Recent studies have shown that more people are getting overweight every year. This happens not only to adults but even to kids who have just started in school. A lot of factors cause this to happen such as genetics, overeating, the type of food taken into the body and as people age, the metabolism slows down making it harder than before to burn the food that was just consumed.
There are many ways to solve this problem. Some have decided to undergo surgery, while others have decided to change the dietary intake and exercise.
Since this takes time and most people can’t wait to get rid of the extra weight, these people have decided to take the fastest way out which is through the use of weight loss drugs.
In the 1950’s until the late 90’s, doctors prescribed drugs for weight loss. The drug works by increasing the serotonin levels in the brain that makes the brain believe that the stomach is already full and thus, increases the person’s metabolic rate.
It was only after scientists discovered that these drugs had side effects and were related to cause heart valve disease that these were taken off the shelves.
Later on, new drugs were developed and prescribed by doctors and many of which are still waiting for FDA approval.
Most people have known friends or family members who have tried using diet pills and have seen tremendous improvement. The idea that a simple drug can change everything without the need to change the diet or sacrificing anything is very tempting.
This has made consumers spend millions of dollars every year and has given drug companies a lot of money making and selling the drug.
Diet pills can be purchased either over-the-counter or prescribed by a doctor. Even with the advances in medical technology, these drugs can still cause a lot of health related problems which can be unpleasant such as diarrhea and vomiting, harmful such as tightness in the chest and urinary tract problems and fatal such as a heart attack or a stroke.
An overdose of the diet pills can cause tremors, confusion, hallucinations, shallow breathing, renal failure, heart attack and convulsions.
The side effects vary depending on the lifestyle and health of the person and can be minimized as long as one consults the doctor first before buying it.
Should one decide to stop using the drugs, studies have shown that there are also side effects. These include noticeable mood swings, hyper-activity, and pain in the stomach, insomnia and nightmares, severe irritability, extreme fatigue, depression, nausea, vomiting and trembling.
A lot of clinical tests will show that the drugs taken to lose weight really work. But this can only work if it is done with a low calorie diet and an exercise plan.
A good diet should have food from all the food groups. This should have vitamins, minerals and fiber. A lot can come from oats, rice, potatoes and cereals. The best still come from vegetables and fruits since these have phytochemicals, enzymes and micronutrients that are essential for a healthy diet.
A person can jog every morning or sign up and workout in a gym. Just like taking any medicine, one should first consult the doctor before undergoing any form of exercise.
The best exercise plan should have cardiovascular and weight training exercises. This helps burn calories and increase the muscle to fat ratio that will increase ones metabolism and lose weight.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Drugs that Induce Weight Loss
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Weight Loss Diet Pill
With all the strenuous activities and sweat-generating regimens that most weight loss programs have, more and more people are enticed to opt for a better alternative, without the trouble of exerting too much effort.
With the advent of diet pills that promote weight loss, people go mad over the appealing advertisements of most manufacturers claiming that their product can easily “melt away” those fats and cellulites.
With these pills dominating the market today, who needs to tone those abs and biceps and do some dieting if there is an easier way to lose weight?
With an estimated 60% of the American population that are now considered as obese, these “wonder” drugs are definitely reaping millions of dollars in the United States alone.
Now, the questions are: is there any truth regarding the manufacturers’ claims that these diet pills can ultimately promote weight loss? Are they really effective in helping people lose weight? And if that is the case, do these pills also help those people maintain their ideal weight and curb any fat accumulation in the body?
In reality, there are diet pills that can really make a person shed off those extra pounds. These diet pills contain certain substances that were already clinically and scientifically proven to be very effective.
These diet pills are effective in increasing the metabolism of the body, thereby, initiating weight loss. Plus, these diet pills contain certain substances that suppress one’s appetite.
However, with so many diet pills saturating the market today, trying to find the best and most effective diet pill can be very tedious. Chances are, you may end up choosing the wrong diet pill when your energy to find diet pills wanes down.
Actually, there are only five factors to consider when choosing diet pills that are effective at the same time safe to use. Here is a list of the factors that you need to consider in order to come up with a diet pill that is right and appropriate.
1. The metabolism-boosting ability
In choosing diet pills that will effectively promote weight loss, it is best to look for pills that have the ingredients that will enhance your body’s metabolism, or the ability of the body to burn excess fats.
Choose those diet pills that contain alpha lipoic acid, green tea extracts, and “L-Canitine” because these ingredients had been clinically proven to be effective in promoting weight loss through increased metabolic rate.
2. The appetite suppressants
Find diet pills that effectively suppress your appetite. It does not necessarily mean that you will skip meals but you will not just feel hungry every now and then. This is because obesity usually happens to people who are fond of in-between meals, which actually initiates excessive calorie intake.
3. The calorie stopper
Because obesity is usually due to excess intake of calories in the body, which is more than the recommended amount, it is best to choose diet pills that have the special ingredients that will curb the entry of calories into the body.
