Whilst the range of anxiety panic attack products and services has grown considerably, thankfully, when it comes to choosing which anxiety panic attack treatment is the most effective, there are only two choices to be considered: do you use medication or choose the increasingly popular natural cures for anxiety panic attacks?
3 reasons why we should tackle anxiety panic attack symptoms naturally:
1. Medication. Medicines just don't quite go the whole way.
Trembling, the shortness of breath, palpitations, perspiration, that fear of going mad and of dying; and those are just a few of the many anxiety panic attack symptoms. The fact that there is something tangible at hand that can instantly reduce those attacks and provide a quick dose of instant relaxation, means that sufferers automatically reach out for that medication.
Panic attack over, these people are now happy knowing that that panic attack isn't going to happen so often. And therein lies the biggest problem. There's no denying that medication is effective in that it provides relief from attacks, but that relief is only temporary. Medication alone can't do away with anxiety. It's only purpose is to operate on the superficial level. It hasn't got the capability to reach the heart of the problem and rip out the fear that those anxiety panic attack symptoms bring on.
2. Fighting back IS possible if given the right tools.
The panic attack's over and you're starting to feel a lot better now that the medication is kicking in. But have yopu stopped to consider what's going to happen the next time you have another attack? Are you going to have another attack? That medication is all very well, but why make yourself a sitting duck when panic does attack when there are natural methods that you should consider?
Reducing the number of attacks with medication isn't always the best option. By choosing to rely on the natural coping techniques that are available this will help to reduce the horror of going through them. Over time, not only will these attacks lose their edge, but they will eventually leave you alone.
3. The effects last ... naturally!
What do you do when you're medication runs out? What's going to happen if your Doctor feels that your panic attacks are no more and you no longer require medication even though you feel your world will end without it? The effects of medication will only last for as long as you keep taking it. Once that stops, you will find yourself back at square one. Natural cures for panic attacks will put you well up the ladder to eliminating these attacks entirely. They will afford you the experience that will help you fend them off for life.
As I said earler, I'm not one to start dictating to you that you MUST choose one method over another when it comes to anxiety panic attack treatment. I'm not going to stand here and say to you, you WILL use natural cures for anxiety panic attacks. Medicines do have their merits.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
Using Ginkgo Biloba
There are scores of Vitamin supplements that have Ginkgo Biloba extracts in them. Require solitary Ginkgo Biloba extracts, here are some listed below:
* Uniform extracts that have 24 to 32 percent flavonoids (also known as flavones glycosides or heterosides) & 6 to 12 percent terpenoids (triterpene lactones)
* Liquid extracts (glycerites, tinctures & fluid extracts)
* Tablets
* Capsules
* Some special dried out leaves for use in tea
If you are an adult consuming this thing then your intake should be eighty to two hundred forty milligrams of 50:1 unvarying leaf extract consumed every day. Consume through2 or then 3 substitutes of a dose & researched (uniform 24% - 25% ginkgo flavone glycosides & 6% terpine lactones).
Tea leaf too contain extracts ( tea bags have upto 30 mg of extract), range from three to six ml of 40 mg/ml extract every day to be consumed thrice in divided doses, also processed foods. What should be avoided are Ginkgo seeds as they are potentially toxic. Similarly intra venous options should not be opted for as they too can be harmful.
Are there any gains Adult vitamin added with Ginkgo Biloba gives? What is there in to make it this excellent? Why is Ginkgo Biloba chosen over other herbal medicines? There are almost no medical practitioners who would say it is necessary herb treatment for all but under some conditions it has been proven that it can cure superbly.
Ginkgo consist of 2 active groups of molecules, terpene lactones (trepenoids) & flavonoids, additionally it has bilobalide, ginkgolides A, B, & C, kaempfero & quercetin. Now let us list some benefits for you like ginkgolides help in containing allergy reactions, gives relief to asthma and anaphylactic shock.
Flavonoids provide relief with convincing antioxidant effects. Many researches have been conducted and they show that falconoid act as a wall of protection to retina from damage, nerves, blood vessels, & heart muscle.
Terpenoids benefits blood flow by widening blood vessels and also reduces the stickiness of the platelets. Antioxidants are vital for our body to function normally and in a systematic manner, Flavonoids does exactly that by freeing radicals that are present in bodies.
Toxins that are present in the environmental such as suspended particles, ultraviolet rays, radiation and cigarette smoking have a had a very disconcerting effect on us, this up trend in hazardous free radicals can lead to heart diseases, aging, cancer, cell death & Alzheimer's disease all the way to few forms of dementia.
For those who have any fear of heart related problems then Ginkgo goes a long way in managing the alteration of cholesterol to plaque that causes the blocking of arteries, also help in relaxing thin blood vessels.
* Uniform extracts that have 24 to 32 percent flavonoids (also known as flavones glycosides or heterosides) & 6 to 12 percent terpenoids (triterpene lactones)
* Liquid extracts (glycerites, tinctures & fluid extracts)
* Tablets
* Capsules
* Some special dried out leaves for use in tea
If you are an adult consuming this thing then your intake should be eighty to two hundred forty milligrams of 50:1 unvarying leaf extract consumed every day. Consume through2 or then 3 substitutes of a dose & researched (uniform 24% - 25% ginkgo flavone glycosides & 6% terpine lactones).
Tea leaf too contain extracts ( tea bags have upto 30 mg of extract), range from three to six ml of 40 mg/ml extract every day to be consumed thrice in divided doses, also processed foods. What should be avoided are Ginkgo seeds as they are potentially toxic. Similarly intra venous options should not be opted for as they too can be harmful.
Are there any gains Adult vitamin added with Ginkgo Biloba gives? What is there in to make it this excellent? Why is Ginkgo Biloba chosen over other herbal medicines? There are almost no medical practitioners who would say it is necessary herb treatment for all but under some conditions it has been proven that it can cure superbly.
Ginkgo consist of 2 active groups of molecules, terpene lactones (trepenoids) & flavonoids, additionally it has bilobalide, ginkgolides A, B, & C, kaempfero & quercetin. Now let us list some benefits for you like ginkgolides help in containing allergy reactions, gives relief to asthma and anaphylactic shock.
Flavonoids provide relief with convincing antioxidant effects. Many researches have been conducted and they show that falconoid act as a wall of protection to retina from damage, nerves, blood vessels, & heart muscle.
Terpenoids benefits blood flow by widening blood vessels and also reduces the stickiness of the platelets. Antioxidants are vital for our body to function normally and in a systematic manner, Flavonoids does exactly that by freeing radicals that are present in bodies.
Toxins that are present in the environmental such as suspended particles, ultraviolet rays, radiation and cigarette smoking have a had a very disconcerting effect on us, this up trend in hazardous free radicals can lead to heart diseases, aging, cancer, cell death & Alzheimer's disease all the way to few forms of dementia.
For those who have any fear of heart related problems then Ginkgo goes a long way in managing the alteration of cholesterol to plaque that causes the blocking of arteries, also help in relaxing thin blood vessels.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Yoga Efective For Your Health
More and more people are now taking up yoga in order to increase their flexibility, ease stress, reduce pain in the muscles and the joints and also as a way of dealing with several health problems.
Yoga is a highly therapeutic art form that is aimed at uniting the body, the mind and the spirit. Regular Yoga practice enhances your awareness of your body’s patterns of movement, posture and alignment. It increases your body’s flexibility, helps you stay relaxed in the most stressful situations and helps you feel fitter, happier and more energetic and peaceful.
Yoga provides a holistic approach that benefits every system in the body without the danger of adverse side-effects.
Nervous System: The practice of Yoga is immensely beneficial for the smooth working of the nervous system, which is responsible for essential mind and body functions. It also helps you deal with migraine headaches and also recognize factors that can trigger them.
Musculoskeletal System: Regular Yoga practice helps improve strength and flexibility of the muscles and joints especially around the neck, upper back and knees. It helps prevent spinal injuries through proper posture and exercise.
Circulatory System: Yoga helps you deal with existing circulatory ailments and disorders including coronary artery disease and hypertension. Certain Yoga postures help strengthen the heart muscles and improve circulation.
Endocrine System: Yoga helps improve the functioning of the endocrine system that regulates metabolism and growth. Regular Yoga practice can be of immense in dealing with various health problems including diabetes and obesity.
Respiratory System: Yoga helps manage respiratory ailments as well as the various physical and emotional factors that aggravate or trigger the problem.
Digestive System: Yoga helps you deal more effectively with various digestive disorders including heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome.
By: Adam Thompson
Yoga is a highly therapeutic art form that is aimed at uniting the body, the mind and the spirit. Regular Yoga practice enhances your awareness of your body’s patterns of movement, posture and alignment. It increases your body’s flexibility, helps you stay relaxed in the most stressful situations and helps you feel fitter, happier and more energetic and peaceful.
Yoga provides a holistic approach that benefits every system in the body without the danger of adverse side-effects.
Nervous System: The practice of Yoga is immensely beneficial for the smooth working of the nervous system, which is responsible for essential mind and body functions. It also helps you deal with migraine headaches and also recognize factors that can trigger them.
Musculoskeletal System: Regular Yoga practice helps improve strength and flexibility of the muscles and joints especially around the neck, upper back and knees. It helps prevent spinal injuries through proper posture and exercise.
Circulatory System: Yoga helps you deal with existing circulatory ailments and disorders including coronary artery disease and hypertension. Certain Yoga postures help strengthen the heart muscles and improve circulation.
Endocrine System: Yoga helps improve the functioning of the endocrine system that regulates metabolism and growth. Regular Yoga practice can be of immense in dealing with various health problems including diabetes and obesity.
Respiratory System: Yoga helps manage respiratory ailments as well as the various physical and emotional factors that aggravate or trigger the problem.
Digestive System: Yoga helps you deal more effectively with various digestive disorders including heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome.
