Do You Have Asthma Symptoms?

Not every person that experiences asthma has the same symptoms as someone else who has asthma. You can be having different triggers at different times of the day, depending on if you have allergy induced symptoms, or food induced symptoms.

Some people with Asthma could go long periods of time between attacks; some are prone to having frequent attacks. Mild attacks seem to be more common, more so in adults than in children. Some people may have increased asthma attacks when sick or ill with a virus or colds.

It is very important that you understand how some asthma symptoms might affect you, this could help you avoid trips to the doctor, and even emergency room visits. Watching for the early signs of an asthma attack can make a big difference on what happens later when a full blown attack comes.

A clue that your asthma could be worsening are these:

• Worsening allergy symptoms, dark circles under your eyes, a nonstop runny nose, or even inflamed skin.
• Wheezing and coughing during normal physical activities, like walking or running.
• Getting tired doing things that would normally be easy for you to do.
• Not sleeping well, waking up and not feeling fully awake.

Researchers believe that there are several different patterns of asthma, all relating to a single condition. But some feel that there are separate forms of conditions that exist in the lungs themselves. Currently, there has been no cure found for Asthma sufferers, and no exact cause has been diagnosed.

To monitor how quickly air flows in and out of your lungs, you can use a device called a peak flow meter; it can help determine when an asthma attack is coming. You can see more clearly when a child or adult is in need of medications sooner than later. Best results are a sign of a value below 50%, this low percentage shows you could be having a severe attack coming on.

Natural Asthma Treatment - Three Herbs For Asthma Sufferers

Did you know that there are many different herbs out there that are very effective in treating Asthma? There are quite a few different herbs out there that really are very good at breaking up the congestion and ease the discomfort that asthma sufferers experience. We will look a at few different herbs and herbal combinations that can help treat asthma naturally:

Elecampane Root

There is a great deal that has been said about the effectiveness of Elecampane Root for treating Asthma and other Respiratory ailments. You can use Elecampane Root alone or in combination with other herbs like Horehound, Wild Cherry Bark, Comfrey Root, Marshmallow Root and Comfrey. The simplest way to use this very useful herb is to simply brew it as a tea and inhale the vapor from the tea.

Marshmallow Root

An infusion or tea made from Marshmallow Roots that is very good at not only breaking up congestion but also in healing irritations to the lungs that Asthma has been known to cause.

Comfrey Root/Leaves and Lobelia Leaves

These two herbs are also pretty well known for easing the congestion and airway constriction that always accompanies an asthma attack. You might not think that it would be very wise to suggest that someone going through an asthma attack and having difficulty breathing try inhaling the steam from any herbal infusion. Yet it is exactly that action that actually does the trick to loosen that congestion and get rid of that airway constriction.

There are so many more herbs out there that do exactly what those listed here do that there is simply not enough time or space to talk about. The biggest thing that you really need to remember is that you need to know what you are looking at as well as what you are doing. You are only going to make things worse for yourself if you are using any type of herb or medicine without knowing what it is or what it does.

If you are going to use the herbal approach for treating your asthma then you really need to start studying about and reading up on herbs and plants so that you know what you need to know. You might also want to talk with a Homeopathic, Naturopathic or Holistic practitioner in order to find out what you need to know. You might consider getting some further suggestions from them as well.

How Asthma Occurs

Asthma is a persistent lung infection that provokes and contracts breathing air. It causes chronic phases of whistling sound during breathing, chest stiffness, breathlessness, and coughing, which occurs usually in the night or early morning. This disease can affect all ages of people particularly begins in childhood.

The tubes which carrying air in and out of your lungs are know as airways. Those who are affected with asthma have swollen and irritated airways, which is very sensitive. Because of this reaction, muscles around it get stiff, and in turn airways become narrow which result into less air to your lungs. More swelling can make the situation awful, and airways become narrower. Airways cells sometimes make excess mucus that is a sticky liquid that is further narrowing the airways.

If Asthma symptoms are unusual then it is an asthma attack. In such a case, airways can close so much so that your important body organs will not get sufficient oxygen by which a person can lead to death.

Cause
Genetic and environmental aspects that manipulate its severity, which is confirmed by medical research, originate asthma.

Cure
Asthma is not a curable disease. If you feel well, still you are not cured and it can flash up at any moment. For comprehensive, flourishing and continuing treatment, you should proactively manage your disease. Sometimes the patients stop the medication when they feel well. This results in supplementary attacks afterwards.

Prevention
An inhaler known as "Fluticasone propionate metered dose inhaler" is used to avoid asthma attacks. Prevention of the expansion of asthma is unlike prevention of asthma incidents.

If symptoms continue, additional controller drugs are provided unless all symptoms are prohibited. With appropriate usage of drugs, you can reduce the risk and complications associated with Asthma.

Asthma Mist Review - #1 Asthma Treatment

Asthma is a fatal lung disease that inflames and narrows airways. It causes shortness of breath, chest tightness and inveterate periods of wheezing. Coughing is another symptom of Asthma that often occurs at night and early in the morning. In general, this disease starts at childhood. However, it can affect people of all ages. Over 22 million people in the US are suffering from this chronic ailment among which 6 million are children.

There are numerous topical treatments for asthma. Currently, Asthma Mist has emerged as the most effective treatment for healing this kind of lung disease. It is a premium homeopathic formula today. Since ages, homeopathy is considered as an invincible system to treat millions of health problems through ingredients that are non-toxic and have no side effects. These ingredients include some popular herbs such as Belladonna, Arsenicum Album, Natrum Sulphuricum, Kali Carbonicum and Bryonia Alba. In addition, it also comprises Eupatorium Perfoliatum, Quebracho, Sticta Pulmonaria, Urtica Urens, Sambucus Nigra and other equally potent ingredients.

The ingredients used here are based on homeopathic provings that are recorded in the Homeopathic Materia Medica. With the latest breakthroughs in nutritional science and finest ingredients sourced from different parts of the world, it challenges numerous asthma symptoms naturally. Asthma Mist in the homeopathic spray form delivers all-natural ingredients directly into the bloodstream. This way it provides all essential ingredients that assist people supplement their lives and fight the symptoms of Asthma safely.

Carpet Versus Tile - Can Carpeting Be Hazardous to Your and Your Kids' Health?

The carpet versus tile debate, as old as travertine itself it seems, continues to confound and confuse people, especially those suffering from asthma and other lung-related diseases.

Carpet provides a soft place to fall, especially for roughhousing youngsters and toddlers learning to walk. For adults, it cushions joints and is easier to stand on for long periods of time. On the flip side, the comfort provided by a carpeting system is also a catch-all for dust, dirt, mildew, mold, microscopic pests, and waste material from family pets.

There is the argument that glues, backing, and padding used to lay carpeting--as well as the carpet itself--can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may cause headaches and worsen respiratory problems such as asthma. VOCs can evaporate or off gas into the air; and since they are heavier than air, they settle on the floor, the area where small children are prone to spend the majority of their time playing and sitting.. In colder weather the indoor air quality can become worse due to the build up of the indoor pollutants, exacerbating respiratory symptoms.

Additionally, unwanted pests can thrive in this environment that provides them plenty to eat and a safe haven to prosper and multiply. Dust mites like to live in dark, damp environments like carpet and can be found at its base. In one square meter of carpet up to 100,000 dust mites may be found. The prolific waste produced by these microscopic critters is considered to be a top allergy and asthma trigger. Vacuuming and steam cleaning carpeting help to reduce the dust mite population; however, it does not eliminate it. In fact, if too much moisture is left on the carpeting, mold and mildew may develop; and the dust mites may proliferate.

If pets are thrown into the mix, the carpet is a veritable sinkhole for pet dander, hair, and animal waste particles, as well as the dirt and grime tracked in from the outside. The older the carpet gets, the more debris and dust mite waste collects in the carpeting.

