When Women Loses Their Hair?

Hereditary hair loss and thinning hair are common concerns in women, but many popular treatments don’t do any good, writes Lesley Alderman in today’s Patient Money.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 30 million women in this country have hereditary hair loss, compared with 50 million men. But many additional women experience thinning hair that results from menopause or health problems.

If your hair is coming out, be advised that of the multitude of treatments on the market for women, few are worth your money, says Dr. Melissa Piliang, a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic. Americans spent an estimated $176 million on hair loss products last year, and chances are some of that money was not well spent. Don’t let charming salon owners, seductive ads or fancy gimmicks convince you otherwise.

Hair loss in women is a serious condition with lots of conventional explanations. One area that’s never mentioned is the connection to poor sleep quality, especially due to breathing problems at night. A significant percentage of men and women have undiagnosed sleep-breathing problems, with the end extreme being called obstructive sleep apnea.

It’s estimated that about 1/4 of all men and 1/10 of all women have at lease mild sleep apnea, and 90% are not diagnosed. However, there’s a variation of sleep apnea called upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS), where you’ll stop breathing while sleeping, but not long enough to be called obstructive sleep apnea.

Typically these people (more typically thin women) will have colds hands or feet, prefer not to sleep on their backs, feel tired all the time, no matter how long they sleep, and will usually have at least one parent that snores heavily.

These multiple arousals lead to a chronic low-grade physiologic stress response which heightens the nervous system (and immune system). During times of stress, blood is shunted away from low-priority organs like the GI system, reproductive organs, the distant extremities and the skin. Chronic lack of blood flow can lead to a number detrimental effects, including hair loss.

It’s also been shown that chronic physiologic stress also raises your cortisol levels, lowers your thyroid levels, and alters your estrogen/progesterone/testosterone balance.

There are also anecdotal reports of people who report hair regrowth after starting sleep apnea treatment.

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should get checked for UARS. In many cases, UARS progresses into obstructive sleep apnea, especially after menopause. Even if it doesn’t help your hair loss, being diagnosed may prevent complications of sleep apnea, including hypertension, diabetes, weight gain, anxiety, depression, and heart disease.

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Thinning Hair in Women

Hair is probably a woman's most important feature. Signs of thinning hair can take the sail out of almost any woman's day. It may seem vain to pay so much attention to hair, but signs of thinning hair are really the first signals of such conditions as hormonal imbalance, vitamin deficiency, excessive stress or poor nutrition, all symptoms of declining health status. Paying attention to hair can reveal developing conditions before they get out of control. When you have restored your hair to a full head of vibrant healthy strands, chances are the rest of your body will also exhibit vibrant health.

Nutritional deficiencies may be signaled by thinning hair

Your hair loss may be caused by vitamin D deficiency. Studies show that a large segment of the American population is deficient in this essential nutrient, with hair loss being one of the primary symptoms of this deficiency.

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is expressed in numerous cells and tissues of the body, including the skin. Studies of mice and humans lacking these functional receptors have demonstrated that absence of the VDR leads to the development of alopecia, a fancy word for hair loss. Hair loss may be an early warning that you are at risk of other maladies linked to a deficiency of vitamin D. The list includes diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, depression, multiple sclerosis, gum disease, seasonal influenza and tuberculosis.

Lack of exposure to the sun almost guarantees vitamin D deficiency. Researchers have mapped the U.S. and found that the farther north a person lives, the more likely she is to have vitamin D deficiency. If access to the sun is not an option, supplementing vitamin D with cod liver oil, or capsules of D3 will help. It is now suggested that women receive a minimum of 2,000 units of vitamin D per day. Many cutting edge practioners advocate 10,000 units per day, the amount obtained from a day wearing a bathing suit in the summer sun.

Omega 3 fatty acids affect the biological process of vitamin D. They are responsible for producing cholesterol and at the same time for removing its excess, as well as for most other bodily functions. In order to manufacture vitamin D, the body needs cholesterol. If the diet does not contain enough essential fatty acids, the body can't produce its own vitamin D. In addition to containing usable vitamin D, cod liver oil also provides omega 3 fatty acids.

Hair loss may also be the result of deficiencies of the amino acid lysine, copper, and zinc. However, if your diet is comprised of a wide selection of whole foods including daily servings of fresh vegetables and fruits, this may not be the cause of your hair loss, especially if you are getting enough protein. Hair stands are composed of protein, but if the diet is short on it, the wisdom of the body will divert its use from making hair to sustaining more necessary bodily functions. Taking a whole food supplement such as bee pollen, spirulina or chlorella will help with getting and assimilating needed amounts of the full spectrum of nutrients.

Thinning hair may reflect hormonal imbalance

A woman's hormones can begin to decline and lose balance as early as the 30's. One of the most shocking examples of this imbalance is hair growth appearing on the upper lip or chin, or a coarsening of hair on the rest of the body while the hair on the head thins. This is most likely the result of excessive dihydrotestosterone (DHT) conversion. Although estrogen is the primary hormone of women, they also produce testosterone and other androgens such as DHEA. As the body ages women may begin to convert these androgens to DHT just as men do. Women with a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome tend to have higher levels of testosterone and DHT than other women, and may be more susceptible to this excessive conversion.

To find out if hormonal imbalance is causing hair loss, full range hormone testing can be done. Physicians who administer bio-identical hormones can provide this testing, as well as physicians who specialize in anti-aging medicine. If this is not an option, there are reliable laboratories available online that receive specimens of saliva by mail and provide complete hormone testing results.

Supplements of saw palmetto prevent the excessive conversion of androgens to DHT. It is an herb that comes from the flowers of a beautiful palm tree known as saw palmetto or sabal palm. A dosage of one 160 mg. capsule daily should effectively block this conversion and get the hair back on head and off the face. Saw palmetto has been demonstrated to be safe for prolonged use. If hormone testing is not an option, another way to find out if excessive DHT conversion is causing hair loss is to take a saw palmetto supplement for a period of three months. If hair loss stops where you don't want it and starts where you do want it, your question will be answered.

Excessive levels of hormonal conversion to DHT are highly associated with prostate abnormalities in men and may be a cause of prostate cancer. Saw palmetto has been documented to increase prostate health. The health effects of this conversion in women are not yet fully documented, yet common sense suggests that reducing excessive levels of DHT in women may be helpful in assuring breast and ovarian health.

Declining levels of thyroid hormone can also spark hair loss. It's estimated that forty percent of American women are suffering from significant hair loss related to low thyroid hormones, with redheads particularly at risk. The hormones produced by the thyroid are responsible for metabolism, the sum of all the physical and chemical processes. The thyroid hormones control the efficiency and speed at which cells work. Every cell in the body including the hair depends on proper thyroid function for development. If thyroid production is insufficient, hair growth will slow and hair will eventually thin.

Other symptoms of declining thyroid function are dry skin, sensitivity to hot and cold, unexplained weight gain, missing outer third of eyebrows, constipation, brittle nails, high or low blood pressure, susceptibility to infections, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, joint or muscle pain, cystic breasts or ovaries, chronic sinusitis, slow heart rate, TMJ syndrome, dental problems, headache, and increased cholesterol levels. This list reveals how critical proper thyroid function is to well being.

The good new is that low thyroid can easily be corrected by supplementing the body with bio-identical thyroid hormones. Armour thyroid is the natural form of thyroid hormone. For more information about the thyroid and hair see http://www.naturalnews.com/024388.html

Too much stress can cause hair to thin

Hair loss may be the first indication that your stress level is taking a toll on your body. Stress is nothing less than epidemic today, and this high level can actually cause hair loss along with many more serious health problems. Excessive physical or emotional stress associated with illness, injury, and trauma may cause the hair to stop growing and enter a period of dormancy which is followed two or three months later by the hair falling out. When physical or emotional equilibrium is regained, hair will again begin to grow, usually about 6 to 9 months later.

