If you suffer from Fibromyalgia and have problems with digestion, then it is time for a gut check. But what if you have no symptoms?
We are supposed to have about 3 lbs of good bacteria in our digestive tract. We need this to help digest and absorb the nutrients from the food we eat. Think of the gut as a garden. We want healthy plants or flowers in it. If it gets overgrown with weeds or bad bacteria or parasites, then the good plants will not thrive. When this happens it is called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis refers to microbial imbalances and is most prominent in the digestive tract.
There are stool tests that can be used to see what kind of bacteria, amoebas, parasites, or what kind of fungal forms may exist. These are the weeds of your garden. Two things are common: one, there is a proliferation of bad bacteria or bad "bugs"; and secondly, there's an absence of healthy bacteria. The test will also show what natural herbs and medications will kill the unwanted visitors in the gut. (This test gives different information that a colonoscopy, and is more comfortable.)
Here are some factors that cause what the researchers are calling intestinal overgrowth or bad bacteria:
1. Stress causes a change in the pH of the bowel, causing the healthy bacteria to not proliferate as they should
2. Low fiber starves out the healthy bacteria
3. A sugar-laden diet feeds the bad bacteria
4. High trans-fats or hydrogenated oils have a negative effect on biliary function. We need healthy bile flow to create the proper pH and to have the proper transit time necessary for the proliferation of good bacteria.
5. Antibiotics, whether we take the pills or if we consume commercially prepared antibiotic tainted chicken, beef, or pork, we're getting the side effects of antibiotics
6. Eating too fast can cause the growth of bad bacteria. If we eat too fast, we're not digesting our food properly and our enzymes are not killing the bacteria that are naturally present in our food.
If you think about it, just about everyone has one or more of those factors.
So really, everyone should go on a periodic "re-seeding" of healthy probiotics. The more research accumulates, the more we find that gut problems are a contributing factor to just about every condition.
A huge part of fixing the GI tract is balancing the gut micro-flora. Healthy probiotics have been shown to: improve digestive function, modulate the gut immune system up or down, increase the growth of an aerobic bacterium, decrease bad or unfriendly bacteria and reduce leaky gut. Probiotics are a big factor in maintaining a healthy GI barrier. This barrier selectively blocks unhealthy organisms and antibodies from entering the blood stream. Healthy probiotics have also been shown to improve liver function, to stimulate phagocytosis and to benefit healthy gastric mucosal linings.
Here is a major point to remember: eating yogurt is not the same as taking a good pre and probiotic formula.
There is no comparison, despite what the movie star tells you on the commercial. Which brings up a point, many of the commercial preparations of probiotics tested did not meet label claims in terms of the numbers of bacteria, and in many cases the healthy bacteria were already dead. Make sure the probiotics that you take have prebiotics in with them as well. Prebiotics are valuable to make sure that the healthy bacteria can grow, kind of like putting starter fertilizer on new grass. They create an environment that is conducive to their growth and health.
So if you are having gastrointestinal symptoms, make sure you get into a health provider that understands what we have just talked about. If you are going on antibiotics, or have been on them, you need to get on a good quality pre and probiotic formula to re-seed and feed your gut garden.
Dr. Chris Heimlich D.C. consults with Fibromyalgia patients from around the world. You can request his End The Fibromyalgia Nightmare report by visiting http://askdrheimlich.com/fibromyalgia-treatment-scottsdale-phoenix
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6430853
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
112 Tips for Healthy Living
Here are 112 tips for healthy living that I think we need to put into practice. As a true believer of aloe vera benefits, I have thrown some in there. I also wrote some of these as they hit me so they are not in any particular sequence.