For the aforementioned reasons, many people with health concerns decide to rip up the carpeting and install tile. Travertine is one such popular type of tile in use today as it has a stellar appearance and enhances the beauty and value of a home.

Although dirt in the carpet is no longer a problem once tile has been installed, there is a new challenge to consider: the dust, dirt and debris, once trapped by the carpet, becomes free-floating in the air. For that reason, frequent cleaning of tile is required. It is also suggested that runners, area rugs, and small throw rugs made from natural fibers be used. These can easily be washed, and the floor beneath them can be cleaned.

Making the decision as to whether tile or carpet is the right choice is a very personal one and based on many factors. Even though the carpet versus tile debate will continue, what really matters is one's personal decision as to what will best abate the allergy and asthma symptoms. It does not have to be carpet versus tile. It can be a decision to use carpet and tile in different configurations to achieve the most comfort and minimize the amount of allergens in your oasis that you call home.

What is Asthma? - A Serious Respiratory Ailment

So you've seen people with asthma. Looking at them, you might think it is just an ordinary condition where one experiences shortness of breath. The truth is there's more to asthma than meets the eye. In this short piece we simply ask what is Asthma?

Asthma is a respiratory disorder characterized by difficulty in inhaling and exhaling, wheezing, and coughing. It doesn't choose its victims. Whether you're a child or an adult, male or female, this health condition can make you run to your doctor. Though it was once considered as a harmless ailment, today it is one of the leading causes of hospitalization especially among children. Not only that, but asthma medications ranks as the second largest category of prescriptions written by doctors.

Causes of asthma

This breathing disorder can be triggered by many things. Eating foods or taking medications you're allergic to can cause asthma. The pollutants found in the air are also considered as major culprits. Dust mites, molds, animal dander, and odors from chemicals we use at home are also responsible for asthma attacks. In some cases, exercise or being overworked can also cause one to have asthma.

Treatments for asthma

Most doctors prescribe drug treatments in dealing with asthma. These include sympathomimetic drugs that stimulate the muscles that open up the bronchial tubes and corticosteroids which are believed to effectively reduce inflammation, open the airways, and suppress the body's reactions to allergens. Meanwhile, cromolyn sodium, an anti-inflammatory agent, is commonly found in inhalers. Doctors also recommend xanthine bronchodilators and salmeterol for daily maintenance against asthma.

Preventing asthma

Asthma may be serious but you can prevent it in more ways than one. The best thing to do is prevent allergens and whatever triggers your asthma. Keep your home and surroundings clean at all times. Stay away from foods and drinks you're allergic too. Avoid using cleaning products that give off chemical odors. By doing so, you can guard yourself from this health condition.

Is Obesity the Main Risk Factor For Developing Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is often referred to as a lifestyle disease because it is largely due to obesity, lack of exercise and poor diet. It is true that 80 to 90 percent of Type 2 diabetics are overweight or obese. If they were not overweight, they probably would not have developed this condition.

Studies show that one out of five Type 2 diabetics is morbidly obese. A morbidly obese person is classified as being 100 lbs (45.45 kilos) or more overweight. Approximately 60 percent of U.S. adults with Type 2 diabetes are obese, and 20 percent are morbidly obese. The ratio of overweight Type 2 diabetics accounts for another 70 percent, making 90 percent of Type 2 diabetics classified as overweight or obese. (The remaining 10 percent of individuals are known as 'lean diabetics').

An overweight individual is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 25. Obesity is defined as a BMI over 30. Morbid obesity is generally defined as a BMI over 40. Body Mass Index is a measurement of body fat in relation to an individual's height and weight, and can be accurately determined only by a health professional... online calculators are not always reliable as they don't take into account bone structure, muscle mass or other contributing factors.

Approximately two-thirds of adults with Type 2 diabetes are obese and about one-third of adults without diabetes are obese. Surveys show that the trend towards obesity has increased rapidly in recent years, as has the incidence of Type 2 diabetes, suggesting a correlation.

Diabetics who are morbidly obese are the fastest growing segment of obese people worldwide. Between surveys conducted in the late 70's and surveys conducted in 2005-2006 in the US, a 141 percent increase was observed in the rate of morbid obesity in adult Type 2 diabetics.

Obesity can present a host of other health risks including cardiovascular disease, end-stage kidney disease, sleep-disordered breathing (sleep apnea), arthritis and fatty liver disease. Many of these conditions are also high risk for Type 2 diabetics, meaning that an obese Type 2 diabetic is doubly at risk.

The main reasons cited for the dramatic increase in average weight for Type 2 diabetics include unrealistic portion sizes, the consumption of inexpensive, unhealthy foods, sugary drinks, and insufficient activity. Getting weight under control is often the first step towards a more normal lifestyle for Type 2 diabetics.

Changes in lifestyle are needed to control blood sugar levels and weight, and reduce strain on the kidneys, liver and other organs. Life expectancy can be increased dramatically and the quality of life improved through diet and exercise. In extreme cases, some morbidly obese Type 2 diabetics undergo gastric surgery.

Once weight and blood sugar are stabilized, overall health will improve and further weight loss will be easier.

Type 2 diabetics can and do lose weight using the proper approach; it just takes a strong commitment to health... lose weight, rebalance your insulin, feel better and many of your symptoms will go away.

Guidelines on Managing Diabetes

Diabetes is a serious condition which has been common cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Managing this type of condition is not complicated but not easy as well. You need to have patience, strict compliance, discipline, and perseverance.

With a lot of options from the market today from herbal medications down to food supplements, we really are not quite sure which one is the best to choose. It is always best to consult your doctor for the best treatment plan for managing your type of diabetes. The main goal is to achieve normal blood sugar level for any type of diabetes. We'll here are a few guidelines to follow. These guidelines might help you manage diabetes.

Have a minimum carbohydrate intake and low-fat diet. This usually supports weight loss if partnered with active physical exercises. There are available manuals about how to keep a diabetic diet at pace with the needs of the body at the same time contemplating with the needs of the disease. Decrease calorie intake.

It is recommended to eliminate any trans or saturated fats. The secret to doing this is watching what you eat. Try to read food labels, it helps. At the same time, always make it a habit to check the recommended dietary allowance to make sure that you are still in track with what is left to eat. Keep in mind that if you follow the guidelines for proper diet will lead you to manage or eventually get rid of the disease in the long run.

Reduce intake of alcohol and foods with artificial sugar. It is advisable to limit intake to at least one drink per day. For best results, avoid preservatives and beverages since those are the sources of too much sugar content. Try to have alternatives as well, instead of drinking hard drinks, have a glass of red wine, which contains less sugar contents. Set goals to refrain from drinking too much sugar to minimize and eventually eliminate the habit completely.

Eat more fiber, fish and whole wheat grains. These foods usually provide nutrients and fatty acids that support the lowering of cholesterol levels. Make it a habit of eating fiber rich foods at least twice a day. Balance the menus for the day. It should have all the nutrients our body needs but of course fiber rich foods should be more if possible.

Also, while eating a balanced and healthy diet, take the prescribed medications on time. This is beneficial to promote absorption. Take note that while balancing your diet, medical supplement to manage your diabetes will have a balanced effect in the body. While leaving the nutrients intact, it attacks recent compounds that might influence diabetes.

Encourage heart-healthy exercises. This would range from light to medium exercises which would be done every day. Exercises help promote blood circulation and lowers cholesterol levels at the same time conditioning the body to function smoothly. Monitoring of the blood sugar is also a must since you have to keep tract if the efforts are worth it.

Diabetes could cause a lot complication if not treated early. It simply cannot be stressed out how important it is to be aware of one's heath. These guidelines will help you live longer and healthier life.

What Are the Signs of Diabetes?

Diabetes Mellitus is an increase of blood sugar called glucose in the body and is due to lack of insulin production in the body. Diabetes is one of the highest risk diseases in the world and it is also constitute one of the highest percentages of death every year. How can we tell if what we are going through is already a sign of diabetes? It is important for us to check the different signs of diabetes to assess and prepare ourselves of all the possibilities of acquiring the disease.

