Get Rid Of Scars With Lemon Juice

Use fresh lemon to help lighten scars.

The human body has the ability to accomplish many things in order to stay healthy, but sometimes it is impossible to match skin tissue when it is altered. Scars can appear when the body is not able to perfectly match the connecting tissue after experiencing an injury, surgery or hard-to-heal sores. When a person suffers from an outbreak of acne, small scars can appear if the acne is deep or takes too long to heal. Even though scars cannot be completely erased, using fresh lemon juice to lighten a scar will help make the scar less noticeable.

Instructions

Lemon Rub

1. Make a lemon rub to lighten scars.

Roll a whole lemon on a counter, using the palm of your hand, to soften the inner membrane so the lemon will release more juice. Use a sharp knife to cut a thin slice of lemon.

2. Rub the slice of lemon on the area of the scar, squeezing the slice as you rub to release the juice. Allow the lemon juice to soak into the scar for 15 minutes.

3. Dab the area with a cloth dipped in cool water to rinse. Pat the area dry with a towel.

4. Apply a dab of wheat germ oil to the scar to moisturize the area. Massage the oil in with your fingers, using circular motions. Repeat the application three times each week until the scar begins to lighten.

Lemon Toner

5. Use a sharp knife to cut a whole lemon lengthwise into four equal pieces. Squeeze the juice from one of the pieces into a small bowl. Add 1/8 cup of water to the bowl to make a homemade facial toner.

6. Dip a cotton ball into the homemade toner. Rub the cotton ball on your face where you have acne scars. Allow the toner to soak into your skin. Do not rinse off the toner.

7. Repeat daily to help lighten acne scars on your face. Store leftover lemon pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate. Make a fresh batch of toner to use each day.

Tags: acne scars, area with, cotton ball, fresh lemon, help lighten

Proper Breathing When Exercising

We rarely think about breathing, but the key to successful exercise relies in how we're breathing. Like exercise, breathing is a skill that takes time to learn, but the benefits include a vigorous workout and healthier lungs. Proper technique will also allow you to do more and feel less fatigued. Below you will find strategies to help you achieve the most from exercise with proper breathing techniques.

Concentrate on Cardiovascular Breathing

Breathing during cardiovascular exercise is difficult because the body is working hard at working out. When performing cardiovascular exercises such as running or riding a bike, breathing might not feel as rhythmic as you think it might. During cardiovascular exercises, breaths do not have to be "in sync," says Ian Jackson, author of "Breathplay." This is fine, he says, as long as you avoid shallow breathing. Shallow breathing indicates you are working out too hard or you're not breathing properly.

Focus on your breaths and breath deep without holding your breath. You will eventually establish a pattern of inhaling and exhaling that feels comfortable to you. It is suggested to breath in ratios. Ratios of a 3:2 exhale/inhale work for some, writes Stew Smith, former Navy SEAL. This would look like exhaling on every third step (or pedal stroke) and inhaling during every two steps. Jackson writes that ratios for breathing can also be in a 4- or 2-step breath. "Because these rhythms organize your breathing, they make it easier, more efficient, and more powerful," says Jackson. With other cardiovascular exercises, such a s swimming or skiing, the idea is to breath deep from the diaphragm. Failing to do so can result in fatigue from a flood of carbon dioxide and lack of oxygen, says Smith.

Develop Strength Training Breaths

Breathing during strength training is important for the same reasons it is with cardiovascular exercise. Improper breathing can result in fatigue and an inefficient workout. When lifting weights, it is best to exhale on the most difficult part of the movement and inhale on the easiest part of the movement, says Smith. For example, you would exhale when pushing yourself up from a push up. This form of breathing allows you to get the most from each movement. Don't hold your breath as this increases blood pressure, states the Mayo Clinic.

Focus on Flexibility Breathing

Breathing during flexibility exercises, such as yoga, enhances the experience of the exercise. For stress relief, breathing during yoga or meditation techniques helps "control your body and gain control of your mind," reports the Mayo Clinic. Breathing during these types of exercises means focusing primarily upon taking the breath. Concentrating on deep, slow breaths filling the lungs helps release tension. During yoga poses, it is best to inhale while you're preparing for the pose and exhaling as you execute that move. You will be able to stretch farther using this technique.

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Tips For Handling Stress And Anxiety

Anxiety.

Everyone experiences stress and anxiety from time to time. Some jobs are considered high-stress jobs, such as being a stockbroker. Other people become anxious before taking a test or going on a blind date. Whatever triggers stress and anxiety within us can be managed. It is a matter of recognizing the source of the stress and anxiety and finding effective ways to manage it.

Causes and Symptoms of Stress

Stress influences our physical, emotional and mental well-being. Stress can be triggered by deadlines, a performance, speaking in front of people, death, toxic relationships, debt, unemployment, poor time management and lack of relaxation.

If circumstances become overwhelming, stress levels can increase. Unmanaged stress, especially for a long period, can result in mental and physical symptoms such as shaking, weight loss, weight gain, headaches, lack of sleep, rapid heart rate and lack of focus.

Not everyone handles stress the same. What may overwhelm one person may be an adrenaline rush for someone else who is working on deadline.

Tips to Reduce Stress

A stress management article featured online at helpguide.org lists several tips to help reduce stress that involve relaxing, adapting to situations, avoiding stressful situations, and adopting a healthy lifestyle (see links in References).

Reduce your stress level with exercise, nature walks, reading a book, a massage, a healthy diet, avoid or end stressful relationships, take a bath, keep a journal and think positively about stressful situations when you are stuck in traffic or when waiting past your scheduled time to visit with your doctor. Instead of yielding to frustration, keep a book with you or a crossword puzzle to divert your mind to something more pleasant.

Causes and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety functions like an alarm in the body. It can conjure up feelings of fear and worry. Phobias also lead to anxiety in which fear is irrationally related to an object the person believes can cause harm. For example, extreme phobias of spiders, bridges or closets can paralyze some people.

Causes of anxiety can involve traumatic events, abuse, divorce, reading the newspaper or watching news about crime and death, creating problems and life changes, such as a new job or new school.

If left untreated, anxiety can take on physical problems, such as sleeping disorders, trembling, headaches, muscle tension, restlessness, sweating and excessive worrying.

Tips to Reduce Anxiety

Ways to reduce anxiety, especially involving traumatic events, would be to avoid watching the news or reading the newspaper. Volunteer to help others to keep from worrying about things. Talk to someone you trust about your fears, and even keep a journal. Exercise and implement a healthy diet. Also, practice saying daily positive affirmations to replace the negative thoughts and feelings you may be experiencing. As the saying goes, "laughter is the best medicine."

Tags: stress anxiety, Causes Symptoms, healthy diet, keep journal, reading newspaper

Tell If Your Lapband Port Is Bad

Knowing tell if your LapBand port is bad can make the difference between losing more weight and possibly gaining weight and becoming sick. The port can become infected if bacteria tracks along the catheter and out of the port. According to the Laparoscopy website, a website that answers questions about advanced laparoscopic surgery, the infection might be caused by band erosion and will generally force your doctor to remove the LapBand.

Instructions

1. Weigh yourself and write down your weight -- if you have a feeling that your LapBand port is bad.

2. Continue with your regular dieting and exercising regime. Doing so will allow you to keep tabs on your weight gain or loss.

3. Check your weight yourself in two to three weeks. If you have not lost any more weight, then the LapBand port might be bad.

4. Visit the doctor who performed the LapBand surgery and tell him about your discretion. The doctor will perform an endoscopy to verify the malfunction of your LapBand port. An endoscopy is an examination in which your doctor attaches a tiny camera to a flexible fiber-optic tube. The tube travels through your gastrointestinal tract to find the LapBand port. If the port is backed up and looks visibly infected, the port is bad.

