While it is true that there is currently no permanent relief from multiple sclerosis, there are, however, varieties of treatments and therapies that go beyond conventional medicine. In this article, we would look at the treatment options as well as complementary and alternative treatments that are commonly advised by physicians.


Drug Treatments
There are specific drugs and medications for each type of multiple sclerosis. However, usually, one drug may be prescribed for Secondary Progressive MS may be prescribed for Relapsing/Remitting MS. For reference, here are the general categories of medications for MS:
- Commonly prescribed drugs such as Interferon Beta 1a and 1b, and Glatiramer Acetate
- Chemotherapeutic Agents
- Corticosteroids & ACTH or Adrenocorticotropic Hormone
- Medications for altered sensations
- Pain relievers
- Medications for treating depression, insomnia and anxiety
- Medications for fatigue
- Medications for urinary and other bladder-related dysfunctions
- Drugs for bowel-related problems
- Drugs for sexual dysfunctions
- Medications for tremors, tics, spasticity and clonus
- Vaccinations and anti-virals
- Drugs for vertigo

Experimental drug treatments such as Eliprodil and Diaminopyridine are mainly focused on improving the transmission of nerve signals from one neuron to another. Other experimental drugs aim to prevent the spread of viral infections.

Complementary Therapies
These therapies are normally inclusive of popular alternative therapies that are also commonly used for other diseases and disorders. Because many of such conditions are not yet fully understood and therefore lack appropriate treatments and cures, the scientific community presents other options within the non-conventional paradigm.

Among these therapies are herbal remedies, acupuncture, yoga, aromatherapy, emotional healing, reflexology, meditation, chiropractic treatments, Pilates, hypnotherapy, homeopathy, use of antioxidants, and others. Many patients of multiple sclerosis find relief through these therapies which make them very likely choices as treatments.

While they may not totally remove the symptoms or prevent them from relapsing, these treatment options, however, can relieve the patient from the pains and discomforts brought about by the symptoms.

Counseling, Telephone Counseling
Parts of a patient's treatment are the face-to-face counseling and counseling over the phone or telephone counseling. These are commonly known as talk therapies. The main goal here is to provide emotional and psychological support for the sufferer. What's good about these treatments is that the counselor fully understands the condition and may add considerably in the patient's capacity to handle his disease.

Treatment against fatigue
Fatigue is commonly experienced by patients of multiple sclerosis, no matter what the type or how severe is the form. Thus, patients are encouraged to conquer this by doing some remedies such as proper dieting, conservation of energy, participating in regular workouts, and stress management.


Supplements
There are basically a few categories of supplements that may prove effective against multiple sclerosis and its symptoms. They are the vitamins A, B, C, D and E, trace minerals magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, selenium and calcium, and oils such as fish oil, flax oil and EPO.

The aforementioned treatment methodologies are evidence enough that there are varieties of treatment options presented for individuals suffering from this condition. As there is currently no concrete knowledge on how to attack against the disease, the effectiveness of these modalities are uncertain. They are reassurances at best.

To fully maximize the treatments, one should seek the help of a professional who is knowledgeable in this field. It is advised that patients of multiple sclerosis undergo treatments as necessary.

Read More..

Multiple sclerosis is a very frustrating condition. With the current lack of diagnostic procedures, tests and examinations that can provide clear-cut evaluations, many physicians find it hard to establish the presence of multiple sclerosis. Because of this, patients suffer both from the symptoms of the conditions and the confusion these symptoms bring. Though patients feel that "something" is seriously wrong about them, that "something" is typically not hard to miss.
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis may be transient, mild or similar with other conditions. Attacks are intermittent and hard to understand. The nature of the disease itself is barely understood. All these add in to the extended suffering of patients.

The best option current medical science can provide when it comes to diagnosing this condition is by way of ruling out other diseases that possess symptoms similar with multiple sclerosis. While this is helpful, it provides somewhat inconclusive evidence.

Doctors will try to evaluate the medical history of the patient, presence of co-morbid disorders and illnesses, and other factors. Only after other conditions were ruled out will the doctors present the possible presence of multiple sclerosis. After this, the neurologist will examine the patient based on the following:

Whether or not the patient had experienced two or more relapses at different points in time;
Whether or not the patient shows signs of demyelination in two or more areas of the central nervous system; or,
Whether or not the patient had experienced at least one relapse, have at least one indication of lesions of the myelin sheath on either the brain or the spinal cord, and laboratory tests provide results consistent with those commonly observed among patients of multiple sclerosis.

If indications are strong, diagnosis can be made. But even when the patient scored positive with the aforementioned criteria, it is still not evidence enough to fully ascertain the presence of the disease. For patients who experience symptoms that come and go, and those who have experienced only one relapse, further examinations will be recommended after a certain period of time, thus extending the uncertainty of diagnosis.

On top of these, it is not uncommon to utilize diagnostic tests and examinations to evaluate the symptoms. MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, examination of brain fluids and evoked potentials are used to prove the presence of the disease. Though these are helpful, these can only create strong suggestions with respect to the onset of the condition. The extent of damage and the location of damage on the central nervous system cannot be assessed through these tests.

A specialist or a neurologist would only give diagnosis once definite signs of the disease are identified, otherwise, a series of tests may be undergone or recommendation to other doctors may be given. Or worse, the patient will be left to agonize on his condition without clearly knowing what he is suffering from. This creates serious problems for the patients.

