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Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health. Show all posts

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Acidity Relief

Acidity is a common condition that gives an awkward feeling to us and interferes with our daily activities. Acidity can be due to the unusual behavior of gastric glands that secrete acids above normal. Acid reflux occurs owing to the malfunction of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) valve which lets the stomach secretions regurgitate into the esophagus causing heartburn. This may be due to a variety of reasons like irregular eating habits including skipping meals and fluctuating food schedule, consuming overly spicy food, stress and espousing eternal demons like smoking and drinking. The symptoms of acid reflux include heartburn, sore throat, dyspepsia, chest pain, bitter flavor in the mouth, uneasiness, etc. Some of the home remedies for acidity are

  • Munching a piece of clove has a soothing effect for acid reflux. Cloves alleviate acidity and also aid in digestion.

  • Popping an antacid will neutralize acidity and bring relief but does not solve the root cause of acid reflux. Consuming proper diet rich in dietary fiber is very important to prevent stomach related disorders.

  • Garlic and ginger should be a part of the daily regimen which play a major role in disinfecting the stomach and assisting in digestion apart from a myriad of health benefits.

  • Consuming a banana after meals will safeguard you from acid reflux. Drinking milk and fruit juices is also considered effective against acidity.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Get rid of underarm odour

Underarm odor is caused by perspiration produced by the apocrine glands in the skin of our armpit. While body sweat is odorless the stale smell emanating from the armpit is a result of the bacterial action in that area. The underarms present a favorable environment for the bacteria to thrive and act on the sweat releasing foul smelling chemicals resulting in body odour. Body odour can be a hindrance in work environments and public places apart from being a personal nuisance. An interesting theory behind body odour links underarm odor with the diet we eat. Body odor is also prevalent among the obese and the diabetic.

Banishing body odor involves sticking to the basic routines of cleanliness and personal hygiene. Don't forget to take bath everyday and keep your underarms clean by rinsing with water and soap. Disinfect your armpits with baking soda or vinegar before going for any deodorants. Avoid using deodorants if possible. Shave off the hair in your underarms to prevent the profusion of bacteria in that region. Pay attention to the type of clothing you wear especially during summer. Natural fabrics like cotton are considered the best for hot climate. Drinking plenty of water and consuming fruits and green vegetables rich in chlorophyll brings down body odor. Controlling the intake of garlic, chilies, pepper and red meat will also contribute towards diminishing underarm odor.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Blueberries for Brain

Blueberry Juice Memory BoostThe fabulous looking blueberries have amazing nutritional and medicinal values. Blueberries are powerhouses of antioxidants like anthocyanidins and polyphenols. A recent research revealed that drinking blueberry juice will perk up memory and blueberries have a remarkable ability to reverse memory loss. This unique attribute of blueberries can be leveraged in treating the notorious Alzheimer's disease. The antioxidants present in blueberries decelerate the aging process and help in rejuvenating the skin. Blueberries are a boon for treating bladder related urinary tract infections in order to inhibit E.coli infection. Blueberries also promote cardiac health and provide protection against several types of cancer.

Sunday, January 3, 2010

Veldona Lozenge for Flu and Cold

People in search of a panacea for their obstinate cold and flu can now spot a silver lining in the clouds in the form of veldona lozenges. The sweet lozenges are being hyped up as an inexpensive over the counter remedy for common cold and flu which costs just 20p a day. Veldona lozenges are of very low dosage and don't produce any noteworthy side-effects. The core of veldona lozenges is the protective protein component interferon alpha. When the veldona lozenge dissolves in mouth it releases the protein interferon alpha which prepares the body against infections by acting as a trigger for the immune system to switch to the protective mode and destroy the pathogen. If things go according to plan veldona lozenges will be available at a pharmacy near you within the next two years.

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance is a condition where the pathogen acquires the ability to surmount an antibiotic by gene mutation and becomes a super bug. The overuse of antibiotics and premature renunciation of prescription has led to the profusion of antibiotic resistance. WHO has recognized this as a global issue and several antimicrobial drugs have been rendered powerless as the micro-organisms transform into aggressive strains. Diseases like tuberculosis and malaria are increasingly becoming difficult to treat because of the increase in the number of hostile strains. Self-medication and non-compliance to prescription are major drivers of antimicrobial resistance which can be curtailed by education. Patients often self-medicate with inadequately dosed or counterfeit drugs. Some patients suspend drug intake without completing the full course as soon as they start feeling better before the pathogen has been completely expelled from their body. This creates a conducive environment for the pathogens to adapt and thrive in their body. Thwarting antibiotic resistance requires a global initiative to stop antibiotic abuse and create awareness among the public regarding prescription compliance and abstaining from self-medication.

