Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts

Wednesday, 8 June 2011

Never make a woman angry!


A woman arrived at the Gates of Heaven. While she was waiting for Saint Peter to
greet her, she peeked through the gates and saw a beautiful banquet table.

Sitting all around were her parents and all the other people she had loved and
who had died before her. They saw her and began calling greetings to her,
"Hello. How are you! We've been waiting for you! Good to see you."

When Saint Peter came by, the woman said to him,
"This is such a wonderful place! How do I get in?"

"You have to spell a word," Saint Peter told her.
"Which word?" the woman asked.
"Love."

The woman correctly spelled "Love" and Saint Peter welcomed her into Heaven.

About a year later, Saint Peter came to the woman
and asked her to watch the Gates of Heaven for him that day.
While the woman was guarding the Gates of Heaven, her husband arrived.

"I'm surprised to see you," the woman said. "How have you been?"
"Oh, I've been doing pretty well since you died," her husband told her.  "I
married the beautiful young nurse who took care of you while you were ill.  And
then I won the multi-state lottery.  I sold the little house you and I lived in
and bought a huge mansion.  And my wife and I traveled all around the world.  We
were on vacation in Cancun and I went water skiing today.  I fell and hit my
head, and here I am. What a bummer! How do I get in?"

"You have to spell a word," the woman told him.
"Which word?" her husband asked.
"Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis", she replied.

Moral of the story: Never make a woman angry . . . there will be Hell to pay!


NB: The longest word currently listed in the Oxford dictionary is the supposed
lung-disease pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis (45 letters).

Now you've learned a new word

Tuesday, 7 June 2011

The Difference Between Grapes and Wine

During the French occupation of Syria a French Army Officer invited some Syrian dignitaries to a dinner. One of the invitees was an old Sheikh with his white beard. When the French officer saw the old Sheikh eating with his fingers, he asked:"Why are you not eating like us?"
The Sheikh replied: "Do you see me eating with my nose?"
The French officer replied: " I mean, why don't you use a fork and a knife?"
The Sheikh replied: "I am sure of the cleanliness of my hand, but are you sure of the cleanliness of your fork and knife?"
This shut the French officer up, but he made up his mind to get vengeance on the old Sheikh. At the dinner, the wife of the French officer was sitting to his right, and daughter to his left. The French officer, to spite the man of God, asked for wine to be brought, and proceeded to pour for himself, his wife and daughter, and proceeded do drink in a way to annoy the Sheikh.
He asked him: "Listen O Sheikh, you like grapes, and eat them, don't you?"
The Sheikh replied in the affirmative.  The French officer continued talking, pointing towards the grapes, hoping to beat the old Sheikh:"This drink is from these grapes, so why do you eat the grapes, but keep far from the wine?"
All the guests looked at the old Sheikh, (feeling that he would have no reply for this). The Sheikh, calmly replied: "This is your Wife, and this, your Daughter, is from her. So how is it that your Wife is legitimate for you but your Daughter is not?"
It is said that the French officer immediately ordered for the wine to be removed from the table.

Friday, 27 May 2011

20 Pain Cures You Can Find in Your Kitchen

Make muscle pain a memory with ginger

When Danish researchers asked achy people to jazz up their diets with ginger, it eased muscle and joint pain, swelling and stiffness for up to 63 percent of them within two months. Experts credit ginger’s potent compounds called gingerols, which prevent the production of pain-triggering hormones. The study-recommended dose: Add at least 1 teaspoon of dried ginger or 2 teaspoons of chopped ginger to meals daily.
20 Pain                                  Cures You Can Find in Your Kitchen
 

Cure a toothache with cloves

Got a toothache and can’t get to the dentist? Gently chewing on a clove can ease tooth pain and gum inflammation for two hours straight, say UCLA researchers. Experts point to a natural compound in cloves called eugenol, a powerful, natural anesthetic. Bonus: Sprinkling a ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves on meals daily may also protect your ticker. Scientists say this simple action helps stabilize blood sugar, plus dampen production of artery-clogging cholesterol in as little as three weeks.
 
20 Pain                                Cures You Can Find in Your Kitchen
 
Heal heartburn with cider vinegar
Sip 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with 8 ounces of water before every meal, and experts say you could shut down painful bouts of heartburn in as little as 24 hours. “Cider vinegar is rich in malic and tartaric acids, powerful digestive aids that speed the breakdown of fats and proteins so your stomach can empty quickly, before food washes up into the esophagus, triggering heartburn pain,” explains Joseph Brasco, M.D., a gastroenterologist at the Center for Colon and Digestive Diseases in Huntsville, AL.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Erase earaches with garlic

Painful ear infections drive millions of Americans to doctors’ offices every year. To cure one fast, just place two drops of warm garlic oil into your aching ear twice daily for five days. This simple treatment can clear up ear infections faster than prescription meds, say experts at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Scientists say garlic’s active ingredients (germanium, selenium, and sulfur compounds) are naturally toxic to dozens of different pain-causing bacteria. To whip up your own garlic oil gently simmer three cloves of crushed garlic in a half a cup of extra virgin olive oil for two minutes, strain, then refrigerate for up to two weeks, suggests Teresa Graedon, Ph.D., co-author of the book, Best Choices From The People’s Pharmacy. For an optimal experience, warm this mix slightly before using so the liquid will feel soothing in your ear canal.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Chase away joint and headache pain with cherries

Latest studies show that at least one in four women is struggling with arthritis, gout or chronic headaches. If you’re one of them, a daily bowl of cherries could ease your ache, without the stomach upset so often triggered by today’s painkillers, say researchers at East Lansing’s Michigan State University. Their research reveals that anthocyanins, the compounds that give cherries their brilliant red color, are anti-inflammatories 10 times stronger than ibuprofen and aspirin. “Anthocyanins help shut down the powerful enzymes that kick-start tissue inflammation, so they can prevent, as well as treat, many different kinds of pain,” explains Muraleedharan Nair, Ph.D., professor of food science at Michigan State University. His advice: Enjoy 20 cherries (fresh, frozen or dried) daily, then continue until your pain disappears.
 

