medicineman

Health Benefits of Garlic

2010-03-30T19:29:00.003+05:30

Garlic, known since ancient times for its medicinal properties, is still used widely as food and as medicine. Garlic is scientifically known as Allium sativum and belongs to the Alliaceae family. The bulb is divided into several cloves, excepting the single clove type. The cloves are pungent in smell and are mostly used as food or medicine. Almost all parts of the plant can be used as food. Researchers have not agreed upon the start of using garlic as food, but hypothecated that South Asia may be source. Its medicinal properties were mentioned in Ayurvedic (traditional Indian system of medicine) and by the ancient Chinese medical practitioners. The most important health benefits of garlic are –
1. The main medicinal aspect of garlic is, by far, its cholesterol lowering ability. Several scientific studies have proven that garlic lowers the LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) and cholesterol level in blood. Doing so, it indirectly reduces the chance of clot formation in the heart, brain and anywhere in the body. Thus, regular intake of garlic can prevent heart attack or stroke. It is also seen that garlic can lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
2. Garlic contains almost all the vitamins and minerals. Therefore, garlic is also known as miracle food. A clove of garlic a day can keep many nutritional diseases away. You don’t even require any multivitamin-multi mineral capsules if you grow a habit of taking garlic regularly.
3. Garlic is a storehouse of several antioxidants. They neutralize free radicals. Thus garlic can help us to fight against infection. Free radicals are generated during every metabolic process in our body. They invade any healthy cell and damage the normal physiological processes. Thus the cell experiences premature death and we grow older faster than normal. By killing these free radicals, garlic helps us to live a longer life.
4. Garlic can reduce homocysteine level in blood, thus having a regulatory property in maintaining blood sugar to its normal level.
5. Garlic is also being used as anthelmintic (anti worm). 3 tsp garlic juice in the night before going to bed for 3-5 days can expel worms in the morning stool. Earlier, cloves were being inserted anally to clear out the worms.
6. Direct application of garlic paste over wound can reduce gangrene formation. Thus, garlic has direct antibacterial activity as well.
7. Garlic juice, along with other herbs; have shown to reduce the expectoration in lower respiratory tract infection.
8. Garlic has also been used as aphrodisiac in many countries.
So it is obvious that Garlic has tremendous potential to be used as natural medicine. There is no side effect and garlic is easy to find. All these makes garlic a wonderful food.

Foods to Improve Eyesight

2009-09-25T00:32:00.000+05:30

There are foods to improve eyesight, really. My favorite organ are my eyes, I hope you also cherish the same. When it comes to improve your eyesight naturally, food is the thing I should recommend first. To keep our eyesight everlasting, you should include the foods mentioned below in your diet –
Beta carotene & Vitamin A: - Beta carotene is the precursor of Vitamin A. Both these nutrients are helpful in maintaining nutrition of the rod and cone cells present inside our retina. Foods that are rich in these nutrients are – carrots, lettuce and cabbages. It is also found in cod liver oil, halibut liver oil, each and every green leafy vegetable like spinach and amaranth. Yellow colored vegetables are also good source of vitamin A like pumpkin, papaya and tomatoes. Other sources of vitamin A are – eggs, whole milk, cheese, butter and liver.
Glutathione is another antioxidant vitamin which prevents the aging process of the lens. Sulfur present in garlic, shallots, onions and capers is converted in our body to produce Glutathione.
Anthocyanin helps in the vision during night. Blueberries, blackberries and grapes are rich in Anthocyanin.
Vitamin B 12 or Riboflavin is essential for proper development of cornea. Green vegetables and milk are two good sources of this vitamin.

Role of Antioxidants in Male Infertility

2009-03-10T12:29:00.002+05:30

The role of free radicals is important both in normal functioning and disease processes of human spermatozoa. Human sperm is very much vulnerable to free radicals as their covering contains PUFA (Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acid). PUFA is readily destroyed by the existing peroxides. Therefore, high level of free radicals in our body can lead to infertility in men.
Normally, the semen is surrounded by several anti-oxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and reductase besides quite a few non-enzymatic antioxidants like alpha-tocopherol, ascorbate and urate. They help the sperm in neutralizing the damage caused by the free radicals. If there is excess production of free radicals (oxidative stress) in our body due to any reason, they can overwhelm the power to neutralize by the antioxidants. This is recognized as a primary cause for male infertility. In these cases, the main factor for infertility is recognized as over activity of free radicals rather than lowered action of antioxidants.
In a recent study involving 1997 male patients having primary infertility, it was observed that addition of anti-oxidants in the form of beta-carotene, Vitamin C and Vitamin E with the normal medication has improved the rate of conception by their female counterpart. The physiological parameters of spermatozoa have been improved.
Therefore, as a conclusion, it can be stated that spermatozoa are unable to withstand the oxidative stress and can cause male infertility. Adding antioxidants in conjunction with the normal mode of treatment is recommended.

Which is better? Hoodia Extract vs Hoodia Pill

2008-09-11T23:24:00.000+05:30

Hoodia gordonii, a cactus like plant from the Apcynacae family is found extensively in the South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Angola. It is extensively used traditionally by the San people of Southern Africa not only as an appetite suppressing agent, but as a thirst reducer also besides as a therapy for the abdominal pain, hemorrhoids and indigestion. Researchers have shown that without the supporting elements in the natural Hoodia gordonii, much of the effectiveness of the suppressant and other herbal benefits are lost.
Till now, the aptitude of Hoodia gordonii as appetite suppressor by virtue of its active molecule – p57 are talked much. But you may not find a good discussion about the different forms like pills, extracts, tablets, powder - by which you can use it. It is also not mentioned that which form is the best one to take Hoodia gondii to get the benefit of the preparation in its best.
Hoodia tablets or pills can offer maximum 2-20% of absorption from the GI system when taken orally. The reason behind the fewer amounts is that it has to be present in the tablet as binders. All these are non-active components and do not cause any good to human. It is used to keep all the ingredients in a tablet to remain together. Only then, we get the completed product as tablet. We have no choice but to accept this. Actually this property remains same to all the tablets (regardless of herbal or medicinal). Once inside our body, the reverse process gets started and the ingredients get unbind once again. For some people, it is not so easy to break down the ingredients comprehensively.
Then again, Hoodia gordonii ingested in a liquid form is absorbed almost instantaneously and completely. The greater part of the people may experience its effects within a couple of minutes after gulping it.
Another key benefit of Hoodia extract is - it provides you the same or better outcome than the pill, at a much lower dose. You need not take 2-3 tablets daily. It is due to the fact that Hoodia in extract form is absorbed much faster and in the fullest of amount in compared to the pill form.
The extract is much easier to swallow, while some people feel it difficult to swallow the larger pills and capsules. Extracts are the easiest way to administer the product to children and the aged persons (although Hoodia is not recommended to children yet).
As the liquid form takes less time for absorption, it goes immediately into the blood flow, which helps you to feel its result almost immediately, while pills can take hours to reach you to the same effect.
The biological availability of the extract is almost 95-98% whereas, in case of pills, it is only 2-20% as its best. So the action is quicker and more effective.
The extract form is not changed to powder unlike pill. So the chemical structure remains same although from the point of extraction to the digestion and metabolism. It has no binders. So you can expect Hoodia gondii in its purest of forms.
If you are thinking of buying Hoodia gondii, think again and go for the Hoodia extact variety.

Stop Smoking Help

2008-09-11T23:23:00.000+05:30

Are you a smoker? In some part of your life, you must have tried to quit this bad habit, but somehow you became unsuccessful. Then you might be unaware of the factors that need to be kept in mind. Well, let me guide you.
First let us discuss some of the harmful effects of smoking in brief.
Smoking can cause you heavily. Most of the lung cancer patients are chronic smokers. And the variety of this cancerous condition is extremely obnoxious. It spreads quickly throughout your body before the doctors can help you.
Smoking increases the risk of stroke and heart attack by increasing the cholesterol level in the blood. There is more chance of thrombus formation.
Tobacco smoke has the power of increasing the blood sugar level by inducing glycogenolysis and neutralizing the body’s response to insulin.
There are many other detrimental effects. But the detailed discussion is beyond the scope of this small chitchat.
Now, let us talk about the tidbit of the process of quitting.
There are six basic rules that you should keep in mind. You should exercise them jointly for better result.
The first thing is to find the reasons to quit. If you don’t think the above mentioned reasons are sufficient, you may never be able to quit.
The second thing is getting ready. To start with, you need to fix a target date. Then make the ambience friendlier by throwing all the cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays from your home, workplace and the transport you use. If you need to change the carpool you take, do not hesitate a bit. Do not permit anybody else smoke around you at your place. Be rigid. Avoid cocktail parties for a while. Rethink about your past experiences to quit smoking. Think about what worked well and which did not. Try the positive approaches. And lastly, after the target date, do not smoke, not even a puff.
The third thing is to ask for support. There are study reports that suggest you will have a better chance of quitting if you are covered up with some kind of help from your near and dear ones. The simple ways to ask for help are from your family members, friends and colleagues. Inform them that you are going to quit the habit and need their support. Request them not to smoke around you. You may seek help from your doctors, counselors. Sometimes a medication may be needed. Get the benefit of group counseling. The more you attend the program, the better chance for quitting. Get information from your local public health care institutions for their roster of quit smoking program.
Fourth thing is to discover the new skills and behaviors. Try to divert your mind from the urges to smoke. Just try out new things that you like; go for a ride, go to the places you like most, talk to your friends over phone. The main thing is to distract your mind at the time of urges. Drink water at least 3 liters a day.
The fifth thing is getting some professional help. You may need some medications. Consult your doctor and use it wisely. Everyone wants to quit smoking may be benefitted from medication.
And last but not the least; be mentally prepared to fight against the relapse or ‘withdrawal symptoms’. It is the time, when utmost care is needed.
It is seen that with strong determination, 6 out of 10 smokers can quit smoking.

Acid reflux bacteria

2008-05-10T21:56:00.000+05:30

Acid reflux disease or GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease) can be described as reflux of gastric acid into the lumen of our esophagus. It happens when there is increased acid secretion from the gastric mucosa. The muscular tone of the gastro-esophageal valve is also reduced in this situation. Stomach acid irritates the esophageal mucous membrane which is not capable to withstand the extreme pH of gastric acid. So we feel irritation and pain over the lower aspect of our throat.

Incidence of GERD –

GERD is very common throughout the world. It is estimated that one tenth of the American population will suffer from peptic ulcer disease at some point of their lifetime. More than 2 billion dollars are spent for treatment of this disease annually.

Symptoms –

There is extremely painful burning sensation over the lower end of throat and upper central part of stomach. Moreover, this pain is related to eating. Intake of food increases the intensity of pain. There is regurgitation of food as the tone of the gastro-esophageal valve is reduced.

Causes –

GERD is multifactorial in origin. The most common causes are –

· Excessive smoking

· Intake of spicy food, junk food

· Irregular food habits

· Class I personality

· Executive lifestyle

· Long standing use of pain killer drugs (NSAIDs)

· Helicobacter pylori – recently invented bacteria, normally present in the stomach. But in some patients, there is overproduction in the bacterial colony and increase production of gastric acid.

Diagnosis of H. pylori –

There are three methods of diagnosing H. pylori (acid reflux bacteria). The simplest test is directed to detect presence of antibody in the blood against the organism. A breath test is available that works by determining labeled carbon dioxide in the breath symptomatic of an H. pylori infection. Lastly the most invasive test is endoscopic assessment of H. pylori presence.

Why Hoodia is Extremely Popular

2008-03-13T09:23:00.001+05:30

In this jet set life, weight loss program has become extremely essential. You can not afford to put on some extra weight; otherwise your ability to work to the best of your ability will be hampered.

Hoodia gordonii, the herbal preparation for suppressing the appetite is becoming popular gradually. It is a succulent cactus like plant found in the partly deserted area of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Angola. The San Bushmen were using the plant to kill their appetite while long hours of hunting or while they had to cross the great ‘Kalahari’ desert. Hoodia not only suppresses the appetite, but it crunches the thirst also. The native medical practitioners also were using this plant as to treat abdominal cramps, vomiting and to guard against small infections.

In 1937, a Dutch anthropologist while studying the Bushmen noticed that they were chewing some kind of plant to wane off their appetite. In 1963, South African Nationalized laboratory – Center for Scientific and Industrial Research, started studying the plant. In 1995, they have patented the active ingredient obtained from Hoodia gordonii – p57, and subsequently sold it to the British Pharmaceutical Company – Phytopharm. At present, Phytopharm is marketing the Hoodia gordonii worldwide in association with another pharmaceutical giant – Unilever.

Scientists have separated out the Hoodia’s active ingredient and the companies are selling it in the form of pills or simply Hoodia extract. They have injected the extract to the hypothalamus of laboratory animal after purification. The observation was outstanding. The food intake of the animals was reduced to 60%.

Hoodia is exceptionally active, especially in the extract form. After taking the dose, the subject will start feeling reduction in their appetite within minutes. The pills may take hours to do so. Anyway, the effect is same. The good thing about Hoodia gordonii extract is that the bioavailability is about 90-95%. Little amount has to be taken and it can be easily administered to older persons. The use in the pregnant and lactating mothers has not been established. Its use in the diabetic patients is also controversial.

There is virtually no side effect. Phytopharm had conducted the lone study involving 18 human volunteer. They did not complain any kind of bitterness in the mouth (although the plant is very much bitter in taste), no altered sensation, no abdominal cramps, palpitation or even slight headache. The studied volunteers were taking 1000 calories less than the placebo group. Within a week, the reduction in weight was visible.

No weight control pill can reduce your weight on his own. You have to include some amount of exercises besides lowering the intake of calorie. The good thing with Hoodia is you do not have to go for extensive workout program.

Hoodia gordonii has become extensively popular in recent times. So much Hoodia have been uprooted during the last couple of years that Namibian and some other government have stamped the plant as protected species.

The Hoodia gordonii product is freely available in the internet. Only you have to place an order, by any method you like, and you will get the medicine at your doorstep.

How Hoodia Works

2008-03-13T09:22:00.001+05:30

Hoodia gordonii, a novel approach to lose weight is getting momentum in recent days. It is a cactus like succulent plant found extensively in semi desert area of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Angola. It is being used an appetite suppressor by the San speaking tribesmen for centuries. During 1937, a Dutch anthropologist, while studying the Bushmen found that they were eating a specific type of shrub to kill their appetite. In 1963, South African nationalized laboratory – Center for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) started studying the plant. In 1995, they patented an active ingredient – p57, for the appetite suppressing property of Hoodia gordonii. The patent was then sold to the British pharmaceutical company Phytopharm, who is at present marketing the product in association with Unilever.

It takes about 4-5 years to bloom for the plant Hoodia gordonii, when the light purple flowers come out. This is the time for the plant to farm again.

Few researchers consider that they have identified the active ingredient that is responsible for Hoodia’s feat as an appetite suppressing agent, with not much experiments into the Hoodia’s other possible mechanisms of biological action. Nevertheless, the active ingredient of Hoodia has been partially discovered. CSIR have pointed the active ingredient – p57, a sterol glycoside. It is a part of a cluster of naturally occurring substances called ‘Cardenolides’. Glycosides are well known to the scientists for its powerful action in cardiac functions, especially heart rate, for years. However, noticeable effects over the enzyme Sodium, Potassium ATPase (NA, K ATPase), the target of action for the cardiac glycosides, are not the basis of action in case of Hoodia administration.

The available hypothesis tells us that Glycoside sterols act straightway to the Hypothalamus (positioned in the Central nervous system and controller of secretion of various hormones) – releasing a message that the blood sugar level is high enough. This happens to a Glucostatic mechanism of weight reduction. In vitro studies involving laboratory animals suggests that intracerebroventricular injection of purified Hoodia derivative – p57AS3, resulted in higher concentration of ATP in the hypothalamus, that may be a cause of sensing of satiety. No such specific receptors for the p57 has been discovered in rat brain, but CSIR scientists have found that injection of this product in the brain has decreased the amount of food intake of these animals by 60% besides amplifying the numbers of ATP hypothalamic neurons by up to 150%. The tracking of calorie input by the hypothalamus may be triggered by rise in the intracellular neuronal energy – in the shape of ATP.

In spite of the fact that Hoodia has become immensely popular drug to combat obesity, there is no documented randomized controlled study organized in human subjects to show that Hoodia is safe in any of its form such as pill, extract or tea form.

The sole proprietor ‘Phytopharm’ conducted a stage III clinical trial involving 18 human volunteers. They concluded that after taking Hoodia, the intake of food of the subjects reduced by 1000calories a day in comparison to a placebo group. But this report was never published. So the quality of the trial can not be assessed.

Hoodia review

2008-03-13T09:21:00.001+05:30

Hoodia gordonii is a leafless cactus like plant that has the power to hold water (it is a succulent plant). The natural habitat of this plant is partly desert areas of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Angola. It is a small plant like most other desert shrubs. The leaves are spiny and the flowers have the smell of rotten flesh. The migration of pollens occurs through flies. It takes almost four to five years for Hoodia gordonii to bloom to its pale purple flowers and the plant can be harvested again.

The use of Hoodia was known to native African Bushmen for a long time. The traditional native medical practitioners were using this plant as to treat indigestion and minor infections. The use of Hoodia to suppress the hunger while travelling through treacherous ‘Kalahari’ desert was the main reason for its publicity. They were known to cut the stem out and chew the bitter tasting plant.

For the last decade, Hoodia gordonii has been extensively marketed as appetite killer to be used in weight loss program and gained immense popularity.

There are more than 13 subspecies of Hoodia. The sole active ingredient ‘p57’ has been discovered from Hoodia till date. As per recent assertion, only Hoodia gordonii contains the active ingredient.

An anthropologist from Holland started studying the South African Bushmen in 1937. He noticed that they were using Hoodia gordoni to suppress their appetite.

Researchers at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), South Africa started studying Hoodia in 1963. During their study, it was observed that the test animals were losing weight after administration of Hoodia gordonii. Eventually CSIR isolated the active ingredient – p57 from the plant. In 1995, CSIR got the patent of Hoodia and sold it to the British Pharmaceutical Company Phytopharm who is at present marketing this product with Unilever.

There is no documented scientific evidence available regarding the use of Hoodia gordonii as appetite suppressant in humans. So, the safety profile and efficacy of Hoodia as a dietary supplement have got to be considered as uncorroborated.

Except for the study by the CSIR, one more animal research on Hoodia is available, which involved direct in injection of purified p57 agent to the brain of mice. The reason given by the researcher that p57 is easily broken down by the liver enzyme while given orally. Although it worked convincingly, the researcher’s view was somewhat unclear about the dose of Hoodia should take to work properly.

At present, there are hundreds of ‘Authentic Hoodia gordonii’ products available in the market. Most of them are fake and do not contain Hoodia or its active ingredient. During the past couple of years, so much Hoodia have been rooted out that country like Namibia and others have given the plant ‘protected status’.

Alkemists Pharmaceutical Company conducted a review of some of the Hoodia products available in the market. It showed that almost half of the products do not contain Hoodia at all.

There is much hype about Hoodia gordonii and the clear picture is yet to come. Till then buy Hoodia from a website that you can trust.

Does Hoodia Have Side Effects?

2008-03-13T09:16:00.001+05:30

Hoodia gordonii, the much hyped drug against obesity often claimed as not having any side effect. Due to lack of documented evidence to prove this, it can not be said rightaway.

Hoodia producers usually declare that it has no side effect as the San Bushmen in the South Africa are using as a food supplement and appetite killer for centuries. Their priests are using Hoodia to treat some medical conditions as well. While crossing deceitful ‘Kalahari’ desert, they are using the plant as appetite lowering agent.

Hoodia gordonii is not there in the Western market for such time, that scientists can experiment on it to unearth some important ingredients, which may be much more helpful than it is doing at present. Due to same lack of time, Hoodia gordonii has not undergone for safety testing to enlighten us about its probable side effects and drug interactions. Mere claim from the manufacturers are not sufficient.