Friday, December 25, 2009

Magnificent Mustard

Mustard Arthritis CancerMustard seeds are an essential ingredient in cuisines across the world and adding the spice to our recipes has significant health profits apart from the flavor it imparts to the dishes. Mustard seeds included in our diet help in accelerating metabolism and improving digestion. Mustard seeds have anti-inflammatory properties which can be leveraged in treating arthritis. Bathing the affected joints in mustard soaked water or mustard mixed with epsom salt in water can relax the stiff joints and soothe the sore muscles. Mustard is also good for the skin and you can also go for a mild mustard facial mask after testing if mustard is irritating on your skin. Mustard seeds also help in expelling the harmful toxins from our body. Selenium and isothiocyantes are important anti-cancer agents found in mustard seeds. Mustard oil has the ability to lower blood pressure and curtail hair loss. The next time you make your favorite dishes don't forget to sprinkle a few roasted mustards on top of them.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Dealing with Head Lice

Head Lice Pediculosis Home CureHead lice infestation or Pediculosis is a common contagious disease of childhood caused by a parasitic insect called Pediculus humanus capitis that feeds on human blood to survive. School children obliviously pass on the disease to their friends by head-to-head contact while playing. The parasite also travels from the scalp of one person to another by sharing combs, headphones, bed linen, towels, hats, brushes, etc. Itching is the most common symptom of pediculosis which is caused by an allergic reaction to the louse saliva. A person infested with head lice will have tiny lice eggs called nits at the base of the hair shaft nearest to the scalp which should not be misinterpreted as dandruff.

Treatment & Prevention

  • The wet combing or bug-busting method is an effective home remedy to dispel the lice and the nits from the scalp. Wash your hair with shampoo and soak in hair conditioner. With the help of a fine toothed nit comb you can remove the lice and nits from your hair. But this must be repeated for a few days until the scalp is clear from lice.

  • Lice medications like pediculicide can be applied on the hair to destroy the parasites. The chemicals and insecticides prescribed in the form of lotions might be toxic and so strictly adhere to the label instructions on the product while using them.

  • Vinegar is considered as a natural home remedy for head louse. Just wash your hair with vinegar and comb off the dead particles. Coconut oil and tea tree oil are other useful oils to get rid of head lice.

  • Apply mayonnaise on the scalp, gently massage your head to choke out the lice infestation and comb off the dead particles.

  • Cropping your hair will not help alleviate pediculosis because the lice and the nits notoriously cling to the base of the hair.

  • Proper hygiene and cleanliness will safeguard our children form lice infestation. Clothing, bed linens and towels must be disinfected by washing them in hot water. Soak the combs and brushes in hot water and wash them with soap to disinfect them.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Cinnamon Chronicle

Cinnamon Bark Spice Health Benefits DiabetesCinnamon bark is a popular spice widely used to lend flavor and fragrance to the cuisine. Cinnamon is also a medicinal substance with remarkable curative properties and recent studies have explored the health benefits of cinnamon. Cinnamon is an inexpensive ingredient that upholds fitness and promotes good health.

  • Cinnamon helps in regulating blood sugar levels by turning on the insulin receptors so that the blood glucose is utilized efficiently by the body. This property is beneficial to the diabetic patients.

  • Cinnamon powder mixed with honey is a powerful combination that can lower LDL cholesterol levels in our body. The cinnamon honey recipe also helps in relieving arthritis pain efficiently because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

  • The aroma of cinnamon boosts brain activity and enhances the cognitive processes in our mind. Cinnamon is also considered as a valuable brain tonic used to improve memory and intelligence.

  • Cinnamon incorporates anti-microbial elements and it is used as a home remedy to treat mundane health conditions like common cold, cough, flu, sore throat, stomach ache, nausea, flatulence and other infections.

  • Olive oil, cinnamon powder and honey can be made into a paste and applied on the scalp to prevent and control hair loss.

  • Cinnamon has anti-clotting attributes which are handy in treating several important diseases. Cinnamon also helps in the purification of blood.

  • Cinnamon has natural killing power against pathogens like E. coli 0157 bacteria which is known to cause gastroenteritis and bloody diarrhea.

  • Cinnamon powder honey mixture is also used to relieve toothaches. Cinnamon is also a natural mouth freshener preventing bad breath.

