House sends health care overhaul bill to Obama

Hot news this time came from the president of the United States.What's wrong with Barack Obama?As reported by news yahooabout House sends health care overhaul bill to Obama
.A transformative health care bill is headed to President Barack Obama for his signature as Congress takes the final steps in Democrats' improbable and history-making push for near-universal medical coverage.

On the cusp of succeeding where numerous past congresses and administrations have failed, jubilant House Democrats voted 219-212 late Sunday to send legislation to Obama that would extend coverage to 32 million uninsured Americans, reduce deficits and ban insurance company practices such as denying coverage to people with pre-existing medical conditions.

"This is what change looks like," Obama said later in televised remarks that stirred memories of his 2008 campaign promise of "change we can believe in."

"We proved that this government — a government of the people and by the people — still works for the people."

Obama's young presidency received a much needed boost from passage of the legislation, which would touch the lives of nearly every American. The battle for the future of the health insurance system — affecting one-sixth of the economy — galvanized Republicans and conservative activists looking ahead to November's midterm elections.

A companion package making a series of changes sought by House Democrats to the larger bill, which already passed the Senate, was approved 220-211. The fix-it bill will now go to the Senate, where debate is expected to begin as early as Tuesday. Senate Democrats hope to approve it unchanged and send it directly to Obama, though Republicans intend to attempt parliamentary objections that could change the bill and require it to go back to the House.

[via]

The 5 surprising things ruining your teeth

Thought coffee was the only culprit? Find out how to protect pearly whites

We know smoking cigarettes and drinking coffee or red wine will not keep our teeth nice and white. We also know that chewing on hard things like pens or pencils can wear away or even break the enamel of our teeth, and that eating candy and other sugary foods can give us cavities. But there are other things that can ruin our teeth that you may not be aware of. Most of these things contain some acid and sugar that you will find surprising. Here are five things you didn’t know are ruining your teeth:


White wine
There is a recent study that says white wine can put people at risk for tooth staining. The tannins and the acids in the white wine can roughen the surface of the teeth. This can make the enamel more porous and allow the teeth to absorb color. So, if a person is having white wine at dinner, and then drinks coffee or eats something like blueberry pie — that person is at risk of having stained teeth. Red wine does cause more staining, but you are not off the hook if you drink white wine.

Milk
Milk is great — it has the calcium we need for healthy bones — but if someone gives their child or baby milk (or other sweet drinks, like apple juice) in the bottle too often or too long, this can cause cavities. We all have bacteria in our mouths. Bacteria use these sugars in the drinks as food. This is why people shouldn’t give children sweet drinks or milk too often and never let them fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth. Breast-feeding moms should also be aware, as babies are also at risk if they are falling asleep while being breast-fed, especially if a mom keeps her nipple in the baby’s mouth. A solution for this is to try to wipe or brush the child’s or baby’s teeth before they go to bed. Try to give the baby some water or diluted juice in the bottle and an alternate drink.

Cough syrup
Many cough syrups contain sucrose, fructose and citric acids. These ingredients can cause tooth decay and erosion. Many people take cough syrup or other types of medications like NyQuil right before they go to bed and after they brush their teeth. The syrup remains on their teeth all night long. Some syrups have alcohol in them as well, which can dry out the mouth. When the mouth is dry, there is less saliva. The sugars and acids remain in the mouth and on the teeth. Try to take the syrup with a meal, when there is more saliva present. If that isn’t an option, try to rinse with some water or try the pill form of the medicine instead.

Lemonade
Lemonade is a dangerous combination of acid and sugar. The formula for decay is bacteria that causes cavities (which we have in our mouths) plus acid (which penetrates the enamel layer of the teeth) plus sugar (which bacteria feed on), which equals tooth decay. Lemons are extremely acidic. Combining this fruit with the sugar makes it a potent cavity causer. Lemon slices in water are not nearly as bad as lemonade because there is no sugar involved, but the lemon does make your water more acidic.

When you eat something acidic such as fruit, it can strip the mineral off the teeth. Saliva in the mouth helps wash the acid away, but if you expose your teeth to acid too often this will lead to acid wear. When erosion occurs, it can cause the teeth to become very sensitive, which makes eating and/or drinking very uncomfortable. Not only that, but the teeth can become yellow and dark in color as the outer enamel layer is worn away and the dentin layer is exposed. Aesthetically, it isn’t pleasing either. Unfortunately this is irreversible.

How can you protect your teeth from acid wear? Drink a lot of water after eating or drinking. Drink acidic beverages through a straw so the liquid doesn’t have much contact with your teeth. Avoid brushing your teeth right after a highly acidic meal or drink. If you brush right after, you are just brushing your teeth with the acid. So, be patient, wait 30-40 minutes before you brush.

Swimming pools
Those who swim more than six hours a week in chemically treated pools may develop brown stains on their teeth, commonly called “swimmer’s calculus.” The chemicals in the pool mixed with the saliva can cause an unusual brown stain. The stain can be yellow to dark brown, and will be found, for the most part, on the front teeth. Swimmers should have more frequent professional cleanings to remove this stain. Wearing an airtight mouth guard can help.

Nancy M. Rosen, D.M.D. | msnbc

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Prompt New Dosage for Heart Health

A healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA and EPA not only prevents heart disease in healthy people, it also reduces the risk of heart attack in people with existing heart disease, according to a new study. That finding has researchers recommending people add a daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids to their diet.


Based on a review of several large studies involving more than 40,000 people, researchers say the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids to heart health are clear and merit taking action to prevent unnecessary deaths from heart disease.

The body doesn't produce fatty acids, so researchers recommend healthy people consume 500 milligrams daily of EPA plus DHA, and people with known heart disease or heart failure should aim for nearly twice that amount (at least 800 to 1,000 milligrams daily).

"There are clear health and heart benefits associated with increasing one's intake of foods that are rich in Omega-3s, including oily fish like salmon, sardines, trout, herring, and oysters" researcher Carl Lavie, MD, medical director of cardiac rehabilitation and prevention at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, says in a news release. "Patients should talk with their doctors about whether a fish oil supplement is needed to get the right amount and, in turn, benefit from the associated cardiovascular protection."
DHA and EPA Help Heart

The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, reviewed the findings of four studies comparing the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in heart disease prevention over the past 30 years.

The results showed that omega-3 fatty acids' strongest protective effect appears to be in people with established heart disease after a heart attack. In these people, a daily dose of DHA and EPA is associated with a 30% reduction in the risk of heart-related death.

But researchers say healthy people can also benefit from including omega-3s in their diet. Research shows a diet rich in omega-3s can also reduce the risk of hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), heart attack, sudden cardiac death, and heart failure.

Most of the evidence for the benefits of fish oil comes from the use of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eiosapentaenoic acid), which are the long-chain fatty acids in the omega-3 family.

Lavie says EPA and DHA work by getting into the membranes of cells and by doing so may help improve the heart's electrical activity, muscle tone, plaque stabilization, blood pressure, and other aspects of heart health.

The study also showed that there was a smaller benefit of omega-3 fatty acids in preventing 9% of heart failure deaths in people with heart failure who took omega-3 supplements. Given heart failure patients' grave prognosis, Lavie says this is impressive.

"If we translate this finding, it means that we only need to treat 56 patients for four years to prevent one death," Lavie says. "And we are talking about a very safe and relatively inexpensive therapy."

