Sunday, November 30, 2008

Advantages Of Acai Berry

By Micheal Vincent

There are very few foods in the world that can claim to be superfoods. Superfoods must have many more benefits besides just providing enough calories and some nutrition. However, there are some foods that are able to be elevated to superfood status because of the incredible benefits they can deliver.

Acai berry is one of these foods. With its ability to do everything from quicker weight loss to fighting off disease, acai berry can provide you with better health without any effort. What makes Pure Acai Berry such an incredible food is the fact that its nutritional content is as close to perfect as possible. First of all, it is absolutely filled with antioxidants. Click here to find more information about Benefits Of Acai Berry.

As you probably know, antioxidants are necessary for slowing down the effects of aging and for fighting disease. The berry also has monounsaturated fats, which are the healthy type also found in olive oil. Fiber and phytosterols are also part of the package, as is a well balanced amino acid complex. In all, this food is a very complete way of getting energy, nutrition, and antioxidants all in one package.

Because of its extremely complete nutritional content, the acai berry has the potential to provide tons of benefits for your body. Among the most popular reasons for people to use the product are to increase energy, maintain better health, and to lose weight.

You can expect to have more energy when you use the acai berry because of its combination of carbohydrates and fats and its high concentration of antioxidants. All of these things combined make it a very good source of energy and a great way to increase your stamina during the day. Because you are likely to feel and be healthier while taking it, this will also increase your energy.

The antioxidant levels of this berry are more than five times as high as in blueberries and other such foods. This makes them very powerful in terms of fighting aging and bodily damage. Many people rely on this berry to fight off the free radicals that can be implicated in everything from cancer to wrinkles. Antioxidants have the amazing power to neutralize free radicals, which can help you feel younger and healthier than ever before. By using foods with high levels of antioxidants, you can experience great health and fend off the damaging effects of pollution, UV light, aging and more.

Pure Acai Berry can also help you with your weight loss goals as it has the ability to help your body burn fat more quickly and to increase your metabolism. In addition, because it can help your body work more efficiently in general, you can expect losing weight to be easier.

For instance, the ability of the berry to increase your stamina will make it easier for you to exercise, and the berries perfect amino acid complex will allow your muscles to function properly during exercise. The berry even provides digestive support so that you can use your food more efficiently. The benefits of the acai berry are hard to beat and it is a great addition to any diet. Since it is not a local crop, the best way to get the benefits of this berry is in the supplement form offered by Pure Acai Berry.

Since this is the most concentrated and purest way of getting the incredible benefits of this berry, you will be able to see the benefits of this berry much sooner. Begin now and you can even get a Free Trial of Pure Acai Berry to see the benefits for yourself! Click on Benefits Of Acai Berry to find out more.

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How To Tell If You Have A TMJ Symptom

By Rashel Dan

TMJ is one of the common health conditions that affects parts of the body like the head, neck, jaw, shoulders and the back. It is accompanied by pain and discomfort in the jaw. TMJ is basically caused by an inflammation in the jaw, which eventually causes a TMJ symptom you might or might not notice.

Some patients may experience symptoms that are so miniscule that they will not feel uncomfortable having them for the rest of their lives. However, if a TMJ symptom is found, it is important to find treatment right away, since TMJ does not only affect the jaw. If you'd like to know whether you have a TMJ symptom or not, go through some of the common TMJ symptoms.

Symptoms In Function

One of the first things you may notice when you have TMJ is feeling a particular soreness in your facial muscles or jaws upon waking up in the morning. You may find that you have a hard time opening and closing your mouth, or biting properly. These conditions make it especially difficult for you to chew or eat certain types of food. TMJ can also impair speech to a certain degree, as the jaw tends to lock or experience too much tension.

You may notice that, along with the impairment of physical function are sounds you may notice in your jaw like clicking and popping. Grinding sounds can also occur as you start to grind your teeth to find a good bite. Grinding can occur at night when you are sleeping, so if your roommate or partner tells you about this the next day, then may have a TMJ symptom.

Visual Symptoms

Visible symptoms of TMJ would include the jaw protruding from the patients face. If you need to physically pull your jaw backwards towards your ears just to have a comfortable bite, then you may have a TMJ symptom. When you have TMJ, your body reflexes by using your chewing muscles to tow your jaw forward.

If the case becomes worsened your head may start to lean forward as your anterior neck muscles gradually stretch. This can give you overall bad posture.

The more obvious sign and symptom of TMJ is if the areas around your mouth become red and swollen. Another obvious TMJ symptom is having an unbalanced lip position and a prominent facial fold under the chin.

Symptoms Of Other Conditions

The problem with TMJ is that it can cause other conditions. Symptoms can be experienced in linked conditions such as headaches and ringing in the ears, since the head and ears are one of the closest body parts to the affected jaw. You may feel constantly dizzy or develop sleeping disorders because of the discomfort.

TMJ symptom can cause you to experience back pains and even difficulty swallowing/breathing. You may also develop cervical problems including pain and discomfort in the cervix, since a TMJ symptom can gradually become a symptom found in the head and neck.

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The Ugly Truth about Colon Cleansers

By Dorthy Weatherbush

We've all heard the old adage as it relates to weight loss. Eat less and exercise more is a simple solution to an all too common problem today. Everyone appears to be looking for the shortcut. The question is not, "how can I maintain a healthy lifestyle", rather it is how can I do what I want to do and then find a colon cleansing product to purify me from the poison I put into my body. Colon cleansers can be a great tool however they should not be thought of as a quick fix to help you loose those last few pounds.

At this moment, many of the statistics say that you probably have between 4 and 9 pounds of fecal matter attached to the walls of your colon. The side affects of this can be as simple as constant constipation, gas, indigestion and maybe even acid reflux disease. The reality is that if you are faced with most if not all of these symptoms, perhaps the time has come for a complete cleanse. Many of the best cleanses to use are the natural products that are specially prepared to cleanse the colon and detoxify your liver. They key is that you should feel better after a more alert and refreshed after a colon cleanse and not the reverse.

While colon cleansers are a great tool for detoxifying your body, they can be used incorrectly as a weight loss tool. It is difficult to blame the American consumer because many of these products have been sold to you as a method to shed those unwanted pounds. Let's be clear, if you have more than 7 pounds to lose, a colon cleaning is not for you. Rather than looking to cleansing as the antidote to your bad eating habits, why not make it the beginning of your new healthy and vibrant lifestyle.

You will be amazed at the assortment of colon cleansers out there. There are complex ones, easy ones, liquid ones, herbal ones, and many others. Colon cleansing should be done in conjunction with a high fiber and low cholesterol diet. If you want your cleansing process is smooth, you will make a subtle shift in lifestyle and diet.

Think of your body as a sponge. When using that sponge in the course of a day, it can get really dirty and dingy. Now what happens when you run water over the sponge in an effort to rinse it out? The debris and dirt fall away from the sponge down the drain. If you squeeze the sponge, even more of the residue is released. Well, the same is true of our bodies. Yes, a colon cleanse may cause insignificant weight loss but think about the lasting benefits of having all of the gunk out of you.

So in an effort to respond to the question, are colon cleansers safe, yes most of them are safe however they can be harmful if not properly followed and supervised under a doctor's care. On the other hand, if you are simply trying a colon cleanse simply to lose weight then you are under a false impression and are taking a colon cleanser for the wrong reason. It would be in your best interest to identify a proven diet program and follow it to the letter versus following some claim made on late night television.

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Saturday, November 29, 2008

Diabetes: Foot Complications and Kidney Disease

By Gift Mabuza

People with diabetes often develop very dry feet because the nerves that secrete oil into the feet no longer work. Their feet may peel and crack, which only makes it even more probable for them to get sores and wounds in their feet.

Foot complications of diabetes work like this. A person who has diabetes and who has not been keeping their blood glucose level under control gets an injury on their toe. It begins to bleed and crack. Then bandage it, hoping it will heal. It does not heal and soon the wound becomes infected. They go to the doctor who begins to treat the wound with antibiotics. Sometimes this works, sometimes it does not.

Diabetes does not have to be a killer. Glycemia is life threatening but can be controlled. If you or a loved one has this condition, see the doctor regularly and follow the plans to manage the disease.