1. Aloe vera aids and balances the digestive system.
2. A cold compress controls inflammation.
3. A hot compress relieves pain.
4. Pure aloe vera gel relieves pain.
5. Remove toxins from the body or the body will.
6. Stress and eyestrain cause headaches.
7. Avoid diet pills at all cost.
8. Add more fibre to your diet.
9. Best low-calorie diet is a vegetarian diet.
10. Relieve stress by meditating.
11. Best fasting is alkaline juice fasting.
12. Drink fresh fruit & vegetable juices instead of processed juices.
13. Water is a natural cleanser.
14. Drink at least 6 glasses of water daily.
15. Eat green leafy vegetables to help lower the risk of heart disease.
16. Vegetables are best eaten raw, steamed or steam-fried.
17. Drink water before, during and after exercise.
18. A good exercise regimen will lengthen your life.
19. Do something physical every single day.
20. Keep your joint flexible to reduce arthritis pain.
21. Drinking aloe vera juice helps maintain your energy levels.
22. Diet and exercise are inter-related for weight-loss & good health.
23. Monitor what you eat.
24. Avoid shopping when you are hungry.
25. When you eat, leave something on your plate.
26. Always eat at the table, never in front of the television.
27. Never skip meals, your appetite will only make you play “catch up”.
28. Cigarettes threaten your health.
29. Protect yourself/kids from secondhand smoke.
30. Boiled milk is easier to digest.
31. Eliminate as much fried foods as possible from your diet.
32. Trim all fats from meats before cooking.
33. Drink skim milk instead of whole milk.
34. Whole wheat flour/bread is better than white flour/bread.
35. Always use a list to shop for groceries.
36. Stay away from processed foods as much as possible.
37. Eat more white meat than red meat.
38. Use non-stick pans.
39. Always warm up before exercising.
40. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
41. Hide your remote control; get up to change the channel.
42. Exercise for increased energy.
43. Diabetics – avoid injecting insulin into your muscle before exercising.
44. Less salt is good for you.
45. Plan your meals and menus.
46. Shop for products from health food stores.
47. Marinate meats in the refrigerator.
48. Scrub chopping boards between chopping each type of food.
49. Always use clean utensils.
50. Always wash your hands before you eat or prepare food.
51. Defrost meats in the bottom of the refrigerator.
52. White meats cook faster than red meats.
53. Keep all raw meats away from other food.
54. Disinfect hand, cutting board, utensils & surroundings after handling raw meats.
55. It’s healthier to prepare more of your meals at home.
56. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily.
57. Get at least 6 hours of sleep daily.
58. Laughter is good for your mental and physical state.
59. Aloe vera helps the renewal of healthy tissues and skin.
60. Aloe vera maintains a healthy urinary tract.
61. Hand washing is an easy way to prevent infections.
62. Accept yourself for the way you are.
63. Become more positive; positive emotions make life worth living.
64. Develop and maintain good posture for better relaxation.
65. Educate yourself about any history of family illnesses.
66. Breast feeding
may help to get the body back into shape internally.
67. Breast milk has the right balance of nutrients for babies.
68. Breast milk help increase baby’s protection against illnesses & allergies.
69. Avoid all harmful drugs.
70. Dispose of garbage properly.
71. Exercise cleanliness of food, body and surroundings.
72. Excessive alcohol threatens your health.
73. Keep leftovers in the refrigerator.
74. Do not share hair-brushes, combs, toothbrushes or other personal items.
75. Never eat food that looks or smells bad.
76. Eat less sugar and sweets.
77. Do not pollute the rivers, streams and sea.
78. Avoid burning to clear land.
79. Avoid cultivation of steep slopes.
80. Protect and preserve our environment.
81. Respect your fellow man.
82. Have companionship – develop social connections.
83. Do something you love – get a hobby.
84. Walking helps the total circulation of blood throughout the body.
85. Keep your hands away from your nose, mouth & eyes to minimize catching a cold.
86. Train yourself & your family to sneeze into your elbow.
87. If you sneeze into a tissue, dispose of it and wash your hands.
88. Plan your goals.
89. Go out and make your goals happen.
90. Build your self esteem.
91. Start the day with a nutritious breakfast every morning.
92. Never eat raw or lightly cooked eggs.
93. Eat more alkaline foods to decrease aging.
94. Seafood is the best natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
95. Smile more to relieve stress, look younger & stay positive.
96. Try not to worry; accept situations & find solutions.
97. Eliminate stress – stress leads to acidosis.
98. Stay away from harsh laxatives.
99. Protect your skin from contaminants including dirt & uv rays.
100. Avoid preparing meals if you have diarrhoea or vomiting.
101. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling live poultry.
102. Do not eat or drink in areas where birds live or roam.
103. Do not allow animals in places where you prepare foods.
104. Keep cooked meat dishes in temperatures warmer than 140°F or cooler than 41°F.
105. Refrigerate cooked food within 2 hours of preparation.
106. Reheat leftovers thoroughly (165°F or more) before serving.
107. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
108. Do not let children 5 years & under handle live poultry without supervision.
109. Wash hands after touching animals, their food, etc.
110. Disinfect cleaning sponges/rags in kitchens/bathrooms and keep dry.
111. Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home.
112. Never run a motor inside or close to an enclosed area.
These are some of the health tips eating at my brain but I’m sure you can add more. With only one life to live; I’m trying to live it to the fullest ….. Be healthy.
About the Author: Mevonnie Hugh is an affiliate marketer/independent business owner who promotes business opportunities & healthy living both online and offline. Learn more at My Miracle Plant Website and http://www.proearnja.com