By: Adam Thompson
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
8 Tips To Manage Your Dry Skin
Here are some timely tips and suggestions to manage your dry skin,things that you should do:
1.Always use a non-commercial and safe soap with a very low alkaline content. Excessive alkali in your soap may cause your skin drying out very quickly.
2.Ensure that you are drinking lot of water to maintain the required amount of water in the body. Water is an absolute necessity for providing hydration in your skin. Water can also keep your skin soft, supple and clear. Lack of moisture is the main cause for dry skin with lots of cracking and chapping. You may need to drink at least eight glasses of water every day.
3.Good eating habit and a healthy living style is also a critical factor. You will need to eat properly to maintain good and healthy skin condition. A good and nutritious diet is also an essential factor for managing your skin. Make it a point to eat at least five portions of fruits and green vegetables everyday to maintain your vitamin levels. If you are short of required nutrients, you can take multivitamin tablets.
4.You must be able to sleep for at least 8 hours every day. Sleep is very essential for your skin.
5.Hot water could be very dangerous for your skin. Hot water can destroy your skin layers. Always use warm water for bath and face wash. Restrict your bathing for lesser than five minutes.
6.Regular exercise and a strict working regimen will help a neat and unhindered flow of fresh blood and oxygen to your skin cells. This will help you create a glowing and radiating skin.
7.Winter is also a cruel month for your skin. You can use a humidifier to keep water from going out of the skin cells.
8.Do not rub your skin with a rough towel. Instead, use a soft towel by gently patting the upper layers.
The author, Kenith Smith is also the founder of www.dryskinpro.com
1.Always use a non-commercial and safe soap with a very low alkaline content. Excessive alkali in your soap may cause your skin drying out very quickly.
2.Ensure that you are drinking lot of water to maintain the required amount of water in the body. Water is an absolute necessity for providing hydration in your skin. Water can also keep your skin soft, supple and clear. Lack of moisture is the main cause for dry skin with lots of cracking and chapping. You may need to drink at least eight glasses of water every day.
3.Good eating habit and a healthy living style is also a critical factor. You will need to eat properly to maintain good and healthy skin condition. A good and nutritious diet is also an essential factor for managing your skin. Make it a point to eat at least five portions of fruits and green vegetables everyday to maintain your vitamin levels. If you are short of required nutrients, you can take multivitamin tablets.
4.You must be able to sleep for at least 8 hours every day. Sleep is very essential for your skin.
5.Hot water could be very dangerous for your skin. Hot water can destroy your skin layers. Always use warm water for bath and face wash. Restrict your bathing for lesser than five minutes.
6.Regular exercise and a strict working regimen will help a neat and unhindered flow of fresh blood and oxygen to your skin cells. This will help you create a glowing and radiating skin.
7.Winter is also a cruel month for your skin. You can use a humidifier to keep water from going out of the skin cells.
8.Do not rub your skin with a rough towel. Instead, use a soft towel by gently patting the upper layers.
The author, Kenith Smith is also the founder of www.dryskinpro.com
Monday, March 17, 2008
Acne Myth
It is perfectly normal for teenagers to have a few pimples, blackheads and whiteheads due to their hormonal changes that take place somewhere between the age of 12 and 17. In order to treat Acne properly we must first see what is true and what is false in all those myths people have about Acne.
Myth no.1: Getting a tan helps Acne disappear.
Even though getting a tan temporarily masks Acne signs it definitely does not help Acne disappear for good. On the contrary, the face skin will only dry up and peel off in the affected areas by Acne and sunburns can occur. Also, the risk of cancer is increased through excessive tanning.
If you have Acne and follow and anti-Acne treatment you should avoid tanning as the drugs or creams you use generally create a hyper sensibility of the epidermal layers and you could get sunburns all over your skin. During the summer it is best to cover the Acne affected areas of your body with oil-free cream that also has high UV filters and do not forget to use a summer hat and sunglasses.
Myth no.2: The more you wash your face the less Acne manifests
Well, it is good to wash your face in order to remove make-up, dust and other impurities that gather on the skin during the day but you should not do it more than twice a day. Also, when washing your face dermatologists recommend that you use non-alcoholic, soap-free cleansers with gently movements for avoiding skin irritation. Also, avoid scrubbing as it will only harm the skin that already suffers from Acne.
Myth no.3: Squeezing the pimples will make Acne disappear
Even though after the squeezing procedure the pimple will temporarily look less visible the truth is germs will get into the skin from your hands or from inside the pimple and in a day or two the inflammation will be back and more pimples will appear in that skin zone. Plus, you can get scars that will disappear only in a few months or even last forever. If a zit appears in the day you have a date it’s best to cover it up with special products of make-up made for Acne skin.
Myth no.4: If you have Acne you must not use make-up products
This used to have been true 30 years ago. Nowadays the cosmetic companies have special make-up products for Acne skin that are oil-free and to not clog up the pores. Some of them even contain substances that heal pimples, so fell free to use make-up products but do not forget to wash your skin before going to bed in order to remove any tracks of make up from your skin.
Myth no.5: Men that suffer of Acne should not shave
This is partially true. If the pimple is red, painful and seems to have pus men should avoid that zone during shaving for a day or two in order to prevent the infection from spreading to other skin areas too. Otherwise, a sharp blade and a quality shaving gel can be used by a man that has Acne.
Myth no.1: Getting a tan helps Acne disappear.
Even though getting a tan temporarily masks Acne signs it definitely does not help Acne disappear for good. On the contrary, the face skin will only dry up and peel off in the affected areas by Acne and sunburns can occur. Also, the risk of cancer is increased through excessive tanning.
If you have Acne and follow and anti-Acne treatment you should avoid tanning as the drugs or creams you use generally create a hyper sensibility of the epidermal layers and you could get sunburns all over your skin. During the summer it is best to cover the Acne affected areas of your body with oil-free cream that also has high UV filters and do not forget to use a summer hat and sunglasses.
Myth no.2: The more you wash your face the less Acne manifests
Well, it is good to wash your face in order to remove make-up, dust and other impurities that gather on the skin during the day but you should not do it more than twice a day. Also, when washing your face dermatologists recommend that you use non-alcoholic, soap-free cleansers with gently movements for avoiding skin irritation. Also, avoid scrubbing as it will only harm the skin that already suffers from Acne.
Myth no.3: Squeezing the pimples will make Acne disappear
Even though after the squeezing procedure the pimple will temporarily look less visible the truth is germs will get into the skin from your hands or from inside the pimple and in a day or two the inflammation will be back and more pimples will appear in that skin zone. Plus, you can get scars that will disappear only in a few months or even last forever. If a zit appears in the day you have a date it’s best to cover it up with special products of make-up made for Acne skin.
Myth no.4: If you have Acne you must not use make-up products
This used to have been true 30 years ago. Nowadays the cosmetic companies have special make-up products for Acne skin that are oil-free and to not clog up the pores. Some of them even contain substances that heal pimples, so fell free to use make-up products but do not forget to wash your skin before going to bed in order to remove any tracks of make up from your skin.
Myth no.5: Men that suffer of Acne should not shave
This is partially true. If the pimple is red, painful and seems to have pus men should avoid that zone during shaving for a day or two in order to prevent the infection from spreading to other skin areas too. Otherwise, a sharp blade and a quality shaving gel can be used by a man that has Acne.
Going To Lose Your Belly Fat
5 Facts You MUST Understand if You Are Ever Going to Lose Your Belly Fat & Get Six Pack Abs
by Mike Geary - Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
1. Many so-called "health foods" are actually cleverly disguised junk foods that can actually stimulate you to gain more belly fat... yet the diet food marketing industry continues to lie to you so they can maximize their profits.
2. Ab exercises such as crunches, sit-ups, and ab machines are actually the LEAST effective method of getting flat six pack abs. We'll explore what types of exercises REALLY work in a minute.
3. Boring repetitive cardio exercise routines are NOT the best way to lose body fat and uncover those six pack abs. I'll tell you the exact types of unique workouts that produce 10x better results below.
4. You DON'T need to waste your money on expensive "extreme fat burner" pills or other bogus supplements. I'll show you how to use the power of natural foods in more detail below.
5. Ab belts, ab-rockers, ab-loungers, and other infomercial ab-gimmicks... they're all a complete waste of your time and money. Despite the misleading infomercials, the perfectly chiseled fitness models in the commercials did NOT get their perfect body by using that "ab contraption"... they got their perfect body through REAL workouts and REAL nutrition strategies. Again, you'll learn some of their secrets and what really works below.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
HIV Hides From Drugs For Years
The virus has proved adept at foiling drugs
HIV can survive the apparently effective onslaught of antiviral drugs for years by hiding away in the body's cells, research shows.
The US National Cancer Institute found low levels of dormant HIV in patients seven years after they started - and responded well to - standard therapy.
The finding confirms patients must take drugs indefinitely, and that any break runs the risk of rekindling infection.
The study features in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
People with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus
The researchers followed 40 patients infected with HIV for seven years.
Doctors do not usually record infection levels once the number of HIV particles falls below 50 per ml of blood.
However, the NCI team used highly sensitive equipment to measure infection levels below this threshold.
They found that the virus was still present at low levels in 77% of the patients.
The research suggests that although potent antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV infection to almost undetectable levels, it cannot eradicate the virus.
Renewed risk
The researchers said that even though levels of the virus that remain are low, they are high enough to rekindle infection if treatment is interrupted.
The risk of infecting others is low, but cannot be ruled out.
They believe HIV may be harboured by CD4+ cells, which play a role in the immune system.
These cells are most likely infected before therapy was initiated and the amount of virus they produce is small.
Researcher Dr Sarah Palmer said: "It is extremely important that new drugs are developed to eradicate HIV infection as the side effects associated with long-term HIV treatment can be severe."
She also warned that failing to take prescribed medication raised the risk that HIV could begin to develop resistance, rendering future treatment less effective.
Keith Alcorn, of the HIV information service NAM, said scientists were looking at approaches to treatment that could flush out HIV from cells.
