Fibrous dysplasia

Fibrous dysplasia is a bone disorder in which scar-like (fibrous) tissue develops in place of normal bone. As the bone grows, the softer, fibrous tissue expands, weakening the bone. Fibrous dysplasia can cause the affected bone to deform and become susceptible to fracture.

Most people with fibrous dysplasia are diagnosed during adolescence or early adulthood. Mild cases usually cause no signs or symptoms. More-serious cases of fibrous dysplasia may result in bone pain and deformity.

The basic cause of fibrous dysplasia is unknown. There's no cure for fibrous dysplasia. Treatment focuses on relieving signs and symptoms.

Symptoms:

Fibrous dysplasia can affect any bone in your body. Most people with the disorder have only one affected bone — a form called monostotic fibrous dysplasia — and develop no signs or symptoms. When the condition affects more than one bone, it's known as polyostotic fibrous dysplasia. Bones most commonly affected are:

• Thighbone (femur)
• Shinbone (tibia)
• Pelvic bones
• Ribs
• Skull
• Facial bones
• Upper arm bone (humerus)

Fibrous dysplasia may cause few or no signs and symptoms, particularly if the condition is mild. Signs and symptoms typically develop during the teens or 20s. If you have the polyostotic form, you're more likely to develop signs and symptoms, usually by age 10. More severe fibrous dysplasia may cause:

• Bone pain
• Difficulty walking
• Bone deformities
• Fractures

Causes:

You develop fibrous dysplasia before birth, and its development has been linked with a gene mutation that affects the cells that produce bone. No one knows what causes the mutation, but it isn't inherited from your parents, and you can't pass it on to your children.

Bones are living tissue, so even after you stop growing, your bones are in a continuous process of renewal known as remodeling. In the process, certain bone cells (osteoclasts) tear down (resorb) bone, while other cells (osteoblasts) rebuild bone. Fibrous dysplasia disrupts the process, causing old bone to break down faster and replacing normal bone tissue with softer, fibrous tissue.

Complications:

Besides bone fractures, severe fibrous dysplasia can lead to:

Bone deformity. The weakened area of an affected bone can cause the bone to bend (bow). If your spine is affected, you can develop scoliosis, an abnormal curving of the spine.
Vision and hearing loss. The nerves to your eyes and ears may be surrounded by affected bone. Severe deformity of facial bones can lead to loss of vision and hearing, but it's a rare complication.
Arthritis. If leg and pelvic bones are deformed, arthritis may form in the joints of those bones.
Cancer. Rarely, an affected area of bone can become cancerous. This rare complication usually only affects people who have had prior radiation therapy.

Tests and diagnosis:

If you have monostotic fibrous dysplasia, you may not know it until it's discovered incidentally on an X-ray for another condition. If you have signs and symptoms, your doctor will perform a physical examination and order X-rays of the affected bones. On X-ray, fibrous dysplasia appears as an abnormal section of bone (lesion) that has the hazy appearance of ground glass.

In some cases, your doctor may order more tests to confirm the diagnosis or to determine the extent of the disorder. They include:

Imaging tests. Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be used to determine how extensively your bones are affected.
Bone scan. This test uses radioactive tracers, which are injected into your body. Your bones take up the tracers and emit radiation that's captured by a special camera, which produces a picture of your skeleton. Your doctor may order a bone scan to determine whether your fibrous dysplasia is monostotic or polyostotic.
Bone biopsy. This test uses a hollow needle to remove a small piece of the affected bone for laboratory analysis. You'll receive local anesthetics to numb the area where the needle is inserted. In rare instances, an open biopsy — requiring general anesthesia and a surgical incision — may be necessary.

Treatments and drugs:

f you have mild fibrous dysplasia that's discovered incidentally and you have no signs or symptoms, your risk of developing deformity or fracturing your bone is low. Your doctor can monitor your condition with follow-up X-rays every six months. If there's no progression, you don't need treatment.

If you develop signs and symptoms, treatment may include medications or surgery.

Medications
Medications called bisphosphonates, including pamidronate (Aredia) and alendronate (Fosamax), are used to inhibit bone breakdown, preserve bone mass and even increase bone density in your spine and hip, reducing the risk of fractures. Doctors use these medications primarily for adults to treat osteoporosis and increase bone density, but bisphosphonates may also reduce bone pain associated with fibrous dysplasia and, in some cases, improve bone formation.

Little is known about the use of bisphosphonates for children and adolescents, but some studies indicate they may help relieve pain in children and adolescents with severe fibrous dysplasia.

Oral bisphosphonates are generally well tolerated, but may irritate your gastrointestinal tract. If you can't tolerate oral bisphosphonates or if your doctor recommends a drug that's not available in oral form, you may receive bisphosphonates through a vein (intravenously). You can't take bisphosphonates if you have serious kidney disease or low blood-calcium levels.

Surgery
Your doctor may recommend surgery in order to:

• Correct a deformity
• Correct a difference in limb lengths
• Fix a fracture
• Remove an affected area of bone (lesion) that's causing you difficulty
• Relieve pressure on a nerve, particularly if the lesion is in your skull or face

Surgery may involve removing the bone lesion and replacing it with bone grafted from another part of your body or from bone tissue donated from a deceased donor. Your surgeon may insert metal plates, rods or screws to stabilize the bone and the graft. Risks include infection, blood clots and bleeding. In addition, a bone graft may not last.

HIV Infection and AIDS

ACQUIRED IMMUNITY DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS)

AIDS was first reported in the United States in 1981 and has since become a major worldwide epidemic. AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV. By killing or damaging cells of the body�s immune system, HIV progressively destroys the body�s ability to fight infections and certain cancers. People diagnosed with AIDS may get life-threatening diseases called opportunistic infections. These infections are caused by microbes such as viruses or bacteria that usually do not make healthy people sick.

Since 1981, more than 980,000 cases of AIDS have been reported in the United States to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to CDC, more than 1,000,000 Americans may be infected with HIV, one-quarter of whom are unaware of their infection. The epidemic is growing most rapidly among minority populations and is a leading killer of African-American males ages 25 to 44. According to CDC, AIDS affects nearly seven times more African Americans and three times more Hispanics than whites. In recent years, an increasing number of African-American women and children are being affected by HIV AIDS

Risky behavior

HIV can infect anyone who practices risky behaviors such as:

•     Sharing drug needles or syringes
•     Having sexual contact, including oral sexual contact, with an infected person without using a condom
•     Having sexual contact with someone whose HIV status is unknown

Infected blood

HIV also is spread through contact with infected blood. Before donated blood was screened for evidence of HIV infection and before heat-treating techniques to destroy HIV in blood products were introduced, HIV was transmitted through transfusions of contaminated blood or blood components. Today, because of blood screening and heat treatment, the risk of getting HIV from blood transfusions is extremely small.

Contaminated needles

HIV is often spread among injection drug users when they share needles or syringes contaminated with very small quantities of blood from someone infected with the virus.

It is rare for a patient to be the source of HIV transmitted to a healthcare provider or vice versa by accidental sticks with contaminated needles or other medical instruments.

Mother to child

Women can transmit HIV to their babies during pregnancy or birth. Approximately one-quarter to one-third of all untreated pregnant women infected with HIV will pass the infection to their babies. HIV also can be spread to babies through the breast milk of mothers infected with the virus.

If the mother takes certain drugs during pregnancy, she can significantly reduce the chances that her baby will get infected with HIV.

If healthcare providers treat HIV-infected pregnant women and deliver their babies by cesarean section, the chances of the baby being infected can be reduced to a rate of 1 percent.

HIV infection of newborns has been almost eradicated in the United States because of appropriate treatment.

A study sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in Uganda found a highly effective and safe drug for preventing transmission of HIV from an infected mother to her newborn. Independent studies have also confirmed this finding. This regimen is more affordable and practical than any other examined to date. Results from the study show that a single oral dose of the antiretroviral drug nevirapine (NVP) given to an HIV-infected woman in labor and another to her baby within 3 days of birth reduces the transmission rate of HIV by half compared with a similar short course of AZT (azidothymidine).

Saliva

Although researchers have found HIV in the saliva of infected people, there is no evidence that the virus is spread by contact with saliva. Laboratory studies reveal that saliva has natural properties that limit the power of HIV to infect, and the amount of virus in saliva appears to be very low. Research studies of people infected with HIV have found no evidence that the virus is spread to others through saliva by kissing.

The lining of the mouth, however, can be infected by HIV, and instances of HIV transmission through oral intercourse have been reported.

Scientists have found no evidence that HIV is spread through sweat, tears, urine, or feces.

Casual contact

Studies of families of HIV-infected people have shown clearly that HIV is not spread through casual contact such as the sharing of food utensils, towels and bedding, swimming pools, telephones, or toilet seats.

HIV is not spread by biting insects such as mosquitoes or bedbugs.

Sexually transmitted infections

People with a sexually transmitted infection, such as syphilis, genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, or bacterial vaginosis, may be more susceptible to getting HIV infection during sex with infected partners.

How To Prevent and Control Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors

You can prevent and control many coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors with lifestyle changes and medicines. Examples of these controllable risk factors include high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, and overweight and obesity. Only a few risk factors—such as age, gender, and family history—can't be controlled.

