Sunday, August 31, 2008

Lifting Procedures For Reducing Or Preventing Back Pain

Writen by Michael Colucci

Many people don't realize the importance of lifting objects properly in order to avoid hurting their backs. One of the leading causes of back injuries are due to people lifting heavy objects improperly. In this article I will go over the proper procedures for lifting heavy objects in order to avoid back pain.

Lifting things doesn't have to be hazardous, whether you're at home or at work. Many people put lots of stress on their backs on a regular basis, especially those who have jobs in warehouses or delivery companies. Even those who don't spend lots of time lifting heavy objects can make their backs prone to injury over time even if they lift small objects if they do it improperly.

There are two primary mistakes that many people make when lifting objects. The first mistake is using the wrong muscles to lift up objects. You're supposed to use the muscles in your legs and buttocks instead of the muscles in your back.

It is always important to bend your knees when lifting an object off the floor. This gives your spine a level foundation and avoids putting too much stress on it. It is important to keep your upper body vertical when lifting instead of horizontal. Having your upper body horizontal will put a lot of stress on your lower back. This pressure could be hundreds of pounds, and eventually you'll suffer a slipped disc or sprain.

The second mistake people often make is lifting an object too far from their bodies. It is important to be as close as possible to whatever you're lifting. By holding the object close to you, the amount of pressure exerted on your spine is reduced.

You want to hold the object by its center and keep it eight inches away from you when you lift. Keep your upper body vertical and use the muscles in your knees and buttocks in order to lift it. By doing this you avoid damaging you back. You also want to avoid twisting your upper body when you left objects as this can add pressure to your spine as well.

Lifting objects properly in order to avoid back pain is important. If you lift a ten pound object at arms length, you are putting at least one hundred and fifty pounds of pressure on your lower back. If you hold an eighty eight pound object at arms length, a massive seven hundred pounds is being exerted on your back.

Michael Colucci is a technical writer for Back Pain Treatment - A free site that offers the latest treatments on back pain.

3 Ways To Ease Depression Isolation

Writen by Chris Green

One of the hardest symptoms to deal with during a depressive episode is feeling disconnected from reality. This feeling causes sufferers to retreat further and further into their own world. They become isolated from their loved ones and friends and the loneliness deepens the depression.

Here's three ways to stop isolation from making depression worse.

1. Have at least one person you can turn to and have regular contact with 3-4 times a week. Someone you can call when you need to talk, someone who can be with you just watching TV or going to a movie. You don't have talk about how you feel if you don't want to and be clear that you don't want to be questioned about your feelings. Hopefully, they'll understand this and will be there for you when you need them.

2. There will be times when you just want to shut out the world and have your own space. Many sufferers just want to be alone in a quiet room such as their bedroom. There's nothing wrong with this at all. But try not to make it a daily or regular habit. Schedule this once, maybe twice a week at most and be strict with it. It's about a balance. Yes, shut the world out for a day or two each week. For the rest of the week, be around people, especially the special person we discussed in the first paragraph.

3. When you do shut the world out, do it in a way that helps you rather than hurts you. So, instead of retiring to a dark room and lying in bed to brood about your problems, try these: Mind puzzles – logic problems, crosswords, spatial puzzles etc. – jigsaw puzzles, draw or paint, play a musical instrument, write stories, watch TV or a movie, or read a book or a magazine and listen to some music. With a book and music, avoid anything too heavy or deep. Keep it nice and light. In this way, isolation doesn't become a period of deep introspection where you worry or fret about problems or go over the past or beat up on yourself. You get the peace and tranquillity but not the torment that can accompany it during a depressive episode.

If you feel isolated and that life seems like a "virtual reality", then please put these techniques to use. Isolation is a part of depression and the key to lessening the impact is to understand how it happens and use it so it helps you beat depression instead of keeping you trapped in it.

Copyright 2006 Christopher Green

Chris Green is the author of "Conquering Stress", a special program which will show you how to conquer stress, depression and anxiety without taking powerful drugs. For a free e-course please click here => http://www.conqueringstress.com

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Athletes Foot Cures That Work

Writen by Terry Edwards

With the beating our feet take on a daily basis it's a wonder there is any athletes foot cures that work. Think about it for a minute. Our feet are stood on for countless hours each day under our bodies tremendous weight, walked on, ran on, and often times crammed into shoes that are too small or distort our feet. (high heels) Athletes foot is really only one of the problems we sometimes have to deal with.

But, even with that said, if you've ever suffered with athletes foot you know how bothersome it can be. The itching and scratching just won't end it seems. You can literally continue to scratch until your feet become raw! So, are there any athletes foot cures? What can I do to get it to stop?

Well, there are certainly no shortage of athletes foot cures. It seems like everyone under the sun has some kind of remedy. The real question is, which ones actually work? Let's take a quick look at a few of them:

Soaking your feet in baking soda. This athletes foot remedy is an easy one and it works. Simply fill a bucket with warm water and mix in plenty of baking soda. Soak your feet in it for approximately 30 minutes once a day after work.

Aloe vera gel. This is another natural athletes foot cures. Rub aloe vera gel on your feet twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening.

Sprays and powders. You can easily purchase one of the many name brand sprays or powders for your athletes foot remedy at your favorite discount store.

Rubbing alcohol. Apply rubbing alcohol with cotton balls to the infected area. As one of the many different athletes foot cures, it seems to work very well.

Tea tree oil. This is another favorite athletes foot remedy that works remarkably well. The ingredients in tea tree oil have been proven effective in eliminating the fungus.

Some other natural athletes foot cures include using cinnamon, onion juice (no...not mixed together), grapefruit seed extract, boric acid, apple cider vinegar, raw garlic (if you can take the smell), and even raw honey.

The next time you notice yourself itching and scratching your feet, try one of these remedies. It should quickly give you relief and have you saying thank you for the athletes foot cures.

You can find much more information on Athletes Foot as well as get FREE tips and information on athletes foot at http://www.ringworm.infofroma-z.com.

Vitamin B12 The Cobalt Of The B Vitamins

Writen by Mark Lambie

Vitamin B12 is probably the best known among the B complex vitamins because many people take B12 injections as a treatment for severe pernicious anemia. People who exhibit signs of weakness may be diagnosed with a B12 deficiency and a simple regimen of introducing Vitamin B12 in some other form may greatly help reduce the symptoms. If a true deficiency exists, the person may also have constipation and no appetite, often resulting in weight loss. In more extreme cases, tingling and confusion may be a manifestation of low B12 levels.

Vitamin B12 deficiencies tend to be more common in older adults. The chronic weakness and tendency to sleep more hours than normal, though sometimes considered a normal sign of aging, may actually be attributed to a lack of sufficient B12 being absorbed and utilized by the body.

One important point to remember about B12 is that you may be getting enough of this important vitamin in your daily diet, but your body may not absorb it properly. The release of Vitamin B12 is part of the function of stomach acids. Health issues that include gastric problems may mean the B12 is not being released as it should be. The result of this situation is that you still have a B12 deficiency, even though you're eating all the right foods.

There are a few foods that are simply rich in Vitamin B12, though those foods are likely not on the daily menu of most people. Mollusks, for example, provide more than 1,000 percent the daily recommended intake of this vitamin. Though many people don't like liver, a single slice of beef liver will give you more than 700 percent of your body's daily need for B12. Salmon, trout and tuna are also good sources of B12.

This is one of the most important vitamins for infants, and babies with a B12 deficiency may simply fail to develop normally. There is some question about the amount of B12 an infant needs on a daily basis. If you are concerned, talk to you pediatrician.

Many of the foods high in B12 content are meats, therefore are avoided by vegetarians. If you are a vegetarian (and especially if you are pregnant or nursing a baby), you should talk to your doctor about adding a B12 supplement to your daily routine. Since babies in the womb and nursing infants get only those vitamins their mothers have to offer, B12 could be an issue for babies if the mom is a strict vegetarian.

Bob Benson is the founder of Vitamins online. You can check out our website at http://www.buy-natural-health-supplements.info

Friday, August 29, 2008

Mirror Mirror On The Wall

Writen by Kathy Thompson

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall! -- Who's the Healthiest of them All? Here is a handy-dandy check list for a healthy you. Discover how your face reveals your health.

1. If the area right under the eye is puffy and blue, you are working too hard, depleting your adrenals, eating too much rich food and causing an imbalance in the fluid balance of the body.

2. If you ears are redder than the skin on your face, you are overworking your adrenals glands.

3. If the area under the eyes is dark brown, your liver has energy stagnation.

4. If the two vertical lines from the end of the eyebrows are combined with two smaller hook-shaped lines, it indicates the gall bladder is showing stress.

5. Spots and lines on the forehead point to congestion from too much oilyfood or dairy.

6. Congestion such as white spots or a granular-like feeling under the skin and blotchy areas may point to yeast infection, too much dairy or sugar in the diet.

7. If the chin is red and swollen, it may mean there is a structural weakness in the organs, candida or stuck energy in the abdomen.

8. If the lower lip protrudes, this indicates a sluggish colon.

9. If the top lip is cracked, red or has spots at the corner, it may indicate stomach acidity or heat caused by inappropriate diet.

10. Lines which go down the cheek from the inner corner of the eye are an indication of bowel problems.

11. A yellow color around the mouth and lack of tone in the mouth, indicates digestive problems.

12. A green color around the mouth shows a liver problem.

13. Redness, puffiness, and breakouts around the nostrils and lower cheek indicate too many dairy products.

Remember, these are only signals that MAY occur. Consult your doctor for any concerned areas.

