Rescue The Face Behind ACNE

Acne is one of the most common of all skin problem. It affects most teenagers to some degree and even many adults. Acne shows up as Whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and, in some people, deep painful bumps that look and feel like boils. Acne most commonly occurs on the face but can also appear on the back, chest, shoulders, and neck.

Am I the only one with acne?

You are definitely not the only one with acne. It is estimated that 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 25 suffer from some degree of acne, so you are not alone. In most people, acne clears up after a few years. But at its worst, acne can cause permanent scarring of the skin. And even when there are few physical marks left, the emotional ones can be devastating.

Why am I getting acne?

Acne usually begins around puberty, when members of both sexes experience an increase in the production of the sex hormones called androgens. These hormones regulate the activity and size of the oil-producing, or sebaceous, glands that reside in the pores, or hair follicles of your skin. The increased production of these hormones causes the oil glands to get bigger in the areas where acne occurs.

The sebaceous glands make an oily substance called sebum. Sebum travels through the hair follicles to the surface of the skin. The lining of the wall of the hair follicles sheds skin cells, which then stick together with the sebum. The follicle gets clogged, plugging up the opening in the surface of the skin. Whiteheads and blackheads are the result of this clogging of the pores. The sebum and cell debris together contribute to the growth of bacteria that live in the pores.

Your own body will naturally attempt to clear the clogged pores by sending in certain specialized cells that invade the follicles to help clean it up. However, in the process, the wall of the follicles may weaken and rupture, emptying the contents of the follicles into the surrounding tissue. When this occurs, swelling or redness can develop around the affected follicles, resulting in the larger bumps or pimples characteristics of acne. These are known as papules and pustules and can sometimes cause scarring.

From the begining until its disappearance, the life cycle of a pimple can take 8 weeks to run its course. And it can take even longer for the darkened spots left by some acne pimples to fade completely.

The aim of acne therapy is to unclog the plugged pores and keep them clear by using effective medicines such as retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin). Sometimes antibiotics or benzoyl peroxide may be prescribed to help control the bacteria that may be growing inside your pores.

Is there anything I can do about my acne?

There are numerous treatment options for people who suffers from acne. How your dermatologist decides to treat your acne will depend on the severity oy your acne.

What kind of cleanser should I use?

Acne is not caused by dirt. Of course, you should cleanse your face, but too much vigorous washing can dry your skin too much, or even aggravate your acne. Cleansing twice a day is sufficient. Your dermatologist may recommend that you use a mild, nonsoap, fragrance-free cleanser (e.g. Cetaphil Gentel Skin Cleanser) that won't dry or irritate your skin.

Should I use a moisturizer?

Since some acne medications can be drying, it may be helpful to use a moisturizer. Your dermatologist may recommend a mild, fragrance-free, nonirritating moisturizer (e.g. Cetaphil moisturising cream) that is noncomedogenic.

Can I prevent my acne from coming back?

The regimen that your dermatologist has prescribed will help you get rid of whatever acne pimples you have now, and it will also work to prevent new ones from appearing. By using your medication correctly and consistently, you can help prevent new acne pimples from forming. If you stop using your medication, or if you onlu spot-treat those pimples you can see, new pimples may form, and they may take weeks to clear again. Apply our medication in the same way every day or as recommended by your dermatologist.

Can acne be cured?

There is no instant or immediate cure for acne. But it can be controlled, and scarring may be prevented with proper care and treatment. Again, correct and consistent use of your acne medication and following your dermatologist's instruction will be your best bet.

Ahmad Munawwar is freelancer writer. If you are interested in getting FREE information about Skin Care and Veins simply visit http://SkinCare.YourCancerGuide.com

Heartburn Heresies and Autoimmunity

Commercials for heartburn relief medications haven given stomach acid a bad rap. What these advertisements don?t tell you is that too much stomach acid and too little stomach acid have the same symptoms. Studies show that 50% of the people with Fibromyalgia are too LOW in hydrochloric acid production. If you have an autoimmune disease, you are more likely to be too low than too high. This is especially true if you have had a problem with yeast infections.

Consistent use of antacids favors yeast growth, bad bacteria in the stomach, inflammation, and stomach cancer. Furthermore, most minerals, like magnesium, and vitamin B-12 require adequate stomach acid for absorption.