These substances are known as “phaseolus vulgaris.” This is known to create an enzyme that will efficiently control any excess calories in the body. The enzyme responsible for this wonderful job is known as “alpha-amylase.”
4. The metabolic enhancers
It is best to choose diet pills that have the so-called “lipotropic elements” that are effective in eliminating fats from the body. It functions like a sweeper that effectively sweeps excess fats outside the body.
These lipotropic elements are found in vitamin C, chitosan, alpha lipoic acid, and green tea extracts.
5. The water-retention breaker
Effective diet pills are those that contain diuretics. These are elements that avert the retention of water in the body during the weight loss regimen.
All of these factors are, indeed, clinically proven and effective in losing weight. Though, it must be kept in mind that diet pills alone are not sufficient to provide optimum weight loss. Hence, it is still important to do some exercises.
Therefore, with exercise and the right diet pills, you are definitely on your way to a healthier, slimmer you.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Guide to the C Vitamin
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The c vitamin has got to be the most widely known vitamin these days. It is not surprising because the body needs c vitamin for over 300 functions. In fact, the c vitamin has been proved to help protect against heart disease, cancer and other serious illnesses. Without the c vitamin the body would not be able to heal itself either. This is because the c vitamin is vital for the formation of collagen.
Whenever a person has a cut or an injury it is the collagen that helps repair the damage and without sufficient c vitamin this would be almost impossible. Collagen has a multitude of functions in the body, including keeping the organs in place, and it would not be able to do this without sufficient c vitamin.
The c vitamin is also an antioxidant for the body and helps other vitamins and minerals to be absorbed better. Folic acid and iron, for example, need the c vitamin to maximise their usefulness. The more c vitamin that the body has, the better its defence against colds and other common ailments and the c vitamin may not prevent a person catching a virus but it does help speed up the recovery process.
There is c vitamin in almost every fruit and vegetable but some have far higher c vitamin content than others. Cranberries and melons have high c vitamin content. In fact, tropical fruits have the highest c vitamin amounts of all fruit. Hot peppers are amongst the richest sources of the c vitamin when it comes to vegetables. The hotter the pepper, the higher its c vitamin content is. Unfortunately, the c vitamin is water soluble so many vegetables lose their effectiveness as a c vitamin provider if they are boiled for a long time. Steaming or quick stir frying vegetables ensures that more of their c vitamin content is retained. The recommended daily amount of the c vitamin is easily obtained from eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day if they are consumed raw or cooked quickly.
C vitamin supplements are extremely useful to ensure that people obtain sufficient c vitamin. However, with a balanced diet the amount of c vitamin the body receives is likely to be sufficient. However, if a person begins feeling tired or lethargic then a c vitamin supplement will help overcome this. There is no danger of having too much c vitamin as the body simply excretes the excess.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Time to Pay a Visit to the Gynecologist
When thinking about going to the gynecologist for the first time, it seems like everyone is an expert. Some people are told that seventeen was the magic age, some said older and some said younger. You should definitely see the gynecologist each year if you have been or are sexually active, or once you have had your period for a year.
Without seeing a doctor, many women never know they have a disease and most have little to no symptoms. HPV can be transmitted just by the insertion of a finger with a wart on it, and it can cause cervical cancer. Any type of sex, vaginal, anal, or oral, is a reason to make that appointment and be safe. Part of being sexually active is being responsible to keep your body and mind healthy.
It is wrong to assume that if you are not sexually active that you do not need to visit the doctor. You could have many other female issues other than diseases or cancer. Ovarian cysts are very common and can be quite painful. The standard course of treatment is birth control pills to reduce or eliminate the cyst. If you have irregular menstrual cycles, you should see the gynecologist. You might have uterine fibroids or endometriosis, which cause very painful and lengthy periods. Just because you are not having sex does not mean you should not take care of your body. Regular check ups is the number one way to detect problems early.
How will I be examined?
A visit to the gynecologist includes a breast exam and usually a lesson in self-exams. The doctor will check for lumps, skin problems, and nipple discharge. You will also have a pap smear, or speculum exam, which tests for cervical cancer, STDs, and HPV (the cause of genital warts). The final part of the pelvic exam is the bimanual part, meaning the doctor uses two hands. He or she wears sterile gloves with lubricating gel and slides two fingers into the vagina, one for virgins, to touch the cervix, with the other hand presses gently on the abdomen. He or she will feel for any swelling or tenderness and make sure the uterus moves slightly, the sign of a healthy one. The doctor might also insert one lubricated finger into the anus to make sure there are no polyps or the like. The entire exam should only take about 20 minutes.
I am afraid it will hurt...
You will feel more discomfort if you are tense and contract your muscles. Think about what you can do to relax. Most gynecologists will tell you everything he or she is going to do before they do it so there are no surprises. Find a doctor that you trust or have a trusted person refer you to hers. At the appointment, have your doctor or nurse practitioner sit down and answer all of your questions. If you are too terrified, you can always reschedule your appointment for the next week. However, remember, if you have had sex, a pelvic exam is no more painful than that.