1. Aloe vera aids and balances the digestive system.
2. A cold compress controls inflammation.
3. A hot compress relieves pain.
4. Pure aloe vera gel relieves pain.
5. Remove toxins from the body or the body will.
6. Stress and eyestrain cause headaches.
7. Avoid diet pills at all cost.
8. Add more fibre to your diet.
9. Best low-calorie diet is a vegetarian diet.
10. Relieve stress by meditating.
11. Best fasting is alkaline juice fasting.
12. Drink fresh fruit & vegetable juices instead of processed juices.
13. Water is a natural cleanser.
14. Drink at least 6 glasses of water daily.
15. Eat green leafy vegetables to help lower the risk of heart disease.
16. Vegetables are best eaten raw, steamed or steam-fried.
17. Drink water before, during and after exercise.
18. A good exercise regimen will lengthen your life.
19. Do something physical every single day.
20. Keep your joint flexible to reduce arthritis pain.
21. Drinking aloe vera juice helps maintain your energy levels.
22. Diet and exercise are inter-related for weight-loss & good health.
23. Monitor what you eat.
24. Avoid shopping when you are hungry.
25. When you eat, leave something on your plate.
26. Always eat at the table, never in front of the television.
27. Never skip meals, your appetite will only make you play “catch up”.
28. Cigarettes threaten your health.
29. Protect yourself/kids from secondhand smoke.
30. Boiled milk is easier to digest.
31. Eliminate as much fried foods as possible from your diet.
32. Trim all fats from meats before cooking.
33. Drink skim milk instead of whole milk.
34. Whole wheat flour/bread is better than white flour/bread.
35. Always use a list to shop for groceries.
36. Stay away from processed foods as much as possible.
37. Eat more white meat than red meat.
38. Use non-stick pans.
39. Always warm up before exercising.
40. Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
41. Hide your remote control; get up to change the channel.
42. Exercise for increased energy.
43. Diabetics – avoid injecting insulin into your muscle before exercising.
44. Less salt is good for you.
45. Plan your meals and menus.
46. Shop for products from health food stores.
47. Marinate meats in the refrigerator.
48. Scrub chopping boards between chopping each type of food.
49. Always use clean utensils.
50. Always wash your hands before you eat or prepare food.
51. Defrost meats in the bottom of the refrigerator.
52. White meats cook faster than red meats.
53. Keep all raw meats away from other food.
54. Disinfect hand, cutting board, utensils & surroundings after handling raw meats.
55. It’s healthier to prepare more of your meals at home.
56. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice daily.
57. Get at least 6 hours of sleep daily.
58. Laughter is good for your mental and physical state.
59. Aloe vera helps the renewal of healthy tissues and skin.
60. Aloe vera maintains a healthy urinary tract.
61. Hand washing is an easy way to prevent infections.
62. Accept yourself for the way you are.
63. Become more positive; positive emotions make life worth living.
64. Develop and maintain good posture for better relaxation.
65. Educate yourself about any history of family illnesses.
66. Breast feeding
may help to get the body back into shape internally.67. Breast milk has the right balance of nutrients for babies.
68. Breast milk help increase baby’s protection against illnesses & allergies.
69. Avoid all harmful drugs.
70. Dispose of garbage properly.
71. Exercise cleanliness of food, body and surroundings.
72. Excessive alcohol threatens your health.
73. Keep leftovers in the refrigerator.
74. Do not share hair-brushes, combs, toothbrushes or other personal items.
75. Never eat food that looks or smells bad.
76. Eat less sugar and sweets.
77. Do not pollute the rivers, streams and sea.
78. Avoid burning to clear land.
79. Avoid cultivation of steep slopes.
80. Protect and preserve our environment.
81. Respect your fellow man.
82. Have companionship – develop social connections.
83. Do something you love – get a hobby.
84. Walking helps the total circulation of blood throughout the body.
85. Keep your hands away from your nose, mouth & eyes to minimize catching a cold.
86. Train yourself & your family to sneeze into your elbow.
87. If you sneeze into a tissue, dispose of it and wash your hands.
88. Plan your goals.
89. Go out and make your goals happen.
90. Build your self esteem.
91. Start the day with a nutritious breakfast every morning.
92. Never eat raw or lightly cooked eggs.
93. Eat more alkaline foods to decrease aging.
94. Seafood is the best natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
95. Smile more to relieve stress, look younger & stay positive.
96. Try not to worry; accept situations & find solutions.
97. Eliminate stress – stress leads to acidosis.
98. Stay away from harsh laxatives.
99. Protect your skin from contaminants including dirt & uv rays.
100. Avoid preparing meals if you have diarrhoea or vomiting.
101. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling live poultry.
102. Do not eat or drink in areas where birds live or roam.
103. Do not allow animals in places where you prepare foods.
104. Keep cooked meat dishes in temperatures warmer than 140°F or cooler than 41°F.
105. Refrigerate cooked food within 2 hours of preparation.
106. Reheat leftovers thoroughly (165°F or more) before serving.
107. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
108. Do not let children 5 years & under handle live poultry without supervision.
109. Wash hands after touching animals, their food, etc.
110. Disinfect cleaning sponges/rags in kitchens/bathrooms and keep dry.
111. Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home.
112. Never run a motor inside or close to an enclosed area.
These are some of the health tips eating at my brain but I’m sure you can add more. With only one life to live; I’m trying to live it to the fullest ….. Be healthy.
About the Author: Mevonnie Hugh is an affiliate marketer/independent business owner who promotes business opportunities & healthy living both online and offline. Learn more at My Miracle Plant Website and http://www.proearnja.com
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Arsenic Poisoning Symptoms And Treatments
Arsenic is a very toxic substance that is found in food, water and household items. Tobacco smoke, laundry detergent, bone meal, sea food, beer and even drinking water are a few of the items arsenic can be consumed from. Headaches, confusion, sleepiness, and even convulsions can be the effects of arsenic poisoning. Vomiting, diarrhea, kidney, liver and lung problems can occur, including death in extreme cases. Here is how to avoid and cure arsenic poisoning.
Arsenic is found in many different places. Arsenic is used to poison pests such as rats and mice, and can be used to kill any living thing. Arsenic is found in tiny amounts in many things that we consume. Some food items that may contain arsenic are seafood, water, bone meal, dolomite, kelp, table salt, and beer.