A magnesium deficiency is considered to be one of the most common, but treatable causes of disease. An estimated 72% of Americans are not getting enough magnesium. (To learn more: http://www.mgwater.com/articles.shtml#Americans) Low magnesium levels are associated with several autoimmune disorders including Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, arthritis, Raynaud's phenomenon, and asthma. Reduced levels are also thought to be the reason for muscle pain in SLE (Lupus) patients. A magnesium deficiency is connected to a host of other health conditions including: migraines, heart disease, mitral valve prolapse, sleep disturbances, over-sensitivity to light and noise, autism, depression, anxiety, PMS, and kidney stones. Insufficient magnesium causes an increase in a body chemical called substance P, which is responsible for pain perception. In other words, you will hurt more if you don?t have enough magnesium. Fibromyalgia sufferers have on average three times more Substance P than normal.

Besides being anti-inflammatory, vitamin B-12 is required in the process of making myelin sheathes, which are being attacked in MS, Lyme Disease, autism, ALS, and possibly Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. In one study, researchers found that low B-12 levels were associated with the early onset of MS.

Adequate hydrochloric acid production is also necessary for the body to be signaled to produce secretin, which is needed for myelin sheath repair.

Niacin, magnesium, and Vitamin B6 help stimulate the stomach?s hydrochloric acid output. Drinking lemon juice in water or a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar water before meals also helps. This should be done 30 minutes before a meal.

Learn more at:

http://www.oasisnetwork.com/SCarticles/AcidAlkaline0803.pdf
http://www.drpressman.com/news/
http://www.autisme.net/Autism%20and%20Nutrition.htm

Heidi Whitaker is an author and speaker on the topic of nutritional support of autoimmune disease. She is also the co-owner of http://www.healthydivas.com. To read other articles written by Heidi or to learn how to participate in her next free teleseminar, visit her blog at http://autoimmune.myblogsite.com/blog.

Alternative Boric Acid: Nature's Bug Control

We all have heard about the harmful effects of commercial insecticides. But if faced with cockroaches flying off the walls, those harmful effects don't seem too harmful and we bomb our houses with it. Then before we know it, we start having headaches. It doesn't have to be this way. There are alternate solutions from our very own Mother Nature that are cleaner, safer and work better.

This natural alternative is Boric Acid. It is considered as nature's own home-made bug control. Boric acid is a white powder which is usually mined from California's Mojave Desert. Although also used as a preservative and fire retardant, it is proven to eradicate almost all the annoying pests of the regular household like cockroaches, water bugs, ants, silverfish, termites and palmetto bugs and keep them away for a very long time. It also works against fire ants, bedbugs, fleas, beetles, centi- and millipedes, crickets, grasshoppers and a whole lot more. One of the best qualities of borate is that the insects don't develop a resistance to it unlike with chemical pesticides.

Borates were first used as a pesticide in 1922 with the invention of the 'Roach Tablet' by P. F. Harris. In 1955, a lumber company in New Foundland started treating their wood with borates to control termites. It turned out that all the homes with the treated wood were free from termites and wood decay. This worked so well that by 1985 there were over 200 pesticides containing borate. This later on turned into many products seen today.

Apart from being odorless and non-staining, Boric Acid and its derivatives are inexpensive and deadly to all insects. It works by attacking the bugs' nervous systems and then dries up their bodies afterwards. Borates, when used with chemical solvents such as propylene glycol, can be used in wood and concrete thus giving long-term protection. Boric Acid products are very safe and can be used with children around (since it has also been used in certain salves and ointments for diaper rash in babies). In addition, it also turns into eyewash when diluted properly. Borate is also used as an effective fire retardant which is used in blown type cellulose insulation which is common in houses.

In use against ants, one tablespoon of Boric Acid is mixed with one teaspoon of sugar ad four ounces of water in a bowl. This is then poured over cotton balls and placed on the path of ants. Pour repeatedly when dried out. For cockroaches, mix together 8 ounces powdered boric acid, half a cup of flour and eighth of a cup of sugar, a chopped half of a small onion and one-fourth cup cooking oil. Blend all these well while adding more oil if needed to make soft dough. Take the dough and roll it into small marble-sized balls. Place the balls in places where the roaches normally stay, like in damp dark corners. The rest of the dough should be placed in opened sandwich bags to retain softness. When the balls dry up and become hard, replace with new dough. Make sure that no pets or children come in contact with the balls because they can be very toxic.

For termites, use boric acid that is mixed with propylene glycol, which is a non-toxic version of anti-freeze. In this solution, the glycol helps the borate penetrate into the wood and thus becoming part of the wood fiber. This has proven to be very successful against termites and is also effective treatment for dry rot in wood.

Michael Russell

Your Independent Alternative guide.

The Best Hair Replacement for Women

The best hair replacements for women are, of course, those that can significantly enhance their looks. As to the procedure used, depends on the degree of hair loss or balding that a woman has experienced. There are many hair replacement options for women to consider, including non-surgical options for light balding and surgical options for more severe cases of balding.

