Health Today

What is GERD

2009-05-19T23:47:00.000-07:00

Understanding GERD
From: Reader's Digest

ALMOST EVERYONE experiences chest pains, heartburn, abdominal pains and acid reflux at some time. However, in some individuals, the feeling is frequent or severe enough to cause significant problems. Known as Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), such discomfort may be caused by the reflux of acidic stomach juices. When the muscular valve at the bottom of the oesophagus (gullet or food passage) is relaxed, stomach contents flow up into the oesophagus and cause pain and sometimes corrosion or ulceration. Dr Hui Hock Foong, consultant gastroenterologist and Chairman of the National Foundation for Digestive Diseases in Singapore, what you need to know about GERD.

WHY is GERD a condition that we need to be more aware of?

GERD symptoms are an indicator of excessive acid exposure in the oesophagus and it may lead to long-term consequences such as inflammation and narrowing of the food passage. Another condition is Barret’s transformation of the lining of the lower food passage, which increases the risk of cancer in that area.

What are five things people can do to help prevent GERD?
1. Have regular mealtimes
2. Avoid overeating, avoid eating close to bedtime
3. Avoid smoking. Take alcohol in moderation
4. Maintain a healthy bodyweight
5. Where possible, minimize stress

How to take care of your contact lenses

2009-05-19T23:39:00.000-07:00

Contact Lens Safety
from: Reader's Digest

Recent research revealed 75 per cent of contact lens wearers across Asia do not follow proper lens care.

An alarming proportion of wearers do not practice simple contact lens care.”It takes less than a minute a day to rub and rinse yet many patients don’t think it is important, “said Dr Chung Kah Meng, President of the Association of Malaysian Optometrists. Proper cleaning techniques lead to a dramatic reduction of microbes growing on the lenses, vastly lowering the risk of infection. Here are some key tips:

1. Rubbing and Rinsing
Safety is enhanced significantly by rubbing and rinsing contact lenses both prior to and following storage.

2. No More Than Seven Days
Lenses that have been stored for more than seven days, regardless of whether peroxide or multi-purpose solutions are used, should be re-disinfected before the next use.

3. No “Top Up”
Do not add more solution to the solution already in the case.

4. Do Not Use Tap Water
Never use tap water to store, clean or rinse your contact lenses as water is a common source of potentially damaging microorganisms that can cause sight-threatening infections.

5. The Right Kit
One of the highest risk occasions is going on vacation- an appropriate ‘travel kit’ should be carried and used.

6. Avoid Exposure at Pool
Another high risk occasion is exposing lenses to potential contamination from swimming pool or spa water-wear your goggles while swimming.

7. Not in the Bathroom
Storing your contact lenses in the bathroom carries a high risk of airborne contamination.

The other benefits of honey

2009-05-19T23:17:00.000-07:00

Sweet Healing
from: Reader's Digest

Dressing wounds with honey may help them heal more quickly.
Honey works well on chronic wounds, says Dr Richard White, senior research fellow in tissue viability at Aberdeen Infirmary. “Bees create natural chemicals to prevent honey from being spoiled by moulds and bacteria,” he says.” These chemicals can kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, particularly in wounds that don’t heal easily. “But it won’t work with any old honey. “ it has to be of a medical grade, and you’ll need to ask your doctor if honey is an appropriate dressing before trying it.”

How to fight Repetitive Strain Injury

2009-05-19T22:23:00.000-07:00

Fighting Repetitive Strain Injury
from: Reader's Digest

REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY- sometimes referred to as work related upper limb disorder- results from performing the same movement repeatedly throughout the day. Such repetition commonly occurs in the workplace, as when working on a computer for long hours. Symptoms include tingling and numbness in the fingers, aching in the hand, wrist, arm or shoulder, aggravated by movement. Musicians are also susceptible to the condition.

Avoiding RSI at the computer

· Make sure your lower back is well supported by the chair and your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle
· Position the screen at a right angle to the window or strongest light to avoid glare.
· Make sure your eyes are at the same height as the screen, which should be about 60 centimeters away from your eyes.
· Use soft but firm wrist support, so you don’t need to flex your wrists upwards.
· Take regular five-minute breaks every hour and use the time to stretch.

How to live longer

2009-05-18T06:21:00.002-07:00

6 Tips to Living Longer: Balancing Your Body's pH
By: Stan Howard

Scientists armed with a mounting body of evidence and research from across the world is waging war on what they claim is the biggest killer in the West--an overly acidic body.

The theory goes that whenever the body burns fuel it creates acidic toxins as a by-product. Many scientists now believe that high build-ups of these acid wastes can be a primary cause of chronic disease, overweight and aging.

Live longer by following these six simple tips to re-balance your body's acid-alkaline levels ("pH"):

Live Longer Checklist
--Drink ionized alkaline water
--Eat an acid-neutralizing diet
--Exercise
--Reduce stress
--Stop smoking
--Drink during air travel

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ALKALINE DRINKING WATER AND DIET
Various studies reveal that a balanced body pH has been shown to:
--Reduce heart disease in a town in Finland by 22%
--Reduce insulin dependence in North American type 1 diabetes patients by 83%
--Reduce arthritis pain, linked to chronic build-up of uric acid
--Reduce risk of cancer (cancer cells flourish in an acidic environment)
--Slow the aging process. Aging starts when the body stops getting rid of internally generated wastes and toxins.
Studies and research suggest that even mild acid-waste build-up can cause:
--Cardiovascular damage, including the constriction of blood vessels and the reduction of oxygen -- so important for healthy cells
--Weight gain, obesity and diabetes
--Bladder and kidney conditions, including kidney stones
--Immune deficiency
--Acceleration of free radical damage, possibly contributing to cancerous mutations
--Hormone concerns
--Premature aging
--Osteoporosis: weak, brittle bones, hip fractures and bone spurs
--Joint pain, aching muscles and lactic acid build-up
--Low energy and chronic fatigue
--Slow digestion and elimination
--Yeast / fungal overgrowth

TIP 1 - DRINK ALKALINE WATER

Each cell in your body can only function as well as the fluid it is surrounded by -- like a fish in a bowl. So the cleaner and less acidic the liquids in your body are, the healthier you're likely to be.
Considering that the body eliminates acidic waste through body liquids in four different ways -- respiration, urination, perspiration or defecation, the key to good health means:

--Drink enough of the right type of water to hydrate the body properly
--Drink ionized alkaline water -- studies show it's twice as effective in flushing out acid toxins as bottled or filtered water
--As you get older, total water to body ratio decreases, making elimination harder. So you need to drink more.
--Same thing goes for when it's hot. Drink more.

TIP 2 -- DIET

Changing your diet can significantly reduce the level of acidity in your body. But if you can't cut out acid-producing foods, it's even more important to drink alkaline water.
Eat more of these foods that neutralize acidity in the body:

--Leafy greens and most veggies
--Most fruits including citrus
--Polyunsaturated fats found in seed oils (flax and hemp), fatty fish (seabass, tuna, mackeral, trout, salmon), coconut milk and avocado
--Okay proteins include chicken breast, tofu, and many seeds
Eat fewer acid-producing foods like:
--Animal protein (beef, chicken, pork and eggs)
--Dairy products
--Vinegar
--Soy sauce
--Mushrooms
--Corn
--Sugar
--Alcohol
--Coffee
--Peanuts
--Pasta

TIP 3 -- EXERCISE

Being overweight has nothing to do with fats or calories, according to some authors like Dr. Robert Young, author of the pH Miracle for Weight Loss. He believes putting on weight can be traced to a build-up of acid waste -- if it isn't eliminated, it parks on your hips, buttocks and elsewhere, so you get fat. Try the following instead:

--Exercise makes you sweat and breathe harder -- both processes eliminate toxins.
--Saunas also make you sweat. Take one often.
--Don't over-exercise. This causes a build-up of lactic acid that the body can't eliminate, so it's deposited as fatty tissue.

