Archive for August, 2009

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Folic Acid – Essential For The Development Of A Healthy Baby And More!

Comments: 0August 14th, 2009 by admin



Folic acid or vitamin B9, a less know name though, is member of the B-complex family. It is also called folate. It works with other B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12. Although it is present in many foods, folate is easily lost from your body and folate deficiency is thought to be the most common vitamin deficiency in the Western world.

How it works

This vitamin is essential for cell division, the production of red blood cells and the metabolism of proteins and sugars. It is involved in the transmission of the genetic code to offspring and is therefore vital during the early stages of pregnancy to ensure the development of a healthy baby.

Deficiency Symptoms

Anaemia

Cracked lips

Lack of energy

Poor appetite

Benefits

Prevent Birth Defects – Folate is crucial for normal development of the spine and spinal cord during the first three months of pregnancy.

Women who intend to become pregnant are advised to take a daily supplement of 400mcg of folate before conception and for the first three months of pregnancy to reduce the risk of spina bifida, a congenital condition in which part of the bony spine that helps to protect the spinal cord does not develop properly.

Prevent Anemia – Folic acid supplements help to produce healthy red blood cells and thus prevent tiredness and fatigue. However, high amounts of folate can hide the symptoms of pernicious anemia (caused by a lack of vitamin B12) until irreversible brain and nerve damage have occurred.

Prevent Osteoporosis – Folate is thought to help maintain strong bones.

Reduce Heart Problems – It helps to lower levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which is thought to damage the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

Please visit the author’s website to get full and comprehensive tips on vitamins and supplements.

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Posted in anemia

Heart Disease And Blood Tests Could You Be in Danger?

Comments: 0August 13th, 2009 by admin



The blood is your body’s life line. It carries food to every cell in your body and helps to remove wastes from those cells. Blood tests offer many clues about your health and your risk for heart disease.

All too often people don’t have any clue anything is wrong until its too late and heart problems occur. There is a way to know if you’re in a danger zone for heart disease.

And blood tests are the primary way to detect potential problems.

If you have relatives with heart disease or if certain factors increase your chance for heart disease, blood tests should be performed at least annually to determine your heart health.

When your doctor is concerned about heart disease and blood tests results, it means that certain levels of specific components found in the blood are not within normal ranges.

Some of the primary components are discussed here:

Heart Disease And Blood Tests Basics

Cholesterol levels are one key factor that can contribute to cardiovascular health. A lipid panel measures the fats (lipids) in your blood. These levels are a good indication of your risk of having a heart attack or other heart disease.

The panel typically includes:

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or the bad cholesterol which increase the chance of fatty deposits in your arteries.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the good cholesterol which helps clear excess cholesterol from your body. HDL helps keep your blood circulating freely.

Triglycerides help your body store fat and usually reside in the fat tissue.

Levels are normally low in your blood. Higher triglyceride levels increase your risk of heart disease.

Another blood test that can help to determine the possibility of heart disease is the level of homocysteine.

Homocysteine is an amino acid your body uses to make protein and build tissue. Higher than normal levels in the blood may increase your risk of heart disease.

Fibrinogen is a protein in your blood that can be revealed by blood tests. Higher than normal levels of fibrinogen can cause a clot to form in an artery.

Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is another protein found in the blood. BNP is a natural diuretic that helps to eliminate fluid. If heart problems exist the levels of BNP in your bloodstream can be very high.

These are the primary components that are included in blood tests to help diagnose heart disease. Many times these tests are only performed after problems already exist.

Identifying heart disease early is very effective in the management to help promote a healthy heart.

If you have any suspicions at all that you may have heart disease or cardiovascular problems, get your physician to complete blood tests.

Your future could depend on it.

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Posted in anemia

Diabetes Type 2 Natural Treatment

Comments: 0August 10th, 2009 by admin



Type 2 diabetes is getting increasingly common in developed countries. Other developing countries are seeing a fast emerging trend of the disease. Diabetes type 2 is caused by insulin deficiency and hyperglycemia. Although this disease is more common in adults over 40, it is increasingly seen in young teenagers and even children. This worrying trend is linked to the rising rates of obesity as well as inactivity.