I am scared about the tools...
Ask the doctor to show you what kind of instruments he or she will be using during the exam and you will see that they are not that that intimidating. A speculum inserted into the vagina and used to open the vagina so that the cervix is visible, is either metal or plastic, and comes in three different sizes. A pediatric speculum is very small--about the size of your index finger, and usually used on virgins. The middle-sized speculum, about the size of a super absorbent tampon, is used on a sexually active patient who has never given birth. The largest speculum, about an inch wide, is for women who have given birth.
The speculum should not hurt when it is carefully inserted into the flexible vagina, and most doctors will heat it to body temperature before they insert it. Once it is in, your doctor or nurse will use three more tools, each collect different types of cell tissue, to take a pap smear. The first is a cytobrush and almost identical to a mascara wand. If you think of your cervix like a mini doughnut, the cytobrush fits in the middle opening and the doctor will gently rotate it once. The second instrument looks like a tongue depressor with a kidney-shaped tip and lightly scrapes around the curved edge of the mini doughnut, your cervix. Finally, the doctor or nurse uses a very small cotton swab to swipe the tip of the cervix and check for chlamydia. You will feel the items in there but no pain is associated with them.
Will I have to wait long for my results? Finding out your results should only take a week or two. How often do I need to return? After the first visit, a woman should return annually for regular check-ups.
Avoid Genital Itching
Both males and females can experience the discomfort of genital itching. This itching may be caused by sexually transmitted diseases, irritation, or allergies. In some circumstances, the itching may clear up all by it self. In other situations, you may need to see your health care provider for treatment that cannot be remedied via over-the-counter measures.
Here are some ways that females can avoid genital itching.
When wiping after urinating or having a bowel movement, you should wipe from front to back. Doing this will lessen the chance of bacteria entering the vagina from the anus.
Using feminine wash products such as douches and sprays can upset the acidic balance in the vagina.
Here are some ways that males can avoid genital itching.
For men who are not circumcised it is important to wash under the area of the foreskin.
Keep the genital area dry
Here are some preventive measures that apply to both male and females to avoid genital itching.
Do not wear tight fitting, synthetic underwear. Remember to change underwear daily.
When you are done bathing, showering, or swimming, it is important to dry off completely.
Do not have unprotected sex
Symptoms have their own language so look at what some of them are telling you. If fungus is the cause, the itching and redness may appear slowly. There will be spots of scaly skin appearing. The reason to keep your peri-area dry and allowing air to circulate is that fungus thrives in an environment that is moist and warm. If you find that the itchiness is increasing this may point to scabies or pubic lice. For a woman the itching could be a sign that she is getting a yeast infection. If there is, either pain involved with severe itching in a male or female this could be a sign of a possible outbreak of herpes.
What are some symptoms to aid in the relief of genital itching? There are many over-the-counter remedies available. The only downside to this is that genital itching has symptoms that closely resemble other diseases as well. If you try an over-the-counter product and do not find relief in the time specified in the instructions, do not go back to buy something different. Make an appointment with your doctor who will then be able to discuss with you the options available.
In addition, here are some of the treatments available without a prescription.
To help ease the discomfort of chaffing use powder, there are many different types of powder available such as cornstarch and talcum powder. Chaffing occurs when the skin rubs against itself, which is a natural occurrence.
Ointments are good for treating jock itch but if you do not know the underlying reason, you may exacerbate the problem. It is often better to see you doctor and talk to him about the treatments available.
Daily washing and cleansing is important in preventing genital itching.
Dry yourself completely after bathing, showering, or any “wet” activity. Remember fungus multiply where the environment is damp and warm.
Wear loose fitting clothes. Tight clothes can cause chaffing along with preventing air to circulate.
Often with chaffing, a cool cloth or compress feels wonderful and temporarily relieves the symptoms.
If you have jock itch, hanging around in the buff is an excellent idea. The air is able to flow freely and you stay dry while your genitals recover from the chaffing and soreness.
Once you have tried the non-prescription treatments and you are still feeling an enormous urge to keep scratching, this may signal a different problem – scabies or pubic lice. Scabies are mites that tunnel into the skin and infest the genitals as well as other areas of the body. They are microscopic in size. If you have scabies, you will soon notice lesions around the infected areas. They are very contagious and you do not have to be sexually active to contract them. Any close contact with someone who is infested will be on you. Only a prescription can eliminate scabies.
Pubic lice are visible unlike scabies. If you look you will see them crawling around. There is no mistaking whether or not you have them. If you do, you will know. Rid is a product that is over-the-counter and is usually very effective at killing them. If within the period suggested they are not gone, contact your doctor who will examine you and probably provide a prescription to get rid of them. Often times it can be difficult to tell what you have because genital itching is part of many diseases. In many cases, genital itching that is caused by irritation will clear up on its own if the irritation is removed.