TIP 4 -- DON'T STRESS

--Relax. Anger and hostility have been shown to increase stomach acidity, which can lead to peptic and stress ulcers, or ulcerated colitis.

TIP 5 -- STOP SMOKING

--Smoking also increase stomach acidity
--If you do smoke, the more acidic your body, the stronger your nicotine craving will be.

TIP 6 -- DRINK DURING AIR TRAVEL

The air inside airplane cabins is super-dry (less relative humidity than the Sahara desert), and can result in extreme dehydration, increased acidity and jet-lag.
--Drink at least 8 oz (quarter liter) of water for every hour you fly.

Be wary of dairy

2009-05-18T06:21:00.001-07:00

Dairy Alert
from: Reader's Digest

Now teenager all over the world are consuming too much of dairy products such as milk, ice cream, yogurts, cheese, Chocolate, and many more. Do you know that drinking milk can make acne in teens worse, according to researchers at Harvard School of Public Health. Dr Clement Adebamowo, one of the study, says the hormones and growth factors produced by cows, which we ingest through their milk, exacerbate the state of flux of teens’ hormones. During puberty, steroids produced by the body lead to the production of sebum, blockage of sebaceous glands in the skin and colonisation of bacteria in skin follicles. Dr Adebamowo suggests teens with acne have no more than three glasses of milk a day. Calcium intake can be boosted with a multivitamin with calcium and with non-dairy milk products, such as from soya-based foods.

How to maintain natural beauty

2009-05-18T06:03:00.000-07:00

4 Secrets for Maintaining Natural Beauty
by Claudia Apfelthaler

All women can attain natural beauty without embellishing the purse of the cosmetic manufacturers. The cosmetic industry spends billions of dollars on advertising to make women feel like inferior frumps. So that women will buy their stuff. This stuff is no guarantee for beauty.

Yes some people are born with a disfigurement or a serious birthmark over the face - but still nothing in the world can stop a person from smiling. Many times I've been blown away by a person's warm hearted smile, so that everything else has been over looked.

You just need to watch Nick Vujicic on YouTube to know how beautiful a person can be, even without arms and legs!

Modern laser treatment can severely diminish skin blemishes like birthmarks.

These secrets I'm about to reveal are so simple and so natural. What else besides natural stuff is going to maintain that natural beauty we were born with?

1. Diet
what a person eats is what they become. No joke. Choice of food is of utmost importance. Cigarettes, fuzzy drinks, burgers and fries rob the body of beauty. My choice is organically grown fruit and vegetables - eaten raw. Seriously you don't see animals in the wild boiling grass or charring zebras. And don't even try to tell me: "Aah but we are higher on the evolution scale".

Being higher on the evolution scale does not mean we have to destroy essential nutrients in our food by chemical food processes.

Food affects the body right down to a cellular level. The body needs nutrients for the blood, bones, muscles and cells. Everything that is not feeding the body is just dumping junk into it. Inevitably that shows up on the body.

Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring rabbit food - I eat plenty of hot (as in flavor) and delicious meals. Chocolate anyone? Mmm the cacao bean is actually a super food. In fact David Wolf the world's nutritional expert wrote a whole book about chocolate. Eat it raw and unprocessed. There are plenty recipes for delicious chocolate treats. I for one eat it nearly every day.

Changing to a diet of raw food means eating with out guilt! Besides once your body is getting the nutrients it needs the brain stops putting pressure to eat, eat, eat because at long last it is getting what it needs.

2. Cosmetics
Skin is the biggest organ on the body. What we rub onto our skin is absorbed into the body. A lot of cosmetics are derived from the petrol industry. Uughh! Choose cosmetics that are derived from organic plants.

Even better make your own cosmetics - just do a goggle and you'll find recipes for mixing your own creams, shampoos and toothpaste. A treat for the skin and a saving for the budget!

Bodies that are fed healthily have less need of a deodorant. When a body has a bad odor from the vagina, arm pits or mouth it's a sign that all is not well. Fix up the diet and odor will disappear.

3. Fitness
I'll admit I'm amazingly lazy. But I can touch my toes, do the splits and take a long walk without getting out of breath. Just by the way I'm 46 and still the same size I was way back when.

The body needs movement to make the blood flow. Good circulation gives your eyes a sparkle and your skin clarity. In no way I'm advocating strenuous work outs at the gym. Life has to be fun. Right? Stretching exercises and leisurely walks in the fresh air suffice, provided the body is getting the right diet.

4. Rest
Funnily enough once the body gets the right food it doesn't need so much sleep! Even so, a good rest is essential for maintaining natural beauty.

How good is chocolate

2009-05-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Reasons Why Chocolate is good for you - Did You Know That Chocolate is good for you?
By Trevor Johnson

The chocolate we get in America is different than the other places in the world. Did you know that some of this delicious food is good for you? Well there are many reasons why these bars are good for you and you will get the answers in the article below. The chocolate that women crave is finally proven as a useful tool to help them.

When you eat chocolate that's real, you will know it's a major stress reliever. Stress is something that all people tend to have in this day and age, which won't go away. When you come across the real thing you will find it tastes much different and the amount of calories to be less, which means you, will have a new diet.

It is good for your heart and will strengthen the heart. The type you eat every day that's from candy bars can be the wrong type to eat, which means you should find some of those healthy bars that they sell in a grocery stores.

As you know, they say it is a junk food that can cause weight gain from calories, but eating the right version is the key to have healthy chocolate. The good form can give you the type of cholesterol you need for your body to be healthy.

The body needs to eat healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, but did you know you still need some type of sweets? Eating the good chocolate is something that goes good with any natural food balance. The sweets you need give your body sugar it needs to turn into insulin. This can help you when you have headaches as well, which means your lacking sugar in the blood. The reason why it is good for you is it's a good treat that can be a low calorie snack anyone can enjoy.

Tips to make nutritious salad

2009-05-18T05:55:00.000-07:00

Tips to Make Salads Nutritious
By Jennifer Purdie

Salads are often a misleading meal. Restaurants will load them with fattening dressings and cheeses with little room for anything nutritious. So here are some tips to keeping your salads healthy, but delicious:

1. Nuts.

Add a small handful of chopped nuts to salads. Mixing textures is always a welcome delight to your palate. Combining the leafy greens, a protein, and the saltiness and crunch of nuts will enhance the nutritional value of any salad. Plus, nuts are the healthy fat and good for your heart.

2. Craisins!

These tart little nuggets will certainly add flavor to any bite and the antioxidants in cranberries make them one of the best fruits for a healthy diet.

3. Greek yogurt.

With the consistency of sour cream but with high protein content, this can take the place of calorie-laden dressings. Just a couple of spoonfuls over spinach will kick your salads up a notch.

4. Vegetables.

Don't want to just eat lettuce and dressing? Who does? So add a cup of raw vegetables for variety. Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots and peas with low calorie dressing are an easy way to get your recommended daily allowance of veggies.

