Eat Your Heart Out: The 10 Best Heart-Healthy Foods

 

Your heart is like the motor of your body. And like any motor, it has to be cared for, with the right ingredients going in to keep things at peak performance. And with heart disease remaining the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, adding a few heart-healthy substitutions to your daily diet is an easy way to start changing your lifestyle for the better.

 

10. Coffee

That’s right, coffeeholics, rejoice! Your favorite morning pick-me-up aids in natural fat burning and can even boost metabolism by 3-11%. In doing so, it becomes easier for your heart to do its job pumping on and on. Further research suggests moderate coffee consumption (1-3 cups/day) reduces the risk of a stroke, particularly in women.

 

9. Apples

The saying is right: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” on top of keeping your heart smiling. The fiber in apples blasts plaque buildup in your arteries and keeps further cholesterol from solidifying in its walls. Chomp away at the fruit as a lunch companion or an afternoon snack.

 

8. Sweet Potatoes

Topping the beta-carotene charts, sweet potatoes take vitamins A, C, and E and help reduce the risk of heart disease while delaying the bodily effects of aging. Low calorie, try baked sweet potato fries as a side, or pop in the microwave for a mindless meal.

 

7. Tomatoes

Rich in potassium and a great source of the antioxidant lycopene (a carotenoid believed to help keep blood vessels open and strong), tomatoes in any form will help fight your chances of a heart attack. On top of being low in sugar and high in folic acid, roasted tomatoes in garlic and olive oil is a spectacular side dish to pair with your next entree.

 

6. Oatmeal

There’s hardly a healthier way to start your day than with a bowl of hot oatmeal. A fantastic source of fiber, oatmeal lowers cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease. Avoid instant oatmeal, however, which tends to hide a lot of refined sugar, instead opting for steel cut or whole oat groats (a fancy name for oatmeal’s kernels).

 

5. Soy

Soy comes in a ton of varieties, from classic tofu to soy milk you can stir into that morning cup of Joe. It delivers an almost incomparable protein boost (half a cup can provide nearly 20% of your daily dose) while remaining low in sodium and cholesterol, common elements in many animal product alternatives.

 

4. Garlic

Not only does garlic make for killer flavoring, its cholesterol-reducing antioxidants lower blood pressure and increases overall blood flow. Keep it fresh, though. Processed garlic provides the same heart help, but not nearly to the same degree as full cloves nabbed in the produce section.

 

3. Red wine

The perks of an evening glass go beyond relaxation. Red wine contains the compound polyphenol resveratrol, an antioxidant that help clears bad toxins from blood and makes your heart’s job easier. The key here, though, rests in sticking with only one glass.

 

2. Seeds & Nuts

Nearly any kind of nut is your heart’s best buddy. From almonds and pistachios to a pinch of peanuts, most pack your heart’s necessary fiber and magnesium punch. Some, like walnuts, also carry the essential body fat, omega-3. As long as you avoid the kind with added salt, you’ve got a go-to, heart-healthy snack.

Likewise, sprinkling flax or chia seeds onto the foods you already eat delivers the same benefits of fiber and omega-3 acids. They’re a simple topping for salads, yogurt parfaits, fruit spreads, or even blended into a smoothie.

 

1. Salmon

Nothing compares to the levels of healthy, fatty acids you get from fish oils. Their omega-3 content goes hand-in-hand with lowering blood pressure and regulating good and bad cholesterol. Experts advise incorporating salmon (or other omega-3 rich fish like tuna and mackerels) into your diet at least 2-3 times a week. They work great as sandwiches for lunch or as the centerfold of a dinner pasta spread.

A specialist from ICE, Institute of Cardiovascular Excellence, says eating a healthy diet low in cholesterol, salt, and saturated fat can help you avoid heart disease. Combined with moderate exercise and lower stress levels, a heart-friendly diet will go a long way in keeping you at your best. And, with most of these delicious foods, your taste buds will thank you, too!

 

Categories: Blood, blood pressure, cholesterol, heart, heart disease, Heart-Healthy, nbsp, Red Wine, sweet potatoes

The Benefits of Deep Breathing

 

Sometimes, health benefits can be achieved by doing something incredibly simple, perhaps even obvious. Breathing deeply can qualify as one of these things and you might be surprised of the positive impact it can have on your body and wellbeing.

 

One of the most essential components of a healthy body is a healthy blood-stream, and the work that the blood-stream carries out on a day-to-day, minute-by-minute, second-by-second basis is remarkable and essential. The blood-stream transports oxygen and nutrients to the body’s cells as means of nurturing the circulation system so the body can resist illness and disease, and the engine which powers this is breathing.

 

Breathing helps to power the lymphatic system, which is also crucial to health and primarily helps to reduce of the impact of harmful materials in the body, by: staving off invasion from bacteria, viruses and fungi, recycling plasma proteins and expelling waste from lymph fluid.

 

Whilst, deep breathing is essential to these processes, it must be done in a highly systematic manner, for it to be truly effective. In order to breathe deeply in a productive manner you should, breathe in for one count, hold this breath for two counts and then exhale for two counts. With the application of this process, you are enabling time for cells to become fully oxygenated with blood, and for toxins to be expelled. In order to make the best of this process, it’s advisable to complete 10 cycles on a daily basis, which can serve as a means of improving your wellness without too much effort.

 

Categories: Blood, blood stream, body, Breathing, breathing nbsp, Deep Breathing, nbsp, stream

Can the Blood Type Diet Help Aid Weight Loss?

 

Written by Jenny Catton

 

The blood type diet claims that eating a particular diet of foods tailored to your own blood group can have major health benefits including protection from illnesses. But does it work and is it an effective diet for weight loss?

 

Yes – Cally

I first heard of the blood type diet when a friend gave me a book about it. Although I was sceptical at first, the more I read, the more it seemed to make sense. The diet works on the theory that our blood group affects how we process different foods and therefore some foods will give us health benefits whilst others, even healthy ones, can make us feel ill. When you eat the right foods for your blood group, the body works more efficiently and digests food more effectively – the result is that you feel better and can also lose weight.

My blood type is A – which means I’m ideally suited to a vegetarian diet. My partner meanwhile is O which means he should eat a high protein diet. I suppose this explains why we all crave different foods, for instance some people love red meat whilst others can’t stand it. Since starting the diet, I’ve noticed a lot of positive changes in my health. I have more energy and I no longer feel bloated after eating a meal. The added bonus is that I’ve also lost weight without really trying.