During his study of South African Bushmen, a Dutch anthropologist discovered that the Bushmen were eating some kind of plant to keep their appetite away. They were eating Hoodia as food surrogate, not as medicine. The CSIR concluded that Hoodia befits the criterion of being a natural suppressant of appetite, but not cure of it.

The researchers who volunteered by tasting Hoodia gordonii during the study, states that even pure Hoodia gordonii or its extracts does not leave any detrimental after effects for physical conditions. No bad taste in mouth, no abdominal cramp, no palpitation, no sweating and no vertigo either. There was no hunger and thirst as well.

But it must be remembered that Hoodia gordonii has not been studied in detail. The only active ingredient having some medicinal value has been separated, that is p57.

By taking Hoodia gordonii extract as appetite suppressant, you fix your hunger, lace the urge eating different high calorie meal; in turn lose your weight. But simultaneously, you are taking the risk of not having all the required nutrients and vitamins. That is the reason Hoodia gordonii products are not recommended to the children, pregnant and nursing mothers and the underweight people.

Diabetic patients should be cautious while using Hoodia. It is seen that the appetite killing medications often increase the blood sugar level, thus creating a false impression of taking enough food. Although there is not enough data to prove the fact, it is better to remain on the safer side. It may also occur that after taking Hoodis, the blood sugar level dropped rapidly below critical level. It may crate an emergency called ‘Hypoglycemic shock’. And with the regular hunger – satiety mechanism turned off, the usual warning sign of hypoglycemia may become suppressed.

Hoodia claims to reduce the thirst level too. It is seen that some of the Bushmen died because of dehydration while crossing the desert as they had taken Hoodia before starting out. Their sense of thirst had been deranged extensively. Dehydration was the cause of death.

Hoodia gordonii is a novel herbal preparation. The much of it are yet to be discovered. But before the extensive research, the safety level will always be under close supervision.

Nicocure® review

2008-03-13T09:15:00.001+05:30

Smoking is a habit that everybody wishes to quit. But somehow finds it difficult to do so even with the strongest bit of determination. They need the aid of ‘stop smoking pills’.

Among all the ‘stop smoking pills’ available in the market, low dose nicotine remains the key ingredient. It means you have to take the same harmful agent to get rid of it. Doesn’t it sound ridiculous? But is there is any product that claims to help to quit smoking in thirty days without injecting a milligram of nicotine?

Well, Nicocure® is the answer. The first time all herbal preparation that makes sense.

You might be thinking whether Nicocure® really as effective as it declares? Does it truly facilitate you to quit smoking within 30 days? The single word answer is yes. It is an exceptional ‘stop smoking pill’, which makes possible quitting your smoking habit in a natural way without using the nicotine patch or chewing gum. Nicocure® helps your body’s natural defense system to work against nicotine desire and take away your nicotine addiction rapidly.

In a study conducted to test Nicocure®’s effectiveness, experts have opined that it is the best of the medicines available in the market.

The Nicocure® stop smoking pill is an absolutely safe and rapid approach to quit smoking without the risk to face the ‘Withdrawal symptoms’. It works in the way to quit your smoking practice permanently by altering the taste towards tobacco and get rid of your nicotine urges. Nicocure® usually takes about 30 days to work completely and it is definite to work.

One thing you must be thinking, is Nicocure® safe for you? Well, yes; as I mentioned earlier that Nicocure® is made from trusted herbal components that naturally remove your body’s requirement of nicotine.

Diabetic persons can use Nicocure® without any hesitation as it does not contain any sugar.

Nicocure® also helps the patients carrying the habit of chewing tobacco or tobacco powder inhalation. It is effective in any kind if nicotine preparation.

The only drawback was noticed for Nicocure® that it is not safe to use during the time of pregnancy and in case of nursing mothers. But this is applicable for most of the herbal preparations as well.

Although the company claims that the habit will wane off after a period of 30 days, the changes in a Nicocure® user can be noticed within the first 10 days of regular intake. But it is better to continue the preparation for 2 months to remain on the safer side.

There is no side effect of Nicocure®. The only thing worth mentioning is, if you deceive and take a puff of tobacco smoke, you will feel dizziness and mild nausea. This is the indicator that Nicocure® is working. After the total period is finished, you will not feel any craving towards smoking.

Nicocure® is offering bonus to its buyer. If you purchase the sixty days course, you will be getting their Award-Winning e-book on ‘How to Quit Smoking for Life’ and an mp3 CD containing stop smoking hypnosis audio. Besides these two offers, ‘Money back guarantee offer’ is also in force. If you are not happy with the result, you may return the used pack and get the money back.

Why Stop Smoking Pills Work Best

2008-03-13T09:14:00.002+05:30

It seems like everything has a pill. In this modern ‘pills for all’ age, one should not be surprised finding some ‘stop smoking pills’ as well. But that is not the main thing.

The first and foremost requirement to quit smoking is a strong determination. Find some reasons why you want to quit smoking get some help from your family and friends and fix a date. After that no more puffs. That should be the right approach.

In some cases, that does not work simply. Somebody may need medical help to successfully achieve his desired result.

At present, market is full of herbal and medicinal preparations that offer hassle free quitting from smoking. Most of the promises are correct. You need to choose which the best one is.

Quitting smoking is tough, even sometimes it is impossible to restrain from nicotine desires so hard without support of a ‘stop smoking pill’. It is of no harm using natural medication that helps us effectively give up tobacco addiction. There is an array of stop smoking pills available in the market to help out smokers to get rid of their smoking habits.

How do the ‘stop smoking pills’ work? It helps to release the ‘feel good’ hormones from the different organs. They are basically neurotransmitters working over the central nervous system. Among them, Dopamine should be worth mentioning. Dopamine is used to treat depression, anxiety, mania and nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

Virtually, there is no such pill invented till date that will force you to stop smoking. Even while taking the ‘stop smoking pills’, if you think to smoke anyway, you can do easily. In fact there is no medication or means that will make you to quit smoking. The discretion is all yours.

The FDA approved medicinal quit smoking preparations comprise of Nicotine in low dose. The preparations available in the market are Nicotine chewing gum, Nicotine inhaler, Nicotine spray and Nicotine patch. Of all these products, only Nicotine patch is available in the market over the counter. Rests are available only after a prescription of a qualified medical practitioner.

All of them contain nicotine. Even in the lowest possible dose of nicotine can cause harm to the subject. There is a chance of dependency formation and all the ill effects of nicotine if somebody takes it for a long period. There is difficulty to get the right medication as well.

Researchers have found that ‘stop smoking pill’ works in an excellent manner. It stops the craving for nicotine, there is soothing and coating of GI and urinary tract. The pill also helps to reduce anxiety and stress, regularizes the sleep rhythm. Without the aid of the ‘stop smoking pills’, a large population in the world were fated to continue on smoking and further jeopardizing their health condition and strength.

The all herbal preparation (Nicocure®) helps to quit smoking in a natural way. The ingredients are well known and trusted for over the centuries. People have started depending upon the ‘stop smoking pills’ rather than asking for one more cigarettes.

Why You can Quit Smoking

2008-03-13T09:13:00.002+05:30

Smoking is detrimental to health. It is causing harm when you are feeling euphoric, when you are getting excited after a quick puffs or even when you are in the state of alertness. It is a silent killer.

Tobacco smoke contains more than 4000 chemical mostly of which are injurious to health. Smoking is rapidly habit forming, and it is very hard to quit. The main reason behind this is nicotine. It creates a state of craving. There is a joke – ‘It is very easy to quit smoking, I have quitted it for so many times’.

Smoking increases the blood sugar level by potentiating the process of glycogenolysis. Glycogen is broken down to increase the level of free glucose in the blood. It also trims down the response of the body tissues to the action of Insulin – the hormone responsible for controlling the blood sugar. The ultimate result can be overt diabetes.

Tobacco smoke contains more than 40 carcinogens (factors that can cause cancer). If the critical level is reached, it may produce carcinoma of the lung and gastrointestinal tissues (lip, tongue, esophagus and stomach). The lung cancer caused by the carcinogen present in the tobacco smoke is highly metastatic. It rapidly spreads into the surrounding tissues and then to the whole body. The 5 year survival rate is poor.

Smoking also alters the peaceful state of mind. For the chronic smokers, it is more obvious. Persons become irritable, highly prone to stress and anxiety. The duration and depth of sleep are also reduced. This is again a potent cause of stress. Actually a vicious cycle forms.

Smoking increases the secretion of gastric acid from the stomach. Peptic ulcer disease is very common in the heavy smokers.

The pregnant mothers also are benefitted. The placental (organ that connects maternal blood vessel to that of growing fetus – it supplies the essential nutrition to the fetus and extracts out the products of metabolism) blood vessels get narrowed by the action of tobacco smoke. Thus the fetus is devoid of the basic nutrition. It is highly recommended to quit smoking when somebody is pregnant.

Usually people needs 2-3 tries before he is really gain the confidence finally to do it. Each time somebody is trying to quit, he learns the pros and cons of the quitting process.

Let us recapitulate the benefits of quit smoking –

The longevity of your life is increased. The quality is improved too.

It will reduce the chance of being a lung or oral cancer patient besides lowering the risk of coronary thrombosis (heart attack) or cerebral thrombosis (stroke).

For the pregnant mother, quitting smoking will improve the condition if the fetus. The chance of having a healthy baby is increased. The possibility of premature delivery is also reduced.

The other family members especially children are also benefitted as they are not exposed to the risk of ‘passive smoking’.

The money you save from quitting the bad habit can be spent to go for a beautiful vacation or some good home appliances can be purchased.

To quit smoking, all you need is a strong determination and some aid from others.

Smoking facts

2008-03-13T09:13:00.001+05:30

People smoke to get some gratification, for social or ritualistic needs or when the dependence on Nicotine hampers his way of life. In a study, it was seen that smoking is the single largest primary or secondary cause of illness and premature death in the United Kingdom. More than 450,000 deaths due to smoking related diseases occur in the United States per year. Tobacco smoking is an addiction as it contains nicotine, a molecule that is addictive in nature. When the dependency occurs, it becomes very tough to quit smoking. Tobacco also contains Harmane (a Mono Amino Oxidase inhibitor). The cumulative effect of nicotine and Harmane is the reason behind the sense of euphoria and its addictive properties.

For the first time and infrequent smokers, nicotine creates a state of alertness and increase in the memory function besides creating a euphoric state. Nicotine also depresses some metabolic processes and it is known appetite killer by increasing blood sugar level.

As the nicotine level in the blood increases, dependency to nicotine becomes obvious. And if somebody is restricted to smoke, the ‘withdrawal symptoms’ occurs such as anxiety, craving for smoking, restlessness, irritability, headaches, difficulty to concentrate and sense of doom. The entire symptoms will vanish with the next puff of cigarette. Because of that, most of the smokers take puffs regularly to feel normal or to avoid ‘withdrawal symptoms’.

Another detrimental component of cigarette smoke is ‘tar’. It gets deposited in the tiny blood vessels of lungs and later carried out to other parts of body. It is the prime cause of ‘Burger’s disease of the foot’.

Cigarette smoke contains over 4000 different types of chemical components. Of these, 50 elements are highly carcinogenic.

Some other smoking facts are –

About 106,000 people die due to the disease directly or indirectly related to smoking in the UK. Smoking related deaths are mainly due to lung and oral cancers, membrane lung diseases (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary/Lung Disease – also named COPD/COLD) and cardiac thrombosis.

About half of all the smokers die due to smoking related diseases.

For the chronic smokers (who are continuing for 10-12 years), even after 30 years of age, life expectancy decreases. It is about 8-12 years less than the non-smokers. Take it this way – roughly 8 persons out of 10 non-smokers live more than 70 years whereas 50% of chronic smokers survive till 70 years.

If the starting age is less, the person is more likely to continue smoking in the adult life and there is more chance of dying earlier.

Smoking related diseases grinds the sufferer. There are no quick deaths like accidents and cardiac arrest. You have to suffer for years in distressed and debilitated conditions if you develop COPD and cancerous conditions.

Smoking is the predisposing factor for many diseases. Some of them are not fatal. But they can offer bad times for years.

A couple of cigarettes in continuation increase the level of fat by 200-400% in blood. The average smoker (30 cigarettes a day) has about 5 times more risk to develop heat disease if he is in the age group of 45-54 years.

Overall, the conclusion is ‘quit smoking for better living’.

Care for your eyes and hair

2008-03-12T21:42:00.000+05:30

Every people love to be attractive and want to be presentable to their associates. Your eyes catch attention of the friends instantly if you wear a pair of colored contact lenses. Actually it is one of most recent craze among the next generation people. To wear a colored contact lens is stylish, but there are some payback times also. Continuous wearing of contact lenses can harm your eyes. So, before you buy a pair of highly priced contact lens, please go through the following guidelines –

· You must pay visit to a reputed eye care professional for a complete eye check up. The periodicity must be once in a year.

· Swapping contact lenses with your friends can create various diseases among yourselves. The infectious disease of your friend can easily pass on to you with the infected contact lens. So, never exchange contact lens with anybody. And if you do so, make sure to clean it properly before wearing it. Your ophthalmologist may guide you how to disinfect the lens.

· Never wear the contact lens beyond the recommended period. It may jeopardize the eye tissues. Never go to sleep wearing a contact lens unless prescribed otherwise.

· The first time you notice any kind of redness or you feel irritation in the eyes, remove the lenses and consult your doctor immediately. You may have been infected by any kind of organism.

· Preferably, you must wear the contact lens that are medically approved and after prescription by a qualified licensed ophthalmologist. Do not go for the over the counter lenses. Your eyes may not permit to wear contact lens. Your doctor is the best judge.

There are basically four types of contact lenses. You must enquire before your doctor which one is better for you. The types of lenses are –

Regular wear soft contact lens – these are made of soft, flexible synthetic plastic material that allows oxygen to pass through. It is necessary to maintain the hygiene of the eyes.

Regular wear disposable contact lens – this are single time usable lens intended to be worn for a lone day. You must dispose it in the night after coming back home and replace with a fresh pair for the next day.

Extended wear soft lens – this lens is designed for overnight wear. These are made of flexible soft plastic. Doctors often prescribe this type of lens for use up to one week without discarding.

Rigid, permeable glass lens – it is made of slightly flexible glass. It usually offer sharper vision than soft contact lenses.

Now let us discuss something about unwanted hair.

Our one of the most gruesome dreams is unwanted growth of hair other than that our scalp. And if this growth occurs in the region covering our umbilicus (belly button) up to the back side, we feel extremely ashamed and avoid going to any socialization.

A short-term answer to get rid of this fuzzy growth is to use a good quality depilatory cream, which of course abundantly available in the market. Otherwise using a high-quality razor is a good option. It is to be remembered to use warm water during shaving and to make a lot of lather. You must apply an antibacterial cream after shaving. Except this, waxing is familiar method to remove unwanted hairs. Rarely, it can irritate your skin. The permanent procedure to get rid of the hairs is laser ablation of the hair bulbs. You may need 4-6 sittings to be completely cured.

Oral Contraceptive Pills

2008-03-12T21:41:00.000+05:30

Contraception is the method of not to get pregnant. There are numerous ways of contraception like oral contraceptive pills, condoms, female diaphragm, contraceptive foam and jelly, intrauterine devices, emergency contraception, injectable contraceptive medications, abstinence and permanent contraception.

Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCP) or simply ‘pills’ are mostly used all over the world. This is an easy and safe way to prevent unwanted pregnancy. All you need to have is motivation and timely intake of the medicine.

There are different OCPs available in the market. Generally it is composed of two hormones – estrogen and progesterone. The ways OCPs prevent pregnancy are –

It prevents the formation of a viable ovum inside the ovary.

It prevents the development of an ovum.

It prevents the sperm to fertilize an ovum.

And lastly, it prevents the ‘nidation’ (deposition of a fertilized ovum inside the uterus).

OCP is very much safe. After regular use of OCP, three among 1000 users will get pregnant. The negative aspect of OCP is that it can not prevent transmission of any Sexually Transmitted Diseases. The concurrent use of condoms is recommended.

Commercially available OCPs have 28 hormonal tablets and another 7 iron tablets. You have to take the 1^st hormonal tablet from the very first day of menstruation. After consuming 28^th hormonal tablets, continue the iron medication. When the pack is finished, start using a fresh pack. Generally all these are mentioned in the medicine pack.

Do not start using OCPs without consulting a doctor. OCPs are notorious for some its side effects. For the high risk patients, OCP can cause high blood pressure, deep venous thrombosis and weight gain. These are some rare and serious complications. Mild nausea, vomiting, headache, and abdominal cramps are common. But, generally OCPs are well tolerated.

The advantages of OCPS are –

Pills are safe and convenient to use.

OCPs decrease the risk of developing ovarian and uterine carcinomas. There are reports on reducing the chance of breast cancer also.

Menstrual cramps are significantly reduced. Endometriosis is also suppressed by OCPs.

Post menopausal women are having lower of estrogen and progesterone in the blood. They are prescribed OCPs to treat this problem (Hormonal Replacement Therapy).

As OCP packs contain 7 iron tablets, it helps to prevent anemia among women.

Women enjoy sex more while on OCPs as they are certain that she would not get pregnant.

Now let us know about the disadvantages of OCPs –

It does not offer any protection from getting a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) including AIDS. The male partner will have to use a condom.

You have to remember to take pills everyday, at the same time.

There are some cases of spotting (bleeding through vagina) among the first time users.

Women may miss her periods. Sometimes menstrual bleeding occurs for a single day only. One has to get the knowledge of it that she may not experience menstrual bleeding at all for initial couple of months.

Headaches, depressions weight gain are some common side effects of OCPs. But these are mild and transitional.

There are some reports of increased chance of having cervical carcinoma. But the rate is very low.

Pill users can not smoke. The combined use will have three to fold increased risk of having high blood pressure and stroke.

To conclude, OCPs are one of the best contraceptives available at the market at present. Careful use of Oral Contraceptive pills will avert unwanted pregnancies.

The food pyramid

2008-03-12T21:40:00.001+05:30

The food pyramid is designed to inform people how to eat healthy. A colored detailed food chart has been developed to represent five groups of foods and fats. The colors stand for –

Green – vegetables, orange – grains, red – fruits, yellow – fats and oils, purple – meat, fish, beans and nuts and lastly – blue for milk and dairy products.

The pyramid tells us about to eat a variety of food items, some foods are to be taken as much as you can, and some foods are with a caution.

A balanced diet includes foods from all the groups; it means we have to take food from each of the color category each day. The purple and yellow colored food groups are to be taken with an eye to check the total calorie intake whereas the green and orange colored groups give us good nutrition.

The amount is to be taken to remain healthy is variable. But surely we can estimate how much food is needed from each category.

Grains –

Foods of this group are measured in ounce equivalents. Actually this is a serving size measurement. The ounce equivalents of most common grains are –

1 slice of bread, ½ cup of pasta or rice, ½ cup coked cereal like oatmeal and 1 cup of cold dry cereal. The adolescents (up to 12 years of age) need 5 ounce equivalents a day and the adults need 6-7 equivalents a day depending upon the total body weight. It is better to take whole grain foods like brown bread, brown rice than bleached rice and oatmeal. Try to take at least half of your grain food from the whole grain source.

Vegetables –

Fresh green leafy vegetables are beneficial to everybody. This contains essential vitamins and minerals. Different colored vegetables are rich in different vitamins such as yellow colored vegetables like carrots and pumpkins are rich source of beta carotene and Vitamin A. Green colored vegetables contain Vitamin E and Niacin in good quantity etc. Vegetable servings are measured in cups. Adolescents require 2 cups of food from this category and the adults require 2 ½ cups of veggies daily.

Fruits –

Seasonal fruits can be taken daily. Fruits may be sweet or sour and it determines the vitamin content of that particular fruit. Adolescent require 1- 1 ½ cups of fruit each day and adults need 1 ½ - 2 cups of fruits each day.

Dairy and milk products –

Foods of this group are rich in calcium. Calcium is responsible for building strong bones and teeth. So, one must include some amount of food from this category. Adolescents need 2 cups of milk daily and adults must take 3 cups of milk each day.