5. Chef's salad light.

Rather than adding high fat Ranch dressing and handfuls of cheese like a typical chef's salad, keep the mix of proteins. Chef's salads usually contain ham and turkey. So add a variety of proteins so the taste buds won't get bored.

Salads don't have to be bland ever again. Mix it up and you and your family will enjoy.

Nutritional tips for children

2009-05-18T05:50:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Nutritional Tips for Children
by Jason Horsley

With video games, TV, computers, poor meal choices and the Internet, children are facing a health crisis of their own. Children as a whole are less healthy than they used to be in times past. Diabetes--thought to be a mainly adult disease in the past-has been on the rise among children.

An obese child usually translates into an obese adult, which can lead to all sorts of health
problems in the future, such as high blood pressure and an increased chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke.

With this in mind, e-Fitness for Life has put together a top ten list of nutritional tips for children.

1. Set a good example and keep your child active. Children learn by example, and if their parent is healthy and active, chances are they are too. Make activity fun for your child, and enroll them in as many sporting activities as you can afford.

2. Make sure your child eats their breakfast. Breakfast really is the most important meal of the day. It will give them the fuel they need throughout the day. Make sure you guide them towards making healthy breakfast choices, such as oatmeal or whole grain cereals.

3. Keep your child hydrated, especially if it's hot outside or they're engaged in a sporting activity.

4. Make sure your child gets enough protein and carbohydrates in their diets. Foods that are good sources of protein and carbohydrates include fish, poultry, meat, cheese, milk, beans or legumes.

5. Provide healthy snacks after exercise. Instead of handing them a chocolate bar, hand them a piece of fruit instead.

6. Provide variety in their diet. If your child is eating the same things day after day, chances are that they're missing out on some nutritional building blocks. Besides that, they will get bored with their diet. Instead, have them help you choose meals that are healthy for the entire family. This will help them make better choices in the future.

7. See a nutritionist. They can help a great deal when it comes to planning meals for you and your growing child.

8. Try to make home cooked meals as opposed to eating out. Fast food is generally not a good way to instill good eating habits in your child.

9. Throw out the soda and limit the juices. Soda is jam packed with calories and juices are typically full of sugars. Instead, give them water.

10. Teach your child about proper portion sizes. Most people eat way too much food at each meal, which contributes to massive weight gain in both adults and children.

Nutrition is important for both children and adults. Together you can make your house a healthier environment, where everyone can reap the benefits. Don't allow poor nutrition and inactivity to ruin your child's health. Together we can make a difference that will last a lifetime.

How to Meditate Effectively

2009-05-18T05:47:00.000-07:00

How to Meditate Effectively
By Laura Whitelaw

Learning to meditate is a required skill in today's busy world. Many people are stressed and over-worked with their mental physical and emotional health at risk as a result. Meditation has been proven to help reduce cortisol levels (the hormone released during stressful periods) resulting in a overall feeling of happiness and well-being. Some other benefits of meditation include enhanced creativity and problem solving ability. There are different styles of meditation practiced throughout the world and all of them produce peaceful results.

Using a Mantra in Meditation
You are probably most familiar with the use of a mantra during meditation. Many yogis are pictured chanting "Om" while they sit cross legged with their eyes closed in deep relaxation. This meditation technique is used to focus a wandering mind and is ideal for the beginning meditator. Choose a simple to repeat word and repeat it over and over while allowing your mind and body to totally relax. The word you choose for your mantra should be a positive word or one that has no meaning for you. You don't need to repeat your mantra out loud but you can if you wish.

Breath Awareness Meditation
Another form of relaxing meditation is to simply become aware of your breathing. Sit in a comfortable position and close your eyes and without trying to change your breathing, just notice it. That's right; just notice the sensation of your breathing and how it feels moving in and out of your nostrils, your lungs and how it travels down to your abdomen. Take note of how your breathing sounds and if a distracting thought comes to mind, gently acknowledge the thought and return your attention to your breathing.

Loving Kindness Meditation
The loving kindness meditation uses the expression of gratitude as the focus. While sitting in meditation, we remember all the wonderful people, animals, places and things that have helped along our journey. We express our gratitude and love for them and offer them our blessings. What is important here is to get into the space of deep appreciation and gratitude for all who have touched our lives.

How to avoid dry skin

2009-05-18T05:45:00.000-07:00

5 Secrets to Heal and Avoid Dry Skin
by Michael Dugan

No matter what time of year it is, there are many factors that can torture your skin and lead to dry skin, coarse hands, sandpaper knees, rough elbows, and cracked feet. Here are some little known tips that can help you keep your skin smooth and silky all year long.

1. Take Warm Baths Never Hot!

Everyone likes the soothing, relaxing feel of a nice HOT bath, but it's not good for your skin. The intense heat of a super hot shower or bath actually breaks down the lipid barrier in the skin which leads to a loss of moisture. A comfortably warm bath or shower is better at keeping your skin moist and soft.

2. Use Sunscreen All Year Round!

Just because it's not hot does not mean the sun's burning rays are not damaging your skin. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face and hands about 30-minutes before going outside, and don't forget to reapply throughout the day.

3. Give Your Hands Extra Help!

Your hands are very vulnerable to dry skin and even chapping, cracking, and getting rough. The reason is that they are exposed most of the time, and the skin on the hands is thinner than on most parts of the body and has fewer oil glands. The fact is, it is harder to keep the skin on your hands moist, and therefore, it is important to help that skin with a hydrating, moisturizing lotion. In the winter, wear gloves when you go outside because the cold air can lead to cracking and itchiness.

4. Treat Your Feet With Special Care!

Your feet can be one of the prettiest, softest areas of your body, but they take a pounding everyday. It is important to use a strong hydrating and moisturizing lotion on them in the morning and at night. That water based, minty foot lotions may smell nice, but they evaporate quickly and do not help the skin on your feet hold in the moisture they need. It is also important to use an exfoliant on your feet to remove the dead skin. That helps your hydrating, moisturizing lotion sink in faster and deeper.

5. Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize!

Ultimately, the way to heal and avoid dry skin is to keep your skin hydrated, moisturized, nourished, and healthy. Find a lotion that you love and apply it regularly several times a day, especially in troubled or at-risk areas like hands, feet, elbows, and knees. Make sure the oils are "no clogging" and look for lotions containing humectants - a class of ingredients that attract moisture to the skin.

How to prevent hair loss

2009-05-18T05:34:00.000-07:00

The 5 Best Tips to Stop Hair Loss Revealed
By William Steiskal

1. Hair loss shampoos very often contain chemicals that create a lather that is psychologically pleasing, but of no help for stopping hair loss. The lather is caused by what is called a surfactant and has nothing to do with cleansing the scalp or hair follicles that you are trying to treat. The product may be counter productive to your problem and have a drying effect on your scalp. So No. 1 is a popular ingredient in shampoos that you may not want.

2. Herbal ingredients with a long history of use such as Saw Palmetto may inhibit production of DHT. This compound in the blood stream increases with age and causes hair follicles to dry up, causing hair loss. You may have a heredity issue that is in the family.

3. Nettle and Bay are also herbs that have a history of use for healthy hair along with B vitamins, Zinc and other trace natural elements. The goal of achieving healthy hair is gained through good overall health of your body as well.

4. Essential oils such as Lavender and Tree Oil that were prescribed by the Greeks at the beginning of modern medicine for hair health and physical health as well. The shampoo that you may want to try should probably have these naturalistic wholesome ingredients in it.