Non-surgical options include wigs and other types of hairpieces that can effectively cover up thinning hair. There are, however, disadvantages to using wigs. They can be uncomfortable and feel hot on the scalp, or may even fall off, causing embarrassment in public. Use of wigs may also cause further hair loss, and it can be quite expensive maintaining a wig as they need to be professionally styled to retain their appearance.

Because of the disadvantages of wearing fake hair pieces, women are increasingly considering surgical hair replacement procedures. Several different types of hair replacement methods are available: hair transplantation, flaps, tissue- expansion and scalp reduction. All of these methods are geared on covering up bald areas of the head.

Different hair replacement procedures explained

Flaps ? This is one procedure that is used to create full, natural-looking frontal hair line from your own hair. This procedure has been performed for over 20 years and is considered safe. The flap is a large portion of hair-bearing skin which is transferred from the sides or back of the head to the balding area. The flap is then sewn into place while still attached to its original blood supply, ensuring that the hair will grow continuously and will hide any scars resulting from the procedure.

Plastic surgeons have developed a number of successful flap techniques which, combined with scalp reduction, result in better coverage of the crown. They also apply tissue expansion to provide better frontal coverage for a natural hairline.

Scalp reduction ? This technique involves the removal of the skin from a balding area on the back of the head and then suturing the area, pulling the skin together. Although this may seem like a simple process, the surgery requires a doctor with specific training and experience in scalp reduction. This procedure requires local anesthesia, injected into the scalp, before the segment of bald scalp is removed.

The size and shape of the segment to be removed varies depending on the patient. In most cases, the surgeon removes a segment of the scalp in an inverted Y-shape; doctors will also sometimes excise pieces of scalp in the shaped of a U or a pointed oval, depending on the coverage that the individual requires.

Scalp Expansion ? This procedure is very similar to scalp extension. Both procedures are done accommodate scalp reductions, especially in cases of a tight scalp. Scalp expansion is also used to prepare individuals for flap surgeries.

Tissue Expansion ? This procedure is commonly used by plastic surgeons in reconstructive surgeries, to repair wounds that are caused by burning or injuries that have resulted in significant skin loss. The same procedure, when applied to hair replacement surgery, has resulted in impressive results where significant coverage is desired in a much shorter amount of time.

Kathryn Whittaker has an interest in Health and Beauty related topics. To access more information on hair replacement supply or on hair replacement system, please click on the links.

Typical Excuses We Make to Avoid Exercise

Most people hate exercising. The effort required, the time spent, the sweat, the soreness... but then again, who told you that it was going to be easy? Do you remember your first day at the gym? What did it take you to finally get your ass off the sofa and exercise?

Years ago, I myself absolutely hated exercise. I never liked anything that resembled any form of exercise or taking part in any sort of physical activity (in fact, I still don't enjoy it 100%, but the results and overall well-being feeling I get from exercising makes it too good for me to resist). The countless benefits - the strength, an improved physique, confidence, increased energy levels and concentration, better sleep - are all too good for me to turn away.

Here are some common excuses we hear today from those who find it difficult to get started:

Arrgh! I hate exercise. dailymuscle says: The only reason you hate exercise is because you've probably never seen or experienced the benefits it can bring. Perhaps you hate the activities you've done in the past? Does the word 'exercise' remind you of the heart-pounding routines you were forced to keep up to in school? The compulsory cross-country marathons we were forced to participate in? High-impact exercises aren?t for everyone but there's surely some sort of physical activity that would appeal to you. How about swimming? Salsa classes perhaps? Also, many gyms today have fun and exciting classes which can cater to almost any exercise fetish you may have. Try some of them (most gyms today give free trials, Like Fitness First) - you might just get hooked in no time!

Okay, but I don't like gyms.. dailymuscle says: If you find the fancy/upmarket gyms today too crowded and overwhelming, or perhaps your local neighborhood gym a bit too intimidating (and I don't blame you if you feel this way), then the answer is simple - just don't go. To get started, there are plenty of other places to exercise at or even activities you can get started in. For example, your home and the great outdoors. Consider walking - an easy exercise that can go a long way towards good health. A 30 minute walk, 3 times a week around your housing area is a fantastic start.

It's just too hard. Is there an easier way out? dailymuscle says: Nobody said it would be easy. From experience, I can tell you this - the hardest part is at the beginning. If you can stick with exercise for that crucial first month, you'll start to reap benefits - like increased energy and improved mood, and that will motivate you to keep going.

