Have you been experiencing pain? Maybe you've got some low back pain, neck pain, or hip pain? How about chronic tension in muscles and joints? Would you like to be able to bend over to put on socks or shoes? Do you want to feel good again? If so, you might be ready to try a type of therapeutic bodywork called Ortho-Bionomy. For several years now I've used Ortho-Bionomy in my San Antonio Massage Therapy and Bodywork practice to relieve pain and stress.
What Is Ortho-Bionomy and How Does It Work?
Ortho-Bionomy is a non-invasive, gentle, and very powerful type of therapeutic bodywork. Ortho-Bionomy works with the body's own self-corrective reflexes to effectively relieve acute and chronic pain, chronic tension patterns, and stress. Ortho-Bionomy is done most often with the client relaxing fully clothed on a comfortably padded table while the Ortho-Bionomist performs releases by positioning the client's body and joints in positions of comfort then applying gentle motions and/or compression. The result of an Ortho-Bionomy session is less pain, reduced muscle tension, greater circulation, greater flexibility, and an overall sense of wellness and relaxation.
Where Did Ortho-Bionomy Come From?
Ortho-Bionomy, both the name and the body of work, is based on the work of Dr. Arthur Lincoln Pauls. Dr. Pauls was an Osteopathic Physician and Judo instructor. After a presentation of the work of Dr. Laurence Jones regarding "Spontaneous Release By Positioning", Dr. Pauls became fascinated with the body's self-corrective reflexes. He drew upon his knowledge of Osteopathy, Homeopathy, and Judo to find ways to work with the body instead of attempting to force change. After several years of work and experimentation Dr. Pauls began teaching Ortho-Bionomy in the U.S. and Europe. Today Ortho-Bionomy is taught and practiced around the world.
What Can Be Treated With Ortho-Bionomy?
Ortho-Bionomy is generally used to treat various painful conditions, postural distortions, chronic tension and stress. That covers a lot of ground doesn't it? As a Licensed Massage Therapist who has studied Ortho-Bionomy for some time I've used Ortho-Bionomy to successfully treat:
1. Back Pain - low back and upper back
2. Neck Pain including whiplash
3. Hip and Knee Pain
4. TMJ Dysfunction - Jaw Pain
5. Headaches and Migraines
6. Shoulder Pain and Rotator Cuff issues
7. Leg Length Discrepancy and Functional Scoliosis
8. SI Joint Pain and Sciatica
9. Chronic Stress and Tension
...and more.
As you can see, Ortho-Bionomy is effective in treating a wide range of complaints. However, while Ortho-Bionomy is very gentle, non-invasive, and compatible with all healing systems you should consult with your physician prior to receiving an Ortho-Bionomy session or any other form of massage or bodywork. Ortho-Bionomy practitioners welcome working in conjuction with your health care team.
Where Can I Get An Ortho-Bionomy Session?
If you're in San Antonio, Texas or the surrounding area you can get an Ortho-Bionomy session from me at my Massage Therapy and Bodywork practice Massage By Ben. If you don't live in the San Antonio area you can find an Ortho-Bionomy practitioner near you by contacting the Society of Ortho-Bionomy International at Ortho-Bionomy.org where you will find listings of practitioners around the world.
Ortho-Bionomy is a registered trademark of the Society of Ortho-Bionomy International (SOBI) and is used with permission.
Author Resource: Ben Crabtree is a Licensed Massage Therapist, and Certified Neuromuscular Therapist in San Antonio, Texas. His practice is dedicated to relieving pain through the use of several massage and bodywork techniques. See his site MassageByBen.com or SOBI
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Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Pronator Teres Syndrome And Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy and Bodywork are very effective in treating muscular pain and related problems arising from muscular issues. For example, in my San Antonio, Texas based Massage Therapy and Bodywork practice I often treat pain from various nerve entrapment syndromes including the supposedly rare Pronator Teres Syndrome. Like many painful conditions Pronator Teres Syndrome responds quite well to massage therapy and bodywork.
What is Pronator Teres Syndrome?
Pronator Teres Syndrome is the name of a painful nerve entrapment condition, sometimes misdiagnosed as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, in which the median nerve is placed under abnormal pressure by the pronator teres muscle near the elbow. The pronator teres muscle attaches to both the humerus and ulna bones near the elbow and then diagonally across to the radius bone. When the pronator teres muscle becomes tight and enlarged, pain results from myofascial trigger points (knots) in the muscle, and pressure on the median nerve which passes through the muscle’s two heads. Pain from Pronator Teres Syndrome is usually found in the forearm and wrist as well has the palm of the hand on the thumb side. Additionally, there is very often numbness or a pins and needles feeling in palm, thumb, forefinger, and middle finger that seems very much the same pattern as seen in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Most of the time the symptoms are on one side, usually the dominant hand, but may affect both sides at the same time. Additionally, people with Pronator Teres Syndrome often have a sense of weakness in the hand and symptoms may worsen with continued use.
What is the cause of Pronator Teres Syndrome?
There are a number of causes for Pronator Teres Syndrome including direct blunt trauma to the muscle itself and elbow injuries, however this syndrome is most often caused by overuse and/or repetitive stress of the pronator teres muscle. Examples of activities contributing to this syndrome include prolonged use of screw drivers or other hand tools, overhand (topspin) motions in racquet sports such as tennis, and other activities requiring repetitive forearm turning motions.
Massage Therapy and Bodywork for Pronator Teres Syndrome
There are many ways that massage therapy and bodywork can be used to treat Pronator Teres Syndrome. The massage therapist will employ a number of techniques to relieve the condition. For example the massage therapist may use Neuromuscular Therapy or Trigger Point Therapy to eliminate myofascial trigger points in the pronator teres muscle. The massage therapist could also use Myofascial Release techniques or Deep Tissue Massage techniques to release adhesions between the pronator teres muscle and surrounding tissues while also using Muscle Energy Techniques to gently lengthen the pronator teres muscle. Pronator Teres Syndrome also responds well to positional release therapies such as Ortho-Bionomy which work with the body's nervous system to release muscles and improve joint movement in the area. In addition to working on the pronator teres muscle it may be necessary to provide therapy for other muscles near pronator teres and even to muscles opposing pronator teres to improve muscular balance. Comprehensive treatment with massage and bodywork, in conjunction with a home program of stretching and exercise, usually helps to completely resolve Pronator Teres Syndrome.
Other Treatments for Pronator Teres Syndrome
While massage therapy and bodywork are an excellent treatment for Pronator Teres Syndrome there are other treatments you should discuss with your physician:
Corticosteroid Injections
Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS)
Ultrasound
Decompressive Surgery
Other Names for Pronator Teres Syndrome
Pronator Syndrome
Pinched Nerve
The information on this page has been provided for information purposes only. It is not meant to provide a medical diagnosis, only a licensed physician may diagnose Pronator Teres Syndrome. If you feel that you have the symptoms of Pronator Teres Syndrome please see your physician for a proper diagnosis and plan of treatment which may include massage therapy and bodywork. There are a number of serious conditions that are similar Pronator Teres Syndrome that could require immediate medical attention.
If, after consulting your physician, you would like to pursue treatment of Pronator Teres Syndrome with Massage Therapy and Bodywork please contact me at my San Antonio Massage and Bodywork practice or contact a Massage Therapist near you.
Author Resource: Ben Crabtree is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Massage Instructor, and Certified Neuromuscular Therapist in San Antonio, Texas. Mr. Crabtree can be reached through his website MassageByBen.com where he answers massage therapy FAQs. Also see MassageSoup for a Massage Therapist near you.
Article From High Profile Articles
What is Pronator Teres Syndrome?
Pronator Teres Syndrome is the name of a painful nerve entrapment condition, sometimes misdiagnosed as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, in which the median nerve is placed under abnormal pressure by the pronator teres muscle near the elbow. The pronator teres muscle attaches to both the humerus and ulna bones near the elbow and then diagonally across to the radius bone. When the pronator teres muscle becomes tight and enlarged, pain results from myofascial trigger points (knots) in the muscle, and pressure on the median nerve which passes through the muscle’s two heads. Pain from Pronator Teres Syndrome is usually found in the forearm and wrist as well has the palm of the hand on the thumb side. Additionally, there is very often numbness or a pins and needles feeling in palm, thumb, forefinger, and middle finger that seems very much the same pattern as seen in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Most of the time the symptoms are on one side, usually the dominant hand, but may affect both sides at the same time. Additionally, people with Pronator Teres Syndrome often have a sense of weakness in the hand and symptoms may worsen with continued use.
What is the cause of Pronator Teres Syndrome?
There are a number of causes for Pronator Teres Syndrome including direct blunt trauma to the muscle itself and elbow injuries, however this syndrome is most often caused by overuse and/or repetitive stress of the pronator teres muscle. Examples of activities contributing to this syndrome include prolonged use of screw drivers or other hand tools, overhand (topspin) motions in racquet sports such as tennis, and other activities requiring repetitive forearm turning motions.