Feel free to print/reprint this article in its entirety in your ezine or website as long as you leave all the links in place. Don't modify the content and include the resource box as listed. Please send a note when it is used. Thank you.

(c) Kathy Thompson - All Rights Reserved www.faceuptoit-youcan.com

Here's The New You! You have --- Self-Esteem, Money Your Pocket, Unlimited Energy, Confidence, More Time For Your Children..and it's all from "The List Diet". Complete details are here: http://www.faceuptoit-youcam.com/diet4u.html

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Understanding Orthotics

Writen by Dennis Kiper

What is not well understood is that the arch stretches as far as it has to, to absorb incoming shock; this active motion is called pronation. When the arch spreads like this unless it has been limited beyond its neutral (I prefer to call this optimal) position, is called overpronation. This occurs in flat and high arched feet as well. Flat feet are called "pronators" and have a lot of pronation motion. High arched feet are "supinators" and have little pronation motion.

That moment in time between the optimal position and beyond is the injurious force that accumulates over a lifetime until the injury comes to the surface and you feel it as pain.

Over-the-counter orthotics are usually helpful, because they minimize the repetitive motion of the arch, and are good if you choose not to go with a proper custom fit.

While custom orthotic are made to fit your foot they must also fit the way your foot walks by meeting all four criteria of the fit.

There are four criteria that you must look for when being fit for or wearing orthotics.

  1. the orthotic must be supportive, you should feel the support such that it is full or snug fitting
  2. it "must" be comfortable
  3. it cannot overcorrect your alignment position on the ground, you "must" be stable (by overcorrect I mean that your foot should not be tilted too much on the outside edge-this would be overcorrection/supinated)
  4. It "must" fit the way your muscles and feet are working and not necessarily the shape of just the foot.

If all the criteria are not met, then the fit is not what it should be given that this is custom.

With traditional rigid and semi-rigid orthotics, once the orthotic is cast, it is fixed, very little if anything can be done to make it fit all the criteria. The Silicone Dynamic Orthotic, because it is based on fluid mechanics automatically shifts under the foot to fit precisely.

For maximum results and comfort, there can be no compromise in these criteria. Anything less may help, but will not achieve maximum results and more than likely be uncomfortable.

If you find that your orthotics do meet all the criteria, then they are working. The healing process can take a long time.

Copyright 2006 Dennis Kiper, all rights reserved.

Dennis N. Kiper, D.P.M., specializes in Podiatric Sports Medicine.
Email: footdoc@drkiper.com
Web Site: http://www.drkiper.com

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Polysaccharide Supplement Better Than Any Other Vitamin

Writen by Groshan Fabiola

Polysaccharides are the first biopolymers that have formed on our planet. They are in fact complex carbohydrates composed of many monosaccharides bound together and with complex branches of molecules. There are a few types of polysaccharides. Among these the most common are:

- Glycogen, which is the same substance as the animal glucose and a different form of the normal glucose.

- Cellulose, which is at the base of the components of plants and from which paper is made.

But what is the role of the polysaccharides in human health?

Well researchers have not long ago discoverd that a vitamin-like medicine can be made from polysaccharides, and the polysaccharide substances found in it are better supplements that any other mineral, amino acid or vitamin available on the market.

This supplement is made entirely out of plants and seaweed, that means it is 100% natural. The main source for the polysaccharide extracton is the well-known aloe vera plant, which has limitless uses in modern medicine.

Our body needs a certain amount of polysaccharides in order to perform its regular function flawlessly and the modern-day diets are not supplying it with the necessary amount. This 'dose' that the body needs makes the immune system function without problems by assuring that the cells from the body can 'communicate' certain nutritional information between each other. The glycoproteins included in the polysaccharides are what makes this communication possible.

The discovery that cells use glycoproteins to communicate was very important and helped us make a step further in the war waged against diseases. The research in this domain has not completed yet and time can reveal further important information about polysaccharides. It is believed that they are the next fronteer in the research on the immune system.

So this 100% natural product made of polysaccharides has no side effects and it has been proved to be safe. Its price is not to elevated and it can generally be afforded by anyone. The effects will start to make themselves noticed in around 5 months since the first dose is taken. These effects should be a general improvement in the health condition. They do not interact negatively withother drugs or supplements taken and they are ok to use by sugar sensitive people.

If you want to find out more about the polysaccharide based nutritional supplement and about what can polysaccharides do for your health just follow the links here.

Soy A Miracle Bean Or Just Another Fad

Writen by Rob Rawlings

When soy first burst onto the diet scene in the early 1990's, it was hailed as a miracle food. It prevented breast cancer, osteoporosis, hot flashes, heart disease, and prostate cancer, but were all of these claims just hype? New studies show that some of these benefits may have been overstated, and others claim that soy is actually dangerous.

Some people, so enthralled with overstated claims, have made soy the center of an otherwise healthy diet, thus overdosing themselves with soy. "There is a problem when anyone eats too much of one thing," says Barb Johnston, a clinical dietician, "it is important to balance your diet." There really is no substitute for a balanced and healthy diet, and people who have bought into the hype just don't seem to realize it.

New studies show that the claims made by soy advocates have been overstated at the very least. Previous studies have been replaced by new ones that cast doubt on earlier claims. While soy does slightly decrease the chances of getting breast cancer, it doesn't do it enough for doctors to recommend eating it.

New studies also show that it doesn't really lower cholesterol. The Heart Association has pulled back from its earlier stance on soy. It had previously recommended including soy in a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats. Recently, the heart association has taken a more neutral stance because it doesn't seem to help one way or the other.

The hot flash myth has been dispelled as well. As it turns out, taking a placebo once per day has the same effect as a soy supplement. In addition, soy products may actually cause irregularity in menstrual cycles and ovary production, but it is too early to say. Mice who were given genistein, a nutrient in soy, had problems in that area. Whether humans will develop similar problems is up to debate.

Millions of Americans have spent billions of dollars on soy products in the last decade and a half, and many of the perceived effects aren't even real. Common sense is the real winner here. If you want to stay on a healthy diet then you should cut out unhealthy foods and exercise regularly. There are many new diets that focus on this approach, but whether they are fad diets or good science, only time will tell. Read our balanced diet plan review for more information about current healthy trends in dieting.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Vitamin B3 Why We Need It And How To Get It

Writen by Tim Gorman

Vitamin B3 is a very important part of the B group vitamins. Its primary role is to help the body make proper use of carbohydrates and to transform it into sugars that can be used by the body. It is also essential in helping to allow the body to use proteins well and also to keep your skin healthy and it is important in maintaining the muscles and the body's overall fitness. The B3 vitamin is part of one of the major vitamin groups that is known as the B vitamins. This is a group of water-soluble vitamins that are very important for the proper performance of all of the major functions of the body. Vitamin B3 is also known Niacin and another useful function that B3 helps with is in getting rid of toxins from the body.

Niacin is also very helpful if you have high cholesterol. This is a much more acceptable alternative to those people who do not like to take chemical medicines if they can avoid it. However, if you are thinking of taking Vitamin B3 to lower your cholesterol, then it is essential that you consult your doctor as it can have serious side effects. It is also thought to be beneficial in the prevention of arteriosclerosis. This can be a very painful condition that can cause the sufferer great pain when the vessels are blocked by plaque. Niacin is also thought to be helpful in a great number of different conditions and maladies such as diabetes, cataracts and even burns.

Vitamin B3 is found in a variety of different food sources. One of the best sources if you want to take supplements to obtain your B3 vitamin is a yeast tablet. Of course, it can also be found in large quantities in such foods as liver, kidney and poultry. Fish is also a very good source of vitamin B3, especially oily fish such as tuna. Vitamin B3 can also be found in some seeds and nuts and in green leaf vegetables, carrots and tomatoes.

Although Niacin is a very useful vitamin in maintaining good health, it was first discovered when it was synthesized from nicotine and naturally this is how it got its name. Vitamin B3 is very important in many areas of the body and it is very important to make sure that you are getting enough of it. One of the best ways to ensure that you have an adequate supply of Niacin is to make sure that your diet contains enough of the foods that are known to contain it.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of VitaminSupplementsGuide.com. He provides more information on anti-aging supplements, dietary supplements and vitamin B3 that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Tummy Tuck Cost Is It Affordable

Writen by Arturo Ronzon

Tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, as it is known in medical terms is the best possible way to shape up your lower stomach when excessive fat accumulates around the lower abdominal muscles and it looses its elasticity. There are different types of tummy tucks for different cases. Some involve mild shaping up while other may require a complete operation for removal of the excessive fat and skin, tightening up the abdominal muscles and repositioning the naval.

Stats show that more and more people are opting for a tummy tuck, which is not only safe but also more affordable now (the cost is being reduced). Majority of people who delay tummy tuck do so because of the cost factor. The cost is high and usually between $2500 and $8500 for a tummy tuck, the cost depends upon the reputation of team you hire, length and complexity of the procedure along with the ancillary costs associated with the tummy tuck. The various factors which are effective in determining the cost for a tummy tuck are:

1. Surgeon's Fees: the cost depends on the tummy tuck surgeon's reputation.

2. Medical Tests cost: tests you need to undergo, before the actual operation, to be declared fit for the operation.

3. Operation Room Fees: a mild shapeup can be performed within a surgeon's operation theatre while a major tummy tuck has to be performed in a hospital.

4. Anesthesiologist fees: depends on the team you are hiring.

5. Room/bed cost: If the tummy tuck was lengthy, complex and the surgeons believe that you have to be kept under medical supervision you'll have to pay for the room/bed fees as well.