Tags: LapBand port, your LapBand, your weight, more weight, your doctor

Lap Band Weight Loss Procedures

There are several types of weight loss surgeries, but when it comes to gastric banding procedures, there are only two options available in the United States. One of those is the Lap-Band System. More than 300,000 people have undergone this FDA-approved procedure to lose weight. As with any surgery, there are advantages and risks, so people considering the Lap-Band procedure should discuss their options with a doctor.

Identification

Lap-Band surgery helps to reduce a person's food intake by decreasing the size and shape of the stomach. It involves restricting the stomach with an adjustable gastric band made of inflatable silicone. During the outpatient procedure, a surgeon will wrap a band around the top section of a patient's stomach by means of laparoscopic surgery. By restricting the stomach in this way, when a patient eats, he or she will eat less and feel full faster.

Lap-Band Candidates

Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher are ideal candidates for Lap-Band surgery, according to the National Institutes of Health. Even those with a BMI between 35 and 39 may be eligible for the procedure if they have additional, obesity-related conditions. Such conditions include high cholesterol and diabetes. Some surgeons may also ask potential Lap-Band patients to discuss their previous, failed attempts at weight loss before scheduling an operation.

Function

During surgery, a surgeon inserts a Lap-Band by making small incisions in the patient's abdomen. The doctor then places the band around the top of the stomach and secures it with sutures. The surgeon uses a laparoscopic camera to ensure that the band is placed correctly. The Lap-Band is attached to a port, which is placed underneath the skin of the stomach. When the doctor injects saline into the port, the band inflates, and food intake is limited.

After the Procedure

Post-surgery, Lap-Band patients require several follow-up visits with their doctor, so he or she can provide saline injections and adjust the band. Over time, the band will need to be loosened or tightened to manage weight loss. It is also important that patients have a nutrition plan in place following surgery. By following a healthy diet, Lap-Band patients, on average, will go on to lose up to 60 percent of their excess body weight within two years of their operation.

The Realize Band

Gastric banding surgery can also be performed with a Realize Band, the other type of band available in the U.S. Although a somewhat new option, more than 100,000 people have undergone weight loss surgery with this band. The Realize Band was created in Sweden in 1985. It is similar to the Lap-Band System in that the band, coupled with a saline-filled port, is inserted laparoscopically to alter a patient's stomach and restrict food consumption.

Tags: Lap-Band patients, Realize Band, weight loss, band around, discuss their, food intake, have undergone

Flush A Picc Line

Flush a PICC Line

It's finally time to come home from the hospital after a long stay. But your spouse or your child has come home with a PICC line to receive ongoing medications. A PICC line (peripherally inserted central catheter) is a soft plastic tube that lasts much longer than the standard IV. Before and after each medication, the PICC line must be flushed to avoid infections. This is a very important step.

Instructions

1. Wash your hands. A PICC line must remain absolutely sterile. Use soap and water. Dry with a paper towel.

2. Rub the lumen (rubber cap of the catheter) with an alcohol prep pad.

Prevent Rib Stress Fractures In Basketball

Rib stress fractures are a common sports injury when playing or training for basketball, but can be prevented with the right stretching routine, nutrition program and specific exercises. When you build strength in your core muscle groups such as the chest, upper arms and abdominal muscles, you can reduce your risk of injury and lower the chances of enduring rib stress fractures from overtraining.

Instructions

1. Increase upper body strength with floor push ups. Push ups are a valuable strength building exercise for your arms and torso, and can help reduce your risk of injury during a game or training period. Do a series of push ups during your training segment to make sure your muscles stay strong and taut for use.

2. Stabilize arm muscles with hand weights. Upper arm stabilization exercises are a great way to increase strength in your upper arms--your biceps and triceps--and you can also strengthen the chest and rib cage as a result. Do a series of resistance exercises using dumbbells to increase the range of motion in your upper body and reduce your risk of injury.

3. Increase chest strength with an overhead press. Overhead press exercises can help increase muscle in your upper arms, upper back and abdominal muscles. This can also prevent a rib stress fracture and improve strength and coordination overall.

4. Stretch your upper body muscles regularly. Make sure you stretch your torso, arm muscles and chest on a regular basis to reduce your risk of injury. Resistance bands and light dumbbells can help with your stretching routine.

5. Get enough rest. Avoid muscle overuse injuries by making sure you get enough rest between workouts and games. Overuse of chest and abdominal muscles can be the precursor to rib stress fractures.

Tags: reduce your, reduce your risk, risk injury, your risk, your risk injury

Tell Difference Between Wrist Sprain And Fracture

Both sprains and fractures can be extremely painful, and both require medical care. However, with a sprain only a family physician is needed, where as a fractured bone needs special attention, a cast and possibly surgery. There are a few ways to tell the two apart and two different ways to treat the bone before seeking medical help or before medical help arrives.

Instructions

Spot a Sprain

1. In a sprain, the muscle or joint will hurt, not the bone. In many cases, however, this is difficult to differentiate when in extreme pain.

2. There will be swelling or bruising around the area that is sprained. You will still be able to move the wrist, however it will cause great discomfort to do so.

3. The sprained wrist can be red and even feel warm---open blood vessels under the skin can give off the feeling of slight heat.

Treat a Sprain

4. Apply an ice pack or a zip-close bag filled with ice to the sprain immediately.

5. Compress the sprain with an Ace bandage. Keep the bandage tightly wrapped around the sprain for two days. Continue to apply ice to the area as well.

6. Keep the injury raised above heart level to reduce swelling.

7. Make sure the injured person is resting, no activity should be done while the wrist is healing. To be involved in heavy activities, such as lifting, playing sports or exercising, can make the injury much worse.

8. If no progress is made within one week, seek medical attention.

Spot a Fracture

9. In most fracture injuries, the injured person will hear or feel a "snap."

10. There will be a lot of swelling around the bone. There can be bruising as well.

11. The arm, wrist, or hand will not only be incredibly painful to the touch, but moving the wrist will be almost impossible.

12. In very extreme fractures, the bone can penetrate through the skin. In these cases, there can be a lot of blood and the bone will be visible.

Treat a Fracture

13. Seek medical attention immediately. Call an ambulance, or drive the injured person to the hospital. If the bone has penetrated through the skin, normally surgery is needed to reset the bone and stitch the skin.

14. Apply an ice pack to the broken wrist. If the bone has penetrated the skin, you will also need to apply pressure the bleeding area with a gauze pad or clean towel.

15. Line up two 12-inch wooden rulers next the wrist in the wrist's current position---do not attempt to move the wrist or the bone. Pad the wrist using small towels, and wrap the wrist very gently with an Ace bandage.

16. No matter where the fracture is, keep the injured person lying down while waiting for medical help to arrive.

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Benefits Of Lemon & Tea Tree Essential Oils

Lemon & tea tree essential oils treat a variety of conditions.

The use of essential oils for their benefits is not a new practice. For nearly 6,000 years, humans have distilled plant material for the internal and external application of oils to yield healing and health benefits. While therapy methods with essential oils such as aromatherapy did not become popular in the United States until the 1980s, the ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used oil derived from plants for everything from healing to ritualistic purposes.

Lemon Essential Oil - Stress

Lemon oil has a relaxing, calming effect. It can help alleviate stress, mental fatigue, anxiety, tiredness, nervousness, dizziness and exhaustion. The tranquilizing, focusing nature of lemon oil helps to induce sleep and is used to treat insomnia. Lemon oil can be used to revitalize the mind and body and is effective in keeping the brain alert and with clean, focused concentration.

Lemon Essential Oil - Immune System

The high vitamin content of lemon oil supports the body's immune system. Lemon oil also increases the production of white blood cells and improves blood circulation throughout the body.

Lemon Essential Oil - External Health

Lemon oil is used in many soaps and cleaners due to its astringent, antiseptic and disinfectant qualities. The smell and calming effects of lemon oil in soaps and cleaners also improves the experience of cleaning with lemon. The use of lemon oil in balms helps treat cold sores and the herpes simplex virus. Lemon oil is used as a tonic to strengthen and improve hair's shine. Lemon oil is commonly used in perfumes and colognes to improve scent and add freshness to the fragrance.