Massage Therapy and Bodywork for Pronator Teres Syndrome
There are many ways that massage therapy and bodywork can be used to treat Pronator Teres Syndrome. The massage therapist will employ a number of techniques to relieve the condition. For example the massage therapist may use Neuromuscular Therapy or Trigger Point Therapy to eliminate myofascial trigger points in the pronator teres muscle. The massage therapist could also use Myofascial Release techniques or Deep Tissue Massage techniques to release adhesions between the pronator teres muscle and surrounding tissues while also using Muscle Energy Techniques to gently lengthen the pronator teres muscle. Pronator Teres Syndrome also responds well to positional release therapies such as Ortho-Bionomy which work with the body's nervous system to release muscles and improve joint movement in the area. In addition to working on the pronator teres muscle it may be necessary to provide therapy for other muscles near pronator teres and even to muscles opposing pronator teres to improve muscular balance. Comprehensive treatment with massage and bodywork, in conjunction with a home program of stretching and exercise, usually helps to completely resolve Pronator Teres Syndrome.
Other Treatments for Pronator Teres Syndrome
While massage therapy and bodywork are an excellent treatment for Pronator Teres Syndrome there are other treatments you should discuss with your physician:
Corticosteroid Injections
Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS)
Ultrasound
Decompressive Surgery
Other Names for Pronator Teres Syndrome
Pronator Syndrome
Pinched Nerve
The information on this page has been provided for information purposes only. It is not meant to provide a medical diagnosis, only a licensed physician may diagnose Pronator Teres Syndrome. If you feel that you have the symptoms of Pronator Teres Syndrome please see your physician for a proper diagnosis and plan of treatment which may include massage therapy and bodywork. There are a number of serious conditions that are similar Pronator Teres Syndrome that could require immediate medical attention.
If, after consulting your physician, you would like to pursue treatment of Pronator Teres Syndrome with Massage Therapy and Bodywork please contact me at my San Antonio Massage and Bodywork practice or contact a Massage Therapist near you.
Author Resource: Ben Crabtree is a Licensed Massage Therapist, Massage Instructor, and Certified Neuromuscular Therapist in San Antonio, Texas. Mr. Crabtree can be reached through his website MassageByBen.com where he answers massage therapy FAQs. Also see MassageSoup for a Massage Therapist near you.
Article From High Profile Articles
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Pine Bark Extract Boosts Nitric Oxide Production
A recent study has found that Pycnogenol, which is an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, helps individuals by enhancing the production of nitric oxide (NO), which in turn leads to an increase in blood flow and oxygen supply to muscles. Nitric oxide is a key cardiovascular chemical that is produced by the body. It increases blood flow which allows more nutrients and oxygen to be delivered to the muscles. This helps muscles to cope with increased physical activity. The study also suggests that taking Pycnogenol provides more NO in response to neurotransmitters which allows for better expansion of arteries, which can then carry more blood. This process meets the enhanced oxygen demand of muscles and helps to avoid anaerobic metabolism. The results of this study also lead researchers to believe that Pycnogenol can be a natural alternative therapy in diseases involving oxidative stress.
The study was held at the Hiroshima University Graduate School of Bio-medical Sciences in Japan. Each day for two weeks, healthy, young men were given either 180 mg of Pycnogenol or a placebo. In order to identify Pycnogenol's effect on the release of nitric oxide, patients were infused with an inhibitor of L-arginine, which restricts arteries from expanding in response to the neurotransmitter acytelcholine. After two weeks of supplementation, the results revealed that blood flow had increased by forty two percent. Additionally, the group receiving a placebo did not show a significant blood flow increase at all. NO causes the muscle surrounding the arteries to relax, resulting in an increase in the diameter of the blood vessel, while acetylcholine stimulates the cells of arteries to produce NO from L-arginine faster. When the subjects being tested had taken Pycnogenol, the arteries relaxed and blood flow increased by Fourty two percent, as compared to the placebo group.
Although more research is warranted, this breakthrough is especially encouraging to athletes since Pycnogenol seems to allow people to move faster when they are exercising. It does this by satisfying the enhanced muscle oxygen demand and also increases the blood flow to the active muscles. People who are performing heavy physical activity experience the release of acetylcholine by nerves to arteries that are supplying the active muscles. This acetylcholine makes them expand, while the whole process requires that there is an enhanced production of nitric oxide.
A great variety of studies about Pycnogenol and sports nutrition have been conducted over the past years. The most recent one occurred a year ago. In this study, Pycnogenol was found to improve blood circulation even in extended aerobic muscle activity. Pycnogenol also enhanced sports endurance be alleviating the cramping and muscular pain that occurs in the majority of athletes. To sum it up, Pycnogenol is not only effective for enhancing and prolonging the performance of muscles during support, but it also supports muscle adaptation to a higher workload and allows the body to recover from physical faster.
When shopping for a good pycnogenol supplement, look for a standardized extract that guarantees that each capsule or tablet contains a specific amount of active ingredients per serving, otherwise you might be purchasing something that is ineffective.
Author Resource: More information on Pycnogenol Pine Bark Extract is available at VitaNet, ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/
Article From High Profile Articles
The study was held at the Hiroshima University Graduate School of Bio-medical Sciences in Japan. Each day for two weeks, healthy, young men were given either 180 mg of Pycnogenol or a placebo. In order to identify Pycnogenol's effect on the release of nitric oxide, patients were infused with an inhibitor of L-arginine, which restricts arteries from expanding in response to the neurotransmitter acytelcholine. After two weeks of supplementation, the results revealed that blood flow had increased by forty two percent. Additionally, the group receiving a placebo did not show a significant blood flow increase at all. NO causes the muscle surrounding the arteries to relax, resulting in an increase in the diameter of the blood vessel, while acetylcholine stimulates the cells of arteries to produce NO from L-arginine faster. When the subjects being tested had taken Pycnogenol, the arteries relaxed and blood flow increased by Fourty two percent, as compared to the placebo group.
Although more research is warranted, this breakthrough is especially encouraging to athletes since Pycnogenol seems to allow people to move faster when they are exercising. It does this by satisfying the enhanced muscle oxygen demand and also increases the blood flow to the active muscles. People who are performing heavy physical activity experience the release of acetylcholine by nerves to arteries that are supplying the active muscles. This acetylcholine makes them expand, while the whole process requires that there is an enhanced production of nitric oxide.
A great variety of studies about Pycnogenol and sports nutrition have been conducted over the past years. The most recent one occurred a year ago. In this study, Pycnogenol was found to improve blood circulation even in extended aerobic muscle activity. Pycnogenol also enhanced sports endurance be alleviating the cramping and muscular pain that occurs in the majority of athletes. To sum it up, Pycnogenol is not only effective for enhancing and prolonging the performance of muscles during support, but it also supports muscle adaptation to a higher workload and allows the body to recover from physical faster.
When shopping for a good pycnogenol supplement, look for a standardized extract that guarantees that each capsule or tablet contains a specific amount of active ingredients per serving, otherwise you might be purchasing something that is ineffective.
Author Resource: More information on Pycnogenol Pine Bark Extract is available at VitaNet, ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/
Article From High Profile Articles
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Nine Minerals to Support Your Natural Body Detox
While supplements, superfoods and vitamins get all the attention, minerals play an important part in your body detox program. So what are some of the important minerals involved with a whole body detox?
Calcium: Everyone knows that calcium is important to strong bones and teeth, but what many don't know is calcium does a whole lot more. The contraction of your muscles, blood clot formations, and nerve activity all benefit from this mineral. Calcium is also behind the absorption of vitamin B12, enzyme activity, and the structure and function of cell membranes. It protects your from cancer, helps all those nutrients make it down to the cellular level, and regulates blood pressure and heart rate. It really does do a body good.
Magnesium: Calcium isn't the only one involved in strong bones or muscle contraction. In addition, it functions as a partner to vitamins B, C, and E to make them work. It is important in a lot of different biological processes. Helps with absorption of other minerals, effective in reducing blood cholesterol and regulating body temperature.
Phosphorus: This is part of RNA and DNA. Like calcium and magnesium, it plays an integral role in bones and muscle contraction. It's important for a variety of things, such as nerve impulses, secretion of hormones, and membrane structure. You can't utilize fats, proteins or carbohydrates without it and it is a helper to the B-complex vitamins. The use of this mineral is dependent on Vitamin D.
Manganese: As with the other minerals, an important part of bone health. It also supports your body's natural ability to produce insulin, and therefore plays in an important role in regulating blood sugar. This mineral activates enzymes to use vitamin C. It is also a catalyst regarding the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol. Fats, proteins, and carbohydrates can't metabolize without it.
Boron: Keeps away osteoporosis.
Zinc: If blueberries are a superfood, zinc could be called a super mineral. Over 200 enzymes require it to function. It is important in the production of RNA and DNA. In addition to this, it is important to the structure and function of cell membranes. It helps your cells regenerate, and is good all around for growth. Your body needs zinc for your immune system, skin, vision, taste and smell. Don't leave home without it!
