Food Label Claims: All Natural

By Cliff Walsh

Reach into your pantry or refrigerator and choose any packaged food item. The most common scenario is that it is plastered with marketing claims like sugar free or immunity boosting. Or perhaps, one of my least favorite terms, all natural. The reason why I dislike it is because it means absolutely nothing and is only used to deceive buyers into believing the food item is healthy.

Many products will carry the natural or all natural slogan on its packaging. Who wouldn't want a natural product? Studies have shown that the majority of people think these claims are similar to organic foods and some actually believe it to be better than organic. Unfortunately, they are mistaken. Organic food certification is a stringent process that entails inspections, supplier checks, and paperwork trails while food manufacturers can use the natural or all natural claim at their own choosing. There is no oversight and no standard definition.

The FDA is in charge of oversight of the use of marketing slogans on food packaging, certainly a difficult task. Unfortunately, despite significant use of the natural or all natural label claims, the group has not defined these terms to standardize their use. The FDA has said it has no problem with these claims if the food products refrain from using food coloring, artificial flavors, or any synthetic additive.

That sounds like a reasonable definition, even though it is not official. The problem is that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), GMOs, partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats), and other concerning ingredients are often used in so called natural products. Without a legitimate characterization or government verification, companies can use the natural and all natural claims for whatever they want.

Without a proper definition, food companies have been allowed to define the claim themselves and this has led to some ambiguity at best and unethical behavior at worst. How many scandals have the food and chemical additive industries been involved in over the past few decades? The list is too long to count, making it obvious to most (but seemingly not the FDA), that these companies should not be left to their own devices.

Despite the government's lack of action on these label claims, consumer groups are taking action, which is refreshing to see. Tired of being lied to and exposed to dangerous ingredients, consumers are holding food manufacturers' feet to the fire. Food manufacturers and retailers have had to defend themselves against a host of significant lawsuits, and have lost quite a few. This is a trend that I expect to persist.

Be sure to read the actual food ingredients list and ignore the marketing claim if you haven't fully researched the definition and the loopholes. Less ingredients is typically best. Whole foods are actually the healthiest option, but in the event you choose to eat a processed food, stay away from chemicals you don't understand. We need to be more vigilant about what we allow into your bodies. We cannot rely on the government to protect us from unscrupulous food manufacturers.

About the Author:

Be sure to check out my website for more information at FDA food label guidelines or my blog at natural claims on food labels. Thank you and be well!

Important Tips On Eating Right And Getting Proper Nutrition

By Kristy Walker

There are a lot of health-food nuts out there, always pushing their organic and microbiotic products on you. But is this food really nutritious? The truth is that nutrition is a wide-ranging issue, and you need to be informed about every type of food. Read this article for some great nutrition tips.

If you're almost full, don't eat anymore. This will stop your body from overeating, and let your body know it can begin the process of digesting. Eating until satisfied also helps you be the boss of your food, instead of the other way around.

Nutrition is a science with some objective elements. But there is also a subjective aspect to nutrition. While studying nutrition, you need to be mindful of your individual needs as well as rules that apply generally. For instance, a person with celiac disease needs to avoid certain grains, while these grains may be fine for other people.

Make healthy substitutions in your favorite recipes. If there are certain meals you love to eat, try modifying instead of eliminating them from your diet. Skim or 1 percent milk in place of whole, low-fat cheese and butter substitutes all can allow you to keep your favorite foods on the menu.

Eat dark leafy greens. These super foods, which include spinach, kale, chard, collards, and others, are extremely low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. Among the many ways they improve your health, the vitamin-rich greens help maintain vision, reduce blood clotting, and strengthen bones. These highly-versatile greens can be eaten raw, sautd, or added to a soup.

Regularly consume foods containing calcium. Nuts, dried beans, soy milk, sardines, cheese, dark green vegetables, cheese and milk are all healthy foods that contain calcium. Bone and teeth strength are among the many benefits of consuming calcium. If your body does not get enough calcium, it can develop osteoporosis, which causes brittle bones. Osteoporosis develops slowly, and can be extremely painful. As the bones get softer and more brittle there is a risk of fracture.

Buy frozen vegetables to use in your meals. While fresh vegetables are great they can spoil quickly and some have very short growing seasons. Frozen vegetables are processed immediately after picking and freezing them keeps their nutritive value intact. Since frozen vegetables are already washed and cut you can easily add them to recipes.

Trying out healthy new recipes is a great way to keep your nutrition quest fun and interesting. You can learn to make your own protein bars with just a few simple ingredients such as protein powder, milk, and natural peanut butter. You can also make something like oatmeal pancakes, much more nutritious than traditional pancakes.

When considering your nutrition, do not over do it with vitamins and supplements. Multivitamin pills can never replace the amount of nutrients that you receive in eating food. While they are good to compliment your meal with, never substitute a pill for real food. Your body might not react well to a large intake of concentrated vitamins.

Part of getting good nutrition is eating your fruits and vegetables. You should be eating around 5 servings every day. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber, vitamins and beneficial antioxidants. Eating like this will fill you up fast, and they are low in calories, so if you are watching your weight, they are also the perfect food.

Believe it or not, salad is not always your best bet when it comes to dining out. Fast food restaurants and chain eateries often offer up side salads that reach into the thousand calorie range - and that's before you add dressing and croutons. If you are at a restaurant and the salad still looks like your best bet, ask your waiter to bring out the dressing on the side. This ensures that you will not be forced into consuming an unnecessarily generous amount of dressing. Better yet, opt for fat-free dressings.

As you can see, good nutrition is easy to incorporate into your lifestyle if you make a few simple choices. You may need to tailor these tips to your personal needs. Begin today to make the positive choices you need to make. You must develop a plan to give yourself the nourishment your body and mind deserve, and stick with it. You will notice a difference.

About the Author:

Are you interested in healthy eating? Then check out Kristy's blog called Kristys 101 where you'll find more help and suggestions for living a healthy lifestyle!

