Pepper is a spice, food and condiment, rich in vitamins and increase appetite, alleviate gas and enhance effective blood circulation.
Little wonder why people acquitted with its nutritional values barely spend a day without eating food spiced with pepper. If we may ask how important is for us to eat spicy food? Pepper sets one’s tongue on fire and make one shed tears like a baby, does pepper help the body in any way?
Pepper contains high percentage of vitamins like; vitamin B1,B6,folic acid and vitamin C which boosts the immune system. Pepper is also rich in vitamin B2,A,protein,calcium,zinc and beta-carotene. Studies have shown that 1 small chilli pepper among the several varieties of pepper has more vitamin C than 1 lemon or orange, as well as 50 percentage of the daily recommended dosage of vitamin A. The spicy portion called capsaicin can be extracted and turned into medicine that could be used for headache,bloatness and skin disorder.
A further research has it that pepper is good for the heart and is recommended for hypertensive and ulcer patient,Reumatism/Arthritis patient can apply a mixture of cayenne pepper and Shea butter on their leg, as it enhances free blood circulation. Despite the several complains that pepper is hot on the tongue, some people, mostly those in the riverine areas of Nigeria and some other parts of the world prefers very spicy food. Some people claim something appears missing if they don’t eat spicy food or fish and raw pepper. The spicier the food the better. There are several varieties of pepper ranging from the green bell pepper, which can be consumed in different forms;raw,cooked roasted or in vegetable platters. The chilli pepper can be used for sauce, food and stew, while Anaheim pepper is primarily used for paste when dried.
Note; if you touch the chilli pepper by accident and feel the burning sensation on your skin, you can use lemon or lime juice to wash out the area and this will alleviate the burning sensation. If you accidentally eat chilli pepper, you can drink milk because it has casein, which helps to alleviate the spicness
John njikanma
www.healthmirrow.blogspot.com, www.herbalview.blogspot.com.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
THE MIRACLIOUS USE OF FROG TO CURE DIABETES
The treatment of diabetes could be about to take a leap forward with the help of a south American frog. A compound found on the skin of the paradoxical frog-so called because the tadpole is much larger than the adult-boosts the production of insulin.
Scientists have made a synthetic version of the compound they hope will turn into pill to treat Britain’s two million sufferers of type 2 diabetes.
A compound found on the skin of the paradoxical frog boosts the production of insulin. The most common form of diabetes, it usually occurs after the age of 40. Sufferers do not make enough insulin, a hormone key in converting sugar into energy, or make insulin that doesn’t work properly.
Blood sugar levels are initially kept in check through a tightly controlled diet and exercise regime. But worsening of the condition over time means most suffers will need tablets or insulin injections as they get older. With not all tablets suiting everyone, the paradoxical frog-found in ponds, lakes and lagoons in the Amazon and Trinidad-could provide an alternative. Study of the frog at Ulster university has revealed that the skin that boosts the insulin production. Tests show a synthetic version of the compound, known as pseudin-2, can greatly increase the amount of insulin made. Researcher Dr Yasser Abdelwahab,who will present his findings at a diabetes conference in Glasgow, said “ now we needed but there is a growing body of work around natural anti-diabetic drug discovery that is already yielding fascinating results.
Douglas Smallwood, chief executive of Diabetes uk,said, good diabetes control reduces the risk of complications including blindness, heart disease, kidney problems and amputation, so new treatments are vital.
The drug, which is still many years away from the market, is likely only to benefit sufferers of type 2 diabetes. In type 1,or childhood diabetes, the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas are likely to be too damaged for pseudin-2 to be effective.
Also known as the shrinking frog, the paradoxical frog gets its name because of the contrast between the tadpole and adult frog. While the tadpole can be up to 10 inches long, the adult frog is around two inches long.
Drinking black tea could also help combat type 2 diabetes, say scientists at Dundee University. They found that components of black tea known as the aflavins and the arubigins mimic the action of insulin. But Dr Graham Rena, whose research is reported in the journal Aging cell, said : “People shouldn’t be rushing to drink masses of black tea thinking it will cure them Diabetes. We are still on the way from this leading to new treatments, until the final result is made known, keep posted and pray it will never take long. John njikanma
www.herbalview.blogspot.com,www.healthmirrow.blogspot.com.
Scientists have made a synthetic version of the compound they hope will turn into pill to treat Britain’s two million sufferers of type 2 diabetes.
A compound found on the skin of the paradoxical frog boosts the production of insulin. The most common form of diabetes, it usually occurs after the age of 40. Sufferers do not make enough insulin, a hormone key in converting sugar into energy, or make insulin that doesn’t work properly.
Blood sugar levels are initially kept in check through a tightly controlled diet and exercise regime. But worsening of the condition over time means most suffers will need tablets or insulin injections as they get older. With not all tablets suiting everyone, the paradoxical frog-found in ponds, lakes and lagoons in the Amazon and Trinidad-could provide an alternative. Study of the frog at Ulster university has revealed that the skin that boosts the insulin production. Tests show a synthetic version of the compound, known as pseudin-2, can greatly increase the amount of insulin made. Researcher Dr Yasser Abdelwahab,who will present his findings at a diabetes conference in Glasgow, said “ now we needed but there is a growing body of work around natural anti-diabetic drug discovery that is already yielding fascinating results.
Douglas Smallwood, chief executive of Diabetes uk,said, good diabetes control reduces the risk of complications including blindness, heart disease, kidney problems and amputation, so new treatments are vital.
The drug, which is still many years away from the market, is likely only to benefit sufferers of type 2 diabetes. In type 1,or childhood diabetes, the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas are likely to be too damaged for pseudin-2 to be effective.
Also known as the shrinking frog, the paradoxical frog gets its name because of the contrast between the tadpole and adult frog. While the tadpole can be up to 10 inches long, the adult frog is around two inches long.
Drinking black tea could also help combat type 2 diabetes, say scientists at Dundee University. They found that components of black tea known as the aflavins and the arubigins mimic the action of insulin. But Dr Graham Rena, whose research is reported in the journal Aging cell, said : “People shouldn’t be rushing to drink masses of black tea thinking it will cure them Diabetes. We are still on the way from this leading to new treatments, until the final result is made known, keep posted and pray it will never take long. John njikanma
www.herbalview.blogspot.com,www.healthmirrow.blogspot.com.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
RELATED HEALTH PROBLEMS-ITS FALSE BELIEF AND ITS TRUTH.
HOW TRUTH IS IT THAT WOMEN CAN BE PREGRNANT FOR TEN TO TWELVE MONTHS?
For one reason or another, a woman’s ovulation can sometimes be delayed. She will then miss her menses and wrongly think she is pregnant. However, it sometimes happens that when ovulation returns she immediately conceives and so will continue to miss her menses because she is now pregnant. If the time of her pregnancy is counted from the date of her last menses she will wrongly think she is 10 or 11 months pregnant before delivery.
HOW TRUE IS IT THAT REGULARLY RECURRING VAGINAL DISCHARGE MUST BE DUE TO INFECTIONS.
Before ovulation, a woman normally has a special kind of discharge, known as ovulation mucus.
THAT IRRITATION OF THE VAGINA( SOME CELL IT SCRATCHING) IS INCURABLE?
Irritation of the vagina is most commonly caused b y a fungus infection, which people can develop without any sexual intercourse. It is not a serious condition but can be very distressing. Unfortunately many women try to cure it themselves with capsules of antibiotics.
This makes it worse. A doctor would advised the use of antifungal vaginal tablets twice a day, even during her menses. This should be continued for at least a week after all irritation has ceased. Also more than ordinary hygiene with underclothes is required.