There are three main types of Diabetes: Type 1DM, Type 2 DM and Gestational Diabetes. Diabetes categorized as Type 1 takes only a few weeks to develop. Each of the types has different approaches. Symptoms of the first type include a massive urine production increase, increased appetite, fatigue, excessive thirst, weight loss, blurry vision, feel sick at times, infections and irritation of the genitals.

Type1 DM can be diagnosed using one or a combination of these test, Urinalysis, random (non-fasting) blood glucose, insulin test, blood glucose fasting, and C-peptide test. If type 1 DM will not be treated, the body produces ketones, a chemical that builds up in the blood and leads to a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis and causes additional symptoms such as vomiting, stomach ache, sleepiness, increased pulse rate and rapid breathing. If diabetic ketoacidosis is not treated this can lead to coma or eventually death. You might think that the first type of diabetes is just as simple as this, but mind you, if it will not be managed accordingly, death will eventually be the end.

Two thirds of the people with type2 DM does not show symptoms at all. If present, the common symptoms are tiredness, increased urine production, weight loss, increase in appetite, feel sick, also infections and blurry vision just like Type1 DM. Type2 DM can be diagnose by performing some blood testing like Fasting blood glucose level, random (non fasting) blood glucose level and oral glucose tolerance test.

With Fasting glucose level, a patient is diagnosed with diabetes if the glucose level is far beyond the normal which is 126mg/dL. Patients that will take this test needs to fast from 12 midnight until patients has gotten a blood sample. Using the non-fasting glucose level, suspicions will arise if the value is beyond 200mg/dl.

Using the test called glucose tolerance in oral form, diabetes is diagnosed when glucose level exceeds 200 mg/dL beyond 2 hours. If the person has Type2 DM they just simply feel a bit not well or assuming they are just aging. However, it is not as simple as that and normally, it is discovered late.

It is recommended to seek medical advice if some irregularities are felt or noticed to avoid complications. What we deemed as normal might be a manifestation of a more serious disease that we are just taking for granted the signs that we feel. So, to avoid further complications, listen to what your body is telling you. We should not let worst come to worse. It is always a positive attitude to be alert and to be vigilant with our body state. In the end, we will be the one who will suffer.

Being Cautious With High Blood Sugar Symptoms

What is the importance of recognizing high blood sugar symptoms? When diagnosed with hyperglycemia, one must distinguish the symptoms before it gets worst. People need to be attentive on these factors. The problem however is that at times we tend to overlook the situation. Let's take for example the diabetic mother who never realized what's happening to her daughter not until she saw the article of Jonas brother about diabetes.

Let's look at what's happening inside our body as the glucose from the broken carbohydrates enters our blood stream. The pancreas produces insulin to lower down blood glucose to its normal level and releases them from the blood stream to supply energy to the whole body. But if the pancreas malfunctions and produce inappropriate amount of insulin, glucose will be toxic to the body. If not controlled, it could affect the organs and the body will slowly breakdown

Therefore it is very important for a diabetic to daily monitor the level of sugar in the blood as a basis for its management. And using a blood sugar chart is the best method to monitor this blood sugar level. At the same time, one has to recognize high blood sugar symptoms before the body gets into a shock state. One of the most common high blood sugar symptoms is that at night there is an increase in urinary frequency. This results to a feeling of thirst, and thus making lips and mouth dry and so diabetic drinks frequently. Furthermore, a diabetic tend to sweat a lot.

Glucose is necessary to energize the body. If the blood streams will not have enough glucose, muscles and fats are broken down as a compensatory mechanism of the body. Thus the body frequently feels tired and sleepy. Thus severe weight loss is the most evident but dangerous high blood sugar symptoms.

Primarily, the body will continuously breakdown. In addition, blurred vision and increase appetite without weight gain along with dry and itchy could be evident. If these symptoms are not identified, advanced symptoms could develop such as dizziness caused by difficulty of breathing, confusion and as a final point, ketoacidosis or diabetic coma.

Ketoacidosis is a life threatening event in our body. This could easily be recognized for its acetone breath smelled by an observer. Prompt treatment is necessary and one must stay in hospital. These symptoms can be fatal. Therefore save yours and others lives through proper knowledge on high blood sugar symptoms.

Diabetes Control, Can You Control Diabetes Once It's Been Diagnosed?

As someone diagnosed as diabetic, I know how scary it can be when you are first told you are diabetic. When I was informed some six months ago I had no idea how it would change my life. What I did know was that I was going to find out as much as I could about this illness and beat it.

Of course, I have found out since that you cannot beat it, you can only control it by exercise, diet and a change in lifestyle. However, don't despair, this is very doable. Since being diagnosed I have lost 18lb that I have been trying to shift for years, good news after all.

So, exercise is one topic, food is the other. Below is a short description of what food you can eat to help control both your weight and your diabetes.

Diabetes and diets, what can we eat:

What about meat, fish, nuts, pulses and eggs
These are usually known as protein foods and are needed for the growth and repair of body tissues. Some of them also contain a lot of fat. To get the nutrients you need without too much fat, try to:

• Make meat and fish the smaller part of your meals. Fill up on starchy foods and vegetables instead.
• Buy the leanest meat you can afford and trim off any excess fat before cooking. The valuable nutrients are found in the lean part of the meat.
• Cook your meat without adding fat by grilling, roasting, or braising. Drain or skim casseroles, stews or mince.
• Cut down on meat or make a meal go further by adding more pulses and vegetables. Lentils, a tin of kidney beans or butter beans can be added to casseroles, pasta and rice meals.
• Remove the skin from chicken, as this is high in fat.
• Scramble, boil or poach eggs instead of frying.
• Eat fish frequently, especially the oily varieties. Salmon, herring, trout, kippers, mackerel, pilchards. Fish oil supplements are not recommended.
• Use tinned fish in water, tomato sauce or brine rather than oil.
• Do not eat nuts as snacks or nibbles, especially if you are overweight, they are high in fat and calories.
• Avoid meat products such as sausages and burgers as they are high in fat.
• Do not eat luncheon meat, pate and salami as they are very high in fat.
• Look out for the lower fat ready meals and cook in sauces if you use convenience foods.

What about dairy products:
Milk, cheese and other dairy products contain protein and calcium. However, they can contain a lot of fat, so try to:
• Choose low fat plain yoghurt or fromage frails instead of cream
• Remember, cheese is high in fat. Use cottage and low fat curd cheese or low fat soft cheese.

Of course this is just a brief explanation or description of foods you can eat, there are lots more and some very interesting recipes out there that can make life so much more interesting. Did you know you can still drink alcohol? Look out for more articles with interesting ways to control this illness together.

Diabetes and Its Serious Health Effects

Worldwide diabetes has been an issue. It has affected a lot of people just because they are unaware of the warning signs but it can easily be treated.

This is an issue that affects when metabolism is not proper. The chemical process that takes place in the human system is called the metabolism and we will not know what's happening inside. One of them is the change of sugar into the respective chemical glycogen and this is nothing but power.

Diabetes is of two types, type I and II. Type II is due to lack of insulin. Type I is caused when the insulin is not properly used. Insulin is the main key in converting sugar into energy. When this is not properly used, then the excess of sugar is excreted in the urine.

The identifications of blood sugar are frequent passage of urine, hungry and a thirsty feeling. There is another condition called diabetes insipidus which is characterized by the frequent passage of urine that brings out all the water from the body and this happens due to the lack of vasopressin. This plays the major role in kidney functions.

The correct blood sugar rate is around 70 and 110 mg/dl. High blood sugar is when the rates are above 110 mg/dl. Below 70 is low blood sugar. When the condition is not treated then it can lead to loss in weight because it uses all the wanted nutrients in the body.