Naturally Treating a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)

By Aneron Kepasil

A UTI is an infection of the urinary tract. While it is painful, it is usually not overly serious and is easily treated. The urinary tract becomes infected when bacteria is introduced into the tract. The most common cause of a urinary tract infection is from bacteria that lives in your digestive tract and is tranferred to your urethra. Once this bacteria enters the urethra, it travels upwards and can cause infection in the urinary tract or bladder. Sexual intercourse is a common cause of UTI's because during sexual activity, bacteria is moved from the vaginal area into the urethra. Another cause of UTI's is waiting too long to urinate. This causes your bladder to weaken, in which case it may not empty completely and some urine will be left in the bladder. This will increase your chance of a urinary tract infection.

The symptoms of a urinary tract infection are: a strong urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, blood or bacteria in the urine, a strong odor from the urine, unable to pass large amounts of urine. What causes a urinary tract infection? There are many factors that can bring on a urinary infection. Such factors and causes of a urinary tract infection are the following: being a female, being sexually active, age, birth control medication, diabetes, and reoccurring tract infections.

Having good hygiene is important if you have a chronic UTI. Women should wipe themselves front to back when they use the bathroom. Women who have poor hygiene habits often wipe back to front which can cause fecal mater to enter the urinary tract. This creates bacteria in the urinary tract which causes recurrent urinary tract infections to occur.

A common natural UTI treatment is to flush the bacteria by drinking lots of water and other non-sugar based liquids. Flushing the bacteria from your urine helps to greatly diminish the painful side effects of a UTI. It is important to avoid sugar based liquids because they tend to encourage bacterial growth. The goal of naturally treating a UTI is to completely stop bacterial growth and remove the bacteria from your urinary tract system.

Some home remedies provide UTI relief, but that relief may be only temporary. First and foremost, you should drink plenty of fluids (especially water) to flush out the bladder. Cranberry juice is helpful as well in providing UTI relief, as it inhibits the growth of bacteria and makes it harder for the bacteria to cling to the urinary tract walls. Celery, watermelon and parsley can also contribute to UTI relief by acting as a diuretic and flushing out the bladder.

If you are experiencing pain and discomfort due to a urinary tract infection, you should try Urizol. Urizol uses a strategically mixed blend of herbs that attacks your bladder infection and gives you relief from the pain and burning as well. Urizol will help cleanse your bladder of the harmful bacteria and rid you of multiple symptoms using an all natural remedy.

About the Author:

Find out more about uti symptoms. Stop by our website where you can read all about Home Remedies for Urinary Tract Infection: Do Cranberry Products Work?.

Naturally Treating a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection)

By Aneron Kepasil

Pain while urinating and blood in your urine are often a signs of a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection). UTIs are usually the result of bacteria in your urine. How the bacteria ends up in your urinary tract systems is not always clear but some people are more prone to frequent UTIs than others. Many UTIs can be treated naturally.

Some home remedies provide UTI relief, but that relief may be only temporary. First and foremost, you should drink plenty of fluids (especially water) to flush out the bladder. Cranberry juice is helpful as well in providing UTI relief, as it inhibits the growth of bacteria and makes it harder for the bacteria to cling to the urinary tract walls. Celery, watermelon and parsley can also contribute to UTI relief by acting as a diuretic and flushing out the bladder.

Cranberry juice is a well known and clinically proven method to treat UTI infections. However, not many people know that blueberry juice provides similar benefits and can also be used. These juices have antibacterial properties and, in their pure form, can disinfect the urinary tract very efficiently. Unfortunately, additional treatment may be needed to completely rid the body of the UTI infection.

Urinary tract infections are often treated by antibiotics (which can have side effects such as nausea, diarrhea or allergic reactions) or the home remedies listed above. Home remedies may help decrease the number of bacteria or provide UTI relief, but rarely can completely eliminate the infection itself.

There are many natural solutions you can use to try and resolve a UTI. The most popular one is cranberry juice. Cranberry juice flushes out your urinary tract without allowing the bacteria to cling to the walls of the urinary tract. You can either drink pure cranberry juice, or take cranberry tablets. If you do use the juice, make sure its it is pure cranberry juice and not cranberry juice "cocktail".

Urizol offers a safe, effective, natural path to UTI relief. Since Urizol does not require a prescription, there are no costly trips to the doctor, no waiting, and, best of all, Urizol provides fast relief of the pain, pressure and burning that accompanies urinary tract infections. Not only does Urizol provide UTI relief, but it helps prevent future infections, something antibiotics and standard home remedies can not do. Plus, Urizol is cost-effective, scientifically proven and 100% guaranteed to provide you with the UTI relief you're looking for.

About the Author:

Do you want to find info on uti symptom, then go to our website to find the best info on Urinary Infection Alternative - Cure UTI with Your Diet for you.

Yeast Infection Symptoms - Get to Know Your Body

By Emery Jordyn

It is important that we learn to observe our bodies in order to be able to tell when something is "off". Yeast infection symptoms may differ depending on where the infection is located. Yeast infections are very widespread, yet tend to be one of the most mis-diagnosed and difficult of health problems.

It's very normal for yeast or fungi organisms to exist on nearly every part of our body. The most common form of these organisms is Candida albicans. A yeast infection or Candidiasis arises when certain conditions are met that allow for an imbalance of the good and bad bacteria in our bodies which usually keeps this yeast "in check". A yeast overgrowth or yeast infection is the adverse result of this imbalance.

Yeast infections show up in many forms such as a vaginal yeast infection a baby's diaper rash or an oral yeast infection thrush.

Vaginal yeast infection symptoms very often consist of a discharge that is thick and has a cottage cheese texture-however not everyone experiences this symptom. There is usually itching, burning and irritation around the vaginal area and surrounding tissue. There may also be discomfort during sex and a burning sensation while urinating.

Yeast infection symptoms in children and adults may manifest as an oral yeast infection or thrush. Thrush symptoms include white, thick, curd-like patches that appear on or under the tongue and palate of the mouth with redness and irritation of surrounding tissue. These patches may look like they could be wiped away easily; however, if upon scraping or other attempt to remove them, bleeding occurs-you can be assured that you have thrush. Thrush can make it difficult to take foodor swallow normally-and severe thrush may lead to dehydration due to difficulty with swallowing food and liquids. Babies may also experience skin yeast infections that look like a diaper rash, but have a distinct jagged edge, as well as "satellite" patches of rash in other areas.