Tea Tree Essential Oil - Anti-Bacterial

Tea Tree oil is a trusted remedy for bacterial infections in open wounds. Taken orally, tea tree oil can treat internal bacterial infections in the stomach, intestines and colon.

Tea Tree Essential Oil - Anti-Viral and Anti-Microbial

Tea tree oil has the ability to rupture cysts that viruses use to protect themselves. This ability makes tea tree oil an effective natural treatment for viral infections. Tea Tree oil has anti-microbial uses and has been used to kill and treat certain microbes that are responsible for tropical fevers and malaria.

Tea Tree Essential Oil - External Health

Tea tree oil is a safe and effective first treatment for many external problems. These include burns, cuts, infections, open sores and insect bites. Tea tree oil inhaled or rubbed onto the chest produces a mucus-clearing reaction that helps to open air passages during illness. Tea tree oil is also an analgesic, meaning it is used as a pain killer when rubbed onto the skin or into a wound. It's also used to treat acne, skin infections, blisters, warts and other skin conditions.

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Difference Between Gnats & Fruit Flies

Gnats and fruit flies are commonly confused; they are both tiny, flying insects and it is difficult to distinguish between the two. They are related, both being from the same order, diptera. There are several different kinds of gnats and three types of fruit flies. The most obvious difference between the two is that in general, gnats feed on blood (either animal or human) whereas fruit flies feed on fruits and vegetables. Some gnats do feed on plant material but they are not commonly found in homes.

Gnats that Feed on Plant Material

Most gnats are very small and the bites they inflict are harmless. Two types of gnats feed on and lay eggs in plants or rotting vegetable materials rather than eating blood; these are the gall gnat and the fungus gnat. The gall gnat lays its eggs on plants and the larvae then feed on the plant, which can cause great damage to the plant. The fungus gnat is less destructive, as it restricts its feeding to fungi and rotting plants.

The Buffalo Gnat

The buffalo gnat is much larger and is more commonly known as the black fly. Black flies bite both humans and animals. These bites can be agonizing and swarms have been known to bite farm animals to death. However, the buffalo gnat is easily distinguishable from other gnats and from fruit flies because of its larger size. Most insect repellents work to deter black flies from biting.

The Mexican and Mediterranean Fruit Flies

The three types of fruit flies include the common fruit fly, the Mexican fruit fly and the Mediterranean fruit fly. All three feed exclusively on fruits and vegetables. The Mexican fruit fly and the Mediterranean fruit fly are regarded as harmful pests because they lay their eggs in unripe fruits and the larvae then damage these crops. The common fruit fly is more of an annoyance, as it usually only feeds on ripe or rotting fruit.

The Common Fruit Fly

The common fruit fly is of interest also because of its use in the study of genetics. Fruit flies are preferred by scientists because they reproduce quickly and easily. They also age relatively rapidly. Fruit flies are very common in warmer weather and climates and are easy to avoid by keeping fresh fruits and vegetables covered or refrigerated.

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What Can Be Eaten On A Renal Diet

People with kidney disease are often prescribed a renal diet. Retaining fluid is common with decreased kidney function. For this reason, fluid intake may be restricted. Phosphorus, potassium and sodium may be monitored to maintain electrolyte balance. The breakdown of protein creates urea, which may build up in the system. Lowering protein consumption may be necessary. Talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes. Consider this information from the Medical College of Wisconsin and the National Library of Medicine.

Phosphorus

Broccoli, zucchini, hard candy, sherbet, non-cola drinks and non-dairy milk substitutes are all low in phosphorus. Use small portion sizes.

Potassium

Foods low in potassium include apples, grapes, pears, watermelon, cranberries, cherries, cucumbers, beans, onions, lettuce, carrots, pasta, cereals and breads.

Protein

Choose fresh or plain frozen meats, such as poultry and seafood. Eggs, beans, grains and unsalted vegetables are also options.

Sodium

Season foods with a variety of spices to avoid salt. Eat homemade soups with no salt and purchase unsalted snack foods only.

Fluids

Anything that is liquid or melts into a liquid is considered to be a fluid. Measure all fluids to monitor intake.

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What Do You Put On A Curling Iron Burn

Curling irons are used for styling hair. These irons work because they heat up, but curling irons can become hot enough to cause a burn on a person's skin. It is very easy to accidentally touch the metal part of the curling iron or roll the curling iron too close to the scalp. If a burn occurs, there are some things you can put on it to ease the pain.

Cold Water

Immediately after you are burned, run cold water over the area. Run the water over the burn for at least five minutes. You can then switch to using ice cubes. Running cold water over the burn helps bring the temperature of the skin back to normal. The ice numbs the area and lessens the pain. You can use the ice for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. You can also take two Tylenol or one Ibuprofen for the pain, if needed.

Creams

After you have cooled the skin, you can apply a cream. You can use any cream that contains one percent hydrocortisone. This will help relieve the burning and stinging sensation. You could also use a cream that is a type of antibiotic to prevent any infections and to heal the burn. One example would be a Bacitracin. You should not use these creams more than twice each day. If your burn is more than just a minor burn, you will want to see a doctor.

Aloe Vera

Break a piece of an aloe plant off and open it up. Apply the aloe directly to the burn. This will do two things. First, it will soothe the area. Second, it will start healing the burn and lessen the chance of a scar forming. If you don't have an aloe plant, you can purchase Solarcaine Aloe Extra Burn Relief. This product is made especially for burns. The product contains the same aloe that you would find in an aloe plant. You can use this on your burn as often as needed for relief and healing.

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Make Pheromones

Make Pheromones

Pheromones have received a lot of attention in recent years. The word pheromone is made from two Greek words: "pherein," which means to transport and "hormone," which means to stimulate. Pheromones are chemical compounds secreted by human beings and other living creatures that send a subconscious signal to others. Sex pheromones have been proven to send signals that can make you more attractive to the opposite sex. Here we will explain how you can make your own pheromones so you can be and feel more attractive.

Instructions

1. Make celery part of your diet. Celery contains androtestosterone, which according to the website Shapefit is a powerful hormone that is released through sweat and attracts the opposite sex. By eating celery, your sweat will contain a higher level of pheromones.

2. Place some gauze pads under your armpits to collect your sweat. If you are a female, you should do this during your period since this is the time when most pheromones are produced. You can also place the gauze pads in other areas where you can collect sweat, like your elbows or behind your knees.

3. Place the gauze pads that collected your sweat in your perfume bottle so your own pheromones can enhance the attraction effects of your perfume. You can also put them inside a small glass bottle filled with your favorite essential oil.

4. Dab a little of your pheromone enhanced perfume or essential oil on your wrists, neck, temples, the area behind the knees and your ankles.

Tags: gauze pads, your sweat, Make Pheromones, more attractive, which means, your perfume

Treat A Canker Sore On A Toddler

Treat a Canker Sore on a Toddler

Canker sores are painful ulcers found inside the mouth. The exact cause is unknown, but certain factors seem to put people at risk. These include deficiencies of B12, folic acid and iron, food allergies and weakened immunity. Injuries to the mouth can also trigger them. You can do several things to treat your child's canker sore at home and medical care is usually unnecessary. If you are unsure about any treatments, check with your child's doctor.

Instructions

1. Look for over-the-counter canker sore remedies containing carbamide peroxide, benzocaine, menthol or eucalyptol. These treatments ease pain and can lessen the length of the outbreak. Use as directed.

2. Make a homemade rinse that will ease pain and speed healing. Try mixing two ounces of hydrogen peroxide and two ounces of water. Another combination is four ounces of water, one tsp of salt and one tsp of baking soda. Your child can use the rinse four times a day for one minute. Remind him not to swallow it.