JOHN NJIKANMA
2348033314317
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Dangers Of Smoking
Almost everybody knows that smoking is bad for the health. Images of blackened lungs line school hallways and hospital waiting rooms, but despite this people continue to take up smoking. This may have to do with the pervasive romantic image of smoking -- an image that has nothing in common with reality.There are many ways to take tobacco. You can chew it, inhale it through the nose, and smoke it in the form of cigars or cigarettes. No matter how it's taken it is dangerous, but because smoking is the most popular way to consume tobacco it has also received the greatest attention from the medical field and the media.When a smoker inhales a puff of cigarette smoke the large surface area of the lungs allows nicotine to pass into the blood stream almost immediately. It is this nicotine "hit" that smokers crave, but there is a lot more to smoke than just nicotine. In fact, there are more than 4000 chemical substances that make up cigarette smoke and many of them are toxic.Cigarette smoke is composed of 43 carcinogenic substances and more than 400 other toxins that can also be found in wood varnish, nail polish remover, and rat poison. All of these substances accumulate in the body and can cause serious problems to the heart and lungs.Cancer is the most common disease associated with smoking. Smoking is the cause of 90% of lung cancer cases and is related to 30% of all cancer fatalities. Other smoking-related cancers include cancers of the mouth, pancreas, urinary bladder, kidney, stomach, esophagus, and larynx.Besides cancer, smoking is also related to several other diseases of the lungs. Emphysema and bronchitis can be fatal and 75% of all deaths from these diseases are linked to smoking.Smokers have shorter lives than non-smokers. On average, smoking takes 15 years off your life span. This can be explained by the high rate of exposure to toxic substances which are found in cigarette smoke.Smokers also put others at risk. The dangers of breathing in second-hand smoke are well known. Smokers harm their loved ones by exposing them to the smoke they exhale. All sorts of health problems are related to breathing in second-hand smoke. Children are especially susceptible to the dangers of second-hand smoke because their internal organs are still developing. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are more vulnerable to asthma, sudden infant death syndrome, bronchitis, pneumonia, and ear infections.Smoking can also be dangerous for unborn children. Mothers who smoke are more likely to suffer from miscarriages, bleeding and nausea, and babies of smoking mothers have reduced birth weights or may be premature. These babies are more susceptible to sudden infant death syndrome and may also have lifelong health complications due to chest infections and asthma.It is never too late to give up smoking, even those who have smoked for 20 years or more can realize tremendous health benefits from giving up the habit.
Quitting The Habit – How To Choose The Right Method?
Once you have made the decision to quit smoking, you should choose a method to help you overcome the habit. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, so it's a good idea to examine all of them before deciding.No matter which method you choose, it is important to have the support and encouragement of family and friends. You can quit smoking on your own but you are more likely to succeed if you have moral support from the people around you.For most people, the desire to smoke comes in waves. One way to deal with those waves is to pick up the phone and talk to someone who knows that you are trying to quit. This has the dual benefit of offering some distraction as well as getting encouragement in your battle against tobacco.Ways to QuitCold Turkey - If you have a great deal of willpower and a strong desire to quit smoking, you may be able to do it cold turkey. Quitting cold turkey means that you simply stop -- no intermediate steps, just going from your regular habit to no smoking at all.Certain individuals that metabolize nicotine relatively slowly are more likely to succeed by quitting cold turkey. This is because they are not as physically addicted to nicotine as other smokers are. People with a higher dependence on nicotine may find they need to use a nicotine substitute such as patches or gum.Slowly Cutting Down - Rather than quitting cold turkey, some people prefer to gradually reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke each day. In order for this to work you need to have a plan to reduce your smoking by a certain amount each day and a goal for the day when you want to be completely smoke-free.There are many strategies you can use. You could smoke one less cigarette each day; you could delay smoking the first cigarette of the day by a greater amount each day; or you could limit your smoking to a certain number of cigarettes within a three hour period.Nicotine Substitutes - Either of the above methods could be supplemented with the use of a nicotine substitute like gum, spray or patches. This helps reduce the craving for nicotine which is behind the desire to smoke. The brain has become accustomed to regular doses of nicotine so by supplying the nicotine by other means quitting the habit becomes easier.Before using a nicotine substitute consult with your doctor concerning any health risks that may be associated with it. Nicotine substitutes are available in the form of chewing gum, nasal spray, lozenges, inhalators, or tablets that are kept under the tongue. Patches can also be worn on the skin to provide a constant supply of nicotine to the bloodstream throughout the day.Zyban - Zyban is an antidepressant drug that has been proven effective reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It is available by doctor's prescription.Hypnosis - Hypnosis has also been used to help overcome nicotine cravings. It seems to be most effective in those who have a strong desire to quit.Acupuncture - As with hypnosis, acupuncture works best with people who are committed to quitting smoking. Both acupuncture and hypnosis may work by reinforcing the commitment to giving up smoking. There is no evidence that they are any more effective than other methods.
Natural Ways To Stop Smoking
There are many paths to a smoke-free living. You can use aids like patches, gum, or drugs like Zyban to help get over the physical addiction to nicotine. You may decide to quit cold turkey and suffer the withdrawal symptoms, or you may gradually cut down on your cigarette habit.As an alternative to nicotine substitutes, you can treat the challenge of quitting the habit as an opportunity to make changes in your lifestyle for the better. At the end of the process you will not only be a smoke-free, you will have also gained new eating habits and lifestyle changes for healthier living.Making changes to your lifestyle and eating habits is a big challenge, and requires a certain level of dedication. You will find, however, that eating healthier and living healthier also makes it easier to quit smoking. You will also develop strategies for dealing with nicotine withdrawal.Since we are talking about several changes to your style of living, it's a good idea to take at least a week or two off your regular routine to make the changes. If you can take some time off work and get away from your regular schedule you will be exposed to fewer situations which you associate with smoking. You can also take the time to recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.A regular exercise routine is an essential part of healthy living. If you have not exercised previously, build up to it gradually. Rather than starting on an ambitious two-mile jog every morning, begin by going for long walks. As your stamina increases and your health improves you can add more vigorous activities to your exercise routine.Healthy eating is also very important for regaining the health that may have been lost from your smoking habit. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits and cut down on fatty meats and foods high in saturated fats like fast food and desserts. Eating good-quality food can help eliminate toxins from the body faster which makes it easier to overcome your nicotine habit.You are likely to experience symptoms from nicotine withdrawal. Nicotine is a powerful drug that affects many parts of the body but particularly the brain. Smokers become accustomed to the regular stimulation that nicotine provides, and may feel sluggish and inattentive when it is deprived. Rather than depending on nicotine substitutes to overcome the symptoms, simply take short naps whenever you feel drained.Another symptom of nicotine withdrawal is irritability. Whenever you feel this way or are craving a cigarette, go for a brisk walk. This helps clear your mind and overcome the desire for nicotine.You may also find that your mouth and throat feel dry or that you develop a cough or postnasal drip. This is caused by the body ridding itself of excess mucus produced because of exposure to smoke. To overcome these symptoms drink plenty of juice and water or suck on lozenges.Cutting down on caffeine should be part of your new healthy lifestyle. There is no need to eliminate caffeine completely, but it is particularly important to avoid it after six pm. Nicotine withdrawal can cause insomnia and you do not want exasperate that by stimulating yourself with too much caffeine.It is important to find natural ways to relax. Many people are tempted to smoke when exposed to stressful situations. It is far healthier to learn relaxation techniques like deep breathing. Nicotine withdrawal may also cause headaches which can be relieved by hot baths or gentle body movements like rolling the head.All of these techniques are extremely helpful in overcoming the cigarette habit but they are also useful for maintaining good health. Make them part of your regular lifestyle and you will feel better, look better, and have a healthier outlook on life.