Individuals with weakened immune systems because of serious illness that may include cancer of AIDS may be more prone to yeast infection symptoms that affect internal organs and cause organ dysfunction and severe pain. AIDS patients may experience yeast infections of the esophagus (esophagitis) and upper gastrointestinal area. While such infections have similarities to thrush, they are more serious and usually extend down the throat, esophagus and stomach. Resulting ulcers may affect the throat, esophagus and gastrointestinal system causing painful and difficult swallowing.

While these are a few of the most common yeast infection symptoms, an ongoing or chronic yeast infection could end up causing a long list of long term symptoms including fatigue, brain fog, stress or anxiety, bloating, migraines, sugar cravings and irritability, among others.

If you've never had a yeast infection before, it is most always best to talk with your doctor to confirm the diagnosis prior to self treating. The presence of severe symptoms such as fever or pelvic pain may indicate a more serious problem.

About the Author:

Are nagging yeast infection symptoms driving you out of your mind? Prescriptions and over the counter creams aren't the solution! Learn the secrets that will take care of your yeast infection using natural remedies that get to the root of the problem! Check it out at Yeast Infection Symptoms.Org!

Candida Treatment - The Natural Way

By Michael Sullivan

Thanks to the introduction of natural treatments and advances in medical science and technology, different effective Candida treatments are available at present. While a particular remedy may be favorable for one patient and not work for another, it pays to study all the advantages and disadvantages of a Candida treatment before espousing it.

The question whether to apply a natural medication to deal with Candida or to apply a Western treatment is a controversial subject which boils down to how an individual will react to, and make a choice either of the two. A medical practitioner who prescribes any Candida procedure always takes into account anti-fungal treatment such as Clortimazole or Miconazole. Both of these medications have proven to be very effective over time, although you will always have other alternatives to consider.

An effective natural way to aid these prescribed treatments work is to change the dietary plan to be free of yeast and sugar. This spoils Candida's growth as it will be stripped of any optimal breeding ground. Meanwhile, Candida can be dealt with through the procedure called Immunotherapy i.e. applying anti-genic extracts to combat the illnesses contributed by this yeast infection.

A homeopathic procedure can also help effectively in Candida medication. This is a procedure focused on cleaning the body organs that pay homage to Candida yeast i.e. the digestive system and the intestinal tract. Acupuncturealso serves as an alternative Candida treatment as it is thought to aid in stimulating the immune system.

Very crucial to bear in mind though is that for these and all other medications to shape effectively, there needs to be an accurate diagnosis at the outset, by a certified practitioner. The reason is that there are other ailments whose symptoms are similar to that of Candidiasis. It implies that practicing wrong medicine will only make things worse.

About the Author:

I suffered from yeast infection for long months until I discovered a product that changed my life. With this yeast infection cure you can change yours too! Enough of the non-working drugs and annoying symptoms!

The History of Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy was developed by a Doctor William Sutherland in the early 1900s after he developed the theory that cranial bones were built to have a small degree of motion rather than being fixed as was held by most scientists of the day.

Dr. Sutherland further theorized that if these bones could move, they could be affected by the rest of the body via the sap of the body, the craniosacral system and if that was the case, then positive things could be done to alleviate problems with the spine and skull.

He spent years developing a therapy that could take advantage of the craniosacral system and developed a form of therapy that would gently alleviate pressures and strains and thus alleviate symptoms of things like migraines, autism, fibromyalgia and other problems. He began to teach his techniques, but it was not widely accepted and upon his death in 1945, there were still only a few therapists who would use it.

It was not until it was picked up and popularized by Doctor John Upledger in the 1970s that it became more widely taught and more accessible to the public. He coined the term craniosacral therapy so that any therapist could learn it instead of just osteopaths it had been before.

Craniosacral therapy is a very gentle, hands-on approach to dealing with problems in the craniosacral system, otherwise known as the membranes and fluids which surround the brain and spinal cord. This system of fluids and membranes runs from the one end of the spine to the other and any damage or strain to this area affects the central nervous system in adverse and often difficult to treat ways.

Practitioners apply very gentle force, no more than five milligrams or the weight of a nickel to affected areas of the spine and skull to release craniosacral tensions that can cause things like migraines. It can also be used to relieve the symptoms of things like autism and colic. Its gentle approach means that it can be used on anyone safely, even babies.

Craniosacral therapy is meant to be used to augment the bodys natural ability to heal itself from strain and injuries, as well as in conjunction with other therapies such as myofascial release.

It is gaining more popularity as an alternative expensive and often ineffectual medicines and traumatic surgeries. However, it is still unrecognized by many health associations in the world, leaving the professionals in this field to regulate themselves through professional associations.

This also means that mainstream doctors do not tend to bring it up as an option unless a patient specifically asks for it, so many have to do their own research into this form of therapy before talking to a doctor about it.

Drew Mers is an advertising consultant to Craniosacral Therapy Spotlight http://www.Craniosacral-Therapy-Spotlight.com

The Use Of Essential Oils As Antiviral Treatment

Essential oils are volatile liquid plant materials which can be used for various purposes in the arenas of health and food production. One area that they are commonly used in is anti-viral treatment. These treatments target various ailments and physical problems. Some nations do not recognise the use of these essential oils (as part of aromatherapy), but others such as France, where aromatherapy began - and the United Kingdom (where the Queen herself is a big fan of the therapy) embrace these oils more.

Tea tree Oil is one very popular oil, used for its anti-sceptic properties. It is a native plant to New South Wales, Australia and although the smell is considered a very pleasant one, it is a very effective anti viral treatment. It has been used for skin problems such as acne. It is usually diluted, as pure Tea tree oil often causes bad reactions. It has been used against staphylococcus aureus and MRSA with some effect. A valuable member of the essential oils family.

Another of the most common essential oils is Lemongrass, which as well as being used a great deal in cooking (due to its fresh citrus like flavor) and in perfumes, is also used in aromatherapy. It is particularly good as an insect repellent, as it contains citronella, geraniol and citronellol - which have anti septic properties.

Sandalwood as well, has purported medicinal qualities - namely anti-viral. This essential oil is usually used in the manufacture of fragrances, but has been used by, for example, Buddhists who believe it maintains personal alertness. Sandal wood was used as an anti-septic up to the 1930s, but care had to be taken because of its strength - it has to be diluted with an appropriate carrier oil. It has been used for keeping skin clear of blackheads and spots.

