, but it is extremely useful in many other situations.

Five Things You Must Do when Traveling with Older Parents

2006-10-01T23:25:00.000-07:00

Traveling with your parents can be a wonderful experience if you plan well ahead. Here are five things you must do to ensure that you and your parents will have a great vacation.

1. Ensure that the itinerary is not too fast paced.
Old folks tend to get tired easily and thus it is not advisable to include activities that are too strenuous. It is also not advisable to pack too many activities in the itinerary such that you and your parents have to rush from one place to another.

2. Ensure that everyone has ample sleep
Plan to have at least six to eight hours of sleep for you and your parents for each day of your vacation. Try to avoid having any more activities after 11 p.m. Prepare some hot water for your parents to soak their legs before bed time if there is a fair amount of walking in the day.

3. Have ample supply of their medication
If your parents are suffering from diabetes, asthma, hypertension, high cholesterol or any other illness, make sure you obtain ample supply of medication from their doctors to last for the whole trip. To ensure that you remember to bring the medication, create a checklist of things to bring and put their medication among the top five items on that list. As a safety precaution, ask them to carry a medical record of their illness and contact details in case you are not around when they need medical attention.

4. Healthy diet
Most old people do not take heavy meals and thus you need to plan for multiple light and healthy meals that are low on salts, oil and sugars but high in fiber. Always have a sandwich or high fiber biscuits in your bag in case they get hungry and there isn't a snack bar in the vicinity. Also make sure that you and your parents drink a lot of water to prevent dehydration.

5. Bring along a first aid travel pack.
Your first aid travel pack should contain medication for fever and diarrhea, cold symptoms and giddiness. It should also include a thermometer, tweezers, sharp scissors, safety pins, adhesive bandages, sterile gauze, adhesive tape and antiseptic wipes. While this list is not exhaustive, the stocks in the travel pack should be enough to cater to most conditions that require general first aid assistance. Do check the expiry date for those medications that you bring along to ensure that they are safe for consumption.

Traveling with your parents need not be a hassle as long as you plan ahead and take care of their needs. Involve them in all the activities along the way and remember to have fun!

Dealing With the Problem of Headaches

2006-09-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

It is rare to find someone who claims never to have suffered from a headache. On the other hand some people have headaches every day.
Several research studies over the past 20 years indicate that about 40 to 50 percent of headaches originate somewhere in the upper back or neck. This obviously is not in the head, and is why chiropractors and other manual therapists have a steady stream of patients who consult for this common problem.

Obviously there are many more causes. The good news is that most of these other causes are lifestyle dependent. Meaning that our choices in either what we eat or what we do are able to offer us help.

We are bombarded with the pharmaceutical industry's tablets for headache symptoms, and as you may know, this is big business for them, to the tune of billions of dollars. Great for them, but not so good for the individual.

Therefore let us consider a different approach to dealing with a headache as a symptom, based on the evidence.

Eye strain can cause headaches. Based on studies that have found that workers who spent more than 11 hours per week in front of a computer were 50 percent more likely to suffer from weekly headaches. Solution, limit computer time and/or get more active.

Alcoholic beverages, especially red wine and beer are implicated with some headache sufferers who are sensitive to histamines. Cheese, chocolate, refined carbohydrates, Chinese food, coffee and food additives; such as nitrates and aspartame are implicated for others. People with specific food allergies often get a headache with ingestion of the offending food.

Other telltale signs are either a postural mal-alignment; such as, forward head posture, or restricted joint mobility in the cervical vertebrae. These are usually easily corrected through spinal adjustments and corrective postural retraining exercises. Once corrected, many people find that what they originally thought was the problem (such as eye strain), was not the problem after all.

This may surprise some, but many researchers are now warning that one common cause of a headache is called MOH - medication overuse headache. This simply means that a persons headaches are caused from consuming too much medication designed to give relief.
Many medications that are commonly prescribed for many functional health problems such as; high cholesterol, hormone replacement therapy and depression, list headaches as common side effects.