The diet may seem complicated at first but I’d say just try it. I’m still not sure exactly why it works but for me, it does!

 

 

No – Will

The blood type diet is a relatively new fad and there is no real evidence to suggest that it works. People probably feel better when they start the diet because they are paying more attention to what they eat and are choosing healthy foods rather than processed snacks. In the short term they may notice positive changes but in the long term, the blood type diet means restricting what you eat which risks cutting out crucial nutrients.

Unless you have an actual intolerance or allergy to a particular food then it is far healthier to eat a balanced diet with foods from all food groups rather than cutting certain foods out just because you believe they are somehow incompatible with your blood type. As soon as you start cutting out certain foods, you may lose weight – but you’ll also put yourself at risk of developing other health issues due to a lack of key nutrients.

It’s also totally impractical for families to follow this diet – you could end up having to cook two or more different dishes every mealtime just to cater to each person’s particular blood type.

Ask any medical expert what they think of the blood type diet and chances are they will tell you it’s a load of rubbish – there is simply no proof to suggest that what we should eat is determined by our blood group.

 

Categories: Blood, blood group, blood type, diet, foods, Health Benefits, Lose weight, type diet, Weight Loss

Smoking can hurt sex life

Go to Source

The popular hero after vanquishing a bunch of villains, stylishly tosses up a cigarette in the air, catches it with his mouth and lights it with a match stick rubbing against the villain’s head. This Bollywood fantasy catches the fancy of millions. If you are one of them, think twice.

Dr John Spangler’s study established that people who smoke are 26 times more likely to have erectile dysfunction. Smokers in their 30’s and 40’s have an increased risk. The tobacco in a cigarette burning at 60º celsius produces about 400 toxins.

 

The most notorious among them are tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide. Erection can occur only when adequate blood flows freely into the penis. For this, blood vessels should be in good health. These blood vessels are lined internally with endothelium — the seat of many chemical reactions which ultimately determine the amount of blood flowing through the arteries.

 

When this endothelium is damaged, it can not relax and allow sufficient blood to flow through it. Not only that, the damaged endothelium is more prone to develop plaques, clots, thus narrowing the lumen of the blood vessels. Nicotine hardens the arteries by damaging their endothelium. Smoking also raises the blood pressure. This injurious endothelial damaging process responsible for erection problems can also damage the coronary arteries in the heart.

 

It also affects a woman’s sexual health. By narrowing the blood vessels in the vagina, smoking adversely affects adequate lubrication, making sex a painful chore. Tips for smokers:

 

• Choose what you want: sex or tobacco.


• Undergo nicotine replacement therapy.


• Seek the help of a specialist for de-addiction.

 

Categories: Blood, blood vessels, endothelium, nbsp, nicotine, vessels

Blood Work: How to Overcome Your Fear of Needles

 

 

About 20 percent of the population has a fear of needles. There is even a technical name for the fear, trypanophobia. The fear should be taken seriously because it could prevent an individual from seeking medical treatment or having necessary, routine blood work done. Additionally, a fear of needles might prevent an individual from taking prescribed injectable medications, particularly of concern for diabetic patients. There is hope. Below are a few techniques and strategies that may help the individual overcome the fear of needles:

 

1. Talk about the fear. Rather than keeping the fear inside, talking about the fear with the healthcare provider who will be using the needle might alleviate some anxiety. Simply talking about the fear may be validating. If the fear is extreme and generalized, the healthcare provider can also refer the individual to a therapist to learn ways to manage anxiety in general.

 

2. Take medication before the procedure. Taking an anesthetic, or pain killer, applied directly on the skin can numb the area and decrease pain. For more intense cases of needle phobia, an anti-anxiety medication might be in order. A physician can prescribe one, if needed.

 

3. Be in the right position. Some individuals who fear needles have a fainting feeling prior to the procedure. To avoid injury, lying down or being in a comfortable seated position is key. Also, positioning the area where the injection will occur properly is important. Making sure that the physician or phlebotomist can easily access the area to avoid having to repeat the procedure can help.

 

4. Think about something else. When the time comes for the “stick”, thinking about something else, or distraction, is a great technique. Guided imagery is a technique taught by counselors and can be self-taught prior to the procedure. Guided imagery involves taking yourself mentally to a different, relaxing place. Having an image in mind prior to the procedure is a good plan.

 

5. Learn about needles. Education is powerful. If an individual is afraid of needles, it might be out of ignorance on the subject. Consider receiving phlebotomy training to learn more about needles and blood draws. Many local community colleges offer phlebotomy courses.

 

For the person with a fear of needles, consequences can be physically damaging if treatment is avoided. Understanding needles and having techniques to use when blood draws must occur can help alleviate the anxiety associated with a fear of needles.

 

 

Categories: Blood, fear, how to, needles, overcome

Getting Ready for Surgery: How to Take Care of Your Body

Although the aim of surgery is to improve your wellness, it can be a health concern all of it’s own. Patient safety is always the top priority for surgeons or physician anesthesiologists involved in medical care, but to ensure your procedure goes as well as it can, you also need to take steps to care for your wellbeing. Important actions such as exercising and eating right in the weeks and months before surgery can help make the procedure as safe as possible, decrease your chances of complications and help you get back on your feet faster.

 

Dr. Jane C.K. Fitch, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), notes, ‘Surgery is usually the solution to a problem, whether to replace a painful knee or repair a hernia, but there are always risks. Physician anesthesiologists, surgeons and other medical specialists work with patients before, during and after surgery to help ensure a successful outcome. Patients can take control of their own health by having critical conversations with their physicians and getting healthy before surgery.’ So how can you get yourself in shape for surgery? Here are some top tips from the ASA:

 

1. Eat healthy: According to the ASA, ‘Adjusting your diet to include healthier choices in the weeks leading up to your surgery can help you become stronger and recover quicker. If you have a loss of appetite or recently lost weight without trying, be sure to tell your doctor, who might suggest you see a registered dietician. The dietician may prescribe a nutritional supplement to boost your immune system, help prevent infections and shorten your stay in the hospital.’