For most, the inability of doctors to give clear evaluations of their conditions makes it doubly difficult and exasperating. Some patients go beyond the belief that they have gone crazy while others continually suffer with symptoms that increase in severity over time without medications or treatments.

While all these are true, the fact that some forms of diagnosis is present are somehow sufficient to extend help to the sufferers.

Read More..

Patients of multiple sclerosis are not only bothered by symptoms related with sensory, motor and cognitive functions, they also suffer from dysfunctions of the bladder and bowel functions, problems with coordination as well as balance, impairments of the eyes, and sexual dysfunctions. Below are the more detailed symptoms relating to these problems. Each symptom is placed under a specific category with accompanying brief descriptions.

VISUAL SYMPTOMS
Eye pain, this may be due in part to a condition called Trigeminal Neuralgia, a condition that shoots up painful sensations rooting from the dysfunction of one of the Trigeminal nerves of the face. Eye pain may also be experienced during eye movements.
Blurry vision, is the decreased capacity of the eyes and their optic nerves to define the images they perceive

Diminished perception to colors, the lack of capacity to perceive bold colors
Blindness, which may be partial or full blindness
Double Vision or Diplopia, is a very common visual problem associated with multiple sclerosis which is caused by lesions incurred on the brainstem whereby the cranial nerves connecting the eyes and the brain are attached.

Jerky Eye Movements or Nystagmus, these are the involuntary and rapid eye movements typically manifested by patients of multiple sclerosis

Ocular Dysmetria, which is characterized by constant overshooting of eye movements
Lack or decreased eye coordination

Sensation of flashing lights during eye movements. This may also be the resulting response to a sudden noise

Afferent Pupillary Defect (APD), or Marcus-Gunn pupil is a condition that is characterized by the inability of the eyes to dilate properly in response to light intensities.

BALANCE AND COORDINATION SYMPTOMS
Dysdiadochokinesia, is a medical condition where the ability to perform rapid and alternating movements are affected Dysmetria, is oftentimes related to one's inability to calculate scale and distance.

Dystonia, is a movement disorder associated with impaired neurological functions. This is characterized by abnormal posture, repetitive movements and constant jerking and twisting during attempts to maintain a posture.

Intention tremor, is characterized by tremor occurring during voluntary movements. This is worsened during movements. Impairment or loss of coordination, or ataxia is a condition that results from problems with processing sensory and motor inputs as well as in the production of responses to these.

Speech Ataxia (stuttering), this refers to problems involving the coordination of speech. Vestibular Ataxia, this results into nystagmus, incoordination and vertigo, which involves a host of symptoms including vomiting, dizziness and nausea. This is caused by the formation of lesions on the vestibular nuclei and the brainstem.


BLADDER-, BOWEL-, and SEXUAL-RELATED SYMPTOMS
Bladder Spasticity or muscular hypertonicity results from the continuous sending of brain signal to certain muscles, causing them to continuously contract and tighten
Constipation is a medical and a very common condition that involves the hardening of the feces, thus leading to difficult bowel movement

Detrusor-Sphincter Dyssynergia
Erectile Dysfunction, Anorgasmy and retrograde ejaculation are all sexual-related symptoms of the condition rooting from dysfunctions of impulse transference
Fecal Urgency and incontinence is the inability to control the involuntary muscles of the anus, thereby leading to uncontrolled defecation.

Frequent Micturation, simply known as frequent urination.
Frigidity or Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder is a condition that refers to the decreased capacity to maintain sexual functions and activities

OTHERS
Fatigue, for no apparent reason. MS patients typically report of unexplained over-exhaustion.
Gastroesophageal Reflux or heartburn
Sleeping disorders or inability to fall into sleep or maintain sleep
Uhthoff's Symptom, is a condition whereby temperature rises during hot baths, exercise and other activities causing the exacerbation of other symptoms

Read More..

Your hair is your crowning glory. Look after it and it will shine for all the world to see. You don’t always need expensive treatments, or visits to a hair salon to manage your hair professionally. There’s so much you can do yourself.

1. For shiny, healthy hair think first of your body’s intake. Your hair is really just a reflection of what you are inside. A good balanced, nutritious and healthy diet will do more to make your hair shine than any shampoo or conditioner. And drink eight to ten glasses of water a day too; hair is 25% water, so don’t let yours go thirsty!

2. Dry your hair after washing in the ambient temperature of your room after using an absorbent towel to soak up the excess moisture, but don’t rub hard. If possible, don’t use blow-drying, flat irons, curling irons or hot rollers. Artificial heating will leave your hair brittle and damaged in time. Be natural whenever you can.

3. Prevent unnecessary hair damage by using the right kind of hairbrush. Only comb wet hair with a wide-tooth comb, combing from end to root, but avoiding touching the root. Detangling wet hair with a hard steel comb can create a lot of damage, so don’t!

4. Remove trichoptlosis, or split ends, like this: take small sections of your hair and carefully twist them in a gentle downward motion. The split ends will stick out. Using sharp scissors, carefully cut into the twisted section, but not right through, to remove the damaged cuticles and leave a natural layered look. Cut roughly the same amount from each twist to balance the effect.