To reduce your risk of CHD and heart attack, try to control each risk factor you can. The good news is that many lifestyle changes help control several CHD risk factors at the same time. For example, physical activity may lower your blood pressure, help control diabetes and prediabetes, reduce stress, and help control your weight.

A Lifelong Approach
Many lifestyle habits begin during childhood. Thus, parents and families should encourage their children to make heart healthy choices, such as following a healthy diet and being physically active. Make following a healthy lifestyle a family goal.

To achieve this goal, you should learn about key health measures, such as weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and your child's BMI-for-age percentile. For more information about BMI in adults and children, go to "Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors."

Be aware of your and your family members' blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Once you know these numbers, you can work to bring them into, or keep them within, a healthy range.

Making lifestyle changes can be hard. But if you make these changes as a family, it may be easier for everyone to prevent or control their CHD risk factors.

Lifestyle Changes
A healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of CHD. If you already have CHD, a healthy lifestyle may prevent it from getting worse. A healthy lifestyle includes:

• Following a healthy diet
• Being physically active
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress
• Following a Healthy Diet
• A healthy diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. To lower your risk of CHD and heart attack, you and your family should follow a diet that is:

Low in saturated and trans fats. Saturated fats are found in some meats, dairy products, chocolate, baked goods, and deep-fried and processed foods. Trans fats are found in some fried and processed foods. Both types of fat raise your low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad," cholesterol level.
High in the types of fat found in fish and olive oil. These fats are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids lower your risk of heart attack, in part by helping prevent blood clots.
High in fiber. Fiber is found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. A fiber-rich diet not only helps lower your LDL cholesterol level, but also provides nutrients that may help protect against CHD.
Low in salt and sugar. A low-salt diet can help you manage your blood pressure. A low-sugar diet can help you prevent weight gain and control diabetes and prediabetes.
Research suggests that drinking small to moderate amounts of alcohol regularly also can lower your risk of CHD. One drink a day can lower your risk by raising your high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol level. One drink is a glass of wine, beer, or a small amount of hard liquor.

If you don't drink, this isn't a recommendation to start using alcohol. If you're pregnant, if you're planning to become pregnant, or if you have another health condition that could make alcohol use harmful, you shouldn't drink.

Also, too much alcohol can cause you to gain weight and raise your blood pressure and triglyceride level. In women, even one drink a day may raise the risk of certain types of cancer.

Teach your children how to make healthy food choices. For example, have them help you shop for and make healthy foods. Set a good example by following the same heart healthy diet that you ask your children to follow.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Following a healthy diet and being physically active can help you maintain a healthy weight. Controlling your weight helps you control CHD risk factors.

If you're overweight or obese, try to lose weight. A loss of just 5 to 10 percent of your current weight can lower your risk of CHD.

To lose weight, cut back your calorie intake and do more physical activity. Eat smaller portions and choose lower calorie foods. Don't feel that you have to finish the entrees served at restaurants. Many restaurant portions are oversized and have too many calories for the average person.

For overweight children and teens, slowing the rate of weight gain is important. However, reduced-calorie diets aren't advised, unless approved by a doctor.

Quitting Smoking
If you smoke, quit. Smoking can raise your risk of CHD and heart attack and worsen other CHD risk factors. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit smoking. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke.

If you have trouble quitting smoking on your own, consider joining a support group. Many hospitals, workplaces, and community groups offer classes to help people quit smoking.

You can help your children avoid smoking or quit smoking. Talk with them about the health effects of smoking. Teach them how to handle peer pressure to smoke.

Teens who have parents who smoke are more likely to smoke themselves. Set a good example by not smoking or quitting smoking. Set firm rules about no tobacco use in your home.

If you have a child who smokes, help him or her create a plan to quit. Offer your child information and resources on how to quit. Stress the natural rewards that come with quitting, such as freedom from addiction, better fitness and sports performance, and improved appearance. Reinforce the decision to quit with praise.

Managing Stress
Learning how to manage stress, relax, and cope with problems can improve your emotional and physical health. Having supportive people in your life with whom you can share your feelings or concerns can help relieve stress.

Physical activity, medicine, and relaxation therapy also can help relieve stress. You may want to consider taking part in a stress management program.

Other Lifestyle Concerns
If making lifestyle changes is hard for you, try taking things one step at a time. Learn about the benefits of lifestyle changes. Talk with your doctor, and read some of the resources in "Links to Other Information About Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors."

Figure out what's stopping you from making or sticking to your lifestyle changes. Try to find ways to overcome these issues. For example, if you're too tired to exercise after work, you may want to try working out before you go to work.

Make a plan to carry out your lifestyle changes that includes specific, realistic goals. Act on your plan and work toward your goals. You may want to do so with the help of a support group or supportive friends and family.

Reward yourself for the gains you've made. Think about what you need to do to maintain your lifestyle changes and avoid unhealthy habits.

Don't give up if you go off your diet or exercise plan or start smoking again. Instead, find out what you need to do to get back on track so you can meet your goals. Many people find that it takes more than one try to make long-term lifestyle changes.

Changing the eating and activity habits of children takes time. Start with small, easy steps. For example, cut out after-dinner snacks or go for an after-dinner walk instead of watching TV.

Set a good example, and try to get your children involved in choosing a new healthy step to take each day. If you make lifestyle changes a group effort, it will make them easier.

Medicines
Sometimes lifestyle changes aren't enough to control your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, or other CHD risk factors. Your doctor also may prescribe medicines. For example, you may need medicines to:

• Lower your LDL cholesterol
• Lower your blood pressure
• Lower your blood sugar level
• Prevent blood clots and/or inflammation
• Take your medicines as prescribed. Don't cut back on the dosage unless your doctor tells you to. If you have side effects or other problems related to your medicines, talk with your doctor. He or she may be able to provide other options.

You should still follow a heart healthy lifestyle, even if you take medicines to control your CHD risk factors.

Heads Up: Preventing Brain Injuries

Brain injuries are caused by a bump or blow to the head. These injuries sometimes are called "concussions" or "traumatic brain injuries" (TBIs) and can range from mild to severe.

Most mild brain injuries cause no harm. But sometimes even mild brain injuries can cause serious, long-lasting problems. The best way to protect yourself and your family from brain injuries is to prevent them from happening in the first place.

How to Prevent a Brain Injury
Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brain Injury Association of America to reduce the chances that you or your family members will have a brain injury.

• Wear a seat belt every time you drive or ride in a motor vehicle.
• Always buckle your child into a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt (according to the child's height, weight, and age) in the car.  
• Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Wear a helmet and make sure your children wear helmets when: 
• Riding a bike, motorcycle, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle;
• Playing a contact sport, such as football, ice hockey, or boxing;
• Using in-line skates or riding a skateboard;
• Batting and running bases in baseball or softball;
• Riding a horse; or
• Skiing or snowboarding.

Avoid falls in the home by:
Using a step stool with a grab bar to reach objects on high shelves;
Installing handrails on stairways;
Installing window guards to keep young children from falling out of open windows;
Using safety gates at the top and bottom of stairs when young children are around;
Removing tripping hazards such as small area rugs and loose electrical cords;
Using non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors;
Putting grab bars next to the toilet and in the tub or shower;
Maintaining a regular exercise program to improve strength, balance, and coordination; and
Seeing an eye doctor regularly for a vision check to help lower the risk of falling.

Make sure the surface on your child's playground is made of shock-absorbing material, such as hardwood, mulch, and sand.

Keep firearms stored unloaded in a locked cabinet or safe. Store bullets in a separate secured location.

When to Call the Doctor: Signs and Symptoms of Brain Injury

When you visit the doctor, here are some important questions to ask:

How long should I expect these symptoms to last?
What should I do for this condition?
Is it safe to get back to my normal daily routine, such as school, work, or playing sports and doing other physical activities?
What can I do to keep from injuring myself again?
Here is a list of common symptoms of a brain injury (concussion). If you or a family member has a head injury and you notice any of the symptoms on the list, call your doctor right away. Describe the injury and symptoms, and ask if you should make an appointment to see your own doctor or another specialist.

Symptoms of a Concussion

In Adults

• Headaches or neck pain that won’t go away
• Trouble with such mental tasks as remembering, concentrating, or decision-making
• Slow thinking, speaking, acting, or reading
• Getting lost or easily confused
• Feeling tired all the time, having no energy or motivation
• Mood changes (feeling sad or angry for no reason)
• Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping a lot more or having a hard time sleeping)
• Feeling light-headed or dizzy, or losing balance
• An urge to vomit (nausea)
• Increased sensitivity to lights, sounds, or distractions
• Blurred vision or eyes that tire easily
• Loss of sense of smell or taste
• Ringing in the ears

In Children

• Feeling tired or listless
• Being irritable or cranky (will not stop crying or cannot be consoled)
• Changes in eating (will not eat or nurse)
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in the way the child plays
• Changes in performance at school
• Lack of interest in favorite toys or activities
• Loss of new skills, such as toilet training
• Loss of balance, unsteady walking
• Vomiting

Life Is a Journey, Let Us Enjoy It

I often heard that someone said that the life is a journey and people should never mind the destination, and what they should keep in mind is the journey itself. I love to show you the excitement of one’s human life, and i also want to lead you to more entertainment in life. In fact, some young women and men are really being absorbed in traveling around the world to know the different attractions of the world. So this time I will lead you to some impressive tours in your life.