  • Cinnamon oil can be used a natural mosquito repellent apart from its culinary uses. Cinnamon is also known to aid in curing diseases like eczema, infertility, menstrual pain, etc.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Buy Korean Ginseng Extracts Online

Cheap Korean Ginseng Roots Extract Impotence DiabetesGinseng roots are high in medicinal value and red ginseng extract is widely consumed as a generic health drink across the world. Ginseng extracts have a slew of therapeutic properties that is beneficial for people suffering from diseases like stress, anxiety, diabetes, impotence, lethargy, arthritis, etc. Ginseng also helps in enhancing immunity and supplies ample energy to the body. The ginseng roots imported directly from Korea undergo multiple stages of processing before they are packed and sold. The best place to buy authentic ginseng extracts online is KoreanGinsengExtracts.com where you can buy them at the lowest prices. Red ginseng extracts are available in different forms and flavors. Drinks like korean ginseng tea gold are renowned worldwide in promoting mental relaxation and invigorating our soul and body. The honeyed red ginseng roots that have a rich aroma and taste provide instant energy and banish fatigue from our body. Ginseng also encompasses several beauty secrets and has anti-aging properties. The kids ginseng tonic is perfect for kids and it will perk up their fitness in the long run. Kids will also love the ginseng candies which are healthy as well as appetizing for the taste buds. All the ginseng products are available at special discount prices and attractive offers including free shipment services. Hurry! Buy ginseng online safely at KoreanGinsengExtracts.com and experience the goodness of nature.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Zinc Pills/Syrup to subjugate Diarrhea

Zinc Supplements Diarrhea Instant Relief
Diarrhea has long been an underrated disease because it barely impacts the livelihood of the rich and the famous. But the fact that diarrhea is a killer disease that sucks the lives of millions of children across Asia and Africa is often undermined by the more hyped about diseases like malaria and AIDS. Diarrhea is a deadly epidemic during the rainy season in these continents and the fragile infants fall prey to this notorious disease due to lack of awareness and proper medication. The traditional oral rehydration therapy (ORT) which has been a potent weapon against diarrhea was either oblivious to the affected families or snubbed for its delay in action. Zinc is a magical mineral that has proved to be effective in taming diarrhea successfully in recent times. Diarrhea is a disease that causes severe dehydration by rapid loss of fluids from the body. The rehydration salts help in slowing down the exit of fluids and are extremely effective in replacing fluids and nutrients. Zinc is an essential ingredient in about 300 enzymes within our body and zinc supplements bolster immunity and stifle the progress of diarrhea. Zinc combined with ORS can be a formidable combination to annihilate diarrhea. The WHO distributes zinc supplements in the form of tablets/syrup to the diarrhea-stricken villages in Asia and Africa that is delivering promising results.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Texting aches

Texting Tips Pain InjuriesTexting your friends on your cell phone could trigger certain painful health issues. Most of us prefer texting to communicate with our loved ones and share our daily adventures. But texting long messages can lead to chronic pain problems. The rhythmic action of stroking the number pad of your cell phones or PDAs is a major health concern among teens and young adults. The thumb and our fingers are not naturally designed for tapping out messages on tiny keypads. During texting, your body is not positioned properly with the back staying stiff and the shoulders being static while the fingers work swiftly. Excessive thumb texting can result in sore thumbs and elbow pain interpreted as 'Blackberry Thumb' and 'Texting Tendonitis'. Students and professionals who spend most of the time typing on computer keyboards are associated with diseases like carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, and tendonitis. Because of the similarities in body positioning while typing as well as texting, the medical world is suspecting the link between texting and these computer overuse injuries. A recent study showed that people who sent several text messages per day experienced shoulder discomfort. The next time you text a message beware of the health hazards.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Sugary Foods

Sugar Crystals Health ImpactSugar that is present in foods is of two types - natural sugar and added sugar. Natural sugar present in fruits and dairy products is useful for the body while added sugar found in confectionery, soft drinks, bakery products, etc just supply energy to our body and do not contribute any nutrients for our health. Sugary foods play a major role in dental decay. If strict oral hygiene is not followed sugary foods can cause tooth decay. It is better to consume sugary foods during mealtimes so that it reduces the risk of tooth decay. Sugary foods increase the risk of obesity. Sugary drinks have been identified as a risk factor for obesity. A recent study revealed that high fructose intake in the form of added sugars raises the risk of high blood pressure. Sugar is also believed to have a suppressing effect on the immune system.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Fast eating vs slow eating