Crabby Disposition
Crabs (pubic lice) are parasites that prefer the pubic region of the body, but will be content on any hair they find. However, these lice seem not to prefer the hair on top of our heads. They do not care whether you are a woman or a man. Crabs can be seen if you look for them. A person who is infected with scabies can inadvertently transmit them to another person. You do not need to be having sex to become infested.
Crabs can only be transferred to another person through intercourse. Along with this, they can be spread if you share the same bedding or clothing of an infected individual. Extreme itching in the pubic area may be a cause of concern. With crabs the severe itching usually begins after the fifth day of exposure. Crabs can get anywhere you have hair on your body though they usually are not found in the hair on your head.
What methods are available to treat crabs? There are treatments available without a prescription that includes creams and medicated shampoos. It is not necessary to shave your pubic hair to remove crabs. Read the treatment directions and follow them completely. You will have to wash all your items in hot water and dry on a hot setting. Items that cannot go in a washer should be placed in a large plastic bag that you leave outside for up to 72 hours or longer if needed. It is important to remember that person can become re-infected once treatment has completed.
Permethrin & Lindane are non-prescription treatments that work well in eliminating crabs. Though remember, if you still have symptoms to contact your health care professional.
Is it a wise choice not to get treatment for crabs? No, if you choose not to treat this very uncomfortable problem, it will get worse. In addition to the infestation and the discomfort, the constant re-infections will cause a serious skin infection. It is not necessary to let it get this bad when there are non-medical treatments available.
If you or your sexual partner has been infected with crabs, both have to be treated. It is just as important to tell everyone you have had sex with so they can also be treated. Do not have sex until you and the people you have had sex with, have been completely treated. All of your symptoms should have disappeared before resuming intercourse, or you could infest each other again. If there are any other members in your household, they should also be checked for crabs.
Millions of people get this annoying pest every year. Crabs are the common term for pubic lice. They look like crabs under a microscope, but can be seen by the naked eye with close inspection. Crabs are different from head or body lice, although the same intense itching occurs, albeit in a different area of the body. The other transmissible tiny parasite that can cause itching in the genital area is scabies. Normally you do not have any symptoms of crabs until at least five days after a possible infestation has occurred. Adult crabs look like whitish flecks on the genitals and itch a bit more. Sky-blue spots, which fade to brown, are bites and defecation. Scabies, however, are IN the skin, so you will see bumps, perhaps blisters, and crusty skin. It is extremely easy to transmit either by skin-to-skin contact. It is also possible to get crabs from bedding, clothing, or toilet seats.
Large items such as bedding items can be placed in a plastic bag and stored away from everything else, such as in the garage or basement, for at least a month. During this time, lice and nits that hatch will die without blood to feed upon. After the pests are gone, you may still have some itching due to skin irritation or allergic reaction. Hydrocortisone cream can take care of that. It is very important to remember that if you have had contact with anyone who might have crabs, you should be examined. Others in the household may require treatment if symptoms begin. It is best to abstain from sexual contact for 48 hours after treatment. Examine yourself after one week to determine if any nits remain. To avoid catching crabs again make sure sex partner(s) are treated too. Telling a partner might be uncomfortable, but it is important that they get treatment as soon as possible.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Avoiding Tossing and Turning
Tossing and turning is an often experienced phenomenon for most of us. There are nights when we are just not comfortable on the bed and keep tossing and turning all over, all through the night. What bothers us?
Tossing and turning is not a feeling of discomfort, it is actually an offshoot of our mental equilibrium that is not relaxed. Irrespective of our mind wanting us to relax, our bodies want to find a more comfortable spot on the bed, a result of misinterpretation. Relaxation has to come from within you and should be a result of your thought process.
Lying in a hammock on a hot summer day, on a Hawaiian beach would sound very relaxing. If you keep thinking about millions invested on the stock market that could take a beating, if and when it crashes, the hammock will not work wonders in relaxing you.
When you feel the urge to toss and turn on the bed, give it time, wait. It will go away faster than it came. Lie there and think about focusing your mind elsewhere more relaxing than where it was and the urge to toss and turn will be out of your system in about 15 seconds. The best part of this exercise is that you will realize that you need to relax and not try finding a comfortable place on bed.
If you start tossing and turning it becomes a never ending process for the night and will not stop till the morning.
At times when you feel that the urge to toss or turn is very high and you have to move, try it the following way:
1. Move very slowly, as though you are just getting up from sleep in the morning.
2. While moving try to smile at yourself and take a deep breath.
Tossing and turning keeps us awake because we tend to do it quickly and impulsively, the more quickly we do it, the more agitated we get. Try it in the way said above, you will feel the difference and probably get out of the habit in no time.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Body Temperature
It's extremely important to understand that the rise and drop of body temperature is a hint for our body to produce the feelings of being awake or being tired.
Whenever your body temperature begins to fall, you will feel tired, lethargic, and drowsier. Whenever your body temperature rises, you will feel more energetic, alert, and be able to focus better.
Don't mistake the fall of body temperature at certain times during the day as the need to sleep. Your body temperature may rise and drop several times in the day as a response to the activities you're doing at the time.