20                      Pain Cures You Can Find in Your Kitchen


Fight tummy troubles with fish

Indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases...if your belly always seems to be in an uproar, try munching 18 ounces of fish weekly to ease your misery. Repeated studies show that the fatty acids in fish, called EPA and DHA, can significantly reduce intestinal inflammation, cramping and belly pain and, in some cases, provide as much relief as corticosteroids and other prescription meds. “EPA and DHA are powerful, natural, side effect-free anti-inflammatories, that can dramatically improve the function of the entire gastrointestinal tract,” explains biological chemist Barry Sears, Ph.D., president of the Inflammation Research Foundation in Marblehead, MA. For best results, look for oily fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, mackerel, trout and herring.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Prevent PMS with yogurt

Up to 80 percent of women will struggle with premenstrual syndrome and its uncomfortable symptoms, report Yale researchers. The reason: Their nervous systems are sensitive to the ups and downs in estrogen and progesterone that occur naturally every month. But snacking on 2 cups of yogurt a day can slash these symptoms by 48 percent, say researchers at New York’s Columbia University. “Yogurt is rich in calcium, a mineral that naturally calms the nervous system, preventing painful symptoms even when hormones are in flux,” explains Mary Jane Minkin, M.D., a professor of gynecology at Yale University.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Tame chronic pain with turmeric

Studies show turmeric, a popular East Indian spice, is actually three times more effective at easing pain than aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen, plus it can help relieve chronic pain for 50 percent of people struggling with arthritis and even fibromyalgia, according to Cornell researchers. That’s because turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, naturally shuts down cyclooxygenase 2, an enzyme that churns out a stream of pain-producing hormones, explains nutrition researcher Julian Whitaker, M.D. and author of the book, Reversing Diabetes. The study-recommended dose: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of this spice daily onto any rice, poultry, meat or vegetable dish.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

End endometrial pain with oats

The ticket to soothing endometriosis pain could be a daily bowl of oatmeal. Endometriosis occurs when little bits of the uterine lining detach and grow outside of the uterus. Experts say these migrating cells can turn menstruation into a misery, causing so much inflammation that they trigger severe cramping during your period, plus a heavy ache that drags on all month long. Fortunately, scientists say opting for a diet rich in oats can help reduce endometrial pain for up to 60 percent of women within six months. That’s because oats don’t contain gluten, a trouble-making protein that triggers inflammation in many women, making endometriosis difficult to bear, explains Peter Green, M.D., professor of medicine at Colombia University.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Soothe foot pain with salt

Experts say at least six million Americans develop painful ingrown toenails each year. But regularly soaking ingrown nails in warm salt water baths can cure these painful infections within four days, say scientists at California’s Stanford University. The salt in the mix naturally nixes inflammation, plus it’s anti-bacterial, so it quickly destroys the germs that cause swelling and pain. Just mix 1 teaspoon of salt into each cup of water, heat to the warmest temperature that you can comfortably stand, and then soak the affected foot area for 20 minutes twice daily, until your infection subsides.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Prevent digestive upsets with pineapple

Got gas? One cup of fresh pineapple daily can cut painful bloating within 72 hours, say researchers at California’s Stanford University. That's because pineapple is natually packed with proteolytic enzymes, digestive aids that help speed the breakdown of pain-causing proteins in the stomach and small intestine, say USDA researchers.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Relax painful muscles with peppermint

Suffering from tight, sore muscles? Stubborn knots can hang around for months if they aren’t properly treated, says naturopath Mark Stengler, N.D., author of the book, The Natural Physician’s Healing Therapies. His advice: Three times each week, soak in a warm tub scented with 10 drops of peppermint oil. The warm water will relax your muscles, while the peppermint oil will naturally soothe your nerves -- a combo that can ease muscle cramping 25 percent more effectively than over-the-counter painkillers, and cut the frequency of future flare-ups in half, says Stengler.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Give your back some TLC with grapes

Got an achy back? Grapes could be the ticket to a speedy recovery. Recent studies at Ohio State University suggest eating a heaping cup of grapes daily can relax tight blood vessels, significantly improving blood flow to damaged back tissues (and often within three hours of enjoying the first bowl). That’s great news because your back’s vertebrae and shock-absorbing discs are completely dependent on nearby blood vessels to bring them healing nutrients and oxygen, so improving blood flow is essential for healing damaged back tissue, says Stengler.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Wash away pain injuries with water