3. Place a wet black tea bag on the canker sore. It contains tannins, a substance that can alleviate pain.

4. Do not give your child spicy or acidic foods.

5. Make an appointment with your doctor if the sore lasts longer than two weeks or if it is so painful your child cannot eat or drink properly. He might need stronger medications that only a doctor can prescribe. If your doctor does prescribe any topical treatments, certain steps are necessary to ensure maximum effect. Dry the area around the sore with a tissue and apply the medication with a Q-tip. Do not let your child eat or drink for at least 30 minutes.

Tags: your child, Canker Sore Toddler, ease pain, ounces water, Sore Toddler, Treat Canker, Treat Canker Sore

Relief For Toothaches

Toothache is a term used to describe pain and discomfort in the teeth or surrounding tissue. These symptoms have a number of potential causes, including cavities, gum disease, teething in children, infection, physical trauma, wisdom tooth emergence and inflammation of the tooth interior (pulpitis). Although it's possible to relieve some sources of toothache at least temporarily through home care, other sources require relief through medical intervention.

Home Care Options

Consider that the pain source may be a cavity. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most likely source of toothache is the development of a cavity, also known as tooth decay. Initially, you may try a number of self-care options to relieve your discomfort. Begin with a warm water rinse of your mouth. Follow this with an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), aspirin or naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). Your condition may be worsened by the presence of food particles stuck between your teeth; use dental floss to remove any obstructions. You may also apply clove oil (eugenol) or over-the-counter antiseptics containing the anesthetic benzocaine directly to your tooth or irritated gum. In some circles, you may find recommendations to place a painkilling tablet such as aspirin directly against the affected area. Don't do this; it may lead to tissue burns.

When to See Your Dentist

Know when it's time to see a professional. If you see swelling or redness in your gums, have pain when you bite down or notice a bad taste in your mouth, see your dentist as soon as you can. Also see your dentist if have a fever, earache, breathing or swallowing difficulties, or if your home care remedies don't work after a couple of days.

Dental Treatments

Go over treatments after your dentist has examined you. If you have a cavity, relieving your symptoms might require removing the tooth interior or pulp and replacing it with an artificial filling. If your tooth is badly decayed--with infection extending down into its roots--you may need a more extensive procedure called a root canal, which involves removing the pulp and associated nerves, along with a cleaning of your remaining tooth interior. Infection may also cause formation of a pocket of pus in the tooth root or gum called an abscess. If this is true for you, your dentist will drain the abscess and prescribe an antibiotic to fight the infection. You may also be given antibiotics for infection of your tooth pulp.

In some cases, your tooth pain may be triggered by an infection in your sinuses that has spread to your mouth. If your dentist determines this is the case, he may refer you to a physician for treatment.

Relieving Teething Pain

If your child is the one in pain, try some simple remedies. If your child is teething, consider gel-centered teething rings that can be frozen in your refrigerator. You may also give your child hard crackers to chew on. With your doctor's advice, you may also use diminished doses of ibuprofen, acetaminophen or benzocaine gel.

Tags: your dentist, your tooth, tooth interior, your child, your mouth

Buy A Pressure Sterilizer

Pressure sterilizers are used by doctor's offices, labs and hospitals to sterilize equipment. They are inexpensive and convenient. Once the surgical instruments are sterilized, they are free of bacteria and there is no chemical residue left behind. The cutting edges stay sharp. Pressure sterilizers range in size from large units to table-top sterilizers. For proper sterilization, temperatures range from 212 degrees F to 259 degrees F. Read on to learn buy a pressure sterilizer.

Instructions

1. Know your size requirements and budget. It's important to know how much counter space you have available for a unit. You can get one as small as 5 inches tall to as large as 11 inches tall.

2. Choose an electric or non-electric pressure sterilizer. Non-electric models can be used over any heat source. Depending on size, they range from $200 to $500. Electric models tend to be a little more expensive, but they are easier to use. They plug right in and can be used immediately. They range from about $500 to $700.

3. Look for the most advanced clamping system. You want to make sure the lid won't fly off the unit when there's pressure. Most units have locks that clamp on all sides, to keep the lid on. Some have metal to metal seals, others have rubber gaskets.

4. Make sure the unit is UL approved. You want a pressure sterilizer with a pressure gauge and control valve. It's important that all have been tested to ensure safety.

5. Consider buying a support base. It lifts the pressure sterilizer off the counter surface or table top, thus protecting it from the heat. If you don't have one, make sure you place the pressure sterilizer on a heat-proof surface.

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The Best Gestational Diabetes Meal Plan

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that affects only pregnant women. It is important for women with gestational diabetes to eat the right foods to treat the problem and also provide adequate nutrition to keep the baby's development on track. According to the American Diabetes Association, the right meal plan to manage diabetes will help improve blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and maintain a healthy pregnancy weight.

Choose the Right Dietitian

Choosing the dietitian who understands the specific concerns facing a pregnant woman and her unborn child is crucial. The obstetrician who is monitoring the pregnant woman can be a great resource for finding an appropriate dietitian. Because there will not be a great deal of time to pick out a dietitian, pregnant women can interview a few dietitians over the phone and decide which one is the best fit.

Diet

It is important to make healthy eating choices emphasizing fresh fruits and vegetables. Dark leafy green vegetables and other vegetables that have a deep, rich coloring are especially vitamin-rich and will help the baby get the best start possible as well as help in managing gestational diabetes.

Limiting fat intake is another part of controlling gestational diabetes. While pregnant women should not actively diet, it is important to ingest the right kinds of calories. Fat should make up no more than 30 percent of a daily caloric intake.

Sample Menu

Break fast: 1 hard-boiled egg, 1 slice whole wheat bread, 1 tsp. canola-based trans-fat-free margarine, 1/3 pound grapes, 12 ounces non-fat milk

Snack: 1 slice whole-wheat bread, 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 1 tablespoon reduced-sugar jelly, 8 ounces nonfat milk

Lunch: 1 large whole-wheat pita, ½ cup cooked black beans, ½ cup chopped fresh tomato, 1 ounce low-fat sharp cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon salsa, 2 teaspoons olive oil

Snack: 1 medium apple with 1 tablespoon peanut butter, 12 ounces nonfat milk

Dinner: 3 ounces skinless chicken breast, 4 ounces pineapple rings, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, 1 tablespoon dark sesame oil, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce, ¼ cup instant rice, ½ cup cooked green beans, ¼ pound fresh strawberries

Directions: Place chicken breast in shallow container; combine half of pineapple juice, toasted sesame seeds, sesame oil, cornstarch, and soy sauce in bowl; pour over chicken breast. Place half the rings from the pineapple over the chicken. Refrigerate one hour or overnight. Remove chicken and pineapple from marinade and discard marinade; grill or broil chicken breast and pineapple until cooked through (turning as needed). Cook rice as indicated on package. Prepare green beans as indicated on package. Serve strawberries for dessert.

Tools for Healthy Eating

Important tools for healthy eating include a scale to weigh foods, a measuring cup to measure foods and the patience to read labels. Fortunately, gestational diabetes can often be managed by diet alone.

Tags: chicken breast, pregnant women, gestational diabetes, green beans, indicated package

Widening Baby Bottle Nipples

Baby bottle nipples come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They also can be made of several different materials, like silicone or latex. Nipple shapes can be orthodontic, which are a bit flatter in shape than traditional nipples, or traditional with variations in shapes and sizes. Nipples also come in flow speeds. Different brands name their speeds differently, but usually nipples come in slow, medium and fast speeds. The size, shape and number of holes in the top of the nipple help regulate the flow of milk or formula as the baby sucks on it. The larger the holes and the more in number, the faster the liquid will come out. Babies start with the slowest flow speed and work their way up to faster speeds over time. While purchasing the appropriate flow speed nipple for your baby is the best route, if you're in a jam and need to widen the holes in your bottles nipple, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Evaluate how your current flow speed is working. If your baby is constantly choking as he is feeding, chances are the nipple speed is too fast. If your baby seems frustrated while eating, working hard to suck, and has a pattern of eating small, frequent meals, chances are your nipple speed is too slow, and you may want to widen the bottle nipple.

