tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73358797985087672872024-03-13T08:56:10.156-07:00madhuraj health for you"Madhuraj a name in healthcare industry who has been serving and caring for the people for a decade now.started by two prominent doctors in early 80's madhu and raj with one thing in their mind "TO SERVE ".Started with just 25 bedded hospital and a expectation that they could do more for the people around them and they deserved better.Now almost a decade went by and madhuraj from 25 bedded hospital became bigger with love and acceptance from their people.madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.comBlogger63125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-17154279467002373472012-08-16T01:30:00.001-07:002012-08-16T01:30:09.823-07:00Short diet tips1.Limit juice, soda, and sugar-sweetened beverages. They can add excess sugar and "empty calories."<br />
2.Instead of relying on butter or sugary sauces to flavor your food, try hot sauce, salsa or Cajun seasonings. They add great flavors with fewer calories.<br />
3.Your plate should be half vegetables or fruits at every meal.<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k8X6SidyEOI/UCyvkHKayuI/AAAAAAAAAew/VOQtbFYnbQY/s640/blogger-image-1748198283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k8X6SidyEOI/UCyvkHKayuI/AAAAAAAAAew/VOQtbFYnbQY/s640/blogger-image-1748198283.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-18659665400428826412012-08-16T01:27:00.001-07:002012-08-16T01:31:10.057-07:00Broccoli15. Broccoli<br />
Nutrients: Beta-carotene (a carotenoid), Vitamins C and E, potassium, folate, calcium, fiber.<br />
Recipe Idea: Chop fresh broccoli into store-bought soup. For a veggie dip, try hummus (chickpeas).<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-of3RsZDbYWk/UCyu3IEO41I/AAAAAAAAAeo/YYM_LfMC9xc/s640/blogger-image--61892169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-of3RsZDbYWk/UCyu3IEO41I/AAAAAAAAAeo/YYM_LfMC9xc/s640/blogger-image--61892169.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-54191164425450188992012-07-08T09:20:00.001-07:002012-07-08T09:20:58.065-07:00Health and fitnessSpinach only<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zpumGbD2KhI/T_mzaGa0vpI/AAAAAAAAAd8/zpD48C0WpuU/s640/blogger-image--1171750540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zpumGbD2KhI/T_mzaGa0vpI/AAAAAAAAAd8/zpD48C0WpuU/s640/blogger-image--1171750540.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-70405914108479862732012-05-27T21:00:00.001-07:002012-05-27T21:00:21.591-07:00How to Lose 20 lbs. of Fat in 30 Days… Without Doing Any ExerciseIt is possible to lose 20 lbs. of bodyfat in 30 days by optimizing any of three factors: exercise, diet, or drug/supplement regimen. I’ve seen the elite implementation of all three in working with professional athletes. In this post, we’ll explore what I refer to as the “slow-carb diet”.<br />
<br />
In the last six weeks, I have cut from about 180 lbs. to 165 lbs., while adding about 10 lbs. of muscle, which means I’ve lost about 25 lbs. of fat. This is the only diet besides the rather extreme Cyclical Ketogenic Diet (CKD) that has produced veins across my abdomen, which is the last place I lose fat (damn you, Scandinavian genetics). Here are the four simple rules I followed…<br />
<br />
Rule #1: Avoid “white” carbohydrates<br />
<br />
Avoid any carbohydrate that is — or can be — white. The following foods are thus prohibited, except for within 1.5 hours of finishing a resistance-training workout of at least 20 minutes in length: bread, rice, cereal, potatoes, pasta, and fried food with breading. If you avoid eating anything white, you’ll be safe.<br />
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Rule #2: Eat the same few meals over and over again<br />
<br />
The most successful dieters, regardless of whether their goal is muscle gain or fat loss, eat the same few meals over and over again. Mix and match, constructing each meal with one from each of the three following groups:<br />
<br />
Proteins:<br />
Egg whites with one whole egg for flavor<br />
Chicken breast or thigh<br />
Grass-fed organic beef<br />
Pork<br />
<br />
Legumes:<br />
Lentils<br />
Black beans<br />
Pinto beans<br />
<br />
Vegetables:<br />
Spinach<br />
Asparagus<br />
Peas<br />
Mixed vegetables<br />
<br />
Eat as much as you like of the above food items. Just remember: keep it simple. Pick three or four meals and repeat them. Almost all restaurants can give you a salad or vegetables in place of french fries or potatoes. Surprisingly, I have found Mexican food, swapping out rice for vegetables, to be one of the cuisines most conducive to the “slow carb” diet.<br />
<br />
Most people who go on “low” carbohydrate diets complain of low energy and quit, not because such diets can’t work, but because they consume insufficient calories. A 1/2 cup of rice is 300 calories, whereas a 1/2 cup of spinach is 15 calories! Vegetables are not calorically dense, so it is critical that you add legumes for caloric load.<br />
<br />
Some athletes eat 6-8x per day to break up caloric load and avoid fat gain. I think this is ridiculously inconvenient. I eat 4x per day:<br />
<br />
10am – breakfast<br />
1pm – lunch<br />
5pm – smaller second lunch<br />
7:30-9pm – sports training<br />
10pm – dinner<br />
12am – glass of wine and Discovery Channel before bed<br />
<br />
Here are some of my meals that recur again and again:<br />
<br />
<br />
Scrambled Eggology pourable egg whites with one whole egg, black beans, and microwaved mixed vegetables<br />
<br />
Grass-fed organic beef, pinto beans, mixed vegetables, and extra guacamole (Mexican restaurant)<br />
<br />
Grass-fed organic beef (from Trader Joe’s), lentils, and mixed vegetables<br />
<br />
Post-workout pizza with extra chicken, cilantro, pineapple, garlic, sundried tomotoes, bell peppers, and red onions<br />
<br />
Rule #3: Don’t drink calories<br />
<br />
Drink massive quantities of water and as much unsweetened iced tea, tea, diet sodas, coffee (without white cream), or other no-calorie/low-calorie beverages as you like. Do not drink milk, normal soft drinks, or fruit juice. I’m a wine fanatic and have at least one glass of wine each evening, which I believe actually aids sports recovery and fat-loss. Recent research into resveratrol supports this.<br />
<br />
Rule #4: Take one day off per week<br />
<br />
I recommend Saturdays as your “Dieters Gone Wild” day. I am allowed to eat whatever I want on Saturdays, and I go out of my way to eat ice cream, Snickers, Take 5, and all of my other vices in excess. I make myself a little sick and don’t want to look at any of it for the rest of the week. Paradoxically, dramatically spiking caloric intake in this way once per week increases fat loss by ensuring that your metabolic rate (thyroid function, etc.) doesn’t downregulate from extended caloric restriction. That’s right: eating pure crap can help you lose fat. Welcome to Utopia.<br />
<br />
###<br />
<br />
If you enjoyed this post, check out my latest book, The 4-Hour Body, #1 New York Times and #1 Amazon bestseller. You will learn: the finer details of the Slow Carb Diet (outlined in the above post), how I gained 34 pounds of muscle in 28 days, how to produce 15-minute female orgasms, and more.<br />
<br />
You can also get the Expanded and Updated 4-Hour Workweek, which includes more than 50 new case studies of luxury lifestyle design, business building, reducing hours 80%+, and world travel.<br />
madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-63769736042287542432012-05-25T07:16:00.001-07:002012-05-25T07:16:44.967-07:00Rashes during pregnancyRashes during pregnancy are not uncommon in women. Majority of expectant mothers have to suffer from pregnancy rashes which are mainly caused by stretching of the skin, as the body prepares itself for further stages of pregnancy development and hormonal imbalance. Although they cause discomfort and irritation in pregnant women, they are mostly benign for both the would-be mother and her baby. There can be several types of skin rashes during pregnancy.<br />
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A pregnant woman gets rash on her stomach because the stomach expands to accommodate the baby. The skin stretches and this causes it to itch. The other reasons for this rash on the stomach are hormonal changes that happen in the body of the woman. While bathing, it is recommended that the woman should use a mild soap and cold water. However, if bathing with cold water is not an option, then she should use tepid water for her bath. Hot water increases the itchiness in the skin and makes the skin redder, and the rash may increase. She should thoroughly dry herself with a soft towel and apply some rash cream to soothe the itching. It is also recommended that she visit her doctor and dermatologist for consultations, if the rash increases and becomes unbearable. The following section describes the various types of rashes that are likely to occur at different stages of a woman's pregnancy.<br />
<br />
Types of Rashes During Pregnancy<br />
<br />
PUPPP<br />
The full-form of PUPPP is Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy. It is one of the most common rashes to occur at the time of pregnancy. It affects one in 100 expectant mothers, and manifests itself in the form of small elevated papules within the stretch marks on the abdomen. It is characterized by strong itching. PUPPP has a tendency to spread to arms and buttocks but never appears on the face. It occurs after 34 weeks of pregnancy and disappears after childbirth. It may recur with subsequent pregnancies. You can get relief from PUPPP by applying corticosteroids, topically. Other than that, oral corticosteroids, e.g. prednisolone are also available. PUPPP causes a change in mother's skin but is absolutely harmless to both the mother and her baby.<br />
<br />
Melasma<br />
These are brown in color and are found on the face, especially on the cheekbones. However, this is not a skin rash, per se. Instead, it's a type of skin pigmentation occurring as a result of hormonal changes during pregnancy and due to certain medications administered during pregnancy. It lasts till the end of pregnancy and is not itchy or harmful. Melasma can be treated by using creams prescribed by the doctors.<br />
<br />
Prurigo of Pregnancy<br />
Prurigo of pregnancy is characterized by very itchy reddish spots. It generally occurs on the upper trunks and upper parts of arms and legs. It is rarely seen on the buttocks. Alike PUPPP, prurigo of pregnancy appears on stretch marks. It appears during second trimester of pregnancy and last week of pregnancy. Usually after childbirth, it spreads to the entire body, but within three weeks or so, it disappears. However, if you wish to rid yourself from prurigo of pregnancy, take anti-histamine tablets.<br />
<br />
Papular Dermatitis of Pregnancy<br />
The imbalance in the hormonal levels causes papular dermatitis of pregnancy. It mostly occurs due to the elevated levels of gonadotropins and lowered levels of cortisol and estrogen. Prurigo of gestation is again a common dermatosis (skin condition) of pregnancy and affects almost one in every 300 pregnant women. The characteristic features are extremely itchy, raised spots, which are red in color and get covered by crust. The spots are never found in groups. There is no definite time for the occurrence of papular dermatitis of pregnancy as it can appear at any stage of the pregnancy development, and continues to do so till the child is born. It does not cause any harm to either the mother or her baby. The treatment is generally done with high doses of corticosteroids. <br />
<br />
Impetigo Herpetiformis<br />
This one is a rare dermatosis of pregnancy. You can easily identify this type of pregnancy rashes as they appear in clusters of pus-filled blisters, arranged in somewhat a spiral shape. The blisters scab and disappear after a few days, but are followed by the formation of new blisters at their edges. The cycle repeats as the illness progresses. Impetigo herpetiformis is accompanied with chills, fever, vomiting, loose stools, hair loss, and pain in the joints. You will find mild itching and burning sensation in the rashes. It usually starts with groins, armpits, and folds of elbows and knees, and looks like a shallow ulcer when it affects the mucus membranes of mouth and reproductive organs. It occurs mostly during the last trimester of pregnancy and disappears after the delivery of the child, and generally, leaves scars behind. Intake of adrenocorticotrophic hormone that raises the production of steroids in your body, and cortisone are effective in the treatment of impetigo herpetiformis.<br />
<br />
Heat Rash<br />
This irritating and itchy heat rash is caused due to a combination of the heat in the body due to pregnancy, perspiration and the rubbing of skin against the clothing. This rash is more apparent beneath the breasts and in the creases formed due to the bulge of the lower abdomen. It can also appear in the genital areas and on the thighs, especially the inner thigh. The treatments for this rash include taking cold water baths and using prickly heat creams prescribed by the doctors.<br />
<br />
Pruritic Folliculitis of Pregnancy<br />
This type of pregnancy rash is similar to prurigo of pregnancy. It also resembles the steroid induced acne. It mostly affects the trunk of the expectant mother. However, the incidence of this type of pregnancy rash is rare.<br />
<br />
Rashes during the various pregnancy stages are, most of the time, completely harmless. Still, it is considered safe to consult your doctor for their early and timely diagnosis, so as to avoid any further complication<br />
<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FjQhbiw8uVQ/T7-USm9I_wI/AAAAAAAAAdw/kNmuM4CmbG4/s640/blogger-image-1872004276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-FjQhbiw8uVQ/T7-USm9I_wI/AAAAAAAAAdw/kNmuM4CmbG4/s640/blogger-image-1872004276.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-10712288260280490172012-05-23T21:25:00.001-07:002012-05-23T21:25:39.359-07:00Can breast cancer be detected early ?Can breast cancer be found early?<br />
Screening refers to tests and exams used to find a disease, like cancer, in people who do not have any symptoms. The goal of screening exams, such as mammograms, is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms. Breast cancers that are found because they can be felt tend to be larger and are more likely to have already spread beyond the breast. In contrast, breast cancers found during screening exams are more likely to be small and still confined to the breast. The size of a breast cancer and how far it has spread are important factors in predicting the prognosis (outlook) for a woman with this disease.<br />
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Most doctors feel that early detection tests for breast cancer save many thousands of lives each year, and that many more lives could be saved if even more women and their health care providers took advantage of these tests. Following the American Cancer Society's guidelines for the early detection of breast cancer improves the chances that breast cancer can be diagnosed at an early stage and treated successfully.<br />
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American Cancer Society recommendations for early breast cancer detection<br />
Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.<br />
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Current evidence supporting mammograms is even stronger than in the past. In particular, recent evidence has confirmed that mammograms offer substantial benefit for women in their 40s. Women can feel confident about the benefits associated with regular mammograms for finding cancer early. However, mammograms also have limitations. A mammogram will miss some cancers, and it sometimes leads to follow up of findings that are not cancer, including biopsies.<br />
Women should be told about the benefits, limitations, and potential harms linked with regular screening. Mammograms can miss some cancers. But despite their limitations, they remain a very effective and valuable tool for decreasing suffering and death from breast cancer.<br />
Mammograms for older women should be based on the individual, her health, and other serious illnesses, such as congestive heart failure, end-stage renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and moderate-to-severe dementia. Age alone should not be the reason to stop having regular mammograms. As long as a woman is in good health and would be a candidate for treatment, she should continue to be screened with a mammogram.<br />
Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional, at least every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year.<br />
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CBE is a complement to mammograms and an opportunity for women and their doctor or nurse to discuss changes in their breasts, early detection testing, and factors in the woman's history that might make her more likely to have breast cancer.<br />
There may be some benefit in having the CBE shortly before the mammogram. The exam should include instruction for the purpose of getting more familiar with your own breasts. Women should also be given information about the benefits and limitations of CBE and breast self exam (BSE). Breast cancer risk is very low for women in their 20s and gradually increases with age. Women should be told to promptly report any new breast symptoms to a health professional.<br />
Breast self exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women should be told about the benefits and limitations of BSE. Women should report any breast changes to their health professional right away.<br />
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Research has shown that BSE plays a small role in finding breast cancer compared with finding a breast lump by chance or simply being aware of what is normal for each woman. Some women feel very comfortable doing BSE regularly (usually monthly after their period) which involves a systematic step-by-step approach to examining the look and feel of their breasts. Other women are more comfortable simply looking and feeling their breasts in a less systematic approach, such as while showering or getting dressed or doing an occasional thorough exam. Sometimes, women are so concerned about "doing it right" that they become stressed over the technique. Doing BSE regularly is one way for women to know how their breasts normally look and feel and to notice any changes. The goal, with or without BSE, is to report any breast changes to a doctor or nurse right away.<br />
Women who choose to do BSE should have their BSE technique reviewed during their physical exam by a health professional. It is okay for women to choose not to do BSE or not to do it on a regular schedule. However, by doing the exam regularly, you get to know how your breasts normally look and feel and you can more readily detect any signs or symptoms if a change occurs, such as development of a lump or swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, nipple pain or retraction (turning inward), redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin, or a discharge other than breast milk. Should you notice any changes you should see your health care provider as soon as possible for evaluation. Remember that most of the time, however, these breast changes are not cancer.<br />
Women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15%.<br />
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Women at high risk include those who:<br />
<br />
Have a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation<br />
Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, but have not had genetic testing themselves<br />
Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of 20% to 25% or greater, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history (such as the Claus model - see below)<br />
Had radiation therapy to the chest when they were between the ages of 10 and 30 years<br />
Have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or have first-degree relatives with one of these syndromes<br />
Women at moderately increased risk include those who:<br />
<br />
Have a lifetime risk of breast cancer of 15% to 20%, according to risk assessment tools that are based mainly on family history (see below)<br />
Have a personal history of breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), or atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH)<br />
Have extremely dense breasts or unevenly dense breasts when viewed by mammograms<br />
If MRI is used, it should be in addition to, not instead of, a screening mammogram. This is because while an MRI is a more sensitive test (it's more likely to detect cancer than a mammogram), it may still miss some cancers that a mammogram would detect.<br />
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For most women at high risk, screening with MRI and mammograms should begin at age 30 years and continue for as long as a woman is in good health. But because the evidence is limited regarding the best age at which to start screening, this decision should be based on shared decision making between patients and their health care providers, taking into account personal circumstances and preferences.<br />
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Several risk assessment tools, with names like the Gail model, the Claus model, and the Tyrer-Cuzick model, are available to help health professionals estimate a woman's breast cancer risk. These tools give approximate, rather than precise, estimates of breast cancer risk based on different combinations of risk factors and different data sets.<br />
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As a result, they may give different risk estimates for the same woman. For example, the Gail model bases its risk estimates on certain personal risk factors, like age at menarche (first menstrual period) and history of prior breast biopsies, along with any history of breast cancer in first-degree relatives. The Claus model estimates risk based on family history of breast cancer in both first and second-degree relatives. These 2 models could easily give different estimates using the same data. Results obtained from any of the risk assessment tools should be discussed by a woman and her doctor when being used to decide whether to start MRI screening.<br />
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It is recommended that women who get screening MRI do so at a facility that can do an MRI-guided breast biopsy at the same time if needed. Otherwise, the woman will have to have a second MRI exam at another facility at the time of biopsy.<br />
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There is no evidence right now that MRI will be an effective screening tool for women at average risk. MRI is more sensitive than mammograms, but it also has a higher false-positive rate (it is more likely to find something that turns out not to be cancer). This would lead to unneeded biopsies and other tests in many of these women, which can lead to a lot of worry and anxiety.<br />
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The American Cancer Society believes the use of mammograms, MRI (in women at high risk), clinical breast exams, and finding and reporting breast changes early, according to the recommendations outlined above, offers women the best chance to reduce their risk of dying from breast cancer. This combined approach is clearly better than any one exam or test alone.<br />
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Without question, breast physical exam without a mammogram would miss the opportunity to detect many breast cancers that are too small for a woman or her doctor to feel but can be seen on mammograms. Although mammograms are a sensitive screening method, a small percentage of breast cancers do not show up on mammograms but can be felt by a woman or her doctors. For women at high risk of breast cancer, like those with BRCA gene mutations or a strong family history, both MRI and mammogram exams of the breast are recommended.<br />
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Mammograms<br />
<br />
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. A diagnostic mammogram is used to diagnose breast disease in women who have breast symptoms or an abnormal result on a screening mammogram. Screening mammograms are used to look for breast disease in women who are asymptomatic; that is, they appear to have no breast problems. Screening mammograms usually take 2 views (x-ray pictures taken from different angles) of each breast. For some patients, such as women with breast implants, more pictures may be needed to include as much breast tissue as possible. Women who are breast-feeding can still get mammograms, but these are probably not quite as accurate because the breast tissue tends to be dense.<br />
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Breast x-rays have been done for more than 70 years, but the modern mammogram has only existed since 1969. That was the first year x-ray units specifically for breast imaging were available. Modern mammogram equipment designed for breast x-rays uses very low levels of radiation, usually a dose of about 0.1 to 0.2 rads per picture (a rad is a measure of radiation dose).<br />