6. Post surgery cost: expenditures on post surgery medical prescription and specially designed compression garments.

A tummy tuck is more affordable today due to a number of reasons, first and foremost is that most of the surgeons are offering financing options. Insurance agencies may not cover the complete cost of a tummy tuck but certain procedures involved in the operation may be covered by your insurance policy. Most of the surgeons may refer you to professional financial advisors who offer financial advice, in some cases these advisors can prove that the tummy tuck is a medical necessity, in such a case your insurance carrier will have to cover the cost of the entire operation.

You may also want to talk to your insurance agency, informing them of your decision of to undergo tummy tuck surgery, as it may increase the cost of future premiums.

Want to know more about Tummy Tucks, feel free to visit us at: Tummy Tuck Info & Resources

Sunday, August 24, 2008

How Not To Return From An Exercise Break

Writen by Marc David

Several sites, including this one, recommend that you take a break every 8 weeks after working out with weights. But how do you come back from that break and get back into your routine?

Does anyone suggest you just jump back in and do the same intensity as when you last left off? Definitely not.

This article will share a personal insight that I'm positive many people have faced when returning from a break or an injury. It will answer the question: how should I return to my workout after a week's break from anything but relaxation?

Every 8 weeks I take a complete break from the weights. This allows my joints to recover, my body to heal, and gives me time to think about the next 8 weeks and my objectives. Upon returning to the gym you can take one of two approaches. Return full speed ahead, since you've had the rest, with the same intensity and the same weights. Or you can ease your body back into the program and reestablish the mind-to-muscle link that you have probably read about. (I suggest the second approach.)

Upon my return, I stepped up to the aerobics machine. A type of stair-master to be exact, and immediately selected level 10 out of 20. My memory recalls (if I used a journal) that I had previously been able to handle this level. By the end of the workout, I felt overworked, tired, out of breath and was at level 6. My body could handle it, but not as efficiently as it had previously. (I was not at all satisfied.)

Easing your body back into a workout for the first week allows the mind-to-muscle link to be reestablished. It further allows your body to adjust to an increased level of intensity for the upcoming months. Coming back from a break and then immediately going into an overtraining mode does not entice your body or your mind want to continue the abuse.

If given the two approaches to returning from a break, I now opt for the second approach. Easing your body back into the routine will allow for a mind-muscle-link to be reestablished and your progress will most likely increase. Take the first week to get accustomed to your routine (60% intensity) and the next 8 weeks to accomplish your goals (100% intensity).

About The Author

Marc David has a degree in Criminal Justice from Sacramento State, a 16 year history of non-competitive bodybuilding and is the owner of Freedomfly -the fitness network! For free fitness tools, discount supplements, fitness consultation, and workout routines, visit http://www.freedomfly.net

mrcd@freedomfly.net

Constipation From Arachnoiditis

Writen by Kristy Annely

Arachnoiditis may result in constipation since most drugs and medicines used to treat arachnoiditis can cause constipation. The basic causes of constipation are excess dehydration of feces, relaxed or reduced bowel muscle activity and obstructions in the bowel passage.

Arachnoiditis is an incurable and dangerous condition in which inflammation occurs inside or around the spinal cord. This can damage the nerve roots. Arachnoiditis in the lumbar spine is one of the major causes for constipation. The nerve roots from the conus medullaris of the lumbar region control the nerve supply to the lower legs, bowels and bladder. The damage of the nerves controlling bowel activities (especially S3 and S4 nerves) by arachnoiditis can result in reduced muscle contractions and feces movement. This can cause constipation.

Constipation as a result of arachnoiditis has all the same symptoms as normal constipation. As the symptoms are almost the same, it will take some serious test to detect the proper cause. There will be pain at the end of the bowels and weakness in completing bowel action. The persons with arachnoiditis usually also experience the problem of urinary retention as both are regulated by nerve branches arising from same region. Often the patients? lower body parts have poor reflexes and diminished pain sensing ability.

Almost all drugs used to treat arachnoiditis can cause decreased mobility of bowel muscles. The most widely used drugs are opiates (e.g. Morphine, Pethidine (Demerol, Methadone, and Tramadol), anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. Brufen, Mobic, Naproxen, and Vioxx), antidepressant drugs (e.g. amitriptyline and Prozac), anticonvulsant drugs (e.g. Tegretol, Neurontin and Vigabatrin) and muscle relaxants (e.g. Baclofen Robaxin Dantrolene and Zanaflex). As most of these drugs are pain killers, and nerve depressants, they reduce the ability of the nerves to carry impulses to respective organs. Because of this many doctors prescribe drugs for constipation along with treatments for arachnoiditis.

To minimize constipation, patients are given a chemical stimulant which performs digital stimulation for evacuation when placed inside the rectum. This is practiced once in every two days.

Constipation provides detailed information on constipation, cat constipation, causes of constipation, chronic constipation and more. Constipation is affiliated with Are Cold Sores Contagious? .

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Detoxification By Using Juice Diet Therapy

Writen by Kevin Pederson

Nature cure depends for effectiveness on elimination of the toxic substances causing the condition, whereas the more dramatic results of the orthodox physician are more concerned with the suppression of the symptoms.

For conditions which have appeared to become serious, self-diagnosis can lead to errors. There is really no substitute for the objective opinion of a trained and experienced practitioner, but the great advantage of raw juice diet is that it is not normally made less effective when combined with other treatments.

An elimination of the toxic substances in the tissues begins with the therapy. The strength of this activity can develop and grow so that the wastes that have accumulated are first of all loosened and then mobilized. They are absorbed again by the blood-stream and afterwards excreted.

This often causes an aggravation of the symptoms, or sometimes colds or boils or digestive upsets. In the young and vigorous this healing crisis may take place in the first six weeks of treatment; older or weaker people, especially when a chronic illness is present, often have no crisis at all. Or when they do, it may be delayed for many months and be quite mild as the toxic material is disposed of slowly.

Today advertising encourages the mother to use baby milks so that the natural protection and immunity which is the child's birthright and comes from breast feeding is denied. As a distinguished British pediatrician said: 'I simply cannot see why all normal mothers do not breast feed, for not only is the mixture just right, it is more healthy, free of charge, at the correct temperature, there when you need it and beautifully packed".

Nature is complete and whole - we must extract the whole of the juice from the fruit or vegetable in the same way as we should use the whole of the grain in our cooking. So natural cures necessitate moving away from the sophisticated and refined, partially synthetic foods that are everywhere about us, back to those living cells which are composed of the same organic building blocks as comprise all living things. If you think this may not make for an exciting cuisine, I am glad to say that you are mistaken, for imaginatively prepared pure foods can be both complex and sublime.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and methods of detoxification by use of juice therapy.

Why Do People Drink And Get Addicted

Writen by Pradeep Raj

Studies have shown that genetic trait contributes to progression from social drinking to alcoholism in about 50% of individuals. Alcoholism is often a familial trait. Differences in sensitivity of various neuronal systems to alcohol among 'predisposed' and 'not predisposed' individual have been demonstrated.

There is no single reason for why people drink. Diverse feelings and behaviors are provoked by alcohol in different individuals and in the same individual on different occasions. Alcohol can make people happy as well as sad, curious as well as mean, talkative as well as silent, friendly as well as hostile. All this cannot be explained on the basis of pharmacological actions alone. Attitudes, beliefs, peer groups, social setting and learned experiences all have a bearing. Alcohol is said to produce good mood, sense of well being, self-confidence, sociability etc. But these in fact are learned behaviors. Drinking is often related to 'celebration' and 'high living'. There is 'wine sobbery' in high social groups.

To some, excess excitement of risk taking. People often boast of their capacity to drink. To the young, drinking many be symbol of rebellion against the oppressive older generation and rejection of the values of the establishment. 'Binge drinking' is a specific behavioral pattern of bouts of excessive drinking. Alcohol is often an excuse for bad behavior. Societies view that intoxicated person is unaware of his actions- makes intoxication an attractive state, because there is increased freedom of what one can say or do after drinking. Thus, there is variety of motivations for drinking.

Researches have shown the involvement of opium system in the pleasurable reinforcement effects of alcohol. This takes place probably by blunting dopamine mediated reward function. Trials among post alcoholic addicts have shown that the long acting opium antagonist helps in the alcoholic treatment by preventing relapse of alcoholism. It had reduced the withdrawal symptoms like alcohol craving, number of drinking days and chances of resumed heavy drinking.

http://alcohol-addiction-control.blogspot.com

Pradeep Raj is a medical student, doing my MBBS degree in India. He have been involved in alcohol rehabilitation and addiction control programme and creating awarness about alcohol abuse and trying to help the people who are willing to withdraw from alcoholism. http://alcohol-addiction-control.blogspot.com/

Friday, August 22, 2008

Causes Of Sleep Disorders

Writen by Seth Miller

Each sleep disorder has various causes. The most common causes of sleep disorder are chronic fatigue syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, menopause, stress, anxiety, postpartum depression, and congestive heart failure.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by a sense of fatigue that comes suddenly but never stops. Doing normal activities becomes very difficult. CFS does not occur due to excessive activity or for any other obvious reason. Episodes of depression also accompany this syndrome, which causes sleeplessness.

Post-traumatic stress disorder follows a tragedy or any horrifying event. When persons witness murders or huge accidents, they have recurring images of the scene running in their minds. They feel traumatized even if they were not part of the event. This leads to mental tension, hysteria, and lack of sound sleep due to possible nightmares. Meditation and short-term sleep medication are possible relievers.