5. The FDA approved ingredient Minoxidil that has been the break through development when combined with the above natural ingredients has a very high percentage of Stopping Hair Loss. The product comes as a shampoo that you rub in with your fingers and vitamin supplement pills that you take as well.

How to clear acne

2009-05-18T05:28:00.000-07:00

Top 5 Tips to Clear Acne Fast
By Pinky Mishra

Do you suffer from acne and have consistent breakouts? I bet you want to know about ways to clear acne fast. The good news is there are ways to achieve a clear skin and you can get it too by following a simple system.

Pimples or zits are often considered as a normal part of growing up. But what if acne tags you along even after you become an adult? Whether you are a teenage sufferer or an adult acne sufferer, you need to do something to get acne control.
Follow these 5 tips to clear acne fast:

1. Follow a daily routine: Your routine should consist of washing your face two times a day with a mild anti-bacterial cleanser. For your morning routine apply an alcohol free toner and moisturizer before you put any make up on. If you are going outdoors apply a good sun screen. Before going to bed remove all makeup and carry on the same routine. Also exfoliate your skin 2-3 times a week.

2. Improve your diet: Acne is the outcome of a poor diet. So review your diet and make necessary improvements. Reduce the intake of sugar and oily foods. Eat foods rich in vitamins, zinc and fiber. A well balanced diet will be helpful to clear acne fast.

3. Flush out the toxins: Improper flushing out of toxins from the body can lead to pimples. So aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water. Try adding a little lemon juice to the water. This will not only make the water taste good but will also make the flushing process more effective.

4. Reduce stress: Stress can lead to acne breakouts, so it's best to keep it under control. If you feel stressed exercise, go for a walk or just listen to some music.

5. Avoid wearing any makeup: Try and avoid make up till you get acne under control. But if you have to, just put on the water based make up and remember to clean it every night.

Following the above tips will help you clear acne fast. Any system needs to be followed consistently and it can definitely get discouraging at times. Especially when you do everything but still don't see any results. Acne is a skin condition and there is no "quick fix" for this skin disorder.

But is it possible to be pimple free? The answer to that question is a definite yes. But the most important tip is to believe that your system will work for your skin and it will clear your acne fast.

How to improve your memory

2009-05-17T05:11:00.000-07:00

Easy Methods to Improve Your Memory
by: Leon Edward

Our memory is so important since it helps us to keep those life events in our mind for the years to come. Of course when you remember a memory from 15 years before but you forget the grocery list, it can be so irritating. There are many who want to find a way that they can improve upon their memory. Well, there are actually things you can do to help other than just dealing with frustration over things you forget.

It's important that we take a look at how things are learned before we get involved in methods for memory improvement. When you are involved in a new experience or you hear something new, the brain has to take that information and decode it. It takes the information and interprets it in certain ways. When you are focusing on something and you learn something new, the brain takes the information and files it.

It is much like putting information into a file cabinet that you open up. Once you want to remember that information again, the brain brings it out for you. It's just like walking back to the filing cabinet and retrieving the file you put in there before.

More than likely you can remember when your memory was great and you probably were used to that. When we don't work on keeping our brain in good shape and learning new ways that we can think, our memory skill may begin to slip a bit. Think of a dancer. While she may have spend time training for all her moves, when she stops training, she won't be able to get out there and start performing if she hasn't been practicing for many years. It's like that with the memory as well.

One way to improve memory is to constantly be aware of all that is going on around you. Many people only half listen when other people talk to them. It is easy to focus on another thing that you need to do instead of what they say. Make sure you start focusing on what is going on around you so you can store it and bring it back up in the future.

When you get new information, work to associate it with something that you already know to make it easier to remember. There are a variety of different learning methods, so find the one that works out for you. There are some people that remember best when they have visual aids to help out. Others learn best from actually hearing things. When you figure out your own learning style, you can work on it further to help improve your memory.

If you don't know something, find out more about it by researching it on your own. While it may seem difficult to learn, if you find a different way of learning it or a different explanation it may make more sense to you. Doing the research on something new helps you to acquire more knowledge, which will help you figure out which things you need to keep in your mind.

When you really want to ensure something is remembered, think about it and throw it around in your brain a few times. The more you repeat something in your mind, the better you'll learn it and be able to recall it in the future. Using visual aids and even word association can help with your memory too. Use the various memory aids available to help improve your memory.

Improve your body image

2009-05-17T04:56:00.000-07:00

How to Improve Your Body Image: 6 Easy Steps
by: Michelle Tukachinsky

Are you looking for solutions on how to improve your body image? If you are, you are not alone. Many of us are looking for ways to feel better about our body and develop a higher level of self-confidence regarding our body and our appearance. I have written six simple steps on how to improve your body image and feel better about your body. These are very simplified for the sake of time and space, however, I believe it is a solid outline on what you can do to start feeling better about yourself today.

Step 1:

Acknowledge to yourself that you want to improve your body image and make a decision that you will begin to make changes today. Commit to improving your body image in all areas of your life. Think about why you want to change your body image and how you will feel once you make these changes. In addition, jot down some of the areas that you want to change. Then, prioritize these areas. Only focus on the TOP three areas now. If not, you will overwhelm yourself.

Step 2:

Visualize how you would like to see yourself 3 months from now after you have fully embarked on your how to improve your body image program. Picture yourself vividly--focus on your weight, muscle tone, skin, hair, make-up, clothing, and everything. Picture your style, your vibe. Are you giving off and air of confidence? Picture yourself confident, relaxed, and content with yourself.

Step 3:

Set goals for you that are realistic. Do not plan on losing 50 pounds in 2 months, going from a size 14 to a size 6. This can happen over time; however, you do not want to overwhelm yourself with unhealthy, unrealistic goals that cannot be reached. In learning how to improve your body image, you must understand that patience is the key, and that you are embarking on a lifelong effort of change.

Step 4:

Make sure that you have a budget set aside for your body image program. You will want to pamper yourself with a manicure, pedicure, and perhaps a new, modern hairstyle. In addition, you may want to get a new mini-wardrobe as you start feeling better about your body. For the next 90 days, set a budget each month titled "the new me" budget, or give it another suitable name. :)

Step 5:

Begin a new exercise program as soon as possible. There is nothing that can help you how to improve your body image than a daily exercise program. Make sure that you start slowly, especially if you have not worked out in a while. Vary your routines, make it fun, and commit to exercising daily. (Check with doctor before beginning any exercise program).

Step 6:

Begin a nutrition program that is filled with vitamins and other nutrients. Start to eat right and make sure that you commit to this daily. Limit fast foods, and try to start cooking whole foods from home. It is said that we are what we eat, and I believe this to be true. When you eat a nutritious diet you look great, feel great, and your skin begins to glow. Make sure that you drink plenty of water as well as this is one of the healthiest things we can do for our body. As a coach for Team Beach body fitness, I am working on how to improve my body image as well as others on a daily basis. I am hoping that these steps were helpful in helping you in your own journey as well.

Hemorrhoids

2009-05-17T04:50:00.000-07:00

What Are Hemorrhoids
by: John D Slimm

This ailment has a scandalizing affect on many people! The irritating and sometimes painful symptoms of hemorrhoids, also known as piles, can become an obstacle in your daily routine. Not only can hemorrhoids be harmful, but they can be equally embarrassing. Many people suffer because they have a hard time discussing this condition and for others it brings down their level of confidence and, for others, it becomes a source of distraction.