<br />
Strict guidelines ensure that mammogram equipment is safe and uses the lowest dose of radiation possible. Many people are concerned about the exposure to x-rays, but the level of radiation used in modern mammograms does not significantly increase the risk for breast cancer.<br />
<br />
To put dose into perspective, if a woman with breast cancer is treated with radiation, she will receive around 5,000 rads. If she had yearly mammograms beginning at age 40 and continuing until she was 90, she will have received 20 to 40 rads.<br />
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For a mammogram, the breast is pressed between 2 plates to flatten and spread the tissue. This may be uncomfortable for a moment, but it is necessary to produce a good, readable mammogram. The compression only lasts a few seconds. The entire procedure for a screening mammogram takes about 20 minutes. This procedure produces a black and white image of the breast tissue either on a large sheet of film or as a digital computer image that is read, or interpreted, by a radiologist (a doctor trained to interpret images from x-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and related tests).<br />
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Some advances in technology, like digital mammography, may help doctors read mammograms more accurately. They are described in the section, "How is breast cancer diagnosed?"<br />
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What the doctor looks for on your mammogram<br />
<br />
The doctor reading your mammogram will look for several types of changes:<br />
<br />
Calcifications are tiny mineral deposits within the breast tissue, which look like small white spots on the films. They may or may not be caused by cancer. There are 2 types of calcifications:<br />
<br />
Macrocalcifications are coarse (larger) calcium deposits that are most likely changes in the breasts caused by aging of the breast arteries, old injuries, or inflammation. These deposits are related to non-cancerous conditions and do not require a biopsy. Macrocalcifications are found in about half the women over 50, and in about 1 of 10 women under 50.<br />
Microcalcifications are tiny specks of calcium in the breast. They may appear alone or in clusters. Microcalcifications seen on a mammogram are of more concern, but still usually do not mean that cancer is present. The shape and layout of microcalcifications help the radiologist judge how likely it is that cancer is present. If the calcifications look suspicious for cancer, a biopsy will be done.<br />
A mass, which may occur with or without calcifications, is another important change seen on a mammogram. Masses can be many things, including cysts (non-cancerous, fluid-filled sacs) and non-cancerous solid tumors (such as fibroadenomas), but they could also be cancer.<br />
<br />
Cysts can be simple fluid-filled sacs (known as simple cysts) or can be partially solid (known as complex cysts). Simple cysts are benign and don’t need to be biopsied. Any other type of mass (such as a complex cyst or a solid tumor) might need to be biopsied to be sure it isn’t cancer.<br />
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A cyst and a tumor can feel alike on a physical exam. They can also look the same on a mammogram. To confirm that a mass is really a cyst, a breast ultrasound is often done. Another option is to remove (aspirate) the fluid from the cyst with a thin, hollow needle.<br />
If a mass is not a simple cyst (that is, if it is at least partly solid), then you may need to have more imaging tests. Some masses can be watched with periodic mammograms, while others may need a biopsy. The size, shape, and margins (edges) of the mass help the radiologist determine if cancer is present.<br />
Having your previous mammograms available for the radiologist is very important. They can show that a mass or calcification has not changed for many years. This would mean that it is probably a benign condition and a biopsy is not needed.<br />
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Limitations of mammograms<br />
<br />
A mammogram cannot prove that an abnormal area is cancer. To confirm whether cancer is present, a small amount of tissue must be removed and looked at under a microscope. This procedure, called a biopsy, is described in the section, "How is breast cancer diagnosed?"<br />
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You should also be aware that mammograms are done to find breast cancer that cannot be felt. If you have a breast lump, you should have it checked by your doctor and consider having it biopsied even if your mammogram result is normal.<br />
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For some women, such as those with breast implants, additional pictures may be needed. Breast implants make it harder to see breast tissue on standard mammograms, but additional x-ray pictures with implant displacement and compression views can be used to more completely examine the breast tissue.<br />
<br />
Mammograms are not perfect at finding breast cancer. They do not work as well in younger women, usually because their breasts are dense, and can hide a tumor. This may also be true for pregnant women and women who are breast-feeding. Since mammograms are not usually done in pregnant women and most breast cancers occur in older women, this is usually not a major problem.<br />
<br />
However, this can be a problem for young women who are at high risk for breast cancer (due to gene mutations, a strong family history of breast cancer, or other factors) because they often develop breast cancer at a younger age. For this reason, the American Cancer Society recommends MRI scans in addition to mammograms for screening in these women. (MRI scans are described below.)<br />
<br />
For more information on these tests, also see the section, "How is breast cancer diagnosed?" and our document, Mammograms and Other Breast Imaging Procedures.<br />
<br />
What to expect when you have a mammogram<br />
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To have a mammogram you must undress above the waist. The facility will give you a wrap to wear.<br />
A technologist will be there to position your breasts for the mammogram. Most technologists are women. You and the technologist are the only ones in the room during the mammogram.<br />
To get a high-quality mammogram picture with excellent image quality, it is necessary to flatten the breast slightly. The technologist places the breast on the mammogram machine's lower plate, which is made of metal and has a drawer to hold the x-ray film or the camera to produce a digital image. The upper plate, made of plastic, is lowered to compress the breast for a few seconds while the technician takes a picture.<br />
The whole procedure takes about 20 minutes. The actual breast compression only lasts a few seconds.<br />
You will feel some discomfort when your breasts are compressed, and for some women compression can be painful. Try not to schedule a mammogram when your breasts are likely to be tender, as they may be just before or during your period.<br />
All mammogram facilities are now required to send your results to you within 30 days. Generally, you will be contacted within 5 working days if there is a problem with the mammogram.<br />
Being called back for more testing does not mean that you have cancer. In fact, less than 10% of women who are called back for more tests are found to have breast cancer. Being called back occurs fairly often, and it usually just means an additional image or an ultrasound needs to be done to look at an area more clearly. This is more common for first mammograms (or when there is no previous mammogram to look at) and in mammograms done in women before menopause. It may be slightly less common for digital mammograms.<br />
Only 2 to 4 mammograms of every 1,000 lead to a diagnosis of cancer.<br />
If you are a woman aged 40 or over, you should get a mammogram every year. You can schedule the next one while you're at the facility and/or request a reminder.<br />
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Tips for having a mammogram<br />
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The following are useful suggestions for making sure that you will receive a quality mammogram:<br />
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If it is not posted visibly near the receptionist's desk, ask to see the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certificate that is issued to all facilities that offer mammography. The FDA requires that all facilities meet high professional standards of safety and quality in order to be a provider of mammography services. A facility may not provide mammography without certification.<br />
Use a facility that either specializes in mammography or does many mammograms a day.<br />
If you are satisfied that the facility is of high quality, continue to go there on a regular basis so that your mammograms can be compared from year to year.<br />
If you are going to a facility for the first time, bring a list of the places, dates of mammograms, biopsies, or other breast treatments you have had before.<br />
If you have had mammograms at another facility, you should make every attempt to get those mammograms to bring with you to the new facility (or have them sent there) so that they can be compared to the new ones.<br />
On the day of the exam don't wear deodorant or antiperspirant. Some of these contain substances that can interfere with the reading of the mammogram by appearing on the x-ray film as white spots.<br />
You may find it easier to wear a skirt or pants, so that you'll only need to remove your blouse for the exam.<br />
Schedule your mammogram when your breasts are not tender or swollen to help reduce discomfort and to ensure a good picture. Try to avoid the week just before your period.<br />
Always describe any breast symptoms or problems that you are having to the technologist who is doing the mammogram. Be prepared to describe any medical history that could affect your breast cancer risk — such as surgery, hormone use, or family or personal history of breast cancer. Discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your doctor or nurse before having a mammogram.<br />
If you do not hear from your doctor within 10 days, do not assume that your mammogram was normal — call your doctor or the facility.<br />
Help with mammogram costs<br />
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Medicare, Medicaid, and most private health insurance plans cover mammogram costs or a percentage of them. Low-cost mammograms are available in most communities. Call us at 1-800-227-2345 for information about facilities in your area.<br />
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Breast cancer screening is now more available to medically underserved women through the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP). This program provides breast and cervical cancer early detection testing to women without health insurance for free or at very low cost. Although the program is administered within each state, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide matching funds and support to each state program. Each state's Department of Health has information on how to contact the nearest program.<br />
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The program is only designed to provide screening. But if a cancer is discovered, it will cover further diagnostic testing and a surgical consultation.<br />
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The Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act gives states Medicaid funds to pay for treating breast and cervical cancers that are detected through the NBCCEDP. This helps women focus their energies on fighting their disease, instead of worrying about how to pay for treatment. All states participate in this program.<br />
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To learn more about these programs, please contact the CDC at 1-800-CDC INFO (1-800-232-4636) or online at www.cdc.gov/cancer/nbccedp.<br />
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Clinical breast exam<br />
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A clinical breast exam (CBE) is an exam of your breasts by a health care professional, such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse, or doctor's assistant. For this exam, you undress from the waist up. The health care professional will first look at your breasts for abnormalities in size or shape, or changes in the skin of the breasts or nipple. Then, using the pads of the fingers, the examiner will gently feel (palpate) your breasts.<br />
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Special attention will be given to the shape and texture of the breasts, location of any lumps, and whether such lumps are attached to the skin or to deeper tissues. The area under both arms will also be examined.<br />
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The CBE is a good time for women who don't know how to examine their breasts to learn the proper technique from their health care professionals. Ask your doctor or nurse to teach you and watch your technique.<br />
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Breast awareness and self exam<br />
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Beginning in their 20s, women should be told about the benefits and limitations of breast self-exam (BSE). Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any new breast changes to a health professional as soon as they are found. Finding a breast change does not necessarily mean there is a cancer.<br />
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A woman can notice changes by being aware of how her breasts normally look and feel and by feeling her breasts for changes (breast awareness), or by choosing to use a step-by-step approach (see below) and using a specific schedule to examine her breasts.<br />
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If you choose to do BSE, the information below is a step-by-step approach for the exam. The best time for a woman to examine her breasts is when the breasts are not tender or swollen. Women who examine their breasts should have their technique reviewed during their periodic health exams by their health care professional.<br />
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Women with breast implants can do BSE, too. It may be helpful to have the surgeon help identify the edges of the implant so that you know what you are feeling. There is some thought that the implants push out the breast tissue and may actually make it easier to examine. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding can also choose to examine their breasts regularly.<br />
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It is acceptable for women to choose not to do BSE or to do BSE once in a while. Women who choose not to do BSE should still be aware of the normal look and feel of their breasts and report any changes to their doctor right away.<br />
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How to examine your breasts<br />
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Lie down and place your right arm behind your head. The exam is done while lying down, not standing up. This is because when lying down the breast tissue spreads evenly over the chest wall and is as thin as possible, making it much easier to feel all the breast tissue.<br />
Use the finger pads of the 3 middle fingers on your left hand to feel for lumps in the right breast. Use overlapping dime-sized circular motions of the finger pads to feel the breast tissue.<br />
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Use 3 different levels of pressure to feel all the breast tissue. Light pressure is needed to feel the tissue closest to the skin; medium pressure to feel a little deeper; and firm pressure to feel the tissue closest to the chest and ribs. It is normal to feel a firm ridge in the lower curve of each breast, but you should tell your doctor if you feel anything else out of the ordinary. If you're not sure how hard to press, talk with your doctor or nurse. Use each pressure level to feel the breast tissue before moving on to the next spot.<br />
Move around the breast in an up and down pattern starting at an imaginary line drawn straight down your side from the underarm and moving across the breast to the middle of the chest bone (sternum or breastbone). Be sure to check the entire breast area going down until you feel only ribs and up to the neck or collar bone (clavicle).<br />
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There is some evidence to suggest that the up-and-down pattern (sometimes called the vertical pattern) is the most effective pattern for covering the entire breast, without missing any breast tissue.<br />
Repeat the exam on your left breast, putting your left arm behind your head and using the finger pads of your right hand to do the exam.<br />
While standing in front of a mirror with your hands pressing firmly down on your hips, look at your breasts for any changes of size, shape, contour, or dimpling, or redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin. (The pressing down on the hips position contracts the chest wall muscles and enhances any breast changes.)<br />
Examine each underarm while sitting up or standing and with your arm only slightly raised so you can easily feel in this area. Raising your arm straight up tightens the tissue in this area and makes it harder to examine.<br />
This procedure for doing breast self exam is different from previous recommendations. These changes represent an extensive review of the medical literature and input from an expert advisory group. There is evidence that this position (lying down), the area felt, pattern of coverage of the breast, and use of different amounts of pressure increase a woman's ability to find abnormal areas.<br />
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)<br />
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For certain women at high risk for breast cancer, screening MRI is recommended along with a yearly mammogram. It is not generally recommended as a screening tool by itself, because although it is a sensitive test, it may still miss some cancers that mammograms would detect.<br />
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MRI scans use magnets and radio waves (instead of x-rays) to produce very detailed, cross-sectional images of the body. The most useful MRI exams for breast imaging use a contrast material (gadolinium) that is injected into a vein in the arm before or during the exam. This improves the ability of the MRI to clearly show breast tissue details. (For more details on how a breast MRI is done, see the section, "How is breast cancer diagnosed?")<br />
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MRI is more sensitive in detecting cancers than mammograms, but it is more likely to find something that turns out not to be cancer (called a false positive).These false positive findings have to be checked out to know that cancer isn’t present, which means coming back for further tests and/or biopsies. This is why MRI is not recommended as a screening test for women at average risk of breast cancer, as it would result in unneeded biopsies and other tests in a large portion of these women.<br />
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Just as mammography uses x-ray machines that are specially designed to image the breasts, breast MRI also requires special equipment. Breast MRI machines produce higher quality images of the breast than MRI machines designed for head, chest, or abdominal scanning. However, many hospitals and imaging centers do not have dedicated breast MRI equipment available. It is important that screening MRIs be done at facilities that can perform an MRI-guided breast biopsy. Otherwise, the entire scan will need to be repeated at another facility when the biopsy is done.<br />
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MRI is more expensive than mammography. Most insurance that pays for mammogram screening will also pay for MRI screening if a woman can be shown to be at high risk, but it's a good idea to check first with your insurance company before having the test. At this time there are concerns about costs of and limited access to high-quality MRI breast screening services for women at high risk of breast cancer.<br />
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madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-79692759223349457042012-05-22T20:53:00.001-07:002012-05-22T20:53:54.775-07:00The truth about thyroid and weight gainThe thyroid has a big job: The hormones it secretes help regulate heart rate, maintain healthy skin, and play a crucial part in metabolism. When the gland is sluggish (hypothyroidism), it can rob you of energy, dry out your skin, make your joints ache, cause weight gain, and kick-start depression. When it becomes overworked—hyperthyroidism—and produces too much hormone, it can cause racing heart, sleep disturbances, and weight loss. That's a lot of grief for a gland the size and shape of a buckeye butterfly. <br />
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Given what can go wrong, you may be surprised to hear that about half of the estimated 27 million Americans with thyroid disease remain undiagnosed, according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. As Oprah discovered, the seemingly unrelated symptoms are partly to blame. People can spend years going from internist to specialist trying to get a diagnosis. They're often prescribed skin creams and antidepressants when what they really require is thyroid medication. <br />
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Most people with thyroid disease, about 80 percent, have the hypo version. Should symptoms drive you to make a doctor's appointment, one of the first things your physician will ask is if you have a relative with the disease, since thyroid disease tends to run in families. Your risk also increases as you get older; in addition, being female (the disorder is as much as eight times more common in women), or having another autoimmune disorder such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis can worsen your odds. <br />
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Depending on your risk profile, your doctor may recommend a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) blood test. TSH is released by the pituitary gland; when the thyroid bogs down, the pituitary releases more TSH. If you have normal levels of TSH, your test score will be from 0.4 to 2.5. A score between 0 and 0.4 is hyperthyroidism. Between 2.5 and 4 means you are at risk for hypothyroidism, and should be retested within a year. Above 4 means you have a mild case. Doctors used to resist treating patients in this category (clinical hypothyroidism starts at 10). But a 2007 British study in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that treating such patients can help prevent cardiovascular disease by reducing bad, LDL cholesterol and the risk of hardened arteries while improving waist-to-hip ratio and increasing energy. So if your symptoms led to a TSH test and you scored higher than 4, you and your doctor should discuss treatment. <br />
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While Oprah's thyroid problems seem to have stabilized and she has gone off her medications, most people with hypothyroidism face a lifetime of managing the gland. You'll get a prescription for synthetic thyroxine, which does an excellent job of replacing the missing hormone. Once you and your doctor work out the proper dosage—and that can take some time—you will feel better.<br />
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More Health Advice<br />
Are you taking the right supplements?<br />
Foods that should be eaten together for nutritional benefits<br />
3 small tweaks to improve your health<br />
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Read more: http://www.oprah.com/health/The-Truth-About-the-Thyroid-and-Weight-Gain#ixzz1vf4s5wn9madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-39038319254977880182012-05-21T22:03:00.001-07:002012-05-21T22:03:00.903-07:00Why should lesbian think about having safe sex ?<br />
Generally lesbians are at low risk of HIV infection and unplanned pregnancy. However sex between women is not always safe, and lesbians are just as vulnerable to certain sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) as women who have sex with men. Therefore women need to know the risks and how to protect themselves.<br />
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What is ‘safe sex’ for lesbians?<br />
‘Safe sex’ is any activity through which you are at no risk of becoming infected with HIV or an STI. ‘Safer sex’ refers to sex in which the risk of becoming infected with HIV or an STI is minimized. Lesbians can protect themselves from HIV and many STIs by ensuring that infected fluids, such as blood or vaginal fluids, do not enter their body during sex.<br />
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Precautions that can be taken include not sharing sex toys, or if doing so, using a new condom for each partner. Certain sexual activities are also considered to be lower risk, for example hugging, touching, massage and masturbation.<br />
