Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Natural Infection Fighters

Today we will talk about fighting bacterial infections safely, naturally and effectively. Infection of one sort or another is something we all have to deal with periodically, whether it is major or minor. Three of the most common and powerful of these natural bacteria fighters are Tea Tree Oil, Oil of Oregano and Colloidal Silver.

Many people have used one or more of these for topical applications (small cuts, abrasions, hangnails, etc.) with excellent results.

When purchasing Tea Tree Oil, there is usually a caution about taking it internally, although some have used it internally and encountered no problem. So, use your judgment on this and perhaps experiment with several drops at a time. If you take a couple drops for oral reasons, it is fairly strong tasting, but do not dilute it by washing it down with any drink. Let it work its way around your mouth to do its job.

Oil of Oregano is also strong tasting, but there is a mint version available that is a lot milder tasting without losing effectiveness. This oil is great for topical applications and works very quickly on most mouth and throat infections.

Colloidal Silver has the advantage of leaving no oily residue if used topically. Just take Colloidal Silver internally at two-three ounces per day for internal infection although in extreme cases a quart a day has been consumed with no bad effects. The only caution noted for Colloidal Silver is that because it is so effective at killing bacteria, if taken internally, it may also kill the friendly bacteria in your digestive tract. Some research on Colloidal Silver says that it is absorbed so rapidly by the body, that the silver is absorbed before the liquid reaches the digestive system. For assurance, just take a good acidophilus product if using Colloidal Silver internally in any amount measured in ounces.

Some have reported that their internal pain eased in seconds after drinking a couple ounces of Colloidal Silver solution. This is how fast it can be absorbed by the body.

For small topical cuts or abrasions only a drop or two is required of any of these three products.

For internal use, read the label on the product.

Interesting Note: Did you know that burn dressings used in hospitals have colloidal silver in them to help burn victims avoid infection?

Also, many home water purifiers have colloidal silver in the filtering agent to help kill harmful bacteria.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Heart Attack Cost - Can You Afford It?

With the rising cost of medical services, is it any wonder that heart attack cost is a big winner for those medical services that work in this area. But guess who the big loser is in this heart attack cost ball game? You got it... the heart attack victim.

Even with new medical procedures and breakthroughs in the treatment and repair of a heart problem, heart attack cost has skyrocketed beyond your wildest dreams. The cost associated with a heart attack is not common knowledge, and until you enter the game and get up close and personal, will you learn this is one game you should have avoided.

Your first heart attack cost, most likely will be, general ambulance service. Figure on at least $800-$1500 or more depending on your location.

Your second heart attack cost will be ambulance medical support, figure on an additional $100+.

Your third heart attack cost will be emergency room general services at your local hospital. Figure on at least $750, then professional fees for emergency room, another $250 or so. Then tack on miscellaneous supplies, $500 for laboratory tests, about $300 for EKG, plus X-ray drugs etc - for a grand total so far of about $2500 for your emergency room visit.

Your fourth major heart attack cost will most likely be your stay in the ICU of your local hospital, until they figure out what to do with you. Figure on a day at a cost of about $850.

Now that you have the basic heart attack cost out of the way, unless you live within reach of a major medical facility with a heart specialist on staff, you are going to get a ride in a plane or helicopter. Figure on an additional $5000-$6000 for this opportunity.

Now we are getting to the real meat of our heart attack cost. You have already spent about $10,000 or so getting to this point. The next heart attack cost will make that seem like pocket change!

You can figure on about $22,000-$25,000 for your stay in the heart medical center, while they discover your heart problem and try to repair your heart damage. And this does not include the surgeons cost, which can add additional thousands to your overall heart attack cost. So now your heart attack cost is over $40,000. If everything goes well and your heart problem can be corrected by Coronary Angioplasty, you are left with one remaining heart attack cost, the chemical or treadmill stress test. This could add as much as $5,000 more to your already growing bill.

Your minimum heart attack cost for this overall experience will be about $45,000-$50,000! If the Coronary Angioplasty procedure cannot repair your damage and open heart surgery is needed, your heart attack cost could more than double.

By choosing foods with lower fat and cholesterol content, quitting smoking... if you do smoke, keeping your blood pressure under control, and exercising regularly, you may avoid this dangerous and costly experience... and eliminate heart attack cost for good.

Forget saving money. Save Your Life!

Monday, June 26, 2006

Weight Loss and the Snowball Effect

We all know the familiar story. You go through your teenage years, you’re fairly active, and maybe you play a little sport. Because of these factors your metabolism is quite high so you don’t have a weight problem. Unfortunately this gives you a false sense of security and you develop a taste for fatty junk food. You develop a habit of unhealthy eating because your metabolism helps you burn off most of the calories from the junk food and so you don’t see any negative effects.

As you move into adulthood your priorities change and you give up sports and focus more on work and social activities such as parties and drinking. You notice that you have some extra body fat but by now you’ve programmed your lifestyle and still don’t worry about weight loss too much. As you get to your 30’s or 40’s however you have a considerable amount of body fat and you start to see the health problems associated with your unhealthy lifestyle.