MAJOR RISK FACTORS FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES

Here are some of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes:

1) Age – As people age, the chances of getting diabetes type 2 is considerably higher. So for those who are older than 45 years, they are at a higher risk of getting the disease.

2) Overweight – Being overweight is another strong risk factor especially the person is heavier in the center.

3) Genetic factors – Having someone with diabetes in the family puts you at a higher risk.

4) Certain ethnic groups such as such as native americans, african americans, Latino americans, pacific islanders and Asian individuals who are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

5) People with high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes.

6) Women at risk – women who have had a big baby of more than 9lbs are at higher risk of having type 2 diabetes. Other risk factors include women who had gestational diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome, irregular menstrual cycles and developing facial hair.

Of all these common risk factors, the most common are those who have family history as well as those who are gaining weight in the middle.

HOW TO CONTROL TYPE 2 DIABETES

Diabetes can be one of the hardest diseases to treat as it does not go away. It is always there with you, day in and day out. It will affect your daily life in what you do and what you eat. You have to be always conscious of your blood sugar as you can’t let it go too high to avoid complications. The next best thing you can do to help yourself is to control the disease.

The main cause of type 2 diabetes is insulin resistance and insulin deficiency. So the first thing you want to do is to help reduce the resistance of insulin. Exercising and losing weight can help reducing resistance to insulin and thus control type 2 diabetes. The other way is using pills which your doctor will recommend to you. However,due to the advance technology as well as rising awareness of using alternative way to treat type 2 diabetes, herbal and natural supplements are increasingly popular.

Here are a few of the natural/alternative herbs which have worked for many diabetics:

1. Bitter melon has long been regarded as the natural cure for diabetes. This fruit is known for its abilities to regulate blood glucose level. In fact, bitter melon is recommended by the Dept of Philippines as one of the best herbal medicines for managing diabetes.

2. Gymnema sylvestre is a herb native to the tropical forests of southern and central India where it has been used as a naturopathic treatment for diabetes for nearly two millennia. This herb has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels when used for an extended period of time. The active ingredient is thought to be gurmenic acid which has structure similar to saccharose. Extracts of Gymnema is not only claimed to curb sweet tooths but also for treatment of as varied problems as hyperglycemia, obesity, high cholesterol levels, anemia and digestion.

3. Cassia (Cinnamomum aromaticum or Chinese cinnamon) is a close relative to cinnamon. In fact, when cinnamon is said to be beneficial for diabetes, it is actually cassia, a less delicate version of the true cinnamon. A 2003 study published in the DiabetesCare journal followed Type 2 diabetics ingesting 1, 3 or 6 grams of cassia daily. Those taking 6 grams shows changes after 20 days, and those taking lesser doses showed changes after 40 days. Regardless of the amount of cassia taken, they reduced their mean fasting serum glucose levels 18-29%, their triglyceride levels 23-30%, their LDL cholesterol 7-27%, and their total cholesterol 12-26%, over others taking placebos. The effects, which may even be produced by brewing a tea from cassia bark, may also be beneficial for non-diabetics to prevent and control elevated glucose and blood lipid levels.

4. Chromium – Starting in the 1960s reports have shown that Chromium helps cells respond properly to naturally produced insulin. Current estimates show that 90% of Americans are lacking in this essential mineral nutrient.

5. Helps to improve circulation in the little capillaries in the hands and feet. Also valuable in balancing the digestion and strengthening the immune system.

6. Mulberry leaves is know to effectively help regulate blood sugar levels. Drink as tea can help to reduce absorption of sugar and carbohydrates. It is also a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C and carotene.

Beside these, there are others less known herbs for controlling diabetes. These herbs when combine together in the right balance can be very powerful in helping you manage diabetes. However, it is important to research on these supplements to ensure they indeed do what they claim. ProvenHealthCare.com provides informative reviews and articles on alternative methods of controlling diabetes.