If you work in a job that produces any kind of pesticide, agricultural insecticide or spraying of any of these, you are at risk of arsenic poisoning. Other jobs that are at risk are copper smelting, mining, sheep dipping and metallurgical industries. Continued exposure to arsenic builds up in the system and there is an accumulated effect. The more you are exposed the more serious are the consequences.
Arsenic poisoning is usually determined by a hair analysis. If arsenic is found in the hair follicles it will stay there for years. If it is in your hair follicles it is usually in your body as well. Arsenic is also deposited in the fingernails and skin.
Exposure to arsenic is suspected as the cause of many types of cancer. The types of cancers that are found in workers that are regularly exposed to arsenic are: skin cancer, scrotal cancer, liver cancer, cancer of the lymphatic system, and lung cancer.
Symptoms of arsenic poisoning begin with headaches, confusion and drowsiness. As the poisoning develops, convulsions and changes in fingernail pigmentation may occur. When the poisoning becomes acute, symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, blood in the urine, cramping muscles, hair loss, stomach pain, and more convulsions. The organs of the body that are usually affected by arsenic poisoning are the lungs, skin, kidneys, and liver. The final result of arsenic poisoning is coma or death.
If you suspect that you are being exposed to arsenic your diet needs to include lots of sulfur. Sulfur can eliminate some of the arsenic from the body. The foods that contains sulfur are; eggs, onions, beans, legumes, and garlic. Sulfur can be bought and taken in tablet form also. The amino acid that provides sulfur is cysteine. Check with your doctor before taking any supplements.
Fiber can also help to leech the arsenic from your system by attaching to it and washing it out. Include a lot of fiber in your diet by eating whole grains and cereals, fruits and vegetables.
If someone accidentally ingests arsenic administer 5 charcoal tablets immediately. Take 5 more charcoal tablets 15 minutes later and again every fifteen minutes. Go immediately to an emergency room. Charcoal tablets should be a part of every medicine cabinet for any type of poisoning.
Chelation therapy is an option if you have arsenic poisoning. Chelation therapy is used to remove toxic metals such as cadmium, arsenic, lead and mercury from our bodies. Metals and minerals can clog our systems and can be removed with chelation therapy. The procedure has been done for forty years in the United States and is safe. Chelation therapy is a series of injections of ethylenediaminetetra aacetic acid (EDTA) that is done in a doctors office.
You can also do chelation therapy at home with over the counter chelation formulas bought at a health food store or a drug store. Most are made with alfalfa, garlic, fiber, turin and selenium. Alfalfa liquid or tablets, taken three times daily with meals, detoxifies the liver and chelates substances from the body. Coenzyme Q(10) improves circulation of the blood which allows the toxic substances to leave the body. L-Lysine, an amino acid, detoxifies harmful heavy metals from our systems. Rutin and apple pectin can be taken to bind with unwanted toxic metals and remove them from the body through the intestinal tract.
When doing any chelation therapy, make sure that you replace lost essential minerals by taking alfalfa, iron, kelp and zinc in addition to your regular multi-vitamin.
Author: Unknown
Arsenic is found in many different places. Arsenic is used to poison pests such as rats and mice, and can be used to kill any living thing. Arsenic is found in tiny amounts in many things that we consume. Some food items that may contain arsenic are seafood, water, bone meal, dolomite, kelp, table salt, and beer.
If you work in a job that produces any kind of pesticide, agricultural insecticide or spraying of any of these, you are at risk of arsenic poisoning. Other jobs that are at risk are copper smelting, mining, sheep dipping and metallurgical industries. Continued exposure to arsenic builds up in the system and there is an accumulated effect. The more you are exposed the more serious are the consequences.
Arsenic poisoning is usually determined by a hair analysis. If arsenic is found in the hair follicles it will stay there for years. If it is in your hair follicles it is usually in your body as well. Arsenic is also deposited in the fingernails and skin.
Exposure to arsenic is suspected as the cause of many types of cancer. The types of cancers that are found in workers that are regularly exposed to arsenic are: skin cancer, scrotal cancer, liver cancer, cancer of the lymphatic system, and lung cancer.
Symptoms of arsenic poisoning begin with headaches, confusion and drowsiness. As the poisoning develops, convulsions and changes in fingernail pigmentation may occur. When the poisoning becomes acute, symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, blood in the urine, cramping muscles, hair loss, stomach pain, and more convulsions. The organs of the body that are usually affected by arsenic poisoning are the lungs, skin, kidneys, and liver. The final result of arsenic poisoning is coma or death.
If you suspect that you are being exposed to arsenic your diet needs to include lots of sulfur. Sulfur can eliminate some of the arsenic from the body. The foods that contains sulfur are; eggs, onions, beans, legumes, and garlic. Sulfur can be bought and taken in tablet form also. The amino acid that provides sulfur is cysteine. Check with your doctor before taking any supplements.
Fiber can also help to leech the arsenic from your system by attaching to it and washing it out. Include a lot of fiber in your diet by eating whole grains and cereals, fruits and vegetables.
If someone accidentally ingests arsenic administer 5 charcoal tablets immediately. Take 5 more charcoal tablets 15 minutes later and again every fifteen minutes. Go immediately to an emergency room. Charcoal tablets should be a part of every medicine cabinet for any type of poisoning.
