Health Benefits - Glucosamine

Glucosamine has so many other name li1ke,

1) Glucosamine sulfate
2) Glucosamine sulphate
3) Glucosamine hydrochloride
4) N-acetyl Glucosamine
5) Chitosamine

Glucosamine is a compound found naturally in the body, made from glucose and the amino acid glutamine. Glucosamine is needed to produce glycosaminoglycan, a molecule used in the formation and repair of cartilage and other body tissues. Production of glucosamine slows with age.

Glucosamine is available as a nutritional supplement in health food stores and many drug stores.Glucosamine supplements are manufactured in a laboratory from chitin, a substance found in the shells of shrimp, crab, lobster, and other sea creatures. In additional to nutritional supplements, glucosamine is also used in sports drinks and in cosmetics.

Glucosamine is Good For :-

Glucosamine is also an excellent tool for elderly or obese people that experience joint pain. The elderly can enjoy the joint rejuvenating effects of glucosamine and can help them move around better without addictive pain killers. Overweight people often have joint problems, especially in the knees that can be helped greatly with glucosamine.

Osteoporosis-Osteoporosis Treatments & Causes

Osteoporosis means porous bones.

Osteoporosis, is sometimes thought of as a disease that only affects elderly ladies, this is not true, it can start to affect people at a very early age, it also affects approximately 20% of men in quite a serious manner.It is a disease in which there is a loss of bone mass and destruction of bone tissue.Osteoporosis has no obvious symptoms and it is often called the "silent thief" because you do not feel anything, it just steals your bone strength without you knowing about it.

In the Greek it translates as "passages through bones."

Osteoporosis is a silent disease in that there is no physical sensation associated with it.Some people experience back, neck, or joint pain with fractures, but most do not.

What Causes Osteoporosis?
If someone in your family has or had osteoporosis,you're more at risk.
White and Asian people are more likely to be affected by osteoporosis than black or Hispanic people, but this does not mean that black or Hispanic people are not at risk.
Estrogen protects bones, so if you have low estrogen levels, you're more at risk for developing osteoporosis.Menopause causes a fast decrease in estrogen levels, which is why if you're a post-menopausal woman, you need to be especially vigilant about your bone health. Women may lose bone at a rate of 4 to 8% per year for several years after their ovaries stop producing estrogen.Also, if you've had your ovaries removed, your osteoporosis risk increases because the ovaries produce a lot of your estrogen.As a post-menopausal woman or a woman who's had her ovaries removed, you should look into estrogen therapy to increase your hormone levels.Even if you're a young woman now, years from menopause, you should be thinking about your estrogen levels. Irregular periods can indicate low estrogen levels—and serve as an early warning to take care of your bones. Irregular periods may also result from over-exercising or under-eating, both of which can increase bone loss.Men also have estrogen, but for them, it's the testosterone that protects the bones. If they have low levels of sex hormones, they're more at risk.f you've broken bones in the past, you could be more at risk for osteoporosis because the broken bone(s) probably lowered your bone mineral densiry (BMD).Petite and small boned women (under 130 pounds) have less bone mass to begin with, so they need to be particularly vigilant about their bone health.
Osteoporosis Treatments :-
If you have osteoporosis you need to be careful of vigorous, high-impact exercise. However, leading an active lifestyle will improve balance, coordination and develop muscle strength. All these can reduce the risk of falling and fracturing a bone. Beneficial exercise includes swimming, gardening, walking, golf and Tai Chi.Eating a diet rich in calcium is important for maintaining healthy bones. Good sources of calcium include milk and dairy products, such as hard cheese and yogurt, dried apricots or figs and some green leafy vegetables such as watercress and curly kale.
Your body also needs vitamin D to absorb calcium properly.Vitamin D is found in certain foods, including cod liver oil, oily fish such as sardines and herrings, margarine and egg yolks. It's also made by your skin when you're in the sunlight. The National Osteoporosis Society recommends about 20 minutes of sun exposure to the face and arms, every day during the summer, to provide you with enough vitamin D for the year. However, to reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, you should cover your skin between 11am and 3pm, and don't allow your skin to burn.

You should try not to drink fizzy drinks or have too much caffeine, salt or animal protein, as these can affect the balance of calcium in your body. Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables can help to cancel out the effects of too much protein in your diet.

Sore Throats,Sore Throats Causes and Treatments

What causes sore throats?
Sore throats can be caused by many things. Viruses (like those that cause colds) can lead to a sore throat.Bacteria can also cause a sore throat, as can smoking, breathing polluted air, drinking alcohol, and hay fever and other allergies.

What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis means swelling of the tonsils (at the back of your mouth on each side of your throat). It can cause a sore throat and other symptoms. Signs of strep throat and tonsillitis are often alike (see the box below). Tonsillitis is usually caused by bacteria, though sometimes a virus may be involved.
Symptoms of tonsillitis or strep throat :-

(1) Sore throat (2) Fever (3) Headache (4) Vomitin (5) White patches in your throat or on your tonsils (6) Pain when you swallow (7) Swollen, red tonsils (8) Sore glands in your jaw and throat
If I have tonsillitis, will I need a tonsillectomy?
Tonsillectomy is a surgery used to remove tonsils.Most people who have tonsillitis don't need a tonsillectomy. You might need a tonsillectomy if you get severe tonsillitis a lot or if your tonsils are too large and cause problems with your breathing. Your doctor can tell you if a tonsillectomy is needed.

What is strep throat?
Strep throat is caused by a type of bacteria called Streptococcus.The pain of strep throat often feels much like sore throats caused by other bacteria or by viruses.What's important and different about strep throat is that if it isn't treated it can sometimes result in rheumatic fever, which can damage the valves of the heart.

What is mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis (mono) is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. One of the main signs of mono is a sore throat that may last for 1 to 4 weeks. Other signs include swollen glands in your neck, armpits and groin, fever and chills, headache, and feeling tired.

What tests may be used to find the cause of my sore throat?
Your doctor may do a rapid strep test, a throat culture or both. A rapid strep test will give results fast--usually within about 15 minutes. But the test won't tell if your sore throat is caused by a bacterium other than Streptococcus or if it's caused by a virus. A throat culture takes longer--about 24 hours--but it's more accurate. If your doctor thinks you may have mono, he or she will probably do a blood test.

What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by bacteria?
If your sore throat is caused by Streptococcus, your family doctor will probably prescribe penicillin, taken by mouth for 10 days. Another antibiotic, called erythromycin, can be used if you're allergic to penicillin. If your sore throat is caused by a different bacteria, your doctor may prescribe another type of antibiotic.

What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by a virus?
Antibiotics don't work against viruses. Infections caused by viruses usually just have to run their course. Most symptoms caused by a cold-type virus go away in a week to 10 days.
Symptoms caused by mono can last for 4 weeks or more. If you have mono, your doctor will probably suggest that you get plenty of rest and that you not exercise too hard.

What about a sore throat that's caused by allergies?
If a sore throat is a symptom of hay fever or another allergy, your doctor can help you figure out how to avoid the things that trigger your allergies. Or you may need to take medicine for your allergies.

How can I avoid catching or passing a sore throat?
The best ways to avoid catching or passing the viruses and bacteria that can lead to a sore throat are to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your eyes or mouth, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

(1) Easing the pain of a sore throat (2) Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen. (3) Gargle with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per glass of water). (4) Suck on throat lozenges or hard candy. (5) Suck on flavored frozen desserts (such as Popsicles). (6) Use a humidifier in your bedroom or other rooms you spend lots of time in. (7) Drink lots of liquids.

Stomach Acidity Symptoms-Causes-Home Remedies

Acidity refers to a set of symptoms caused by an inequity. More names for acidity are hyper acidity or acid dyspepsia. Acid reflux or Acidity is one of the most normal diseases that cause heart burns in the upper body.Acidity can be a result of inappropriate dietary regimen or stress.It is a problem which when left unattended to, results in peptic ulcer and other complications.It is quite a simple problem when it begins, but it can get out of hand easily if not taken critically.It means the excess secretion of acid by the gastric glands of the stomach.

The usual signs of heartburn are a burning sensation or pain in the stomach after one to four hours of a meal. The too much secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach causes acidity. Acidity can be a result of improper dietary regimen or stress.The too much secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach causes acidity. Some causes of acidity include Alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, chocolate, citrus, tomato, peppermint, fried and fatty foods, over-eating, stress, some medications, and being overweight.
Acid Reflux Disease causes harms to the esophagus as the acidic contents from the stomach, containing acids and pepsin, pushes back to the esophagus since the sphincter develops into weak and can no-more prevent the contents from stomach from gushing back in esophagus.Skipping meals, not eating on time, fried and spicy food, stress, anxiety, insomnia, obesity, pregnancy, smoking, alcohol, and wearing tight clothes can give you hyper acidity and heartburn.
Acidity is a problem that occurs very commonly; so going in for medications every time doesn't seem to be a very good thought. Some herbal remedies are very effective in the treatment and Preventation of Acidity.