Whether it’s your feet, your knees or your shoulders that are throbbing, experts at New York’s Manhattan College, say you could kick-start your recovery in one week just by drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Why? Experts say water dilutes, and then helps flush out, histamine, a pain-triggering compound produced by injured tissues. “Plus water is a key building block of the cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones, your joints’ lubricating fluid, and the soft discs in your spine,” adds Susan M. Kleiner, Ph.D., author of the book, The Good Mood Diet. “And when these tissues are well-hydrated, they can move and glide over each other without causing pain.” One caveat: Be sure to measure your drinking glasses to find out how large they really are before you start sipping, she says. Today’s juice glasses often hold more than 12 ounces, which means five servings could be enough to meet your daily goal.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Heal sinus problems with horseradish

Latest studies show sinusitis is the nation’s number one chronic health problem. And this condition doesn’t just spur congestion and facial pain, it also makes sufferers six times more likely to feel achy all-over. Horseradish to the rescue! According to German researchers, this eye-watering condiment naturally revs up blood flow to the sinus cavities, helping to open and drain clogged sinuses and heal sinus infections more quickly than decongestant sprays do. The study-recommended dose: One teaspoon twice daily (either on its own, or used as a sandwich or meat topping) until symptoms clear.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Beat bladder infections with blueberries

Eating 1 cup of blueberries daily, whether you opt for them fresh, frozen or in juice form, can cut your risk of a urinary tract infection (UTIs) by 60 percent, according to researchers at New Jersey’s Rutgers University. That's because blueberries are loaded with tannins, plant compounds that wrap around problem-causing bacteria in the bladder, so they can’t get a toehold and create an infection, explains Amy Howell, Ph.D. a scientist at Rutgers University.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Heal mouth sores with honey

Dab painful canker and cold sores with unpasteurized honey four times daily until these skin woes disappear, and they’ll heal 43 percent faster than if you use a prescription cream, say researchers at the Dubai Specialized Medical Center in the United Arab Emirates. Raw honey’s natural enzymes zap inflammation, destroy invading viruses and speed the healing of damaged tissues, say the study authors.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Fight breast pain with flax

In one recent study, adding 3 tablespoons of ground flax to their daily diet eased breast soreness for one in three women within 12 weeks. Scientists credit flax’s phytoestrogens, natural plant compounds that prevent the estrogen spikes that can trigger breast pain. More good news: You don’t have to be a master baker to sneak this healthy seed into your diet. Just sprinkle ground flax on oatmeal, yogurt, applesauce or add it to smoothies and veggie dips.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Cure migraines with coffee

Prone to migraines? Try muscling-up your painkiller with a coffee chaser. Whatever over-the-counter pain med you prefer, researchers at the National Headache Foundation say washing it down with a strong 12- ounce cup of coffee will boost the effectiveness of your medication by 40 percent or more. Experts say caffeine stimulates the stomach lining to absorb painkillers more quickly and more effectively.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen
 

Tame leg cramps with tomato juice

At least one in five people regularly struggle with leg cramps. The culprit? Potassium deficiencies, which occur when this  mineral is flushed out by diuretics, caffeinated beverages or heavy perspiration during exercise. But sip 10 ounces of potassium-rich tomato juice daily and you'll not only speed your recovery, you'll reduce your risk of painful cramp flare-ups in as little as 10 days, say UCLA researchers.
 
20 Pain Cures You Can                    Find in Your Kitchen

Tumor Surgeries Improved With New Technology

Tumor Surgeries Improved With New Technology
New technology may help to improve brain tumor surgeries, according to a report from the Detroit Free Press.
The Hermelin Brain Tumor Center at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, one of the largest brain tumor research centers in the world, is now using an improved imaging technology that gives surgeons a more detailed look at the tumor they are operating on both before and during surgery.
“This is an entirely new frontier for treating these tumors,” Dr. Steven Kalkanis, the center’s co-director, told the Free Press. “What we’re hoping is that this will allow a patient…to have double, even triple, the time they otherwise wouldn’t have had.”
According to the American Cancer Society, a person has less than a one percent chance of developing a malignant tumor in the brain or spinal cord in their lifetime. The five year survival rate after diagnosis, however, is three out of 10 and gets worse with age.
The new MRI tool cost the hospital a cool $6 million, making it the most expensive machine in use at the facility. It is the first and only hospital in Michigan to use the new imaging technology.

Thursday, 26 May 2011

What is Polyamory?

Polyamory is a practice which embraces the possibility of loving multiple people at once, and establishing meaningful romantic individuals with multiple individuals. People who are polyamorous may identify themselves as “poly,” and polyamory is also sometimes known as ethical non-monogamy or responsible non-monogamy, emphasizing the ethical code and morals associated with polyamory. The focus of polyamory is on meaningful relationships with others, not necessarily purely sexual relationships, and this differentiates the practice of polyamory from swinging.

For people outside the polyamory community, the poly lifestyle can be confusing, and this issue is compounded by the fact that there are multiple forms of polyamory, designed to accommodate a wide range of comfort levels. Most people who identify as polyamorous would say that the most important thing about polyamory is honesty; a poly relationship is characterized by open discussion, honesty, trust, informed consent, loyalty, and constant negotiation. In a polyamorous relationship, everyone is aware of what is going on with everyone involved, and everyone fully consents.