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However, STIs such as herpes and crabs can be passed on through skin contact alone. The only way for two women to be sure that they are not at risk during sex is if both have been fully tested, and have not had sexual contact with any other women or men since.<br />
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Lesbians, sex and HIV<br />
Lesbian or bisexual women are not at high risk of becoming infected with HIV – the virus that causes AIDS – through woman to woman sex.<br />
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However, like many women:<br />
• Some lesbians have unsafe sex with men – one British study found that 85 percent of women who have sex with women reported also having sex with men.<br />
• Some lesbians inject drugs and share needles – research into injecting drug users has shown higher HIV prevalence among women who have sex with women, compared to heterosexual injecting drug users.<br />
• Some lesbians wanting to get pregnant face decisions about sperm donors – legitimate sperm banks screen donor’s semen for HIV and other STIs. However, many lesbians chose to use the sperm of someone they know, rather than using a sperm bank.<br />
• Some lesbian sexual practices are risky (see underneath for more details)<br />
It is argued that the widespread assumption that lesbians are a low-risk population increases some lesbians risk of HIV infection as they believe HIV is not something that they need to be concerned about.<br />
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What are the HIV risks for lesbians?<br />
HIV is in the blood, breast milk, vaginal fluid or semen of someone with HIV, so you are at risk if you get any of these fluids inside your body. The risks of sexually transmitting HIV between women are low. Very few women are known to have passed HIV on to other women sexually. However, some lesbian sexual practices do carry a risk of HIV transmission and precautions need to be taken to protect against infection.<br />
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Oral sex – the risk of HIV being passed on through oral sex is low, but it is increased if a woman has cuts or sores in her mouth, or if the partner receiving oral sex has sores on her genitals or is having her period. Oral sex is safer if you use a ‘dental dam’ (a square of latex or cling film) to stop any vaginal fluid or menstrual blood getting into your mouth. A condom cut open and spread flat can also be used for this.<br />
• Sharing sex toys – sharing sex toys (for example vibrators) can be risky if they have vaginal fluids (juice), blood or faeces on them. Always clean them well and have one each. This is one area of sex where sharing is a bad idea!<br />
• Rough sex – any sexual activity that can lead to bleeding or cuts/breaks in the lining of vagina or anus is risky, including ‘fisting’ or certain S&M (sadomasochism) activities.<br />
• Donor insemination – if a woman is thinking about using a sperm donor to get pregnant, she needs to be aware of the potential donor’s detailed medical history and any possible risk factors – including drug use and sexual history. It is important that the donor has taken an HIV test.<br />
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What other STI risks are there for lesbians?<br />
Although we have seen that lesbian and bisexual women are at low risk of getting HIV from sex with another woman, many other STIs – such as herpes or thrush – are just as common for lesbians as for women who have sex with men.<br />
• Thrush is an overgrowth of yeast causing vaginal itching and soreness, often with a white discharge. It can be passed via sex between women, though oral sex is low risk.<br />
• Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an overgrowth of vaginal bacteria causing a smelly discharge, which lesbians often experience. There is a possible link with perfumed soaps and bath oils.<br />
• Genital warts are painless bumps on the vulva, in the vagina, on the cervix or round the anus. They can be passed through contact with the warts, for example by touching, rubbing or sharing sex toys. It is unlikely non-genital warts, such as on hands, can be transferred to the genitals.<br />
• Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) gives a frothy, itchy vaginal discharge and is passed on by contact with the vagina only, for example by touching or sharing sex toys.<br />
• Herpes can cause painful sores on the inside of the vulva/vagina or anus (these are genital herpes) or on the mouth (cold sores). Herpes can be passed on through contact with a sore, for example by touching, fondling or sharing sex toys. Oral sex when a cold sore is present can also transmit the virus. It can be possible to have the herpes virus, be infectious and yet never have had any symptoms. An American study found that the majority of women who have sex with women, who are infected with herpes, are unaware of their infection.<br />
• Crabs/pubic lice cling to pubic and other body hair causing itching and sometimes blood spots from bites. They are spread through naked body/skin contact.<br />
• Chlamydia and gonorrhea are rare in lesbians but if they are present may be passed on through sharing sex toys or rubbing vulvas together. Often there are no symptoms, though there may be a discharge. The first sign of both infections may be pain in the pelvic region (pelvic inflammatory disease or PID). There is a risk of infertility for women who have had untreated chlamydia.<br />
• Syphilis is very infectious and close skin contact during sex can pass it on. Syphilis causes painless ulcers (or chancres) to appear where the bacteria entered the body. A chancre on the vagina can be almost unnoticeable.<br />
• Hepatitis refers to viral infections that cause inflammation of the liver. Certain forms of hepatitis can easily be passed on in sex – for example by touching or sharing sex toys. There are often no symptoms, though it can cause jaundice (yellow skin) or nausea.<br />
Treatment is available for all the STIs mentioned above, often with antibiotics, and most can be cleared up quite rapidly. It is vital you seek help as soon as you notice any symptoms and that you do not have sexual contact that could pass on any infection until it has been dealt with.<br />
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Getting smear tests<br />
Looking after yourself also means having regular cervical smears, even if you have never had sex with a man, or not for years. The reason for this is because sex between women can transmit HPV, the virus associated with cervical cancer. Smear tests can detect pre-cancerous cells and early treatment can mean cancer never develops. Despite this, clinic-based studies and surveys have shown that women who have sex with women are less likely to receive routine smears than heterosexual women of similar age.<br />
It is just as important for a lesbian to have regular smear tests as it is for a heterosexual woman. You can talk to your doctor about having a cervical smear, or alternatively you can contact a family planning or sexual health clinic such as DISA Health Care (011) 787 1222 www.safersex.co.za<br />
madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-13876176601018346272012-05-20T21:11:00.001-07:002012-05-20T21:11:08.175-07:00IMPORTANCE OF DRINKING WATER DURING EXERCISEAs an essential component of your body, water regulates your body's temperature while cushioning your organs and aiding your digestive system. According to the American Council on Exercise, 75 percent of water composes your muscle tissue while 10 percent composes your fatty tissue. Benefits of water include hydration, lubrication for your joints, protection of your spinal cord, and body waste disposal through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements.<br />
Water and the Body<br />
Composing more than half of our body, water plays an essential role in the maintenance of our body and its conduction of normal function. Urinating and sweating causes the loss of body water on a daily basis, but even normal exhalation allows small amounts of water loss. Replacing water loss prevents dehydration from occurring and allows your body to function normally. While women are advised to consume 2.7 liters of water daily, men should drink 3.7 liters.<br />
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Facts of Dehydration<br />
When your body does not receive a sufficient amount of water, its ability to cool down through perspiration and perform other bodily functions decreases. Hence, your body enters a state of dehydration which can lead to heat exhaustion and possible heat stroke. Dehydration also leads to muscle fatigue and a loss of coordination, resulting in cramping and a lack of energy while slowing down physical activity performance. In order to prevent this, you must drink water before, during, and after any exercise.<br />
Staying Hydrated During Exercise<br />
Exercise and athletics challenge the physiological function of your body, requiring you to constantly replenish its fluid supplies. Environmental factors, such as temperature, also influence your body to secrete more fluid during exercise than in a sedentary state. However, a loss of fluid affects your body's ability to function properly and leads to a decrease in performance. Increasing water intake during exercise is important and beneficial to not only your exercise performance, but in reducing risks of medical injuries and internal body problems, such as heat exhaustion.<br />
Recommended Water Intake<br />
A sufficient fluid intake during exercise properly hydrates your body allowing it to maintain body temperature in order to avoid dehydration. The American Council on Exercise recommends drinking 17 to 20 oz. of water 2 to 3 hours before starting a physical activity. Thirty minutes before, drink 8 oz., and then rehydrate with 7 to 8 oz. every 10 to 20 minutes during physical exertion. For activities lasting more than an hour, a sports drink replaces the loss of electrolytes which may hinder optimal performance during an activity.<br />
Tips<br />
Increasing your fluid intake provides nourishment for your body and helps it function properly. Keeping a water bottle with you during exercise allows for easy access and rehydration during exertion. Sometimes, the sensation of hunger misinterprets the sensation of thirst. If you feel hungry, drinking a glass of water will satisfy your thirst relieving the hunger pangs. However, water cannot satisfy actual hunger, hence, allowing your body to signal for nourishment.<br />
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References<br />
American Council on Exercise: Fit Facts: Healthy Hydration<br />
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Nutrition for Everyone: Water: Meeting Your Daily Fluid Needs<br />
"Journal of Nutrition"; Fluids and Hydration in Prolonged Endurance Performance; von Duvillard, S.P., Braun, W.A, Markofski, M., Beneke, R., & Leithauser, R.; 2004<br />
FamilyDoctor.org: Hydration: Why It's So Important<br />
Article reviewed by Veronique Von Tufts Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nqj874XyMQ4/T7nAWf0sAVI/AAAAAAAAAdk/vqB4UF6T3kc/s640/blogger-image--885200094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nqj874XyMQ4/T7nAWf0sAVI/AAAAAAAAAdk/vqB4UF6T3kc/s640/blogger-image--885200094.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-47343972618909334552012-05-18T21:32:00.001-07:002012-05-18T21:32:57.226-07:00Tips to Protect Your Body from Summer HeatWe can avoid Health Problems in summer by following the tips given by health care experts.<br />
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In summer time there are many problems that are affecting common man like skin diseases, heavy dehydration, fainting, skin discoloration, skin burning.etc<br />
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The main parts of body which are affected by the summer heat are skin, eyes, kidney. etc.<br />
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Jaundice, Cholera and Chickenpox are very common in summer time.<br />
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These diseases will spread widely through the use of polluted water and are also wide spread through communication.<br />
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Urinary infections also happen to most people during this time.<br />
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Chickenpox is the most dangerous disease that happens due to heat.<br />
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Pregnant women should take special care to prevent getting affected by diseases.<br />
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There for we must use fruits and vegetables more in this time which willl helps to avoid dehydration .<br />
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Cucumber, tomato, water lemon etc are very good for health.<br />
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For Skin Protection<br />
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In summer time there is a chance of fungal infection in skin affects many people.<br />
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There for two times bath in cool water is need the skin.<br />
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For cooling the water we can use Ramacham (Vettiver), Malli etc.<br />
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Avoid journey at the time of noon time. Wear light cotton dresses and use umbrella.<br />
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Drinking Water<br />
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Drink 20 to 30 glass of water in summer time.<br />
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Persons who have urinary infection and kidney stones.etc should drink more water during summer. This will help in preventing Urinary Infections.<br />
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But Kidney trouble patients should not do this and they should follow the advice of Doctor. They must use hot water more.<br />
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In case of problems like loose motion , Drink ORS solution and Salted Rice water.<br />
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For getting coolness<br />
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We can use mango juice and Nellikka (Gooseberry) juice at summer .it can give more coolness.<br />
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Take 4 Gooseberry and cut them into pieces and make juice with salt or sugar.<br />
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Diabetic Patient can use rock salt and turmeric .<br />
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Use Ramacham, Malli , Elanji flowers which can be used for coolness.<br />
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We can also use cooled off water after boiling which is best for dinking at the time of journey.<br />
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Avoid refrigerated cool drinks from shops and try to use tender coconut water which is the best drinks available naturally.<br />
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Use tender cucumber which will also help the body to become cool.<br />
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We can use food from rice and wheat. Avoid hot foods like fish and meat.<br />
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Biriyani and gee rice are not digested easily so it is use only sometimes.<br />
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Season fruits like water lemon, mango, grapes and banana are very good for the body. But it should be washed before using.<br />
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Oil Bath<br />
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Use cool ayurvedic oils like eladhi and dhanwantharam for body massage. It helps in keeping the body cool and softer.<br />
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Massaging using oil and bathing helps in preventing the skin from becoming dry.<br />
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Avoid sudden bath after coming from outside , because at that time body temperature is high and It will cause fever or cold.<br />
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Also avoid drinking cold water or drinks after coming out from hot sun or after sweating.<br />
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For Eye care<br />
<br />
Wash face and eyes with cool water. Use tender coconut oil for eye care.<br />
<br />
Rose water is also good for eyes. At this time eye infection is very easy to spread and so special care should be taken.<br />
<br />
Avoid dust allergy at the time of journey. If you have any conjunctivitis please consult the doctor and use antibiotics if needed.<br />
<br />
If we prepare eye liner from home it will be more good , as there is lot of chemicals used in make up items that we purchase from shops.<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7axSlip9BKI/T7cidqSru7I/AAAAAAAAAc8/r2qZJWn5miY/s640/blogger-image--99251307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7axSlip9BKI/T7cidqSru7I/AAAAAAAAAc8/r2qZJWn5miY/s640/blogger-image--99251307.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-55999308424713192992012-05-17T20:55:00.001-07:002012-05-17T20:55:29.368-07:00What are the signs of infertility? Find out if you need to investigate
further -What are the signs of infertility? Have you been trying to conceive for what seems like ‘too long’? Getting worried?<br />
<br />
At what point should you make an appointment with your doctor? This scenario can be very upsetting for any couple!<br />
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Below we have a list of 'symptoms' which if you are noticing, you need to discuss with your doctor. However firstly, there may be unnoticeable reasons why you may be having trouble conceiving, so we will discuss these briefly.<br />
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The correct technical meaning of ‘infertility’ is not conceiving after one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. If a woman is over 35 years old, this time period changes to six months. This does not necessarily mean that you are unable to conceive, in fact there are numerous steps that you can do to help with the process.<br />
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The most common diagnosis from doctors is termed as ‘unexplained infertility’ which means that no obvious medical reason has been found. There are numerous reasons why a couple may be having problems conceiving, and the most evident signs of infertility may lie within your lifestyle!<br />
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Contributing factors can include - lifestyle issues such as stress, being over or under weight, substance abuse or environmental toxins. Read more in depth about these subjects and more topics under fertility problems.<br />
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We also recommend researching our fertility diet section as there are foods that can help re-balance reproductive hormones, and also foods to avoid! Nutrition can play a huge part of our reproductive health and can certainly contribute towards certain signs of infertility!<br />
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The section on trying to conceive has top fertility tips for conception such as ovulation timing and sperm friendly lubricants , this is information that every couple should know about when trying for a baby!<br />
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Throughout this website we will cover a whole range of topics so that you will have the knowledge to make the necessary changes, thus improving your chances for pregnancy. This is information for both partners.<br />
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It is always recommended to make an appointment with your doctor for a preconception care visit regardless of your situation. You should tell your doctor that you are trying to conceive. This is so that they can do routine health checks for conditions that may effect your fertility, as often there may be no obvious signs.<br />
<br />
However there are however certain ‘symptoms’ that you should look out for, that your doctor needs to be alerted to. Remember that these ‘signs of infertility’ are clues to help your doctor make the correct diagnosis to help you in your situation. The earlier a diagnosis is made, the more opportunity you have to deal with the issue, so do not delay seeing a qualified medical expert! There are many treatments available with today’s medical knowledge and breakthroughs to help with fertility problems!<br />
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There are a few cases where a physical abnormally may truly be the cause of sterility. Some people may have been born with a reproductive system defect. This could be a women with no uterus or no egg follicles, or a man who has no sperm production capabilities at all. If this is the case then there may be other options for the couple to investigate such as sperm donors or surrogacy. Adoption may be another consideration. There are fertility specialists and counselors to help people in this situation.<br />
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Caution - this following information is not intended to be used for a self diagnosis, only a qualified medical expert can give a diagnosis.<br />
<br />
Signs of infertility - Men's symptoms<br />
<br />
Statistics show that men are equally as likely to have fertility problems as women.<br />
Impotency/erection or ejaculation difficulties - may be symptoms of other underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.<br />
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Normal visual appearance of semen -<br />
<br />
Should semen be 'thick' or 'runny'? Why does it appear 'watery' sometimes? Is this one of the signs of infertility? Many men are concerned about what the normal consistency (appearance) of their semen should be, and if this has any relation to their sperm count?<br />
<br />
Consistency of semen can vary greatly from one man to another. It is common for this to occasionally vary (either 'thick' in texture or sometimes becoming more 'watery' looking) depending on factors such as diet, dehydration, frequency of ejaculation etc. So for that reason there is no defined 'normal appearance'. It is normal for semen to liquidfy shortly after ejaculation. Semen is usually a semi translucent off white/gray coloring, and can sometimes have a slight yellow tinge.<br />
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You can not tell how fertile you are by just the 'look' of your ejaculate alone. Only a sperm analysis can accurately determine your sperm concentration. However, if you notice any 'substantial' or 'persistent' changes to your regular semen appearance/color, or are just worried, we advise seeking advise from a doctor for clarification or for further investigation.<br />
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Low sperm count -<br />
<br />
There are all sorts of factors that can contribute to this sign of infertility including -<br />
<br />
Alcohol/smoking or drug abuse<br />
Poor diet<br />
Environmental toxins<br />
Tight underwear (bad circulation/heat)<br />
Constantly sitting with legs crossed<br />
Bike riding (cutting off circulation and overheating)<br />
Hot baths<br />
Having had a high fever within the last three months<br />
X-rays and radiation<br />
It is recommended to make any lifestyle changes needed that may be contributing to this sign of infertility, but it is also advised to discuss your results with your doctor. They can investigate any other underlying reasons that may contribute to poor sperm count.<br />
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Hormones -<br />
<br />
Guys may not realize that they can suffer from hormone imbalances, and this can be a sign of infertility. Symptoms are varied, but it is still important to let your doctor know if you notice any of the following signs as they may be clues -<br />
<br />
Unexplained weight gain or loss<br />
Loss of muscle toneHeadaches<br />
Anxiety/depression/mood swings<br />
Fatigue<br />
Low sex drive<br />
Acne/skin problems<br />
Breast enlargement<br />
Hair loss<br />
Puffiness/bloating<br />
Prostate enlargement symptoms (urinary problems)<br />
Gallbladder problems - indigestion, pain under ribs on right hand side, light colored stools<br />
Infections -<br />
<br />
Men can contract infections of the reproductive tract, these can be passed on through sexual contact, poor immunity, surgery complications and other medical factors. It is advised to be checked for any sexually transmitted infections (STIs) regardless, as these often show no physical signs straight away. Bacterial or viral infections can also effect the sperm count for some time afterwards. Look out for these signs of infertility -<br />
<br />
Swelling<br />
Pain, discomfort or itching in the genital area<br />
A painful burning sensation when urinating or discolored urine<br />
Discharge from the penis<br />
Unusual smell<br />