As we all know that China is a great country full of ancient culture, and it is known ad one of the four cultural ancient countries. There are many old things which are full of cultural deposits. Now and now more and foreigners are coming to China to explore the spectacular scenes. This time I will change to be the best tour guide for you all. Almost everybody knows the economic hub of China since the Expo was exhibited in Shanghai, and when we talk about Shanghai, we will mention the splendid architecture, the Oriental Pearl Tower. Now this is a city which combines the modernization and the traditional culture together. I am sure that a leisure and exciting Shanghai tour for you is a perfect entertainment.

If you come to Shanghai, you shouldn’t miss Nanjing Road which is the most lively and prosperous street in Shanghai. It is known as the “the first street of Chinese business”. I have no time to tell you more about this road which contains some delicious food and some expensive brands. Some young women love to go shopping in this road. And foreigner can also touch the best things in Shanghai. You can get clear to the daily life of the Chinese people. Maybe next time I will tell you more about this legendary business road. The meaning of the journey is to make yourself adsorbed in the local lifestyle and culture. In the morning of Shanghai, you can go out of your house and hang out in the street, have a kind of snacks like small steamer bun which is very delicious and full of local color.

Lastly, I have to introduce myself, in order to make you guys all remember me. My name is Lily Lee and I born in China. This country gives me yellow skin and black hair. I love my motherland so much, so I introduce her to all you guyes and I also want all of you guys come to China to have a look at this great country. Welcome to China, I will give you a warm hug! Besides Shanghai, there are other some great cities for you visit in, such ad Beijing, Xi’an and Suzhou. Explore them by yourself.

YOGA FOR GOOD HEALTH

THIS SECTION PROVIDES YOU WITH VARIOUS ARTICLES RELATED YOGA AND OTHER TECHNICS TO MANAGE YOUR DAILY LIFE.

THIS SECTION PROVIDES YOU WITH INFORMATIVE ARTICLES ON YOGA. SIMPLE TECHNICS AND TIPS TO MAINTAIN GOOD HEALTH. BEFORE STARTING TO WORK ON YOGA, ONE HAS TO UNDERSTAND YOGA BETTER. FOR ATTAINING A HEALTHY LIFE, PHYSICAL EXCERCISES, YOGA TECHNICS NEED TO BE PRACTICED WITH UTMOST CARE. THESE SHOULD HOWEVER BE PRACTICED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF A TRAINED PERSON.

YOU CAN FIND HELPFUL ARTICLES ON YOGA, EASY TO FOLLOW YOGA TIPS AND TECHNICS. INTRODUCTION TO YOGA AND ITS BENEFITS TO ATTAIN HEALTHY LIFE. SIMPLE AND EASY TO FOLLOW PHYSICAL EXCERCISES HELP YOU IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE.

ARTICLES FOR STRESS RELIEF AND EYE STRAIN BELOW GIVES YOU EASY TO FOLLOW TIPS AND TECHNICS TO OVERCOME STRESS AND ALSO TREAT YOUR EYES. THESE TECHNICS RESULT IN STRESS RELIEF AND TREATMENT TO YOUR EYES.

Ways to Refresh Your Mind

Music. I know that the Mozart Effect has been debated and by some experts claiming faulty research procedures, debunked. Still, how do you feel after listening to Mozart? Or Brahms? Or how about James Taylor? If you need more stimulation, one guy recommended marches. If you need less, find a mellow musician and let those sounds soothe your mental resources. Combine music with exercise (see #3) and you may experience even more enhanced cognitive benefits. They say that making music is extremely beneficial to the mind, as well. Pull out that old piano primer or dust off your guitar. Do-re-mi and all that.

Recreation. This article from the National Park and Recreation website talks about how recreation can offer mental restoration. I’m partial to combining recreation with being outdoors, which makes me a perfect blogger to promote the National Park and Recreation website, as I just did. Try hiking, if you’re physically capable. Go biking or canoeing. Take the kids to the park and walk a trail. Toss pebbles in the stream. Compare tree bark and identify a leaf or two.  Yes, I’m a nature lover.

Physical exercise. Hey, this is a good segue from #2. Lots of articles in everything from Prevention magazine to Modern Maturity explain how physical exercise benefits not only our bodies, but also our minds. This one offers a nice overview. I know that when I go jogging, my mind clears. When a few days pass with no aerobic exercise, I get a little fuzzy. Sometimes the fuzz thickens to a fog. Or would a fog thicken to fuzz? See? I can’t even think. Anyway, they say that physical exertion seems to stimulate and refresh my mind in addition to all its other benefits. Cool. As you may have read in an old essay of mine, my mom-mind can use all the help it can get.

Mental exercise. With increased interest in health and wellness for an aging population, research into slowing dementia and Alzheimer’s has resulted in tons of tips for mental stimulation. This article in The Washington Post reviews websites with games purporting increased mental stimulation. (This other article from The Washington Post talks about both physical and mental exercise.) Happy Neuron seems to have consolidated some interesting games. Look around. You’re sure to find some fascinating activities–even the search itself might count for a bit of mental exercise.
Reading deserves special treatment as a mental exercise. Stay tuned for another blog entry focusing on reading as a means to refresh the mind.

Find a friend. Or two, or three. Human interaction seems to keep our minds refreshed. I’m a writer–a rather solitary pursuit. I find that my night out with friends keeps me mentally alert–those are the evenings I often generate new ideas for books and articles. They ask good questions and get me thinking. There’s a lot of research out there about people…needing people. I sense a song coming on, so let’s move on to the single most important aspect to refreshing the mind.

Prayer and Bible study. This is not an obligatory entry included simply because I’m a believer in Jesus Christ. I am convinced that regular Bible reading and study refreshes my mind in a way that no other reading or resource can. Prayer that is grounded in scriptural truth and directed to the Most High God through Jesus Christ offers me a deep, lasting, soul-level refreshment that fills the mind with rich treasures of God’s reality and truth. ”Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things,” Paul wrote to the Colossians (3:2).
In fact, any other attempt to find peace and refreshment for the mind must begin here, in Christ Himself and in the written Word, to combat the messages that the rest of the world bombards us with. Check out this verse from Romans: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will” (12:2).

I’m on the lookout to discover God’s good, pleasing and perfect will. That sounds like true refreshment, filled with meaning.

That may or may not be what those folks were looking for when they were Googling “refresh your mind.” But it’s a start.

Jambul Fruit Benefits

Jambul fruit:
There are three kinds of jambul. In jambul fruit, calcium, phosphorus, iron, protein are endowed naturally in enormous quantity. According to medical point of view, jambul fruit nature is cold and dry.

Health benefits of jambul fruit:
The following are the great health benefits associated with jambul fruit:
1. In summer, acidity in the stomach increases for this reason we feel hard to digest and we get the feeling of vomiting. When rainy season starts in summer, we happen to eat excessively, resulting in stomach disturbance, indigestion and loose motions. And acnes also use to appear. Jambul fruit has the solution to all these discomforts for it removes blood’s thickness and relief indigestion.
2. Jambul fruit has found to been found to be very effective in blood cancer.
3.  In the swelling of liver and lien, jambul is very beneficial.
4. The iron which is found in jambul fruit is botanical and it increases red blood cells.
5. If somebody is having the complaint of stomach upset and heartburn, sour belches, mouth gives bitter taste, or get itching feeling in hands and legs, for them jambul is very beneficial and helpful.
6. Jambul gives cooling effect to stomach or lien and gives strength to them.
7. By the use of jambul, urine excretes in excess quantity.
8. In diabetes, has proven to be very effective because by its use urine comes in excess quantity, which results in lowering blood sugar levels.
9. In the complaint of weakness of gall bladder, take jambul’s endocarp powder in the quantity of three grams once in morning and once in evening, along with luke warm milk.
10. Eating jambul empty stomach or eating jambul in too much quantity often makes stomach upset and indigestion use to happen.
11. According to medical professionals, people suffering from kidney stones, ought not to take jambul fruit.
12. Jambul’s endocarp and mango’s endocarp. Take in equal quantity and make a powder. Use it along with some curd, nicely mixed into water. It stops loose motion and is very beneficial for diabetes.
13. Jambul’s bark is also astringent. In weak gums, in gingivitis, or if blood use to ooze out from gums, so make like a tea of its bark and gargle. You will get relief from these problems. Make powder of its wood coal, and add black pepper and salt and use as a dentifrice. Teeth use to get very clean and strong.
14. Jambul’s vinegar is very beneficial in the diseases of stomach, liver and lien. Especially in lienitis, its vinegar is very effective.