Chromium: Pass the sugar, sugar! Chromium plays an important part in using glucose. It assists in binding insulin to cells which allows cellular glucose uptake. It decreases the insulin requirement in diabetics. It does some work with carbs too.
Iodine: This mineral is essential to your thyroid, which in turn affects your basal metabolic rate. It helps burn fat, turn beta-carotene to vitamin A, and helps with the absorption of carbs from the small intestine.
Potassium: Helps transmit nerve impulses. It also helps the release of insulin and makes those digestive enzymes work right. Important in balancing fluids, and stimulates kidneys to remove toxins. An important part of any whole body detox.
Author Resource: John Khu is a health enthusiast and author of a new eBook titled "Body Detox Tips". He is devoted to educate others on the benefit of body detoxification. He is also the owner of the website called http://www.bodydetoxtips.com/
which provides complete and up-to-date information.
Article From High Profile Articles
Calcium: Everyone knows that calcium is important to strong bones and teeth, but what many don't know is calcium does a whole lot more. The contraction of your muscles, blood clot formations, and nerve activity all benefit from this mineral. Calcium is also behind the absorption of vitamin B12, enzyme activity, and the structure and function of cell membranes. It protects your from cancer, helps all those nutrients make it down to the cellular level, and regulates blood pressure and heart rate. It really does do a body good.
Magnesium: Calcium isn't the only one involved in strong bones or muscle contraction. In addition, it functions as a partner to vitamins B, C, and E to make them work. It is important in a lot of different biological processes. Helps with absorption of other minerals, effective in reducing blood cholesterol and regulating body temperature.
Phosphorus: This is part of RNA and DNA. Like calcium and magnesium, it plays an integral role in bones and muscle contraction. It's important for a variety of things, such as nerve impulses, secretion of hormones, and membrane structure. You can't utilize fats, proteins or carbohydrates without it and it is a helper to the B-complex vitamins. The use of this mineral is dependent on Vitamin D.
Manganese: As with the other minerals, an important part of bone health. It also supports your body's natural ability to produce insulin, and therefore plays in an important role in regulating blood sugar. This mineral activates enzymes to use vitamin C. It is also a catalyst regarding the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol. Fats, proteins, and carbohydrates can't metabolize without it.
Boron: Keeps away osteoporosis.
Zinc: If blueberries are a superfood, zinc could be called a super mineral. Over 200 enzymes require it to function. It is important in the production of RNA and DNA. In addition to this, it is important to the structure and function of cell membranes. It helps your cells regenerate, and is good all around for growth. Your body needs zinc for your immune system, skin, vision, taste and smell. Don't leave home without it!
Chromium: Pass the sugar, sugar! Chromium plays an important part in using glucose. It assists in binding insulin to cells which allows cellular glucose uptake. It decreases the insulin requirement in diabetics. It does some work with carbs too.
Iodine: This mineral is essential to your thyroid, which in turn affects your basal metabolic rate. It helps burn fat, turn beta-carotene to vitamin A, and helps with the absorption of carbs from the small intestine.
Potassium: Helps transmit nerve impulses. It also helps the release of insulin and makes those digestive enzymes work right. Important in balancing fluids, and stimulates kidneys to remove toxins. An important part of any whole body detox.
Author Resource: John Khu is a health enthusiast and author of a new eBook titled "Body Detox Tips". He is devoted to educate others on the benefit of body detoxification. He is also the owner of the website called http://www.bodydetoxtips.com/
which provides complete and up-to-date information.
Article From High Profile Articles
Friday, January 25, 2008
Essential Oils For Preventing And Treating Nail Fungus
Nail fungus is just like any nail or skin disorder that can be cured and prevented by artificial means such as creams that should be applied topically to kill the fungus from the outside. There are also some pills to be taken orally to kill the fungus from the inside. Some of these products are usually recommended by dermatologists while some products can be bought even without the doctor’s prescription. On the other hand, there are also home remedies that are very natural as well as less expensive. Natural oils have been a part of home remedies for all sorts of health disorder. The popular essential oils are prevalent in curing different ailments and disorders such as hair fall, eczema and even nail fungus.
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is used for treating several conditions such as dandruff, boils, athlete’s foot and acne. Nail fungus is also included in the list of conditions that this natural antibiotic can cure. The tea tree oil came from the extracts of the native tree in Australia called Melaleuca Alternifolia. Tea tree oil is a very effective essential oil because it contains anti-fungal and antiseptic compounds that are best for killing fungus and preventing the fungus’ development in the nails and nail beds. It is also an excellent skin disinfectant as well. Purchase the item that says one hundred percent pure tea tree oil. It must be applied on the affected nail and skin at least two or three times every day. If it is used at fingernail, it would take at least six months before the nail is completely cured. However, if it used at toenails, it would take much longer, about eight to twelve months depending on the severity of the nail fungus.
The oil from the extracts of oregano leaves is also used as natural oil in treating toenail and fingernail fungus. Oregano oil is considered by many as the best anti-fungal oil ever. However, this is oil is stronger compared to tea tree oil. It may cause irritation for some who have sensitive skin so it is best to seek advice from those who are professional in skin care. In case this happens, you may combine oregano oil with a few drops of aloe or olive oil. Use something that would get the oil mixture under your nail such as toothbrush or cotton buds. Some testifies that after using oregano oil, using natural solvents will make the essential oil more effective in killing the fungus living in the nails. This is because the natural solvent allows the oregano oil to penetrate through the nails and skin faster. As a result, the affected area will dry and heal faster.
There are more essential oils that can help prevent and cure nail fungus. This includes lavender oil, clove oil, and more. However, like any other medicine or remedies, you must first analyze your skin condition (if you have an allergy to that certain oil or if you have sensitive skin) to avoid further damage in the nail and in the skin as well.
Author Resource: Author is the webmaster of http://www.toe-nails-fungus.com/ and http://www.squidoo.com/nail-fungus-infection-treatment-prevention.
Article From High Profile Articles
Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is used for treating several conditions such as dandruff, boils, athlete’s foot and acne. Nail fungus is also included in the list of conditions that this natural antibiotic can cure. The tea tree oil came from the extracts of the native tree in Australia called Melaleuca Alternifolia. Tea tree oil is a very effective essential oil because it contains anti-fungal and antiseptic compounds that are best for killing fungus and preventing the fungus’ development in the nails and nail beds. It is also an excellent skin disinfectant as well. Purchase the item that says one hundred percent pure tea tree oil. It must be applied on the affected nail and skin at least two or three times every day. If it is used at fingernail, it would take at least six months before the nail is completely cured. However, if it used at toenails, it would take much longer, about eight to twelve months depending on the severity of the nail fungus.
The oil from the extracts of oregano leaves is also used as natural oil in treating toenail and fingernail fungus. Oregano oil is considered by many as the best anti-fungal oil ever. However, this is oil is stronger compared to tea tree oil. It may cause irritation for some who have sensitive skin so it is best to seek advice from those who are professional in skin care. In case this happens, you may combine oregano oil with a few drops of aloe or olive oil. Use something that would get the oil mixture under your nail such as toothbrush or cotton buds. Some testifies that after using oregano oil, using natural solvents will make the essential oil more effective in killing the fungus living in the nails. This is because the natural solvent allows the oregano oil to penetrate through the nails and skin faster. As a result, the affected area will dry and heal faster.
There are more essential oils that can help prevent and cure nail fungus. This includes lavender oil, clove oil, and more. However, like any other medicine or remedies, you must first analyze your skin condition (if you have an allergy to that certain oil or if you have sensitive skin) to avoid further damage in the nail and in the skin as well.
Author Resource: Author is the webmaster of http://www.toe-nails-fungus.com/ and http://www.squidoo.com/nail-fungus-infection-treatment-prevention.
Article From High Profile Articles
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
10 Top Winter Cold And Flu Supplements
As the winter weather continues to keep people close together indoors, viruses causing influenza and the common cold are able to more easily multiply. However, there are ways to prevent these unwanted germs from invading your body. Here is a list of the top ten dietary supplements that help the immune system fight and repel cold and flu bugs.
AHCC (active hexose correlated compound) is made from mushrooms. This supplement was first developed in Japan in the late 1980s and has been used and studied for its effect on the immune system. Last year’s research showed that AHCC can boost the activity of natural killer cells, which destroy the cells that have become infected with a virus.
Andrographis has long been used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine to boost the immune system. Actually, andrographis was first used during the Indian flu epidemic of 1919, where it was credited with stalling the spread of the disease. According to research, andrographis works better than a placebo for reducing the symptoms of respiratory infections and it may even prevent the infection in the first place. These studies used a proprietary andrographis product which combines the herb with a Siberian ginseng.
Beta glucan is a fiber-like complex sugar that can be found in oats, barley, and the cell walls of mushrooms. It provides a boost to the immune system which enhancing resistance to viruses and bacteria. In fact, beta glucan has been shown to boost the activity of phagocytes, special immune system cells which engulf and destroy germs.