He said: "This research shows that, for the time being, people with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus.
"If treatment stops, this pool of virus provides the basis for a rapid rebound in virus levels."
Mary Lima, a treatment advisor at the HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This study only highlights the complexity of HIV and why it's so difficult for us to find a cure.
"It's important we find out as much as possible about how HIV acts over long periods of time, so we can continue to develop new treatment strategies to tackle it.
In order to keep people with HIV well for longer, we need to attack the virus at all stages."
HIV can survive the apparently effective onslaught of antiviral drugs for years by hiding away in the body's cells, research shows.
The US National Cancer Institute found low levels of dormant HIV in patients seven years after they started - and responded well to - standard therapy.
The finding confirms patients must take drugs indefinitely, and that any break runs the risk of rekindling infection.
The study features in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
People with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus
The researchers followed 40 patients infected with HIV for seven years.
Doctors do not usually record infection levels once the number of HIV particles falls below 50 per ml of blood.
However, the NCI team used highly sensitive equipment to measure infection levels below this threshold.
They found that the virus was still present at low levels in 77% of the patients.
The research suggests that although potent antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV infection to almost undetectable levels, it cannot eradicate the virus.
Renewed risk
The researchers said that even though levels of the virus that remain are low, they are high enough to rekindle infection if treatment is interrupted.
The risk of infecting others is low, but cannot be ruled out.
They believe HIV may be harboured by CD4+ cells, which play a role in the immune system.
These cells are most likely infected before therapy was initiated and the amount of virus they produce is small.
Researcher Dr Sarah Palmer said: "It is extremely important that new drugs are developed to eradicate HIV infection as the side effects associated with long-term HIV treatment can be severe."
She also warned that failing to take prescribed medication raised the risk that HIV could begin to develop resistance, rendering future treatment less effective.
Keith Alcorn, of the HIV information service NAM, said scientists were looking at approaches to treatment that could flush out HIV from cells.
He said: "This research shows that, for the time being, people with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus.
"If treatment stops, this pool of virus provides the basis for a rapid rebound in virus levels."
Mary Lima, a treatment advisor at the HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This study only highlights the complexity of HIV and why it's so difficult for us to find a cure.
"It's important we find out as much as possible about how HIV acts over long periods of time, so we can continue to develop new treatment strategies to tackle it.
In order to keep people with HIV well for longer, we need to attack the virus at all stages."
UK patients get newest HIV drug
Maraviroc stops the virus entering the cell
UK patients are now eligible to receive a new type of HIV drug - the first new oral class of HIV/Aids treatment in more than a decade.
Pfizer's Celsentri (maraviroc) blocks HIV's entry to immune system cells.
Although it is not a cure, it can help patients who have not responded to other available HIV drugs.
HIV charities welcomed the drug's arrival, which has taken Pfizer 10 years to develop at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars.
Novel action
A cocktail of three drugs collectively called HAART (highly active anti-retroviral therapy) has dramatically improved the life expectancy of patients with HIV, but resistance to these drugs is a problem.
Maraviroc was approved in the US in August, where it is marketed under the name of Selzentry.
It is taken in combination with other anti-retroviral drugs, but works in an entirely new way.
It blocks a microscopic doorway - the CCR5 receptor - which HIV uses to enter and infect human cells called CD4-T-cells.
All other currently available oral HIV medicines work on the HIV virus once it has entered the immune cells.
Trials show that in suitable patients - those infected with only CCR5-tropic HIV-1 - it can help reduce the levels of virus circulating in the blood stream and increase the numbers of immune CD4 cells.
Between 50 and 78% of people with HIV have this strain.
Professor Margaret Johnson, chair of the British HIV Association, said: "The introduction of maraviroc is incredibly important for the HIV community.
HIV milestones
1984 - HIV identified as cause of Aids
1987 - first antiretroviral drug becomes available in the US and UK
1992 - beginning of combination therapy for HIV
1995 - beginning of Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
1998 - first report of multi-drug resistant HIV
"HIV is known to mutate aggressively and some patients become resistant to the treatments available. New drugs and particularly new classes of treatment are fundamental for continued good health."
Roger Pebody of the Terrence Higgins Trust said: "Maraviroc could make a real difference to people with HIV who are resistant to other drugs."
To date, HIV has claimed more than 25 million lives. Another 40 million people are estimated to be living with HIV worldwide.
BBC News
Tips to Help You Get a Good Night's Sleep
If you are like a lot of people you may find that you wake up in the morning feeling more tired than you were when you went to bed.
Obviously this is not an ideal situation, so how can you ensure that you get a good night's sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the new day? Here are a few good tips to help you.
It is important to try to mentally unwind before going to bed. An overactive mind is one of the primary causes of poor sleep and broken sleep. Try to carry out a low-stress activity in the 30 minutes to an hour before you retire for the night. Examples of such activities are reading and listening to relaxing music.
A relaxed body will lead to a relaxed mind. Two of the best ways that you can relax your body are to engage in meditation or take a warm bath.
It is important not to indulge in a heavy meal immediately before going to bed, but a light snack that is high in carbohydrates can help to relax the body.
If you are prone to sleep problems it is particularly important that you adhere to a regular sleep routine, going to sleep at the same time every night and getting up at the same time every morning. Yes, this includes weekends. If you are tempted to sleep in on the weekend you will usually find that this leads to you struggling to get to sleep at the end of the day and feeling tired when you have to get up on Monday morning to start a new work week.
Try to cut out taking a nap during the day. You only need a fixed amount of sleep during any 24 hour period, so clearly, if you take a nap during the middle of the day you may well struggle to sleep through the night.
Your bedroom should be quiet and dark. If you cannot block out all noise and light you might want to invest in some good quality ear plugs and a sleep mask. It is also important that your bedroom temperature is comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold. Body temperature is ideal.
If, after trying these tips, you still have difficulty sleeping, then you should consult your doctor to ensure that there is not an underlying medical problem that is responsible for your poor sleep pattern.
by Kim Archer
LOW FAT DIET
Cholesterol is manufactured in the liver for normal body functions, including the production of hormones, bile acid, and vitamin D. It is transported in the blood to be used by all parts of the body.
Back to TopFood Sources
In foods, cholesterol is found in eggs, dairy products, meat, and poultry. Egg yolks and organ meats (liver, kidney, sweetbread, and brain) are high in cholesterol. Fish generally contains less cholesterol than other meats, but some shellfish are high in cholesterol.
Foods of plant origin (vegetables, fruits, grains, cereals, nuts, and seeds) contain no cholesterol.
Fat content is not a good measure of cholesterol content. For example, liver and other organ meats are low in fat, but very high in cholesterol.
In general, you have a greater risk of developing heart disease or atherosclerosis as your level of blood cholesterol increases.
More than half of the adult population has blood cholesterol levels higher than the desirable range. High cholesterol levels often begin in childhood. Some children may be at higher risk due to a family history of high cholesterol.
In general, you want your total cholesterol to be less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl), because that level carries the least risk of heart disease. When the level is above 200 mg/dl, the risk for heart disease increases.
You should also know your levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL, also known as the "good cholesterol") and low density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad cholesterol"). Talk to your health care provider about what your cholesterol levels mean.
To lower high cholesterol levels:Limit total fat intake to 25 - 35% of total daily calories. Less than 7% of daily calories should be from saturated fat, not more than 10% should be from polyunsaturated fat, and not more than 20% from monounsaturated fat. Eat less than 200 mg of dietary cholesterol per day. Get more fiber in your diet. Lose weight. Increase physical activity. The recommendations for children's diets are similar to those of adults. It is very important that children get enough calories to support their growth and activity level, and that the child achieve and maintain a desirable body weight
The following two sample menus provide examples of an average American diet and a low-fat diet.
AVERAGE AMERICAN DIET
Breakfast
1 egg scrambled in 1 teaspoon of butter 2 slices of white toast 1 teaspoon of butter 1/2 cup of apple juice Snack
1 cake donut Lunch
1 ham and cheese sandwich (2 ounces of meat, 1 ounce of cheese) white bread 1 teaspoon of mayonnaise 1-ounce bag potato chips 12-ounce soft drink 2 chocolate chip cookies Snack
8 wheat thins Dinner
3 ounces of broiled sirloin 1 medium baked potato 1 tablespoon of sour cream 1 teaspoon of butter 1/2 cup of peas, 1/2 teaspoon of butter Totals: 2,000 Calories, 84 grams fat, 34 grams saturated fat, 425 milligrams cholesterol. The diet is 38% total fat, 15% saturated fat.
LOW FAT DIET
Breakfast
1 cup of toasted oat ring cereal 1 cup of skim milk 1 slice of whole-wheat bread 1 banana Snack
1 cinnamon raisin bagel, 1/2 ounce light cream cheese Lunch
turkey sandwich (3 ounces of turkey) rye bread lettuce 1 orange 3 fig newtons 1 cup skim milk Snack
non fat yogurt with fruit Dinner
3 ounces of broiled chicken breast 1 medium baked potato 1 tablespoon of nonfat yogurt 1/2 cup of broccoli 1 dinner roll 1 cup skim milk Totals: 2,000 Calories, 38g fat, 9.5g saturated fat, 91mg cholesterol. The diet is 17% fat, 4% saturated fat.
COMPARISON
For the same number of calories, a low-fat diet provides 190 mg of cholesterol, compared to 510 mg of cholesterol for an average American diet.
Because fat is high in calories, the low-fat diet actually has more food than the typical American diet.
CHILDREN
The low-fat diet example is too low in fat for small children to promote good growth. In addition, it may be difficult for them to consume such a large volume of food. Children should have a diet that is closer to 30% of calories from fat. Lower-fat diets may be appropriate in some children. Ask your doctor what is best for your child.
BBC News
10 Tips For A Perfect Night Sleep
Many persons have sleep problems when outside it’s hot. They fall asleep late, they sleep for short periods of time and they wake up many times during the night. Here are 10 tip to follow
in order to get your rest even during the hot summer nights.