What you have unwittingly done in your life to date is set the snowball effect in motion, accumulating all the little unhealthy lifestyle habits along the way until the snowball has not only gained speed but also become bigger year after year, and so have you. Like a large snowball rolling down a mountain, your health and body fat appear to be out of control and unstoppable.

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The Good News
The good news is that you can use the snowball effect in a way to achieve health and weight loss by making incremental improvements to your lifestyle across several areas. This will cause your new weight loss snowball to grow and gather speed and lead you back to health. The most important thing to realize is that while you may not see immediate results from the slight changes to your lifestyle, the combination of incremental improvements across a number of lifestyle areas over time will achieve the weight loss you’re looking for.

Here is a list of things you can do to start your new weight loss snowball rolling:

1. Get Active – To burn off some of the body fat and strengthen your heart you need to do some form of exercise. A good starting point is walking as it is a low impact, low risk activity. Start out with a short walk at first and aim to walk further and for longer each time. Once you have improved your fitness a little incorporate some star jumps; perhaps stop half way through your walk and do some star jumps and then do the rest of your walk.

2. Eat Healthier - Gradually replace high fat and high sugar foods with healthier alternatives. First start with perhaps one meal a day and progress from there. After a while you will be more accustomed to healthy food and will make better food choices.

3. Eat Smaller Meals – It is better to have more frequent meals than fewer large meals, so try cutting down your portion sizes and have a piece of fruit between meals.

4. Cut out Sugar Drinks - Eliminate soda drinks from your diet as they wreak havoc with your blood sugar, add body fat, and interfere with your hormonal system.

5. Reduce Alcohol – Alcohol has similar effects as soda drinks on your body so try to reduce your consumption as much as possible.

6. Drink lots of Water - Water helps eliminate all the body’s byproducts and is needed to flush the body of the waste associated with weight loss.

7. Get plenty of Sleep - It has been noted that a large proportion of people who don’t get adequate sleep are overweight. This can be attributed in part to the effect that sleep deprivation has on the body’s hormonal system among other things.



If you're sick of the unsightly spare tyre or love handles then you can get serious and invest in a good quality program specifically tageted at not only losing the fat but also improving your health which should be your ulimately goal anyway.


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There is however no quick fix when it comes to weight loss, but if you make gradual changes across a number of areas, the combined effect will put the brakes on the obesity snowball and have your weight loss snowball rolling before you know it.

Copyright © 2006 Colin L Wolfenden

Friday, June 23, 2006

5 Symptoms That Indicate You Have An Addiction

Addictions are most commonly associated with drug and alcohol addiction, however the truth is millions of people suffer from all kinds of addictions.

Some of these addictions are related to some form of chemical dependency such as alcohol, controlled substances and even prescription medicines. Other addictions are related to compulsive types of behavior such as gambling, shopping, food disorders an even the Internet.

One of the most important things to recognize about any type of addiction, regardless of whether it is a chemical addiction or a behavioral addiction; is that it is not a matter of choice. Individuals who are addicts do not have the ability to simply decide to stop abusing their 'drug' of choice. Addictions affect not only the user, but also their family and friends as well.

So what is an addiction?

How does it begin and when does a pattern of behavior become an addiction? Some individuals seem to have the ability to use a substance or engage in a behavior periodically over a period of years without becoming 'hooked.' Others; however are not capable of stopping and become addicted.

Addictions affect all social and educational groups. There is no typical addict.

The causes of addiction have been studied for several years. In many ways, addiction is caused by the emotion the substance or behavior brings about in the user. The body and mind become dependent on that feeling and seeks to maintain it.

There are addiction risk factors that make some people more likely than others to become addicts. Studies show that sometimes addictions can be hereditary. The child of an alcoholic may not grow up to be an alcoholic, however, they may become addicted to gambling or some other type of compulsive behavior as an adult.

Besides hereditary, individuals who grow up in families with abuse, neglect and who are impoverished are more likely to become addicts.

For most addicts, it can be extremely difficult to recognize that what they have associated as simply a habit is actually an addiction. While every individual is different there are some symptoms that are prevalent among most addicts and addictions:

Symptom # 1

Unable to meet responsibilities at home, school or office.

Symptom # 2

Continues to use substances or engage in behavior even when it is dangerous.

Symptom # 3

The need increases to engage in behavior or use more of a substance to achieve the same effect or feeling.

Symptom # 4

Has tried but failed to stop using the substance or end the behavior.

Symptom # 5

Continues to engage in the behavior or use the substances even when they are aware of the dangers.

Answering yes to three or more of the above symptoms during a 12 month period may show that you or a loved one has an addiction. The first step to treating an addiction is recognizing that it exists.