There is no substitute for choosing a healthy lifestyle. Aim for seven hours sleep nightly. Sleep deprivation and snoring are linked with headaches.
Regular exercise is associated with a lowered tendency to headache. Ask anyone who is regular with cardiovascular exercise and they will tell you that one primary benefit is feeling healthy and energetic; with few headaches, among other positive health benefits.

Runners and others who are very active know that regular participation demands that you take care with your lifestyle choices. You must drink enough water, avoid junk food, eat nutritionally (snack regularly), and not pollute your body with common contaminants such as; cigarette smoke, household chemicals, cleaning supplies and garden pesticides.

There is no such thing as having a normal number of headaches. They are all a warning that something is not right. Try the lifestyle approach, taking things one step at a time, and see what changes. Consulting with a more holistic health care practitioner should help figure out what other potential causes might be lurking around.

Are you risking Diabetes?

2006-09-27T04:41:00.000-07:00

Diabetes is disease which is affecting more and more lives all around the globe. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 200 million people are suffering from it. If you are suffering from diabetes it is important for you to know that. Your general practitioner will be able to help you.
If you are free of diabetes try to stay free by living healthy. Eat healthy food and do not over eat. Try a minimum of half an hour of exercise daily.
Diabetes can be a very disabling disease with a chronic nature. Generally speaking diabetes can be very hard on your body.

Diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels either form inadequate secretion of the hormone insulin, an inadequate response from target cells to insulin or a combination of these factors.It's a metabolic disease requiring medical diagnosis, treatment and a life long lifestyle change.

People who have an above average risk of getting diabetes are people over 45 years old. Also people with overweight are have an above average risk at developing diabetes.
Does that basically mean that if you are younger than 45 and have a normal weight you are out of the danger zone.
Unfortunately this is not the case. Everybody can develop diabetes.

Some potential risk indicators for developing diabetes are:
1. You are above 45
2. Your belly size is over 102 cm (men) and 88 cm (women)
3. You do not exercise more than half an hour daily (walking,cycling,swimming,gardening)
4. You are using medicine for high blood pressure
5. In the past you have been diagnosed at least once for a high blood sugar levels. For instance during a pregnancy or illness.
6. diabetes type 1 ("juvenile diabetes") or type 2 ("adult onset diabetes") occurs in your family

If you think you are at risk do not hesitate to consult your doctor.

And surely if you are healthy try to stay that way by doing exercises and keeping your weight at a healthy level by thinking carefully before you eat. Obviously it is not possible to elaborate more about the disease in this short article. However there are my useful sources you can easily find on the Internet or in your local library. But most important if you have any questions or any reasonable doubt about your own health situation or the health of your loved ones please consult a doctor. He or she will be ably informed about the diagnoses and treatment options.

Control Your Diabetes

2006-09-25T02:14:00.000-07:00

Diabetes is a killer disease. It can lead to kidney failure, heart disease, neuropathy, blindness, and much more. If you have diabetes, you must take control of it immediately.

Type 1 diabetes is the hardest type to control. It is also called juvenile diabetes, as it is common to get type 1 diabetes when you are a child.
In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, which is needed to take sugar (glucose) from the blood to the cells. This results in very high blood sugar counts and this is the major cause of many of the serious complications that may develop.
A person with Type 1 diabetes needs to take insulin shots to lower the blood sugar. Diabetics need to have an insulin called a background insulin, which works throughout the day. Then they need to take extra insulin after eating a meal.

An insulin pump gives the constant background insulin. It also allows the diabetic to easily give themselves extra insulin when they eat and cuts down on the need for insulin shots from a needle.

However, diabetics must test their blood sugar levels four or five times a day and make whatever adjustments need to be made. The normal testing times are before breakfast, lunch, dinner and bed. The amount of insulin to take with each meal will be determined by a combination of these readings plus the food eaten.
Sugar highs and lows wear down the body. The key is to try to control these up and down readings the best you can. The insulin pump helps tremendously but diet is very important.