Symptoms of Acidity :-

The main symptoms of acidity are,

(1) Dyspepsia and heartburn

(2) Discomfort, burning sensation in the upper part of the gut area, especially after eating.

(3) Regurgitation of the gastric contents

(4) Loss of appetite

(5) Nausea,vomiting

(6) Feeling of Sickness

(7) Flatulence accompanied by burping

(8) Constipation

Causes of Acidity :-

Acidity may be caused by many conditions such as :-

(1) Medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, stomach ulcers.

(2) Hyperthyroidism - excessive secretion of the thyroid gland.

(3) Anxiety, anger and stress.

(4) Constipation, flatulence or intestinal gases.

(5) Artificial stimulants or the thought of nearing the food time can create acidity.

(6) Excessive intake of stimulants like tea, coffee etc.

(7) Excessive intake of fried foods, spicy or pungent food.

(8) As a side-effect of some drugs used for treating other illnesses.

(9) Overeating along with bad food combination. Overeating puts extra load on the stomach, liver, kidneys.

(10) Eating too rapidly, therefore improper salivation of food.

(11) Excessive smoking, intake of alcohol.

(12) Tendency to eat and drink together.

(13) Insomnia.

(14) Lack of exercise.

(15) Long gaps between meals leads to acidity, as it gives the acid in the stomach more time to act.

Home Remedies for Acidity :-

1) Eat a cup of vanilla ice cream or drink a glass of cold milk to get rid of acidity. This is an easy Home Remedy for Acidity.

2) Raita prepared with fresh curd, grated cucumber, fresh coriander, tomato is a sure shot remedy in aiding digestion, and helps eliminate acidity.

3) Mint: Fresh mint juice taken every day or fresh mint leaves boiled in a cup of water and sipped slowly after meals also helps to keep the stomach acids at bay.

4) Mint juice before meals keeps acidity at bay. This is another good Home Remedy for Acidity.

5) Chewing 5-6 basil leaves relieves flatulence and acidity.

6) Half a glass of fresh pineapple juice should be taken after a meal for treating and preventing acidity.

7) A piece of jaggery or gur after lunch and dinner prevents acidity.

8) A very simple remedy for acidity is thin butter-milk mixed with 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper powder.

9) One of the common Home Remedies for Acidity - Onion (pyaz): The juice of onions is an excellent remedy for acidity.

10) Habitual eating habits and a healthy diet can prevent acidity.

11) Drink plenty of water (at least 6 to 8 glasses per day) and other fluids to maintain the acid balance in the stomach.

12) A sherbet made with kokum and jeera gives relief from acidity.

13) Lemon rind can also be eaten to prevent heartburn.

14) A glass of cold milk provides instant relief. This is an effective Home Remedy for Acidity.

15) Eat almonds to give relief to symptoms of acidity.

16) Chew a few holy basil (tulsi ) leaves to get relief.

17) Bananas, watermelon and cucumber have protective action against the acidity and heart burn.

18) Lemon: Juice of one lemon mixed in half glass of water and ½ teaspoon sugar if consumed before meals helps to relieve acidity.

19) When suffering from acidity, drink five to eight glass of coconut water a day. This is another effective Home Remedy for Acidity.

Some Foods to Avoid for Heartburn :-

There are many foods that are commonly known to cause acid in the stomach and heartburn. These are citrus fruits, tomatoes, fatty foods such as pork chops, deep fried meat, or potatoes, aerated cold drinks, coffee, hot milk and so on. These are just some of the foods one should avoid for heartburn as consuming any of these in excess can cause acute discomfort.

However, not all the items named above react in the same way on everyone. People have different reactions to different stimulants and hence, one will need to carefully watch and identify which foods cause the greatest harm. Once you have a list, eliminate those foods from your diet to the extent possible. For example if you find that hot milk causes acute heartburn, then either stop having it altogether, or have it at room temperature or ice cold.
Similarly, with fatty foods - either totally stop having them or have a Tums right before or after the meal which will neutralize the excess acid formed in the stomach.

Aromatherapy-Alternative Medicine

Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine.

Aromatherapy means "treatment using scents".

It is a holistic treatment of caring for the body with pleasant smelling botanical oils such as rose, lemon, lavender and peppermint.The essential oils are added to the bath or massaged into the skin, inhaled directly or diffused to scent an entire room.Body, face and/or scalp massage treatments that induce relaxation and improve the circulation through the use of aromatic essential oils derived from plants, trees and flowers.The use of essential oils from aromatic plants to restore and enhance health and beauty. Essential oils used for therapeutic purposes.Aromatherapy is used for the relief of pain, care for the skin, alleviate tension and fatigue and invigorate the entire body.Essential oils can affect the mood, alleviate fatigue, reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Benefits of Aroma:-
Aromatherapy can treat the symptoms of diseases and conditions including migraines, depression, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, and muscle spasms.

(1) Heal wounds

(2) Improve skin tone

(3) Regulate hormones

(4) Relieve menstrual cramps

(5) Stimulate the immune system

(6) Decrease sinus & lung congestion

(7) Relieve tension headaches

(8) Energize

(9) Relax muscles

(10) Reduce inflammatio

(11) Improve sleep

(12) Kill fungal & bacterial infections

(13) Aid digestion

(14) Aid blood circulation

(15) Purification of Environment

(16) Spiritual Guidance

(17) Works with emotions

(18) Relaxation and stress relief.

(19) Mood enhancement, balance and well being

(20) Relief of minor discomforts

(21) Boosting the immune, respiratory and circulatory systems

(22) Aromatherapy is also Beneficial Essential Oils for Hair Loss.

(23) Essential oils are very effective in the treatment of stress and in the encouragement of relaxation.

(24) Scents of vanilla, orange blossom, rose, chamomile and lavender (and other floral fragrances) have a noticeable calming effect on the way you feel.

(25) Scents of lavender, sandalwood and nutmeg help you shrug off the ill-effects of stress.

(26) Aromatherapy has a broad range of application in immune system support because virtually every essential oil in therapeutic use is active against one or more bacteria, and almost all of them stimulate production of white blood cells.

It has been found that people who use essential oils regularly have a high level of resistance to illness. They catch fewer colds and other diseases and recover quickly if they do.

(27) Soothing aromatherapy baths and massages can help to easy muscle and joint pain.

(28) Choose one or more of the following essential oils to add to bath water or massage oil:basil, black pepper, elemi, eucalyptus, myrrh, peppermint, and pine.

(29) Add juniper oil or rosemary oil to bath water. Take a half-hour bath, then rest in bed for an hour to ease pain and calm the system.

(30) Massage painful areas with juniper oil.

Common Cold Causes-Symptoms & Treatments for Common Cold

What is the common cold?

The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper airways including the nose, voice box, throat, windpipes and the lungs.There are more than two hundred viruses that can cause colds and are commonly known as rhino viruses or the nose viruses.These viruses cause inflammation or swelling of the mucous membrane lining the airways.The symptoms of common cold include sneezing, a scratchy throat, a stuffy nose, coughing, etc.

What are the causes?
The cold virus is spread via air particles that are expelled while coughing or sneezing. It also spreads when someone with a cold rubs his eyes or nose and then touches an object such as a doorknob, towel, bed linen and other such commonly used articles.Colds are very contagious. The viruses are airborne and are transmitted when one sneezes or touches infected objects. Anyone can get a cold. Children are more likely to get a cold than adults because they are not immune to certain viruses that cause the cold.

What are the symptoms?
Symptoms generally show up about two days after a person becomes infected. Early signs of a cold are a sore, scratchy throat, sneezing, and a runny nose.Other symptoms that may occur later are :-

(1) Headache
(2) Stuffy or runny nose
(3) Watering eyes
(4) Chills
(5) Weakness
(6) Cough and congestion
(7) Sore throat
(8) Fever and muscle ache.

The symptoms generally last for 2 to 7 days and in some cases may last for weeks.

What is the diagnosis?
There is no specific test to diagnose common cold.The diagnosis is based on the symptoms reported and the physical examination made by the doctor.

What is the treatment?
There is no cure for the common cold but managing symptoms is the best that can be done for the cold, as there is no specific treatment. Antibiotics will not cure colds, as they are caused by viruses and not bacteria. A person with a cold should drink plenty of fluids and take rest. Cold remedies are almost as common as the common cold, and many are nearly as ancient. Some cold remedies include:-

(1) Water and other fluids - drinking plenty of liquids can help. Water, juice, clear broth or warm lemon water with honey helps loosen congestion and prevents dehydration. Avoid alcohol, coffee and caffeinated sodas, which make dehydration worse.