A more serious situation develops when stress is constant and almost unrelenting as it is for many people in this society. Hair thinning will continue unless effective means of dealing with the stress are put in place and calmness can be restored. Prolonged hair loss caused by chronic stress is a warning that other bodily systems are in jeopardy.

Cortisol is the stress hormone that gives the body its fight or flight response to stressful situations. It is an important hormone secreted by the adrenal glands and involved in maintaining proper glucose metabolism, regulation of blood pressure, insulin release for blood sugar maintenance, immune function, and inflammatory response. When stress is constant and prolonged, cortisol levels stay elevated and the body enters a state of chronic stress.

Higher and prolonged levels of corisol in the bloodstream have been shown to have negative effects, such as impaired cognitive performance, suppressed thyroid function, blood sugar imbalances, decreased bone density, decreased muscle tissue, higher blood pressure, lowered immunity, heightened inflammatory response, and increased abdominal fat. If no steps are taken to reduce the stress level, heart attack or stroke may follow.

To keep corisol levels healthy, the body's relaxation response should be activated. Learn to relax the body with various stress management techniques and make changes in your lifestyle to minimize the stress. Eat a diet of whole food that emphasizes vegetables and fruits. Take supplements like bee pollen, spirulina and chlorella to make sure nutrition is complete. Add alfalfa to keep your body fully mineralized, as stress raises the need for minerals. The B complex vitamins as well as vitamin C are needed to support the adrenal gland while dealing with chronic stress.

Hair products containing toxic chemicals promote hair loss

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is the dominant ingredient in almost all shampoos sold in traditional outlets such as supermarkets, drugstores and discount centers. In addition to having toxic effects on your immune system, SLS has been shown to corrode hair follicles and impede hair growth. It has been blamed for many cases of hair loss. The Material Safety Data Sheet provided by the U.S. government says exposure to SLS can lead to burning, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, shortness of breath, headache, nausea and vomiting. The American College of Toxicology says SLS stays in the body for up to five days and maintains residual levels in the heart, liver, brain, and lungs.

Over-treated hair is another cause of hair loss in women. Hair dyes, permanents, and relaxers do serious damage to the hair and scalp whether they contain lye or not. They are made with toxic chemicals that must be detoxified by the liver, and are identified by the immune system as foreign invaders. Thus health of the liver and the immune system are compromised by use of these products. When the liver is busy trying to detoxify an onslaught of foreign chemicals, estrogen metabolism may not be properly completed and breast cancer may be promoted. An immune system busy fighting off an invasion of foreign chemicals may not be able to prevent infection or identify and destroy abberant cells. Damage from dyes and relaxers can only heal when those potions are no longer used on the hair. - source

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Your Biggest Hair Problems now Solved!

"I'm Losing It!"

Thinning hair can be devastating. But we have calming news.

You're not alone. Up to 60 percent of women experience hair loss at some point. The causes are multiple—genetics, hormones (too much thyroid, not enough thyroid, low estrogen, high androgen), or trauma (an allergic reaction, high fever, stress). The most common, and chronic, cause is a genetic condition called androgenetic alopecia.

Help has arrived. If your hair loss was triggered by a specific event (like a reaction to a new medication), it will grow back once that issue is addressed. If it's chronic, there are two FDA-approved treatments available. Minoxidil (brand name Rogaine) comes in 2 percent and 5 percent over-the-counter formulas; applied topically twice a day, it can help stop thinning and (in about 40 percent of women) regrow some hair.

If you're postmenopausal, your doctor can prescribe finasteride (brand names Propecia and Proscar), an oral medication that stops the production of one of the androgens that can exacerbate hair loss (most doctors won't prescribe it to women in their childbearing years because it could cause birth defects in a male fetus). Some doctors also use lasers to help treat hair loss, but there are no large independent studies proving their efficacy. If you'd consider surgery, you could be a candidate for a hair transplant, which can now create natural-looking results in women.

The future looks bright. Two areas of research that are particularly promising:

1. The drug company Allergan is currently seeking FDA approval for a topical hair-loss treatment containing bimatoprost, the active ingredient in the eyelash-growing drug Latisse. Clinical trials are under way, and doctors estimate that a treatment could be available in 2014.

2. Researchers have already shown—in mice—that it is possible to use stem cells to grow new hair. "Within the next ten years, that technology could be a reality for humans," says Michael Longaker, MD, codirector of Stanford School of Medicine Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine. Stem cells would be removed from an area where you have dense hair growth, then injected into thinning areas to stimulate new growth.

The Truth About Hair Growth Supplements

"I have never seen a study that proves vitamin supplements work to make hair grow longer or thicker," says Jerry Shapiro, MD, an adjunct professor of dermatology at New York University whose practice specializes in treating hair loss. If you're losing hair, supplements can help stop or slow the shedding—but only if you have a deficiency in certain vitamins. 

Shapiro suggests supplements for patients whose blood tests show that they are low in vitamin D, zinc, or iron. He doesn't even test, however, for deficiency in biotin—the vitamin most commonly found in supplements marketed to help hair growth. "If you were truly biotin deficient—which is extremely rare in this country—you would be too sick to make it into my office."

Illusions of Thickness

Hair loss treatments can take up to a year to work. In the meantime, the right hairstyle will camouflage thinning. Keep your cut above shoulder length—if your hair is too long, it will look wispy, says New York City hairstylist Sam Brocato. Blunt ends make hair look thicker, so skip layers. When hair is thinning at the crown but still thick in front, bangs give a fuller look.

And readers on oprah.com rave about two products for concealing thinning hair: Toppik ($22; toppik.com), a shake-on powder made of tiny keratin fibers that cling to your existing hair to fill in sparse patches, and Joan Rivers Beauty Great Hair Day ($30; qvc.com), a pressed powder that helps eliminate the shine from exposed scalp (and camouflages roots, too). 

If you've lost all or most of your hair (for whatever reason—chemo, genetics, an autoimmune disease like alopecia areata), you might want to consider a wig. The good and bad news: You have hundreds of options. Go to oprah.com/wigs for help sorting through them. - source

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Healthy Ways to Reduce Sodium in Canned Soup

Sodium is one of those essential minerals required by our body. It's a naturally occurring element present in almost all types of food items that we eat. The health benefits of sodium are pronounced only when you consume it from natural and organic resources. Prepackaged and canned food items have a high concentration of sodium, which might be above the level of recommended dietary intake. Sodium is present in forms of monosodium glutamate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium saccharin and sodium benzoate; all these ingredients increase the shelf life of canned products and also enhance the flavor of the item. When you start consuming these food items on a regular basis, then sodium levels get automatically elevated.

One of the most commonly consumed canned food is soup. Although touted to be healthy, canned soups can give rise to several health disorders in the long run, owing to the high sodium content. They also contain artificial preservatives and flavoring agents which are not really healthy for the body. In this regard, it's important for you to know the health hazards caused by the presence of excess sodium in the body.

Harmful Effects of Sodium-rich Canned Soups

• First of all, people having high blood pressure should avoid such food items because addition of sodium will only aggravate their heart issues.
• If you are depending on canned soups for controlling calorie intake, then you need to change your diet. You will feel bloated and dehydrated after a certain point of time.
• In a healthy adult, although water retention is not immediately evident, those with weak kidneys will suffer from mineral and fluid build-up in the body.

From the aforementioned points, you can easily figure out the dangers associated with having sodium-rich canned soups. However, a salt-free diet is not recommended until prescribed by doctors. It's because salt is necessary for maintaining the fluid balance of our body, proper functioning of muscles and nerves, and regulating the blood volume. So how to reduce sodium in canned soup? We will explain this in the next segment.

Reducing Sodium in Canned Soups

Here are some quick tips you can try at home without tampering with the taste of the soup by adding natural ingredients to it. Those who are staunchly following a low-calorie diet can also refer to these tips.

• Dilute the Soup
  
  This is probably the best way to reduce the salt concentration. If you are preparing a bowl of soup, then add 2 cups of extra water to it. This way the quantity of soup increases and the sodium per serving also becomes less. The calorie content is minimized and you can meet your weight loss goals.