Women nearing or having reached menopause are anxious of their possible risk factors of cancer and other ailments. Some women suffer from complications that hinder their ability to sleep peacefully. Excessive bleeding and pelvic pain are causes of sleep disorders.

Stress and anxiety are known causes of sleep disorders. Deadlines, impending work pressure, marital discord, separation, and death are factors that lead to stress and anxiety. Worrying about issues at night leads to drowsiness and lack of concentration.

Postpartum depression involves a range of emotional feelings that new mothers experience following delivery. Bouts of depression and postpartum psychosis are sometimes witnessed in new mothers. They lack sleep due to the fatigue, pain, and joy experienced after giving birth. The mixed feelings tend to create a depressive mood.

Congestive heart failure is a disease where the heart function declines due to the improper pumping of blood. This leads to pain and discomfort in the chest area, making the person remain awake at night.

In children, sleep disorders occur due to nightmares, pain, constipation, anxiety and stress.

Whatever the causes, a soothing touch and proper medication would help the patients enjoy a good night's sleep.

Sleep Disorders provides detailed information on Sleep Disorders, Sleep Disorder Centers, Pediatric Sleep Disorders, Causes of Sleep Disorders and more. Sleep Disorders is affiliated with Central Sleep Apnea.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Maxillofacial And Oral Surgery

Writen by Jack Smith

Improvement of facial aesthetics is no big deal today. Oral and Maxillofacial surgery has become a popular mode to remodel facial and dental structures of patients. Defects of the human jaws and associated facial structures are easily cured, thanks to the advances that have been made in dental surgery. Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, is a specialty area that plays a significant role and is a boon in improving facial aesthetics.

Teeth are an integral part of the jawbones and face. Maxillofacial surgery, a specialty of dentistry, not only aligns the bone but also the teeth, so that the functions of chewing and facial aesthetics are maintained.

The main advantage of Maxillofacial surgery is that is leaves no scars on the patient's face. This surgery can be used to treat people with a variety of facial defects like a small chin, small upper or lower jaw; fractures of the facial bones as a result of accidents, falls or sports injuries; protruding upper and/or lower front teeth. You can even get rid of that gummy smile, which displays your teeth when you talk or smile. The surgery is also used to improve asymmetrical faces with deformities since birth or formed during development due to any reason. It can even treat jaw tumors and cysts and other diseases of the face involving the mouth and jawbones. Best of all, the results of the surgery can be seen and achieved in one day.

Maxillofacial surgery is commonly used for the extraction of teeth including impacted wisdom teeth. These could be teeth that have been injured beyond repair due to an injury, irreparable gum decay or disease or wisdom teeth that require to be removed because of malposition or impaction. Dental implants, for people who have lost their teeth, are also done by maxillofacial surgeons.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specialists who have a four year background in dental education plus training of four or more years of postgraduate studies as in-hospital resident surgeons. Thus, they are uniquely placed to perform surgery on both soft tissue (skin and muscle) and hard tissue (bone and cartilage) of the maxillofacial area.

Jack Smith writes about various topics. This article is free to re-print as long as nothing is changed, all links remained intact, the bio remains in full and the rel="nofollow" tag is not added to any of the links. Thank-you - Please visit cosmetic-surgery-spot.info for more information on cosmetic surgery.

Natural Acne Treatment Information

Writen by Guy Ray

Do you have mild to moderate acne? Have you tried every over-the-counter medication in the store? Does it seem to not only remain the same, but get worse? Well, you are not alone.

Trying different medications for your acne can actually cause your skin to act up due to the different chemicals that upset its Ph balance. A natural acne treatment is the best way to replenish your skin's health and heal your acne.

Basically, a natural acne treatment is changing your diet, cleansing your internal organs and using herbal remedies to provide nutrients to organs. Prescription medicines, harsh chemicals and junk or processed food with food additives are all unnatural acne treatments.

Although severe acne needs serious attention, mild to moderate acne can be treated effectively by a natural acne treatment with natural herbs. These herbs will help even in diminishing acne. This Natural acne treatment is not from an exotic plant or rare species. This natural acne treatment is actually a part of common natural products and oils found in your home.

Spices keep your skin, digestive system and immune system healthy. Although they can do such good, they must be used in moderation. Raw spices can be used in healing rid of acne as a natural acne treatment.

As you may have guessed, fruits and vegetables are also a part of a natural acne treatment. They are both brilliant for your skin when applied directly. It is because of the minerals, essential oils and antioxidants.

Vegetables like cucumber cleanse your skin from excessive oiliness. You can extract the juice of vegetables, and put them on your face five minutes every day. Unfortunately, the natural acne treatment does not work overnight. You have to wait about a month before you start to notice serious results.

Because fruits and vegetables contain a lot of water, they help you rid toxic body chemicals. It also transports nutrients to your body. Exfoliation is another natural acne treatment necessary in keeping skin acne-free. It sloughs off dead skin cells as well. Try this: use flour from your kitchen and add a tiny bit of turmeric and a few drops of coconut oil to make a face mask. It will soften skin and remove dead cells.

Regular use of the mask is a natural acne treatment that clears your complexion and stops acne from forming. You can also consider putting whole milk on your skin afterwards for a healthy glow and texture.

Guy Ray is an article writer with more than 200 articles to his credit. To learn more about effective acne treatments visit his stop acne website at http://www.stop-acne-now.com.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

9 Tips To Improve Your Bedroom Environment And Help You Sleep Like A Baby

Writen by Ryan Hough

The goal of this article is to help you find the ideal sleep conditions for you personal preferences. You may have to experiment and try a variety of techniques to find what works best for you.

It is important to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere in your bedroom. Your objective is to be highly relaxed and a calming, cool environment with plenty of oxygen will help you feel this way.

Ideally your room should be on the cooler side; but its up to you to experiment with a range of conditions. You don't want to wake during the night either too hot or too cold and then find yourself wide awake once again. Sleep experts say that the ideal room temperature is 65 to 70 degrees F.

You should try and sleep with the window open. It is important that you have a constant fresh supply of circulating air which will help you breathe deeply and sleep soundly.

If you find that you're woken by noises outside your bedroom, you should consider buying ear plugs – they take a little while to get used to but there are ear plugs that have been designed to be comfortable and unobtrusive, which won't disturb your sleep.

If you can't bear the thought of ear plugs you may want to use a "white noise" machine, such as a fan. The "white noise" will mask other noises that you're not used that wake you in the middle of the night.

Your circadian rhythm tells your body to wake up in the sunshine and go to sleep in the dark. Therefore you should endeavor to make your bedroom as dark as possible. You can do this by hanging thick, dark curtains. Or you may try buying a comfortable eye mask.

Do you find yourself listening to the irritating sound of a ticking clock? If so you should consider replacing it with a digital clock. Also you shouldn't keep looking at the clock to see how many hours you have to sleep will only increase your anxiety and stress about not sleeping.

You should avoid having television, computer and stereo equipment in your bedroom. Furthermore you should only use your CD Player to play soothing music that will help you feel relaxed and fall asleep.

If your room is too dry you may want to purchase a humidifier, especially in the winter months.

And lastly, it's important that you wear loose, comfortable clothing...

Our website has hundreds of useful tips to help you beat the pain and distress of insomnia -> Good routines can be good natural insomnia cures

Monday, August 18, 2008

Cholesterol And Age

Writen by Vivek Sharma

With the changing trends and fast paced life cholesterol level and its related diseases are too on high. It has become the concern for majority of the populace, as they are falling prey to it. Talking about cholesterol, it is the fatty and waxy solution circulating in the body. It is produced within the body and that too in the required amount. Our body psychic is designed in such a way that almost 85% of cholesterol is produced within the body and remaining 15% is completed by consuming milk and dairy products.

Usually cholesterol piles up in the body from an infant age. This continuous piling up often leads to high level cholesterol. Once it exceeds its level it becomes the real threat. Children who are obese or overweight generally tend to have more cholesterol level in comparison to other children. They generally suffer from high level cholesterol during their 40's and 50's as this is the time when it normally reacts. Cholesterol and age are directly linked with each other; it means increase in age leads to increase in the level of cholesterol. People in their 40's and 50's usually suffer heart attack or heart stroke because of the accumulation of cholesterol in their body. Many experts feel that age is the biggest factor in high level of cholesterol and its related diseases.

People who are in their 50's are more prone to coronary heart diseases caused by cholesterol rather than people in their 20's and 30's. It has been noticed that with growing age the piling up of cholesterol too get increase which directly affects the nervous system and arteries resulting in various heart diseases. It is wise to keep the cholesterol level in control starting from the infant age so that there is no chance of cholesterol related diseases. Try to inculcate the habit of regular exercising in your wards schedule from an infant age so that it cultivates into a regular habit. This will not only keep the cholesterol level in control but also keep their body fit and in shape. Also make them eat healthy and balanced diet so that instead of increase in cholesterol there is significant increase in energy.

So if you're concerned parent and want to provide a healthy and happy life to your ward then it is wise to keep his cholesterol level in control so that he is free from cholesterol related diseases.

The author is budding web content writer and has much experience in writing quality content for many websites. You can view his blog for more information.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Garlic Breath

Writen by R. Drysdale

Garlic is notorious for causing garlic breath. You don't even have to eat the stuff – just get it on your fingers and it will be absorbed through the skin and appear on your breath in moments. Though widely admired for flavor and healthful properties, garlic is no friend to take on a date. (If you do eat it, try to make sure your companions are eating it too. You will cancel each other out.)