If somebody is having lactose intolerance disease, yogurt, whey, fruit juices fortified with calcium and cheese are other options.

Meat, fish, beans and nuts –

Foods of this group are the source of protein and iron. Like cereal grains, these foods are also measured in ounce equivalents and that would equate –

1 ounce of meat, fish or poultry products, 1 egg, ¼ cup of dry cooked beans, ½ ounce of seeds or nuts and 1 tablespoon of peanut butter.

Fats and oils –

The products contain saturated and unsaturated fatty acid. It is better to lower the amount of calorie taken daily from this group. Fats and oils from the plant source is always better than that obtained from animal source as they contain more Poly and Mono unsaturated fatty acids which help to reduce the cholesterol level.

Tea: what is multiple tea infusions?

2008-03-12T21:39:00.001+05:30

The Chinese people are drinking tea for more than 4000 years and discovered a considerable amount regarding benefits of high quality leaf tea during this time.

Tea has got numerous health benefits. Studies have reported that tea has got the power to reduce the Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) or the bad cholesterol. It also increases the good HDL cholesterol. By lowering the LDL, tea reduces the chance to form the plaques inside your blood vessel (this in turn reduces the risk of having heart attack or stroke); tea has the anti-cancer property also. Polyphenols present in the tea infusion lowers the chance of cancer in the breast, colon, ovary and urinary bladder. Tea helps to regenerate the pancreatic beta cells, thus it also helps to fight against diabetes. Scientists have also experienced that injection of catechins (one of the polyphenol present in the tea) to the laboratory animals reduced the chance of liver carcinoma. EpiGalloCatechin Gallate (EGCG), another ingredient present in tea is a powerful antioxidant. It significantly slows down the aging process in our body.

The Chinese perfected the processing of the tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) and the progress of different varieties of tea. Tea is prepared by infusion technique. They have also perfected the correct infusion methods that guarantee a perfect cup of tea.

At present, many Chinese and other tea drinking people throughout the world employ multiple infusions of whole tea leaves as a quality, cost effective means to enjoy tea. The concept of multiple tea infusion points to that high quality whole leaf tea is infused with clean water more than a single time but the ultimate tea drink will not lose any flavor or quality. In is in fact an economical way to relish a quality tea experience and multiple infusion reduce the cost of high quality loose leaf tea radically.

So, what is necessary to make a multiple tea infusions? It requires any kind of best quality whole leaf tea and uncontaminated water – that’s all.

Whole leaf tea that is cultivated in a premier tea garden and appropriately plucked at the most suitable time is the basin requirement for multiple infusions. After plucking, the leaves must be processed by the time honored and conventional method where the integrity of the leaf tea is preserved. Leaves processed by the commercial CTC (cut, tear, cut) technique is used to prepare most of the tea bags. It will surely not produce quality multiple tea infusions. It is virtually unattainable to make multiple infusions from the most tea bags available in the market or loose low quality leaf tea without causing ample degradation of taste and flavor.

Most of the today’s supplied water contains contaminations that not only wipe out the taste of quality loose leaf tea but are harmful also regarding our long term health. Many packaged drinking water are also not fit to produce a quality cup of tea. While selecting the water to brew tea, you can try purified water made by distillation/ozonisation method that produces purified water with a light and fresh taste.

If you enjoy a good quality cup of tea and want to get the best worth while purchasing tea, search for the tea leaves made from highest quality leaves, which are plucked and processed in the conventional way. This will make you ready to make multiple infusions of your desired tea and considerably reduce the overall cost. Add clean water while brewing and your tea drinking experience will be guaranteed. After all, 4000 years of Chinese tea drinkers can not be wrong.

How to combat child obesity?

2008-03-12T21:38:00.001+05:30

Doctors and other health care providers have warned of a health catastrophe if the fast growing numbers of obese children is not brought down very quickly. In a recent study in India, involving 4300 children of middle and upper middle class families, have found that more than 26% are overweight and 3.9% of them are plain obese.

The situation is similar the world over. Aggravating the problem is the established fact that when children watch TV, they take snacks more than usual. These foods are high is salt and calories and very low in fiber. This means a double problem. With the increasing number of both the parents working, the already sedentary children are taking the kind of food that increases the fatty tissues in the body. Besides, if both the parents are obese, the child has more propensities to become obese.

It is not just junk food alone that adds to the fat. Even the traditional cooking style involving refined and bleached wheat and polished rice have dislodged whole grain as the staple cereals.

Syndrome X or dysmetabolic syndrome is spreading fast in these days. It is a defective gene action where the insulin action of the body is not adequate and the fatty tissues are not broken down. Obesity is not a separate thing but a metabolic element of Syndrome X comprising of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dyslipidemia and high blood pressure.

But what is the harm of bearing a little extra fat for a child? Actually, experts say, obesity in children may give rise to arthritis, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in future for the child.

So, what you will do to keep your children fit and healthy? Let’s have a look –

Do not allow children much time in front of TV or computer playing video games. Besides putting on some extra weight, the habit will be changed to become a couch potato. Define the hours to be spent for TV, but allow them to watch their favorite TV shows.

Make a habit for healthy foods. Encourage them to take green salads and clear soups instead of taking meat salad or sweet corn chicken soup.

While eating at any fast food junction, order the better foods like a pizza is a better alternative to burger and milk shake is always better than cola. This has to be maintained at the parties also. Do not go for a-la-carte menus. Try the simpler and nutritious foods.

Your dinner time should be early in the night and preferably with home-cooked food. This will substantially reduce the time spent in front of TV. After dinner, all the family members should sit together and enjoy each other’s company.

Always choose baked food items over fried good as that will give you less calorie. Moreover, baked items have more fiber that in same amount of fried goods. Fried items contain more LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) which is regarded as ‘bad cholesterol’. If accumulated for a long time, LDL in turn gives rise to increased level of cholesterol.

Give your child more cereals, lentils and vegetables. Make different preparations everyday otherwise your child will get bored with the same menu.

You must cut the red meat as much as possible and supplement with sea food. The latter contains more omega 3 fatty acid which is a potent antioxidant.

Allow them playing for the whole evening after coming back from school.

Fix the timings of taking foods.

Encourage your child to take seasonal fruit and fruit juices.

Give your child plenty of quality time. Try to go for outing every weekend and let your child do the things what they like. Allow them a single day for their choice of food.

Never let your child to put on some weight.

Detoxification through food

2008-03-12T21:36:00.000+05:30

Our body regularly produces numerous toxic materials through metabolism. You can detoxify your body by curtailing every food except fruits and vegetables besides taking a ‘detox’ drink daily, but the more rational way to detoxify your body is to combine all foods in the food pyramid judiciously. How to achieve this? Well, let’s have a look –

The diet should include fruits and fruits juices, vegetables and virtually all the probable healthy foods.

Fruits – any fresh fruits are safe. The frits you can take- apples, oranges, bananas, pears, grapes, raisins, pineapple, mango, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, melons, peaches etc.

Fruit juices – homemade juices are the best. But canned pure fruit juices are also a healthy option. Only thing you have to check the expiry date and ‘sweetened’ or ‘pure’ variety.

Vegetables – fresh green leafy vegetables are first choice food. Otherwise you can take canned ‘in brine’ or ‘in water’ variety. These include sprouts, spinach, cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, spring onions, and cucumber.

Oatmeal – this is a good food to check the cholesterol level.

Beans and lentils – this contain fibers which help to prevent gastric ulceration.

Brown rice and noodles – brown rice is always better than bleached white rice.

Fish – fish contains Omega 3 fatty acid that is a potent antioxidant. You can take salmon, cod, mackerel, lobster, different types of carps, trout, tuna, haddock, red mullet, monkfish and swordfish.

Nuts and seeds – this are rich in vitamins that help to fight against infections. Brazil, almonds, walnut, hazel nut, peanut, pecans, macadamia, pistachio and pine nuts belong this group.

Popcorn are also offering good amount of antioxidants.

Balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil contains substances that check the cholesterol level.

Garlic was used as a natural antioxidant in Indian traditional system of medicine (Ayurveda) since a long time. Ginger and other fresh herbs like turmeric are also advised.

Ground black pepper and honey have anti aging property.

Last but certainly not the least is water. A healthy young adult must take at least 2.5 liters of water daily.

Now let us have some knowledge about which foods are in ‘bad’ category so that we can avoid them as far as practicable.

Meat and meat products of any kind is avoided. White meat is marginally advised.

Milk and dairy items

Butter and margarine

Any kind of food that contain wheat and wheat flour like bread, cakes, pastries, biscuits, pizzas

Chocolates and sweets, jams and marmalade

Any kind of junk food

Processed foods, ready-to-eat food packets, sauces and fast foods

Alcohol, tea, coffee and all sorts of carbonated beverages including diet colas

Salt

All the foods in the second category are partially metabolized inside our body. The byproducts generated (excretory products) after metabolism are either excreted through kidneys or via stool. Now, during the process of excretion they pass through different organs of our body. If they get stored due to any reason (excess amounts generated that our system is incapable to excrete or they bind with some other material to get deposited into the tissues), the ill effect will be obvious. They may again slow down the process of excretion. Deposition in the liver, heart and brain can damage our system extensively. Aging process is hastened by these unwanted products. Our natural defense system get weaker leading to severe infection obtained from a trivial source.

It is better to take foods that are good to our body and do not cause any harm. Being a vegetarian can solve the problem. Think about it.

Natural cure for diabetes

2008-03-12T21:34:00.002+05:30

Diabetes is a disease where the blood sugar level remains constantly high due to lack of controlling effect of insulin. Increased level of sugar caused many life threatening problems in our body. It damages the immune system and the minor infections can sometimes become life threatening. It damages the tiny blood vessels in our eyes and eventually blindness can occur. Diabetes can cause plaque formation inside the blood vessels and that may lead to heart attack and cerebral stroke. The skin becomes prone to infection. There is no permanent cure for diabetes but we can prevent the complications by keeping the blood sugar level under control. Let us discuss about some of the natural cure for diabetes -

Gymnema sylvestre - There are many naturally occurring herbal medicines available. It was used since a long time in India by the traditional Ayurvedic system of holistic medicine. Scientists have found that high doses of Gymnema extracts can help the pancreatic beta cell to regenerate. This is the gland from where insulin is secreted. After a lot of clinical trial, Gymnema is included into the natural cure for diabetes. In India, traditionally Gymnema is called ‘Gurmar’; the word ‘gur’ means sugar and ‘mar’ means ‘kill’. So, it was known for years as a treatment for diabetes.

Azadirachta indica (Neem) – neem leaves has the power to purify blood. It has been used as a traditional herb for treating and preventing diabetes for long. Moreover, neem leaves has natural antibacterial property. It helps to prevent the infection that might happen in various parts of our body.

Momordica charantia (Karela, Bitter gourd) – karela extract or fresh juice of karela has the blood sugar lowering action. It has been established in various clinical and experimental studies. Recently a British group of experts have named it is ‘plant insulin’ as they found the Karela has some hypoglycemic action like that of insulin. Doctors are now prescribing karela in the daily diet of diabetics.

Pterocarpus marsupium (Kino tree) – it is a plant found in the northern hills in India and is well known for it hypoglycemic action. The active ingredient in this plant – a potent flavonoid has shown the potentiality to help in the regeneration of pancreatic beta cells. A controlled study was conducted among 97 diabetic volunteers in India. The study report shows there is improvement in the state of the disease in 69% of them.

Curcura longa (Turmeric) – it is an essential herb in the Indian system of herbal medicine (Ayurveda). It helps to reduce blood sugar level, potentiates insulin activity in the muscles and accelerates glycogen synthesis. Turmeric has antiseptic activities also.

Syzygium cuminii (Black plum) – in India, the fruit of this plant is called ‘Jamun’. It is also widely used to treat diabetes according to Ayurveda. The aqueous extract of the seed is used and given orally. This preparation helps to lower down the blood glucose and elevates the hemoglobin level.

Zingiber officinale (Ginger) – the patients of type II diabetes will be benefitted by using the ginger root extract. Long standing diabetes helps to produce belching and gastric ulceration. Ginger and its root extract will help to prevent these problems. Although ginger directly does not reduce the blood glucose level, the complications will be averted by using this herb/spice.

Many naturally occurring herbs and plants have their beneficial effect up on human body. Ayurveda – the Indian system of traditional medicine is nurturing this knowledge for centuries.

Gestational diabetes

2008-03-12T21:34:00.001+05:30

Gestational diabetes is a special type of diabetes that occurs exclusively during pregnancy. Like all other forms of diabetes, gestational diabetes also gives rise to increased blood sugar and complications out of the increased level of it. This type of diabetes is short lived, the glucose level returns to normal soon after the delivery of the baby.

Gestational diabetes affects about 4% of all the pregnant mothers, an estimated 135,000 cases of gestational diabetes reports each year in the United States. The exact cause of this disease is not known. But it is hypothecated that some placental hormones blocks the action of insulin in the mother’s body although it helps to grow the baby inside the womb. This problem of refractoriness of hormone action is called Insulin resistance. It becomes hard for the mother’s body to use the full benefit of insulin. There is three times increased demand of insulin in the mother’s body. Without the presence of enough effective insulin, glucose can not be converted to glycogen (its stored form) and it starts building up in the blood. The end result is hyperglycemia. Gestational diabetes generally develops after three months of pregnancy (second trimester). But it may occur as early as 20^th week and can start at the last trimester of pregnancy also. Primigravida (mothers having first pregnancy) of more than 25 years, those who have a positive family history of gestational diabetes in their close relation, obese mothers are prone to develop this disease. Hispanic, black and American Indian women are racially prone to develop gestational diabetes.

Gestational diabetes occurs when the structure of the baby is formed inside the uterus but it is still in the preliminary stage. So it does not cause any kind of developmental abnormality as seen in the mothers who are suffering from diabetes before pregnancy. Nevertheless, poorly controlled or untreated gestational diabetes can harm the growing baby. The insulin level can not lower the blood glucose in mother. Although mother’s insulin does not cross placenta, glucose and other nutrients easily do and there is increased glucose level in the baby’s blood. This causes the baby’s pancreas to secrete extra insulin to get rid of this extra glucose. As the baby is getting more energy in terms of glucose, this extra energy is stored in the baby’s body as fat and the mother delivers a flabby child (Macrosomia) which of course is not healthy. Macrosomic child can injure themselves to their shoulder at the time of normal delivery besides low blood sugar level owing to high concentration of insulin. These babies are prone to breathing problem, jaundice and obesity. They may develop maturity onset diabetes (type II diabetes) in due time. Gestational diabetes may be a predisposing factor for pre-ecclampsia for the mother.

Screening of gestational diabetes is very important those who possess the risk factors. Glucose challenge test is to be done during 24^th and 28^th weeks of pregnancy. Blood glucose level below 130-140 mg/dl is considered normal in all occasions.

Regarding treatment of gestational diabetes, planned diet and regular exercise are the two most effective approaches. Diet should be rich in fresh vegetables, fruits and cereals. Plenty of water is to be taken. Pregnancy exercises can be undertaken after consulting your gynecologist. Exercise helps to reduce blood sugar level. Any kind of anxiety and stress must be avoided.

If these two methods fail to control the raised blood glucose level, subcutaneous insulin injection is the last option for management of gestational diabetes.

Diabetes problems

2008-03-12T21:32:00.000+05:30

Diabetes is a condition when the level of glucose in our blood increases up to such an extent that it damages different parts of our body organ. Normally, the level of glucose is controlled by a hormone called Insulin, secreted by the beta cells of pancreas. Now, there are two types of diabetes – type I and type II. In the former, there is reduced secretion of insulin as the pancreas gland is damaged due to some reason. In the case of type II diabetes, the is normal or higher level of insulin, but the glucose level still remain increased as the body tissues becomes refractory to the hormone.

Excess amount of blood glucose can harm almost every part of our body. The notable are heart, kidney, eyes, skin and blood vessels. There is increase level of cholesterol also. The combined effect of increased blood glucose and cholesterol help in the formation of plaques (thrombus) inside the blood vessel – leading to heart attacks (when inside the vessels supplying blood to the heart muscle) and stroke (cerebral thromboembolism – when that of the brain). But there are certain things that will help us to prevent or at least slow down the problems caused by diabetes.

Diabetes is a silent killer. Everybody can be affected. Type I diabetes occurs in the younger age group. So, in this category, diabetes problems may not float for years. But the damage still goes on inside our body. Type II diabetes develops in the adult. By the time the disease is diagnosed, it may have been caused some overt manifestations. Either way, maintaining a normal blood glucose and cholesterol level can prevent diabetes problems.

Now the most important question comes. What is the normal blood glues level? According to ADA (American Diabetes Association), a patient will be stamped diabetic when the blood glucose level increases beyond to –

In empty stomach before meals -> 90mg/dl to 130mg/dl of blood

After 1-2 hours from starting a major meal -> less than 180mg/dl of blood

Any measurement above the given parameter is unacceptable. You can check the level by any good quality blood glucose meter or from a nearby laboratory.

High blood pressure and diabetes go hand in hand. So, periodically check your blood pressure from qualified personnel.

You can do a lot of things to prevent diabetes and its complications. This disease is familial. If there is somebody from your close relatives suffering from the disease, watch yourself and check your blood glucose level periodically after six months. Consult your doctor and ask for a low dose aspirin. This will prevent formation of any plaque inside the blood vessels.

You should have a complete eye check up every year. Diabetes is a notorious disease that affects the tiny blood vessels of the retina. And if these vessels are damaged, you are sure to have blindness. Let the ophthalmologist examine your eye by instillation of some medicine to dilate your pupil. You may have vision problem for a day, but do not bother. This examination is highly essential to see the inside of your eye.

Your diet should be optimum. Avoidance of excess carbohydrate and fat is needed. According to modern way of treatment, there is no need to stop taking carbohydrates. The only thing that has to be kept in mind is your daily total calorie intake. Include fresh green leafy vegetables in your diet. Regular exercise is a must.

Following the instructions will help you to prevent diabetic problems.

Diabetic food

2008-03-12T19:41:00.000+05:30

Diabetes is a disease where the blood glucose level remains continuously elevated than the normal level. It results into damage in the various bodily organs. Modern concept of diabetes management does not advocate complete restriction of intake of alcohol. Patient is advised to take every foods, but with some precaution to the total daily calorie intake.

The diabetic foods can be divided into six categories. The three main food types are vegetables, fruits and grains, the next group contains milk, milk products and meat products; the last group is fat, oils and sweets.

Total amount of daily intake for a healthy young adult is 1600-2800 cal. Depending upon the built, the amount of calorie is to be determined. Again, women patients will be more benefitted while taking the low range calorie and men are meant to high end calorie group. The precise number of servings will depend on the diabetes goal, lifestyle, division in the calorie and nutrition needs and of course the type of food the patient likes most. The total number of calorie should be judiciously divided into major meals and snacks.

Let us have some idea about different group of foods that is acceptable for a diabetic patient.

Starches and grains –

The most acceptable group is cereal, bread, rice and pasta. The bulk of the diabetic diet should come from this group. These foods contain carbohydrates mostly. The acceptable grains are wheat, corn, oats and rye. Vegetables that contain starch like potatoes and peas also belong to this group besides dry beans like pinto beans and black eyed bens. These vegetables come into this group as the have the same amount of calorie as contained in equal serving of a slice of bread. So you can count them as same amount of serving carbohydrates into your meal plan. The following foods can be taken roughly 6-12 servings per day but keep an eye on it and try to take the as lower range as you can. This are – 1 slice of bread, ¾ cup of dry cereal (you can make any preparation – the total calorie should be counted), ¼ of a bagel, one 6” tortilla, ½ cup cooked cereal, 1 cup of winter squash, ½ cup either of yam, potato, peas, cooked beans or corn and 1/3 cup of pasta or rice .

Vegetables –

Vegetables are rich in vitamins, fiber and minerals. You can take as much as green leafy vegetables like spinach, sorrel, chicory, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, tomatoes, cucumbers, Brussels sprouts and lettuce. One serving contains 1 cup raw or ½ cup of cooked amount.