(2) Salt water - a saltwater gargle — 1/2 teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water — can temporarily relieve a sore or scratchy throat.

(3) Saline nasal sprays - over-the-counter saline nasal sprays combat stuffiness and congestion. Unlike nasal decongestants, saline sprays don't lead to a rebound effect — a worsening of symptoms when the medication is discontinued — and most are safe and nonirritating, even for children.

(4) Soup - scientists have found that soup does seem to help relieve cold and flu symptoms in two ways. First, it acts as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting the movement of neutrophils — immune system cells that participate in the body's inflammatory response. Second, it temporarily speeds up the movement of mucus through the nose, helping relieve congestion and limiting the amount of time viruses are in contact with the nose lining.

(5) Over-the-counter cold medications - nonprescription decongestants and pain relievers offer some symptom relief, but they won't prevent a cold or shorten its duration, and most have some side effects. If used for more than a few days, they can actually make symptoms worse. Keep in mind that acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage or liver failure if taken in high doses.

(6) Humidity - cold viruses thrive in dry conditions — another reason why colds are more common in winter. Parched air also dries the mucous membranes, causing a stuffy nose and scratchy throat. A humidifier can add moisture to your home.

Acupuncture-Body Points,Treatment & Health Benefits

Acupuncture is based on the theory of yin and yang,which are not absolute but relative.

Yin and yang are the opposites that make the whole.Yin is conceptualized as being cold, dark and female.Yang is warm, light and male.Neither of them can exist in isolation.These two opposites are not stationary,but in constant motion.The interaction of yin and yang produces "Qi", the bipolar energy.Life is possible only because of the interplay between these forces.The body, mind and emotions are all subject to the influences of yin and yang.Each organ has an element of yin and yang within it.The histological structures and nutrients are yin, and the functional activities are yang.Some organs are predominantly yang in their functions, such as the liver, while others are predominantly yin, such as the kidney.Even though one organ may be predominantly yin (or yang) in nature, the balance of yin and yang is maintained in the whole healthy body because the sum total of the yin and yang will be in a balance.Historically, acupuncture body points were believed to be the holes that allow entry into channels.These holes provide us gateways to influence, redirect, increase, or decrease body's vital substance,Qi, thus correcting many of the imbalances.
The efficacy of acupuncture, especially for relieving pain, has been proved beyond doubt and is no longer a question today. According to the Gate Control Theory , pain signals pass through a number of high-traffic 'gates' in the spinal chord, as they move from the area of injury upward into the brain. Like a road or highway, these nerves can handle only a limited number of nerve signals at a particular time. Under normal circumstances, this gate is wide open and pain impulses get through very easily. But when acupuncture needling is carried out, another stream of non- painful impulse flow towards the spinal chord. This causes overcrowding at the gates, resulting in jamming. This competitive inhibition of pain impulses leads to an analgesic effect and no pain is felt at the level of brain.
Chemical or humoral mechanisms are also involved in relieving pain.These substances, called endorphins, are present in the brain, spinal chord and the intestines.The pituitary responds to acupuncture by releasing this painkiller, into the blood and cerebro-spinal fluid. This indirectly decreases the pain by reducing the firing rate of the pain impulses by the nerves at a distance.This phenomenon is described as pre-synaptic inhibition.
The electrical theory of acupuncture states that acupuncture works by influencing the electromagnetic field in the body. This electrical field influences the growth, maturation, and functioning of some types of cells. The body also continually generates tiny, but detectable electrical discharges. Studies have shown that there is a correlation between the electromagnetic fields in the body and the channels or meridians. Acupuncture points, which lie along the meridians, when stimulated, alter the amount of neurotransmitters, leading to an altered sensation of pain.
The important effects produced by acupuncture are analgesic, sedative, homeostatic or regulatory (an effect important for the body to adjust itself to the external environment), immune- enhancing, tranquilizing __apart from mere sedation, and motor recovery in paralytic patients.Apart from controlling pain, acupuncture can treat a wide variety of common and uncommon disorders.It has been shown to improve the circulation of blood, decrease high blood pressure, stabilize the rhythm and stroke volume of the heart, control the secretion of the gastric acid, increase the production of red and white cells.
It also stimulates the release of a variety of hormones that help body to respond to injury and stress.

The following is a list of disorders that can be treated by acupuncture: -

Respiratory :- Acute Sinusitis, Acute rhinitis, Common cold, Acute tonsillitis, Acute bronchitis, Bronchial asthma.

Eye :- Acute conjunctivitis, short sightedness (in children), Cataract (without complications).
Mouth :- Toothache, post extraction pain, Gingivitis (gum disease), Acute and chronic pharyngitis.
Gastrointestinal Disorders :- Hiccups,Gastritis, Gastric Hyperacidity, Ulcers, Colitis,Constipation,Diarrhea, and Paralytic ileus.
Neurological and Musculoskeletal Disorders :- Headache and migraine, Trigeminal neuralgia, Paralysis following stroke, Meniere's disease, Neurogenic bladder dysfunction, Nocturnal enuresis (bed wetting), Intercostal neuralgia (pain in the ribs), Cervicobrachial syndrome (pain radiating from neck to arm), "Frozen shoulder" or "tennis elbow", Sciatica, Low back pain and Osteoarthritis.

Acupuncture is used frequently for the treatment of chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, headache, athletic injuries, and post traumatic and post surgical pain.It is also used for treating chronic pain associated with immune function dysfunction, such as psoriasis (skin disorders), allergies, and asthma.Acupuncture is also found to be effective for the treatment of mind-body disorders such as anxiety, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, hypertension, insomnia, menopausal symptoms, and depression.Acupuncture has become popular throughout the world in the past few decades. It is now recognized as a simple, safe, effective and economical form of therapy, besides being free from side effects.It has not only been used as an anaesthetic agent, but also in many diseases that are resistant to conventional forms of therapy.Some modern application of acupuncture is in the treatment of disorders such as alcoholism, addiction, smoking, and eating disorders.

Dental Care – Tooth Decay Disease

Soon after brushing your teeth, a thin, sticky layer forms on the surface of all your teeth. This layer contains many bacteria and is called plaque.When you eat anything sugary, the bacteria in plaque turn the sugar into the energy they need, producing acid at the same time.The acid softens and dissolves the hard surface covering the tooth (enamel) to slowly produce a cavity (demineralisation). This is called tooth decay or "caries".Enamel doesn't contain any nerves so you won't feel any pain at first. Eventually a cavity may reach the dentine - the white substance underneath the enamel that forms the bulk of a tooth.Dentine is sensitive to pain so you will feel advanced cavities,especially when eating or drinking hot, sugary or acidic things.

Saliva helps to wash away and neutralize the acid. It also contains minerals to replace those lost from the enamel during acid attack.Demineralization and re mineralization are repeated every time we eat or drink something sugary. It's an ongoing battle between the acid and our saliva. If sugary food or drinks are consumed too often, the saliva doesn't get long enough to fully re mineralise the teeth, making tooth decay more likely.

Gum Disease :-
Gum disease is very common, affecting most adults in the UK to some degree.When plaque remains on the teeth for too long, it collects near your gums and turns into a hard substance called tartar (or calculus). Tartar, and plaque, causes your gums to become irritated, red and swollen. This is the early stage of gum disease and is called gingivitis.The most common sign of gingivitis is your gums may bleed when you brush them.This should be a sign you need to clean you teeth more thoroughly rather than less.If gingivitis isn't treated, the tissue and bone supporting the teeth is gradually lost. This is called periodontal disease. After a long time teeth affected by periodontal disease can become wobbly, and may eventually fall out. To prevent gum disease you need to regularly brush your teeth and clean between your teeth with floss or inter dental brushes. This reduces the build up of plaque and tartar.

Dental Erosion :-
Dental erosion is the loss of the enamel, caused by acid attacking the surface of your teeth. This time the acids aren't from bacteria. Instead, they usually come from drinks such as fruit juices, fizzy drinks and squashes - even fizzy water.These drinks are so popular that nearly half of the children in the UK have some dental erosion by the age of six.Dental erosion is irreversible and can result in sensitivity and pain if the dentine becomes exposed. This also makes tooth decay more likely, and it can be unsightly as eroded areas of teeth are darker.Erosion can be prevented by drinking acidic drinks less often, and only at meal times. You may be able to reduce the amount of contact your teeth have with acidic liquids by drinking through a straw.

How to look up after your teeth :-
Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.This means cleaning your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, visiting the dentist and hygienist regularly and controlling how often you consume sugar.