 

2. Stop smoking: The ASA explains, ‘Among the many reasons to kick the habit is that smoking and anaesthesia – which you’ll need during surgery – don’t mix. If you smoke, your heart and lungs are compromised and don’t function at full capacity. You are also far more likely to suffer breathing and lung-related complications during surgery and are more likely to need a ventilator after surgery. By quitting smoking before surgery, you’ll not only decrease the likelihood of these risks, but you’re also less likely to have a wound infection, heart attack or other complication.’

 

3. Better Your Breathing: ‘Taking deep breaths on a spirometer – a simple device that helps you exercise your lungs and improve their function – is a routine activity after most surgeries,’ the ASA asserts. ‘Doing these exercises before surgery can help strengthen your lungs so you’re less likely to develop pneumonia.’

 

4. Control your blood sugar: The ASA warns, ‘People with diabetes whose blood sugar (glucose) is not controlled, are more likely to suffer potentially fatal complications following surgery. If you have diabetes, make sure your blood sugar is controlled. If you don’t, your immune system may be weaker, making you more vulnerable to pneumonia and other infections. Controlling your blood sugar will help you heal faster and you’ll likely spend less time recovering in the hospital.’

 

5. Get Active: ‘If you exercise, keep it up, and if you don’t, try to responsibly increase your activity level in the weeks before surgery,’ suggests the ASA. ‘The sooner you begin to move around after surgery, the less likely you are to develop blood clots and pneumonia. Consider getting into an exercise programme – it can reduce complications and shorten hospital stays.’

 

6. Drink Less Alcohol: The ASA cautions, ‘People who have more than two alcoholic drinks a day are more likely to suffer complications after surgery than light drinkers and those who drink heavily are more than twice as likely to suffer complications that can result in death. Heavy drinkers are also much more likely to get an infection after surgery, have difficulty breathing, and be admitted to the intensive care unit than non-drinkers.’

Categories: Blood, Blood Sugar, complications, Healthy Eating, hospital nbsp, nbsp, physician anesthesiologists, Stop Smoking, suffer, suffer complications, surgery

3 Popular Fad Diets that Wellness Experts Have Tried

If you’ve tried a fad diet, and felt pretty stupid about failing or even making that decision in the first place, don’t worry – even those who know all about diet and wellbeing have been tempted by the promise of speedy weight loss results! Wellness expert Elizabeth Goodman Artis, Executive Editor of Muscle & Fitness Hers, admits, ‘I have experimented with most (though not all) of these popular weight-loss methods: from an all tuna plan in 7th (!) grade to the college era diet that allowed me to consume as many Snackwell cookies and Heinekens as my heart desired. Then there was the “caveman” diet I tried with my husband, a fan of the workout that espouses it. This left me craving white carbs so desperately I was ready to stuff a bagel into a baguette and call it a bagel/baguette sandwich.’

 

Goodman Artis continues, ‘And yes, many of these diets worked (not counting the beer and cookies)… at first. The reason, say experts, is that any time you drastically change your eating habits — in any way — you’re going to see results on the scale.’ The problem is that fad diets are simply note sustainable. Janet Brill, RD, PhD, a consultant in private practice and author of Cholesterol Down, asserts, ‘If you can’t envision sticking with a diet for the rest of your life, then it’s not a good eating plan.’ So we got Goodman Artis and Brill to look at some of the more popular, ridiculous diet plans of recent years, and explain why they’re more hype than help:

 

1. The Blood Type Diet: Goodman Artis explains, ‘Whether you’re A, B, A/B, or O, the theory goes that depending on your blood type, you should adhere to one of four possible eating plans: low carb/high protein, low-fat, vegetarian, or just an overall balanced diet. The reasoning is based on biochemistry and evolutionary theory.’ However, Brill points out that this has no scientific basis: ‘Blood type has to do with receptors on red blood cells and doesn’t dictate what you should or shouldn’t eat.’

 

2. Cut One Food Group: ‘Just cut out all carbs/sugar/fat (and eat as much as you want of everything else) and voila, the weight melts off,’ Goodman Artis details. ‘The problem…is that when you cut out one nutrient entirely, you’re likely to compensate with another. So if you eliminate all fat from your diet, there’s a good chance you’ll amp up the carbohydrates, and often the white processed variety. Or if you cut carbs, you may end up eating more fat. And while sugar doesn’t have much nutritional value, vowing to let nothing sweet pass your lips is just a recipe for a binge.’

 

3. Eat the Same Food 24/7: Goodman Artis recalls, ‘Seventh grade, as everyone knows, is a social minefield of cliques, mean girls, and pre-adolescent insecurity — and in an effort to lose the extra three pounds I was carrying, I decided to eat plain tuna fish for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day until I could fit into a smaller pair of Gloria Vanderbilt jeans. That lasted through lunch. Sub in any singular food and you have a weight-loss method that’s ebbed and flowed in popularity over the years; for example, the all-fruit diet and the notorious cabbage soup diet. There are a myriad of reasons this is a wrong-headed approach to weight loss… but the main one is of course sustainability — forget keeping this up for life (imagine if, 31 years later, I was subsisting solely on canned tuna). Few can maintain this approach for longer than a day.’

Categories: artis, Blood, blood type, Blood Type Diet, cutting carbs, diet, Fad Diets, goodman, goodman artis, weight, Weight Loss

Medical Supplies You Should Have In Storage

Medical emergencies are something that could strike anyone at any time, no matter how old or young the person may be. Luckily, the Internet age has made it much easier to acquire medical supplies that go above and beyond the standard First-Aid kit.

 

It is unfortunate that many homeowners do not even own a First-Aid kit, let alone any specialized medical gear. The following items are common medical items that have been proven to save lives.

 

First-Aid Kit

The two main functions of a First-Aid kit are to stop bleeding and to keep wounds from getting infected. The items included are gauze, antibiotic cream, band-aids, medical tape, and a cold pack to treat muscle strains. This is the basic kit that any safety-conscious homeowner should have.

 

Defibrillator

This apparatus is designed to start a heart that has stopped beating as a result of cardiac arrest. This is especially useful for those who are not trained in CPR. The reason is that defibrillators often come with clear-cut instructions for operation. With that being said, at least one member of a household should be trained in CPR. These classes are fairly cheap and are usually offered at a community’s activity center.