Fruits –

Fresh fruits contain plenty of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and fiber. Fruits that you can take are oranges, blackberries, strawberries, apples, cantaloupe, bananas, grapes and apricots. You can take 2-4 servings a day.

Milk and milk products –

Milk is rich in calcium, vitamins and minerals. Low fat or skimmed milk is better. You can take 2-3 servings a day and a serving contains 1 cup of low fat milk or 1 cup of yogurt.

Meat and other non vegetarian items –

This group contains beef, chicken, fish, turkey, eggs and cheese. This group provides required amount of proteins and minerals. It is always better to take white meats. You can take 4-6 ounces per day divided into major meals.

Fats and sweets –

This is the group you would try to take as less as possible. Otherwise you can save consuming these items for a great treat for a single time once in a while. A single serving include 2 small cookies, ½ cup of ice-cream and 1 cupcake or muffin.

It is not so hard to follow this diet guideline. You can make a great deal of preparations by combining these items and you diabetic life more enjoyable.

Diabetes care

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There is virtually no cure for diabetes. You have to modify your lifestyle according to the disease. But it is not so tough to cope up with it. Watchful diabetes care will reduce the risk of serious life threatening complications. Go through the following guidelines and reform your way of life.

The patient needs utmost commitment to manage his diabetes. All the associates of your diabetes care team will help you to guide through the right approach. But it is totally up to you what to choose and what not to. Nobody can prevent you from taking a big pastry with lots of icing if you are not motivated enough. You must gather some knowledge about diabetes and its complications. Your diet should be full of nutrition yet the calorie requirement should be fixed. You have to maintain an optimum weight by doing some exercise regularly. You have to check your blood sugar level periodically. You have to inject Insulin on your own if you are prescribed. All these need strong motivation and without it, you can not prevent the serious complications.

You must consult a diabetologist periodically; say once in six months or once in three months if your blood sugar level remains high. During this visit, he will examine you for any kind of complications which include kidney diseases, heart problems skin problems and neurological complications. You should also consult an ophthalmologist once in a year to make sure no diabetes related complication like visual problems, cataract and retinal damage has affected you.

Diabetic patients tend to have dental and gum problems. You must brush your teeth twice a day after taking meal and floss your teeth once daily. Do check your gums for any symptom of soreness. Consult the dental surgeon immediately if you find any bleeding gums.

Care of the skin especially the foot is mandatory. Avoid any kind of injury. Diabetic wound is notorious to heal as the infection is hard to control owing to lack of immunity. Diabetic patients are prone to foot ulcers, you must protect you foot accordingly. You should wash your feet twice a day with lukewarm water ant pat dry it. Apply good quality moisturizing cream. Consult your doctor once you find any cuts, soreness or swelling over the leg.

All the required vaccination should be taken. Diabetes lowers the immunity and a trivial infection can cause havoc. So you must take the Pnemococcal vaccine (to prevent lung infection – common in a diabetic after the age of 65), Influenza vaccine (prevents flu during the changing weather conditions), tetanus and hepatitis (both A &B) vaccines.

Check your blood sugar and cholesterol level periodically. The best way is to check the blood sugar level daily, but it can be checked twice in a week during the initial phase of treatment, then once in a week and after that fortnightly. Cholesterol level is to be checked once in three months. Get your blood pressure checked when you visit your doctor. Diabetes and high blood pressure go hand in hand. So, extra precaution is necessary to maintain the blood pressure under control.

Consult your doctor and ask for a daily dose of aspirin. This will maintain your blood liquidities and prevent formation any plaque (thrombus) inside the blood vessel. Thrombus can block the vessel and lead to heart attack and stroke.

Check your alcohol intake and avoid smoking. Alcohol gives you dry calorie which is detrimental to your body.

Get adequate sleep and avoid stress.

These are some simple but very affective diabetes care. You must try to stick to the guidelines provided by your doctor.

Weight training programs

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Weight training programs are basically meant build muscles and lose excess fat. There are three basic factors that are equally important to build muscle mass – exercise, proper diet and adequate rest. Considering any single factor less important will lead you to improper muscle mass. A good weight gain balanced diet combined with well-designed weight training program and enough rest, are the keys to a well built body.

The two most important basic weight training ideas are –

HIT – HIT stands for High Intensity Training. It offers the person to weight train 1-3 times a week with full body basic step routines. The schedule include short but extremely intensive workout. The fundamental routine is 8-10 reps per sitting. Each and every sitting is anticipated to produce an increase in power so that when the next sitting is due you are expected to carry out more reps with same amount of weight or same number of reps with increased weight.

Periodical program –

Weight training programs is dependent on this idea that to achieve progressive working in a diverse way. In a periodical program you are prescribed to go for light training for three weeks, subsequently medium range training for the duration of few weeks and lastly working with heavy weight for the final cycle. The importance is the collective achievement after the entire schedule rather than the compartmental effects after every rep. The general notion is to alter the amount and the volume level to prevent overtraining.

The most common training program to build a muscle bulk is a three day split training routine involving each muscle group being exercises only once a week.

Compound weight lifting exercise is designed to put on weight as quickly as possible. It also allows us to stimulate most muscle bulks in the minimum amount of time. The most effective compound weight lifting exercises are – squats for the legs, calf raisers for the legs, Bench dips and bench curls for the upper part of the body including arms, bench press for the chest, pull ups for the back side, military press for the shoulders and crunches for the abdominal muscles.

You need to have some complex equipment for the above mentioned exercises. If you do not go for the extensive exercise program, the weight lifting exercises involving the chest and the abdomen will suffice most of the good effects of the entire schedule.

There are two basic types - sets and reps. The heavy set involves 1-6 numbers of reps and the primary objective of it is to build the muscle strength. Medium set incorporates 7-12 reps and it meant for bodybuilding purpose. Lastly, the light set includes 13+ reps and the primary object is endurance and fitness.

The number of rep is variable according to the need and stamina of the trainer. If somebody is training with weight with a view to bodybuilding, the ideal training set is the medium set as doing these set, the maximum muscular hypertrophy will occur.

Working with advanced and basic step routine into the weight training program is a useful technique to transform the muscle receptive and increasing. These routines will offer a change of pace that will cover the upcoming medium set routines more successful.

Always it has to kept in mind that different muscle groups will reply to different exercise reps. Rational changing the rep ranges will help to throw some light in to the stereotype exercises.

Water exercises

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If you consider yourself water friendly and got bored from swimming down the lanes or want to incorporate some variety in your daily workout routines, why not try some water exercises? Water exercise is safer for the pregnant mothers and persons suffering from nagging arthritis or low back pain. While exercising in the water much of your weight is carried by the buoyancy, you are lees like to injure yourself. Let us discuss some of the popular water exercises.

Water marching – to start with, balance yourself in the water and stand straight with normal breathing, do continuous strides just like marching in a same place. Extend your arms and legs as far as you can. The buoyancy will slow down the marching. Widen your legs and arms to the fullest possible amount, pointing your toes and pulling your arms briskly. Continue doing this for at least three minutes or as long as you are comfortable. The aim should be balanced rhythmic marching movement.

Toning arms – balance yourself inside the water and stand with your legs apart. The arms should be extended right in front of you. Hold a soft ball with the extended arms. While breathing rhythmically, push the ball down the water and let yourself swing with the ball in a figure of eight pattern inside water. Try to feel the resistance over the upper part of your body along with the arms. Make an even rhythm ascertaining not to injure your shoulder or back side. Repeat the procedure for 10 times.

Side stretch – stand sideways inside the swimming pool wall holding the edge by your arms fully extended. Keep your feet flat on the floor of the pool. Inhale deeply while doing the posterior shoulder stretch. Then exhale slowly while leaning your hips away from the pool side. Repeat the water exercise 10 times on each of your side.

Jumping jacks – this exercise is correctly performed by an experienced swimmer. Begin with your feet rested flat on the bottom of the swimming pool. Place your arms relaxed by your sides. Bend forward from the hips and jump from the floor as high as you can like a spring action. While trying to jump, kick your legs out to respective sides keeping your toes down and swinging the arms out to the side and above your head. Your body should take a shape of a star. Try to land on the water with knees bend and the feet apart. Repeat the procedure for 10-15 times.

Waist trimmer – you should stand beside the wall of the pool. Rest your back against the poolside. Place your arms along the edge to get some support. Bend the knees to your chest. Then extend the legs forward. While inhaling deeply, swing the legs to your left side and then back to the normal position. While exhaling slowly, progress your legs to front and withdraw to the chest. Do again for 10-15 times. While doing this, continue pressing your back to the sidewall of the pool.

Total body stretch – stand inside the water facing the sidewall of the pool. Hold the edge for balance. Bend your body from the knees and press your feet against the poolside while inhaling deeply. Now exhale slowly and move your hips back. Make sure not to injure your knees or sprain your back side. Repeat the whole procedure for 10-15 times.

How to start an exercise program?

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Are you considering for an exercise program and not convinced how to start, then let me guide you. Starting an exercise plan is one of the best things that you can do to keep you healthy and fit. First thing you need to consult your doctor as to certify you are capable of doing some workouts. Only after that you can start. Please follow the five basic steps before you begin.

Step 1: Evaluate your level of fitness

All of us have some knowledge about our physical condition and how much work we can do. For assessing your ability, you can record –

· Time taken to walk a mile

· Heart rate before and after walking a mile at your normal pace

· Waist circumference (the technique is to measure at the level of your belly button)

· Your body mass index (BMI) – you can easily check it from your doctor or there are various websites which provide the service free of cost.

· The maximum length you can reach when you stretch your leg while sitting on your bum.

Step 2: Plan the exercise program

Planning always helps – a little amount of planning for your exercise program will bring the most effective outcome.

· Measure your target – how much amount of weight you want to lose in how many days, or you simply want to prepare yourself as a healthy person.

· Involve those techniques you like most – you do not have to go for the complex exercise schedule. Just walking or jogging for half an hour can accomplish the requirement.

· Design a reasonable development plan – you can not lose 10 kilos of weight in just 5 days. You need to be more logical while designing the workout plan.

· Bring activities into your daily routine – you can be more active when you add some activities into your daily routine. As for example park the car as far as possible and take a brisk walk to reach your office, do not use the elevator if you are going to one or two level.

· Diversity – monotonous exercise program will not motivate you anyway. Try something different everyday.

· Record your progress – every action can be evaluated if it is properly recorded. You can measure your development if you put all the advances on paper.

Step 3: The equipments you need

Gather all the gears you might need. If you are going for a jogging or running, a good pair of running shoe will do. If you are planning for swimming, you will require the costumes and the water goggles. You can use your old socks by filling it with sand if you are targeting the weight training program.

Step 4: Let us begin

Now you can start your fitness program.

· The need of warm up and cool down – never forget the necessity of these two. Allow yourself adequate time to warm up your body. Then do the main course of the exercise schedule. When you finish, again give enough time to cool down yourself.

· Break it up – you do not require going for an hour long exercise schedule. Instead, breaking it into two halves of half an hour will be more productive.

· Be imaginative – include some more fun in your exercise program. Go to the nearest hill with your family and enjoy some ball playing there.

· Do not overdo anything – if you feel any discomfort at any level of exercise, stop at once and take some rest. You may consider consulting you doctor.

Step 5: Check your progress

After six months, analyze your fitness level according to the points what you have noted at the beginning of your exercise. Then plan the fitness program again.

Pregnancy exercise

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Doing some exercise can ease the amount of pain a woman has to suffer during normal labor. Pregnancy exercise stretches the pelvic floor of the would-be mother and the muscles can adopt enough tension during the process of delivery. If you were leading a sedentary lifestyle before getting pregnant, it is useful to evaluate your pregnancy exercise plan by the concerned gynecologist before you start. You must not do vigorous exercise during pregnancy as the fetus needs added calorie to develop normally inside the womb, but if you do not belong to the high risk group, you can jolly well follow an exercise program.

If you were doing some kind of exercise regimen before you got pregnant, you can continue to do so with some precaution. Controlled exercise does not increase the risk of miscarriage. If you are starting the program with a view to improve your health during the time of pregnancy, you must start very slowly and always be careful not to over apply yourself. You must listen to your body’s demands. You will get natural signal when you should stop or reduce the intensity of your exercise schedule.

You must not exercise to the level of collapse or started breathlessness. This is a sigh when you and your baby have reached the level of reduced oxygen level. Avoid rocky territory when jogging or running. The joints become more lax during pregnancy due to hormonal action. You may not control your balance if the terrain is not so flat. Always warm up before you start and cool down yourself after the exercise program is finished.

The most comfortable pregnancy exercises are aerobic exercises that do not require weight lifting. Using a static cycle and swimming are two best options that can be continued throughout pregnancy. Gentle walking and basic step routine aerobic exercises are recommended during the last three months as the growing fetus restricts mother to go for any complex exercise. Always consult your doctor before doing any changes in the ongoing exercise program. A specialist can guide you what is the best for you and your baby.

Do not engage in the contact sports like tennis, badminton or football. Even gentle push to your abdomen can become fatal for both the mother and the child. After the first trimester (three months), do not engage any kind of exercise that should be done lying on your back. The weight of the fetus may block the abdominal aorta (the main blood vessel that carries purified blood from the heart to the abdominal structures as well as the growing baby). Avoid standing for a long time.

Stay away from exercising in extremely hot weather; you will be fatigued in no time. The best time for exercise is early in the morning or late in the evening. It prevents you to get exhausted within short span. If you are doing exercise indoors, you must ensure the room has proper ventilation or you can think of putting an air conditioner to keep yourself cool. Your diet must contain at least three liters of fluids everyday. You must avoid taking alcohol.

The importance of adequate diet is indispensable. You must take a well balanced diet. Usually, during pregnancy one has to take more than 300 Kcal of extra diet. This is essential for the proper development of the fetus. Always eat healthy diet that is full of fresh green leafy vegetables and complex carbohydrates.

The hidden fact of shifting calorie diet

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Now-a-days, most of us definitely have informed the craze of shifting calorie diet approach to reduce weight. But simply few of us really know the physiological processes in our body that is responsible for its immense accomplishment. To get an idea how the shifting calorie diet approach works, we must have an idea of how the conventional dieting technique works and its failure to reduce obesity of the person on dieting.

Traditional dieting works on the principle of starvation. The basic sense is ‘if you eat less, you shall lose weight’. At a glance it makes sense, but there is much more principles involved behind weight loss and gain.

When you reduce your total calorie intake by lowering the amount of food you take, your body engages in a number of metabolic and hormonal changes that is closely linked with starvation. Physiologically, our body tries to pile up as much calorie as it can involving a easy and swift process, which in turn results into deposition of more fat. Concurrently, the muscle mass is broken down to keep the normal energy level. Glucose is one of the substances that give us required energy during any kind of physical activity. Muscle and the liver store much of the calories that our body keeps for use in case of emergency situations. This is done by converting the glucose into glycogen that involves some complex enzymatic reactions. When situation demands, glycogen is broken down to glucose by the process of ‘Glycogenolysis’ and thus required energy is available to our body.

The net effect is swift loss of water to wash out the detrimental byproducts out from the system. This appears as the loss of weight. But this weight loss is not everlasting. When you start to take food in normal quantity, the water loss is regained while accumulating more amount of fat besides loss of general muscle mass.

The shifting calorie diet management works in a different way from the conventional dieting involving starvation. The basic principle is to change the amount and types of food intake besides preserving the optimal nutritional equilibrium to stay away from the evil effect of muscle loss.

Here the recommendation is to split the meal into 4 or more small parts and changing the types of food taken as well. The excess amount of fat is burnt while maintaining the intake of a healthy amount of food daily. One is allowed to take as much amount of food he wants but with a caution to stop eating just before his hunger is completely satisfied. This is the main approach to the shifting calorie dieting.

You can maintain the overall healthy lifestyle as with all other dieting techniques by adopting shifting calorie dieting. The requirement of exercise is moderate like simple walking for half an hour daily. There is no point to go beyond the recommended time frame especially when you are starting.
Conventional dieting which involves starvation is a thing of the past as it’s definitely not good for our body. It may leave more harmful aftereffect than good. By adopting shifting calorie diet approach, you can easily reduce the extra mass of fat while maintaining the total muscle bulk. You are free to take the foods you normally enjoy in the quantity you like.

Diet and exercise

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If you are thinking to lose 5 kilos of weight within 7 days with only your exercise program, you must be living in a fool’s world. No exercise program can reduce fat unless you are on proper diet. Optimum diet and exercise is the core for a healthy lifestyle. Exercise program will lead to gradual wasting of muscles unless you replenish the calorie with suitable diet.

Combining these two is very easy. First let us discuss about how to plan your exercise program.

The first thing is consulting your doctor. Women over 50 and men over 40 are the high risk persons. They tend to develop various chronic physical ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure or obesity. If all the things are all right, you can begin your exercise program. Start exercising slowly and build up activities step by step over a period, say a couple of months. This is important to keep away from easy fatigue and injury. You must include half an hour of moderate intensity cardio exercises (aerobics) each day. You need not to do this at a stretch, rather dividing into two halves will increase your endurance. You can opt for weight training advance step routine exercises twice a week. This is to develop your muscle strength. Add some activities in your daily routine, like park the car as far as possible from your office parking – then take a brisk walk. Do not use email or fax a copy while sending it to some of your office colleague. Rather go to him personally and deliver it with a smile. It will definitely increase your PR. Do not use car while going to the nearby departmental store, rather using a bicycle will burn some calorie. You can take the stairs rather than using elevator.

Make your leisure time full of activities you like. You can clean your yard, go for a walking to the nearest hill or take part in some outdoor games with your friends. Riding a static bicycle while watching your favorite TV show is definitely better than being a couch potato. Choose the activities you like, you need not to go to a multi gym to keep yourself fit. Your Success to achieving the goal leads to enhanced motivation to remain physically active. Make sure that whatever exercises you are doing, are compatible to your physical condition and age.

Now come to the second part. Proper diet is a must because all the exercise we do, burn our stored calorie. Unless you replenish a good part of it, you will be exhausted. What you should do is –

Increase the vegetable intake and better to take steamed vegetables. Avoid using oil and fat as far as possible. Reduce the intake of meat and supplement it with fresh vegetables. Add some grated carrot, cabbage or zucchini to meatloaf. You can take adequately washed celery and trimmed carrot sticks for snacks. Increase the intake of whole grains. Substitute the whole wheat flour for white bleached flour while preparing any baked item.

Germination increases the nutritional value. You can make delicious breakfast by mixing some germinated peas, Bengal grams and baked potato with dash of rock salt and pepper. Take bran based cereals – bran retains the original nutritional vale of the food grain. Avoid red meat. Reduce the amount of salt intake. Substitute herbs or lemon juice while making noodles or pasta. Reducing pure carbohydrate is controversial, because the most of the calorie should come from carbohydrate with a balance from fat and protein. But you must not take heavy pastries and cakes which contains huge amount of fat along with carbohydrate. Take small but frequent meals.

Balanced diet and regular exercise are the two basic factors for a healthy life.

Breathing exercises

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Breathing exercise is an effective tool to attain a relaxed and clear state of mind as we can control and adjust the pace and depth of it. There is 20% reduction in blood level of oxygen by the aging process and our normal breathing practice. Poor quality of breathing habit decreases our energy and negatively affects mental attentiveness. If we do not follow the proper way of breathing, the aging process badly affects our respiratory process.

The rib cage and the chest muscles become stiff causing inhalation to become more problematic. Reduced elasticity and weak chest muscles leave impure air in the lung tissues and prevents fresh oxygen to reach the blood stream. Rapid and shallow breathing is often attributed to bad posture and stiff or weak muscles. It leads to some respiratory diseases, poor oxygen supply to tissues, lethargy and heart diseases.

There are some easy ways to get maximum benefit from the breathing exercises. Let us know in detail.