5. Hair loss can be slowed, or even reversed by applying a few simple tips, though they probably won’t cure an underlying condition. Biotin can help to regenerate hair follicles: blend bananas with honey, yoghurt and low-fat milk, and drink it daily. Supplements such as Vitamin B6, zinc and saw palmetto will help too, but eliminating stress and getting plenty of sleep may work just as well.

We are all obsessed with our hair, whether we are 9 or 90, male or female. Look after yourself first and foremost and your hair will reflect that care and attention. The Biblical Samson’s strength lay in his fine flowing hair. Your hair reflects your strength too

Read More..

A number of novels and stories of the early 18th and 19th centuries often portray women as mad and irrational beings, thus, espousing the creation of mad women literature. But, modern medicine dispels this "mad" attribute.

By establishing that women's hormones are more sensitive and susceptible to change than that of men, more attention is given to female health. Menstruation, menopause, PMS, and perimenopause - these are all part and parcel of general health topics related to women. Aside from that similarity of being part of female health, these phenomena are due to one thing: hormonal changes.

Hormones are fickle, they change with the slightest variation in diets or physical activity. Sometimes even emotional upheavals are enough to make women's hormones go haywire. Researchers on female health come up with studies on the relationship of female psycho-emotional well-being and their physical health. More often than not, hormones are the established links between this relationship.

Hormonal imbalances are the usual culprits for a number of health disorders in women. Although some of the symptoms are associated with other illnesses, their root remains to be unbalanced hormones. As varied as general health topics are, they range from physical manifestations to psychological and emotional troubles.

Physical manifestations of hormonal imbalances include fatigue, weakness, weight gain, weight loss, digestive problems, hot flashes, and joint pain. Other symptoms are more pronounced and less insidious like hair loss and dry skin. Unfortunately, with the demands of career and family life, women often ignore these symptoms as merely due to excess work and overall tiredness.

Some attempt to cure their symptoms with remedies and rest that do not work. Hormonal imbalances need medical attention and hormonal supplements to be treated properly. Otherwise, symptoms grow worse with heart palpitations, increased nausea, urinary dysfunction, breast pain, and vaginal dryness. Extreme cases even include changes in menstrual periods with the affected person either suffering from extended periods and bleeding or have total absence of periods.

If the symptoms and conditions above are bad enough, they are just the hormonal imbalances' physical aspect. Usually cropping up as manifestations of other psychological disorders, the psycho-emotional aspect of these imbalances are often disruptive.

There are documented cases wherein afflicted persons confess of being unable to function at their normal level because of the symptoms. Some of the minor symptoms include cravings and mood swings. However, if the symptoms do not receive treatment, they progress to worse conditions like lack of sexual desire, depression, insomnia, and unclear reasoning. It's no wonder that general health topics and concerns about women often include well-being exercises.

But, these imbalances are not permanent afflictions. With proper diet, exercise, supplements, and counseling, women are able to get their hormones back on track. However, early detection is a key factor in treating hormonal imbalances. It is therefore important not to dismiss the symptoms as just belonging to general health topics or issues. Hormonal imbalances are not just topics -- they are real, and they happen to more women everyday.

Read More..

While thinking about the symptoms of menopause, it is important for you to know and understand that these symptoms differ from women to women. Certain factors like difference in diet and nutrition, general health and health care, etc all affect the way women experience menopause.

The general physical symptoms of most women approaching or experiencing menopause include:

Longer menstrual periods

For a woman who usually has short menstrual periods of, say, 4 days, this can increase to more days. When this occurs, it could be one of the symptoms that she is approaching her menopause. When you notice that this is happening to you and you are approaching your late 40s, there is nothing to worry about. Simply know that this is a symptom of menopause.

Heavier menstrual flows

Some women also notice that their menstrual flows are now heavier than usual. If this happens to you and you are sure that nothing else is wrong with you physically, then know that you could be approaching your menopause, especially if the age is right. If the age is not right, then you are not approaching menopause.

Spotting

Spotting is the situation whereby little drops of blood comes out during the time when you are supposed to be menstruating. When this occurs, it could be a sign of menopause. First, check whether you could be pregnant or not. If not, and if it continues, then it could be a sign of menopause.

Menstrual periods irregularity

There is also the tendency that you will experience general menstrual periods irregularity when you are approaching menopause. When this happens and you know nothing is wrong with you health wise, then it is a symptom of menopause.

Lack of interest in sex

Lack of interest in sex for most women in menopause occurs partly because there is now less fun when having sex. This is because as menopause happens, the estrogen levels decline, thereby making the vaginal walls less elastic and thinner. This eventually leads to pain or discomfort during sex. To solve this problem, there is the need for sufficient vaginal lubrication for women who are experiencing menopause and still want to enjoy sex with their partners.

Read More..

There are several ways on removing acne scars. The appearance of acne starts during puberty when the body actively produces hormones that causes too much sebum in the skin. This skin stage may pass but it would definitely leave marks to haunt your appearance forever.

Treating acne scars can be done through natural inexpensive ways and dermatological procedures that would probably cost a lot. However, acne scar treatment still depends on the mildness and severity of the scar.

Below are some of the techniques on removing acne scars naturally:

1. Hydration is the key. It has been proven that water is one of the best natural methods on how to remove acne scars and prevent acne breakouts. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water or more helps your skin to shed those unwanted dead skin cells.