There is no cure for an addiction. Treatment and counseling can help an addict to learn how to control their behavior, withstand impulses and recognize the presence of a problem, but an addict is never cured. Treating an addiction can take years and requires ongoing support from friends, families and support groups.

A 12 step program can be particularly beneficial in treating an addiction. One of the most well known 12 step programs is AA, also known as Alcoholics Anonymous; however there are similar programs for all types of addictions.

Living with an addiction requires a daily commitment and there is always the possibility of relapsing. An addict that has been "clean" for even 20 years can succumb to temptation just as they did decades before.

There are several treatment programs and centers that can help with the numerous types of addictions that are prevalent today. Many of them are anonymous. Support groups are also available to help family and friends who experience the effects of an addiction in a loved one.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

For a complete at-home addiction recovery program that will permanently and naturally cure your alcohol or drug addiction Click Here

Sunday, June 04, 2006

Looking For A Heartburn Herbal Remedy? Try Herbal Teas!

Article:
by Rose Smith

Tea has been used for thousands of years to soothe and ease a
variety of health problems. In fact, tea is the most consumed
beverage in the world, aside from water. Herbal teas have also
proven to be a good choice for those searching for a natural
heartburn herbal remedy.

Black, green and red teas contain polyphenols which is an
antioxidant that helps to protect our body from free radical
damage. The polyphenols found in tea have been shown to provide
anti-cancer properties through numerous studies. Additionally,
these same studies have suggested that drinking several cups of
tea each day may also reduce the risk of gastric and esophageal
cancers.

But not all teas are created equal. The leaves from black, green
and red teas come from a warm-weather evergreen tree known as
Camellia sinensis. However, what we consider "herbal teas" do
not come from this tree at all. In fact, herbal teas aren't
really teas but are infusions called "tisane" that are made from
various herbs, flowers, roots, and other parts of some plants.
Tisane does not contain as much polyphenols as true tea does,
although they can be very beneficial in other ways.

When looking at how to get rid of heartburn, you may find some
"herbal teas" are more advantageous in regards to easing
heartburn symptoms, acid reflux and other gastrointestinal
disorders, than others. Unfortunately, some teas may aggravate
these conditions rather than relieve them, so choose your herbal
tea remedy wisely.

So, if you are looking for a way to relieve heartburn symptoms
or other problems associated with digestive orders, such as
GERD, here are a few herbal teas you may want to consider trying:

Chamomile Tea

This is a very popular herbal tea used to treat a variety of
health concerns such as indigestion, heartburn, anxiety, PMS,
sleep disturbances and easing anxiety. It also helps to relieve
the inflamed or irritated mucus membranes of the digestive tract
(good for acid reflux sufferers) and helps to promote normal
digestion. Used topically, it can also promote the healing of
minor skin irritations and scrapes. However, since chamomile is
found in the ragweed family, it could cause a reaction to anyone
who has allergies to ragweed.

Marshmallow Tea

No, not the big fluffy things you roast over the fire. In this
case, it is the root that is used in herbal medicinal products.
When taken internally, such as in a tea, marshmallow is known to
ease bladder infections, and coat and soothe the
gastrointestinal tract, sore throats, ease respiratory problems
and promote healing of the urinary tract. It can also be
purchased as a topical formula for use on burns, scrapes and
inflammatory skin disorders.

Peppermint Tea

The mint leaves are used to brew a delightfully refreshing
herbal tea that contains no caffeine. However, there are
conflicting reports on whether to use peppermint in any form
when suffering from heartburn and/or acid reflux.

In some cases, it is said to ease stomach and digestive
problems. The oil within the peppermint helps to stimulate the
flow of bile to the stomach and relieve gas pains, calm
heartburn, and settle an upset stomach and nausea. On the other
hand, studies have also indicated that drinking peppermint,
spearmint or other strongly spiced teas actually causes the LES
to relax even more, resulting in additional acid reflux. The LES
(lower esophageal sphincter) is a one-way valve that separates
the esophagus from the stomach and allows food and liquid to
enter the stomach. When this sphincter doesn't close properly or
is relaxed enough, food, liquid and acid can reflux back up into
the esophagus causing heartburn. Since the reports are
conflicting on how effective peppermint tea may be in aiding
heartburn relief, you may just wish to try it for yourself and
see which group you fall into.

Aloe Vera Juice

Although this is not a tea, I've included it in this article as
Aloe Vera can be taken in liquid form. The liquid is made from
the gel found within the Aloe Vera leaves and works to help
soothe the digestive system plus protect against ulcers. In
topical form, it is great to use on minor burns, sunburn, cuts,
and scalds.

Many plants and herbs can be made into herbal teas that have a
variety of beneficial properties. The above list should give you
a starting point on some of the more favorable beverages that
help with heartburn and other digestive orders.

A note about peptic ulcers: Many teas can aggravate the healing
of peptic ulcers. Chamomile, however, seems to have a soothing
effect. It contains a high flavonoid called Apigenin which helps
to inhibit the growth of Helicobacter Pylori, the organism
responsible for causing peptic ulcers.