Natural cures for angina

Are there natural cures for Angina?.
Angina, sometimes called angina pectoris, is the pain that occurs when your heart isn’t getting enough oxygen. You feel a sensation of heaviness or pressure in the middle of your chest. Sometimes the pain radiates to your left arm, throat, or jaw.
Exercise, a large meal, emotional upset, or stress can bring on an attack of angina. But the condition that makes such attacks possible is narrowing of the coronary arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood to the heart.
What makes these arteries leading to the heart become narrower? Little clumps of cholesterol-based substances called plaques, which accumulate along the artery walls. It’s similar to the gunk that builds up in the pipe draining your kitchen sink.
Elevated blood cholesterol is one cause of plaque, but it’s not the sole cause. According to current theories, the initial step for plaque formation is a injury to the inner lining of the artery, called the endothelium.
What causes that injury? Scientists don’t yet know for certain. But as in the beginning of a murder mystery, many suspects have been implicated. Cigarette smoking is one common cause, as are the normal chemical processes of aging. Vitamin B6 deficiency is thought to play a role. Other possible factors include immune-system malfunctions; physical injury, viral, bacterial, or chemical assaults; drug use; and poor diet. Also, certain chemical agents can cause blood cells called platelets to clump together, helping plaque to form.
Angina is a serious problem and should never be ignored; it can lead to a heart attack. This is not time to play the stoic. If angina-like symptoms begin to occur with greater frequency or with less provocation than usual, they could be a sign of worsening heart disease and impending heart attack. And if you have any undiagnosed chest pain, see your doctor immediately for an evaluation.
Because angina is such a serious disease, you must continue to see your family physician or cardiologist on a regular basis. If you are on medications for angina, work with an experienced herbalist-there are many potentially dangerous ways that drugs for the heart and herbs can interact. Do not stop taking prescribed medications on your own.
Herbal treatments for angina focus on preventing attacks. Once and episode of angina is occurring, take your nitroglycerin. Herbs can do much for angina-lower blood cholesterol, prevent and heal injuries to the endothelium of arteries, prevent the clumping of blood platelets, shrink plaques, and expand or dilate involved arteries. Herbs can also strengthen the heart in general, especially the herbs that improve energy metabolism within the heart.

NATURAL TIPS TO BOOST HEMOGLOBIN LEVELS

HEMOGLOBIN IS THE PROTEIN MOLECULE IN RED BLOOD CELLS THAT TRANSPORTS OXYGEN FROM THE LUNGS TO THE BODY'S TISSUES AND GIVES CARBON-DIOXIDE FROM THE TISSUES BACK TO THE LUNGS. IRON SUPPLIED TO THE RED BLOOD CELLS, DETERMINE THE LEVEL OF HEMOGLOBIN IN THE BLOOD. FOODS RICH IN IRON ARE BELIEVED TO BOOST THE LEVEL OF HEMOGLOBIN IN THE BODY.YOUR BODY MAKES HEMOGLOBIN FROM THE IRON IN YOUR DIET SO IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU EAT PLENTY OF IRON-RICH FOODS DAILY. THE ESSENTIAL NATURAL REMEDIES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

RED MEAT: THE IRON FROM ANIMAL SOURCES IS IDEAL BECAUSE IT IS THE EASIEST TO ABSORB. LIVER, BEEF, LAMB, CLAMS AND SHRIMP, ARE EXCELLENT IRON SOURCES.

FRUITS: GOOD FRUIT SOURCES OF IRON INCLUDE WATERMELON, RAISINS, AND GRAPEFRUIT. ORANGE, CANTALOUPE, PINEAPPLE, BANANA, RASPBERRY, STRAWBERRY, GUAVA, PAPAYAS, KIWI FRUIT, BLACK CURRANTS, MANGO, LYCHEE, CHERRY ARE OTHER ESSENTIAL FRUITS TO INCREASE HEMOGLOBIN.

VEGETABLES: (GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES) SPINACH, LEGUMES, DRIED FRUITS AND IRON-FORTIFIED CEREALS ARE VEGETARIAN IRON SOURCES. TRY EATING ONE OF THESE FOODS AT EACH MEAL TO MAXIMIZE ABSORPTION. CONSUME TOMATOES, BROCCOLI, BRUSSELS, SPROUTS, RED CAPSICUM, BEAN, CABBAGE, PEAS, BEETS, ASPARAGUS, CORN , AND LENTILS IN YOUR MEALS.

MILK SHAKE OF DATES: MILK SHAKE OF DATES IS THE BEST IRON-BOOSTING REMEDY. TAKE EVERYDAY ONE GLASS OF DATE MILK SHAKE FOR AT LEAST A MONTH REGULARLY, AND RAPIDLY BOOST BLOOD HEMOGLOBIN LEVELS.

BLACK SESAME: BLACK SESAME SEEDS IS ALSO THE ESSENTIAL NATURAL REMEDY TO INCREASE HEMOGLOBIN. ONE TEASPOON OF BLACK SESAME SEEDS SHOULD BE SOAKED IN WARM WATER, THEN IT SHOULD BE CRUSHED AND STRAINED.THEN,MIX IT WITH A CUP OF MILK SWEETENED WITH JAGGERY. THIS MAKES A GOOD DRINK FOR INSTANT INCREASE IN HEMOGLOBIN.

FENGREEK REMEDY: COOK ONE TEASPOON OF FENUGREEK SEEDS WITH YOUR EVENING MEAL EVERYDAY, PREFERABLY WITH A LITTLE RICE, FOR 12-15 DAYS TO HELP BOOST HEMOGLOBIN LEVELS.

OTHER FOODS: FORTIFIED CEREALS, DRY FRUITS, NUTS, SUNFLOWER SEEDS, JAGGERY, WHOLE BREAD, WHOLE GRAINS, BAKER'S YEAST, OAT AND WHEAT BRAN, AND BUTTER ARE SIGNIFICANT HEMOGLOBIN BOOSTERS.

 IRON & VITAMINS: VITAMIN C IS BELIEVED TO IMPROVE THE ABSORPTION OF IRON IN THE BODY, AND HENCE PATIENTS WITH LOW LEVELS OF HEMOGLOBIN IN THE BODY MUST MAKE IT A POINT TO INCLUDE FOOD ITEMS RICH IN VITAMIN C, ESPECIALLY THROUGH THE DIET. OTHER ESSENTIAL VITAMINS ARE VITAMIN B6, B12 AND FOLIC ACID. I HOPE THIS POST HAS BEEN OF GREAT BENEFIT ON HOW TO INCREASE HEMOGLOBIN LEVELS

Are You Not Cutting Out More Thin Meat From Your Diet?

Many vegetarians fall into the dangerous trap of eliminating meat and fish from their diets without compensating for lost nutrients.

If balanced diet is important for vegetarian adults, it is even more vital for children last year, a senior lecturer of nutrition found that 80 % of mothers questioned believed low-fat high-fiber diets were appropriate for heir infants, and 20 % felt high kilo joule food was not important. Increasingly, traditional foods like baby cereal with whole milk are giving way to a “nursery starvation diet” of low fat yoghurts and fruit and vegetable purees.

Non-meat-eating can also be problematic for teenagers, particularly girls, a spokesperson says many young women have an iron intake puts them at risk of anemia. They often don’t realize that they have to replace meat with good sources of iron, sources that are not necessarily at the top of their lists of favorite foods.

One common misconception is that the processed vegetarian foods often favored by teenagers, such as vegetable burgers and prepared chilled foods, are “healthier” than the real thing. Often they are not. Surrounding a lump of tofu with pastry to turn it into a pie can cancel out many of the health benefits the tofu may provide. Also meat substitutes may require strong flavoring, and can be high in salt. Some contain nearly three times as much saturated fat, as meat.

Another danger is missing out on dairy foods that contain vitamin B12 and calcium. Certainly vegetarians who don’t have dairy products daily can at risk of not getting enough.

Although vitamin B12 deficiency is rare, an expert of nutrition says that it can cause severe irreversible damage to the nervous system. He also has concerns about Soya milk, another popular alternative for vegetarians. Giving Soya milk to children at better than no milk at all but should be a resort.

While many studies suggest that a vegetarian diet is a good one, that may be a result of other differences between meat-eaters and vegetarians, for example, vegetarians don’t drink or smoke as much and generally weigh less. And there is evidence that even balanced vegetarian diets do not significantly reduce some health risks. A research study last year found that deaths from stomach, breast, prostate & lung cancer not markedly lower among vegetarians.

With so much publicity about how we treat our animals, and what we feed them-it is not surprising that, more and more people are becoming vegetarians, the problem is, how many will encounter just as many health hazards as meat- eaters?

A FOOD ALLERGY

A FOOD ALLERGY OCCURS IN CONSEQUENCE OF AN IMMUNE SYSTEM RESPONSE TO FOOD INGREDIENTS THAT ARE GENERALLY HARMLESS AND INOFFENSIVE. AFTER THE FIRST INTAKE OF APPROPRIATE FOOD, IT MAKES SPECIFIC ANTIBODIES. THIS APPEARS FIRST AS NO ALLERGIC REACTIONS, BUT IT IS HELD TO RAISE AWARENESS. EACH TIME CONSUMING THE PRODUCT IS THEN TRIGGERED BY THE ANTIBODIES HAVE AN ALLERGIC REACTION.

SUFFER IN TERMS OF THE DISTRIBUTION IS MORE THAN TWICE AS MANY WOMEN AS MEN TO FOOD ALLERGIES. MOST COMMONLY AFFECTED ARE VERY SMALL CHILDREN BECAUSE THEIR INTESTINAL MUCOSA IS VERY THIN AND EVEN THE IMMUNE SYSTEM REACTS MORE HEAVILY.

THE CAUSES OF FOOD ALLERGIES ARE VARIED ON THE INCOMPATIBILITY OF ADDITIVES IN FOOD AND TO STRESS-CAUSING FACTORS.