By Jennifer Warner
WebMD Health News

Raw foods as best Anti-Aging Supplements

One of the best anti-aging supplements is eating raw foods. This is because cooking actually removes some of the nutrition in food. Taking them in a raw form gives your body more of the vitamins and minerals present in food than otherwise. Here is a looks at some important raw foods you can intake to reduce the effects of aging:


* Raw foods that have anti-oxidant properties are best because they counteract free radicals which are responsible for causing aging. Foods like carrots, apricots, oranges, lemons and grapefruit are high in anti-oxidant properties and they should be taken everyday in order to minimize the effects of aging.
* Raw foods containing high levels of enzymes gives your body much needed vitamins and minerals. Any deficiencies in vitamins and minerals fasten the process of aging.
* Raw foods rich in sulphur helps to maintain skin, hair, nails and joints in a good condition. Foods such as asparagus, garlic, onion, broccoli, red pepper, watercress and seeds like hemp seeds and pumpkin seeds are rich in sulphur.

Raw foods containing phytochemicals such as broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, berries, carrots, cocoa, celery, and bell pepper will help to counteract aging effects because phytochemicals prevent damage and have anti-aging properties.
* Raw foods rich in vitamins E, C, B and A, and Zinc improve the body’s resistance to ill-health. This is because they help to boost the immunity system and give way for healthy looking skin. Thy also help to rule out eczema.

Raw foods serve as good anti-aging supplements primarily because they abound in vitamins and minerals, which help to keep body healthy and strong. They can eliminate toxins, which in time bring out aging. If you have a diet that is rich in raw sea vegetables, considerable level of body toxins gets reduced.

When having raw foods ensure that you take ones rich with antioxidants. A very powerful anti-oxidant is Coenzyme Q10, which is present in every body cell, but its level reduces with age. Taking foods such as spinach, broccoli and peanuts maintains the balance and reduces the effects of old age. Ensuring that 65% – 75% of your food intake is raw food, helps to bring about better health and counteract the signs of aging.


via helpfulhealthtips

How to Stay Healthy During the Influenza A (H1N1) Pandemic

The recent outbreak of swine-origin influenza Virus A (also termed H1N1), or more commonly known as "swine flu," has many people concerned about their health. These concerns are justified, but need to be placed into perspective to avoid a social panic that will not benefit anyone. Swine flu is a respiratory disease found in pigs caused by Type A flu virus. It is contagious the same way any other known influenza virus is transmitted, which includes person-to-person contact via coughing and sneezin


Swine flu cannot be transmitted by eating or handling pork, and properly cooked pork is safe to be consumed. Also, as with any influenza outbreak, people with underlying medical conditions such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, poorly controlled diabetes and similar clinical conditions are likely more susceptible to acquiring swine flu if they come into contact with the virus. It is essential to remember that for anyone, regardless of their health status, the only way to get swine flu is by coming into contact with a person actively infected with a confirmed case of H1N1. In this article I will help you to understand how to prevent swine flu, review the symptoms of infection and examine prevention/treatment interventions that are effective and available.

Instructions



Step 1

The basics of infection are simple and you already know them; however, it may be a good time for you to sit down with your family and review them:

• Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.
• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking enough water.
• Get adequate rest and exercise to help your immune system function properly.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or one of the many over-the-counter hand sanitizers. Hands should always be washed after using the bathroom, eating, sneezing, coughing or touching any object that may be contaminated with significant bacteria or viruses. A simple-to-follow-rule is that if you have any doubt about whether or not you should be washing your hands, then you should indeed be washing them!
• If you develop cold-like symptoms, even mild ones, it is best to stay home from work, school and social events for the time being. Your cold symptoms will more likely be the “common cold” that will typically respond to your usual self-care interventions. However, if they worsen you should contact your medical provider immediately.

* The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also suggest that anyone who is strongly suspected of having contracted swine flu be asked to wear a disposable face mask to prevent possible transmission to others.

Step 2

Know the signs and symptoms of swine flu in order to protect yourself and your family. Remember that swine flu presents itself like virtually any other flu-like syndrome, so while it is prudent to be cautious, the odds of you not coming into contract with someone with cold-like or allergy symptoms this time of year are fairly remote--so please do not overreact. Remember, the only way to get infected with swine flu is to come into contact with someone who has a confirmed case of the virus or by touching a swine flu virus-contaminated object.

The basic symptoms of swine flu include: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported, but to a lesser extent.

Step 3

Since it's not yet known how easily swine flu is transmitted between people, it may be wise to avoid close contact with people who are displaying flu-like symptoms; however, it may not be necessary to isolate yourself from an ill individual if you feel well and are taking the precautions listed in Step 1. While not yet the standard of care, the ill person might provide you with a level of protection if they wear a disposable mask covering their nose and mouth while in your presence.

Step 4

If you have come into contact with a person suspected of having or confirmed with swine flu there are two drugs that can be taken to prevent you from becoming infected with the virus or to lessen the severity of the disease. Currently only two out of the five anti-viral flu drugs are effective against swine flu. The two effective medications are: Oseltamivir (brand name Tamiflu ®) to prevent and treat in people 1 year of age or older and Zanamivir (brand name Relenza ®) is approved to treat people 7 years and older and to prevent Influenza A and B virus infection in people 5 years and older. Currently, there are health authorities testing other medications, but as of now only Tamiflu and Relenza are known to help with swine flu infection. Generally, treatment for swine flu is a 5-day course of therapy and 10 days are required for prevention control. It is also important to note that these drugs are not in short supply or difficult to manufacture. There is no reason to stock pile drugs or panic.

Step 5

Stay informed. The science and knowledge of swine flu infection and treatment is rapidly evolving on a daily basis, which is normal when there is a flu breakout. Newly developed information should not be considered a concern or reason to panic. It should be viewed as scientific advancement; the health care community is learning more about this emerging infection.


Tips & Warnings

* Swine flu is a real health issue, but one that can be better controlled with correct information and prevention strategies.

* Review and re-review your prevention interventions listed in this article and make sure each member of your family or community understands them.

* Information and treatment are expected to change due to the advances in our ability to learn about swine flu and to communicate more effectively worldwide via the Internet.

Richard Ferri | ehow

Tips for your kid's health

Use a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 and apply it thirty minutes before your child goes outside. Sunscreen sticks go on easily and evenly; coloured sunscreens will reveal if you've missed a spot. An adult should always supervise a child swimming in the pool or at a lake. Remember that while floatation devices such as water wings add buoyancy and help your child stay up in the water, they are not lifesaving devices.


Bathing suit folliculitis, a bacterial infection that causes a rash on the legs and buttocks, often strikes young girls who sit in wet bathing suits all day. The solution? Get out of the wet suit and into some dry clothes as soon as possible and the problem usually resolves on its own.
Cool baths or showers, followed by powder or cornstarch, can help clear up prickly heat - an itchy, red rash that usually appears in the folds of the skin.
Ticks and mosquitoes can transmit several diseases. For the best protection, dress your child in light-coloured pants (tuck them into her socks) and a long-sleeved shirt when she'll be playing near a wooded area where ticks live. Also apply insect repellent to her clothes and any exposed skin to protect her skin.

source : sitagita

Heart Care and Cholesterol Control

AN INDULGENT LIFESTYLE AND AN INADEQUATE DIET ARE TWO MAJOR CAUSES OF HEART DISEASE. TO STAY FIT HERE ARE A FEW MEASURES OF CARE AND CONTROL


Heart Diseases and Hypertension which lead to heart or other organ failures has been on the rise for the past 2 decades. People above the age of 40 have been suffering from such problems due to their unbalanced dietary habits. Its always advisable to control these factors if you want to reduce your risk.