Snail Slow Food Health Benefits Weight LossPeople who sit in front of their television sets watching their favorite programs while eating and take years to complete a plate of food have reasons to celebrate. Slow eating is actually good for the planet and the waistline. People who snarf their food are prone to overeating because rapid consumption inhibits the release of a couple of important gut hormones namely peptide YY and glucagon-like peptide which are responsible for signaling fulfillment to the brain. As a result the fast eaters don't experience the satiety feeling and continue to eat more than what their body needs. People who ate slowly had higher levels of these two hormones and they knew exactly when to halt eating. Scientists believe that the slow eaters who ate mindfully enjoyed the taste of the food than the others and weighed less than those who ate mindlessly. People who eat slowly took more time to chew their food and this lead to better digestion. The slow eaters had little stress while eating while the tedious eaters ate faster in response to anxiety or depression. The link between speed eating, overeating and obesity has been explained by these observations.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Natural Home Remedies & Tips for Dry Skin

Dry skin is a universal problem regardless of the climatic zone in which you live in this world. We would have seen a myriad of dry skin care advertisements on tv and tried a multitude of cosmetic creams but the problem seems to be eternal. Dry skin may be due to several reasons including low humidity conditions, vitamin deficiencies, pollution, inappropriate cosmetics, high pH soaps and other genetic disorders. The chief reason for dry skin is the skin's inability to retain water. The skin's sebaceous glands secrete oil that retains moisture on the skin and any interference with this natural function can cause dry skin.

Dry Skin Herbal Home Care:

  1. Olive oil has a unique ability to mollify dry skin and acts as a natural skin moisturizer. Olive oil is rich in antioxidants that nourish your skin. Olive oil mixed with vinegar and water is a very effective home treatment for dry skin.

  2. Aloe vera gel can be applied as a hydrating mask for your dry skin. Aloe gel is perfect for dry wrinkled skin and heals several skin conditions.

  3. Honey is a proven panacea for skin related disorders. Painting honey over parched and cracked skin gives a soothing experience and assists in rapid recovery.

  4. Fruits like papaya, pumpkin, apple, tomato, cucumber, banana, almond, etc can be used as a moisturizing and nourishing mask on your dry skin.

  5. A mixture of rose water, milk/curd and honey serves as an effective face pack as well as cures dry skin.

  6. Neem oil, almond oil, lavender oil, coconut oil and avocado oil are all good for lubricating dry skin and restoring moisture in the skin.

  7. Avoid washing your skin with hot water and exposing it to the hot sun.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Backpain Prevention Strategies

Backpain is an infuriating disease that interferes in our daily life activities and gives us restless nights. Here are some simple tips to stay away from back pain.

  1. The bed and the sleeping position matters. A poorly designed bed could give you a stiff back in the morning. A back-friendly bed is the one that offers firm support to your back. A sagging mattress might cause bending of your spine and lead to backpain in the long run.

  2. Proper sleeping position also plays a key role in backpain prevention. Putting a pillow between your knees while sleeping on your side is beneficial. Turning to a different position while sleeping is also good for your back rather than sleeping in the same position.

  3. People having the habit of lifting their head to watch television while lying down are prone to neck injuries and neck pain.

  4. Avoid lifting heavy objects on your own and always seek assistance. Know about proper weight lifting techniques and don't twist your back while lifting the load.

  5. Sitting in the same position for a long time obliviously does more damage to your back. Try shifting positions on your seat and stretch your legs often. Crossing your legs while sitting is important to flex your muscles.

  6. Don't get yourself into awkward positions while trying to access a thing by bending or stretching.

  7. Comfort and health comes before fashion. Girls must avoid wearing high-heeled slippers and men must avoid heavy and high-heeled boots.

  8. A sedentary work culture is harmful to your back and so keep moving around in regular intervals. Learn simple exercises for your back and keep it supple. At office make sure that the computer keyboards are not on top of the table and that they are under the desk.

  9. Taking wrong positions while driving or cycling is a major risk factor for back pain. Don't ignore the pain and treat your pain at the nascent stage itself by consulting a physician.

  10. Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption. Eat nutritious diet rich in calcium that can fortify your bones.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Medicinal Pippali/Thippili

Thippili Pippali Cooking Long Pepper DishesLong pepper (Piper longum) is a precious medicinal fruit perfect for the welfare of the digestive and the respiratory systems. The pungent pepper fruits are stuffed with a myriad of medicinal benefits to our body. Traditionally long Pepper is used to treat indigestion, cough and throat pain. Long pepper has beneficial effects on respiratory diseases like chronic bronchitis, asthma, dyspnoea, etc. Pippali acts as a good appetizer and is also good for intestinal problems like constipation and stomach aches. Long pepper along with salt can alleviate toothaches. Thippili augments the thyroid hormone levels in blood and ensures bioavailability of nutritional compounds. Long pepper has useful antibiotic and antiseptic properties. Pippali can also be used as a carminative to fight flatulence.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Computer Keyboard Microbes