Almost everybody knows that smoking is bad for the health. Images of blackened lungs line school hallways and hospital waiting rooms, but despite this people continue to take up smoking. This may have to do with the pervasive romantic image of smoking -- an image that has nothing in common with reality.There are many ways to take tobacco. You can chew it, inhale it through the nose, and smoke it in the form of cigars or cigarettes. No matter how it's taken it is dangerous, but because smoking is the most popular way to consume tobacco it has also received the greatest attention from the medical field and the media.When a smoker inhales a puff of cigarette smoke the large surface area of the lungs allows nicotine to pass into the blood stream almost immediately. It is this nicotine "hit" that smokers crave, but there is a lot more to smoke than just nicotine. In fact, there are more than 4000 chemical substances that make up cigarette smoke and many of them are toxic.Cigarette smoke is composed of 43 carcinogenic substances and more than 400 other toxins that can also be found in wood varnish, nail polish remover, and rat poison. All of these substances accumulate in the body and can cause serious problems to the heart and lungs.Cancer is the most common disease associated with smoking. Smoking is the cause of 90% of lung cancer cases and is related to 30% of all cancer fatalities. Other smoking-related cancers include cancers of the mouth, pancreas, urinary bladder, kidney, stomach, esophagus, and larynx.Besides cancer, smoking is also related to several other diseases of the lungs. Emphysema and bronchitis can be fatal and 75% of all deaths from these diseases are linked to smoking.Smokers have shorter lives than non-smokers. On average, smoking takes 15 years off your life span. This can be explained by the high rate of exposure to toxic substances which are found in cigarette smoke.Smokers also put others at risk. The dangers of breathing in second-hand smoke are well known. Smokers harm their loved ones by exposing them to the smoke they exhale. All sorts of health problems are related to breathing in second-hand smoke. Children are especially susceptible to the dangers of second-hand smoke because their internal organs are still developing. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are more vulnerable to asthma, sudden infant death syndrome, bronchitis, pneumonia, and ear infections.Smoking can also be dangerous for unborn children. Mothers who smoke are more likely to suffer from miscarriages, bleeding and nausea, and babies of smoking mothers have reduced birth weights or may be premature. These babies are more susceptible to sudden infant death syndrome and may also have lifelong health complications due to chest infections and asthma.It is never too late to give up smoking, even those who have smoked for 20 years or more can realize tremendous health benefits from giving up the habit.
Quitting The Habit – How To Choose The Right Method?
Once you have made the decision to quit smoking, you should choose a method to help you overcome the habit. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, so it's a good idea to examine all of them before deciding.No matter which method you choose, it is important to have the support and encouragement of family and friends. You can quit smoking on your own but you are more likely to succeed if you have moral support from the people around you.For most people, the desire to smoke comes in waves. One way to deal with those waves is to pick up the phone and talk to someone who knows that you are trying to quit. This has the dual benefit of offering some distraction as well as getting encouragement in your battle against tobacco.Ways to QuitCold Turkey - If you have a great deal of willpower and a strong desire to quit smoking, you may be able to do it cold turkey. Quitting cold turkey means that you simply stop -- no intermediate steps, just going from your regular habit to no smoking at all.Certain individuals that metabolize nicotine relatively slowly are more likely to succeed by quitting cold turkey. This is because they are not as physically addicted to nicotine as other smokers are. People with a higher dependence on nicotine may find they need to use a nicotine substitute such as patches or gum.Slowly Cutting Down - Rather than quitting cold turkey, some people prefer to gradually reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke each day. In order for this to work you need to have a plan to reduce your smoking by a certain amount each day and a goal for the day when you want to be completely smoke-free.There are many strategies you can use. You could smoke one less cigarette each day; you could delay smoking the first cigarette of the day by a greater amount each day; or you could limit your smoking to a certain number of cigarettes within a three hour period.Nicotine Substitutes - Either of the above methods could be supplemented with the use of a nicotine substitute like gum, spray or patches. This helps reduce the craving for nicotine which is behind the desire to smoke. The brain has become accustomed to regular doses of nicotine so by supplying the nicotine by other means quitting the habit becomes easier.Before using a nicotine substitute consult with your doctor concerning any health risks that may be associated with it. Nicotine substitutes are available in the form of chewing gum, nasal spray, lozenges, inhalators, or tablets that are kept under the tongue. Patches can also be worn on the skin to provide a constant supply of nicotine to the bloodstream throughout the day.Zyban - Zyban is an antidepressant drug that has been proven effective reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It is available by doctor's prescription.Hypnosis - Hypnosis has also been used to help overcome nicotine cravings. It seems to be most effective in those who have a strong desire to quit.Acupuncture - As with hypnosis, acupuncture works best with people who are committed to quitting smoking. Both acupuncture and hypnosis may work by reinforcing the commitment to giving up smoking. There is no evidence that they are any more effective than other methods.
Natural Ways To Stop Smoking
There are many paths to a smoke-free living. You can use aids like patches, gum, or drugs like Zyban to help get over the physical addiction to nicotine. You may decide to quit cold turkey and suffer the withdrawal symptoms, or you may gradually cut down on your cigarette habit.As an alternative to nicotine substitutes, you can treat the challenge of quitting the habit as an opportunity to make changes in your lifestyle for the better. At the end of the process you will not only be a smoke-free, you will have also gained new eating habits and lifestyle changes for healthier living.Making changes to your lifestyle and eating habits is a big challenge, and requires a certain level of dedication. You will find, however, that eating healthier and living healthier also makes it easier to quit smoking. You will also develop strategies for dealing with nicotine withdrawal.Since we are talking about several changes to your style of living, it's a good idea to take at least a week or two off your regular routine to make the changes. If you can take some time off work and get away from your regular schedule you will be exposed to fewer situations which you associate with smoking. You can also take the time to recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.A regular exercise routine is an essential part of healthy living. If you have not exercised previously, build up to it gradually. Rather than starting on an ambitious two-mile jog every morning, begin by going for long walks. As your stamina increases and your health improves you can add more vigorous activities to your exercise routine.Healthy eating is also very important for regaining the health that may have been lost from your smoking habit. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits and cut down on fatty meats and foods high in saturated fats like fast food and desserts. Eating good-quality food can help eliminate toxins from the body faster which makes it easier to overcome your nicotine habit.You are likely to experience symptoms from nicotine withdrawal. Nicotine is a powerful drug that affects many parts of the body but particularly the brain. Smokers become accustomed to the regular stimulation that nicotine provides, and may feel sluggish and inattentive when it is deprived. Rather than depending on nicotine substitutes to overcome the symptoms, simply take short naps whenever you feel drained.Another symptom of nicotine withdrawal is irritability. Whenever you feel this way or are craving a cigarette, go for a brisk walk. This helps clear your mind and overcome the desire for nicotine.You may also find that your mouth and throat feel dry or that you develop a cough or postnasal drip. This is caused by the body ridding itself of excess mucus produced because of exposure to smoke. To overcome these symptoms drink plenty of juice and water or suck on lozenges.Cutting down on caffeine should be part of your new healthy lifestyle. There is no need to eliminate caffeine completely, but it is particularly important to avoid it after six pm. Nicotine withdrawal can cause insomnia and you do not want exasperate that by stimulating yourself with too much caffeine.It is important to find natural ways to relax. Many people are tempted to smoke when exposed to stressful situations. It is far healthier to learn relaxation techniques like deep breathing. Nicotine withdrawal may also cause headaches which can be relieved by hot baths or gentle body movements like rolling the head.All of these techniques are extremely helpful in overcoming the cigarette habit but they are also useful for maintaining good health. Make them part of your regular lifestyle and you will feel better, look better, and have a healthier outlook on life.