But I'm so out of shape, embarrassed, and I don't know where to start. dailymuscle says: Start slowly.. this avoids being overwhelmed. Try short walks a few times a week at first, and then move on to activities that are more challenging. If you're really clueless and need a helping hand, most gyms today have Personal Trainers that can assist you, but they come at a cost. I believe Fitness First gives 2 complimentary Personal Training sessions when you join. Not too sure about the other fancy gyms out there. If you join a smaller, neighborhood gym - these gyms often have someone in charge who will be able to give you advice and help for free (these gyms are much cheaper too).

I'm too tired to get off the sofa.. and American Idol starts in 10 minutes! dailymuscle says: And that's precisely why you should... exercise helps boost your energy! Oh... and most gyms today have TVs so you dont have to miss your favourite show.

Buying all those protein powders, supplements is so darn expensive! dailymuscle says: You don't need supplements to start exercising. People who do supplement their diets with various supplements have specific goals they wish to achieve (build more lean muscle, bulk up, etc). Most people do perfectly fine with a healthy and balanced diet that includes sufficient nutrients from all the food groups.

After all, they do say that pain is weakness leaving the body... Are you ready to feel some pain?

Josh Stone, also known as DM, is the author behind the site http://www.dailymuscle.com which offers the author's personal views on real-life fitness, bodybuilding, sports nutrition, cardio, fat loss, training information, and on all things that surrounds fitness.

Tips On How To Avoid Bad Breath

Halitosis or bad breath are both terms used to describe perceptibly objectionable odours exhaled in breathing.

Types Of Bad Breath

Transient bad breath is a very common impermanent condition caused by such things as oral dryness, stress, hunger, eating certain foods such as garlic, smoking and sub standard oral hygiene. Morning breath is a common example of this type of bad breath. Chronic bad breath is a more serious condition affecting around 1 in 4 people.

Combatting Bad Breath

Currently bad breath is not very well understood or even recognised as a treatable condition by most health professionals, so effective treatment is hard to find. There are an increasing number of halitosis clinics responding to this problem. There are also a number of products on the market designed to alleviate/cure. As with all general products, results change from effective to partly effective, to not effective at all.

Causes Of Bad Breath

Though the causes of breath odour are not entirely understood, most unpleasant odours are known to come from food trapped in the mouth which is processed by normal mouth flora. There are over 400 types of bacteria found in the average mouth. You can see why oral hygiene is so important after reading that bit????.'over 400 types of bacteria found in the 'average' mouth'.

Top Oral Hygiene Tips. ?Brush twice a day ?Use a soft brush and replace it when it's worn ?Floss every day. ?See your Dental Hygienist for cleaning at least twice a year

Article by Roger Millfield of http://www.bad-breath-info-zone.com ( A fresh breath information resource).

Tips For Younger Looking Skin

Keeping skin nourished with plenty of water and exercise is more crucial than most people think. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day hydrates the skin and keeps it supple and moist. Water intake also minimizes those dreaded dark circles under the eyes.

Exercise stimulates the entire body and gets your blood flowing, making you glow. The better the circulation, the more nutrients go to the skin. Keeping skin clean is one of the simplest ways of caring for your skin. Wash your skin with tepid water and a mild facial cleanser. How many times a day should you wash your face? It depends on your skin type. Oily skin may need two or three washes a day, while dry skin should only be washed once or twice. Use a face cloth or a gentle facial scrub to help remove dead cells.

Wearing sunscreen when you go outdoors can counteract a lot of UVB damage, which contributes to the burning. Keep in mind that sunscreen does not protect against UVA damage. Some daily lotions have built-in sunscreen with a lower SPF and then there are lotions formulated for the sole purpose of protecting you from the sun with higher SPF. SPF (sun protection factors) are measured by timing how long skin covered with sunscreen takes to burn in comparison to uncovered skin. For example, SPF 30 means that while wearing sunscreen it will take 30 times longer to burn. Because protection from UVA rays is below satisfactory, sunscreen often offers a false sense of security because UVA rays are the more insidious of the two types of radiation that the sun emits.

Avoiding excessive sun altogether is the true meaning of sun protection.

Good sun protection methods include: staying in the shade between 11 am and 3 pm (peak sun strength hours), wearing protective clothing and a wide brimmed hat, wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV rays, knowing your skin?s limits and not allowing yourself to burn, applying sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more and, lastly, not relying on sunscreen as sun protection. In short, the best sun protection on the market is you.

Antioxidant creams can serve as great warriors in protecting the skin. There?s plenty of evidence suggesting that if you take vitamins orally, the sun still depletes them. A limited number of studies have reported that the skin can absorb certain antioxidants such as green tea and vitamin C, which can reduce oxidation. More studies are underway to prove this point more fully.