Chelation therapy is an option if you have arsenic poisoning. Chelation therapy is used to remove toxic metals such as cadmium, arsenic, lead and mercury from our bodies. Metals and minerals can clog our systems and can be removed with chelation therapy. The procedure has been done for forty years in the United States and is safe. Chelation therapy is a series of injections of ethylenediaminetetra aacetic acid (EDTA) that is done in a doctors office.
You can also do chelation therapy at home with over the counter chelation formulas bought at a health food store or a drug store. Most are made with alfalfa, garlic, fiber, turin and selenium. Alfalfa liquid or tablets, taken three times daily with meals, detoxifies the liver and chelates substances from the body. Coenzyme Q(10) improves circulation of the blood which allows the toxic substances to leave the body. L-Lysine, an amino acid, detoxifies harmful heavy metals from our systems. Rutin and apple pectin can be taken to bind with unwanted toxic metals and remove them from the body through the intestinal tract.
When doing any chelation therapy, make sure that you replace lost essential minerals by taking alfalfa, iron, kelp and zinc in addition to your regular multi-vitamin.
Author: Unknown
Friday, June 10, 2011
Aloe Vera For Your Acne
The most common type of acne is Acne Vulgaris which includes whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules.
Whiteheads resemble little white towers growing out of your skin while blackheads look like tiny black, sometimes puffy spots on your skin.
Papules are painful red bumps and pustules are similar, kinda like ripe papules but with a white or yellow centre.
More severe types of acne are nodules - large painful lumps and cysts which are like nodules filled with yellowish white fluid.
You may want to choose the type of treatment for your acne very carefully as most acne treatments may contain dangerous chemicals which can cause harmful skin and internal conditions over long-term use. Do your own research on cosmetic ingredient safety assessments before choosing your products.
Personally, using the aloe vera both internally and topically for over 30 years has not produced any harmful side effects. It is a natural, non-toxic, antiseptic skin healer.
CLEANSING:
As a rule, everything that comes into contact with your face/skin should be immaculately clean!
Clean your skin gently at least twice daily, morning and night, with aloe vera soap, medicated soap/wash or a water-based cleansing cream/lotion to remove makeup. Use a clean wash rag every time (a baby wash rag is great for face). Do not rub hard or you may harm your skin. Rinse and pat dry, do not rub or you may spread the bacteria from any open pimples to other areas of your skin. You may use a grainy scrub to tackle blackheads. This is much safer than squeezing.
APPLY ALOE VERA:
Apply pure aloe vera gel
or ointment to your face/skin. If you have dry skin you may want to accompany it with an aloe vera moisturizing cream.
TREAT PIMPLES & SORES:
Apply aloe gel as often as you can throughout the day to quickly heal any sores or pimples. This will also help to reduce old scars and minimize or prevent new ones if you have picked your face.
AVOID:
1. Stress. When you are tense, stress stimulates the adrenal glands, causes an over-production of the hormone cortisol which increases the oil in your skin to create acne.
2. Dirty hair. Many infections (pimples) on the face can be caused by dirt, dust and oil being transferred from the hair to the face. You may want to keep your hair off your face if you are troubled with acne.
3. Soiled pillows. Try to change your pillow cases as often as you possibly can to avoid further infections as you sleep - when you toss and turn.
4. Dirty face basins and soiled makeup applicators. Make sure your face basin is scrubbed clean and use disposable applicators for applying all your makeup. Become a star for cleanliness.
5. Picking and squeezing. Don't squeeze that pimple!! This may transfer excess oils and infect other areas of your skin. It can also cause undesirable acne scarring. Try a gentle scrub instead; avoid scrubbing inflammatory lesions or "ripe" pimples. Be conscious of where you put your hands when you are distracted. Try to keep your hands off your face.
6. Smoking. This can affect your skin’s ability to heal and also cause wrinkles so you look older.
7. Greasy, spicy foods and sweets. These foods have been known to increase the production of oil and aggravate breakouts. If you stop eating certain foods and sweets for a month, e.g. fries, then resume eating them at a later date and your acne gets worse, you should permanently exclude these from your diet. Sorry! You need to eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, meat, milk and whole grains.
8. Greasy or oil-based creams, lotions and makeup. These can clog pores and encourage the growth of bacteria.
9. Being a couch potato. Sluggish circulation can often cause overactive oil glands. Improve your circulation with exercise.
10. Dehydration. Drink plenty of water to lubricate your complexion. Try an aloe drink. It helps to heal the skin from within by flushing out impurities.
 |
| Facial Acne |
Acne is a common skin disorder caused by excessive production of oil in the sebaceous glands – oil-clogged pores. It can appear on our face, neck, back, chest, buttocks and shoulders. Acne mainly affects us in our adolescent years and those of us with oily skin are more prone to outbreaks. Even in our adult years we may be affected so it is important to understand our skin and utilize an effective skin care routine.
The most common type of acne is Acne Vulgaris which includes whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules.
Whiteheads resemble little white towers growing out of your skin while blackheads look like tiny black, sometimes puffy spots on your skin.
Papules are painful red bumps and pustules are similar, kinda like ripe papules but with a white or yellow centre.
More severe types of acne are nodules - large painful lumps and cysts which are like nodules filled with yellowish white fluid.