Kidney disease

When a person has uncontrolled diabetes and does not maintain their proper blood glucose levels, the elimination process through the kidneys ceases to function effectively. The kidneys have to work harder and harder to eliminate the waste products and the proteins are blocked. The kidneys filter too much blood and begin to leak. Protein is lost through the kidneys and from the body. Towards the end, waste products begin to build up into the blood.

Kidney disease is acquired in many ways. In diabetics, it is acquired because the kidneys worked too hard to filter out the sugars and starches and were unable to remove waste products from the blood. Eventually, like any organ that is overworked, they shut down. When the kidneys shut down, a person is often put on dialysis, in which a machine functions as the kidneys. In some cases, a person with kidney disease can opt for a transplant, however this is not often available to persons with diabetes.

Diabetes is not necessarily a precursor to kidney disease. Kidney disease and diabetes are two different diseases. One does not always lead to the other.

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Spinal Decompression For Herniated Discs

By Randall Pruitt, DC, DACNB, DAAPM, MUAC, CES-NASM

Life has a way of wearing us down and causing certain structures to deteriorate accidents can do the same. As we age, our spines are prone to degeneration and wear and tear. Accidents can cause similar results or worse. In both cases, the discs are highly prone to damage and can suffer from injuries such as bulging or the material actually breaking completely though the outer portion of the disc. When that happens it is called a herniated disc.

So what are the best ways to determine if you have a herniated disc? Or where the damage has occurred, is it in the lower back, neck, or upper back. You may experience numbness, pain and weakness in a particular area. The most common area however, is the lower back.

Usually we order an MRI or a CT scan in order to rule in the diagnosis of a herniated disc and rule out some other more serious problem. Depending on the severity of the case, the pain may last for weeks or months or even years. In most of the cases I see, the pain has been there for many months and is getting to the point of becoming disabling.

Herniated discs are quite common and because of this there are many treatments designed to help with this problem.

Some of the most common treatments for herniated discs include physical therapy, spinal injections, medication, massage, chiropractic and acupuncture.

The problem is that most of these treatments don't offer a long term solution. That is the number #1 reason so many people seek out my office for spinal decompression. Spinal decompression in my opinion is the most successful treatment I have utilized for the treatment of disc pain in the lower back and neck.

We use the DRX9000 in our office. I have been offering spinal decompression as a primary treatment for lower back and neck pain for many years and have some of the most incredible success stories you can imagine. The treatment is extremely desirable because of the non-invasive nature and safety of it.

The science behind spinal decompression is quite easy to understand. The treatment is ideal for herniated discs. It works by creating a negative intradiscal pressure.This negative pressure creates a vacuum inside the disc space that reduces the herniation. This also allows the disc to heal for a long term recovery

Treatments using spinal decompression typically last 4-6 weeks and usually consist of 20 sessions. This is also combined with comprehensive core strengthening and spinal rehabilitation to deal with the muscle weakness that accompanies herniated discs.

Herniated disc pain can be a life altering experience and knowing where to turn can be difficult. If you don't treat the actual problem you virtually guarantee another episode so it is best to choose a treatment like spinal decompression for a long term solution

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Friday, November 28, 2008

What's a Good Home Treatment For TMJ Problems?

By Rashel Dan

TMJ may become a painful experience for some. It doesn't mean though that you need to resort to drastic medical solutions. In non-severe cases TMJ can be avoided or treated at home. What home treatment TMJ solution can you use?

Relaxation Techniques

Tension and stress may not always cause TMJ problems but they could cause a minor form of it or make an existing TMJ condition worse. Just imagine what you do every time you feel tense. You may not know it but you may be clenching your teeth or hardening your facial muscles. This could result in TMJ problems. One good home treatment TMJ solution is to simply be aware when you are tense and relax. If you find it hard to ease the tension away, then look for ways that could help you do so. You could take a break from work and have a relaxing cup of tea or you could imagine a relaxing thought while listening to soothing music. Whatever can help you relax is a potential home treatment TMJ solution.

Eating Schedule

Our busy schedule does not always allow us to eat on time. This is one practice that could lead to a TMJ problem. Another home treatment TMJ solution is to reserve your eating schedule for eating only. This will ensure that you never have to chew and swallow hurriedly as a result of work momentum.

Use Jaws Properly

You can further protect your jaws by not overusing them. This means you should only eat hard food occasionally or avoid them altogether. If you know that you have a recurring jaw problem, then steer clear of bubble gum or chewing gum. Let your jaws rest after your main daily meals. Large chunks of food should also be sliced before you put them in your mouth. Doing so would mean your jaws would have to work less in breaking down food.

Good Posture

Having a good posture is also a home treatment TMJ solution. Immobile, hunched or stiff positions could lead to jaw pain. Good posture on the other hand can ensure that your jaws are properly situated.

Compress

Cold or hot compress is an excellent TMJ prevention and cure. A cold or hot compress can ease the stress and pain on your jaws.

Exercise

Although it may be a good idea not to overuse your jaws, you should practice proper jaw exercise as an additional home treatment TMJ solution. It would be a good idea though to specifically ask your doctor for exact instructions on jaw exercises. Massaging and moving your jaws on your own might not be appropriate for your specific condition.

Take Medicine

Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers to aid your home treatment TMJ methods. Together with applying a compress, this is probably one of the safest home treatment TMJ solutions.

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Cold Sore Food Choices To Prevent Your Cold Sores

Yes, there are foods that encourage cold sores, and foods that prevent cold sores.

If you are curious about preventing oral herpes cold sores with food, you are right on track. Fact is, food can be a powerful ally (or enemy) in the struggle with cold sores.

CAUSE OF ALL COLD SORES, FEVER BLISTERS AND ORAL HERPES.

Cold sores are the visible damage caused by the reproduction of herpes simplex virus. It is a very destructive parasite virus.

The herpes simplex virus is normally dormant in the root nerve cells of your facial nerves. This virus will become active for the sole purpose of reproduction.

Herpes virus, when active, will move to the surface and invade the nerve cells there. Since it cannot reproduce itself, it forces the victim cell to create virus clones. Once the cell is full (or exhausted) the controlling virus executes it and it bursts open to release hoards of new virus.

A lot of cells destroyed in such a manner create the cold sore ulcer you see and feel. Usually now all the damage is done and the healing part begins.

ARGININE FEEDS THE COLD SORE VIRUS - LYSINE STARVES IT.

The main protein in the herpes virus is arginine - a common amino acid found in most foods. Without proper quantities of arginine your nerve cells cannot create new virus, thus avoiding another cold sore.

Your cells store arginine in a specific area within the cell because it is an important protein for many different functions.

Lysine is another very common amino acid that closely resembles arginine. The big difference here is that your cells cannot create herpes virus by using lysine protein.

Lysine is stored within the cell in the same area as arginine. The more lysine you store, the less room for arginine and the less likely a cold sore will appear.

If the herpes simplex virus senses an arginine shortage, it will give up and return to the dormant state.

FOOD ITEMS THAT HELP PREVENT COLD SORES

Most common foods contain both lysine and arginine. For cold sore prevention, you want food choices that have a high lysine to arginine content. The ideal ratio is 2 to 1. You should strive for this ratio from your entire daily diet.

Balance is the way to success. Don't give up the foods you love, just compensate with additional high lysine foods.

Most meat is high in lysine and lower in arginine. This is especially true for fish, chicken and beef. Eggs are an excellent choice too. Dairy products are rich in lysine including cheese and yogurt.

Good Wisconsin cheddar is excellent for lysine, as is ricotta cheese. Flounder is a fish that is extremely high in lysine - giving you about 14,000 milligrams of lysine per pound (450 grams) serving.

SOME FOOD PRODUCTS THAT CAUSE COLD SORES

If you suffer from frequent or long-lasting cold sores, here are a few food items that you may want to watch closely in your diet as they have higher arginine content.

High arginine foods include nuts, both grown in trees as well as on the ground. Grains such as wheat and oats are higher than normal in arginine. Sunflower and sesame seeds are healthy but high in arginine.

Most vegetables are higher in arginine, but not by a great amount. Watch out for carrots, eggplant, cabbage family foods and beans (dried). Chocolate is very high in arginine.

Doing without these very healthy foods for any length of time is not a good idea. Rather than do so, try adding additional high lysine food to your diet. Fish, eggs and dairy are great choices for this.