1. Go to sleep at about the same hour every night, your body will get used to this and it will prepare itself for sleep.
2. Don’t do any exercises at night because they pump the blood and you’ll not be able to fall asleep.
3. Don’t eat and don’t drink a lot before going to sleep. Dinner must be light and it would be best eaten at least 2 hours before bed time. Digestion delays the sleep and it disturbes it.
4. Avoid nicotin, alcohol and caffeine for at least 5-6 hours before going to sleep. Those stimulents can keep you awake at night.
5. Sleep only during the night. During day time, rest for one hour maximum and don’t ever sleep after 3 p.m.
6. Keep your sleeping room well aired and if it’s possible leave a window slightly open during the night.
7. Before going to sleep go take a warm bath or a reassuring shower, read a book or listen to your favorite music. It will help you fall asleep for sure !
8. Try to apply some moisturizing cream on your shoulders, neck and soles of your feet. You’ll relax in no time and the tension accumulated over the day will disappear.
9. Don’t appeal to drugs or any kind of medicine in order to combat your insomnia. A glace of warm milk or tea, sweetened with honey will help you do the trick.
10. During the night sleep, try to keep your feet on a soft pillow, this will make the tiredness go away and you’ll get a very nice night sleep.
itrocks.biteus.org
Health And Beauty
Health is the metabolic efficiency in all people and beauty brings joy to the beholder. The following are some health and beauty tips that are simple and easy to follow.
Firstly, find ways to move your body. Always make it a point to use the stairs rather than elevators or escalators unless you are pressed for time. If you are overweight, eat less or exercise more to have a youthful body. The daily regime of either calorie restriction or exercise increase has positive effects on the body function. It is important to keep diabetes under control if one is diabetic or even take preventive measures to reduce the onset of diabetes and the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, hyper tension, and cancer or lung disease. Sedentary lifestyle is the greatest bane of health and beauty. It is imperative to exercise 30 minutes a day, 5 or 6 days a week. Indulge in anything that moves your limbs. It is not only a beauty and fitness tool, but a stress reliever as well. You can move around in small time intervals. It will be definitely far more rewarding if you could devote 45 minutes to 1 hour for any physical activity.
The next of the tips is - learn to say no to fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats. Reduce the intake of cheese, butter, nuts, sauces etc. Drinking water is one of the best beauty and health tips we can all follow. Water is essential for virtually every function of the body. The average person needs 1 to 3 liters of water a day. Drink with meals, as well as before, during and after exercise. Remember during your workouts, cold water is more readily absorbed.
The most important of the beauty and health tips is to quit smoking. It is mandatory to be a non smoker in order to improve the overall beauty and health of the individual.
Try to reduce stress filled situations. It is always easier said than done. Devote 30 minutes a day doing something you enjoy. Keep your temper under check and count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Stay away from people whom you find difficult to cope with. It is also important to practice oral hygiene and stay in a pollution free environment to remain healthy.
Recent studies suggest that a glass of wine or one drink a day is good for the heart, but take it easy!Gulping down glasses of wine can cause health problems such as liver and kidney disease as well as cancer.
There are many health and beauty products available in the market right now. They bring in different promises, guarantees and offers. Think for a while before making the purchase. Collect the details of the products you intend to buy. You should ensure that the product will do well for your beauty and health which you are looking for in it. Health and beauty products do help to improve your skin, health and fitness.
The link between genetics and beauty and health is a powerful one. But if one follows these basic beauty and health ,it is possible to live a healthy and beautiful life.Finally, stay positive. There's an ultimate connection between positive outlook and healthy and happy living. We all agree to the fact that a beautiful mind exists in a beautiful body That is the best of all beauty and health tips.
by Mary Rose
How To Lower Your Cholesterol
The risk of heart disease is greatly increased if you have high cholesterol. This can include potentially fatal heart attacks. Lowering cholesterol is recommended to lead a more healthy life and maintain a healthy heart. High cholesterol causes hardening of the arteries which reduces blood flow to the heart. This may result in chest pains or heart attack.
Favorable cholesterol levels should be less than 200. Anything over 240 is considered high risk. For severely high cholesterol it is recommended to seek consultation with a medical professional for treatment and medications. A physician will test the blood to determine the exact levels and to determine whether drug therapy is necessary. There are a number of drugs available to lower cholesterol. Your physician will be able to recommend one that is best. These include nicotinic acid and cholesterol absorption inhibitors
Most drug therapies are also used in tandem with lifestyle changes. Natural remedies are available in grocery stores, health food stores and pharmacies. Changing eating habits, toxic intake and activity levels will help lower cholesterol.
Low fat foods, especially green leafy vegetables are beneficial in your diet and will help reduce cholesterol. Ensuring a balanced diet from all food groups is ideal. Choose fresh fruits, fish, grains and soy. Avoid foods such as butter, margarine, prepackaged foods, junk foods and fast foods. These types are typically high in trans-fats, which are particularly damaging.
If you smoke, it can increase the chances of having high cholesterol. Quitting will not only help this but will also reduce several other medical risks. Also reduce your total caloric intake and maintain a healthy weight. Regular aerobic exercise will help achieve this. Lower the amount of alcohol consumption. Also, lessening your intake of caffeine such as coffee and tea will help.
There are several vitamins and supplements that can help lower cholesterol levels. Vitamin E, artichoke leaf extract, niacin and chromium are all reported to help control high levels of cholesterol. When using these options while on medication consult a physician for correct dosage. Some natural remedies will also react adversely with certain combinations so it is suggested you disclose all eating habits and dietary supplements to your doctor.
Heart disease is a potentially fatal condition that affects millions of people annually. Reducing the amount of cholesterol in your blood will help lower the risk of a heart attack. Taking medications per your doctor’s orders, making lifestyle changes and taking supplements can vastly improve your odds of remaining healthy.
by: Gray Rollins
Tips for Guaranteed Healthy and Fast Weight Loss
Almost everybody, at some point in their of life, has experienced weight-related problems. Most of us, women and men alike, are not content with what we see. We feel that unless we are wafer thin like the models and celebrities we see on television and magazines, we will never be attractive and beautiful.
On the other hand, there are an increasing number of obese individuals across the world. Becoming overweight has become a trend in both the West and East hemispheres. The increasing popularity of processed and fast foods have exacerbated the obesity situation.
There are many diseases related to being overweight, such as hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, coronary heart disease, to name a few. Thus, you need to find ways to incorporate weight loss activities and good eating habits to our daily routine.
Before you start any type of diet, however, you need to go to a physician first. The doctor will tell you if your weight loss plan is appropriate for your health condition. Furthermore, the physician will also assist you in determining if you really need to lose weight and how much weight you need to shed. Many people develop eating disorders because they do not visit a doctor before drastically changing their eating habits and starting a diet plan.
If you want to lose weight fast, healthy and permanently, you need to follow the tips below.
Maintain a balanced diet
The reason why many people are overweight is partly due to an unbalanced diet. If you eat too much from one food group, you won't be able to get the vitamins and nutrients that your body need.
A balanced diet is composed of protein, dairy food, a little bit of fat from healthy oil, fruit and vegetables, and good carbohydrates -- at least 5 portions every day. Many professionals suggest a diet that is composed of mostly carbohydrate, moderate protein intake, and a little bit of fat.
However, there are many diets espousing a huge amount of protein intake and a dramatic decrease in carbohydrates. Before you apply such diets to your daily routine, you need to talk with a physician first. This high-protein diet may not be ideal for some people, such as those with kidney disease.
Increase servings of fruit and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamins and minerals that our body need. Such food supplies us with vitamin A that is good for our eyes, vitamin C that boosts our immune system, beta-carotene that helps protects our body from the damage of free radicals, and nutrients.
Most fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and low calorie, so they also help clean our colon and make us feel fuller. Canned fruits and vegetables are acceptable; however, there is no substitute for the real thing.
Stay away from junk food and sugar-loaded drinks
Try eliminating junk food and soda from your diet for a week or two, and you will surely feel and see the difference. Maybe the reason why it is called junk food is due to its poor nutritional value. Try looking at a junk food's label, not only is it full of saturated fat, but also usually high in salt or sugar, or both.
Aside from water, most of the things you drink are also loaded with calories. Soda and sweetened fruit juices are mainly sugar. Thus, no matter how little you eat, but if you still drink lots of soda and sweetened beverages, you will still continue to gain weight.
Don't skip breakfast
Even if you are in a hurry or late for work or school, you need to grab a bite. It would be better if your breakfast is healthy – probably an apple, oatmeal and a glass of nonfat milk.
If you miss breakfast, you most probably will feel hungrier the rest of the day. In order for our body function properly, we need energy from the food we eat. If you skip breakfast, or a meal or two, your body's metabolism will slow down to compensate for the lack of energy supply.
More often than not, people who skip meals, particularly the first meal of the day, will binge later in the day. So, even if you skipped breakfast, you will have a tendency to eat a lot during lunch or dinner.
Start exercising
Many of us spend an extended number of hours in our offices. We get stuck sitting down in front of the computer for more than eight hours. When we get home, we spend another hour or two to check e-mails and chat with friends. Thus, we don't expend most of the calories from the food we eat and those excess calories go straight to our belly, arms and thighs.
If you want to increase your metabolism, you must start exercising. Brisk walking is a good way to start your exercise routine. If you do not have time to go to the gym, you need to find ways to increase your activities. Try sports activities that you will enjoy – boxing, badminton, or spelunking. There are many to fat burning activities to choose from.
The tips above will not let you lose 10 pounds overnight. However, in the long run, such changes will help you become healthier and fitter. The weight loss you will experience will be more permanent.
by: Nathalie Fiset
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is the cancer of the cervix.
It is a disease caused by the abnormal growth and division of cells that forms in the lining of the cervix. It is the second common form of cancer that affects women today. It is very common in middle age women and older.