As we age, we produce less and less GLA, which is one of the most important fats our skin produces. Now, in order for nutrient-rich blood to enrich the skin, the body needs a special fat called GLA. The body has incredibly small amounts of this miracle fat, certainly not enough to help the skin carry out all of its necessary duties. It's also hard to obtain GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) through our diets nowadays. This leaves our skin much more vulnerable to damage. GLA is not an easy thing to find. Aside from our hydrophobic barrier in our dermal zone where GLA is produced, the only other place GLA is available is in oatmeal.

Dr. Sears was able to find ways to implement GLA into an anti-aging skin care system that penetrates the layers of the skin. This way, when there are everyday attacks on the skin from UVA rays, dirt, bacteria, toxins in our water and normal aging problems from oxidation, there is enough GLA to counteract it.

Lori Matthews has done extensive research in the skin care industry and which ingredients actually penetrate the skin layer. Please visit Anti Aging Zone for more information

Diabetes Awareness: Diabetes on the Job

When you go to work, your diabetes goes with you.

You get up, get showered, get breakfast, get to work. You have bills, therefore you have a job.

But you also have diabetes. You have to care for your diabetes while you're at work. Here are 10 tips for merging your diabetes care with your career.

1. Wear medical identification jewelry

- If you ever need medical assistance at work, the emergency medical personnel will know you have diabetes.

2. Decide who to tell

- All things being equal, it might be in your best interest to let a few trusted co-workers or your boss know. Just for your own safety.

3. Give your co-workers a chance

- Don't just assume that your boss won't accommodate you, or that your co-workers won't be helpful. Give them a chance to grasp what diabetes is and understand how they can help you, particularly if you've been diagnosed since starting your current job. Diabetes may be as new to them as it is to you.

4. Get it in writing

- If necessary, get a doctor's note. It may help to get a medical statement from your doctor saying what your diabetes care needs are. Present it to your company nurse or human resources department, and make sure your supervisor gets a copy.

5. Be your own advocate

- Your local hospital or diabetes center may offer programs through which diabetes educators can come to your workplace and explain to your human resources department, supervisors, or co-workers what diabetes is and how they can make the workplace more diabetes-friendly. See if your employer is willing to host such a program.

6. Don't abuse the system

- Unfortunately, there are people who claim extensive health challenges and reap disability benefits their situation may not warrant. That makes it harder for everyone. It's best to save sick days and disability pay for when you really need them.

7. Plan ahead

- The biggest challenge many people with diabetes face is access to meals and breaks. Have snacks readily available should you need to treat a low.

8. Take your equipment with you

- Keep your blood glucose meter and supplies where you can reach them. Don't leave blood glucose meters or insulin in the car. Extreme temperatures can affect them.

9. Watch out for stress

- Stress can wreak havoc on your blood sugars. Stress can cause either high or low blood sugar. It differs from person to person, and sometimes from situation to situation in the same person. Stress may mask symptoms of low blood sugar, or prompt completely different symptoms. Frequent monitoring is your best defense.

10. Keep good diabetes control

- The best thing you can do to remain productive is to stay healthy. Don't let your diabetes get so far out of control that you're not able to work. If you're eating well, exercising, and controlling your blood sugars, you will have a productive work life.

The payoff from a job well done is that if and when you need to take time off for your diabetes care, your boss and co-workers will remember your good track record and be that much more willing to cover for you or help you with scheduling. By communicating with your employer and taking responsibility for your care, you can incorporate your diabetes care into your work life successfully.

If you feel that your employer is not making reasonable accommodations to allow you to care for your diabetes at work, contact the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) at: (800) 669-4000 or (800) 669-6820 TTY.

Ask your doctor about diabetes and have your blood sugar checked several times a year.

For more information about diabetes, including a Diabetes Quiz and a Free booklet, visit the Hope4Diabetes website at: http://hope4diabetes.com/info

This 20 page FREE booklet will provide you with in-depth information on comprehensive diabetes care. The 7 principles, or steps, will help you to understand, manage and diagnose your potential diabetes risk.

It could help you live a longer and more active life. The booklet is Yours absolutely FREE - No Risk! Share it NOW with the people you love and want to Keep alive!

David Anderson is a freelance health writer for Hope4Diabetes.com. Awareness is the first step to preventing the onset of diabetes. Visit our website at: http://hope4diabetes.com/info for more information and a free book.

Fluoridation and the Dangers

A number of Local Goverment Councils in Australia have been unable to supply free fluoride supplements to the public, due to an Australia wide shortage, so residents should be heartened by the knowledge that they are not dosing their children daily with an established equivocal carcinogen which is as poisonous as lead and only slightly less so than arsenic.

The US Food and Drug Administration has never approved fluoride supplements and the World Health Organisation list of Essential Medicines is being reviewed in 2005 with sodium fluoride listed for removal.