Preventing Coronary Diseases
When there are excess deposits of fat, cholesterol or other substances in the inner wall of arteries, the arteries narrow and harden into a condition known as astherosclerosis, the most common cause of heart trouble. A planned diet and regular exercise are the key to prevent atheroclerosis.

Friendly and Unfriendly FATS
FAT should not exceed 30 per cent of your total calorie intake, which includes a maximum of 10 per cent saturated fat and 10 per cent mono-unsaturated fats. Saturated fatty acids in full-cream milk and red meat increase your cholesterol level. Use non-fat or low-fat milk and milk products instead of full-cream milk and avoid sources of saturated fatty acids like lard, butter, cream, palm oil, coconut oil, ghee and vanaspati

Mono-unsaturated fats that lower cholesterol as well as prevent formation of blood clots are present in olive, canola, peanut and mustard oils. It’s best to use these while cooking.

Omega-3, a fatty acid that prevents atherosclerosis is present in foods like herring, mackerel, salmon, tuna, soyabean, walnuts and butternuts. Take these regularly in small quantities to prevent atherosclerosis.

Cutting Cholesterol
Dietary cholesterol should be limited to 300 mg per day. Since it largely comes from animal products, consumption of non-vegetarian foods, whole milk and milk products hould be restricted. For example, an egg has 250 gm of cholesterol and it is not advisable to take more than two to three eggs a week.

Take healthy alternatives like chicken, fish, beans, vegetable, fruits, bread, pulses, wholewheat flour, cereals, rice, millet, skimmed milk and skimmed milk products and vegetable oils like corn, sesame, soyabean, sunflower, canola, olive and mustard.

Heart disease is less frequent among those who eat high carbohydrate and fibre-rich foods. Carbohydrate and fibre-rich foods. Carbohydrates should provide at least 55 per cent of your daily calories. Foods like bread, chapattis, cereals, rice and dals provide an adequate amount of carbohydrates.

How to control Chest Pain:

* Boil 4-5 pods of garlic in a glass of milk and consume the garlic pods with
milk daily to avoid chest pain.

* Pound the dates with the seeds and eat them every day.
* Increase the intake of ginger and lime in your diet.
* Pound urad dhal to powder and eat it regularly.
* Drink a glass of milk mixed with kadukai powder every night before going to bed.
* Take a spoon of tulsi juice with honey in empty stomach every day

source : healthtips

10 Healthy Foods You NEED to Fall in Love With

Here's 10 of the healthiest foods you can find. Have additional foods you would like to add? I would love to hear from you!


1. Bananas
According to The Georgia State of Health "What's for dinner tonight?" program, Bananas are a remedy for upset stomachs and help strengthen stomach lining against excess acid and ulcers. The pectin in bananas may be helpful in fighting colon cancer as well as lowering blood cholesterol.

2. Potatoes
According to the CDC, potatoes are a rich source of fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Like other fruits and vegetables, potatoes are a low calorie food and are free of fat, cholesterol, and sodium.

3. Acai Berry
They are calling it a "miracle food" and its benefits range from being high in protein and omega 6 and 9, to having dietary fiber and antioxidants.....and most importantly the Acai Berry is becoming a popular anti-aging source.

4. Brocolli
Broccoli is high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C and folate. Cup for cup, broccoli has as much Vitamin C as an orange and almost as much calcium as milk. Including broccoli in your low-fat diet along with a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables will help you to maintain a lower risk of some cancers, vision health, and strong bones and teeth. TIP: Purchase tight, compact florets with an even green or purple-green color. The size of broccoli heads does not indicate eating quality. Avoid yellowing florets and tough or woody stems.

5. Flaxseed
According to GA Healthinfo.gov, flaxseed is high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and phytochemicals called lignans. Flaxseed can help reduce total blood cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels - and, as a result, may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Flaxseed oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids, but it doesn't have the beneficial fiber that the seeds have.

TIP: Most nutrition experts recommend ground flaxseed because your body is better able to digest it. Whole flaxseed may pass through your intestine undigested, which means you won't get the health benefits of flaxseed.

6. Whole Grains
No other food group delivers numbers the same way whole grains do:

• Up to 36 percent lower risk of stroke
• Up to 30 percent drop in type 2 diabetes risk
• Up to 28 percent drop in heart disease risk

Plus, whole grains reduce the risk of colon cancer and obesity, maintain healthy gums, and reduce the buildup of dental plaque. (Source: The Whole Grains Council)

7. Quinoa
The 2,000yr-old "Mother Grain." Pronounced (Kin-Wa) Quinoa is highly appreciated for its nutritional value, as its protein content is very high (12-18%) making it a healthy choice for vegetarians and vegans. It is a good source of dietary fiber, phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest. (Source: California School Board for Nutritional Education)

INTERESTING FACT: Because of all these characteristics, quinoa is considered a possible crop in NASA's Controlled Ecological Life Support System for long duration manned spaceflights.

8. Fennel
Fennel, the "sleeper" vegetable, is an excellent source of potassium, making it effective for lowering blood pressure. Typically associated with spicing up an Italian or Mediterranean dish, Fennel is also a very good source of fiber, and may help to reduce elevated cholesterol levels. Since fiber also removes potentially carcinogenic toxins from the colon, fennel bulb may also be useful in preventing colon cancer.

9. Avocado
Avocados are loaded with nutrients such as dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, and folate. They're also cholesterol and sodium free. This fruit is an excellent source of monounsaturated fat, which is good for heart health. Including avocados in your low-fat diet along with a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables will help you to maintain a lower risk of some cancers, vision health, and strong bones and teeth.

TIP: A ripe avocado is firm, yet yields to gentle pressure.

10. Soy
Eating 25 grams or more of soy protein daily can help lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Plus since it's low in saturated fat, soy is also a great source of lean protein. Look for natural sources of soy protein, like edamame, tempeh, or organic silken tofu. (Source: KingCounty.gov)

TIP: But watch the amount of salt in your soy. Some processed varieties like soy dogs can contain added sodium, which boosts blood pressure.

by Jeff Hopeck | ezinearticles

5 Organic Foods Every Woman Should Eat

Here's a summary of what I consider to be the most important organic switches every woman should make, if she eats these foods.



# Daily Dairy Dose: Most women don't drink a lot of milk, but I know you're reaching for yogurt in the dairy case when you need a snack on the go. Organic yogurts don't contain added hormones and antibiotics and can have higher levels of omega-3s. Organic dairy products are not only good for our bodies - they can be much less damaging to the environment.

# Super Salads: Conventional lettuce has some of the highest levels of pesticides of any food. Choose fresh organic greens as a salad base, then slice in organic veggies to add color and vitamins. You'll benefit from almost an extra serving of fruits and vegetables a day when you choose organic greens because organic has as much as 25 percent more antioxidants.