 

Suture Kit

Many people think that stitching a wound is a complex procedure; however, the reality is that it is the same fundamental procedure as stitching a seam. Do some research online on how to sew and confer with your doctor regarding the slight differences between the two procedures. It is a skill that most people never need, but it is always good to know how to be able to stitch a wound in case of an emergency. This is what field medics who are stationed in war zones specialize in.

 

Stethoscope

A stethoscope is what doctors use to listen to a patient’s heartbeat and pulse. This checks for any irregularities in heartbeat or blood flow, which are both early warning signs of cardiac arrest. If there is a clot forming somewhere in the body, then you will be able to hear the flow of the person’s blood moving at a slower pace. This also may indicate that the artery is blocked. The best course of action is to give the person an aspirin to thin their blood and call the paramedics immediately.

 

Catheters

When most people hear the word catheter they think of a urinary catheter. While this is certainly a common use of catheters, the reality is that they have several uses. When shopping for medical catheters it is important to understand that different sizes have different functions. Some other uses for catheters include cardiovascular, neurovascular, and gastrointestinal issues.

 

By owning this simple list of items you will be sufficiently prepared for any medical emergency that comes your way.

Categories: aid kit, Blood, cardiac arrest, catheters, health concerns, items, Medical, medical supplies, nbsp

The Smoking Sin: Why Diabetics Should Never Light Up

I think we can all agree that smoking isn’t good for anyone’s wellbeing, but if you also have diabetes, man, are you in trouble. Smoking when diabetic raises your blood sugar levels, and increases your risks for kidney damage, stroke, heart disease, nerve damage, and foot problems as much as 10 times. Here are eight reasons why, if you have diabetes, smoking is a major health concern:

 

1. Diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage. Smoking adversely affects your blood circulation, and this deprives your nerve endings of essential nutrients. Nerve damage makes you more susceptible to sores and infections which could even lead to amputation. Sure, smoking’s cool, but is it worth losing a foot?

 

2. Heart attacks and stokes. As smoking wreaks havoc on your sugar levels, your blood vessels will become damaged and cause strokes and heart attacks. You’re also at an increased risk of heart damage because smoking lowers your levels of good cholesterol, causes more blood clots to form, raises your blood pressure and reduces the amount of oxygen that is supplied to your vital organs.

 

3. Kidney damage. Again, smoking raises your blood sugar levels, having a negative impact on your kidneys’ microcirculation. This damages cells which are intrinsic to kidney health, causing albuminuria (high levels of blood protein in your urine) and and kidney or renal failure.

 

4. Eye damage. Smoking doubles your risk of diabetic retinopathy and blindness in the future.

 

5. Oral damage. Smoking when you have diabetes increases your risk of mouth sores.

 

6. Worsening of your diabetes. Not only does smoking cause your blood glucose levels to fluctuate dramatically, but it also increases your resistance to insulin. In other words, smoking makes your diabetes worse.

 

7. Joint damage. If you have diabetes, smoking can seriously limit your mobility, and even cause extreme pain in your joints. This can obviously have a negative impact on your quality of life.

 

No one is saying that it’s easy to quit smoking, or that it’s only a health concern for people with diabetes. However, if one or more of the above health risks could affect you, wouldn’t you want to do everything you can to prevent it from happening? Contact your doctor or look online for help quitting smoking.

Categories: Blood, Blood Sugar, Diabetes, diabetes smoking, health concern, Health Damage, heart attacks, nbsp, negative impact, Smoking, sugar levels

8 Drugs that Don’t Do What They Were Intended For

These days we take all kinds of drugs and medicines, but where exactly do they come from? Here’s a run down of the different drugs we use today, and their accidental histories:

 

1. Novocain: This drug is used to numb a local area, such as while having a dental procedure, but how did we get this bright idea? According to wellness expert Lauren Gelman, ‘The commonly used anaesthetic is actually named for the drug cocaine. Cocaine was first introduced as a local anaesthetic in 1884, but it caused a number of addictions and deaths. A few years later, German chemist Alfred Einhorn began to look for a safer substitute; in 1905, he discovered the injectable local anaesthetic procaine, which became Novocain.’

 

2. Lithium: We use this drug for managing bipolar disorder and other issues related to mental wellbeing. However, Gelman notes, ‘Before it received FDA approval in 1970, the metal was first used in the 1840s to treat bladder stones and gout. A century later, Australian psychiatrist John Cade observed that guinea pigs injected with a form of lithium became sedated rather than excited; subsequent large-scale clinical studies confirmed lithium’s effectiveness for preventing mania.’

 

3. Cortisone: Gelman details, ‘Cortisone (and subsequent forms, such as hydrocortisone) was created out of a WWII rumour that German pilots were injecting steroid hormones to help counteract high-altitude stress. The myth spurred the US military to research their own comparable drug.’ Now the drug is used for a variety of ailments, including inflammation, pain, allergies, skin disorders, and autoimmune diseases such as lupus and psoriasis.

 

4. Warfarin: This life-saving drug is used to stop blood clotting. Gelman describes, ‘In 1921, veterinarians in Canada and North Dakota observed that when certain cattle had a minor injury or surgery, they bled excessively and sometimes fatally. The doctors concluded that the cows had been eating spoiled clover, which contained a substance that caused the bleeding. In 1940, a University of Wisconsin-Madison biochemist isolated a pure form of the compound, and later it was introduced to the market as Warfarin.’

 

5. Rogaine: Gelman outlines, ‘Minoxidil first appeared on the market in 1979 as a breakthrough drug for high blood pressure. However, it increased body hair growth for 80% of patients who took the drug orally; within three to six weeks, patients would grow dark hair on the face and then on the back, chest, arms, and legs. Upjohn began marketing the drug as a solution to apply to the scalp in 1988.’

 

6. Viagra: This erectile dysfunction drug is also known by the generic name of Sidenafil. Gelman comments, ‘Sidenafil (the generic name) was first tested in the 1980s to treat high blood pressure and improve blood flow in patients with chest pain. In trials, it didn’t have much of an impact on angina, but it did lead to erections. In 1998 Sidenafil became the first oral drug approved to treat impotence, replacing injected medications.’

 

7. Tamoxifen: Gelman points out, ‘Tamoxifen was originally intended as an anti-fertility drug when it was synthesized in 1962, but it turned out that it stimulated ovulation instead of suppressing it.’ Now, we use Tamoxifen to treat oestrogen-positive breast cancer, which accounts for 50 to 70% of cases. Moreover, the drug may also prevent the development of breast cancer in high-risk patients.