Brush Your Teeth :-
Brushing is the most effective way of removing plaque.Here are some tips for getting the most benefit out of toothbrush :-

brush at least twice a day.
use fluoride toothpaste to protect against.
decay use a toothbrush with a small head and soft or medium synthetic bristles.
start at one side of your mouth and move round to the other side.
brushing all the tooth surfaces thoroughly pay particular attention to the gum line,angling the bristles into the crevices where the gum meet the teeth replace your toothbrush at least every three months.Some people prefer an electric toothbrush. There is some evidence that certain types of electric toothbrush are more efficient at removing plaque than brushing by hand. However, the thoroughness of the cleaning is much more important than what type of brush you use. You must clean every surface of every tooth and a small toothbrush, whether electric or not, will help.

Clean between your teeth :-
Dental floss or inter dental brushes remove plaque and particles of food from between the teeth and under the gum line,These are areas that a toothbrush can’t reach.Correct technique is important,so ask for advice from your dentist or hygienist.You may find inter dental brushes easier and more convenient then floss.

Consider mouthwash :-
Fluoride mouthwashes can help to prevent tooth decay.Some antiseptic mouthwashes reduce the number of plaque bacteria and help prevent gum disease.If you are regularly using mouthwash to freshen your breath,talk to your dentist for advice,as this may be sign of poor oral hygiene.Always read the instructions on the box or bottle.

Chew gum:-
Chewing sugar-free gum after meal stimulated the production of saliva,which helps to neutralize plaque acid.Some chewing gum contain a sugar-free sweeter called xylitol,which suppresses certain types of plaque bacteria.

Control sugar in your diet :-
Sugary foods and drinks encourage tooth decay.But it’s how often these sugars are eaten-rather than the amount-that is important.Avoiding sugars meals gives your teeth a chance to be remineralised by saliva.Limiting sugar between mealtimes is particularly important for children.Children who eat sweets or drink sugary juice over a long period are more likely to develop tooth decay.Its also good for your general health to reduce your sugar intake.Do not frequently ear acidic food or drink,like fizzy drinks or citrus fruit juice,as these also encourage tooth decay and erosion.

Alcohol and tobacco :-
Drinking alcohol and smoking or chewing tobacco is associated with an increased risk of developing mouth cancer.Smoking also stains the teeth and increases the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.Alcoholic drinks,and the mixers used with them,often contain lots of sugar,and also increase the risk of tooth decay.

Visiting the dentist and hygienist :-
Dentists and hygienists play an important role in preventing problems such as tooth decay,gum disease and erosion.At check-ups,they will be able to detect any problems early,and provide advice and treatment.

Dentists :-
Your dentist will give your advice about how often you should have a check-up.For adults,this should be at least once a year.Children,and adults who are at high risk of developing dental disease,need to see a dentist more often.You may be at high risk if you smoke,have a diet high in sugar,or have had lots of dental treatment in the past.

Hygienists:-
Even through brushing and flossing can’t remove every trace of plaque.Most of People have irregularities in their teeth where plaque can accumulate out of reach of brushing and harden into tartar.This can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist using a special scaling instrument.Polishing,using a rotating brush and abrasive paste,removes stains from teeth.

Rapid Weight Loss Tips

(1) Fruits and Green Vegetables are low calorie foods, so over weight persons should use these more frequently.

(2) One should avoid intake of too much salt.Salt may be a factor for increasing the body weight.

(3) Milk products like cheese, butter should be avoided because these are rich in fat.Meat and non-vegetarian foods should also be avoided.

(4) Spices like dry ginger, cinnamon, black pepper etc. are good for loosing weight and can be used in a number of ways.

(5) Rice and potato which contain a lot of carbohydrates should be avoided among cereals wheat is good.

(6) Vegetables like bitter gourd (Karela), and bitter variety of drumstick are useful for loosing weight.

(7) Taking of honey is an excellent home remedy for obesity. It mobilizes the extra deposited fat in the body and puts it into circulation, which is utilized as energy for normal functions. One should start with small quantity of about 10 GMs. or a tablespoonful to be taken with hot water. It is good to take it in early morning. A teaspoonful of fresh lemon juice may also be added.
(8) Fasting on honey and lime juice is highly beneficial in the treatment of obesity without the loss of energy and appetite. In this mode of treatment, one teaspoonful of fresh honey should be mixed with a juice of half a lime in a glass of lukewarm water. It can be taken several times in a day at regular intervals.

(9) Cabbage is considered to be an effective remedy for loosing weight. This vegetable inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat. Hence, it is of great value in weight reduction. It can be taken raw or cooked.

(10) Exercise is an important part of weight reduction plan. It helps to use up calories stored in body as fat. In addition, it also relieves tension and tones up the muscles of the body. Walking is the best exercise to begin with and may be followed by running, swimming, rowing.

(11) Lime juice is excellent for weight reduction.Juice of a lime mixed in a glass of warm water and sweetened with honey should be taken every morning on an empty stomach.

(12) Measure the portions of your food every meal and make sure that the portions are small. For example one portion of rice should not be more than the quantity which can fit in your fist. Smaller meals at a regular interval of 4 to 5 hours will keep your metabolism high and prevent your body from converting the food you intake into fat. You must also include regular exercise in your daily routine to help enhance weight reduction.

(13) Mix equal quantity of honey, garlic and vinegar.It provides a double effect for weight reduction.

Health Improvement with Herbal Life

We can enjoy a natural and effective way of maintaining or improving your health with help of herbal life supplements and over the years,Herbal supplements have become hugely popular.Herbal Life is nothing but one of the very large, worldwide diet and Herbal Nutrition Company.

If we need to become a bit healthier, then you should also think about improving your diet and working out regularly.Another things is that we might want to take some herbalife vitamins or supplements to make sure that you are getting the right amount of nutrients.If you eat well and get a bit more exercise then you will be well on your way to making some improvements,no other quick and easy way of getting healthy.

Whenever need to purchase Herbal Nutrition Supplements,its very important to make the checks discussed with regards to quality and ingredients, as this will ensure that the vitamin you take is safe and of good quality.

You want to get good value on your supplements, and with the discount prices available online you can enjoy getting herbal supplements that are of high quality and at reduced prices.
Here its some common but very important checklists on purchasing of Herbal Supplements.

(1) For a Woman,if she is pregnant or breastfeeding,please do not take herbal supplements.

(2) Do not give Herbal Supplements to Children under 3 to 5 years of age.

(3) We Should not apply self-treatment methods to serious medical conditions with medicinal herbs.

(4) Always We should purchase herbal supplements that display an expiration date, as well as a lot or batch number.

(5) The herbal products should state which part of the plant was utilized, such as root, leaf, or blossom.

(6) Always check A Supplement Is FDA-Approved or not.

Winter Colds & Flu Prevention Tips

The average person gets two or three colds every year.And while a cold won’t kill you, it suppresses the immune system enough so that more serious problems can ensue.Colds are passed on in two ways; by inhaling the cold virus from someone who has it, or by touching respiratory secretions (sneeze stuff for example) through hand to hand contact or a surface like a doorknob, and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Flu can affect 20 to 50 percent of the population each year. It's very contagious and is mostly spread by direct person-to-person contact.A flu virus can linger in the air for three hours and in close quarters, like classrooms or work spaces, transmission is high.

Some health care tips to help you through the worst of it.

1. At the very first hint of a cold or flu, take action! :-
Suck on a zinc lozenge until it melts away. Then suck another every two waking hours. Or use a zinc-based oral spray such as Thera Zinc Spray from Quantum Health.Take the herb astragalus twice a day until you are better. A 250 mg dose is suggested. Also, Echinacea will help reduce the duration of a cold.If it’s the flu, the herb elderberry has been shown to help reduce the duration and severity of flu.Don’t forget the chicken soup.

2. Wash your hands often. :-
This is the most common recommendation for good reason. It’s true. The Navy did a study on 40,000 people and found that they cut their likely hood of getting a chest cold by 45%. Clean under your finger nails, too. Lots of germs get stuck there.

3. Wash your hands twice. :-
Some say antibacterial soap makes all the difference. But researchers at Columbia University found that two hand washings in a row were better.

4. Take a zinc lozenge every day. :-
A study of over 300 high school students found that one zinc lozenge a day prevented colds in over 60%. Amazing for an environment notorious for germ swapping.

5. Eat a container of yogurt or take a pro biotic every day :-
One study from the University of California-Davis showed that people doing this had 25 percent fewer colds.

6. Public restroom germ prevention :-
Public bathrooms have lots of germs. If you worried, use a paper towel to touch the faucet and another to open the door on the way out. Even the Center for Disease Control agrees.

7.Rub your eyes with a knuckle:-
Eyes are an entry point for germs and you’re less likely to have virus germs on your knuckles than your fingers. Guess what? Most people rub their eyes or nose around 30 times a day.

8. Microwave your toothbrush :-
Put it in for 10 seconds and you’ll kill germs that can cause colds and more. Also replace it every month when you change the page on your calendar and after you've had a cold.