Generally, "piles" is a condition where the veins in the anal area swell and start to bleed. "Piles", (hemorrhoids), are abnormally enlarged and dilated blood vessels (mainly veins) around the anus. There are two types of piles; internal and, external. People suffering from internal piles have bleeding inside the anal area. In external piles, there is not much blood but since they occur outside of the anus it can become very painful. One of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids is chronic constipation, itching and bleeding.

1. Different Treatment for Piles

the best way to prevent piles away is to avoid becoming constipated. By having regular bowel movements, stools pass easily and you are in a proper routine. Hemorrhoids can also be caused if you put more than required pressure while passing stool. Once your everyday time table is set and your stool remains soft, it slowly starts decreasing and eventually improves. In some cases, surgery may also be required. But this method should only be considered as a final treatment. It is always recommended to stick to natural piles treatment and go with surgeries as they have bad side effects.

2. Different Causes

Various human factors cause this terrible disease. But some factors are more dominant than others: amongst them constipation, mental stress, excess weight, physical strain, age, heredity, and pregnancy are the most common ones. It is always helpful to keep yourself informed about various things that can cause piles, in order for you to avoid it from occurring. Once it's cured, safety measures should be taken to prevent them from coming again.

3. Prevention Steps

Following are some of the steps you can follow to avoid different causes:

a). Constipation: consumption of a lot of fiber-rich food, raw salads, fruits instead of fruit juices, cereals(e.g. brown rice, whole wheat bread), vegetables, etc. Avoid hot and spicy food

b). Stress or Physical strain: regular work-out or exercises is the best cure to prevent piles.” Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day; this will aid your bowel movement".

c).Over-weight: being over-weight does not only cause piles but also many other major diseases like heart problems, etc. Excess of fat leads to many other unwanted situations.

Natural Treatment.

Different Herbs also help in preventing piles and are also highly recommended because they do not have side effects. The cure is slow but eventually, over a period of time it works efficiently reduces and cures piles. The home remedies for hemorrhoids (natural herbs) can be classified mainly into 2 types, the type that eases your pain and the type that decreases swelling and bleeding.

The Type That Ease Your Pain.

For example, by mixing one tea spoon of lemon juice with some fresh mint leaves and 1 tablespoon honey and drinking it three times a day helps keep the piles away.

Decreasing Swelling And Bleeding

Radish juice helps decreasing the swelling and bleeding of your piles. A half cup intake of radish juice over a period of month will help you in getting rid of piles.

No matter what you call this condition, hemorrhoids or piles, the symptoms can range from mildly irritating to extremely painful. But there need to suffer like this! By using a few simple natural remedies you can heal and prevent hemorrhoids.

Bad breath

2009-05-17T04:47:00.000-07:00

Bad Breath (Halitosis)
by: Pieternel Van Giersbergen

Bad breath (Halitosis) is widespread and quite common. You have probably discretely stepped away from friends or colleagues with bad breath. But it can also be a shock to realize that others, for the same reason, may be edging (discretely) away from you!

How can you know if your breath is offensive?
Try this simple bad breath (Halitosis) test:

Lick the inside of your wrist and wait 4 seconds. Now smell your wrist. If you don't like what smell, your breath does not smell good either. Easy, no? An accurate and portable diagnosis!
What causes bad breath?

• Not enough water in your body, dehydration.
• Gum or tooth problems/ disease
• Intestinal/ stomach disorders, yeast infection
• Use of medications
• Stress

Remedies for Bad Breath (Halitosis)

1. Water - yes, water! Many people suffer from chronic dehydration because they don't drink the 8-12 glasses of water a day that the body needs. This common form of dehydration causes much common bad breath. You can improve your breath - and give a big lift to your health - simply by drinking enough water.

2. Recently eaten food that hasn't been brushed out can quickly smell bad. The "cure" then is to simply brush or floss. For gum disease and decay you must visit your dentist. And for improved oral hygiene, put a few drops of Oil of Oregano on your toothbrush or to swish it in your mouth as a mouthwash. Did you know that Oil of Oregano is antibacterial/ anti viral/ anti fungus and anti parasite? It seeks out these health impediments everywhere in the body. At the first signs of infection, Oil of Oregano is your great first line of defense.

3. For disturbed digestion you should see your doctor. But for mild problems such as GERD and acid reflux, take probiotics in the form acidophilus or kefir. For worse stomach problems try ¼ cup of Aloe Vera before breakfast. Do this for at least 3 weeks. For my friend Peter this completely healed his stomach ulcer! Most GERD are related to the H pylori, which is a bacteria found in meats that haven't been thoroughly cooked. If you like your meat rare, take Oil of Oregano on a regular basis as a preventive measure.

4. When you are under too much stress your digestive system doesn't circulate enough oxygen (the energy goes into a fight or flight mode). This makes your digestive tract a breeding ground for the wrong bacteria - and for bad breath as well. Be sure to introduce deep, relaxed breathing throughout your busy day.
5. Eat raw parsley, chew on anise seed or cardamom, nutmeg or fennel - they're natural breath fresheners that don't just mask odors, but actually freshen the breath.

6. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grains; avoid white flour products like white bread and pastas, as well as sugared juices and sodas.

7. You may have an undetected yeast infection. Find out for yourself by performing a simple self-test for yeast/Candida overgrowth.

8. Chew your food well and do not drink fluids with your food. Take no food two hours before bedtime and try to not take food for 12 hours after dinner.

9. Eliminate as often as you can. Try to have three bowel movements a day. If you need some help, try 4 ounces of prune juice with 4 ounces of magnesium citrate. (My R.N. friend Marie calls this "The Bomb".) For more help try 2000 mg. of vitamin C with electrolytes every hour. Do this for 4 hours or more, until you start to have loose stools. (This also works well for headaches and boosts your immune system.

10. Drink at least 2 cups of kefir a day. This helps your intestinal flora regain its natural balance of bacteria.

Remember - fresh, clean breath is a reflection of good health, and health is an ongoing process. Stick with it! Follow my suggestions, and keep a log of what you do and the effects you see. This simple tracking process can help you pinpoint what is truly effective. You will be inspired by your own success.

How easy to stop smoking

2009-05-17T04:33:00.000-07:00

The Easiest Way to Stop Smoking Revealed
by: Ben Junior

Some people say there is no easy way to stop smoking. Yet people who have successfully quit will often tell you that it was easy, when they look back. Often, they tried many times before and failed - they went back to smoking after a few days, weeks, or months. But that one time, they stopped without much trouble, and never started again. So what made it easy that time?

Most smokers want to stop and if there was a magic method or supplement that worked for everybody, there would probably only be a couple of smokers left in the world. So it's pretty clear that whatever methods may be suggested, they do not work for all of the people who try them, every time.

Finding the easy way is often just a matter of doing it at the right time. This means that instead of deciding you will quit tomorrow, or next week, or on January 1st, you should act any time when you feel a strong desire to quit.

This moment may come when you are sick, when your kid says something to you that makes you feel ashamed, or just one day for no apparent reason. It might be right now. It will not just be a vague wish that you didn't smoke, but something stronger, a real emotional motive.

For most people that is what makes it easy one time when it never was before: they simply did it at the right moment. You have probably had these times in the past and ignored them. This time, do not push this moment away and try to forget it, but act on it. When it comes, stop right now.