You may want to choose the type of treatment for your acne very carefully as most acne treatments may contain dangerous chemicals which can cause harmful skin and internal conditions over long-term use. Do your own research on cosmetic ingredient safety assessments before choosing your products.
Personally, using the aloe vera both internally and topically for over 30 years has not produced any harmful side effects. It is a natural, non-toxic, antiseptic skin healer.
CLEANSING:
As a rule, everything that comes into contact with your face/skin should be immaculately clean!
Clean your skin gently at least twice daily, morning and night, with aloe vera soap, medicated soap/wash or a water-based cleansing cream/lotion to remove makeup. Use a clean wash rag every time (a baby wash rag is great for face). Do not rub hard or you may harm your skin. Rinse and pat dry, do not rub or you may spread the bacteria from any open pimples to other areas of your skin. You may use a grainy scrub to tackle blackheads. This is much safer than squeezing.
APPLY ALOE VERA:
Apply pure aloe vera gel
or ointment to your face/skin. If you have dry skin you may want to accompany it with an aloe vera moisturizing cream.TREAT PIMPLES & SORES:
Apply aloe gel as often as you can throughout the day to quickly heal any sores or pimples. This will also help to reduce old scars and minimize or prevent new ones if you have picked your face.
AVOID:
1. Stress. When you are tense, stress stimulates the adrenal glands, causes an over-production of the hormone cortisol which increases the oil in your skin to create acne.
2. Dirty hair. Many infections (pimples) on the face can be caused by dirt, dust and oil being transferred from the hair to the face. You may want to keep your hair off your face if you are troubled with acne.
3. Soiled pillows. Try to change your pillow cases as often as you possibly can to avoid further infections as you sleep - when you toss and turn.
4. Dirty face basins and soiled makeup applicators. Make sure your face basin is scrubbed clean and use disposable applicators for applying all your makeup. Become a star for cleanliness.
5. Picking and squeezing. Don't squeeze that pimple!! This may transfer excess oils and infect other areas of your skin. It can also cause undesirable acne scarring. Try a gentle scrub instead; avoid scrubbing inflammatory lesions or "ripe" pimples. Be conscious of where you put your hands when you are distracted. Try to keep your hands off your face.
6. Smoking. This can affect your skin’s ability to heal and also cause wrinkles so you look older.
7. Greasy, spicy foods and sweets. These foods have been known to increase the production of oil and aggravate breakouts. If you stop eating certain foods and sweets for a month, e.g. fries, then resume eating them at a later date and your acne gets worse, you should permanently exclude these from your diet. Sorry! You need to eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, meat, milk and whole grains.
8. Greasy or oil-based creams, lotions and makeup. These can clog pores and encourage the growth of bacteria.
9. Being a couch potato. Sluggish circulation can often cause overactive oil glands. Improve your circulation with exercise.
10. Dehydration. Drink plenty of water to lubricate your complexion. Try an aloe drink. It helps to heal the skin from within by flushing out impurities.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Kidney Stones
I’m relating from the point of view of one who has witnessed family members experiencing this problem.
As I understand it, kidney stones are formed from a build-up of unprocessed cells or bacteria and various minerals in our bodies. When the concentration of these minerals in the urine gets too high, crystals can form and become stones. Some common types you may have heard of are:
Calcium oxalate stones, (most common type), are due to an abnormal concentration of foods high in oxalate in our digestive system. Some foods high in oxalate are chocolate, peanuts, sweet potatoes, and dark green vegetables. You may have to eat these in moderation and take a calcium supplement. Doc said switching from black pepper to white pepper when preparing meals can also help.
Uric acid stones are formed when the pH of the urine becomes too acidic. Some highly acidic foods include alcohol, coffee, vinegar and beef. Adding more alkaline foods to the diet can help such as broccoli, lettuce, parsley and cucumber.
Struvite stones may occur due to recurring urinary tract infections. Surgery is the primary way to remove these types of stones. You can have UTI anywhere along the urinary tract. It may be in the bladder, kidneys, and urethras or even in the ureters. If you suffer from recurring UTI’s you should talk to your doctor about this.
Men, I’m sorry but you are more likely to get kidney stones than women. Also, once you have had one you have about a 75% chance of them recurring. It’s possible you may have had them and passed them when urinating and didn’t even know it. That means the stones were probably as small as a tiny grain of sand that didn’t cause you any pain during urination.
If the stones are larger then, watch out, you may be in for a day or two of really excruciating pain. You may feel it in your lower back, your side, the groin area, your thigh or even up an entire leg. You see the large stones can block the urethra and as the stones move along they damage the lining of the organ thereby causing the pain you feel. It may also cause a little blood to appear in the urine. A doctor can administer an injection to soften the stone to lessen or eliminate the discomfort during the process.
Most of these stones pass naturally but if you are experiencing severe pain, you can do as a member of my family did. Family member X went to see his doctor, who administered an injection, gave him some pain medication and told him to drink at least 12 cups of water throughout the day to help to speed up the process. After a couple days of this he apparently passed the stone without knowing he did.
You should try to catch the stone when it passes so that your doctor can have it analyzed to see what it is made of. How do you do that? Try urinating into a container for the duration. With the results of the composition of the stone, you will have a better idea of what foods to minimize or eliminate from your diet and the foods you need to include.