Quit Smoking By Facing Your Psychological Addiction
When you’ve been addicted to nicotine, the thought of trying to quit smoking can be intimidating. Aside from the physical withdrawal symptoms, there’s a psychological addiction to the habit-forming drug.If you’re setting out on a mission to quit smoking, make sure you implement a plan to attack your mental habit as well as face the withdrawal of nicotine physically from your body. Medications and counseling can contribute to an easier time when you quit smoking, because it’s an emotional and social habit as well as just a habit of motion, taking your fingers to and from your mouth to inhale a cigarette.There are many ways to get psychological help for your addiction. They need to be done in conjunction with the physical removal of nicotine, not just before or after you’ve quit smoking.You may opt for phone counseling, which you can find through the American Cancer Society’s Quitline. This way you’re connected with a trained counselor whenever you need help with your plans to quit smoking.There are some common traps counselors can help you avoid that usually cause someone who has quit smoking to return to the nasty habit. Phone counseling is a convenient way to reach out for support because it’s available at all times, from anywhere you have a phone connection.Some people who want to quit smoking need to do nothing more than turn to family and friends in their time of need. It’s especially helpful if there’s someone you know who has already quit smoking and will understand what you’re going through. There are also programs organized specifically for people who want to quit smoking. Being a part of a group can be beneficial in giving you the extra support you need to break the habit once and for all.You may discover that you prefer individual counseling over group meetings, but either way, counseling helps people quit smoking more than those who try to go it alone. Some organizations will be intense, and others more flexible. The more intense it is, the higher your chance of success to quit smoking.If you feel like your addiction is strong, then try to find a frequent meeting that lasts at least half an hour. Try to find those with experience to help you with you quit smoking. Never fall for the quick and easy claims some groups make just to take your money.
What Are The Immediate Benefits When I Quit Smoking?
Everyone knows that it’s obviously healthier for you to quit smoking than it is to continue your addiction to nicotine. But there are more than just long-term health benefits. Your body is immediately improved when you start inhaling clean air as opposed to the smoke from a cigarette.Within 20 minutes after you quit smoking your last cigarette, changes begin to take place in your overall health. Your heart rate and blood pressure drop to a healthier level. Half a day later, your blood shows normal levels of carbon monoxide.Just a couple of months after you quit smoking, you’ll notice your lung function increases. Maybe you can now walk up a flight of stairs without gasping for air. Plus, your circulation is improved.During the first nine months after you quit smoking, you’ll notice you no longer cough as much and you’re capable of taking deep breaths. This is because the cilia in your lungs are able to move the mucus out of your lungs so they function better to clean them out and clear out infections.When you’re celebrating your first year after quitting smoking, you should toast to the fact that your risk of coronary heart disease is cut in half from what it was when you were labeled a smoker.Over the course of the next five years and decade after you quit smoking, your stroke risk is reduced, too. Lung cancer death rate is half that of a smoker’s and other cancers, such as those of the throat, mouth, bladder, and pancreas are cut as well.While health is obviously an important factor in why people quit smoking, there are other immediate benefits as well. Tobacco may have damaged your physical appearance, such as causing premature aging, yellowing of the nails and teeth, and a foul odor clinging to your hair and clothes.When you quit smoking, your skin immediately begins to repair itself and the bad smell goes away. Your breath smells fresh and you can take action to whiten your teeth using over the counter teeth whiteners.You’ll also notice improvements in other areas of your life after you quit smoking. For instance, you’ll be able to taste food better than before and your sense of smell will be sharpened. Your reasons may be listed within this article, or you may have your own personal reasons to quit smoking. Either way, you’ll reap the rewards of your efforts once you say goodbye to tobacco for good.
Nicotine Won’t Let You Quit Smoking
Does nicotine have a strong hold over you? It’s one of the most addictives substances on the planet - found naturally in tobacco. Although not illegal, it’s equally as addictive as cocaine or heroine, two illegal drugs known for their strong addictive qualities.When you use nicotine, your body begins to rely on it both mentally and physically. You can’t quit smoking because you have to face both the psychological and physical issues facing you at this point, which is often overwhelming for anyone.It’s not the smoke itself that wreaks havoc on your addictions and makes it nearly impossible for you to quit smoking – it’s the nicotine that gets carried in the smoke deep into your lungs where it plants itself in your bloodstream and then moves to every available part of your body to affect your internal health.Your heart and blood vessels, your brain, your hormones, and your metabolism are all directly affected by nicotine. Even though you may logically know the damage being done, your ability to quit smoking is diminished because the drug has the same effect as endorphins, releasing mood-elevating feelings that cause you to crave more.But nicotine has another result. When you try to quit smoking, or even stay at the same number of cigarettes you currently smoke, your body triggers you to smoke more, telling you that you’ve become tolerant of your current usage. Nicotine can cause your body to react faster than if you were given a drug intravenously. If you are able to quit smoking, nicotine will still reside in your body for up to four days after you stop using it. Your body will go into withdrawal, which is both a mental and physical obstacle you have to overcome.While the physical portion of the addiction has to be dealt with through symptoms such as sleep disturbance, headaches, and dizziness, when someone quits smoking, the mental portion is noticeable when the newly ex-smoker starts dealing with depression, frustration, and anger that results from nicotine withdrawal.Because of the pressure felt in both the mind and body, many smokers return to the bad habit so that the nicotine will erase the symptoms they’re feeling. The dilemma of withdrawal symptoms when someone quits smoking can last for days or weeks, depending on the severity of the addiction.Eventually, the symptoms disappear and the strong hold nicotine has over the user loosens up its grip and allows the ex-smoker to break the habit for good. Most smokers have to try several times before they’re able to quit smoking forever, although many do it on the first try using smoking cessation aids.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
HOW CAN A MAN PREVENT REPEATED PREMATURE EJACULATION?
The solution lies in a true understanding of human sexuality as opposed to that of lower forms of life. The problem can be considerable alleviated, if not altogether removed, if the man and the woman develop this deeper understanding by discussion together. Ejaculation too soon often occurs because of fear. The man may be very tense,fearing that he may not live up to the expectation of his woman, and that he will not satisfy her. Some men never learn that sheer power alone,without love, can never fully satisy a woman . The human being is one person, woman consists of soul and body as a unity. The biggest mistake that a man can make is to separate that soul and body in his woman and come to her as if she were body alone. By approaching her in this way he not only reduces her, he reduces himself as welll because acting in these manner is a distortion of reality. True sexuality consists in one whole person fully communicating with another whole person.
If this were understood by both man and the woman together,the problem of repeated premature ejaculation, and many other difficulties, would be alleviated. john njikanam healthmirrow@gmail.com
If this were understood by both man and the woman together,the problem of repeated premature ejaculation, and many other difficulties, would be alleviated. john njikanam healthmirrow@gmail.com
PREMATURE EJACULATION.
This is more common among men,infact is issues for men and many are suffering from these today.
By premature ejaculation,it means that man spills his semen either before he penetrates the vagina,before he penetrates fully or too soon after penetration.
When premature ejaculation happens frequently and the man makes little effort to gain control, it can cause his woman more suffering. It may appear that he treats her as a mere plaything to satisfy his needs. He is ignoring her personhood, her need to reach the mountain-top just as he did, and to be one with him in these as in other things.
Very often the root cause of all these things is not a lack of love, but the ignorance of many men about the sexual needs of their woman. Side by side with that is the woman"s own reluctance to talk about it. They are not accustomed to communicating with each other at that level.
The woman begins to feel rejected, she sees no sign of love. She may even worry about infidelity, although more often her doubts are quite unjustified. To overcome this very real suffering in his woman, it is essential that the man should not ignore the fact that he has reach the climax too soon. Instead they should talk together about what has happed, as two people who love each other and want to understand and help one another.
But there are many occasions when a man cannot avoid premature ejaculation. Women sometimes forget this. They need to realise that a man can also suffer when it happens. It may be the result of prolonged abstinence, some kind of disposition, or his inexperience and youth. The love of an understanding woman can do so much to help, and again their sense of humour lightens the situation for both of them. john njikanma healthmirrow@gmail.com.
By premature ejaculation,it means that man spills his semen either before he penetrates the vagina,before he penetrates fully or too soon after penetration.
When premature ejaculation happens frequently and the man makes little effort to gain control, it can cause his woman more suffering. It may appear that he treats her as a mere plaything to satisfy his needs. He is ignoring her personhood, her need to reach the mountain-top just as he did, and to be one with him in these as in other things.
Very often the root cause of all these things is not a lack of love, but the ignorance of many men about the sexual needs of their woman. Side by side with that is the woman"s own reluctance to talk about it. They are not accustomed to communicating with each other at that level.