Complete breathing exercises –

Sit up straight in a firm and flat surface. Exhale slowly and deeply. Inhale slowly and deeply gently relaxing the belly muscles. Try to feel your belly is feeling with air. Continue inhaling even after your belly is filled up with air. After filling the belly, fill up to the middle of the chest. Try feeling your rib cage expanding. Hold your breath for 3 seconds, and then start exhaling slowly. As the air is going out, relax your rib cage and chest wall. Slowly but forcefully pull your belly as to exhale as completely as possible. Close your eyes while doing so and try to concentrate on your breathing. You should relax your mind completely, do not think about anything else except your breathing – choose a calm and cool place. Repeat the whole procedure continuously for 5 minutes. You should try doing this procedure twice daily.

Belly breath exercise –

Lie down over a flat and firm bed on your back. You can keep some small pillows to ease you up. Put your palms just below the rib cage. Your middle fingers would touch each other barely. Take a slow deep breathe. When the diaphragm is pushed down, the stomach will expand a little and your fingertips will be separated a bit. This movement points to the full use of lungs – culminating in a really deep breath rather than the ‘puffed chest’ breath practiced by many people as the maximum lung capacity. Continue doing this breathing exercise for 5 minutes in a row.

Humming breathing exercise –

Follow the procedure as in the case of complete breathing exercise like mentioned above. When you are exhaling, utter the word ‘HUM’ or ‘AUM’. The sound should come from the deep of your soul. Keep sounding the word as long as possible. Pull up your stomach muscles, and then squeeze out some more humming. Then relax. Again do the same procedure for five times.

Chinese breathing exercise –

Chinese Tai Chi Chuan gave us an excellent short and deep breath exercise. Three short inhales are allowed through the nose. Between these, exhaling is not permitted. During the first inhale, the arms are to be lifted from the sides straight out in the front side at the height of the shoulder. During the second one, the arms are opened out straight to the sides keeping it in the same level. During the third, the arms are raised over the head. Then exhalation is to be done through the mouth. The arms are moved in a semicircle back down to the sides. Generally, 10-12 inhalations are sufficient or you can do it until you feel any kind of headache.

Aerobic exercises

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Doing half an hour of aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, running, bicycling or swimming can lead to a healthy and longer life. Actually, aerobic exercise may be the tool for a life full of endurance and vitality. Have a look at the benefits of aerobic exercises and choose your pick.

How the body reacts to the aerobic exercises –

While doing aerobic exercise, you continue to move big muscles of your all four limbs. The breathing becomes faster and deep. It increases blood flow to the muscles and to your lungs. The capillaries (tiny blood vessels) are widened to deliver more amount of oxygen to the muscles and carry the waste products which are generated during the exaggerated metabolic state. Some feel good hormones like ‘Endorphin’ – which are natural painkillers, are secreted to promote a heightened sense of well being.

Effect of aerobic exercises to your health –

Aerobic exercise is good to everybody no matter whether you are older or obese. After a certain period, aerobic exercise will make you stronger and more athletic. Daily aerobic exercise can leave the following effects to your body –

· Reduces the risk of developing serious diseases, obesity, type II Diabetes, high blood pressure, cerebral stroke – to name a few. Weight bearing exercises like walking or jogging reduces the risk of development of osteoporosis.

· To prevent further complications – aerobic exercise can prevent further attack if you had suffered once.

· Never get flabby – when combined with planned diet, aerobic exercise will not allow putting on extra weight.

· Aerobic exercise boosts the immune system. You become less vulnerable to minor illness.

· Aerobic exercise augments the concentration of high density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL helps to reduce the amount of bad cholesterol like LDL and VLDL. The end result is less chance of thrombus formation inside the arteries.

· Makes your heart more strong. Stronger heart does not need to beat faster to reach essential nutrients throughout our body. It pumps blood more effectively – improvement of blood flow all over the body.

· Regular aerobic exercise helps to flush out the stress hormones from our body. Mind becomes calmer and there is decrease in the anxiety and depression.

· After doing aerobic exercise for couple of days, you may feel tired. But it will help you in the long run. The endurance and vitality is increased. You will be less fatigued.

· Aerobic exercise makes the muscles stronger. It will help you to maintain the agility as we get older. Aerobic exercise also clears the mind. Experts say that half an hour of aerobic exercise three days a week regularly can lessen the cognitive decline in aged persons.

Do not be hasty. Consult your doctor before you start exercising. If he clears you, start your exercise program in a slower pace. Begin with 10 minutes of brisk walking in the morning and 10 minutes in the evening. The next day, add another five minutes to each of the session. Gradually you will be able to walk half an hour in both the sessions.

The other good examples of aerobic exercises are jogging, aerobic dancing, swimming, skiing, cross country running, bicycling, climbing and rowing. If you have any condition that opposes nay of the above mentioned exercise, consult your doctor or sports trainer for alternatives.

Daily half an hour aerobic exercise can make you smile.

Stress and relationships

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In modern world, everyone is running to thump others for a better living. To these people, stress will come definitely. Stress spoils our daily life a lot as anxiety comes first. Consequently there is phobia and depression. A wide variety of bodily problems can be ascribed to stress.

It is fact that men and women are to face their lives in different ways. So, the end result of stress is totally different to them. Women are also exposed to stress and the outcome is obvious in their physical health. To them, the disease process is more obvious. Nevertheless, although men experience the wrench of stress more or less same amount, the apparent expression is less. It is noticed that the number of death is much more in men than in women if they are exposed to stress and its consequences. One of the prominent causes of stress is strain in the conjugal relationship. It may be in between husband and wife, strain relation among the members of a same family, between the child and the parents or stress in the work place. Stress and relationship have intimately related.

Marital stress –

The commonest reason of stress is probably the damaged relation between the husband and the wife. In this world of demand to the total independence, the condition of mind echoes the stressed out condition of anybody. All of us must have heard the idiom ‘Marriages are made in heaven’. But we do not remember this divine conjugal relation and our smallest problems may create mayhem. We search for the tiniest shortcomings of our partner and make a hell out of their life. Moreover, if any one of the partner is irascible, then the situation becomes more awful. We continue to blame each other for the entire period when we are staying at home together and trying to make his or her life more miserable. It is the time when stress starts growing. This generates tension more. Again it leads to quarrel. More stress is generated. Some short of vicious cycle is created unless one of us tries to control the situation.

Family life –

Today’s world requires us to be parted from our close relatives and family members as our workplace may be miles away from our home and we may be leading a jet set life. And again long business tours are there. We may be taking breakfast in New York, lunch in the London and dinner in the Paris. In a nuclear family setup, we can not be able to spent quality time with our family members. We feel more stressed out quickly due to this.

Stress between children and parents –

At the present time, bitter relationship in between husband and wife is very much widespread. They bring their child to earth. Then forget the way to raring the child up properly. If both of them are busy with their work, the child feels terribly unsecured even in the home environments. This put the child in immense emotional agony. In addition, if the child sees his parents are clashing daily after coming back from their respective office, the circumstances make him feel vulnerable. The little brain can not decide what is worn gang what is right, and this creates a negative impact upon his regular performances whether he is in school or playing with his friends.

Stress in the workplace –

Our carrier has evolved the main concern for us today. Stress at our workplace is one of the most common causes of all the stressors. Uncertainty of our future, insecurity on the office, non-cooperation and disobedience from the colleagues and unorganized carrier management plan are the main culprits. We need to do a lot of jobs that is not sufficient for us to complete in the time frame we are being provided. All of these can generate tension and subsequently stress.

Stress and high blood pressure

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All of us must have seen persons suffering from high blood pressure in our surroundings. At times, high blood pressure can affect the comparatively lower age group people either. Have you ever questioned him how he gets his blood pressure increased? Researchers have discovered the truth that stress can have an influence to produce high blood pressure. It also makes worse the situation in the existing hypertensive (people with high blood pressure) patients. Stress activates the secretion of stress hormones in our body. The stress hormones identified are adrenaline, dopamine and cortisol. All of these hormones have a straight role playing activities in increasing blood pressure.

Adrenaline has got an action of positive modulator over the α-receptors present in numerous tissues in our body. The intervention of α- receptors in the mechanism of our body is like this –

The prejunctional α₂-receptors helps to inhibit neuronal Ca²⁺ channels and reduces the availability of intracellular Ca²⁺ by decreasing cAMP (cyclic Amino Mono Phosphate) production. After that the neurotransmitter (adrenaline and nor adrenaline) secretion is also diminished. Hyperpolarization mediated by activation of K⁺ channels may also take place.

In smooth muscles of our body as well as the vascular muscles contains a lot of α-receptors. The contraction of muscles takes place by the action of the α₁ receptors. The activated G protein amplifies IP₃/DAG production. After that there is recruitment of Ca²⁺ from intracellular organelle. The bulk of the Ca²⁺comes from intracellular mitochondria. Ca²⁺ triggers the Calmodulin dependent Myosin light chain kinase (it is an enzyme present in the striated and smooth muscles). This enzyme facilitates the phosphorylation of myosin fiber. It helps the contraction of Actin-Myosin complex. In this way, the whole muscle fiber is contracted. The α₂ receptors which are vasoconstrictor in nature, increases Ca²⁺ influx without utilization of IP₃most likely.

Glucocorticoid hormones inhibit capillary permeability. It also maintains the muscular tones of the arterioles and contractility of the myocardium (heart muscle). They have a lenient and pressor action of Adrenaline and Angiotensin. They also play a permissive role in the formation of high blood pressure to occur. The chief mineralocorticoid action is augmentation in the Sodium reabsorption from the distal convoluted tubule in the nephron of the kidney. There is relative increase in the excretion of Potassium and hydrogen ion. If there is high level of mineralocorticoid, as in the cases of stress, the maximal tubular reabsorptive capacity for Sodium is increased. In turn, this high level of Sodium brings water from the distal convoluted tubules of kidney (reabsorption). The total blood volume is increased and it helps in the formation of high blood pressure.

The peripherally formed Dopamine (DA) is responsible for increase in the heart rate in amount to its action on β-adrenergic receptors. Though Dopamine stimulates adrenergic receptors of blood vessels too, major increase in the blood pressure is not seen. It affects more in the younger people because they have more active adrenal gland which is capable to secrete stress hormones in a bigger scale as compared to aged persons.

So, it is obvious that stress has a direct triggering effect on the hormone production and consequently, into high blood pressure. If stress can be withdrawn, all the stress hormone level will be back to its normal level and the blood pressure will be normal too.

Music therapy and stress relief

2008-03-12T19:16:00.001+05:30

In this jet set age, people are often exposed to immense stress and anxiety. Pressure from every nook and corner of the society creates havoc. We often don’t find enough time to ease up our stress. Also we don’t find the ways to de-stress. We often fall into wrong hands advising pills that are of no use. But why don’t we try something that is readily available into us and that will not harm you any way? Yes, I am talking about music as stress reliever.

You must be thinking can it be true? Can music really help us in a condition of stress? Well, if you can believe me, music has the power to lessen your stress. Actually, the World Federation of Music Therapy describes it like ‘the use of music and/or its musical instruments in a process designed to facilitate and promote communication, relationship, learning, mobilization, expression and organization in order to develop or restore functions of the individual’. If you count on them, please go through the entire discussion here and give it a try.

Now the question comes – does music just soothe or it has really the power of healing? It may be hard to believe that the body’s vital organs and systems like blood, different glands, hormones, cells, muscles, nerves, brain and bones besides the celestial life energy system are regularly affected by the sound waves generated by the environment. Anxiety is the bodily response to high level of stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol). The moment somebody listens to relaxing music, the levels of the hormones are lessened and the person feels calmer. The harmony between mind and body is reinstated thereafter. Researchers have proved in a recent study that music defies all kinds of blockage – retention of excretory products, diabetes, inflammations, arthritic pains and menstrual cramps. It assists the development of communication and motor skills in infants with physical or learning disabilities. Music induces the release of important healing hormones and fights against stress and depression. There are also impressive results seen in the patients of Schizophrenia. The basic idea of music therapy is to reorganize the body’s regular functions and establish balance between them.

However, music therapy is not meant for the stressed persons alone. Every healthy people can use music to de-stress everyday through active music making like playing the piano or through passive listening. Hum your favorite tunes whenever you are in stress and you need to boost you up or your spirit. You will feel good within couple of minutes.

Music has a vast arena starting from a lowest pitched note from a stringed instrument to the deafening rhythms of drums. So, which one to choose? It depends to the individual requirements. A general blend that helps is percussion with the flute or sitar. It has to be kept in mind that the tempo matches the heart rate – within 60-80 beats per minute. It is imperative to note that the tune may have different effects upon different persons. As for an example, a tune that resonate the belly of a tall and thin person may not produce the same result in case of an obese person; the optimum frequencies must be individualized to them.

The basis of all music therapy is its undertones or sometimes named as drones. Most of the undertones are prolonged, undisturbed and continuous – the magic comes from the interval of the tones. Most of the music instruments like the sitar, bagpipe, jaw harp, didgeridoo, mountain horn, chiming bowl, and all the single and multiple-stringed instruments can be tuned to the drones. Some cardiologists say music therapy works best when jointly administered with meditation or yoga.

2008-03-12T19:08:00.000+05:30

In this modern jet age, we are compelled to face stress and anxiety at some part of our life. Anxiety is the forerunner of stress. The intense pressure from every nook and corner of modern life is calling the anxiety and stress around. Although our entire life, we have to face an array of changes regarding the way of lifestyle, grooming, our workplace, close relationships and the environment. Every transformation, whether it is gratifying or obnoxious, leaves some amount of stress upon us. Conversely, if the intensity of stress becomes severe or if it goes for a longer time, it may create depressing states or anxiety disorders.

In our day to day life, we spend most of our times at our workplace. Its condition, job hazards, challenges in the jobs and job dissatisfaction are some of the most common stress factors. A recent study conducted involving the volunteers from different fields revealed that highest level of stress are found in the persons who come from medicine, business and finance.

Women suffer from anxiety and stress most in their personal relationships. Personal or public, no matter what is the reason, stress can lead acute psychological and physical trouble including anxiety and depression both in men and women.

While depression generates sensations like desolation, worthlessness and irritation, anxiety neurosis results into feeling of horror and panic even when you are under normal circumstances. The precise cause of depression is not known to us, although scientists have thrown some light into it. Today we can identify the depression is an end result of an anomalous communication between the neural circuits of brain and the chemical neurotransmitter of the central nervous system. Apart from this, stress can be generated from environmental, genetic and emotional reasons.

Stress can result various setbacks in our body. It may reduce the state of our cardiovascular system. It can lead to high blood pressure and coronary thromboembolism. Stress can affect our gastrointestinal system, renal system and nervous system. Almost all organs of our body may have an effect if we are exposed to stress for a long time. A frightful disease – Alzheimer’s disease can be the outcome of protracted stress that insults our memory function. It is one of the most debilitating diseases at present. Anxiety neurosis is resulted by panic attacks, also defined as agoraphobia. It is an extremely panic condition where a man gets scared of panicky feeling upon exposed to open spaces. The anxiety is so severe he may experience terrible notions at such places which may seem normal to others. Women are more victimized by this kind of panic attacks.

There must be some solutions of stress. Let us take a brief note.

Laugh – laugh, as it helps to pacify the stressed mind. No matter how you are stressed out, a session of laughter can lower down your stress. It is not necessary to get a laughing cause, artificial laughing may also benefit you in some ways.

Cry – crying eases out our stressful mind as it helps to release the angst from our body.

Positive approach – maintain a positive approach always. At all times it helps to make our own way towards our goal and eliminate many complexities.

Values – delineate your values. Always remain under the self imposed bindings.

Exercise – do some workout regularly. Just simple walking, jogging, gardening, cleaning the yard has enough power to reduce anxiety. It is not necessary to go for extensive exercises always. You may join meditation, yoga or aerobics classes. Regular workouts purify our body system from harmful chemicals that is produced because of stress.

Can stress accelerate aging?

2008-03-12T19:07:00.001+05:30

All of us must have felt the curse of stress at some part of our life. Both the older and the comparatively younger persons are forced to face difficult situations and learning to coexist with them. While the elderly persons are to deal with the physical and financial problems, the younger generation is facing the difficulties in their studies, friends, emotional relationships and workplaces. Luckily, we learn to cope up with the difficulties that are the effect of stress with due course of time. But during the last couple of decades in our life, the natural defense mechanism of our body fails to perform in an effective way.

We can spot the relation between how we live and how we die. The earlier in our life we are confronted by stress, the scenario becomes worse. The stress will leave a negative impact upon the way we become older and how fact that occurs.

In earlier years, the belief was that the animals those who have lower heart rate will live longer. No more that is considered reliable. Modern hypothesis is that it is because of the long term effects to various stressors and stress hormones which are responsible for accelerating the aging process.

A specific case is very much interesting and has a worth for separate study. It is the relation of body and the secretion of glucocorticoid hormones during stress. The hypothalamus present in the central nervous system regulates the secretion of glucocorticoids from the adrenal gland by releasing a hormone – Corticotropin Releasing Hormone (CRH). CRH consequently commands the adrenal gland to release the glucocorticoid hormones.

How does the hypothalamus decide when there is enough glucocorticoid in the blood pool? Actually it is regulated by the mechanisms present in our body for controlling the secretion of all the hormones. The hypothalamus controls the secretion of CRH and consequently the glucocorticoids using a feedback mechanism. Hypothalamus in the aged people can not work as it should be. This is the reason the higher level of glucorticoids in the blood even the person is not suffering from any kind of stress.

What may be the reason of the malfunctioning of the feedback system? The answer is not obvious, but the most likely reason is the increased level of glucorticoids during the period of chronic stress. Again it may be concluded that a prolonged exposure to glucocorticoids will result in Hippocampal damage, which may lead to more glucorticoids being released in the blood stream.

Hippocampal damage leads to another disease called – Alzheimer’s disease. This is undoubtedly one of those extremely debilitating diseases known to man. Hippocampus is a part of the brain that is a vital area for storage and retrieving memories. This is the reason; the persons suffering from full blown Alzheimer’s disease can not recall any of his long term or short term memory.

Experts have proved that the chronic stress can accelerate the rate of aging. So it is imperative to say that everybody should control the stress as far as possible.

You can do some relaxation techniques. You can do a course upon yoga and meditation. These two ways have an immense potentiality for relieving stress. Regular exercise is another effective approach. Fix a time from your schedule everyday that is suitable for you to exercise. Regular workout helps to wash out the surplus stressors and stress hormones from your body. Proper planning in life is essential to reduce stress. You must bring laugh in your life.

How to prevent skin discoloration in acne

2008-03-12T18:44:00.000+05:30

Acne is a very common skin disease. Most of us may suffer from this disease at some point of our life. There are two varieties of acne – Acne vulgaris and Acne rosasea. Acne vulgaris is the predominant form of acne. It usually occurs in the adolescents and teenagers. Acne rosasea mostly occurs in the middle aged women.

Acne vulgaris is usually benign and does not leave any kind of scar or discoloration. But sometimes, the lesions fuses together to form an ugly looking scar. Acne rosasea occurs in those persons who usually blushes or flushes. It also leaves some kind of scar at the site of occurrence, although that is lesser than Acne vulgaris.

By adopting some simple measures, we can be able to minimize the skin discoloration to the area it develops.

a) Cleanse the surface thrice a day with a mild non detergent cleanser –

Thoroughly wash your face using the tip of finger only. Do not use whole of palm. Do not rub too much also. You may open up those lesions which may never been lead to scar formation. Use a mild foaming face wash. Make sure it is non-detergent based. If you do not wash your face properly, detergents may leave some particle to the face which is irritating in nature. It flares up the inflammation procedure in case of acne. If you find any red colored itchy area, choose a cleanser which contains Benzoyl peroxide. Do not forget to wash your face thoroughly after cleansing. Then repeat the procedure once more. Lastly, pat dry your face with a cotton towel.

b) Always use an astringent or toner –

Apply a good quality astringent lotion in a piece of cotton and gently slide along the area you have just washed. It will take out any cleanser residue and oil. If your skin is dry in nature, go for an alcohol free astringent.

c) Application of the medications –

It is the time to apply the acne medication. When the astringent dries completely, gently make a coating using the index finger. Use it as per the direction of your doctor. Do not rub it harshly and allow sufficient time to gat it absorbed.

d) Application of an oil free gel –

Now you can use the oil free gel or moisturizer you use regularly. Always buy a good quality oil free gel.