2. Sterilize the bottle nipple. Place the bottle nipple in boiling water for about 5 minutes. This will kill bacteria and prevent it from invading the new or widened nipple hole.

3. Sterilize a sewing needle. Heat it until red hot. You can use a lighter to heat the needle. Be sure that the needle is sterile to prevent the spread of bacteria. If your existing hole is bigger than a standard sewing needle, use a larger-gauge sewing needle.

4. Insert the cooled needle into the existing hole. Slide the needle through the existing hole so that the widest part of the needle works to expand the existing hole. Work the needle around the hole in a circular fashion to further stretch the hole.

5. Run the nipple through the dishwasher or wash with hot, soapy water. Rinse well and test the new flow speed. Hold the bottle upside down when filled with liquid before giving to your baby. If the flow seems to be slightly increased, test the flow on your baby. Use caution the first time using the nipple now that it has an increased flow speed.

Tags: flow speed, your baby, existing hole, bottle nipple, sewing needle, nipple speed, nipples come

Go To Sleep Without Drugs Or Sleeping Pills

Everyone periodically experiences insomnia, especially in these trying financial times. Laying in bed all night worrying about pay the bills or fretting over other problems won't solve anything, and it will make you feel horrible the next morning. You will be better able to face the new day after a good night's sleep. Instead of reaching for the sleeping pills, give the following steps a try. It won't hurt, and who knows, maybe you will be more refreshed in the morning.

Instructions

1. Write your to-do list. Before you go to bed, write your daily to-do list for the following day. If you have the list on paper, it will keep you from making mental lists all night long, while laying in bed trying to go to sleep.

2. Understand there is nothing you can do late at night. You may have problems and worries, yet chances are, there is nothing you can to until the morning. So why worry? What you can't fix in the moment, stop obsessing and tell yourself you will deal with the issue when possible. If necessary, add it to your to do list.

3. Establish your day dream. This will be your "sleeping pill" substitute. Everyone has some fantasy day dream. It may be within the realm of possibility, such as starting a horse ranch - or an absolutely out of reach fantasy, like homesteading on the moon.

4. Write a book about your fantasy day dream. Kinda, sorta. When you lay down to go to sleep, don't just think about the dream, think about it in such a way that you are writing a book about it. Before you finish your first page, you will be fast asleep.

5. Start writing where you left off. The next night, when you go to bed, start "writing" your book where you left off the previous night. Keep this daydream/story removed from your everyday worries and real to-do lists. It is your escape, to allow you to unwind, similar to actually reading a book to help you sleep.

Tags: book about, fantasy dream, there nothing, think about, to-do list, where left

What Is Aggressive Ovarian Cancer

The ovaries are the defining organs of the female body. Unfortunately, they are prone to cancerous growths that can grow for years without any specific symptoms. With aggressive ovarian cancer, early detection is the key to survival.

The Ovaries

The ovaries are the primary female reproductive organs, the counterparts to the testes in males. The ovaries house developing oocytes and release eggs into the reproductive tract during the ovulation portion of the female reproductive cycle. These organs also produce estrogen and progesterone.

Aggressive Ovarian Cancer

According to Human Anatomy and Physiology, ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cancer of the reproductive system. Most occurrences are caused by an abnormal growth of epithelial cells lining the ovaries.

Symptoms

Aggressive ovarian tumors usually grow quickly and rapidly become metastatic, which means that the cancer cells spread beyond the ovaries. Normal symptoms of an ovarian tumor are quite general, such as dull pressure in the abdomen, pelvic pain and urinary pain. See the Reference section for the full list of symptoms.

Complications

Because symptoms are usually nonspecific, ovarian cancer can be misdiagnosed and may not be detected until the cells have spread to other parts of the body. An aggressive tumor is even more problematic because of the speed at which growth occurs.

Treatment

If the tumor is detected before metastasis occurs, the surgical removal of the affected ovary and fallopian tube followed by chemotherapy can save the woman's childbearing ability. However, an advanced aggressive tumor may require removal of the entire reproductive system and even parts of the intestines, also followed by chemotherapy.

Tags: Aggressive Ovarian, Aggressive Ovarian Cancer, aggressive tumor, female reproductive, followed chemotherapy, ovarian cancer, reproductive system

Stay Motivated For Your Goals

This is an article on stay motivated for your goals.

Instructions

1. Step 1) Have you ever been fired up for achieving your goals...and then 2 hours later you are exhausted and could care less. Well, I think that happens to everyone. The first step in staying motivated for your goals is to not be overly emotional--do not ride the emotional wave of highs-and-lows. Set your goal and that's that--stop daydreaming!

2. Step 2) After you set your goal (and after you have stopped daydreaming for goodness sake) conceive a plan to get to that goal. Make sure it is realistic--maybe even a shade pessimistic. There's nothing worse than setting a huge financial goal, for example, and then coming $5,000 short of that goal. Make a realistic plan to achieve attainable goals.

3. Step 3) Work hard toward attaining that goal that you've set and live in the moment. Stop living in that brief moment when that goal has been attained and you're happy--be happy now in the struggle to really push yourself to attain that goal. There's so much character building in the struggle--don't lose out on that.

4. Step 4) Keep positive about your results whether good or bad. Don't get down on yourself if you really worked hard this month, but you didn't hit your goal. Praise yourself for all the hard work you put in. Stay positive--you'll get there!

5. Step 5) Keep reminders around you at all times that constantly remind you that you are getting closer and closer to your goal. Shed the distracters!

6. Step 6) I hope this has been a helpful article on stay motivated for your goals. Good luck!

Tags: that goal, your goal, motivated your, your goals, article stay, article stay motivated

Select Pranayama For Vata Ayurveda Mind Body Type

Ayurveda is the 5,000-year-old medical system that originated in India. Colleges and universities there award students bachelors and advanced degrees in Ayurveda. There are three main mind-body, or dosha types: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Vata represents air and ether. Vatas are generally slender with a small-boned frame. It is difficult for Vatas to gain weight and they tend to thrive on constant activity, mental and physical. Dryness is a theme for them: dry hair, skin, and a tendency to constipation. Vatas are very talkative, and this can be excessive. Pranayama, or breath work, is one way to help ground the constant worry and anxiety that can overwhelm a Vata who is not balanced.

Instructions

1. Begin by sitting in a comfortable, cross-legged position on the floor. If your knees are higher than your hips this way, sit on a folded blanket or pillow or chair. Your spine should be upright but not rigid. Breath work for Vatas should help tether them to earth element to balance the movement of air and ether.

2. Close off the right nostril with the right thumb. Inhale through the left nostril softly. Close off the left nostril and exhale through the right nostril. Repeat in this way for 7 to 10 rounds smoothly without hurry or force.

3. Practice this pranayama daily for a month, adding one to two rounds each week. Notice if you feel your chest tighten: you may be inhaling too quickly of too fully. Nadi shodhana is alternate nose breathing and meant to balance the two main energetic nadis: ida (solar) and pingala (lunar).

4. Learn a very short breathing exercise to help you remain calm at work or in a challenging situation. It is a variation of viloma or three-part breath. Sitting with eyes closed, inhale to the belly about 1/3 of your capacity, pause. Inhale another third to the chest level, pause. Inhale to the collarbones, pause. Exhale slowly.

5. Take several normal breaths. Repeat once more. Rest by breathing normally. This variation can be done with the eyes opened and is barely noticeable and can help dispel toxins from the lungs and calm down a Vata’s racing mind (and tongue).

Tags: left nostril, pause Inhale, right nostril, with eyes

Sarsaparilla Ingredients

Sarsaparilla Ingredients

Sarsaparilla is a common ingredient in popular sodas like root beer and birch beer. Different parts of the sarsaparilla plant can also be used to make wines.

Sarsaparilla plant

Sarsaparilla is a vine with a prickly stem native to Central America. Its stem and leaves may be used in beverages, but the most common part of the plant used is extract from the root.

Sarsaparilla is native to Central America. Its name comes from the Spanish zarzaparilla.