Follow the glycemic index when eating. This index rates foods according to the way these foods react to your blood sugar. If the carbohydrates the food contains break down quickly, they tend to make your blood sugar levels jump quickly. These foods have a high GI (glycemic index) ranking.

For example, a potato has a high GI ranking. The carbohydrates break down very quickly and cause your blood sugar to rise quickly.
Beans have a low GI index, so the blood sugar effects are spread out over a longer period of time. You do not get the rapid sugar rise.

Diabetics, in particular, need to learn to balance these foods to avoid those highs and lows. If you are having potatoes, for example, try eating a sweet potato instead or combine some low GI ranked foods with the potatoes to balance this sugar rise.

It's well worth it for diabetics to learn as much as they can about this glycemic index. The best diet for a diabetic to follow will be eating more of the foods with a low to medium glycemic index.

Other things the diabetic can do is snack on air popped popcorn rather than pretzels. Salt should be limited in the diet as the diabetic is at a greater risk for high blood pressure.
Eat broiled or grilled chicken rather than fried chicken. This also helps control blood pressure and cholesterol.

If you want to drink wine, drink it with a meal. There is less of an impact on blood sugar. However, do not over indulge. It can and will interfere with your medications.

Diabetes is a very dangerous disease and any diabetic definitely should be visiting a doctor on a regular basis. He or she will help manage your diabetes and will most likely advise a visit with a nutritionist.
Diabetes cannot be completely controlled but, with a change in diet and lifestyle, diabetics can help manage it and live a long life.

Lifestyle Change Will Lower High Blood Pressure

2006-09-22T01:27:00.000-07:00

One out of three American adults has high blood pressure or hypertension. High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" because people with this condition can go years without realizing they have it. The only way to tell is to have it checked by a doctor.

Taking the necessary steps to control high blood pressure includes a healthy diet, increased physical activity and lifestyle changes.

HEALTHY DIET
The key to preventing high blood pressure is moderation and a healthy lifestyle. More adults are overweight now than when their grandparents were young. Modern conveniences seem to add to the problem rather than to prevent it.
Sixty-five percent of American adults are overweight or obese. If you are 30 percent above your normal weight, you are a high risk. Take the necessary steps to lower your blood pressure.

First, make changes to your diet. Cut salt back to 1.5 grams a day. Add potassium to your diet by eating 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Eat whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts. Avoid canned foods, cold cuts, red meat, sugary beverages, and sweets. Choose lowfat dairy products.

INCREASE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Second, lose the weight. Light aerobic exercise 20 to 45 minutes 4-5 times a week will reduce your body fat.
Commit to walking after dinner or first thing in the morning. If it is hot outside, walk inside the mall or go swimming. If you do not have time to commit to a regular schedule, increase your physical activity by parking your car a good distance away and walk to your destination. Take a flight of stairs instead of the elevator, weed your garden, or cut the grass instead of having it done for you.

CHANGE LIFESTYLE
Did you know that your lifestyle could be killing you? We get so used to living a certain way that change can be difficult. However, your lifestyle can dramatically increase your chance of having high blood pressure so take the time to change your bad habits one by one.

a. Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. A moderate amount is one drink for women and two drinks for men.

b. Avoid Tobacco. Smoking, even second-hand smoke, is not good for anyone but especially those with high blood pressure. Ask your doctor for help. Inquire about nicotine gum or patches. If you smoke, your chance of suffering a heart attack is 2-6 times more likely.

c. Avoid Coffee. There is a new report that indicates that some unknown ingredient or ingredients in coffee is what is responsible for high blood pressure and not caffeine. Research shows that even people who drink decaffeinated coffee display these effects. While this might seem like good news, it is best to avoid it if at all possible.

We hear reports of people who drop dead, and this includes physically active and sedentary people alike. High blood pressure is the "silent killer". Have your blood pressure checked regularly. Make the necessary changes in your lifestyle and live a long healthy life!