• Add Salt-Free Flavoring Herbs
  
  Edible herbs have the potential to balance the sodium present in soups. Add fresh rosemary, oregano, parsley, parsnip, coriander, basil, saffron, shallots, or lemongrass while cooking the soup. The herbs will absorb sodium and when you add water, the concentration of the salt gets further reduced.

• Spice it Up
  
  A concoction of various spices not only adds taste but also improves the nutritional value of canned food products. However, you have to add some water for blending the spices perfectly. Cinnamon, anise, cardamom, cumin, fennel, nutmeg, clove, etc. are some excellent ingredients for spicing up soups.

• Combine with Vegetables
  
  Add vegetables to redistribute sodium and make the soup sumptuous. Chop cabbage, carrot, beet, onion, garlic, celery, and ginger. Steam the vegetables or stir-fry these in olive oil. Combine them with the soup while cooking it. It's simply an excellent way to minimize sodium in canned soups.

• Make it Tangy
  
  Food items tasting excessively salty can be counterbalanced with lemon juice. So what you can do is, first add a little water to the soup (to increase its quantity) and while it boils, add lemon juice to it. Finely chop tomatoes and add this to the boiling soup. Then sprinkle pepper.

• Blend with Broth
  
  Broth being a nutritional supplement, can be added to canned soups. Since your motive is to reduce the sodium content of the soup, you have to restrict yourself from adding table salt even if the soup tastes bland. Mix vegetable or meat broth with the soup and cook for sometime.

• Absorb with a Potato
  
  Many are unaware of the sodium-absorbing potential of potato. All you need to do is, dip a peeled potato into the soup bowl while it is boiling. Then cover the bowl with a lid. Wait till the potato becomes soft. It will absorb almost all the sodium from the soup. Remove the potato and then have the soup.

When we are aware of the ill-effects of consuming canned food products, then why not make a conscious effort to eat fresh varieties? Another way to be on the safe side, is to pick up salt-free soups so that you do not require any kind of improvisation while making it. Or else, these tips are always there for you. Stay fit.

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Health Benefits of Ampalaya

Ampalaya the well known name vege in Philippines  is also Bitter Melon, and is sometime called the Bittergourd: This tropical plant which goes by many names, is commonly grown for its edible fruit, which is probably among the most bitter of all vegetables on earth.

Bitter gourd predominantly grows in tropical areas, including parts of Asia, East Africa, the Caribbean, and South America, where it is used both as food as well as a medicine. The plant's fruit truly lives up to its name, because it really tastes bitter. Although the seeds, leaves, and vines of this fruit have different uses, the fruit is considered as the safest and most predominantly used part of the plant in traditional herbal medicine.

Ampalaya Is Now Used In Herbal Medicine

Until recently, bitter gourd has been noted to be a potent herbal medicine for a lot of ailments, particularly in treating diabetes. The Philippine variety is known for its more potent anti-diabetic components.

This fruit is composed of a mixture of flavonoids and alkaloids which make the pancreas produce insulin that controls the blood sugar levels in diabetics. Aside from its touted medicinal value, it's also a very wonderful source of vitamins A, B and C, iron, folic acid, phosphorous and calcium. Ampalaya is a common herb used in Chinese herbology too.

The fruit's leaves are often used for children's coughs and are utilized in the treatment of skin diseases, sterility in women, as a parasiticide, an antipyretic, as well as a purgative. Like most bitter-tasting fruits and vegetables, bitter gourd stimulates digestion and can be very potent in people with dyspepsia and constipation.

Herbal Benefits of Ampalaya:

Ampalaya is noted to be an effective component in herbal medicine, and the fruit is known to help treat, or alleviate the symptoms of rheumatism and gout and ailments of the spleen and liver. It also is effective in helping lower the body's blood sugar and blood pressure levels. Below are among many of the beneficial aspects of using bitter gourd:

• Helps to disinfect and heal cuts, wounds & burns
• Is useful as a cough & fever remedy
• Used in the treatment of intestinal worms and diarrhea
• Helps prevent some types of cancers
• Helps enhance the body's immune system to ward off infections
• Serves as an effective antioxidant, antibacterial & antipyretic agent

How To Prepare A Herbal Ampalaya Mixture.

As the bitter fruit is famous for its many medicinal attributes, there are also other unique ways in preparing mixtures, drinks or solutions made from ampalaya. For cough, fever, worms, diarrhea, diabetes, drink a spoonful every day of grounded and juiced ampalaya leaves. For other health conditions, the fruit and leaves can both be juiced and taken orally. For wounds, burns and other skin diseases, you may apply the fruit's warmed leaves to the affected area.

Aside from the benefits mentioned above, bitter gourd is also an effective digestive agent that works by properly stimulating the secretion of gastric juices. It also aids in stimulating the liver for proper secretion of bile juices that are essential for the metabolism of body fat.

Taking juice made from bitter gourd also helps in the treatment of constipation, which is mainly caused by unhealthy eating habits and daily dietary practices. This fruit not only is good at relieving an indigestive condition, but also aids in treating constipation, by improving the movement of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as improving absorption in the intestines.

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Indications of Low Blood Pressure

When the heart pumps out blood for circulation, the flowing blood exerts certain amount of pressure on the artery walls which is known as blood pressure. In normal health condition, the pressure readings should be in the range of 120/80. When it is 90/60 or lower, then it is considered as low blood pressure. Medically, this condition is called hypotension. There are some people who are healthy but their blood pressure is quite low as compared to others. However, it does not cause any serious health complications in them.

Causes

There are several reasons which can lead to falls in blood pressure levels. In case, there is any heart problem such as low heart rate, valve problems, congestive heart failure, etc. sufficient blood is not circulated throughout the body and the blood pressure drops below normal. Thyroid problems, liver diseases, overdose of hypertension medications, low blood sugar in diabetic patients, nutritional deficiency, side effects of medicines, severe allergic reaction are some of the other major causes. During pregnancy, low level of blood pressure is quite common in the first two trimesters. This happens due to expansion of the circulatory system. Small children may experience sudden drop in blood pressure due to fatigue, tiredness after standing for a long time, dehydration, and excessive blood loss.

Symptoms

The effect of low blood pressure can be first observed in the functioning of the brain. In normal condition, the blood moves against the pull of gravity in order to reach the brain. If the blood pressure is low, then sufficient amount of blood cannot be supplied to the brain. As a result, one may feel dizzy, lightheadedness or faintness. These are minor hypotension symptoms and would disappear as soon as blood supply to the brain is restored.

If the blood pressure continues to be low for a long time, then more severe symptoms like mental confusion, lack of concentration and loss of consciousness can be observed. When it remain low for several days, people tend to suffer from depression.

The other two major organs that mostly get affected by sudden drop in the blood pressure are the heart and lungs. Inadequate blood flow into the heart can cause mild to moderate chest pain or angina. Breathing difficulty or rapid, shallow breathing suggest that the lungs have been affected.

Signs of low blood pressure in children are usually observed for a brief period of time. Some general symptoms are nausea, blurry vision, fatigue, and pale skin which turns cold and clammy. If it is after standing under the sun, dehydration symptoms like excessive thirsty feelings often accompany dizziness and fainting.

In pregnant women, low blood pressure signs show up occasionally particularly after standing up quickly or due to physical exertion or empty stomach. However, in case, dizziness persists for longer time and is accompanied with headache, impaired speech and loss of consciousness, then it is an emergency.

Treatment

Low blood pressure in adults and elderly is treated with suitable medicines which are given to increase the blood volume of the body. As a result, blood pressure rises to the normal level. When it is triggered by some medicines, then the specific medicine is either changed or its dosage is lowered. Children with low blood pressure symptoms mostly do not require any medicinal treatment. Doctors advise them to drink plenty of water and increase salt intake in order to raise the blood pressure. Low blood pressure symptoms during pregnancy should never be taken lightly. One must lie down or sit down and take rest as soon as dizziness sets in. Lying on the left side is advisable as it increases blood flow and improves blood supply to the brain. If the lightheaded sensation refuse to go and aggravates with time, then one should call for medical help.