The term polyamory translates from the Greek as “many loves,” but in fact a polyamorous relationship doesn't necessarily involve multiple people involved together all at once, and it certainly isn't the same thing as polygamy or polyandry, the practice of marrying multiple spouses. For example, a woman in a long-term relationship with another women whom she considers to be her primary partner might also have a relationship with a man whom she considers her “secondary partner,” and her two partners may not interact all that often, beyond meeting each other. In other cases, people practice polyfidelity, which is polyamory within a group, in which case various partners may come to know each other very well. Everyone reaches an arrangement which suits his or her individual comfort level, and takes the comfort level of partners into account as well.

Polyamory is sometimes dismissively characterized as having “a partner on the side,” which many polyamorous individuals find quite offensive. The whole premise of polyamory is that it is possible to love multiple people at once in honest relationships where people cope with jealousy and other emotional issues, and hope to reach a state known as “compersion,” which refers to taking genuine pleasure in a partner's happiness with someone else. Some members of the poly community define compersion as “the opposite of jealousy,” emphasizing the open and loving nature of their relationships.

Just like Brussels sprouts, polyamory is not for everyone. It requires a very deep level of trust and excellent communication skills, and both partners have to be willing to work together. If one partner pushes another into a polyamorous arrangement, the results are often less than satisfying for all involved, and members of the poly community frown heavily on cheating, lying, and other negative practices. A number of online communities and guidebooks for people interested in the polyamorous lifestyle provide excellent information on finding and negotiating polyamorous relationships.

How Fast Does Human Hair Grow?

Human hair typically grows at a rate of around half an inch (1.25 centimeters) per month, and this rate of growth is consistent across the head. Several factors can influence both the rate and quality of hair growth, including diet, age, and general health. As a general rule, products which claim to increase the rate of hair growth are not effective, although such products can encourage the development of stronger, healthier hair.

When human hair grows, it goes through three states. The first state is the anagen phase, during which hair is actively growing, and it can last from two to six years. During this phase, cells in the hair follicle are actively dividing, pushing the hair out from the head. During the catagen phase, the rate of growth stops as the follicle grows dormant, and in the telogen phase, the hair falls out to make way for new hair growing in.

As human hair grows, nutrients can help to make it stronger and sleeker. Things like gelatin, keratin, vitamin E, and various mineral supplements can improve the overall health of hair, making it glossier, thicker, and less prone to splitting. Many people also use regular conditioners and hot oil treatments to keep their hair in good shape, especially when hair is long. However, nothing can actually speed up the rate of growth, because the growth rate is limited by cell division.

Some factors which can influence hair growth include age and medical conditions; people with thyroid problems, for example, often develop problems with their hair. Hormones associated with pregnancy can actually speed the rate of hair growth, and an assortment of other conditions may influence the condition and growth rate of human hair. In fact, hair health can sometimes be used as an indicator for general physical health.

As humans who have attempted to grow their hair out may have noticed, many people seem to have some sort of hair “set point,” beyond which their hair will not grow. After a certain point, human hair gets too old, and it becomes brittle, split, and unsightly. Some individuals are able to grow their hair out to immense lengths, especially when supplementing with vitamins, while others may find that their hair refuses to thrive much past their shoulders; in this situation, the best thing one can do is find a flattering cut for shorter hair, rather than enduring the frustration of cultivating long hair.

Health Benifits of Ginger


Health Benefits of Ginger!Ginger or Zingiber officinale is a famous medicine and has been used for medicinal purposes since a long time. Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical practice consists hundreds of medicines made by ginger. The birth place of the ginger is also said to be India and the name ginger is derived from Tamil word inji ver.
In India especially in rural areas ginger is being used as the best medicine for flu and cold and it is very effective. Ginger is also beneficial in various other diseases and various researches have found a number of medicinal benefits of this root. Here are some of the best health benefits of ginger.

• As said before ginger is the best medicine in flu and cold. Just make a tea with ginger in it and feel the difference yourself. It works wonder to eliminate the cold and cough. Ginger has been also found beneficial in cure of food poisoning and stomach ache.
• Recent researches have proved that ginger has the potential be a cancer remedy in future especially to cure ovarian cancer a common cancer among women.
• Another research has shown that ginger is remarkably successful medicine for colon cancer. According to the research it slows the growth of colorectal cancer cells preventing colon cancer.
• Ginger is a good medicine for diarrhea a leading cause of infant deaths in various countries.
• Ginger is also equally effective to cure nausea caused by seasickness or morning sickness frequent among pregnant women.
• In some areas ginger beer is also being used in order to make the digestive system of the body work better and also referred as stomach settlers.
• Ginger is also useful as painkiller and provides comfort from various kinds of pains and inflammation.
• Due to its ability to stop prostaglandins from causing pain and inflammation in blood vessels, ginger is also used as migraine relief.
• Ginger has also the ability to reduce the chances of kidney damages or nephropathy among diabetic persons.
• It is also believed that ginger is a good medicine for menstrual cramp relief and also helpful in curing of irregular menstrual cycles especially among teenage girls.

With these miraculous medical benefits ginger is a must have herb for every household. If you are not suffering from either of the disease mentioned above even then you must use ginger regularly to keep your health in a good shape.

Tuesday, 24 May 2011

Nintendo Wii may work as well as real workout


The new active Wii video games from Nintendo may be creating a healthier generation of couch potato, according to a new study presented on Monday. Some of the Nintendo Wii sports games and activities included in the Wii fit series, both of which require video- game enthusiasts to get up off the couch, may increase energy expenditure as much as moderate intensity exercise without ever leaving the TV room, researchers said at the American Heart Association (AHA) scientific meeting in Orlando.