The woman begins to feel rejected, she sees no sign of love. She may even worry about infidelity, although more often her doubts are quite unjustified. To overcome this very real suffering in his woman, it is essential that the man should not ignore the fact that he has reach the climax too soon. Instead they should talk together about what has happed, as two people who love each other and want to understand and help one another.
But there are many occasions when a man cannot avoid premature ejaculation. Women sometimes forget this. They need to realise that a man can also suffer when it happens. It may be the result of prolonged abstinence, some kind of disposition, or his inexperience and youth. The love of an understanding woman can do so much to help, and again their sense of humour lightens the situation for both of them. john njikanma healthmirrow@gmail.com.
Treatment of uterine fibroids.
Treatment depends on various factors, including:
Age
General health
Severity of symptoms
Type of fibroids
Whether you are pregnant
If you want children in the future
Some women may just need pelvic exams or ultrasounds every once in a while to monitor the fibroid's growth.
Treatment for fibroids may include:
Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) to help control heavy periods
Iron supplements to prevent anemia due to heavy periods
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naprosyn for cramps or pain with menstruation
Some women may need hormonal therapy (Depo Leuprolide injections) to shrink the fibroids. This medicine reduces the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The hormones create a situation in the body that is very similar to menopause. Side effects can be severe and may include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and loss of bone density. Hormone treatment may last several months. Fibroids will begin to grown as soon as treatment stops. In some cases, hormone therapy is used for a short period of time before surgery or when the woman is expected to reach menopause soon.
Surgery and procedures used to treat fibroids include:
Hysteroscopic resection of fibroids: This outpatient procedure may be needed for women with fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity. In this procedure, a small camera and instruments are inserted through the cervix into the uterus to remove the fibroid tumors.
Uterine artery embolization: This procedure stops the blood supply to the fibroid, causing it to die and shrink. The long-term effects of this procedure are still unknown, and the safety of pregnancy after this procedure is a concern.
Myomectomy: This surgery removes the fibroids. It is frequently the chosen treatment for women who want to have children, because it usually can preserve fertility. Another advantage of a myomectomy is that it controls pain or excessive bleeding that some women with uterine fibroids have. More fibroids can develop after myomectomy.
Hysterectomy: This invasive surgery may be an option if medicines do not work and other surgeries and procedures are not an option.
Age
General health
Severity of symptoms
Type of fibroids
Whether you are pregnant
If you want children in the future
Some women may just need pelvic exams or ultrasounds every once in a while to monitor the fibroid's growth.
Treatment for fibroids may include:
Birth control pills (oral contraceptives) to help control heavy periods
Iron supplements to prevent anemia due to heavy periods
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naprosyn for cramps or pain with menstruation
Some women may need hormonal therapy (Depo Leuprolide injections) to shrink the fibroids. This medicine reduces the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The hormones create a situation in the body that is very similar to menopause. Side effects can be severe and may include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and loss of bone density. Hormone treatment may last several months. Fibroids will begin to grown as soon as treatment stops. In some cases, hormone therapy is used for a short period of time before surgery or when the woman is expected to reach menopause soon.
Surgery and procedures used to treat fibroids include:
Hysteroscopic resection of fibroids: This outpatient procedure may be needed for women with fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity. In this procedure, a small camera and instruments are inserted through the cervix into the uterus to remove the fibroid tumors.
Uterine artery embolization: This procedure stops the blood supply to the fibroid, causing it to die and shrink. The long-term effects of this procedure are still unknown, and the safety of pregnancy after this procedure is a concern.
Myomectomy: This surgery removes the fibroids. It is frequently the chosen treatment for women who want to have children, because it usually can preserve fertility. Another advantage of a myomectomy is that it controls pain or excessive bleeding that some women with uterine fibroids have. More fibroids can develop after myomectomy.
Hysterectomy: This invasive surgery may be an option if medicines do not work and other surgeries and procedures are not an option.
exams and test of uterine fibroids.
A pelvic examination may reveal an irregularly shaped, lumpy, or enlarged uterus. Frequently, this diagnosis is reliable. In some cases, diagnosis of fibroids is difficult, especially in obese women. Fibroid tumors have been mistaken for ovarian tumors, inflammation of the fallopian tubes, and pregnancy.
A transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic ultrasound may be done to confirm the diagnosis of fibroids.
An endometrial biopsy (biopsy of the uterine lining) or a pelvic laparoscopy may be needed to rule out cancer.
A doctor will perform a pelvic examination to check for pregnancy-related conditions and signs of fibroids or other abnormalities, such as ovarian cysts.
Medical and Personal History
The doctor needs to have a complete history of any medical or personal conditions that might be causing heavy bleeding, including:
Any family history of menstrual problems or bleeding disorders.
The presence or history of any medical conditions that might be causing heavy bleeding. Women who visit their gynecologist with menstrual complaints, particularly heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or both may actually have an underlying medical disorder, which must be ruled out.
The pattern of the menstrual bleeding. (If it occurs during regular menstruation, nonhormonal treatments are tried first. If bleeding is irregular, occurs between periods, with premenstrual pain, after sex, or is associated with pelvic pain, the doctor should look for specific conditions that may cause these problems.)
Regular use of any medications (including vitamins and over-the-counter drugs).
Diet history, including caffeine and alcohol intake.
Past or present contraceptive use.
Any recent stressful events.
Sexual history. (It is very important that the patient trust the doctor enough to describe any sexual activity that might be risky.)
Ruling out Other Conditions that Cause Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
Almost all women, at some time in their reproductive life, bleeding heavily during menstrual periods (menorrhagia). Being taller, older, and having a higher number of pregnancies increase the chances for heavier-than-average bleeding. In some cases the cause of heavy bleeding is unknown, but a number of conditions can cause menorrhagia or contribute to the risk:
Menstrual disorders
Miscarriage. An isolated instance of heavy bleeding usually after the period due date may be due to a miscarriage. If the bleeding occurs at the usual time of menstruation, however, miscarriage is less likely to be a cause.
Having late periods or approaching menopause. These events may cause occasional menorrhagia.
Uterine polyps. (These are small benign growths in the uterus.)
Certain contraceptives. (Oral contraceptives or an intrauterine device, an IUD.)
A transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic ultrasound may be done to confirm the diagnosis of fibroids.
An endometrial biopsy (biopsy of the uterine lining) or a pelvic laparoscopy may be needed to rule out cancer.
A doctor will perform a pelvic examination to check for pregnancy-related conditions and signs of fibroids or other abnormalities, such as ovarian cysts.
Medical and Personal History
The doctor needs to have a complete history of any medical or personal conditions that might be causing heavy bleeding, including:
Any family history of menstrual problems or bleeding disorders.
The presence or history of any medical conditions that might be causing heavy bleeding. Women who visit their gynecologist with menstrual complaints, particularly heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or both may actually have an underlying medical disorder, which must be ruled out.
The pattern of the menstrual bleeding. (If it occurs during regular menstruation, nonhormonal treatments are tried first. If bleeding is irregular, occurs between periods, with premenstrual pain, after sex, or is associated with pelvic pain, the doctor should look for specific conditions that may cause these problems.)
Regular use of any medications (including vitamins and over-the-counter drugs).
Diet history, including caffeine and alcohol intake.
Past or present contraceptive use.
Any recent stressful events.
Sexual history. (It is very important that the patient trust the doctor enough to describe any sexual activity that might be risky.)
Ruling out Other Conditions that Cause Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia)
Almost all women, at some time in their reproductive life, bleeding heavily during menstrual periods (menorrhagia). Being taller, older, and having a higher number of pregnancies increase the chances for heavier-than-average bleeding. In some cases the cause of heavy bleeding is unknown, but a number of conditions can cause menorrhagia or contribute to the risk:
Menstrual disorders
Miscarriage. An isolated instance of heavy bleeding usually after the period due date may be due to a miscarriage. If the bleeding occurs at the usual time of menstruation, however, miscarriage is less likely to be a cause.