The signs of low blood pressure cause a lot of physical discomfort. Therefore, you would like to prevent them from coming back again and again. For this, you have to lead a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated. Do not forget to monitor blood pressure after regular interval of time.

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Vitamins That Helps Prevent Acne

You must have heard it a million times, 'follow a healthy diet'. A healthy diet is very important as it reflects its effect on your health. Any deficiency or problems with diets will lead to lack of vitamins and minerals in your body. This gives rise to a number of hormonal and digestive problems. Thus, many people tend to suffer from acne and pimples. Teenagers and adults are not aware that vitamin deficiency can lead to acne problems. This is because many acne vitamins help fight off acne as well as prevent future eruptions. We shall have a look at vitamins to help prevent acne that you should include in your diet.

Can Vitamins Really Help Acne

Many skin and acne problems are related to vitamin deficiencies. It is important to understand the relationship between healthy skin and vitamins to help prevent acne. You see, many vitamins for acne help in the daily repair of the wear and tear occurring within the body. This gives the body an opportunity to heal itself and stay healthy. Thus, if there is any skin damage, it quickly gets repaired, before bacteria gets the opportunity to infect and form acne. Many vitamins to help acne also strengthen the immune system. This helps in reducing the number of bacterial infections affecting the skin. Thus, if you are looking for ways to keep the largest organ of our body healthy and acne free, you should try vitamins to prevent acne. After answering the question can vitamins really help acne, let us go into the details of acne prevention vitamins.

Vitamins That Clear Acne

You need a proper balance of vitamins to help prevent acne from your daily diet. However, you should keep in mind, just popping vitamin supplements and won't help improve your health. You need to include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet to stay healthy. Let us now have a look at the vitamins to prevent acne. Take a look at some of the vitamins for acne free skin.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A also called beta-carotine or retinol is one of the best vitamins that clear acne. Vitamin A deficiency causes the skin to become dry and rough. One should consume vitamin A helps because it protect the skin tissues and reduces the excessive sebum production. Thus, reducing the number of clogged pores that leads to acne.

Vitamin B Complex

Skin inflammation is a sign of vitamin B6 deficiency. In order to maintain a healthy skin tone, one should make sure they include vitamin B complex in their diet. This vitamin to help acne also reduces stress and anxiety that leads to acne eruptions. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is said to help get rid of the toxins in the body. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) helps make hair, skin and nails healthy. It is also one of the vitamins to prevent acne as its deficiency can lead to pimple eruptions. Vitamin B3 (niacin) helps improve and increase the circulation to the skin. Thus, it helps get rid of the toxins from the system faster, thus, preventing acne. Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) helps reduce stress and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) helps in making the immune system stronger by production of antibodies.

Vitamin C

A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C helps in promotion of tissue growth. This is one of the vitamins to help prevent acne that repair damaged skin and protects the body from a range of infections.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is very helpful in reducing the acne scars as well as acne. It has antioxidant properties that helps fight off free radicals and toxins from the body. Thus, making it one of the useful vitamins to prevent acne as well as vitamins for acne scars.

These were some of the vitamins to help prevent acne. Along with these acne prevention vitamins, you should include zinc, selenium and magnesium in your diet. These supplements help absorption of the vitamins, reduce hormonal imbalance and strengthen immune system to fight off acne causing bacteria. Include whole grain foods fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet to get your daily dose of vitamins.

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Alternative to Increase Vitamin D Levels

Just a few months back there was a report published which said more than 17% population in the US suffers from vitamin D deficiency. Researchers focused heavily on the fact that Americans are not getting enough vitamin D in their food, and hence are vulnerable to a host of potential health problems caused by its deficiency. Such an alarming number is very shocking and it is essential that people know how to increase vitamin D levels naturally.

Importance of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that exists in various forms within the body. The most important sub vitamins of vitamin D are D2 and D3. You will get vitamin D2 mainly from veggies, while vitamin D3 can be consumed from animals. The most important thing to remember is that your body cannot make its own vitamin D, it depends on natural resources like vitamin D foods and sunlight to get the required doses of vitamin D daily. Vitamin D plays a big part in regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the small intestine. Recent studies have also indicated that having low vitamin D levels increases the risk of various life-threatening diseases.

Increasing Levels of Vitamin D Naturally

There are various vitamin D supplements and medication which help raise its levels in the body quickly. However, there are still an infinite number of people in this world who still believe in solving health problems the natural way, here are some of those ways.

Eggs

One of the healthiest foods in the world, eggs do contain vitamin D in considerable amounts. Eating one egg will provide you 37.0 IU which is at least 10% of daily serving requirements.

Milk

All milk that's made in the United States is Vitamin D fortified which makes it a good addition to your diet. A big glass of milk contains at least 100 IU which is enough to fulfill your daily requirements. If you don't like plain milk, then add milk to your favorite meals or drink with chocolate. Milk is one of the best sources of Vitamin D because it is also a rich source of calcium.

Shiitake Mushrooms

For people who hate mushrooms would be surprised to know that dried shiitake mushrooms are one of the best sources of Vitamin D. It is obvious that mushrooms dwell directly under the sunlight and this causes them to be a vitamin D rich food. To avail the vitamin benefits, it is advised to consume sun dried mushrooms as they are also a rich source of vitamin B.

Fatty Fish

All types of fat fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines contain good amounts of vitamin D in them. 3 oz of mackerel contains 360 IU, 3 oz of salmon contains 530 IU, and 3 oz of tuna contains 200 IU vitamin D. Add these different types of fish to your diet to increase the levels of vitamin D in your body. Eat fried fish and use fish in burgers as an alternative to beef. Other sea foods which have high vitamin D levels are oysters, catfish, herring and halibut.

Fortified Cereals

One of the most popular breakfast items in the US, fortified cereals are stuffed with nutrients and vitamins. Make sure you read the ingredients before purchasing a pack and pick brands which have little or no refined sugars and no hydrogenated oils. Having 100 gm of fortified cereals can get you more than 342 IU of vitamin D.

I hope now you know how to increase vitamin D levels naturally. As I've mentioned before, the quickest way to get your vitamin D levels up is by basking in early morning sunlight for just 5 to 10 minutes, but if you are too busy to do that, having these foods will also work.

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Garlic Alternative Herb for Sinus Infection

Infection of the paranasal sinuses or sinusitis is mostly caused by bacteria, which results in inflammation, stuffiness, headache and pressure. But, sinus inflammation symptoms are also manifested due to viral infection, fungal infection and allergies. The commonly adopted treatment approach for sinusitis is taking antibiotics. A concerning issue with this antibacterial therapy is increased risks of developing antibiotic resistance. On the brighter side, following home remedies and using garlic for sinus infection are effectual ways to cure sinusitis.

We are all familiar about adding garlic in cooking and herbal medicine. In fact, using raw garlic is often documented as one of the best home remedies for sinus infection. It is available in raw form, as a paste, juice, powder or capsule. Garlic minimizes inflammatory symptoms, strengthens the immune system and clears infection without causing side effects. These therapeutic properties are attributed to the active ingredients present in garlic. Before we have a discussion about using garlic to get relief from sinusitis, let's go through the therapeutic action of this bulbous herb.

Curative Properties of Garlic

These white color, pungent smelling cloves have a strong antibacterial property. As per studies conducted on garlic health benefits, it contains allin, scordinin and other active components, which make this pungent clove a curative herb for several ailments. Allin is a derivative form of the sulfur compound allicin, which gives the characteristic garlic smell. It helps fight against bacteria and fungi, which are responsible for causing sinus infection. On the other hand, scordinin boosts the immune system and inhibits abnormal cell growth.