Garlic bad breath is basically caused by the same thing that causes the other common type of halitosis: sulfur. Molecules in the garlic combine to create sulfur molecules, which have an unpleasant odor detectable in the breath. In common halitosis, the sulfur compounds are produced by bacteria in the mouth, and this only makes the breath smell bad. Garlic breath, in contrast, usually goes along with an unpleasant odor in perspiration as well.

Of course, garlic bad breath is easy to avoid - just don't eat garlic. Many of us, however, enjoy garlic so much that we don't want to give it up. Spaghetti without garlic bread just isn't the same. So we need an antidote for garlic breath. The best antidote is time. In a day or two, usually less than twenty-four hours, the sulfur compounds will be cleared from the body and the odor will go away until next time. This is a pleasant contrast with halitosis caused by bacteria in the mouth, which are very difficult to get rid of.

Other approaches to dealing with garlic bad breath include masking the odor with perfume, deodorants, breath mints, and other scents. You can also chew on a clove or cardamom seed to cover the smell of garlic. Many people recommend chewing on a sprig of fresh parsley, or adding chopped fresh parsley to a dish at the end of cooking (so that the parsley doesn't cook). If you are taking garlic for health reasons, you can buy capsules that are odor free: they will not give you garlic breath.

When you have just enjoyed a meal full of delicious garlic, you may tend to keep your distance from family members and co-workers. You may be afraid to exhale, not being able to gauge the extent of your garlic bad breath. You may warn people not to come near. Remember though, that most people like garlic. Most people suffer from garlic breath from time to time. They understand, and they'll forgive you for your garlic breath.

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. She is a contributing editor to Bad Breath Cure, a blog dedicated to the treatment of bad breath.

Make Your Cardio Fun

Writen by Zach Bashore

Being bored is not fun and it`s even worse when you know that you have another thirty minutes left on the treadmill. The minutes seem to go by like seconds and you hit the stop button because you simply cannot go on any longer. So what happened? Why does the cardio have to be so boring? This article is going to give you alternatives to the good ole treadmill and hopefully give you enough inspiration to finish your workout.

The first alternative to simple cardio is by the use of workout videos. Workout videos are perfect for those who don`t have a gym membership and are acceptable because of their workout in your own living room. Workout videos are also perfect for motivation because the instructor pushes you all the way to completion. Another benefit of having this instructor on your TV is that you get expert guidance in helping you achieve your goals.

Another great alternative to cardio is by the use of a jump rope. The cardio benefits of jumping rope are tremendous because of its calorie burning effect in such a short amount of time. Jump roping can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour, making it one of the most effecient workouts possible. Jump roping is fun, easy to learn, inexpensive, great for kids, portable, and in my opinion, the best way to make your cardio workout fun.

Heavy bag training is not just for boxers anymore. On top of the great cardio workout that you are getting, heavy bag training also improves your self-defense skills. Heavy bag training also reduces stress, works your muscles, and helps improve hand-eye-coordination. Fitness manufacturers continue to develop new products aimed towards the fighting athlete. As new products are being developed, old training equipment such as the heavy bag are often forgotten.

Now that you`ve learned three great alternatives to dull cardio routines, you should now be able to achieve your fat loss goals much easier. Don`t over-do your cardio and never go over an hour of continuous work due to chances of overtraining. Take things one day at a time and reap the benefits at a later time. Until next time, later!

*http://www.advancingwomen.com/balancing/weight/Boring_Ol_Cardio.html

*http://exercise.about.com/od/exercisevideos/

*http://www.ropesport.com/benefits.htm

*http://www.protectivestrategies.com/heavybag.html

*http://www.rossboxing.com/thegym/thegym24.htm

MY SITES: http://www.mightybody.com and http://www.geocities.com/bashore69/bodybuildingarticles.html

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome An Unwelcome Side Effect Of The Computer Revolution

Writen by Aldene Fredenburg

Over the past twenty years, PCs and Macs have revolutionized the workplace and have created whole new job descriptions as well as radically redefining old ones. But along with the advances in information technology have come some very human problems. Employees typing on computer keyboards while staring at bright monitors for as much as eight or ten hours a day are suffering from maladies ranging from severe eyestrain to lower back problems to repetitive motion injury, or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, once seen primarily in factory and farm workers having to perform repetitive movements in the course of their jobs, has become epidemic in office workers. The carpal tunnel, an opening in the bones of the wrist, serves as a passage for the median nerve that runs through the wrist from the arm to the hand. In carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve becomes compressed by swollen or damaged tendons and ligaments in the wrist. The result is sharp pain which worsens with use, weakness in the hand, and, in severe cases loss of full hand function.

In some cases an anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen can help alleviate symptoms; wrist supports can also help. Some carpal tunnel sufferers have claimed success with oral doses of vitamin B6, but the effectiveness of this hasn't been scientifically verified. Many victims of carpal tunnel syndrome have resorted to wrist surgery, with varying degrees of success.

The best approach to carpal tunnel syndrome is avoiding it in the first place. Soft, padded bars running the length of standard keyboards are manufactured to provide a wrist support for keyboarders. Structuring one's workday to alternate periods of typing with other duties will help, as will taking periodic breaks away from the computer and desk altogether. And for some, whose jobs require long stretches of typing with no break, or who are particularly susceptible to wrist injuries, the best remedy may be a new job that doesn't require repetitive motions.

Aldene Fredenburg is a freelance writer living in southwestern New Hampshire. She has written numerous articles for local and regional newspapers and for a number of Internet websites, including Tips and Topics. She expresses her opinions periodically on her blog, http://beyondagendas.blogspot.com

Friday, August 15, 2008

Cosmetic Surgery In A Nutshell

Writen by July Black

Cosmetic surgery, like other forms of elective surgery, involves a physical change to one's appearance. Also known as plastic surgery, there are two kinds: cosmetic and reconstruction. The latter involves returning an individual's sense of self after some form of injury and/or illness. The former allows the ability to overcome the physical characteristics one was born with. In a way, the former represents the forefront of how changes in technology can allow changes to the human body.

This surgery comes in all types, from the use of prosthetics as in breast augmentation and liposuction to non-invasive forms of surgery like laser hair removal or even laser correction of the eyes to eliminate the need for eye glasses.

None of this comes without a price however. Besides financial concerns, it remains the responsibility of the individual who will undergo such surgery. For this reason, they do need the support of those around them. This is the kind of support that not only affects their decision, but their ability to assimilate the surgical changes to the body.

In the case of surgery for cosmetic - as oppposed to reconstruction - purposes is the issue of aesthetics. Those around them need to understand the significance societies place upon appearance. How the appearance of someone can alter how they are perceived not only as a person, but as a human being. Surgery for aesthetic reasons, provides people with the opportunity to overcome stigmas associated with their appearance. However, what remains most important is that it's a choice.

Many - perfectly valid - arguments have been presented to the contrary regarding surgery for cosmetic purposes. However, the fact remains that human beings have been altering their appearance for quite some time now.

Cosmetic surgery is significant, not only for what it can achieve, but because it's a choice made by the person undergoing it. It's a personal decision about one's own body.

Another consideration for the individual, outside of their support system, is that they should do as much of their own personal research as possible into the different kinds of surgery available for each procedure. For example, the current surgical techniques employed and the potential legal restrictions, as is often the case with silicone prosthetics. In addition, weighing the pros and cons of each technique. Finally, the surgeon themselves. An initial consultation is always recommended, as with any form of elective surgery.

This article has been brought to you by Breast Augementation Toronto

Get The Job Done Right So You Dont Need Hair Transplant Repair

Writen by Peter Crump

So many men and women have paid out thousands of dollars for a hair transplant that just didn't turn out the way they thought it would. Sometimes the hair regrowth tended to bulge and stand out noticeably from the rest of the hair. This means another expense with hair transplant repair. In this case it is often hard to make a decision whether to go back to the same surgeon to have the hair transplant repair done free of charge or to go to another one instead.

While hair transplants are expensive, it is possible to get affordable hair transplants done. The first step in this medical procedure is to have a consultation with a surgeon and get answers to all your questions. One of the questions you should ask is what happens if it doesn't turn out the way it should. Will the surgeon assume the cost of the hair transplant repair?

Before you do consult with a surgeon about a hair transplant, a wise decision would be to read as much as you can about the procedure and what to expect. Look at pictures of hair transplant problems that have occurred and read about the modern methods used.

Once you know the modern methods used in affordable hair transplant procedures you are better equipped to determine if the surgeon will do a good job. Most of the mistakes that result in hair transplant repair are caused by outdated methods and applying the hair grafts at improper angles.

Sometimes there may be scarring or patients complain about the pain they experience. Surgeons that specialize in hair transplant repair also do scar revision work and retransplant hair grafts that are in the wrong position.

Most hair transplant surgeons request their fees in advance. However, they do have affordable hair transplant plans available where you can make a monthly payment until the fee is paid in full.

The monthly payment is actually through a finance company, which means you would be getting a loan to have a hair transplant or hair transplant repair. As long as you have the resources to pay, this company will provide you with the money if you think your hair is really worth it.

Be careful choosing your hair transplant specialist and you'll never need a hair transplant repair.

For a website totally devoted to hair loss and hair replacement visit Peter's Website The Hair Replacement Guide, and find out about Female Hair Loss as well as Hair Restoration and more, including Male Hair Loss and Hair Transplants.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

How Do You Know If Your Child Has Add

Writen by Jason Rickard

This is one of the biggest problems doctors, parents and children with ADD face. How do you know your child has ADD in order to take action to prevent it? Not the easiest of questions to answer because as of now there still seems no consistent method of detecting ADD in children, however there are signs to look out for.