The simple conditions can lead to a lot of harm. It can cause serious issues like blind eyes, infected wounds and gangrenes. This can also be fatal and can lead to kidney dysfunction.

Intake of lot of fruits and vegetables with a good exercise is advisable. Tinned foods, sugar should be avoided.

The Effectiveness of a Diabetic Diet

Food is one of the supplements needed by our body to help us regain strength and replace those nutrients that we have lost. It is important for us to know the right amount of food & the right kind of food that we eat on every meal. It is important as well to maintain a healthy diet to make sure the body is physically fit to do everyday work and recreation.

Diet is essential for everyone especially for the ill. Diet is well-monitored for these kinds of persons. Since they are at risk because of their illness, they are carefully given with the proper diet to better help them regain their health condition. For instance, diabetics have a special diet to ensure they will not go over their glucose or blood sugar level. They are given or provided with dietitians. At the same time, they are advised to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. They are also strictly advised by their doctors not to skip their meals and take their medications to keep the blood sugar level even.

Diabetes, due to a lot of medication, needs to be strictly monitored. For a diabetic to manage the disease, he or she should have to comply to the advisable diabetic diet. Eating too much Sweets or food with too much sugar is strictly prohibited most of the time. The food that a diabetic can eat will be depending on the type of diabetes, and the extent of its existence. For example, a Type 1 diabetic person has a different regular diet than a Type 2 diabetic person. Since Type 2 is worse than Type1, Type 2 has a lot of limitations compared with Type 1. Some that can be eaten by a Type 1 diabetic person might be prohibited with Type 2 Diabetes.

For Type 1 diabetes, a patient's diet normally include a balanced meal with less or no sugar at all, regular medications for intake such as food supplements to keep the sugar level even, and insulin shots to keep the insulin level balanced. For Type 2 diabetes, the diet includes a well-proportioned meal with no sugar at all, intense medication to keep the situation on track, and of course, therapy, if the patient is engaged in any.

The effectiveness of a diabetic diet is greatly dependent on the patient's physical state, the complications along with it, and the patient's self discipline. Patient's health is very important since the intensity of the food requirement is based on the patient's physical health. Say for example, if a diabetic is already ill before acquiring diabetes, he should balance the nutrient intake of the body.

He should eat whatever is the food acceptable for both diseases. He should satisfy the limitations of the illnesses he acquired. Complications can also be a consideration. As what have said, since diabetes entails certain limitations, the diet of a diabetic person will be based on what are the dos and don'ts of the disease other than being a diabetic patient.

At the same time, self discipline might also be a problem. If the person does not have control to the things that he/she ate, then it would e difficult for him to manage the disease and eventually, it will lead him/her to more complication, worsening the situation. In the end, if diabetic persons will not watch what they eat, they will end up losing everything since they can't control the craving for food that are strictly prohibited, at the same time throwing their body out of balance and eventually cause their death.

The Drug Used in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Can Help Prevent Cancer!

For Type 2 diabetics the risk of pancreatic, liver, colon, breast, uterine and bladder cancer is higher than in non diabetics. The good news is that metformin might be useful for preventing cancer.

Last year the journal Diabetolgia reported the results of a study completed by researchers at the School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, in the United Kingdom. The study included over 62,000 persons over 40 years of age with Type 2 diabetes. Patients treated with metformin alone suffered the lowest number of cases of tumors when compared with those receiving metformin plus sulfonylurea, sulfonylurea alone, or insulin alone. When metformin was used with insulin the risk of cancer was lower than it was with the use of insulin alone.

This month the journal Expert Opinions on Investigational Drugs carries an article by researchers at the Outpatient Clinic of Obesity, Diabetes and Metabolism at the Democritus University of Thrace, Greece. According to the authors, laboratory evidence suggests that metformin inhibits the growth of cancer cells. Reducing oversecretion of insulin and activating an enzyme called adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, which inhibits cell growth, are thought to be two possible mechanisms of metformin's action. The authors suggest that for this reason, metformin should be used frequently in managing diabetes.

Metformin, or Glucophage, reduces blood sugar levels by helping cells to take up glucose and by reducing the sugar released by the liver. Doses are individualized, and the maximum dose for adults is usually considered 2000 mg. Doses are usually started at 500mg twice per day to minimize upset stomachs. The dose is increased gradually until a therapeutic dose, usually 1500mg or over, is reached. Short-acting Glucophage is given in divided doses with meals, while the long-acting form is given once daily with the evening meal. Fasting blood sugar levels are measured when metformin is begun, to find the correct dose to maintain normal sugar levels. After the therapeutic dose is found, the glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), is measured every 3 months to make sure that good control is maintained. Side effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gas, weakness, and headaches. Fortunately, they are usually mild.

Discuss with your health care provider whether metformin is right for you, especially if a parent, sibling, or child has been diagnosed with a solid tumor. Maintaining a healthy weight with a healthful diet and exercise are helpful both for controlling diabetes and preventing certain kinds of cancer, so eat whole foods natural foods and maintain an active lifestyle.

Trans fatty acid are chemically altered fats and are cropping up everywhere: in margarine, hydrogenated oils, peanut butter, baked and fried goods. Recent research shows that trans fatty acids are more harmful than saturated fats. They increase the risk of heart disease to a greater degree than saturated fats, in addition to raising your total cholesterol, they actually lower your protective HDL (good) cholesterol. They have also been implicated in cancer of the breast and prostate and Type 2 diabetes. You can avoid these fats and reduce your risks of cancer and Type 2 diabetes by selecting whole and natural foods over prepared, fried and processed foods... then you will escape these highly damaging fats.

A study in the March 2007 issue of Diabetes Care reported that women with high blood sugar levels were about 25% more likely to develop cancer. As well, cancer patients often have symptoms of prediabetes.

Why Stress Causes Obesity

If you've watched news segments talking about how dangerous stress can be, you may be hearing the reporter's voice dubbed over a restaurant scene where people are eating. There's a good reason for that. Most of us reach for comfort foods when we're dealing with stressful situations. Most of those are high in calories, fat, sodium and cholesterol, leading to weight gain.

Is that the only thing stress does to cause obesity? No, there are other aspects of it. One is produced by our body and the other is related to lack of sleep. How could these cause us to gain weight?

Cortisol is a hormone produced as part of the "fight or flight" reaction. People under constant stress have a much higher amount of it circulating the body, and one of the side effects of it is an increase of abdominal fat. Getting the hormone back down to normal is required to help lose it. One thing to be aware of, we do need some cortisol in our bodies as the lack can lead to a serious medical condition.

Insomnia has a tendency to follow along with this condition. Lack of proper sleep can cause heart disease and...obesity. The studies performed have not yet determined why this is true, but many studies were performed and they all indicated a relationship. Age is not a factor, some of these studies were done on children as young as two years old.

Understanding the problem gets us half way to a solution. There are several things you can do about it, both in stress reduction and in the weight category. While you may ultimately need a doctor to help, many of these things can be done at home.

Comfort Foods: I have two suggestions here. One, find another means of getting comforted. Set aside some time for a soothing tea rather than tucking into the mac and cheese. Check out a new book at the library. Find something that is not food related (well tea is kind of close...) as a means of reducing the levels. Second, find healthy comfort foods. Substitute fat free frozen yogurt for the triple chocolate fudge crunch ice cream. There are a lot of ways to do both ideas.

Exercise: It doesn't matter where you do it, but get moving. A piece of gym equipment at home is just as useful as one found in a gym. However, getting away from the area causing the problem is not a bad idea. You might want to go for a walk or a hike. This will help you clear your mind and it should release endorphins. That's called the runner's high, but you don't have to run to feel it.

Herbal Remedies: Stress relief may be found in both aromatherapy and herbal teas. Lavender and chamomile are good choices, both as tea and in aromatherapy. Jasmine and passionflower are also good choices. These can be mixed or used individually. Insomnia may be helped by skullcap and/or valerian, though be aware that valerian smells horrible.