About the author:
Rose Smith operates several sites featuring natural and organic
relief solutions for everyday health problems - both in humans
and animals. If you would like to know how to get rid of heartburn, acid reflux and GERD symptoms naturally without drugs visit www.controlyourheartburn.com.


Want to Hit Heartburn and Reflux on the Head for Good?
Then you'll find the answers at
http://www.my-resource.com/heartburn.html

Friday, June 02, 2006

Dieting for a Healthier Appearance

New article discusses dieting and your appearance. The full article is available at http://www.my-resource.com/dietingforappearance.html.

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Common Forms of Acne

Most people have been troubled by acne at some stage of their lives. The most common form of acne is called ‘acne vulgaris’ and is caused when the pores of the skin become partially blocked by oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria that is normally found on the skin surface then invades the area, causing inflammation and pain. In many cases the ensuing pimples contain pus and sometimes a blackhead.

Acne is thought to be partly hereditary, but there are several other factors that can precede its onset. One of these is hormonal activity such as the menstrual cycle. Stress is also likely to bring on the dreaded zits due to increased output of hormones from the stress glands. Anabolic steroids have a similar effect, while medication containing halogens, lithium, barbiturates or androgens is also cited as a cause. A more severe form of acne called Chloracne is caused by exposure to high levels of chlorine. This type of acne is very severe and long lasting. If a pimple full of pus is squeezed until it bleeds, there will often be scarring.

Some experts say that pimples should not be squeezed because this can force the pus deeper into the skin. This deep-rooted infection can result in scarring and cyst formation. It is easier to prevent these scars in the first place than to cure them, so go easy on the squeezing. If you do squeeze a pimple, wash your hands in a disinfectant first, then gently pierce the pus-filled pimple with a sterile needle.

Some mature women have what they think is acne, but it may be the less common acne rosacea. Acne rosacea is frequently stress-related and is a potential threat to the vision, so a correct diagnosis is imperative. It is possible for the two forms of acne to co-exist. Another condition that can be mistaken for acne is keratosis pilaris.

Further information on understanding acne can be found by Clicking Here

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Acne Treatment and Products to Avoid

There are many over-the-counter products available for treating and helping to prevent acne. Some are developed specifically for this purpose, and contain acne medications and substances designed to unclog pores and reduce the chances of acne from developing. Others are simply cleansers, designed to do nothing more than cleanse the skin and remove excess oils and dirt, which helps control breakouts.

So which products are helpful, and which could actually be harmful to your skin? Soap is one of the most basic products used to cleanse the skin, and for some people is okay to use on acne afflicted areas. It can, however, aggravate these areas depending on one’s skin type, skin sensitivity, and actual acne condition. That is why it is important to use a cleanser that will work best with these factors. This will help you avoid further irritation to the skin and will promote faster healing. If you have sensitive skin, stay away from fragrant soaps, as the chemicals in them can cause breakouts. If your skin is oily, use soaps that are virtually oil-free, as products containing a substantial amount of oil will add oil to your skin, causing the pores to become clogged and subsequent breakouts to occur.

Cosmetics can cause acne to worsen. Certain makeup products contain chemicals that while on the skin, clog the pores and irritate the skin, causing breakouts. If you are suffering more breakouts than normal, or if you feel something is irritating your skin, you may want to find out what is in your cosmetic products that might be causing this to occur.

Instead, use cosmetics that are non-cometigenic, meaning they won’t clog your pores. If a product irritates your skin, stop using it and find one that doesn’t. Product containers now contain information about what is in the product, and what it should be used for, and often times, what skin types it works best on. You can gain information by reading these labels.

As mentioned above, remember not to over wash your skin, as this can cause it to become irritated and breakouts to occur. Also, wash gently. Harsh scrubbing will not remove any more dirt and oil than gentle scrubbing, and will also cause irritation.

Do not squeeze pimples, as this causes the bacteria to go deeper within the skin, and the area around the pimple to become irritated and inflamed. Instead, cleanse the area and use a toner to alleviate the problem and bring out the pus.

Be sure to choose your acne products carefully. You might even try sticking to one brand for your daily regimen, as this will help you be consistent. Often times, a specific line of products is engineered to work together, and will promote healing and prevention in the same way.
Stay away from harsh products that can irritate your skin, and change products if what you are using is not working for you. Consult a physician if use of over-the-counter hygiene products isn’t doing the trick.

Further information on understanding acne can be found at http://www.my-resource.com/acne

Friday, March 17, 2006

New Herbal Article Site

Our new Herbal Article site is now online with helpful articles and latest news on herbal treatments. Check out Herbal Hideaway.

Herbal Skin Care Secrets Hidden At The Greengrocer's by Rebecca Prescott

Interest in skin care supplements, or beauty foods, has been strong in Asia, and that trend is growing fast in Europe as well. These nutrient rich beauty foods make a good case for starting a beauty regime from within, one that is designed to prevent or reduce the effects of aging, like sagging skin.