# An Organic Apple a Day: Apples are second only to bananas on our fruit shopping lists, but most people don't know they can contain toxic pesticides and organophosphates, even when they're peeled. Choose organic apples as well as nectarines, peaches, pears, strawberries, cherries and imported grapes, as all these fruit are more vulnerable to pesticides.

# You Say Tomato, I Say Organic: The average American consumes about 90 pounds of tomatoes a year, mostly in sauces and catsup. Organic tomatoes have significantly more lycopene, an antioxidant that may lower cancer and heart disease risks and may do other wonderful things.

# Organic - It's What's for Dinner: Grass-fed beef is usually leaner than conventional beef and can contain about 5 times the good omega-3 fats. And choosing free-range beef promotes farming practices that help our environment as well.

# Bonus - Red, Red Wine: Scientists were happy to discover the health benefits of drinking a moderate amount of red wine: the antioxidant in the skin of red grapes might help slow aging, prevent cancer and do other wonderful things. Organic wines can average about 32 percent more antioxidants and go splendidly with a nice organic marinara and organic salad


Alan Greene | webmd

How to Maintain a Weight Loss Program

Maintaining a weight-loss program can be tough, but not impossible. One just need to have discipline and positive attitude to acheive your goal. Here are more suggestions on how to make sure that you are on the right track in losing weight.

Change your mentality. Stop thinking of your weight loss program as a diet. It’s just a lifestyle change that you are undergoing to make you a healthier and fitter person.


Think positive and set realistic goals. Accept that things won’t happen overnight. Don’t go to the dark side if you see slow progress. Many people eat when they are depressed. This just takes time and did say that patience is a virtue.

Chart your progress. This will keep you stay focused on your goals. It will also serve as a good moral boost when you see that you’re steadily losing weight. However, allow plateaus and don’t forget to take into account water weight gain.

Choose one day of the week when you can eat whatever you want. This is to reward yourself of a job well done. This also allows the body to burn more calories in the 24 hour period after indulging.

Pick an exercise program that you will enjoy. Vary your activities once in a while. This will keep you from getting bored.

Have a support system. There will be times when you feel blue or stuck and you think that no progress has been made. During these moments of weaknesses, you will need someone who can encourage you and talk you out of the blues. This can be a friend, family, or your partner. Why not all?

via tipz

5 Reasons You Can't Lose Weight

Even if you skip breakfast, drink too many calories, or just don't have time to plan, you can still fix your weight-loss problems.

You haven't had a bite of pizza or a lick of ice cream in, like, forever, but you still can't lose a pound. What's up with that? Here's the real what, plus some expert fixes.



1. Consciously or not, you're clueless

"Very few Americans tell the truth about what they eat," says Elizabeth Somer, R.D., author of 10 Habits That Mess Up a Woman's Diet. In one USDA study, more than 80 percent of women underestimated their daily food intake by a whopping 700 calories! Part of the problem is visual: Most people don't have a clue about what a true portion looks like, Somer says.

The fix

Find your measuring cups and spoons. And if you don't have one, buy an inexpensive kitchen scale.
Measure out the recommended portions of everything you eat for a week. You'll quickly learn to accurately identify a 1/2-cup serving of pasta, a 2-ounce muffin, a teaspoon of butter, a cup of cereal, or a 4-ounce portion of chicken.
2. You skip breakfast

Successful dieters share a common habit: They eat breakfast, say University of Colorado researchers who monitor people who have lost at least 30 pounds and kept it off for a year or more. The benefits are big. As well as preventing 10 a.m. attacks on the vending machine, eating breakfast boosts your mood, memory, and work performance.

The fix

Adopt the gold standard: Top 1 cup of whole-grain cereal with berries and fat-free or low-fat milk. Add OJ and coffee and you'll be good to go for hours.
Try the make-ahead version: The night before, put these into a preheated wide-mouth thermos: 1/2 cup old-fashioned oatmeal, a few chopped dried apricots, a pinch of brown sugar, a dash of cinnamon, a drop of almond extract, and 1 cup of hot fat-free or low-fat milk. Close tightly. In the morning, just open the thermos, sprinkle with slivered almonds, and spoon out a warm, delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast!
3. You eat without thinking

Do you nibble off the plates of others? Constantly taste while cooking? Feed small fry in "one for you, one for me" bites? Each mindless nibble averages 25 calories, and with only four mindless bites a day, you gain a pound a month!

The fix

Turn mindless eating into mindful eating, says Somer, by keeping a food journal and writing down every single thing you eat. You'll be amazed.
Eat food only when served on a plate to avoid overindulging.
Eat sitting at a table, not watching TV, driving, or flipping through magazines. And don't rush meals—enjoy each bite.
4. You drink more calories than you realize

Sugary sodas, teas, and juice drinks don't fill you up, yet they pack on pounds. So do happy hours. For example, a bottle of sweetened green tea has 140 calories, the equivalent of a chocolate chip cookie. And a large margarita can have up to 800 calories—more than four cake doughnuts!

The fix

Can't give up regular soda? Make it an occasional treat.
Nix supersized cocktails and drinks made with high-calorie mixes or cream.
At parties, alternate a glass of wine with a glass of sparkling water.
Make your own iced green tea, and sweeten lightly (1 teaspoon of sugar has only 16 calories). The plus: Home-brewed tea usually has more healthy antioxidants, which often get lost in commercial processing.
Cut juice calories by mixing 1/3 cup of OJ, apricot nectar, or your favorite juice with 2/3 cup sparkling water.
5. It's not you, it's your life

You swear you want to eat well, but in the next breath lament how hard it is to find the time, money, or mental energy to make it happen.

The fix

Try tough love: Stop blaming others, the weather, your job, your life, the dog, etc. Focus on reaching your goal. "People lose weight every day, often despite overwhelming odds," Somer says.
List your excuses, and then brainstorm solutions. Lack of time? Cook large quantities and divide into single portions to eat throughout the week. Keep meals simple, and buy prepared foods, including sliced veggies and fruit.
Finding ways to eat right makes you not only slimmer and healthier but also physically younger: Maintaining a desirable weight can take 6 years off your RealAge.

[via health.msn]

Inexpensive HIV Monitoring Technique by Victorian Researchers

A new technique for monitoring the disease on HIV sufferers has been developed by Australian scientists. This test is hiv_life_cyclecheap price wise, thus will be a soothing thing for the HIV sufferers from any country. This test has been developed by the researchers at Melbourne based Macfarlane Burnet Institute, and will enable the experts to monitor the key CD4 T cells in people with HIV virus.



These cells are perfect and true indicators of development in the disease, and are a major target of HIV virus. By targeting these cells, HIV reduces their level. Not only this, but it weakens the immunity system of the victim that gives rise to AIDS.

40 million people around the globe have been diagnosed with HIV. Three million new cases are diagnosed every year. Currently, the monitoring technique is quite expensive and pricey. This technique uses flow cytometry, and is available in limited laboratories. In these circumstances, this new inexpensive test is a ray of hope for HIV inflicted people.

