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Friday, September 28, 2007

ACTIVE RECREATION AND ITS IMPORTANCE

This article explains a few things about Recreation, and if you're interested, then this is worth reading, because you can never tell what you don't know.



Recreation can be defined as the refreshment of one’s mind or body through activity that amuses or stimulates.

Researches and findings have shown that recreational activities have health or mental benefits and help in the development of psychological and social tendencies of individuals.

Recreation could be passive or active or a combination of the two. In passive recreational activities, the individual has less of a role to play in the process of recreation but rather engages in it partially without any stress.

Here the individual is a beneficially of an activity that is performed by others. Examples of passive recreation include enjoying a song, watching aerobics, watching a football match in a stadium or reading. This form of recreation rejuvenates and relieves tension.

On the other hand, in active recreation, the individual plays a major role in the activity. Examples of active recreation include playing ping pong, bicycling, running, brisk walking and playing basketball with friends and relatives.


BENEFITS OF RECREATION

1. Active recreation which involves physical activities makes an individual less prone to obesity.


2. Active recreational activities are excellent for elevating the heart rate.

3. Active recreation also helps to boost the immune system. Researches show that positive changes in the immune system occur during moderate exercise.

4. Recreation increases positive moods.

5. Recreation and leisure activities can help alleviate depression.

6. Rest, relaxation and revitalization through recreation are essential in managing stress in today’s busy and demanding world.

7. Recreation activity is a medium in which participants can gain personal life satisfaction.

Take the work load off this holiday season and get involved in recreational activities, the health benefits are rewarding.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

INSOMNIA: THE SLEEP PROBLEM

Insomnia can be defined as the disturbance of a normal sleep pattern. Sleep is a state of consciousness which gives the body time to rest and build up strength. While at sleep, the body goes through various stages at approximately 90 minute cycles. These include high sleep, Deep sleep and dreaming.

Every human being is different; this makes it hard to define what normal sleep is. New born babies can sleep for 16 hours a day. School age children can sleep an average of 10 hours a day while adults usually sleep for 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night.

Difficulties with sleep can appear in a variety of ways:

 Difficulty getting to sleep. (more common among young people)

 Waking up often in the night (Mostly common in older people)

 Waking early in the morning and being unable to get back to sleep. (More common in older people and anyone worrying about something in particular.



TYPES OF INSOMNIA


 Transient Insomnia lasts for 2-3 days

 Short term Insomnia Lasts for more than a few
days but less than 3 weeks.

 Chronic Insomnia Lasts most nights for 3
weeks or longer.




Most a times, Chronic Insomnia can lead to mental health problem such as depression or misuse of alcohol or other medicines in order to gain sleep.


COMMON SYMPTOMS OF INSOMNIA

• Lying awake for a long time at night before getting to sleep

• Waking up several times in the middle of the night.

• Waking up far too early and unable to get back to sleep

• Only get to sleep with the aid of sleeping pills or alcohol

• Take longer than 30-40 minutes to fall sleep.



Cause of insomnia

Physical Underlying physical condition causing involuntary
Movement, pain or discomfort e.g. coughing, arthritis,
Headaches, head injury, gastrointestinal disorders, Pruritus.


Physiological Disruptions within the sleeping environment or bedtime
Routines can cause insomnia e.g. noise, light, snoring,
Jet lag, etc.


Psychological Loss or worry can make sleeping difficult.

MALE INFERTILITY

Male Infertility has assumed an alarming rate in recent times. Infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive after one year of regular and unprotected intercourse. More often than not, the woman is blamed for a couple’s inability to bear children and as such she is the one who sets out to find the solution, However, researches have shown that 25-40 percent of cases of infertility are attributable to the man.


CAUSES OF MALE INFERTILITY

This can be classified broadly into:

 Causes which interfere or disrupt the formation of quality sperm in sufficient quantity.

 Causes which interfere with the transport of the sperm from the testes to the vagina.



FACTORS WHICH INTERFERE WITH SPERM FORMATION

• Environmental conditions which expose the testes to high temperature for a long time would affect sperm formation. Working in an environment where temperatures are usually high, wearing tight fitting underpants, taking hot bathes (say 45c) for 30 minutes every day could reduce the sperm count significantly. Exposure to radiations like x-rays and radioactive substances could also reduce sperm count.

