Tag Archive for ‘Medicine’

Knowing nutritional guidelines

Published on July 25, 2009 in Medicine. Closed
by Anastacia Sampson

Many foods are packaged with accompanying nutritional information written on the packaging. It may be read and taken at face value. However many factors determine your true gains of nutrients.

Farming conditions can alter a plants level of nutrients! Any one seasons harvest can have different nutritional levels to another season. As we know, we receive our nutrients from plants or other foods. Foods all receive their nutrients from the soil or sea, which receive their nutrients from rocks. Rocks are not just stubborn pieces of art, as those rocks hard stones hold the nutrients! Through the processes of erosion there is scrapping away to permit release of nutrients, to filter into accessible water and soil.

If you have a garden it would be helpful to have stones around, as they certainly have their place. It is through planting and taking many times that depletes our soils. We need to give back. The plant can not demand to have a certain level of nutrients because the packet or box said it will have it! Plants only take what is available.

Climates affect plants and when growing in different climates the same type of plants have different nutrient content. Needs alter according to where we live and the climate affects nutritional needs. Note when you read the nutritional information of two similar foods, as information on various brands can be provided by different sources. On any day if we all ate exactly the same level of nutrients, our absorption tends to differ. Stress tends to lower rates of nutrient absorption and retention of nutrients.

Health professionals aid us as individuals to asses whether or not we are receiving levels of nutrients to match our requirements. By having nutritional charts we manage to benefit anyone to be generally healthy! Nutritional charts are great but recognise the individuality factor! No use to delude ourselves to believe we are all identical as our bodies do not absorb the same percentage of any given food or nutrient. It is recognised that we absorb more if we need it, yet other factors disrupt this; such as alcoholism, certain drugs and digestive-related disruptions.

Nutritional guidelines can sway choices along a healthy way. Do not worry about the extra calorie to the detriment of better mineral levels in foods. Watch of calorie content should not accompany dismissal of the levels of minerals and vitamins. Use whole foods to be on a more nutritious path to lead to health. Indeed a little of nutritious fatty nuts may support some people to lose weight, as we need minerals and vitamins to actually burn calories. We will always need minerals and vitamins; have a balanced view and intake of nutrients.

About the Author:
Anastacia Sampson is a Nutritional Medicine Practitioner and freelance journalist, and lives in East London in South Africa. It is through consulting and advising the public on nutritional information that her health book has been published. Anastacia also runs a website, Healthy Living, where you will find information on Processed Foods.
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Medicinal Mushroom Used in Korea as Cancer Therapy Adjunct

Published on July 21, 2009 in Nutrition. Closed
by Dr. Markho Rafael

There's a new star on the medicinal mushroom sky. It goes by Phellinus linteus in Latin. The little known English common name is Black Hoof Fungus. It's far more common, even in America, to hear it referred to by its Japanese name as Mesima.

Common to southern United States and Southeast Asia, Phellinus linteus is a polypore on hardwood trees such as poplar, oak and mulberry. [1]

Unlike most medicinal mushroom species, which were originally used in China or Japan, Phellinus linteus first became popular in Korea as a complement to traditional cancer therapies such as radiation and chemotherapy.

From Korea, its reputation has spread like wildfire around the world. Doctors across the globe are now beginning to use it as an immune booster [2-11], and especially for preventing cancer metastasis. [5,10,12-17] Apart from Korea, Phellinus linteus is particularly popular in Japan, the U.S., and the Middle East from Israel to Turkey.

It may have all began when a 1996 Korean study reported that Phellinus linteus extract exhibited a broader range of immune enhancing and anti-cancer properties than the extracts from other species of medicinal mushrooms. [4]

Years later, American world-renown mycologist Paul Stamets helped deepen our understanding of Phellinus linteus when he published a comparative analysis with the most common medicinal mushroom species: Agaricus blazei, Lion's Mane, Chaga, Reishi, Maitake and Cordyceps. [18]

Phellinus linteus had a stronger effect than any of them on the part of the immune system known as macrophages. The activity of this type of white blood cell increased by 5,700% when Phellinus linteus extract was administered in an amount equivalent to 3,750 mg for an average size adult (165 lbs). [18]

It should be noted that macrophages may promote cancer growth as well as fight cancer. The research that has been published about Phellinus linteus extract indicates that it enhances the anti-cancer properties of macrophages. [8,14,19,20]

Additional reports have been published on cases of "spontaneously" regressed cancers, where the patients reported having used Phellinus linteus by their own choice:

1. A 2004 paper out of Japan reported "a hormone refractory prostate cancer patient with rapidly progressive bone metastasis who showed dramatic response to intake of an extract from the mushroom, Phellinus linteus." [15]

2. Next out was a Korean article published in 2005, which reported on a patient who "ingested mushroom called Phellinus linteus for one and a half years" before exhibiting "spontaneous regression" of liver cancer and skull metastasis. [17]

3. And then one year later, in 2006, another Japanese article was published on "a case of spontaneous regression of hepatocellular carcinoma with multiple lung metastases." The 79-year-old patient had been taking an extract of Phellinus linteus Mycelium for a month. When examined by his doctor 6 months later, his tumors had disappeared. [16]

Note: This article is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose any disease. It is intended for informational purposes only. Phellinus linteus is not approved by the FDA. Never use any herb or mushroom for medicinal purposes without first consulting a licensed medical professional.

About the Author:
Dr. Rafael currently focuses on medicinal mushrooms research, having worked with natural health since the mid-90's. He partners with Cordyceps Reishi Extract, LLC, a business offering premium quality medicinal mushroom products including Phellinus linteus extract. For article references, go the Phellinus linteus reference page.
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Dealing with Cellulite on Leg Problem

Published on July 10, 2009 in Health. Closed
by Mandy Adamsen

Having cellulite on leg is common for most people. These cellulite can also affect other parts of the body but the legs and thighs stand the most chance of developing it. A lot of women have cellulite in their legs and thighs. Those who have severe conditions may never be able to wear skirts and shorts again. This is why some people shouldn't just dismiss cellulite as merely a cosmetic problem.

For some time now, cellulite has been considered a minor problem in the field of cosmetics. This is because cellulite is not really life threatening. It won't kill you to have cellulite. It can however, make you suffer emotionally. A lot of people have suffered from depression because of cellulite. The unsightliness of cellulite makes it embarrassing. Once it gets worse, you would want to hide your body even from people who are close to you.

If you don't like the idea of hiding and covering up, you could try a couple of other good solutions. Here are some suggestions on how to successfully battle cellulite on leg and thigh problems:

Liposuction

This is the preferred surgical procedure if you want to get rid of cellulite. In this procedure, a thin tube is inserted through a small incision. The cellulite will then be suctioned out. Liposuction though is very expensive and may not even work for a lot of people. Elderly patients and those who have inelastic skin may eventually suffer from a worse cellulite condition after liposuction. The procedure is also not advisable for overweight individuals. It is merely a toning procedure and not intended for weight loss.

There are qualifications if you want to submit yourself as a liposuction candidate. You should be physically fit, emotionally fit, have elastic skins and close to your ideal weight. Candidates should also have realistic expectations. Even when liposuction is successful, some individuals do still end up with some remaining cellulite.

Of course, like any surgical procedure, it also has its risks and side effects. After the procedure, you would have to endure some bruising and swelling. In some cases, individuals may also suffer from infections, anesthesia reactions, bleeding and organ puncture.

Natural Solutions

If you don't want to spend so much for liposuction, there are other options for you. One good alternative for people who cannot undergo the procedure is to use natural solutions and remedies.

One great natural solution is to use an anti cellulite cream. A good cream product should ne able to penetrate into the skin of your legs and thighs to help break down fat and improve blood circulation so that cellulite can be eliminated from the body. Make sure that your natural product contains cellulite fighting ingredients. Some of the ingredients that have been deemed beneficial are caffeine, L-carnitine and green tea extract among others. For best results, always use your anti cellulite product only as indicated. Maintaining good habits is also a must. If you don't eat right and exercise, you will make your cellulite on leg problems worse. It's like putting the fat back after getting rid of it.

About the Author:
What's the right thing to do with your cellulite on leg? Use the natural cellulite remedy that works.
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Background On Finger Pulse Oximeter Units And Which Pulse Oximeters For Sale Are The Best

Published on June 28, 2009 in Health. Closed
by Ally Park

A Pulse oximeter is a unit that monitors oxygenation of blood by measuring the percentage of haemoglobin saturated with O2. It is attached to the finger or ear lobe and measures the blood flow past a computerized probe in the meter. A sound or graph is usually displayed to show each pulse beat.

Two wavelengths, 650nm & 805nm are normally used as the light source that is emitted from the probe that is absorbed by the haemoglobin in the blood. The amount of saturation is indicative of the oxygenation in the blood. If blood flow is slow, there may be problems in the functioning of the pulse oximeter.