Initial validation state of this technology has been achieved with the funding by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and the National Health and Medical Research Council. Research on the ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) based test has been led by Associate Professor David Anderson and Professor Suzanne Crowe. Researchers have established a company with the name of SeeD4. The received funds have reached up to $377,000 from the Medical Research Commercialization Fund (MRCF) and a $30 million fund supported by the Victorian Government. This innovative creation has been announced by Victorian Innovation Minister Gavin Jennings, who said, “The Victorian Government is taking action to promote health and lifestyle benefits through biotech initiatives, such as this new HIV test, which will also create jobs for Victorians.”

source : coolhealthtips.com

Low-Fat Dairy Products Can Help to Reduce High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure (or hypertension) is a serious health problem of modern times. It is estimated that currently, every third person above 50 suffers from hypertension, however, only 30% of such people are actually aware about high blood pressure as a reason of their poor health. Nowadays, hypertension becomes a malady of the people at much younger age than it was a century ago. Therefore, the results of a recent study carried out by a group of British and Dutch specialists, should not slip the attention of us all.


About 2245 people over 55 took part in this continuous experiment. They were grouped according to the type of dairy products they had to consume: high-fat dairy, low-fat dairy, cheese and cheese products, milk and milk products, fermented dairy. Every 6 years, the health condition of the participants was closely monitored by the scientists. It turned out that those people who followed a low-fat dairy diet (650 g a day) and regularly consumed milk products (651 g a day) had 7% lower risks of having hypertension. At that, positive changes in blood pressure could be noticed over 2 years of regular low-fat dairy consumption.

“Dairy provides minerals such as calcium and potassium which are important for blood pressure regulation. This study is an extra building block to an increasing body of evidence which suggests that dairy proteins and minerals play an important role in maintaining a healthy blood pressure,” Dr Judith Bryans, one of the leaders of the research explains. It is important that eating a low-fat dairy on a regular basis can also assist in maintaining a healthy weight and lower the risks of having high levels of bad cholesterol. The results of the Rotterdam Study were published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, April 2009.

by : Carla
source : guide2herbalremedies

Keeping Your Workplace Healthy

The last thing any business needs during trying economic times is for its employees to become ill with something that necessitates their absence and is highly communicable. For small businesses, ill employees can be even more of a hardship because there are usually fewer employees and no one to fill their slot if the employees are out sick. There is also a tendency for small business owners and employees to be less likely to take time off no matter how sick they are because it's their business and they feel they simply can't rely on anyone else to fill in for them. This can be a challenge anytime illness strikes but is particularly tough during a crisis such as a looming swine flu pandemic.



There's no need to feel helpless - as an employer, you can take proactive steps that will go a long way towards protecting your workplace. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration has recommended some basic steps that every employer can take to reduce the risk of exposure to pandemic influenza in their workplace:

* Encourage sick employees to stay at home.
* Encourage employees to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or with hand sanitizer if there is no soap or water available. Also, encourage your employees to avoid touching their noses, mouths and eyes.
* Encourage employees to cover their coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or to cough and sneeze into their upper sleeves if tissues are not available. All employees should wash their hands or use a hand sanitizer after they cough, sneeze or blow their noses.
* Employees should avoid close contact with their coworkers and customers (maintain a separation of at least six feet). They should avoid shaking hands and always wash their hands after contact with others. Even if employees wear gloves, they should wash their hands upon removal of the gloves in case their hand(s) became contaminated during the removal process.
* Provide customers and the public with tissues and trash receptacles, and with a place to wash or disinfect their hands.
* Keep work surfaces, telephones, computer equipment and other frequently touched surfaces and office equipment clean. Be sure that any cleaner used is safe and will not harm employees or office equipment. Use only disinfectants registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and follow all directions and safety precautions indicated on the label.
* Discourage employees from using other employees' phones, desks, offices or other work tools and equipment.
* Minimize situations where groups of people are crowded together, such as in a meeting. Use e-mail, phones and text messages to communicate with each other. When meetings are necessary, avoid close contact by keeping a separation of at least six feet, where possible, and assure that there is proper ventilation in the meeting room.
* Reducing or eliminating unnecessary social interactions can be very effective in controlling the spread of infectious diseases. Reconsider all situations that permit or require employees, customers and visitors (including family members) to enter the workplace. Workplaces that permit family visitors on site should consider restricting or eliminating that option during an influenza pandemic. Work sites with on-site day care should consider in advance whether these facilities will remain open or will be closed, and the impact of such decisions on employees and the business.
* Promote healthy lifestyles, including good nutrition, exercise and smoking cessation. A person's overall health impacts their body's immune system and can affect his or her ability to fight off, or recover from, an infectious disease.

While many of these steps may just seem like common sense, in our busy lives it's easy to get complacent when a sense of urgency isn't there. Practicing many of these tips on a regular basis can go a long way toward having a healthy, productive workplace. For more worker safety and health guidance for planning for a possible pandemic, go to the OSHA website and the government's pandemic flu website.

source :Catherine Gordon - toolkit

Top 10 Healthy Summer Foods for Children

Ball games, cookouts, festivals. Summer is ripe with our children’s favorite foods. Yet so many summer foods -- from BBQ turkey legs to ice cream and hot dogs -- are dietary disasters.

Can children eat healthy, yet still enjoy their favorite summer foods? Yes, they can have hamburgers, hot dogs, ice creamy treats, and desserts -- if you handle it right.



Healthy Food Rule #1: Let them eat sweets, says Sarah Krieger, MPH, RD, LD, a dietitian in St. Petersburg, FL, and an American Dietetic Association (ADA) spokeswoman. "It's really important to treat sweets like any other food, to have a little bit every day. That's how kids develop a healthy relationship with sweet foods."

Healthy Food Rule #2: Make sure they burn off the calories, says Elisa Zied, MS, RD, a nutrition consultant in New York City, author of the book Feed Your Family Right!, and an ADA spokeswoman.

At a carnival, "if your kids want a funnel cake or corn dog, go for it," Zied tells WebMD. "You don't want them to feel deprived. Pump up their activity that week or that day so they can burn it off." She also teaches kids to share sweet and fatty foods -- so everyone gets a taste, but no one overeats.

Healthy Food Rule #3: "Be a good role model," says Sheah Rarback, MS, RD, director of nutrition for the Mailman Center for Child Development at the University of Miami School of Medicine. "Expose kids to healthy foods -- or at least healthier versions of their favorites. If you eat them, your kids will eat them."

Here are healthy tips for children’s favorite summer foods:

1. Top Summer Food: Nachos & Quesadillas

Mexican food is always a treat -- and has lots of healthy elements. Start with whole-wheat chips and tortillas for extra fiber, then add your favorite toppings. Done right, you can sneak lots of veggies, protein, calcium, and fiber into these snacks.

* Create your own nacho platter, Rarback suggests. "Top tortillas with beans, salsa, guacamole, and melt low-fat cheese over it all. Kids love those kinds of healthy carbs." Toss a bit of fat-free sour cream on top if you want.
* Puree different veggies -- then slip them into a chip dip, or use it as a nacho topping. Your kids won't know the difference!
* Quesadillas are another kid favorite. Top whole-wheat tortillas with beans, low-fat cheese, veggies (like red bell and green peppers, corn, green onions, spinach, mushrooms), and chicken. On the side, you've got the classic quartet -- low-fat sour cream, lettuce, salsa, guacamole -- also healthy.

2. Top Summer Food: Hamburgers & Hot Dogs

This all-American duo has always been trouble -- full of fat, sodium, and cholesterol. The good news is, you can improve nutrition by making a few wise choices.