 

8. AZT: ‘Jerome Horwitz, of the Karmanos Cancer Institute, first synthesized AZT as a potential anti-leukemia drug in 1964, but it didn’t work,’ says Gelman. ‘In the 1970s, AZT was found to be active against a retrovirus, which led government researchers to consider it as an HIV fighter. The FDA approved the drug in 1987.’

Categories: Blood, blood pressure, breast cancer, Drug, gelman, high, high blood, lithium, local anaesthetic, nbsp, novocain, Viagra

Do You Know About the Miracle Powers of Grapes?

Grapes are delicious, sweet and – best of all – have a whole host of amazing benefits for your wellness and wellbeing. They are quite sugary, as far as fruit goes, but when eaten as part of a healthy diet, they can be some of the best nutrition that you can possibly take on board.

 

Did you know, for example, that grapes are great for weight loss? Research carried out recently at the University of Georgia has found that the resveratrol contained in grapes helps to assist the body’s weight loss efforts by reducing the cell’s ability to store fat dramatically (by about 130 percent) and it also causes fat cells to disintegrate far more quickly than normal.

 

Grapes are also great for your heart. Research has also shown that the resveratrol contained in these little fruits has the ability to improve the way that the blood vessels dilate, which could allow more blood to flow freely through the blood vessels. It has also been proved to help relax the walls of blood vessels, thus making their diameter larger, and allowing the blood pressure to lower. The increased blood flow to all areas of the body means that more oxygen is delivered, and also more nutrients to the cells of the body. A further study showed that just a small amount of resveratrol resulted in a dramatic reduction in the risk factors for heart attacks.

 

As well as your heart and your weight, grapes could be great for your brain. The University of Switzerland has just released research which proves that grapes can help to mop up brain-damaging plaques and also the free radicals. These have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. In face resveratrol is sometimes playfully referred to as ‘reverse it all’ by health practitioners, due to the amazing effects that it can have on the body.

 

Categories: Blood, blood vessels, body, grapes, health, nbsp, resveratrol, resveratrol contained, Weight Loss

What Are the Diets That Supermodels Swear By?

If anyone knows about diet and nutrition, a supermodel should! These people base their whole existence and livelihood around their body shape, so it is imperative that they look after their physical wellness and wellbeing. This is done in various ways, though, and no two supermodels stick to the same diet.

 

Some, for example, stick to a low-carbohydrate diet, feeling that their bodies do not work very well when they are tanked up on carbs. An example of a low carb meal is lean mince with a nice sauce and broccoli. A low-carb breakfast could be Weetabix or Special K, or something like eggs on toast. Lunches can be things like chicken or tuna with sandwich, or a sandwich with wholemeal bread.

 

The wholefood diet is also very popular, as it basically involves lots of very clean and simple eating. Breakfasts on the wholefood diet can be things like quinoa porridge with goat’s milk yoghurt, nuts, seeds and psyllium. Lunch is things like salad, sushi or a gluten-free sandwich. Snacking should be kept to a minimum. Dinner can be things like fish or chicken stir fry (basically protein mixed with vegetables), and for a treat, dark chocolate is the way to go.

 

Simple foods are also popular – things like baked sweet potato with grilled fish, steamed veggies and salad. Minimal preparation is the key here, and food is only cooked when absolutely necessary. Sauces are few and far between – it’s like a raw food diet but without the full commitment of this.

 

The blood type diet is also used by many supermodels. The premise of this is that some foods are more compatible with certain blood types. For example, those who have blood type A should follow a vegetarian diet, high in organic vegetables, legumes and fresh juices.

Categories: Blood, blood type, diet, nbsp, sandwich, supermodel, supermodels, weight, wholefood diet

Impotence Investigation: Do Herbal Sex Supplements Work?

Both men and women experience sexual health problems, which can have a knock-on effect on the rest of your wellness. Your sex life plays an important role in your relationship, not to mention your overall sense of wellbeing, which is why many people turn to all kinds of methods to get their arousal and performance back on track. Herbal supplements are a prime favourite with those wanting to boost their sexual experience without going the medical Viagra route, but do they actually work, and are they safe?

 

According to Marc Bonnard, MD, a psychiatrist specializing in sex therapy and the author of The Viagra Alternative, certain herbs may actually have an advantage over pharmaceutical alternatives. He writes, ‘Herbs work in a more leisurely fashion,’ replacing the balance between your mind and body that is ‘so important for a positive sexual experience.’ Certain physiological functions – such as hormonal imbalances and poor circulation – contribute to sexual dysfunction, and alternative treatments aim to fix these faulty functions. However, even though this supplements are marketed as “all-natural” and you don’t need a prescription, Bonnard, like other experts, warns that these products are potentially potent and can have toxic side effects. That said, let’s take a closer look at some of the herbal ingredients you’ll find in popular sexual supplements:

 

1. Damiana: The leaves and stems of the damiana plant are used as an aphrodisiac in Mexico, but here in the UK you can get the sex-boosting plant in tablet form. You can also prepare the dry leaves in a tea, but the Mayo Clinic does warn that the product has not been tested in humans – so tread with caution.

 

2. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone): Your adrenal glands produce this hormone naturally, which aids in the production of sex hormones testosterone and oestrogen. In men with low testosterone levels, some small studies have shown promise in helping these participants improve their sexual function. However, you can only blame a small number of impotence problems on low testosterone.

 

3. Ginkgo: Bonnard points out that ginkgo seeds and leaves can help men with erectile dysfunction by getting ‘the blood flowing to the right spots.’ Yet the Mayo Clinic counters that there is not solid evidence to show that ginkgo works effectively against impotence. Moreover, both Bonnard and the Mayo Clinic agree that the plant can be dangerous, especially if you are on prescription blood-thinning medication. This is because gingko can affect the clotting of your blood.

 

4. Ginseng: Used as an aphrodisiac in Asia, this aromatic root is used as and has been shown to have some energy-boosting properties, albeit without any evidence to prove that ginseng has a direct impact on impotence. However, we could all use a little more energy in the bedroom, so use this dried root in powder or liquid form, or prepared as a tea to be sipped slowly.