Some products on the market include a supplement containing lacto-lycopene, vitamin C, and soy isoflavones. This is aimed at restoring firmness to the skin for women over 40, and was developed by Nestle and L'Oreal. Others have been developed using lycopene and grape seed extract, both antioxidants. Grape seed extract also stops enzymatic reactions that lead to collagen in the skin being broken down.

Antioxidants protect the capillaries in skin and thus ensure that enough nutrients get to the living cells that eventually push their way to the surface and become the skin you see in the mirror. They also protect from broken veins and early wrinkling. Capillaries also deliver oxygen to the cells, and remove the waste products of cellular metabolism. This prevents puffy, sagging, and dull skin.

But you don't always need to reach for a bottle of supplements. Simply by eating more antioxidant rich food on a daily basis should see some improvement in skin tone. Fruits rich in antioxidants include blueberries, prunes, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, apples, cherries and plums. And of the vegetables, eat more artichokes, broccoli, red cabbage, pontiac potatoes, brown onions, asparagus, non-green capsisum, beetroot, spinach and sweet potatoes.

Women are more prone to the damage caused by antioxidants than men, according to research from the University of Berkeley, and hence possibly their aging effects (Angyal).

Another strong antioxidant is beta carotene. Beta carotene is found in green leafy vegetables, fruit and carrots. This antioxidant has been found to counteract the effects of a particular type of oxygen free radical, singlet oxygen, which occurs after the skin is exposed to UV radiation in sunlight. UV exposure can lead to premature aging by the effects of singlet oxygen. A study found that whilst the provitamin A aspect of the carotenoid did not combat the singlet oxygen, the beta carotene did. It prevented the action of two enzymes, associated with UV light and the destruction of the skin cell's extracellular matrix, which happens in premature aging of the skin. Sunlight also destroys beta carotene in cells after sun exposure, so this beta carotene has to be replaced.

Beta carotene has been reported as having a mild sunscreen effect too, though it needs to be taken as a supplement to get this effect.

The skin care supplement beauty market is still not a strongly developed one however, as these types of supplements tend to be more expensive than other supplements. And there needs to be more research and clinical trials to prove which products do what they are designed to.


References:
1. http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?n=54477-beta-carotene-boosts
2. E Angyal, Gorgeous Skin In 30 Days
3. http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=57434

For an anti aging skin care treatment rich in antioxidants like alpha lipoic acid, try this herbal remedy. If you're troubled by acne, try reading this article on acne skincare products.

Provided by ArticleFeeder.com

Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Sushi - Healthy and Convenient

Sushi has been popular for hundreds of years in Japan, and recent years has seen a similar trend in the Western world. Sushi bars or restaurants have begun to spring up in most cities and you will in all likelihood find yourself invited to experience sushi firsthand at some point. The thought of eating raw fish may not seem enticing but sushi is a delicious food that can be enjoyed by anyone no matter what your age or dietary preferences.

The form of sushi served in modern sushi bars became popular in Tokyo around 1820 although sushi’s history dates back to the 7th century. The original variety of sushi which required a lengthy pickling process was developed so that sushi could be enjoyed fresh from a portable stall. The fast-food approach to sushi we see today has seen Sushi Bars gaining popularity the world over.

Made mostly with rice, fish and vegetables Sushi is a very healthy meal. To maintain the flavors and for the safety of the eater Sushi should always be made with fresh ingredients. Soya sauce, ginger and wasabi are used to enhance the delicate flavors of rice, vegetables and fish in Sushi to produce a nutritious and tasty meal.

The health benefits of sushi include:

  • Vitamin A, B-complex, Niacin and Vitamin C from the thin, toasted seaweed sheets, (called Nori), used in rolled (maki) sushi. Nori is also good for digestion.

  • The rice used in making sushi is low in fat and sodium free, and while not as healthy as brown rice it is a complex carbohydrate which provides fuel for your body.

  • Protein and minerals from the fish used in the sushi.

  • Vitamins and other nutrients from the fresh, uncooked vegetables used in Sushi.

  • The condiments served with sushi also have certain health benefits.

The naturally fermented soya sauce used in sushi has been associated with reduced menopausal symptoms and lower breast cancer in Asian cultures where Soya sauce and other soya based foods is a staple in their diets. Soya is low in saturated fats, cholesterol free, and a high quality protein source.

Those concerned with the bacteria found in uncooked meat will find the bacteria fighting qualities of ginger and wasabi of special interest as they are commonly served alongside sushi.
Ginger, (called ‘gari’), along with its bacteria fighting qualities also aids digestion. Wasabi, (Japanese horseradish), can also kill bacteria found in raw fish and is sometimes served as a garnish or included in nigiri sushi.

A visit to your local sushi bar will get you a fast-food meal with numerous health benefits which is an appealing alternative to the usual western style high fat fast foods. Give sushi a try; you just might discover your next favorite food.