"It's a very easy and fun way to start exercising," said Motohiko Miyachi, head of a physical activity program at the National Institute of Health and Nutrition in Tokyo, who led the study.

The Nintendo-funded study found that about one-third of the games and activities included in the Wii sports and Wii fit packages require an energy expenditure of 3.0 METs or above, which is considered to be moderate intensity exercise, according to AHA exercise guidelines.

METs are metabolic equivalent values — a standard method of estimating energy expenditure, researchers said.

While this study does not prove health benefits of these games, Miyachi speculated that increased time spent playing them "may contribute to prevention of cardiovascular diseases."

The most effective exercise in the study was the single-arm stand featured in the Wii fit, which came in at 5.6 METs — just shy of vigorous activity defined as 6.0 or greater.

If that too closely resembles actual exercise for the calisthenically challenged, then the Wii sports boxing game is the way to go with an energy expenditure of 4.5 METs.

Both the Wii tennis and baseball games produced moderate intensity expenditures of 3.0 METs. But would-be golfers looking to get exercise are still going to have to walk the course as the video version produces only 2.0 METs.

Miyachi, who said he enjoys the Wii tennis and baseball games, hopes to measure the physical activity expended playing the new Wii resort games and called on other video game makers to develop more active entertainment.

Noting the growing obesity epidemic in the United States and Japan, Miyachi said some physical activity, even of the video variety, is better than none.

Monday, 23 May 2011

Senior health and wellness

Senior health and wellness is a very important issue today, with the increase in life expectancy worldwide.

Physical fitness is important for everyone, but it is extremely vital to the welfare of the elderly. As we age, keeping fit becomes more challenging, and therefore we must pay particular attention to how we deal with ourselves.

Here are some exercises so valuable that older people can participate, and also some things to consider in the pursuit of health and fitness level high.

Exercises 1. Stretch – One of the things that older people should focus on trying to recover as much flexibility as possible, because most of us lose some flexibility in our joints over time. The recovery is much flexibility as possible, should be a primary objective for the elderly. This can be done through something like yoga at low voltage.

2. Walking – It is not really the best exercise for the elderly to walk. They not only help burn calories and fat, also helps reduce stress and improve cardiovascular health. Taking the time to walk every day is one of the best investments you can make for your personal longevity and mental health. The world moves fast and we all have problems and concerns. Walking is a way to download the daily stress and allows us to have more attention on a daily basis.

3. Swimming – Swimming is an activity that is low stress on the body have wonderful benefits for the elderly. Benefits of swimming for the elderly with air improves cardiovascular health, increased flexibility, improved posture, relieve muscle tension, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and stress reduction. Unfortunately, the high-impact exercise can have a negative impact on bones, joints and muscles of people with more than fifty years have not been able to maintain a regular exercise regime. That’s why swimming is a great way for seniors to get fit and improve their general well being. Tips for the largest elderly ExercisingMany creating a safe exercise program often go too far and risk of injury. It ‘important to remember that you must work for hours at a time. 20-30 minutes of exercise 3-4 times a week usually provides all the medical care they need. Taking a short walk every day, however, can not be considered too, but the forces of heavy lifting day. Consistency is more important than quantity, so that the elderly should focus on keeping your fitness program and to refrain from allowing more than a couple of days to pass without being active.

Also be sure to warm up before each training session. Focus on relaxing the muscles you’re going to use and get some extra blood flowing to them. For strength training, warming could include a series of exercises with little or no weight Whereas aerobic exercise, do the exercise at a slower pace at the beginning works well. Finally, exercise is always easier and more rewarding when done with good friends. Especially for the elderly, could be beneficial to be part of a group of people dedicated to fitness for health. Join a club swimming or walking, or just organize some friends to practice yoga in the morning one day a week. The possibilities are endless, but the main objective is to stay active and in turn enjoy a healthy and productive life.

Source: seniorhomecareinformation.com

How to Get Rid of Bad Breath?

There are many ways to cover up bad breath, but if you're tired of quick fixes and want to banish halitosis once and for all, take these instructions to heart--or should we say mouth?

Steps

1. Clean your mouth thoroughly, regularly. Two major sources of mouth odor are bacteria and decaying food particles. There are hundreds of nooks and crannies in the landscape of your mouth where these offenders can get lodged. Brushing is not enough.

- Clean your tongue. Your tongue, unfortunately, is like a shaggy carpet where all kinds of smelly stuff can hide.[1] When you brush your teeth (which should be at least twice a day) use your toothbrush, the edge of a spoon, or a tongue cleaner to "scrape" your tongue. If you have a sensitive gag reflex, you might not like this task. You need to clean your entire tongue, including the part close to your tonsils. Read How to Suppress the Gag Reflex for some tips.

- Floss. Make it as much of a mindless habit as brushing your teeth. At first, your gums might bleed as you dislodge chunks of food that have "stuck" to your teeth and gum for who knows how long. But take a second to smell the floss after you pass it through your teeth, if you dare. You'll see (or smell) where the bad breath is coming from.