* If you grill burgers at home, mix it up. Use one-half lean beef and one-half ground turkey. Add a little applesauce or egg white for extra juiciness, Krieger suggests. Fun toppings -- lemon or orange zest, black pepper, salsa, BBQ sauce, pineapple. A slice of a summer tomato and some fresh-from-the-garden lettuce tops off the taste.
* Frozen veggie burgers on whole-wheat buns are another good option. Try grilling them, and toast the bun, too. Lots of fixings boost the enjoyment factor.
* Try light and reduced-fat hot dogs, including chicken and turkey dogs. They taste best hot off the grill, Krieger says.
* Switch gears: Grill skinless chicken breasts and lots of veggies -- onions, bell peppers, carrots, squash, eggplant. "These taste great with a little olive oil brushed on," says Zied. "Serve them cut up into small pieces -- or with some melted cheese on toasted French bread."

3. Top Summer Food: Ice Cream

It's hard to resist ice cream. But premium ice creams have about 15 grams or more fat per 1/2 cup serving.

* Sweet news here: Many well-known brands -- Dreyers/Edy's, Breyers, and Haagen-Dazs -- are making super-creamy "light" and "slow-churned" ice creams that cut lots of fat and calories. Read labels carefully. Plain flavors like chocolate and vanilla have about 100 calories per half-cup, while other flavors are 120 to 130 calories -- even 250 calories per serving.
* Another option: "If kids get a Fudgsicle or Popsicle, they'll be dodging lots of fat and sugar," Krieger says. In fact, Fudgsicles now come in fat-free or low-fat, no sugar added versions. Popsicles are fat-free, even sugar-free if you want. And both have built-in portion control, she adds.
* Make your own frozen fruit pops. Buy molds and sticks at a crafts store. Pour in your favorite fruit juice (with fruit chunks, if you want), and freeze. It's an easy yummy treat for a hot summer day.

4. Top Summer Food: Frozen Yogurt

Frozen yogurt sounds healthier than ice cream -- or maybe not. "You have to read food labels to see," says Krieger. "Some have more sugar than low-fat ice cream. Others are the equivalent of sherbet. It can be tricky."

With desserts, you don't want to go for empty calories -- and that's where frozen yogurt fits in, says Bonnie Taub-Dix, MA, RD, a New York City dietitian and also an ADA spokeswoman. "Go for foods that are valuable and taste good at the same time."

* How about frozen yogurt pie? Crunch up graham crackers (or buy a graham cracker pie shell), spoon frozen yogurt into it, top with fresh strawberries or raspberries, then freeze.
* Fruit and yogurt parfait, topped with granola, is another easy dessert. Or, spoon frozen yogurt between two low-fat cookies. You could also make a smoothie, using fresh blueberries, grapes, and strawberries.

5. Top Summer Food: Waffles & Pancakes

This classic breakfast food is fun for kids. It's made easier with frozen, whole grain, reduced-fat products. The toppings boost the nutrition: natural applesauce, blueberries, sliced banana and strawberries, and a little light syrup, Zied suggests.

* Another classic: Scrambled eggs mixed with low-fat shredded cheddar, tomatoes, asparagus, mushrooms (or whatever veggies your kids like).
* Scrambled-eggs-in-a-cup: Take a slice of whole wheat bread, break it up into a cup, top with the cooked egg mixture. You're good to go!

6. Top Summer Food: Marshmallows

What's cool about marshmallows? "Even kids with food allergies can eat them," Krieger says. "Give one to a child who can't eat a chocolate chip cookie and you're sure to get a smile."

* Four large marshmallows have 90 calories -- mostly sugar. To give 'em a nutrition boost, try skewering marshmallows with strawberries and other fruit.
* Of course, toasted marshmallows and S'mores are American standards. If your kids haven't discovered these classic treats, it's time! Just toast a marshmallow over a grill or campfire, place it over a chunk of chocolate. Put it between two graham crackers (a good source of whole grains).

7. Top Summer Food: Popcorn

Whole grains help keep kids from gaining weight, and popcorn qualifies as a whole grain. In fact, a recent study showed that people who eat popcorn regularly get about 22% more fiber in their diet, compared to people who don't eat popcorn.

The only problem is all the fat that accompanies many brands of microwave popcorn. There are some low-fat versions out there, so read labels carefully, says Rarback.

* Air-popping popcorn is your healthiest option. Or make your own microwave popcorn: Place 3 tablespoons of kernels in a brown bag, roll it up, and pop in the microwave. Then spray with butter and add Parmesan cheese or salt. That's about 80 calories.
* Put limits on how much your child eats, Rarback advises. "Instead of putting it in a huge bowl, put a reasonable amount in a small bowl. Make that their serving."

8. Top Summer Food: Watermelon

There's no doubt that watermelon is good for kids -- with its high concentration of lycopene, an important disease-fighting antioxidant. Watermelon is 92% water and 8% sugar, and a favorite sweet treat for kids.

* Make sure watermelon wedges make it to your table. But don't stop there. A platter or bowl of other seasonal fruits -- fresh blueberries, strawberries, cherries, peaches, plums -- makes a yummy treat, too.
* Taub-Dix suggests putting the fruit bowl in the freezer, and serving it frozen. Her 13-year-old son, Jesse, would rather have the fruit in a smoothie instead. "You won't get kids to pick up frozen fruit," he says. "But a smoothie would be great."
* Introduce kids to fun veggies, too, says Rarback. "Edamame is fun to eat because you pop out the little soy beans out of the pod. It's an engaging thing. But have most kids ever tried it?" Include edamame on raw veggie platters, along with baby carrots, celery sticks, asparagus tips, cherry tomatoes -- plus nutritious dips like hummus or low-fat yogurt.

9. Top Summer Food: Anything Sweet

Chocolate cakes, carrot cakes, cakes of every flavor are all-American picnic fare. Is that really such a bad thing?

If they eat just a slice, that's fine, says Rarback. "In the summer, kids should be active enough that they can eat a piece of cake if they want it -- especially if the majority of their foods are nutrient rich. It's all about balance and moderation."

* Bake cupcakes, brownies, or dessert bars -- instead of layer cakes -- for portion control. Lighten up cake and brownie mixes by replacing oil with half oil and half applesauce (or another fruit puree).
* To give kids a chocolate fix, use chocolate shavings for flavoring on angel food cake, frozen yogurt, seasonal fruit, or other healthier treats. "It's better than giving them a candy bar," Rarback says.
* A naturally sweet treat: grilled bananas, low-fat ice cream, a drizzle of melted chocolate -- and light whipped topping .

10. Top Summer Food: Thirst Quenchers

At the ballpark, at the carnival -- it's hard to find a good replacement for soda, says Zied. "Even lemonade isn't a great option, with all the added sugar."

"One soda once in awhile is fine," she says. "But I also give my kids the option of choosing whether they want a can of soda or three cookies instead. I let them make the choice. That empowers them to not waste calories."

* Share those huge lemonades -- divide it in cups. Dilute with a bit with water.
* Carry fruit juice with you. Or, flavor ice water with an artificially sweetened powder. "If it's hot, they're not going to fuss over drinking water," Zied says.
* Another option: Make a spritzer with exotic fruit juices (like pomegranate or noni juice) plus sparkling water. Or, use blueberry extract with sparkling water. "Kids love blue food," says Rarback.


source : Jeanie Lerche Davis - children.webmd.com

How to Eat Healthy on an Event Filled Weekend

Weekend events, special occasions, work trips and holiday weekends are always challenging when it comes to eating. Even I (whose job is to be healthy) have a difficult time with this—so it boils down to the lesser of the evils—I try to do my best with the worst experience.