There are several situations where a pulse oximeter may not be accurate. Vasoconstriction and Venous congestion may have negative affects on the readings. Random things such as bright overhead lights and nail varnish have been known to cause false readings. Also, the presence of carbo-xyhamoglobin (methaemglobin) can cause mis-readings due to the fact that pulse oximeters can't distinguish between different types of haemoglobin.

In procedures requiring anaesthesia, pulse oximeters are put to use in monitoring oxygenation in blood as well as pulse rates. During situations of intensive care such as mechanical ventilation, pulse oximeters have been successfully used in the detection of oxygenation related problems before they manifest. Oximetry can also be used to analyze the efficiency of oxygen therapy.

A pulse oximeter is used to monitor oxygenation. However, it cannot measure the metabolism of oxygen. For oxygen metabolism, you must measure carbon dioxide levels.

Pilots flying in a non-pressurized airplanes use portable pulse oximeters to measure the amount of supplemental oxygen that is required, if required. In situations where oxygen levels may decrease, such as high altitudes and vigorous exercise, portable pulse oximeters have been very useful. People like mountain climbers and professional athletes have utilized these portable oximeters for this purpose.

Pulse oximeter applications have increased and data obtained from them has been used to create new uses. Blood volume loss is one such new realization of the capabilities of a pulse oximeter. An algorithm has been devised over eyars of experimentation which makes use of blood oxygenation and haemoglobin absorption levels to yield blood volume measurements.

Household pulse oximeter units can now be found at a variety of places and at prices that normal families can afford. Brand names like Nellcor, Checkmate, and Nonin have finger pulse oximeters for sale like portable oximeter and finger pulse oximeter.

About the Author:
To see the Pulse Oximeters For Sale models that Ally Park recommends, check out these units and models of finger pulse oximeter and portable pulse oximeters for sale.
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Discovering Natural Substances that Help Get Rid of Nail Fungus

Published on June 7, 2009 in Beauty. Closed
by Rashel Dan

It may take some patience to get rid of nail fungus. The condition, known as Onychomycosis in the medical field, is used to refer to nail fungus. It is made up of very tiny organisms that may infect both fingernails and toenails. Such organisms are called dermatophytes. Fungus prefers a warm, damp and dark environment for it to grow. Because of wearing socks and shoes, toenails are more susceptible to nail fungus than fingernails.

Why is it tough to cure nail fungus?

Nails are protective barriers. They serve as protection to our fingers and toes. However, once nail fungus moves in under the nail, the same nails that are supposed to protect us, actually works against us. The nails serve as a covering that protects the fungus instead. And since the fungus lives underneath the nail, it is more difficult to reach and stop.

Are there natural substances that help treat nail fungus?

Yes, there are natural substances that help get rid of nail fungus. When looking for the right treatment for nail fungus, it is best to choose a topical solution that includes these substances. It works extremely well and is safer to use, since it does not have any adverse side effects, unlike prescription medicines. Here are some things you have to look for when choosing a topical solution:

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is known to promote healthy skin. It is also a known antifungal. In Australia, it has been recognized as a potent antiseptic for much longer than there has been scientific evidence. And now, recent studies show that tea tree oil has a role in skin care. Terpenoids, which are found in tea tree oil, helps promote healthy nails.

Almond Oil

A good solution will not only fight the infection but also smooth your skin. This is to avoid irritation to your skin, which is very important in achieving healthier looking fingers and toes. Almond oil is known to relieve itching due to dryness and moisturize dry skin.

Jojoba Oil

This oil is essential in promoting skin health. For many centuries, Native Americans used the oil from jojoba seeds to improve their skin condition. The oils from jojoba seeds helps prevent moisture loss from skin. When paired with natural antifungal and antibacterial substances, then surely you can fight fungal infection and at the same time keep your skin smooth and soft to the touch.

Lemongrass Oil

Most creams and lotions have an awful medicinal smell. If you are treating fingernail fungus with such treatment, it can be very embarrassing especially when shaking hands with the people you meet. Fortunately, there is a topical solution that has lemongrass, which exhibits a soothing smell. Lemongrass is actually used in perfumery and aromatherapy.

These are some substances that help get rid of nail fungus. When looking for nail fungus treatment, avoid prescription medicines that have potential negative side effects. Go for the natural, safe and effective choice. Use a topical solution that contains these ingredients so that you can both fight the infection and have better skin.