How To Survive Hospitalization

2006-09-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hospital is a place of miracles and the unwavering attention of an unending staff of doctors, nurses and orderlies who eagerly put their own lives on hold to cater to our every need, medical and personal.
In TV hospitals, every room is a bright, airy private suite. Nurses' stations, hallways, elevators and labs are clean and perfect. The staff never yells in the halls (especially at night) or bang carts or gurneys into walls, beds or doors. And, of course, every nurse and doctor has memorized every patient chart and never make mistakes.

TV patients smile bravely or complain incessantly, treat the staff with friendly respect or rude dismissiveness – it doesn't matter, they have no active role in their own care. Instead, everything is in the hands of a perfect staff, each of whom speaks the native language perfectly.

In the real world, anyone believing this TV fantasy is reality is in for a rude shock; which is not to say there are not excellent hospitals and dedicated, skilled medical professionals working in them, but neither can come close to the Hollywood image.

It is the responsibility of every patient to take common sense steps to assist those caregivers, ensure a personal understanding of what is happening and deal with certain situations – at least initially – on their own. The first step is to create a journal, entering the date, time, individuals involved and details of everything that happens during your stay, from trips to X-ray to the nurse bringing you a pill.

Before going to the hospital, if possible, pack a "Sanity Survival Kit":
• A good sleep mask (the lights never really go out)
• A good set of ear plugs (the old days of quiet hospitals are long gone)
• Two sets of pajamas (light robe optional)
• One pair of slippers
• A notebook computer, with DVD drive, loaded with your favorite games, work you will obsess about if it's not done, projects you've been putting off, even some movies you’ve been planning to watch
• A DVD player (if you don't have a computer)
• An MP3 player loaded with your favorite songs (one that doubles as a radio is even better)
• A comfortable headset that will plug into everything, including the hospital TV or bedside controller
• A cell phone with headset
• An ink pen and notebook
• Magazines and paperbacks
• Packets of instant tea or coffee
• A spice bag (salt or salt-free substitute, pepper, sugar or substitute, packets of ketchup/mustard/mayo, Tabasco/soy/pepper sauce)
• Plastic toothpicks, the kind with built-in floss

The above can, of course, be provided or replenished as needed if you have someone who can bring things to you. If not, take enough to last a full week.