There are some home remedies for the acne also. These are tried and tested for centuries and it is sensible to give a try. Some of the home remedies are mentioned below which considerably lowers the skin discoloration. They are easy to prepare and the method of application does not require anything complication.

Make a paste by mixing one tsp of cinnamon powder and three tablespoon of best quality honey. Apply the mixture over the dark spots. Leave it for 1 hour, and then wash with lukewarm water.

Take one tsp of cinnamon powder and one tsp of freshly prepared lemon juice. Mix them well and apply all over the face.

Garlic paste is known for its depigmentation property. You must use a freshly prepared garlic paste. After half hour of application of the paste, wash with lukewarm water.

Alternatively, you can use fresh tomato pulp also. First remove the skin of tomatoes and using the pulp, make a thick paste. Apply it similarly.

Take 50 ml of un-boiled milk in a cup. Add 1 tsp of Nutmeg powder to it. Make a thick paste. Apply it similarly.

LASER treatment for acne

2008-03-12T18:39:00.000+05:30

Acne is a disease of the skin and is of two types – Acne vulgaris and Acne rosasea. Acne vulgais is the principal form that we most commonly see in our surroundings. In some cases, there is extensive scarring. For this ultramodern treatment like LASER ablation has been invented. But first, we need to have some idea about the formation of acne.

Acne vulgaris is a self limiting disease of the skin among the adolescent and the teenager. Nevertheless, it has noticed among the adults also. Acne occurs because of increase in the sebum production from the sebaceous glands after the person attains puberty. Sebaceous gland is a special type of gland present in the epidermal layer of the skin. Comedones which are tiny cystic lesion appear in the hair follicles because of obstruction in the follicular opening. This is due to retention of sebum and other keratinized materials. After that, because of some bacterial action (Propionobacterium acnes) inside the cyst causes discharge of some inflammatory stuff from the sebum – which is free fatty acid in nature. This acids cause continuous irritation within the cyst wall. Sooner or later the cysts break down and the resulting condition is what we can see is acne. Acne vulgaris can be seen most commonly over the face. Nevertheless, chest and the back side can get involved also. In most of the cases, acne remains docile and does not essentially lead to scar formation. In some patients, it is seen that the tiny cysts collapse together and there is major scarring.

LASER ablation technique is one of the noteworthy methods that have been invented today to get rid out of scarring.

Dermatologists are applying LASER for treatment of any black spot or scar including removal of birthmarks and hairs present in unwanted places, sharpening of wrinkles and most certainly removing the scarring of acne.

In the past, when LASERs were initially prescribed as a treatment option for acne scarring, the outcome was not persuasive as the dermatologists anticipated it. In fact, some of the persons having dark complexion were criticizing excessive scarring because of increase in the pigmentation. Nevertheless, the condition is not like that today.

In the November 1980, Dr. Tina S. Alster, MD Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery and Georgetown University conducted test using pulsed dye LASER to the condensed overgrown scar. She stated that long lasting improvement in the appearance of the majority of the scars. "Clinical assessments and skin surface texture analyses using a computer image analyzer showed that the laser-irradiated scars approximated normal skin characteristics," Dr. Alster remarked.

Scientists have proved that combination therapy involving Carbon dioxide laser vaporization along with pulsed dye technology was prominent to sustain the improvement in less inflammatory, minimally thickened scars. 1450 nm diode laser was used for the treatment. The procedure was pointing of short spurts of laser in and around the scar. The scar marks were treated with non-overlapping, single pulses at the power of 1 and 14 Joules per cm², with a 6 mm spot and 40 millisecond of cryogen spray cooling. The procedure was conducted under local anesthesia in a outpatient situation. Few days of convalescence and some soreness were observed in some of the cases. The result was extremely acceptable. After one sitting, total scar number were reduced to 37%, 50% after two sittings and more than 80% after three sittings. The pain of the surgical procedure was nominal and patients tolerated it very well.

Now the conclusion could be – different therapeutic methods for the management of acne scar are on the rise. Two accepted mechanisms of action might clarify the consequences of LASER treatment. They either lower the numbers of Propionibacterium acnes present inside the glands or reduce the size of sebaceous glands by charring.

Common forms of Acne

2008-03-12T18:38:00.000+05:30

You have notices a cystic lesion over your face and you are thinking whether it can be acne. Well, let me tell you yes, most probably it is acne.

There are two major types of acne – Acne vulgaris and Acne rosasea. Acne vulgaris is the most common form of acne. It begins with a cystic lesion, and then it ruptures and ultimately gets infected. Although Acne vulgaris is a self limiting disease mainly of the adolescent and teenagers, 10-15% of the adults continue to suffer some form of this disorder. The primary cause of the disease in teenagers is increased production of sebum when they attain the age of puberty. Sebum is secreted from a specific type of gland, called the Sebaceous gland present in the epidermal layer of skin. Tiny cyst like lesion named – Comedones, emerges in the hair follicles as a result of blockage of the follicular opening due to retention of sebum and many other keratinous materials.

With favorable conditions, bacteria continue to infect these lesions. The most common bacterium responsible for the lesion is ‘Proprioniobacterium acnes’. The action of this organism inside the comedones releases some material from the sebum which is mainly acidic in nature – in fact these are different free fatty acids. All these materials lead to inflammation of the skin. When inflammation occurs within the cyst, there is rupture of the cyst wall. An inflammatory foreign body type reaction (type II hypersensitivity reaction) as a result of discharge of the oily and keratinous residues from the cyst. The cysts may be open, it is then called the blackheads; and sometimes closed – called the whiteheads. Blackheads are consists of easily expressible high colored oily debris. Whiteheads are tiny cystic lesions that are accentuated when the skin is stretched. This is the precursor of the inflammation in case of Acne vulgaris. Comedones generally exist with other types of inflammatory lesions – papules, nodules and pustules. The lesions seen in the adolescent and teenagers in the beginning are usually mildly inflamed whiteheads. There may not be presence of redness even. This is predominantly seen in the middle part of the forehead. As a result, more distinguishing inflammatory lesions develop on the nose, chin and the cheeks. Most common area affected by this cyst is face, however extensive lesion in the back, trunk and chest are also seen.

It is to be noted that acne is self limiting. In some cases which involves large area and becomes resistant to the different medications, scarring do occur leading to an ugly look.

There are some aspects that may change the end result of acne. External trauma and rubbing of the inflamed skin may rupture the existing benign cyst. Thus, the lesions which may not rupture at all in normal circumstances become exposed to the deleterious action of bacteria and deep scarring occurs. Application of irritable tropical creams, cosmetics and hair care preparations or constant contact to certain industrial compounds, which are comedogenic in nature may bring out or worsen the condition. Moreover, there are some medicines like lithium, glucocorticoid cream, isoniazide, halogens and phenytoins which may produce comedones or may exacerbate existing acne.

So, should you find any cyst like wound over your face or on the back, do not forget to pay attention and rush to your doctor for an expert opinion.

Birth control pills and acne

2008-03-12T18:37:00.000+05:30

You are taking birth control pills for a long time. One fine morning you notice a tiny cyst like lesion on your face. You ask your friend, what it could be. And she says it may be acne. Can it be true? Well, let me tell you yes, most certainly it could be acne. Birth control pills have potentiality to promote the formation of acne.

At times we do not consult our doctor before buying or taking a low profile medicine which is readily available over the counter. After couple of days or months, we discover some kind of disease process has started within our body. Because of this, we have to accept many other complications and our purse looses weight.

Birth control pills, Oral Contraceptive Pills or simply OCPs, are one of the most infamous medicines in this class. OCP is actually a combination of two major naturally occurring hormones – progesterone and estrogen. Interestingly, doctors frequently prescribe estrogen creams for the treatment of acne. Estrogen is a gonadal hormone and it benefits the outcome of acne by suppressing the production of androgens from the ovary. The mechanism involves inhibition of a specific hormone secretion from the pituitary gland situated in the skull – called gonadotropin. Cyclical treatment along with added progestin is quite effective to manage the case.

Now let us discuss the matter in depth. How does acne formed and what is their outcome. Acne is of two types, Acne vulgaris and Acne rosasea. Acne vulgaris is the predominant form of Acne and most commonly found. It is mostly seen in the adolescents and the teenagers owing to increase sebum production from the sebaceous glands present in the epidermal layer of the skin. The production of sebum increases during puberty, reaches its highest level during adulthood and then gradually decreases with age. Androgens like testosterone accelerate its production from the sebaceous gland. Small sized cystic lesion, named comedones, become visible in the follicles of the hair due to blockage of the follicular opening. This is because of the deposition of sebum and other keratinized materials. Then some bacteria play their role. Bacteria dissolve these sebum and other materials to produce free fatty acids which are corrosive to the already vulnerable skin. This in turn gives rise to inflammation inside the cyst and in due course the cyst ruptures. The end result is what we see as acne.

Now, we must know that estrogen has its own side effects. These include decreased sexual desire (libido), increase in the size of the breast and others. Sometimes the enlargement of breast occurs in the male also (feminization). Women, those who have stopped menstruation, have a 5-10 times increased risk of developing cancer of the uterus. Even there is information of breast cancer also. Long time therapy with birth control pill increases the risk of formation of gall stone by twice. Use of estrogen cream in the men is out of question. Estrogen has the power to suppress the growth of the children if prescribed. Breast tenderness is very common during long term use of birth control pills. In addition, there are various other grave complications if birth control pills are used for prolonged time. There is episode of heart attack due to blockage of the blood vessels that supplies nutrition to the heart muscle, obstruction of long veins of legs, arms and lungs, increase in the blood pressure, increase in the cholesterol level – to name a few.

For the treatment of acne, you need to use the estrogen cream for a long time. So consult your doctor and do accordingly to his advice.

Acne prone skin

2008-03-12T18:36:00.000+05:30

Acne is one of the commonest nagging skin diseases. It attacks mainly face and back side. Most of us may have suffered from this pesky problem in some part of our life. The main reason for prolongation of acne is our lack of knowledge as to how to handle the problem. Let us discuss something about acne prone skin.

Acne is of two types, Acne vulgaris and Acne rosasea. Acne vulgaris is more commonly seen than the second one. Both of them are having their characteristic properties. Acne vulgaris mainly affects the young age group and the Acne rosasea targets the persons of middle age. It is a fact that the skin condition of both these groups are not common, the skin of younger ones has lot more firm owing to the abundance of fibrofatty tissue. There are much more sebaceous glands in the epidermal layer (the layer of the skin which is situated just below the upper thick layer).

Now let us have an idea of the skin conditions of Acne vulgaris –

Persons whose skin is oily in nature and those who are prone to sweating mostly suffer from Acne vulgaris. The principal etiology of this disease is the increase in the sebum production from the sebaceous glands, which are abundant in the epidermal layer of the skin. The secretion of sebum is much less during infancy. It is highly increased during the time of puberty, reaching its highest level during adulthood and then slowly decreasing with age.

The black heads and white heads form in the hair follicle due to retention of sebum. Retention is due to blockage of the follicular openings. The persons who are having oily skin tend to experience more of this blockage as oils jams the opening. Moreover, dust particles from the environment get adhered to this oil and are deposited. All of these cumulatively block the opening of the follicle. Persons who experience too much sweating are also prone to Acne vulgaris. The excessive sweating is called ‘Seborrhea’. This is a disease where there is hyper secretion of the sebaceous glands of the skin and the scalp. It causes the skin turn out to be extremely oily. Again, some hormones also take part in the release of sebum also. Among them, Androgens takes the leading role. Our diet rich in saturated fatty acids also jeopardizes the condition. Persons who are having thick skin are more acne prone. Thick layer of skin contains more sebaceous glands. This in turn leads to more available oil for the hair follicle.

You need to do something to counteract your oily skin. You can not change your skin type. But you can surely do the following –

Increase your daily water intake. You must take 2-2.5 liters of water everyday. Your diet should contain plenty of green leafy vegetables and fruits. Try to avoid junk foods as far as possible. It contains much oil. Do not shampoo your hair daily. Do not use any toiletries, which aggressively remove oil from your face. It will cause rebound production of oil. Wash your face 5-6 times daily. You must Pat dry with a clean cotton towel.

Now let us be familiar with the skin conditions of Acne rosasea –

It is mainly noticed in adults. People whose skin is generally flushes or blushes are extremely prone to Acne rosasea. Actually, it is an inflammatory condition of the facial skin. Classically, Acne rosasea affects middle aged women. Bright red colored papule erupts over face with surrounding flush and crowned by tiny pus forming areas characterizes this disease. Avoidance of sunlight, any kind of alcohol, hot spicy food is favorable.

Acne complex

2008-03-12T18:34:00.000+05:30

Truly, Acne is a complex type of disease. Both the sexes have to suffer from this irritating problem. Let us discuss about acne and its treatment in detail. I shall try to simplify the medical terminology as far as feasible.

Acne is of two types – Acne vulgaris and Acne rosasea. Acne vulgaris is the principal form that we see regularly. We shall know about both of them, but first Acne vulgaris.

It is a self-limiting disorder primarily of the adolescents and the teenagers, though there are some adults who face the same disease. The etiology of the disorder is increased production in the sebum from the sebaceous glands which is situated in the epidermis (the part of the skin just below the keratinized layer of the skin). This excess production is usually seen when the child attains puberty. Comedones, a tiny cystic structure form in the opening of the hair follicles as there is obstruction due to retention of sebum and some keratinized debris. This is the time when the normally occurring bacteria turn hostile and play some deleterious role. They dissolve the sebum and other materials inside the comedones. This releases some free fatty acids which are irritable to the skin. Ultimately the cyst ruptures. The end result is what as we as acne.

Acne vulgais most commonly occur in face. But the chest and the back side can also be involved. In most of the cases, acne remains mild and does not necessarily cause scar formation. It is notices in some patients that the tiny cysts collapse together and major scar formation occurred.

Now let us discuss about the treatment of acne. The affected area of the skin must be kept clean and dry. You should clean our face three to four times a day. Any brand of good quality oil free face wash will suffice. However, there is no need to scrub actively. It may aggravate the situation by opening up the cysts that would not rupture in normal course. Specific antimicrobial creams (which contain Azelaic acid, Benzoyl peroxide, Clindamycin or Erythromycin cream) are the first line of medicine. It should be applied over the whole affected area three times a day after washing with oil free face wash. The technique should not involve rubbing, only gentle laying keeping a thin layer will do. Some topical creams such as Benzoyl peroxide and Retinoic acid are also helpful. They act via changing the pattern of desquamation of skin, as a result lowering the formation of comedones. The dose of these two creams is also same – three times a day. In women, synthetic estrogen cream or oral contraceptive pills are prescribed. Estrogen acts by inhibiting the production of androgen in body. Low level of androgen will reduce the chance of production of sebum. In resistant cases of acne, use of synthetic retinoids is extensively prescribed. Only drawback of synthetic retinoids is that it can not be used in the pregnant women as there is chance of fetal anomaly.

Now let us discuss something about Acne rosasea –

Acne rosasea is mostly seen in the women although most severe cases are found in the men. Persons, who suffer from flush or blush, are prone to develop the disease. After a prolonged and active flushing period, rosasea develop. The other triggering factors are alcohol, spicy food, emotional stress and hot drinks.

It responds well to sodium sulfacetamide or metronidazole cream. More severe and resistant cases may require oral tetracycline.

Why shifting calories works so well

2008-02-25T23:27:00.000+05:30

All of us must have heard that shifting calories diet works so well to reduce obesity. But the real fact behind this is not known to everybody. The physiological reasons involving the process is the key to this happening. To know how the shifting calories diet chart exerts its effects, we have to realize the reasons of traditional dieting to be unsuccessful or even increase the obesity of the person on dieting.

Conventional dieting is based on starvation – means it depends on the basic principle of ‘eat and to lose weight’. You may think that there is logic behind it, the means of weight gain and to lose involve more than simple intake of total amount of calorie.

When a man is on starvation, several metabolic and hormonal changes occur in his body. The body’s mechanism tries to store more and more of food involving a rapid and simple way. That results to storing of more fat. Simultaneously, the energy stored in the muscles and other tissues are used up to meet the requirements.

The outcome is rapid loss of water to excrete harmful byproducts from our body. This comes into view as the loss of weight. But this is not permanent. When you start eating the normal amount of diet, the weight regains as body stores the lost water besides the already accumulated fat adds to the total weight. The net result is weight gain with loss of overall muscle mass.

The shifting calorie diet works in a different way from the method stated above. The technique uses constantly changing the amount and type of food intake while keeping the required nutritional balance to avoid the bad effect of muscle loss.

The meals are divided into four or more parts in a day. The variety of the food is also recommended. Thus there is burning of excess fat while maintaining a healthy quantity of intake of food. There is no limitation of the amount that you can eat during the smaller meal. It is recommended to stop just before satiety. This is the basis of shifting calories diet.

Like most healthy styles of dietary habits, the shifting calories diet theme is benefited from leading a largely healthy lifestyle and moderate amount of workouts. No way should you overdo it, especially when you are starting. Even walking for a short duration daily is very much useful when shared with shifting calorie diet approach.
Conventional dieting involving starvation does not work properly as it may cause more damage than its beneficial effect. It’s surely not good for your body. Adopting shifting calorie diet approach, you can reduce the extra amount of fat while retaining the muscle bulk besides eating the foods you prefer abundantly.

Check Waist-Hip Ratio

2008-01-21T13:31:00.000+05:30

We cannot change some risk factors even with our best efforts like our time and place of birth. Lifestyle subjects like diet and work out are the factors, which we have the most control over, and a solution to understanding our risk is not just, what our weight is. One indirect measure that is extensively used is the Body Mass Index (BMI). This formula is extensively used in research and also in the practical field and has proven a quite precise predictor of risk of illness.

Another indicator is Waist hip ratio.

This is a particular type of calculator for the human being to facilitate them find their risk of heart disease, based on waist-hip ratio and waist measurement.

To establish the fact that whether you have a healthy waist to hip ratio, use a measuring tape to scale the circumference of your hips at the visible widest part of your buttocks. Deep breathe and relax. Then measure your waist at the smaller circumference of your natural waist, usually just above the belly button. The exact point to measure waist circumference is the middle point between the upper hipbone and the uppermost border of the right iliac crest. A tape of precise measurements should be placed in the region of the abdomen at the level of this middle point and a reading taken when the tape is comfortably placed but does not compress the skin. In practice, it may be tricky for extremely overweight persons precisely palpating those bony landmarks. In that case placing the tape at the level of the belly button (Umbilicus) is recommended.

To determine the ratio, divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. Both the measures should be noted in the same parameter (like both in centimeters or inches).

If the result is more than 1.0, you are considered to be at higher risk for high blood pressure, other cardiovascular disease including coronary artery disease and other health problems.

These include metabolic health problems like diabetes and pancreatitis.

The WHO (World Health Organization) definition for metabolic syndrome is -

Type II diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance or normal glucose tolerance with insulin resistance, together with two or more of the following:

Elevated blood pressure

Abdominal obesity and/or BMI >30kg/m²

Low HDL cholesterol

High triglycerides

Microalbuminuria

People with metabolic syndrome are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease equivalent to people with frank Type-II diabetes (Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus).

Scientists have shown that people with "pear-shaped" bodies (who carry more weight around the hips) face less health risks than those with "orange-shaped" bodies (with more weight around the waist).

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) considers the following waist to hip ratio to be safe-

For men- <0.90

For women- <0.80

It is possible to have a Body Mass Index that is high enough but being muscular and athletic, using the waist hip ratio can help make clear whether the extra weight may cause any health problem or not.

Waist hip ratio is not evaluated to as useful for children, people who are less than five feet tall or who possesses a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or above.

Waist Circumference

2008-01-19T18:29:00.000+05:30

Waist circumference is an indirect marker of intra abdominal fatty tissues, usually called visceral fat.

Scientifically, Waist circumference is measured by a tape placing it over the Iliac crest (the upper most part of your both the hip bones) along with your naval.