Having late periods or approaching menopause. These events may cause occasional menorrhagia.
Uterine polyps. (These are small benign growths in the uterus.)
Certain contraceptives. (Oral contraceptives or an intrauterine device, an IUD.)
symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Abdominal fullness, gas
Bleeding between periods or very prolonged bleeding with periods
Increase in urinary frequency
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), sometimes with the passage of blood clots
Pelvic cramping or pain with periods
Sensation of fullness or pressure in lower abdomen
Sudden, severe pain due to a pedunculated fibroid
Note: There are often no symptoms.
Fewer than 25% of patients with fibroids have symptoms. When they do, symptoms include:
The most common symptom is prolonged and heavy bleeding during menstruation. This is caused by fibroid growth bordering the uterine cavity. In severe cases, heavy bleeding may last as many as 2 weeks. Fibroids rarely bleed between periods, except in a few cases of very large fibroids.
Large fibroids can also cause pressure and pain in the abdomen or lower back that sometimes feels like menstrual cramps.
As the fibroids grow larger, some women feel them as hard lumps in the lower abdomen.
Very large fibroids may give the abdomen the appearance of pregnancy and cause a feeling of heaviness and pressure. In fact, large fibroids are defined by comparing the size of the uterus to the size it would be at specific months during gestation.
Unusually large fibroids may press against the bladder and urinary tract and cause frequent urination or the urge to urinate, particularly when a woman is lying down at night.
Abnormal pain during intercourse (called dyspareunia).
Fibroids pressing on the ureters (the tubes going from the kidneys to the bladder) may obstruct or block the flow of urine.
Fibroid pressure against the rectum can cause constipation.
Bleeding between periods or very prolonged bleeding with periods
Increase in urinary frequency
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), sometimes with the passage of blood clots
Pelvic cramping or pain with periods
Sensation of fullness or pressure in lower abdomen
Sudden, severe pain due to a pedunculated fibroid
Note: There are often no symptoms.
Fewer than 25% of patients with fibroids have symptoms. When they do, symptoms include:
The most common symptom is prolonged and heavy bleeding during menstruation. This is caused by fibroid growth bordering the uterine cavity. In severe cases, heavy bleeding may last as many as 2 weeks. Fibroids rarely bleed between periods, except in a few cases of very large fibroids.
Large fibroids can also cause pressure and pain in the abdomen or lower back that sometimes feels like menstrual cramps.
As the fibroids grow larger, some women feel them as hard lumps in the lower abdomen.
Very large fibroids may give the abdomen the appearance of pregnancy and cause a feeling of heaviness and pressure. In fact, large fibroids are defined by comparing the size of the uterus to the size it would be at specific months during gestation.
Unusually large fibroids may press against the bladder and urinary tract and cause frequent urination or the urge to urinate, particularly when a woman is lying down at night.
Abnormal pain during intercourse (called dyspareunia).
Fibroids pressing on the ureters (the tubes going from the kidneys to the bladder) may obstruct or block the flow of urine.
Fibroid pressure against the rectum can cause constipation.
Uterine Fibroids. causes.
Uterine fibroids are the most common pelvic tumor. Fibroids may be seen as many as 1 in every 5 women in their childbearing years (the time after starting menstruation for the first time and before menopause.)
Fibroids usually affect women over age 30. They are rare in women under 20 or in those who have gone through menopause. They are more common in African-Americans than Caucasians.
The cause of uterine fibroid tumors is unknown. However, fibroid growth seems to depend on the hormone estrogen. As long as a woman with fibroids is menstruating, a fibroid will probably continue to grow, usually slowly.
Fibroids can be so tiny that you need a microscope to see them. However, they can also grow very large. They may fill the entire uterus, and may weigh several pounds. Although it is possible for just one fibroid to develop, usually there is more than one.
Sometimes, a fibroid hangs from a long stalk, which is attached to the outside of the uterus. This is called a pedunculated fibroid.
Inherited genetic factors may be important in many cases of fibroids. Researchers are investigating unique genetic factors that regulate hormones. Proteins called growth factors may be responsible for some of the abnormalities leading to uterine muscle overgrowth and fibroids. Scientists have identified chromosomes carrying a total of 145 genes that may affect fibroid growth. Some experts report that uterine fibroids are inherited from paternal (the father's) genes.
Female Hormones
Uterine fibroids often grow during pregnancy, and they degenerate after menopause. From these observations and certain studies, researchers are fairly certain that the female hormones, both estrogen and progesterone, play a role in their growth. Their role, however, is not clear. Some theories about the relationship to fibroids and estrogen include the following:
Estrogen patterns in fibroids are similar to those in pregnancy. That is, like smooth muscle cells in the uterus during pregnancy, fibroid cells exposed to female hormones do not respond normally to signals that would make them self-destruct and return to a nonpregnant state. (This natural self-destruction is a process called apoptosis). Instead, they continue to grow.
Some evidence suggests that estrogen may inhibit a tumor-suppressor gene called p53 in fibroid tissue, therefore triggering cell proliferation leading to fibroid growth. (P53 plays a role in some cancer-cell growth, although in this case the process is not cancerous.)
Growth Factors
The formation of fibroids may be attributable to abnormalities in substances called growth factors. These special proteins, secreted by different cell types, are responsible for cell-to-cell interaction. Many of these substances regulate a process called angiogenesis, which causes new blood vessels to sprout from pre-existing ones. The production of new blood vessels then feeds any existing growth, such as a fibroid.
The growth factors that appear to play an important role in many female reproductive disorders are Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (BFGF) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). BFGFs are involved in the proliferation of cells that form connective tissue, which supports the body's organs and structure. VEGFs are involved with cell growth in smooth muscles that line blood vessels. Some evidence suggests they play a role in uterine fibroids.
Other growth factors being studied specifically for fibroids include Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF)-I, Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), and Transforming Growth Factor (TGF).
Fibroids usually affect women over age 30. They are rare in women under 20 or in those who have gone through menopause. They are more common in African-Americans than Caucasians.
The cause of uterine fibroid tumors is unknown. However, fibroid growth seems to depend on the hormone estrogen. As long as a woman with fibroids is menstruating, a fibroid will probably continue to grow, usually slowly.
Fibroids can be so tiny that you need a microscope to see them. However, they can also grow very large. They may fill the entire uterus, and may weigh several pounds. Although it is possible for just one fibroid to develop, usually there is more than one.
Sometimes, a fibroid hangs from a long stalk, which is attached to the outside of the uterus. This is called a pedunculated fibroid.
Inherited genetic factors may be important in many cases of fibroids. Researchers are investigating unique genetic factors that regulate hormones. Proteins called growth factors may be responsible for some of the abnormalities leading to uterine muscle overgrowth and fibroids. Scientists have identified chromosomes carrying a total of 145 genes that may affect fibroid growth. Some experts report that uterine fibroids are inherited from paternal (the father's) genes.
Female Hormones
Uterine fibroids often grow during pregnancy, and they degenerate after menopause. From these observations and certain studies, researchers are fairly certain that the female hormones, both estrogen and progesterone, play a role in their growth. Their role, however, is not clear. Some theories about the relationship to fibroids and estrogen include the following:
Estrogen patterns in fibroids are similar to those in pregnancy. That is, like smooth muscle cells in the uterus during pregnancy, fibroid cells exposed to female hormones do not respond normally to signals that would make them self-destruct and return to a nonpregnant state. (This natural self-destruction is a process called apoptosis). Instead, they continue to grow.
Some evidence suggests that estrogen may inhibit a tumor-suppressor gene called p53 in fibroid tissue, therefore triggering cell proliferation leading to fibroid growth. (P53 plays a role in some cancer-cell growth, although in this case the process is not cancerous.)
Growth Factors
The formation of fibroids may be attributable to abnormalities in substances called growth factors. These special proteins, secreted by different cell types, are responsible for cell-to-cell interaction. Many of these substances regulate a process called angiogenesis, which causes new blood vessels to sprout from pre-existing ones. The production of new blood vessels then feeds any existing growth, such as a fibroid.