Colin L Wolfenden
http://www.impressiveebooks.com
http://www.my-resource.com

Wednesday, February 22, 2006

Foods to Help Arthritis

The more you understand about any subject, the more interesting it becomes. As you read this article you'll find that the subject of Arthritis is certainly no exception.

Does eating certain foods help to cure arthritis? Conversely, is the elimination of certain foods any help in controlling this debilitating and painful disease? With over 100 different forms of arthritis and not a lot of research into its causes and cures, the debate rages on.

Because the symptoms of arthritis often seem to come and go without warning it’s hard to tell whether any sudden relief was due to a new diet or not. It is important for the sufferer to be able to choose a new treatment because it makes him feel to some degree in control of his life and also gives hope, an important consideration.

Researchers have discovered that a diet including too many calories can actually aggravate RA, while 5% of sufferers in another study showed a flare-up of symptoms after drinking milk. A reduction of fat, dairy and red meat was shown to relieve pain. In 1998, Finnish researchers found that the addition of lactobacillus improved symptoms of RA. This was supported by animal experiments, where mice given lactobacillus were found to be less likely to develop the disease and their immune systems were more able to cope with it if they did.

Now that we've covered those aspects of Arthritis, let's turn to some of the other factors that need to be considered.

One thing to remember when following any diet is that the nutrients lost through the elimination of any foods must be replaced by other means. Certain foods or food groups often seem to cause a worsening of arthritis symptoms. In this case, an elimination diet could be helpful. All suspected foods must be completely eliminated from the diet for several weeks, then reinstated one at a time over a period of several days. If the symptoms of pain and inflammation re-occur after each food is eaten again, then it could be a culprit. This should be done at least three times to determine that there were no other factors involved. If an elimination diet is followed, it is wise to keep two diaries: One of the foods eaten and at what times and dates, and the other of the dates and times of pain flare-ups. When the two are compared, it will be plain to see what was eaten that could have caused pain.

Some of the food groups that are suspected of causing pain are the nightshade group i.e., white potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant and bell peppers. Others are red meat, lemons, grapefruit, corn, wheat, rye and milk, eggs coffee, sugar and cheese.

One of the main studies done way back in the 1950’s has shown that fish oil has a very beneficial affect on arthritis pain. Fish oil supplements are widely taken, but in some cases cause unwelcome side effects like a fishy after-taste, gas and an upset stomach. Some researchers recommend simply adding omega 3’s to the diet by eating cold-water fish like mackerel, herring, tuna, salmon, anchovies, bluefish and mullet.

Another study, researched and supported by the University of Manchester, discovered that people with high levels of beta-cryptoxanthin were 40% less likely to develop arthritis. This is classed as a pro-vitamin A carotenoid which can be found in all yellow or orange- fleshed fruits and vegetables. It enhances bone, skin and immune health. Pumpkin, winter squash and peppers are the vegetables with the highest levels of beta-cryptoxanthin, while tangerines, persimmons and papayas are the fruits with the highest levels.

Once you understand some of the Arthritis facts, you may be able to share them with others who need help like friends or family.


Colin L Wolfenden
http://www.impressiveebooks.com
http://www.my-resource.com

Tuesday, February 21, 2006

7 Easy Remedies to Soothe Nighttime Heartburn and Indigestion

The following article presents the very latest information on Heartburn and Indigestion. If you have a problem with Heartburn and Indigestion, then this informative article is required reading.

Who hasn’t bolted upright in the night, awakened by a sudden and terrible burning sensation in the pit of their stomach? Whether you indulged in some overly spicy chili, or overdid it on those late-night leftovers, these quick heartburn remedies will soothe your fiery stomach and help you get back to sleep!

1. The first thing you’ll want to do when you’re awakened by heartburn pain, is to stand up. This helps keep the acid at bay while you go and get a full glass of cool water.

2. Drink the whole glass of water, and follow it with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of baking soda, and half a glass of water. Be careful though, if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant, this can cause water retention or increase your blood pressure.

3. DON’T drink milk or suck on mints to relieve heartburn. Milk might feel nice and cool going down, but it actually contains fats and proteins that cause your stomach to secrete MORE acid and make your heartburn worse! Mints, while they may feel soothing, actually relax the small valve between your esophagus and stomach, whose purpose it is to actually KEEP acid at bay! When this valve is relaxed, more acid can seep up and aggravate heartburn symptoms!

4. This is going to sound strange, but downing a teaspoon of vinegar can help soothe heartburn immediately! Why give your stomach MORE acid when it already seems to have enough, you ask? Sometimes, heartburn is caused as a result of too little acid, and vinegar helps quell indigestion by giving your stomach a little extra “juice” (no pun intended!) to do its job!
It seems like new information is discovered about something every day. And the topic of Heartburn and Indigestion is no exception. Keep reading to get more fresh news about Heartburn and Indigestion.