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Posted in anemia

Drug Addiction – Cross Addiction and Relapse – 5 Cross Addiction Relapse Prevention Tips

Comments: 0August 10th, 2009 by admin



Although definitions of “Addiction” seem to be continuing

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Posted in Alcohol

When You Run Out of Options You May Want to Try Tinnitus Retraining Therapy

Comments: 0August 8th, 2009 by admin



You may be reading this article and be wondering what is Tinnitus? I too had that same question until I did some research into the condition and found out for myself. Both the Oxford and the Webster’s dictionaries define Tinnitus as a ringing in the ear. My research has shown that this phenomenon originates in the nervous system and directly connected to the ear.

Tinnitus is neither a disease nor a serious medical condition. Instead it is a symptom of a problem or a condition that is happening elsewhere in your body. The bottom line is that if you want your Tinnitus to go away then you have to fix whatever is causing it in the first place. Sometimes it is not so easy, since what may be causing it may be incurable and you will have to revert to Tinnitus retraining therapy.

There are literally hundreds of plausible causes of Tinnitus and I will list a few of them below:

A sudden loud bang or noise or repeated loud noise without any ear protection. Excessive Ear wax build up in the ears. Acoustic neuroma (a tumor of the cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve). High Blood Pressure. Severe anemia and renal failure. Loss of Hearing. Drugs: aspirin overdose, loop diuretics, aminoglycosides, quinine. Injury or trauma to the head. Temporomandibular ( a disorder in the joint between the mandible and the skull) and cervical spine disorders. Suppurative otitis media (an inflammation of the middle ear). Otosclerosis (an abnormal growth of bone near the middle ear). Impacted wisdom teeth. Meniere’s disease (a disorder of the middle ear). Arteriovenous fistulae (an abnormal connection or passageway between an artery and a vein). Stress and depression and anxiety. Obesity

As I mentioned earlier these are only just a few of the possible causes of Tinnitus, there are many more. Some of these causes can be treated while other are not treatable. For the untreatable ones you may just have to find other ways of blocking out the ringing in the ears. Having to live with Tinnitus can be very stressful and affect a person physiologically.

For those people there are some measures that can be taken in order to minimize the effect of the Tinnitus. In Tinnitus retraining therapy there are devices available that have the ability to generate artificial noises such as white noise that will mask the Tinnitus. This method is widely used as a treatment but it cannot make the noise disappear, it will only make it less annoying to the one that is affected allowing that person to lead a relatively normal life.

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Posted in anemia

Diabetic Diet – Foods Shown to Help Regulate Blood Sugar

Comments: 0August 7th, 2009 by admin



It is hard being someone with diabetes, especially not being able to enjoy sweet things. People with diabetes need to cut down on certain food and consume foods which are good at regulating blood sugar levels. Many foods are said to be good for diabetics. I have paid attention to many of these reports, and I think it is true: certain foods do help regulate one’s blood sugar. Here is a list of a few foods that I have heard are friendly to people with diabetes.

Cinnamon
Various sources have reported that cinnamon can help reduce blood sugars. I find that this is true, and I often put cinnamon on my foods (because it also tastes good!) Interestingly, an ingredient called MHCP is said to lower glucose levels in much the same way that insulin does.

Tea
I strongly prefer green tea, and a lot of studies have come out recently that have praised green tea. Reports confirm that black teas can also lower blood sugar levels. I have been drinking more tea, and I can confirm that I have seen mild reductions in insulin needs (though they are not substantial).

Ginko Biloba
This is not a food, but I have found that taking Ginko Biloba supplements can substantially lower my blood sugar and reduce my insulin needs. I have read that people with Type 2 Diabetes can see substantial gains from consuming Ginko Biloba each day.

Cherries
A study has recently shown that cherries may help reduce insulin needs and lower blood sugars. I have found that, in most cases, berries are very healthy for all people and for people with diabetes especially. I love blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, and blackberries, and I have found that these berries do not raise my blood sugar quickly or substantially.