Blood in semen (may show as a brown/pink tinge) may also be a sign of a burst blood vessel but still should get checked for infection<br />
Any other irregular changes in semen color<br />
High temperature<br />
Nausea and/or vomiting<br />
Blisters, sores or bumps in genitals<br />
Any condition which may have caused inflammation of the testicles (orchitis) in the past including -<br />
<br />
Infections<br />
Injury to the genital region<br />
Mumps<br />
Post surgery complications<br />
Any abnormal condition of the testicles such as undecended testicles may be signs of infertility. Having suffered a torsion in the past - a condition where the blood supply to the testicles is cut off (surgery is usually required). Do not jump to conclusions here - ask your doctor for an evaluation, starting with a sperm analysis.<br />
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Varicocele - varicose veins inside the scrotum may be a sign of infertility (a very common condition for men). These may cause discomfort or you may notice these physically. Treatment is available for this condition.<br />
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Certain signs of infertility may be due to some medications. Discuss any prescription medicines that you may be taking with your doctor as some may interfere with your reproductive system as a side effect. Your doctor may be able to change your medication or adjust your dosage. Monitoring will be required to achieve the desired results.<br />
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Caution - Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your physician first!<br />
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Signs of infertility - Women's symptoms<br />
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Age -<br />
It is not unusual for a woman to delay having a child in modern society. Reasons range from building a career and financial security, to marrying later in life. Some woman simply do not realize early on that their fertility declines with age, and this may start in your late 20’s. Since increasing age may be one of the signs of infertility, it does not necessarily mean that a woman can not get pregnant. However, a woman's chances of conceiving lessen with each year.<br />
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As a woman gets older she may also have been exposed to several factors that can influence her reproductive system such as poor diet, infections or stress. Assisted reproductive techniques are becoming highly sought out by older women.<br />
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Abnormal menstrual cycle -<br />
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This is a common sign of infertility to look out for. There are a number of reasons why a women may be having abnormal periods and this does not always mean infertility, but the sooner a problem is addressed the better. Symptoms may include -<br />
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Irregular or absent periods<br />
Heavy and/or painful periods<br />
Any pelvic pain or discomfort in between menstrual cycles<br />
Hormonal imbalances -<br />
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These are also common signs of infertility. There are numerous symptoms that you may not relate to fertility. These may include -<br />
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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)<br />
Weight gain<br />
Anxiety and depression/mood swings<br />
Headaches<br />
Facial hair growth<br />
Hair loss<br />
Fatigue<br />
Low sex drive<br />
Breast tenderness/lumpy tissue<br />
Nipple discharge<br />
Hot flushes<br />
Night sweats/insomnia<br />
Vaginal dryness<br />
Acne ,oily skin or redness<br />
Puffiness and bloating<br />
Gallbladder problems - indigestion, pain under ribs on right hand side, light colored stools<br />
Infections -<br />
<br />
These may be signs of infertility problems and need to be diagnosed as soon as possible. There are many reasons for infections ranging from being sexually transmitted, a low immune system or complications post surgery. If you notice any of the following, make an appointment with your doctor straight away!<br />
<br />
Pelvic pain in between periods<br />
Pain during intercourse<br />
Urinary tract or yeast infections (although very common, could be an indication of another more serious medical condition)<br />
Unusual vaginal discharge or smell<br />
Burning, itching or any irritation of the genital area<br />
High temperature<br />
Nausea and/or vomiting<br />
Blisters, sores or bumps in the genital region<br />
Post surgery complications<br />
It is wise to undergo tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as some do not show any obvious symptoms early on and could cause damage if left untreated for a long time.<br />
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Basal body temperature -<br />
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Basil body temperature is the lowest temperature attained by the body during rest. It is usually measured immediately after you wake up, before any physical activity. Ovulation causes an increase of one half to one degree Fahrenheit or one quarter to one half of a degree Celsius. This is one of the methods used by women who are estimating their day of ovulation. This could be a sign of infertility because if there is no change in temperature, this could indicate that ovulation is not taking place.<br />
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Like with men, please discuss any prescription medicines you may be taking with your doctor, as some may cause signs of infertility as a side effect.<br />
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Caution - Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your physician first!<br />
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Information regarding some of the most diagnosed reproductive conditions<br />
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Included within this ‘signs of infertility’ section, we will discuss some of the most common reproductive problems that men and women are diagnosed with. Some of these include -<br />
Men -<br />
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Erectile dysfunction<br />
Sperm and seminal fluid abnormalities<br />
Varicocele - enlarged veins in the scrotum<br />
Obstructive azoospermia - tube/duct blockages<br />
Women -<br />
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Endometriosis<br />
Blocked fallopian tubes<br />
Pelvic inflammatory disease<br />
Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOS)<br />
We will go over some of the tests that your doctor or specialist may perform. These conditions or 'signs of infertility' have some very good treatments available, which we will discuss. Although there are no guarantees, with today's medical knowledge and breakthroughs - hope is out there!<br />
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Fertility definition<br />
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A simple question but the answer is not always so clear. Find out our fertility definition.<br />
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Considering having a sperm analysis?<br />
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Read all about how a sperm analysis can provide extremely important information in regards to your fertility!<br />
Wondering what you can do to help increase your sperm count?<br />
<br />
How to increase sperm count? There are many different things that you can do to naturally help your 'swimmers'! If you have been diagnosed with a low sperm count, don't fret! This is one of the signs of infertility that you can be pro-active towards! We have the best information for you!<br />
Need help fixing erectile dysfunction? (Commonly called impotence)<br />
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This health issue is more common than you probably realize! There are excellent success rates with treatments for fixing erectile dysfunction! We also discuss the leading causes of impotence.<br />
What is secondary infertility?<br />
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Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive a child, after the birth of one or more children. This often takes couples by surprise! We will discuss the causes of secondary infertility, and the steps you need to take.<br />
Immune system dysfunction can affect fertility<br />
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There are numerous immune system disorders that can hinder your chances of conceiving or cause pregnancy complications. Find out about general health, autoimmune disorders, antisperm antibodies, immunodefiency, and how immune cells can malfunction causing reproductive problems. There is good help available for these immune signs of infertility<br />
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madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-35781178496338083692012-05-16T20:53:00.001-07:002012-05-16T20:53:17.264-07:00World hypertension day- hypertension and diet<br />
Quick Facts...<br />
Calories and body weight go hand in hand. Excess body fat leads to an increased risk of health problems.<br />
Potassium has an important role in blood pressure treatment.<br />
Low calcium intake may increase risk of hypertension.<br />
Excessive sodium intake is linked with high blood pressure or hypertension in some people.<br />
Dietary recommendations suggest avoiding too much sodium. The suggested range is 1,100 to 3,300 mg per day.<br />
Table salt is 40 percent sodium. One teaspoon has about 2,000 mg sodium.<br />
Hypertension (high blood pressure) affects one in four adults in the United States. Another 25 percent of adults have blood pressure readings considered to be on the high end of normal.<br />
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Your blood pressure is the force exerted on your artery walls by the blood flowing through your body. A blood pressure reading provides two measures, systolic pressure and diastolic pressure, which are expressed as millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), or how high the pressure of blood would raise a column of mercury. Systolic pressure is measured as the heart pumps. Diastolic pressure is measured between beats, as blood flows back into the heart.<br />
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High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it has no symtoms and can go undetected for years. It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Table 1 below shows how to classify blood pressure readings.<br />
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Table 1: Know Your Numbers.<br />
SYSTOLIC (MM HG) DIASTOLIC (MM HG)<br />
Normal <120 and <80<br />
Prehypertension 120 – 139 or 80 – 89<br />
HYPERTENSION <br />
Stage 1 140 – 159 or 90 – 99<br />
Stage 2 ≥160 or ≤100<br />
Based on two readings taken 5 minutes apart with a confirmation reading in the contralateral arm.<br />
Hypertension cannot be cured, but it can be controlled through lifestyle changes and prescriptive medication. While medications to treat hypertension are available, research has shown that modest lifestyle and dietary changes can help treat and often delay or prevent high blood pressure.<br />
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People trying to control hypertension often are advised to decrease sodium, increase potassium, watch their calories, and maintain a reasonable weight.<br />
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For sodium-sensitive people, reducing sodium is a prudent approach to reducing the risk of hypertension. The recommendation for daily sodium intake is 1,500 to 2,300 mg a day.<br />
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The amount of potassium in the diet is also important. Potassium works with sodium to regulate the body’s water balance. Research has shown that the more potassium and less sodium a person has in his/her diet, the greater the likelihood that the person will maintain normal blood pressure. However, the evidence does not suggest that people with high blood pressure should take potassium supplements. Instead, potassium rich foods should be eaten everyday.<br />
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A newer area of interest is the relationship between calcium and high blood pressure. People with a low calcium intake seem to be at increased risk for hypertension. Everyone should meet the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for calcium every day. For adults, this is 1,000 mg per day. For adults over 50, 1,200 mg is recommended.<br />
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Maintaining a reasonable weight is important to minimize the risk of several major diseases, including hypertension. For people who are overweight, even a small weight loss can dramatically reduce or even prevent high blood pressure.<br />
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Use Table 2 to assess sodium, calorie, calcium and potassium content of foods. Learn to read labels to identify differences between brands of food. Be a wise shopper.<br />
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Untreated hypertension causes damage to the blood vessels over time. This can lead to other health complications such as strokes, kidney failure, impaired vision, heart attack, and heart failure.<br />
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The DASH Diet<br />
A landmark study called DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) looked at the effects of an overall eating plan in adults with normal to high blood pressure. Researchers found that in just eight weeks, people following the DASH diet saw their blood pressure decrease. A subsequent study called DASH 2 looked at the effect of following the DASH diet and restricting salt intake to 1500 mg per day. Under the DASH 2 diet, people with Stage 1 hypertension had their blood pressure decrease as much or more than any anti-hypertensive medication had been able to lower it.(See fact sheet, 9.374, DASHing to Lower Blood Pressure.)<br />
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Recommended by the American Heart Association and the National Cancer Institute, the DASH diet is an overall eating plan that focuses on what people should eat, rather than what not to eat. Rich in fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates and low-fat dairy products, the DASH diet is lower in fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, and higher in potassium, magnesium, and calcium than the typical American diet. The high levels of potassium, magnesium, and calcium in the DASH diet are thought to be at least partially responsible for its results. Table 3 below outlines the DASH eating plan.<br />
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Table 3: The DASH Diet.<br />
Food Group Daily Servings Significance to the DASH Diet<br />
Grains and grain products 7 – 8 Carbohydrates and fiber<br />
Vegetables 4 – 5 Potassium, magnesium and fiber<br />
Fruits 4 – 5 Potassium, magnesium and fiber<br />
Low-fat or fat free milk or milk products 2 – 3 Calcium, protein, potassium and magnesium<br />
Meats, poultry and fish 2 or less Protein and magnesium<br />
Nuts, seeds and beans 4 –5 a week Magnesium, potassium, protein and fiber<br />
Source: “A Clinical Trial of the Effects of Dietary Patterns on Blood Pressure.” New England Journal of<br />
Medicine. 1997.336:1117-1124.<br />
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Table 2: Sodium, calorie, calcium and potassium content of foods.<br />
Food Amount Food energy<br />
Kcalories Sodium (Na)<br />
mg Potassium (K)<br />
mg Calcium (Ca)<br />
mg<br />
BEVERAGES<br />
Fruit drinks, dehydrated, reconstituted:<br />
Lemonade 1 cup 102 13 33 71<br />
Orange 1 cup 115 12 49 61<br />
Fruit juices, unsweetened:<br />
Apple cider or juice 1 cup 117 5 250 15<br />
Grapefruit juice 1 cup 75 4 360 32<br />
Orange juice 1 cup 120 5 498 25<br />
Grape juice, bottled 1 cup 159 8 279 27<br />
Prune juice 1 cup 192 5 588 35<br />
Cocoa mix, water added (Carnation) 1 cup 110 232 176 107<br />
Coffee, freeze-dried (using 2 tsp.) 1 cup 6 2 166 6<br />
DAIRY PRODUCTS<br />
Natural cheese:<br />
Cheddar 1 ounce 112 176 23 211<br />
Colby 1 ounce 110 171 35 192<br />
Cottage, 4 1/2% milk fat 1/2 cup 120 457 260 108<br />
Cream 1 ounce 99 84 34 23<br />
Monterey Jack 1 ounce 105 152 23 209<br />
Mozzarella, part skim milk 1 ounce 72 132 24 183<br />
Cream, sour 1 tablespoon 26 6 17 14<br />
Milk:<br />
Skim 1 cup 89 126 406 296<br />
Whole 1 cup 149 120 370 290<br />
Ice Cream: <br />
Vanilla 1 cup 290 112 193 208<br />
Yogurt:<br />
Regular plain 1 cup 152 105 323 272<br />
Fruit flavored with nonfat milk solids 1 cup 231 133 442 345<br />
EGGS, FISH, MEAT, POULTRY AND RELATED PRODUCTS<br />
Eggs, whole (boiled) 1 78 59 62 26<br />
Fish:<br />
Salmon, broiled 3 ounces 156 99 378 127<br />
Sardines, canned 3 ounces 174 552 501 372<br />
Trout, brook, raw 3 ounces 86 67 319 12<br />
Tuna, canned in water 3 ounces 108 288 237 14<br />
Shellfish:<br />
Clams, raw, hard 3 ounces 68 174 264 58<br />
Crab, canned 3 ounces 86 425 94 38<br />
Lobster, boiled (northern) 3 ounces 80 212 153 55<br />
Scallops, steamed 3 ounces 95 225 405 98<br />
Shrimp, canned 3 ounces 324 1,955 122 9<br />
Meat:<br />
Beef, lean hamburger, cooked 1 patty 140 55 480 14<br />
Pork:<br />
Bacon, cooked 2 strips 96 274 34 2<br />
Ham 3 ounces 298 1,114 284 4<br />
Poultry:<br />
Chicken, roasted, breast without skin 1/2 breast 142 63 220 13<br />
Turkey, roasted, breast with skin 3 1/2 ounces 189 67 289 21<br />
FRUITS<br />
Apples, medium (2 1/2 inches in diameter) 1 apple 87 2 165 10<br />
Apricots 3 apricots 51 1 281 17<br />
Avocado, raw, peeled 1 167 22 604 10<br />
Banana, raw, medium 1 127 2 550 12<br />
Strawberries, raw 1 cup 55 2 244 31<br />
Cherries, raw, sweet 1 cup 82 150 223 26<br />
Grapefruit, pink, raw, medium 1/2 40 1 135 16<br />
Oranges, raw 1 71 1 311 65<br />
Grapes 10 31 1 72 7<br />
Cantaloupe 1/2 melon 60 24 502 28<br />
Peaches, raw 1 38 1 202 9<br />
Pears, raw 1 122 1 260 16<br />
Pineapple, raw 1 cup 69 1 195 23<br />
Plums, raw 1 33 1 150 9<br />
Raisins 1 cup 462 17 1,221 99<br />
Watermelon 1/16 melon 152 10 560 38<br />
GRAIN PRODUCTS<br />
Bread:<br />
White 1 slice 62 114 24 20<br />
Whole Wheat 1 slice 56 132 63 23<br />
Cereals:<br />
Cream of Wheat, regular 3/4 cup 100 3 17 10<br />
Oatmeal 3/4 cup 111 1 98 16<br />
Crackers:<br />
Graham 1 27 48 27 3<br />
Saltine 2 28 70 7 1<br />
Whole wheat 1 16 30 120 1<br />
Macaroni, cooked, no salt 1 cup 151 2 85 11<br />
Muffin, English (Wonder) 1 medium 131 293 N.L. 80<br />
Noodles, egg, cooked, no salt 1 cup 200 2 70 16<br />
Rice, brown, cooked, no salt 1 cup 178 10 105 18<br />
Snacks:<br />
Corn chips, Fritos 1 ounce 154 231 23 35<br />
Popcorn with oil and salt 1 cup 41 175 256 1<br />
Potato chips 10 114 200 226 8<br />
Pretzel sticks, Frito Lay 3 324 17 99 21<br />
DESSERTS AND SWEETS<br />
Cookies:<br />
Brownies, iced, frozen 1 126 69 54 12<br />
Chocolate chip (commercial) 2 cookies 104 69 30 8<br />
Oatmeal and raisins 2 126 55 104 6<br />
Sandwich type (round) 2 99 96 8 5<br />
Sugar 1 89 108 15 16<br />
Doughnut, cake (plain) 1 125 160 29 13<br />
Cakes, from mix:<br />
Angel 1/12 121 134 40 4<br />
White 1/12 187 238 38 31<br />
Pies, frozen:<br />
Apple 1/8 of pie 160 208 76 13<br />
Cherry 1/8 of pie 100 169 82 12<br />
LEGUMES AND NUTS<br />
Almonds, roasted and salted 1 cup 984 311 1,214 369<br />
Beans, baked, no pork 1 cup 236 606 832 100<br />
Beans and peas, dry, cooked:<br />
Northern 1 cup 118 5 416 50<br />
Blackeye, cooked 1 cup 178 12 625 40<br />
Pinto, calico, raw 1/2 cup 349 4 984 135<br />
Split, cooked 1 cup 208 5 536 20<br />
Kidney, canned 1 cup 225 844 660 72<br />
Cashews, roasted 1 cup 561 1,200 464 38<br />
Peanuts:<br />
Dry, roasted, salted 1 cup 838 986 1,009 104<br />
Unsalted 1 cup 838 8 1,009 104<br />
Peanut butter 1 tablespoon 86 81 123 11<br />
Pecans 1 cup 696 1 420 74<br />
Pistachios 1 cup 594 6 972 131<br />
Walnuts, English 1 cup 781 3 540 119<br />
VEGETABLES<br />
Asparagus, canned 4 spears 14 298 127 14<br />
Snap beans, canned 1 cup 43 326 227 81<br />
Beets, cooked, fresh 1 cup 54 73 344 24<br />
Broccoli, raw 1 stalk 32 23 382 103<br />
Cabbage, green, raw 1 cup 24 8 233 49<br />
Carrots, raw, grated 1 cup 46 34 375 41<br />
Cauliflower, raw, flower pieces 1 cup 27 17 295 25<br />
Celery, raw 1 stalk (outer) 8 25 170 20<br />
Corn:<br />
Cooked, fresh 1 ear 70 1 151 2<br />
Frozen 1 cup 130 7 304 5<br />
Cream style, regular, canned 1 cup 210 671 248 8<br />
Cucumber 7 slices 4 2 45 7<br />
Lettuce, iceberg, chopped 1 cup 7 4 96 11<br />
Mushrooms, raw 1 cup 20 7 290 4<br />
Onions 1 medium 38 10 157 27<br />
Peas:<br />
Cooked 1 cup 106 2 294 34<br />
Frozen, regular 3 ounces 58 80 116 16<br />
Potatoes:<br />
Baked or boiled without skin 1 medium 139 5 755 14<br />
French fried 10 strips 137 15 427 8<br />
Mashed with milk and salt 1 cup 137 632 548 50<br />
Pumpkin, canned 1 cup 76 12 552 58<br />
Spinach:<br />
Raw, chopped 1 cup 14 49 259 51<br />
Frozen, chopped, cooked 1/2 cup 23 65 333 113<br />
Squash, summer, cooked 1 cup 28 5 282 50<br />
Squash, winter, baked, mashed 1 cup 126 2 922 56<br />
Sweet potatoes:<br />
Baked or boiled 1 sm. potato 141 20 300 40<br />
Canned, solid packed 1 sm. potato 108 48 200 25<br />
Tomato, raw 1 med. tomato 33 14 366 20<br />
Tomato paste 1 cup 215 77 2,237 71<br />
Tomato sauce 1 cup 97 1,498 1,060 32<br />
CONDIMENTS, FATS AND OILS<br />
Catsup 1 tablespoon 16 156 55 3<br />
Mustard, prepared, yellow 1 teaspoon 4 65 7 4<br />
Olives, green, large 4 olives 18 323 8 10<br />
Pickles, dill 1 lg. pickle 11 928 200 26<br />
Sauces:<br />
A-1 1 tablespoon 12 275 51 3<br />
Barbecue 1 tablespoon 15 130 28 3<br />
Worcestershire 1 tablespoon 12 206 120 15<br />
Butter, regular 1 tablespoon 108 116 4 4<br />
Margarine 1 tablespoon 108 140 3 3<br />
Salad dressing:<br />
Blue cheese 1 tablespoon 71 153 5 11<br />
French, bottled 1 tablespoon 57 214 11 2<br />
Italian, bottled 1 tablespoon 77 116 2 2<br />
Mayonnaise 1 tablespoon 61 78 1 2<br />
Thousand Island 1 tablespoon 70 109 16 2<br />
1 J. Anderson, Colorado State University Extension food and nutrition specialist and professor; L. Young, M.S., former graduate student; and E. Long, graduate student, food science and human nutrition. 11/98.madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-14092603023626731232012-05-16T06:05:00.001-07:002012-05-16T06:05:16.909-07:0023 Essential Health TipsMy patients are among my best teachers. They've taught me how to communicate clearly—and how to live a better life. On The Dr. Oz Show, I've seen that once people are emotionally involved, change happens quickly, especially if they feel that their behavior is letting loved ones down. Large-scale change seems daunting. We want simple routines that we can automatically follow. Adopt some of the steps here, which anyone can do, and you will like your life more in just a couple of weeks. And you'll live longer. Try them—they work for me.<br />
ROTF, LMAO<br />
Laughing not only eases stress, promotes social bonding, and lowers blood pressure, it may also boost your immune system. So bring some humor into your life, whether it's through friends or even a new TV show (preferably mine).<br />
Women's Health Tip<br />
Besides laughing, certain foods have been proven to soothe stress and can counteract the damage that chronic pressure does to your bod. Stock up on these eats and beat down stress for good.<br />
Don't Skip Breakfast<br />
Fiber in the morning means less hunger late in the afternoon, when you're most likely to feel tired and gorge yourself on sugar. My morning dose comes from steel-cut oatmeal, usually mixed with raisins, walnuts, and flaxseed oil. An early start on eating also keeps your metabolism more active throughout the day; breakfast eaters are thinner than people who just rush out the door.<br />
Women's Health Tip<br />
Need a new recipe? Try one of these eight healthy oatmeal mix ins for an instant breakfast upgrade.<br />
Hit the Sack<br />
Conan and Dave are funny, but they're not worth the strain on your system. Seven hours of sleep a night not only helps you live longer, but also lowers your stress, sharpens your memory, and reduces cravings for pants-splitting foods. Set a bedtime and stick to it. My target is 10:30 p.m. I record the late shows and then watch them the next day as I pedal a stationary bike.<br />
Women's Health Tip<br />
Are you sabotaging your sleep? Test your bedtime knowledge with our quiz to see if you're actually getting the z's you need.<br />
Admire Your Work<br />
Don't be so trigger-happy with the flusher. Turn around and take a look at your poop, which speaks volumes about your gut and overall health. Poop should be smooth and S-shaped, like your colon. If it comes out too lumpy, or drops into the bowl like marbles, you're constipated. Increase your fiber and water intake. This happens to me when I travel, so I fiber-load before a trip to avoid getting irritable.<br />
Women's Health Tip<br />
You don't need Metamucil—here are 30 great-tasting ways to add fiber to your diet.<br />
Don't Pamper Your Bad Back<br />