9. Pressuring yourself at work doesn’t help :-
A study of 200 people at work over three months showed that those who lacked confidence or blamed themselves when things went wrong were more likely to start sneezing. Stress lowers your immune response.

10. Let a bit of air in during the winter :-
Fresh air chases out germs. But don’t freeze!

11. Keep your house cooler by 5 degrees :-
Keeping your home too hot dries the air making breeding easier for cold viruses. It also dries out your mucous membranes which in turn makes it easier for those viruses to grow inside your nose. A humidifier helps, too. Plus, you’ll save energy.

12. Take a weekly sauna :-
People who sauna have half the number of colds. Researchers believe that the hot air kills viruses. If you can’t sauna, you can inhale hot air from a blow-dryer but make sure you set it on warm, not hot and that you hold it about 18 inches or more from your face and breathe in through the nose. Give it a good 15 minutes.

13. Meditate :-
Or if you don’t like that the idea of meditating, sit quietly and focus on one word.Choose a word that comforts you. Again, reducing stress builds immune strength.Stressed people get two times as many colds.

14. Wipe your nose :-
don't blow. Sneeze into your arm, not your hands.When you blow, the germs go out but also shoot back in.If you have to, blow softly.Sneezing into your arm puts the germs in a place where you won’t spread them around.

15. Forget about antibiotics :-
Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria, not the viruses that cause colds or flu. As a matter of fact, taking antibiotics during a cold or flu can lower your immune defense and make the problem worse or last longer.

Health Excercise Benefits

Exercise has been defined as a rhythmical activity for the purpose of improving fitness or health.

What are the different types of exercise? :-

Physical activity includes all forms of activity (occupational, recreational, or sports-related) performed without the specific purpose of fitness or health.

(1) Aerobic (e.g. walking, swimming)
(2) Anaerobic (e.g. sprinting)
(3) Isometric (e.g. lifting weights)

Resistance Training involves providing some form of resistance to the contracting muscles to stimulate the body for increased strength.Equipment used for resistance training takes multiple forms, including hand weights, pulleys, hydraulic, elastic, rubber, fiberglass, and magnetic equipment.

Strength or resistance training is very important to improve ones functionality and reduce the risk of injury.As people age, the lean tissue (i.e. muscle) declines more from lack of use than from aging itself.Performing some type of resistance training on a regular basis is essential.

Safety Since the demand on the heart is generally less while strength training than when walking at a moderate pace, resistance training is regarded as safe for patients with heart conditions. It is advisable never to strain or hold breath in an attempt to lift something.Straining can adversely affect blood flow to the heart.

What are the goals of exercise?

The goals of exercise are to :-

(1) Improve oxygen delivery and metabolic processes.
(2) Build strength and endurance.
(3) Decrease body fat.
(4) Improve movement in joints and muscles.
(5) Improve sense of well-being.
(6) Slows down aging process. Normal.

Warm-Up and Cool-Down Period. Warming up and cooling down are important parts of any exercise routine. They aid the body in making the transition from rest to activity and back again and can help prevent soreness or injury, especially in older people.

(1) Warm-up exercises should be practiced for five to 10 minutes at the beginning of an exercise session. Older people need a longer period to warm up their muscles. Low-level aerobic exercise, such as walking briskly, swinging the arms, or jogging in place are the best.

(2) To cool down,one should walk slowly until the heart rate is 10 to 15 beats above resting rate. Stopping too suddenly can sharply reduce blood pressure.This is a danger for older people, and may also cause muscle cramping.Breathe deeply during the cool off phase.

(3) Stretching is appropriate for the cooling down period, but not for warming up because it can injure cold muscles. Particular exercises may require stretching specific muscles. For example, a jogger or biker might emphasis stretching the hamstrings, calves, groin, and quadriceps, while swimmers would focus on the groin, shoulders, and back. Stretching is best done when joints are lose and flexible that is in the afternoons or evenings.

Asthma Symptoms- Asthma Cures

Asthma is a chronic lung disease.Asthma symptoms include wheezing, coughing, out of breath, and other breathing difficulties.These symptoms are triggered by allergens or non- allergens.Allergens include seasonal pollens, dust, mould, pets, insects and non-allergens could be a cold, smoke, exercise, anxiety, humidity.Asthma is not a physiological problem stress and anxiety could increase the intensity of the symptoms.Asthma is caused by a variety of factors. It may be due to an allergy caused by weather conditions, food, drugs, perfumes, and other irritants. Allergies to dust are the most common.

Asthma Cures :-

Asthma treatment using Honey :-
Honey is one of the most common home remedies for asthma. It is said that if a jug of honey is held under the nose of an asthma patient and he inhales the air that comes into contact with it, he starts breathing easier and deeper.

Asthma treatment using Figs :-
Among fruits, figs have proved very valuable in asthma.They give comfort to the patient by draining off the phlegm.Three or four dry figs should be cleaned thoroughly with warm water and soaked overnight.


Asthma treatment using Lemon :-
Lemon is another fruit found beneficial in the treatment of asthma.The juice of one lemon,diluted in a glass of water and taken with meals, will bring good results.

Asthma treatment using Indian Gooseberry :-
Indian gooseberry has also proved valuable in asthma. Five grams of gooseberry mixed with one tablespoon of honey forms an effective medicinal tonic for the treatment of this disease. It should be taken every morning .

Asthma treatment using Bitter Gourd Roots :-
The roots of the bitter gourd plant have been used in folk medicine for asthma since ancient times. A teaspoon of the root paste, mixed with an equal amount of honey or juice of the tulsi leaves, given once every night for a month, acts as an excellent medicine for this disease.

Asthma treatment using Drumstick Leaves :-
A soup prepared from drumstick leaves, and taken once daily, has been found beneficial in the treatment of asthma.This soup is prepared by adding a handful of leaves to 180ml of water and boiling it for five minutes.
After being allowed to cool, a little salt, pepper, and lime juice may be added to this soup.

Asthma treatment using Ginger :-
A teaspoon of fresh ginger juice, mixed with a cup of fenugreek decoction and honey to taste, acts as an excellent expectorant in cases of asthma.The decoction of fenugreek can be made by mixing one tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a cupful of water. This remedy should be taken once in the morning and once in the evening.

Asthma treatment using Garlic :-
Garlic is another effective home remedy for asthma.Ten garlic cloves, boiled in 30 ml of milk, make an excellent medicine for the early stages of asthma.This mixture should he taken once daily by the patient.Steaming ginger tea with two minced garlic cloves in it, can also help to keep the problem under control, and should be taken in the morning and evening.

Asthma treatment using Bishop's Weed :-
The herb bishop's weed has been found valuable in asthma. Half a teaspoon of bishop's weed should be mixed in a glass of buttermilk and taken twice daily.It is an effective remedy for relieving difficult expectoration caused by dried-up phlegm.A hot poultice of the seeds should be used for dry fomentation to the chest twice daily. The. patient can also inhale steam twice a day from boiling water mixed with ajwain. It will dilate the bronchial passages.

Asthma treatment using Safflower :-
Safflower seeds are beneficial in the treatment of bronchial asthma. Half a teaspoon of powder of the dry seeds, mixed with a tablespoon of honey, can be taken once or twice a day in treating this disease.This acts as an expectorant and reduces the spasms by liquefying the tenacious sputum.An infusion of five grams of flowers mixed with one tablespoon of honey, taken once daily, is also useful in this disease.

Diet for Asthma :-

carbohydrates, fats and proteins.
The patient should avoid common dietetic errors. Ideally, his diet should contain a limited quantity of carbohydrates, fats and proteins which are 'acid-forming' foods, and a liberal quantity of alkali-forming foods consisting of fresh fruits, green vegetables, sprouted seeds, and grains.

The patient should avoid foods which tend to produce phlegm, such as rice, sugar, lentils, and curds. He should also avoid fried and other difficult to-digest foods, strong tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages, condiments pickles, sauces and all refined and processed foods.

The patient should also follow the other laws of nature.Air, sun, and water are great healing agents.Regular fasting once a week, an occasional enema, breathing exercises, fresh air, a dry climate, light exercises, and correct posture go a long way in treating the disease.

Guest Commentary: The Self-Sufficiency Standard for Pennsylvania as a More Comprehensive Alternative to the Federal Poverty Level

Marlon D. Satchell, MPH
Project Director
Jefferson School of Population Health


A recent Philadelphia Inquirer article highlighted the release of The Self-Sufficiency Standard for Pennsylvania 2010, written by Diana Pearce, PhD, director of the University of Washington Center for Women’s Welfare. This standard was prepared for PathWays PA, an organization that advocates for efforts to benefit low-wage workers throughout Pennsylvania. For the past 30 years, wages in the United States have stagnated, while income inequality has grown. The Self-Sufficiency Standard was developed in 1996 as a more comprehensive method of determining family economic stability and changes in the economic needs of families from year to year.