2. Keep your mouth moisturized. A dry mouth is a stinky mouth. That's why your breath is worse in the morning; your mouth produces less saliva as you sleep. Saliva is the enemy of bad breath because not only does it physically wash bacteria and food particles away, but it also has antiseptic and enzymes that kill bacteria

Chewing gum stimulates saliva production (in addition to covering up the odor with some kind of scent). Mints do not encourage saliva production. Drink water. It won't necessarily increase saliva production, but it'll wash out your mouth and it's good for you. See How to Drink More Water Every Day.Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications and medical conditions. Ask your doctor about switching medications, or addressing the underlying condition.

3. Choose your gum carefully. As mentioned in the previous step, any gum will help with bad breath because the chewing action results in more saliva being produced. Some gums, however, have better bad-breath-fighting abilities than others:

Cinnamon flavoring seems to be especially effective in reducing bacteria counts in your mouth.[1]Look for gum sweetened with xylitol. For one thing, sugar's not good for your mouth. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that actually works to prevent bacteria from replicating in the mouth.

4. Eat a banana You probably already know to avoid notorious stink foods like onions, garlic, cheese, and coffee (or at least brush vigorously after eating them). But did you know that if you're on a low-carb diet, you might have "ketone breath"? Basically, as your body breaks down fats instead of carbs for energy, it creates ketones, some of which are released in your mouth. Unfortunately, ketones smell bad, and so will your breath. If you're on a strict carb-restricting diet, or any diet that forces you to burn fat instead of carbs, consider throwing healthy carb-rich snacks into the mix, like apples or bananas.

This will also happen to anyone who fasts, whether for religious reasons, or because they are anorexic. If you are anorexic, bad breath is only one of the reasons to stop starving yourself. Read How to Cope if You Want to Become Anorexic.

5. Talk to a doctor. If you've followed the above steps diligently and the bad breath persists, you may have a medical issue that needs to be treated. Here are some of the potential culprits:

Tonsil stones. These are lumps of calcified food, mucus and bacteria that appear as white spots on your tonsils. If seen, they can be mistaken for a throat infection, although sometimes they are not visible to the naked eye. You might also notice a metallic taste in your mouth, and/or pain when swallowing. Diabetic ketoacidosis. If you have diabetes, it may be causing your body to burn fat instead of glucose, creating the ketone breath referred to in the previous step. This is a serious condition that needs to be treated as soon as possible. Trimethylaminuria. If your body can't break down a chemical called trimethylamine, it will be released in your saliva, causing bad breath. It'll also be released in your sweat, so persistent body odor might be an accompanying symptom. Constipation is also cause of bad breath. Constipation bad breath could be due to several causes from dietary to hormonal or be even a side effect of medications and anatomical. Incidentally, normal bad breath (that is, bad breath not caused by digestive problems) may also be due to a side effect of drugs you are taking, which could dry up the mouth, causing bad breath.Treating constipation bad breath consists in treating the constipation itself. If the problem is dietary in nature, then changing your dietary habits, laxatives, and fiber therapy could help treat the constipation and in the process the symptom of constipation bad breath. Enemas and surgery though rare may also be used to treat acute cases of constipation.A sinus infection can also cause persistent bad breath. When blowing your nose, if the mucous is consistently dark or has a greenish cast, there's a chance you may have a sinus infection. To get rid of it, you will need to be treated by a doctor.

Walking Increases Blood Flow To The Brain, Study Says

Brisk walking can boost blood flow to your brain, according to a new study from the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine in Dallas.
A team of researchers, led by Rong Zhang, analyzed data they collected over the course of three months from 16 women aged 60 and older. At the beginning of the study, the researchers used Doppler ultrasonography to measure blood flow in the arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood and glucose to the brain. They then created specific work out regimens for each participant, which, depending on their level of fitness, added up to an average of 30 to 50 minutes of walking three to four times a week.
At the end of three months, their findings show that blood flow to the brain had increased by 15 percent.
“There are many studies that suggest that exercise improves brain function in older adults, but we don’t know exactly why the brain improves. Our study indicates it might be tied to an improvement in the supply of blood flow to the brain,” Zhang said in a press release.
The study also found that, overall, the women’s blood pressure decreased by about four percent, their heart rates declined by five percent, and their body’s ability to carry and use oxygen during physical activity rose by 13 percent.
The researchers presented the study at the Experimental Biology meeting in Washington D.C.

Botox– What You Should Know?

Botox – What You Should Know
First off, it is important to remember that Botox, the cosmetic aid is actually produced from the most toxic substance known to man; from a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
What is administered for cosmetic purposes is of course extremely low dose and diluted, however the following should be kept in mind for anyone who is considering undergoing a Botox procedure:
Botox works by blocking signals to the muscles from the nerves, most often used on the lines that fan from the eyes (crow’s feet) and frown lines. It is in fact a sort of induced paralysis, because the injected muscles cannot contract after being injected. This is what causes the lines and wrinkles to soften, smoothen and relax.
The procedure consists of the Botox being directly injected into the muscles of the face and is not in itself very painful. When these injections are given, sometimes there may be temporary bruising that will fade in a few days.
The Botox treatment is not something that you take once and have the effects last forever. The effects of one treatment will typically last for up to 6 months and you will then need another treatment if you want the effects to last. It is thought that with repeated treatments, the muscles get ‘trained’ and therefore become less prone to being lined and wrinkled.
It is true that not everyone has side effects from undergoing Botox treatments; however the commonly experienced side effects from a Botox procedure are headache and nausea.
Some may also find that they have side effects like a respiratory infection, flu syndrome, etc., sometimes it could be the administration of the injection that could cause the problems, such as bruising and swelling and pain that may take time to heal.
There are also side effects such as droopy eyelid, an uneven smile and even an inability to close the eyes. Some people experience a strange facial expressions and an uncomfortable feeling immobility of the facial features.
Sometime chewing solids also becomes difficult. This happens when appropriate pressure was not put at the time of administering the injection.
These side effects fade within a few weeks, however it may be considered, that when you get a Botox treatment done for cosmetic reasons and the results are obvious in that there is visible facial bruising, it really defeats the purpose of the procedure. So consider all of this if you are indeed considering Botox.
Botox – What You Should Know