Even if you're hunched over in agony, taking to your bed will only make a bad back worse. The latest research shows that bed rest weakens back muscles and prolongs the suffering. Married men may suffer more than single men because of all the pampering. I used to love milking the care from Lisa, but the best solution is to get up, take a pain reliever, and be a soldier.<br />
Women's Health Tip<br />
Try these safe and simple yoga moves to prevent and relieve back pain.<br />
Taste the Colors<br />
Foods with bright, rich colors are more than just nice to look at. They're also packed with flavonoids and carotenoids, powerful compounds that bind the damaging free radicals in your body, lowering inflammation. (Sadly, skittles do not count.) Eat nine fistfuls of colorful fruits and vegetables each day and you'll reap the benefits without having to give up other foods. Whenever I shop the produce aisle, I'm reminded that these foods are often more powerful than the drugs sold in pharmacies. My favorites are arugula and blueberries.<br />
Women's Health Tip<br />
Want to experiment with more exotic veggies? If you're tired of the same-old produce picks, switch 'em out for these delish and super-healthy alternatives.<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nDmpv8PUefk/T7OmCnq0twI/AAAAAAAAAcU/HrsW2vLsm_E/s640/blogger-image-1234791097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-nDmpv8PUefk/T7OmCnq0twI/AAAAAAAAAcU/HrsW2vLsm_E/s640/blogger-image-1234791097.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-40616982456405417632012-05-14T21:09:00.001-07:002012-05-14T21:09:23.008-07:0010 tips to avoid tooth cavatiesEven though dental restoration systems has made fantastic progress, any kind of filling or machine is very likely to require added work in the long run than is the undamaged tooth. Great oral and dental care might help maintain your teeth undamaged by stopping cavities and dental cairies. In this article you can find valuable inforamtion about how to prevent cavities or tooth decay.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #1 - Brush Right After Eating or Drinking<br />
Brush the teeth at least two times per day and if possible after each meal, by using fluoride-containing tooth paste. In order to clean in between your teeth, floss or utilize an interdental cleaner. If you cannot brush right after eating food, at least attempt to rinse the mouth area through water.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #2 - Rinse with Fluoride<br />
When your dentist thinks there is a high-risk of establishing cavities, she or he might suggest that you make use of a mouth rinse that has fluoride.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #3 - See Your Dentist Often<br />
Have professional tooth cleanings as well as regular mouth checkups, that can help stop problems or identify them earlier. Your dentist can suggest a schedule that is ideal for your needs.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #4 - Use Dental Sealants<br />
A sealer is a protective plastic covering that is placed on the chewing surface of the molars sealing over grooves and crannies which often gather food inside the teeth probably to obtain cavities. The sealant shields tooth enamel right from acid and plaque . Sealants could help people of all ages. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention firmly suggests sealants for those school age kids. Sealants continue working around ten years before they should be replaced, even though they must be checked often to guarantee they are always intact.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #5 - Drink Tap Water<br />
Putting fluoride to public water resources helps reduce cavities a lot. When you drink only water in bottles which does not have fluoride, you will lose out on their benefits. Make sure to drink certain tap water, as well.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #6 - Avoid Continous Sipping and Snacking<br />
Once you drink or eat some thing apart from water, you help the mouth bacteria generate acids that could ruin the tooth enamel. When you snack or maybe drink the whole day, the teeth are within continuous attack.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #7 - Choosing the Right Nutritient<br />
Many foods and drinks are considerably better for the teeth than the others. Steer clear of foods which get caught in grooves and pits of the teeth for very long periods, for example chips, candy or maybe cookies. Rather, consume food which defends the teeth, like cheese, which some study shows might help stop cavities, and also fruits and veggies, which in turn enhance saliva flow, and unsweetened tea, coffee, and sugar-free gum, that help eliminate food substances.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #8 - Keep Fluoride Treatments in Mind<br />
Your own dentist might suggest a fluoride treatment, particularly if you are not receiving a sufficient amount of fluoride via fluoridated drinking water as well as other sources. In the fluoride treatment, your own dentist applies strong fluoride towards your teeth for a few minutes. You may also use fluoridated tooth paste or mouth wash.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #9 - Anti-Bacterial Treatments<br />
If you are particularly susceptible to tooth corrosion for instance, due to a medical problem , your dental professional might suggest special anti-bacterial mouth rinses or any other treatments that can help reduce unwanted bacteria inside your mouth.<br />
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Avoid Cavities or Tooth Decay Tip #10 - Floss<br />
Flossing regularly and properly could highly lower the risks of getting cavities. Use floss with subtle movements around the base of each tooth, including that you floss beneath the gumline. Avoid snapping or forcing, as that might cut or bruise your gum tissue. The two types of floss you should consider are Nylon (or multifilament) and PTFE (monofilament) floss.<br />
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madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-33436015337989735912012-05-13T21:19:00.001-07:002012-05-13T21:19:15.288-07:00Importance of minerals in foodImportance of Minerals in Food<br />
By Sarah Ince, eHow Contributor<br />
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Importance of Minerals in Food<br />
Vegetables, fruit, grains, and beans are just a few foods that contain important vitamins and minerals needed for the growth and development of tissues. Minerals are vital nutrients because they help the body maintain a proper pH balance. Minerals occur naturally in the earth. They are found in rocks, dirt, mineral salts, and other types of soil. Minerals are absorbed into food through the soil with the help of the sun. As plants grow, they absorb nutrition from the sun and the soil. Minerals are just as vital as vitamins. Minerals found in food help to keep bones strong as well as improving nerve function.<br />
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Benefits<br />
Taking a mineral supplement is one way to give your body extra minerals, but it is even more important to get your minerals from foods. The human body is better able to absorb minerals from food. The most common minerals found in vegetables and fruit are calcium, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These minerals are found in high concentrations because they are needed by the body more than other trace minerals such as copper, iodine, manganese, and boron.<br />
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Organic food<br />
Organic food contains higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals because it is grown without the use of harmful herbicides and pesticides. Organic food grown locally is even higher in nutrients because it has not traveled very far to get to you. When food travels from another country or across state lines valuable nutrition is lost during shipping. If possible eat organic local fruits and vegetables.<br />
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Bone health<br />
Minerals found in food contribute to healthy strong bones and teeth. One of the most important minerals for bone health is calcium. Calcium is also better absorbed by the body when it is combined with other minerals such as magnesium. Calcium also has other important roles in the body. This mineral stimulates enzymes to promote healthy digestion in addition to preventing muscle cramps.<br />
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Heart health<br />
Calcium also contributes to heart health. For instance, calcium helps to regulate the heartbeat in addition to preventing blood clots. The heart muscle thrives on calcium in order to maintain health. Foods rich in calcium are dark leafy green vegetables, raw cow's milk, raw goat's milk, cheese, yogurt, and carrots. If you are allergic to milk a good calcium rich alternative is raw carrot juice.<br />
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Mineral Rich Super Foods<br />
Spirulina is a super food that is rich in minerals, vitamins, protein, amino acids and other nutrients. Spirulina can be purchased in pill or powder form online or at your local health food store. This super food is a blue green sea algae found in the ocean, but now it is grown and harvested all over the world. Chlorella is another sea algae that is also rich in minerals and other vitamins. Chlorella also has additional cleansing properties.<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bkYo8Nt-QkQ/T7CHwYKYklI/AAAAAAAAAcI/c56uyZ8jNIY/s640/blogger-image--774915973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bkYo8Nt-QkQ/T7CHwYKYklI/AAAAAAAAAcI/c56uyZ8jNIY/s640/blogger-image--774915973.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-5359812117617132582012-05-11T21:53:00.001-07:002012-05-11T21:53:20.703-07:00Alchol and pregnancy .sideaffectsPotential Problems<br />
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For those who might think drinking during pregnancy is no big deal, here is a list of the potential problems their newborns could be facing as a result, according to Missouri Department of Mental Health, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse:<br />
Small body size and weight<br />
Slower than normal development and failure to "catch up."<br />
Deformed ribs and sternum<br />
Curved spine and hip dislocations<br />
Bent, fused, webbed, or missing fingers or toes<br />
Limited movement of joints<br />
Small head<br />
Facial abnormalities<br />
Small eye openings<br />
Skin webbing between eyes and base of nose<br />
Drooping eyelids<br />
Nearsightedness<br />
Failure of eyes to move in same direction<br />
Short upturned nose<br />
Sunken nasal bridge<br />
Flat or absent groove between nose and upper lip<br />
Thin upper lip<br />
Opening in roof of mouth<br />
Small jaw<br />
Low-set or poorly formed ears<br />
Organ deformities<br />
Heart defects or heart murmurs<br />
Genital malformations<br />
Kidney and urinary defects<br />
Central nervous system handicaps<br />
Small brain<br />
Faulty arrangement of brain cells and connective tissue<br />
Mental retardation -- occasionally severe<br />
Learning disabilities<br />
Short attention span<br />
Irritability in infancy<br />
Hyperactivity in childhood<br />
Poor body, hand, and finger coordination<br />
Permanent Effects<br />
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No, it's not a pretty picture, but it is not intended to be. It's very serious. These effects are not temporary; they can cause a lifetime of physical and emotional pain --not to mention expense. FAS is a large price to pay for a few drinks during pregnancy.<br />
If you are pregnant, don't take a chance with your baby's future; stop drinking immediately. If you have tried to stop and find that you just cannot seem to give it up, help and support are available.<br />
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If you are pregnant and drinking, your unborn child is not the only one at risk. Research shows that women who drink face more health problems than men who drink the same amount.madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-61045629124819052402012-05-10T21:07:00.001-07:002012-05-10T21:07:47.540-07:00The Anti-Cancer Diet CANCER NUTRITION TIPS AND CANCER-FIGHTING FOODSWhat you need to know about cancer and diet<br />
Not all health problems are avoidable, but you have more control over your health than you may think. Research shows that a large percentage of cancer-related deaths—maybe even the majority—are directly linked to lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking, a lack of exercise, and an unhealthy diet. Avoiding cigarettes, limiting alcohol, and getting regular exercise are a great start to an anti-cancer lifestyle. But to best support your health, you also need to look at your eating habits.<br />
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What you eat—and don’t eat—has a powerful effect on your health, including your risk of cancer. Without knowing it, you may be eating many foods that fuel cancer, while neglecting the powerful foods and nutrients that can protect you. If you change your diet and behaviors, you can minimize your risk of disease and possibly even stop cancer in its tracks.<br />
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Cancer prevention diet tip #1: Focus on plant-based foods<br />
Why plant-based foods are cancer-fighting powerhouses<br />
It comes down to this: Plants have less fat, more fiber, and more cancer-fighting nutrients. These three elements work together to support your immune system and help your body fight off cancer. <br />
The best diet for preventing or fighting cancer is a predominantly plant-based diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A plant-based diet means eating mostly foods that come from plants: vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, and beans. <br />
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The less processed these foods are—the less they’ve been cooked, peeled, mixed with other ingredients, stripped of their nutrients, or otherwise altered from the way they came out of the ground—the better.<br />
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There are many ways to add plant-based foods to your diet. A nice visual reminder is to aim for a plate of food that is filled at least two-thirds with whole grains, vegetables, beans, or fruit. Dairy products, fish, and meat should take up no more than a third of the plate. Keep in mind that you don’t need to go completely vegetarian. Instead, focus on adding “whole” foods, which are foods close to their original form. Just as important, try to minimize or reduce the amount of processed foods you eat. Eat an apple instead of drinking a glass of apple juice, for example. Or enjoy a bowl of oatmeal with raisins instead of an oatmeal raisin cookie.<br />
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Simple tips for getting more plant-based foods in your diet<br />
Breakfast: Add fruit and a few seeds or nuts to your whole grain breakfast cereal (such as oatmeal).<br />
Lunch: Eat a big salad filled with your favorite beans and peas or other combo of veggies. Always order lettuce and tomato (plus any other veggies you can) on your sandwiches. Order whole grain bread for your sandwiches. Have a side of veggies like cut up carrots, sauerkraut, or a piece of fruit.<br />
Snacks: Fresh fruit and vegetables. Grab an apple or banana on your way out the door. Raw veggies such as carrots, celery, cucumbers, jicama, peppers, etc. are great with a low-fat dip such as hummus. Keep trail mix made with nuts, seeds, and a little dried fruit on hand.<br />
Dinner: Add fresh or frozen veggies to your favorite pasta sauce or rice dish. Top a baked potato with broccoli and yogurt, sautéed veggies, or with salsa. Replace creamy pasta sauces, with sautéed vegetables or tomato sauce made with healthy olive oil.<br />
Dessert: Choose fruit instead of a richer dessert. Or a single square of dark chocolate.<br />
Buy organic or local produce, if possible<br />
Some pesticides found in commercially-grown produce are also suspected carcinogens. Organic foods are free of these pesticides, and locally grown produce is less likely to have been treated with chemicals to prevent spoilage.<br />
Cancer prevention diet tip #2: Bulk up on fiber<br />
Another benefit of eating plant-based foods is that it will also increase your fiber intake. Fiber, also called roughage or bulk, is the part of plants (grains, fruits, and vegetables) that your body can’t digest. Fiber plays a key role in keeping your digestive system clean and healthy. It helps keep food moving through your digestive tract, and it also moves cancer-causing compounds out before they can create harm.<br />
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Fiber is found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. In general, the more natural and unprocessed the food, the higher it is in fiber. There is no fiber in meat, dairy, sugar, or “white” foods like white bread, white rice, and pastries.<br />
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Simple ways to add more fiber to your diet:<br />
Use brown rice instead of white rice<br />
Substitute whole-grain bread for white bread<br />
Choose a bran muffin over a croissant or pastry<br />
Snack on popcorn instead of potato chips<br />
Eat fresh fruit such as a pear, a banana, or an apple (with the skin)<br />
Have a baked potato, including the skin, instead of mashed potatoes<br />
Enjoy fresh carrots, celery, or bell peppers with a hummus or salsa, instead of chips and a sour cream dip<br />
Use beans instead of ground meat in chili, casseroles, tacos, and even burgers (bean burgers can taste great)<br />
High-fiber, cancer-fighting foods<br />
Whole grains<br />
whole-wheat pasta, raisin bran, barley, oatmeal, oat bran muffins, popcorn, brown rice, whole-grain or whole-wheat bread<br />
Fruit<br />
raspberries, apples, pears, strawberries, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, mango, apricots, citrus fruits, dried fruit, prunes, raisins<br />
Legumes<br />
lentils, black beans, split peas, lima beans, baked beans, kidney beans, pinto, chick peas, navy beans, black-eyed peas<br />
Vegetables<br />
broccoli, spinach, dark green leafy vegetables, peas, artichokes, corn, carrots, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, potatoes<br />
Cancer prevention diet tip #3: Cut down on meat<br />
Research shows that vegetarians are about fifty percent less likely to develop cancer than those who eat meat. So what’s the link between meat and cancer risk? First, meat lacks fiber and other nutrients that have been shown to have cancer-protective properties. What it does have in abundance, however, is fat—often very high levels of saturated fat. High-fat diets have been linked to higher rates of cancer. And saturated fat is particularly dangerous. Finally, depending on how it is prepared, meat can develop carcinogenic compounds.<br />
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Making better meat and protein choices<br />
You don’t need to cut out meat completely and become a vegetarian. But most people consume far more meat than is healthy. You can cut down your cancer risk substantially by reducing the amount of animal-based products you eat and by choosing healthier meats.<br />
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Keep meat to a minimum. Try to keep the total amount of meat in your diet to no more than fifteen percent of your total calories. Ten percent is even better.<br />
Eat red meat only occasionally. Red meat is high in saturated fat, so eat it sparingly.<br />
Reduce the portion size of meat in each meal. The portion should be able to fit in the palm of your hand.<br />
Use meat as a flavoring or a side, not the entrée. You can use a little bit of meat to add flavor or texture to your food, rather than using it as the main element.<br />
Add beans and other plant-based protein sources to your meals.<br />
Choose leaner meats, such as fish, chicken, or turkey. If possible, buy organic.<br />
Avoid processed meats such as hotdogs, sausage, deli meats, and salami.<br />
Cancer prevention diet tip #4: Choose your fats wisely<br />
A major benefit of cutting down on the amount of meat you eat is that you will automatically cut out a lot of unhealthy fat. Eating a diet high in fat increases your risk for many types of cancer. But cutting out fat entirely isn’t the answer, either. In fact, some types of fat may actually protect against cancer. The trick is to choose your fats wisely and eat them in moderation.<br />
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Fats that increase cancer risk – The two most damaging fats are saturated fats and trans fats. Saturated fats are found mainly in animal products such as red meat, whole milk dairy products, and eggs. Trans fats, also called partially hydrogenated oils, are created by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils to make them more solid and less likely to spoil—which is very good for food manufacturers, and very bad for you.<br />
Fats that decrease cancer risk – The best fats are unsaturated fats, which come from plant sources and are liquid at room temperature. Primary sources include olive oil, canola oil, nuts, and avocados. Also focus on omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation and support brain and heart health. Good sources include salmon, tuna, and flaxseeds.<br />
Tips for choosing cancer-fighting fats and avoiding the bad<br />
Reduce your consumption of red meat, whole milk, butter, and eggs, as these are the primary source of saturated fats.<br />
Cook with olive oil instead of regular vegetable oil. Canola oil is another good choice, especially for baking.<br />
Check the ingredient list on food labels and avoid anything with hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils, which are usually found in stick margarines, shortenings, salad dressings, and other packaged foods.<br />
Trim the fat off of meat when you do eat it, and avoid eating the skin of the chicken.<br />
Choose nonfat dairy products and eggs that have been fortified with omega-3 fatty acids.<br />
Add nuts and seeds to cereal, salads, soups, or other dishes. Good choices include walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, hazelnuts, pecans, and sesame seeds.<br />
Use flaxseed oil in smoothies, salad dressings, or mixed in snacks such as applesauce. But do not cook with flaxseed oil, as it loses its protective properties when heated.<br />
Limit fast food, fried foods, and packaged foods, which tend to be high in trans fats. This includes foods like potato chips, cookies, crackers, French fries, and doughnuts.<br />
Eat fish once or twice a week. Good choices include wild salmon, sardines, herring, and black cod. But be conscious of mercury, a contaminant found in many types of fish. <br />
Cancer prevention diet tip #5: Choose cancer-fighting foods<br />
Your immune system keeps you healthy by fighting off unwanted invaders in your system, including cancer cells. There are many things you can eat to maximize the strength of your immune system, as well as many cancer-fighting foods. But keep in mind that there is no single miracle food or ingredient that will protect you against cancer. Eating a colorful variety gives you the best protection.<br />
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Boost your antioxidants. Antioxidants are powerful vitamins that protect against cancer and help the cells in your body function optimally. Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium.<br />
Eat a wide range of brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Colorful fruits and vegetables are rich in phytochemicals, a potent disease–fighting and immune–boosting nutrient. The greater the variety of colors that you include, the more you will benefit, since different colors are rich in different phytochemicals.<br />
Flavor with immune-boosting spices and foods. Garlic, ginger, and curry powder not only add flavor, but they add a cancer-fighting punch of valuable nutrients. Other good choices include turmeric, basil, rosemary, and coriander. Use them in soups, salads, casseroles, or any other dish.<br />
Drink plenty of water. Water is essentially to all bodily processes. It stimulates the immune system, removes waste and toxins, and transports nutrients to all of your organs. <br />
Cancer prevention diet tip #6: Prepare your food in healthy ways<br />
Choosing healthy food is not the only important factor. It also matters how you prepare and store your food. The way you cook your food can either help or hurt your anti-cancer efforts.<br />
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Preserving the cancer-fighting benefits of vegetables<br />
Here are a few tips that will help you get the most benefits from eating all those great cancer-fighting vegetables:<br />
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Eat at least some raw fruits and vegetables. These have the highest amounts of vitamins and minerals, although cooking some vegetables can make the vitamins more available for our body to use.<br />
When cooking vegetables, steam until just tender using a small amount of water. This preserves more of the vitamins. Overcooking vegetables removes many of the vitamins and minerals. If you do boil vegetables, use the cooking water in a soup or another dish to ensure you’re getting all the vitamins.<br />