By my ramblings I am by no means saying that you should stay home and treat yourself. You should seek the advice of your doctor in case you have complications and definitely if you see mucus excretions which could be a sign of infection.
Here's a picture I took of a calcium stone measuring 2mm in diameter
As I understand it, kidney stones are formed from a build-up of unprocessed cells or bacteria and various minerals in our bodies. When the concentration of these minerals in the urine gets too high, crystals can form and become stones. Some common types you may have heard of are:
Calcium oxalate stones, (most common type), are due to an abnormal concentration of foods high in oxalate in our digestive system. Some foods high in oxalate are chocolate, peanuts, sweet potatoes, and dark green vegetables. You may have to eat these in moderation and take a calcium supplement. Doc said switching from black pepper to white pepper when preparing meals can also help.
Uric acid stones are formed when the pH of the urine becomes too acidic. Some highly acidic foods include alcohol, coffee, vinegar and beef. Adding more alkaline foods to the diet can help such as broccoli, lettuce, parsley and cucumber.
Struvite stones may occur due to recurring urinary tract infections. Surgery is the primary way to remove these types of stones. You can have UTI anywhere along the urinary tract. It may be in the bladder, kidneys, and urethras or even in the ureters. If you suffer from recurring UTI’s you should talk to your doctor about this.
Men, I’m sorry but you are more likely to get kidney stones than women. Also, once you have had one you have about a 75% chance of them recurring. It’s possible you may have had them and passed them when urinating and didn’t even know it. That means the stones were probably as small as a tiny grain of sand that didn’t cause you any pain during urination.
If the stones are larger then, watch out, you may be in for a day or two of really excruciating pain. You may feel it in your lower back, your side, the groin area, your thigh or even up an entire leg. You see the large stones can block the urethra and as the stones move along they damage the lining of the organ thereby causing the pain you feel. It may also cause a little blood to appear in the urine. A doctor can administer an injection to soften the stone to lessen or eliminate the discomfort during the process.
Most of these stones pass naturally but if you are experiencing severe pain, you can do as a member of my family did. Family member X went to see his doctor, who administered an injection, gave him some pain medication and told him to drink at least 12 cups of water throughout the day to help to speed up the process. After a couple days of this he apparently passed the stone without knowing he did.
You should try to catch the stone when it passes so that your doctor can have it analyzed to see what it is made of. How do you do that? Try urinating into a container for the duration. With the results of the composition of the stone, you will have a better idea of what foods to minimize or eliminate from your diet and the foods you need to include.
By my ramblings I am by no means saying that you should stay home and treat yourself. You should seek the advice of your doctor in case you have complications and definitely if you see mucus excretions which could be a sign of infection.
Here's a picture I took of a calcium stone measuring 2mm in diameter
 |
| 2mm Calcium Oxalate Kidney Stone |
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Water – A Life Source
Water is a major contributor to our well being. It is made up of one oxygen and two hydrogen atoms and has the chemical formula H2O.
Hmm! Did you know that the human body can live without food for up to a month but not so without water
? Your body can survive about 6 or 7 days without water depending on your circumstances. After that it starts to dry out just like a plant will wilt and die. Water definitely is life!
Consider this: there are over one hundred million, million (100,000,000,000,000) cells in the human body and water makes up more than two thirds of its weight.
An adult body contains six-tenths to seven-tenths (60% to 70%) water.
Your brain is three-quarters (75%) water.
Your lungs are approximately nine-tenths (90%) water.
But we lose water every day through sweat, urine, saliva, tears, faeces, and even from the lungs as water vapour when we breathe out carbon dioxide.
Have you ever noticed that when you haven’t consumed any water for a while how sluggish and tired you feel? What your urine looks like? What’s the condition of your skin? You start to look and feel dehydrated. How many times have you heard your doctor ask: “how much water do you drink each day?” Well, are you drinking enough water
?
All your organs depend on water to function properly. Your body uses water in the metabolic process to move the nutrients through your system and then it acts as a solvent to remove the waste from it. If you think that any liquid is better than water, think about your kidneys:
Your kidneys are the main organs responsible for removing harmful waste from your body. Blood, which is mainly water, flows continuously through a network of blood vessels into the kidney, where waste substances are removed and passed out of your system as urine. The “cleaned” blood is transported back to the rest of the body to collect more “bad stuff” and do it all over again. You could drink some fruit juice or some other type of drink which is based on water, but just so that you know – it’s the water that your body needs. If your kidneys could talk I’m sure they would say they need plain water to do a good job, not sodas and juices!
1 bottle of water has no excess sugar, colour, acids, or carbon dioxide
20oz bottle of soda = sugar, sodium, carbon dioxide, & God knows what else!
I’m still unsure of just how much water should be consumed each day – one doctor said 6 to 8, another said 8 to 10 yet still another suggested 8 to 12. I guess if I’m drinking at least 6 glasses of water daily I should be ok?!
Hmm! Did you know that the human body can live without food for up to a month but not so without water
? Your body can survive about 6 or 7 days without water depending on your circumstances. After that it starts to dry out just like a plant will wilt and die. Water definitely is life!Consider this: there are over one hundred million, million (100,000,000,000,000) cells in the human body and water makes up more than two thirds of its weight.