The Australian dental researchers Amfield and Spencer reported no significant difference in the decay rates of permanent teeth of children drinking fluoridated compared to unfluoridated water (Arnfreld JM & Spencer AJ (2004) Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, 32 (4) 283).

Silico fluorides used as fluoridating agents contain lead and carcinogenic arsenic and studies by Masters and Coplan, (1999) show an association between the use of fluorosilicic acid (and its sodium salt) in fluoridated water and an increase uptake of lead into children's blood. In fact Roger D Masters (research professor of Government Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA) reported: The specific chemical compounds most frequently used to fluoridate water in the USA, fluorosilicic acid and sodium silicofluoride have never been adequately tested.

Epidemiological studies show that, where these silicofluorides are added to public water, children are significantly more likely to absorb lead in their environment from lead paint in old houses, lead levels in water, etc. (Masters etal, Neurotoxicology (200)23: 101 +Int.i. Env Stud. (1999) 56:435).

A search on the internet under the search term silicofluoride reveals a number of disturbing articles in relation to harmful effects. For new evidence of potential serious harm from fluoride ingestion (see www. fluoridealert.org/limeback.htm) for a summary.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of properly done scientific studies warning about the short and long term dangers of fluoridation and the evidence is gathering of the disastrous effects of water fluoridation on all living things.

So what is amazing is the fact that the professionals promoting fluoride, in one form or another, seem unaware of any of these studies, or choose to ignore them even though they are conducted by scientists with qualifications equal to or even superior to themselves, Studies have also shown that with constant ingestion silicofluorides are extremely cumulative, cannot be eliminated, and have severely debilitating and disabling effects particularly as the victims approach old age.

It can also precipitate a dramatic increase in an otherwise rare and fatal form of bone cancer in adolescent boys, even after relatively short periods of exposure.

Safe to put in drinking water? I think not!

Article by Alfred Jones
Vitamin for Boosting the Immune System
http://www.SugarsR4U.com
http://www.RUSweetEnuf.com

Low Fat versus Low Carb Diets

Diets, diets, diets... every where you go, anything you read you can?t miss them, they are almost everywhere. And if you have weight problems you are really annoyed by the huge number of ads or commercials promoting one or another type of diet.

That?s why we asked on your behalf and we went to the best specialist to find the answer for the most charged topic: low fat versus low carb diets. First of all let me tell you about how this study was made, in order to understand its accuracy. It went over a period of 10 years, involving 2700 of people that were on one of those diets. Some of the most important universities involved in this study: University of Colorado in Denver, the University of Pittsburgh, and Brown University in Providence, R.I. Their purpose was to collect data from people who have lost at least 30 pounds and more than that, they were able to maintain their weight for at least a year.

Most of the subjects were women with an average age of 47. But the results of the studies show that there was no difference between the diet--low-fat and the diet low-carb in what regards the way that people initially lost weight.

Even though the percent of those how were on a low-carb diet increased, the results proved that after a while most of them regained weight. Even if they ate less carbohydrate and the amount of protein was the same this didn?t changed the situation. The ones that conducted the study reported that only a small number of successful weight losers are on a low-carbohydrate diet.

One of the disadvantages in the race low fat versus low carb diets is that the blood lipid levels can get worse. In what regards a long period other studies have proved that low-carb diets have as a result higher levels of healthy HDL cholesterol than the low-fat diets, which in the most cases reduce the HDL levels.

The competition it is very strong, but somebody has to win it. The low fat versus low carb diets contest has to have only one winner and you are the one that will decide!

If you find this information useful you should visit the site http://www.free-online-diet-plans.com where you will find lots of interesting articles related to this topic, all original and wrote by Andreea Dinescu.

Watch Out for Signs of Infertility

The most definite and obvious sign of infertility is the weakness of a person or a couple to conceive a child within a period of a year of unprotected sexual intercourse.

Though that may be quite simple, the struggles that this sign entails create dramatic changes in a couple's life.

In most cases, people have no knowledge that they are actually patients of infertility. The main reason- the lack of immediate symptoms.

Infertility by nature is a condition that does not deal with the physical-external make-up of the person affected by it. There are no external measures and symptoms that we may conduct and observe when examining if a person is infertile. In fact, before any diagnosis is made pertaining to infertility one has to undergo a series of extensive examinations, physical tests and other techniques which themselves are very taxing.

In case that the couple was able to conceive yet have undergone multiple miscarriages, they probably may fall under the category of infertility. However, it would still be safe if they consult a physician first for further analysis of their case.

If you are experiencing the absence of menstrual bleeding yet the results of pregnancy test tells you that you are not pregnant, then you might be a patient of infertility. If this condition prevails for some months it is likely that something in your reproductive system is impaired.