Wash all fruits and vegetables. Use a vegetable brush for washing. Washing does not eliminate all pesticide residue, but will reduce it. Choose organic produce if possible, grown without the use of pesticides.<br />
Cooking and carcinogens<br />
Carcinogens are cancer-causing substances found in food. Carcinogens can form during the cooking or preserving process—mostly in relation to meat—and as foods start to spoil. Examples of foods that have carcinogens are cured, dried, and preserved meats (e.g. bacon, sausage, beef jerky); burned or charred meets; smoked foods; and foods that have become moldy. Here are some ways reduce your exposure to carcinogens:<br />
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The 5 Worst Foods to Grill<br />
Chicken breast, skinless, boneless, grilled, well done<br />
Steak, grilled, well done<br />
Pork, barbecued<br />
Salmon, grilled with skin<br />
Hamburger, grilled, well done<br />
Source: Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine<br />
Do not cook oils on high heat. Low-heat cooking or baking (less than 240 degrees) prevents oils or fats from turning carcinogenic. Instead of deep-frying, pan-frying, and sautéing, opt for healthier methods such as baking, boiling, steaming, or broiling.<br />
Go easy on the barbecue. Burning or charring meats creates carcinogenic substances. If you do choose to barbecue, don’t overcook the meat and be sure to cook at the proper temperature (not too hot).<br />
Store oils in a cool dark place in airtight containers, as they quickly become rancid when exposed to heat, light, and air.<br />
Choose fresh meats instead of cured, dried, preserved, or smoked meats.<br />
Avoid foods that look or smell moldy, as they likely contain aflatoxin, a strong carcinogen. Aflatoxin is most commonly found on moldy peanuts. Nuts will stay fresh longer if kept in the refrigerator or freezer.<br />
Be careful what you put in the microwave. Use waxed paper rather than plastic wrap to cover your food in the microwave. And always use microwave-safe containers.<br />
Resources & references for cancer prevention and the anti-cancer diet<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AZGrzYvU1gY/T6yQkAb9YII/AAAAAAAAAbg/qCl8jLH4g48/s640/blogger-image-319590790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AZGrzYvU1gY/T6yQkAb9YII/AAAAAAAAAbg/qCl8jLH4g48/s640/blogger-image-319590790.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-45985627316250573322012-05-09T21:40:00.001-07:002012-05-09T21:40:42.964-07:00Job Stress Increases Heart Attacks In Women: Ongoing Work Will Cover
More GroundWorking in fast-paced, high-pressure environments can wreak havoc on a woman’s cardiovascular health—raising her risk of heart attack as high as 90 percent—reported a recent study that may have posed as many questions as answers, explains Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program alum (2000-2004), Michelle Albert, M. D., M. P. H. “We know that stress causes disease, but the problem,” Albert says, is the lack of “multi-disciplinary research on the biological mechanisms of psychological stress, as it relates to chronic diseases like heart disease.”<br />
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While this recent study confirms that women suffer negative effects from job stress that are similar to those experienced by men, it does not address the mystery of how stress influences health in different types of people. “Not everyone develops disease from stress,” says Albert, a cardiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and assistant professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School in Boston. “Social support, hormones, certain biomarkers and others factors mediate the stress/disease connection.”<br />
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For her 2010 study—which was presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association—Albert looked at 17,415 women, ages 44 to 85, who were part of the Women’s Health Study. Most of them worked in the health care profession. The women were followed for 10 years. Among those who reported having high demand jobs, heart attack risk doubled and their chances of needing coronary heart procedures, such as bypass surgery, were 40 percent greater than women who had low demand jobs. Interestingly, the women with the highest risks were those in jobs with high pressure, where they also had high job control (such as physicians).<br />
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The work broke new ground in research on women and heart disease, but it’s just the beginning of Albert’s research in this area. Her broader focus includes the analysis of the impact of cumulative stress on cardiovascular disease, particularly in vulnerable populations. Her goal is to examine the biological impact of the social determinants of health by investigating the interplay between molecular and genetic biomarkers of cardiovascular disease risk, social factors and cardiovascular health. The objective is to understand and prevent the effects of adversity on longevity.<br />
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Unraveling the Puzzle of Stress & Culture<br />
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Albert’s extensive interest in the role of psychological stress on populations did not begin with medical school. “I came to the United States from Guyana, South America, when I was 14 years old,” she says. “Growing up in Guyana, I saw and experienced firsthand how poverty is reflected in medical problems,” Albert says.<br />
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“This is one of the reasons my work also looks at the links between socioeconomic status, discrimination and cardiovascular disease,” Albert explains. “There’s a great deal that’s missing in current research. Prior work about racial discrimination, for example, largely examines physical or mental health endpoints as well as hypertension, but not other hard disease endpoints or biological mechanisms.” To this end, some of Albert’s work has looked at the relationship between discrimination and subclinical [before symptoms can appear] cardiovascular disease, traditional heart disease risk factors and other surrogates for heart disease. In one of her previous studies, Albert found that no relationship was found between race or ethnic discrimination and cardiovascular disease, cancer or overall mortality, a finding that “may not be congruent with the actual risk of heart attack and begs for more evaluation,” she says.<br />
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“I want to understand what is really happening biologically when stressors produce different effects in different individuals. Is it something more than socioeconomic factors? Could it involve the immune system, the nervous system? These things are unclear, but incredibly important for developing new interventions to prevent and treat heart disease,” Albert says.<br />
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“Some of my previous work has also looked at levels of C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in black women. Many factors can increase C-reactive protein blood concentrations—including, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking and estrogen levels, but after you account for these factors, the inflammatory biomarker level is still 40 percent higher in African American women than women from other racial or ethnic backgrounds. “What explains this difference?” Albert asks. “This is a very important question because how inflamed you are relates to plaque rupture in the arteries. To better understand this, we need to answer larger questions about how social factors relate to biology.”<br />
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Role of Support and Collaboration<br />
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“In addition to providing protected time to allow me to develop my interests in this area, the other really important part of my Robert Wood Johnson Foundation experience was participating in the Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program. I found it really inspiring to go to the national meetings and interact with other minority professionals from the medical field,” Albert says. “If the program had not gotten us all together in the same room, we might not have met. I don’t think there’s any other program in the country that does this for minority physicians. It’s been very helpful to me. I’ve gotten great support.”<br />
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Albert is currently working on a large, federal grant to greatly expand her research. Perhaps her unique background—an international perspective on health, combined with a knowledge of diverse populations and the ability to analyze the interplay of stress and heart health—will yield answers that will significantly advance our knowledge of how to address longstanding cardiovascular health disparities.<br />
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The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Harold Amos Medical Faculty Development Program (AMFDP) was created to make it possible for scientists and physicians from historically disadvantaged backgrounds to advance to senior positions in academic medicine. The four-year, AMFDP, post-doctoral research awards are offered to physicians who are not only committed to building careers in academic medicine, but who hope to serve as role models for other students and faculty members from disadvantaged backgrounds.madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-24719324705459195832012-05-08T09:25:00.001-07:002012-05-08T09:25:04.199-07:00SATYAMEV JAYATE Review: Aamir Khan’s calculated risk?The actor’s TV chat show creates a sensation amongst viewers on debut. But will the euphoria sustain for the remaining episodes?<br />
Aamir Khan cried and made others cry. But it was not a scene from one of his issue-based Bollywood movies. These were spontaneous reactions to people’s issues on his first TV show, Satyamev Jayate that premiered on Indian television on May 6. Read on to know what we felt about the show…<br />
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THE FIRST FEW MINUTES<br />
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Satyamev Jayate began with Aamir walking on the beach, sharing his thoughts and literally explaining to his audience why he, an entertainer who is happy in his own world, cared about making a show that concerns every Indian. “Mujhe kya fark padta hai?” he questioned, providing the answer himself, “Lekin fark padta hai, kyunki main bhi toh issi samaj ka ek hissa hoon….” Aamir approached this in a very personal way, although it did seem a bit preachy. Having removed all doubts in people’s minds about his inspiration behind the show, the actor made it clear that he did not want to blame or criticise anyone or take perpetrators to court. “Sirf hungama khada karna mera maksad nahin, meri koshish hai ki yeh soorat badalni chahiye, mere seene mein nahin toh tere seene mein hee sahi, ho kahin bhi aag, lekin aag jalni chahiye,” he summed it up.<br />
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THE FORMAT<br />
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For a discerning viewer, the format seemed to be a take on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Some simply hung on with patience just to see whether Aamir could pull it off. The Bollywood star began with talking about the importance of mother dearest in our lives. While some were wondering if the episode was a Mother’s Day special since it falls on May 11, it soon became clear that the topic for the first episode was female foeticide. The actor chatted with three women who had to suffer multiple abortions and/or torture for carrying a girl child. Although he was shocked and in tears upon hearing each one’s story, Aamir handled each interaction with dignity and grace and did not forget to highlight the important points. He also spoke to doctors and researchers. The warmth of a fatherly Amitabh Bachchan talking to Kaun Banega Crorepati 5‘s contestants – most with a traumatic background – was probably missing. But then Satyamev Jayate is not a quiz show where you could just go on to the next question. This format deals with a serious issue, and tries to act towards a possible solution.<br />
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SHOCKING REVELATIONS<br />
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Statistics and reports were used as testimonials, and some shocking truths came out, for example:<br />
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- Female infanticide was started as a government scheme in the 1970s, during the population explosion in India.<br />
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- Killing the foetus in the womb is a Rs 2,000-3,000 crore industry in India.<br />
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- In some parts of India including Rajasthan, hordes of men are unmarried thanks to girls being killed before or at birth. As a result, young women from other states and communities are ‘bought’ and ‘sold’ either for lawful marriage, or forceful sexual intercourse by 4-5 men who have not been able to find a bride.<br />
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- It’s the educated and urban classes that indulge in female infanticide more than the rural/tribal areas.<br />
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- Doctors use code words for sex determination in Gujarat – if it’s a boy, they say ‘Jai Shri Krishna’ and if it’s a girl, the words are ‘Jai Mata Di’.<br />
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THE SOLUTION<br />
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He might not take people to court or directly blame anyone, but Aamir boldly showed sting operation footage of doctors involved in female foeticide on his show, and also promised to write a letter to the Chief Minister of Rajasthan asking him to transfer these cases to a fast-track court. He urged people to show support by sending an SMS, (costing only Re 1 and not Rs 3 or 6 like in reality shows), or by supporting the Snehalaya Foundation. But we wonder if Aamir were to take up all the causes (that will be addressed over 13 episodes) personally and follow them up, will he have time for his film commitments? Or is this retirement planning for the 46-year-old?<br />
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POSITIVE SIDE<br />
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It was nice to see the clippings of a poor woman, who had no qualms about having a daughter. The show ended on a touching note with a song (O ri chiriya) dedicated to the girl child, rendered by lyricist-singer Swanand Kirkire with composer Ram Sampath strumming along.<br />
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VIEWER RESPONSE<br />
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Indian families were no doubt glued to their TV sets this Sunday morning. Whether they will continue to do it for the remaining 12 episodes of Satyamev Jayate remains to be seen. But for the first episode, viewer response was so high that the Satyamev Jayate website [www.satyamevjayate.in] crashed. Twitter and Facebook also saw Aamir Khan and the show top-trending the entire day, with positive as well as negative remarks from the media, fans and renowned personalities. Websites carrying stories on the show, including BollywoodLife, got passionate comments from people with their first reactions – both by the individuals affected by the highlighted issue and the ones who simply wanted to support the cause.<br />
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LITTLE REVOLUTION<br />
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Makes us wonder if Aamir Khan is bringing about a small revolution in the country. The actor denied that he aimed to do that, saying he only wanted to unite people for the causes discussed on his show. Wethinks if Satyamev Jayate happens to unite the country like Anna Hazare did last year, Aamir Khan might just bring about a revolution in small parts of the country. At least until the show is on. And we like the idea of that. But if it actually happens, will Aamir be able to handle it?<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6YBvf7ivkzA/T6lI3R8s94I/AAAAAAAAAaw/DoRvUeSpn9g/s640/blogger-image--1719928556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6YBvf7ivkzA/T6lI3R8s94I/AAAAAAAAAaw/DoRvUeSpn9g/s640/blogger-image--1719928556.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-31449957318212325192012-05-07T21:17:00.001-07:002012-05-07T21:17:49.446-07:00Save the girl childLet's save a girl child and stand against the genocide that is taking place in the society. Foeticide is the most dastardly form of violence against women. Since the technology for sex determination first came into being, sex selective abortion has unleashed a saga of horror in India. In fact nature intended the womb to be a safe space place for nurturing and grooming the foetus before the child could take birth. But today, doctors have made it the most unsafe space for the female child by unleashing the terror of foeticide. Today a girl child is several times more likely to be eliminated before birth in India than die of various causes in the first year of her existence. <br />
Save a girl child: Sex determination and sex selection<br />
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Although foetal sex determination and sex selection is a criminal offence in India, the practice is rampant. Private clinics with ultrasound machines and other latest technologies are doing brisk business. Everywhere, people are paying to know the sex of an unborn child and paying more to abort the female child. The technology has even reached remote areas of the country through facilities like mobile clinics. People are getting sex determination done even for the first child.<br />
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Save a Girl Child: Historical connection and overall discrimination against the girl child<br />
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Earlier when the technology was not available to know the sex of the foetus, the girl child used to be killed by putting a sand bag on her face or strangulating her or some poison used to be applied on the breasts of the mother. The irony was that neither mothers nor their family members used to express any kind of sorrow on the deaths of their baby daughters. Now the scenario has changed. With the help of new technologies one can easily detect the sex of the foetus. So the practice of female infanticide has been replaced by female foeticide. <br />
Save a girl child: Discrimination against the girl child and women<br />
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Female feticide and infanticide is not the only issues with a girl child in India. Actually at every stage of life she is discriminated and neglected for basic nutrition, education and living standard. When she is in the womb, she is eliminated before she can enter the world. If by chance she takes birth then at the time of birth her relatives pull her back and wrung her neck and after killing her she is thrown into a trash can. If she gets lucky to survive the early feticide and infanticide then her childhood is not more than a punishment with her brother getting all the attention with new shoes, dresses and books to learn while she is gifted a broom, a wiper and lots of tears. In her teenage, she misses nutritious food to eat and gets only the left over crumbs. During the age when she should be in college she is hurriedly "married off" leading to conditions where she remains ever dependant on others for her survival. She does not have either social or economic independence. Further her illiteracy, lack of education results in unwanted and early pregnancies, high fertility rate. This further aggravates the overall condition of females in the country. Again if this female gives birth to a girl child, the whole journey cycle of murder and discrimination begins all over again. <br />
Save a Girl Child: Culpability of the Medical profession <br />
As per some studies the industry of ultrasound and sonography, sex-selection and female foeticide is around 500 crores in India and this is run through small clinics, midwives, unregistered doctors and big hospitals. They conduct the abortions very secretly and many a times they become the reason for the death of many women. Many Doctors are involved in this widespread malpractice to make easy money. Actually it is a very profitable business. The machines have become cheaper, so even a new medical graduate can quickly set up a business. It may be illegal but it's very rare that India's medical council debars anyone for ethical malpractice.<br />
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Save a girl child: Responsibility and accountability of the medical profession<br />
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It is high time that now Doctors are made responsible and accountable. In fact they are the ones who had aggressively promoted the misuse of technology and legitimised feticide. They created a weapon of mass destruction. Worst of worst some Doctors feel that they are doing a great social service and feel happy to provide this service to parents desperate to have a son, in the belief that they are preventing the birth of an unwanted child. <br />
Save a girl child: The oblique way of sex determination<br />
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Today when the laws are getting stricter the method of revealing the sex is becoming more oblique. Now either the doctor will hand out blue or pink candy to the family members as they leave or make a remark during the examination by saying something like "Your child will be a fighter" or "The baby is like a doll." It is a clear fact that since the implementation of the legislation has taken place, the business has gone underground. The proof is the ever increasing number of feticide around the country especially in north India.<br />
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Save a girl child: Under-the-table fee for sex determination<br />
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Now the Doctors who disclose the sex expect an under-the-table fee for breaking the law, ranging from a few hundred rupees in poorer areas to several thousand in more prosperous regions. The plain and simple truth is that the medical fraternity has not been sufficiently regulated in India and there is no sufficient deterrent or awareness even among the medical fraternity which can prevent these malpractices from taking place in the first instance. <br />
Save a Girl Child: The Actual problem in terms of figures <br />
Let’s now look at the figures which speak the truth for itself. According to the last official census figures, India with its nationwide ratio of 933 women for 1,000 men had a deficit of 35 million women when it entered the new millennium. Experts are calling it "sanitised barbarism". UN figures tell that about 750,000 girls are aborted every year in India. It as genocide: "More than 6 million killed in 20 years. That's the number of Jews killed in the Holocaust."<br />
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Save a girl child: Abortion of a million foetus in a year<br />
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Demographic trends indicate India is fast heading towards a million female foetuses aborted each year. In India, if the 1991 Census showed that two districts had a child sex ratio (number of girls per thousand boys) less than 850; by 2001 it was 51 districts. The irony is that the nation of so called goddess and mothers still follows a culture where people idolize the birth of son and mourn the birth of daughters. <br />
Save a girl child: Income level directly proportional to sex selective abortion<br />
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Ironically, as income levels are increasing, sex determination and sex selection is increasing all over India. The most influential and affluent pockets have the worst sex ratios. Take Punjab for instance — 793 girls for every 1,000 boys against the national figure of 927. Or South Delhi — one of the most affluent localities of the Capital — 760. In many regions of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan; the sex ratio of girls for every 1000 boys was mere 745 or 754 or at 779 respectively. Based on the number of births in Delhi every year and the sex ratio across the capital - 814 girls for every 1,000 boys about 24,000 female fetuses are aborted in the capital every year, and about one million across the country. <br />
Save a girl child: Warning of unexpected social problems in the near future<br />
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Abortion rates are increasing in almost 80% of the Indian states and especially in Punjab and Haryana. These two states have the highest number of abortions every year. UNICEF has warned that unless steps are taken to address the problem across the country, India will soon face unexpected social problems like men unable to find brides, gaps in the work force and increased trafficking of women. <br />
Save a girl child: Answering ethical questions<br />