TO ASSESS THE PRESENCE OF FOOD ALLERGY AND TO OBSERVE CLEARLY, AN ALLERGIST TO BE DRAWN. THERE IS A SKIN TEST OR SEROLOGICAL TESTS IN WHICH THE ANTIBODIES ARE MEASURED. IF AN ALLERGY-CAUSING FOOD IS FOUND, USUALLY PREVENTED BY AVOIDING THE SAME, AND BY THE ELIMINATION OF A FOOD GROUP WITH THE ALLERGY-CAUSING SUBSTANCES, FURTHER BREAKING OF THE ALLERGY. THIS IS TO ENSURE THAT THE DIET REMAINS BALANCED IN ORDER TO CALL FORTH ANY DEFICIENCIES.
AMONG THE FOODS THAT CONTAIN VERY COMMON ALLERGENS ARE SUCH AS DAIRY PRODUCTS, EGGS, NUTS, FLOUR, SOYBEANS, ETC.

WITH REGARD TO THE SYMPTOMS OF AN ALLERGIC REACTION ARE ITCHING AND SWELLING IN FRONT AS WELL AS CRAMPS AND ASTHMATIC REACTIONS.

Tumors Continue Growing Even When Cells Get Old

Based on the knowledge that cancer cells grow indefinitely, the general belief is that senescence could act as a barrier against tumor growth and has the potential of being used as a cancer treatment.

According to findings published in the 19th January issue of the open-access journal PLoS Computational Biology, a collaboration between a cancer biologist from the University of Milano, Italy, and two physicists, from the National Research Council of Italy and from Cornell University, has shown that although cell senescence occurs spontaneously in melanoma cells, it does not stop their growth, which is sustained by a small population of cancer stem cells.

The study examines the association between melanoma and senescence, which is the normal process in which cells decline and eventually stop duplicating after reaching maturity.

The researchers observed the long-term evolution of melanoma cell populations by monitoring the number of senescent cells, and discovered a slowing in growth with the majority of the cells turning senescent after three months. However, growth did not stop and was eventually resumed at its initial rate until the senescent cells had nearly disappeared.

The researchers applied a mathematical model of the experimental data using the cancer stem cell hypothesis, in which a sub-group of cancer cells multiply indefinitely, and therefore remain unaffected by senescence. These cancer stem cells produce a larger population of cancer cells, which are only able to replicate a certain number of times. The results of the model achieved an indirect confirmation that cancer stem cells are present in melanoma, an issue that remains to be controversial in the cancer research community.

The researchers conclude that even though a large percentage of cancer cells are susceptible to senescence, inducing senescence is unlikely to provide a successful therapeutic strategy because these cells are not important for tumor growth. The say however, that the indirect evidence of cancer stem cells in melanoma could potentially enable the development of new strategies for the treatment of specific types of cancer.

However, the strong resistance to drug induced senescence that may be found in the cancer stem cells will present a major challenge. Based on this study, treatment of tumors would concentrate on targeting only these cancer stem cells, instead of every single cancerous cell.

Tame hunger and cravings with serotonin

Food-mood connection

Known mainly for relieving melancholy and agitation, serotonin is a powerful regulator of brain function. The lion's share of serotonin is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, but the brain, kidneys and liver also manufacture this neurotransmitter in small amounts. Carbohydrates are necessary for serotonin production -- giving insight into the irritability that is often found with those on a low-carb diet. Studies have shown that people who restrict carbohydrates are significantly more crabby than their carb-loving counterparts.

Using carbohydrates to manage appetite

Surprisingly, serotonin isn't just a potent brain chemical responsible for feelings of well-being and calm -- it plays an important role in the management of appetite too. A clinical study found that consuming small amounts of carbohydrates 20 minutes before a meal helped increase serotonin and reduced hunger. Participants of the experiment shared common traits like fatigue, irritability and depression that would usually strike between 3 and 5 p.m. Concentration, mood and energy levels of the volunteers were measured both before and after drinking either a carbohydrate or protein-rich test beverage. Only those who consumed the carbohydrate drink had improvement in mood and energy along with reduced food consumption throughout the day. Afternoon slumps and carbohydrate cravings were also diminished.

Maximize serotonin in the body

Have a look at the following tips and take advantage of serotonin's mood and appetite regulating benefits:

1. Enjoy small amounts of healthy carbohydrates

One of the most effective ways to increase serotonin is to consume carbohydrates. Timing carbohydrate consumption produces even better results. By eating 25-35 grams of carbohydrates 20 minutes before a meal, the body has time to produce serotonin -- naturally curbing appetite and boosting mood. Good choices include amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat and millet. Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates to keep blood sugar levels stable. Beware of consuming carbohydrates along with fat or protein as this hampers the production of serotonin.

2. Reduce stress

We have all heard that stress causes a variety of health problems. Stress also interferes with serotonin. When we are tense, the body produces cortisol and adrenaline which block serotonin. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga and exercise help to manage chronic tension while keeping serotonin levels balanced.

3. Try Rhodiola rosea herb

Not only does rhodiola increase stamina and resilience to stress, it also slows the breakdown of serotonin within the system. As an added bonus, rhodiola helps to dissolve fat -- especially around the mid-section.

With all the great benefits of serotonin, why suffer low-carb diets? Instead, enjoy small portions of carefully timed carbohydrates to maintain healthy weight and a bright outlook.

Leave the Whites to Linens

When it comes to diet, opt for colorful foods that pack a nutritious punch. You don’t have to cut out carbs completely, just opt for the healthy kind. Dr. Sizemore-Ruiz suggests “avoiding white rice, white bread, and white pasta like it’s the plague” and replacing all ‘white’ foods with their whole-wheat counterpart.
“White foods offer almost no nutritional value, and replacing these carbs with whole grains adds vitamins and minerals to your diet."

Ditch the Soda

Soda is not only a diet-spoiler (hello, liquid calories!), it can also have an adverse effect on your health!

“I advise patients to never drink regular soda. I'd prefer you not to drink the diet soda either, but if you must have the taste of soda, drink the diet kind. The amount of calories and high fructose corn syrup in regular soda is insane. The best advice is to replace that daily soda fix with some green tea instead.”

Trade Your Latte for Tea

Green tea is packed with antioxidants and also has weight-loss properties, so sip away, advises Dr. Sizemore- Ruiz. “I try and drink at least one cup a day, but I really aim for two. Green Tea lattes and frappes don't count...but nice try!”

Get to Know Your DNA

Did your maternal grandmother have ovarian cancer? Did your father have colon cancer? It pays to know your family history and how it can affect your own health and wellness.

“I cannot express how important this is. It can totally change the screening guidelines for you,” Dr. Sizemore-Ruiz says. “For instance, a screening colonoscopy is done at 50 years old, but if your father had colon cancer at 49, then you must have a screening at 39! Not just cancers, but knowing family history of things like heart disease and diabetes—and keeping a record of it—will help your physician make the right decisions for your health.”

Change the way you think about food

There are lots of myths about healthy food. Don’t make food choices based on false beliefs. Suggestions include:
Compare the prices of junk foods against the price of healthier food options to see that ‘healthy’ doesn’t have to mean ‘expensive’.
Experiment with different foods and recipes. You’ll soon discover that a meal cooked with fresh ingredients always leaves a limp burger or soggy chips for dead.
Try different ‘fast’ options like wholewheat breakfast cereal, muesli, wholemeal bread, wholegrain muffins, fruit, yoghurt or noodles.
Don’t think that your diet has to be ‘all or nothing’. Eating well doesn’t mean you must be a health food freak. A good diet allows for treats occasionally.

Things to remember (Teenagers)

A teenager who eats fast food regularly is more likely to put on weight than a teenager who eats fast food only occasionally.
A diet consisting of healthy meals and snacks will boost your intake of nutrients such as calcium, which is required for strong bones.
Eating well doesn’t mean you must be a health food freak – a good diet allows for your favourite junk foods occasionally.

Change your eating environment (Teenagers)

Lobby your school canteen for healthier food choices.
Ask your school canteen to include a range of low-price healthy food choices.
Help with the grocery shopping and choose fewer processed foods.
Get involved in cooking at home. The Better Health Channel recipe finder may provide inspiration

Eating Tips For Teenagers

Teenagers need to consume a healthy diet that is high in fruits and vegetables, and rich in nutrients like calcium and iron. Teenagers can do a lot to improve their diet, eat healthy meals and snacks, and maintain a healthy weight.

Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar

There is astonishingly great health benefits associated with Apple Cider Vinegar. Reach for apple cider vinegar to cure many generally occurring diseases and health problems.

1. Beat Workout Exhaustion
Exercise and sometimes extreme stress cause lactic acid to build up in the body, causing fatigue. Interestingly, the amino acids contained in apple cider vinegar act as an antidote. What's more, apple cider vinegar contains potassium and enzymes that may relieve that tired feeling. Next time you're feeling beat, add a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar to a glass of chilled vegetable drink or to a glass of water.

2. Whiter Teeth
Gargle with apple cider vinegar in the morning. The vinegar helps remove stains, whiten teeth, and kill bacteria in your mouth and gums. Brush as usual after you gargle. Brush your teeth with baking soda once a week. This will help remove stains and whiten your teeth. Use it just as you would toothpaste. You can also use salt as alternative toothpaste. If your gums start to feel raw, switch to brushing with salt every other day.