First and foremost, one of the most important signs to look out for is if a child gets easily distracted. Up to a certain extent we all get distracted from the tasks that we do but kids with ADD especially have a problem of caring for themselves and taking hold of responsibility for themselves. For example, if a child has school work to finish and if they don't get pushed by their parents to complete the work, they won't attend to it.

Another easy way of detecting problems with distraction that could mean a child has ADD is by observing if the child displays carelessness. Easy to spot signs of carelessness could be frequently forgetting items in school or during outings.

One method used in clinics by doctors is to test if the child can follow instructions properly. Usually children with ADD have a hard time following and keeping up with specific instructions and directions given by others.

Keep in mind that the above are not really symptoms of ADD, they are simply a few points to be aware of so if a child displays these on a frequent basis it could mean that they have ADD. There are exceptions however where kids may seem fine one day and display an array of the above behaviors other days. Doctors themselves can only guess whether a child has ADD or not through display of the above signs, then again a guess remains a guess and cannot be a hundred percent true.

Recent research done in the Brunel University in London has some researchers on a brink of unlocking a way to detect ADD in children through eye tests. This is done by having the child follow a spot of light on a computer screen for thirty seconds. The tests have been claimed to be 93% accurate in identifying kids with ADD and those who didn't suffer from the disorder.

Health professionals are hoping that such a test will succeed in identifying ADD at an early stage in a child's life in order to help prevent the disorder getting worse later on.

Jason Rickard is the owner of Your Favourite Shop - Offering White Noise and Relaxation CDs - Visit Hapa Health for more articles

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Do You Know What You Are Eating

Writen by D. S. Epperson

With all the news about Splenda of late and the FTC, I had a client ask me the other day, "so what's the deal with Splenda, it's just sugar that has been processed!". I asked him if he knew what Splenda was and he said no.

The chemical name for Splenda is:

"4,1,6-trichlorogalatosucrose" or TGS another name is:

"1,6-dichloro-1,6-dideoxy-beta-D-fructofuranosyl-4-chloro-4-deoxy-alpha-D-glactopyranoside" or:

"chlorosucrose"

In other words, this is not just sugar, it's chlorine, you are eating chlorine! Lots of it too, not just the trace amounts that are found in some foods...

Wow, that sounds like pretty natural sugar to me!

You know, Antifreeze is pretty sweet too, and we all know that does when you eat it.

Most people will never know what they are putting into their bodies until it's to late. Most people assume that because the FDA has approved the use of a product, it is okay, like using Seldane, Fen-Phen and Vioxx, all medications that have been taken off the market because they can kill, and all taken off the market after it was to late for some.

So, the key to all of this is to know what is going into your body and how it will react.

I've been preaching for years, that just because a doctor gives you a prescription, doesn't mean that the drug may be right for your body. Ask questions and if the doctor doesn't know the answer, or you feel that the answer doesn't make you feel any better about what you are about to take, ask your pharmacist, or go to the pharmaceutical company website and investigate the drug yourself to know the facts.

I will have to admit, that not everyone will put raw data out there so you can make your own informed decisions, but you need to ask for all the facts, not just the ones that the shareholders and stockholders want you to have so you'll buy their product.

This is your body, no one is gonna care as much as you!

D.S. Epperson is the top formulator for Home Blend Gourmet / South Pacific Health, a leader in the functional food industry in the U.S.. With 20 years of experience in Nutritional Biochemistry, she has written reference books on botanicals and manufacturing of medicines from botanicals, and published articles on health, fitness and foods. She has formulated over 240 formulas and inventions for health, the environment and agricultural uses, and continues to research and study microbial advantages in nutraceuticals and functional foods. For more information or to view the articles that she has written: http://www.sugarblend.com

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Medical Cure For Acne Quick And Easy

Writen by Sagi Venkata Ramana

Acne is a common skin disorder that affects many of us at one time or the other. While the condition itself may not be serious, it causes huge embarrassment to the individual.

There is no one standard method to cure acne. While using simple home remedies can cure the normal acne, the severe form of acne like the inflammatory acne needs professional help.

Visit your doctor if the acne does not respond to your treatment at home. If the doctor feels that you need to consult a Dermatologist then do not hesitate to consult one immediately.

Before visiting the Dermatologist make a list of the treatment carried out at home and also list out the medicines if any that you have used. This will help the doctor in identifying the problem and also suggest the best remedy.

The cystic acne needs more than a face pack and cleaning to control. Take advise of the doctor and undergo treatment. The doctor will prescribe medication if he feels that the problem is due to hormonal imbalance.

If you have tried out the various cures and medication that are available across the counter and still suffer from the problem, then only a visit to a qualified dermatologist can help you. Acne whether it is mild or severe, needs proper treatment for a long lasting a permanent cure.

The proper treatment for acne would be two fold. One is by applying external medicines like ointments and lotions to clean the pores. The second is by taking vitamin and other supplements as prescribed by your doctor. A good combination of both will help you control long-standing acne and lead to a permanent and a lasting cure.

One must keep in mind that while medicines and treatment will help cure acne, the best approach would be to avoid it. And this can be achieved by following a healthy diet, regular exercise, leading a happy and tension free life. Increase the intake of water, avoid salty and protein rich foods, eat lots and lots of fresh vegetable and fruits. A healthy combination of a proper diet and clean habits will help you to avoid the problem of acne.

A qualified Dermatologist will go to the root cause of the problem and suggest the best cure. So do not hesitate to pay a visit to the dermatologist in case of severe and persistent acne. Proper and timely treatment will also help you in avoiding ugly and permanent scars on the face and hands.

Venkata Ramana is the writer of Acne Medicine blog. Read his informative reports about Acne Medication and get rid of acne forever!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Are You Looking Forward To A Surgical Option

Writen by Bella John

Surgical option is apt for patients who have tried all the other non surgical approaches to weight loss with no positive results. And elements like changes in eating habits, lifestyle changes and increased physical activity can bring about satisfying weight loss. Many obese individuals consider surgery as an obesity treatment procedure just like diet pills or weight loss plans. But it's not so. Most of us are unaware of its risks and complications.

Before you say 'Surgery'

  • See if you are unlikely to lose weight with non surgical treatments
  • Have met a doctor and discussed about the effects and procedures
  • Well read and aware of how life changes after the surgery
  • Agreed to the lifestyle patterns and diet changes which is going to be permanent
  • Have talked about serious complications, dietary measures and surgery failures at times
  • Ready for life long medical follow up
  • Can you undergo a Surgery?

  • You can if you have a BMI above 35
  • Have physical discomforts related to obesity like walking, employment etc
  • Have high risk diseases related linked to obesity
  • In such cases health practitioners discuss more about the surgery and see if you are willing to make changes in your unhealthy life.

    Side effects of the Surgery

  • Vomiting due to small stomach overstretched by food intake
  • Dumping syndrome where stomach contents move fast through the intestine
  • Twenty percent of patients who undergo surgeries follow up to correct complications
  • One third of obese patients who undergo gastric surgeries suffer gallstones
  • 30 percent of people develop nutritional deficiencies
  • Bloating, diarrhea, gas and dizziness are the main side effects
  • For further information on weight loss and health related issues please visit http://www.phentermineslim.com.You can also read health related articles and some more important issues dealt on this site.

    Bella is an associated editor to the website http://www.phentermineslim.com. It is committed to provide visitors with complete information on weight loss, diet pills, and online prescription drugs like Phentermine, Didrex by latest news, personal views, and articles on weight loss related topics. Your feedback & comments will be highly appreciated at editor@phentermineslim.com.

    Sunday, August 10, 2008

    Healing Power Of Asanas Part V

    Writen by Grata Young

    Dhanurasana (Bow pose):

    Lie on your stomach with your chin resting on the ground, arms extended alongside the body with the legs straight. Bend your legs back towards the hips, bring them forward and grasp your ankles. Inhale and raise your thighs, chest and head at the same time. Keep your hands straight. The weight of the body should rest mainly on the navel region.

    Therefore, arch your spine as much as possible. Exhale and return slowly to the starting position, by reversing the procedure.

    Dhanurasana provides good exercise for the arms, shoulders, legs, ankles, back and neck. It also strengthens the spine. It relieves flatulence and constipation and improves the functioning of the pancreas and the intestines. It should not be done by those with a weak heart, high blood pressure and ulcers of the stomach and bowels.

    Makarasana (Crocodile pose):

    Lie flat on your abdomen. Spread your legs, with heels pointing towards each other. Bring your left hand under the right shoulder and grasp it. Grasp the left shoulder with your right hand, keeping the elbows together, one upon the other on the ground. Your face should be between your crossed hands. Relax and breathe normally for two or three minutes.

    Then gradually go back to the sitting position.

    This asana completely relaxes both the body and the mind and also rests the muscles. It is beneficial in the treatment of hypertension, heart disease and mental disorders.

    Vakrasana:

    Sit erect and stretch legs out. Raise your right knee until your foot rests by the side of the left knee. Place your right hand behind your back without twisting the trunk too much. Then bring your left arm from in front of you over the right knee. Place your left palm on the ground near the heel of your right foot. Push your knee as far as to the left arm. Twist your trunk to the right as much as possible. Turn your face to the right over the right shoulder. Release and repeat on the left side.

    This asana tones up the spinal and abdominal muscles and nerves and activates the kidneys, intestines, stomach, adrenaline and gonad glands. It relieves cases of constipation and dyspepsia.