Echinacea has a long history of traditional use; with it actually being one of the most widely used herbs in Native American medicine. Instead of having a direct germ-killing effect, Echinacea stimulates the body’s own immune defenses. Many studies go back as far as 1970 have shown that Echinacea boosts the immune system so that it can protect against infections invaders. A new study has found that Echinacea can reduce the odds of developing a cold by 58 percent and shortens the length of a cold to 1.4 days.
Elderberry was considered in Roman times to be a flu remedy. Recently, elderberry extract has been researched for its role in treating influenza infections, especially when it is taken with in the first 24 hours of developing symptoms. One recent study proved that individuals who were taking elderberry recovered four days sooner from influenza than those taking a placebo. Additionally, the use of other medications was less for those who used elderberry.
Garlic improves resistance to disease by boosting immune function. Many studies have found that garlic stimulates immunity because it increases the number of white blood cells and other immune system team members. A recent study proved that a group of individuals taking garlic caught significantly fewer colds and recovered more quickly from the colds they did come down with than the other group which was taking a placebo.
Ginseng boosts immune function in all of its forms. A study of adults who were taking American ginseng daily during the winter months found that those people, compared to those taking a placebo, caught fewer colds and needed less sick days. Additionally, Siberian ginseng and Asian ginseng can also build defenses against winter germs.
Propolis is created by bees when resins from plants are mixed with wax. This propolis coats the inside of the beehive with an antiseptic layer and it can have similar benefits when taken by humans. Propolis stimulates the body’s immune system. It has been proven in studies that taking propolis extract can protect against colds and other upper respiratory infections. Children who take propolis daily for three winter months have been proven to catch fewer colds than those kids who are taking a placebo.
Many research reviews have found that Vitamin C does reduce the length of a cold episode and weaken the severity of an infection for the general population. For those individuals who are engaged in extreme exercise, vitamin C can also help prevent a cold.
Zinc lozenges, when they are taken within 24 hours of the first cold symptom, can keep cold viruses from taking ground in the respiratory tract. The use of a zinc lozenge every couple of hours also causes colds to resolve more quickly and symptoms to be less severe.
Our immune system is our first line of defense against the cold and flu, as well as the diseases we may come down with. Keeping our immune system in tip top shape is key to a happier and healthier life. The above herbs can help boost the immune system along with a dietary change and exercise plan one can reduce the length of or prevent sickness over a life time.
Author Resource: More information on Supplements for Winter flu is available at VitaNet®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/
Article From High Profile Articles
AHCC (active hexose correlated compound) is made from mushrooms. This supplement was first developed in Japan in the late 1980s and has been used and studied for its effect on the immune system. Last year’s research showed that AHCC can boost the activity of natural killer cells, which destroy the cells that have become infected with a virus.
Andrographis has long been used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine to boost the immune system. Actually, andrographis was first used during the Indian flu epidemic of 1919, where it was credited with stalling the spread of the disease. According to research, andrographis works better than a placebo for reducing the symptoms of respiratory infections and it may even prevent the infection in the first place. These studies used a proprietary andrographis product which combines the herb with a Siberian ginseng.
Beta glucan is a fiber-like complex sugar that can be found in oats, barley, and the cell walls of mushrooms. It provides a boost to the immune system which enhancing resistance to viruses and bacteria. In fact, beta glucan has been shown to boost the activity of phagocytes, special immune system cells which engulf and destroy germs.
Echinacea has a long history of traditional use; with it actually being one of the most widely used herbs in Native American medicine. Instead of having a direct germ-killing effect, Echinacea stimulates the body’s own immune defenses. Many studies go back as far as 1970 have shown that Echinacea boosts the immune system so that it can protect against infections invaders. A new study has found that Echinacea can reduce the odds of developing a cold by 58 percent and shortens the length of a cold to 1.4 days.
Elderberry was considered in Roman times to be a flu remedy. Recently, elderberry extract has been researched for its role in treating influenza infections, especially when it is taken with in the first 24 hours of developing symptoms. One recent study proved that individuals who were taking elderberry recovered four days sooner from influenza than those taking a placebo. Additionally, the use of other medications was less for those who used elderberry.
Garlic improves resistance to disease by boosting immune function. Many studies have found that garlic stimulates immunity because it increases the number of white blood cells and other immune system team members. A recent study proved that a group of individuals taking garlic caught significantly fewer colds and recovered more quickly from the colds they did come down with than the other group which was taking a placebo.
Ginseng boosts immune function in all of its forms. A study of adults who were taking American ginseng daily during the winter months found that those people, compared to those taking a placebo, caught fewer colds and needed less sick days. Additionally, Siberian ginseng and Asian ginseng can also build defenses against winter germs.
Propolis is created by bees when resins from plants are mixed with wax. This propolis coats the inside of the beehive with an antiseptic layer and it can have similar benefits when taken by humans. Propolis stimulates the body’s immune system. It has been proven in studies that taking propolis extract can protect against colds and other upper respiratory infections. Children who take propolis daily for three winter months have been proven to catch fewer colds than those kids who are taking a placebo.
Many research reviews have found that Vitamin C does reduce the length of a cold episode and weaken the severity of an infection for the general population. For those individuals who are engaged in extreme exercise, vitamin C can also help prevent a cold.
Zinc lozenges, when they are taken within 24 hours of the first cold symptom, can keep cold viruses from taking ground in the respiratory tract. The use of a zinc lozenge every couple of hours also causes colds to resolve more quickly and symptoms to be less severe.
Our immune system is our first line of defense against the cold and flu, as well as the diseases we may come down with. Keeping our immune system in tip top shape is key to a happier and healthier life. The above herbs can help boost the immune system along with a dietary change and exercise plan one can reduce the length of or prevent sickness over a life time.
Author Resource: More information on Supplements for Winter flu is available at VitaNet®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/
Article From High Profile Articles
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Essential Fatty Acid Facts Everyone Needs to Know
There have been thousands of studies that reveal the importance of having essential fats in our diets. A lot of people think "FAT" oh no! Please let me explain.
I personally had the extreme anguish of watching my daughter go through 4 years of an eating disorder where at 70 lbs and 14 years of age, she was tormented by the thought of fats. It's much too long of a story to delve into here but the end of the story is that she has fully recovered, has been at her goal weight and above for over a year now.
During this time I learned that fats make up over 30% of our brain. That without fats we positively cannot live. Ok, so in western industrialized nations, we have overdone it a bit. We have, for the last 80 years, used the wrong kinds of fats in our diets, in our baking, in our cooking. Fast foods are economical, quick, easy, tasty but "bad", sorry to say.
If you can stay away from pastries topped with sugary icing, dough nuts, deep fried foods, McDs, BK, stay away from trans fats and learn to consume Omega-3s in sufficient quantity then you are making a dynamic shift that can completely alter your life, extend your life and improve your chances for meaningful contribution while you grace the earth.
Here are some benefits from Omega-3s:
*Optimal Heart Health - Omega-3s are the No. 1 heart attack prevention method recommended by hundreds of cardiologists.
*Optimal Brain Function - Omega-3s fats work better in the brain that trans fats. Eat more Omega-3s for brain health.
*Optimal cardiovascular system - Omega-3s not only cure arrhythmias but also provide a better patch for tears in the arteries.
*Optimal Mental health and Mood - Several psychiatrist have shown marked improvement in mood disorders when a diet high in omega-3s are introduced to patients.
*Optimal Joint health - Omega-3s are a natural anti-inflammatory and therefore cause joint troubles to melt away.
Recent studies point to improved mental function in later years. We can't make the claim (yet) that it prevents Alzheimer disease, but early results are extremely promising.
Let me put it this way, essential fatty acids may not cure everything but it's very difficult for the body to stay healthy without Omega-3s.
Do not treat supplements the way we tend to treat medicines. Treat Omega-3s as food. It's important to know the tolerated and optimal dosages. Two capsules of omega-3s are better than none, but treat omega-3s as food. Eat fish that is deemed safe and not toxic from heavy metals.
But to be get on the right track and to begin to reverse the decades generational deficiency, then treat omega-3s like food.
We don't take a teaspoon of eggs in the morning and say we are done eating for the day, now do we?
There is no harm to taking 3-4 grams of pure EPA/DHA omega-3s per day. The only exception would be for a person who is on blood thinners, then it's are still essential but check with your prescribing physician as to a permissible dosage.
So what happens when we decrease the bad fats and ingest the good fats? Most people modulate and tend to lose weight.
Body chemistry and cell function improves because the right fats are available for cell function and brain function. Arteries are rejuvenated by silky fats transporting the cholesterol instead of junky, clumpy fats getting jammed and stuck in dangerous places.
Life is just better with proper nutrition and that starts with essential fatty acids.
Author Resource: Garey Simmons writes about heart health from the perspective
of someone who was diagnosed with high risk of heart disease, elevated triglyceride count, and suspect family history. Garey studied for several years to acquire an interesting perspective on the natural means of reversing heart disease. Sign up for a free e-course on the secrets of heart health at OptimalHealthRSQ.com
Article From High Profile Articles
I personally had the extreme anguish of watching my daughter go through 4 years of an eating disorder where at 70 lbs and 14 years of age, she was tormented by the thought of fats. It's much too long of a story to delve into here but the end of the story is that she has fully recovered, has been at her goal weight and above for over a year now.