The growth factors that appear to play an important role in many female reproductive disorders are Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (BFGF) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). BFGFs are involved in the proliferation of cells that form connective tissue, which supports the body's organs and structure. VEGFs are involved with cell growth in smooth muscles that line blood vessels. Some evidence suggests they play a role in uterine fibroids.
Other growth factors being studied specifically for fibroids include Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF)-I, Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF), and Transforming Growth Factor (TGF).
3 Simple Ways To Prevent Or Even Reverse Complications From Diabetes
1. Never stop learning. If you were to interview 10 people that have diabetes you would be amazed at how little information they actually know on the subject of this disease. One of the hallmarks of a healthy diabetic is that they never stop learning. Continuous education is of the utmost importance for a diabetic to help prevent or even reverse the effects of this disease.In the field of diabetics there seems to be a never ending series of new information and new technology that can help diabetics live a longer and healthier lifestyle. Doctors are routinely coming up with major advances that you should know about.2. Become your diet's best friend. When faced with the reality that you have diabetes, watching the food that you eat and becoming highly conscious of nutrition is one practice that can save your life and prevent most complications in the future. Chances are that your health, obesity levels, and every day diet is of poor choice if you have just been diagnosed with diabetes. I say this because most adults who get diagnosed have led lives of very poor diet practices and eating entirely too much of the harmful foods.Becoming your diet's best friend means that you will want to watch every bite that you put in your mouth and ask yourself whether that bite is helping you or is going to deplete you of your body's needs. This means that you need to follow a diabetic diet. Ironically enough, a true diabetic diet is one that anybody can follow who wants to nourish their body and have a constant supply of energy, regardless whether you have diabetes or not. It is a great diet for everyone.3. Make exercise a habitual part of your everyday routine. As we mentioned above on the necessity of a sound diabetic diet to help prevent or reverse the effects of complications, exercise is equally important. People who have diabetes have to learn how to coordinate their food intake with the activity of their insulin.This can be a hard task to accomplish day in and day out and research has shown that people who are indeed having a tough time are lacking in daily exercise. However, other studies have shown that diabetics who exercise on a regular basis have little trouble when it comes to balancing their insulin and food. The type of exercise required for a diabetic to benefit from does not have to be long and tough marathons. All it takes are brisk walks throughout the day and as often as possible.
3 Diets That Type 2 Diabetics Should Avoid
If you have type 2 diabetes and are currently overweight then you probably have already been instructed by your doctor to lose weight and to get on a low-fat diet immediately. Every diet will probably work in the beginning, but you are special and you need to make sure that your diet is one that you can stick with for the long haul.You may want to ask yourself whether or not the diet that is planned for you is one that you can stay on for years to come. You should also want to research whether or not your current diet will provide enough nutrition on a daily basis that your body needs. And last but not least, you need to be sure that your diet will not only help you lose weight, but will also help control your blood glucose, as well as lower your blood fats.If all of your needs are met from the above questions, then you're probably set and can enjoy this diabetic diet without any problems. However, if you're unsure whether or not you'll enjoy this diet in the future, or if it's actually producing the results needed to your diabetic needs, then you may want to research more options.Watch Out For The Following DietsWhen you first decide to explore all of the publications on diabetes nutrition that are sold in bookstores, you're bound to come out more confused than ever before. This is because there seems to be no end of opinions on what makes a sound diet. The fact of the matter is that you are diabetic and there are specific needs that a diabetic must have within his or her diet. So when you are digging deep into your research, be very cautious about the following diets:1. Watch out for diets that praise low or no fat foods. Your body needs calories and when people stick to a diet that has little to no fats, they usually end up eating more and more carbohydrates to make up for the calories needed. And as you know, diabetics must pay extra special attention to their carbohydrate intake. Eating too many carbs can really disrupt your treatment. In addition, research has shown that it is quite healthy for the body to consume certain type of fats.2. Be careful of diets that promote eating a lot of protein while reducing carbohydrates to a minimum. While low fat diets tend to increase a person's carbohydrate intake, a low carbohydrate diet that promotes high protein intake tends to not give the body enough energy it needs, while causing many people to eat too much meat and saturated fat. This is the bad fat and it is not good for you all. 3. Ignore diets that instruct you to eat too few calories. Low calorie diets, although healthier than other types of diets, can be dangerous because your body can actually start to cannibalize itself in order to make up for the needed calories, nutrients, and macronutrients that it is not getting. Unfortunately, many people on a super low calorie diet end up looking emaciated and their energy levels reflect the same. And ultimately, many men and women cannot stick to this diet too long and when they begin eating normally their body goes into survival mode and starts to pack on extra fat-weight and at a rapid pace.
2 Dangerous Myths About Diabetes Dispelled
There are myths about virtually everything that one can think of, especially on the subject of diabetes. If you are a diabetic then it is important to wade through the untruths and understand the realities of living with this disease. Fortunately, most myths that you may hear about diabetes are not nearly as negative as they sound. In fact, many are just flat out lies. Below are a few myths about diabetes that you may or may not have heard:Myth #1: Becoming hypoglycemic can cause brain damage because it kills brain cells. The experience of hypoglycemia can come on extremely fast and leave a diabetic with an extreme headache that is accompanied by weakness and at times mass confusion. Because of these complications that result from hypoglycemia, people have assumed that this can link directly to the killing of brain cells and eventually destroy the function of your mind.However, studies upon studies over the years have proven that people that suffer from the effects of hypoglycemia do not lose any mental function whatsoever. Children on the other hand, may indeed experience some loss of mental functioning because their brains are still not fully developed.The good news is that the human body has an endless supply of hormones that are able to reverse the effects of hypoglycemia. And in addition to your body's defense mechanisms, there are things that a person can do directly to prevent hypoglycemia. For example, before embarking into heavy exercise be sure to check your blood glucose levels as well as keep with you an emergency supply of glucose that your body can absorb rapidly.Myth #2: Now that you have diabetes you cannot exercise. This is probably the most dangerous myth about diabetes that can have life or death consequences. In fact, the direct opposite is true. If anybody should exercise it is men and women that have diabetes! Routine exercise is probably the most beneficial preventative measure that a person can utilize in order to defend against complications that result from type 1 or type 2 diabetes.This does not mean that if you've never exercised in your life and are over the age of 40, then you should run out and start participating in marathons, but it does mean that you can slowly start conditioning your body with slow walks and light exercise that can increase in intensity over time.Is there ever a time when diabetes can prevent you from exercising? Of course, for example when a person is suffering because of a severe kidney infection, or hemorrhaging of the eyes, etc. However, this is just common sense and is not in any way, shape, or form a reason not to exercise on a daily basis once these symptoms subside.
Does Diabetes Cause Hair Loss?