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The other side of the coin is the issue that attempts to regulate women's right to abortion inevitably raise delicate ethical questions, but for a contrary like India this is not a pro-choice or pro-life issue. "Equality is a fundamental right," but where is the gender equality when one million girl fetuses are destroyed every year before birth itself. Therefore we need to understand the fact that our situation is really alarming and extraordinary and preventing this discrimination takes precedence over arguments about women's reproductive rights. <br />
Save a girl child: The taboo surrounding sex selective abortion<br />
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One more major problem is that despite the prevalence of the ghastly and inhuman phenomenon, the decision to abort a female fetus remains a taboo, and it is difficult to persuade women to talk about the issue. If women themselves become party to the problem then how can we ever think about finding the solution? <br />
Save a Girl Child: Misuse of technology <br />
The social evil of discrimination and marginalization of women and killing of girl child is ironically deep rooted in Indian ethos and the most shocking fact is that the innovative and hard high end technologies have actually helped in the brutal killing of the Indian girl child. Earlier it was infanticide. Now it is easier with feticide with technology at the helping end. Innovative techniques, like biopsy, ultrasound, scan tests and amniocentesis, devised to detect genetic abnormalities, are highly misused by number of families to detect gender of the unborn child. These clinical tests are highly contributing to the rise in genocide of the unborn girl child.<br />
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Save a girl child: The technology as the devil<br />
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In patriarchal States like Rajasthan where infanticide has existed for centuries, this new technology has many takers as it is easy and secretive. There are far less questions to be answered when you abort a girl child rather than kill a baby girl. Today, people pretend overtly that they are modern and that they do not discriminate between a girl and a boy. But when the actual situation arises they do not hesitate to quietly go to the next village and get an ultrasound done and even abort the girl child. Here the technology has become the uncontrolled beast and demon rather than the angel. <br />
Save a Girl Child: Related & Associated issues <br />
Apart from the means of killing of the girl child "foeticide" is also one of the most common causes of maternal mortality. Law permits that the she sex of the foetus can be only determined around 14-16 weeks. Because of this most of the sex selective abortions are planned late and this leads to a very high chance of maternal mortality. Either way the woman suffers. <br />
Save a girl child: Foeticide a symptom of a larger problem<br />
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We must understand the fact that in fact Foeticide is a symptom of larger and wider problem related to marginalization and discrimination against women through various social, cultural and economic bias and practices. Foeticide is related to issues as varied as privatisation of medical education and dowry. For example Karnataka is a state in India with the highest number of private medical colleges. Here healthcare has turned into a commodity without proper regulation and control leading to terrifying consequences like illegal abortions and feticide. <br />
Save a girl child: Affluent farmers and foeticide<br />
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Another ironical phenomenon is that wherever agricultural green revolution has happened with resultant increase in income among farmers, foeticide has increased. The connection is simple. With more landholdings and wealth inheritance the dowry demands has increased and therefore birth of a daughter is considered as an economic liability. Today, people don't even want their daughters to study higher as a well-educated groom is likely to demand more dowry. <br />
Save a girl child: Male child selection in nuclear families<br />
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Even the creation of small and nuclear families have come at the cost of the girl child. Parents who are opting for one child are most likely to go for a male child rather than a female child. <br />
Save a girl child: Demand Vs. Supply debate<br />
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Another issue that has been put forward by the medical community to absolve their own culpability in this whole malpractice is the demand and supply debate. Doctors say there is a social demand and they are only fulfilling it. They argue that social attitudes must change. However they are ignoring the fact that in this case supply fuels demand. The easier the technology is available the more likely is the chance of abortion and feticide.<br />
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Save a girl child: Tougher regulation and control<br />
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There is no option other than tougher regulation and control of the "technology and the medical practice" as technology in the hands of greedy, vested interests cannot be neutral. There is a law in place to prevent misuse of the technology and it must be enforced strongly. On the other hand the solution for curbing the increase of feticide can only work through increasing awareness and overall empowerment of women in every aspect.<br />
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Save a girl child: Need for female youth icons and role models<br />
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Women's participation in workforce, having disposable incomes and their making a contribution to larger society will make a difference to how women are seen in the society. Female youth icons and role models are definitely making an impact in changing the overall perception of the society which has been highly discriminatory till now.<br />
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Save a girl child: Laws against violence and discrimination of women<br />
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Other issues which are attached to the overall discrimination and marginalization of women include the laws for violence against women such as dowry, domestic violence, rape which are directly in the control of a largely inefficient and corrupt police force which in fact is biased against women with its colonial hangover and resultant approach of doing things. In any case of violence and discrimination against women the whole onus and burden of the case is always put on the women involved.<br />
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Save a girl child: Urgent need for police reforms<br />
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It’s high time that police reforms take place and the country gets a modern police force which is more sensitive to the issues of the society rather than the current one which exists to please the whims and the fancies of their political masters. Today even though good and tough laws exist still the offenders get away with ease. Just like many other laws of the country the law preventing sex determination and sex selection exits but enforcement is a big question mark. <br />
Save a girl child: Myths to be shattered<br />
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Another myth that needs to be shattered is that feticide exists among illiterate and less affluent of the society. According to a survey there is a 28.32 % increase in the number gainfully employed and working women in India in the last two decades. But at the same time, what is more shameful and ironical is that there is a subsequent increase in the number of pregnancy terminations or abortions by working women.<br />
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Save a girl child: Abortions by working women<br />
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The reasons stated behind the practice of abortions by working women are: They want a small family; they want better career prospects; they want a male child and they do not want daughters. Many of these women justify sex selection and abortions because they think that if they deliver a baby boy then they are looked upon in the family. Also, they do not want their daughters to suffer the hardships a girl has to face. Besides that they find themselves unable to afford the dowry expenses the parents of a girl child have to bear. “Since maintaining the high living standards has become so expensive, who will save for her?” say modern mothers. These are the ‘serious’ reasons these literate and modern women give for not giving birth to a girl child. But they are forgetting that had their mothers thought the same way, they would have also met the same fate. <br />
Save a girl child: The bane of consumer culture<br />
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Further the whole problem is just an extension of our consumer culture. If someone can afford to buy a Mercedes, they feel they can afford to secure themselves a son also. If they can pay for an ultrasound, then they don't need to have a daughter - that's the logic. <br />
Save a girl child: Outdated social practices and their consequences<br />
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Dowry is a big issue for the urban elite because the amount which people are expected to pay as dowry is astonishing and ridiculous. Over that is the cost of the obscenely extravagant Indian weddings. Aside from the costs of dowries and marriages, there are other reasons why daughters are seen as less desirable like there is general belief that sons will look after their old parents and daughters are anyway to go to a different household and are therefore of not much use in the long run. The social and cultural settings are negatively biased against women. After marriage, a woman traditionally lives with her husband's family, leaving her own parents to be looked after by a son, if there is one, in their old age. Sons carry on the family name and often the business, usually inherit the property and perform the last rites. All these contribute towards a negative bias against the girl child even before she takes birth. <br />
Save a girl child: The misconception that poverty leads to foeticide<br />
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From the above analysis we can clearly see that it's a misconception to think that this is a problem related to extreme poverty. It's quite rampant in upper and middle class families. Female feticide is very high in Punjab and Haryana - some of the best-off states in the country. Even if there's money there has been no attitudinal change. In fact more money has led to aggravation of the whole problem. The mind-set remains - girls are not important, girls are a burden, and sons are more useful. With India's new lifestyle culture, when people are rich they want to spend their money on things, not on dowries or marriages for their daughters. So we can see that how social and cultural practices like dowry and extravagant marriages are in fact contributing to the overall menace of female abortion and feticide. <br />
Save a Girl Child: Law against foeticide and Implementation of the law <br />
After almost a decade of delays, the Prohibition of Sex Selection Act came into force in February 2003, aimed at preventing the use of ultrasound examinations for sex determination. Any person including pregnant women who seek help for sex selection could be sentenced to a three-year prison sentence and fined 50,000 rupees, or $1,200, while If any doctor is found guilty of this malpractice, he can face suspension of his registration by the state medical council. <br />
Save a girl child: The Act that was passed in 2003<br />
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Pre-conception and pre-natal diagnostics techniques (prohibition and sex selection) Act, which came into effect on 14th February 2003, was as a replacement of the pre-natal diagnostic techniques (regulation and misuse amendment) Act 2002, that said any kind of sex selection in pre or post pregnancy is prohibited. <br />
Save a girl child: Creating acts and laws not sufficient to deal with the problem<br />
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But these acts seem not to be casting much effect on the dark shades of human deeds. No case has come to court, and campaigners against the practice of prenatal sex determination complain that the legislation is impossible to enforce. Law is very well conceived and the need of the hour is legal literacy to ensure the law is implemented. Here the role and competence of the law enforcement agencies is a big question mark? In spite of all the stringent laws framed to curb the female foeticide, the practice continues. The declining sex ratio between boys and girls poses a serious threat to the very existence of a balanced social order in India. <br />
Save a Girl Child: Sensitization of the society <br />
There is a need to sensitize the Indian society about the sex selection tests and the impending gender crisis. There is a need to advocate to the society about greater gender equality. Increase awareness about the Pre-Natal Diagnostic Act (PNDT), 1994 as well as its recent amendment passed by the Parliament that bans any form of sex selection tests is needed. <br />
Save a girl child: Awareness in the society<br />
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Society has to be sensitized about the pitiable state of women in the Indian society of which selective sex abortion of the female foetus is one of the indicators apart from increasing incidences of violence and trafickking. <br />
Save a girl child: Implementation of the law<br />
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Law needs to be strictly implemented and we need to increase compliance amongst the maternity homes, nursing homes, ultra-sound clinics, radiologists for registering their ultra-sound machines under the PNDT Act. Medical community has to be sensitized about the ethics of medical profession and the role they ought to be playing in improving the population crisis as well as sex-ratios in the country. It’s also time to have a stricter and tougher regulation of the medical practice in India. <br />
Save a girl child: Changing the attitude<br />
<br />
There is a need to build a dialogue amongst the stakeholders as well as track inter-generational change amongst the women through various generations. Achievements of the successful women from different strata of the society as well as from different walks of life need to be highlighted to change the attitude of the society against women. <br />
Save a Girl Child: Closing comments <br />
<br />
There needs to be widespread visible contempt and anger in society against the "genocide" against women. Today nobody can say female foeticide is not their problem when more than one million girl foetuses are been selectively destroyed every year in the country. It’s high time we all did our bit to help save the girl child as time is really running out for the girl child in India. The disastrous consequences of what is happening today will be felt in another 10-20 years time. Therefore to prevent a horrible future the need of the hour is to realize our responsibilities and give a halt to this evil crime of killing the girl child in the womb itself. A determined drive can initiate a spark to light the lamp and show the world that we indeed are the land of the great goddesses and mothers. <div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V_bfhbM8x0A/T6ieakcSXcI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/azYBRmKslV8/s640/blogger-image--2327133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-V_bfhbM8x0A/T6ieakcSXcI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/azYBRmKslV8/s640/blogger-image--2327133.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-6679657826838184272012-05-06T20:56:00.001-07:002012-05-06T20:56:20.843-07:00Viral fever in summers<br />
What is viral fever ?<br />
<br />
In medical terms, any fever caused as a result of viral infection is a viral fever. However, colloquially, the term 'viral fever' has come to mean a special type of fever that develops and then gets treated without the offending virus being specifically identified. The course and duration of the fever too does not seem to follow any set pattern and is frequently accompanied by, though not always by all of them, generalised bodyache, running nose, cough, shivering, feeling miserable, irritable and depressed.<br />
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How long do they last ?<br />
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Normally between 3 to 7 days with the former being termed as the 'three day fever' and the latter as the 'seven day fever'.<br />
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What medicines should one take ?<br />
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This must be decided by your medical doctor. Therefore, the doctor should be consulted without delay and his advice followed diligently. However, it is noteworthy at this point the famous saying 'a viral fever usually gets treated in 7 days with medications and in a week without any'. But without prejudice, please consult your doctor as a matter of routine! Normally, treatment is given for specific complaints like fever, headache, running nose, cough, etc.<br />
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What are the precautions that one must take ?<br />
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Remember that any viral fever causes the body immune system to be severely tested. Therefore, the more danger arises as a consequence of having the viral infection than from the specific infection itself. Cough is usually not a good sign and chest infections caused by bacteria (like pneumonia) are quite common - especially in the young and old. Therefore, your doctor would normally prescribe some antibiotics which strictly are not indicated in viral fevers and they are known to cause more harm than good unless absolutely indicated.<br />
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What else can one do if someone has it ?<br />
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Discussion about the inadvisability of using antibiotics should be held under special heading and are really out of place over here. There is one more thing. There is absolutely NO place for any sort of corticosteriods in the treatment of viral fevers. It may even prove fatal which is particularly tragic under the circumstances since they are not indicated in the first place. They compromise the body immune system even further, thereby increasing the risk of infections that may be almost impossible to cure even with the latest generation of antibiotics.<br />
Usually, the medications that are prescribed causes dryness of the mouth and the tongue may feel parched. Hence it is imperative to drink as much water as is possible. Besides water, which may be admixed with sugar and lemon and salt, etc., to make it tasty since plain water is plain boring if taken too often, especially in such conditions like viral fever where the patient is both miserable and irritable, soft drinks that are preferably without any colours added to them and are at room temperature (cold drinks aggravate the sore throat, running nose and especially cough), fruit juices that have been freshly squeezed may be taken. Soups, particularly chicken soup, is highly recommended as they are tasty, provide enough water and nutrition, and are said to have beneficial effects in such cases. The old adage 'feed a cold and starve a fever holds good. Please do however check with your doctor regarding the food you may or may not take since you may be having some infection where certain food and drinks are an absolute no no.<br />
Since the body becomes lethargic and there is loss of energy and also because the infecting virus spreads through sneezing, it is best if the patient is generally kept confined in a comfortable and airy place as much away from close contact with others. His clothes, particularly his handkerchiefs, are separately washed with good cleaning fluids. It is preferable if the patient uses disposable facial tissue paper which must be disposed off with care. The patient must also not undertake any hard work without getting the doctor's explicit consent first.<br />
The condition tends to cause irritability, as has been mentioned before, and depression apart from feeling miserable, particularly in the first stage of the condition (typically, but not necessarily, the first 24 to 48 hours). The attendants must therefore be understanding and sympathetic. The patient may not be in a mood to take food, and suffers from lack of taste. While food is necessary, there is not much case for force-feeding unless the patient is quite weak even to walk a few steps or get up from the bed after the first 48 hours have passed. Drinking plenty of fluids must however be insisted upon and making it tasty by adding sugar and squash or syrups helps a lot in making the drink palatable to the patient.<br />
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What are the complications ?<br />
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Infections that may occur over and above the viral ones. In the weakened conditions, even the less harmful bacteria can cause havoc to the body.<br />
Rest, especially bed-rest during the fever, plenty of fluids and avoidance of any strenuous work or exercise for around a week is to be followed. Normal, non-strenuous work including daily activities may be resumed as soon as the patient begins to feel better.<br />
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How can one avoid getting these infections ?<br />
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Frankly, there is very little chance of avoiding these. Though several vaccines have been developed and successfully tested, particularly in the USA where these infections, when they have occurred have lead to severe epidemics and fatalities, largely the causative viral strains are unknown and having them once does not guarantee any immunity from further infections, especially in the sub-continent. The best methods to be followed are staying away from persons who are sneezing and coughing, particularly during season-change and having a sound body constitution helps. Try not to use tissue papers and handkerchiefs of the suffers and dispose or wash them as hygienically as possible.<br />
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What should one do if one has such a fever ?<br />
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Contact your doctor and follow the advice given. Though there is a tendency to self-medicate as more often than not the same medicines are usually prescribed, most of which are available over the counter, the doctor is in the best position to judge whether or not additional medications, tests and precautions are required, and to confirm that indeed you have just viral fever as you have concluded and not something more sinister.<br />
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Are any preventive measures available ?<br />
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As has been entailed above, some shots are indeed available, especially for influenza. Unfortunately, since many a times one really does not know what causes the fever in the first place and the disease is cured before any confirmed diagnosis as to the cause can first be made, and also since the offending virus more often than not mutates into a new variety against which there are no effective vaccines are available. Therefore, it is not always easy to take immunisation shots beforehand and be free from getting a viral fever.<br />
Do consult your doctor for further guidance and advice in this matter.<br />
madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-72204041332693710102012-05-05T21:23:00.001-07:002012-05-05T21:23:25.449-07:00WHAT IS THE MOST AMOUNT OF CARBOHYDRATES A DIABETIC SHOULD EAT A DAY?Proper diabetes management involves balancing food intake with medications and physical activity, and carbohydrates lie at the heart of all three. Carbohydrates are responsible for supplying the body with energy through blood glucose, but excessive blood glucose is the hallmark of diabetes. Although carbohydrates are a necessary part of every healthy diet, diabetics must learn the maximum amount of carbs they should consume each day, as well as when they should consume them and what types.<br />
MAXIMUM PERCENTAGE<br />
Although the medical community has yet to come to a consensus on a specific amount of carbohydrates that diabetics should include in their diet, doctors and nutritionists generally recommend carbohydrates account for anywhere from 40 to 60 percent of daily caloric intake. Diabetes nutritionists and dietitians determine maximum carbohydrate intake based on your current medical situation as well as lifestyle factors. Active diabetics who participate in consistent physical activity and exercise, for example, may be in a position to handle a larger carbohydrate load than someone who leads a more sedentary lifestyle.<br />