During this time I learned that fats make up over 30% of our brain. That without fats we positively cannot live. Ok, so in western industrialized nations, we have overdone it a bit. We have, for the last 80 years, used the wrong kinds of fats in our diets, in our baking, in our cooking. Fast foods are economical, quick, easy, tasty but "bad", sorry to say.
If you can stay away from pastries topped with sugary icing, dough nuts, deep fried foods, McDs, BK, stay away from trans fats and learn to consume Omega-3s in sufficient quantity then you are making a dynamic shift that can completely alter your life, extend your life and improve your chances for meaningful contribution while you grace the earth.
Here are some benefits from Omega-3s:
*Optimal Heart Health - Omega-3s are the No. 1 heart attack prevention method recommended by hundreds of cardiologists.
*Optimal Brain Function - Omega-3s fats work better in the brain that trans fats. Eat more Omega-3s for brain health.
*Optimal cardiovascular system - Omega-3s not only cure arrhythmias but also provide a better patch for tears in the arteries.
*Optimal Mental health and Mood - Several psychiatrist have shown marked improvement in mood disorders when a diet high in omega-3s are introduced to patients.
*Optimal Joint health - Omega-3s are a natural anti-inflammatory and therefore cause joint troubles to melt away.
Recent studies point to improved mental function in later years. We can't make the claim (yet) that it prevents Alzheimer disease, but early results are extremely promising.
Let me put it this way, essential fatty acids may not cure everything but it's very difficult for the body to stay healthy without Omega-3s.
Do not treat supplements the way we tend to treat medicines. Treat Omega-3s as food. It's important to know the tolerated and optimal dosages. Two capsules of omega-3s are better than none, but treat omega-3s as food. Eat fish that is deemed safe and not toxic from heavy metals.
But to be get on the right track and to begin to reverse the decades generational deficiency, then treat omega-3s like food.
We don't take a teaspoon of eggs in the morning and say we are done eating for the day, now do we?
There is no harm to taking 3-4 grams of pure EPA/DHA omega-3s per day. The only exception would be for a person who is on blood thinners, then it's are still essential but check with your prescribing physician as to a permissible dosage.
So what happens when we decrease the bad fats and ingest the good fats? Most people modulate and tend to lose weight.
Body chemistry and cell function improves because the right fats are available for cell function and brain function. Arteries are rejuvenated by silky fats transporting the cholesterol instead of junky, clumpy fats getting jammed and stuck in dangerous places.
Life is just better with proper nutrition and that starts with essential fatty acids.
Author Resource: Garey Simmons writes about heart health from the perspective
of someone who was diagnosed with high risk of heart disease, elevated triglyceride count, and suspect family history. Garey studied for several years to acquire an interesting perspective on the natural means of reversing heart disease. Sign up for a free e-course on the secrets of heart health at OptimalHealthRSQ.com
Article From High Profile Articles
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Doctor How Do I Avoid The Side-Effects Of Steroid Medicines?
Mention steroids and the first thought that comes up is that of a beefy athlete whose head is two sizes too large for his body.
What many people don’t realize is that there are two different kinds of steroids. The first kind, anabolic steroids, are the ones you read about in the sports pages. These build muscle mass among other properties.
The second type of steroid is that used to treat inflammatory disease like arthritis. These are the catabolic steroids such as prednisone. These types of steroids actually break down muscle mass. Their advantage though is that they are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. These anti-inflammatory steroids – also called corticosteroids- are often used in the treatment of diseases such as arthritis.
In fact, corticosteroids are used by up to 75 per cent of patient with rheumatoid arthritis.
A major concern, though, is how to avoid the potential side-effects of these drugs and that is the subject of this article. The first step in avoiding side-effects is to take the lowest effective dose possible.
Although sometimes, high doses are given intravenously for serious condition such as lupus or extremely active rheumatoid arthritis, maintenance doses are typically in the range of 10 mgs of prednisone or less per day. Your physician should try to lower the dose when possible if your disease is stable.
When corticosteroids are lowered, they must be tapered slowly to avoid symptoms of withdrawal such as headache, increased joint and muscle pain, drop in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, or fever.
People who have been on long term corticosteroids must be extra cautious. The longer one has taken these drugs, the slower the taper must be.
The reason is that when synthetic corticosteroids are given, the body’s adrenal glands reduce the production of normal cortisone. If the synthetic supply is stopped abruptly, the adrenal glands can’t produce enough cortisone to compensate. The result is a severe medical condition called adrenal crisis. This syndrome presents with shock-like symptoms such as sweating, chills, weakness, loss of consciousness, and sometimes death.
Another side effect is insomnia. Taking the steroid dose in the morning can minimize this side effect. Lowering the amount of caffeine consumed throughout the day is also beneficial.
Another serious side effect is osteoporosis. Corticosteroids reduce the ability of the body to absorb calcium and they also increase the amount of calcium excreted buy the body. The end result is a weakening of the bones with an increased likelihood of fracture.
To guard against this, periodic bone density tests to assess bone loss, along with regular calcium and vitamin D supplementation is needed.
Drugs to prevent osteoporosis such as risedronate (Actonel) and alendronate (Fosamax) may be needed.
Alternate day dosing of corticosteroid- taking the steroid on one day and not the next- may allow control of disease with fewer risks of side effects. While this regiment may be effective for lupus, inflammatory muscle disease, and vasculitis, it is not effective for rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, or giant cell arteritis.
Drugs such as methotrexate and azathioprine may have a steroid sparing effect. In other words, they may allow the use of lower doses of prednisone.
Make sure you ask your rheumatologist about your steroid dose and whether it is possible to reduce the total amount of steroid drug you take.
Author Resource: Nathan Wei, MD FACP FACR is a rheumatologist and Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For more info: http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com/arthritis-treatment.html
Article From High Profile Articles
What many people don’t realize is that there are two different kinds of steroids. The first kind, anabolic steroids, are the ones you read about in the sports pages. These build muscle mass among other properties.
The second type of steroid is that used to treat inflammatory disease like arthritis. These are the catabolic steroids such as prednisone. These types of steroids actually break down muscle mass. Their advantage though is that they are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. These anti-inflammatory steroids – also called corticosteroids- are often used in the treatment of diseases such as arthritis.
In fact, corticosteroids are used by up to 75 per cent of patient with rheumatoid arthritis.
A major concern, though, is how to avoid the potential side-effects of these drugs and that is the subject of this article. The first step in avoiding side-effects is to take the lowest effective dose possible.
Although sometimes, high doses are given intravenously for serious condition such as lupus or extremely active rheumatoid arthritis, maintenance doses are typically in the range of 10 mgs of prednisone or less per day. Your physician should try to lower the dose when possible if your disease is stable.
When corticosteroids are lowered, they must be tapered slowly to avoid symptoms of withdrawal such as headache, increased joint and muscle pain, drop in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, or fever.
People who have been on long term corticosteroids must be extra cautious. The longer one has taken these drugs, the slower the taper must be.
The reason is that when synthetic corticosteroids are given, the body’s adrenal glands reduce the production of normal cortisone. If the synthetic supply is stopped abruptly, the adrenal glands can’t produce enough cortisone to compensate. The result is a severe medical condition called adrenal crisis. This syndrome presents with shock-like symptoms such as sweating, chills, weakness, loss of consciousness, and sometimes death.
Another side effect is insomnia. Taking the steroid dose in the morning can minimize this side effect. Lowering the amount of caffeine consumed throughout the day is also beneficial.
Another serious side effect is osteoporosis. Corticosteroids reduce the ability of the body to absorb calcium and they also increase the amount of calcium excreted buy the body. The end result is a weakening of the bones with an increased likelihood of fracture.
To guard against this, periodic bone density tests to assess bone loss, along with regular calcium and vitamin D supplementation is needed.
Drugs to prevent osteoporosis such as risedronate (Actonel) and alendronate (Fosamax) may be needed.
Alternate day dosing of corticosteroid- taking the steroid on one day and not the next- may allow control of disease with fewer risks of side effects. While this regiment may be effective for lupus, inflammatory muscle disease, and vasculitis, it is not effective for rheumatoid arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, or giant cell arteritis.
Drugs such as methotrexate and azathioprine may have a steroid sparing effect. In other words, they may allow the use of lower doses of prednisone.
Make sure you ask your rheumatologist about your steroid dose and whether it is possible to reduce the total amount of steroid drug you take.
Author Resource: Nathan Wei, MD FACP FACR is a rheumatologist and Director of the Arthritis and Osteoporosis Center of Maryland. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. For more info: http://www.arthritis-treatment-and-relief.com/arthritis-treatment.html
Article From High Profile Articles
Sunday, January 13, 2008
The Benefits of DHEA and HGH Supplements
Maintaining a healthy life style is very important for our overall well being, both physically and mentally. A healthy diet and regular exercise will never cease to be very good ways of staying in shape, but in time changes occur in our bodies, and it may take a little more than just good food and work out to ensure a good state of body and mind. Lucky for us, scientists are working around the clock and discovering all sorts of solutions, which are meant to help us fight the aging process. This inevitable process is also the cause of malfunction or weakening of certain organs in our bodies.