3. Tummy Troubles
Sip some vinegar water. If a bacterial infection is at the root of your diarrhea, apple cider vinegar could help contain the problem, thanks to its antibiotic properties. What's more, some folk remedy experts contend that apple cider vinegar contains pectin, which can help soothe intestinal spasms.

4. Hiccups
Take a teaspoonful of vinegar. Its sour taste could stop a hiccup in its tracks.

5. Indigestion Prevention
Sip this before eating. If you know you're going to indulge in foods that will make you sorry later, try this folk remedy first. Add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water and drink it 30 minutes before you dine.

6. Night Time Leg Cramps
Sip some vinegar water. This old folk remedy should please apple cider vinegar fans. Add 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar and a little honey to a glass of water and drink to ease nighttime leg cramps. Of course, by the time you walk to the kitchen to put the drink together, your cramp is likely to be history — but maybe that's just the point

7. Stuffy Nose
Sip some vinegar. Mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink. This helps sinus drainage.

8. Sore Throat
Reach for the vinegar. As soon as you feel the prickle of a sore throat, employ germ-busting vinegar to help head off the infection at the pass. Turns out, most germs can't survive in the acidic environment vinegar creates. Just mix ¼ cup apple cider vinegar with ¼ cup warm water and gargle every hour or so.

HOW TO SAVE YOUR SKIN FROM SUN?

WE ARE ALL TOUCHED BY THE SUN’S RAYS. THERE ARE LONG DAYS WITH EXTENDED HOURS IN THE SUN, AND IT’S ESSENTIAL THAT WE RESPECT THAT WITH THE BEAUTY AND BENEFITS OF THE SUN, THERE ARE ALSO DANGERS. LESS ATTENTION AND MONEY IS SPENT ON SUN CARE PRODUCTS LIKE SUN BLOCK AND SUN SCREEN, WHICH ARE ABSOLUTELY VITAL FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES. THIS IS A BASIC INTRODUCTION TO THE EFFECTS OF THE SUN ON OUR SKIN AND WHETHER YOU TAN FOR BEAUTY OR SPEND HOURS IN THE SUN FOR WORK, SPORT OR RECREATION, SUN CARE IS ESSENTIAL. EVEN IF YOU AVOID THE SUN AND PREFER A PALE COMPLEXION, YOU COULD STILL BE AT RISK FOR SKIN CANCER.

HERE WE DISCUSS WHY THE SUN CAN HAVE HARMFUL EFFECTS ON YOUR SKIN PRODUCING BROWN SPOTS TO CAUSING WRINKLES AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF WITH A SUNSCREEN OR SUN BLOCK FOR YOUR TYPE OF SKIN.

SUNBURNS

SUNBURNSGETTING BLISTERING SUNBURN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASES OUR RISK OF DEVELOPING A SKIN CANCER. TREATING A SUNBURN QUICKLY AND WITH HEALING INGREDIENTS IS IMPORTANT TO HELP REDUCE THE DAMAGE AND TO PROTECT AGAINST, FURTHER DAMAGE LISTED BELOW ARE A VARIETY OF PHARMACEUTICAL TREATMENTS, AS WELL AS AN EASY, HOME REMEDY BOX.

HEALING SUNBURN

HEALING SUNBURNALOE VERA IS AVAILABLE IN GEL FORM OR CAN BE GROWN AT HOME. ONE OF THE ANTIOXIDANTS, VITAMIN E CAN HELP HEAL SUNBURN DAMAGE AND SHORTEN ITS EFFECTS. IT IS AVAILABLE IN CREAM, OINTMENT AND OIL FORMS. VITAMIN C IS AN ANTIOXIDANT AND INCREASING YOUR INTAKE WHILE SUNBURNED WILL HELP YOU HEAL. THE TANNINS IN COOL BLACK TEA WILL HELP SOON SUNBURN. HAVE A COOL BATH TO WHICH ½ A CUP OF BAKING SODA, HAS BEEN ADDED. CALENDULA IS ONE OF THE MOST HEALING PLANTS AND ITS OINTMENTS AND CREAMS CAN HELP SOOTHE SUNBURN.

DEFINITION OF A MOLE

THERE IS A SIMPLE RULE TO HELP DETERMINE WHETHER A MOLE IS BENIGN OR MALIGNANT. TUMOR OF CANCER IS USUALLY ASYMMETRICAL OR IRREGULAR IN SHAPE. A LINE THROUGH THE MIDDLE WOULD NOT CREATE MATCHING HALVES. COMMON MOLES ARE ROUND AND SYMMETRICAL. TUMOR USUALLY HAS UNEVEN, IRREGULAR OR BLURRED EDGES OR BORDERS. COMMON MOLES HAVE SMOOTHER, MORE EVEN BORDERS. COMMON MOLES USUALLY ARE A SINGLE SHADE OF BROWN. VARIED SHADES OF BROWN, TAN OR BLACK ARE OFTEN THE FIRST SIGN OF TUMOR. AS TUMOR PROGRESS, THE COLORS RED, WHITE AND BLUE MAY APPEAR. ANY MOLE THAT’S GREATER THAN 6MM IN DIAMETER SHOULD BE EVALUATED. MOLES THIS SIZE OR SMALLER ARE MOST LIKELY TO BE BENIGN. A MOLE THAT IS CHANGING OR INCREASING IN SIZE IS ANOTHER WARMING.

CHANGING OF A MOLE

CHANGING OF A MOLETHE MOLE SUDDENLY OR CONTINUOUSLY GETS LARGER. WIDE VARIETY OF COLORS COMBINATIONS APPEAR. COLOR MIGHT SPREAD FROM THE EDGE INTO THE SURROUNDING TISSUE. A MOLE THAT WAS FLAT OR SLIGHTLY ELEVATED INCREASES IN HEIGHT RAPIDLY. THE SKIN AROUND A MOLE BECOMES RED OR DEVELOPS COLORED SWELLINGS. A SMOOTH MOLE DEVELOPS OOZING, ULCERATION OR BLEEDING ARE SIGNS OF MORE ADVANCED DISEASE. FACING IS THE MOST COMMON EARLY SYMPTOM, AND THERE MAY ALSO BE FEELINGS OF PAIN. HOWEVER, SKIN CANCER IS USUALLY PAINLESS.

IF ANY OF THESE CHANGES OCCUR, THEY SHOULD BE CHECKED IMMEDIATELY BY A DOCTOR. IF YOU HAVE SIGNS OF SKIN CANCER IF A MOLE AREA DOESN’T LOOK NORMAL YOUR DOCTOR WILL CUT IT OUT AND LOOK AT IT UNDER THE MICROSCOPE TO SEE IF IT CONTAINS CANCER. THIS IS USUALLY DONE IN THE DOCTOR’S OFFICE. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THIS BIOPSY IS DONE CORRECTLY. PLEASE SELECT A PHYSICIAN WHO SPECIALIZES IN SKIN CANCER AND IS TRAINED TO RECOGNIZE A TUMOR AT ITS EARLIEST STAGE. YOU WOULD FIRST SEE A SKIN DOCTOR, WHO MIGHT REFER YOU TO A DERMATOLOGICAL SURGEON OR CANCER SPECIALIST.

BENEFITS OF RED FRUITS

THE RED FRUITS PROTECT AGAINST HEART DISEASE, PREVENT BLOOD CLOTS AND IMPROVE BLOOD CIRCULATION.

RED FRUITS ARE RICH SOURCE OF ANTIOXIDANTS WHICH PROTECT AGAINST CANCEROUS DISEASES

RED FRUITS CONTAIN LYCOPENE WHICH IS ANTIOXIDANT AND GIVES THE RED FRUITS THEIR RED COLOR

TOP FIVE REASONS FOR GIVING UP THE COFFEE HABIT

1. COFFEE STRESSES THE ADRENALS:
COFFEE SETS OFF A CHAIN REACTION IN THE BODY THAT STRESSES THE ADRENALS. THE ACID- BASED OIL IN COFFEE IRRITATES THE LINING OF THE STOMACH AND ELEVATES GASTRIC ACIDITY. THAT TRIGGERS THE SECRETION OF ADRENALINE BY THE BODY. ADRENALINE AROUSES INSULIN EMISSION, WHICH FUELS HYPOGLYCEMIA (LOW BLOOD SUGAR). THE ULTIMATE RESULTS ARE TENSION, A MILD RISE IN BLOOD PRESSURE, A CRAVING FOR SWEETS 2 OR 3 HOURS LATER, LOW ENERGY AND A DEPRESSED MOOD.

2.COFFEE COUNTERACTS MEDICATIONS:
COFFEE COUNTERACTS DIFFERENT MEDICATIONS. WHEN OUR BLOOD SUGAR DROPS, THE BODY INCREASES THE PRODUCTION OF EPINEPHRINE—WHICH OFFSETS THE MEDICATIONS TYPICALLY PRESCRIBED FOR PEOPLE SUFFERING FROM PAIN, OBESITY, HYPERTENSION OR DEPRESSION.