Your Doctor: Both stress and weight control may require some assistance from your doctor. If the above remedies don't help enough, a visit is a good idea. Medications can help bring stress down to controllable levels. Finding an appropriate exercise program may also be done with the doctor's help.

Both obesity and stress are serious medical issues and you should pay attention to them in order to prevent future problems. With a little help and some hard work, you can live a healthier, less stressful life.

Common Diseases That Are Caused by Obesity

There are regular news reports of our rapidly expanding waist lines and the problems obesity cause. Aside from the social aspect, many of us still ignore it. Worse, some of us take the wrong path to weight loss and end up frustrated and regaining any poundage we've struggled so hard to lose.

Each of the separate diseases below can strike anyone, whether you are at a healthy weight or weigh more than you should. Obesity increases the risk for each.

1) Diabetes: Type two diabetes is almost always associated with obesity. It involves insulin resistance, at least at first. Medications can help you use the insulin produced in your body better, but they have side effects. If sugar levels can't be stabilized by these medications, you may become insulin dependent.

2) Gallstones: There are two ways this painful and potentially life threatening condition can be developed. Being overweight is one. Going on a crash diet is another. Slower weight loss is a better idea, though if you are being treated by lap band or other supervised very low calorie diets, there are things that can be done.

3) Gout: It's a painful form of arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood stream. It forms into crystals that get dropped off into the joints. Those whose weight is higher than the normal range are at higher risk.

4) Heart Disease: Fat and cholesterol deposited in your arteries can cause heart problems. The more you weigh, the more likely you are to develop the problem. This process can also cause high blood pressure and strokes.

5) Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the joints is likely to be increased. This problem can start at a much younger age, and be harder to repair. Most insurance companies balk at the idea of doing joint replacement on young people.

6) Sleep Apnea: Without a sleep study, it's hard to diagnose this problem. You may notice that you aren't feeling rested when you wake up, it could be from this problem. If your spouse or other household members tell you that you snore and/or it seems like you stop breathing for several seconds, that's another clue. This condition gets worse with obesity, and it is a life threatening problem.

Most articles or segments on a news program end by saying "so you should eat a healthy, low fat diet and get plenty of exercise." There's more to it than that, and here are some of the things I've found helpful in my own struggles with weight control.

1) Count All the Calories: Write down what you eat. Keeping a food journal is an eye opening affair. I use an on-line calculator that has not only grocery items with nutrition counts, it even has restaurant and frozen entree information. What's even better, this calculator can tell me everything I've burned, so I know when I've had enough to eat or if I should eat more. Don't forget to calculate sleep; you'd be surprised how many you burn.

2) Eat Enough: Your best bet is to keep the deficit at ten percent. Having a drastic difference can lead to several problems. Gallstones are more likely, and it is possible you will even gain some weight. Your blood sugar will also fluctuate dramatically, which is not a good thing...especially if you're diabetic.

3) Exercise: Watching what you eat is important, but you have to get your body moving. Check with your doctor to find out what you can do safely. Choose activities you actually enjoy, and choose more than one so you don't get bored.

4) Avoid Fad Diets: Most of them are another term for crash diets. Some of them can create problems; low carb diets increase your risk of gout and can raise cholesterol levels dramatically.

Tips to Prevent Obesity During and After Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful phase of a woman's life wherein she feels proud of the fact that she is nurturing a life inside her. Many women take this fact quite seriously and start eating for two adults; this results in excessive weight gain. Experts believe that to provide nourishment to the growing foetus, women need just about 300 calories extra during pregnancy. This can easily be sufficed through extra nutritional food. You don't need to eat for two adults. While little indulgence on chocolates and ice creams can be fine occasionally, excessive calories should be avoided.

Extra weight gain during pregnancy can be risky for both mother and her child. Obese pregnant women are at a risk of developing complications like child birth defects, miscarriage and other life threatening complications like pre-eclampsia. Obesity during pregnancy also increases the risk of maternal high blood pressure by 10 times. Women who are obese during pregnancy are more likely to have gestational diabetes and problems with labour and delivery. They are also at higher risk of Cesarean deliveries.

Tips to prevent obesity during pregnancy

Discussed below are a few tips to help prevent obesity during pregnancy.

• Eat a well balanced diet, rich in nutrients and vitamins
• Satisfy your urge for snacks with dry fruits and a bowl of fresh fruits instead of going for junk food
• Don't take pregnancy as an excuse to turn into a couch potato; being physically active is important to avoid obesity during pregnancy
• Go for daily walks
• Many experts recommend yoga for pregnant women as it helps them stay fit and also experience a deep sense of calm and relaxation
• If you enjoy swimming, go jump in the pool; it will help to strengthen muscles in your upper and lower body and keep your weight in check
• Before doing any exercise consult your doctor and instructor. Avoid exercises that involve twisting or inversions. Also avoid lying on your back for long periods of time
• While some exercise is important, don't strain yourself to lose weight. Some weight gain is inevitable and necessary during pregnancy

How to prevent obesity after pregnancy

Soon after delivery, don't expect to get yourself into the pre-pregnancy stage instantly. It will take about 6 months to get back into shape. Many women often feel anxious when they see themselves in the mirror and feel that they still look a few months pregnant. Experts believe that there is no reason to fret. It takes about four weeks for your uterus to contract to its normal size. During this period, you lose about 8 to 20 pounds as the body gets rid of all that extra fluid. Mentioned below are a few steps that you should take to prevent obesity after pregnancy and help yourself get back to your normal weight and shape.

• Go for breast-feeding. Contrary to what many women feel, breast feeding does help you lose weight and get back in shape. It consumes 500 calories from you a day, helping you to reduce some of the fat you gained during pregnancy. In addition to being the most comprehensive nutrition for your baby, breast-feeding also accelerates your metabolism, consumes redundant fat, reduces fat accumulation under the skin and prevents obesity after delivery.
• Even while you are breast feeding you can exercise. Consult your doctor and instructor before starting with any exercise routine. Suitable exercises after delivery will help boost your metabolism and avoid caloric accumulation.
• Take appropriate balanced diet avoiding high-fat and sugar laden diets. While you are breast-feeding, ensure that you include dairy products, vitamins, fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Ask your doctor if you can use the belly belt. It will help you lose several inches, eliminate gestation lines as well as prevent bowel droop and loosening of the skin.
• Do not take slimming pills while you are breast feeding.

Obesity and Protein

Obesity is an extremely big problem in the United States and all over the world. In America, around 2/3 of the population is overweight or obese, meaning that they have a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or greater. In our society, being overweight or obese is easier than ever before. There are fast food restaurants stationed on every corner, portion sizes that are larger than necessary and unhealthy food that is less expensive than quality food. Our poor diets and lack of exercise are the main causes of the rising obesity epidemic that is plaguing the country.

Obesity is a preventable disease that causes many complications for those afflicted. Being overweight (having a BMI of greater than 25), obese (having a BMI of greater than 30) or morbidly obese (having a BMI of greater than 35) can result in a whole host of ailments that could eventually wind up claiming the person's life. Some of the side effects associated with being obese are type II diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglyceride levels, gout, hypertension, joint pain, atherosclerosis and more. So many issues can be linked back to obesity.

The Importance of Your Diet

The human body needs a certain amount of calories to function on a daily basis. Each person's caloric requirements are different, which is why diets vary from person to person. An estimation of how many calories you need each day can be figured using the Harris Benedict Equation. This formula uses variables such as age, height and weight to find a person's basil metabolic rate (BMR), or how many calories your body needs in order to function at rest. It then takes that number and factors in your activity level through another equation in order to find how many calories you need to consume in a day. It is extremely important that people understand how many calories their body actually needs compared to what they consume on average. Knowing a few simple numbers will really put things into perspective when meal planning and deciding whether to go with a doughnut or a healthier option, such as a bowl of oatmeal or some eggs.