Using Garlic for Sinus Infection Treatment

So, how much garlic should be taken for sinusitis treatment? There is no specific data concerning the recommended amount of garlic for treating sinus infection. But, ingesting 3 - 5 garlic cloves daily up to 10 days is considered safe. In order to use garlic for treatment purpose, it is used in raw form after peeling. For increased palatability, one can crush freshly peeled garlic cloves, and add a few drops of olive oil and a dash of salt to it. Or else, grind fresh garlic cloves in a paste form, and consume it with regular food. This will speed up the recovery time of sinus infection.

Another method of using raw garlic is adding it in hot water and inhaling the steam. For this, chop the cloves (fresh peeled ones) first, and infuse the pieces in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes. Then, lower the head above the bowl, and make an effort to inhale the steam by taking deep breaths. The hot steam works for opening the blocked sinuses and draining the mucus, while garlic aids in getting rid of bacterial and fungal infections. To get prompt results, inhaling garlic fumes should be practiced 2 - 3 times in a day.

Drinking garlic juice is also an effectual tip to combat sinus infection symptoms. For those of you who cannot tolerate the strong pungent smell of garlic, using odorless gel capsules prepared from garlic extract is a good approach. These capsules are formulated for alleviating sinusitis, respiratory ailments and cardiovascular problems. Make sure that the capsules are purchased from a reputed vendor. The suggested dosage is two capsules per day, until infection in the sinuses is cleared completely. But, try to use raw garlic cloves for treating sinusitis whenever possible.

In addition to taking garlic, effectual natural cures for sinus infection include drinking lots of water, using apple cider vinegar and steam inhalation therapy. Remember that using garlic as sinus infection home remedy is strictly for those who don't have garlic allergies. While allergic responses to garlic occur very rarely, they do manifest in one out of every 1,500 Americans. In case, you have a medical history of the same, consult a doctor and try alternative remedies to get rid of sinus infections.

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Manuka Honey Best Treatment for Acid Reflux

Only people afflicted with acid reflux know how troublesome the disease is. A chronic condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or simply acid reflux causes a string of discomforting symptoms. As of date, there is no cure for acid reflux disease. After correct diagnosis, the treatment plan is focused on effective disease management with medication and lifestyle modifications. Besides the prescription drugs, using manuka honey is purported as a natural treatment for acid reflux. Some patients use it as a complementary medicine for good results.

Why Use Manuka Honey for Acid Reflux Treatment

In a healthy person, food passed on to the stomach is prevented from leaking back to the esophagus by a ring of muscles called the lower esophageal sphincter (or LES). Whereas in a patient diagnosed with acid reflux, this sphincter doesn't function properly as it should, thereby allowing food and acidic juices to move backward. It is the acid that damages the mucosal lining of the esophagus and causes heartburn symptoms. GERD is a chronic problem and prompt intervention is necessary to avoid disease progression and probable complications.

Conventional medication prescribed for treating acid reflux works by reducing or stopping stomach acid production, thereby neglecting the root cause. Thus, temporary management of symptoms is achieved only when the treatment drugs are administered. Moreover, long-term use of acid reflux medicine is associated with various side effects. Considering all these aspects, afflicted people prefer relying on natural remedies that are free of health effects. As stated earlier, one such effectual approach is using manuka honey.

The antimicrobial action of honey is known to all of us. But, what is so unique about manuka honey that we should use it for alleviating acid reflux? Well, this particular kind of honey is collected by bees which exclusively feed on the manuka flowers, and it contains a higher percentage of methylglyoxal (MGO) than other honey types. The methylglyoxal along with other components are responsible for imparting the antibacterial property to it. In addition to the strong antibacterial action, manuka honey acts as an anti-inflammatory and healing agent. Other advantages of this natural product are easy availability, cost-effectiveness, no side effects, and easy use.

What does Research Say about Using Manuka Honey for Treating Acid Reflux

Unfortunately, there is no scientific proof for the effectiveness of manuka honey in combating acid reflux. Previous studies had targeted the health benefits of this honey type. Professor Peter Molan's research, conducted in 1982, led to the conclusion that this specific type of honey is a wonderful antimicrobial agent. Its antibacterial strength was cited to be 100 times more potent than the regular honey. It was then that Professor Molan and his research associates from the University of Waikato, New Zealand, introduced the unique manuka factor (abbreviated as UMF) for measuring the potency of manuka honey against bacteria.

There is no doubt about using this honey for topical application, particularly over wounds, irritated skin, and skin infections. As per some study reports, manuka honey is safe for internal use too. Basically, it is suggested for counteracting infection and alleviating digestive ailments like stomach discomfort, acid reflux, diarrhea, ulcer, and gastritis. Presently, clinical trials are going on to confirm the claimed therapeutic uses of manuka honey. According to the National honey board, it is safe for children above 1 year, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.

Which Manuka Honey is Good for Handling Acid Reflux

It is understandable that not all types of honey contain a satisfactory amount of methylglyoxal. Also, manuka honey is available under different brands in the market, so an interested user should know which one is the best for therapeutic application. The standard for denoting antibacterial strength, i.e., UMF is represented in the scale of 0 - 15 and more. For combating acid reflux, use manuka honey with a UMF rating of at least 10. Those falling within the range 5 - 9 are ideal for regular consumption, but not for treatment purposes. If available, purchase a superior product with a UMF 15.

How to Use Manuka Honey for This Purpose

A claimed benefit of manuka honey is that this natural product protects the esophageal lining by coating a layer. That way, the regurgitated stomach acid does not come in direct contact with the mucosal tissues. This allows healing of the tissues without causing side effects. To reap the benefits, maximum absorption of the ingested honey by the esophageal lining is crucial. Precisely speaking, it should remain in the digestive tract for a longer period to promote absorption. For ensuring slow digestion, a specific amount of honey is spread over a slice of bread or cracker for consumption.

The ideal time for taking manuka honey as a remedy for acid reflux is 30 minutes prior to having meals and just before going to bed. So, simply spread a teaspoon of this curative liquid over the base food (bread or cracker), and enjoy it at the suggested timings. In case, heartburn is worsened after eating a large meal, consider taking manuka honey immediately. While some people sip honey tea to relieve heartburn, using the concentrated version is more beneficial. Ingesting a teaspoon of the same for 3 times a day is safe and beneficial for the user. Once the heartburn symptoms subside, reduce the intake amount to 1 teaspoon per day.

To sum up, many patients show good responses after using manuka honey as a natural alternative for acid reflux. Some have even stopped relying on GERD medication. In rare instances, allergic reactions to honey are reported. So, those who are hypersensitive to bee pollen and honey should strictly monitor the symptoms (if any) exhibited after ingesting manuka honey. Last but not the least, diabetics and people who are on a sugar restriction diet should take the concerned doctor's approval before using honey or any kind of sweetening agent.

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Childhood Obesity Prevention

Childhood obesity is a growing problem, not only in America but in many other countries across the world. According to statistics, there are about 17% of children and adolescents from the age group of 5 to 19 who are affected by this serious medical abnormality. Obesity can be a result of heredity, overeating, psychological disorders, other medical conditions, etc., but no matter what the cause is, it can lead to many other serious healthy problems in the future. Obese children also find it very difficult to be accepted in the society and thus, they might develop low self-esteem problems and suffer from depression.

However, more than the children trying to get themselves out of this medical condition, the parents or the adults who are responsible should take care of this. Many think, there are no ways to prevent obesity in children, which is hereditary or that results from a medical condition. But any type of obesity can be controlled as it is just a deposition of fats in your body which is not being metabolized or eliminated appropriately. Therefore, we have a few effective ways for preventing this, mentioned below. So take a look!

Prevention of Obesity in Children

We all know the childhood obesity in America is growing by the day. As mentioned above, even though there are innumerable causes and triggers which lead to obesity in children, there are many ways to correct it or prevent it from increasing. The most important part of this prevention is to control a child's diet. The children from the age 5 to 19 are in the prime growth phase where they require all the important nutrients for development in the right amounts.