3. COFFEE CAUSES NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES:
HEAVY COFFEE DRINKERS HAVE A DEFICIENCY OF THE B1 VITAMIN THIAMINE. SYMPTOMS OF B1 DEFICIENCY RANGE FROM LASSITUDE, UNEASINESS AND DISEASES TO ACHES, PAINS AND HEADACHES. IN ADDITION, REGULAR INTAKE OF COFFEE PREVENTS NUTRIENTS FROM BEING ABSORBED EFFECTIVELY IN YOUR SMALL INTESTINES, WHICH LEADS TO FURTHER VITAMIN AND MINERAL INSUFFICIENCY.

4. PESTICIDES IN COFFEE ARE TOXIC TO THE BODY:
COFFEE GROWERS OFTEN USE HARMFUL PESTICIDES WHEN GROWING THEIR BEANS, SUCH ALDRIN, DIELDRIN, CHLORDANE. SOME SCIENTISTS SPECULATE THAT COFFEE BEANS ARE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT SOURCE OF THESE TOXINS.

5.COFFEE CONSUMPTION INCREASES TOXICITY:
LONG-TERM COFFEE CONSUMPTION  INCREASES TOXICITY IN THE BODY AND OPENING THE WAY TO DISEASE. THE FUNCTION OF THE LIVER IS TO PURIFY THE BLOOD SO THAT IT CAN CLEAN AND NURTURE THE CELLS IN OUR BODY. WHEN THE LIVER GETS BOGGED DOWN, TRYING TO PURIFY CHEMICAL DEPOSITS IN COFFEE (AND THE FOODS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES, WE BRING INTO OUR BODIES), IT BECOMES CONGESTED. AND WHEN THE LIVER IS CONGESTED, IT DOESN’T PROPERLY FILTER THE BLOOD. CONTAMINATED  BLOOD ENDS UP CIRCULATING THROUGH THE BODY, OBSTRUCT CELLS’ ABILITY TO REPRODUCE AND GROW HEALTHY TISSUE.
UNFORTUNATELY, DRINKING DECAFFEINATED COFFEE ISN’T ANY GOOD THAN DRINKING REGULAR COFFEE, BECAUSE IT CAN CONTAIN LARGE CONCENTRATIONS OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE—A CHEMICAL THAT’S ALSO USED AS A DEGREASING AGENT IN THE METAL INDUSTRY AND A SOLVENT AND DRY-CLEANING AGENT IN THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY. TRICHLOROETHYLENE IS ALSO RELATED TO VINYL CHLORIDE, A CHEMICAL IN PLASTIC THAT’S BEEN LINKED TO CERTAIN TYPES OF LIVER CANCER. IF YOU CAN’T WORK OUT THROUGH THE DAY WITHOUT THAT COFFEE TASTE, TRY HERBAL DRINKS WITH CHICORY, WHICH HAS THE FLAVOR YOU LOVE WITHOUT THE HARMFUL SIDE EFFECTS. AN EVEN WELL, MORE HEALTHFUL, OPTION IS HERBAL TEA.

Money Can Not Buy Health

Like the fable of the free lunch, there is no such thing as free medicine. Many a person may think his medical care is to come without cost, but there is an expense. This thought points up the poignant fact that money can buy medicine but not health.

Did you ever stop to think that the real remedies to help you overcome illness and keep you well are free for the taking? They cost only a little time and effort. Like vitamins, they must be taken regularly to be of peak value.

Some antibiotics and hormones may be quite expensive, but the tonics fresh air, sunshine, and pure water are blessings that cost not a penny. Tranquilizers cost a lot nature’s great tranquilizer, exercise, costs no more than a walk around the block, bedroom calisthenics, or a swim in the surf or lake or pool.

Vitamins may come in bottles from the drugstore shelf, but they can also be found in the daily diet. For my money, kitchen-table medicine is the most fun to take. The vitamin C found in a luscious yellow grapefruit of a morning with the chill still on it and a cherry in the center is a bright wake-up vitamin dish that goes down a lot more easily than a pill. There they cost nothing, but comes as a bonus with your food.

Water too is an almost free medicine. Actually, it may be called nature’s wonder drug, for without it to circulate nutrients through your blood stream they could not do their healing job. Water is vital to life. Your body is about 70 percent water, so drink eight glasses of water each day. It is good medicine and costs little.

Fresh air is a commodity that many smog-filled cities are finding it harder and harder to come by. The oxygen that air contains is also life-giving medicine. You can live for weeks without food, days without water, but only minutes without air. How many of us get ten full breaths each day? Air comes cheap free for the talking.

Much water treatment can be given with hot fomentations to the spine, neck, and chest: hot and cold showers, and tub baths. Europeans gladly pay high resort for these luxuries at the spas, but you have such medicine as close as your bathtub almost free.

Sunshine, the vitamin-D producer that works through your skin, is also a free medicine. It takes only the time to step into a bathing suit and lie in your back yard or at the seashore or the mountains to get that healthful tanned look.

Too few skins ever see the sun, though, it is a free medicine. It will render Trojan service in clearing up skin infection and making you feel fit.

Rest is a remedy so cheap we overlook it until we become ill and have to rest 100 percent of the time. A daily rest and a good night’s sleep will do wonders to build resistance and prevent illness. Rest costs you only a nice bed, a warm water bottle, and a good book. Rest is perhaps nature’s best medicine-again, free.

7 BASIC EVERYDAY HEALTH TIPS

“HE WHO HAS HEALTH HAS HOPE, AND HE WHO HAS HOPE HAS EVERYTHING.”

1. MOVE EXTRA: MAKE IT A DAILY CHALLENGE TO FIND WAYS TO MOVE YOUR BODY. CLIMB STAIRS IF GIVEN A CHOICE BETWEEN THAT AND ESCALATORS OR ELEVATORS. PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS; THROW BALLS WITH FRIENDS, TRIM THE LAWN. ANYTHING THAT MOVES YOUR LIMBS IS NOT ONLY A FITNESS TOOL, IT’S A STRESS BUSTER. THINK ‘MOVE’ IN SMALL INCREMENTS OF TIME. IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE AN HOUR IN THE GYM. BUT THAT’S GREAT WHEN YOU’RE UP TO IT. MEANWHILE, MOVE MORE.

2. CUT FAT: AVOID SUCH AS FRIED FOODS, BURGERS AND OTHER FATTY MEALS. DAIRY PRODUCTS SUCH AS CHEESE, COTTAGE CHEESE, MILK AND CREAM SHOULD BE EATEN IN LOW FAT VERSIONS. NUTS AND SANDWICH MEATS, MAYONNAISE, MARGARINE, BUTTER AND SAUCES SHOULD BE EATEN IN LIMITED AMOUNTS. MOST ARE AVAILABLE IN LOWER FAT VERSIONS SUCH AS SUBSTITUTE BUTTER, FAT FREE CHEESES AND MAYONNAISE.

3. GIVE UP SMOKING: SMOKING IS HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH.

4. REDUCE STRESS: EASIER SAID THAN DONE, STRESS BUSTERS COME IN MANY FORMS. SOME TECHNIQUES RECOMMENDED BY EXPERTS ARE TO THINK POSITIVE THOUGHTS. SPEND 30 MINUTES A DAY DOING SOMETHING YOU LIKE. (I.E; WALK ON THE BEACH OR IN A PARK; READ A GOOD BOOK; VISIT A FRIEND; PLAY WITH YOUR BABY; LISTEN TO SOOTHING MUSIC; WATCH A FUNNY MOVIE. GET A MASSAGE, A FACIAL OR A HAIRCUT. MEDITATE. COUNT TO TEN BEFORE LOSING YOUR TEMPER OR GETTING AGGRAVATED. AVOID DIFFICULT PEOPLE WHEN POSSIBLE.

5. PROTECT YOURSELF FROM POLLUTION: IF YOU CAN’T LIVE IN A SMOG-FREE ENVIRONMENT, AT LEAST AVOID SMOKE-FILLED ROOMS, HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS, BREATHING IN HIGHWAY FUMES AND EXERCISING NEAR BUSY THOROUGHFARES. EXERCISE INDOORS IN AIR CONDITIONING WHEN AIR QUALITY IS GOOD. IT’S A GOOD POLLUTION AND DIRT FROM THE STREET DETERRENT.

6. FLOSS YOUR TEETH: RECENT STUDIES MAKE A DIRECT CONNECTION BETWEEN LONGEVITY AND TEETH FLOSSING. NOBODY KNOWS EXACTLY WHY. PERHAPS IT’S BECAUSE PEOPLE WHO FLOSS TEND TO BE MORE HEALTH CONSCIOUS THAN PEOPLE WHO DON’T? THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: FLOSS AND BE YOUR BODY’S BOSS.

7. KEEP A OPTIMISTIC MENTAL POINT OF VIEW: THERE’S A DEFINITIVE CONNECTION BETWEEN LIVING WELL AND HEALTHFULLY AND HAVING A CHEERFUL OUTLOOK ON LIFE.

How to Gain Weight in 7 Days

Gaining weight is synonymous with losing weight. It needs as much discipline and patience as losing weight does especially demanding a lot more if you have set your goal of gaining weight to 7 days. Although, there is a decent chance that you won’t see a brawny you the 8th morning you wake up, but notice considerable changes.

Here are a few steps, following which you will notice favourable changes by the end of the week provided you follow them with discipline.