LYSINE SUPPLEMENTS - THE PERFECT CHOICE FOR COLD SORE PREVENTION.

Changing your diet is not easy or fun. But if you get a lot of cold sores - or they last longer than normal - you do need to flood your system with lysine.

The best way to do this for most people is by taking lysine supplements. They are cheap, convenient and very easy to find. Start taking them at the first sign of a cold sore and continue until final healing is complete.

Look for lysine in 500-milligram capsules. As an oral herpes cold sore treatment, six to eight capsules per day with meals is a common regimen. Some people take a capsule or two a day as a preventative measure.

Lysine is a great cold sore treatment. Used along with the other oral herpes cold sore tactics we now know about, lysine can be effective at slowing down - even stopping - your cold sores permanently.

Want more remedies for cold sores? Go to Denny Bodoh's popular web-site with tons of FREE expert info about cold sores and cold sore treatment tactics that you can use right now.
http://www.3daycoldsorecure.com



Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Constipation In Pregnancy: Natural Treatments

Because of constipation in pregnancy, many women experience bloating and even pain. Another consequence is hemorrhoids, which are also painful. Commonly experienced by pregnant women, constipation in pregnancy is caused by normal transformations of the pregnant woman's body. However, pregnant women need not suffer. Home remedies and other natural approaches are effective in relieving constipation in pregnancy.

What Causes Constipation in Pregnancy?

The level of progesterone increases sharply during pregnancy, causing constipation. Progesterone causes the woman's muscles to relax, in preparation for labor. The intestines also relax and slow down. The result? Constipation.

Although causing much discomfort, this slowing down of the intestines is actually important during pregnant. It allows the pregnant woman's intestines to absorb vitamins, minerals and other vital nutrients from foods. This is the body's way of assuring that the growing fetus will get all the nutrients its needs for proper growth and development.

The relaxation of the digestive system also allows the pregnant female's body to absorb more water. Because of her increased blood volume, the pregnant woman needs more water.

Iron, which all prenatal vitamins contain, also causes constipation in pregnancy.

What Natural Remedies Can Relieve Constipation in Pregnancy?

1. Drink more than 8 glasses of clean water daily. Refer to your doctor to determine how much water your body needs. There is a formula based on your weight.
2. Eat more high-fiber foods. These include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Good choices are green, leafy vegetables, unsweetened prunes or prune juice, apple juice, and old-fashioned oatmeal. Try to eat a little of these foods every day.
3. Engage in regular exercise. Walking is effective in stimulating the digestive system. There are also yoga poses that are good for digestion. Consult a certified yoga instruction about yoga poses that are safe during pregnancy and can effectively ease constipation.
4. Switch to a different brand of prenatal supplements that contain a form of iron that doesn't cause constipation. Calcium and magnesium also help relieve constipation. Inquire with your doctor about the best prenatal supplements for you.
5. Consult with a homeopathic doctor about homeopathic remedies that treat constipation in pregnancy.

Although normal, constipation in pregnancy causes much discomfort and inconvenience. Fortunately, it is easily remedied by safe and effective home remedies and other natural treatments. Pregnant women should never take drugs to alleviate constipation. The natural remedies described above are sure to provide relief.

Alexis Rodrigo is a certified childbirth educator and runs an information website on natural parenting. To learn more natural ways to relieve pains in pregnancy, go to http://www.naturalmomsblog.com



Best Uses For Colloidal Silver

It seems like colloidal silver has many different uses. A simple look in a few good books on alternative medicines, and even online, will show many different uses for colloidal silver. What is it about colloidal silver, that makes it good for many different uses, and what are they?

There are many uses for colloidal silver, and we will take a look at them in a moment. For now, it is important to know why colloidal silver is used in many of these cases. Knowing this information will allow you to know when, and why to use colloidal silver. And what is more, you may just come up with new uses for colloidal silver!

Colloidal silver is basically silver (the precious metal) particles and ions that are suspended in a liquid, such as water. The most interesting part is the silver, and silver has some amazing properties.

The biggest buzz about silver is that it is antibacterial. And silver is known to kill hundreds of bacteria and germs. This makes it a great alternative or addition to antibiotics. The interesting point is that antibiotics often have the problem of bacteria which mutate, whereas with silver, it still kills them, whatever they do!

So, in essence, colloidal silver kills bacteria, and whatever requires that function, can benefit from colloidal silver. This could be as simple as gargling with colloidal silver, so it kills bacteria in the mouth.

Colloidal silver has also been known to remove toothaches, as it kills the bacteria around the teeth. Mouth sores also benefit from colloidal silver, as it kills any bacteria it contacts.

When traveling in countries where the water supply may be questionable, after doing the usual precautions - adding colloidal silver into the water, can kill any pathogens in the water.

Because of the antibacterial nature of silver and colloidal silver, it can work great when you have a cold, flu, or any kind of infection, such as a chest infection. Because colloidal silver can be taken orally or topically, it provides a safe way to combat germs, bacteria, and pathogens, both internal, and external to our bodies.

Rinsing fruit and vegetables with colloidal silver before storing, can make them last longer. And it is safe!

A great use for colloidal silver, which I suggest you do, is to mist kitchen sponges, and even your cutting board. This will prevent some bad bacteria from forming. Obviously you still need to wash kitchen boards after use, however, the use of colloidal silver will add to the protection from pathogens.

There are many more uses for colloidal silver. Because of silvers antibacterial action, it can be great at removing odors. For example, it can be misted on feet and shoes, and when dry, can remove the smelly odors!

Discover more about colloidal silver and the latest alternative medicine breakthroughs by visiting: http://www.healthprosperity.info and
http://www.usatodayarticles.info



Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Treating Dermatillomania, A Skin Picking Disorder

Dermatillomania is an obsessive compulsive disorder where a person has an intense urge and need to pick at their own skin. It is a disorder that consists of body focused repetitive behavior. For people with this disorder, the urge to pick at their own skin is so strong that often damage is done to the skin that doesn't heal correctly or it leaves scars. Picking at their skin is a stress release and a coping mechanism for those with this disorder.

Those who suffer from this disorder often feel shame and are embarrassed by their behavior and they try to hide the evidence of their disorder. Individuals with this disorder often attempt to camouflage the damage caused to their skin by using make-up or wearing clothes to cover the subsequent marks and scars.

In extreme cases, individuals with this disorder may avoid social situations in an effort to prevent others from seeing the scars, scabs, and bruises that result from skin picking.

Fortunately, there is a growing interest in understanding and treating the disorder. Several skin picking treatment options are becoming available but there is still much more being left unsaid, even undiscovered as yet, about this disfiguring and dangerous obsession.

Medications used to treat this disorder are also used to treat many obsessive compulsive disorders and anxiety related disorders. For example, artificial fingernails (acrylic or gel) have been found to be useful to some in stopping the picking behavior. It is recommended to never try any medications without first consulting a physician.

The primary treatment modality depends on the level of awareness the individual has regarding the problem. If the disorder is generally an unconscious habit, the primary treatment is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy called habit reversal training (HRT). HRT is based on the principle that skin-picking is a conditioned response to specific situations and events, and that the individual with dermatillomania is frequently unaware of these triggers.

HRT challenges the problem in a two-fold process. First, the individual with this disorder learns how to become more consciously aware of situations and events that trigger skin-picking episodes. Second, the individual learns to utilize alternative behaviors in response to these situations and events.

In many cases, cognitive-behavioral therapy is most effective when combined with the use of mood-stabilizing medications. Hypnosis, self-hypnosis and meditation have also been useful for some patients.

There are a number of other therapeutic techniques that can be used as adjuncts to HRT. Among these are exposure and response prevention (ERP) and stimulus control techniques. ERP, which is the primary treatment for obsessive-compulsive (OC) disorders and many OC spectrum disorders, is most valuable if the individual with dermatillomania is already aware of the specific situations and events that trigger skin-picking episodes.

Stimulus control techniques involve utilizing physical items such as gloves or rubber fingertip covers to reduce the client's ability to pick at his or her skin. Also, medications that are frequently used to treat OC disorders may be valuable adjuncts to cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of compulsive skin picking.

Curing dermatillomania isn't as difficult as you may think, too many people rely on lengthy and expensive therapy sessions or medications.