Sarsaparilla soda

The sarsaparilla soda is comparable to a root beer. While most root beer is made with wintergreen leaves, sarsaparilla is made from the extract of the sarsaparilla root.

Wintergreen has been the primary ingredient in root beers since the Food and Drug Administration banned sassafras in mass-market recipes in 1960, although sassafras is commonly used in home brewing.

Sarsaparilla root beer

Bring 2 gallons of water to a boil. Add 2 ounces of sarsaparilla root extract, 2 ounces of sassafras extract, 1/2 ounce of licorice, 2 ounces of wintergreen, and 2.5 pounds of sugar. Add water as necessary to bring the final back product to 2 gallons.

Sarsaparilla mead

Boil 1 pound of sarsaparilla root in 4 gallons of water for 5 hours, then add water to bring it to 2 gallons (some of the water will have boiled off).

Add 10 ounces tartaric acid and 1 pound of sugar.

When serving, use a mixture of 50% water and 50% mead.

Sarsaparilla wine

Wine can be made with sarsaparilla root, flowers, leaves or extract. Wine yeast, yeast nutrient and sugar are other necessary ingredients, but beyond that, recipes vary greatly, including tartaric acid, citric acid, bananas, caramel and other flavors.

Tags: root beer, sarsaparilla root, Central America, gallons water, made with, native Central, native Central America

Pick Grains For A Macrobiotic Diet

The macrobiotic diet is designed around a percentage system. Whole grains make up between 50 and 60 percent of a person's calories during a day, vegetables make up between 25 and 30 percent of their calories, beans and legumes make up between 5 and 10 percent of their calories and miso soup accounts for about 5 percent of their calories. If you are trying out the macrobiotic diet, then follow these steps to find the right types of grains to eat.

Instructions

1. Stock up on brown rice. Brown rice is highly nutritious and is a whole grain. In a single 3.5 ounce serving you will get 23.51 grams of carbohydrates, .83 grams of fat and 2.32 grams of protein. Brown rice is also a great source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 and B9. It will also provide you with 1 percent of your daily allowance of calcium and 4 percent of your daily allowance of iron.

2. Buy some barley. Barley is another great whole grain that you can eat while on a Macrobiotic Diet. A 3.5 ounce serving contains 77.7 grams of carbohydrates, .8 grams of sugar and 15.6 grams of dietary fiber. It also contains 20 percent of your daily allowance for iron, 21 percent of your daily allowance of magnesium and three percent of your daily allowance of calcium. It is also a great source of B vitamins, zinc and potassium.

3. Mull over the possibility of adding millet to your diet. Millet is a variety of small seeded cereal grains that include pearl millet, proso millet, foxtail millet and finger millet. Millet is a great source of B vitamins, calcium, iron, folic acid and protein. It is also gluten free so it is a great option for people with gluten sensitivities.

Tags: daily allowance, percent your, percent your daily, your daily, your daily allowance, between percent

Support Muscle Growth

Building muscle requires hard work, dedication and a well-devised plan. Religiously hitting the gym isn't enough. You must also adhere to a lifestyle that supports muscle growth.

Instructions

1. Go to your refrigerator and assess its contents. It should be stocked with lean cuts of meat and fresh vegetables. Your pantry should be stocked with oatmeal, yams, a wide selection of herbs and spices and brown rice. To support muscle growth, you must provide your body with a surplus of quality nutrients.

2. Set a stopwatch for a maximum of 3 hours. Every time that stopwatch goes off, it is time to sit down and eat. Eat high-nutrient meals at least 5 times per day, although 6 to 8 times per day would be even better.

3. Hit the gym and grab the free weights. If it isn't a dumbbell or a barbell, leave it alone. Focus on compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, good mornings, bench presses, chin-ups, dips, rows, overhead presses and any of the explosive Olympic weightlifting movements. Don't waste time pumping up your biceps or working on your calves. Your time in the gym should be in less than an hour.

4. Crawl into bed. Get at least 8 hours of quality, uninterrupted sleep every night. This gives your body the chance to use all the nutrients you've been feeding it to rebuild the damage done in the weight room.

Tags: muscle growth, should stocked, should stocked with, stocked with, your body

Stretch For Back Pain With The Upper Back Spine Roller

The upper back spine roller exercise is a simple stretch for people of all ages and body types, helping to improve posture and relieve back pain. For people who sit at a desk all day long, performing this stretch each night will help to prevent and reduce neck and upper back pain simply and easily.

Instructions

1. Perform this stretch using a three- to five-inch diameter foam roller or make your own prop with a large towel. Fold the large towel in half lengthwise and then roll it up tightly, slipping a large rubber band around each end to hold the roll in place.

2. Place your foam spine roller or rolled towel on the ground and then lay down over the roll so that it is resting directly under your shoulder blades. Keep your chest lifted and place your hands behind your head, opening your elbows as wide as possible.

3. Bend your knees, placing your feet flat on the ground and holding your knees together. Rest your upper body over the roll, arching your upper back, drawing your chin into your chest and pulling your belly button down towards your spine. Your knuckles, lower back and tailbone should all be touching the floor.

4. Hold the stretch for five seconds, breathing deeply and slowly and then lift your upper body and wiggle down an inch or so, moving the spine roller up your back. Relax down and hold once again. Repeat until the spine roller is at shoulder level, using this exercises whenever necessary to relieve back pain.

Tags: back pain, spine roller, your upper, your upper body, large towel

Find Wu Yi Tea

Wu Yi Tea is a trademarked product marketed primarily for its slimming properties. While the names of most tea varieties, such as white, black or green teas, give some clue as to how the tea was produced, the Wu Yi name instead applies to where the tea was harvested: Mt. Wu Yi Shan in China. Mt. Wu Yi Shan is renowned for its production of fine oolong teas, so if you can't find the trademarked Wu Yi tea or aren't willing to pay exorbitant prices for it, you could also try the more commonly available oolong or wu long teas.

Instructions

1. Check health food stores in your area. Wu Yi tea is often marketed as a slimming or weight loss product, so you're likely to find it in the supplement section.

2. Inquire at your local supermarket. Many supermarkets have health food or supplement sections. This is the best place to look for Wu Yi tea.

3. Purchase Wu Yi tea directly from its major marketer, Wu Yi Source. The Wu Yi website is listed in the Resources section below.

Tags: health food

Metals Found In Dental Fillings

Metal fillings with mercury are considered safe by the FDA.

For more than 150 years, metal dental fillings have been a common way to repair diseased teeth, according to the U.S Food and Drug Administration. The most common metal filling is a dental amalgam. It's made of several different metals and is the least expensive option available to patients with a cavity. The American Dental Association (ADA) notes that more than 100 million Americans have amalgams.

Dental Amalgam

A dental amalgam is made of several metals, according to the FDA. Around 50 percent of an amalgam's weight is from elemental mercury, a liquid mercury that releases vapor. The remaining materials are in a powdered alloy consisting of silver, tin and copper.

Once a dentist has drilled into a tooth to remove the decay, she mixes the powdered alloy with the liquid mercury and inserts it into the tooth cavity she has created. The mixture then hardens and is considered stronger and more durable than alternate fillings. Mercury is an important component of the amalgam because it is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature and bonds well with the other metals in the powdered alloy.

Other Metal Fillings

Although less common, gold alloys are a desirable material for fillings, according to the ADA. They contain gold, copper and other trace metals. Gold is a good choice because it is strong and resists corrosion. It also allows the dentist to remove the least amount of healthy tooth before restoring the area.

Base metal alloys are another option. They are non-noble metals that provide a strong, tarnish-resistant filling. Some patients, however, might be sensitive to these metals, says the ADA.

FDA Concerns

Because an amalgam contains mercury, many individuals are concerned it might be dangerous. FDA analysis of clinical studies has determined there is no significant health hazard from metal fillings. The agency does not recommend them for children under 6 years old, however. The mercury in the fillings is released as vapor and is processed by the lungs. This is different from the form of mercury found in fish --- methylmercury --- that is mainly absorbed through the digestive tract and is considered dangerous in high levels.