Making a choice of dietary supplements to improve our overall well being may turn out to be quite a difficult task. Why is that? First of all, we are bombarded with all sorts of supposedly reliable solutions, in the form of various vitamins and supplements. Second of all, many of these supplements are not natural, which, on the long run, may not have the positive effects that we were hoping for. The changes in the environment, which can sometimes accelerate the aging process of our organs, are bad enough; we needn’t add even more damaging substances to our bodies, substances that may work for the moment, but which may have negative effects later on. Instead, we can opt for supplements and vitamins that provide us with substances that our bodies produce naturally in early stages of life. During childhood and adolescence, our bodies produce all sorts of hormones, which are responsible for the good development of all our organs and a good functioning of the body in general. Later on, as adulthood sets in, the secretion of most of these hormones slows down or ceases. This is not something to worry about, because nature simply takes its course. However, as has been said before, pollution and unhealthy food contribute a great deal to an accelerated aging process in some individuals, in which case there is nothing better than natural substances to help your body function properly. We are talking about DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, and HGH, which is an acronym for human growth hormone.
The adrenal gland produces DHEA, which a steroid that is broken down in our bodies into testosterone, the male dominant hormone, or estrogen, the female dominant hormone. This naturally occurring substance has both physical and mental effects. Dhea is the most abundantly produced hormone in our bodies, and you are probably aware of the important role that hormones play in the human body, as they are responsible for functions such as metabolism and growth.
Once the secretion of DHEA in our bodies slows down, we can rely on DHEA vitamins to ensure that our organs will continue to function normally. Scientists have demonstrated that DHEA functions as an increment in the aging process. Other amazing benefits of DHEA include the improvement of the quality of life and general well being, decreased depression, strengthening and healing benefits, weight loss, muscle build, and energy boost. People afflicted with AIDS, Crohn’s disease or Addison’s disease are also recommended to add DHEA vitamins to their diet.
HGH, or the human growth hormone, is secreted by the pituitary gland, which is situated in our brain. In early adult years, our bodies produce HGH naturally. HGH is responsible for the healthy development of bones and muscles. As the secretion of HGH decreases progressively, we can witness aging symptoms, such as decreased mental function and sexual performance, weight gain and body fat increase, reduction of the muscle mass, hair loss, thinning skin, etc. Stimulating the production of HGH will stop these symptoms from occurring too early, and this can be accomplished with the help of dietary supplements, which enhance the natural production of HGH.
Aside from its anti-aging benefits, HGH is also recommended to sports persons, as it helps enhance stamina, flexibility and strength.
Author Resource: If you want to find more resources about Dhea or even about HGH please review this website http://www.vitanatural.eu/
Article From High Profile Articles
Making a choice of dietary supplements to improve our overall well being may turn out to be quite a difficult task. Why is that? First of all, we are bombarded with all sorts of supposedly reliable solutions, in the form of various vitamins and supplements. Second of all, many of these supplements are not natural, which, on the long run, may not have the positive effects that we were hoping for. The changes in the environment, which can sometimes accelerate the aging process of our organs, are bad enough; we needn’t add even more damaging substances to our bodies, substances that may work for the moment, but which may have negative effects later on. Instead, we can opt for supplements and vitamins that provide us with substances that our bodies produce naturally in early stages of life. During childhood and adolescence, our bodies produce all sorts of hormones, which are responsible for the good development of all our organs and a good functioning of the body in general. Later on, as adulthood sets in, the secretion of most of these hormones slows down or ceases. This is not something to worry about, because nature simply takes its course. However, as has been said before, pollution and unhealthy food contribute a great deal to an accelerated aging process in some individuals, in which case there is nothing better than natural substances to help your body function properly. We are talking about DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, and HGH, which is an acronym for human growth hormone.
The adrenal gland produces DHEA, which a steroid that is broken down in our bodies into testosterone, the male dominant hormone, or estrogen, the female dominant hormone. This naturally occurring substance has both physical and mental effects. Dhea is the most abundantly produced hormone in our bodies, and you are probably aware of the important role that hormones play in the human body, as they are responsible for functions such as metabolism and growth.
Once the secretion of DHEA in our bodies slows down, we can rely on DHEA vitamins to ensure that our organs will continue to function normally. Scientists have demonstrated that DHEA functions as an increment in the aging process. Other amazing benefits of DHEA include the improvement of the quality of life and general well being, decreased depression, strengthening and healing benefits, weight loss, muscle build, and energy boost. People afflicted with AIDS, Crohn’s disease or Addison’s disease are also recommended to add DHEA vitamins to their diet.
HGH, or the human growth hormone, is secreted by the pituitary gland, which is situated in our brain. In early adult years, our bodies produce HGH naturally. HGH is responsible for the healthy development of bones and muscles. As the secretion of HGH decreases progressively, we can witness aging symptoms, such as decreased mental function and sexual performance, weight gain and body fat increase, reduction of the muscle mass, hair loss, thinning skin, etc. Stimulating the production of HGH will stop these symptoms from occurring too early, and this can be accomplished with the help of dietary supplements, which enhance the natural production of HGH.
Aside from its anti-aging benefits, HGH is also recommended to sports persons, as it helps enhance stamina, flexibility and strength.
Author Resource: If you want to find more resources about Dhea or even about HGH please review this website http://www.vitanatural.eu/
Article From High Profile Articles
Common Treatments For Medical Infertility
If you're trying to get pregnant and you've done everything you possibly can without medical intervention to try to get pregnant, then it's time to consult the medical profession for help. Following are some common fertility treatments, side effects and their typical success rates.
Assisted Reproduction Fertility Treatments
"Assisted reproduction" is a term used in the medical community to describe medical interventions used for infertile couples. Among the most common fertility treatments are:
Intrauterine insemination or IUI. Also known as artificial insemination, this is also often used along with giving a woman hormone treatments that will boost egg production. It can also help couples with low sperm count, infertility that has no known cause, or if there are cervical mucus problems. In this case, semen is collected and then delivered by catheter inserted through the woman's vagina and cervix directly into her uterus.
In vitro fertilization or IVF. In vitro fertilization has been one of the most stunning developments in reproductive assistance in the last 30 years. Today, it is the most common of all fertility treatments used. It is often used with women who have structural abnormalities such as blocked fallopian tubes, when a man's sperm count is low and/or the cause of infertility remains undiagnosed; however, IVF has made women pregnant successfully even when there is no known cause of infertility.
With IVF, a woman takes drugs to stimulate egg production, and these eggs are then surgically removed. They are combined with sperm, usually in a petri dish, fertilized, and then implanted in the woman's uterus. Babies conceived in this fashion are also often called "test tube babies."
Sperm donation. In cases where a couple's infertility stems from a man's sterility or low sperm count or when no man is present and a woman wants to conceive a child, for example, sperm donation is an option for parenthood. Oftentimes, donors are anonymous, but the donor can also be a friend or acquaintance.
Using donated eggs. Donated eggs are often used when a woman wants to conceive a child but her own eggs are not viable or there has been some disruption of ovulation.
Surrogacy, either traditional or gestational. With traditional surrogacy, a woman called a "surrogate" carries a child to term; that child has been conceived with her own egg and the father-to-be's sperm via artificial insemination. With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries a child to term that has been conceived with the mother to be's egg and the father to be's sperm via in vitro fertilization, wherein the fertilized egg is implanted in the surrogate's womb.
Available Fertility Treatments
If you and your partner are trying to get pregnant, you should discuss all options available and decide the best method for you. Of course, you should do this with your doctor's help. Many fertility treatments are quite expensive and only partially or not covered by insurance, so your own budgetary constraints will also have to come into consideration. In addition, your own religious or moral beliefs will have an effect on the fertility method you choose. Only you can make the final decision, so speak openly with your doctor and make the best choice for you, together.
Author Resource: Allen James is dedicated to helping couples experience the miracle of childbirth. Download a FREE report revealing proven, simple ways to improve your odds of conceiving at http://www.ultimatefertility.com/
Article From High Profile Articles
Assisted Reproduction Fertility Treatments
"Assisted reproduction" is a term used in the medical community to describe medical interventions used for infertile couples. Among the most common fertility treatments are:
Intrauterine insemination or IUI. Also known as artificial insemination, this is also often used along with giving a woman hormone treatments that will boost egg production. It can also help couples with low sperm count, infertility that has no known cause, or if there are cervical mucus problems. In this case, semen is collected and then delivered by catheter inserted through the woman's vagina and cervix directly into her uterus.
In vitro fertilization or IVF. In vitro fertilization has been one of the most stunning developments in reproductive assistance in the last 30 years. Today, it is the most common of all fertility treatments used. It is often used with women who have structural abnormalities such as blocked fallopian tubes, when a man's sperm count is low and/or the cause of infertility remains undiagnosed; however, IVF has made women pregnant successfully even when there is no known cause of infertility.