Peppermint has been used to treat Irritable Bowl Syndrome - and only as recently as 2007 did Italian researchers find a way to help the condition with it successfully.

Another of the main essential oils is Ginger - or Jamaica Ginger as the medicinal form is known, has successfully been used to treat colic and dyspepsia. It is regarded as a safe medicine (on the FDA's safe list) as it does not have any negatives with any other drug, except Warfarin (used for thinning the blood). It has also been used to release bile from the gallbladder - important for those suffering with gallstones. It has also been involved in inconclusive tests related to reducing the pain caused by Arthritis. It is also effective against diarrhea - the leading cause of infant death in the developing world.

Thyme is an anti-septic too, having been used in bandages before more effective substances were found. This anti-septic quality is why it is the main ingredient in Listerine mouthwash. Tea made with thyme is effective against coughs and bronchitis. In its tea form, it can be used to reduce inflammation of the throat when gargled three times a day.

There are many essential oils which perform various antiseptic roles, some of which get placed under the heading 'aromatherapy', while others, it transpires, are used in many household medicinal products (albeit heavily processed) - such as Listerine (mentioned above). So the next time you have an ailment, why not check your garden for some essential oils.

Anna Stenning is an expert on essential oils having had many years of experience in the health sector. For more information visit http://www.neoils.com/

Benefits of drinking water: Get the facts how water can cure you

By Nicos Stylianou

Some time ago I read a book which was called "Your Body's Many Cries For Water". What was very interesting for me to learn, were the many benefits of drinking water on our general health.

Besides the other very interesting facts which stress the importance of drinking water, the author makes special reference to some common ailments that almost all of us suffer from now and then and shows that their most probable cause is dehydration. Below, I give you some examples:

Headaches and migraines

We all suffer from headaches, or even worse migraines from time to time. Some of us more and some others less severely. What you might find surprising to find out, is that more often than not, we should blame ourselves for not drinking enough water.

The medical explanation goes like this: When our brain, which is mainly composed of water (75% to be exact), senses that its water level is dangerously low, it produces histamines which cause the familiar symptoms of a headache, i.e. pain and the feeling of being tired. These symptoms intend to force us into reducing our activity level. This will in turn help preserve the minimum water level in our brain that will allow it to function without a problem.

More often than not, a big glass of pure water and a 20 minute break will work better than any pain killer medication to make our headache go away!

Sore Back

Second in my list of the benefits of drinking water comes another ailment which is one of the leading causes for loss of workdays and for the creation of a lot of distress and pain. This is none other than the back pain.

Let me elaborate on this.

As you might probably know, our backbone is made up of a number of discs. While externally these discs are made up of a hard shell, internally they are filled with water. When the level of water inside is adequate, then they provide ample support to the disc, helping it cope with the pressure exerted on them when we move our upper body.

Being flexible, our discs respond to the varying pressure exerted on them when we move our upper body, by shifting their shape. When they do this, water that stands around in our body is sucked inside the discs. As long as there is enough water around, then our discs have no problem, as they are properly filled with fluid.

The problem begins when we don't replenish our body's natural stock of water by drinking enough quantities. When the discs are shifting, then there is not enough water around them to be sucked inside, as explained above. The result is devastating: The internal fluids are gradually depleted and so the outer shell of the discs is no longer supported. Without this support, our poor discs are helpless, as the whole weight of the body is shifted on them! Pain and swelling ensues, putting us in distress and agony.

High blood pressure

The importance of drinking water is also manifested in the case of hypertension, that is the increase in pressure exerted by our blood circulatory system on the arteries.

You probably don't know this, but it has long been established that hypertension more often than not occurs when the total volume of our blood goes down. Considering now that more than 80% of our blood consists of water, then it is easy to realize that dehydration can very well lead to blood volume loss.

When the total volume of our blood decreases, then an alert is triggered in our body. What follows is that our blood circulatory system self-adjusts by guiding all blood flow to the most active organs, switching everything else off. Hypertension inevitably ensues, as a consequence of this blood redistribution.

To summarize, it goes without saying that improving your quality of life can be as simple as getting into the habit of drinking more water each and every day.

Having said the above, I can't emphasize enough the importance of making sure that the quality of water that you and your family consume at your house, is top quality. You see, it is not at all guaranteed that the water you get now is what your body should be getting. There are numerous statistics saying that both tap and bottled water maybe of questionable quality. Make sure that you thoroughly investigate your options on what actions to take to have clean, healthy water at your home.

About the Author:

Nicos Stylianou is a firm believer that drinking healthy, pure water is crucial to better health. Visit his nutrition guide website now to become better informed and find out what he recommends.

How To Use Natural Herbs For Healing

With cold and flu season coming up, many of us would benefit from using a vapor bath to help open the sinuses and facial pores. To start, place the herbal mixture you have chosen into a pot of boiling water and let it steep (covered) for about 10 minutes.

Make a tent with a towel over your face and neck and put your face down over the uncovered pot. Be careful; you certainly don't want to get scalded! If the steam is too hot, you can wait a short time and try again or add some cold water. Breathe deeply and enjoy!

Adding herbs to your bath water can be therapeutic. Make sure the bath is warm enough to be comfortable (somewhere around 90 degrees is recommended). You can choose sea salt, herbs, or a combination of the two. If you would like to add herbs, one way to introduce them to the water is to hang tea bags under the spout as the water fills up the tub. Herbs can also be added to water for a refreshing foot bath.

When using herbs, it is important to educate yourself about the different properties associated with different kinds, to ensure that you will get the benefit you are seeking from whatever herb or combination you choose. Check that the herbs you choose are pesticide free. Be sure that you are using natural products in a safe manner; some of them are safe to be used on the skin but will cause illness (or worse) if ingested. In the beginning, it would be prudent to experiment with just one herb at a time. If you have an adverse reaction, you will at least know which type of herb you are allergic to.

When starting out, a good choice is to work with the Aloe Vera plant. Known as the "healing plant", the juice from the leaves of the Aloe Vera can be applied to any kind of skin condition. It is especially useful to take the sting out of burns including sunburns.