Composite Dental Fillings

Some dentists offer to replace dental amalgams with newer composite fillings, which are a combination of glass or quartz in a resin medium. Although they are more expensive and less durable than amalgams, they are tooth-colored and more cosmetically attractive. Replacing a dental amalgam is not recommended unless the current filling is failing or the tooth is showing decay, according to the MayoClinic.com. Removing the filling without a good cause could permanently damage the tooth. Other tooth-colored options include glass ionomers, a mixture of acrylic acids and fine glass powders, and porcelain blends, according to the ADA.

Tags: dental amalgam, powdered alloy, amalgam made, amalgam made several, dental amalgam made

How Do Children Become Obese

Lack of Exercise

A lack of physical activity is a major contributor to childhood obesity. Regular exercise burns calories and promotes a lean, healthy body. A lack of regular exercise leads to physical atrophy, a slowed metabolic rate, and promotes weight gain. Children who lead mostly sedentary, inactive lifestyles tend to be heavier and less healthy than their more active counterparts. Although there are many contributing factors in the development of childhood obesity, a lack of regular exercise is one of the most prevalent factors.

High Fat, High Sugar Diet

A high fat, high sugar diet is a main contributor to the development of childhood obesity. Foods high in fat and sugar are cheap, convenient, tasty and readily available in places frequented by children and adolescents such as schools, fast food restaurants and neighborhood corner markets. In addition, foods high in both fat and sugar tend to be less filling than more nutritional, higher quality foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Therefore, children are more likely to overeat and indulge in these less nutritional, high fat, high sugar food types that encourage weight gain and obesity.

Parental Influences

Obese children are more likely to have obese parents than are normal weight children. Children are very receptive and conducive to the lifestyles and habits, including the dietary and exercise habits, of their parents. Parents who make poor food choices, lead sedentary lifestyles, and encourage their children to follow suit are more likely to foster attitudes and behaviors in their children that lead to obesity. Children who grow up in households with parents who devalue the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle are at an increased risk for developing not only childhood obesity but long-term, chronic health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Tags: childhood obesity, high sugar, more likely, children more, children more likely

Boost Brain Function With Vitamin B

B vitamins are necessary for proper brain functioning because they help maintain the nervous system, and help with circulation. You can give your brain a boost by making sure that your diet is high in vitamins B1, B6, and B12. The B vitamins are water soluble and get flushed out of your system daily, so it is important to get enough vitamin B every day for a healthy brain.

Instructions

1. Vitamin B12 is the most important B vitamin and it is found in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. It is also found in liver. Vitamin B12 is not produced by plants, so people on vegan diets need to make sure that they take a supplement that includes Vitamin B12 for healthy brain functioning.

2. Vitamin B6 can be found in leafy green vegetables, seeds, nuts, and grains. All foods contain trace amounts of Vitamin B6. This B vitamin helps with the body's metabolism, and studies have found that deficiencies in vitamin B6 can cause nervousness or jitters. Getting adequate levels of this B vitamin will help improve concentration and memory.

3. Vitamin B1 is found in the same sources as B^, plus many other vegetables, and B1 is especially high in the husks of grain. Vitamin B1 promotes brain health by helping the nervous system and is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

4. Many brain boosting supplements contain high doses of vitamin B, but you can get the same benefit to your brain by increasing your uptake of essential B vitamins.

Tags: brain functioning, healthy brain, nervous system, sure that, Vitamin found, your brain

Body Magnets For Pain Relief

Magnetic therapy is an alternative treatment for pain that has existed for many years. Greeks first began using magnets around 2500 B.C., and the Chinese made use of them 500 years later. The healing benefits of magnets are now used worldwide.

Body magnets

Features

Body magnets for pain relief works by creating a force called a magnetic field, which causes an electromagnetic movement in the body and thus restores the correct balance to the affected area.

Benefits

The strength of magnets varies. Magnet strengths are measured in gaus, and the suggested strength for pain relief is 300 to 5,000 gaus.

Significance

Magnetic therapy may be beneficial for the following conditions: arthritis, back pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, trauma to a specific muscle or joint and fibromyalgia.

Considerations

Body magnets today are sold individually and can be sewn into mattress covers to benefit from the magnets while sleeping. This is particularly beneficial for those who have pain in many areas of the body. Magnets also come in bracelets, necklaces, shoe insoles and pillows.

Warning

When purchasing body magnets, it is important to shop for a reputable brand such as Therion. The company is involved in research on the various benefits of magnetic therapy.

Tags: Body magnets, Magnetic therapy

Can A Person Get Too Many Adjustments From A Chiropractor

Misaligned vertebrae in the spinal column can be adjusted by a chiropractor.

Chiropractic adjustments are a popular form of alternative medicine sought out by people with chronic back and neck pain. Approximately one-third of all Americans seek out some form of alternative medicine; chiropractic treatments rank with acupuncture and massage care in terms of popularity. Some people worry too many adjustments from a chiropractor can be harmful, but there is no evidence to support this. The human body is designed to move, and manual manipulation from a licensed practitioner is considered a safe and effective form of treatment.

Chiropractic Adjustment Basics

A chiropractic adjustment is a manual manipulation of the spine to relieve pressure caused by misaligned vertebrae. This is known as a subluxation. During a chiropractic adjustment, the body releases endorphins--hormones to counteract the pain while the vertebra is freed from its misaligned position. The patient will typically experience muscle soreness and discomfort while the body heals itself, but these responses tend to decrease during a standard course of treatment.

Chiropractic Adjustment Methods

A skilled chiropractor will employ various chiropractic adjustment methods depending on the patient's needs. During the Toggle Drop, the chiropractor crosses his hands and applies pressure to the spine and then, with a quick and carefully coordinated thrust, adjusts the spine. In a Lumbar Roll, the patient is instructed to lay on his side while the chiropractor performs a similar thrust routine. A chiropractor uses Motion Palpation to determine if the vertebrae are moving normally and Release Work to gently separate the vertebrae with his fingers.

Additional Adjustment Options

Depending on the severity of the case, the chiropractor may employ less invasive adjustment methods to alleviate pain. During a Table Adjustment, the chiropractor performs a quick thrust while a specially designed table "drops" the patient simultaneously, enabling for a lighter and less intrusive adjustment. Gentler still is an Instrument Adjustment, where the chiropractor uses a spring-loaded activator instrument on the patient, who is lying face down. Manipulation done under anesthesia is used when a patient doesn't respond to other techniques.

Adjustments for Other Body Areas

Chiropractors don't confine adjustments solely to the back--there are other areas of the body they deal with, as well. Neck and hip adjustments are commonplace and deal with using many of the same techniques applied for spinal adjustments. Chiropractors have developed techniques that allow them to adjust joints in the knees, wrists and ankles for dealing with sports injuries. There are even techniques available for treating headaches.

Adjustments Needed

The number of chiropractic adjustments a patient requires can vary greatly and is based on his specific medical condition. The chiropractor will determine whether the pain is new or if it's a chronic condition. It also depends on whether the pain is confined to one area, or whether multiple areas are affected. The typical course of treatment is one adjustment per visit, but the number of visits can range from just a few sessions to weekly treatments that continue for years. No frequency is too great, since a person can not receive too many adjustments from a chiropractor.

Tags: adjustment methods, adjustments from, alternative medicine, chiropractic adjustment, chiropractor performs, chiropractor uses, chiropractor will

Stop Painful Periods

Many women suffer from menstrual cramps (or dysmenorrhea) each month. While many factors play a part in these painful periods, there are a variety of things you can try to reduce or eliminate the pain. There are home remedies, supplements and over-the-counter medications you can try. Different things work with different women so it's best to first try the suggestions that are cheaper or easier to do.

