Sunday, June 22, 2008

Support Normal Prostaglandin Production With CLA

An imbalance of hormones in the body can cause a host of problems. Prostaglandin is a fatty acid that takes on the characteristics of a hormone. This fluid is isolated from the male prostate. In women, it is known for its pain relieving effect on the uterus and is often used during labor and delivery to calm contractions and reduce cramping.

Prostaglandin soothes muscle contractions, reduces pain, reduces inflammation and controls hormones. When it isn't functioning properly, however, you will likely experience more pain and discomfort. CLA is one supplement that can help support natural prostaglandin production.

Conjugated Linolic Acid (CLA)

CLA is sometimes suggested for overweight and obese people for weight loss. It is a trans fat that is said to reduce belly fat. It is a popular dietary supplement. CLA is a designer fat in some ways. It acts as a good fat in the body, much like olive oil and similar products that are healthy for you. It is a lipid that is structured in a way that promotes health and improves prostaglandin production.

CLA helps to build muscle, burn fat, increase metabolism and fight cancer. It acts as an anti-inflammatory, lowers cholesterol and enhances the immune system to fight off germs and diseases. It also acts as a natural fatty acid. It can be found in your diet in beef and dairy products. The omega 6 fatty acid in CLA offers a lubricant for the body. It smoothes body functions and gets things moving again.

The beauty of taking a CLA capsule is that it provides you with the fatty acids your body needs without the guilt of eating the extra calorie-laden foods. You can change your composition of fat and muscle while eating less food and without drastically changing your lifestyle.

Most experts agree that CLA is safe for human consumption and are reasonably certain of the positive benefits it can offer. However, there is inconclusive data from research studies that have been conducted thus far. Further testing in humans must be done to determine the effectiveness of CLA and the possible side effects it may bring.

Studies on Prostaglandin Production and CLA

According to Mark Cook and his team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, CLA supplements work to naturally regulate COX-2 proteins.

Studies on animals have recently shown that CLA can control bone loss by allowing better calcium absorption. This is made possible by lowering prostaglandin levels in bone tissue. Further studies on humans and prostaglandin need to occur before there is any concrete evidence.

Research does suggest some side effects from consuming synthetic CLA. It can cause lowered good cholesterol, higher glucose levels and insulin resistance. Though studies on animals have shown that eating foods high in CLA rather than taking a supplement is safer, it would not be practical for people to eat that much meat and cheese.

There is not enough evidence to prove that CLA can support normal prostaglandin production. CLA is deemed safe as a supplement for now, but experts caution users not to exceed 1000 milligrams of CLA per day just as a precaution. Too much of a good thing can be problematic, as well.

Author Resource: More information on CLA is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

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Thursday, June 19, 2008

Boost Immunity to Springtime Colds With Echinacea

Every year people get bogged down with stuffy noses, watery eyes, congestion, sore throats, headaches and sneezing. The common cold rears its ugly head when the snow finally melts away and the trees get their tiny buds. Spring is normally a time when a lot of colds and viruses are passed around. It is inconvenient not only because of the annoying symptoms; it also makes us miss days of work or school. It interrupts our lives for days at a time. Few people can afford the luxury of taking off from everything they are expected to do for that period of time.

The springtime cold season doesn’t have to be a problem for you, though. You can boost your immunity to cold and flu symptoms with echinacea. This herb can reduce the time you spend nursing a cold and get you back on your feet much faster than waiting it out or taking prescription drugs.

What is Echinacea?

Echinacea is a flowering plant, also known as the purple coneflower, found in the North American plains. This powerful plant has long been used as a medical alternative to stimulate the immune system and protect the body from infection and disease. Echinacea is most commonly found in herbal teas and in extract form and is used as a home remedy for the spring time cold season.

How Echinacea Boosts Immunity

Echinacea works like a natural antibiotic. It attacks toxins in the blood to fight off disease and strengthen the immune system. It also reduces inflammation in the body. Typically, it is more effective if you start taking it at the first sign of a cold. The most popular use for echinacea is to reduce the duration and severity of colds, respiratory infections and sinus problems.

Inconclusive Data and Controversy about Echinacea

There are a large number of studies that have been done of the echinacea herb to determine if it is actually helpful in reducing the common cold. The problem is the results are not consistent. Part of this is because different parts of the flower have been used in different studies. Some report that echinacea is effective at boosting immunity and speeding up recovery from the springtime cold. Others say there is not a significant difference in the duration of a cold when using Echinacea.

One thing to consider about the herb is the possible side effects. No major side effects have been cited regarding the use of echinacea; however, it could cause an allergic reaction. It is also possible to develop rash or asthma from taking echinacea.

Recently, researchers have started to look at the collective data on echinacea to determine if it is truly effective at treating colds and preventing diseases. According to a review in The Lancet Infection Diseases, "published evidence supports echinacea’s benefit in decreasing the incidence and duration of the common cold." The review went on to state: "Echinacea decreased the odds of developing the common cold by 58 percent and the duration of a cold by 1.4 days."