Vinegar
A study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that vinegar could lower glucose levels for people who do not have diabetes. More research needs to be done, however, to see if these same results can be seen in people with diabetes. I do not consume a lot of vinegar, but I am now interested to see if it does reduce my insulin needs for a meal.

Wine
Alcohol can lower one’s blood sugar. I believe, however, that alcohol should only be consumed in extreme moderation. I feel that the potential negative impacts of consuming alcohol (most being related to addiction and/or excessive consumption) far outweigh the benefits. Because it is so difficult to drink alcohol in moderation (from those that I have seen), I strongly advise not to start drinking simply to lower your blood sugar.

You should note that eating these foods is not enough, exercise is critical to avoiding diabetes or reducing the complications of diabetes. In addition, eating these foods will provide the most benefit if part of a balanced diet.

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Posted in Diabetes

Natural Ways to Beat Endometriosis

Comments: 0August 7th, 2009 by admin



There are different dietary and herbal supplements that can be taken to help alleviate symptoms caused by endometriosis. That being said, before taking any form of supplement, you should always consult your doctor first. This is especially important for any woman who suffers from kidney, liver or heart problems.

The following is a breakdown of the common types of dietary (vitamins and minerals) supplements used to treat endometriosis:

Vitamins

B Vitamins – biotin, choline, cobalamin, folic acid, inositol, niacin, PABA, panthothenic acid, pyridoxine, and riboflavin -Every member of the B vitamin family works to breakdown carbohydrates, fat and protein in the body. Folic acid is particularly important as it distributes oxygen to tissue, and a deficiency in this particular B vitamin can cause anemia. B vitamins also help to improve emotional symptoms caused by endometriosis.

Vitamin C – helps build and preserve collagen in the body, simulates the immune system, encourages healing, and resists disease. Caution: Although fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, it also contains bioflavinoids that can mirror estrogen effects on the body and cause severe cramping.

Vitamin E – helps strengthen immune system. When taken with selenium it can decrease inflammation associated with endometriosis. Caution: Women should not take vitamin E supplements if they are on anticoagulants.

Minerals

Calcium – approximately two weeks before menstruating, calcium levels decrease in women. This drop in levels can result in headaches, pelvic pain and muscle cramps. Note: Calcium requires vitamin D to be absorbed into the body; therefore, if taking a calcium supplement, ensure it contains vitamin D.

Iron – During menses, the average woman loses an estimated 30 mg of iron, and some women who have endometriosis may lose even more due to heavy menses. Iron deficiency can cause weakness, serious fatigue and mental haziness.

Potassium – aids in muscle contraction, heart rate regulation, and the balance of body fluids among other things. Women who experience diarrhea during their menses can become deficient in Potassium which can result in bloating, fatigue, and weakness.

Magnesium – Helps to relieve cramping during menstruation. Magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle and/or menstrual cramps.

Zinc – aids in the reproduction of cells and is vital for enzyme activity. It is believed that zinc helps women cope better with their emotions during menstruation and reduces irritability.

Herbal remedies are another form of alternative medicine used to treat endometriosis. The objective of herbal therapy is to decrease pain in endometriosis sufferers, improve pelvis circulation, and establish hormonal balance. The following are a few herbs commonly used to treat endometriosis.

Evening Primrose Oil – These herbal seeds are high in essential fatty acids which boost the production of prostaglandin E1. Caution: women who are prone to seizures should not use this herbal remedy.

Vitex agnus castus – This herb has been considered useful to relieve endometriosis cramping and discomfort during menses because it reduces prolactin. Caution: women taking oral contraceptives should not use this herb as it can reduce contraceptive efficacy.

Cimicifugae racemosae rhizome – This herbal remedy is used to treat many forms of pain such as dysmenorrhea.

Dandelion Tea – This herb helps to alleviate edema and swelling. It is believed that it can aid endometriosis by relieving the congestion in the pelvis.