Sunday, 22 May 2011

The Onion- A True Superfood

The onion it makes your breath stinky and when you slice one, it may make you cry. But that’s not all the onion does. It turns out that the simple onion is the king of nutritional benefits, and its perks have been known for thousands of years. Historical records reveal that onions have been used as far back as 4000 B.C. as a cure-all for many illnesses. In WW II, the vapors of onion paste were used to reduce the pain and accelerated the healing of soldiers’ wounds.
The onion today is no less powerful. Here’s a look at why you should make at least one medium-sized onion a staple in your daily diet.
• Onions are high in sulfur, chromium and vitamin B6, all of which studies show help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. And, according to the Journal of Nutrition, onions also reduce the risk of heart attack and heart failure.
• The allyl proply disulfide in onions is believed to increase insulin in the body and as a result, stabilize our blood sugar level in our bodies.
• According to a study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the antioxidant quercetin found in onions has been known to prevent colon cancer, and in one study the antioxidants have been shown to cure precancerous lesions in the stomach.
•In a study reported in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, a compound called GPCS found that yellow onions in particular were shown to keep bones from weakening.
• Research published in Nutrition and Food Science reveals that onions act as an anti-inflammatory for the joints. This helps reduce pain caused by arthritis and similar medical conditions.
• Other studies have shown onions act as an antiseptic, fighting infectious bacteria including E. coli and salmonella.

To get the most benefit, purchase well shaped onions that have dry and crisp outer skins. Pass on the ones that are already sprouting, are wilting or have discolored tops. Store onions at room temperature but keep them in a well-ventilated area and way from light to keep their roots from sprouting. Don’t put them together with potatoes because they’ll absorb the moisture and will rot sooner.Stir fry onions or chop and slice them raw (for toppings) to maintain the onion’s impressive nutritional value.

Monday, 9 May 2011

Dental Health and Root Canals

A root canal is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.
"Root canal" is the term used to describe the natural cavity within the center of the tooth. The pulp or pulp chamber is the soft area within the root canal. The tooth's nerve lies within the root canal.
A tooth's nerve is not vitally important to a tooth's health and function after the tooth has emerged through the gums. Its only function is sensory -- to provide the sensation of hot or cold. The presence or absence of a nerve will not affect the day-to-day functioning of the tooth.

Why Does Tooth Pulp Need to Be Removed?

When a tooth's nerve tissue or pulp is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria begin to multiply within the pulp chamber. The bacteria and other decayed debris can cause an infection or abscessed tooth. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the end of the roots of the tooth. An abscess occurs when the infection spreads all the way past the ends of the roots of the tooth. In addition to an abscess, an infection in the root canal of a tooth can cause:
  • Swelling that may spread to other areas of the face, neck, or head
  • Bone loss around the tip of the root
  • Drainage problems extending outward from the root. A hole can occur through the side of the tooth with drainage into the gums or through the cheek with drainage into the skin.

What Damages a Tooth's Nerve and Pulp in the First Place?

A tooth's nerve and pulp can become irritated, inflamed, and infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a tooth, and/or large fillings, a crack or chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

What Are the Signs That a Root Canal Is Needed?

Sometimes no symptoms are present; however, signs you may need a root cancal include:
  • Severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure
  • Prolonged sensitivity/ pain to heat or cold temperatures (after the hot or cold has been removed)
  • Discoloration (a darkening) of the tooth
  • Swelling and tenderness in the nearby gums
  • A persistent or recurring pimple on the gums

What Happens During a Root Canal?

A root canal requires one or more office visits and can be performed by a dentist or endodontist. An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries of the human dental pulp or the nerve of the tooth. The choice of which type of dentist to use depends to some degree on the difficulty of the root canal procedure needed in your particular tooth and the general dentist's comfort level in working on your tooth. Your dentist will discuss who might be best suited to perform the work in your particular case.

Sunday, 1 May 2011

Importance of Having Breakfast


Breakfast can help prevent strokes, heart attack and sudden death. Advice on not to skip breakfast!
Healthy living. For those who always skip breakfast, you should stop that habit now! You've heard many times that "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Now, recent research confirms that one of the worst practices you can develop may be avoiding breakfast. Why?