This is promising news, which confirms the use of Echinacea can reduce the severity of a cold and speed the recovery process along so you can get back to your regular routine that much faster.

Author Resource: More information on echinacea root is available at VitaNet ®, LLC Health Food Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

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Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Protecting Yourself From The Ravages of The Sun

With rising rates of skin cancer in many parts of the world, it's becoming more important than ever to protect yourself from the ravages of the sun. Here are some tips to protect yourself from, while also enjoying, the sun.

Clothing

If you want to enjoy the outdoors or the beach, but don't want to be exposed to the sun all day, consider purchasing special clothing. There is special clothing made specifically for sun protection. This clothing is lightweight so it does not keep you warm, yet it protects your skin from the sun's rays. Several makers of sun protection clothing offer apparel including long sleeve shirts, pants and jackets to protect your body, as well as hats designed to protect your head and neck.

Eyewear

Eye protection from the sun is extremely important, as excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to damage to the eye, especially for people with sensitive eyes, children, seniors and anyone who has had eye surgery recently. A good pair of sunglasses will protect the health of your eyes and even help you see better during the harsh light of a bright day. So when you're headed outdoors, don't forget your sunglasses.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is available from many brands in hundreds of preparations. There is a sunscreen product for everyone. Generally, sunscreens are rated according to SPF, which stands for "Sun Protection Factor". Every bottle of sunscreen will have an SPF number, even many lipsticks and make-up products now have SPF ratings. While there is no sunscreen available that blocks out all UV rays, generally the higher the SPF number, the more you are protected. For instance, an SPF rating of 30 will block 97 percent of the sun's UV rays if it is correctly applied. That's another tip to remember, you must apply sunscreen correctly for it to be effective. If you use too little or don't apply it to all areas where your skin will be exposed, then it won't be able to do it's job. A sunscreen product with SPF protection of 50 will effectively block up to 99 percent of UV rays, so look for this rating on any products you purchase, especially if you are buying it for people who are sensitive to the sun.

Physical Protection

Some of the best ways to block the sun's harmful rays is with physical objects. The best of these is an umbrella. You may still enjoy laying out by the pool or the beach, but if you are under an umbrella, you are physically blocking the sun from hitting your skin. A tent, gazebo or other structure can also block the sun's rays effectively.

Sun Tanning Safely

Many people still want to have a nice, healthful looking tan, regardless of the skin cancer danger. These people should consider using sunless tanning products. These lotions and creams applied to the skin once every week or so will dye the most outer layer of your skin. However, this method of tanning is perfectly safe as opposed to laying out in the sun for a few hours to achieve the same effect. The latest innovations in sunless tanning products mean that you can get a beautiful tan without risking skin cancer.

Author Resource: Lydia Quinn writes for PhatSportShades, a leading provider of watersports goggles and performance sports eyewear. Visit us at: http://www.phatsportshades.com

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Old Drug Offers New Treatment for Prostate Cancer

A longtime treatment for common prostate diseases as well as baldness may be a treatment in helping prevent prostate cancer in those with high risk, a recent re-examination of a 2003 study shows. ( N Engl J Med 2003; 349:1569-1572, Oct 16, 2003)

The study was one of the largest of it's kind, performed on almost 19,000 men over the course of 7 years. The men were randomly assigned either a placebo or the popular drug known as finasteride, which is branded as Propecia for treating baldness and is also used to treat enlarged prostate glands in older men.

After 7 years, the men taking finasteride showed a 25% lower risk of developing prostate tumors than the placebo group. However, the researchers were at first concerned about an actual higher incidence of aggressive prostate cancers in the men taking finasteride; their overall risk was lowered, but if they did develop prostate cancer it tended to be more dangerous.

A new evaluation of that study seems to have reconciled this strange finding. Since finasteride actually shrinks the prostate gland, if cancer does appear it is easier to find and thus, in the original study seemed to show an increase in tumors in some men.

Finasteride works by decreasing the amount of available dihydrotestosterone produced by the body, a male hormone. It has been known for some time that male hormones act to "feed" prostate cancer growth, and turning down this mechanism can be an effective treatment to help "starve" the cancer.

Its side effects include some of the more common ones among prostate cancer treatments: impotence, and decreased libido. Sometimes male breasts can also form, however, most side effects will reverse once treatment is stopped.

The new research concludes that finasteride is indeed an excellent treatment for those with a high risk of acquiring prostate cancer. Men who are in a high risk category for prostate cancer include those over the age of 50 and those with a close relative with prostate cancer.

Men who are interested in finasteride therapy should take up their concerns with their doctor, who will make a personalized decision based on their risk factors. This treatment may help avoid such complications as impotence and urinary incontinence, two of the most common side effects of later treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy.

This may be a blessing for those at high risk, as the quality of life concerns from treatment may actually affect men more than the cancer itself.

Author Resource: James Culp is a prostate cancer survivor who runs a blog on the latest treatments for prostate cancer at http://www.ProstAide.org.