Whenever you put big physical demands on your body your body temperature will rise above the norm. As a response to any intensive physical activity, the body temperature drops for a while as soon as you stop the activity.
For example, if you work an 8 hour shift at a job that requires intense activity, one might feel totally drained and ready to fall asleep when you come home at around 4 PM. What you'll actually find is that this feeling of tiredness is not a sincere desire to sleep, but rather a response from your body due to the drop of body temperature.
If you resist sleeping at this moment and provide a “wind-down” period for your body after this period, body temperature will return to a normal and you will feel alert again.
In the Powerful Sleep plan I would suggest that you nap for 10-45 minutes during your day to physically recharge yourself, it's ideal to take this nap when you experience this body temperature drop as it will help you sleep. Always limit your naps to 45 minutes to avoid entering deep sleep.
After you wake up from your power nap it's normal to feel lethargic or drowsy, this is because your melatonin levels are higher. Get as much high intensity light as possible the moment you wake up, and make sure to move your body to get your body temperature up and running again.
If you currently live a very sedentary lifestyle, your body temperature will drop very often when you're sitting around on your butt or watching TV, so if you feel tired during the day understand it’s not because you need more sleep. It's because you need less sleep and more movement.
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Friday, June 1, 2007
Benefits of Fish Oil for Fitness and Health
When the words oils and fats are mentioned, health-conscious individuals tend to run for cover. What they fail to realize is that there are good fats and bad fats. Complete avoidance of intake of oils and fats would actually be detrimental – rather than beneficial – to their health.
The Truth about Fish Oil
Essential fatty acids must always be part of our daily diet – without them, we take one step closer to our deaths. Essential fatty acids are divided into two families: omega-6 EFAs and omega-3 EFAS.
Although there are only very slight differences to distinguish the two groups of essential fatty acids from each other, studies have revealed that too much intake of omega-6 EFAs can lead to inflammation, blood clotting and tumor growth. The good news, however, is that the opposite is true for omega-3 EFAs. Omega-6 EFAs can be found in vegetable oils while omega-3 EFAs can be found in fish oils among other foods.
Omega-6 vs. Omega-3
Physicians and scientists are of the same opinion that the cause behind increasing cases of heart disease, hypertension or high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, premature aging and certain kinds of cancer is none other than an imbalanced intake of omega-3 and omega-6 EFAs.
As mentioned earlier on, omega-6 EFAs can be found in vegetable oils. This includes but is not limited to corn oil and soy oil, both of which contains high amounts of linoleic acid. Omega-3 EFAs on the other hand can be found also in marine plankton and walnut and flaxseed oils. It should be significant to take note that fatty fish and fish oils contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), fatty acids that have been observed to provide many benefits to the human body. In the early 1970’s, a study on Greenland Eskimos have revealed that one of the major reasons why they rarely suffer from heart diseases is because of their high-fat diet (mainly composed of fish).
The two essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA, are also helpful in preventing atherosclerosis, heart attacks, depression and various forms of cancer. Fish oil supplemented food have also proven to be useful in treating illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, Raynaud’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Other Benefits of Fish Oil
There are a lot more illnesses and situations in which intake of fish oil has proven to be significantly beneficial.
Making the Heart Healthier
The heart is inarguably one of the most important parts of our body and having an unhealthy heart means having to suffer a rather limited lifespan. Naturally, it’s in our best interests to keep our hearts happy and healthy and one way of doing that is eating food that contains fish oil.
In Athens, Greece, for instance, a study was made to show if there was a direct relationship between high fish diet and inflammation of blood vessels. The results revealed that those who ate more fish than the others had a lower level of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6, factors that are commonly used to measure likelihood of blood vessel inflammation. These benefits remained even when the various risks associated with high fish diet were taken into account.
Fish to Become Thin
In Perth, Australia, a study had revealed that fish consumption can be used against hypertension and obesity. Researchers of the UWA (University of Western Australia) have discovered that a weight-loss diet which includes a regular amount of fish consumption can be quite effective in reducing blood pressure and improving glucose tolerance.
Fish Oil to Combat Asthma
People suffering from respiratory problems like asthma tend to be perceived as unfit and unhealthy. They should now be pleased to learn that certain studies have revealed the benefits of fish oil for asthma-burdened-individuals. Statistics show that approximately 20 to 25% of children today suffer one form of asthma or another at a certain point in their lives. And certain evidence reveals a regular diet of food with high linoleic acid content as the reason behind it.
Researchers of UW (University of Wyoming) conducted a study by subjecting a number of children to a high-fish diet while others continued with their regular diet. Results revealed that the participants who ate more fish were less prone to asthma attacks and were able to breathe more easily as well.
Consult Your Nutritionist Now
Nothing is good when consumed or used excessively but complete avoidance of a particular food type is equally harmful as well. Ask your nutritionist for the right amount of fish intake for your age and health status.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Hypnosis Weight Loss
Controlling your weight and avoiding weight gain as you get older are important ways to prevent weight-related health problems. Indeed, if you are more than 20 pounds over your ideal weight, you are at greater risk for a potentially deadly conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, endometrial cancer, obstructive sleep apnea, and breast cancer.