The Self-Sufficiency Standard presents sobering facts about the cost of meeting a family’s most basic needs, without relying on public or private assistance. The 2010-2011 Self-Sufficiency Standard of $60,000 for a family of four is in stark contrast to the unrealistic and outdated Federal Poverty Level estimate of $22,000.

In contrast to the Federal Poverty Level, which focuses on the cost of food and uses that to gauge all other expenses, the Self-Sufficiency Standard takes into consideration factors such as housing, child care, food, healthcare, transportation, taxes, geography, and family composition. Further compromising the Federal Poverty Level is that it only measures need for households in which there is only one wage-earner, thus negating the necessity of child care. The exclusion of families with two working adults also ignores the difficulties that such families have meeting their economic needs. It also excludes the essential but growing costs of housing, healthcare, and transportation.

Another important factor about the Self-Sufficiency Standard is that it calculates a standard for a number of different family compositions, and reflects the varying needs of families with and without more than one working parent, and families with children of different ages. The standard calculates the variations in economic needs and responsibilities at the state, county and local level as well. As an example, the standard for a family of four in Montgomery County is over $73,000, which is considerably higher than that for Philadelphia County. As a result, far more detailed information about the relative weight of household expenses across the country and across individual states can be used to more accurately assess the status of families living in those areas, and determine the range and scope of the services that they may need. Finally, the Self-Sufficiency Standard is updated every two years, allowing for policy-makers and other users to have current, up-to-date information on populations in need.

Ultimately, the Self-Sufficiency Standard is a far more comprehensive tool that can be used by employers, advocates, and legislators to assess wages, provide career counseling, and create programs that lead to self-sufficiency for working families. The enormous gap between the Self-Sufficiency Standard and the Federal Poverty Level serves as a clarion call that the existing standards by which the Federal Poverty Level is developed are profoundly out-of-date. The Federal Poverty Level conveys a lack of understanding of who needy families are, and the necessities they must pay for. The Self-Sufficiency Standard is therefore shown to be a far more comprehensive and realistic tool that reflects the changing times and the different hurdles that working families now face.

The full report, including information on methodology, data sources, the authors’ assumptions, and ways in which the data has been used can be found here.

Eye Care Tips-Dark Circles & Puffiness Prevention

Eye Health Care Tips :-

“Finish your carrots, they’re good for eyes”

The eye is the most vital and delicate organ of our body.Without eyes all the materials gains and achievement are useless and life becomes burdensome and meaningless.Prevention is always better than cure and eye care is superior to eye cure.Vitamins are extremely important to maintain good vision.Vitamins minerals and many food items play major role in maintaining good vision. There seems to be a direct link between nutrition and healthy vision.Plenty of vitamin A can reduce chances of cataracts and night blindness. Similarly Vitamin E reduces the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.Vitamin C is needed to reduce the pressure in glaucoma, to resists the onset of cataracts.Wearing sunglasses is one of the best way of protecting your eyes from UV(ultraviolet rays) rays that can damage the eyes.

There are seven 7 Vitamins,Minerals and Herbal Supplement.

Chromium :-

Low levels of chromium are a major risk factor for increased intraocular pressure.
Chromium plays a large role in muscle contraction which is why this occurs when deficiencies are present.Proper amounts of chromium in your diet, focusing may be easier and less stressful to your eyes.The body does not make chromium naturally, so it must be obtained through your diet.The best sources of chromium are beef, liver, eggs, chicken, oysters, wheat germ, green peppers, apples, bananas, and spinach.

Vitamin C :-
Vitamin C's importance as an antioxidant cannot be overstated.Vitamin C has been linked to the prevention of cataracts.Taking 300 to 600 mg supplemental Vitamin C reduced cataract risk by 70 percent - the delay of macular degeneration, and eye pressure reduction in glaucoma patients.It's an interesting fact that, while most animals produce their own vitamin C, we humans do not have that ability.In addition, we can't store this vitamin in our bodies for very long, so it needs to be constantly replenished to obtain its benefits.Most of us think of orange juice as the quintessential source of vitamin C, but many vegetables are actually even richer sources: chili peppers, sweet peppers, kale, parsley, collard, and turnip greens are full of vitamin C, as are broccoli, Brussels sprouts, watercress, cauliflower, cabbage, and strawberries.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin :-
Lutein, found in our retinas, is essential for healthy vision.Lutein and a related dietary carotenoid, zeaxanthin, accumulate within the retina and imbue a yellow pigment that helps protect the eye.It lowers the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration (low lutein intake is implicated as a risk factor in age-related macular degeneration), and may also help to prevent or slow down atherosclerosis.Lutein is found in the red, orange, and yellow pigments of fruits and vegetables; for example, tomatoes, carrots, and squash. Green leafy vegetables such as spinach also contain high amounts of lutein.Lutein along with zeaxanthin are two naturally occurring carotenoids present in the macular segment of the retina.The concentration of these two is so high in the macula (the retinal region responsible for fine visual activities), that the carotenoids are visible as a dark yellow spot, called the macular pigment, in normal, healthy retinas. They act like sunglass filters to protect the eye.People with higher lutein/zeaxanthin levels have reduced risk for advanced stages of macular degeneration.Blue-eyed individuals need more lutein and zeaxanthin because they have less of these protective pigments in their retinas.Again, dark, leafy greens are the dietary winner here, along with corn, nectarines, oranges, papaya and squash.

Zinc:-
Our eyes actually contain the greatest concentration of zinc in our body. Just like you need a bulb to convert electricity into light, your body needs zinc to convert beta-carotene into vitamin A.Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food, but red meat and poultry provide the majority of zinc in the American diet.

Selenium :-
Selenium is a trace mineral that our bodies need to boost immunity and fight off infections. It can also help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration by acting as an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals that can damage the eye's lens and macula; studies have identified low selenium levels in cataract sufferers.Selenium also helps your body to absorb vitamin E.Fish, shellfish, red meat, grains, eggs, chicken, liver, and garlic are all good sources of selenium, as well as brewer's yeast and wheat germ.

Glutathione :-
Glutathione is an amino acid that protects the tissues surrounding the lens of the eyes.It also has potentially widespread health benefits because it can be found in all types of cells, including the cells of the immune system, whose job is to fight disease."Numerous studies link glutathione with the prevention of cataracts, glaucoma, retinal disease, and diabetic blindness. Foods that increase glutathione levels include sulfur-rich foods such as garlic, eggs, asparagus, and onions, and glutathione-rich foods such as watermelon, asparagus, and grapefruits.

Ginkgo Biloba :-
The ginkgo is the oldest living tree species, growing on earth for 150-200 million years. No surprise, then, that it's one of the most well-researched herbs in the world.Ginkgo, a powerful antioxidant increases blood flow to the retina and can slow retinal deterioration which results in an increase of visual acuity.Retinal damage has a number of potential causes, including diabetes and macular degeneration.Gingko may help preserve vision in those with macular degeneration.

Now,Here is Some Common Points(eye health care tips),really helpful to prevent dark are around eyes.
(1) Get Enough Sleep :-
It can't be anymore obvious than this. But if you really want to banish tired-looking eyes, your best bet is to get enough sleep. For many people, it's easy to sacrifice bedtime hours for other things like homework, late-night movies, and non-stop partying. No wonder then that a lot of women -- and men -- are bothered by dark eye circles and under-eye bags.But with ample sleep, you should see your eyes improve. Experts suggest around nine hours of sleep every night to remedy tired looking eyes and strengthen your overall health.

(2) Eat a Balanced Diet :-
Everybody knows that eating a balanced diet is essential for a stronger body.But did you know that eating right is important for beauty as well? By eating a healthy diet, your body gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals it needs to become, among other things, more efficient in eliminating toxins and wastes that make you look tired and wasted.And part of a healthy diet is the reduced consumption of salt. You see, salt allows your body to retain excess amounts of water which consequently triggers the puffiness in many areas like your tummy and eyes.To avoid having eye bags, you can try to take the salt shaker out of your sight.

(3) Increase Intake of Fresh Fruits :-
This can easily be included in your quest to eat a balanced diet. But your increased intake of fresh fruits deserves a special mention.As most fruits contain healthy amounts of copper and Vitamin C, they are excellent sources of nutrients that restore cells damaged by free radicals.In a nutshell, fruits can help you delay the signs of aging such as fine lines, bags, and skin discoloration in your eye area. So eat more fresh fruits.

(4) Drink Plenty of Water :-
Water is an essential agent in cleansing away toxins and other unwanted materials that ruin your skin and make you look old and tired.It doesn't matter how much fruits and vegetables you eat or how healthy your diet is, if you lack water in your body, harmful elements inside you will not be eliminated such that they remain to wreak havoc in your body and in the way you look.Doctors actually recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water everyday.