With IVF, a woman takes drugs to stimulate egg production, and these eggs are then surgically removed. They are combined with sperm, usually in a petri dish, fertilized, and then implanted in the woman's uterus. Babies conceived in this fashion are also often called "test tube babies."
Sperm donation. In cases where a couple's infertility stems from a man's sterility or low sperm count or when no man is present and a woman wants to conceive a child, for example, sperm donation is an option for parenthood. Oftentimes, donors are anonymous, but the donor can also be a friend or acquaintance.
Using donated eggs. Donated eggs are often used when a woman wants to conceive a child but her own eggs are not viable or there has been some disruption of ovulation.
Surrogacy, either traditional or gestational. With traditional surrogacy, a woman called a "surrogate" carries a child to term; that child has been conceived with her own egg and the father-to-be's sperm via artificial insemination. With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries a child to term that has been conceived with the mother to be's egg and the father to be's sperm via in vitro fertilization, wherein the fertilized egg is implanted in the surrogate's womb.
Available Fertility Treatments
If you and your partner are trying to get pregnant, you should discuss all options available and decide the best method for you. Of course, you should do this with your doctor's help. Many fertility treatments are quite expensive and only partially or not covered by insurance, so your own budgetary constraints will also have to come into consideration. In addition, your own religious or moral beliefs will have an effect on the fertility method you choose. Only you can make the final decision, so speak openly with your doctor and make the best choice for you, together.
Author Resource: Allen James is dedicated to helping couples experience the miracle of childbirth. Download a FREE report revealing proven, simple ways to improve your odds of conceiving at http://www.ultimatefertility.com/
Article From High Profile Articles
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Rejuvenation With Fasting
To rejuvenate means to restore to youthful vigor or appearance; make young again. There are some people that are afraid of not eating (fasting). There was this guy who was well known for walking on water, healing the sick and bringing the dead back to life who felt that He needed to fast for 40 days. Whether He did it for Himself or as an example of what others should do, the message is the same. It was also done by Moses, Socrates, Plato, Pythagoras and Mahatma Gandhi. But fasting is also done by 'dumb' animals.
The New England Journal of Medicine says "Fasting is a valid experience. It can benefit any otherwise healthy person whose calories now have the upper hand in his/her life." Philippus Paracelsus, a Swiss physician and one of the 3 fathers of Western Medicine (including also Hippocrates and Galen), said "Fasting is the greatest remedy-- the physician within." Elson M Haas M.D. says on his website "Fasting is the single greatest healing therapy."
If you fast to long, you can expire but if you drink too much water at one time, you can die. The most common problems of modern day people, like being overweight, having trouble sleeping, feeling tired during the day and headaches, are the things that fasting excels at. When people ask about ways to cleanse the body, others will say that you do not need to do anything because the body is always cleansing itself.
This is true but if the toxins are going in at a faster rate than the body can get them out (cleansing), then they will grow larger and larger. This is similar to the two opposite medical processes that take place in the human body called anabolism and catabolism. This is the building up and the breaking down that is constantly taking place in the body. At the same time that the body is cleansing itself, you are eating and bringing in more toxins or creating metabolic waste to use medical jargon (2: the technical terminology or characteristic idiom of a special activity or group).
So when they say that you do not need to do anything to cleanse your body, the quickest way to cleanse your body is to do nothing, meaning to eat nothing, drink water and rest. Fasting gives your body a rest or vacation, especially the liver, digestive and elimination systems. Your body knows how to fast. When you are not using your mouth to bring in food, the body makes it into an organ of elimination. That is why your tongue gets coated while fasting.
John Tilden, M.D., who has fasted over 1,000 people in his Denver center, said "I must say in all seriousness that fasting when combined with a properly selected diet is the nearest approach to a 'cure-all' that is possible to conceive-- profoundly simple and simply profound!" With juice fasting, people can still work their job during it. During the water fast, it is best to just rest. A famous scientist, Alex Carrel, M.D., says "The elimination of waste products by fasting increases longevity."
Gabriel Cousins, MD, says "I often observe in the fasting participants that by four days of fasting, concentration seems to improve, creative thinking expands, depression lifts, insomnia stops, anxieties fade, the mind becomes more tranquil and a natural joy begins to appear. It is my hypothesis that when the physical toxins are cleared from the brain cells, mind-brain function automatically and significantly improves and spiritual capacities expands."
Prescription for Natural Healing by James Balch M.D. and Phyllis Balch CNC says "Fasting is an effective and safe method of detoxifying the body...A technique that wise men have used for centuries to heal the sick. Fast regularly and help the body heal itself and stay well. Give all of your organs a rest. Fasting can help reverse the aging process, and if we use it correctly we will live longer, happier lives.
Each time you complete a fast, you will feel better. Your body will have a chance to heal and rebuild its immune system by regularly fasting. You can fight off illness and the degenerative diseases so common in this chemically polluted environment we live in. When you feel a cold or illness coming on or are just depressed-- fast!" When you lose your appetite, your body is telling you to stop eating.
Author Resource: Chuck Bluestein is a herbalist, nutritionist, and an expert on fasting. His website has information on colds and flus, healthy diet, weight loss, fasting, depression and anxiety self help, natural cures and how to be happier. http://www.phifoundation.org/fast.html
Article From High Profile Articles
The New England Journal of Medicine says "Fasting is a valid experience. It can benefit any otherwise healthy person whose calories now have the upper hand in his/her life." Philippus Paracelsus, a Swiss physician and one of the 3 fathers of Western Medicine (including also Hippocrates and Galen), said "Fasting is the greatest remedy-- the physician within." Elson M Haas M.D. says on his website "Fasting is the single greatest healing therapy."
If you fast to long, you can expire but if you drink too much water at one time, you can die. The most common problems of modern day people, like being overweight, having trouble sleeping, feeling tired during the day and headaches, are the things that fasting excels at. When people ask about ways to cleanse the body, others will say that you do not need to do anything because the body is always cleansing itself.
This is true but if the toxins are going in at a faster rate than the body can get them out (cleansing), then they will grow larger and larger. This is similar to the two opposite medical processes that take place in the human body called anabolism and catabolism. This is the building up and the breaking down that is constantly taking place in the body. At the same time that the body is cleansing itself, you are eating and bringing in more toxins or creating metabolic waste to use medical jargon (2: the technical terminology or characteristic idiom of a special activity or group).
So when they say that you do not need to do anything to cleanse your body, the quickest way to cleanse your body is to do nothing, meaning to eat nothing, drink water and rest. Fasting gives your body a rest or vacation, especially the liver, digestive and elimination systems. Your body knows how to fast. When you are not using your mouth to bring in food, the body makes it into an organ of elimination. That is why your tongue gets coated while fasting.
John Tilden, M.D., who has fasted over 1,000 people in his Denver center, said "I must say in all seriousness that fasting when combined with a properly selected diet is the nearest approach to a 'cure-all' that is possible to conceive-- profoundly simple and simply profound!" With juice fasting, people can still work their job during it. During the water fast, it is best to just rest. A famous scientist, Alex Carrel, M.D., says "The elimination of waste products by fasting increases longevity."
Gabriel Cousins, MD, says "I often observe in the fasting participants that by four days of fasting, concentration seems to improve, creative thinking expands, depression lifts, insomnia stops, anxieties fade, the mind becomes more tranquil and a natural joy begins to appear. It is my hypothesis that when the physical toxins are cleared from the brain cells, mind-brain function automatically and significantly improves and spiritual capacities expands."
Prescription for Natural Healing by James Balch M.D. and Phyllis Balch CNC says "Fasting is an effective and safe method of detoxifying the body...A technique that wise men have used for centuries to heal the sick. Fast regularly and help the body heal itself and stay well. Give all of your organs a rest. Fasting can help reverse the aging process, and if we use it correctly we will live longer, happier lives.
Each time you complete a fast, you will feel better. Your body will have a chance to heal and rebuild its immune system by regularly fasting. You can fight off illness and the degenerative diseases so common in this chemically polluted environment we live in. When you feel a cold or illness coming on or are just depressed-- fast!" When you lose your appetite, your body is telling you to stop eating.
Author Resource: Chuck Bluestein is a herbalist, nutritionist, and an expert on fasting. His website has information on colds and flus, healthy diet, weight loss, fasting, depression and anxiety self help, natural cures and how to be happier. http://www.phifoundation.org/fast.html
Article From High Profile Articles
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Massage Therapy For The New Year
The New Year has come and the resolutions have been made. The number one resolution is usually to get into better shape or improve your health. Keeping one or both of those resolutions would be great but we probably all agree that it's pretty hard to do. So, what if it were easier to keep those resolutions? Well, it's easier to get into shape or improve your overall health when you add massage therapy to your health and fitness regimen.