2. A lot of people are recommending the use Vitamin E capsule for those scars. You might apply it topically to the affected area by pricking a spot in the capsule and apply the oil to the scar. Another option is to take it orally to have that cell renewal from the inside.

3. Rosehip seed oil is also an effective remedy on how to remove acne scars. This is an anti-ageing and anti-wrinkling agent that helps the skin to regenerate. Massage it on the scar twice a day.

4. Eating a balance diet may help in removing acne scars. The more nutritious foods you include in your meal, the faster the scar will heal. It helps in building the skin cells and gives a healthy skin glow as well.

5. Combine rose water and paste of sandal wood and apply it on the spot where the scars are. Leave it overnight then rinse with cold water the next day.

Aside from the natural ways of removing acne scars, there are also dermatological procedures that would definitely give you a much faster result. However, pregnancy and other health conditions may hinder your want to undergo these procedures. Here are some of the hi-tech methods on how to remove acne scars effectively.

6. Nowadays, not only certified dermatologists do a dermabrasion but facial salons as well. Dermabrasion is the removal of the top skin layer using a machine that chafes off the skin. Once the skin heals, the top layer will then have a smoother and clearer appearance.

7. Laser resurfacing is one of the most affordable anti-scar treatments available. It simply uses a high-energy light that would remove the fine scars and even prevent wrinkles.

8. You may also have a chemical peel procedure. This is just like dermabrasion. The only difference is that the top layer of the skin is peeled off using chemicals not machines. This is not a very advisable procedure for all since some people may have allergic reactions to the chemicals.

With all the available choices for treatment, you surely would not have an excuse as to why your acne scar is still obvious. It’s your choice whether you would opt for the natural way or the dermatological procedure on how to remove acne scars.

Read More..

The following tips to make your makeup great, so you will seem more beautiful :

1. Avoid wearing too much

Makeup is meant to enhance features not bring negative attention to you. That's what wearing too much makeup will do; it will bring you unwanted attention. Don't wear too much of anything such as:

i) Eyeliner: dark, thick eyeliner will make you look overdone and will ruin the rest of your makeup.

ii) Mascara: too much mascara looks fake and will flake. It looks especially bad if worn with thick eyeliner or dark blue eye eye shadow.

iii) Foundation: Make sure your foundation is the same color as your skin. Foundation is meant to protect and give the face a smooth look. The magic word is blend.

iv) Powder:The same holds true for powder - not too much. Also, be sure to blend your makeup so there are no obvious lineS

2. Lips

Apply lip liner to completely cover the lips, add color and your lipstick will stay on much longer. Make sure your lip liner doesn't show. Also, your lip color should match your skin tone; wear cool colors if you have cool coloring and warm colors if you have warm coloring. If you want to make your lips look smaller, keep your liner on the inside of your lips. However, if you decide to make your lips look larger, going outside the natural outline of you lips is a mistake. This can look quite messy and unnatural.

3. Appropriate makeup
Wear makeup that is appropriate for the occasion. If you are going to the beach you shouldn't wear the same or as much makeup as you would if you were going dancing. Also, when you are in daylight your makeup should be a lighter than when you are out for the evening.


4. Too little or no makeup

Some women don't wear makeup because they are not sure how to use it and are afraid of being overdone. If you are unsure, start will light colours in your shade. Start slowly and add one product at a time. Maybe start with foundation, add mascara, blush or lipstick. If you are not used to wearing makeup, using a lot a first may be a little too much for you, so start slowly. The bottom line is a little is better than none. If you are still unsure seek professional advice.

5. Overall look

When your makeup is completed it should look natural. That means avoiding colours that clash. If you have dark skin and hair you will look better in darker shades; light colours will make you look washed out. If your hair and skin tone are light, light colours will look better on you. Dark makeup will make you look older and harsh. If you have oily skin, first use oil control moisturizer and foundation. Then be sure to wear loose powder, keeping pressed powder with you for touch ups.


6. Hair color

Your hair color should also be in harmony with your skin. If you have dark hair and you want to add color, keep it close to the same shade. If you have light hair, use light colors. As you age your skin will lighten, so should your hair color. One last thing about hair color - if you do color you hair be sure you keep it up, don't let your roots show.

7. One last thing

Keep makeup looking fresh all day by doing regular touch ups. Don't let your makeup fade or crease. Smile!!!

Read More..

Perhaps the most appealing benefit of using a patch is that it is so easy to use. No pills to remember to take, no special diets, no required exercise routine. Naturally, sticking to a healthy diet and exercise program is best for your overall health, but if that is difficult for you to adhere to all of the time, the patch may be a solution that works for you.

A weight loss patch that you place on your body will deliver the active ingredients by transdermal delivery, meaning through the skin. The patch ingredients will go directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system and liver. Simply apply the patch to a smooth area of your skin and change it every 3 days. That is all of the maintenance that is required.

A patch can even be used occasionally when you are traveling and know you will be eating out a lot, or for those times you are too busy to cook the proper foods. A patch that suppresses your appetite will help you develop good eating habits that will help you maintain your ideal weight in the future ~ no more yo-yo figures.

2. Appetite Suppressant Pills


Curbing your appetite to stop the influx of calories in the first place seems to be the logical way to lose and maintain your weight. However, we are so bombarded by confusing claims everywhere for appetite suppressant pills ~ in print, on the radio, on television, even on billboards when driving, that it is difficult to know which diet pill will really help take off those pounds ~ and keep them off..