The statistics of cervical cancer in the United States, according to American Cancer Society (ACS), shows that about 11,150 women are diagnosing with this cancer and approximately 3,670 women die from this cancer every year.
To understand more about cervical cancer, it is important to note what a cervix is first. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that connects the uterus to the vagina (birth canal) in a woman's body.
Usually, cervical cancer exhibits no symptoms to detect the presence of cancer in your body. It is known as a slow growing form of cancer. When cancer develops in your body, the healthy cells in the cervix begin to change into abnormal cells, which then turn into pre-cancerous cells. If left untreated, these pre-cancerous cells will turn into cancer.
Risk factors of cervical cancer:
Although the cause of cervical cancer is not known there are certain risk factors that increase the risk of developing this cancer. Risk factors are the things that will affect the chances of developing a disease greater.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexual transmitted disease is highly associated with invasive cervical cancer.
Sexual transmitted diseases occur due to sexual contacts with an infected person. Chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, genital herpes, HIV/AIDS are some of he examples of sexual transmitted diseases.
Other risk factors that increase your chances of developing cervical cancer are: a history of sexual transmitted diseases, having sexual intercourse with multiple partners, having sexual activities in very young age (without using contraceptives).
Smoking doubles your risk of having cancer of the cervix. Weakened immune system, regular usage of birth control pills, age, giving birth to many children, and irregular pap tests increases your risk of developing cervical cancer.
As the cause of cervical cancer is unknown, it can be detected with regular Pap tests or pap smears. It is very important for you to have regular Pap tests to identify the condition early to take appropriate treatment and prevent cervical cancer from developing.
Pap test to detect cervical cancer:
With Pap tests, you can detect the cancer in the early stages before it spreads to other parts of the body. Pap smear is a procedure where scraped cells from the cervix are examined under a microscope to check for the changes in the cells of your cervix that leads to cervical cancer.
The rate of cervical cancer in women has greatly decreased in recent years in the United States due to regular pap smears.
As cervical cancer is a malignant tumor, it is very important for you to have Pap tests done annually. Remember, it is not a good idea to wait for signs to consult a doctor as early detection is the key to being treated successfully.
Visit Online Cancer Blog
About The Author :-
Neelima Reddy, author of this article writes for OnlineCancerGuide.com. Online Cancer blog is dedicated to tracking and posting information on the advances in the study of cancers, but also other aspects of cancer related issues that concerns majority of people.
It is a disease caused by the abnormal growth and division of cells that forms in the lining of the cervix. It is the second common form of cancer that affects women today. It is very common in middle age women and older.
The statistics of cervical cancer in the United States, according to American Cancer Society (ACS), shows that about 11,150 women are diagnosing with this cancer and approximately 3,670 women die from this cancer every year.
To understand more about cervical cancer, it is important to note what a cervix is first. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that connects the uterus to the vagina (birth canal) in a woman's body.
Usually, cervical cancer exhibits no symptoms to detect the presence of cancer in your body. It is known as a slow growing form of cancer. When cancer develops in your body, the healthy cells in the cervix begin to change into abnormal cells, which then turn into pre-cancerous cells. If left untreated, these pre-cancerous cells will turn into cancer.
Risk factors of cervical cancer:
Although the cause of cervical cancer is not known there are certain risk factors that increase the risk of developing this cancer. Risk factors are the things that will affect the chances of developing a disease greater.
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a sexual transmitted disease is highly associated with invasive cervical cancer.
Sexual transmitted diseases occur due to sexual contacts with an infected person. Chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, genital herpes, HIV/AIDS are some of he examples of sexual transmitted diseases.
Other risk factors that increase your chances of developing cervical cancer are: a history of sexual transmitted diseases, having sexual intercourse with multiple partners, having sexual activities in very young age (without using contraceptives).
Smoking doubles your risk of having cancer of the cervix. Weakened immune system, regular usage of birth control pills, age, giving birth to many children, and irregular pap tests increases your risk of developing cervical cancer.
As the cause of cervical cancer is unknown, it can be detected with regular Pap tests or pap smears. It is very important for you to have regular Pap tests to identify the condition early to take appropriate treatment and prevent cervical cancer from developing.
Pap test to detect cervical cancer:
With Pap tests, you can detect the cancer in the early stages before it spreads to other parts of the body. Pap smear is a procedure where scraped cells from the cervix are examined under a microscope to check for the changes in the cells of your cervix that leads to cervical cancer.
The rate of cervical cancer in women has greatly decreased in recent years in the United States due to regular pap smears.
As cervical cancer is a malignant tumor, it is very important for you to have Pap tests done annually. Remember, it is not a good idea to wait for signs to consult a doctor as early detection is the key to being treated successfully.
Visit Online Cancer Blog
About The Author :-
Neelima Reddy, author of this article writes for OnlineCancerGuide.com. Online Cancer blog is dedicated to tracking and posting information on the advances in the study of cancers, but also other aspects of cancer related issues that concerns majority of people.
Mammogram For Effective Breast Cancer Detection
If you are woman with the problem of breast cancer, you can cure it by early detection.
For breast cancer detection, three things are important:Let the doctor check your breast
By having regular mammograms.
Check your breasts every month by yourself
By doing these things, you can find out the cancer as early as possible. You can treat the breast cancer if you find out the cancer as early as possible. Out of 100 women, 90 women whose breast cancer is found early will be cured.
A mammogram is the most effective way for breast cancer detection as early as possible, up to 2 years before the lump is large to feel. Mammogram is a kind of x-ray for checking your beast.
As the cancer is denser than the other parts of the breast, mammogram can be used to detect the cancer. A radiologist can find out the cancer or breast problems by looking at the x-rays.
A mammogram is performed by slowly pressing the x-ray against your breast until you feel some pressure. The pressure is used for taking a better x-ray. It may take less than 20 minutes to complete this process. It will be uncomfortable and your breast can tender less at this time.
Women about 40 years with family history of breast cancer should get mammogram done every 1 to 2 years. But your doctor may advice to have mammogram very often.
You need to check your breasts every month beginning at about age 20. Check your breasts after your period when they aren’t sore. In case of irregular periods check your breasts at the same time every month.
To check for lumps stand in front of the mirror. Now look at your breasts with your arms at your side, your chest muscles flexed, with your arms raised behind your head and with your arms on your hips.
Next, lie down on a pillow by placing your left hand below the head. Feel your left breast with the 3 pads of the right hand middle fingers. Move your hand around the breast in circle getting closer to the nipple at each time.
After you finish doing this, squeeze the nipple for any liquid and look for the discharge. Follow the same procedure for your right breast by placing the pillow under right shoulder.
Make sure to include the area up to your armpit and collarbone. In this area, you can find the lymph nodes. Lymph node tissue can be affected by cancer.
The changes that can be looked in your breast are:
The breast thickness is unusual
The size of one breast is increased unusually
One breast is lower than the other breast
If there is any new lump (which may or may not be painful or tender)
Any changes in the skin of your breasts or nipples, such as dimpling or puckering
So, you can use the mammogram for effective breast cancer detection.
OnlineCancerGuide.com
For breast cancer detection, three things are important:Let the doctor check your breast
By having regular mammograms.
Check your breasts every month by yourself
By doing these things, you can find out the cancer as early as possible. You can treat the breast cancer if you find out the cancer as early as possible. Out of 100 women, 90 women whose breast cancer is found early will be cured.
A mammogram is the most effective way for breast cancer detection as early as possible, up to 2 years before the lump is large to feel. Mammogram is a kind of x-ray for checking your beast.
As the cancer is denser than the other parts of the breast, mammogram can be used to detect the cancer. A radiologist can find out the cancer or breast problems by looking at the x-rays.
A mammogram is performed by slowly pressing the x-ray against your breast until you feel some pressure. The pressure is used for taking a better x-ray. It may take less than 20 minutes to complete this process. It will be uncomfortable and your breast can tender less at this time.
Women about 40 years with family history of breast cancer should get mammogram done every 1 to 2 years. But your doctor may advice to have mammogram very often.
You need to check your breasts every month beginning at about age 20. Check your breasts after your period when they aren’t sore. In case of irregular periods check your breasts at the same time every month.
To check for lumps stand in front of the mirror. Now look at your breasts with your arms at your side, your chest muscles flexed, with your arms raised behind your head and with your arms on your hips.
Next, lie down on a pillow by placing your left hand below the head. Feel your left breast with the 3 pads of the right hand middle fingers. Move your hand around the breast in circle getting closer to the nipple at each time.
After you finish doing this, squeeze the nipple for any liquid and look for the discharge. Follow the same procedure for your right breast by placing the pillow under right shoulder.
Make sure to include the area up to your armpit and collarbone. In this area, you can find the lymph nodes. Lymph node tissue can be affected by cancer.
The changes that can be looked in your breast are:
The breast thickness is unusual
The size of one breast is increased unusually
One breast is lower than the other breast
If there is any new lump (which may or may not be painful or tender)
Any changes in the skin of your breasts or nipples, such as dimpling or puckering
So, you can use the mammogram for effective breast cancer detection.
OnlineCancerGuide.com
Diabetes
When we eat, our bodies break down the proteins, carbohydrates and fats we consume to be used as the building blocks of our bodies. Carbohydrates, such as those found in bread, pasta, rice, potatoes and cereals are first digested and converted into simple sugars in the intestines and then move from the intestines into the bloodstream. These simple sugars are our body?s first choice for energy production.
Glucose, a form of simple sugar is the basic fuel the body uses for energy. In order for our bodies to utilize this sugar however, it must be transported across the cell membrane where it can be used to feed and fuel our cells. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, and more specifically by the islets of Langerhans, which are scattered throughout the pancreas, stimulates our body?s cells to absorb sugar, thus removing it from the blood stream.
When our bodies cannot properly utilize glucose, thus causing it to stay in the blood, we are diagnosed as having diabetes. Diabetes is a disorder which disrupts the mechanism by which the body controls blood sugar. The build-up of sugar in the blood, characterized by diabetes, can cause the cells of our bodies to be starved for glucose and can, if left unchecked, lead to damage of the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.