What’s more, most people who are overweight tend to avoid exercise, and that avoidance just adds to the toll paid for extra pounds.
If you have a sedentary lifestyle and are overweight, you are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems. And, if you already have a medical condition such as high cholesterol, being overweight puts you at higher risk for complications.
The good news is that even modest amounts of weight loss can improve your health significantly. Loss of 10% of body weight can reduce blood pressure, high cholesterol, triglyceride, and high blood sugar levels.
Today, there are many procedures that can contribute and help people loss weight effectively. One of the known procedure in losing weight is through hypnosis.
However, many misconceptions have come up with regards to the application of hypnosis in losing eight. And because it does not involve drugs or any kinds of medications and surgery, many people tend to think that losing weight through hypnosis seems to be one of the safest weight loss program.
To know more about hypnosis and its effects on losing weight, here is a list of some facts that will give you an insight about what it can do to your body weight.
1. Hypnosis can be an imminently risky if not done properly and not utilize by people who are highly trained with the real concept of hypnosis.
Even if many people tend to think that hypnosis will not pose imminent danger to their health, still, it is important to know that the person who will do the procedure is skilled enough and that he or she knows what factors to consider before doing the procedures.
2. Hypnosis alone cannot eliminate excess fat from the body and, therefore, make somebody lose weight.
Most health experts contend that hypnosis should only be a part of a whole assimilated process. It should never be used as the sole weight loss procedure.
Moreover, one session of hypnosis will only have very minimal results on an individual’s weight. When losing weight, hypnosis matched with psychotherapy will be more effective than hypnosis alone. This is because hypnosis is only a state of deeply relaxing the mind, in which one can still be in control of his or her own body.
3. Hypnosis is one way of getting into the subliminal state of a person. When a person is on the “hypnotic stage,” the body is more responsive to suggestibility because of its intensified state of concentration.
However, this does not necessarily mean that through hypnosis, one can already “reprogram” the mind of an individual.
In reality, hypnosis can only run the range from trouble-free relaxation condition to proper initiation managed by a professional hypnotists. Hence, it should not be considered paranormal and magical in its upshots.
Boiled down, people should be more aware that hypnosis is not a sole effective process in losing weight. It is more of a facilitator of various treatment techniques.
Therefore, it should be combined with other weight loss management program to be effective in making people lose excess weight. In this manner, people will be able to lose more weight with a more relaxed and refreshed state of mind.
As they say, a healthy mind is a healthy body.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Importance of the 12 B vitamin
The 12 b vitamin is one of the b vitamins that are essential to maintain a healthy body. Otherwise known as Cobalamin, the 12b vitamin is needed for the processes to convert the carbohydrates, fats and proteins from food into energy.
12 b also, more importantly, helps keep the red blood cells healthy and therefore prevent heart disease as well as keeping the immune system functioning at its maximum level. In addition, 12 b is used to create the protective covering of all nerve cells in the body.
The most important function of 12 b is to form healthy red blood cells. However, all cells need 12 b to keep them healthy. It is the white blood cells, amongst others, that need 12 b to help ensure that the immune system functioning properly. All of the nerve cells in the body also need 12 b to form their protective fatty layer. This is essential for all of the nerves but is especially so for those in the brain. If there is not sufficient 12 b to create this protective layer then the brain will not be functioning properly.
Interestingly, the amount of 12 b that the body needs is relatively small but is needed on a regular basis. However, 12 b on its own is not enough as the body cannot absorb it easily. To help the body absorb 12 b the stomach produces intrinsic factor which enables more of the 12 b to be absorbed. 12 b is only found in animal foods such as liver, eggs, fish and meat but most people consume far more than their recommended daily amount of 12 b. This is not a problem as the body can only absorb about half of the 12 b that is consumed. It is also worth noting that the body can recycle the 12 b which cuts down on the impact of a 12 b deficiency. However, strict vegetarians or vegans are likely to require 12 b supplements if they do not eat any animal products that contain 12 b.
If the body does not have enough 12 b then anaemia is the most obvious symptom. Obviously, this is due to the fact that there is not enough 12 b to make healthy red blood cells. Anaemia can also be caused by the body not creating enough intrinsic factor to help absorb the 12 b that is available in the food consumed. The body tends to makes less intrinsic factor once a person reaches 50 and this will lead to less 12 b being absorbed and supplements of 12 b may be required. Kids are also at risk from anaemia because they may not eat the food that contain 12 b. Pregnant women need more 12 b because the baby is absorbing 12 b during the pregnancy to grow properly.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
One of the most exhausting conditions that affect adults with anxiety disorders is post-traumatic stress disorder. This condition usually follows someone who survives a physical or emotional event that was terrifying to him or her.