Some diet pills will cause your heart to race, your hands to shake, or an overall "wired" feeling. To avoid these problem, stay away from products that contain Ephedra, Ma Huang, and Ephedrine.

One herbal diet pill that has gotten a lot of publicity lately is Hoodia Gordonii The authentic plant comes from the Kalahari desert in South Aftrica. Respectable television shows like 60 Minutes, the Today Show, BBC, and even Oprah's "O" magazine have given it rave reviews for its fast acting appetite suppressing qualities. While it can take one to two weeks to work fully, many users report a decline in their appetite with the first pill.

In fact, Hoodia has had so many positive reports that there are now a lot of knock-off products being marketed to the uninformed ~ especially on the Internet. The real Hoodia is very rare because it takes up to 7 years for the Hoodia plant to mature to a point where it provides appetite suppressant qualities. In addition, the African government is now limiting the amount of Hoodia it exports, meaning only a few suppliers have the real thing. Because Hoodia is so rare, you can expect it to be a little more expensive than other diet pills.

Another diet pill that helps shed pounds is Herbal Phentermine. This is a non-prescription appetite suppressant that is scientifically designed to produce similar effects of a popular Rx version of phentermine.

The good news is that the Herbal version contains only natural ingredients so you don't have to be worried about side effects. Plus, you can avoid the time, expense, and embarrassment of a doctor's visit.

Herbal Phentermine will not only suppress your appetite, but it will also increase your metabolism so you burn more calories and have more energy.

3). Carbohydrate Blockers

Perhaps you prefer not to have your appetite suppressed, but instead would like to eat all of the pasta, bread, rice, and potatoes you want. If this sounds more like your style, then you might want to try a carbohydrate blocker.

Scientists have discovered, and thoroughly tested a method to allow us to eat the foods we love and not gain weight. We can now stop the normal conversion of starchy foods to sugar before it can pass through our digestive system and store as fat on our hips, thighs, buttocks and stomach. Derived from white kidney beans, the resulting carb blockers, (starch neutralizers), are a completely natural product. They work by neutralizing the Alpha amylase enzyme that digests starch.

By neutralizing this digestive enzyme, the starch from our food does not get digested. Instead, it remains intact and does not convert to sugar. It simply passes through the body undigested and acts as a fiber ~ which is a very good thing. We get more fiber going through our intestines while avoiding the conversion to sugar and the resulting fat storage ~ a definite win-win situation.

Over the past several years, there have been many positive studies to determine the effectiveness of carb blockers and their ability to help lose weight. One study was performed at the Northridge Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA, over an eight week time period.

It reported that participants saw an average weight loss of 200% more than those taking a placebo, and lost an average of 1.5 inches around their waists. This was 43 % more than those taking the placebo. Plus they reported having 13% more energy, even though it is not a stimulant.

Whether you choose patches or pills, prefer to eat starchy foods, or use carb blockers, some things to look for when buying diet products are that they:

1) Contain all natural ingredients
2) Do not have harmful side effects
3) Offer a 100% money back guarantee

Read More..

I'm sure everyone wants the ideal body weight. If you look thin, so that people do is how to gain weight. Conversely, if the weight is more than ideal weight, it would require a way to lose weight in a way to launch metabolism. How?
Here are tips to launch your metabolism to lose weight:

1 Don’t Skip Breakfast

The morning meal jump starts your metabolism and helps to prevent bingeing later in the day. A cup of coffee does not count – the caffeine and added sugar may give you a bit of energy and suppress your appetite for a little while it is sure to back fire into severe hunger and you will be more likely to overeat later. Breakfast should include complex carbohydrates like whole grain (granola or oatmeal), along with some protein and fat (low-fat yogurt or milk), will keep your energy levels even and hunger in check.

2 Eat more often

Get into the habit of eating every three to four hours or at least four times a day. Eating frequently stabilizes blood sugar, when blood sugar drops too low you want to eat…a lot. By keeping your blood sugar stable you can control your appetite and keep you metabolic rate high. When you go many hours without eating your body will compensate by slowing down to conserve energy…this effect hurts your weight loss efforts.


3 Eat protein at every meal

Protein will help to reduce your appetite, it takes more energy and time to digest, in effect you feel full longer than eating carbohydrates alone. Research shows that eating more protein can help you lose weight without cutting calories. Try these protein possibilities: turkey on whole wheat; hummus and pita; vegetarian chili; fruit and nuts; or protein snack bars that contain 12 or more grams of protein.

4 Hold off on snacking

Many of us grab a snack for quick energy when we are feeling tired. But do not confuse true hunger with fatigue. If you are feeling tired go for a 15-20 minute brisk walk. This will raise your heart rate and give you a boost of energy. Follow it up with a large glass of cool water. If you are truly hungry have a protein and complex carbohydrate rich snack like; whole wheat crackers and peanut butter or cheese.

5 Consume enough for your body’s needs

Eating too little slows your body’s metabolism the same way eating to infrequently does. If you want to lose weight, do not slash your calories too drastically. Instead, cut out some of the extras in your diet – things like soda, juice, packaged goods or candy. Processed foods tend to be high in fat and calories and low in vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Read More..

Most people know that having health and fitness is important. Many try to stay fit and healthy to get a great body shape. The question is do people know the benefits of being fit and healthy or how to get that great body shape they yearned so much for?