How can massage therapy help you to keep your resolutions? There are many ways but two stand out. First, massage therapy by itself can help you improve your health due to the many healthy benefits of massage including: improved circulation, greater flexibility, better sleep, feelings of wellness, and reduced muscular pain. Secondly, massage therapy can help you get into shape because the nagging soreness and pain from a new workout routine can be reduced or eliminated. When your pain levels are reduced you are more likely to want to continue your workouts. Receiving regular massage therapy can also prevent muscle soreness and minor injuries that could prevent you from keeping up with your workout schedule.
Now that you know that massage therapy can help you improve your health and fitness, you might want to know what types of massage therapy are available to you. There are many styles and techniques used in massage therapy but there are some that are available pretty much anywhere that you can integrate into your health and fitness routine. The best known massage therapy techniques are:
1. Swedish Massage - this is the most common of massage techniques in the United States and perhaps the world. Swedish massage is known for its long gliding strokes, kneading strokes, friction strokes, and percussion as well as joint movements that feel great while improving range of motion. It's most often thought of as a "spa" type of massage but it's much more than that. Swedish massage is great for improving circulation, improving range of motion of your joints, and helping you actually feel better in your own skin. Swedish massage can range from light pressure to a heavier pressure depending on your comfort.
2. Deep Tissue Massage - right behind Swedish massage, Deep Tissue Massage is one of the best known and most often requested massage techniques. This massage is used to root out chronic tension in the deeper musculature and connective tissues that contributes to pain and loss of range of motion in joints. While some practitioners use a heavier, sometimes uncomfortable, pressure in Deep Tissue Massage it should be noted that a more moderate pressure can reach deep tissues and achieve great results with little discomfort.
3. Sports Massage - just like it sounds, Sports Massage is geared toward athletes at every level from professional to the "weekend warrior" and those who strive for a higher level of fitness. Rather than a specific form of massage, Sports Massage is generally a combination of massage techniques tailored to the athlete's needs. The Sports Massage might be applied to one area to relieve pain or might be more general in nature to assure overall performance.
4. Neuromuscular Therapy - also called "NMT", Neuromuscular Therapy is a well known technique for relieving muscular pain throughout the body even "referred" pain that originates from someplace other than where it's felt. This technique uses very targeted massage techniques, positioning, and stretching to release myofascial trigger points in muscles as well as restrictions in tendons, muscular attachments, and sometimes fascia surrounding the muscle.
All of the massage techniques described here can help you keep on track with your pursuit of better health. Of course there are many more massage therapy techniques available that are relaxing, stress reducing, and that relieve chronic tension and pain. You actually don't have to know what type of massage to ask for, you just need to know what you want to achieve. Do you just want to relax? Reduce muscle soreness? Relieve pain? Improve posture? Ask your massage therapist what they recommend for your particular health and fitness needs and they'll help you keep your resolutions.
Author Resource: Lydia Hernandez is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Neuromuscular Therapist in San Antonio, Texas. To receive the benefits of massage therapy in San Antonio please visit LydiasMassage.com for other massage therapists around the world please see MassageSoup
Article From High Profile Articles
How can massage therapy help you to keep your resolutions? There are many ways but two stand out. First, massage therapy by itself can help you improve your health due to the many healthy benefits of massage including: improved circulation, greater flexibility, better sleep, feelings of wellness, and reduced muscular pain. Secondly, massage therapy can help you get into shape because the nagging soreness and pain from a new workout routine can be reduced or eliminated. When your pain levels are reduced you are more likely to want to continue your workouts. Receiving regular massage therapy can also prevent muscle soreness and minor injuries that could prevent you from keeping up with your workout schedule.
Now that you know that massage therapy can help you improve your health and fitness, you might want to know what types of massage therapy are available to you. There are many styles and techniques used in massage therapy but there are some that are available pretty much anywhere that you can integrate into your health and fitness routine. The best known massage therapy techniques are:
1. Swedish Massage - this is the most common of massage techniques in the United States and perhaps the world. Swedish massage is known for its long gliding strokes, kneading strokes, friction strokes, and percussion as well as joint movements that feel great while improving range of motion. It's most often thought of as a "spa" type of massage but it's much more than that. Swedish massage is great for improving circulation, improving range of motion of your joints, and helping you actually feel better in your own skin. Swedish massage can range from light pressure to a heavier pressure depending on your comfort.
2. Deep Tissue Massage - right behind Swedish massage, Deep Tissue Massage is one of the best known and most often requested massage techniques. This massage is used to root out chronic tension in the deeper musculature and connective tissues that contributes to pain and loss of range of motion in joints. While some practitioners use a heavier, sometimes uncomfortable, pressure in Deep Tissue Massage it should be noted that a more moderate pressure can reach deep tissues and achieve great results with little discomfort.
3. Sports Massage - just like it sounds, Sports Massage is geared toward athletes at every level from professional to the "weekend warrior" and those who strive for a higher level of fitness. Rather than a specific form of massage, Sports Massage is generally a combination of massage techniques tailored to the athlete's needs. The Sports Massage might be applied to one area to relieve pain or might be more general in nature to assure overall performance.
4. Neuromuscular Therapy - also called "NMT", Neuromuscular Therapy is a well known technique for relieving muscular pain throughout the body even "referred" pain that originates from someplace other than where it's felt. This technique uses very targeted massage techniques, positioning, and stretching to release myofascial trigger points in muscles as well as restrictions in tendons, muscular attachments, and sometimes fascia surrounding the muscle.
All of the massage techniques described here can help you keep on track with your pursuit of better health. Of course there are many more massage therapy techniques available that are relaxing, stress reducing, and that relieve chronic tension and pain. You actually don't have to know what type of massage to ask for, you just need to know what you want to achieve. Do you just want to relax? Reduce muscle soreness? Relieve pain? Improve posture? Ask your massage therapist what they recommend for your particular health and fitness needs and they'll help you keep your resolutions.
Author Resource: Lydia Hernandez is a Licensed Massage Therapist and Neuromuscular Therapist in San Antonio, Texas. To receive the benefits of massage therapy in San Antonio please visit LydiasMassage.com for other massage therapists around the world please see MassageSoup
Article From High Profile Articles
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Acquiring a Clean Colon Naturally
Maintaining a healthy and clean colon is vitally important to your overall health and sense of well being. Quite possibly you have indicated some interest in cleansing the colon but do not want to resort to ingredients that are manufactured artificially. Some of these formulations cause violent and unpredictable reactions within your body. Some careful research will show that you need not resort to prescription medications and that you do have options to help you acquire a clean colon naturally.
For more information about colon maintenanace please visit Learn How to Colon Cleanse
Article From Mister Article
How to Clean Colon Naturally
There is a large portion of the population that would prefer to acquire the benefits of a clean colon naturally. The first step is to find a naturally occurring product that you can use to cleanse the colon. There are a number of plants and herbs that have been utilized by various cultures for hundreds of years. When ingested they serve to rid your bowel areas of the harmful toxins that have accumulated over a long period of time.
Many of the natural herb and plant based products are composed of multi-herb and multi-fibre organics that work synergistically to help you cleanse and tone all five elimination channels. These basic elements of your system include the gastrointestinal system or colon, kidneys, lungs, skin, and the lymphatic system. It may come as somewhat of a surprise to discover the body components involved in keeping our body free of undesirable elements and impurities.
Ideally the product that you select should be one that is completely natural and safe to use, and accomplishes two important tasks. The treatment should stimulate thorough and complete elimination and stimulate the need for frequent and regular bowel movements there after. The basic action to acquire a clean colon naturally, relies on fibre as one of its main ingredients and helps to flush out your system and get you feeling healthier and happier.
When we introduce food high in fibre to our intestinal tract, it absorbs moisture and expands to produce a high volume product that fills the tract of our intestines. The body doesn't want the basically inert elements of much of this fibrous material and simply pushes it right through the digestive system. Many of these herbal or plant base products produce a delicate scraping process as they fill out and pass through the intestines.
As a result pockets, bends and restricted areas get a much needed sandblasting effect and a fresh, clean surface.
By utilizing nature's methods of achieving a clean colon naturally, and following routine maintenance with naturally occurring organic products, you should then be able to keep your colon clean comfortably throughout the remainder of your life.
As with any new routine you plan to begin that will affect your body systems, it would be wise to consult with your doctor, a professional nutritionist or herbalist. Many of these consultants will be able to assess your present condition and advise you which colon cleansing product is going to be best suited to you and your needs. A thorough examination may reveal that your colon is especially clogged.
In the unlikely event that natural organic products prove to be unsuccessful and producing a smoothly operating digestive system, you may find it necessary to resort to synthetic formulations available via prescription.
To experience extended comfort after you have cleansed the colon you plan to maintain that condition by eating a healthy well-balanced diet, that incorporates fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads and cereals, and ample quantities of fibre. Fibre should be increased gradually in the diet and should always be accompanied with an increase in water in order to prevent constipation.
Following these principles you should derive the benefits of a clean colon naturally.
Author Resource: To lose weight fast please visit Lose Weight FastFor more information about colon maintenanace please visit Learn How to Colon Cleanse
Article From Mister Article
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