If you'd like to know how to cure this disorder please keep reading http://www.squidoo.com/compulsiveskinpicking



The Natural Approach to Remove Acne Permanently

By Hiro Kai

If you desperately want to get rid of acne, you should be aware of the reasons that cause this problem. You must know that the skin in your body work hand in hand with the kidneys, the liver and the colon system to get rid of the toxins that are messing around in your body.

The remains of the toxins that don't get eliminated start damaging organs in your body. This causes the skin pores to get overloaded opening up the entrance to allow the bacteria to do their messy work in your skin.

If this is the case, acne is a signal with zits represented by the body indicating the problem taking place inside. The recommended thing to do if you want to remove acne in a natural manner is to do a total body cleanse.

Acne is usually connected with a very popular problem: constipation. If this is the case, detoxification is an important step in the process of teating acne naturally. There are several indicators as to whether you need a detox or not. It's quite simple to find out. Symptoms like infrequent bowel movements, gaining weight all of a sudden, feeling stressed out and irritated, zits popping out all the time, dull skin are all screaming out that the toxins are still out there!

A basic way to start the process is by drinking plenty of water, adjusting the diet to a vegetarian pattern and doing lots of physical exercises. In addition, you can try special detoxification products created from natural compounds that stimulate the metabolic increase.

Essential oils, herbs and minerals are usually great remedies for treating acne naturally. There are popular cosmetics out there that claim to carry these herbs and mineral extracts. Usually these products end up being a total waste of money since they lack the concentration level of herbs needed to treat severe acne conditions.

Since the required elements for the treatment are not enough to help treat acne, you are better off using the herbs on its own. Another alternative would be to actually look for supplements that carry high concentration of the required elements.

If you want to remove acne naturally, it's recommended you consult a herbalist or an ayurvedic doctor who will assist you in bringing balance to your diet and lifestyle again. A proper diet and healthy lifestyle is all you need to cleanse your body to be acne free again.

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Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or Chron's Disease Through Your Diet

Individuals who suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or Crohn's Disease benefit from eating certain foods and watching out for others. IBD and Crohn's disease involves inflammation of the intestines. Ulcers form and become inflamed which can cause scarring and bleeding.

The symptoms of these diseases include diarrhea, acute abdominal pain, cramping, fever and fatigue. It's very important to receive good nutrition in order to manage the symptoms of IBD and Crohn's Disease. It is also important to receive proper nutrition in order to avoid extreme weight loss.

If you have IBD or Crohn's Disease you ought to stay well-hydrated by drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. Staying hydrated helps prevent constipation. You may also have been advised to take a daily multivitamin by your doctor or dietitian. A daily multivitamin and mineral supplement helps replace lost nutrients which can be lost due to your condition.

It's also very important that your diet be one that's high in fiber during times you are not experiencing a flare-up of IBD or Chron's Disease.

High fiber foods include whole grain breads, bagels, buns, and muffins. There are also whole grain cereals such as Bran Flakes, All Bran, bran buds, corn bran and Shredded Wheat, as well as 100% Bran and fiber 1. You can eat cooked cereal such as Oat Bran and whole-wheat pastas, and whole grains including popcorn, barley, corn and brown rice.

Fruits can also be high in fiber such as dried fruits, oranges, berries, apples with the skin, avocado, mango, kiwi, and also pear.

Vegetables which contain high amounts of fiber include spinach, dried peas, broccoli, Swiss chard, green peas and other leafy, green vegetables, and beans (such as kidney beans and lima beans, black-eyed beans, chickpeas and lentils).

Seeds and nuts such as almonds, whole flaxseed and soy nuts are also very good for you to eat .

When you're experiencing an IBD flare-up it's crucial to limit the amount of fiber in your diet and to adopt a low-fiber diet or even switch to a low residue diet in order to rest your intestinal tract and reduce symptoms you experience. Your doctor or dietitian can give you more information about these types of diets.

You'll also need to avoid lactose-containing foods such as dairy products if you are lactose intolerant.

Even with following a low-fiber diet, it is important to continue to receive adequate nutrients during flare-ups. Eat smaller meals and eat foods high in protein such as lean meats, fish and eggs. You may also be told to drink some recommended nutritional drinks such as Ensure in order to rest your bowel. Always follow your doctor or nutritionist's instructions.

To help minimize and control IBD flare-ups, limit the caffeine in beverages or foods, the alcohol that you consume and any sorbitol (sweetener) as these can make your symptoms worse.

Try also to limit or avoid gas-producing foods because these can intensify your symptoms. The major gas-producing foods include broccoli, dried peas, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and lentils as well as onions, chives, and peppers. Limit your ingestion of carbonated drinks as these can also make your symptoms worse.

Reducing your fat intake will also help due to the fact that foods with fat can cause diarrhea and gas. There has been some research which shows that taking fish oil and flax seed oil may be beneficial for treating IBD or Chron's Disease.

Dee Braun, a single mom of 6, is a Cert. Aromatherapist and natural health practitioner. Click now to visit Health or High Water at http://www.healthorhighwater.com/ where you'll find info to improve your health using to battle the ravages of time, poor nutrition, & toxins.



Monday, November 24, 2008

Facts About the Acai Berry

By Frank Cassa

If you watch TV or read news articles, you will most likely have come across the acai berry. You probably have heard that it is a very healthy fruit, much healthier than other berries, fruits or vegetables. The acai berry has been featured in many TV programs, magazines and news.

The acai berry is not a new type of fruit. It is not a hybrid berry and its nutrients and health benefits are natural, not artificially created. The acai berry is native in low-lit, swamp areas. There are a lot of acai berries in the Brazilian rain forest where it is hard to get to.

The acai berry grows on a tall, large tree called Euterpe oleracea but most people just refer to the tree as the acai palm tree. The acai palm tree can have many trunks. Some of them have just a few trunks but there are some that have 25 trunks. Each acai berry tree can be as tall as 25 meters tall and as wide as six inches in diameter.

Each acai berry tree has many branches dropping down from it like flowing ribbons. The branches cluttered together and on them are the acai berries. Each acai berry is on a branch is very close to the next berry on the same branch.

Most people know what a blueberry looks like. The acai berry is very similar to the blueberry in appearance because it is small and round. Its color is purple/black. Some acai berries are more black than purple whereas others are more purple than black. Each acai tree has many fruits and are capable of producing up to 20 kgs of acai berries.

Like most berries, the acai berry is edible. Many people eat the acai berry as fruit but some make use of other parts of the berry too. The acai pulp is where most of the nutrients are and it is very commonly used in wines, liqueurs, or as food flavoring or colorant. The acai berry has many uses so it is not surprising that there are many acai berry products around.

The acai berry has many healthy and medicinal properties. It is one of the best antioxidant and contains many minerals, essential fatty acids, and lots of other nutrients that the body needs to be healthy. The acai pulp is where most of the nutrients are found so to get the most health benefits of the acai berry, eat the pulp too.

Since people now know that the acai berry is so healthy, the acai berry is more in demand now than ever. In the past, the acai berry used to be hand picked but nowadays many companies have them mass harvested to meet the world demand of the acai berry. Unfortunately, automation will always decrease the effectiveness of the end product.

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Sunday, November 23, 2008

How Osteopaths Treat Neck Pain

By Andrew Mitchell

Instead of looking at each symptom of an illness separately, osteopathic medicine is a kind of medicine that looks at your entire body to figure out the best method of treatment. Osteopathic medicine has become quite popular, especially for people who have problems with muscle and joint pain. A lot of people insist that when you suffer from neck pain, an osteopath is one of your best resources. It is understandable, however, that if you haven't ever visited an osteopath, that doing so might feel scary. Don't worry-you have nothing to be scared of. Here is what you can expect to experience when you visit an osteopath for neck pain treatment:

At first, you'll probably feel like you are visiting a "regular" doctor. You'll be given a physical and asked for your complete medical history. After that, your osteopath will perform a few additional tests to help determine the exact cause of your neck pain. He or she might take an X-Ray to find out if you have damaged any of your vertebrae. Don't be surprised if your osteopath then gives the rest of your body a complete examination as well!

It is important to know that your appointment will involve a lot of physical contact between you and your osteopath. Osteopathic treatment is very "hands on."