These hardy plants can be grown at home by even the brownest thumb. They are very easy to use: simply peel off one of the leaves from the base of the plant and tear or cut it open. It's the "juice" inside that you will want to apply to your skin. The most convenient way to accomplish this is to simply squeeze it directly onto the skin irritation. No special preparation is required and the stinging will stop very quickly. The properties contained in Aloe Vera also help the skin heal quickly.

As you get to know more about herbs, you will be able to add to your repertoire of applications for them. Perhaps you will start your own herb garden!

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as natural health products at http://www.health-nature-wellness.com

How Can Banana Nutrients Help Your Health?

By Rachel Greene

Bananas are considered to be one of the most nutrient rich fruits that you can eat -- they are also one of the most popular fruits eaten today by people of all ages all over the globe. This combination means that few foods can have such a regular and positive impact on our health and well-being. So, let's take a closer look at how banana nutrients can help your health.

Bananas are a great source of vitamins for a start, including vitamins A, B and C, and we all need plenty of those. They are also rich in a variety of minerals including calcium, magnesium and potassium. The calcium content here, for example, is a great way of helping promote healthy bone growth for both children and in adults.

It is, however, the potassium content of the average banana that is considered to be the nutrient of most value in the opinion of most nutritionists and diet experts. Bananas contain such high levels of potassium that some doctors will even recommend eating them if their patients have low potassium levels and need a natural boost here. They are also a good source of fiber which is also important to your general health and everyday fitness.

You should also remember that the potassium boost that you can get from eating bananas regularly can also help keep you physically healthy in other ways. It is, for example, good for your heart and for your blood pressure. The potassium content in a banana also makes them the snack of choice for many athletes and fitness trainers. Potassium can go a long way to avoiding cramps and muscle spasms after exercise, for example.

Bananas are also an easily digested fruit which means that this can be an acceptable fruit to eat if you suffer from certain stomach problems such as ulcers. The way that a banana breaks down in your system helps protect the stomach and causes few problems. For this reason many people swear by eating bananas after a stomach upset or bout of diarrohea as the stomach can accept and digest bananas very easily without further problems.

Finally, bananas can be one of the greatest snacks that you can eat when you are on a diet. They are rich in natural healthy sugars which will immediately deal with any cravings you have for sugary foods. You will also get an immediate energy boost with a banana that is similar to the sugar rush that you will get from eating a sugary snack. The difference here is that a banana is good for you!

You will also find that your body processes the nutrients from a banana slowly and steadily. This means that most people will feel fuller for longer and they will not need the energy boost of sugary snacks as there will be a steady flow of natural sugars and carbohydrates going through their bodies. So, as you can now see, bananas can help you keep healthy in all kinds of ways!

About the Author:

Rachel Greene helps people find out about the nutritional value of bananas at her website on banana nutrition.

An Alternative to Drugs - Natural Stress Relief

By Stephen Jablonski

Stress and anxiety are on the rise; we live in a busy-busy world so it's no wonder. And more and more people are looking for help coping with the extra stress. It used to be that prescription drugs were the first choice because they produced such fast results. But their side-effects and addictive qualities have cause natural stress relief alternatives to become more popular.

Natural stress relief remedies are not new. They've been used for thousands of years. Much of our modern drug industry is in fact based on old herbal remedies. They have the double benefit of not being addictive and also not carrying any severe side-effects. They're also almost always less expensive too. There's also another big difference.

Herbal remedies work with your body, not against it. While drugs work by just relieving the symptoms, these natural products work by strengthening the body's nervous system. They assist the body in its work to keep the proper hormonal balance in line. That makes it much more possible for your body to handle the stress you see every day.

It's good to remember that herbal-based remedies will take longer than drugs to achieve their effects. That's because they have a much milder effect on the body's systems. But this is a good thing. That's why they're non-addictive and that's why your body responds so well to them.

While natural remedies and their effectiveness, have been known for a long time, they weren't documented until relatively recently. Now there is literally massive amounts of research proving that herbs and other botanical treatments simply work. It's no longer anecdotal, it's been lab tested.

If you're looking for specific herbs, here's a brief list. Lemon Balm from Southern Europe was known to the ancient Greeks as a medicinal agent. Valerian from Europe and Asia has active calming qualities. Kava from Polynesia can soothe your nerves while still keeping your mind alert. And the list goes on.

You can find nearly all of these supplements fairly easily at your health food store. And you'll also find that they come in different varieties and formulations. Take Valerian for instance. You can usually find it sold as a tea, a tincture, or even in capsule form. There's a lot of variety to choose from.

When searching for a real stress relief supplement, take a look at natural remedies. They've been working for literally centuries and they're still working today. They're a very positive alternative to pharmaceutical drugs.

About the Author:

Stephen Jablonski is the owner/webmaster of Overcoming-Panic-Attacks.net. Find out more about anxiety and stress control by visiting this webpage: Anxiety Relief Audio CDs.

Features of Fragrant Essential Oil of Lavender

By Brenda I. Minica

When you are looking for a popular essential oil with many uses you will find Lavender among the top competitors. This oil is obtained by distilling the violet-blue flowers of a particular species of lavender. Imagine a 100 pound bag of flowers... that's how much it takes to make just ONE pound of lavender essential oil! Lavender flowers are harvested for distillation in the summertime, when the plant is in full bloom and the essential oil is at its peak quantity.

Lavender oil has been popular for thousands of years, and has long been used in the production of perfume and skin care products. It has many enduring features including the ability to quickly be absorbed by the skin. There are many potential uses for this oil; it is a powerful antiseptic, and many more emotional and physical conditions can be alleviated by it. It's calming and peaceful fragrance makes it's use in aromatherapy a natural. It is gentle on the skin so it can be used without dilution. Lavender has a unique scent which is both soothing and encouraging. Lavender is extremely adaptable, mild, and gentle enough to use with adults all the way down to infants. Lavender essential oil with it's pleasing aroma is a multi-purpose powerful oil that should be in every home.

Lavender essential oil is: diuretic, detoxifying, relaxant, restorative, sedative, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, relaxing, analgesic, antidepressant, refreshing, antibiotic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, healing, and antiseptic.