Unfortunately not, otherwise there will not be such high dropout rates in gyms all over the world and people getting fatter and fatter.

• Benefits of good health and fitness :-

1) Day to day chores are so much easier – Because you are fit, you will not tire that easily and chores such as gardening, carrying stuff , bending over or climbing up to pick up things will be so much easier.

2) Enjoy life better – Since daily chores are no longer chores, you are able to do more things and faster. Savor your productivity and efficiency.

3) Save money and live longer – Save money on your medical expenses from diseases that strike unhealthy and obese people. Your risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks, stroke and some form of cancers, all of which are deadly is reduced significantly when you stay fit and are in great health.

4) Your posture and confidence improve – Because you are stronger, your strong muscles hold up your skeletal structure will. This improves your body posture and your confidence will soar.

5) Look great in your clothes – You will carry your clothes well because you are no longer flabby or skinny with your clothes either too tight or too lose.

6) Attractive hunk – Gone will be the days when your body shape was the butt of jokes. Instead, people will ogle and admire your new attractive body. A body that many people will die for.

There are many more benefits for having great health and fitness. Too many to mention in just one article. So we shall go on to discuss how to be in great body shape, fit and healthy.

• How to be in great body shape-stay fit and healthy

Just three things.

1) Healthy eating habits and healthy lifestyle – You are what you eat. So if you eat unhealthy food, you will be unhealthy. Thus avoid saturated and trans fat. Eat less sugary stuff and sodium. Avoid alcohol and quit smoking. Drink plenty of water and remember what your mum used to say, “Take your vitamins.”

2) Do cardio exercises – It toughens up your heart and lungs. Cardio exercises are great for your respiratory and cardiovascular system. Best of all, it burns tons of calories.

3) Lift weights – Build muscles for a toned and defined body. With muscles come strength and with more strength you will be able to do many more things than just having a sexy muscular body.

So you can see, it is not that difficult to be fit and healthy. Having a great body shape along the way is indeed a bonus. So have you written out a plan for your health and fitness goals?

Read More..

Perhaps only a few of us who care for gallstones. Yet, each person will almost certainly experience it and it is not impossible to get a gallstone problems in one day.

Gallstone formation is one of the major abnormalities that arise in the bladder and bile ducts. Gallstones occur due to chemical changes in the bile someone. Gallstones are formed from the deposition of cholesterol, pigment bilirubin and calcium salts are hardened, but most of the gall-bladder stones are formed from cholesterol.

In the gall bladder, stones can cause inflammation called acute kolestitis, this is because of gallstone fragments in the bile ducts that causes pain. The stones of the gallbladder can be related in the liver and bile ducts, thus stopping the flow of bile into the digestive tract.

Although gallbladder disease rarely show symptoms, the situation could get worse torture. If someone is suffering from gallstones, the symptoms that may arise is the attack when a high-fat meal. Stone blocking the flow of bile will cause acute pain on the right side of the abdomen and towards the back, between the shoulder and the front chest.

According to a recent study in the United States, the formation of gallstones can actually be reduced by consumption of foods containing magnesium. Type of magnesium-rich foods include fish, dried almonds, spinach, avocado, banana, raisins and cashews.

Is Dr. Chung-Jyi Tsai and colleagues from the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington is publishing a study on the role of magnesium reduce the risk of stone formation empadu. As published the American Journal of Gastroenterology, Dr. Chung-Jyi Tsai noted that the consumption of magnesium in the last few years due to the relative decline of food processing too long.

Lack of magnesium has long been known to increase levels of triglycerides and lower good cholesterol (HDL) in blood, which triggers both the risk of gallstone formation. However, until now the effects or long-term effects of magnesium on the risk of gallstone formation in humans is unknown depth.

For that reason, Tsai and his team conducted research by analyzing data of 42,705 men aged 40 to 75 years. These men watched their development from the year 986 until 2002 and they also surveyed every two years to find a new disease cases, including gall bladder disease. The researchers gathered information about the intake of magnesium through a questionnaire sent to semikuantitatif participants every four years. During the monitoring period, the researchers recorded about 2195 men diagnosed with gallstone disease.

Research shows, participants who obtained the highest magnesium intake had a reduced risk of gallstones up to 33 percent than those who received the lowest magnesium intake. Decreased risk was also seen when the researchers considered only contain magnesium intake without supplementation.

"From a lot of research, it appears that a healthy diet, which prioritizes vegetables, fiber, complex carbohydrates and magnesium intake, will reduce the risk of symptomatic gallstones. A healthy diet can also help in preventing a person other than gallstone disease, "Dr. Cynthia W. Ko, from the University of Washington in Seattle, in an editorial responding to these findings.

Read More..

Did you know that wrinkles, eye puffiness, and redness caused not only by the sun or genetic? Little things you do every day could be the cause of it all. To get a beautiful skin and good, probably just need to change the small activities of your daily course.

The following tips provided by Mary P. Lupo, MD, dermatologist from New Orleans, United States:

1. eksfoliasi habits facial skin with granules (Scrubs) of the material could damage the hard skin. Sometimes there are some beauty products manufacturers have eksfoliator from things like mashed clams, nuts, or seeds. Unfortunately, these things sometimes still have the corners sharp, and not infrequently injure the skin.