After you understand how many calories you body needs, you need to look at your own diet and try to figure out how to optimize what you are eating and replace the unhealthy food sources with nutritious ones. The macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat and protein) are all important for your body to function at optimal levels. You need to consume a proper balance of the three in order to maintain your weight and fight obesity. Excess amounts of any of the three could result in you putting on the pounds.

When you plan your diet, you need to look for quality sources of food. Whole foods that are not processed are optimal choices. To combat obesity, you need to be consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh is preferred over canned, as the fresh sources contain more vitamins and minerals. When picking out grain sources, you should opt for whole grains or multi grains. Stay away from the white bread and other enriched or fortified sources. Whole grains take longer to digest and will leave you feeling fuller for longer. Protein is a key player in a healthy diet. As we talked about at the beginning, people consume a lot of fast food. Things like cheeseburgers and Philly cheese steaks are loaded with protein; however, they are loaded with saturated fats and calories as well. You need protein in your diet because you cannot store any surplus that you might have consumed. When picking your protein sources, you need to make your choices wisely. Protein sources from animal products, if consumed in abundance, can lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and gout.

Choose protein that comes from lean meat or a supplement such as a protein replacement shake. Sources of liquid protein are great for people of any health level to choose to replace some of their unhealthy options.

Complications of Obesity

We have discussed that obesity is a trend that is reversible. Unfortunately, should you let it go on for a significant period of time, some of the complications that arise might not be so easily reversed. Heart disease, for example, is one such problem. If you consume a poor diet then you are damaging your heart with the plaque buildup in the artery walls. Even if you decide to change your diet for the better, you have already done the damage and the plaque is still there. Another complication of obesity is a condition known as gout. Gout occurs when your kidneys cannot flush out the uric acid fast enough into your urine stream. This leads to a buildup of the uric acid, causing swelling and extreme pain. According to research, obesity is the main cause of gout. Along with things such as gout, you have all of the usual suspects that you hear being discussed all of the time. You have heart disease, high blood pressure, the potential for type II diabetes and joint pain, among other problems.

With so much known about obesity, you would think that people would take a more proactive role in their own lives and make better diet choices, yet they do not. Each day many more Americans will develop complications associated with obesity. Instead of changing their diet and opting for healthy sources of protein, they will pick up that unhealthy cheeseburger or, even worse, the extra value meal. What value does consuming 2000 calories in one meal present for someone?

When you are planning your diet and trying to fight obesity, go with the healthy food options. Pick out those healthy vegetables and fruit. Eat the whole grains and don't forget to consume plenty of quality protein.

5 Ways to Reduce Fat in Your Diet

Obesity is one of the leading causes of the top 5 health issues facing us today. Our society has become focused more on doing everything at once and we're forgetting our health. Here are five ways to reduce the fat intake in your diet, and start you on the road to a better quality life.

Mix'n'Match
Cut down on unnecessary fats. Buy low fat cream, milk and cheese. Low fat cream and sour cream tastes just like full fat, and has all the creaminess you'd expect. Guaranteed, you won't notice the difference. You can even substitute cream cheese for full fat cream in some recipes.
Keep a packet each of full fat and low fat cheese in your fridge. When making any cheese recipes (including pizza, cheese on toast etc) use a mixture of full and low fat cheese. You'll get the coverage of the cheese, but only a percentage of the fat.

Choose a lower fat sauce
When choosing a burger, ask for tomato sauce instead of mayonnaise (or better still- make the burger yourself from lean meat and lots of salad). Mix a small amount of different low fat sauces to create a new taste sensation! Choose tomato-based sauces on pasta instead of cheese or cream sauces. Use herbs on your vegies, not a cheese sauce. Or, skip the sauce altogether: do you really need an extra serve of sauce for dipping your fries?

Top up with vegies and salads
When choosing fast food or making your own meals, put more vegies on your plate. They have the added benefits of filling you up without eating a lot of food too, so you're inclined to not have such a full plate. Forget the burgers and fries; visit a sandwich bar instead. Ask for a low fat meat like roast chicken or turkey and stock up on the salad vegies. Ask for a low-fat dressing instead of ranch or mayonnaise.

Go with the "Good Fats"
Not all fats are equal; some are worse for you then others. Saturated fats (i.e. the ones found in animal products) are the leading cause of heart disease as plaque builds up on the walls of the arteries surrounding the heart. Avoiding saturated fats will also help lower your cholesterol. Choose lean meats to help with this. Nuts, legumes, olives and avocados have "good fats"- these fats won't help weight loss but they will help lower cholesterol, protect your heart and provide good oils for healthy cells, skin and metabolism. Olive oil, in moderation, is extremely good for your general health. Be smart with your fats and you'll reap the rewards.

More is Less
Making your own fast food-style meals means you're in control of what goes into your mouth. If you're not ready to go 100% healthy, try these simple tips to give all the flavour with half the fat.

- Use shaved meats instead of sliced. All the flavour, but thinner slices means you're saving half the fat.
- Choose low fat meats such as chicken.
- Marinated vegetables turn a boring pizza into something delicious. Use a vinegar-based marinade, not an oil-based one.

Reducing your fat intake doesn't need to be hard. It's about shopping smarter, making better choices and slowly easing into a better lifestyle. Most fast food places allow you to switch ingredients within their core menu. Whether you're attempting a lifestyle makeover or taking baby steps, these simple tips will have you wondering why you didn't do this sooner. And remember- exercise!

Are You Obese? Blame it on Your Genes

If you are fat it must be "your" fault. This is what most obese individuals are conditioned to believe. Weight gain and obesity are generally linked to higher consumption of calories or to lack of physical activity. Few people would dream of blaming their genes. But this is precisely what scientists and researchers have discovered - fat genes can be inherited. To put it simply, your appetite and metabolism are controlled by a process known as 'polymorphism' in your genes, which can make you susceptible to obesity when there are too many calories in your body.

Some rare genetic conditions, particularly affecting children, also involve obesity. It has also been observed that children of obese parents are at a greater risk of developing obesity than children of parents with normal weight. Daughters are more likely to be obese if their mothers are and the same holds true for fathers and sons, according to a new research. However, the same may not be true for obese fathers and daughters or for obese mothers and sons. Previous research has consistently focused on young children, believing that obese children usually become obese adults. But, the new findings now indicate that the reverse is more likely to be true.

Environmental Factors in Obesity

Genetics may not always be the determining factor for obesity. Environmental causes have also been found to play a role in determining whether your genes actually lead to weight gain. Children's diet patterns and food choices, for instance are often influenced by their parents.' Healthy eating patterns inculcated during childhood can lower your chances of obesity. Sedentary lifestyles tend to run in families - if your parents never exercised or were couch potatoes, you are more likely to follow their example. But as with everything in life, you can make healthy choices over unhealthy ones. However, if you have already gained a lot of weight you can still make efforts to lose weight. If dieting and exercise are not enough, you can consider obesity treatments such as Xenical slimming pills.

Importance of Xenical Obesity Treatment

Obesity is a serious health problem that is also linked to life threatening conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, various kinds of cancers, as well as with major psychological and emotional conditions. It is possible to lower your risk of obesity through conventional obesity treatments such as dieting and exercise. If you are obese, weight loss pills such as Xenical can help you lose weight safely.

Xenical (orlistat) is one of the most popular prescription slimming pills available today. This slimming pill is usually prescribed to complement and supplement conventional obesity treatments such as physical activity and low calorie diets. Weight loss pill Xenical differs from other weight loss pills because it operates inside your digestive system to prevent the absorption of about one third of dietary fats. It does this by blocking the action of lipase - an enzyme - that assists in the conversion of dietary fat into fat tissues. The unabsorbed fats are eventually eliminated through bowel movements.

Why Xenical?