 

5. Kava: While Bonnard admits that kava probably won’t do the trick for cases of ‘true ED,’ the root has a positive effect on your mood, which may help to resolve your sexual troubles – such as low libido – that are affected by stress and your emotions.

 

6. L-Arginine: This is an amino acid found naturally in fish, peanuts and beans. L-arginine works to increase the amounts of nitric oxide in your bloodstream, which, in turn, increases your blood flow. While little scientific research into this amino acid has been undertaken, L-arginine should work against impotence, theoretically speaking, as an erection requires blood flow to the penis.

 

7. Maca Root. This Peruvian herb has been shown to improve the penis functon in male lab rats, and anecdotal reports from men assert that it can jump-start your sexual systems. However, it is yet to be tested in humans.

Categories: amino acid, Blood, blood flow, bonnard, herbal sex supplements, Impotence, mayo clinic, nbsp, sexual, sexual experience, sexual function

Is Low Blood Sugar Making You Gain Weight?

Most people are aware of the risks of diabetes, but few are as educated on the dangers of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia to give it its medical name. In a more serious form, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures and unconsciousness, as well as weight gain and obesity. It is more frequently seen as a side effect of diabetes, and occurs after aggressive insulin treatments which push the blood glucose levels a little too low. Because your blood sugar levels are connected to what you eat, finding and maintaining your glucose levels isn’t an exact science. There will be fluctuations, naturally, which makes treatment early on quite difficult. When your diet has been modified and other lifestyle factors have been considered, such as weight and exercise, then treatment can be considered more thoroughly.

Hypoglycemia can occur in people without diabetes as well though, occurring in conjunction with certain types of cancer, due to hormonal imbalances, during pregnancy, as a result of too much alcohol, and after vigorous exercise. It can also be caused by endocrine, renal and liver disorders. There isn’t an anti-insulin treatment for this problem, which means that hypoglycemia can only be solved by managing your diet and getting plenty of exercise. In fact, resolving your obesity and managing hypoglycemia go hand in hand. In normal people, blood sugar levels range between 70 – 80mcg per 100cc of blood before eating, which rises to around 120 – 140mcg in the hour following a meal. When your body is at the lowest ebb, the body becomes hungry; when it’s at its peak, it enables the pancreas to release insulin which prevents blood sugar levels from rising any higher.

The body gets its energy from glucose or blood sugar, and a certain level of glucose is necessary for the body to function every day. The brain needs a steady supply of glucose to function properly, which is why a person with hypoglycemia will experience confusing abnormal behaviours, blurred vision or dizziness. Exercise is a challenge or impossible with someone who has hypoglycemia as this only depletes your energy supplies. This means that your diet has the job of controlling both your weight and low blood glucose levels.

There are some important things to remember when you have hypoglycemia. Firstly, high-sugar is not a solution for your problem. When your body is loaded with high sugar treats, it launches an insulin attack to bring the glucose levels down. However, in a hypoglycemic, those levels are already at an all-time high so this simply leads to the pancreas going into overdrive. It’s actually better to do the opposite and cut out processed sugars completely. Stick to complex carbs, whole grains and vegetables which gradually release their glucose content over time which helps to balance the levels in the body. The problem lies in that hypoglycemics crave sugary foods, as the body knows it needs glucose to survive so it sends signals to get the highest concentrate of what it needs. Unfortunately, cookies and cakes cause the blood sugar levels to spike too high. This results in the pancreas responding with a powerful surge of activity, and the cycle quickly flips the body’s balance upside down. This constant seesaw action can cause a vicious cycle of feeding the body what it doesn’t need. If you’re worried you have a problem with your low blood sugar levels, speak to your GP who can advise if you need treatment.

Categories: Blood, Blood glucose, Blood Sugar, body, diet, glucose levels, high sugar, hypoglycemia, levels, Sugar, sugar levels

Hot Flashes: The Causes, Triggers and Who Gets Affected

Menopause doesn’t just affect your sexual health; it also wreaks havoc on your wellness with a draining condition known as hot flashes. Sure, hot flashes may not seem like such a big deal. but they can really take their toll on your wellbeing. Brette Sember, author of The Infertility Answer Book, points out, ‘Hot flashes can make your body feel like it has somehow become a raging furnace. The heat you experience during a hot flash is often overwhelming; it really does feel as if it’s taking over your body. Clothes can suddenly feel too heavy to wear. The bed covers feel as if they’re suffocating you, and you’re often drenched in sweat. Hot flashes are often associated with chills – the chills are typically the result of sweat drying on the surface of the skin.’

 

You might find you have hot flashes on a regular basis, or they may occur randomly. These flashes may be over in two minutes, or they could last as long as half-an-hour. The key thing to know is that hot flashes are a condition that a vast number of people worldwide deals with – 85% of all women will experience them at some point – so you’re not alone. You may think that your hot flashes are caused by fevers, illness or even burning desire, but, according to Sember, you would be wrong. In fact, the real culprit is your fluctuating sex hormones. Sember explains, ‘If these hormones are suppressed, such as during treatment for certain types of cancer or if the ovaries are removed, this can cause blood vessels to dilate. The dilated blood vessels allow more blood to rush through the body. This sudden increase in blood flow brings with it more heat – typically to the body’s upper half.’

 

While this all sounds a bit dangerous and alarming, you don’t really have anything to worry about with hot flashes apart from the discomfort you feel. Still, even though there’s no danger involved, you should speak to your doctor if you’re experiencing hot flashes – especially if you’re too young to be going through menopause. The underlying cause of your hot flashes may be hyperthyroidism or one of several types of cancer, and so it’s always wise to be sure. However, more often than not, the cause of hot flashes will be something simple like pregnancy, perimenopause (the phase before menopause) or menopause itself. Let’s take a closer look at the factors at play in your hot flashes.

 

Sember notes, ‘Women’s hormone levels can fluctuate greatly during a typical lifetime…In fact, hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause. Hot flashes can also be triggered or amplified by environmental factors. Similar to migraine pain, outside factors such as alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, spicy foods, exercise, fat and chocolate can all trigger a hot flash. Climate – such as a hot room, medication, sleep deprivation and stress – can also be to blame.’ So, if you are suffering from hot flashes, eliminating some of these environmental triggers can be helpful in reducing your discomfort. It might be a good idea to keep a diary of your hot flashes, detailing exactly what happened prior to the hot flash, so you can avoid this trigger next time.