Instructions

1. Take a hot bath. Heat is helpful for mild pain because it relaxes your muscles, and tight muscles often cause pain. Another option is to use a heating pad on your lower abdomen. Also, keep warm at night because coldness contracts muscles and can increase pain.

2. Use pain relievers. There are a few over-the-counter medications that are designed just for women during their periods. Pamprin and Midol are just for menstruating women, but ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also be used. Start taking the pills as soon as the pain starts or even before your period starts if you usually get cramps.

3. Try acupressure. This is similar to acupuncture but without the needles. Pressure is placed along the meridian points of the body. These median points correspond to certain areas of the body or internal organs.

4. Exercise regularly. Being physically active can help you to relax and relieve stress. Some doctors think that exercising the abdominal muscles can reduce or stop pain. Exercising releases endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that make you feel better.

5. Have an orgasm. For some women sex helps to relieve menstrual cramps.

6. Monitor your diet. For some women certain foods make cramps worse. Keep a food diary of what you eat in the days before your period. For many women, too much sodium increases cramps so stay away from salty foods. For others caffeine or dairy products may be the cause.

7. Increase your intake of calcium, magnesium and zinc. Mineral deficiencies are known to cause painful periods. Try eating green vegetables that are high in these minerals or take mineral supplements.

8. Try herbal supplements. Flax seed oil is a phytoestrogens, or plant estrogen. These herbal remedies are considered good for dealing with regulating hormone levels, especially estrogen. Other supplements to try include Evening Primrose Oil and Black Cohosh.

Tags: before your, before your period, menstrual cramps, over-the-counter medications, painful periods

Get A Flat Stomach After Birth

Measuring your progress will keep you motivated.

Even though giving birth is a wonderful, life changing experience, the effect it has on your body is not so wonderful. After birth your stomach muscles seem non-existent and sometimes it may appear as if you are still five to six months pregnant. Getting rid of your flabby, protruding stomach can be difficult because, for the past couple of months, your stomach has been stretched to the extreme. It will take regular exercise and a healthy diet to get your taut tummy back.

Instructions

1. Consume up to six small, healthy meals per day instead of the standard three large meals. Divide your normal breakfast, lunch and dinner in half as an easy way to create six smaller meals. Eating frequently will make you feel more energetic, keep your metabolism going and, according to the Baby Center website, fits a new mom's schedule better.

2. Trim fat from your diet, but don't eliminate it completely. Substitute unhealthy fats, such as trans fats and saturated fats, which are often found in fried foods, cakes and cookies, for unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, raw nuts and avocados. Eat low-fat, high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy. Consume protein from legumes and beans and from lean sources such as chicken and fish.

3. Perform aerobic exercise at a moderate intensity to increase your metabolism and burn fat. The Mayo Clinic recommends 2 and 1/2 hours of cardiovascular activity spread out over the week. Start exercising at a slow pace and build it up gradually. Walk around the block while pushing your baby in a stroller and increase it over time to a jogging pace.

4. Perform a variety of abdominal exercises, such as crunches, side bends and sit-ups. Go at your own pace and do as many sets and repetitions as your physical fitness level allows. Include exercises that target the transverse abdominals, which act as a corset around your waist. Stand up straight and exhale as you pull in your belly. Envision pulling your bellybutton toward your spine. Hold the tension in your tummy for as long as you can as you breathe normally. Release the tension and repeat the exercise. Try to hold the tension longer each time you do the exercise. Aim for a maximum of 60 seconds.

5. Lie on your back, on the floor. Stretch your feet up in the air at a 90 degree angle while keeping your feet flexed and your hands flat on the floor next to your body. Push your lower back into the floor so there is no space between the floor and the arch of your back. Lower your legs down toward the floor as far as you can go without lifting your back. Lift the legs back up to the starting position and repeat the exercise for as many repetitions as your fitness level allows.

6. Add variety to your workout by taking a Yoga or Pilates class which focus mainly on core strengthening.

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Pay For Inhome Care For The Elderly

As folks grow older, the need for care becomes important, and these days, more and more elderly individuals are choosing to stay at home rather than go into nursing homes. While it is necessary for some to have this autonomy, the care they need for daily living is not an affordable undertaking. However, there are options and programs that assist in paying for in-home care for the elderly (those 65 and older).

Instructions

1. Assess what your needs are. How much in-home care are you going to need? Will you need a caretaker to come every day, or will once-a- week visits suffice? How long will you need this care? If it is short-term care, it is possible that staying in a facility rather than getting the care at home might be a better option, as then Medicare may be able to cover it. If it's long-term care, then your options for coverage will be different.

Determine what you can pay for. Have all information about your income handy. Eligibility for many programs that help pay for in-home care are based on income and resources, so understanding your finances will make the process easier.

2. Check if your existing coverage might help pay for in-home care. For example, Medicare may cover your care. According to MedicareInteractive.org, if you are home-bound , receiving or need skilled nursing care or skilled therapy, "have a plan of care approved by a doctor," and are a patient of a Medicare-certified home health agency, Medicare will help pay for your home health care. What you will pay out of pocket depends on your Medicare coverage.

However, Medicare will not pay for custodial care (or daily living activities such as grooming). Medicare will only help pay for 100 days of care.

3. Research other insurance options. If Medicare will not cover your home health care, you can purchase another insurance plan that will greatly help reduce costs. One such program is The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program. If you were an employee, annuitant or relative of a federal employee, this insurance program provides coverage for long term in-home care and nursing home care.

If you are a retiree, past companies you have worked for may offer similar insurances.

4. Look into public benefits. There are a few options provided by state and federal governments that might be able to help with the costs of in-home care.

The first is Medicaid. Medicaid is both a state and federal insurance program that gives coverage to those with low-incomes. Eligibility varies state by state, so call your state's Department of Insurance to inquire about requirements.

Medicaid often covers long-term care services, including home-health care if medically necessary. Your out-of-pocket costs for this will vary from state to state.

If you are a veteran, The Department of Veterans Affairs may cover your long-term in-home care through their Housebound and Aid and Attendance Allowance Program. Those who are disabled may qualify for grants which helps pay for personal care, a caretaker, and other services needed to help with daily living activities at home.

Finally, the Older Americans Act may also help fund in-home care. The Older Americans Act is organized by the Administration on Aging and offers funding through different agencies to help pay for care elderly who are home-bound.

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Calculate A Health Insurance Premium

Learn how health insurance premiums are calculated so that you can be better prepared when you purchase health insurance.

If you live in a state that will use traditional underwriting to price your premiums, as opposed to community rating, you need to know what to expect in terms of insurance premiums and how those premiums are calculated. Ultimately, the insurance company determines the actual premiums and the exact price will vary from company to company based on a variety of factors, like the company's credit rating, financial stability and cash reserves that the company uses to hold down the cost of insurance.

Instructions

1. Obtain a health insurance quote from a health insurer. This will involve filling out an application for insurance. You must normally do this before you will receive a rate sheet or premium quote. The health insurance application will ask you a variety of questions about your personal life. You will need to provide the company with basic information such as your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You will also need to provide the insurance company with detailed health information, including any medications you are taking.

2. Turn the paperwork in to the insurance company. The insurance company will process your application and make a determination on your premium rate using several criteria. Your age can affect your premiums because the older you are, the more risk you present to the insurance company. Old age comes with common age-related illnesses like arthritis, high blood pressure or other illnesses which may require medication. Your lifestyle can suggest to the insurance company whether or not you present a risk of frequent injury. The insurance company can use your sex to determine your risk of certain types of cancer. It might seem obvious for health insurance, but a health insurance company needs to know how healthy you are. Any family history of diseases, heart problems or blood disorders could affect your premiums. Any existing medications or pre-existing conditions could also affect your premiums.

3. Look on the rate sheet. The rate sheet, which is normally the last page of the health policy summary package you will receive from the insurance company, will outline the premiums you will pay for the policy you choose. The insurance company may price these premiums as "tiers." A tier refers to the level of service the insurance company will offer to you. For example, you may be charged one rate for individual coverage, and a different rate for family coverage.

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