Do not buy Xenical as a miracle obesity treatment. This effective weight loss pill is recommended to be used in conjunction with regular physical exercise and a low calorie diet. You can only buy Xenical if your doctor has prescribed it for you. Xenical slimming pills can only be prescribed for people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more, or those with a BMI of 25 or more if they also suffer from obesity-linked conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high levels of cholesterol, and high blood pressure. You can buy Xenical weight loss pills from a licensed internet pharmacy or from a pharmacy near you.

New Chemotherapy Drug Extends Life For Prostate Cancer Patients

Prostate cancer patients who had not been helped by standard care just received another option. On Thursday, the Food and Drug Administration approved the usage of Jevtana and prednisone to treat these patients.

In a study conducted earlier this year, researchers treated prostate cancer patients with Jevtana, a chemotherapy medicine produced by Sanofi-Aventis, and investigated the results. The patients who received treatment that included the drug lived for approximately ten more weeks than those who only received standard care. Moreover, these Jevtana patients were more likely to have their tumors decrease in size. Unfortunately, none of the participants in the study experienced a complete remission of the disease.

The combination of Jevtana and prednisone is the first chemotherapeutic treatment that prolongs the survival of men who are no longer being helped by regular medical care. Often used in cancer treatment, prednisone is a synthetic steroid that prevents inflammation. However, both the drug and the steroid have negative side effects. Serious side effects of Jevtana include white blood cell reduction, blood platelet level decrease, and kidney failure. Using prednisone can result in weight gain, high blood pressure, and steroid-induced diabetes. Consequently, patients need to consult with their doctors before using this treatment.

The effects of the Food and Drug Administration's approval of Jevtana are significant. "Patients have few therapeutic options in this disease setting," Richard Pazdur, the director of the FDA's Office of Oncology Drug Products, states. When standard hormone-deprivation treatments and docetaxel, the most commonly used drug to fight against prostate tumors, are not effective anymore, Jevtana gives prostate cancer patients an alternative.

Pulse of the Patient is a private next generation, social entrepreneurship startup company in the healthcare industry. By leveraging emerging technologies and web-based social media applications, Pulse aims to help patients manage their greatest challenge through harnessing the knowledge, intelligence and pulse of the people. We have devoted our professional and personal lives to improving cancer care through research, assisting patient foundations and volunteering with key cancer societies. We strive to enable cancer patients, their families, and friends to be better prepared to manage their disease and take back control of their life.

Prostate Cancer Treatments to Achieve Optimal Physical Health

Prostate cancer remains a leading cause of death among men in America. This cancer begins in the prostate gland (the walnut shaped gland that produces seminal fluid). Early screening helps many men catch the cancer in its early stages while it can be treated through observation or through a variety of very effective cancer treatments. Traditional cancer treatment options vary depending on the stage.

T2 or T3 cancer is called metastatic prostate cancer. This is cancer which has metastasized and spread to other areas within the body. Metastatic prostate cancer treatment utilizes a variety of treatment options including external radiation, radioactive seed implant radiation, removal of the gland, cryotherapy which is freezing of the cancerous prostate, as well as other cutting-edge treatments which are found to be effective in stopping the spread of prostate cancer and saving the lives of men. Physicians are recommending that men address their total health in order to achieve the desired outcome of becoming cancer free.

Prostate cancer treatment options also include diet change options. A high fat diet has been scientifically proven to be associated with a higher risk of this form of cancer; because of this it is recommended that men diagnosed with early or advanced cancer change their diet to a low-fat diet. Broccoli, green tea, tomatoes, and soy products are also recommended. Foods high in antioxidants should be consumed daily. There are the nutritional supplements which provide a high dosage of highly beneficial antioxidants. Selenium, lycopenes and licorice root are also natural products which are recommended for treatment.

Lycopene is the bright red pigmentation found in carrots, tomatoes, watermelons, papayas and other red vegetables and fruits. However, despite their red color strawberries and cherries are not high in the beneficial cancer fighting lycopene. Lycopene has been seen to the effect in cancer treatments and especially in Metastatic prostate cancer treatment. Vitamin E and vitamin C are also a recommended natural treatment. Overall optimum physical health should be addressed when battling against the prognosis of any form of prostate cancer and proper diet and key diet changes can be very effective in producing optimum health.

Emotional health is just as essential as physical health and patients receiving treatment must achieve optimum emotional health. Laughter is a natural, healthy component that must be incorporated into everyday life in order to achieve total physical health. A change of diet as well as a change in daily activities if they have been proven to be stressful and full of anxiety will be beneficial to a cancer patient. Physicians are recommending that patients receive all of the tools necessary to obtain optimal physical health while receiving prostate cancer treatment and laughter, stress free life style changes and dietary changes are beneficial additives to traditional radiation treatments.

Causes & Symptoms of Prostatitis

Prostatitis is one of several disorders, benign (not cancerous), inflammatory of the prostate gland. Acute Prostatitis develops suddenly and severe symptoms and severe. Chronic prostatitis develops gradually, often recurrent infection for long stretches periods of time. Chronic prostatitis is usually difficult to manage.

Causes of prostatitis

Prostatitis is an infection that usually develops after entering from one bacterium to the prostatic ducts from the rectum and / or as a result of the decline of infected urine.

Prostatitis is not a contagious disease and is not considered a disease sexual transmission. However, it can be caused for various sexually transmitted diseases.

Although all Men can develop prostatitis at any age, certain disorders pose a greater risk of developing this disease, among them include:

• infection recent bladder, urinary tract or any other body part
• injury or trauma to the perineum ( area between the scrotum and anus)
• anomaly urinary tract
• prostate enlarged
• relations anal sex
• procedure recently involving the insertion of a catheter urinary or cystoscope

Symptoms of prostatitis

Then general symptoms are the most common prostatitis. However, each individual may experience differently. Symptoms may includes:

• frequency and / or urinary urgency
• or burning sensation stinging when urinating
• pain urinate
• volume reduced urine flow
• pain and or pressure in the rectum
• fever and chills ( usually present only with an infection acute)
• pain the region and lower back, or pelvis
• segregation flow through the urethra to evacuate
• dysfunction sexual and / or loss of libido ( sexual desire)
• feeling throbbing in the rectum and / or genital area

Symptoms of prostatitis may resemble other problems or physicians. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Natural Headache Solution

Do you or a loved one suffer from recurring headaches? Headaches can range from mild, moderate, to extremely severe and incapacitating. They vary in intensity, frequency, and duration depending upon the type and your sensitivity to them. Yes, there are various types as well as triggers. And what many refer to as an 'ordinary' headache may actually be an extremely mild form of migraine. Most 'ordinary' headaches tend to respond to simple remedies such as non-prescriptive analgesics...painkillers...or relaxation techniques. However, taking too much medication of this type can actually result in overdose and 'rebound' headaches. To be on the safe side, a natural headache solution is best.

There are many triggers to headaches. One root cause of your headaches could be the lack of proper nutrition. We know and read that our foods, today, do not offer the same nutrition as they did 50 years ago. Our soil has been depleted of most of the minerals our bodies need. In addition, much of your food intake...your nutrition may be processed foods vs. natural foods. These foods contain chemicals, preservatives, and/or fillers which do not offer the body proper nutrients. Over the years, there has been a steady increase in headaches and migraines. So many people are searching for relief. Are you? The doctor's usual answer is prescription drugs: more chemicals...man-made chemicals into your body to relieve your pain but usually causing more problems from all the side effects. So is there a headache solution that is natural...safe?

Personally, I know the suffering you go through day after day. We've tried ALL the over-the-counter medications, both drug and natural products. We've been guinea pigs for most of the prescription drugs on the market, but always with the same results: occasional relief, but never getting to the root problems...never total elimination. Sure, a few strong drugs helped for the moment, but we were always wondering what long term repercussions awaited us. What damage was being done today that we wouldn't know for years to come? We looked for a natural, safe solution. Yes, there is one.