The osteopath you visit can use any or all of the following methods to treat your neck pain:

Counterstrain technique: this technique involves moving you into a position that will help your body restore motion to any of your muscles that might have been strained or restrained.

Muscle Energy technique: your osteopath will give you specific exercises in which you will use your muscles from a specific position and move them in specific directions.

Soft Tissue technique: this technique involves your osteopath putting pressure on the muscles that are near and around your spine. Sometimes the pressure is deep, other times it involves traction or rhythmic stretching.

Thrust technique: Your osteopath will use a high velocity force to reintroduce movement to your joints and muscles. Thrust is used to correct any asymmetry in your muscles. This method should also take care of any restricted movements, tissue changes or muscle tenderness you might have been experiencing.

Your osteopath might also use a low level laser or acupuncture techniques to help treat your neck pain.

An osteopathic visit might sound scary, but there is no reason to be frightened. Most people who visit an osteopath don't experience any pain. Most of the time osteopathic visits have been reported to be pleasant and relaxing!

A number of people often confuse osteopaths with chiropractors, but it is important to understand that the two professionals, while seemingly similar, are actually quite different! A chiropractor is a professional who wants to treat your spine and joints. Osteopaths want to work with you and help treat your entire body.

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Saturday, November 22, 2008

To Cure, or not to Cure? Reasons why Osteopaths Differ from GPs

By Andrew Mitchell

We have all been there: we go to the doctor with an aching back, she gives us a diagnosis, and writes out a prescription for some pain killers, along with some medical advice of what we can and cannot do. We take the pills, follow the advice, and the problem goes away. Or does it? Two months later, we pick up a heavy suitcase and injure our back once again - and start the vicious cycle of doctor-pills-advice all over again.

Treating psychical injuries is always an uphill struggle, unless you can find a way to eliminate the problem completely. This is where the role of an osteopath becomes central, since osteopaths don't just treat the symptoms of a problem (as your local GP would), but will look at the entire body take the extra step of finding not only the cause of the ailment, but the cure as well. There are a range of other factors that differentiate an osteopathic doctor from a medical doctor:

1. Osteopaths are specialists in how the body works. Where medical doctors have a general overview of a large number of diseases, osteopaths are specifically trained in the musculoskeletal system. They therefore have a greater understand of how one system within the body influences the other, giving them a diagnostic as well as therapeutic advantage over GPs.

2. Osteopaths also undergo something referred to as Osteopathic Manipulative Training (OMT). This is a special diagnosis technique using one's hands. This technique stimulates the blood to flow to the target areas, serving as a much more natural way of diagnosing a disease.

3. An Osteopath not only uses their hands to diagnose a problem, but also to treat to the predicament. While a medical doctor would prescribe an anti-inflammatory drug to treat the symptoms at face value, an osteopath would work to free the muscle tensions, which not only stimulates circulation, but encourages the body's own forces to eradicate the problem, preventing it from re-emerging in the future.

4. Where doctors deal with the present symptoms of a given problem, osteopaths will look at the persistent history of an illness. If a patient has injured his knee, for instance, a medical doctor would gather a patient's medical history through a means of blood tests, psychical examinations, and perhaps certain laboratory procedures. An osteopath would acquire this same history by questioning the patient about whether he previously experienced stiffness in the knee joints, whether the knee is more painful in a specific position, or whether the pain increases in the patient's most active moments. By getting a patient's history through this approach, osteopaths work to find the cause of the problem, and attempt to cure it at the source.

Osteopathy therefore has many advantages, but do these outweigh the benefits of a visiting a GP? That is up to you: depending on the nature of your injury, you might want to see both. The question you want to ask yourself is whether your ailment is persistent or not, and whether you merely want to treat the immediate symptoms, or cure the source of the problem.

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What is Considered Gout Food?

By Rashel Dan

Studies have shown that individuals who had diets containing high levels of purines and proteins were more susceptible to gout compared to those who had moderate levels of those compounds. Food considered as gout food has been suspected for triggering the effects of gout such as swelling, pain and discomfort. Researchers and medical professionals are now categorizing gout food in order to help sufferers maintain their health. This article lists down common misconceptions, gout food, and the effects of modern diets.

Should I avoid high-purine foods altogether?

Although purine has been known to be one of the main causes of gout, it is found that moderate intake does not trigger symptoms. Actually, anyone can eat what he or she wants as long as it is in moderation. In most cases, too much intake of one type of food results in certain conditions.

How can I take enough calcium and proteins if dairy products are considered gout food?

Although low-fat dairy products help reduce the risk of gout, ordinary dairy products can trigger gout. Get your daily calcium and protein from low-fat dairy products, which are now widely available in supermarkets.

Here is a list of purine gout food that is known to worsen existing gout condition, but not necessarily cause initial gout:

- Cauliflower - Spinach - Mushrooms - Peas - Beans

Here are purine-foods that are considered safe when eaten in moderation:

-Veal -Bacon -Liver, kidneys -Turkey -Goose -Salmon -Anchovies -Trout -Scallops

Below are foods particularly high in purines and should be avoided:

-Sweetbreads -Yeast -Herring -Sardines -Mussels -Heart

Which diet should I take?

Specially-formulated diets to address the needs of those suffering from gout is now available. High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets have been found to significantly aid in weight loss but also found to increase the risk of gout because of their high purine content. Those looking into treating their gout and losing weight at the same time should lessen the extremity of their high-protein diet.

Diets that incorporate too many acidic foods are considered gout food. You may be cutting out meat (i.e.: if you are getting into a vegetarian or fruitarian diet), but may be resorting to sweets and acidic fruits. Most sweets (natural or artificial) are acidic, so avoid eating too much pastries and sweetbreads. Cranberry is one example of a highly acidic fruit. Almost all kinds of oils are considered to be acid forming, even olive oil is considered acidic. Other oils include canola oil, sesame oil and sunflower oil. Probably the worst types of acidic foods are alcohol, especially beer, since they are originally from wheat and barley.

Also, avoid foods that serves as natural diuretics such as linden, green tea and stinging nettle. These are gout food that can encourage uric acid crystals to form because they tend to drain the system of water.

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Friday, November 21, 2008

The Benefits of Music Therapy

Question: What is Music Therapy?
Answer: Music therapy is the clinical use of music to help realize goals set between the patient, and the Musical Therapist.

The realized benefit of music goes back centuries. It is well documented that music can affect our moods, our thoughts and our outlooks. Most of us know what it's like to find some "Feel good" music to help us through the rough spots. What many may not realize is that it can also affect us physically.

Question: Who benefits from Music Therapy?
Answer: Everyone and anyone can benefit from Music Therapy! Children, adolescents, and adults and even the elderly can benefit from music, and music therapy.

If there is music to dance by, and music to love by; it only stands to reason there would be a musical equivalent to every situation. Music has the ability, through our minds, to change our heart-rate, our blood pressure, and lower the amount of stress hormones being released by our bodies. Research on music therapy is well documented. It is also commonly known among the general public. Mothers and Grandmothers know that a baby can be soothed by a lullabye. Many men whistle, knowing just the music of the whistling can achieve a positive state of mind. Children hum and sing as they play. The use of music therapy is an everyday occurrence, which has just been expanded upon to include not just the sound of music, but the entire concept.

Music therapy not only involves the actual sounds that music makes, but also the lyrics, the tempo, and every other aspect of it. Often the writing of song lyrics can produce a therapeutic affect. It is another art, incorporated into music that allows expression. Song lyrics are often the pathway to the soul. Writing has long been known to achieve a release of emotion. Set to music, it takes on a whole new life.

Music therapy is becoming more widely used in nursing homes. Singing songs helps with memory, as well as mood. There are many older people, suffering from a variety of illnesses that may not even remember their names, but they will remember the words to their favorite songs!

Music is used by expectant mothers, to calm the unborn child, as well as to educate! Many believe this sets the foundation for a calmer, brighter child. Most people use music therapy already in one form or another. We may turn to classical music to calm the stress of a high pressure job. Some put on music with a quick tempo to help them to get motivated for a project.

Music Therapy is all around us, in its simplest sense. Taken a step further, Doctors and Psychologists are using music to enhance the therapeutic benefit of their patients. From the simple, to the scientific, all music has benefits. It is art and science working together to promote the well being of any individual who is open to music's ability.