Entering a hospital room as a patient is not unlike climbing into an unfamiliar rental car. Just as the wise driver checks and adjusts the mirrors and locates light switches, the incoming patient should run through a hospital room checklist:
• Find the nurse call button, make certain it works and secure it (most have clips) where you can quickly find and use it in the dark
• Do the same with the bed controller
• Locate all electrical outlets and ask a nurse which you can use and for what
• Make sure your room phone is easy to reach – sitting or reclining – give a friend or relative the hospital phone number and your room number, find out if you have a private line or share it, what you will be charged for calls and how to dial out
• Check TV/radio controls and whether you have a private set or share it; if the latter, come to an agreement first thing on how you are going to share control – and deal with volume issues, whether you share a TV or each have your own
• Check out the bathroom, make sure you can get in and out (especially if you are dragging around an IV pole), locate the light switch, door lock and emergency call chain and check for a second door – in some facilities, two rooms share a single toilet; if there is no shower, have someone show you where to find one
• If your room opens onto a balcony or patio, ask a nurse about access, how to lock it for security, how to open and close any drapes or blinds and what the use regulations are (especially for smokers)
• If you are using any medical equipment (IV, oxygen, etc.), find out if and how you can disconnect or turn them on and off when walking to the restroom
• The hospital should take an inventory of your belongings and offer to lock up valuables; if they do not, ask about it and provide your own list
• Never leave anything of value in plain site (especially computers, cameras, watches, etc.) – neither you nor the staff has any control over other patients or visitors
• Make sure you have a box of tissues close by
• Request fresh water and ice at least twice a day
• Ask to have your tray table disinfected and cleaned in your presence; if you leave your room, have this procedure repeated – you have no way of knowing what, if anything, may have happened to that table while you were gone (visitors and even orderlies have been known to place soiled bed sheets on a tray table, then forget to clean it afterwards)
• Always use the paper toilet seat cover and always wash your hands afterward with sanitizing soap; remember, it isn't just you, but every other patient and visitor
• Check that all tables, drawers, chairs, etc., are in good shape and ask for replacements if not; some hospitals allow furniture that has fallen apart to remain in “service”
• Always check everything you want on your future meals menu, even if it says you will receive some items automatically; also check your selections against you actually get, especially if you have informed the dietary rep (who should have interviewed you on admission) of what you cannot eat or drink; it is not uncommon for foods clearly marked as forbidden due to allergies or medical restrictions to nonetheless be placed on your tray
• Write down the names and shifts of every nurse, orderly and other staff with whom you have contact
• Get the business card of any new doctor you see, then note what he or she said or did and the date and time of the encounter
• If not offered, insist your bedding be changed at least every two days and that you be allowed to take a shower or sponge bath every day (it is not unheard of for patients to spend up to a week in a hospital and never be offered an opportunity to bathe)
• Always tell a nurse or doctor about any unusual bleeding, bruising, itches or pains, both at the time you are admitted as well as any that develop while you are hospitalized
• If a doctor recommends or orders any invasive procedure, ask for a full explanation of why it is needed, what is involved, how long it will take to recover, what restrictions will be imposed during recuperation, what the risks are, if it is fully covered by your insurance – and then request a second opinion from a doctor of your choosing. Your insurance company should both insist on and support you in this (if not, find a new insurer). If a doctor balks or implies you should rely entirely on him or her, you definitely need a second opinion
• Before being released, pack or oversee the packing of your belongings, check everything against the list you made when admitted and immediately report any discrepancies
• Make certain your regular doctors get a full copy of your hospital record
• When the bills come – probably separately from the hospital, each doctor and every lab involved in your care – check them carefully against your journal and the cards you collected; billing errors are common (most of them honest mistakes) and should be reported immediately to your insurance carrier

This may seem like a lot of work, especially when all you want is to forget everything and have someone take care of you. Unfortunately, the best protection may be what you provide for yourself. But even if the actual need is rare, one or more of these steps may be the difference between a safe and secure hospitalization/recovery and something less.

But in all cases, common sense actions, such as locating your call button, are vital to making the best of an otherwise bad situation.

Diabetes - Important Points You Should Know

2006-08-29T04:56:00.001-07:00

Diabetes is sometimes a disease that has undiagnosed symptoms and many people are surprised at the physician's diagnosis. While it may not have symptoms that cause pain, the disease working in the background can have very serious consequences if left undetected. Please consider the heredity you have been given and educate yourself on the control and offsetting of the situation to overcome any predisposition to diabetes.

Some of the symptoms of diabetes include, but are not limited to:

1. Frequent bathroom trips
2. Excessive thirst
3. Extreme hunger
4. Unusual weight loss
5. Increased fatigue
6. Irritability
7. Blurry vision

Many people in the United States (over 20.8 million) have diabetes. A good estimate is that over 1/3 of these people are not yet diagnosed with diabetes. It is very important that these pre-diagnosis tests are done regularly so that early detection may help prevent serious consequences of the disease.

You may wonder if it is possible to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. After all, it can come from heredity, many people have it, it has been studied for years and you may feel if you are going to get it, then so be it. But, the symptoms are so random and often not noticed so that many pre-diabetics do not seek help. The two main components of preventing diabetes are those that will give you a lot of other benefits as well: exercise or just increasing your level of physical activity and proper nutrition in the diet.

You want to increase your fiber, your vegetables and proteins, and decrease your high sugar, high carbohydrate foods, and high fat foods. Even though it may seem daunting at first, you can make the proper choices with a little effort and proper planning.