When I corresponded for the Kentucky Derby for NBC, I flew from a business trip in California to Kentucky, which was challenging in itself. Being on airplanes, not sleeping and not having your own kitchen is one thing. Add a rigorous schedule and nighttime parties and you have a challenge.

Follow my steps for the next time you have an event-filled weekend.




Instructions

1. Step 1

Use what is provided and start off the best way you can. My schedule didn't allow to stop for meals. What was provided to me was a snack basket, so I immediately determined the best choices. The package of six wheat crackers with cheddar cheese beat out the sugary granola bars, chips and candy. Although there were way more complicated ingredients than I normally care for, the crackers were wheat, the portion and calories were reasonable (230) and most importantly, the cheese had protein. One of the two-pack granola bars combined with a handful of nuts would provide similar value. I also had a few Starbursts, because nobody is perfect, and my snacks consisted of two small dark chocolate bars with nuts and two of the dangerous Oreos. These aren't ideal, but choosing one to two small, sweet snacks isn't horrendous.

2.Step 2

Festive weekends often come with sugary signature cocktails, so you must deal with what you have. If you foresee drinking more than one drink, follow my clear liquor or wine rule or make my SkinnyGirl recipes (see Resources below). If you don't feel like dealing with custom orders, have one of your sugary cocktails and savor it. Enjoy one per day—nothing is forbidden.

3.Step 3

Remember to sleep. Compare the consequences of a night out with a nice calm dinner or room service and a good night's sleep. Lack of sleep makes you crave junk food for comfort.

4.Step 4

When ordering room service meals or fattening food options, just have a little bit of what you love.

5.Step 5

Make your diet a puzzle and fill in what you are missing. During my Derby weekend, eating cheese and crackers made me want a good Sunday night meal. I had already invested in two chocolate-covered oreos, a sliver of cheesecake and a mint julep, so my sugar moment needed to end. Protein was essential. With that, I had a scoop of the chicken and cheese off the nachos, some more chicken from my cobb salad and a spoonful of chili. I wouldn't win any awards, but I had what I wanted in reasonable quantities. Lunch had been vegetables and salad, so now it was protein time.

6.Step 6

Have fun, sleep well, don't go overboard and deal with the situation at hand.

source : By Bethenny Franke - ehow.com

20 Ways to Get More Energy

If you’re tired all the time, a change in what you eat (diet) or what you do all day (activity pattern) may be all you need to turn things around 180°.

You won’t be able to do everything on this list all the time — you’d tire yourself out trying to get more energy — but do try them all to see which ones work for you and your schedule. Add a few of these tips to your regular routine. Or mix them up to keep things interesting.


1. Change your socks for refreshment.

It’s an amazing trick. Bring a change of socks to work, and change your socks midway through the day (say, after lunch). You’ll be amazed at how much fresher you’ll feel. This trick is especially handy on days with lots of walking — like during a hike or family outing to the amusement park.

2. Rock out loud.

Whether you work alone or in a room with coworkers, a quick one-song rock out loud session is an effective way to beat back exhaustion.

In a cube farm? Get everyone to sing along! The key is to choose a song that everyone can sing along with. (I like Kokomo.) The energy boosting effect comes from bobbing your head and singing out loud. One song, 3 minutes. That’s a quick boost of adrenaline that lasts for a bit. You’ll be singing to yourself the rest of the never ending project delivery night.

3. Get rid of the stuffy nose.

If allergies have your sinuses blocked, you may be feeling more tired and cranky. An over-the-counter allergy medication should clear up your sinuses (and your mind).

4. Work with your body’s clock.

There is a natural ebb and flow of energy throughout the day. We start off sluggish after waking up, even after a solid 8 hours of sleep. Our energy peaks mid-morning, and it’s natural to want a siesta in the afternoon. We get a second spike of energy in the early evening, followed by our lowest energy point just before bedtime. Once you understand this natural rhythm of energy throughout the day, you can work on the important tasks during your peak hours and avoid early afternoon snoozefests (meetings).

5. Have a piece of chocolate.

Not too much, but if you’re going to have some candy, it might as well be chocolate. We get an endorphin buzz from chocolate (not to mention the energy boost from the slight bit of caffeine chocolate contains). Dark chocolate has more caffeine than milk chocolate.

6. Have an afternoon power snack.

A small healthy snack that is low in sugar and has protein and/or fiber a couple hours after lunch helps you finish off the day strong. Some suggestions:

* mixed nuts
* nonfat yogurt
* apple and peanut butter
* frozen berrie smoothie
* trail mix
* granola bar

7. Hit up the water cooler for inconsequential banter.

A little midday gossip and random banter is a great pick-me-up for your tired mind. It works because it gets your mind on zero-stress thoughts for a while. The mental break for just a few minutes will revitalize you.

8. Eat lots of berries.

Especially berries that are blue, red, or purple. The color comes from anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant, that boosts energy. Any kind of berry will contain tons.

9. Wear brighter colors.

This trick is related to the mood you project to people, and the reciprocating mood they project towards you. If you wear dark, somber colors, you project a dark, somber attitude, and people will respond to you with a somber attitude. If you wear bright, happy colors, you’ll get that attitude projected towards you, which will boost your own mood and energy levels.

10. Take a power nap.

But do it in your chair. Don’t lie down on the sofa or you won’t get back up. Keep it short: 5-10 minutes max. Any longer and it will have the opposite effect of knocking you out for the rest of the day.

11. Flirt.

It’s fun, it’s harmless (keep it innocent), and it’s effective. Nothing quite gets the heart pumping like a little flirting.
12. Aromatherapy with lavender.

Research has shown that the lavender scent increases alertness. Test subjects were given math tests before and after 3 minutes of lavender aromatherapy. The group completed the tests faster and more accurately after aromatherapy.

13. Wake up at the same time everyday.

Including weekends. This sets your body clock. Otherwise, you’ll be wide awake when you should be asleep. Or worse, asleep when you should be awake (dozing off in a meeting is embarrassing). The key is to go to bed at the same time every night. If you need to reset your sleep cycle in one day, stop eating for the 16 hours before the time you want to wake up.

14. Drink lots of water.

Dehydration is a sinister cause of fatigue because it slowly creeps up on you. If you consistently drink less than 8 cups of water a day, you may be sluggish all the time. Get a 32 oz (1 quart, 4 cups) water bottle. Your goal is to polish off 2 of those a day. Try it for a week and see if your general energy level increases.

15. Use caffeine wisely.

Coffee and caffeinated sodas can boost your alertness, but be careful about letting it be a habitual crutch. The temptation to drink more caffeine to get even more energy will be strong. Eventually you’ll be downing 5 double-shot espressos a day just to function. Drink coffee earlier in the day to avoid insomnia, which will make the next day worse.
16. Avoid energy drinks.

Energy drinks provide a near-instant hyperactivity boost, but they always result in a crash. Energy drinks are like energy credit cards — you’re spending future energy to get short-term energy. The resulting energy deficit gets worse until you hit energy bankruptcy.

17. Eat low glycemic (low or complex carb) foods.

Trade in good, complex carbohydrates (low glycemic index) for the bad, simple carbs (sugar). Carbohydrates with a high glycemic index means the sugar is more easily digested by your body. That results in a spike in energy followed by a low-sugar crash.