We recommend that you replace with a small scrub and round. David Bank, MD, dermatologist from Mt. Kisco, New York, said, if you have sensitive skin, try using eksfoliator of baking soda. Simply mix baking soda with enough water to a paste. Then, use a scrub.

2. The habit of bathing or soaking in warm water / hot for too long can erode the skin. Too long bath with hot water can make a layer of lipids (binding cells that make skin moist) to be eroded. Indeed, a few hours later the lipid will form again, but during the process, the body moisture lost in considerable amounts. Not to mention if the water has a chlorine content that can make skin dry and irritated. If you do have to shower with hot water, try to not more than 10 minutes, in order to keep the skin fresh and moist.

3. Check regularly to the eye doctor. Repetitive muscle movements such as frowning, can lead to wrinkles or fine lines while (in between the eyebrows and on the outside of the eye) become permanent. Most women do not realize that they have their eyes examined regularly, at least two years. Especially when they began to realize that their eyesight difficulties, we will unconsciously wince, to produce wrinkles. Whether you're starting to feel there is something wrong with the vision or not, your eyes should be checked regularly. Do not be too embarrassed to wear sunglasses when outside the room during the day. In addition to avoid wrinkles, as well as to prevent cataracts that can result from exposure exposed to direct sunlight and often.

4. Habits hair after washing your face in the morning? Should change this habit. Why? Because the unconscious, the products can hairdresser stuck in the children's hair, which is around the face. In the end, there will be acne around the child's hair and clogged pores due to the products hairdressers. Steps that should be done is, if you've washed it at night, Arrange the hair in the morning. Hair done first, then wash your face. If this is inconvenient, you can clean the hair over the face with special wipes for the baby's face or before using the make-up.

5. Sleep sideways. If you're like most people are awakened by an alarm, but not direct their activities, most likely you'll still put his face in the pillow for a while. Gravity can cause fluid collects in the bottom of the eye, causing swelling under the eyes. When this happens every day, there will be eye puffiness.

Those who sleep sideways also tend to have wrinkles. The lines due to the sheets are left in the face, if it happens every day will become permanent. Because the folds or wrinkles that occur every day and constantly causing damage collagen. There's a good idea to try to train yourself to sleep on their backs. Should try to sleep using a travel pillow that looks like a horseshoe. Or, place a small pillow at the bottom of the knee. This will give your spine neutral ante and make you not want to turn over. The experts also recommended to change the sheets with a rare silk sheets to clot, so that will not leave streaks on the face.

Source; Kompas.Com

Read More..

Certainly almost all women want to have a manicured hair so become healthy and beautiful hair. especially the hair like a crown for women. However, busy work often becomes an obstacle to care for themselves in a beauty center.

In addition to more expensive, to the beauty center, generally it will take many hours, while from morning to evening time was spent in the office. For simplicity and efficiency of time, of course, hair care can also be done at home.

Here are some tips for healthy hair care you can do at home :

• Use a professional conditioner that is formulated for your specific hair type. While you can skimp a little on the shampoo, a good, professional conditioner is a must have. Look for products in salons that are customized for your hair type. For instance: If you have color or a perm, choose a conditioner that is for chemically processed hair. And stay away from those all-in-one shampoo and conditioner combos.
• Choose a cut tailored to your face and body shape. The number one mistake that people make when choosing a new hairstyle is to pick a style based on popularity rather than how it will enhance their features. Always choose a new cut based on how it will enhance or detract from your facial features and build. If you have broad shoulders, choose a full-bodied cut over a close cropped head hugging doo.
• Leave chemicals to the professionals. There is a reason why beauticians need to go to school to learn how to handle chemicals and hair processes. You can do irreparable damage with these products even if the package says that it’s way easy. And even if you don’t make your hair fall out, you could end up looking like a clown and paying a stylist big bucks to fix your mess. (Note: Most stylists charge double the rate for corrective color than they do for normal color processes)
• Keep your appointments. Did you know that your hair will split faster than it will grow? You need to get a trim every 6 to 8 weeks, even if it’s just a micro trim. A good hairdresser makes them good because they know what to leave on the head, not take off.
• Do weekly conditioning treatments. Even if your hair is extremely healthy, it is constantly on the attack from wind, sun, cold and heat. During the summer months, your hair is battered even more when it absorbs chlorine and other chemicals from your pool.
• Choose your styling products wisely. Avoid products that leave build-up on your hair. If you see white gunk, that means that your product is not water-soluble and may be coating your hair shaft. Build-up causes limpness, breakage and inability to curl not to mention the white flakes.
• Did you know that if you use a towel after your shower to dry your hair you are causing split ends and adding static electricity to your hair. Don’t rub the towel back and forth over your hair, scrunch the towel around your hair like your would scrunch crackers in your soup.
• Don’t forget your UV protectants. Just as your skin gets damaged by wind and sun, so does your hair. To combat this, look for finishing products such as mousses, gels and sprays that block UV rays.

Now, I think many hair care products readily available in the market / store. is not easy & cheap treating your own hair?...try it!

Read More..

H1N1 virus causes swine flu, which at this time a lot of Mexico and the United States, now start overwrite Indonesia.

According to the Minister of Health, Dr RI. dr. Siti Fadilah Supari, Sp.JP (K), swine flu has symptoms similar to ordinary flu, namely fever, cough, and runny nose.