Interested in learning more about the many benefits of Music Therapy?

Just visit: http://www.alternativemedicinetech.com for an exhaustive set of resources and more information.



What Are The Types Of Acai Berry And What Are The Benefits?

Acai berry juice is a dietary supplement that contains pure Acai berry juice derived exclusively from palm trees located in Brazil's Western Amazon rain forest. These berries are processed through a unique maceration process that has been used for thousands of years by the indigenous people of the Brazilian rain forest. This process uses the entire berry which includes; the Epicarp, Mesocarp and the hard Endocarp. These berries contain some of these beneficial nutrients; essential fatty acids, proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, and also supports; healthy energy levels, healthy immune system, healthy cholesterol levels, healthy cardiovascular system, free radical scavenging, gastrointestinal health and much more!

There are also other forms of the Acai berry which include:
Acai Berry Extract -
The Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) is loaded with vitamins and minerals, such as many of the B vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, iron, potassium, phosphorus and calcium. Acai berries also contain omega-6 and omega-9 EFAs. Acai berries are also an excellent source of a component called anthocyanins. These are flavonoids found in darker fruits that possess antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help defend the body from damage caused by unstable free radical molecules.

Organic Acai Berry Juice -
106,000 ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity) units per bottle, or 3500 per serving. ORAC is the measurement for antioxidant capacity of different foods and the USDA recommends that the average person consume at least 3000 ORAC per day. Studies have shown that this little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world! Acai (ah-sigh-ee) is the high-energy berry of a special Amazon palm tree. Acai contains a remarkable concentration of antioxidants that help combat premature aging. A synergy of monounsaturated (healthy) fats and dietary fiber which helps promote cardiovascular and digestive health.

Capsules -
Acai is the only super berry on the market that has everything that you need, naturally from only the berry itself. It packs Vitamin B1, B2, B3, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Phosphorus, Calcium, Potassium, Fiber, Proteins, good fatty acids such as Omega 6, Omega 9 to helps you fight your cholesterol problems and many, many more; there is just too many to list. Also as an added benefit is give you the highest level of anti-oxidant on the market, with studies showing up to 33 times the anti-oxidant as red wine grapes. With Acai it gives you the energy from your youth and opens up the vitality and increased stamina you had in your 20's. So try the new "Fountain of Youth" from this forbidden Amazon Berry and you too will feel the power of the Amazon.

Any and all of these forms can be healthful to your body and besides the many benefits listed in this article, some other benefits you may be interested in include things such as Enhances visual acuity, minimizes inflammation, improves circulation, prevents arthrosclerosis and even helps you lose weight. This type of product is 100% all natural and shouldn't contain any foreboding chemicals that could otherwise be harmful to your health and to your body. People that are really big on healthy eating and healthy living absolutely swear by this stuff and say it is the best thing they have ever had in their entire lives. Well, with the so called "Fountain Of Youth" being tagged tailed on this product, I sure as heck would hope that it would have an immense impact on people!

This Author is a HUGE fan of
http://www.dietpills.stodan.com



Magnet Therapy For Pain: One Study May Change The Way You Think About Magnetic Therapy

Is there such a thing as magnet therapy for pain? This is a question that has gotten a lot of attention lately. Perhaps it is because magnets have been viewed both as a complete sham and as an incredible holistic pain therapy. Most of us believe the truth is somewhere in between; that is, magnet therapy for pain is not going relieve every type of pain and cure all ills, but may help with certain types of pain therapy if applied correctly and with the strongest types of magnets.

One thing is certain -- magnet therapy has been around for over 4000 years and that is a pretty long time when it comes to holistic remedies. Especially when we see so many of these "alternative medicines" coming and going with the wind. Of course, this does not mean that magnet therapy for pain is going to cure all types of pain, however there is one type of pain that magnet therapy may help with and this is post-polio syndrome.

- Post-polio syndrome and magnet therapy for pain:

This particular study was published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston found that magnets may be more effective than sham magnets when it comes to blocking pain caused by post-polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome is a pain that starts in the legs and seems to affect about 20% of polio sufferers as they get older.

In the controlled study, about 76% of the patients treated with a magnet were relieved of their pain to some degree. This is to say, they noticed a significant difference in the leg pain caused by post-polio syndrome. Interestingly enough, only 18% of the sham magnet group said they had some pain relief. Of course, anyone would be foolish to say from this one study that magnet therapy for pain is the cure to all pain, however it is clear that more studies need to be completed in order to determine the true therapeutic benefits of magnet therapy for pain relief.

- But here in lies the problem with using magnet therapy for pain...

This study certainly does not prove once and for all that magnetic therapy will work to relieve every single type of chronic pain. The magnetic therapy enthusiasts would love to sit back and say "look at this incredible study that proves once and for all that magnetic therapy is a cure all," -- but the truth is, for every one of these studies, there is another study that casts doubt on the bold claims made by these magnetic therapy practitioners.

- Will magnet therapy help you?

Using magnet therapy for pain may not be a bad idea if you have tried other pain therapy solutions with limited success. The last thing any of us want to feel is that we will have to live with our pain forever. Magnet therapy may be the answer to some of your pain problems and may help reduce pain for certain types of conditions. It is true that more studies need to be completed, but when you begin to think about other holistic remedies that have lasted 4000 years you begin to believe that there may be something to these magnets after all.

Seth is a Webmaster and has a masters degree in information science. If you want to find out more about magnetic therapy along with additional studies that provide evidence on both sides of the debate, go to http://magnetpaintherapy.com/magnet_therapy_for_pain.html

Goji ORAC: What Does That Mean To You?

Goji Orac is another name for the goji berry or the wolf berry antioxidant levels. This bright red berry is considered a super fruit because of its high levels of antioxidants and vitamins. This tasty berry has been a staple food for the citizens of China for hundreds of years and has been eaten in many different forms, from cooked to juiced to raw. The level of Goji orac in the fruit make it one of the healthiest foods on earth. This food is now making its way out of China and into the world.

While goji is not yet one of the staples of the American supermarket, its progress can be seen in the states with and more people recognizing the goji orac level. This fruit is beginning to show up in juice form in the health and nutrition areas of stores. In addition to this, pills made from the goji fruit are also showing up in the supplement sections of the stores. Goji berries themselves can be requested and purchased at select grocery stores.

The goji orac level is noted with a score of 25,300. This level is three times higher than black raspberries which have the next highest level of orac content. The goji orac level of 25,300 is achieved with just a 20 gram serving of goji.

As a flavorful berry, these small red fruit often resemble cherry tomatoes except that they have hardened seeds. These seeds are edible though. The berry itself is a result of the pollination of the beautiful goji flower. This beautiful flower blooms at different times in different parts of the world. While the goji berry is a hardy plant and can be grown just about any where, the only commercial growing fields of goji are currently in China.

It should be noted that while the goji berry is considered one of the healthiest fruits to consume, it is always important to check with a doctor before changing one's diet. Your doctor may be able to tell you if something in the fruit may interact with any medication that you may have. With the help of your doctor, you may be able to find a good diet plan for you that just might involve the goji berry and the benefits of the high goji orac score.

Zach Thompson is a Goji Juice Representative. His clients range from actresses to pro athletes. You can get a free consultation by visiting http://findoptimalhealth.com/himalayan-goji-berry-juice.php



Caution! Diabetes Ahead!

By Ned Dagostino

Most of us think of diabetes as a disease caused by eating a lot of sugar. Nothing could be farther from the truth. In fact, diabetes is a grave condition which affects the composition of our blood, the very element of life. Diabetes is the condition where the body's ability to regulate the amount of glucose in the body is seriously impaired. The basic composition of the blood is highly altered and this affects almost every aspect of our health and life. It cannot be stressed enough that you should look out for the early warning signs of this horrible, life-altering condition. The sooner you recognize diabetes, the sooner you can get it treated, and the easier it will be on all concerned.

One of the early warning signs of diabetes is thirst, frequent and powerful thirst. The body tries to compensate for the altered blood composition by copious drinks of water. Another early warning sign is violent nausea. The stomach-turning nausea is not due to eating anything disagreeable or toxic. Attendant symptoms are a feeling of breathlessness, dizziness, and anxiety.