Colic root – Works as a muscle relaxant, and is used to relieve bowel symptoms and cramping related to endometriosis.

Dong Quai – this herb helps relieve dysmenorrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort/pain and anemia; conditions related to endometriosis. Caution: this herb should not be taken with anticoagulants as it increases the risk of bleeding.

Dietary supplements and herbs are not the only alternative treatments used to help women with endometriosis. Therapeutic massage can be another beneficial form of treatment.

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Posted in anemia

Foods That Lower Blood Sugar Naturally – 10 Tasty Foods to Add to Your Diet

Comments: 0August 6th, 2009 by admin



Foods that lower blood sugar levels are not necessarily bland because, well, they do contain a hint of sweetness in them. Truly, these 10 tasty foods will add sweetness to your life without spiking your blood sugar levels!

Avocado

An avocado contains healthy fiber and fats, both of which aid in raising insulin sensitivity. When eaten in moderate amounts, it can actually lower sugar levels as well as regulate it in its normal range. You can either use it to make tasty dips, spreads, sauces and garnishes or just eat it as is.

Berries

Stick to blue and red berries for two reasons. First, berries contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidants also proven to fight cancer and neurological diseases. Second, berries have fructose that satisfies your sweet tooth with lesser amounts of sweet foods. Take a handful whenever you feel the urge to raid the chocolate section.

Cherries

This little red fruit is great for regulating sugar levels because of the presence of anthocyanins and fiber, both of which are proven to increase insulin sensitivity, not to mention prevent heart and brain diseases. Use them as garnishes or just enjoy them straight out the bottle!

Cinnamon

This Biblical spice works in four ways. First, it imitates insulin. Second, it reduces the bad cholesterol called low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Third, it contains high amounts of fiber. Fourth, it is a good source of magnesium that also aids in blood sugar control.

Garlic

One of the wonder foods of modern times, garlic increases insulin sensitivity mainly by raising insulin production. Eating raw garlic provides for more antioxidants to enter your body, which leads to a healthier cholesterol profile, lower sugar levels and better protection against cancer. Or you can just incorporate more garlic into your cooking, if you are queasy about eating it raw!

Lemons

The fruit may be used to denote bad things but when it comes to regulating blood sugar levels, lemons are one of the best foods that lower sugar levels! Not only are these fruits rich in Vitamin C, they also have healthy compounds called rutin and limonene.

Nuts

Go nuts over nuts when you are diabetic! These possess the good kind of fats that decrease insulin resistance as well as prevent hunger pangs, thus, helping you avoid sugary sweets. Go for peanuts, walnuts, pecans, macadamia nuts, Brazil nuts and almonds although make sure that you don’t have nut allergies.

Onions

Sure, onions are friends of bad breath due to its high sulfur contents. Still, when you realize that sulfur aids in lowering sugar levels, you will be encouraged to eat at least two ounces in a day! You can, of course, add them to soups, salads and sandwiches.

Sweet Potatoes

Stay away from potatoes but you must love sweet potatoes. This is the dictum taught to diabetics, which is rooted in the fact that sweet potatoes contain high amounts of fiber, carotenoids and chlorogenic acid. All of these promote the effectiveness of insulin produced by the body.

Vinegar

When you consume 2 tablespoons of vinegar in a day, preferably before eating a meal rich in starches, your blood sugar levels will not spike. Or you can just incorporate more vinegar into your diet!

Indeed, foods that lower blood sugar are savory, sweet and simple, all of which are good qualities in any diet.

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Posted in Diabetes

Vacationing in Holmes County Ohio

Comments: 0August 5th, 2009 by admin



When planning a vacation to Holmes County Ohio in the heart of Amish Country, be sure to put taking in the phenomenal scenery, spending time enjoying the area’s relaxing pace, and driving down windy country back roads as part of your agenda. The villages of Berlin, Charm, Millersburg, Mt. Hope, Sugarcreek, Walnut Creek, and Winesburg are the main Amish communities in the county. No trip through Amish Country could be complete without stopping along the way to learn about the culture

You can shop for antiques, furniture, quilts, and/or toys at a variety of the small shops located in the different cities of Ohio’s Amish country, as well as browse some very fine art galleries while you’re at it. Whether you spend some time watching how the Amish make cheese and chocolate by hand, visit an Amish farm, explore the Amish Flea Markets, or venture into the numerous stores that are filled with old-fashioned products, there is something for every tourist’s tastes.