Sometimes there are symptoms of nausea and diarrhea, which distinguishes the bird flu. When this symptom is found, people should be immediately reported to the nearest health clinic and taken it spesimen to be examined further.

Yesterday (tgl 30 April 2009) , World Health Organization (WHO) raise the status of the danger to the swine flu epidemic levels in the 5-scale pandemic (global epidemic).


This level means that only one level in the worst condition. “Level 5 means that the spread of the virus has been going from human to human at least in the two countries in one region (continent),” said WHO Director General Margaret Chan.

Source : http://smartbabysecret.com/healthy/swine-flu-baby-development.html

Read More..

Certain factors that contribute to the development of diabetes are Heredity. That diabetes can be inherited has been known for centuries. However, the pattern of inheritance is not fully understood.

Statistic indicates that those with a family history of the disease have a higher risk of developing diabetes than those without such a background. The risk factor is 25 to 33 percent more

Diabetes mellitus occurs when the pancreas doesn't make enough or any of the insuline hormone, or when the insulin produced doesn't work effectively. In diabetes, this causes the level of glucose in the blood to be too high.

In Type 1 diabetes the cells in the pancreas that make insulin are destroyed, causing a severe lack of insulin. This is thought to be the result of the body attacking and destroying its own cells in the pancreas - known as an autoimmune reaction.

It's not clear why this happens, but a number of explanations and possible triggers of this reaction have been proposed. These include:

• infection with a specific virus or bacteria;
• exposure to food-borne chemical toxins; and
• exposure as a very young infant to cow's milk, where an as yet unidentified component of this triggers the autoimmune reaction in the body.
  

However, these are only hypotheses and are by no means proven causes.

Type 2 diabetes is believed to develop when:

• the receptors on cells in the body that normally respond to the action of insulin fail to be stimulated by it - this is known as insulin resistance. In response to this more insulin may be produced, and this over-production exhausts the insulin-manufacturing cells in the pancreas;
• there is simply insufficient insulin available;
  
• the insulin that is available may be abnormal and therefore doesn't work properly.

The following risk factors increase the chances of someone developing Type 2 diabetes:

1. Increasing age;
2. obesity; and
3. physical inactivity.

Rarer causes of diabetes include:

1. Certain medicines;
2. pregnancy (gestational diabetes); and
3. any illness or disease that damages the pancreas and affects its ability to produce insulin e.g. pancreatitis.

The myth that has been regarded as the cause of diabetes are :

• Eating sweets or the wrong kind of food does not cause diabetes. However, it may cause obesity and this is associated with people developing Type 2 diabetes.
• Stress does not cause diabetes, although it may be a trigger for the body turning on itself as in the case of Type 1 diabetes. It does, however, make the symptoms worse for those who already have diabetes.
• Diabetes is not contagious. Someone with diabetes cannot pass it on to anyone else.

(by Dr. Rob Hicks)

Read More..

Diabetes is a syndrome in which there is a failure of pancreatic beta cells produce insulin hormones.

In general, divided 2 large, namely:

• Type I Diabetes called IDDM (Insulin Dependent Diabetes mellitus) this is purely dependent insulin injections
• Type 2 Diabetes called NIDDM (Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes mellitus)

It is important to understand the distinction between the two and how both are treated.

Type 1 diabetes is commonly found in children and/or adolescents, but may also occur in adults. With type 1 diabetes, there is almost always a complete deficiency of insulin. As a result, the most common treatment is insulin injections, a lifestyle that consists of both diet and exercise and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels with the use of blood testing monitors.

Patients who have been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can continue to enjoy a normal life providing they continue with their treatment and take special care to follow their doctor’s instructions and/or recommendation.

With type 2 diabetes, an individual’s insulin level is usually either normal or sometimes even elevated, but is not deficient. This form of diabetes is believed to be more complicated than type 1, but ironically is thought to be easier to treat. Because insulin is still being produced inside the body, type 2 diabetes often goes undetected for years.

Symptoms are milder and may even be sporadic, which often reduces the level of concern. The main problem with type 2 diabetes going unnoticed is the potential for serious complications, including renal failure and coronary artery disease. The initial treatment phase of type 2 diabetes will likely include a lifestyle adjustment to feature increased physical activity and a diet that is geared toward weight loss.

The next step, if necessary, will be medication and possibly insulin therapy if needed.

Both types of diabetes require that the patient maintain normal blood glucose levels in an effort to reduce the possibility of organ damage, including eyesight, kidney, blood circulation, etc.

In order for this to occur, patients must carefully monitor their food intake and make sure to participate in regular exercise, all the while continuing to monitor their blood glucose level.

As of 2006, there is no known cure for diabetes.

A chronic disease that effects many, diabetes is best treated through patient education, nutrition, self awareness and long-term care. In addition, patients are often urged to be aware of other symptoms that may indicate complications arising from diabetes.

The percentage of type 1 and 2 range from 30:70 where type 2 diabetes are often obtained because:
1. Life style (high-sugar foods, carbohydrates)
2. Lack of activity
3. Heredity


The contents of this article are to be used for informational purposes only. It should not be used in conjunction with, or in place of, professional medical advice relating to diabetes.

This article must not be used as a basis for diagnosing or treating diabetes, but rather an informational source designed to explain the difference between the two types. For further information, a diagnosis or recommended treatment method for diabetes, individuals should consult a licensed physician.

Read More..