Brought to the forefront by our veterans, it was often called “shell shock” or “battle fatigue.” It’s been found to occur in both men and women who have had serious car accidents, survived a natural disaster, bombings, a plane crash, or violent personal attacks. Abuse in childhood also can cause post-traumatic stress disorder. How severe the disorder will be is determined by the length and severity of the event that caused it.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can be triggered by an event that happened in the person’s life, in the life of someone close to him or her, or something they witnessed. Many citizens of New York have been treated for PTSD after the events on 9/11. PTSD has already appeared in those who were affected by the devastating hurricanes that occurred in the South.
People who suffer from PTSD will have extreme emotional, mental, and physical distress if they are placed in a situation that reminds them of the event. Some may relive the situation repeatedly in the form of nightmares, or “flashbacks” during the day. Other symptoms may include sleep problems, easily startled, and have problems feeling loving and affectionate. Depression, a constant jittery feeling, or a feeling of being numb or detached from your surroundings is also signs of post-traumatic stress disorder. Anyone suffering from this disorder also stay away from places or situations that bring back bad memories and are sometimes more aggressive, irritable, or even violent.
These symptoms can also be found in other anxiety disorders so it is important to talk to your doctor for a diagnosis. Post-traumatic stress disorder will only be diagnosed if the symptoms have lasted longer than a month. It usually starts about three months after the event happens, but has been known to occur years after a traumatic event. Some will not be able to remember the event unless they are in therapy. Many block out events until something later brings the memories to the surface.
This disorder can occur at any age, including childhood. Depression, substance abuse, and anxiety are signs of PTSD. Some will recover in six months, for others, it may be a much longer period.
What is the treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder? Treatments will vary from person to person according to their medical history, overall physical health, and age.
The extent of how the disease has progressed is something else to consider. Your doctor should also understand your tolerance for specific medications and your preferences. Someone with PTSD is also susceptible to other anxiety disorders such as substance abuse and depression. Treatment is critical and can include medication, therapy, relaxation techniques, and biofeedback. Antidepressants or medications for anxiety are used and psychological treatment both may be used to fight this disorder.
In this era, mental disorders do not carry the stigma they did in previous generations. It is common now for people to admit to taking antidepressants or having therapy. Support groups have sprung up that help them get through the recovery period. Some of the most successful programs are based on the 12-step program from Alcoholics Anonymous.
If you or someone you love is displaying any of the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, try to get them to a medical professional. This disorder can lead to severe drug or alcohol abuse, depression, and even suicide. Emotional support from family and friends can help those who suffer from PTSD.
Treatment is available to all that need it. Veterans, if you are suffering from PTSD go to local veterans office. If you can’t afford to get the proper therapy or medication, contact your local mental health agency. State funded programs are available for those who qualify as low-income and don’t have a large income.
If someone you love suddenly is extra irritable, have violent outbursts, have trouble with socializing, and working, find them some help. If they are having flashbacks when they hear different sounds, smell some odors, or have feelings the event can happen again, they need help to work through the event and get better. Medication can help but finding the underlying cause of the trauma may be the most helpful in handling post-traumatic stress disorder.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Fit and Healthy Tips for Woman
Here are 10 tips for women to stay fit and healthy:
1. Staying fit and healthy starts with a balanced diet. Know and monitor the right weight for your age. Consult your doctor to learn what food you should avoid and follow your eating discipline routines. Food with high fiber and low fat should be included a priority in your grocery list instead of red meat, sugars and fats.
2. Drink plenty of water. Drinking at least eight glasses of water everyday helps cleanse the body from impurities. It is also advised for lactating women to increase water intake to keep the body hydrated.
3. Take Vitamins and Supplements. Do not forget your Calcium supplement. Sufficient Calcium intake is beneficial for women of all ages. This has been proven to prevent having cramps and Pre-Menstrual Period (PMS) Symptoms. It also prevents Osteoporosis especially for menopausal women. Vitamin E boosts strong immune system. Women who undergo menopausal period should take Vitamin E-400 as it stops night sweats and hot flashes. Also, Vitamin E is said to be best in avoiding wrinkles when aging.
4. Quit smoking. If you are smoking, stop. It is also a big “NO” for pregnant women, as this will affect the health of the baby. Pregnant women who smoke may pass the harmful content of cigarettes to babies through the bloodstream. Recent studies have shown that women smokers are more prone to diseases than men smokers. Women who smoke have a high risk of getting breast cancer. Also limit your alcohol intake.
5. Incorporate exercises in your daily routine. Take a walk after work, use stairs instead of elevator or play with your kids when you are at home. Home exercises are also effective especially when you do not have time to go to the gym and would like to lose some weight. Yoga and Pilates are only a few of the many effective exercises you can do at home. Exercises help in limiting the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
6. Avoid stress. Many women are prone to too much stress. Stress has been known as cause to many sicknesses. As much as possible take time to relax. Read a good book, hang out with friends and engage into sports. Pamper yourself by going to parlors or you can do some shopping. And do not forget to get enough sleep to revive your energy.
7. Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Wear hats when under the sun to protect your skin. Too much sun is bad for your skin. The skin is prone to cancer when exposed to too much sunlight. It also speeds up the aging of skin cells, which causes wrinkles to women.
8. Make sure to visit your dentist to keep that beautiful smile. Always have it cleaned to prevent cavities and bad breath.
9. Visit your Gynecologist. Women who are eighteen and above should have their Physical Examination annually especially for the Pap Smear test. Women who are forty and up should have their mammograms and the Breast self-exam is encouraged once puberty has been reached and should be a habit as they mature
10. Safe sex is strongly recommended. Use condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Aromatherapy to Ease Postpartum Symptoms
There are many treatments to ease symptoms of postpartum but for those who prefer a more natural approach, aromatherapy poses a perfect substitute. The technique is very simple, by introducing essential oils to the mother, this helps redirect the hormonal balance that is lost in the process of childbirth. The very relaxing, soothing atmosphere related to aromatherapy is a therapeutic activity. Getting alone in a room where all sources of stress are removed reserves some psychological and emotional appeasement that will ease the symptoms of postpartum. Aromatherapy helps maintain and re-enact the hormonal/chemical balance which is associated with postpartum symptoms.
By mixing the essential oils of geranium, grapefruit and neroli and pouring the mixture in a bath, one can enjoy the relaxing setting of a bath or aromatic essential oils that are inhaled. Another method is, preferably after taking a bath, rub any mixture of oils, such as what was listed above, or clary sage, rose and bergamot, onto your tummy. This will not only produce an immediate calming sensation, but the absorption of the essential oils into the skin will again help regain that chemical imbalance one had before pregnancy; and help keep your sanity. It is best to breathe deeply the aromatic oils released on your body as you rub. This will have the twofold effect of skin receiving the essential oils through it and it will be breathed in.
For the best results, doing this about three times a week will ensure that it will be effective. There are a variety of mixtures that can be used in concert with the fore mentioned blends. These include angelica, bergamot and geranium or mandarin, neroli and immortelle to just name a few. These mixtures can all be either diffused in a bathtub, a diffuser, or simply a rub. The methods are numerous, but the results are usually similar. But, the important thing to remember when treating postpartum by aromatherapy is time. It is not a method that should be rushed.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Healthy and Fit with Diet Fitness
People nowadays are very much conscious about their own health and fitness and desire to ahieve the magazine-cover look. Exerise is not the only way to build that beautiful, sexy and healthy body. Diet fitness is as essential as exercise itself. It provides the essential nutrition one needs to restore worn-out muscles and for healthy growth. With the popularity of keeping fit, many strategies have been formulated, among these are high carb diets and high fat diets.
High carb diets concentrates on taking in carbohydrate-rich foods while high fat diets endorses fat-rich foods. High carb diets are utilized to glycogen (glucose complex that provides large amounts of energy ready for use in aerobic exercises) stored in the liver and muscles. Fats is well-known for being the richest source of calories. It actually contains 2.5 times more calories than carbohydrates and proteins. Studies show that it takes the body 24 calories to metabolize carbohydrates while it only takes 3 to burn down fat. A person can follow a high carb and low fat fitness diet or the other way around. It is absolutely not recommended to follow both at the same time.
Diet programs all over can help you shed off excess pounds, but only one diet that satisfies you most can help you stay sexy. Be careful not to leave out important nutrients and other substances necessary for healthy body functioning.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Detoxing for Fitness and Health
There are times that you feel sluggish and stressful. Your body may experience continuous aching, diarrhea, constipation, and feeling of clumsiness. Your body shows some signs that you have built up toxins. Toxins are found and stored on your fat cells. These toxins can affect your whole body fitness and health. Rapid weight gain and the incapacity to lose the excess weight can also be signs of having toxins in the body. In detoxing your body and cleaning that unwanted garbage in your cells, you should pay attention on your elimination organs.
1. Your liver is the organ that recycles the unwanted chemicals in the body. It sorts out the toxins and places them to the organ for elimination during the process of circulation.
2. The lymph glands also play an important role in eliminating the toxins. The appendix, thymus, tonsil, and spleens are major lymphatic glands that help the major organs of the body in cleansing and detoxing.
3. The kidneys help in the water management of the body. You can help your kidney to function very well by drinking plenty of water. It is much better if you drink fresh alkaline juices and purified water. You may take ½ ounce of alkaline everyday to see positive results on your body weight.
4. The lungs are the organs that keep the blood air purified. They allow the oxygen to go directly to the bloodstream. Deep breathing and fresh air are helpful in keeping the lungs healthy and free from toxins.
5. The colon is a solid waste management organ in your body. Detoxing and cleaning the colon can be a real tough thing to do. However, having a free waste colon can certainly provide you good benefits of having a clean and healthy body.
Exercise is a good key in having a fit and healthy body. Many diet doctors also suggest that you drink plenty of lemon water. This is an effective way of maintaining a very good circulation and can increase the rate of detoxification inside the body.
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