Thus, if these nutrient sources are not sufficiently provided to them, they might suffer from deficiencies or anemia. But, you have to make sure, they are not over consuming them, as that can lead to less metabolism and more fat deposition in the body. Therefore, as a parent, you have to strike a balance between nutritious eating to supply enough nutrients and adequate exercise to burn excess fat and tighten muscles.

• Teaching your child healthy eating habits is one of the basic and easiest childhood obesity prevention tips. When your child knows the importance of eating proper amounts of food, drinking enough water and then playing well, you won't have to bother about obesity at all!
• Taking care of your child's breakfast is the second most important tip for the same. Since, the child is growing up, consuming a healthy and filling breakfast could prevent him/her to eat junk food at odd times. Oatmeal, yogurt, eggs, milk, bacon, pancakes, toasted whole wheat bread, cereal, etc. are some of your choices.
• Make sure you provide your child with 6 small meals throughout the day instead of 3 main meals. This way they get hungry at odd times and end up eating some filling foods, that may not be healthy. Don't force them to eat too much, but try to provide all the necessary foods when they ask for it.
• Serve fresh fruit juices in the morning and during the day and keep them away from sodas. Make sure your child drinks enough amounts of water, as they need to be hydrated throughout the day, to help them burn their calories and still have energy production.
• Childhood obesity prevention, can start by preparing delicious foods such as French fries, potato skins, pizzas, nachos, desserts, etc., at home, to keep them from overeating these foods from outside. Kids get tempted to eat junk very easily, and in order to control this, prepare these meals at home so you won't have to bother about junk cravings!
• Enroll your children in recreational sports such as tennis, swimming, field sports, dancing, skating, or any other outdoor activity. This will give them a chance to learn something new and will help their body to burn any extra fat they have acquired.

With these tips, hope you have benefited from the information. It is very easy to prevent or control your child's obesity problems, and help them to get a healthier future.

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Omelet an Anti-Aging for Younger Looking Skin

Nobody wants to look in the mirror to see the ravages of time staring back. There’s hardly a soul that doesn’t want to have a fresh, young looking face for as long as possible. Thanks to helpful anti-aging skin products and experienced skin care specialists, many people are able to maintain their youthful appearance longer, while others are turning back the hands of time by reversing skin damage.

Though your skin may benefit by using these aids, your skin will also benefit by eating certain foods. An omelet made with certain vegetables is a dish that contains foods that are good for your skin, and one you may want to include in your diet more often. Read on to find out more about this omelet and how it can help keep your skin looking young and beautiful.

Eggs

Eggs are the main ingredient in an omelet, and an important ingredient for youthful looking skin. Eggs contain vitamin A, riboflavin, niacin, biotin and sulfur, which are all nutrients that work to keep your skin healthy. Retinol, an ingredient you may have seen listed on the label of some anti-aging skin care products, is another name for vitamin A. Eggs are also a good source of protein, which is an important building block for your skin.

Asparagus

Asparagus is another good source of vitamin A. It is a tasty vegetable that supplies you with 20 percent of your daily value of vitamin A when ½ cup of asparagus is cooked and consumed. Asparagus makes a valuable contribution in the fight against aging skin, so cut some asparagus into small pieces and add it to your anti-aging omelet.

Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers are super rich in vitamin C. When you think of vitamin C, think of collagen. Vitamin C’s primary role is to make sure your skin contains an adequate amount of collagen. Since collagen contributes to skin firmness, lack of vitamin C in your diet may leave your skin looking lose and wrinkled. Red bell peppers also contain a high amount of vitamin A.

Onions

Onions contain minerals that restore connective tissue in your skin. One mineral found in onions is silicon, which works to prevent sagging skin by helping to create more collagen. Sulfur in onions aids in the formation of collagen, and sulfur helps keep your skin smooth.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a healthy source of fat, and fat is what plumps up your skin so your face doesn’t look drawn in and haggard. Fat also helps to prevent skin dryness, so make sure you cook your anti-aging omelet in olive oil.

Source

“Linda Page’s Healthy Healing, All New Eleventh Edition”; Linda Page; 2001

“Naturally Halthy Skin”; Stephanie Tourles; 1999

“Milady’s Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians”; Joel Gerson; 1999

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Fruit of the Month: Asparagus

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Health Benefits of Drinking Camel Milk

Eminent scientists and researchers from different countries have proven that camel milk has numerous health benefits. It has been touted since ages that the milk of this desert animal has endured nomads and Bedouins during their long wandering odyssey. Domestication of camels and camel farming are extensively carried out in dry and arid regions like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kenya, etc. In these places, you will find camel milk and its derivatives being readily sold in departmental stores and supermarkets. Though it is still an existing product and not so popular across the world, yet in many parts of the US, camel farming has been set up to boost the sale of camel milk. Importance is given to enhance supply of camel milk, only due to its supremely high nutritional value.

Composition of Camel Milk

Its composition is almost similar to a human mother's milk. Being enriched with proteins and vitamins, it is a perfect dietary supplement for healthy as well as malnourished children and adults. The key vitamins include vitamin A, B and B2. It contains essential minerals like potassium, zinc, manganese, copper, magnesium, sodium, and iron. The presence of sodium renders it slightly salty. When compared to cow's milk, the lactose and fat content of camel milk is much lower than the former, while vitamin C and iron content are 3 times and 10 times more than cow's milk, respectively. Its nutritional value is enhanced with the presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid and volatile acids. As immune factors are present in its milk, you can have it regularly to strengthen your immune system. Last but not the least, camel milk also contains specific antimicrobial elements, which are indeed useful for the body.

Health Benefits of Camel Milk

• General Health
  
  
  From the composition itself, you can very well estimate how nutritious camel milk is. The wide range of nutritional elements present in camel milk improve the general health and resistance of the body. It strengthens bones and is therefore, suggested to people suffering from calcium deficiency and bone disorders, especially in case of osteoporosis. Drinking camel milk solves sexual issues, like impotency, lack of libido and suppressed sexual drive. It is an excellent health drink for people suffering from nutrient deficiency and is safe for lactose-tolerant people. In general, you can have camel milk to stay fit and energetic.

• Ensures Immunity
  
  
  As already said, camel milk contains antibodies and immunoglobulins; it therefore, makes the body resistant against a wide range of diseases and invasion of foreign particles. When you drink camel milk on a regular basis, your body naturally acquires an improved immune potential. The basic function of the immunoglobulins is to protect the body against autoimmune disorders, allergies and several types of bacterial, fungal and viral infections. You can have camel milk every day, simply for increasing your power of immunity.

• Diabetes Management
  
  
  Drinking camel milk helps in controlling type 1 diabetes. From case studies and clinical trials conducted by scientists, it has been established that camel milk contains insulin and insulin-like proteins which have an anti-diabetic effect in the body. A research publication states that, "Clinical trials in humans with diabetes type 1 have shown that daily consumption of 0.5 liter camel milk reduces the need for insulin medication by an average of 30%." Thus, consumption of camel milk can probably reduce the dosage of insulin needed for diabetes patients.

• Recovery from Autism
  
  
  Tests were performed on individuals suffering from autism to prove its efficacy in eliminating health complications associated with this disorder. The research thesis of Dr. Yosef Shabo and Dr. Reuven Yagil explains that, camel milk being devoid of beta-casein and beta-lactoglobulin, is not detrimental to autistic people. Furthermore, the immunoglobulins and protective proteins present in it, aid in development of the brain. They conducted a survey regarding the effects of camel milk on autistic children of different age groups. The results of the case studies were quite convincing and proved that camel milk actually showed improvement in their communication skills and functions of the brain.

You must take your doctor's advice before drinking it for the purpose of controlling diabetes or as a cure for any kind of health disorders. I would suggest you to check that the milk comes from a well-controlled herd and the product has been pasteurized properly. You can also have cheese and butter manufactured from camel milk. And today, owing to its immense medicinal value, it is the key ingredient in a wide range cosmetic products and dermatological creams.