High glycemic index foods to avoid include white bread, potato, and high sugar foods (like sodas). Low glycemic foods (the good carb foods) include fruits and vegetables, grains (eg., whole wheat bread), low-carb foods (eg., meats), and pasta. Check this chart of foods and their glycemic index before your next trip to the grocery store.

18. Eat more soluble fiber.

Soluble fiber is the kind that slows down the rate of absorption of sugars. It evens out your energy levels by preventing a sugar high and crash. (By the way, insoluble fiber is the kind that prevents constipation.) Don’t worry too much about which kind of fiber you’re getting — they’re both good for you. Rotate more high soluble fiber foods like nuts, grains, fruits, plant matter (vegetables), beans, and oats into your diet.
19. Get your Vitamin C.

Get a daily dose of citrus fruits (eg., orange juice in the morning) or a vitamin C tablet. Study after study shows the correlation between citric acid deficiency and chronic fatigue. Vitamin C also helps you absorb more nutrients from food.

20. Sniff some citrus.

In addition to the Vitamin C, citrus scents (like orange, lemon and lime) stimulate alertness. So lather on some of that lemon scented lotion.

source : zenhabits.net

Drinking Very Hot Tea Is Linked to Developing Throat Cancer

It is difficult to imagine that such a therapeutic drink as our favorite tea, which is known for its anti-aging and anti-cancerous properties, can contribute to possible development of cancer. But, it is not really about tea itself, it is all about its temperature. According to the results of a recent study published in the British Medical Journal, regular drinking really very hot tea at the temperature above 70C drastically increases the risks of having esophageal cancer. At the same time, the researchers are convinced that drinking hot tea (65-70C) also increases the risk of having esophageal cancer twice. Annually, this type of cancer kills about a half million of people.



The study was initiated by an international group of scientists in Northern Iran, in Golestan province, where the rates of esophageal cancer occurrence is extremely high. 300 residents diagnosed with esophageal cancer and 570 healthy locals were interviewed and asked questions about their tea drinking habits. Overwhelming majority of the participants with cancer (about 98%) reported about their habit of drinking very hot tea in under two minutes. In cooperation with the British, American, Australian, French and Swedish medical specialists, the researchers continued their study and analyzed tea drinking habits of nearly 50,000 Iranian tea lovers. The results proved the fact that there is a strong connection between regular consumption of very hot tea and developing esophageal cancer.

“These findings are not cause for alarm, however, and they should not reduce public enthusiasm for the time-honored ritual of drinking tea,” says David C. Whiteman, PhD, one of the leaders of the research. His colleague, Oliver Childs, a spokesman for Cancer Research UK, commented on the study as the following: “People in the region of northern Iran often drink very hot tea as part of their daily routine. We’re a nation of tea lovers in the UK, but we don’t tend to drink tea at such high temperatures and we usually add milk, which cools it down.” If you do not like adding milk to your tea, in order to avoid negative effects of the hot beverage you should wait for about 3-4 minutes before drinking freshly boiled black, green or herbal tea.

source : Carla - guide2herbalremedies.com

4 Health Tips to Keep You Looking Good

It’s not all about veggies and exercise. Being fit is something you should prepare for because it’s a program. It can’t be a one-time jog around your neighborhood. It’s a habit you build up so that you add quality to your life. Know how you can improve your health with these tips:



Chili peppers. Eating chili peppers cause you to release heat. When your body produces heat it uses up energy and calories. Burn off that excess fat by getting into food with chili peppers. They contain substances that increase heat production and oxygen consumption.

Hot the spa. Spa is very popular these days, what with the need for stress relievers. If you’ve been working like a dog for months now, and you feel your body getting over-exhausted, and sleep cannot recuperate your body aches, why not head for the nearest spa and bask in pleasure for a few hours. Make it your reward for the months you’ve toiled. You’ll feel refreshed and relaxed, which means you are more ready to continue your working — this time in a happier mood.

Eat cheese. Cheese can save your teeth from getting damaged due to loss of enamel. When you eat, your teeth get damaged. Eating cheese stimulates saliva, neutralizes acid, reduces sticking of bacteria to enamel and promotes remineralization by casein, calcium and phosphorus.

Stay hot. Hot due to exercise, and hot as in foxy hot. Working out means a lot of sweat. If that is not handled properly, it could lead to hygiene problems. The pollution in the area where you jog gets to your skin so you have to make sure they don’t cause a pimple outbreak. Wash your face regularly with a mild cleanser, especially after a workout. Food can also help your skin glow. Try a diet that’s high in fiber, whole grains, veggies and fruits so your skin will be supplied of nutrients. Try saying no to junk food.

source : Alex - lifespy.com

Top 5 Reasons for Everyone to Eat Slower

We all know that eating fast is very harmful for our health. However, we frequently regard eating as nothing else but just a routine activity and eat really fast. Is there anyone who is not aware that eating fast leads to various problems with digestive system, overeating and weight gain? Look at the French or the Japanese: they seem to be healthier and more fit because their culture of eating has been developing for centuries and these people find eating to be a truly enjoyable experience.



Our fast rhythm of life is a real evil. Sometimes it does not allow us enjoy simple moments of peace and relaxation. The reports show that average meal in the US is only 11 minutes, and sometimes the time for having breakfasts decreases down to 2 minutes. This problem should be taken as a serious matter of social concern and every modern person should think carefully about own eating habits. Below, you can find 5 reasons why you should consider eating slowly as one of the most beneficial and advantageous practices:

1.Eating slowly can help you avoid overeating and prevent weight gain. Many experts agree on the fact that fast eating is strictly linked to overeating. Usually, it takes 15-20 minutes for our brain to receive information that we are full. Therefore, eating slowly can help to avoid eating extra food and prevent consuming extra calories. Besides, according to a research of the specialists from the Energy Metabolism Laboratory at the University of Rhode, eating slowly eventually leads to eating less.

2. Eating slowly can improve your digestion and help you prevent possible problems with digestive system. If you have a habit of eating slowly, your stomach will have more time to process and digest the meals consumed. In addition, eating slower always connected with more chewing and better mixing the food with saliva, that also favors better digestion and lowers the burden on our digestive system.

3. Eating slowly can make you learn to enjoy what you eat. Start developing this habit of enjoying your meals from eating your most favorite meals as slowly as you can. Enjoy every bite, every piece of your favorite pizza, or fries, or lasagna. You should learn to receive pleasure of what you are eating, but not of the amounts of the meals consumed. This way you will start paying attention on what you eat and slowly shift to eating tasty, natural and healthy foods.

4. Eating slowly can help you avoid unnecessary stresses. Eating can be a pleasurable event, which should bring you more of positive emotions and help you to calm down your worries and anxiety. Turn your eating ritual into a sort of meditation, enjoy every piece of your meals and forget about everything that possibly brings you trouble. You will definitely feel happier and calmer after such a relaxation.

5. Eating slowly can help you understand a real taste of life. Slow eating can not only help us to learn enjoying the taste of good meals, to improve our digestion and learn to relax. It can also define our life style and help us to be more sociable. Taking more time for eating in a company of friends or your family environment is a unique opportunity to talk to the people you love, get closer and share the most special things and moments of your life.

by : Carla
source : guide2herbalremedies.com