Even people already diagnosed with diabetes and taking medication can sometimes revert to proper blood sugar levels with the addition of more, or consistent, physical activity and proper diet in their lives. Some studies have shown, in fact, that these two situations of diet and exercise can work as well as medications. Of course, you should not go off any medications unless you check with your physician first and have the proper normal readings on tests associated with diabetes levels.

Another important item to consider is an eye exam. This should be done every year to allow your doctor to catch any upcoming or progressing diseases, including diabetes. Early detection is very important as mentioned above. You have more of a chance to offset the disease by specific measures if you know you can keep control of your situation by simple problem solving techniques.

Conclusions to this educational article then are:

1. Maintain good health by searching out good food items and preparing them in a nutritious manner. If you need help, consult the American Diabetes Association, your local hospital, or your doctor's office.

2. Keep your weight at a normal level for your age and height. This is often hard to do, but even a 10% decrease in your weight brings great rewards.

3. Get tested regularly for diabetes, even if you show no symptoms, especially if the disease is inherent in your family tree.

4. Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding the medications and take them regularly until you have the diet and exercise under control. Then, maybe, you will be able to reduce or eliminate the medications.

5. If you notice any of the diabetes symptoms listed above, please get a fasting diabetes test as soon as possible to prevent the onset of any serious medical conditions that can be elevated or heightened by diabetes such as stroke or joint problems.

Research the diabetes problem in the United States just a little bit and you will see why everyone should be aware of this dangerous and often misunderstood and often not diagnosed disease.

Walking Has Its Ups and Downs

2006-05-26T00:38:00.000-07:00

A recent study conducted at an Austrian hospital suggests that all walks are not equal when it comes to the health benefits they provide. Researchers at the Academic teaching Hospital in Feldkirch followed the progress of 45 sedentary volunteers who took part in a four-month hiking program. Participants spent two months walking downhill three to five times a week, about an hour a session. They then spent two months walking uphill for the same amount of days and hours as the previous two months.

The researchers learned that walking uphill lowered the volunteers’ triglyceride level by 11 percent. This figure went down 6.8 percent when they were walking downhill, but they improved their glucose tolerance by 8.2 percent, compared to 4.5 percent when trekking uphill.

It’s not known conclusively why walking in different directions led to different results. Researchers think it could be due to the increase in concentric muscle activity when headed uphill and more eccentric activity going downhill. Concentric muscle activity takes place when a person is performing an activity, while eccentric activity occurs when you’re about to stop moving.

What Everyone Needs to Know To Stay Healthy

2006-05-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

In today's fast-pace world, who has time to worry about health? There is just too much to do. With the demanding responsibilities of school and work, it becomes stressful just to squeeze in time to relax. Tight schedule tactics are key. As every shrewd planner knows, the maintenance of personal health is essential. Health problems will most often monopolize the calendar. Proactive actions take up less time in the long run. It is never too early or late to start taking care of your health. There is no time to wait.

Good health is really not complicated. The ingredients of a healthy lifestyle can be outlined into six basic categories:
- Eat foods with high fiber, low saturated-fat, and low sugar. Diets should regularly meet all levels of essential nutrients. Fruits and vegetables should be incorporated into meals and snacks whenever possible.
- Include vitamins and supplements into daily diet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Schedule regular physical examinations.
- Balance work and social activities.
- Avoid beginning and eliminate rapidly unhealthy lifestyle habits.

Good health is not a fad. Rather, it should be practiced throughout the entire life cycle. Here are some age-focused priorities:

20 Years and Under:
This group is at the most advantage. By starting sound habits now, teenagers have the power to set foundations for a long and happy future.

The first thing to remember is that growth is still occurring. Growing muscles and bones require a healthy diet. However, as modern food processing often strips foods of vital nutrients, vitamins and supplements become a necessary diet component. A good multi-vitamin is a great place to start. Research continues to find more and more on the impact of diet/exercise in the reduction of major health problems such as obesity and cancer. Boys should regularly engage in both cardiovascular and long-endurance activities. Organized athletics provide an excellent way to combine exercise with social opportunities.