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Signs of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

It is no mystery that the foods people eat are not as healthful because they may be. Past the obesity risk, other challenges are becoming irritating to many individuals. Inflammatory bowels and irritable bowel syndrome are simply just several of those problems that have end up a resource of serious pain for most persons.

Inflammatory bowels is definitely correctly named. Inflammatory bowels and also the disorders linked with which can be incredibly uncomfortable, can be debilitating and in some situations existence harmful. Irritable bowels are generally the key sign for ulcerative colitis along with Crohn's disease. Inflammatory bowels are usually precisely what their own label advocate. The actual impacted area is definitely the internal lining in the large intestine or the colon as it is referred to as. 

Crohn's disease, one other illness characterized by inflammatory bowels, has an effect on the entire lining in the digestive tract, possibly entire or in part. Though health professionals tend not to know the exact result in of those digestive problems, they are doing understand that inflammatory bowels and various digestive ailments is often incredibly agonizing, and in some situations lead to much more serious troubles.

Irritable bowel syndrome can be a little different compared to inflammatory bowels. Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS is starting to become a lot more popular. Indicators usually reveal their selves all through the teenaged years, and are worsened through foods, stress and hormones. Irritable bowel syndrome is a bit more popular in girls. Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome fluctuate from person to person. However the most common symptoms include things like soreness within the abdomen, gas, bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhea along with common digestive discomfort. Although irritable bowel syndrome does not cause long term colon damage just like the other digestive illnesses.

So what can be done? People desire relief and while several of these issues cannot be healed but relief can be a diet change away. Some sort of colon cleansing diet program is among the methods individuals are discovering to filter their bodies and begin over. Merely through existing along with inhaling, most people do not know from the harmful toxins they take in just about every day. A build-up of these harmful toxins inside the body lead to inadequate digestion in addition to removal of waste. Considering that the colon is definitely last stop for some of the waste inside body, it requires the impact of every one of the harmful toxins people take in. 

Any colon cleansing diet will be wealthy in food that are heart nutritious, and also a smart way for persons to clean out their particular bodies. Following a colon cleansing eating plan, individuals discover major adjustments. These modifications contain yet usually are not restricted to a speedier metabolism, much better sleeping, better digestion, much healthier skin, locks as well as fingernails. The actual unfortunate part is the fact that by the point people learn a relief colon cleansing diet program, they've been struggling for way far too long with their digestive discomfort.

Although any colon cleansing diet plan won't cure irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowels, it will raise the bodies immunity and ability in order to breakdown food items in which aggravate these already agonizing conditions. Colon cleansing diet recipes involve lots of pure oils like olive oil, veggies and lean meats. The colon cleansing diet also consists of fish and lean meats. The preparation is quite easy with steaming, pureeing all these substances with each other for soups and snacks.

Regardless of how hard people attempt, except they are growing foodstuff themselves, which may be extremely time consuming and hard, the foods they get through the stores are exposed to several toxins inside of a small amount of time. ' For all those struggling from irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowels, this can be the best method to cook and luxuriate in an variety of tastes as well as spices.

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Natural Treatment For Peptic Ulcer

Excess acids in mucous membrane walls leads to natural peptic ulcer. Digestion in the stomach is facilitated by the acids that is they must be present in small intestines for digestion of food to go on. The ulceration results when no food is available in the stomach for digestion process. Acids react on the walls because they cannot find any food materials to act on.

Previously, many people used to believe that ulceration was caused by too much drinking of alcohol, eating bad foods, getting very stresses to an extend of being depressed, smoking and taking drinks that have caffeine in them. Ulceration literate doctors have discovered that the sickness is caused by a bacterium. But the previously mentioned causes are not only causes but also stimulate the bacteria to be more active.

The bacteria is called H.pylori and is not bad until it disrupts the walls of the small intestines. It only does this if and only if there is no food in the stomach for the acids to act upon. Doctors say that it is easy for someone to catch the disease from another person. This may happen either through sharing foods and drinks from the same vessel or by kissing.

Stomach paining is one of the signs and symptoms. There is uncontrolled burning pain in stomach especially when one is hungry. It is a feeling of severe burning or severe irritation as the acid wears off the walls of mucous membrane. The patient normally feels very uncomfortable. These stomach pains are reduced by taking a lot of milk and eating spices free foods.

Another symptom may be intestinal bleeding which happens in the inside of the small intestines. If there is no keen examination carried out, then it may be impossible to notice the bleeding. But if the bleeding is a lot, it may be noticed through the victim's stool or vomit. Anemia accompanied with body weakness eventually results if ulceration continues. Especially if the victim is bleeding internally.

Antacids are the most common cure for ulceration. They are not total cure though as are used to only relief pain and make the patient feel a lot more better. Natural ways of treating this disease include, avoiding stressful thoughts, gentle exercising and eating a well balanced diet with no spicy ingredients. Patients must also keep on having meals in small quantities to avoid keeping the stomach idle.

Surgical treatment is recommended only for cases that have become extreme. If one is having too much discomfort to eat or do anything, it only means that they are suffering from stomach cancer or even worse. Worse case scenarios include one suffering from anemia from much bleeding, which is also called hemorrhage, obstruction and perforations.

Doctors advise patients to take a lot of water as it helps in neutralizing the excess pain with natural peptic ulcer. Water therapy is the best natural treatment for this kind of ulceration. As one may lose appetite, water helps in keeping something inside the stomach to avoid irritation of the walls.

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Peptic Ulcer is a Common Disease

Peptic ulcers are lesions in the gastric mucosa (stomach) or upper small intestine mucosa (duodenum). These injuries occur when gastric secretion - which contains hydrochloric acid and an enzyme called pepsin - irritates and damages the stomach lining. It may affect the esophagus and gastric secretion. Peptic ulcers in the gastric mucosa are called gastric ulcers. The duodenal mucosa occurring are called duodenal ulcers.

Causes of peptic ulcers

Two of the most common causes of peptic ulcers are the infection with bacteria called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and abuse of non stroidian inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin. Although most people are infected with H. pylori, only a few will make peptic ulcer disease. Some risk factors give some person with H. pylori an increased susceptibility for developing ulcers. Some of these factors little known, include:

1. Smoking
2. Alcohol abuse
3. History of ulcer
4. Physical stress caused by a severe illness or accident (major trauma, addiction for ventilation apparatus or surgery).
5. Most ulcers that are not caused by H. pylori are given by NSAIDs. NSAIDs are prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation in chronic (long lasting)disease as arthritis or headaches (migraines). Used for weeks or months, NSAIDs may affect gastric tract mucosa, resulting in an ulcer or activating an ulcer already formed.
6. A rare cause of peptic ulcers is Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. In this condition the stomach secretes hydrochloric acid in excess, which affects the gastric mucosa.
7. Psychological stress, added to other risk factors can increase your chances of developing a peptic ulcer.

Risk factors for peptic ulcer

• Controllable risk factors. The following risk factors may increase the chance of developing a peptic ulcer and may slow the healing of existing ulcers. It can reduce the risk of developing an ulcer by controlling or eliminating these factors: use of NSAIDs (like aspirin), smoking, alcohol abuse.
• Uncontrollable risk factors. Some uncontrollable factors may increase the risk of developing an ulcer. These include:
  - H. pylori infection, which is the most common cause of ulcers
  - Physical stress given by a severe illness or trauma
  - Excessive secretion of gastric acid
  - Ulcer in family history

What is not a risk factor?

Eating spicy foods or coffee or moderate amounts of alcohol were considered to favor the development of an ulcer but currently, are no longer taken into account. Although some foods and beverages do not increase the risk of developing an ulcer, they can cause indigestion or

heartburn. They should be avoided if not tolerated.

Most doctors are not convinced that psychological stress can lead to ulcers. However, in combination with other risk factors, stress may promote the development of peptic ulcer.

Symptoms of peptic ulcers

Symptoms of peptic ulcer vary and are not essential for the diagnosis of an ulcer. Some people may not have symptoms.