Once you experience pain somewhere in your pelvic area, it would be best that you disclose this with a physician. Abnormal pain may be caused by conditions like endometriosis and internal infections.

Watch out for basal temperatures. These are good indications that your system may be having some troubles. Abnormal rise or fall of basal body temperature is linked with hormonal imbalances that concern mostly the hormones needed for ovulation.

Say if your basal body temperature is low while undergoing the first part of your cycle that may indicate too high estrogen release in your body. Meanwhile, high basal body temperature at this stage could possibly indicate low progesterone.

Anovulation may be indicated through the absence of upward shifting of the basal body temperature.

On the other end of the scale, male infertility seems to posses no clear signs except the obvious- erectile dysfunction.

This condition is characterized by the inability to create erection, which may be contributed largely by the abnormalities in the blood vessels, specifically those found in the penis. Diseases and conditions like stroke, abuse of alcohol, and major problems in the circulatory system may also cause Erectile Dysfunction.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy and may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more info on Infertility, please visit http://infertility.articlekeep.com

Acid Reflux Learning the Basics

Having trouble with heartburn? Well, research shows that you are not the only one suffering from this condition. In fact, studies indicate that approximately 1 in every 10 adults in the United States or an alarming 10% suffer every day from this condition and the numbers are expected to rise in the near future!

The occurrence of heartburns usually denotes that the person has a condition commonly known as acid reflux. Acid reflux, medically termed as reflux esophagitis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition whereby the contents of the stomach are regurgitated or are returned back into the esophagus.

What causes acid reflux?

To understand this disease, we must be aware of how our digestive system works. As food enters the stomach, it is acted upon by the stomach acids and various digestive enzymes whose primary function is to break down the food so that the body can use it. The partially digested food, which is now acidic in nature, is then transported to the small intestine for further digestion.

However, this is not the case in patients afflicted with acid reflux. Those with this condition have a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES) which makes the regurgitation or passing of acidic gastric juices back from the stomach and up into the esophagus possible. In some cases, the acidic gastric contents even rise up as high as the mouth of an affected individual.

Among the factors which may contribute to the development of acid reflux are obesity, pregnancy, delayed emptying of stomach contents and the excessive intake of fatty foods. Smoking and drinking increase the body's caffeine and alcohol load which are also known causes of acid reflux.

Acid reflux is not only painful and annoying. Frequent regurgitation irritates the lining of the esophagus, which may lead to ulceration and scarring. At worst, it may even lead to the development of esophageal cancer.

What are the other symptoms associated with acid reflux?

Aside from frequent and painful heartburn, a person suffering from acid reflux may have the following symptoms:

. Regurgitation or the rising up of partially digested food in the stomach back into the esophagus or at times, even as high as the mouth
. Chest pains
. Difficulty in swallowing
. Voice becomes hoarse
. Corrosion of the dental cavities
. Asthma
. Persistent coughing while lying down
. Increased production of saliva
. Difficulty in sleeping after eating

How is acid reflux treated?

The symptoms associated with acid reflux greatly interfere with the performance of daily activities. The majority of the symptoms of this ailment bring such discomfort that the quality of life of a person with this condition is greatly affected.

The condition can last for several months. It may even last longer in cases where the condition is not treated early or not addressed properly.

In our modern society, acid reflux is usually treated by controlling the acidity of the stomach. As such, over the counter antacids such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate and aluminum-magnesium hydroxide are widely being used. Likewise, histamine H2 antagonists (cimetidine, ranitidine) and proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole) are also being prescribed. Some, however, swear by the effectiveness of several herbs such as licorice and aloe vera in treating this disease.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Acid Reflux

Treating Keloids

Keloids are abnormal overgrowths of fibrous tissue that happen when the skin has been hurted.

Keloids are asymptomatic, but in some cases may cause disfigurement and cosmetic concern. Occasionally, they appear when the scar or the wound that is healing was not observed and taken care of properly. They are basically not painful and they are not easily transmitted from one person to the other. They appear to be more prevalent among the colored races.

Normally, keloids tend to appear when the skin loses its collagen and elastin material, which are responsible for its elasticity. Therefore, when choosing a medication for treating keloids, it is recommended to choose ingredients that have only natural substances. These natural topics are able to treat Keloids without side effects like further skin irritations, which are usually brought about by chemicals.

The Treatments

Usually, keloids are treated through irradiation or intralesional injection of corticosteroids. But for those who are afraid of such chemicals, it would be better to opt for natural ingredients that are more effective than these artificial procedures

Here are some of the recognized keloid treatments.