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TOTAL CALORIES<br />
Because the recommended number of carbohydrates is directly linked to daily caloric intake, the actual number of calories derived from carbohydrates may differ for each person. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse recommends 1,200 to 1,600 calories per day for small and medium women, 1,600 to 2,000 calories for large women and small men, and 2,000 to 2,400 calories for medium and large men.<br />
PORTION SIZES<br />
Although a diabetic on a 1,600-calorie diet and a restriction of 60 percent of calories from carbohydrates may consume up to 960 calories from carbs each day, those calories must be spread across all meals and snacks. This is not only important for all diabetics, but it is critical for insulin-dependent diabetics to prevent bouts of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Most diabetics use a meal planning technique, like exchange lists, constant carbohydrate meal plan or carbohydrate counting, to help them determine how many carbohydrates with each meal. For those not on a specific meal plan, the Joslin Diabetes Center recommends diabetics fill their plate half full of nonstarchy vegetables, one-quarter full of carbohydrates and the remaining one-quarter with lean proteins.<br />
THE GLYCEMIC INDEX<br />
Carbohydrates are not all equal, and there are both good and bad carbohydrates. The body absorbs some carbohydrates, like white bread or refined sugar, quickly, resulting in severe spikes in blood glucose levels. Complex carbohydrates, like whole grains and foods high in fiber, work their way into the system over a longer period of time, resulting in more stable blood glucose levels. The glycemic index rates carbohydrates on a scale from 1 to 100 based, on how much of an impact the food has on blood glucose levels. Good carbohydrates are those with a rating of under 55 and should be the go-to carbohydrates for diabetics. Foods with a rating of between 55 and 70 should only be consumed in moderation, and diabetics should avoid foods with a GI rating of more than 70.<br />
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Diabetic Diet & Meals Free Diabetic Recipes > Breakfast, Lunch - Snack - Dinner - Dessert.<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bzrKgaaVvdw/T6X8uq_TCoI/AAAAAAAAAZk/6ewHSm1f37Y/s640/blogger-image--699418281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bzrKgaaVvdw/T6X8uq_TCoI/AAAAAAAAAZk/6ewHSm1f37Y/s640/blogger-image--699418281.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-78331652668717992632012-05-03T20:33:00.001-07:002012-05-03T20:33:57.888-07:00Top 5 healthy foods for your skin<br />
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The U.S. cosmetics industry raked in more than $32 billion in 2004, with sales of skin care products bringing in the largest share -- more than $8 billion. Americans are shelling out big bucks for expensive cosmetics to treat skin problems such as acne, wrinkles and dryness, but most consumers are overlooking the cheapest, safest and most effective remedies: healing foods.<br />
A host of healthy, natural foods offer potent healing and preventative powers to remedy a wide range of skin troubles. These foods can dramatically improve skin for a fraction of the price of costly cosmetics or dermatologist visits:<br />
<br />
Green Tea<br />
-- Green tea is rich in antioxidants that reduce inflammation and protect cell membranes. It has been proven to reduce the damage of sunburns and overexposure to ultraviolet light, which in turn reduces the risk of skin cancer. Green tea is also high in polyphenols -- compounds that eliminate cancer-causing free radicals.<br />
Recent research by scientists at the Medical College of Georgia shows that the polyphenol most abundant in green tea -- EGCG -- also acts as a "fountain of youth" of sorts for skin by reactivating dying skin cells. In addition to its skin-healthy properties, green tea is also high in vitamins C, D and K, as well as riboflavin, zinc, calcium, magnesium and iron.<br />
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Salmon<br />
-- Salmon -- along with other fatty fish, walnuts and flaxseed -- is high in healthy fatty acids that are key for achieving healthy skin. Essential fatty acids such as omega-3s help keep cell membranes healthy by keeping out harmful substances as well as allowing nutrients to enter cells and exit with waste products. Omega-3s also reduce the body's production of inflammatory agents that can damage the skin.<br />
Increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods such as salmon will help keep the skin supple and youthful. A 1:1 ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3s is ideal, but the ratio in the typical American diet is more like 20:1, so boosting consumption of salmon and other oily fish can help bring that ratio closer to 1:1. Salmon is also rich in protein, potassium, selenium and vitamin B12.<br />
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Blueberries<br />
-- Blueberries are considered by many experts to be the highest food source of antioxidants, which target free radicals that can wreak havoc on skin cells. The antioxidants and phytochemicals (plant sources of nutrition) in blueberries neutralize DNA-damaging free radicals, reducing cell damage. When skin cells are protected from damage and disintegration, the skin looks younger for longer. Blueberries are also an excellent source of soluble and insoluble fiber, vitamin C, manganese, vitamin E and riboflavin.<br />
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Carrots<br />
-- Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is a required nutrient for healthy skin. They also contain high levels of antioxidants, which prevent free radical damage of skin cells. Vitamin A is required for developing and maintaining skin cells, and a deficiency of the vitamin can cause dry skin. Carrots are also a superior source of fiber, biotin, vitamins K, C and B6, potassium and thiamine.<br />
<br />
Water<br />
-- Drinking plenty of water -- at least your individual minimum intake -- will help keep your skin young and healthy-looking. Water in caffeinated or sugary beverages does not count; water intake must be from pure, clean water, which rejuvenates skin cells. Water both hydrates cells and helps them move toxins out and nutrients in. Nutrition expert Liz Lipski, PhD, CCN, says when the body is properly hydrated, it sweats more efficiently, which helps keep the skin clean and clear.<br />
In addition to consuming therapeutic quantities of green tea, salmon, blueberries, carrots and water, consumers should avoid certain foods that trigger bad skin reactions. Such ingredients include sugar, white flour, saturated fats and fried foods, which are especially bad for the skin, since they can trap oil and bacteria beneath the skin, causing acne and other skin ailments.<br />
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The skin is considered the outside indicator of inside health, and putting expensive creams, lotions and treatments on the outside of the skin can't alleviate problems that stem from inner nutritional deficiencies. Consuming the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can reveal beautiful, youthful-looking skin without the high price tag of expensive cosmetics.<br />
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Note from Mike Adams: An important "overlay" factor on all this concerns raw foods versus cooked foods. Raw food juicing is the surest way to healthy skin, and I recommend juicing fruits, vegetables and nuts (soak them first) in a Vitamix to create superfood smoothies. People who drink raw juices on a daily basis have skin that absolutely glows. On the other hand, those who eat mostly processed, refined or cooked foods have skin that ages rapidly. So be sure to include raw food smoothies in your diet on a daily basis if you want great looking skin!<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M_NNBMh6Mrs/T6NOI8daiJI/AAAAAAAAAYk/YkEDJ_QkPkY/s640/blogger-image-1954720276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-M_NNBMh6Mrs/T6NOI8daiJI/AAAAAAAAAYk/YkEDJ_QkPkY/s640/blogger-image-1954720276.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-29135129605244307772012-05-02T20:24:00.001-07:002012-05-02T20:24:59.855-07:00Benefits of vitamin D 3There is a vast body of science showing the many health benefits of vitamin D. You may be surprised to learn the important role that vitamin D plays in your health.<br />
<br />
Maintains Your Calcium Balance<br />
<br />
Maintenance of blood calcium levels within a narrow range is vital for normal functioning of the nervous system, as well as for bone growth, and maintenance of bone density. Vitamin D is essential for the efficient utilization of calcium by the body.1<br />
<br />
Aids Your Cell Differentiation<br />
<br />
Cellular differentiation results in the specialization of cells for specific functions in your body. In general, differentiation of cells leads to a decrease in proliferation. While cellular proliferation is essential for growth and wound healing, uncontrolled proliferation of cells with certain mutations may lead to diseases like cancer. The active form of vitamin D, inhibits proliferation and stimulates the differentiation of cells.1<br />
<br />
Boosts Your Immunity<br />
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Active vitamin D is a potent immune system modulator. There is plenty of scientific evidence that vitamin D has several different effects on immune system function that may enhance your immunity and inhibit the development of autoimmunity.8<br />
<br />
Has a Role in Insulin Secretion<br />
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The active form of vitamin D plays a role in insulin secretion under conditions of increased insulin demand.9 Limited data in humans suggests that insufficient vitamin D levels may have an adverse effect on insulin secretion and glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes.10-12 More studies are needed on the role of vitamin D and diabetes.<br />
<br />
Blood Pressure Regulation<br />
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Adequate vitamin D levels may be important for decreasing the risk of high blood pressure.13-15 Again, more studies on vitamin D and hypertension are necessary.<br />
<br />
Vitamin D and Diseases<br />
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According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin D may play a role in the following diseases.<br />
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Vitamin D and Osteoporosis<br />
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Osteoporosis is most often associated with inadequate calcium intake. However, a deficiency of vitamin D also contributes to osteoporosis by reducing calcium absorption.33 While rickets and osteomalacia are extreme examples of vitamin D deficiency, osteopororsis is an example of a long-term effect of vitamin D insufficiency.34 Adequate storage levels of vitamin D help keep bones strong and may help prevent osteoporosis in older adults, in those who have difficulty walking and exercising, in post-menopausal women, and in individuals on chronic steroid therapy.35<br />
<br />
Vitamin D deficiency, which is often seen in post-menopausal women and older Americans, has been associated with greater incidence of hip fractures.39-41 In a review of women with osteoporosis hospitalized for hip fractures, 50 percent were found to have signs of vitamin D deficiency.35 Daily supplementation with 20 800 IU of vitamin D may reduce the risk of osteoporotic fractures in elderly populations with low blood levels of vitamin D.42 The Decalyos II study examined the effect of combined calcium and vitamin D supplementation in a group of elderly women who were able to walk indoors with a cane or walker. The women were studied for two years, and results suggested that such supplementation could reduce the risk of hip fractures in this population.43<br />
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Vitamin D and Cancer<br />
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Laboratory, animal, and some preliminary human studies suggests that vitamin D may be protective against some cancers. Several studies suggest that a higher dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D correlates with lower incidence of cancer.44-51 In fact, for over 60 years researchers have observed that greater sun exposure reduces cancer deaths.33 The inverse relationship between higher vitamin D levels in blood and lower cancer risk in humans is best documented for colon and colorectal cancers.44-50 Vitamin D emerged as a protective factor in a study of over 3,000 adults who underwent a colonoscopy to look for polyps or lesions in the colon. There was a significantly lower risk of advanced cancerous lesions among those with the highest vitamin D intake.52<br />
<br />
Additional clinical trials need to be conducted to determine whether vitamin D deficiency increases cancer risk, or if an increased intake of vitamin D is protective against some cancers. Until such trials are conducted, it is premature to conclude you should take vitamin D supplements for cancer prevention.<br />
<br />
Read more about the latest studies involving calcium and vitamin D reducing the risk of cancer<br />
<br />
Vitamin D and Alzheimer's Disease<br />
<br />
Alzheimer's disease is associated with an increased risk of hip fractures because many Alzheimer's patients are homebound, frequently sunlight deprived, and older.56 With aging, less vitamin D is converted to its active form. One study of women with Alzheimer's disease found that decreased bone mineral density was associated with a low intake of vitamin D and inadequate sunlight exposure.57 More investigation on vitamin D and Alzheimers Disease is necessary.<br />
<br />
Other Diseases Vitamin D Deficiency May Affect<br />
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Autoimmune Diseases - Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis<br />
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Diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, are each examples of autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body launches an immune response to its own tissue, rather than a foreign pathogen. Treatment with vitamin D has beneficial effects in animal models of all of the above mentioned diseases. Studies have found that the prevalence of diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis increases as latitude increases, suggesting that lower exposure to sun light and associated decreases in vitamin D synthesis may play a role in the development of these diseases.<br />
<br />
The results of several studies also suggest that adequate vitamin D intake may decrease the risk of autoimmune diseases. Evidence from animal models and human studies suggests that maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels may help decrease the risk of several autoimmune diseases, but more studies are needed to draw any solid conclusions.<br />
<br />
Vitamin D and Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)<br />
<br />
The results of epidemiological and clinical studies suggest an inverse relationship between serum vitamin D levels and blood pressure. Data from epidemiological studies suggest that conditions that decrease vitamin D synthesis in the skin, such as having dark skin and living in temperate latitudes, are associated with increased prevalence of hypertension.71 In randomized controlled trials of vitamin D supplementation, a combination of 1,600 IU/day of vitamin D and 800 mg/day of calcium for eight weeks significantly decreased systolic blood pressure in elderly women by 9% compared to calcium alone,73 but supplementation with 400 IU/day or a single dose of 100,000 IU of vitamin D did not significantly lower blood pressure in elderly men and women over the next two months.74, 75 At present, data from controlled clinical trials are too limited to determine whether vitamin D supplementation will be effective in lowering blood pressure or preventing hypertension.<br />
<br />
Vitamin D Toxicity<br />
<br />
It is very rare to have a vitamin D overdose. Vitamin D toxicity induces abnormally high serum calcium levels (hypercalcemia), which could result in bone loss, kidney stones, and calcification of organs like the heart and kidneys if untreated over a long period of time. When the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine established the tolerable upper intake level (UL) for vitamin D, published studies that adequately documented the lowest intake levels of vitamin D that induced hypercalcemia were very limited. Because the consequences of hypercalcemia are severe, the Food and Nutrition Board established a very conservative UL of 2,000 IU/day (50 mcg/day) for children and adults.28 (see table below)<br />
<br />
Research published since 1997 suggests that the UL for adults is overly conservative and that vitamin D toxicity is very unlikely in healthy people at intake levels lower than 10,000 IU/day.36, 76, 77 Vitamin D toxicity has not been observed to result from sun exposure.<br />
<br />
Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of hypercalcemia in response to vitamin D, including primary hyperparathyroidism, sarcoidosis, tuberculosis, and lymphoma.36 People with these conditions may develop hypercalcemia in response to any increase in vitamin D nutrition and should consult a qualified health care provider regarding any increase in vitamin D intake.<br />
<br />
Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for Vitamin D<br />
<br />
Infants 0-12 months- 1000 IU<br />
Children 1-18 years- 2000 IU<br />
Adults 19 years and older- 2000 IU<br />
<br />
Vitamin D Drug Interactions<br />
<br />
The following medications increase the metabolism of vitamin D and may decrease serum D levels:<br />
<br />
Phenytoin (Dilantin), fosphenytoin (Cerebyx), phenobarbital (Luminal), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and rifampin (Rimactane).<br />
<br />
The following medications should not be taken at the same time as vitamin D because they can decrease the intestinal absorption of vitamin D:<br />
<br />
Cholestyramine (Questran), colestipol (Colestid), orlistat (Xenical), mineral oil, and the fat substitute Olestra. The oral anti-fungal medication, ketoconazole, inhibits the 25(OH)D3-1-hydroxylase enzyme and has been found to reduce serum levels of 1,25(OH)D in healthy men . The induction of hypercalcemia by toxic levels of vitamin D may precipitate cardiac arrhythmia in patients on digitalis (Digoxin).78, 79<br />
<br />
Vitamin D3 Supplements<br />
<br />
It is not always practical to get your vitamin D from sunshine, and quite difficult to get adequate amounts from your diet so for many people, a vitamin D supplement is a practical way to ensure adequate levels of this important protector are always available in your bloodstream.<br />
<br />
Since a large body of science shows vitamin D works closely with calcium and magnesium, it is best to take your vitamin D in combination with calcium and magnesium to maintain a proper balance. Recent literature also shows most calcium supplements have too little vitamin D to be effective. And some of them use synthetic vitamin D2. A much better form is natural vitamin D3 which stays in your system longer and with more effect.madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7335879798508767287.post-64249546228702498332012-05-02T09:07:00.001-07:002012-05-02T09:07:33.966-07:00The Weirdest Way to Live Longer<br />
Hmm, I hope I reach 100.<br />
Death is probably the last thing you want to think about, but save some room in your mind for it anyway: Contemplating your own mortality may actually improve your life, according to a new review in the Personality and Social Psychology Review.<br />
<br />
How you respond to your ultimate demise depends on whether you’re consciously or subconsciously thinking about it, says study author Kenneth Vail, Ph.D., a psychology professor at the University of Missouri. For example, as you read this article, you’re consciously thinking about your mortal end, and this dose of morbid reality may trigger your brain to formulate a plan to stave off death, he says.<br />
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“This process could motivate us to exercise more, cut the junk out of our diet, apply suntan lotion, wear our seat belt, or drive cautiously,” says Vail.<br />
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Thinking about mortality also makes you more compassionate. In the new review, Vail and his team cite a 2008 study in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin that found people who walked through a cemetery were more likely to stop and help strangers in need than those who were one block away from the grave site.<br />
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Now that death has your attention, it’s time to live your life the best you can so you don’t look back in disappointment when it’s time to go. Australian nurse Bronnie Ware recorded some of her patients’ top regrets when they were on their deathbeds in her new buzzworthy book, The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. Here’s how to avoid each one.<br />
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More from MensHealth.com: An Easy Way to Cope with Regret<br />
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The regret: Working too hard<br />
The fix: According to a new survey conducted by Harris Interactive for JetBlue Airways, 57 percent of Americans will end the year with unused vacation days left on the table. Worried that a 2-week cruise—or just a long weekend at the lake—will nix your chances at landing a promotion? Nonsense. Tell your boss a little downtime is good for the company. Research indicates that those who go on vacation come back feeling less stressed and more productive. (Discover why you need a vacation—and how to take one right now.)<br />
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The regret: Keeping your feelings hidden<br />
The fix: In her book, Ware notes that a lot of her patients suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others and, as a result, settled for a less satisfying life. But stating your opinions doesn’t have to mean conflict. In a study in Psychological Science, college students who were told that speed limit laws were about to take effect accepted and agreed with the new regulations. But when the laws were said to merely be a possibility, more students expressed outrage. Your takeaway? Be clear, firm, and direct when you express yourself. (Learn the best situations for speaking up.)<br />
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The regret: Disconnecting from friends<br />
The fix: Focus on maintaining relationships with your friends and coworkers—it could tack on a few years to your life. According to a recent study of 820 working adults—most of whom were married with children—people lacking social support at work were more than twice as likely to die in the next 20 years than their more social counterparts. Read the 4 rules of workplace friendships to make the best of your 9-5 buddies, or venture to one of the manliest weekend getaways to spend some quality time with your old college pals.<br />
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The regret: Holding in your happiness<br />
The fix: Turning your frown upside down could be as easy as giving people a compliment. Why? Depressed people are missing positive emotion in their lives, and according to recent research, making someone else happy can add it back in. When participants were asked to perform three good deeds a day, 94 percent showed decreases in depressive symptoms, according to a study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Random acts of kindness evoke positive thoughts and alleviate negative feelings, says study author Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ph.D., author of The How of Happiness.<br />
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The Regret: Killing your ambitions<br />
The fix: Do you crunch numbers all day long because that’s what your parents expected of you? Strike out on your own path before your time runs out. A Spanish study found that you’re more likely to burn out if you’re underchallenged at a job, or if you feel stuck in a career you’re indifferent about. Your move? Use your time at work to take on more projects that pique your interest, like volunteering to head up a project outside your department. In the interim, make time to beef up your social life to network and find the path to your dream job. (For some inspiration, read why Men’s Health contributing editor Steve Belanger quit his six-figure job in favor of unemployment—and why it was the best decision he ever made.)<br />
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Today’s Free PDF Download: 27 Ways to Power Up Your Brain<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vKkRwJ99QwQ/T6Fbwp7BcaI/AAAAAAAAAYI/qVxm3yIxA70/s640/blogger-image-1835293047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vKkRwJ99QwQ/T6Fbwp7BcaI/AAAAAAAAAYI/qVxm3yIxA70/s640/blogger-image-1835293047.jpg" /></a></div>madhuraj health for youhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06829209140249573731noreply@blogger.com0