(5) Teabags and Cucumber Slices :-
Putting on a couple of cucumber slices on your eyes before you sleep.Cucumber has been known to ease puffiness in the eyes.You can also opt for tea bags whose tannin compounds have been proven to also remove swelling and skin discoloration in the eye area.

Vitamin C- Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is known as ascorbic acid as well.

It offers a whole slew of benefits to our health.
Vitamin C helps in maintaining the balance in ligaments, tendons and other adjacent tissues.
Vitamin C has anti-oxidant property, so it helps us fighting with the symptoms of aging.
Not only that, due to its anti-oxidant property it helps us to preserve healthy blood cells from becoming collapsed from the toxic substances in the air that may even lead to cancer in some cases.

Vitamin C Functions :-
Vitamin C benefits us a lot.The best benefit offered by vitamin C is collagen formation. Collagen is essentially a protein substance that helps keeping all the cells together.
Vitamin C aids in the formation of collagen.Without Vitamin C, the formation of collagen is interrupted.Vitamin C is present and active within the cell wall where it aids in modifying pro-collagen into collagen.
Vitamins C benefits in the absorption of iron as well. Iron is essential to keep us healthy and vibrant. It maintains a healthy and clear skin, fresh complexion and healthy gums and teeth. It offers a healthy functioning for all glands and organs including adrenal and thyroid glands. It also aids in relieving all sort of stressors, both physical and psychological.
No research has shown any effective result in treating common cold symptoms by using vitamin C supplements.

Vitamin C Deficiency
So, we can easily understand that vitamin C is important to our health system. Vitamin C benefits in various aspects. It can aid our system both from inside as well as from outside also.
A deficiency in vitamin C may result in soft gums, skin hemorrhages, collagen deformation, Achilles' heel, anemia, and slow healing. If your diet lacks vitamin C, you might find yourself older too fast.
Vitamin C benefits in thyroid balance, so thyroid insufficiency is quite prevalent in such cases. Deficiency in vitamin C may also lead to weak immune system, so resistance to all diseases becomes very low.
Toxic effect of drugs and environmental pollutants can affect human healthy greatly if you lack vitamin C. In worst cases, a deficiency in vitamin C may also lead to the development of scurvy. It is the development of bruised spots on the skin along with soft spongy gums as well as continuous bleeding from mucous membranes.

Availability
Mostly you can avail vitamin C from citrus foods such as oranges,limes and grapefruits. You can get vitamin C benefits from vegetables such as tomatoes, green peppers and potatoes.
Apart from that, vitamin C is also available in various foods such as cantaloupes, honeydew melon, red peppers, strawberries, mandarin orange, mangoes and kiwifruits.
However, the essential nutrient quality of vitamin C can easily be damaged during food processing and storages such as at the time of slicing, exposing to the air, cooking and boiling.
The quality can also be harmed if the vegetables are submerged in the water for a long time. So, it is always better that you use fresh, unprocessed fruits and vegetables as much as possible to receive maximum vitamin C value.
However, it is rare to see that people are lacking vitamin C in their diet. It is mainly because of the fact of plentiful availability of vitamin C in nature. So the quantity of supply is however enough for a daily requirement.

Precaution
Some people consider that vitamin C is water soluble. So, large amount of vitamin C may not produce harm. But it is not true.Vitamin C benefits only if you take a maximum of 2000mg per day.The most serious complication that occurs with the excessive dosage is diarrhea.
Vitamin C plays a significant role in healthy diet. However, excess intake is not at all recommended. If you take it in excessive amount, it may cause harm to health.
A well-balanced diet may ensure healthy nutrients securing the sufficient amount of vitamin C. It helps in alleviating possible health hazards.

Disease Prevention with the help of Vitamin C :-
The amount of vitamin C required to prevent chronic disease appears to be more than that required for prevention of scurvy.

Cardiovascular Disease :-
(1) Coronary Heart Disease
(2) Stroke
(3) Cataract
(4) Lead toxicity

Importance of Vitamin C :-

Type 1 - Connective tissue of skin, bone, teeth, tendons, ligaments, fascia, organ capsules
Type 2 - Cartilage
Type 3 - Connective tissue of our organs (liver, spleen, kidneys, etc.)
Type 4, 5 - The separating layer between epithelial and endothelial cells as well as between skeletal or smooth muscle cells (basal lamina), kidney glomeruli, lens capsule, and Schwann and glial cells of the nervous system.
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How to lose Belly Fat

Here is some healthy benefits points about how to fight with Belly Fat :-

1).Change your mindset,exercise and consider taking diet supplements.You need to find a diet that you can easily adapt to and include a minimum of 15 minutes of exercise everyday, whether it’s dancing, swimming, brisk walking or running.

2).Set achievable goals. By focusing and having the proper mindset, you can lose weight faster.Dieters need to set small achievable goals and be disciplined if they don’t want to lose focus and be discouraged.

3).Listen to your body.Your metabolism reacts differently to various weight loss plans or programs. Experiment with different ones and listen to your body. The exercise plan that you start must also suit your physical state and you shouldn’t exercise more rigorously that your body allows. Start by walking as this low impact exercise has proven itself to be a great exercise that burns calories. If you want to burn fat, start building some muscles, which will also help you look good.

4).Increase your fiber intake.Fiber increases the feeling of fullness and takes longer to digest. Whole grain foods can move fat quickly through the digestive system. Grains transform into blood sugar that increases the body's insulin level,which increases your energy. This then tells the body when it should stop burning fat or start storing fat.

5).Avoid all fried food, and deep fried food in particular, as it contains very high quantities of fat. You know that fish and chicken are leaner protein sources than beef, but if you fry fish or chicken, they are no longer leaner than grilled beef.Dieters should stick to grilled or steamed food because of the smaller fat content associated with these cooking methods.

6).Drink lots of fluids.To keep your body refreshed, you need to drink at least 6 glasses of water per day. You must stay hydrated if you want your body to eliminate wastes, which causes weight loss.
Here I have some food information which will give health benefits to reduce Belly Fat.

(1) Almonds :-
Almonds contain protein, fiber, and vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. They’re also a good source of magnesium which is a mineral your body must have in order to produce energy, build and maintain muscle tissue, and regulate blood sugar.

(2) Eggs :-

Eggs are the perfect protein source and if you have an egg in the morning you will feel less hungry throughout the day.

(3) Soy :-

Soy is a great source of antioxidants, fiber, and protein. Try a soy protein shake to lose more weight.

(4) Apples :-

A large apple contains 5 grams of fiber, but it’s also nearly 85 percent water which helps you feel full.

(5) Berries :-

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

(6) Leafy Greens :-

They are a great source of calcium and good for muscle building. Leafy greens also contain carotenoids which can help prevent cancer.

(7) Yogurt :-

The probiotic bacteria in most yogurts helps keep your digestive system healthy, which means a lower incidence of bloating and constipation which is good for your stomach.

(8) Veggie Soup :-

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

(9) Salmon :-

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

This is pronounced KEEN-wah. It’s a whole grain that contains 5 grams of fiber and 11 grams of protein per half cup. It’s like a cross between couscous and short-grain brown rice.

Because of Belly fat,there are many risk of health problems like,

(1) Diabetes
(2) Some types of cancers
(3) High blood pressure
(4) Sleep apnea
(5) Abnormal lipids — high triglycerides and low HDL ("good" cholesterol)
(6) Insulin resistance
(7) Metabolic syndrome

Fat Types & Fat Burning Foods

There are five types of fat.

(1) Artificial trans
(2) Trans fat
(3) Saturated fat
(4) Polyunsaturated fat
(5) Monounsaturated fat

Artificial trans fat increases the Risk for Coronary Heart Disease.

The most conservative estimates show that the replacement of these fats.

In fact, the women with low blood levels of trans fat.

Trans fat :-
There are two types of Trans Fat.

The kind that occurs naturally in small amounts in animal products, and the artificial kind produced by adding hydrogen to liquid oils so they remain solid at room temperature, which helps extend a food’s shelf life.

So far no studies have examined how natural trans fat

Most commercially produced fried foods, baked goods, and stick margarines are made with artificial trans fat.

Natural trans fat :-
A product must contain less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving in order to bear a “no trans fat” label. However, such products may still contain up to 0.49 grams of trans fat.

To keep your intake low, stick to recommended serving sizes and read ingredients lists; they’re arranged in order, so the presence of partially hydrogenated oil can provide a clue as to the presence of artificial trans fat in a “trans fat-free” product.

Saturated fat
Animal products like whole milk, cream, butter, lard, and fatty cuts of meat.

Also a component of cocoa butter and tropical oils (palm, palm kernel, and coconut).

Less than 10 percent of your total calories per day (20 grams if you eat 2,000 calories) is a good starting point. For optimal heart health, the AHA recommends seven percent (16 grams).