    To learn more about the energy principle in healing, please read:

    Cost-free Miracle Asthma Cure
    Overcome Type I Diabetes and Type II Diabetes Naturally
    Alternative Treatments for Incurable Diseases made easy

    Saturday, August 9, 2008

    Elliptical Trainer Review Sole Fitness

    Writen by Fred Waters

    One of the most crucial features to consider when purchasing an elliptical trainer is the warranty. The extent of the warranty speaks volumes as to the quality and the durability of the machine.

    There is a relative new player in the elliptical trainer industry, Sole Fitness. They are defining their niche by offering one of the most extensive warranties available at any price range. This includes 5 year coverage on parts and electronics, and 2 year labor. (Excludes the E25)

    Why is the warranty so important when purchasing fitness equipment? First, it reduces your liability if the machine breaks down. Replacing parts and hiring someone to service your elliptical trainer can be very costly. Second, the warranty generally reflects the quality of the machine.

    When you think about it, a warranty is based on simple economics. If an elliptical trainer is built to last then the manufacturer can offer a generous warranty. On the other hand, if the machine is of questionable quality, it would be cost prohibitive to support it with a lengthy warranty. The company would go broke with service costs.

    Why do you think cheap elliptical trainers come with a 90 day parts and labor warranty? It's because the manufacturers do not have much faith the machine will last much longer than that.

    Beyond their warranty coverage, Sole Fitness is building some excellent elliptical trainers. In a recent test I very impressed with the smooth elliptical motion, and how quiet it was, even when I cranked up the resistance. I also liked the 20" stride. Most ellipticals are built with a 16"-18" stride. With a smaller stride you often feel like your workout is constrained, and the elliptical motion bouncy. For someone who is over 6' the longer stride is a must, but even for people of average height the 20" stride feels natural and comfortable.

    Sole has an excellent reputation. Their treadmills have won several "Best Buy" awards. TreadmillDoctor.com calls their folding treadmills, "One of the best fold-ups on the planet."

    In addition, their treadmills are used by the Hilton chain for in-room fitness. Having been proven in a commercial environment, this is a statement on the durability of their machines. This same quality can be found in their elliptical trainers.

    Fred Waters is author of the Fitness Equipment Source where you will find Sole Elliptical Trainer Reviews and Ratings, in addition to "Best Buy" recommendations.

    Friday, August 8, 2008

    Why Laser Hair Removal

    Writen by Matt Ream

    For nearly 10 years now, medical lasers have been used for such things as tattoo removal, clearing up acne scars and other blemishes, and removing dark spots on the skin. Now they are increasing being approved by the FDA and used for such things as wrinkle removal, tooth whitening, and hair removal.

    Is it really permanent? Many laser hair removal providers tout their processes as "painless" or "permanent." The FDA says there must be enough evidence to support those claims and it is actually giving some manufacturers authorization to state "permanent hair reduction" but not "removal." Be careful if you select a provider who says their process is permanent and painless. If you have the manufacturer and model number of the laser, you can directly call or write the FDA to see if they have approval for medical use.

    Still, laser hair removal can be a great option for anyone wanting to remove unwanted hair from anywhere on their bodies. It works for both men and women, and is more effective if the hair is noticeably darker than the skin.

    How does it work? As laser light passes through the skin, it is converted to heat and is absorbed by the pigment melanin in the hair follicle, effectively disabling the follicle itself and thus preventing further growth. Some clinical trials have been successful in preventing hair re-growth for up to two years, making laser hair removal one of the longest-lasting hair removal methods.

    There are a number of advantages of laser hair removal over other forms of hair removal such as waxing, sugaring, depilatory creams, tweezing, etc. For one, the procedure is non-invasive, and does not require creams or needles. Another benefit is that the light beams can move quickly, and effectively treat larger areas in a small amount of time. And don't forget the long-term results.

    Although most insurance policies will not cover laser hair removal procedures, it pays to shop for price as well as methodology. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported an average single treatment cost around $388. Many areas require multiple treatments to gain the maximum benefit, so the cost can add up. That should be weighed against the cost of alternative methods of hair removal which would have to be done more frequently.

    If you suffer from unwanted hair, that hair is dark, and your skin is at least a few shades lighter than your hair, you should look into this long-lasting hair removal method.

    Please visit http://laser-hair-removal-site.com for more information and resources about laser hair removal.

    Hair Loss Remedies For Your Specific Type Of Baldness

    Writen by Keith Londrie

    There are many hair loss remedies that one can try today. Though some of them have been proven to be more effective, all of them have worked at one time or the next. Depending on your genetic makeup, and your reason for experiencing hair loss, one product may work better than another. You may have to try a couple different ones to find the one that best works for you. Start with the most popular (discussed below) and see if you have good results.

    There are two hair loss remedies that are being used by the biggest percentage of the population. They are Rogaine and Propecia. Men and women alike are both using Rogaine, as they produce a cream for both genders. Propecia focuses solely on helping out women who are experiencing hair loss. The reasons for hair loss vary and in women, the most popular cause, next to genetics, is hormonal changes.

    Rogaine has been one of the most popular hair loss remedies since its inception. Rogaine for men and women is a topical cream that is applied directly to the scalp. This cream helps to enlarge hair follicles, which stimulates hair growth. It is a fairly basic principal, but works rather well.

    Propecia on the other hand is an oral medication that is specifically for women. Propecia helps to block hormones that cause hair follicles to shrink. Hormonal changes in women can cause hair loss, so Propecia focuses in on blocking out hormones that may have a negative effect on the scalp. Propcia works rather well for women that are balding.

    There are also many natural supplements that are taken as hair loss remedies. Visiting your local pharmacy or supplement store is a good place to start if you are looking for natural supplements to add to your prevention plan. These stores also offer special shampoos that can serve the patient well. Proper care of the hair and scalp is one of the most overlooked hair loss remedies. An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure.

    Visiting with your family physician or with an experienced professional can also be a great place to start. These professionals have been exposed to hair loss problems over many years, so they will be able to prescribe the best hair loss remedies. Only a professional can decide if you need a prescription strength remedy or if an over the counter product would help.

    Keith Londrie II is a well known author. For more information on Hair Loss, please visit Hair Loss for a wealth of information. You may also want to visit keith's own web site at http://keithlondrie.com/

    Thursday, August 7, 2008

    Remedy For Hair Loss Information On Hair Loss Treatments

    Writen by Sagi Venkata Ramana

    Hair loss is pretty common in both men and women. In men it usually begins in middle age often resulting in baldness. In women, hair loss can be due to various factors. One is hereditary; the second can be due to hormonal imbalance. During pregnancy, the hormonal imbalance usually leads to a heavy loss of hair. This problem however goes away after delivery.

    There are many home-based remedies for hair loss. The remedies include both external application eating and drinking healthy food and exercise. Stress is also one of the major causes of hair loss. Therefore it is essential t lead a stress free life as far a possible.

    The following are some of the remedies that can help prevent help hair loss. Chose the one that you are comfortable with.

    Use good hair oil every day.
    Apply coconut milk and allow the scalp to dry before taking a bath.
    Boil dried hibiscus flowers in coconut oil and apply to the hair regularly.
    This will not only help arrest falling hair but will also make the hair long and beautiful.
    Herbal shampoos will also help you to keep the hair healthy and stop hair from falling. Always use a wide toothed comb, as this will not exert pressure on the root.

    Hair when disturbed from the root will fall in course of time. Limejuice can be applied to the scalp and allowed to dry for some time before taking a head bath. This will arrest falling hair by keeping the scalp clean and healthy.

    You can also apply a paste of Fenugreek seeds soaked overnight and apply it all over the scalp. Allow it to sink in for about an hour before taking a bath.

    Regular use of castor oil for your hair will also help in keeping hair healthy and prevent hair loss.

    Most of the problems relating to hair loss arise from diseases of the scalp. Therefore do not neglect scalp diseases. Apply medicines and ointment fro treating scalp diseases.

    Dandruff is also one of the culprits for hair loss. Treat dandruff with anti-dandruff shampoos.

    If the problem is severe use medicines as prescribed by your doctor.

    Simple home remedies can help prevent hair loss. However, the key to a lasting solution is following up the home remedies regularly. The grooming and care should b on a continuous basis for preventing hair loss. Remember that regular and proper care is the only remedy for hair loss.

    Venkata Ramana is the writer of Hair Loss Remedy blog. Read his informative reports about Hair Loss Solution and get rid of Hair loss forever!

    Malnutrition As A Result Of Alzheimers Disease

    Writen by Mike Herman

    Some of the most difficult aspects of Alzheimer's disease are the problems associated with eating and drinking. This can be as mild as coping with a food fad or as serious as malnutrition.

    It's quite common for Alzheimer's sufferers to develop food fads. These are exasperating as it's difficult to make an adult eat, especially if they are stronger than their carer or they have developed a fear or severe dislike of what they are being given. It can be an extremely challenging situation for any carer to find themselves in.

    It's naturally important to ensure the Alzheimer's sufferer receives a well balanced and nourishing diet. It is also important but more difficult to ensure that they also have sufficient fluid intake.

    Fluids may be an integral part of anyone's diet, but Alzheimer's patients may forget or not bother to ask for a drink. It's surprisingly easy for this to go unnoticed and for a carer not to realise that their fluid intake is insufficient, especially in hot weather or if the central heating is on full blast. To avoid these problems drinks should be offered on a regular basis and a cold drink left nearby to remind the Alzheimer's sufferer to take fluids.