Tips on how to Gain Weight

Include a Nutitional Diet
Include a nutritional diet plans in your weight gain regime. Indulge in food that are low in fat and high in calories and nutrition such as seeds, nuts, nut butters, starchy vegetables, low-fat dairy products, egg, beans and whole grains. Food such as burgers, cheesecake, fries, onion rings, candy bars, hot fudge sundaes etc that are packed with high amount of calories may seem tempting especially when you are trying to put on weight, but they are healthy. In fact, you might have to lose your health for the sake of gaining weight.

Exercise Regularly
Exercise for Weight Gain! There is no escaping from exercise. Do compound exercises and lift weights. Indulge in exercises such as twist curls, squats, dips, deadlifts etc.

Eat more Calories than you Expend
Every individual has a different body make-up and therefore, you will have to check what your daily calorie requirement is by finding out your current daily calorie intake. When you find out your current daily calorie intake, add 500 calories more to it and also add high calorie foods for weight gain for the next 7 days to gain weight by the end of the week.

Increase Portion Sizes
Increase portion sizes by eating more often. Do not depend entirely on breakfast, lunch and dinner. Consume a meal after every 2-3 hours to make it easier to meet the calorie needs of the body. Include protein and complex carbohydrates in your meal.

Drink Healthy Beverages
Drink beverages that have healthy calories. Avoid consuming packed fruit juices as they contain lots of sugar, which is unhealthy for the body. Consume only all-natural fruit juices. Stay away from drinks such as soda, lattes, flavoured coffee drinks, sweetened teas etc. These drinks have many calories but little nutrition and therefore, can help you in putting on excess of unhealthy fat.

Eat Healthful Smoothies
Indulge in high-calorie, but healthy smoothies for quick meals. Eat food such as yoghurt, almond butter, protein powder, nuts, fruit juices, soy milk etc. You can mix these ingredients and make a short-time meal out of it to give you calories.

Choose Dinner Wisely
Choose your dinner wisely before heading to sleep. Do not indulge in unhealthy fats especially at night.

6 Common Mistakes When Feeding Kids

1. Booting kids out of the kitchen. Let kids help with meal prep in the kitchen. Studies show that this helps to get kids to try new foods and eat healthier food like whole grains and vegetables.

2. Pressuring them to eat. Don’t offer rewards or demand your child eats something. Make good food available and gently and calmly encourage your kids to try it…then back off.

3. Restricting them from eating certain foods. It’s human nature to want what we can’t have. Within reason, give kids a little taste of everything so they lose the temptation or think there’s something overly special about a sugar cookie.

4. Making a big deal when you’re on a “diet.” Instead of dieting in front of your children, eat healthfully and explain that you make choices to be optimally healthy which includes only eating what you need in order to avoid gaining weight since obesity is a risk factor in countless diseases and health conditions.

5. Making veggies taste boring. Even if you’re choosing to have steamed or roasted veggies, let your kids have a little cheese or butter on top. A little won’t hurt them and you’ll feel better knowing they’re getting important vitamins and minerals because they’re actually eating their veggies.

6. Giving up and thinking you just have picky kids. Taste buds change and what they wouldn’t eat at age four, they may love at age six.  Keep gently trying and meet each refusal with calm understanding.

6 Foods to Get You In the Mood

Turn up the heat

Want a really romantic dinner? Sure, candles and soft music are nice, but what you and your man nosh on could truly take things to another level. The following (healthy!) foods may actually affect hormone levels, brain chemistry, and energy, heightening arousal and sex drive.While there aren't double-blind studies proving the aphrodisiac properties of these foods, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence suggesting they really help, so why not work in one (or more) on your next date night.

Asparagus

You're not alone if those fleshy green spears remind you of...well, you know.This veggie's phallic appearance no doubt has something to do with its legendary aphrodisiac status, but the goods are inside, too. Asparagus is rich in vitamin B6 and folate, both of which can boost arousal and orgasm.And it also boasts vitamin E, which stimulates sex hormones in both men and women.

Avocados

Energy and a healthy libido are crucial for great sex, and avocados can give you both. They're loaded with minerals, monounsaturated fats (the good kind that protect the heart and lower cholesterol), and vitamin B6—all of which help keep your energy and sex drive up.They're also a top source of omega-3 fatty acids, which naturally boost your mood, making you more likely to feel ready for bedroom action.For more on avocados' health benefits, check out "The Amazing Power of Avocados."

Chile peppers

Chile peppers can really spice things up—and not just in your mouth—thanks to capsaicin, a chemical that's been shown to induce the release of endorphins in the brain, which creates a feeling of euphoria.The potential payoff? Enhanced foreplay and hotter sex.

Chocolate

This sweet has long been linked with love and sex for good reason. It contains tryptophan, which helps the body produce serotonin, a natural feel-good chemical that may play a role in sexual arousal.

Chocolate also offers a hit of phenylethylamine, a stimulant thought to contribute to that lovey-dovey feeling. So, go ahead, indulge a little!

Licorice

This candy (sold conveniently in, um, whips) is thought to mimic the effects of estrogen and progesterone, critical hormones for normal reproductive and sexual function and response. Eating it may help you get in the mood—and stay that way more often.Plus, enjoying this candy may reduce symptoms of PMS, a real perk both in and outside the bedroom.But note: Don't settle for just any old licorice-flavored candy. Be sure to buy a variety that contains real licorice-root extract.

Oysters

It's not the slippery feel or the singular taste of oysters that make them a sexy superfood. It's zinc, which oysters are loaded with. The mineral helps the body produce testosterone, a hormone critical in regulating women's and men's libido and sexual function.Research suggests that zinc can improve sperm count and swimming ability, and increase sexual potency in men.For women, zinc may help ovaries—the source of estrogen, progesterone, and some testosterone—stay healthy, keeping you primed for bedroom action.

Certain Rules Before Any Kind Of Dieting

Always have a light appetizer ready before dinner (tomato juice or crudités, for example) to cut down on hunger at the table.

Order plain, pasta without cheese sauce, salad without oil dressing, steamed instead of creamed vegetables, popcorn without salt and butter when you are at the movies, baked potatoes with plain yogurt and chives instead of sour cream…. Soon you shall get into a rhythm of eating plain (even if you eat almost everything) and that makes the difference. You even get to appreciate foods in their purest form, a delight long lost in a world of sauces and salts.

Reevaluate your thinking about food. Eating is not an all-or-nothing activity, a never cross your mouth with fattening foods situation. “Thin” behavior relies on a moderate, satisfying approach: Eat everything, but only a little of everything.

Drink chamomile tea: it is natural diuretic. So are watercress and asparagus.

Remember that alcohol on hot days seem to promote bloat-so say my two martini drinking friends. I do not drink, so I do not have this problem.

Cut down on the stuff that goes on food. Salt is a killer and causes water retention. Try using lemon instead of salt, toasted sesame seeds instead of sauce, drill instead of mayonnaise. Sauté with wine or unsalted soy sauce instead of oil or butter

Keep staples in the house for on the-run snacks and meals (you tend to eat oatmeal cookies because they are there): Foods such as tuna packed in water, fresh fruit, low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cottage cheese are fast, grab able, and relatively un-fattening. See? Are you getting into the habit of attitude dieting? Measuring or weighing foods is not natural. Besides, you know what’s too much to eat. Twelve chicken things are too many.

Do away with excesses: A bagel, for example, can be sliced by your grocer into six bagel thins. One is very satisfying when you crave filler with a cup of coffee, and that way, it takes three days to eat a whole bagel.

Worst Bets:

When you want to look your thinnest, avoid foods that produce gas, which puffs up your belly. Among such foods are cabbage, notorious beans, cauliflower, broccoli, and carbonated drinks.

Why would anyone want to drink coke (which contains five teaspoons of sugar per can) when she could drink Tab with lemon (containing no sugar)? However, do not overload on diet drinks. I always feel that if I cannot pronounce what is on the label. I should drink very little of it.

Do Not Shop When You Are Starving. Only Shop After You Are Full:

Emotional crises do not get better when you are eating éclairs. The lover does not come back, the boss does not relent about the no-raise decree, and the cold does not get cured when you stuff your face. Better to buy some new makeup for a lift.

Peanuts and potato chips at bars, hors d’oeuvres at parties, will do you in every time. They really ought to be outlawed.

How to Get Health Insurance With No Money

If you have no money, then getting health insurance may seem like an unobtainable dream. However, with doctors' visits alone frequently costing several hundred dollars, health insurance is a necessity if you want to stay healthy and not fall deeply into debt when you hit a health crisis. If you really can't afford health insurance programs, there are many health insurance options for low-income individuals. Knowing where to find these programs may involve a little detective work.

Remove Diabetes from 3 Steps

1. Check what you eat everyday and make sure that the food is devoid of sugar. Avoid all flour-based foods and reduce your carbohydrate intake to a very possible minimum. If you need carbohydrate, focus on complex carbohydrate and refrain taking simple carbohydrates.

2. Have a regular exercise to boost your body system. Whether it is swimming, cycling, aerobic dancing or just brisk walking for 30 minutes, as long as you exercise, your body will be more receptive to insulin thus enabling good blood sugar level control.

3. Take supplements to compensate for body stress due to free radicals bombardment. Start with a multi vitamins and minerals tablet. In addition take omega 3 1000 mg twice daily, and evening primrose 1000 mg twice daily. Folic acid 15 mg daily. These are the secret weapons to optimum body maintenance that can add more years to your life.