Your motivation may still go up and down but you can be sure that you can make it through. You need to keep on thinking positively. Remind yourself how great it is to be a non-smoker. After a few days, you will find it is easier to sit through a long movie or plane journey without getting anxious and wishing for the end so that you could smoke. Be aware of how much more enjoyable your life is getting, and remind yourself of it often.

People who use aids like nicotine replacement, hypnosis, or any kind of therapy or support group usually do better than those who do not. It may be that their willingness to spend money on these things is a sign of higher commitment. These things can help you to keep your motivation high.

Most people have activities that remind them of smoking. Go ahead and avoid these activities for a couple of weeks if it helps. It is a good idea to give up alcohol temporarily, not only because you probably associate it with smoking, but because your motivation will be much lower when you have had a couple of drinks. You may also need to avoid certain places or even certain friends.

At the same time, you should not stay home alone with nothing to do. Quitting smoking can be a little like losing a friend: you will grieve, and you need to try to occupy your mind, your hands and your time. Take up a hobby that involves using your hands, such as woodworking or quilting, or make a list of things that need fixing around the house and do them one by one.

Drinking a small glass of water every time you have a craving is a great way to avoid overeating. Or simply notice how quickly a craving disappears. You may be surprised. Even if you do nothing to satisfy it, the strongest craving will vanish within 90 seconds. Sure it comes back, but 90 seconds is not long to hold out each time.

If you have a lot of anger coming out and you are taking it out on your friends and family, do not use that as an excuse to give up your resolve. Your irritability is only temporary. It may seem that your friends would be better off if you started smoking again, but that is not true. They are way better off without you blowing smoke into the air that they breathe.

In the end, the easy way to stop smoking is any way that works for you - when you do it at the right time.

Benefits of garlic

2009-05-17T04:18:00.000-07:00

Discovering the Health Benefits of Garlic

by: LaMarion Ziegler

Benefits of Garlic! A more detailed account of what garlic does for various organs in the human body. If garlic had been created in the laboratory instead of by nature, it would probably be a high-priced prescription medicine.

A Common Saying everyone knows. That's just how good it really is.

Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants, and it's been credited with fighting heart disease, lowering blood pressure and helping to fight off colds.

In fact, garlic has been used medicinally for at least 3,000 years, but until relatively recently its benefits were considered little more than folklore. According to a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Nov. 28, 1990; 264:2614), the therapeutic roles of garlic have been described in more than 1,000 scientific studies. Cooking with garlic

Most of the modern research on garlic has concentrated on its ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure as well as offering protection against strokes and heart disease.

The following is a more detailed account of what garlic does for various organs in the human body:

1. Protection of the liver from toxic substances: Garlic activates the cells of the liver and thereby protects the liver from toxic substances; it also rejuvenates a tired liver and promotes its normal functioning.

2. Improvement of blood circulation: When allicin is heated in the process of cooking the garlic, a substance called "ajoene" is formed. This substance has a suppressive effect on thrombi and blood cholesterol, so it is effective for the treatment of atherosclerosis and thrombosis.

3. Regulation of stomach function: Allicin promotes the secretion of gastric juices by stimulating the mucous membranes of the stomach; furthermore, it combines with proteins which can reduce excessive activity of the stomach. In addition, allicin regulates the functioning of the stomach by activating the large intestine and thus cure both constipation and diarrhea.

4. Promotion of insulin secretion: Allicin combines with vitamin B1 (thiamine) to activate the function of the pancreas and thus promote insulin secretion. As a result, garlic is effective in the prevention or the cure of diabetes that is caused by a lack of insulin or by the defective functioning of the pancreas.

5. Normalization of blood circulation: Because it stimulates the brain nerves and controls the workings of the heart at a constant level, garlic stabilizes blood pressure. It is also capable of dissolving cholesterol and fatty substances inside blood vessels and therefore refreshing cells and the blood inside the body.

Today, there is worldwide scientific evidence to support the many health benefits that can be derived from the daily consumption of garlic.

* Extensive tests on humans have concluded that a regular intake of garlic can:

* Lower total cholesterol (but raise the good-type HDL cholesterol)

* Produce more "natural killer" cells in the blood that will tackle infections and tumors

* Lower blood pressure

* Reduce the risk of blood clots (that are responsible for most heart attacks and strokes)

* Destroy infection causing viruses and bacteria

Garlic is classified as both an herb and a vegetable. It can be found in products ranging from ice cream to dry rubs; the versatility of this herb is seemingly endless.

Tips for cooking with garlic:

1. before cooking, remove the exterior skin of the clove. There are many ways to do this: strike the bulb with the broad side of a kitchen knife, use a rubber garlic rolling tube, soak the garlic in lukewarm water for 30 minutes or dip the cloves into boiling water for 30 seconds.

2. After skinning the garlic, select a cooking method that will result in the appropriate flavor. It can be sautéed to create a nutty, savory taste; poached to create a mild flavor; oven-roasted to bring out the nutty flavor with a caramelized quality; fried to create a crisp exterior; or grilled to create a soft, smoky flavor.

3. Garlic is very sensitive to heat and will burn easily, especially when sautéing. Expose the garlic to heat just until the oil sizzles and then remove it. When cooking garlic with onions, start the onions first. They will take longer to cook.

Benefits of Garlic: Cancer Prevention

Indeed, the first scientific report to study garlic and cancer was performed in the 1950s. Scientists injected allicin, an active ingredient from garlic, into mice suffering from cancer. Mice receiving the injection survived more than 6 months whereas those which did not receive the injection only survived 2 months.

Easy way of diet

2009-05-17T04:14:00.000-07:00

15 Effective Methods Helping You to Lose Weight Quick
by: Joshua Nichols

Do you want to lose weight fast? It's can be easy to say goodbye to 5 -10 pounds of unwanted fat with these easy diet tips. By paying attention to what you eat and be sure to have great tasting, fresh and healthy(organic if you can get it) food including (non-sugary)snacks, fill up on vegetables and keep your taste buds happy with fresh fruit.

No need to make any huge sacrifices! All you have to do is follow these straight forward guidelines to lose your first 10 pounds, last 10 pounds or give your weight loss program a boost when it seems to have stuttered to a halt. This is a balanced and flexible plan that you can use for as long as you want.

The surprising fact is that many conditions can be improved by visualization and weight loss is one of them. It works like this: you keep a vision in your mind of how you want your body to look, and subconsciously you will begin acting in a way that will go in that direction. You become much more positive about your body, more accepting of your diet or fitness regime, and you will reach your weight goals more quickly and easily. Keep this in mind when you are doing these activities you will be reading up on in the tips below.

1. Keep a note of everything that you eat and drink. You do not need to estimate calories. Write down what it was that you had and the approximate quantity. You will find that being more aware of what you are eating helps you to plan healthy meals and snacks.

2. Halve your intake of all pure or added fats. This means using half as much butter or spread on your bread, toast, muffins and potatoes; half the usual amount of mayonnaise or sauce on your salad; and half the oil in the fry pan every time.

3. Limit treats containing sugar to three times per week. This includes chocolate, ice cream, desserts, cake, pastries, cookies, etc.

4. Include a lower fat source of protein at most meals: chicken, fish, beans, cottage cheese, or low fat yogurt. Have eggs, nuts and red meat occasionally but not every day.

5. Plan at least one lunch and dinner every week without meat or cheese. Build those meals around whole grains, vegetables and beans to increase fiber and reduce fat.