It wasn't easy getting to this point, but we found that it was in understanding our body and nutrition: i.e. proper nutrition; what we were incorrectly feeding our bodies as well as what we weren't feeding it...that it lacked. Sounds simple, doesn't it. It's in knowing about vitamins and minerals, nutritional supplementation, antioxidants, toxic build-up in the body, and how to restore our bodies to health. You do know that our bodies are made to heal themselves...if fed correctly. It's all in liquid form, tested and proven, a safe, natural simple-to-consume solution with amazing result.

Different Types of Chlamydia Tests

A sample of urine or other body fluid is used to be able to perform Chlamydia tests, and to check if Chlamydia trachomatis is present and is the cause of the infection. In the United States, Chlamydia is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease or most commonly known as STD.

There are several kinds of tests that can be done to assess whether a person is infected with Chlamydia or not. These tests can be taken at nearby STD clinics which can help you in diagnosing the disease. Majority of the tests require a sample--usually from body fluids--to be extracted from an affected area.

•Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT). In these test, the DNA or the genetic material of the Chlamydia bacteria is detected. These types of tests are the most sensitive at present. Therefore, the results are very accurate and there is a very low chance that a false-positive result would occur. A molecular biology technique called the polymerase chain reaction or PCR is one example of a nucleic acid amplification procedure. This test can be performed using samples of urine.

•Nucleic acid hybridization tests (DNA probe test). Chlamydia DNA can also be detected using a probe test. This test is also very accurate, but it is less sensitive than DNA amplification tests.

•Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA, EIA). This technique detects Chlamydia antigens which trigger a person's immune system to combat Chlamydia infection.

•Direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA). This is a fast technique which also detects chlamydia antigens.

•Chlamydia culture. In this test, a special cup is used to allow Chlamydia bacteria to multiply and grow. This is a more expensive test and you have to wait longer for the results, usually around five to seven days. The culture must be prepared in the laboratory. The Chlamydia culture test is usually done when a child is suspected of having experienced sexual abuse, or when treatment has not worked.

Why It Is Done

The different tests for Chlamydia are done because of the following reasons:

•To check if symptoms and warning signs of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) are brought about by a Chlamydia infection.

•If the mother is infected with Chlamydia during the time of delivery, the newborn must be check for Chlamydia as well.

•To determine people who are at high risk for being infected with Chlamydia and those who are already infected. A Chlamydia infection does not always manifest symptoms. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggests testing for Chlamydia for:

- All sexually active women aged 24 or younger.
- Women who are older than age 24 practicing high-risk sexual behaviors.
- All pregnant women in the first trimester and again in the third trimester if high-risk sexual behaviors are reported. A pregnant woman who has a Chlamydia infection must be treated immediately so that the infection would not be transmitted to her newborn.
- All women who have pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
- All women with symptoms of cervicitis or cervical infection found on a pelvic exam.

How to Prepare

A Chlamydia test is performed on either bodily fluid (direct sample) collected from the area of the body that is suspected to be infected or on a urine sample. If your Chlamydia test is being performed on a:

•Direct sample (normally from the cervix): A woman should not use vaginal creams or douche or use medicines for 24 hours before undergoing a Chlamydia test.
•Urine sample: Refrain from urinating for two hours before a urine sample is collected.

Home Heart Training - 2 Great Cardio Exercises For You to Do at Home!

Who says that you can't get a great cardio workout done at home? As a matter of fact, with the right training drills and proper motivation you can get a better cardio workout at home than at a gym in a lot of ways. The best cardiovascular workout has to involve nothing more than your own hand held gym that is known as a kettlebell and a little outdoor yard space. Keep reading if I have your attention.

Cardio Conditioning At Home!

1. Kettlebell Snatches To Jump Rope: This is one sick cardio conditioning combination that you can easily perform right in your front yard. With this drill you will simply want to execute a series of kettlebell snatches with a moderately heavy bell with each arm. As soon as you have finished your set of snatches then simply drop the bell on the ground and grab a jump rope and get after it for a duration of 2 minutes. When you have completed the series simply allow yourself a 2 to 3 minute recovery and repeat the process all over again. This is some of the best cardiovascular training you can do anywhere!

2. Kettlebell Totes: For this drill you will need the availability of a couple of bells of moderate resistance and equal weight. From here you are going to utilize the length of your yard to perform some loaded walks with the bells. For this drill the walking surface should be flat, so if your yard isn't a good option then you may want to look into using your driveway, inside hallway, etc. Begin the drill by picking the bells up off of the ground and holding them at your sides. Walk a challenging distance while carrying the bells at your side. You can determine your distance either by measuring or just by simply walking for timed laps. Either way you can make this drill effective by doing so.

Once you begin your loaded walks simply walk the designated distance with the bells at your sides to start. Once you have completed doing this then clean and rack the bells at your chest to perform some loaded walks with them at the rack. This adds additional intensity to the drill and your heart will start really pumping at this point. Once you complete this variation you can take the drill a step further and clean and press the bells overhead to perform the walks. This will add a whole new dynamic of sick strength and unmatched cardio to your workout!

If you haven't already started to implement the 2 mentioned cardio drills into your workouts then you are missing out. Take the time to do so and you will have one of the best in home cardio programs going! Remember that most anyone can train hard, but only the best train smart!

NUTRITION CENTER - Healthy Diet Goals

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of Americans. We can reduce heart disease by promoting a healthy diet and lifestyle. Getting information from credible sources can help you make smart choices that will benefit your long-term heart health.

For the first time, the American Heart Association has defined what it means to have ideal cardiovascular health, identifying seven health and behavior factors that impact health and quality of life. We know that even simple, small changes can make a big difference in living a better life. Known as “Life’s Simple 7,” these steps can help add years to your life:

1. don’t smoke;
2. maintain a healthy weight;
3. engage in regular physical activity;
4. eat a healthy diet;
5. manage blood pressure;
6. take charge of cholesterol; and
7. keep blood sugar, or glucose, at healthy levels.

Alcohol Sharply Reduces Risk of Heart Disease in Men

A Spanish study on alcohol consumption revealed that men who consume large amounts of alcohol cut their risk of heart disease by more than a third. At the same time, excessive alcohol consumption, which is responsible for 1.8 million deaths a year, will increase one's risk of developing many other diseases.

The study analyzed 41,500 people, both men and women, between the ages of 29 and 69. Participants were followed for ten years and were asked to keep documentation about their drinking habits. What researchers found was that men who consumed alcohol daily reduced their risk of developing heart disease by 35 percent. Women did not experience the same results.

More extreme levels of alcohol consumption among men, between three and eleven (or more) shots of hard liquor a day, suggested a 50 percent decrease in heart disease. It is believed that women do not experience the same effects from alcohol as men do because of differences in female hormonal activity and the methods by which females process alcohol.

While partially unclear as to how it works logistically, scientists understand that consumption of alcohol tends to raise high-density lipoproteins, also known as "good" cholesterol, which prevents bad cholesterol from accumulating in the arteries.

Intake of alcohol is linked to the development of another type of heart disease called cardiomyopathy, which is a weakening of the heart's ability to adequately function. Such a condition can result in death if not dealt with properly.

Experts reiterated the fact that while alcohol consumption may reduce one type of heart disease, it can cause many other problems including liver, brain, and pancreatic illnesses. The Stroke Association noted that high alcohol consumption increases one's risk of having a stroke by 300 percent.

While adding to existing literature on the subject of the alleged benefits of alcohol, experts from across the board warned people not to take the study as a license to binge drink. The risks far outweigh the benefits and, unless a person is very careful in monitoring his or her intake, he or she may easily go over what is considered moderate alcohol limits.

Better ways to prevent heart disease include limiting intake of unhealthy fats and excess processed foods. Some nutrient-dense foods that are known to assist in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels include blueberries, grass-fed meats, wild salmon, garlic, avocados, coconut oil, dark green vegetables, apples and raw almonds.