Use Lavender oil to:

1) relax and improve sleep

2) soothe cuts, burns, scrapes, and other wounds

3) prevent and minimize scar tissue

4) dilute with a carrier oil and use for stress relief through massage

5) use as a fragrant bath oil for your health and relaxation

6) repel insects and mosquitoes

7) use it for a pleasant perfume

8) relieve headaches and migraines

9) help reduce high blood pressure

10) take the bite out of insect stings

11) refresh tired feet, muscles, and head

12) aid in restoring the body to balance

13) help alleviate panic attacks and anxiety

14) relieve muscle soreness

15) slow down wrinkles

16) heal, rejuvenate, and moisturize damaged and aging skin

17) relieve sunburns

18) calm, refresh, and lift the spirits

19) treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, and others

20) reduce sleeplessness

21) minimize and reduce hyperactivity

22) soothe inflammation and pain

23) help heal athlete's foot

DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure. Anyone suffering from any disease, illness, or injury should consult a physician. The suggested uses only apply to the use of Therapeutic Grade Young Living Essential Oils. APPLY ONLY TO THE USE OF THERAPEUTIC GRADE, YOUNG LIVING ESSENTIAL OILS.

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Want to know how to buy essential oils? Just click the link or visit buyessentialoils.org for more articles on the highest quality Essential Oils.

The Powerful Properties Of The Caralluma Herb

By Therese Zachary

The Caralluma herb is basically an edible succulent plant. It has been utilized by the people of India for over a hundred years for many purposes, including the control of hunger and improved strength. However it has also been simply used in cooking, as Caralluma is a typical part of the Indian diet. So what is the Caralluma herb all about exactly?

Caralluma Characteristics - Spiny leaves and thick flowers characterize the Caralluma plant. The flowers are star shaped and may be purple, red, black or yellow. They are typically show during the summer or fall. The Caralluma stands with an angular stem and is clump forming. While the herb has been found extremely useful in many kinds of situations, it is also characterized by a foul odor. The Caralluma herb thrives throughout most of India and even reaches Afghanistan and nearby places.

As Vegetable - Hundreds upon hundreds of years, even before the Caralluma herb was known to the Western world, it has been utilized by the locals of India as a vegetable. It has also been mixed with chutneys and pickles. It can be consumed both cooked and raw. The green follicles of the herb are often boiled, salted, and consumed.

For the past few centuries, people have discovered certain properties that made the Caralluma herb more than just part of a vegetable diet. These properties were somehow able to suppress appetite naturally while enhancing energy levels and satiating thirst at the same time. Because of this, the Caralluma has become an extremely useful type of "portable food." It is even called a "famine food", since it helped fight off hunger in times of desperate need of food. Those who had to travel long distances on land also needed something to make their journey a bit more bearable. Even back in history the Caralluma herb was already being used by tribesmen to treat health conditions such as diabetes.

In the modern day, more scientists and researches have begun to understand just how useful the Caralluma herb could be in the Western world as well. Because it is well-known for its appetite suppressing and energy boosting properties, it could very well be used in weight loss regimens.

Other Benefits - Not only that, further studies have shown that the Caralluma herb indeed contains properties that are able to lower blood sugar levels in the body as well. So with the herb itself, you can lose weight effectively and stay the healthiest possible.

Powerful Properties

Saponins - The Caralluma herb carries saponins, which are natural cleansing properties. These special properties are beneficial for a variety of things. They can help fight against acne as well as oily skin and scalp. They are able to sooth symptoms of dermatitis, dandruff and eczema. Saponins are basically antioxidants, which means they are also able to fight against free radicals that damage cells. Moreover, they are known to treat arthritis and are anti-rheumatic. Other uses are for enhanced endurance and mental concentration.

There are other properties and components as well. Other key components of the Caralluma herb include Flavone Glycosides, Pregnane Glycosides, Megastigmane Glycosides, and Bitter Principles. All these are called phytochemical constituents, which help in maintaining a healthy weight and appearance when consumed as recommended.

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How effective is the caralluma herb to control appetite? Get more information now.

Why Omega 3 Is essential?

By Dave Kool

Omega 3 fatty acids are a family of unsaturated fatty acids that our body can't make. Omega 3 is necessary for brain functioning and also for development and progress of the body. As our body can't produce it so we require food to develop these fatty acids. Fish like salmon and halibut are famous to be the best sources for omega 3 fatty acids. Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Alpha-linolenic Acid (ALA) are known to be three main omega 3 fatty acids. Clinical studies suggest that omega 3 fatty acids are very helpful to treat many medical illnesses. It is useful for the prevention of heart disease and numerous other problems which add to heart diseases. It is also beneficial for people who are suffering from prostrate, breast and colon cancer. Some of the benefits and uses of omega 3 include;

High Cholesterol Control

ALA is available in walnuts and fatty fish which are good to reduce cholesterol level in the body. It is also helpful to decrease the trigycerides level in the body.

Heart Disease & Stroke Prevention

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are two very lethal ailments which can be restricted by using substances of DHA and EPA; fish oil is the greatest source of these substances. DHA and EPA are also supportive to treat atherosclerosis. These substances suppress the development of plague and blood clots thus avoid heart disease and stroke. Doctors suggest taking fish in your food two times in a week; it is necessary for every person and reduces risk factor of stroke by half.

High Blood Pressure Control

Research makes it obvious that omega 3 fatty acids are excellent to lower blood pressure to great level. It is also helpful for individuals with hypertension. There is one exemption not to use mercury rich food as it can raise blood pressure.

Avoiding Rheumatoid arthritis

Softness in the joints and morning stiffness are medical conditions which can be shunned by using omega 3 fatty acids. Research illustrates that omega 3 is also supportive for reducing soreness.

Help in Osteoporosis

EPA is omega 3 fatty acid that is rich in calcium. It adds calcium in the bones and improves calcium level in the body and gives our bones a great strength. Those people who take EPA in their routine diet do not come across bone density harms.

Avoiding Depression

Nerve cell membranes help for nerve communication. These are vital for any human being for his/her cerebral physical condition and to stay attentive. Luckily, omega 3 fatty acids contain imperative mechanism for these membranes. Still we require taking these fatty acids in good quantity. If we are failed there is a strong likelihood to encounter depression.