6. Reduce the fat content in your milk products. If you are currently drinking whole milk, reduce to 2 reduce to 1%. Choose lower fat cheese and yogurt. When you buy yogurt, also check that it does not contain sugar.

7. Have at least two servings of fruit every day. This can be for dessert or snacks. Choose fruit that is in season.

8. Drink water instead of sodas, juices, milky drinks or alcohol. Avoid diet soda - the sweet taste only encourages you to crave sugar. Hot water with a slice of lemon can be very refreshing in the morning.

9. Include at least two servings of vegetables at lunch and dinner. If you are getting hungry, have more.

10. Eat slowly. The body is slow to register when you are full and it is easy to eat too much if you are racing through your meals.

11. Grated carrot makes a great snack. You will find that a grated carrot is much more filling than a whole carrot. Strange but true.

12. Use whole grains wherever possible. The fiber will give you a fuller feeling and also help your digestion.

13. Choose food that you can chew. Again this will increase your fiber intake, and the act of chewing will make you feel more satisfied too. This means eating fruit instead of drinking juice. If you have soup, make sure it is chunky.

14. Plan your meals and snacks ahead of time. Plan your shopping too - make a list of what you need and stick to it. If you just grab something when you are feeling hungry, you will probably choose high calorie food.

15. Always switch off the TV when you eat. That includes snacks as well as meals. Studies have proved that we eat larger portions in front of the TV, probably because we are much less aware of what we are eating. When you eat, only eat if you want to lose weight fast.

Good Sleep

2009-05-17T04:07:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Ways to Get a Good Night's Sleep
by: Linda Dessau

Sleep – are you getting enough? For some people, enough is four to six hours. Other people just don't feel right with less than eight hours. People need more or less sleep at different phases in their life. Women may need more or less sleep at different phases of the month.

The simplest way to tell if you're getting enough is by noticing every morning - do you feel rested? Do you wake up without an alarm clock and feel ready to get right out of bed and start your day?

Not getting enough sleep is one of the most direct ways that we self-sabotage our success and well-being. When we are better rested we not only feel better, but are calmer, smarter, more rational, nicer to be around and we look better. Why wouldn't we choose to have that every day??

1. Set the Stage - turn off the computer and television at least one hour before you'd like to fall asleep, and turn on some music that you find relaxing. Test what your stereo system will do when the recording is finished – does it SNAP! or does it “wrrrr” – this will make a difference as you’re drifting off. My CD player makes a very soft "wrrrr" noise (though I honestly can't remember the last time I was still awake when the CD was over).

2. Music without words - words can provoke and direct your thoughts more than instrumental music or pure vocal sounds.

3. Music with natural "breaths" - music where the soloist takes natural pauses to breathe can help you to slow down your own breath - try flute, other wind instruments or voice (either with no words or words in a language you don't understand).

4. A good book - For bedtime reading, try to stay away from material that gets you thinking about things you deal with during the day. Magazines or stories that distract you from your own life may help you to drift into sleep.

5. Imagery - If you find that your mind is racing when you are trying to sleep, picture a viewpoint where you're traveling down a road. See your thoughts as signposts that you're passing. Concentrate on letting them pass right by.

6. Progressive muscle relxation - Imagine that a ball of light is traveling along your body, beginning at the top of your head, going down to the tips of your toes, and then coming up again. As it passes your muscles, they fill with light and relax.

7. Take a nap - If your sleep has been interrupted or there've been unavoidable late nights, an afternoon nap can help you catch up. Experts advise that naps should be taken earlier in the afternoon, rather than later, and that we should keep them to 30 minutes or less. This will avoid disrupting your sleep at night.

8. Lavender Bath - Take a hot bath and add a couple of drops of lavender oil. Lavender has naturally occurring relaxing properties.

9. Chamomile Tea - Calms the nervous system and helps to promote restful sleep.

10. Take 500 mg Calcium with 250 mg Magnesium at bedtime - The calcium has a calming effect, and the magnesium works along with it.

Healthy way of eating

2009-05-17T04:04:00.000-07:00

The Five Keys to Healthy Eating
by: Jeremy Likness

Healthy eating is about more than calories or following the latest dietary fad. Trends come and go. Healthy bodies have been around for thousands of years, before there were magic bullets for instant fat loss marketed on major television stations or promising easy weight loss in flashy colors on the pages of magazines. By embracing your individuality, and learning how to apply the five keys of healthy eating to your own lifestyle, you can transcend these temporary fads and ease into a lifelong habit of living lean.

1. Enjoy what you eat
Whether someone is following the Atkins diet, the South Beach diet, the advice contained in Tom Venuto's e-Book, “Burn the Fat, Feed the Muscle” or even a program of their own design, success depends on enjoying what you eat. When you don't enjoy your food, you resist it. Resistance creates stress and stress is counter-productive to fat loss. It is important to look at eating as a part of your life, not a chore that interrupts your life.

The question ultimately becomes, “How do I learn to enjoy healthy foods?” Most people did not enjoy their first cup of coffee or can of beer. What happened is that in their environment, external pressures – stress, fatigue, peer pressure – created a desire to enjoy that steaming hot espresso or to be able to chug down a draught of beer with the best of their buddies. Eventually, a strange thing happened – when the coffee cup was repeatedly associated with more energy or productivity, or simply the pleasure of settling down to read something while draining the cup, or when the beer became associated with fun times and great parties, they “acquired a taste.”
You can acquire a taste for healthy foods. It is important to understand how you operate, to determine if it makes sense to go “cold turkey” or transition. Many people cling to diets that allow “free days” or “gorge fests” because they never really learn to enjoy the healthy food – they need the psychological crutch of getting comfortable again (if comfortable means bloated and nauseous from overeating junk food) and live from “free day” to “free day.” Is this you? If so, you might start transitioning and looking for an alternative. Instead of a free day, how about this: have a few free meals and then focus on enjoying the food that you consume throughout the week. Experiment with new recipes. Don't like raw vegetables? Try steamed. Don't like them plain? Spice them up. As you lose weight and gain energy, focus on the connection between your healthy foods and your new physique. Before long, you might even “acquire a taste” for healthy foods.

2. Believe in what you are doing
Belief is an important component of any lifestyle. If you don't believe what you are doing will work, why should you continue to do it? Often times, the lack of belief is not in the program you are following, but rather in yourself. Food is an addiction that is no different than addiction to cigarettes, alcohol, or illegal drugs. To overcome this addiction, the first place to look is within you. Without faith, you are going to allow fear to maneuver you into a position to binge, overeat, and sabotage yourself.

When you don't believe, you simply “do.” It is a frustrating concept, especially for analytical people, because they want to have a simple set of rules. It is easy as an analytical person to get into your comfort zone. Find an equation that spits out a number of calories. Get a “ratio” of foods – 40% protein, 40% carbs, 20% fat, right? Then you have that exact formula and you are ready to go. Unfortunately, if it were that simple, more people would be sharing their success story (and their formulas) with everyone else.

The fact is that it is not the calorie or the formula or the ratio that determines your success. It is you. Whether you are on a high protein, low fat, no-sugar, or other program, your success will be determined by the level of your belief. I have witnessed people achieve success using many different nutrition styles, and the common element that linked their success was belief. If you asked them, “Will you lose your weight,” they would reply, “Absolutely.” If you cannot state that without confidence, it is time to find something you can believe in ... and more often than not, it will not be a new program, but you. Believe in you.