There are two types of diabetes:
insulin dependent or Type 1 diabetes and non-insulin dependent or Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, is often referred to as juvenile or childhood-onset diabetes. Here, the pancreas cannot make the insulin needed by the body to process glucose. For individuals with Type 1 diabetes, while natural therapies may help the body be more receptive to insulin, they require regular injections of insulin to maintain health.
On the other hand, individuals with Type 2 or Adult-onset diabetes, their bodies produce varying amounts of insulin, but more often then not, the ability of their body?s cells to absorb sugar is diminished. While there are "classic" warning signs that often accompany diabetes, i.e., excessive thirst, excessive hunger, excessive urination, excessive tiredness, and unexplained weight loss, many people with type 2 diabetes do not have these symptoms. Individuals who are at a greater risk include people who are: over age 40, are overweight, have a family history of diabetes, have had diabetes during pregnancy, have high blood pressure or high blood fats, have the stress of an illness or injury, are a member of a high-risk ethnic group such as African-American, Hispanic, American Indian and Asian. For these individuals, natural therapies tend to work well.
Recommendations For Wellness
Reduce your consumption of starchy foods that are high in carbohydrates such as bread, potatoes, processed cereals, rice or that have a high glycemic index rating. The Glycemic Index is a system that ranks foods based on how they affect your levels of blood sugar.
Consume a high fiber, whole foods diet and work to eliminate preprocessed junk foods from your eating regimen.
Start an exercise program! In most cases, weight reduction can help those with type 2 diabetes. In addition to decreasing body fat, regular exercise has been show to improve insulin sensitivity.
Dietary fiber, such as psyllium has been show to improve glucose tolerance in some studies.
Incorporate brewer?s yeast or a chromium supplement into your health program. Chromium helps improve glucose tolerance by increasing our body?s sensitivity to insulin.
Supplement with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B, Vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium and zinc. Individuals with diabetes tend to have low levels of these important nutrients in their blood. In addition, these supplements have been shown to help to reduce damage to the eyes, nerves and kidneys - health problems that are often experienced by people with advanced or long term diabetes.
Alpha Lipoic Acid has also been show to improve insulin sensitivity. Evidence suggests that supplementation with vitamin D can increase insulin levels in some people.
The herb Nopal can help to strengthen the liver and the pancreas thereby improving our body?s ability to utilize insulin.
Some sources recommend that you avoid the amino acid cysteine which has been reported to break down insulin and interfere with sugar absorption.
Stevia, a naturally sweet plant makes an excellent sugar substitute without the drawbacks of sugar. Stevia can be used in cooking as well. Visit your local health food store or look online for cookbooks that utilize stevia in place of sugar.
Dr. Rita Louise, Ph D is a Naturopathic Physician, founder of the Institute Of Applied Energetics and the host of Just Energy Radio. Author of the books ?Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4? and ?The Power Within?, it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and professional clairvoyant that enlivens her work. Let Dr. Rita assist you bringing health, healing and wholeness back into your life.
Glucose, a form of simple sugar is the basic fuel the body uses for energy. In order for our bodies to utilize this sugar however, it must be transported across the cell membrane where it can be used to feed and fuel our cells. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, and more specifically by the islets of Langerhans, which are scattered throughout the pancreas, stimulates our body?s cells to absorb sugar, thus removing it from the blood stream.
When our bodies cannot properly utilize glucose, thus causing it to stay in the blood, we are diagnosed as having diabetes. Diabetes is a disorder which disrupts the mechanism by which the body controls blood sugar. The build-up of sugar in the blood, characterized by diabetes, can cause the cells of our bodies to be starved for glucose and can, if left unchecked, lead to damage of the eyes, kidneys, nerves and heart.
There are two types of diabetes:
insulin dependent or Type 1 diabetes and non-insulin dependent or Type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes, is often referred to as juvenile or childhood-onset diabetes. Here, the pancreas cannot make the insulin needed by the body to process glucose. For individuals with Type 1 diabetes, while natural therapies may help the body be more receptive to insulin, they require regular injections of insulin to maintain health.
On the other hand, individuals with Type 2 or Adult-onset diabetes, their bodies produce varying amounts of insulin, but more often then not, the ability of their body?s cells to absorb sugar is diminished. While there are "classic" warning signs that often accompany diabetes, i.e., excessive thirst, excessive hunger, excessive urination, excessive tiredness, and unexplained weight loss, many people with type 2 diabetes do not have these symptoms. Individuals who are at a greater risk include people who are: over age 40, are overweight, have a family history of diabetes, have had diabetes during pregnancy, have high blood pressure or high blood fats, have the stress of an illness or injury, are a member of a high-risk ethnic group such as African-American, Hispanic, American Indian and Asian. For these individuals, natural therapies tend to work well.
Recommendations For Wellness
Reduce your consumption of starchy foods that are high in carbohydrates such as bread, potatoes, processed cereals, rice or that have a high glycemic index rating. The Glycemic Index is a system that ranks foods based on how they affect your levels of blood sugar.
Consume a high fiber, whole foods diet and work to eliminate preprocessed junk foods from your eating regimen.
Start an exercise program! In most cases, weight reduction can help those with type 2 diabetes. In addition to decreasing body fat, regular exercise has been show to improve insulin sensitivity.
Dietary fiber, such as psyllium has been show to improve glucose tolerance in some studies.
Incorporate brewer?s yeast or a chromium supplement into your health program. Chromium helps improve glucose tolerance by increasing our body?s sensitivity to insulin.
Supplement with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B, Vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium and zinc. Individuals with diabetes tend to have low levels of these important nutrients in their blood. In addition, these supplements have been shown to help to reduce damage to the eyes, nerves and kidneys - health problems that are often experienced by people with advanced or long term diabetes.
Alpha Lipoic Acid has also been show to improve insulin sensitivity. Evidence suggests that supplementation with vitamin D can increase insulin levels in some people.
The herb Nopal can help to strengthen the liver and the pancreas thereby improving our body?s ability to utilize insulin.
Some sources recommend that you avoid the amino acid cysteine which has been reported to break down insulin and interfere with sugar absorption.
Stevia, a naturally sweet plant makes an excellent sugar substitute without the drawbacks of sugar. Stevia can be used in cooking as well. Visit your local health food store or look online for cookbooks that utilize stevia in place of sugar.
Dr. Rita Louise, Ph D is a Naturopathic Physician, founder of the Institute Of Applied Energetics and the host of Just Energy Radio. Author of the books ?Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4? and ?The Power Within?, it is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and professional clairvoyant that enlivens her work. Let Dr. Rita assist you bringing health, healing and wholeness back into your life.
Vaccination For Pneumococcal Pneumonia Effective In HIV-Positive Men
Derek Thaczuk, Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Vaccination significantly reduced the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia in HIV-positive patients in the US Veterans Aging Cohort 5-Site Study, according to results published in the April 1st edition of Clinical Infectious Diseases.
Even with the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy, pneumococcal pneumonia continues to be more common among HIV-positive than HIV-negative individuals – particularly those of black race.
While vaccination with 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) is routinely recommended for those at risk, studies have not shown whether it is clearly effective at protecting against pneumonia.
Retrospective North American studies have shown a protective benefit in those with higher CD4 cell counts, while a recent Ugandan study (and the only prospective study of this clinical question to date) actually found that vaccination increased the short-term risk of pneumococcal pneumonia.
The Veterans Aging Cohort 5-Site Study (VACS 5) is an ongoing, prospective cohort study of HIV-positive patients, enrolled at several major US centres during 2001-2002, and HIV-negative controls matched by age, ethnicity and location.
For this analysis, patient records were retrospectively reviewed for PPV vaccination and diagnoses of pneumonia. Specific nonpneumococcal diagnoses (Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis) were excluded; specific pneumococcal disease or pneumonia due to unspecified causes were considered (this broad definition was chosen since "in clinical practice, an etiologic diagnosis… is rarely made"). Patients were considered vaccinated if they had a record of PPV vaccination within three years prior to, or two years after, entering the study.
A total of 1626 patients – 934 HIV-positive and 692 HIV-negative – were included in the analysis. All were male; the HIV-positive participants were younger (49.2 vs. 55.4 years; p < 0.01) and included more African Americans (55% vs. 44%; p < 0.01), smokers (44% vs. 34%; p < 0.01), and people with alcohol or drug dependence (24% vs. 17% and 30% vs. 15%, respectively; p < 0.01 for both). Most (70%) of the HIV-positive patients were on antiretroviral therapy.
Vaccination had been received by 59% overall, with HIV-positive patients more likely to have been vaccinated than HIV-negative (69% vs. 46%; p < 0.01). Vaccinated patients were older (52.7 vs. 50.4 years; p < 0.05) and had more health conditions overall (1.7 vs. 1.3; p < 0.01), including drug disorders (25% vs. 21%; p < 0.05), coronary artery disease and/or congestive heart failure (12% vs. 8%; p < 0.05), diabetes (22% vs. 12%; p < 0.01), and cancer (18% vs. 13%; p < 0.01). There were no differences in ethnicity, smoking, alcohol use, or hemoglobin level between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients.
The observation period included the two years after vaccination or after study enrollement for vaccinated and unvaccinated patients, respectively. During this time, there were 97 incidents of pneumonia (6% of patients). (Pneumococcal-specific diagnoses were recorded for 14%; the remainder were nonspecific.)
During the observation period, HIV-positive patients were much more likely to have experienced pneumonia (9.1% vs. 1.7% in HIV-negatives; p < 0.01: hazard ratio [HR], 5.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.15-10.71). PPV vaccination did not reduce the risk of pneumonia in HIV-negative patients or in the patient group overall. However, after controlling for CD4 cell count and viral load, vaccination reduced the risk of pneumonia in HIV-positive patients by roughly one third (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.42–1.00; p < 0.05).