Examinations should include a yearly physical and regular eye and dental exams. In later years, various other exams should begin. Starting at fifteen years of age, teens should give themselves monthly testicular exams to check for painless lumps connected with testicular cancer. At eighteen, routine electrocardiograms and monthly self melanoma exams should begin.

Life should be balanced between a variety of school and social activities. However, while social settings are an important component of life, they also have a tendency to increase one's contact with high-risk behaviors. Proper education on matters such as alcohol, cigarettes, other drugs, as well as sex education greatly reduce future addictions and severe health problems.

Begun early, a healthy lifestyle has a greater chance at lasting effects. While people are more likely to continue early-rooted practices, healthy beginnings fortify the body for the years ahead.

20 to 40 Years
Beginning in the early twenties and continuing to early middle-life, men need not only to continue the good heath practices of earlier ages, but also to aid the body in its resistance of stress and other increasing health risks.

As young adults participate in higher education and in the work force, responsibilities widen and time becomes an increasing factor. Fast food often serves as the most convenient diet choice. However, a healthy diet and exercise are essential to counteract increasing threats of heart disease and cancer. A diet low in fat is crucial. The need for supplements heightens. Schedules will interfere with healthy meal plans. As vitamins and supplements substitute for missing nutrients, they also help assist in the reduction of health risks. Busy schedules will inevitably place a strain on the immune system. With an appropriate vitamin and herbal plan, aligned with an individual's unique make up, illnesses will reduce and energy will maximize.

Substance use should be kept at the lowest possible level. Caffeine intake should remain moderate. If effects such as anxiety, headaches, insomnia, and heart palpitations result, men should reduce/eliminate levels and should see a physician for persisting symptoms. Since cigarettes harm lungs and increase heart disease and cancer, they should be avoided at all times. Ideally, alcohol consumption should not exceed three standard-size drinks a day. While causing a large percentage of male fatalities, such as liver implications and driving accidents, alcohol and drugs play a large role in issues such as domestic violence. Healthy relationships are crucial in the reduction of stress and loneliness.

Men at this time are highly susceptible to heart disease, strokes, and other serious health issues. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels must be closely monitored. At twenty-one, men should begin checking their blood-pressure annually. If readings show 140/90 and over, regular testing should be increased. At thirty-five, cholesterol tests should begin. Tests should be repeated at least every five years.
With the avoidance of hypertension, high-blood pressure, and of high levels of cholesterol, men can greatly improve their quality and longevity of life.

Health risks do increase during this time of life. Nevertheless, a healthy lifestyle will greatly reduce threats and increase the assurance of a high quality of life.

40 Years and Beyond:
There is no reason to let preventable health risks interfere with the quality of life. Tests for cholesterol and blood pressure should continue. Healthy diets often need a doctor monitoring for warning signs such as high blood sugar levels.
Vitamin and supplements are crucial. While relieving risks and reducing problems, they greatly ensure the transition and preservation in life's later years. While activity may eventually need to decrease, a doctor will most likely prescribe the continuation of some form of exercise.

Men should begin scheduling exams for two high health risks at age fifty. The components of a colorectal exam should range from one to ten years. With early discovery, colorectal cancer is easily treated. Prostate cancer is the most common form for men. An annual PSA blood test and a Digital Rectal Exam are used for cancer discovery. Doctors often suggest more frequent testing for people with a family history of prostate cancer and/or those of African American ethnicity.

With the combined efforts of individually appropriate diets, exercise, and exams and of healthy companionship, men can enjoy healthy maturity into the late years of life.

Too often the hectic nature of life causes men to overlook the importance of maintaining good health. However, with good habits including a diet full of healthy foods, vitamins, and supplements, a regular exercise program, and physical exams, a healthy lifestyle is not only attainable but also essential for every man. There should always be time for health.