3. Practice moderation
Moderation is the key to everything. Many people operate in an either/or mode – either they are following a program perfectly, or they are simply going wild with their eating habits. A true lifestyle plan will be easy to follow because you won't have to worry about counting calories or weighing foods. Why? Because you are operating from a zone called moderation. This zone is tough for many people to find, and sometimes it requires going through a strict dietary regimen in order to create the control you deserve to have over food, instead of allowing food to control you.

Moderation simply means permission to enjoy without excess. When you want a glass of wine, you pour one and savor it. You do not suddenly feel guilty and then punish yourself for having it. If you are having a slice of pizza or ice cream, you don't create a license to eat until you are stuffed. Instead, you have a slice or two and enjoy it. If you are full, you are done. If not, then you might share a dessert with your spouse or someone else at the table.

Those who are successful at keeping their weight off don't overeat and they don't create limits. Some people truly enjoy healthy foods and eat these all of the time. Others have a balance they create. What is common is that they do not become a victim when they cannot eat a certain food – if a special occasion arises, they are happy to enjoy a piece of cake. The key is that they are in control and don't overdo it ... and when it is done, they don't allow guilt to override their success.

4. Be flexible with new ideas
Change is tough. Change is scary. If change were easy, there would not be millions of dollars in books about how to face change being sold. Change in your nutrition or health is no different than change in other areas of your life. Embracing a new style of eating can feel uncomfortable and unfamiliar. I know – I have been there and done that myself.

The key to success, however, is not to become so boxed into your comfort zone that you cannot open to new ideas. For example, I had been conditioned to combine protein and carbs at every meal, that when my wife suggested I attempt food-combining (a concept where you do not eat proteins and starches together – for more information, read “Fit for Life” by Harvey Diamond or “Total Health Makeover” by Marilu Henner) I simply resisted. “No way – that's not right! I've learned that ...”

Eventually, however, I came to my senses. No matter how much I have read or learned, the reality is experience. You can argue with me all day long about what color the sky is – but if it is blue in my reality, then that is the reality I will embrace. Everything productive in my life has come from being able to embrace change and try out new things. I discard what doesn't work, and embrace what does. This ability to not fear the unknown allowed me to try food-combining even though it did not fit into my existing reality. What I found was an eating method that gave me more energy and helped me feel more comfortable. By stepping outside of my comfort zone and trying something new, I was able to integrate more freedom into my eating plan.
Don't be afraid to try new programs, new dishes, and new recipes. Don't pre-qualify your decisions by going to research and reading about calories and studying the fat content. Instead, just try it. Keep a journal. Record your feelings in the journal. Observe how your body reacts. Create a dialogue with food that works for you rather than living in someone else's system. Don't fear change – change is required to move from overweight or obese to healthy and lean!

5. Learn to hear your body
Most of us tune out our body's protests. It is a requirement in modern society. When we are constantly stuffing our bodies with foods that damage and harm us, our bodies cannot continue to sensitize us to the pain or we would be in a constant state of suffering. So instead, the brain tunes out the signals like background noise. We no longer realize the harm that we are doing to ourselves. We confuse cravings with hunger. We think we want sugar when our body is screaming for healthy fats. It creates a state of constant stress that we are not conscious of, and it impacts the core of our health.

This is why I believe it is great to quiet and calm things down. Don't be afraid to juice fast for a few days. Try a "5-day high-fiber cleanse" to reconnect with your own health. Don't listen to your friends who will scream “starvation” and swear you are going to lose pounds of muscle. Muscle doesn't disappear overnight, and starvation is when you have NO food, not when you go on a modified fast that provides nutrients but gives you the ability to break out of a cycle of cravings and self-abuse that modern, processed foods create.

Learn to eat when you are ready, not when it is time. This doesn't mean that if your preferred style of nutrition is consuming six meals per day that you stop. What this means is that you get in tune with your body. If you are not hungry when it is time for meal two, go back and adjust meal one so that it doesn't fill you up so much. If you are starving by meal two, change meal one so that you are satisfied – increase the portion size, add healthy fats, or introduce new foods.
By learning your body, you can break out of the cycle of measuring and weighing foods. You come into contact with yourself, and learn to flow. When you feel it is time to eat, you eat. You don't eat a pre-allotted amount of calories. Instead, you listen to yourself. Think about whether you feel like having a lot of protein. If the thought turns your stomach, focus on salads, or fruit, or whole grains. Find what feels comfortable and then eat enough to satisfy you without leaving you stuffed. Practice this for a few weeks and you'll find that you can think yourself into the shape you desire without having to obsess over calories.

These are the five keys to successful, healthy living that I have observed. The people I know who have conquered their weight and are comfortable in their bodies used different methods. Some are vegetarians, some advocate low carbohydrate diets and others feel that high protein is important. Despite these differences, however, ultimately the plan they settled into addressed these five key points and allowed them to live in their health rather than having to work on their lack of it.

Benefits of green tea

2009-05-17T03:57:00.000-07:00

Green Tea and Its Relation to Promoting Periodontal Health
by: Zyra Robinson

Since ancient times, green tea has been popular in Asian cultures like China and Japan. It is their beverage of choice because of its medicinal benefits. Its popularity has surged in the western hemisphere largely because of its proven ability to treat ailments such as headaches and depression. Dentist Burbank supports the scientific research regarding green tea and its health benefits. It has proven effective in fighting cancer, lowering high cholesterol levels, dealing with cardiovascular problems, ensuring immune infection, and preventing arthritis, among others. What makes green tea special is that it is rich in catechin polyphenols (epigallocathechin gallate or EGCG), which is an effective antioxidant. Green tea is known to prevent cancer and weight loss. It also inhibits abnormal formation of blood clots.

Dental Burbank believes that the study published by the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) about green tea consumption should be taken seriously. Given the close links between dental health and overall health, it has been found that green tea also helps promote healthy teeth and gums by fighting periodontal diseases. According to Dentists Burbank, there are lots of information regarding the study done before by Japanese researchers when they analyzed 940 men focusing on their periodontal health. They found out that people who drank green tea regularly obtain good periodontal health.

There were three indicators examined regarding periodontal diseases. When green tea was consumed during the study, it was discovered that the periodontal pocket depth, attachment loss of gum tissue and bleeding on probing of the gum tissues (three indicators) decreased its potential on having periodontal disease. According to Cosmetic Irvine, the research has shown that the catechin, which is an antioxidant in green tea, helps promote good periodontal health. Catechin interferes in the body's inflammatory response to periodontal bacteria. Because of this type of antioxidant, there is less chance of getting chronic inflammatory disease (periodontal disease) that affects gums and bones that support the teeth. DDS Irvine agreed with what Dr. David Cochran, DDS, PhD, President of the AAP and Chair of the Department of Periodontics at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, when he said: "That is why it is so important to find simple ways to boost periodontal health, such as regularly drinking green tea - something already known to possess certain health-related benefits."

Green tea helps promote periodontal health and prevents diseases closely associated with in periodontal diseases. This is because green tea interferes with our body's response to periodontal bacteria. There are, however, concerns regarding the harmful effects of drinking green tea because it also has caffeine. Although it contains caffeine, which sometimes lead to insomnia (the only negative side effect reported), the caffeine content in tea is relatively small. Coffee, on the other hand, has more caffeine in its content compared to tea. Tea, therefore, is safe to drink. This is a beverage that is easy to find. It gives a lot of health benefits not only to our overall health but also to our dental health.