1. Keloid surgery

One of the most common ways in keloid treatment is surgery. Though, most skin experts contend that keloids still have chances of returning. That is why, it is important to accompany the surgery with other products, which can easily be applied to the affected area. These alternative products or treatments are able to curb the re-occurrence of keloids.

Surgical treatments for keloids are usually done through laser removal. This treatment uses intralesional injection and corticosteroids for prevention of coming back.

2, Use compression bandages.

Because keloids appear as excessive growth of the tissues, it would be better to compress the keloid area so as to prevent the over manipulation of the skin.

3. Use steroid injections.

Other common treatment is the injection of solutions that are responsible in removing keloids. This may eradicate the keloid area without having to resort to surgery or operative procedures.

4. New treatments

Today, the in-thing in medical industry needed, so as to treat keloids and other skin blemishes, are the solutions that contain biological substances. These natural ingredients are proven to be very effective with the keloid formations due to the natural procedures they trigger, like skin remodeling.

These substances are also mild enough as complements to other skin treatments because they do not have side effects like skin irritation or allergy.

Indeed, there are many ways on how to treat keloids. You only have to inform yourself in which one of all the treatments available in the market has the best results for treating your keloid problem.

About The Author
Martha Fitzharris is a free lance journalist for http://www.naturalbioskincare.com a website offering a new biological natural skin care product that activates skin renewal.If you want more information about Strech marks, please clic natural skin care cream with natural skin renewal activators.

Lose Weight with a Natural Weight Loss Remedy

Garcinia cambogia is a natural weight loss supplement that is making headlines in North America and Europe. Though not a magic bullet by any means, studies show that garcinia cambogia can be effective in helping people lose weight in two basic ways ? first, it blocks the conversion of sugar and refined carbohydrates into fat during metabolism, and second, it may help suppress appetite by raising the brain chemical level of serotonin. Seratonin is a substance that we get by eating certain foods ? turkey is the most famous example, but by no means the only one ? and it also calms you down.

This is very significant, because some studies indicate that overweight people overeat because they feel anxious, and the serotonin in food is a way for them to self-soothe in order to calm down. If serotonin can be obtained by taking garcinia cambogia, people who engage in this type of adaptive overeating may well be able to overcome their problem. The active ingredient in garcinia cambogia ? the ingredient that causes these effects ? is known as HCA. It has been tested in a lab situation, and on both human and animal subjects.

Though there are those that swear by it, at this point, there is a bit of confusion over whether garcinia cambogia really does help people lose weight. To date, several studies have been done, but evidence is mixed. Almost ten years ago, one study was done of 60 individuals, and it did seem as though they lost more weight as compared to people who took a placebo. However, subsequent tests didn?t yield the same result. One suggestion is that this might be because the people in that test were on a high-fiber diet. That may be true, because the fiber could conceivably have swept the supplement from the body too soon, before it could do its work. Overall, however, most studies do show that there is some weight loss with the use of garcinia cambogia, and that this is accelerated if a low carbohydrate diet is followed. The diet need not be as low in carbs as Atkins, however; the important thing seems to be to avoid excessive sugars and refined carbohydrates. If you do that, then the supplement can take care of any sugars that you do eat, preventing them from being turned into fat.

Garcinia cambogia is a natural substance; it comes from the rind of a fruit that is grown in India and parts of Africa. Apparently, it was a folk remedy in those parts that was discovered by westerners in the past few decades, and refined into a form that can be easily taken as a dietary supplement. Though garcinia cambogia may well make you lose weight, and should be considered particularly if you tend to eat out of a sense of anxiety (that is, if you eating tends to be emotional rather than hunger-based) and if you, furthermore, tend to accumulate weight around your belly. Belly fat, besides being unattractive, is a bad thing from a health standpoint too. It usually indicates that your insulin levels are not adequately dealing with the level of sugar and starch that you are consuming, so these substances are being turned into fat instead. Over time, this means that you may be at higher risk of contracting diabetes, because that disorder is also caused by insufficient in inefficient insulin response.

Furthermore, carrying weight around the belly (like diabetes itself) is a risk factor for heart disease. To avoid contracting either of these potentially fatal conditions, try to regulate your intake of sugars and refined starches. Garcinia cambogia can help, too ? it doesn?t regulate insulin response, but it can help you avoid accumulating fat in that area by stopping the formation of fat as a result of sugar and starch intake.

Garcinia cambogia is available from a variety or retail or internet sources. There are several brands available, with little difference between them. However, if you have a naturopath or natural pharmacy that you trust, you would do well to ask them about the specific product that they recommend. There are no known side effects of garcinia cambogia, so you can feel free to take it without worrying about any ill effects.

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