About the Author:
Don't run the risk of complications and get rid of nail fungus the natural way. Try the safest products as cure for toenail fungus.
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Holistic Acne Treatments and Medicines

Published on June 7, 2009 in Acne. Closed
by Richard May

Acne is really an internal condition which can be effected by a number of external factors. It also shows itself in an external way with the appearance of spots and soreness of the skin. You need to learn about what external factors affect and trigger your acne, if you can do this then you have a much better chance of bringing your acne under control. This is very important because if the acne is not brought under control, holistic acne treatments are not going to be as effective.

Skin cleansers are commonly available over the counter from your chemist, they normally claim to be able to help with exfoliation and medicate the skin. However if these products contain benzoyl peroxide, they can sometimes cause more irritation and allergy reactions.

Therefore you can try using 100 percent natural facial soaps, those which are anti-bacterial and antiseptic are even better. Soaps which are based on tea tree oils can have a very positive effect on your skin and reduce some of the common acne symptoms. If you buy some soaps such as this then try to wash with them twice a day for maximum effectiveness.

Try to get into the routine of steaming before washing your face. Doing this can have a very good effect on the skin over a period of time. Wet the soap using lukewarm water and then apply the soap to your face gently using your fingertips. Try to do this in a circular motion and be careful not to rub any of the soap into your eyes. Then wash your face gently and pat the skin down using a soft cotton towel to dry yourself. Remember not to wash your face too much which can increase the chances of causing irritation.

Internal ways of treating your acne often go overlooked when they can actually place a big part in the control and curing of your acne. One such way to treat acne internally is to increase your intake of natural water, ideally the recommended daily amount is ten glasses a day. The effect of this is to help balance the oil secretion which can lead to acne problems.

In relation to external factors, you will probably be more familiar with these and how to overcome them. One good example is aloe vera cream which when used regularly, can reduce dryness and soreness of the skin. This is much more effective than using un-natural acne treatments which an have a negative effect on acne affected skin.

Acne sufferers often suffer from an excess of oil on the skin combined with large pores. This is often caused by a hormonal imbalance which consequently means that the sebaceous glands produce too much oil. If this is the case with you, you can start to treat this problem by firstly not using water and alcohol astrigent. Instead of this, try to find a neutrogena soap. In particular neutrogena clear pore oil controlling astrigent which can have a very good affect on your acne condition. Apart from this you could also use a natural mask composed of egg whites or bentonitre.

However if you have sensitive skin you need to try and test out any new products or treatments on a smaller area of skin such as your chin before using it fully. Alternatively there are many holistic medicine and acne treatments around now which are very effective.

About the Author:
Even though these soaps and creams being available, people are now turning to holistic medicine and acne treatments which have become very popular. Overcoming your acne is definitely possible if you can find the right treatment.
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Is Smart Lipo a Permanent Procedure?

Published on June 6, 2009 in Fitness. Closed
by Art Gib

Many people have heard of smart lipo. It has been in the news, and it is all over the internet. However, most people do not know what it is past the fact that it is a technique to lose weight. When people understand the procedure, they are able to make an informed decision on whether or not the process is right for them.

The traditional method, liposuction, is the most prevalent form of cosmetic surgery in the United States. But, inherent in the methods used with traditional liposuction are both risks and side effects that are not associated with Smart Lipo. In fact since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Smart Lipo as a safe and acceptable procedure there has not been one reported incident of a life threatening occurrence.

Smart lipo uses a laser in order to liquefy fat cells. The process is actually quite simple. A 2 mm circular incision is made on the patient. Then, a cannula is inserted. Once the cannula is inside of the patient, a laser is emitted.

Just how does this miracle of modern medicine accomplish this? Through the application of laser technology and the design of the tools used in the procedure. With traditional liposuction a liquid based formula is inserted into the area being liposuctioned.

Because of the cannula and the laser, smart lipo can work in smaller areas and still achieve results. There is more finesse involved in this method than in traditional liposuction procedures, which allows for small regions to be sculpted, as well as larger ones.

Another important factor of keeping the results you will get from smart lipo is eating right. You want to eat a well balanced diet that will allow you to keep excess weight off. You should not starve yourself, as that will not give you the positive results you are looking for.

Instead of starving yourself, find a balanced diet you can stick to for life. That means you are going to have to get enough calories in, but not too many. You do not want to overeat or under eat. You need to find a healthy balance you can maintain throughout the years.

There is also less recovery time involved. Since people are able to return to work in as little as a day, it is something many busy people are considering.

About the Author:
Art Gib has dedicated a significant portion of his life to the Smart Liposuction Procedure. Click here to find more information about California Smart Lipo Doctor.
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