All these fatty acids play an essential role for suitable functioning of our body. It establishes and maintains our health by escalating energy, routine and stamina. The fatty acids are favorable for strengthening our resistant system. We are more likely to be saved from cardiovascular disease. Consistent use of these fatty acids can aid in weight reduction. Our brain can perform better and it improves functions like brainpower, behavior and vision. These fatty acids are good for wounded people as it speeds up recovery and healing process. It improves our digestive system. In short, these fatty acids are must for each person to stay fit and healthy.

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Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that has been linked to the improvement of a number of complaints. It can be found in a number of natural sources but is also available in a number of supplements, such as udos choice. If your diet does not include natural sources of omega 3s, these supplements are an acceptable alternative. The supplements will also make sure you get the minimum dosage.

What Is Phytessence Wakame? Why Is It Great For Your Skin?

By Peter Albertonach

Ever heard of Phytessence Wakame? If you're interested in good skin care you should have. No, I'm wrong. If you're interested in the BEST skin care products you should be familiar with Phytessence Wakame. Here's why.

This strange sounding substance (try saying Phytessence Wakame 5 times fast) is derived from kelp. It's a seaweed, or sea algae to be specific, that is found around Japan. It is a large part of the traditional Japanese diet, being eaten dried and fresh.

And Japanese women are well known for having the best skin right into old age. And the Japanese know that Phytessence Wakame is a large part of this, so it's highly prized.

So why is Phytessence Wakame so good for the skin? What does it have that makes it perhaps one of the most important modern ingredients for the best skin care products?

Phytessence Wakame is full of all sorts of wonderful substances that are extremely good for your skin health. Most of the B group vitamins are there, which help so sooth skin inflammation. It is very rich in calcium having around 15 times more calcium than milk and it is high in many important vitamins and minerals.

And it is high in iron and potassium. All these nutrients help keep the skin hydrated. Keeping the moisture balance of the skin high aids skin health and also helps keep the skin younger looking.

But equally important, if not more so, is the ability of Phytessence Wakame to perform a particular function for us that is of enormous benefit to our overall skin health. It helps inhibit the effects of hyaluronidase.

What in the world is hyaluronidase I hear you say? (I have very good hearing.)

Hyaluronidase is an enzyme in your skin. It breaks down hyaluronic acid, and hyaluronic acid is important for good skin health. It combines with collagen and elastin to help the skin maintain it's elasticity and youthfulness.

So your skin need hyaluronic acid. And if hyaluronidase breaks it down you don't want too much hyaluronidase. And if Phytessence Wakame helps inhibit the effects of hyaluronidase that has to be good for your skin.

You won't find much Phytessence Wakame in modern well known brands of skin care products, most of which don't work very well anyway. You need to look a little harder to find it, it's only in the best skin care products money can buy. And at a price that is pretty competitive to what you're probably paying for your skin care products right now.

Why? It's too expensive for the big brands, but the best skin care products are made by a small company that doesn't spend up big on TV advertising, so can afford to spend up big on product quality.

About the Author:

Find out more about natural skin care products. Visit Peter's Website Natural Health-Natural Skin Care and find out more about Phytessence Wakame too.

Bach Flower Remedies For Natural Healing

By Frank Terne

Dr. Edward Bach is the creator of the Bach flower remedies, a therapeutic treatment that manages emotions in order to achieve individual wellness. This method that originated from Britain was Dr. Bach's attempt to help patients heal by being a more balanced person emotionally without relying on modern medicine. Initially, he tried with the latter, but could never acquire satisfactory results.

Eventually, Dr. Bach discovered his theory that a person's health and wellness are tied intricately with his or her emotions. With this knowledge, he categorized 38 different emotions that every individual has. These emotions could affect a person depending on how balanced they were, positively or negatively.

The remedies provide a healing method that is as natural as it gets. This source is a mixture of flowers and fauna that Dr. Bach realized could help achieve a balanced emotional state in a living being. Once this balanced state was achieved, the patient would find a great ability to heal or put him or herself in a better position to get better.

The best advantage of relying on Bach's flower remedies is that it is rare for anyone to experience any side effects from its use. Only if one is allergic to alcohol, which is used in minute quantities as a preservative, would the remedies be ineffective. Even though it does not help directly cure any specific medical condition, it puts a person in a perfect state to do so with greater results.

The essences are created directly from flowers. They contain the beneficial energy vibrations from nature that we all need. By mixing them with mineral still water, they are then consumed, while using a dash of alcohol preservative to maintain their shelf life.

The flower remedies have now been shown to heal individuals who suffer from a myriad of conditions. These range from simple headaches to complicated issues like an inability to move their lives forward due to past experiences. It is therefore seen that when brought to a more peaceful emotional state, most individuals are able to arrive in a better health condition.

Bach's natural therapy can also be used to help animals and plants. We know that animals have emotions just like us and thus treatable in the same manner. But not many realize that plants also own energies that are akin to emotional states in humans.

There are so many benefits to using Bach flower essences that an increasing number of doctors are enthusiastic about their qualities. There will be some time before the therapy reaches the mainstream as it slowly reaches out to more people. As modern medicine carries its own risk, natural methods like Dr. Bach's flower remedy might be more favorable for use.

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Frank Terne believes that the first step for any patient would be the use of the Bach flower rescue remedy. Advanced treatment will follow depending on its results.

Home Remedies for Snoring

By Richard S. Graham

For as long as people have been known to snore there have been solutions. Many problems are caused by the sounds of snoring for those closest to the offender, as well. Sufferers are always looking for ways to end their pain, and so there are countless remedies to end the noise.

Shedding any extra pounds is one way that can help with snoring. There is a correlation between snoring and obesity and one way to stop snoring is to lose weight. It will also make you healthier overall.

Avoid alcohol before going to bed at night. Those who drink too much alcohol before bedtime tend to snore more than others. If you find that you've only got a snoring problem when you've consumed alcohol, this may be the answer.

If you are a smoker, quitting smoking is the best way to stop snoring. Studies have shown that many more smokers snore than do non smokers, given no other underlying medical condition. Smoking irritates the air passageways as well as create excess congestion and mucous, making it harder to breathe normally.