 

However, it’s not only women who are fanning themselves due to hot flashes; men also need to watch out for triggers and potentially visit a doctor. Sember comments, ‘Men can experience hot flashes, too. Obviously, menopause is not the reason. Men deal with hot flashes when they experience a drop in testosterone. This can be caused by ageing, but is most often due to a surgical removal of the testes or due to medication that impacts testosterone production. If a man is experiencing hot flashes, he should definitely consult a doctor. Testosterone deficiency is often the reason, and a simple blood test can verify this.’

Categories: Blood, blood vessels, Causes, experiencing hot, feel, flashes, hot flash, hot flashes, Menopause, sember

How to Stop Your High Blood Pressure Ruining Your Sex Life

While high blood pressure doesn’t often effect your wellness with any major symptoms, you may be able to quite clearly see the impact it has on your sexual health. Although having sex or engaging in any sexual activity isn’t likely to pose an immediate threat to your wellbeing – such as a heart attack – having high blood pressure can make sex less enjoyable, especially in men. Studies have proven a link between high blood pressure and sexual problems in men, but for women who have decreased sexual satisfaction, it’s not yet proved that high blood pressure is to blame. Nonetheless, treatment for high blood pressure and satisfaction with sex can go hand in hand — but only if you’re open about the problem and work closely with your doctor.

 

The reason why high blood pressure affects men’s sex lives is because, over time, it damages the lining of your blood vessels, causing your arteries to narrow and harden. This is a condition known as atherosclerosis and it limits your blood flow. As a result of atherosclerosis, blood cannot flow to your penis as easily, making it more difficult for you to achieve and maintain erections. This is otherwise known as the fairly common problem of erectile dysfunction (ED). Every time this happens to you, you can feel anxious that it will happen again. This means that men can try to avoid sex, which, in turn, has a negative impact on your relationship. Moreover, high blood pressure can reduce your sexual desire and interfere with ejaculation.

 

For women, high blood pressure’s effect on sexual problems still isn’t well understood, but it is possible that high blood pressure could affect your sex life. As with men, high blood pressure reduces blood flow, meaning that the blood cannot get to your vagina as easily. While women don’t necessarily need blood flow to be able to have sex, decreased blood flow to the genitals can lower your sexual desire or arousal, make it more difficult for you to achieve an orgasm, and contribute to vaginal dryness. However, lubrication and taking steps to improve your arousal can help. Still, the anxiety these problems cause – as with men – can mean you’re reluctant to have sex, which contributes to relationship problems.

 

Therefore, if you’re a man or a woman who experiences such difficulties, you should talk to a doctor about ways to make things better. The more your doctor knows about you, the better he or she can treat your high blood pressure — and help you maintain a satisfying sex life – so be open and honest, and prepared to answer questions your doctor may ask. Go to your consultation equipped with the following information:

• Any medications you are taking


• Whether your relationship with your sexual partner has changed recently


• Any recent feelings of depression


• Any stresses you are currently facing, and whether or not that’s more than usual

 

Your doctor will most likely recommend lifestyle changes that promote overall health, and boost your sexual satisfaction as a result. By eating healthy foods, reducing the amount of salt in your diet, losing weight, exercising regularly and not smoking, you can lower your blood pressure and potentially improve your sex life. Moreover, this healthy lifestyle will give you a leaner body, which will boost your confidence and help you feel more attractive – and that’s a plus to anyone’s sex life. Remember, you also need to communicate with your partner, as this will help to alleviate both of your worries and give you ways of moving forward. One thing you might try is initiating intimacy in a different, more relaxing way, such as through massage or getting in the bath together.

Categories: Blood, blood flow, blood pressure, high blood, high blood pressure, Lifestyle Changes, pressure, reduced blood flow, sex life, sexual desire, sexual problems, sexual satisfaction

Could Air Pollution Cause High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy?

Scientists are now discovering that there may be environmental reasons why some women suffer from high blood pressure during their pregnancy. A new study has shown that pregnant women who live in an area where the levels of air pollution are high are more likely to develop conditions affecting their wellness and wellbeing in pregnancy, such as high blood pressure.

 

Previous research has shown that around one in ten pregnant women develop high blood pressure. This is generally referred to as gestational hypertension and it increases the risk of needing a caesarian section to deliver the baby. It also increases the risk of the baby being born early, or having a low birth weight.

 

The results of the study, according to lead researcher Dr. Xiaohui Xu, showed that air pollution does make some kind of contribution to the risk of developing gestational hypertension. This could lead to ongoing health problems for the mother and baby, even after the pregnancy is complete.

 

It is important to note, however, that this was just a pilot study, meaning that it was simply to test the simple question of whether or not air pollution had an effect on maternal blood pressure. Having ascertained this, there are now many unanswered questions about why this should be the case and what the effect is on the long-term health of mothers and babies who live in areas with high air pollution.

 

The researchers looked at date relating to women who were suffering or had suffered from gestational hypertension, and then this information was linked to their address data, and these addresses were looked at in relation to data from the US Environmental Protection Agency about the quality of the air. It was found that women with gestational hypertension were more likely to live in areas where the air quality was poor.

Categories: Air Pollution, Blood, blood pressure, gestational hypertension, high, high blood, pollution, Pregnant Women, pressure, Women

Sex God: Could These Vitamins Amp Up Your Sex Life?

There are three wellness concerns men tend to have when trying to achieve the pinnacle of sexual health and wellbeing: an enthusiastic libido, a similarly enthusiastic erection and – depending on your procreative goals – super-sperm. However, if you have plans for an intimate evening, factors like antidepressant use, ageing and more can get in your way. While there isn’t always something you can do to ensure you have great sex every night, you can get your sex life in better shape with a better diet. Not only does eating plenty of healthy food mean you’ll look better when the clothes come off; it also holds sway over what’s underneath them. So which vitamins can boost your sex life, and where can you find them?

 

1. Vitamin C: While this vitamin is best known for boosting immunity and fighting off scurvy, it also enhances your blood flow. For guys, this is important for getting an erection, as the vitamin C found in lemons, oranges, peppers, potatoes and strawberries helps get the blood where it needs to be, and enables your penis to somehow accommodate it. Moreover, vitamin C can help you get rid of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Just make sure you don’t consume more than 2,000 milligrams – 90 is optimal – as I think you’ll agree that nothing ruins the mood quite like diarrhoea.