The accurate point to measure waist circumference is midway between the upper hipbone and the uppermost border of the right iliac crest. A tape of accurate measurement should be placed in the region of the abdomen at the level of this middle point and a reading taken when the tape is comfortably placed but does not compress the skin. In practice, it may be tricky for extremely overweight persons precisely palpating those bony landmarks. In that case placing the tape at the level of the belly button (Umbilicus) is recommended.

The measurement of waist circumference gives us useful information regarding the distribution of body fat and is a tool to evaluate the risks for conditions such as high blood pressure, different cardiovascular diseases including coronary heart disease (CHD). It is now acclaimed that people who mainly carry their excess fat in the central part of the body (within the abdominal cavity) are at increased risk to suffer the consequences of being overweight. It is also associated with the metabolic syndrome like diabetes and pancreatitis.

You have a potential risk factor for various health problems if you are-

A man with a waist circumference more than 40 inches (101.6 cm)

A woman with a waist circumference more than 35 inches (88.9 cm)

The WHO (World Health Organization) definition for metabolic syndrome is -

Type 2 diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance or normal glucose tolerance with insulin resistance, together with two or more of the following:

Elevated blood pressure

Abdominal obesity and/or BMI >30kg/m²

Low HDL cholesterol

High triglycerides

Microalbuminuria

People with metabolic syndrome are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease equivalent to people with frank Type-II diabetes (Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus).

Doctors are likely to diagnose a case of metabolic syndrome on a regular basis. It is estimated in America that 47 million people - about 1 in 4 adults (23%) - have metabolic syndrome. The incidence of metabolic syndrome in adults is comparable to that of hypertension (24%).

Aims of treating metabolic syndrome are averting of development to overt Type-II Diabetes and averting of premature death due to cardiovascular disease achieved through lifestyle adjustment and the sensible use of drugs and in extreme cases surgery.

The reference waist circumference measurement for men and women population at which there is an increased relative risk is defined as follows.

	Increased Risk	Substantially increased risk
Men	≥ 94 cm	≥ 102 cm
Women	≥ 80 cm	≥ 88 cm

In some populations, waist circumference may be a better marker of risk factor than Body Mass Index (BMI) e.g. in persons of Asian descent.

In patients with a BMI in the range of 25–35 kg/m² extra measurements of waist circumference may provide supplementary information about risk and can be used an added measure of progress with weight loss.

Body Mass Index Guide

2008-01-17T20:57:00.000+05:30

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the standardized, universally acclaimed method of determining weight. To determine whether a person is obese, overweight, having normal weight or less than normal is determined not only by the weight of that person, but that also requires the height of that subject. It is likely for a strong, well-built person with minimal body fat to be recognized as obese using the Body Mass Index guide. On the contrary, a lean and thin person would be classified as normal or overweight, considering his height.

An organization in Belgium “Belgian Polymath Adolphe Quetelet” formulated the Body Mass Index equation incidentally when they were preparing some articles regarding “Social Physics” in between 1830 and 1850.

The Body Mass Index formula utilizes your body weight and height. It is estimated by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters. The BMI metric formula is:

- your weight (in kilograms) divided by your height (in meters) squared, OR
- your weight / (Your Height)²

The British formula of BMI is-

your weight (in Pounds) multiplied by 704.50 divided by your height (in inches).

BMI started getting popularity during the early 1950. It was on heavy demand since 1960 as obesity started to become noticeable concern in the affluent Western society. BMI became an easy tool to measure whether a person is fat or thin. This let the health care personals to talk about diseases arising out over and under-weight problems more clearly with their patients.

Later, the craze of BMI had reduced, as doctors were not agreed to rely on the pure mathematical approach of the calculation. They were commenting that a person is always varied to his counterpart in every respect, even when their height and weight remain the same. So they were not relying up on BMI while diagnose a case.

However, the purpose of inventing BMI was never the same. It was a simple tool of categorizing physically less active (sedentary) persons having an ideal body weight and height.

To calculate BMI in children, the process is slightly different. It is, although just the same calculations like the adult’s, considers the ideal values for other children of same age. Instead of defining the BMI accurately, it defines the range or Percentile. It helps to compare with the other children of same age and sex. A BMI, which is more than 95^th percentile, is considered as overweight and less than 5^th percentile is considered underweight.

To determine whether your BMI is healthy or not, please refer to the following guideline-

If your BMI is less than 19, you are considered as underweight.

If your BMI is in between 19 to 24.9, you have a healthy, acceptable weight.

If your BMI is more than 25 but less than 29.9, you are judged as overweight. You are at a potential risk for developing health hazards like many cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension. You should consider losing some weight to avoid future health problems.

If the BMI crosses 30, you are stamped as obese. Obesity is related with increased risk of hypertension, Coronary Artery Disease, Heart attack, Cerebral thrombosis, Diabetes and several other diseases. Obese persons have a greater risk of having those said problem as high as 50-150 percent. Obese persons must lose weight to maintain a healthy life.

USING A MULTI GYM TO LOSE WEIGHT

2008-01-16T22:02:00.000+05:30

It is not necessary to be a bodybuilder or professional athlete to collect the benefits of using a multi gym to lose weight. When done correctly, weight training in a multi gym can help you lose fat, increase your strength and muscle tone, and increase in the bone density of your body. However, if it was done in an improper way, weight training in a multi gym would not give you these benefits — and may even lead to damage to the physique.

You may learn weight-training techniques to lose weight by watching friends or from a part time instructor in a multi gym. However, sometimes what you see is not entirely safe. Erroneous weight training technique can lead to sprains, strains, fractures and other painful musculoskeletal injuries that may impede your weight training efforts and more worst, can defy your initiation towards weight training and losing weight. If you are starting the work out procedure now, go to a multi gym that pays to a knowledgeable weight-training specialist who is having proper familiarity to all of the equipments and having some knowledge regarding sports’ medicine-a physical counselor, athletic trainer or other fitness specialist who is familiar with apt weight training technique. If you have been using a multi gym to lose weight for quite some time, consider arranging your time with an instructor to demonstrate and rectify your performance and identify any changes you may need to compose.

Here are some Dos and Don’ts while at a multi gym-

Dos-

a) Lift a suitable amount of weight. Do not overburden yourself.

b) Learn and use proper form of technique while using the equipments.

c) Breathe systematically. Do not wash out yourself.

d) Seek and carry on with proper balance. Otherwise, you may jeopardize your body parts.

e) Proper and adequate rest is essential.

f) Using a multi gym to lose weight may be full of fun. Do not make the workout boring by concentrating excessively towards your performance. Tune in with the music that might be playing there.

Don’ts-

a) Never skip your worm up even you are rushing to the gym from your workplace. It is mandatory to worm up your body before going to hard work.

b) Never be hurry to change the weights while using any equipment in the gym.

c) Never take extra load. Concentrate on a single area of you body at a time to develop. You can carry on working with the other parts later on.

d) If you are experiencing pain that is more than normal than you expect, stop doing any training. It may put you at risk.

e) Always wear proper uniform and shoes. It will help you to carry out different techniques easily.

f) Last, but not the least- Do not forget to cool down your self after the exercise is complete even if you have a night out planning.

Using a multi gym to lose weight can be real fun trying different equipments. There are hundreds of different equipments available in the market. Some of them focus on a specific part of your body, or there may be on machine that takes care of all the needs. Your fitness instructor will guide you properly how to use them.

Body Mass Index Calculator

2008-01-13T21:39:00.000+05:30

Ideal body weight is everybody’s dream. But practically we can maintain our weight in a healthy weight range. To determine this range, we need to have our weight, height be ready. And the tool for this is Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI is a measure, which considers a person’s weight and height to judge the person in particular weight grade of either gender.

Body Mass Index is defined as the person’s body weight divided by the square of his height. Doctors universally use this calculation. This will yield as unit of measure of Kilogram/ m²

BMI can be obtained from a BMI chart also, which presents BMI as a fraction of weight (horizontal axis) and height (vertical axis) using curvilinear markings for different values of BMI or colors for different BMI grouping.

Body Mass Index does not consider only body mass. It is quite likely that a healthy, well-built adult may be considered underweight using the BMI formula due to presence of less or minimal fat. Alternatively, a lean person will be considered as overweight if he is tall and having enough fat distributed in his body.

For a definite height, the BMI is directly proportional to weight; for example, if body weight increases by 10%, BMI increases by 10%.

Body Mass Index can be calculated by the dividing the body weight in Kilograms by the square of the height in meters. The BMI metric for is given below-

your weight (in Kilograms) divided by your height (in Meters) squared, or

your weight/ (your height)²

The British formula of BMI is-

your weight (in Pounds) multiplied by 704.5 divided by your height (in inches) multiplied by your height (in inches).

Another mode of calculation that is in Imperial units is your weight (in stone) multiplied by 6.35 and divided by square of your height (in meter)

The BMI chart is as follows-

For a typical Western population the following measurement of BMI is regarded as standard

BMI Status

Less than 18.5 Underweight

18.5-25 Normal for the standard

25-30 Overweight

Above 30 Obese

Above 35 Severely obese

Above 40 Morbidly obese

Above 50 Superobese

In the first group, one is required to gain some weight.

If the Body Mass Index is denoting normal to somebody, he should be conscious about his weight to maintain the same.

Overweight people are at a risk to develop some weight related disorder like Diabetes, High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. They should start reduction of weight.

Obese and the other high range people are at extremely high risked. They have every chance to develop cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease(CAD), coronary thrombosis (heart attack), cerebral thrombosis (CVA- Cerebrovascular accidents), Diabetes, Kidney diseases, eye problems etc. Obese patient possesses a higher risk of having those said problem as high as 50-150 percent. In fact, if the BMI is more than 25, the chance of developing complication is raised by 10 to 15 percent.

“Underweight” classification is again subdivided into “severe,” “moderate,” and “mild” subclasses.

WORKOUT TO BOOST METABOLISM

2008-01-13T18:09:00.000+05:30

Sometimes we are in a dilemma that whether it is necessary to go for workout to boost metabolism. When we are doing exercises and gradually increasing the level, the process compels our body to adopt higher stages of athleticism and there is increased demand in energy requirement and expenditure. At higher levels of physical fitness, the process of metabolism is extensive. The calorie expenditure definitely increases beyond the resting rate when we do the workouts. The amount of this increase is dependent upon the duration and the toughness of the exercise.

Now, the idea is whether this increase level of metabolism remains even after the finishing the exercise. In other words, does our energy outflow remain elevated above the Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) for a longer period after we stop doing the exercise, and if it is correct, does it contribute significantly to our total energy expenditure on the day we exercise.

Scientists have clearly proved that energy expenditure does not come back to pre exercise resting baselines straight away following exercise. The magnitude of this post exercise elevation of energy expenditure depends chiefly on how hard is your workout and to a lesser amount the duration of the same.

Sluggish metabolism is primarily dependent to our genes. It gets worse if a person with sluggish metabolism is lazy and does not go for any sort of physical activity on an accepted basis.

Let us have some basic idea, how does workout boosts metabolism. Blood carries all the vitamins, nutrients and oxygen in our body after assimilation by the digestive system. Every cell of blood has mitochondrion (an organelle- where the action of metabolism occurs). When we do exercise, the oxygen and energy stored in the mitochondria is becomes used up and it is expressed as heat and extra amount of energy that is required to continue the levels of workout. Then the mitochondrion triggers some action to generate more energy from different available sources. This is the stage when the process of metabolism is increased. Even when we finish the workout for time being, the process of increased metabolism continues until all the mitochondrion regains their pre exercise energy and oxygen level.

Exercise of the endurance and length usually carried out by recreational doers (e.g., evening time slow walking for 30 minutes or jogging at a speed of 10-15 minutes to cover a mile for 20-30 minutes) essentially results in a come back to baseline of energy expenditure well within the first hour after completion. The idea of workout to boost metabolism of this type of exercises probably accepted for only about 20-40 additional calories burnt further than the exercise requires itself. In bodybuilders and athletes who perform high strength, longer duration exercises, the post-exercise energy expenditure usually remains elevated for prolonged period and contribute drastically towards the total amount of calorie expenditure. The standard person who does considerably less strenuous exercise will likely experience little meaningful contribution of this post-exercise bonus to their total daily calorie expenditure.

How does exercise help chronic fatigue?

2008-01-11T13:42:00.000+05:30

Chronic fatigue makes us feel distressed all the time. We do not feel like make lunch or dinner, washing clothes or even going to the departmental stores for some daily need stuff. All in all, chronic fatigue makes us feel like a vegetative animal.

Researchers have confirmed that regular workout can enhance our energy levels even the people are suffering from chronic debilitating medical diseases, which are associated with fatigue like amputation of body part, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and AIDS.

However, there is a paradox. It is seen that when people are tired, the last thing they would likely to do is exercise. Actually, if you are feeling sleepy when it is not the time and physically exhausted, being just a bit more active will help to gain your vigor.

Exercises are of two types- static (it is named as anaerobic or isometric exercise also) and dynamic (also referred as aerobic or isotonic exercise).

One cause for the increase in the vitality is that aerobic exercise makes our heart stronger and more proficient. A healthy cardiovascular system delivers about 25 percent more oxygen and nutrition per minute at rest and 50 percent more oxygen and nutrition during physical work than an unfit one does. In addition, stronger muscles give us the stamina to sail through the day with some energy to spare. Exercise can also makes the quality of our sleep better, so we feel more rejuvenated even after sleeping the same amount of time in bed.

Exercise helps in the formation of RBC as it facilitates releasing of some hormones. More RBC means there is more oxygen and nutrition available to be delivered in the tissues to help fighting chronic fatigue.

Here are some tips what you can follow-

Spend more time in-

a) Doing extra amount of activities around house and garden. Just spend half an hour more than your usual routine.

b) Avoid using cars or bikes for going to nearest destinations like markets, departmental stores etc. Try to walk if it is nearer or use bicycle instead.

c) Employ yourself in some of your hobbies that requires extra effort like frequent sitting ups.

d) Take part in more activities in family and social gathering.

e) Preparing foods form natural ingredients helps to boost energy. Also, it will require extra amount of working.

f) Take the pet for regular walks in the morning and evening.

g) If you are watching television, a static bicycle exercise can still be done.

h) If you have to be on a night out, try some dancing in a disco.

Raw food to combat aging

2008-01-09T22:03:00.000+05:30

Our mind is continuously thinking that what, how and where to eat? Modern advertising campaigns are directing us towards the same fate. It can be easily told that a bulk of this food is unhealthy but as the taste is so good, we can’t but have to go for them. What is sure to eventually happen is a downward curve of your physical health if you continue with your diet habit.
Researchers have found out that good food encourages maintaining a strong and energetic body. Now-a-days, it is becoming obvious that many of the diseases, which are connected to aging, are the outcome of poor diet. Eating a diet which includes raw vegetables and fruit would lower the risk of most of these said diseases. It is also fact that we often fail to notice as refined sugar and starches are the preferred food of the modern societies. A diet rich in raw food everyday will cleanse your body and start to normalize your body fat levels. By spending less energy on digestion, your body can detoxify properly and had enough time repairing damaged cells.
The most significant of the anti aging foods are the ones that are high in antioxidants. Free radicals are causing damage to our health always being produced as a result of metabolism. So, antioxidants are essential to remove the free radicals from the body before the elements can damage the body cells. You should eat as much raw plant life as possible, especially raw fruits, vegetables and whole grains which contain plenty of antioxidants. Eating raw nuts will inject unheated vegetable oil to your body, which supplies lots of enzymes and antioxidants.
Eating 100 percent whole grains should be your focus because the body converts the sugar in these carbohydrates sources at a slow rate. The fiber from these grains can help you to eliminate toxic wastes from the body quickly and the grains themselves are full of antioxidants much needed by the body.
This is the type of diet consumed by our ancient ancestors, who stayed youthful and hard working into their senior years.
Health food experts have claimed for decades about the advantage of a diet rich in whole grains and the evidence is now awesome. Whole grains are the best way to get your daily supply of complex carbohydrates. Protein should come from beans, pulses and seafood. Healthy food include olive oil and to a lesser extent other vegetable oils. Try to avoid fat from land animals.
Most people come to enjoy eating these wholesome foods. And they are able to enjoy good health longer into their old age. An anti aging would really go a long way toward feeling the way a person should as they grow older.

Beauty Routine

2007-12-23T00:58:00.000+05:30

· Shampoo your hair at least once in a week. Those who frequently travel should increase the rate.

· Use good quality shampoo.

· Rinse well with water after shampooing.

· Do not use plastic comb. Try to use wooden wide toothed comb.

· Do not wrap your hair tightly with your towel after shampooing. Gently dry it out.

· Your hair needs trimming in every three months.

· Use sunscreen lotion/ gel. Apply it over the exposed parts at least 30 minutes before going out.

· Before going to bed in the night, clean your face with a face wash that suits your skin type. Then wash with lukewarm water.

· Use superior quality cold cream, moisturizer in the winter season.

· Consult your doctor. According to his prescription, take multivitamins, Calcium tablets regularly.

· Use homemade musk and scrub at least once in a week.

Common problems arising during pregnancy, (include) polyhydraminos, swelling and edema, urinary-tract problems (infections)

2007-12-21T18:31:00.000+05:30

POLYHYDRAMNIOS

This is the excess of liquor amnii to cause abnormality in pregnancy or labor as detected clinically at any stage of pregnancy. Statistically, the excess means more than two liters of liquor amnii.

Incidence rate is about 05-1% according to various estimates.

Causes- the cause is still unknown. The liquor amnii is not static but is constantly changing to new production and absorption. The hydramnios possibly results from deficient absorption and/or excessive production of liquor amnii. A malformed fetus (with that of Central Nervous System) lacks behind in swallowing liquor and in antidiuretic hormone leading to excess of urination.

Clinical conditions commonly associated with polyhydramnios are-

1. Twin pregnancy especially monozygotic twins.

2. Certain fetal malformations- anencephaly(50%) cases, open spina bifida and atresia of the esophagus.

3. Diabetis mellitus. 20-30% cases develop polyhydramnios.

4. Hydrops fetalis due to Rh-isoimmunization.

5. Chorioangioma of placenta may be an associated factor.

As a rule, composition of liquor amnii in polyhydramnios does not differ from the normal cases.

Symptoms-

§ Undue enlargement of abdomen occurs with difficulty in walking.

§ Breathlessness, palpitation especially in the recumbent position and also coming on exertion.

§ Pain abdomen.

Signs-

§ Signs of pregnancy.

§ There may signs of Pre-ecclampsia. High BP, edema leg, proteinuria are commonly detected.

Investigation-

§ Ultrasonography is possibly the easiest and definitive investigation.

Treatment-

§ In early cases, expectant treatment is tried by bed rest, restriction of extra salt and drinks.

§ Amniocentesis- abdominal amniocentesis gives relief in maternal discomfort and tends to prolong pregnancy when fetal malformation is excluded in chronic or acute polyhydramnios.

SWELLING AND EDEMA

Edema is not uncommon during pregnancy because of accumulation of fluid in body tissues. Swelling of the feet, ankles and hands is most common. Face may also become puffy. The problem usually is worse at the end of the day and in warm weather. This is most common in the last three months.

It usually regresses after giving birth. If edema is so severe that it hampers mother’s daily work, restriction of fluid intake, salt restricted diet is prescribed.

URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Urinary tract infection is detection of significant amount of 100,000 colonies or more per ml. of on two occasions in bladder urine of pregnant women collected by midstream voiding. This is called Asymptomatic Bacteriuria (ASB).

About 25% of women with ASB complicates into Pyelonephritis.

Treatment is by third or fourth generation cephalosporin after urine culture and sensitivity.

Common problems arising during pregnancy, (include) dizzy spells and fainting, nausea and hypermesis gravidarum

2007-12-20T19:41:00.000+05:30

During pregnancy, one can feel a spell of dizziness or sense of fainting anytime during the day.

This is mainly because of iron deficiency.

Normally during pregnancy, hemoglobin level gets down. If is not corrected by adding iron preparation, the level further falls. As hemoglobin carries much needed oxygen, and its deficiency causes lack of oxygen in the brain, the person may feel dizziness.