Polyunsaturated fat :-
Vegetable oils like safflower, sunflower, sesame, corn, and soy, and nuts and seeds. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, flax seed, and walnuts.

The AHA puts omega-3s in a separate category and suggests two to three meals of fatty fish a week. Two components of omega-3 fatty acid molecules have different benefits: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) helps alleviate arterial inflammation and prevent blood platelets from clumping together, while DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is valuable to the retina and brain.

Monounsaturated fat :-
Monounsaturated fat helps lower blood cholesterol levels when substituted for saturated fat in the diet.

Fat burning foods refer to specific type of foods that either burn fats accumulated in the body or improve metabolism. Adding these types of foods in your regular diet, you can easily wash out the fat from your body and keep yourself fit and healthy. In practice, foods function like fuel where metabolism as an engine.

You put foods like a fuel to your metabolism engine, and it uses some of the foods to make energy that is required to keep us moving and alive. However, not all parts of the foods we take are used to produce energy, simply because it is beyond the actual demand for producing energy. These foods, which are not absorbed during the energy production, are then stored as fat and the rest of the amount is excreted from the body as waste products.

Individuals become fatty due to several reasons. It can be due to the reason of taking too much food than actually required by the body. The excess amount is then stored for future use. An individual can accumulate fat due to slow metabolic process as well. In a slow metabolic process, foods are not burnt up in sufficient amount.

The result is inevitable accumulation of fat. Third reason may include inactivity. If you are not active enough, you body does not get the chance to burn up foods. Although, there are few medical conditions that contribute to obesity, but they are beyond the scope of this discussion.

This article sheds light on various fat burning foods and their various forms. It also suggests different ways to include them in your daily diet.
Citrus Fruits :-
Citrus fruits contain vitamin C and vitamin C possesses fat burning property.It trims down the efficacy of fat. Additionally, it can also liquefy the solid fat into diluted one. When fat gets diluted, it loses its ability to stay within the system; rather it washes out from the body effectively.

Vitamin C functions on cholesterol accumulation as well. Hence it reduces the possibility of cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels.

To enjoy the flavor of these fat burning foods rich in vitamin C, you can add oranges, limes, tangerines, and grape fruits in your daily diet. It will definitely enhance your metabolism as well as help you to regulate your cholesterol level.

Soybean :-
Lecithin is a chemical property of soybean. It helps in making sheath to your body cell, hence protects cells from accumulating fat. It is also capable of breaking fat contents that are already deposited in your body.

You can eat soy products several times a week in order to get rid off the problem of being obese.

Fresh Fruit :-
Pectin is an essential element that creates a natural limitation on the body cell regarding the amount of fat consumption. Pectin can be found in apples and in most of the berries and other fresh fruits. Pectin can absorb watery substances due to its water binding property. It helps releasing fats from cells. Hence fresh fruits can be an ideal choice for fat burning foods.

Garlic Oil :-
Garlic oil is found to be effective to reduce the amount of fatty acids.

from the body cells. If you take this as a part of fat burning foods, it can lower down the level of fat deposits. Garlic including garlic oil offers antibiotic solution. Therefore, you can use it for many bacterial infections.

Liquid Fats :-
It is not true that all fats are bad for your heath. Rather you can consider liquid fats as one of the most essential fat burning foods. It helps your system to eliminate hard fatty substances from the body. Corn oil, Peanut oil, Safflower oil and Sunflower seed oil are great sources of liquid fats.

The liquid fats actually break down the hard fat content by releasing phospholipids fatty acids. Liquid fats functions in two ways. First of all, they provide you the required fats that are needed by your body. Secondly, they help your system to remove the hard fats from the body itself.

Indian Head Massage-Benefits of Indian Head Massage

Indian Head Massage, also known under the trademarked term Champissage, is an alternative medicine massage therapy in which the head, neck and facial areas are massaged with the purpose of manipulating energy channels.

The goal is to clear blocks in these energy channels that cause a build-up of negative energy that are purported to cause ailments.

An Indian Head Massage is a noninvasive massage of the scalp, neck and shoulders. Sometimes oil is used to help activate and stimulate the nerve endings and break up tension in the tissue.

Indian Head Massage is a relaxing treatment which, as the name suggests, concentrates on massaging the head.

This form of massage could be one of the most satisfying and relaxing massages ever received. Almost everyone holds tension in their head, neck and shoulders from being glued to the computer, watching television or just a result of poor posture.

Head and scalp massage can be used alongside simple meditative techniques to provide a simple and effective way to relax.

The treatments involves massage, shiatsu and acupressure techniques on upper back, shoulders, arms/hands, neck, scalp and face.

This relaxes tense areas but, at the same time, helps to re balance the energy, clearing any areas of negativity.
What is Indian Head Massage used for?

Indian Head massage may bring about :-

(1) General feeling of wellbeing, calmness and relaxation (2) Dispersal of toxins from tense, knotted muscles (3) Stimulation and improvement of circulatory and lymphatic systems (4) Improvement of joint mobility (5) Higher levels of alertness and concentration

It may also help relieve or alleviate : -

(1) Tension headaches (2) Eyestrain / eye problems (3) Tinnitus and other ear problems (5) Neck and shoulder stiffness (6) Sinusitis and congestion (7) Hair loss/thinning (8) Scalp tension (9) Mental tiredness/anxiety/stress

Benefits of Indian Head Massage :-

(1) Relieves tension and headaches, neck and back pain (2) Alleviates stress, promotes relaxation a popular massage often requested for general well-being (3) Stimulates lymphatic drainage, helping to remove toxins and boost the immune system (4) Restores joint mobility, improving circulation which lifts energy improving concentration (5) Indian Head Massage reaches all energy centres where tension accumulates. (6) Easy to learn in one day (due to small classes) one to one tuition. No expensive chairs or oils required.

Champissage provides relief from a number of ailments including:-

(1) Tension headaches (2) Eyestrain (3) Aches and pains in the neck and shoulder area (4) Insomnia (5) Many other stress and work related symptoms (6) Champissage is the ideal way to release all tension, strains and frustrations that can build up after hours in front of a screen.
Champissage(Indian Head Massage) brings with it other benefits :-

(1) Encourages hair growth (2) Soothes and Comforts (3) Re-balances your energy flow (4) Promotes a deep sense of peace, calm and tranquility

What is Tai Chi- Tai Chi Benefits

Tai Chi & Tai Chi Benefits :-

Tai Chi is an internal Chinese martial art. It is often promoted and practiced as a martial arts therapy for the purposes of health and longevity. Tai Chi is considered a soft style martial art, an art applied with as much deep relaxation or "softness" in the musculature as possible, to distinguish its theory and application from that of the hard martial art styles which use a degree of tension in the muscles.

Variations of Tai Chi basic training forms are well known as the slow motion routines that groups of people practice every morning in parks across China and other parts of the world.

Traditional Tai Chi training is intended to teach awareness of one's own balance and what affects it, awareness of the same in others, an appreciation of the practical value in one's ability to moderate extremes of behavior and attitude at both mental and physical levels, and how this applies to effective self-defense principles.

Tai chi, sometimes called tai chi chuan, is a noncompetitive, self-paced system of gentle physical exercise and stretching. To do tai chi, you perform a series of postures or movements in a slow, graceful manner. Each posture flows into the next without pausing.

Anyone, regardless of age or physical ability, can practice tai chi. It doesn't take physical prowess. Rather, tai chi emphasizes technique over strength.


Stress reduction through tai chi :-

(1) Reducing anxiety and depression. (2) Improving balance and coordination. (3) Reducing the number of fall. (4) Improving sleep quality, such as staying asleep longer at night and feeling more alert during the day. (5) Slowing bone loss in women after menopause. (6) Lowering blood pressure. (7) Improving cardiovascular fitness. (8) Relieving chronic pain. (9) Improving everyday physical functioning.

Pregnancy & Tai Chi:-

Tai Chi is also beneficial for pregnant women who have never done any forms of exercise before as it reduces the chances of these women injuring themselves. Other exercises, even yoga, involve a certain amount of moving that could be a problem for pregnant women in later trimesters.

Coping with changes in body size, lifestyle and work can be stressful for a pregnant woman. This is where the mediation portion of Tai Chi kicks in. Deep breathing and helping the mind to focus on the slow repetitive movements of the breathing, provides relief to these external changes. Tai Chi also teaches patience and enhancing such a quality would be beneficial especially when the baby arrives.

Cancer & Tai Chi :-

Those who promote the use of tai chi say that it helps to balance qi or chi - the vital energy or life force of the body. Balanced qi is said to prevent illness, improve health, and extend life expectancy. Tai chi also is based on the ancient theory of yin and yang and those who promote the use of tai chi for cancer patients say that balancing yin and yang helps patients to achieve inner harmony.