5. Certain foods can cause nighttime heartburn, including: soda pop or beverages with caffeine (which you shouldn’t be drinking before bed anyway!), alcohol, garlic, chocolate (sorry!), citrus fruits, tomatoes and tomato-based products. Avoiding these types of food can help ease your indigestion if you frequently find yourself awakened with that intolerable burning!

6. Eating a banana each day works like an antacid to soothe heartburn. If you’re already stricken with indigestion, eating pineapple or papaya (or drinking the juice) can help settle your stomach naturally. Some people also claim that eating a teaspoon of mustard (yuck!) can work immediately.

7. Avoid eating at least two hours before you go to sleep. Those late night snacks can keep your stomach busy all night and prevent you from easing into a deep, restful sleep. You may also find that sleeping on your left side or sleeping at a somewhat upright angle can keep acid down where it belongs.

If you are awakened by heartburn on a regular basis, or the pain is severe, or if you have heartburn with vomiting, you’ll want to consult your doctor immediately as it may be a sign of a more serious condition such as an ulcer. Above all, avoid spicy, fatty and caffeine-containing foods before bed, and you should be able to drift off to sleep easily.

There's no doubt that the topic of Heartburn and Indigestion can be fascinating. If you want to really get your heartburn or indigestion handled then you can't go past the Cure Your Heartburn solution.

Sweet dreams!


Colin L Wolfenden
http://www.impressiveebooks.com
http://www.my-resource.com

Saturday, February 18, 2006

Dietary Supplements – Calcium and Magnesium

You should be able to find several indispensable facts about Dietary Supplements in the following paragraphs. If there's at least one fact you didn't know before, imagine the difference it might make.

Many health care professionals don’t see the need for supplements of vitamins and minerals, but it is possible to become deficient in these building blocks for the human body when we are under the stress of illness, pregnancy or aging. Children can often eat junk foods to excess and miss out on their daily nutritional requirements. The unborn child makes heavy nutritional demands on the mother, while those in the older age bracket often find their stomach doesn’t absorb nutrients like it should.

Adolescents and young adults often have stress of an emotional kind with school exams and late hours for whatever reason. Mothers of young children rarely have a moment to call their own so their bodies are under constant stress and often they have to cope with sleep deprivation too. Sometimes we can go for years feeling overtired or with other minor problems without realizing that they could be alleviated by the addition of certain dietary supplements.

Cramps in the lower limbs, restless leg syndrome and sleeplessness are all eased by the addition of calcium and magnesium to the diet. Magnesium is more easily absorbed by the body in the form of dolomite, or with the addition of calcium. People who are too busy to eat properly, nursing or pregnant mothers and children who refuse milk and are picky eaters should all take calcium supplements. Children need lots of calcium to build strong bones and teeth that will serve them faithfully for the rest of their lives.

Calcium taken by the older age group will help to prevent osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become brittle and honeycombed. Fractures and broken bones in old age take so long to heal that the unfortunate victim sometimes never recovers fully from the results of a fall. It makes sense to prevent the problem rather than wait until it happens, to do something about it. Why not have a bone density scan to see if you are at risk of osteoporosis?

It's really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of Dietary Supplements . What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas. Magnesium helps to support a strong immune system and maintains normal muscle and nerve function. It is also known to be involved in every metabolism and protein synthesis and is needed for over three hundred biochemical reactions in the body, so it is very important.

One of the benefits of magnesium is its muscle relaxing properties. The heart is a muscle and high blood pressure is often caused by the heart not relaxing sufficiently on its outward (diastolic) beat. There is increasing interest in the role magnesium can play in managing hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

If irritable bowel syndrome is the problem, a magnesium supplement will help to reduce the cramping of the intestine by relaxing it. Add a little peppermint oil in a chelated capsule to aid in the removal of painful flatulence and gas build-up and the two main symptoms of this disease are disposed of or reduced significantly.

If you are taking prescription medication, always consult your health care professional before taking supplements. That's how things stand right now. Keep in mind that any subject can change over time, so be sure you keep up with the latest news.

Colin L Wolfenden
http://www.my-resource.com
http://www.impressiveebooks.com

10 Easy Weight Loss Tips for the New Year

The following article lists some simple, informative tips that will help you have a better experience
with Weight Loss.


The New Year is here. One New Year's resolution for many people is to lose weight and to keep it off.
Unfortunately, for some, this can be such a daunting task that their resolve lasts for a few months at
best. The good news is that weight loss does not have to be difficult. With the right mindset, it is
possible to lose weight and keep it off. Here are 10 tips to assist in this process.


Tip #1: Focus on making small changes each step of the way. For most people, successful weight loss
involves not only a diet change, but a lifestyle change as well. Since this can be overwhelming for
some, it is best to take baby steps. For instance, instead of signing-up for a full year's membership
at a gym, go for a few months or try walking in the neighborhood three times a week for thirty
minutes. Once this is done habitually it becomes part of one's lifestyle.