In the HIV-positive patients, risk factors for pneumonia were smoking (HR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.03–2.55; p < 0.05), lower haemoglobin level (13.4 g/dL vs. 14.1 g/dL; p < 0.01) and lower CD4 cell count (331 cells/mm3 vs. 426 cells/mm3; p < 0.01).
The protective effect of PPV vaccination was seen despite the fact that, compared to the general HIV-positive US population, the HIV-positive group of the VACS 5 cohort is older and has higher proportions of African Americans, smokers, and people with comorbidities, all of which are risk factors for pneumococcal disease. In contrast with the Ugandan study, no increase in pneumonia incidence was seen in those vaccinated. Smoking and lower CD4 cell counts as risk factors are consistent with prior studies.
The researchers note that the lack of protection seen in the HIV-negative group may be due to study limitations and does not necessarily demonstrate a lack of efficacy in this group. The study observation period also needs to be considered with caution; for half of the vaccinated participants, the dates of vaccination and study entry were greater than a year apart, and patients who were vaccinated more than three years prior to study entry would have been classified as unvaccinated (which would, however, have tended to reduce the apparent benefit of vaccination).
In summary, the researchers conclude that "among HIV-infected patients, PPV vaccination offered protection against pneumonia events… support[ing] the current recommendation of vaccination of HIV-infected patients." The results also provide further justification to encourage smoking cessation strategies in HIV-positive individuals.
Vaccination significantly reduced the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia in HIV-positive patients in the US Veterans Aging Cohort 5-Site Study, according to results published in the April 1st edition of Clinical Infectious Diseases.
Even with the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy, pneumococcal pneumonia continues to be more common among HIV-positive than HIV-negative individuals – particularly those of black race.
While vaccination with 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) is routinely recommended for those at risk, studies have not shown whether it is clearly effective at protecting against pneumonia.
Retrospective North American studies have shown a protective benefit in those with higher CD4 cell counts, while a recent Ugandan study (and the only prospective study of this clinical question to date) actually found that vaccination increased the short-term risk of pneumococcal pneumonia.
The Veterans Aging Cohort 5-Site Study (VACS 5) is an ongoing, prospective cohort study of HIV-positive patients, enrolled at several major US centres during 2001-2002, and HIV-negative controls matched by age, ethnicity and location.
For this analysis, patient records were retrospectively reviewed for PPV vaccination and diagnoses of pneumonia. Specific nonpneumococcal diagnoses (Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, Haemophilus influenza pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis) were excluded; specific pneumococcal disease or pneumonia due to unspecified causes were considered (this broad definition was chosen since "in clinical practice, an etiologic diagnosis… is rarely made"). Patients were considered vaccinated if they had a record of PPV vaccination within three years prior to, or two years after, entering the study.
A total of 1626 patients – 934 HIV-positive and 692 HIV-negative – were included in the analysis. All were male; the HIV-positive participants were younger (49.2 vs. 55.4 years; p < 0.01) and included more African Americans (55% vs. 44%; p < 0.01), smokers (44% vs. 34%; p < 0.01), and people with alcohol or drug dependence (24% vs. 17% and 30% vs. 15%, respectively; p < 0.01 for both). Most (70%) of the HIV-positive patients were on antiretroviral therapy.
Vaccination had been received by 59% overall, with HIV-positive patients more likely to have been vaccinated than HIV-negative (69% vs. 46%; p < 0.01). Vaccinated patients were older (52.7 vs. 50.4 years; p < 0.05) and had more health conditions overall (1.7 vs. 1.3; p < 0.01), including drug disorders (25% vs. 21%; p < 0.05), coronary artery disease and/or congestive heart failure (12% vs. 8%; p < 0.05), diabetes (22% vs. 12%; p < 0.01), and cancer (18% vs. 13%; p < 0.01). There were no differences in ethnicity, smoking, alcohol use, or hemoglobin level between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients.
The observation period included the two years after vaccination or after study enrollement for vaccinated and unvaccinated patients, respectively. During this time, there were 97 incidents of pneumonia (6% of patients). (Pneumococcal-specific diagnoses were recorded for 14%; the remainder were nonspecific.)
During the observation period, HIV-positive patients were much more likely to have experienced pneumonia (9.1% vs. 1.7% in HIV-negatives; p < 0.01: hazard ratio [HR], 5.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.15-10.71). PPV vaccination did not reduce the risk of pneumonia in HIV-negative patients or in the patient group overall. However, after controlling for CD4 cell count and viral load, vaccination reduced the risk of pneumonia in HIV-positive patients by roughly one third (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.42–1.00; p < 0.05).
In the HIV-positive patients, risk factors for pneumonia were smoking (HR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.03–2.55; p < 0.05), lower haemoglobin level (13.4 g/dL vs. 14.1 g/dL; p < 0.01) and lower CD4 cell count (331 cells/mm3 vs. 426 cells/mm3; p < 0.01).
The protective effect of PPV vaccination was seen despite the fact that, compared to the general HIV-positive US population, the HIV-positive group of the VACS 5 cohort is older and has higher proportions of African Americans, smokers, and people with comorbidities, all of which are risk factors for pneumococcal disease. In contrast with the Ugandan study, no increase in pneumonia incidence was seen in those vaccinated. Smoking and lower CD4 cell counts as risk factors are consistent with prior studies.
The researchers note that the lack of protection seen in the HIV-negative group may be due to study limitations and does not necessarily demonstrate a lack of efficacy in this group. The study observation period also needs to be considered with caution; for half of the vaccinated participants, the dates of vaccination and study entry were greater than a year apart, and patients who were vaccinated more than three years prior to study entry would have been classified as unvaccinated (which would, however, have tended to reduce the apparent benefit of vaccination).
In summary, the researchers conclude that "among HIV-infected patients, PPV vaccination offered protection against pneumonia events… support[ing] the current recommendation of vaccination of HIV-infected patients." The results also provide further justification to encourage smoking cessation strategies in HIV-positive individuals.
Laser Treatment Could Kill HIV
The treatment could kill viruses while preserving human cells
Lasers could be used to combat viruses and infections like HIV and MRSA without side effects, researchers say.
Current ultraviolet light laser treatments can kill micro-organisms - but cannot be used in humans as they would also damage cells in the body.
But using infrared femtosecond lasers with carefully selected wavelengths, a US team targeted viruses and bacteria without harming other cells.
The Arizona research is reported in the Journal of Physics: Condensed Matters.
The technology is called Impulsive Stimulated Raman Scattering (ISRS).
It produces lethal vibrations in the protein coat of micro-organisms, thereby destroying them. The effect of the vibrations is similar to that of high-pitched noise shattering glass.
However, the line of attack can be perfected so that the proteins which coat human cells remain unaffected.
So far experiments have been done on E. coli bacterial cells, Tobacco Mosaic Virus cells, as well as human and hamster cells.
After several attempts, the researchers found a level which "inactivates both viruses and bacteria while leaving sensitive materials such as mammalian cells unharmed".
Lead researcher Professor Kong-Thon Tsen, of Arizona State University, said: "The research so far suggests that ISRS will be ready for use in disinfection and could provide treatments against some of the worst, often drug-resistant, bacterial and viral pathogens."
Dr Jean-Yves Maillard, senior lecturer in pharmaceutical microbiology at Cardiff University, said: "This is quite an interesting technology but it's at a very preliminary stage and any application in humans is a long way off."
BBC News
Lasers could be used to combat viruses and infections like HIV and MRSA without side effects, researchers say.
Current ultraviolet light laser treatments can kill micro-organisms - but cannot be used in humans as they would also damage cells in the body.
But using infrared femtosecond lasers with carefully selected wavelengths, a US team targeted viruses and bacteria without harming other cells.
The Arizona research is reported in the Journal of Physics: Condensed Matters.
The technology is called Impulsive Stimulated Raman Scattering (ISRS).
It produces lethal vibrations in the protein coat of micro-organisms, thereby destroying them. The effect of the vibrations is similar to that of high-pitched noise shattering glass.
However, the line of attack can be perfected so that the proteins which coat human cells remain unaffected.
So far experiments have been done on E. coli bacterial cells, Tobacco Mosaic Virus cells, as well as human and hamster cells.
After several attempts, the researchers found a level which "inactivates both viruses and bacteria while leaving sensitive materials such as mammalian cells unharmed".
Lead researcher Professor Kong-Thon Tsen, of Arizona State University, said: "The research so far suggests that ISRS will be ready for use in disinfection and could provide treatments against some of the worst, often drug-resistant, bacterial and viral pathogens."
Dr Jean-Yves Maillard, senior lecturer in pharmaceutical microbiology at Cardiff University, said: "This is quite an interesting technology but it's at a very preliminary stage and any application in humans is a long way off."
BBC News
Aids Virus Could Be Weakening
HIV may be modified by the immune system
The virus which causes Aids may be getting less powerful, researchers say.
A team at the Institute of Tropical Medicine, in Antwerp, compared HIV-1 samples from 1986-89 and 2002-03.
They found the newer samples appeared not to multiply as well, and were more sensitive to drugs - some other studies argue they are becoming more resistant.
The researchers, writing in the journal Aids, stressed their work in no way meant efforts to prevent the spread of HIV should be scaled down.
They were only able to compare 12 samples from each time period, and they were unable fully to tease out any effect that drug therapy may have had on the virus.
Hope for future
Researcher Dr Eric Arts said: "This was a very preliminary study, but we did find a pretty striking observation in that the viruses from the 2000s are much weaker than the viruses from the eighties.
"Obviously this virus is still causing death, although it may be causing death at a slower rate of progression now. Maybe in another 50 to 60 years we might see this virus not causing death."
Keith Alcorn, senior editor at the HIV information charity NAM, said it had been thought that HIV would increase in virulence as it passed through more and more human hosts.
But the latest study suggested the opposite is actually true.
"What appears to be happening is that by the time HIV passes from one person to another, it has already toned down some of its most pathogenic effects in response to its host's immune system," he said.