Abnormal glucose levels can adversely affect the nerves, a condition known as neuropathy. The eye is lined by the endings of the optic nerve. There are thousands of the nerve endings which collectively form the retina. Prolonged glucose abnormality affects the retina, resulting in sight problems.

Diabetes-induced neuropathy targets the various organs of the body especially the digestive system. Flatulence, acidity, highly irregular bowel motions like diarrhea and constipation are all provoked by diabetes-induced neuropathy. Neuropathy affects the bladder. Bladder control becomes a problem which means frequent and uncontrollable urination, which can lead to highly embarrassing situations.

If a person suffers cuts, bruises, and wounds that do not heal but, do in fact, deteriorate, suspect excess blood glucose to be the culprit. The skin feels itchy, and wounds tend to turn raw and infected.

So what prevents us from waking up to the presence of diabetes early enough? Unfortunately, there are common explanations for all the signs I've described. We tend to go for the common explanation to a sign rather then getting all alarmist about it and suspecting diabetes. So when we have the runs, we tend to suspect that especially pungent curry we had a week ago. Vision problems are attributed to staring at the computer monitor. And so on and so forth... The main thing is that diabetes gets itself entrenched and no one suspects a thing!

Do yourself and your family a favor! Do not take any of these signs lightly. At the most, the doctor will prescribe a routine test for diabetes. If it comes out clear, you'll have the positive satisfaction that yes, you know it isn't diabetes! On the other hand, if the test does indicate diabetes, then you'll thank yourself for acting on those early warning signs! Take care; this is really a matter of health!

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Thursday, November 20, 2008

What is a Gluten Allergy?

By Dorothy Medlum

In grains such as wheat, rye, barley, and low level oats, there is a rubbery protein which is called gluten. This is the binder in bread. You would notice it in breads and other baked goods.

Although these grains contain gluten, which can be the cause of gluten allergy in sensitive people, they also contain number of other proteins that can also be the cause of allergy symptoms.

The four primary proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley include: albumin, globulin, gliadin, and glutenin, better known as gluten. While the symptoms and severity of gluten allergy vary from one person to another, a person would generally experience hives, swelling, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or asthma.

If the person is highly sensitive to gluten allergy, the symptoms could be life-threatening.

The good news about gluten allergy is that if the person has a reaction after eating wheat or wheat products, making an early diagnosis is quite easy. The challenge is because so many foods we eat are made from wheat, it becomes difficult to determine where the real problems are.

A trained allergist would need to do a skin prick test to better determine the gluten allergy problem. If the reaction is severe, the solution may involve elimination of the by products from the diet. If the gluten allergy is minor, the amount of wheat may be watched, allergy medication and shots taken to help the person with the gluten allergy.

If the person with the gluten allergy is a child, chances are this will be outgrown. Children's symptoms for this may include: abdominal distension growth, abnormal stools, irritability, poor muscle tone, and wasting of the muscles. In the adult the allergy may be shown as significant weight loss, abdominal cramps, and bloating, and constipation.

A doctor will do a blood test in either cased to confirm the diagnosis. Once done, the treatment is to eliminate gluten from the diet. It is essential, therefore; to address things such as nutrients and deficiencies. Niacin, iron, thiamin, riboflavin, chromium, dolacin, and phosphorus, health care, and diet are matters to be discussed with your physician.

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Killing Toenail Fungus Quickly and Safely

By Miley N.

Killing toenail fungus can be quite difficult and anyone who has it knows that already. If you do find a way to kill it, you have to be extremely careful to ensure it doesn't come back.

One of the major issues with toenail fungus is that it is highly contagious and that is why you need to take certain precautions to avoid getting it in the first place. In addition to being contagious, it has the ability to live for a long time in exfoliated skin and on contaminated surfaces.

If you do manage to contract toenail fungus, you want to keep your feet clean and dry because the fungus thrives in damp, moist places, and sweaty shoes are the ideal environment for its growth. In addition to keeping on top of your foot hygiene, there are several natural ingredients that might help you in killing the fungus.

Non-Pharmaceutical Undecylenic Acid

Undecylenic Acid is basically an organic unsaturated fatty acid that is produced from natural castor oil. The acid is obtained by cracking castor oil under pressure and is known as a natural fungicide. It is FDA approved for various over the counter medications.

Tea Tree or Melaleuca Oil

Australia's Melaleuca tree is responsible for producing tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has powerful anti-fungal and anti-septic qualities and was used in world wars to help troops to battle infections.

Natural Clove Oil

Clove oil is another amazing natural ingredient that has been shown to be effective in killing toenail fungus. Although used initially by many Dentists to help with tooth pain, it is also known for its strong antifungal properties.

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Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Understanding The Benefits Of Catnip Tea

By Dr. Caroline Marrison

There is a wide belief that Catnip Tea can be highly health beneficial. It can either be bought as fresh catnip which is said to be more potent or packaged. The applications of Catnip Tea range from fever reduction over anti-inflammatory or antiseptic. Some have even used it as a pain-reliever. Catnip Tea basically is a relaxant which is why it is often used before going to bed. While it is usually used as a tea it can also be supplied in leaves that can be chewed.

Most people know Catnip Tea for its relaxing sedative properties. Parents like to mix the tea with a few bits of honey to make it taste better for their children. It has the effect to calm restless children and to treat colic as well. Adults like it for its effect on the nervous system which relaxes the body and promotes restful sleep.

There is a lot of other uses for catnip like relieving constipation, stimulating perspiration and acting as a diuretic. It is however to be avoided by pregnant women because it regulates menstruation and relieves cramps.

Catnip tea can be used to reduce fever but it can also be used to increase perspiration without raising temperature to treat the flue, colds, chicken pox or scarlet fever. That is not all however as it can also relieve stomach ache, gas, acid indigestion, upset stomach and control diarrhea.

The tea water of catnip tea can also be gargled or inhaled instead of drunk. Gargling catnip tea can treat sore throats or cough while inhaling it can be helpful to ease the effects of a cold and other respiratory infections. Lastly it can also relax the spasms of asthma.

The antiseptic and antioxidant properties of catnip tea are said to reduce inflammation and to help heal infected gum because of this effects. It is best used as a mouthwash to relieve the toothache. It is also possible to saturate cotton balls with the tea and apply the balls directly to the gum.

Catnip leaves are rich in tannin and vitamins C and E, antioxidants which help the body to heal and repair itself. The tea is used topically on the skin to reduce inflammation and promote healing of burns and scalds, on cuts and abrasions to stop bleeding and disinfect the wound, and to relieve the sting and itching of insect bites. It is applied as a topical liniment for pain, bruises, sprain, rheumatism, and arthritis.

Applied in a bath catnip tea can be used to soothe an irritated scalp and to treat eruptions on the skin. The scent of catnip can repel rats and other insects of applied on the body or ingested.

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Do Anti-Aging Vitamins Really Work?

By Lee Dobbins

When it comes to looking and feeling younger, many women find that anti-aging vitamins are preferable. After all, they promote good health and a youthful appearance. Of course there is some debate on the effect vitamins of any kind have on aging and its physical manifestations. In truth, the whole idea of anti-aging is such a controversial one that it can be hard to know if these vitamins work. Naturally it is thereby difficult to find out what they do. So rather than relying on anyone else's information, let's take a look at the most popular ones and see for ourselves how they help.

These vitamins are more correctly known as antioxidants. Those are extremely important. You see, antioxidants provide protection against free radicals. Free radicals are the facts which ultimately cause you to age - or at least to look old. Some of them occur naturally. After all, we all get older so naturally we all look older as well. We have control over many antioxidants though. For example, do you realize that smoking, drinking, and being out in the sun can make you look older? Those are all free radicals. They can lead to dry skin, wrinkles, lines, sags, bags, and a dull, rough complexion.

Selenium is one of the most beneficial antioxidants. It is a mineral and has been known to help your body in several ways. For instance, it can protect you from certain types of cancer, such as skin cancer caused by the sun's radiation. It also protects your skin's elasticity. This keeps your skin firm. In addition, it keeps your skin and its tissues from hardening by slowing down the process of oxidation.

You can look for selenium in oral vitamin form of course. However you can also find it in all different types of foods. For example, it can be found eggs, garlic, cereals made with whole grain, and certain kinds of seafood.