Symptoms of an ulcer, such as dyspepsia (digestive discomfort sensation, appeared after meals) may often be confused with other abdominal disorders as gastroesophageal reflux (EGR).

Specific symptoms of ulcers are:

1. Pain in the form of burns or erosions, and bone xifoid between umbilical region (lower portion of the sternum, popularly known for "chest"). Sometimes the pain radiates back. Abdominal pain takes a few minutes to few hours and goes away from taking an antacid drug or acid secretion inhibitors. Symptoms are periodic, the pain comes and goes, and symptoms alternate with periods without symptoms:
2. Loss of appetite (lack of appetite) and weight loss
3. Abdominal bloating and nausea after meals
4. Vomiting after meals
5. Black stool that contains blood or red pitch dark for a bleeding ulcer

Symptoms of duodenal ulcers and gastric pain are similar except for periodicity.

Duodenal ulcer pain may occur several hours after eating (when the stomach is empty) and may improve postprandial. The pain may awaken the patient at night. Gastric ulcer pain may occur shortly after eating (when food is still in the stomach).

Some ulcers do not show symptoms and are known as silent ulcers. About half of all ulcers do not show symptoms, but when complications arise. Complications of an ulcer may be bleeding, perforation,penetration, or obstruction of the digestive tract. Silent ulcers are common in the elderly, people with diabetes or those who consume more anti-inflammatory such as Aspirin.

Recommended Calivita natural products to treat gastrointestinal ulcers

• Green Care: is a dietary supplement based on extracts of alfalfa recommended for acute and chronic upset stomach and ulcers, peptic ulcer, bloating and other digestive disorders.
• Digestive Enzymes: digestive enzymes ensure the normal digestive process, reducing the chances of digestive disorders including ulcer.
• Rhodiolin: is an antioxidant, antitumor, hepatoprotective and anti-stress.
• ParaProteX: is effective against parasitic infections, bacterial, fungal and others infections. It is beneficial in peptic ulcers and gastric complaints. He acts against maldigestion, inflammation, fungal infections and parasites.

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Controlling the Cholesterol levels

Cholesterol is the problem of Blood Pressure. With the increase in Blood pressure the cholesterol level also increases which enables Heart to function properly. Cholesterol means accumulation of fat around all the cells and slows the functioning of Heart.

In this problem the Blood cannot function properly as the flow of the Blood remains unsteady. This also stops the flow of blood to certain areas and then gives certain abnormalities regarding proper functioning. Cholesterol is in the form of waxy fat substance which sticks to the cells and tissues. Cholesterol level is an important part of development as it helps to develop Hormones and other vitamins. Our body makes cholesterol naturally but certain food items also supply good amount of Cholesterol.

Cholesterol can be of 2 types like LDL which is Low density lipoproteins and HDL which is High Density Lipoproteins. While among these LDL is bad cholesterol which affects the Heart. Increase in LDL May causes Arteries Blockages and then makes the Body persistently abnormal. This is the root cause of difficulty in breathing also where waxy layer covers the Lungs and other respiratory parts.

While HDL is known as Good cholesterol as it is responsible to carry all Cholesterol of the body to the liver where it is then filtered and removed from the body. So, a right amount of cholesterol level is very much important in order to maintain Heart and other body parts.

But today almost everybody is suffering from the uneven level of the Cholesterol which is the main reason of Heart attacks. Due to this the blood stream contains more of Cholesterol and it becomes difficult to perform the functions. But persistent increase in the level of Cholesterol cause Coronary Heart diseases.

Once the person is aware of how Cholesterol can be Controlled and found it high it becomes urgently required to maintain and lower this level. One should follow proper regime which includes proper physical activities. This is important as it helps to break down the Cholesterol into proteins which is then used by cells. Cholesterol is the fat which is necessary to perform certain functions but once it started accumulating n the body it causes blockages.

Cholesterol can be controlled when one should have good and healthy diet. Diet should include proper amount of proteins, Carbohydrates, vitamins levels etc. Oil and processed stuffs should be avoided as it adds layer in the cells. The intake of fruits and vegetables and cereals are the only way to deal with Cholesterol levels. Avoid too fatty products like Fish, eggs; nuts for sometimes as it increase the level of LDL.

Proper Sleep is also important as increases the process of digestion and helps in easily assimilation of the cells and other body functions. Maintaining Body weight is another factor which is very important for a healthy body. Body weight should be according to the age and height, and if continuous increase in weight is noticed then do check the cholesterol levels.

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Treatment for Diabetes With Popular Herbs

Diabetes is a condition in which the body does not produce enough use of insulin. The cause of diabetes then continues to be a mystery, and although both genetics and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of exercise so appear to play roles. It is a metabolic disorder that characterized by hyperglycemia and other signs just as distinct from a single illness or condition. Diabetes can cause many complications and plant derivatives to help in the treatment of diabetes that should certainly not be discounted.

Although numerous "miracle herbal cure" companies exist, and champion the ability of herbal compounds to supplement insulin as a treatment; these should not be seriously taken at face value without thorough research and consultation with experts. That is not enough to say that some of the following herbs really do not have properties that some diabetics will find beneficial. The herbs and plant derivatives listed just below have largely been employed traditionally by native people in the treatment of diabetes, in the areas in which they grow.

Indian gooseberry, a rich source of vitamin C just serves as the best home remedy for diabetes. Take 1 tbsp of gooseberry juice and mix it with a cup of bitter gourd juice. Consume the mixture daily for about 2 months.

Yemeni med: Soak 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds (Hilba) in 1 cup of water at night. Drink the water in the morning on an empty stomach and eat the seeds. Very good for diabetes because it works like insulin.

Bitter Gourd - Make a watery juice of a small Bitter Gourd (remove seeds) and drink every morning. Bitter Gourd also helps to clear pimples and maintain a good skin, and is good for de-worming the intestines.

The fenugreek plant has been used as a treatment for diabetes for around hundreds of years. Fenugreek is a proven hypoglycemic in numerous studies performed on animals, though not enough studies that have been done on humans to definitively prove the hypoglycemic effect. Fenugreek contains three compounds: rigonelline, 4-hydroxyisoleucine, and fenugreekine. The trigonelline works by slowing glucose absorption from the intestinal tract and so preventing spikes in patient blood levels after meals. The 4-hydroxyisoleucine, on the other hand, directly just appears to stimulate the production of insulin by the pancreas.

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Keeping Diabetes Under Check

Diabetes is one of the most dreaded and feared diseases. It is one of the few diseases for which there is still no permanent cure plus it leads to other health problems like blindness, loss of sexual powers, gangrene and other grave problems. The one ray of hope for diabetes sufferers is that although their no cure for it but it can be kept under control through some lifestyle changes and intake of some herbs mentioned in ayurveda. Let us discuss about some of the ways through which diabetes can be controlled.

Dietary Changes

For diabetes patients keeping a check on their diet is very important. The following things should be always kept in mind while dealing with diabetes:

1. Sugar should be avoided in any form like rice, potatoes, bananas and other fruits which have high sugar content.
2. Do not eat which has high fat content.
3. Vegetables like bitter gourd, garlic and karela are very good for the health of diabetics.
4. Fruits like grape fruits and Indian gooseberry are also recommended.
5. Try to have raw vegetables and herbs as they help in stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin.

Ayurvedic Herbs Helpful in Diabetes

Ayurvedic system of medicine which is the oldest system of medicine known to mankind. In ayurveda diabetes is referred to as ''madhumeha''. There are some effective herbs which are highly helpful in controlling diabetes like neem, karela, pterocarpus marcupium. These herbs work by triggering the regeneration process of islet cells which help in production of insulin in the body.

Exercise and Yoga

Physical activities are very important to keep your body fit and helping in some resistance against other diseases. Yoga asanas like cobra and locust are a must for every diabetic.

If you follow this lifestyle of exercising regularly, taking herbs, and keeping a check on your eating habits you can easily keep diabetes under control. All you need is a will and desire to keep yourself healthy.

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