Not only can snoring be bothersome it could be a sign of a medical problem. You can always try strips or a humidifier, but if all fails, do seek a medical advice. Your doctor needs to know your history and your patterns from you and your partner in order to make the correct diagnosis. For example, if the doctor decides that your snoring is caused by restrictions in your air passages, a simple surgery may cure your problem.

Remember, however, that your health may depend upon seeing the doctor for a total checkup if you're unable to stop this problem by yourself. When you see a doctor, it's a good idea to bring along someone who's witnessed the snoring. You may find it tough to answer all the questions about the snoring. Most likely you don't know how or when you are snoring, but your partner does.

Serious health problems could arise for you and even your partner from a lack of sleep. You will be less productive if you do not get enough rest. You risk falling asleep in dangerous situations. As much as you may find it hard to believe snoring is not as simple of a problem as you might think.

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If you want additional remedies to stop snoring please visit http://how-to-stop-snoring.info/ This and other unique content '' articles are available with free reprint rights.

Natural Cure For Heartburn Problems

By William Lagadyn

Heartburn is the most common symptom of gastric diseases. People usually experience heartburn at least once in a week. A rare heartburn in common, but there are people who experience heartburn frequently. Heartburn is the common symptom of gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Other symptoms include but are not limited to chest pain and sour taste of mouth.

Heartburn experience may sound very much common but continuous experience is dangerous. It is better to consult the doctor and take necessary precautions. Heartburn is not only the symptom for poor indigestion but also for diseases like cancer and ulcer. Hence it is necessary to prevent heartburn than cure it.

However there are some natural remedies or cure available for heartburn problems which are been carried on from generation to generations and still staying at par than other effective remedy. The most important thing is what you intake and how much you intake as indigestion is considered to be the cause of heartburn.

A proper scheduled diet always helps to keep the digestion effective without any Sid effects. Foods are drinks usually trigger heartburn problems. Citrus fruits; Chocolate; Peppermint; Spearmint; Tomatoes; Raw onions are few examples of food stuffs which create heartburn.

Fennel Tea is the one of the natural cure for heartburn. Fennel seeds are easily available in the market or can also be ordered online. Fennel seeds are dropped in boiling water, which is the most popular remedy carried on from centuries to centuries. Smoking is not only injurious to health but also a great cause for heartburn. Nicotine is an ingredient in cigarettes that weakens the lower esophageal sphincter, a band of muscle at the end of the esophagus that closes off the esophagus and prevents the acidic stomach contents from entering the esophagus.

Peppermint is a natural way to digest the food, traditionally used natural cure for heartburn, gas and indigestion. Usually after having huge meals the stomach starts pumping our leaving all of them beyond. But, menthol relaxes the valve between the stomach and the esophagus, allowing trapped gas to escape upward as a welcome, pressure-relieving burp

There is no specific cure for heartburn. Still it can be reduced if one can carry on a peaceful mind and complete rest without any tensions. Apart from these regular workouts, yoga can help to reduce gastric and heart burn problems. The juice from the aloe Vera plant is another natural home remedy that is used to soothe an irritated esophagus. Patients suffering from heartburn should check the ingredients while taking herbs to prevent allergies through any of the ingredient.

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Are you ready to make your life pain-free and drug-free? Then, visit the website http://www.cureyourheartburn.com to find an effective drug-free solution for heartburn, acid-reflux and digestive problems.

Anxiety Cures: Five All Natural Tips for Treating Your Anxiety

Anxiety can wreck havoc on your life and make you feel completely helpless. People suffering from anxiety may need immediate and specific help from a medical health professional and that help may require prescription medication, counseling, and committed support from family and friends to implement a treatment plan. However, many cases of anxiety can be treated effective natural methods that are simple and inexpensive.

One: Behavior Therapy

Learning to change your thinking and your behavior patterns to situations of stressful and uncomfortable events can provide great relief. This is getting to the source of your anxiety and understanding the triggers that lead to attacks. Approaching this in a step-by-step manner allows you to chisel away at your reactions to otherwise normal social situations. By recognizing things in advance and examining your thinking patterns and reactions, you can be proactive and preventative so that you stop the attacks before they start. An excellent approach to this can be through guided imagery.

Two: Get a New Life(style)

Many habits in our daily lives are bad for us and can be pinpointed and changed to improve our overall well being. This is particularly important for someone who suffers from anxiety because balance is very important for an anxiety sufferer. Balance is one of the things they lack in their lives so achieving a healthy balance can do much to relieve symptoms. Changing from a sedentary lifestyle to an active one, improving your diet, establishing a better sleep schedule, and spending time to relax can help promote the secretion of endorphins, the happiness hormone, into the body.

Three: Alternative Remedies

Certainly antidepressant medication is a necessary treatment for some. However, the side effects are often severe and can create more issues that must be addressed with more drugs. There are natural therapies and remedies that can help manage your anxiety and not only help you avoid drugs, but for some, under the advice of their doctor, they can help reduce and eliminate the need for prescription drugs, There are many alternatives available. Sometimes one or two can play a key role in reducing and eliminating anxiety and panic attacks. For others it will be a combination of several things together. Exploring the options you have available and trying things out to see what works for you can be one of the most important steps you take in addressing your anxiety and getting it under control.

Four: Counseling

Counseling is often key for anxiety sufferers. Some do well discussing their problems with other anxiety sufferers while others need one on one counseling and support. And others need to address things all alone and do will with tapes, books, and guided treatment that they can implement themselves in the privacy of their home. Whatever your personal inclination regarding counseling it is certainly a natural and drugless approach to treating your anxiety that can make a wonderful difference in the occurrence of attacks.

Five: Bodywork

Massage therapy and other forms of bodywork are often used to relax muscle tension, help reduce stress, and to increase the level of deep and calm sleep. If you are uncomfortable with removing your clothes there are forms of bodywork that are done with you fully clothed. Massage and the relaxation of letting go and releasing your stress can be a very important part of an overall treatment approach. If you can't afford a professional, engage a partner or friend to give and receive a massage. Often a simple foot and hand massage will do the relaxation trick.

Treating anxiety naturally is possible. Learn the variety of natural treatment options available and see what you can incorporate into your life to tackle your anxiety.

Tired of suffering? You can cure anxiety and panic attacks with natural remedies that do not involve harmful medications. Get started with my free report available at http://www.clickherelearnnow.com/anxiety.html