Treatment is adequate rest, iron preparation.

Nausea and Hyperemesis gravidarum

Nausea is common in pregnancy. Especially in first time mothers. Morning time nausea is mostly seen (Morning sickness).

Increase level of the hormone estrogen and hCG is the main culprit of nausea. As the duration of pregnancy increases, feeling of nausea decreases.

Hyperemesis gravidarum

This is severe bouts of vomiting in pregnancy particularly during early period causing deleterious effect on mother’s health. Weight loss, dehydration, acidosis occur from starvation.

Incidence- 1 in 1000 pregnancies.

Causes- unknown. Factors considered responsible are- 1. Nurosis, 2. Hormonal flood of hCG and estrogen during early pregnancy triggers Vomiting center in the brain.

Symptoms-

First time mothers are more affected. Excess vomiting and retching day and night. Vomitus is initially watery, then billous, coffee ground. Nothing can be taken by mouth. Loss of weight. Markedly less output of urine (Oliguria). Infrequently mental symptoms like restlessness, lack of sleep, disinterest to everything (apathy), coma, confusion with loss of memory. Eye symptoms like- double vision, dimness of vision or even blindness.

Signs-

Patient is emaciated and dehydrated (loss of weight, shrunken eyes, dry tongue, increased pulse rate.

Blood pressure falls below 100 mm of Hg (Systolic).

Temperature rises above 100·4° F (38°C).

Jaundice seldom appears. Neurological signs may appear.

Investigations-

Urinalysis- Volume small, high colored, high specific gravity. Protein, bile pigment, acetone appear in the urine.

Urine Chloride falls or absent.

Blood- Hb% hematocrit rises, Serum SGOT & SGPT rise. Urea, Creatinine rise. Fall in Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Bicaarbonate.

Ophthalmoscopy- Papilledema, Retinal hemorrhage are serious lesions. ECG changes occur due to Potassium deficiency.

Diagnosis- Clinical.

Management-

Prevention- to treat early stage by antiemetics to prevent severe form with morbid changes.

Curative- 1. Isolation. Mild cases improves by changes in place only. Severe case is to hospitalized.

2. Diet- if patient can be able to intake food, in milder cases plenty of carbohydrate rich diet is advised.

But in severe cases nothing per mouth is advocated. Intravenous fluids in the form of 5% dextrose and Ringers lactate is prescribed to correct dehydration.

Among other drugs are Promethazine (Phenergan), Chlorpromazine (Thorazine). Injection of Vitamin B1 is also introduced.

Be careful of Noise Pollution

2007-12-09T12:13:00.000+05:30

Noise is defined as the wrong sound in the wrong place at the wrong time. Noise was always been with us, since the days of Adam. But it never was so loud, so intense, so varied and so intolerable as it is now. Noise in the present day has become a grave environmental hazard. Noise of high frequency is very dangerous.

The noise in excess of 85 to 90 decibels can lead to hearing impairment. Indeed, repeated exposure to a headset-recorder played at maximum volume can lead to partial or total deafness.

This unwanted sound, “noise” is an atmospheric pollution resulted from increased industrialisation and technological advances. A soft sound stimulates the brain and a harsh, loud noise damages the hearing and impairs the brain function.

The main sources of noise are industrial and non-industrial type. The former includes transportation and on road vehicular movements; while the latter include noise due to hawkers, use of loud speakers, thunder, domestic appliances and many more.

So, stay away from excess noise and lead a peaceful life.

DANGERS OF CRASH DIETING

2007-12-06T16:23:00.000+05:30

DANGERS OF CRASH DIETING

Crash dieting has become a fashion to control obesity these days. Due to this, deprived of food means energy, the crash dieter loses concentrations the mind is focused on only to low calorie intake. In crash dieting, you lose sugar and protein and then get into hypoglycemia and protein deficiency. In the long run, starvation can actually lead to increase in the weight because of fluid retention caused by fluid deficiency. Total fat free diet is also not desirable, because the body has an instinctive reaction to protect fats, and what you lose is your muscle mass.

If for the whole life you go on putting weight, how can you expect it to shed in days? These short cut methods will cause weakness and lethargy. In addition, they may lead to hair loss, may lax tissue and the skin. The side effects of this dieting, researchers say, could damage liver and kidney as well. There is no magic wand to reduce obesity in days. It has to be worked out with controlled diet and moderate exercise. And it will take a longer time.

Anemia, Bleeding, Breast problem, Constipation during Pregnancy

2007-11-30T10:42:00.000+05:30

Anemia in pregnancy: -

World Health Organization(WHO) in 1972 decided that during pregnancy, if hemoglobin level in blood comes below 11 gm%, the case will be diagnosed as Anemia in Pregnancy.

Factors of Haemopoiesis (formation of blood) –

a) Minerals- Iron, Copper, Cobalt.

b) Vitamins- Vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Vitamin C

c) Protein

d) Erythropoietin- a hormone.

Causes-

A. Physiological

Disproportionate increase in plasma volume during pregnancy leads to apparent reduction of RBC, hemoglobin and hematocrit level.

Lower limit of physiological anemia is RBC up to 3.2 million/ Cmm, normocytic and normochromic red cells and hemoglobin up to 10 gm%. Iron deficiency contributes to the fall in blood vessels. Therefore, there is need for prophylactic iron therapy, which can improve physiological anemia.

B. Acquired

a) Nutritional anemia

Iron deficiency anemia

Commonest cause.

Nutritional Microcytic anemia

Due deficiency in Folic Acid and/or folic acid.

Dimorphic anemia

Protein deficiency anemia

Symptoms of Nutritional anemia- commonly asymptomatic. Fatigue, asthenia, exertional dyspnea sometimes occur. In severe cases, loss of appetite, diarrhea, breathlessness, palpitation on exertion, swelling of face and feet.

Signs- pallor, slight glossitis. In severe cases- marked pallor can be seen on palpebral conjunctiva, tongue, skin. Slight edema of feet or anasarca. Marked glossitis, cardiac dilatation, hemic murmur at heart. Heart failure.

Management

Oral iron. Prophylaxis 60mg. of elemental iron a day taken with meal after first three months of pregnancy. Addition of 500μg of Folic acid a day helps in prevention of folic acid deficiency as well.

Fresh green vegetables, fruits, egg, meat, liver should be taken.

Bleeding in pregnancy: -

In early pregnancy

Spotting.

The main cause for bleeding per vagina is Threatened abortion. It is the type of abortion without passage of tissue but possibility of continuation of pregnancy.

Symptoms- amenorrhea, scanty bright red bleeding or blood stained discharge, no abdominal pain, no history of expulsion of a fleshy lump PV.

Signs- pregnancy breast sign present. Gravid uterus is palpable. Cervical os is closed. Stained discharge is present.

Diagnosis- Pelvic Ultrasound, MRI

Treatment- Complete bed rest. Sterile pad is to be used. If any lump is discharged, one should promptly report to doctor.

Other conditions of bleeding PV are abortion, ectopic pregnancy, hydatidiform mole.

In late pregnancy

The main causes are Placenta previa, Abruptio placente,

In both the cases, position of placenta is much lower than the original site. In very low lying placenta, severe bleeding occurs.

Treatment- Complete bed rest.

Breast problem

Discharge from the nipple is a common sign and in pregnant woman is also less worrisome but it should be evaluated by a doctor. Pain on the breasts is a very common and nonspecific problem in both pregnant. During pregnancy, the breasts enlarge; they become heavier and the blood supply increases. This makes it harder to feel lumps and makes it very important that a woman have a good breast exam early in pregnancy.

Constipation

This is mainly due to the hormone progesterone, which reduces the movement of food through the digestive tract. The problem may further be increased later in pregnancy by the pressure of the growing uterus over the rectum. Iron supplements can make constipation worse.

Eat fiber rich foods such as cereals, whole-grain breads, and fresh fruits and vegetables every day. Add a couple of tablespoons of unprocessed wheat bran to your cereal in the morning and follow it with a glass of water.

Take plenty of water.

SEX, FERTILITY AND CONCEPTION

2007-11-21T23:53:00.000+05:30

“Safe period” is a method of temporary contraception. It is a part of Natural Family Planning (NFP).

Safe Period is also known as “Calendar Method” first described by Ogino in the year 1930. This method is based upon the fact that ovulation usually occurs from12 to 16 days before the onset of menstruation. Ovulation means the release of an egg, which can be fertilized by a sperm, from the ovary.

“Safe period” can be used both to achieve and to avoid or postpone pregnancy.

The days on which pregnancy (conception) may occur is calculated are-

One should know her shortest and longest days of menstrual cycle. The shortest cycle minus 18 days denotes the first day of fertile period. The longest cycle minus 10 days denotes the last day of the fertile period.

Say for an example, a woman’s cycle varies from 25 to 32 days. The fertile period during when she may get pregnant if intercourse is done without obtaining other contraceptive methods is 7th day to 22nd days of her regular menstrual cycle.

However, the cases where such type of calculation is not possible, the couple are advised to avoid intercourse from 8th to 22nd day of the menstrual cycle, counting from the first day of the menstrual period.

To avoid Pregnancy (DRAWBACKS)

“Safe Period” is not entirely safe. The drawbacks of “Safe Period” are-

· A woman’s menstrual cycles are not always regular. When the cycles are irregular, it is extremely difficult to predict the safe period.

· This method is acceptable and applicable only to the educated, responsible and dedicated couple. A high degree of motivation and cooperation is needed.

· Compulsory abstinence of sexual intercourse for nearly one half of every month-may be called “programmed sex”.

· “Safe sex” method is not applicable during the post-natal period when there is no menstruation.

· There is a high failure rate- about 9 per 100 woman-years.

The failures are due to wrong calculation, inability to calculate on her own, irregular use, lack of motivation and “taking chances”.

Tow medical complications are reported to result from the use of safe period; Ectopic pregnancies and embryonic abnormalities. Ectopic pregnancies may lead to conception late in the menstrual cycle and displacement of the ovum; embryonic abnormalities may result from conception involving either an over aged sperm or over aged ovum.

If this is correct, the safe period may not be an absolutely safe period.

To achieve pregnancy

· Abstain from sex on Day 1 of the cycle until you have the more-fertile mucus.

· Have sexual intercourse every other day up through Peak Day plus 2.

· Keep taking your morning temperature. A recording of increase of temperature of 21 days provides you with a 99% probability that you are pregnant.

· To estimate you due date, determine the first day of sustained thermal shift, subtract seven days, and add nine months.

2007-11-04T16:00:00.000+05:30

PREGNANCY WORKOUT

Would be mother must keep herself healthy and fit during pregnancy. The exercises mentioned below will make them fit both physically and mentally.

Value of exercises during Pregnancy

· Exercise reduces the tiredness you feel during pregnancy.

· Exercise strengthens muscles of the back, which are important to support the increased body weight.

· It reduces extra fat accumulation as mothers used to do less work during this time.

· Keeps posture in perfect position.

· Workout helps to reduce pregnancy induced stress and insomnia.

· Regularizes body to sustain during delivery period.

Primary Rules

· Take plenty of water during and after completion of exercise.

· Do not fold your legs completely during exercise.

· Avoid those exercises that give you jerks.

· Wear loose fitting garments during exercise.

· Put on comfortable snickers or walking shoes that gives your feet complete support.

· Do not overburden with exercise. If you don’t feel like someday, just skip it.

Workout Plan

· Ideal exercise during pregnancy is regular walking. It should be for 20-30 minutes, preferably in the morning. But if you do not have time in the morning, you can do it any preferable time.

· Pelvic floor exercise is very good during pregnancy. It helps the mother for normal delivery.

· You may consult your doctor or yoga teacher for demonstration of the exercises. Or you may consult websites.

· Whatever yoga you do, please do not forget to do freehand exercise.

Pregnancy Planning

2007-10-19T20:14:00.000+05:30

PREGNANCY PLANNING

This time I am sharing my views regarding Pregnancy Planning. This article is written keeping in mind the “would be parents”. This will include, when you suspect that you are pregnant, how to take care of the 9 months of pregnancy, about diet, whether intercourse is safe in pregnancy period.

HOW WILL YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE PREGNANT

§ You will miss your monthly period. However, stoppage of period is not the definite cause of pregnancy. There are hundred other causes.

§ Your nipple will be swollen, a bit softer and there may be a little bit of pain.

§ Tiredness, feeling sleepy.

§ Nausea- a sense of vomiting. It can occur in any time of the day. But more pronounced in the morning hours.

§ Distaste to specific food items, even its smell.

§ Craving for some other.

§ Fullness of lower abdomen and uneasiness.

§ Repeated sense of urination.

These symptoms are seen in most of the women. But it may vary from person to person.

CARE DURING FIRST TRIMESTER

The first three months is called “First Trimester”. Several changes occur to the mother during this period. This is the high time to change the life style of would be parents.

§ Quit smoking if anyone one you two are having this habit.

§ Consult your gynecologist within first nine weeks.

§ Try taking herbal tea instead of coffee. Avoid alcohol.

§ Do not take any medicine other than prescribed by medical personnel. Some medicines deleteriously affect the growth of fetus.

§ Can do some light exercise after consulting the doctor.

§ Go through the books & websites relating to pregnancy. You can start budgeting for the newcomer.

CARE DURING SECOND TRIMESTER

Second three months. The uneasiness of the first trimester gets reduced gradually. You will feel a lot better. In the last part of second semester, contour of your lower ab is increased. So that outsider can identify you as pregnant. Don’t worry, you’ll be assisted by most of them when you go for shopping or outside.

§ Would be mother gains weight. So you must be very careful to walk, sit, sleep.

§ Regular walking is a must.

§ Take plenty of water.

§ There is a tendency to swollen your legs. So you must keep adequate rest to your legs. Place a stool in front of you when you are sitting to keep your feet up.

§ Make advance booking to the hospital. You can consult your health insurance agent about how much will be covered by your insurance.

CARE DURING THIRD TRIMESTER

Final stage is third trimester. Fetus becomes 49 cms to 55 cms inside uterus.

§ Would be mothers feel more warmth because of the fetus. Don’t panic.

§ You may feel tired most of the day. So take ample rest. Lie down on your one of the comfortable sides. You may put some additional pillow in between your legs and back to give support.

§ Colostrums may dribble from the nipple. Again, don’t panic.

§ Pack your bag for hospital, so that you don’t have to rush in case of an emergency.

§ Just give up the thought about the sex of the children. Pray only for a healthy baby.

§ Have some mental preparation.

You should take adequate balanced diet after consulting your gynecologist all throughout the pregnancy period.

Take two doses of Tetanus Toxoid as per WHO guidelines.

INTERCOURSE DURING PREGNANCY PERIOD

Many couples are concerned abut what or not to have sex during pregnancy period. Just remember if otherwise okay, sex during pregnancy period is safe. Just remember the following lines: -

§ If you had a miscarriage earlier, consult you doctor regarding sex.

§ Posture should be of female partner’s choice.

§ Avoid oral sex.

§ If there is discharge from vagina, consult your doctor before having sex.

§ Female libido becomes lowered during pregnancy due to hormonal effect. She should not be pressurized for sex.

§ If female partner feels any kind of pain after sex or there is bleeding from vagina, you must consult your doctor immediately.

Rani Mukherjee getting married?

2007-10-17T13:02:00.001+05:30

According to a website and some news channels, Bollywood queen RANI MUKHERJEE is getting married to her beau ADITYA CHOPRA on 10th. February, 2008.
Marriage ceremony will take place at Umed Bhawan, Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Though RANI is still denying the news, saying that it's a rumor.
But this time her voice is not so strong as we saw in the aftermath of shooting of "LAAGA CHUNRI ME DAAG" at BANARAS.
It is also heard that PRITI ZINTA, who is a good friend friend of RANI, has seen the Umed Bhawan on behalf of RANI. And she okayed it.
Let's see, how and when RANI accepts this news.

STRESS MANAGEMENT

2007-10-17T11:40:00.000+05:30

STRESS MANAGEMENT

What is Stress?

Stress is the outcome of Mental, Physical or Emotional strain or tension. Tension can be due to many reasons- meeting deadlines whether in office or home, other social responsibilities, physical illness etc. etc. All in all life is getting very difficult day by day. Still you can’t escape. You have to meet all these demands-with a beautiful smile. And why not? Life is full of ups and downs. All you need is adequate planning, time management and proper lifestyle.

Management of Stress

· Set alarm in the morning. Walk for a while in the terrace of rooftop. Free air & sunlight in the morning increases the mood stabilizing hormone – Serotonin.

· Have your breakfast taking time even if you are in a hurry. It helps to keep the metabolism process in good shape. Your concentration and energy level will be high.

· Work pressure increases as the day goes on. Remember, you have only 24 hours in a day to complete your all works. Nevertheless, do not compromise your own needs.

· Do not work in your office continuously. Whenever you feel like a break, just hang around for a few minutes. This increases the secretion of “Feel-good” hormone- Endorphin.

· Learn to say “NO”.

· Generally your energy and concentration level remain high in the pre-lunch session. So while on work, after having lunch, do some breathing exercise. Inhale deeply. Hold it for three seconds. Then exhale slowly. Repeat it for five times.

· After returning home, take a warm shower. Take cup of tea or coffee as per your choice. May be a little walking will refresh your mind.

· Do not spoil your sleep dream thinking of tomorrow’s work. To get rid of stress, watch a comedy film or serial in the television. You can listen to music of your choice. But it should not be noisy. Have a chat with your entire family member.

· Have your dinner early. Then pay some time to enlist the job priority of tomorrow’s work. Then just forget about it. Give at lest one hour to unwind yourself.

ARE YOU STRESSED OUT?

· Do you take all the responsibilities of everybody inside home or away?

· Do you get angry easily?

· Have lost your sense of humor?

· Having a long list of “jobs to be done”?

· Making a big issue of nothing?

· Recently experienced some really bad events?

· Complaining about every time?

· Having the mentality of-“Only I am right”?

· Cannot cope up with the day-to-day activities?

If your answer is “yes” of at least five of the above, you are suffering from stress. You have to find a way out.

Smart Bomb

2007-10-12T16:41:00.000+05:30

Smart Bomb

“Smart bomb” is a “Dumb Bomb” with a BRAIN.

Therefore, first we need to get an idea about what is a “dumb bomb”!

Dumb bomb is a conventional bomb that comprises of any kind of explosive materials packed in a proper case with a fuse. When fuse goes off, it creates a chain reaction within the explosives resulting in explosion. The fuse is thus a triggering device-a timer. It can be of two types- an impact sensor or a target proximity sensor.

A dumb bomb- when dropped from an airplane goes down due to gravitational force. It has no steering capacity. The pilot has to be very precise reading the target and delivering the bomb in exact time. Otherwise, he may use dozens or hundreds of bombs to accomplish his mission (Cluster bombing). This of course may damage civilian personnel or even their fellow fighter (friendly fire).

A smart bomb is practically a “Dumb bomb” with some attachments to steer itself to the target. Therefore, it is having the following attachments: -

1) A system of sensors

2) An on board computer control system.

3) A set of adjustable flight fins with a power source.

When a plane releases a smart bomb, with its forward & downward velocity the on board mechanism steers it to the target. When the bomb is “in flight”, its sensor system and control system constantly monitors the target which was being fed to its “memory” before being released and guides itself. That is why, a smart bomb is also called “Guided bomb”. Unlike missiles, a “smart bomb” does not have any propulsion system.

The maneuvering ability works just like as airplane.

Smart bomb usually has a target proximity sensor. Just before thudding into the target, the fuse goes off and the explosive ignites.

Depending upon the “seeing capability” a smart bomb can be of different types.

1) Radio controlled;

2) Laser guided;

3) Radar or Infrared imaging technique;

4) Satellite guided;

5) Fusion technology.

pictures: -

TOP-1) this is a latest smart bomb using combined GPS/ IR and LASER guided technology (fusion technology)

(pic courtsey-wikipedia)

BOTTOM LEFT - 2) this bomb has optical sensor system.

BOTTOM RIGHT - 3) LASER guided smart bombs are being dropped from F15 fighter.

(pic courtsey- howstaffworks)