"So the virus that is passed on is less 'fit' each time.
"This would suggest that over several generations, HIV could become less harmful to its human hosts.
"However, we are still far from that point - HIV is still a life-threatening infection."
Similar trend
Dr Marco Vitoria, an HIV expert at the World Health Organization, said other diseases - such as smallpox, TB and syphilis - had shown the same tendency to weaken over time.
"There is a natural trend to reach an 'equilibrium' between the agent and the host interests, in order to guarantee concomitant survival for a longer time," he said.
However, Dr Vitoria stressed that the latest findings should not lull people into a false sense of security.
"This kind of change cannot be adequately measured in years, but in generations," he told the BBC News website.
He also questioned whether it was possible to draw firm conclusions from such a small study.
Will Nutland, of the charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This latest study adds to the debate on an apparently confusing and contradictory issue.
"Some studies suggest recent strains of HIV are more sensitive to drugs while others claim strains are becoming more resistant.
"The study adds to the body of evidence but HIV is showing no signs of dying out in the near future."
bbc news
The virus which causes Aids may be getting less powerful, researchers say.
A team at the Institute of Tropical Medicine, in Antwerp, compared HIV-1 samples from 1986-89 and 2002-03.
They found the newer samples appeared not to multiply as well, and were more sensitive to drugs - some other studies argue they are becoming more resistant.
The researchers, writing in the journal Aids, stressed their work in no way meant efforts to prevent the spread of HIV should be scaled down.
They were only able to compare 12 samples from each time period, and they were unable fully to tease out any effect that drug therapy may have had on the virus.
Hope for future
Researcher Dr Eric Arts said: "This was a very preliminary study, but we did find a pretty striking observation in that the viruses from the 2000s are much weaker than the viruses from the eighties.
"Obviously this virus is still causing death, although it may be causing death at a slower rate of progression now. Maybe in another 50 to 60 years we might see this virus not causing death."
Keith Alcorn, senior editor at the HIV information charity NAM, said it had been thought that HIV would increase in virulence as it passed through more and more human hosts.
But the latest study suggested the opposite is actually true.
"What appears to be happening is that by the time HIV passes from one person to another, it has already toned down some of its most pathogenic effects in response to its host's immune system," he said.
"So the virus that is passed on is less 'fit' each time.
"This would suggest that over several generations, HIV could become less harmful to its human hosts.
"However, we are still far from that point - HIV is still a life-threatening infection."
Similar trend
Dr Marco Vitoria, an HIV expert at the World Health Organization, said other diseases - such as smallpox, TB and syphilis - had shown the same tendency to weaken over time.
"There is a natural trend to reach an 'equilibrium' between the agent and the host interests, in order to guarantee concomitant survival for a longer time," he said.
However, Dr Vitoria stressed that the latest findings should not lull people into a false sense of security.
"This kind of change cannot be adequately measured in years, but in generations," he told the BBC News website.
He also questioned whether it was possible to draw firm conclusions from such a small study.
Will Nutland, of the charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This latest study adds to the debate on an apparently confusing and contradictory issue.
"Some studies suggest recent strains of HIV are more sensitive to drugs while others claim strains are becoming more resistant.
"The study adds to the body of evidence but HIV is showing no signs of dying out in the near future."
bbc news
Ebola Outbreak Contained In Uganda
22 February 2008
In November 2007, the Ministry of Health in Uganda confirmed an outbreak of Ebola haemorrhagic fever in the western district of Bundibugyo. Initial field investigations indicated that the outbreak might have started in September 2007.
A national task force comprising the health ministry, WHO and other international partners coordinated the response to this outbreak. After the monitoring and patient care activities that lasted several weeks, the Ugandan health ministry this week announced the containment of the Ebola outbreak in Bundibugyo. In all, 149 cases were detected and 37 patients died.
The international response involved experts from a number of organizations: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF - Suisse), the African Field Epidemiology Network, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), UNICEF and the World Food Programme. Coordination support was provided by WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network.
This photo story illustrates how the health ministry, WHO and other partners responded to the outbreak and contained it.
Vitamin
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Retinol (one vitamer of Vitamin A)A vitamin is an organic compound required as a nutrient in tiny amounts by an organism. A compound is called a vitamin when it cannot be synthesized in sufficient quantities by an organism, and must be obtained from the diet. Thus, the term is conditional both on the circumstances and the particular organism. For example, ascorbic acid functions as vitamin C for some animals but not others, and vitamins D and K are required in the human diet only in certain circumstances. Vitamins are defined by their biological activity, not their structure. Thus, each "vitamin" actually refers to a number of vitamer compounds, which form a set of distinct chemical compounds that show the biological activity of a particular vitamin. Such a set of chemicals are grouped under an alphabetized vitamin "generic descriptor" title, such as "vitamin A," which (for example) includes retinal, retinol, and many carotenoids. Vitamers are often inter-convertible in the body. The term vitamin does not include other essential nutrients such as dietary minerals, essential fatty acids, or essential amino acids, nor does it encompass the large number of other nutrients that promote health but that are not essential for life.
Vitamins have diverse biochemical functions, including function as hormones (e.g. vitamin D), antioxidants (e.g. vitamin E), and mediators of cell signaling and regulators of cell and tissue growth and differentiation (e.g. vitamin A) . The largest number of vitamins (e.g. B complex vitamins) function as precursors for enzyme cofactor bio-molecules (coenzymes), that help act as catalysts and substrates in metabolism. When acting as part of a catalyst, vitamins are bound to enzymes and are called prosthetic groups. For example, biotin is part of enzymes involved in making fatty acids. Vitamins also act as coenzymes to carry chemical groups between enzymes. For example, folic acid carries various forms of carbon group – methyl, formyl and methylene - in the cell. Although these roles in assisting enzyme reactions are vitamins' best-known function, the other vitamin functions are equally important.
Until the 1800s, vitamins were obtained solely through food intake, and changes in diet (which, for example, could occur during a particular growing season) can alter the types and amounts of vitamins ingested. Vitamins have been produced as commodity chemicals and made widely available as inexpensive pills for several decades, allowing supplementation of the dietary intake
In Nutrition And Diseases
Vitamins are essential for the normal growth and development of a multicellular organism. Using the genetic blueprint inherited from its parents, a fetus begins to develop, at the moment of conception, from the nutrients it absorbs. It requires certain vitamins and minerals to be present at certain times. These nutrients facilitate the chemical reactions that produce among other things, skin, bone, and muscle. If there is serious deficiency in one or more of these nutrients, a child may develop a deficiency disease. Even minor deficiencies may cause permanent damage.
For the most part, vitamins are obtained with food, but a few are obtained by other means. For example, microorganisms in the intestine—commonly known as "gut flora"—produce vitamin K and biotin, while one form of vitamin D is synthesized in the skin with the help of natural ultraviolet in sunlight. Humans can produce some vitamins from precursors they consume. Examples include vitamin A, produced from beta carotene, and niacin, from the amino acid tryptophan.
Once growth and development are completed, vitamins remain essential nutrients for the healthy maintenance of the cells, tissues, and organs that make up a multicellular organism; they also enable a multicellular life form to efficiently use chemical energy provided by food it eats, and to help process the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats required for respiration.
Wikipedia
For the most part, vitamins are obtained with food, but a few are obtained by other means. For example, microorganisms in the intestine—commonly known as "gut flora"—produce vitamin K and biotin, while one form of vitamin D is synthesized in the skin with the help of natural ultraviolet in sunlight. Humans can produce some vitamins from precursors they consume. Examples include vitamin A, produced from beta carotene, and niacin, from the amino acid tryptophan.
Once growth and development are completed, vitamins remain essential nutrients for the healthy maintenance of the cells, tissues, and organs that make up a multicellular organism; they also enable a multicellular life form to efficiently use chemical energy provided by food it eats, and to help process the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats required for respiration.
Wikipedia
Side Effects And Overdose
In large doses, some vitamins have documented side effects that tend to be more severe with a larger dosage. The likelihood of consuming too much of any vitamin from food is remote, but overdosing from vitamin supplementation does occur. At high enough dosages some vitamins cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.When side effects emerge, recovery is often accomplished by reducing the dosage. The concentrations of vitamins an individual can tolerate vary widely, and appear to be related to age and state of health.In the United States, overdose exposure to all formulations of vitamins was reported by 62,562 individuals in 2004 (nearly 80% of these exposures were in children under the age of 6), leading to 53 "major" life-threatening outcomes and 3 deaths a small number in comparison to the 19,250 people who died of unintentional poisoning of all kinds in the U.S. in the same year (2004).
Avitaminosis
From Wikipedia
Avitaminosis is any disease caused by chronic or long-term vitamin deficiency or caused by a defect in metabolic conversion, such as tryptophan to niacin. They are designated by the same letter as the vitamin.
Conversely hypervitaminosis is the syndrome of symptoms caused by over-retention of fat-soluble vitamins in the body.
Types
Avitaminoses include
vitamin A deficiency causes xerophthalmia or night blindness
thiamine deficiency causes beriberi
niacin deficiency causes pellagra
vitamin B12 deficiency leads to megaloblastic anemia
vitamin C deficiency leads to scurvy
vitamin D deficiency causes rickets
vitamin K deficiency causes bleeding
Avitaminosis is any disease caused by chronic or long-term vitamin deficiency or caused by a defect in metabolic conversion, such as tryptophan to niacin. They are designated by the same letter as the vitamin.
Conversely hypervitaminosis is the syndrome of symptoms caused by over-retention of fat-soluble vitamins in the body.
Types
Avitaminoses include
vitamin A deficiency causes xerophthalmia or night blindness
thiamine deficiency causes beriberi
niacin deficiency causes pellagra
vitamin B12 deficiency leads to megaloblastic anemia
vitamin C deficiency leads to scurvy
vitamin D deficiency causes rickets
vitamin K deficiency causes bleeding
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