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Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Fish Oil for the Brain

Studies have shown that fish oil may make significant improvements on the mental health of people. The active ingredients are needed for the brain to function properly and have a good overall health.

Fish oil is commonly known as Omega-3. It contains EPA or eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA or docosahexaenoic acid. The key stabilizing element in fish oil is EPA. Taking fish oil in supplement form may be healthier than consuming it through fish because all of the toxins of a fish are taken away when the fish oil liquid or capsules are created. Many people don’t eat enough fish or like it so supplementation is preferred.

If you decide to take a daily supplement of fish oil capsules or tablets then you should know how much is okay to take. Just like any other vitamin, if you take too much of it then you won’t receive a benefit from the supplement but it could cause problems. It is recommended that people take 1.5 to 3.5 grams of Omega-3 daily. You should take it with food also. Higher amounts of fish oil have shown to cause oxidative stress. Some doctors also recommend taking vitamin C and E along with Omega-3 to balance the benefits.

Through extensive research and studies, fish oil may be used to treat people suffering from disorders like bipolar, depression, diabetes, allergies, macular degeneration, and as a mood stabilizer. Omega-3 has may even help to have dramatic results for people suffering from severe depression.

In countries along coastlines where fish is primarily consumed it is proven they have lower rates of depression than places who don’t consume much fish at all. People suffering from disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar have also benefited from taking Omega-3 to help stabilize their moods and normalize them.

The primary reason the fish oil works so well with stabilizing the mood is because it is a fatty acid that the brain needs. The brain is primarily made up of fats and it needs the fatty acids to properly function. When the brain doesn’t have the appropriate fatty acids and vitamins it needs then things like depression and disorders occur in the brain. Omega-3 may help the brain function properly because it is believed it provides a stabilizing effect.

Fish oil through vitamins or eating plenty of fish and seafood is healthy for you. These supplements help create a stable mood and uplift your attitude and the way that you feel. People suffering from depression and other mood disorders may benefit from taking a daily dosage of fish oil. However, everyone should be sure they have the appropriate amount of fatty acids for normalizing the brain function.

Fish consumption and supplementation had become popular in recent years because of the research and even doctors recommending it.

Another positive benefit that may result in consuming omega 3’s is on ADHD/ADD to assist in concentration. It has been said that kids and adults suffering from this disorder may have less essential fatty acids than normal.

It is advised to always to work with your doctor about the appropriate medicine or alternative approach.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Author Resource: Lori Matthews studies health, nutrition and wellness. She enjoys writing articles on health for both people and pets. Please visit http://www.pure-fish-oil.com for more information.

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Thursday, June 5, 2008

Effective Tips for Dental Hygiene

A balanced diet and proper in take will help in avoiding dental decay and this is the primary step which helps to keep the teeth hygienic. Successful the dental hygiene program are done through many ways and we must be very careful and maintain healthy very healthy teeth.

The following are the steps of dental hygiene program:

To brush regularly with proper tooth brush atleast twice a day.

Good and healthy eating habits and diet.

Usage of fluoride water or other products containing fluoride substances for example toothpastes and mouthwashes must be proper. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel. It can also be applied to the children.

Regular dental check ups and prophylaxis.

After these all will provide a successful dental hygiene and prevent from unnecessary suffering. They can provide a good oral health free from diseases when followed properly. A well balanced diet plays a vital role in the dental hygiene program, as the mouth inhabits acid forming bacteria which are a natural process. This will be more in case of starches and sugars, as the acid will be formed when the bacteria act on them. This acid will cause enamel degradation and this is the starting point of any dental problem.

In order to minimize this it is important to avoid foods with more sugar and starch, as they harm the tooth surfaces very soon. Most of the heavy sugar contained foods must be avoided. This is not enough and the teeth must be brushed regularly both in morning and in the night. It is much better if it is done thrice daily and after taking meals or after eating anything. By doing this it helps to remove the food particles which are stuck in between the teeth. It will also help to prevent foul breath or halitosis, caused by factors like decayed tooth, eating certain foods, tonsils or throat infection.

Removing the food particles from the teeth is also very much important in the dental hygiene program. But sometimes in case of old dental appliances also tooth decay is possible. The dental appliances must also be taken utmost care like the teeth. Any particles accumulated in the appliances must be removed properly in order to avoid stains it. Rinse the appliances with running water often and soak them in water overnight in between once or twice a week. Through this, it will help to remove the stains from the dental appliances.

Visiting the dentist on timely basis will also help to maintain a good dental hygiene. This includes for the children also, when they are around the age of three years. The visit must be once every six months. So a dentist can very well help his patients in regular dental hygiene maintenance and procedures to be followed. So, keeping the mouth and teeth fresh and maintaining it by following a good hygiene program from small age will help life long.

Author Resource: Find informative articles on tooth whitening procedures on http://www.dentalcareonline.info The website http://www.healthfriendly.info" target="_blank">http://www.healthfriendly.info carries comprehensive info related to dental insurance.

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