    Fruit and vegetables are essential as they provide the vitamins and fibre needed to keep the body well nourished. Further fibre can be obtained by consuming wholegrain bread and biscuits and an excellent way of ensuring vitamin C is consumed is by offering orange juice.

    Medical assistance may be required if the patient spits out their food or refuses to eat as they may have some gum disease or intestinal problem. Their dentures may have become loose fitting or they may have lost their sensation of taste. They may also experience difficulty in swallowing which could be a sign of more serious problems.

    care givers should also ensure that the Alzheimer's sufferer is having their bowels open on a regular basis. This is because constipation is one of the leading causes of a loss of appetite and if left untreated it can lead on to more serious malnutrition. Regular medication (laxatives) can be prescribed to reduce these symptoms while adequate fluid levels will also help.

    Discover the information you need to know about Alzheimer's and all forms of dementia. The risks, symptoms, potential causes, available treatments, and more in regards to Alzheimer's and Dementia Symptoms

    Wednesday, August 6, 2008

    Free List Of Fat Burning Foods

    Writen by Gary Gresham

    This free list of fat burning foods will help you make the right choices to burn off more fat than you ingest by eating them. The fat burning secret to losing weight is to eat and drink until you are full and satisfied, choosing foods that burn more calories than you consume. This helps your body burn up the excessive stored fat.

    This free list of fat burning foods contains mostly fruit and vegetables and if you compare it to other lists you will notice a definite trend. If you eat these fat burning foods and add a good exercise workout program to it you will increase your metabolism and burn calories at a faster rate even several hours after your exercise is done.

    apples                   apricots  artichokes    asparagus  beets     blackberries  blueberries    broccoli  Brussels sprouts   cabbage  cantaloupe    carrots  cauliflower    celery  cherries    chives  cod     corn  crabs     cranberries  cucumbers    eggplant  flounder    garlic  grapefruit    grapes  green beans    honeydew  kale     leeks  lemons   lettuce  limes     lobster  mangoes    mushrooms  nectarines    okra  onions    oranges  papaya    parsley  peaches    pears  peas     peppers  pineapple    prunes  pumpkin    radishes  raspberries    red cabbage  sauerkraut    scallions  spinach    squash  strawberries   string beans  tangerines    tomatoes  turnips    watermelon

    A recent report from Michael Zemel, Professor of Nutrition and Medicine at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville reports, "If you compare a dairy-rich versus a dairy-poor diet you can nearly double the rate of weight and fat loss with the same level of calorie restriction." It states that the calcium in dairy products can boost weight loss by increasing fat breakdown in fat cells. Therefore, dairy products could be termed as fat burning foods. These include milk, cheese and yogurt and might be considered a fat burning secret.

    The best way to approach fat burning food is to start by implementing a sensible eating plan with the help of this free list of fat burning foods and begin an exercise workout program that you enjoy and will stick with.

    Copyright © 2005 Treadmill Info.com All Rights Reserved.

    This article is supplied by http://www.treadmill-info.com where you will find valuable information, ratings, reviews, articles and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment. For more fitness related articles go to: http://www.treadmill-info.com/articles_1.html

    Diabetes Discussion 7 Diabetes Foot Care Tips

    Writen by Carol Ann Bentley

    If you have diabetes information about how to manage your condition is vital to your well being.

    If you don't look after your feet you run the risk of developing sores or infections that could, in the worst case scenario, lead to amputations. As happened to my father-in-law. Reduce your risk of infection or amputation by incorporating these 7 foot care tips...

    1) Check your feet daily - especially if you have low sensitivity or no feeling in your feet. Sores, cuts and grazes could go unnoticed and you could develop problems leading to amputations.

    2) Don't go around barefoot, even indoors. It's easy to tread on something or stub your toes and cut yourself. Protect your feet with socks/stockings and shoes/slippers.

    3) Be careful if you have corns or calluses. Check with your doctor or podiatrist the best way to care for them.

    4) Wash your feet daily in warm, not hot water. And don't soak your feet (even if you've been standing all day) because it could dry your skin and form cracks or sores.

    5) Take extra care to dry your feet completely, especially between your toes. These are natural moisture traps - leaving them damp or wet could create all sorts of problems.

    6) Exercise your legs and feet regularly. Even when sitting you can rotate your ankles; wiggle your toes or move your legs up and down. These all keep your blood circulation flowing and helps to minimize the risk of foot problems.

    7) Get your feet professionally checked, at least once a year, for sensitivity and signs of any problems. You can usually arrange this when you have your annual check up for your AC1 levels (blood glucose levels over a 3-month period), blood pressure and cholesterol.

    Take constant care of your feet. Get help from a relative or professional; Doctor, diabetic nurse or podiatrist if you are not able to bend when trimming nails or checking for sores. Taking these simple actions will help you reduce the risk of painful problems.

    © 2006 Carol Ann

    Carol Ann created http://www.your-diabetes.com to present information on diabetes from a diabetic's viewpoint

    Find out more about diabetes; how to recognise it; live with it; important linked health issues. Plus, read inspiring stories from other diabetics and share your experience.

    Include delicious recipes from here in your diabetic meal plan and, if you send in your favorite recipe, you could win the monthly prize draw.

    Tuesday, August 5, 2008

    I Eat What My Family Eats

    Writen by Susan Carey

    You know everything there is to know about proper nutrition. You have read countless books and magazines articles and consulted a nutritionist. Now what ?

    Turn that knowledge into action. Real-life situations will set us back on our health goals, especially when it comes to what we eat. You may know what and how much to eat but how do you control your food decisions when you have a nine-to-five job, a tight budget, and have to eat out most, if not all, of the time?

    Healthy meals need not be time-consuming either. Many require little cooking and some none at all. Here are some tips:

    1) Make large batches of soups, casseroles, potatoes, pasta,

    rice, etc., and refrigerate or freeze. Before eating, add

    extra toppings or fillings (e.g., beans, poultry, vegetables,

    or sauce).

    2) Make a large bowl of vegetables or fruit salad, enough to last

    in the fridge for 2-3 days for an instant supply.

    3) Speedy meals in less than 10 minutes:

    - Baked beans or spaghetti on toast
    - Pizza made with ready-made base, tinned tomatoes, and cheese
    - Sandwiches and pita
    - Pasta with tomato or vegetable sauce
    - Eggs or cheese on toast
    - Baked potato with beans, cheese or tuna

    4) No-cook sandwich tips:

    - Breads – Cut thick slices from the following: multigrain,

    rye, sourdough, herb, Italian bread with olives, sun dried

    tomatoes or onions, Spanish bread with sunflower seeds,

    baguettes, ciabiatta, country-style bread.

    You will be doing yourself and your family a huge favor by encouraging them to try your healthy eating habits instead of asking or preparing a separate meal. Teach them to make carbohydrate-rich food the base of their meal, minimize the use of rich sauces, and trim off the fat from meat. Healthy cooking methods can be adapted without affecting the taste of a meal.

    These include:

    - Substituting low-fat or skim milk for full-fat milk in

    sauces, custard, and puddings.
    - Saute with minimal oil or try spray-on oil on a nonstick

    frying pan.
    - Thicken sauces with cornstarch instead of butter or oil.
    - Reduce fat in desserts and serve with extra fruit or yogurt.

    The author is a big fan of cooking recipes. Visit the following website for more info about health and cooking recipes.

    http://www.101vegetarianrecipes.com http://www.desserts-recipes.com http://www.101cookingrecipes.com

    Monday, August 4, 2008

    Good Skin Care Bacteria Is Your Best Medicine

    Writen by Gloria MacTaggart

    By now, most of you probably have heard of 'good' bacteria and 'bad' bacteria. Good bacteria help digestion and keep pathogenic substances in check. Bad bacteria compromise the digestive and immune systems. Did you know that the presence of good bacteria could be the most important element of your skin care routine?

    At the turn of the century, Dr. Elias Metchnikoff, a Nobel laureate who discovered many immune system components, wrote a book called "Prolongation of Life." In this book, he documented the direct connection between longevity and maintaining a proper balance of beneficial microorganisms (bacteria, protozoa, algae, and fungi) within the body. The book inspired what came to be known as the Probiotic Revolution. Although his theories were not immediately accepted, scientists and health and medical professionals are now proving and extending many of his findings on healing, immune system enhancement, disease prevention and life extension.

    The precise number of microorganisms in our body is not known, but it is thought to be in excess of 100 trillion. In a healthy, well-balanced body, these create an intestinal ecosystem that protects us against parasites, harmful bacteria, yeast, and viruses - our lives literally hang in the balance of this ecosystem.

    The two most prevalent types of microorganisms in the body are bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Not only do they guard against harmful bacteria, they also are involved in the production of certain nutrients such as Vitamin K and the B vitamins.

    The most common food source for probiotics has been yogurt. However, yogurt does not contain the full range of probiotics needed, and the amount contained in most brands has been found to be negligible. Decades ago, before our crops and soil were inundated with chemicals like pesticides and herbicides, our food contained all the probiotics necessary to maintain health. Organisms from soil, called homeostatic soil organisms (HSO), are still our best source of probiotics. A good blend of HSOs, from clean soil without pesticides, herbicides and other pollutants, can be found in health food stores.

    Good health begins in the gut. If it's not in good shape, it will compromise your overall health. And that, of course, will manifest in every organ of the body – including the skin. So, good skin care also begins in the gut, and it is vital to keep your internal ecosystem balanced.

    Author, Gloria MacTaggart, is a freelance writer for The National Skin Care Institute. More information can be found at http://www.skincarenet.org