Contributed by VitaNet Health Foods.
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Are You At Risk For Heart Disease

2006-05-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

Heart disease is the number-one killer in America, and we all want to lower our risk of developing it. Now, a recent study conducted at the University of Florida suggests that a person’s fitness level could count more than their weight when building a healthier heart.
The study followed 905 women between 1996 to 2000. Seventy-six percent of these women were overweight when the study began. Those who took part in the study were asked many questions about their activity level.

In the five years that the women’s progress was tracked, 68 of them died and 455 suffered from a heart-related ailment like a heart attack or stroke.
The study, which was first published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that women with a moderate activity level were less likely to develop heart disease than those who were more sedentary. The women’s weights was not linked as strongly to the risk of developing heart disease as their activity level. The study concluded that "fitness may be more important than overweight or obesity for cardiovascular risk in women."

All Other Teas Should Be Green With Envy

2006-05-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

We know that tea’s powerful phytonutrient power comes from antioxidant compounds called catechins, which are astringent, water-soluble substances that can be easily oxidized. They are a subgroup of phytonutrient known as flavonoids, compounds widely available in vegetables, fruits, tea, coffee, chocolate, and wine. The antioxidant potential of both green and black teas, as measured by the Phenol Antioxidant Index, was found to be significantly higher than that of grape juice and red wines. So is one type of tea better than another?

Green tea is manufactured from fresh, unfermented tea leaves; the oxidation of catechins is minimal and hence, they are able to serve as antioxidants. This is desirable because ECG is probably the most powerful cancer-fighting compound of all. In order to make black tea, leaves must be fermented, which unfortunately reduces the ECG content of the tea but creates some additional compounds (theaflavins, bisflavonols and thearubigens) that possess some disease-fighting potential involves ECG, so we know a lot more about green tea than black tea in that regard.

Most research has focused on green tea in people who drink between three and six cups of green tea each day. We already know green tea can help prevent and treat cancer, reduce the risk of hearth disease, fight infection, boost immunity and help the body burn extra fat and lower blood sugar levels. Therefore, my money is on green tea until further research proves black tea is as good or better.

Low Vitamin D To Insulin Resistance

2006-05-09T12:08:00.000-07:00

Vitamin D is found in foods such as milk and cheese, but it’s also made in the body after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. It helps maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, which are critical for healthy bones.
Vitamin D levels have been falling in Americans because they are getting less sun and consuming fewer dairy products. Dermatologists have encouraged us to stay out of the sun and wear sunblock to prevent skin cancer, while obesity experts have advised us to cut down on milk and cheese in our diets to reduce calories. Low vitamin D levels may be hurting more than our bones.

UCLA scientists found that people with low vitamin D levels were resistant to insulin. This means it takes more insulin than normal to regulate blood sugar. Insulin resistance is related to high blood pressure and cholesterol, diabetes, abdominal obesity and blood cell clotting problems. When sunbathing, wait 15 minutes before applying sunscreen so your skin can make some vital vitamin D. try to get a little sun every day, consume non-fat dairy products and take a vitamin D supplement.

Health Club Alert

2006-05-01T00:41:00.000-07:00

You’ve been told to wipe down the exercise equipment you use at the health club before and after your exercise session. Here’s an excellent reason to heed this advice: a potentially deadly bacteria has been found in clubs and professional locker rooms across the country.
The bacteria, called Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA), can enter the blood-stream through a cut or abrasion on the skin and does not respond to antibiotics in a later stages. It spreads by direct physical contact and indirect contact with contaminated objects such as towels and exercise equipment.

The Centers for Disease Control have several suggestions for lowering your risk of contact with this germ. Take a shower after a work-out, wash your hands often with soap and water and immediately clean scratches and wounds. Launder your towels and gym clothes often, and don’t share personal equipment with friends. It’s also important to cover cuts and abrasions with bandages and to clean them frequently until they are healed.

If you notice a small pimple or boil on your skin, it might be the beginning of an MRSA infection. At this early stage, it can be treated by antibiotics, so see a doctors if you suspect that you have been infected.