 

2. Folate: This vitamin is also known as vitamin B9, but you may have also heard it referred to as folic acid. This isn’t just a synonym because scientists can’t decide on a name; rather, folate is the natural vitamin you’ll find in foods, while folic acid is the man-made version that is found in supplements. If you and your partner are trying to conceive, it’s also important for her to get plenty of this B vitamin, as consuming folate or folic acid as early as possible during the pregnancy will greatly decrease your baby’s chances of serious birth defects, such as spina bifida. For men, some studies have shown a connection between folate/folic acid and a reduction in abnormal sperm, while others have even found that, when combined with zinc, vitamin B9 can help increase your sperm count. Sources of this vital vitamin include peas, asparagus, avocado, bananas, papaya, cantaloupe and tomato juice.

 

3. Vitamin E: This vitamin has shown in some studies to improve sperm activity, and it also has other benefits you’ll love. Vitamin E is an antioxidant – which helps prevent diseases – and it also strengthens your immune system and prevents dangerous blood clotting. The easiest way to get vitamin E into your diet is to snack on it with yummy and healthy munchers like almonds, peanuts and sunflower seeds.

 

4. Vitamin B12: Also known as cobalamin, vitamin B12 takes care of your nerves and blood cells, as well as keeping you from experiencing anaemia. Anaemia is a condition in which you feel incredibly tired and weak and gives you a lovely ghostly pallor – so there’ll be no tumble between the sheets for you tonight! You can only get vitamin B12 from animal foods – such as lamb, liver, sardines, clams, beef, eggs and some cheeses – which means you’re at risk for B12 deficiency if you’re a vegan. While there isn’t enough scientific evidence yet to determine whether B12 supplements can fight male infertility, studies are being done on the use of vitamin B12 supplements in men with fertility issues.

 

5. Vitamin B3: Vitamin B3, or niacin, helps make sex hormones and improves your circulation. It also regulates things like sleep patterns and erectile dysfunction, which means it’s time to stock up on beetroot, red meat and milk.

Categories: b12 supplements, better sex, Blood, folic acid, men, nbsp, sex life, vitamin, vitamin B12, vitamin b3, vitamin b9, vitamins

What Foods Have the Best Anti-Inflammatory Properties?

Not many people know this, but there are all kinds of food that you can naturally include in your diet that have anti-inflammatory properties. If you have some kind of condition that affects your wellness in terms of inflammation, such as arthritis, then including these foods in your diet can make a significant difference to your wellbeing.

Inflammation is generally a natural response to any kind of injury, infection or irritation. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, can come from a number of other sources, such as excessive weight gain or eating the wrong kinds of food. The fatty tissue that we have in our bodies when we are overweight can secrete hormones and chemicals that cause inflammation, and foods that raise our blood sugar levels can also contribute to inflammation. Therefore, in order to reduce inflammation, there are foods that you should avoid as well as foods that you should actively eat. Foods that you should avoid include anything that is high up the glycaemic index, such as saturated fats and refined white flours. Avoid any kind of junk food or high sugar food.

Foods that you should actively include in your diet include anything that contains omega-3 fatty acids. These help reduce inflammation and can be found in certain fish such as mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, trout and anchovies, as well as fortified eggs, walnuts, seaweed, flaxseeds and soya beans. You can also take omega 3 in fish oil supplements.

Olive oil is full of mono saturated fats which are great at lowering the blood sugars, which helps to prevent the heart and blood vessels falling victim to inflammation.

Garlic is also a great anti-inflammatory as it helps to regulate your blood sugar levels and it fights against infection. Fresh garlic can be used in most foods, but you can also purchase garlic supplements.

 

Categories: anti-inflammatory, Blood, Blood Sugar, Food, foods, Inflammation, inflammatory properties, reduce inflammation, saturated fats, sugar levels

Coping With Diabetes:5 Tips That Will Make Life More Comfortable

Diabetes is a condition that affects 18.2 million people in America. It can lead to life-threatening complications, but fortunately, you can prevent complications by managing this condition. Below are some tips that will help you manage your diabetes:

 

Eat Healthy Foods

Eating healthy will make it a lot easier for you to keep your blood sugar within the target range. You should talk to your health care provider about the right meal plan for you. However, health care providers typically recommend that diabetics follow a diet that is filled with vegetables, fruits, whole grains and low in salt, sugar and saturated fat.

 

Exercise

Exercise helps lower your blood sugar. It also helps increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin. You should try to exercise for 30 minutes per day most days out of the week. Keep in mind that daily activities, such as gardening or housework, can also help lower your blood sugar.

 

Monitor Your Blood Sugar Frequently

One of the keys to preventing complications is to keep your blood sugar as close to the normal range as possible. That is why it is important for you to monitor your blood sugar throughout the day. You will need to check your blood sugar when you get up in the morning, before and after meals and before and after you exercise. You should also check your blood sugar before and after you take your medication and/or insulin.

 

Wear the Right Socks

Taking care of your feet will prevent them from becoming injured or infected. Did you know that you an buy special socks for diabetics? Diabetic socks like those at HJ Sock Group help improve blood circulation and keep the feet dry. You’ll also want to pair your socks with a comfortable shoe that doesn’t squeeze or rub your foot.

 

Keep Your Stress Level Down

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but you should try to keep your stress level as low as possible. Stress can cause your blood sugar level to rise. It can also weaken your immune system. Reading, going for a walk and meditating are some of the ways that you can manage your stress.

 

Brush And Floss Every Day

You are more prone to gum disease if you have diabetes. You are also more likely to develop diabetic complications if you have gum disease. That is why you want to make sure that you brush and floss regularly so that you can avoid problems with your gums, teeth and mouth. Dentists recommend that patients come for checkups every six months which is especially important if you have diabetes so you can monitor your oral health and resolve any problems that may arise.

 

Living with diabetes can be hard, but there are things that can be done to make it easier. Of course if your doctor has prescribed you any medications or insulin, you will want to follow the recommended doses on those. In addition to your medical routines, keep in mind the healthy habits listed so that you can avoid complications and live a comfortable life.

Categories: Blood, Blood Sugar, complications, Coping, Diabetes, Gum Disease, health care, life, nbsp, stress level, Sugar