Computer Keyboard Virus InfectionScientists warn that your computer keyboard is several times dirtier and more harmful than your toilet seat. Most of the gadgets that we use in our daily life including computer keyboards, mobile phones, mousepads, telephones, desktop, etc offer a conducive environment for germs, microbes, bacteria and viruses to flourish. People do not have the habit of cleaning these equipments regularly. You might not even be aware that a million bacteria might be thriving on your office desk. When someone in your office is infected by a virus, there is a possibility that they might pass on the virus to others through objects they touch. People having cold/flu can infect the keyboards and desktops even while they sneeze. Most of us have the habit of munching on snacks and taking a sip of our favorite beverages and simultaneously working on our desktop. Food spills on keyboards is a common mistake that we all do in our life. But this might prove costly because when the keyboard is not properly cleaned, it will become a haven for colonies of pathogens.

A few simple precautions can shield you from grubby gadgets. Always take time to clean your desk and computer parts with disinfecting wipes. Washing your hands prior to handling edible items is the best strategy to keep away from any disease. It is not a good idea to share your keyboard with others in a work environment. Institutions must realize the health hazards and provide separate computers to individuals.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Cetirizine/Zyrtec Side Effects

Cetirizine Zyrtec Sleepiness Dry MouthCetirizine is a popular antihistamine typically prescribed for patients with allergic rhinitis/sinusitis experiencing symptoms like running nose, sneezing, irritation, watery eyes, nasal congestion and post-nasal drip. Histamine is a substance secreted by allergic cells in the body in response to an allergen as part of the natural immune process. It is mostly a false alarm and the released histamine causes nasal congestion leading to throat infection, fever, etc. Antihistamines like zyrtec block histamine secretion providing relief to allergic patients. Due to this suppressive action there may be some reverberations in our body that we need to make a note of.

  • Drowsiness and tiredness is the most common side effect of consuming cetirizine tablets. Sedation to a certain extent is reported among the consumers.

  • Avoid indulging in activities like driving that require concentration and mental alertness.

  • Allergy medications can cause mental fuzziness, forgetfulness and memory loss.

  • Dry mouth and sore throat may also occur because of cetirizine consumption.

  • Intake of alcohol can add fuel to the fire by amplifying the side effects of cetirizine.

  • Some people might be allergic to cetirizine itself and they must avoid taking this medication.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Adrenalin - The Emergency Hormone

Have you ever felt the adrenaline rush? Adrenalin or Epinephrine is a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands also known as supra-renal glands are endocrine glands lying on top of both the kidneys. The hormone plays a central role in preparing our body to sudden emergencies and manipulating stress.

Adrenalin Action:

Adrenaline is released into the blood in response to an emergency, anxiety, threat, exercise, or fear. It helps the brain to decide whether to fight or flight in such a situation. Epinephrine may have a suppressive effect on the immune system. The functions performed by adrenaline are

  • Adrenaline increases the rate, magnitude and the frequency of heart beat. Adrenaline increases the amount of sweating and increases blood pressure.

  • Adrenaline stimulates the constriction of the blood vessels feeding the kidneys, intestine, viscera and the skin. It causes dilation of blood vessels supplying skeletal and cardiac muscles.

  • Adrenaline relaxes the smooth muscles of the digestive tract and brings peristalsis to a halt.

  • Adrenaline causes dilation of pupil, eases the bronchi and causes closure of sphincter muscles.

  • Adrenaline gives you goosebumps by making the muscles of hair follicles to contract. Adrenaline speeds up respiration and influences mental alertness.

  • Adrenaline stimulates the breakdown of glycogen to glucose to supply extra energy which involves excess oxygen intake and heat production.

Why do we Sneeze?

Sneezing Dust AllergyHave you ever been told by your grandparents that someone is remembering you while you sneeze? Well, people across the world have this habit of wishing the person who sneezes with goodwill messages and greetings. Sneezing is also associated with several myths among different countries across the globe. But scientifically what causes sneezing? Sneezing is basically a semi-autonomous defensive mechanism of our body to banish foreign particles from our nasal cavity. The inside of the nose is lined with mucous membrane. The mucous membrane has receptors or nerve endings which detect the irritants like dirt, dust, pathogens, etc and trigger a reflex action. The stimulus is routed via the reflex arc to the brain and back to the effectors located in face, throat, lungs and diaphragm. This makes you inhale a deep breath abruptly followed by a powerful release of the air and bioparticles in a sudden burst. Sneezing is good because it lets you eject harmful substances from your body. But people having allergies are prone to recurrent sneezing and it deserves medical attention promptly. Make sure that you hold a tissue to your nose and mouth while you sneeze so that you don't infect others nearby.




 
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