Because the frequency of heart attack, sudden death, and stroke peaks between 6: 00a.m. and noon, with the highest incidence being between 8: 00a.m. and 10:00a.m.What mechanism within the body could account for this significant jump in sudden death in the early morning hours? We may have an Answer. Platelet, tiny elements in the blood that keep us from bleeding to Death if we get a cut, can clump together inside our arteries due to Cholesterol or plaque buildup in the artery lining. It is in the morning hours that platelets become the most activated and tend to form these internal blood clots at the greatest frequency.
However, eating even a very light breakfast prevents the morning platelet activation that is associated with heart attacks and strokes. Studies performed at Memorial University in St.Johns,   Newfoundland found that eating a light, very low-fat breakfast was critical in modifying the morning platelet activation. Subjects in the study consumed either low-fat or fat-free yogurt, orange juice, fruit, and a source of protein coming from yogurt or fat-free milk. So if you skip breakfast, it's important that you change this practice immediately in light of this research. Develop a simple plan to eat cereal, such as oatmeal or Bran Flakes, along with six ounces of grape juice or orange juice, and perhaps a piece of fruit. This simple plan will keep your platelets from sticking together, keep blood clots from forming, and perhaps head off a potential Heart Attack or stroke. So never ever skip breakfast.

Thursday, 21 April 2011

The 10 Best Foods for Flat Abs

There is no secret diet that helps achieve rock hard abdominal muscles, or "abs." Sculpted abs a six pack will appear once you have shed excess abdominal fat and exercised your abs to become toned and tight. Choosing the right foods can help reduce those layers of fat and flatten the tummy.
 

 
Here, the top 10 choices for flatter abs. Hopefully you understand that crunches and sit ups are great for building the muscles that will give you great core stability and those six pack abs
 
1. Almonds: Almonds contain protein, fiber, and vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. They’re also a good source of magnesium which is a mineral your body must have in order to produce energy, build and maintain muscle tissue, and regulate blood sugar.
2. Eggs: You should have eggs for breakfast to create greater feelings of satiation, which will lead you to eat less later in the day and promote adherence to calorie restriction. If you are concerned about cholesterol, simply remove the egg yolk and eat the whites.

3. Apples: Apples are a good source of fiber, which helps keep your digestive system flushed out and induces a flatter appearing abdomen.
 
4. Leafy Green: Eating leafy greens will add extra fiber and nutrients to your diet. Because they contain very few calories, you can fill up on leafy greens in a salad and feel full, without the calories of a heavy meal.

5. Yogurt: The probiotic bacteria in most yogurts help keep your digestive system healthy, which translates into a lower incidence of gas, bloating, and constipation, which can keep your tummy looking flat.

6. Salmon: Salmon is a fantastic source of omega 3 fatty acids. These healthy fats make your metabolism more efficient and salmon is also a great source of protein.

7. Soya: Soybeans are a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile.

 
8. Berries: Berries are full of fiber which helps with calorie absorption and are also high in antioxidants which can help blood flow in turn making muscles contract more efficiently.

9. Veggie Soup: It’s a simple way to get your source of vegetables and if you use this as an alternative to the usual in between meals snack you will lose weight.

10. Quinoa: This whole grain has become popular as people look for a healthy source of fiber and protein. Those who eat quinoa typically serve it as a side dish instead of pasta or white rice.

Sunday, 17 April 2011

7 'non-gym' weight loss tips

1. Be the boss of your TV remote and turn it off: According to a Food Quality & Preference study, people who dine in a loud and noisy setting are less likely to really taste what they\'re eating. People tend to overlook the subtle flavours of the food and eat more when they eat while watching TV. So, switch that TV off and enjoy your food. You will feel fuller, more satiated and less tempted to binge on seconds and thirds.

2. Don't eat at your desk: According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people who eat in front of the computer are \'distracted eaters' and find it hard to recall what they eat. Thus, they tend to overeat mindlessly. So, simply go to your pantry, sit in a group, enjoy eating your food, and avoid mindlless munching.

3. When shopping, eat first and shop later: If you shop on an empty stomach, chances are you\'ll be tempted to binge at the food court later on. Nibble on a snack or a two before you hit the malls and stores. This will help you stay away from impulsive and unhealthy food choices. Or better still? Munch on an apple and eat it all the way while shopping.

4. Plan ahead and prepare a shopping list: Pen down all the items you need and stick to your food list. Shopping without setting a goal in your mind may tempt you to buy things that you don't need. Not only will this keep clutter at bay, it\'ll also help you stick to planned, balanced meals - all on a budget that\'s healthy for your wallet as well!

5. Lose weight at a restaurant by researching the menu: Don't subject yourself to unhealthy surprises. They may easily tempt you into eating foods that you wouldn't eat otherwise. Extensively research the restaurant's menu online, and if you crave a high-fat dish, just remember to budget your food intake accordingly. Stick to the plan of healthy eating, and nothing can make you a mindless binger!

6. Visualize that tempting meal: According to Carnegie Mellon University researchers, picturing yourself eating a meal you crave in complete detail helps avoid binge eating. Simply put, if you are repeatedly thinking about eating a certain kind of food, visualising the meal might actually lessen, and perhaps end your desire of eating it in reality. This visualisation exercise will also reveal if you are truly hungry or if you just crave a distraction, and not another meal.

7. Never deny yourself food: Let yourself indulge in your favourite food at times. We don't want you to crash and burn. Allow yourself a few treats now and then, in order to avoid mental and psychological pressure of sticking to a stringent routine forever. People who tend to starve themselves, lose important fluids, nutrients, and muscle tissue. Lack of essential nutrition in the body also leads to hypotension, dry mouth, and bad breath.