Diabetes can be a major factor in hair loss for a lot of people. The hair loss will normally begin at the onset of diabetes and gradually gets worse as the disease progresses. It is normal to shed some hair each day, but when the shedding rate exceeds the rate of re-growth, that is when you will start to notice thinning hair or bald patches.Hair has a growth cycle. A normal hair growth cycle will last for 2 to 6 years. The growth stage of the cycle is known as the anagen stage. Each hair on your head grows at a rate of approximately one half inch per month. Ninety percent of all the hair on your head is in the growth stage at one time. The other ten percent of your hair is in what is known as the telogen or resting phase. The resting phase will last for two to three months and then that hair is shed. New hair will start to grow from the same hair follicle to replace the shed hair. This cycle repeats itself over and over, year after year.Being a diabetic increases your chance of hair loss. Diabetics are more prone to get skin infections and other fungal infections that can affect the scalp. Stress from the disease can also cause hair loss. Certain medicines that you may be taking for diabetes or other conditions can also cause your hair to fall out.Getting your diabetes under control should be the first step that you take. Hair loss may stop after your blood sugar is under control and your body is able to function normally. Some hair loss may require medical treatment. If your hair loss is caused by a fungal infection, medication would be needed to get rid of the infection. Other hair loss medications may be beneficial in helping to regrow the hair that is lost. Talk to your doctor about the best option for you.If your hair loss appears to be more permanent, you may want to consider surgical intervention such as a hair transplant. This consists of taking hair from the back of the head and moving it to the areas of baldness. A candidate for hair transplant surgery is someone who has a fringe of hair along the sides and back of the head. This hair is used as donor hair and can be placed wherever needed. Diabetes can cause a lot of symptoms. Unfortunately, hair loss is one of them. It is vital that you maintain good blood sugar levels, follow your diabetic diet and start exercising. Lose those excess pounds and follow up with your doctor frequently. You may be able to halt the hair loss in it's tracks
Weight Loss Is Very Important If You Have Diabetes
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, one of the most important things that you can do is manage your weight. Being overweight can affect your blood sugar levels dramatically since fat cells can become resistant to insulin, causing your blood sugar levels to rise. Losing just 10-20 pounds can make a huge impact on your diabetes. In fact, getting down to your recommended weight can get you off of diabetic medicine and allow you to live a healthier lifestyle.You should never begin a weight loss diet on your own if you are a diabetic. Talk with your doctor and a diabetic educator. Set up an appointment to meet with a registered dietician. Losing weight on your own without the guidance of your doctor can be dangerous to a diabetic. Your diabetic medicines will probably need to be adjusted as you lose weight, so it is important to have your doctor involved.Start by cutting back by 500 calories per day. This is safe for most diabetics and will promote weight loss. The ideal goal is cut back on carbohydrates, proteins and fats equally. Your diet should consist of 50%-55% carbohydrates, 30% fats and 10%-15% proteins.Carbohydrates are very important in a diabetic diet. They have the biggest impact on blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugars very early in the digestion process. It is important to get a refresher course on carbohydrates and how to measure them from the dietician. Watch your blood sugar levels carefully when following a weight loss plan. You are at an increased risk for becoming hypoglycemic, especially if you are exercising and losing weight but haven't adjusted your diabetic medications. If you start to feel nauseated, sweating or have trouble concentrating, have your blood sugar level checked immediately. It is a good idea to always carry fruit juices or other snacks with you.Different types of exercise affect your blood sugar levels in different ways. The aerobic exercises such as, running or anything that gets your heart rate up, will drop your blood sugar immediately. More strenuous exercise or weight lifting can drop your blood sugar hours later. It is important to plan accordingly for the type of exercising that you are doing. Over time this will not be a problem as you lose the weight and are able to reduce your diabetic medication or maybe stop it altogether.Do plenty of research on the best diabetic weight loss plans. Talk with your doctor and keep him updated frequently of your progress. Make sure that you follow a weight loss plan that is approved by your dietician or diabetic educator. Weight loss in never easy and it is a special challenge for someone with diabetes. However, the benefits of losing the weight far outweigh the alternative of living the rest of your life with diabetes.
Treatment of diabetes.
Pre-diabetes precedes the onset of type 2 diabetes. People who have pre-diabetes have fasting blood glucose levels that are 100 - 125 mg/dL -- higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. (Pre-diabetes used to be referred to as “impaired glucose tolerance.”) Pre-diabetes greatly increases the risk for diabetes.
Treatment of pre-diabetes is very important. Research shows that lifestyle and medical interventions can help prevent, or at least delay, the progression to diabetes. While doctors sometimes prescribe insulin-regulating drugs such as metformin (Glucophage) and acarbose (Precose), evidence indicates that lifestyle changes can be at least as effective as drug therapy. The most important lifestyle treatment for people with pre-diabetes is to lose weight through diet and regular exercise. Even a modest weight loss of 10 - 15 pounds can significantly reduce the risk of progressing to diabetes.
Because people with pre-diabetes have a higher risk for heart disease and stroke, diet and exercise are also very important for heart health, as is quitting smoking. It is also important to have your doctor check your cholesterol and blood pressure levels on a regular basis. Your doctor should also check your fasting blood glucose levels every 1 - 2 years.
The major treatment goals for people with type 2 diabetes are:
Treat all conditions that place patients at risk for heart disease and stroke, the major killers of people with type 2 diabetes.
Control blood glucose levels. The goal is to achieve fasting blood glucose levels of less than 110 mg/dL and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of less than 7%. The objective is to reduce complications in small blood vessels and the nerve damage associated with diabetes.
In general, most people with type 2 diabetes should aim for HbA1c levels of less than 7%. However, patients who have heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors should talk to their doctor about individualized treatment goals for intensive blood sugar control.
An intensive multi-pronged approach is critical for reducing complications and improving survival rates in patients with diabetes. Intensive therapy includes:
Healthy lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking.
Controlling blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar and hemoglobin HbA1c levels. Oral anti-hyperglycemic drugs such as metformin are first-line drug treatments. Insulin may eventually be needed.
Heart-protective drugs. These medications include various drugs to control high blood pressure (such as ACE inhibitors and diuretics) and cholesterol (statins and fibrates). Controlling high blood pressure is a proven factor in reducing mortality rates. Aspirin helps prevent blood clots and heart attack.
Treatment of pre-diabetes is very important. Research shows that lifestyle and medical interventions can help prevent, or at least delay, the progression to diabetes. While doctors sometimes prescribe insulin-regulating drugs such as metformin (Glucophage) and acarbose (Precose), evidence indicates that lifestyle changes can be at least as effective as drug therapy. The most important lifestyle treatment for people with pre-diabetes is to lose weight through diet and regular exercise. Even a modest weight loss of 10 - 15 pounds can significantly reduce the risk of progressing to diabetes.
Because people with pre-diabetes have a higher risk for heart disease and stroke, diet and exercise are also very important for heart health, as is quitting smoking. It is also important to have your doctor check your cholesterol and blood pressure levels on a regular basis. Your doctor should also check your fasting blood glucose levels every 1 - 2 years.
The major treatment goals for people with type 2 diabetes are:
Treat all conditions that place patients at risk for heart disease and stroke, the major killers of people with type 2 diabetes.
Control blood glucose levels. The goal is to achieve fasting blood glucose levels of less than 110 mg/dL and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of less than 7%. The objective is to reduce complications in small blood vessels and the nerve damage associated with diabetes.
In general, most people with type 2 diabetes should aim for HbA1c levels of less than 7%. However, patients who have heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors should talk to their doctor about individualized treatment goals for intensive blood sugar control.
An intensive multi-pronged approach is critical for reducing complications and improving survival rates in patients with diabetes. Intensive therapy includes:
Healthy lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking.
Controlling blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar and hemoglobin HbA1c levels. Oral anti-hyperglycemic drugs such as metformin are first-line drug treatments. Insulin may eventually be needed.
Heart-protective drugs. These medications include various drugs to control high blood pressure (such as ACE inhibitors and diuretics) and cholesterol (statins and fibrates). Controlling high blood pressure is a proven factor in reducing mortality rates. Aspirin helps prevent blood clots and heart attack.
Exams and Tests of diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed with the following blood tests:
Fasting blood glucose level -- diabetes is diagnosed if higher than 126 mg/dL on 2 occasions.
Random (non-fasting) blood glucose level -- diabetes is suspected if higher than 200 mg/dL and accompanied by the classic symptoms of increased thirst, urination, and fatigue (this test must be confirmed with a fasting blood glucose test).
Oral glucose tolerance test -- diabetes is diagnosed if glucose level is higher than 200 mg/dL after 2 hours.
Fasting blood glucose level -- diabetes is diagnosed if higher than 126 mg/dL on 2 occasions.
Random (non-fasting) blood glucose level -- diabetes is suspected if higher than 200 mg/dL and accompanied by the classic symptoms of increased thirst, urination, and fatigue (this test must be confirmed with a fasting blood glucose test).
Oral glucose tolerance test -- diabetes is diagnosed if glucose level is higher than 200 mg/dL after 2 hours.
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