Tip #2: Eat 100% organic, virgin, and unrefined coconut oil. There is research which supports this as
an aid in weight loss.


Tip #3: Eat apples, preferably organic, every day. Apples decrease appetite and stabilize blood sugar.
Eat at least one apple per day.


Tip #4: Stay away from fast foods. These foods are loaded with harmful fats, preservatives, and other
chemicals. If one has to eat out, try to eat at a restaurant and make healthy choices such as eating a
large salad, a baked potato, and broiled meats instead of fried foods.


Tip #5: Do a liver cleanse. Many people have livers which are clogged and not working efficiently.
Health food stores carry a variety of cleansing products.


How can you put a limit on learning more? The next section may contain that one little bit of wisdom
that changes everything.


Tip #6: Use organic apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar helps to eliminate fat cells from the
body. Take a few teaspoons prior to each meal. Apple cider vinegar can be found in health food stores.


Tip #7: Add hot pepper to food. It is amazing what something hot and spicy can do for the metabolism.
Hot peppers not only increase metabolism, but also help the body burn off fat more efficiently.
Organic hot salsa is best.


Tip #8: Eat a large organic salad at lunch and dinner. The key is organic, if possible. If salad
dressing is used, it should be organic olive oil, organic vinegar, and fresh organic lemon juice.
Tip #9: Stay away from refined foods such as sugar and enriched products such as white flour, white
rice, white bread, and pasta that is not organic or whole grain. These foods have no nutritional
value.


Tip #10: Be positive! Don't say "I'm going to try to lose weight", but "I'm going to lose weight and
feel great." Be committed to staying on course and making those necessary lifestyle and dietary
changes. With this mindset, one cannot help but be successful.


Weight loss does not have to be overwhelming and difficult. Commit to trying at least a few of the
steps above and expect to lose weight and feel great!


As your knowledge about Weight Loss continues to grow, you will begin to see how Weight Loss fits into
the overall scheme of your life. Knowing how something relates to the rest of your world is important
too.




Colin L Wolfenden
http://www.my-resource.com
http://www.impressiveebooks.com

Sunday, February 05, 2006

Managing Stress 7 Days to a new You!

New Article uploaded to www.my-resource.com

Managing Stress 7 Days to a new You!

Is stress causing you to start tearing your hair out with all the frustration, grief, anxiety, and pressure? It's a state of mental conditioning that is like taking that bitter pill down your throat, causing you to lose your sense of self, and worse, your sanity. Just thinking about it can drive anyone off the edge. And they say that the proactive ones are already living off the edge.
Read the complete article here

Blood Circulation Problems and a River in Drought,

I've uploaded my latest article to the www.my-resource.com website. You can find it via the health menu link.

Blood Circulation Problems and a River in Drought,Similar Causes and Effects!

What possible similarities could there be between blood circulation problems, and a river in times of drought? Quite a few in fact!

Blood circulation problems plague many but the signs such as cold feet, swollen feet, leg and hip pains etc are merely a sign of bigger dangers. Read the full article here

Thursday, January 26, 2006

Articles, Information, Resources

Articles, Information, Resources: "Wouldn't you Rather be Enjoying?
Fun, Relaxation, Family Memories, A Budget Getaway"

Residual Income Opportunities | High Performnce Digital Products | Wealth Making Programs | Health & Fitness | Weight Loss

Residual Income Opportunities High Performnce Digital Products Wealth Making Programs Health & Fitness Weight Loss: "Easy Memory Improvement Techniques That Get Immediate Results! ALL of us have the potential to possess remarkable memory function - including photographic memory."

Thursday, January 05, 2006

Warning! Ignore Heart Disease At Your Peril!

(Reversing Heart Disease is Crucial)

The Heart Disease Hit List

FACT – Heart disease is the biggest killer in the western
world, and has been for more than a century.
FACT – Heart disease related deaths account for more than a
third of deaths.
FACT – A large percentage of heart attack victims die before
they reach hospital.
FACT – The first sign of heart disease that many heart attack
victims notice is sudden excruciating pain followed by death.

Shocked yet? You should be! In-fact we all should be. Many people
ignore the occasional chest pain, the twinge in the arm or
shoulders after a meal etc, and take no interest in reversing
heart disease. Feeling safe in the knowledge that if they have a
heart problem they’ll go to the hospital and get fixed up; maybe
take steps toward reversing heart disease through lifestyle
changes if the doc says so. Sounds like a good plan huh?
Unfortunately as the above statistics clearly show, the plan can
fail with tragic consequences, which could be avoided by
reversing heart disease through a change of lifestyle.
Reversing heart disease should be of prime importance to every
adult in the western world. Poor lifestyle and complacency are
sadly all too closely linked to the heart disease death rate.
Check out the chilling statistics and you’ll find that the heart
disease death rates are similar in every western country, and yet
the majority of people are still complacent about the dangers
associated with this silent killer.

The main risk factors are: .....Read or Download the Complete Article Here.
 

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