Getting to Holmes County, Ohio

When you travel to Holmes County, Ohio, you will be venturing through the heart of Amish country along your way and discovering the culture that is part of the largest concentration of Amish people that you will find anywhere in the world. Directions for reaching the Millersburg area as follows:

From the East – take I-70 west to I-77 north, or I-76 west to I-77 south. Turn west on Route 39 to Millersburg.

From the West – traveling on I-71 from northeast or southwest, turn east on Route 39 until you reach Millersburg

From the North or South – take I-70 west to I-77 north, then turn west on Route 39 to the city of Millersburg – OR – take I-76 west to I-77 south, then turn west on Route 39 to Millersburg

Cities to Visit in Holmes, County Ohio

Berlin – the most commercialized city in Ohio’s Amish country other than Millersburg, the county seat. This tourist-oriented city with its concentrated attractions, shops, and stores makes Berlin the perfect setting for a walking tour.

Charm – a cozy township set amidst the rolling hills of the southeastern portion of Holmes County, Ohio. Charm is a destination all its own encompassing what is truly the Amish country’s lifestyle.

Millersburg – the county seat of Holmes County Ohio now located southeast of the original town site (referred to as “the Old Town”) that was laid out by Adam Johnson and his partner Charles Miller in 1815. Once the city was declared to be the County Seat, it began to prosper.

Trail – the city most revered for its bologna, Trail is located off one of the more scenic byways in Holmes County, Ohio and offers the visitor a wonderful day’s enjoyment or a relaxing overnight’s stay at God’s Country Log Home.

Walnut Creek – enjoy the view from atop one of the many hills surrounding the town as you look at the panorama comprised of picturesque valleys and rolling hills. Walnut Creek is located right on historic Route 39 between Berlin and Sugarcreek.

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Posted in Allergy And Sinus

Common Symptoms of Prescription Drug Addiction

Comments: 0August 4th, 2009 by admin



There are many common signs that people addicted to prescription drugs often exhibit. Prescription drug addiction symptoms are pretty universal, occurring in most addicts, such as an increased tolerance for the drug, and physical dependence on the drug. Treatment can begin once the symptoms are recognized and the addict realizes that he or she has a problem. Kicking a prescription drug addiction can be difficult and painful, but it is infinitely better than a lifetime wasted on drugs.

One of the main signs of a prescription drug addiction is that the user develops an increased tolerance for the drug. This means that the user needs an increased amount of the drug to get the same effects that used to result from a smaller amount of the drug. When a person increases their tolerance for a prescription drug, more and more of the drug is required to get the desired effects. For example a person may need to take four times as much of a drug to get the same effect. This is a problem for a number of reasons. It can lead to death or hospitalization due to an overdose, it can cause the tolerance to continue to rise, and it can cause serious financial problems if an addicted person needs to buy a significantly larger amount of the drug.

Physical dependence is another prescription drug addiction symptom. Physical dependence is when a person needs a certain amount of the prescription drug in their system in order to function normally. The body adapts to the drug and needs it to perform. Withdrawal symptoms often occur when an addict quits using the drug. Some withdrawal symptoms include feeling physically ill, temporary loss of memory, and wild mood swings, which can sometimes culminate in physical aggression.

The main sign that a person is addicted to a prescription drug is if they are unable to quit using it, even if they try to go without. It is important for people showing prescription drug addiction symptoms to seek help with their addictions. It often takes a doctor’s advice to manage withdrawal symptoms in a healthy way. It is important that addicts do not complicate their health any further.

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