An adult body contains six-tenths to seven-tenths (60% to 70%) water.
Your brain is three-quarters (75%) water.
Your lungs are approximately nine-tenths (90%) water.
But we lose water every day through sweat, urine, saliva, tears, faeces, and even from the lungs as water vapour when we breathe out carbon dioxide.
Have you ever noticed that when you haven’t consumed any water for a while how sluggish and tired you feel? What your urine looks like? What’s the condition of your skin? You start to look and feel dehydrated. How many times have you heard your doctor ask: “how much water do you drink each day?” Well, are you drinking enough water
?All your organs depend on water to function properly. Your body uses water in the metabolic process to move the nutrients through your system and then it acts as a solvent to remove the waste from it. If you think that any liquid is better than water, think about your kidneys:
Your kidneys are the main organs responsible for removing harmful waste from your body. Blood, which is mainly water, flows continuously through a network of blood vessels into the kidney, where waste substances are removed and passed out of your system as urine. The “cleaned” blood is transported back to the rest of the body to collect more “bad stuff” and do it all over again. You could drink some fruit juice or some other type of drink which is based on water, but just so that you know – it’s the water that your body needs. If your kidneys could talk I’m sure they would say they need plain water
to do a good job, not sodas and juices!1 bottle of water has no excess sugar, colour, acids, or carbon dioxide
20oz bottle of soda = sugar, sodium, carbon dioxide, & God knows what else!
I’m still unsure of just how much water should be consumed each day – one doctor said 6 to 8, another said 8 to 10 yet still another suggested 8 to 12. I guess if I’m drinking at least 6 glasses of water daily I should be ok?!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Fat Traps To Avoid
This afternoon, I was perusing a popular "fitness" magazine that had
a number of dubious articles about what you can eat to lose weight.
This is a very popular magazine, with hundreds of thousands of
subscribers, and they were getting a bum steer, on many levels.
The magazine said that it was a good idea to eat bananas to burn
carbs. No argument from me there, because bananas fall under the
rubric of protein, fruits and vegetables. I would never tell anyone
not to eat a banana.
But here is where the magazine goes haywire. They didn't say just
eat a banana. They recommend that you use bananas to make a muffin,
bread and a smoothie. This is what I call a fat trap.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with a banana. But when you
combine a banana with flour, sugar, sugar syrup and a host of other
ingredients, then the benefits of eating the banana are almost
completely lost by the other crap. There is nothing remotely healthy
about banana muffins, banana bread, or most banana smoothies.
They are just fat, wrapped up in a nice package and they will never
help you shed a pound.
To paraphrase Clinton mouthpiece James (Snakehead) Carville, "It's
the sugar and flour, stupid!"
Then, the weight loss expert moved on to oatmeal. Now I happen to
like oatmeal and I have a couple of recipes that will convert even
oatmeal haters. But oatmeal, for me, is a special occasion food and
it won't help you lose weight either. But the weight loss expert
recommends oatmeal pancakes and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
Oatmeal may be healthier than white flour, but it still falls into
the processed food category, which in the Book of Bill is a no-no
and especially oatmeal with pancakes, or oatmeal chocolate chip
cookies.
It's no wonder people have trouble losing weight.
Be careful where you get your information and stick to real food, if
you want real results.
About the Author:
Dr. Bill is an orthopaedic surgeon and author. He recommends this pharmaceutical grade fish oil for more energy, reduced joint pain and increased heart health.
a number of dubious articles about what you can eat to lose weight.
This is a very popular magazine, with hundreds of thousands of
subscribers, and they were getting a bum steer, on many levels.
The magazine said that it was a good idea to eat bananas to burn
carbs. No argument from me there, because bananas fall under the
rubric of protein, fruits and vegetables. I would never tell anyone
not to eat a banana.
But here is where the magazine goes haywire. They didn't say just
eat a banana. They recommend that you use bananas to make a muffin,
bread and a smoothie. This is what I call a fat trap.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with a banana. But when you
combine a banana with flour, sugar, sugar syrup and a host of other
ingredients, then the benefits of eating the banana are almost
completely lost by the other crap. There is nothing remotely healthy
about banana muffins, banana bread, or most banana smoothies.
They are just fat, wrapped up in a nice package and they will never
help you shed a pound.
To paraphrase Clinton mouthpiece James (Snakehead) Carville, "It's
the sugar and flour, stupid!"
Then, the weight loss expert moved on to oatmeal. Now I happen to
like oatmeal and I have a couple of recipes that will convert even
oatmeal haters. But oatmeal, for me, is a special occasion food and
it won't help you lose weight either. But the weight loss expert
recommends oatmeal pancakes and oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
Oatmeal may be healthier than white flour, but it still falls into
the processed food category, which in the Book of Bill is a no-no
and especially oatmeal with pancakes, or oatmeal chocolate chip
cookies.
It's no wonder people have trouble losing weight.
Be careful where you get your information and stick to real food, if
you want real results.
About the Author:
Dr. Bill is an orthopaedic surgeon and author. He recommends this pharmaceutical grade fish oil for more energy, reduced joint pain and increased heart health.
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