Next up is vitamin E, one of the most beneficial antioxidants to be found. It provides protection to the membranes of your body's cells. In so doing, it also keeps important enzymes safe. There are some studies which suggest it can render free radicals inactive. They have little to no power and thus cannot make you look older.

Vitamin E can also be found in many foods. It can be found naturally in certain oils, grains, oats, dairy, and nuts. You can also apply it to your skin and/or take vitamins. You should always stock up on this. It can even reduce the damage caused by exposure to the sun's rays.

Last but not least, we come to the most well known anti-aging vitamin: vitamin C. It can help prevent everything from scurvy to cancerous cells. In addition, it can block free radicals and stop them from causing damage and exacerbating the rate at which your body ages. You can find it in oranges, lemons, limes, and other types of citrus. Many vegetables also contain vitamin C.

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Saturday, November 15, 2008

Natural And Alternative Ways To Deal With Acid Reflux

By Frank Robson

Some medication may help your acid reflux, but there are some that can actually make the problem worse if you stop taking them. There is a type of medication called PPI (Proton Pump Inhibitors) which inhibits the acid production.

But if you stop taking PPIs, your body responds by bouncing back and producing even more acid, a process known as rebound hypersecretion. Because of this, even if you are considering alternative methods of treating your acid reflux, it's not a good idea to suddenly stop taking PPIs.

There are several herbs that are often used as heartburn remedies. Tea made from caraway seeds, chamomile, coriander, fennel, anise, and angelica can offer relief after a meal. Spearmint and peppermint teas are also known to help. You can also get capsules containing caraway seed and peppermint oils, which some people also get good results from.

There are specialists who rely on roots and herbs. Ginger root is one herb that's used in Ayurveda, and taking it regularly can help reduce acid reflux.

Adequate fiber consumption reduces symptoms of acid reflux. Fiber easily digests the acid from the foods. Fiber also keeps you unconstipated. Fiber pills or water-soluble powders are available for those who do not enjoy raw foods.

Another major contributor to acid reflux is nicotine, so stopping smoking can help. Nicotine relaxes the esophageal sphincter, allowing fluids to "swish around" freely. Stress can also be related to smoking, which also affects your digestion.

Avoid eating citrus fruits, raw onions, ground beef, potatoes, spaghetti, alcohol, spicy foods, ice cream, cheese, coffee and tea.

Some of the other alternative treatments that people have success with include licorice, meadowsweet, some digestive enzymes such as papain, and chamomile. Even marshmallow, which together with chamomile can work as an anti-inflammatory, has helped some people with their acid reflux.

In the end, a good diet, positive changes in your lifestyle, weight control and lowering your stress level will all help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux.

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Friday, November 14, 2008

Constipation Remedies And Colon Cleansing

By Keith M. Henry

Colon cleansing is becoming very popular,and is becoming more and more routine among those who want better health. A colon cleanse can be very beneficial for all sorts of ailments even abnormalities like chronic constipation and acne

Constipation can be caused because of irritable bowel movements, excessive and chronic use of laxatives, worry, anxiety, fear, lack of physical activity and problems with intestinal function (chronic idiopathic constipation) etc. However, the most common reasons for constipation are a diet low in fiber or a diet that is high in fats, such as cheese, eggs, and meat.

Bowel Friendly Foods

Grapes have proved highly beneficial in overcoming the occurrence of constipation. The combination of the properties of the cellulose sugar and organic acid in grapes make them a laxative food. Fennel has properties in curing digestive problems. The regular use of fennel will normalize the working of the digestive system and heal the constipation problems. Fennel has exceptional properties in curing digestive problems. It is traditionally provided in Indian cuisine after each meal. It is also found in some commercial colon cleanses.

Fruit salads with fruit such as guava and papaya can be very helpful in cases of constipation. Such fruit salad provides good roughage that helps clear your bowel system and thus prevent constipation. In fact the regular consumption of papaya in the morning on an empty stomach helps prevent constipation. Fruits naturally contain the right balance of distilled water and nutrients to act as natural constipation remedies.

Exercise

Exercise, or lack thereof, is seen as a cause of constipation because some believe that without regular exercise our metabolic rate slows, which means a longer digestive cycle and thus less regular bowel movement. Among other reasons the fact is, the longer the stool spends in your digestive system, the more water is excreted from the stool, which results in a harder stool which is more difficult and painful to pass.

Colon Cleanse

A dependable commercial colon cleanse will typically be plant based and will support and encourage intestinal detox with a combination of bulk fibers, natural laxative-like compounds, and so forth. As an illustration psyllium husk and fruit pectins provide essential fiber to the digestive tract, whilst herbs like Slippery Elm bark, Cascara Sagrada, and Marshmallow powder promote natural flushing of the colon.

In a nutshell bad eating habits, lack of exercise, not drinking enough water etc., lead to constipation, and the sooner these habits are dropped and corrective habits instituted, the sooner relief from constipation will be realized.

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Thursday, November 13, 2008

Nature's Profound Pain Reliever: Helichrysum Italicum

By Judy Brauch

So many folks are bearing some sort of physical pain, and are in need of an effective form of pain relief. One that is more than just a masking agent (one that just blocks the pain sensation), but instead heals while reducing pain. Helichrysum essential oil has the ability to do both. Noted by many therapists as one of the most profoundly healing essential oils used today, Helichrysum italicum is used with success for a great many physical ailments. One of North America's leading medical aromatherapists has noted the oil's effects to be so convincing as to have "never met with any kind of criticism" from the conventional medical community. The oil is readily available, and easy to use -- here's more about it, and how to make best use of it for your needs.

The essential oil steam distilled from the little yellow flowers of the Helichrysum plant (the oil is also known as 'Everlasting' and 'Immortelle') is in a class by itself for the three most important factors for a medicine: safety, efficacy and ease-of-use. Some essential oils used for pain must be used with caution; those containing methyl salicilate should be used sparingly due to their toxicity potential. Helichrysum however, has no such restrictions in the aromatherapy literature. It is in fact, one of the few essential oils recommended for direct application to the skin in the most critical or immediate cases.

Its efficacy is unsurpassed. Most folks who use it find the pain relief nearly immediate -- "it just makes the pain go away", "it's amazing" and other similar comments are frequently uttered when the oil is used. The oil is recommended for ANY kind of pain: joint pain, muscular aches and pains, back pain, neck pain, nerve pain, and pain resulting from surgery and trauma. In most cases, a simple preparation of the oil in any common aromatherapy carrier oil is the formula of choice. Jojoba is commonly used for aches and pains; Rosehip seed oil and Tamanu are selected when healing skin damage (or reducing scarring).

Mixing your own topical preparation is very simple: just mix one part Helichrysum to nine parts 'carrier oil' in a separate bottle. This makes a 10% concentration. Some users create formulas as strong as 20% Helichrysum, others with as little as 5%. Using the lowest concentration necessary is more a question of cost than anything else -- the pure essential oil is relatively costly, particularly the highest quality, rarest varieties. The pure essential oil applied 'neat' or undiluted is called for when a trauma has just occurred. For example, if one has just twisted an ankle, or really any serious injury where bruising will occur, several drops of the essential oil should be applied immediately and then again every hour or so until the potential for hematoma is eliminated.

Beyond simple pain relief, Helichrysum is known to actually speed the healing of injuries through its antioxidant, anti-inflammation and regenerative actions. This is helpful for not only 'common' bumps and bruises, but for surgical sutures and burns as well. Further, the oil is found in 3-5 percent concentrations in skin care recipes to reduce the appearance of skin aging, and to reduce and eliminate scars of all kinds.

The most potently-healing Helichrysum essential oil is considered to be the 'serotinum' sub-species grown on the island of Corsica, France. The oil is often distilled from wild growing plants, which can be the strongest healers due to their synergistic relationship with their natural environment. The oil is also distilled from Helichrysum italicum flowers grown around Europe; one may try more than one source to find the oil that works best for them.

The profoundly effective action for pain relief provided by Helichrysum italicum essential oil is one of natural medicine's most wonderful treasures. With its exceptional ratings for safety, efficacy and ease-of-use, the oil is unsurpassed as a healing agent for all sorts of pain. Its quick, gentle action is appreciated by the great majority of users, and is worth investigating for your own needs.

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