• Medical conditions like Undescended testes and Varicoceles are known to also reduce sperm count significantly. So would medical conditions which affect the testes directly like sexually transmitted infections and mumps.

• An imbalance in or a lack of one or more hormones regulating spermatogenesis cold cause low or non formation of sperm

• Other factors which have been known to interfere with spermatogenesis include alcohol, smoking, accidents and injuries to the testes.


FACTORS WHICH INTERFERE WITH THE TRANSPORT OF SPERMATOZOA

A. Impotence refers to the inability of the man to sustain erection. Ejaculation would only occur in an erect penis. Impotence could be due to structural damage to the penis and it could be psychological.

B. Any obstruction in the ducts which convey sperm from reaching the vagina could cause infertility. Such factors include chronic infections affecting the spermatic cord and the urethra, which may occur in cases of improperly treated sexually transmitted infections. Other causes of such obstruction include accidents and vasectomy (which is a contraceptive procedure).


TREATMENT OF MALE INFERTILITY

The first step in the treatment of Male Infertility is an analysis of the seminal fluid. This test provides information on the quality of the sperm, the sperm count, the volume and the quantity of the seminal fluid.

The semen is produced either by interrupted intercourse or by masturbation after at least two days of abstinence. The specimen collected should reach the laboratory within two hours of production. The nature of the problem would determine which treatment would be prescribed by the doctor.

Some of the causes of Male Infertility are preventable. Males are advised to avoid wearing tight fitting underpants and avoid exposure to excessive heat and radiation. Those in working in radiation environments should observe safety procedures and guidelines.
A man with low sperm count is advised to stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake as these have been known to reduce sperm count. Sexually transmitted diseases and infections should be treated promptly by a medical doctor.

Thursday, September 6, 2007

STROKE: AN OVERVIEW

Stroke is the weakness of the limbs on one side of the body; either permanently or transiently often with associated loss or disturbance of speech. Stroke can be completed or evolving, major or minor. One in every four of those suffering from Stroke will die of it within five years. However, Stroke is uncommon before the age of 40 years.

Stroke occurs as a result of deprivation of blood supply to an area of the brain, for a period long enough to cause death (infraction) of brain tissues to that area (in which case the disability is permanent). Where the damage is to the brain tissue is not long enough to cause death (ischaemia), the damage is transient.

This deprivation of blood supply could be due to a blocked vessel supplying the affected part of the brain. This is the most common cause of Stroke responsible for about 80 percent of Stroke cases.

Stroke could occur also due to bleeding into the brain tissue. This accounts for 20 percent of all Stroke cases. Any health condition which could result in any of the above could cause Stroke. Such conditions include Hypertension (which is a major culprit), smoking, heart disease and diabetes.

Any animal fat-rich diet can predispose deposit of fatty plaques in the blood vessel which can cause narrowing. This is associated with hardening of the blood vessel which occurs with aging leading to condition called Arteriosclerosis.

Risk factors which can predispose one to developing Stroke include, a high consumption of alcohol, smoking, sedentary lifestyle and obesity. As has been said, about 40 percent of Stroke can be prevented.

The most important step towards preventing Stroke is to take care of your self. A regular check on blood pressure will help to identify hypertension early and this leads to early control. Low and or moderate alcohol consumption will reduce the risk of Stroke, so will a reduction in weight and cessation of smoking,

An active lifestyle has also been identified to reduce risk of developing Stroke. Regular exercise will help blood flow and weight control.

Treatment takes two forms: immediate treatment and stabilization and rehabilitation. The type of disability depends on the area and size of the brain affected.

While treatment is aimed at preventing further damage and deterioration, rehabilitation aims at helping the patient lead a relatively comfortable life even with the disability. It includes physiotherapy and the control of the cause of the Stroke.

Stroke is a killer but a preventable killer. If you take the right step, you would be saving your life.

GLAUCOMA: CAUSES AND TREATMENT

Glaucoma can occur in any age. It is very possible at birth (infantile Glaucoma) and it may develop at any time during life. However, the rates of primary Glaucoma, particularly open-angle Glaucoma, increase with advancing age.

According to the World Health Organization, Glaucoma is the third largest cause of blindness worldwide. It is responsible for blindness in 5.2 million people. More than 80 per cent of the blind and suspect cases of Glaucoma live in the developing world. Prevalence studies in developing nations suggest that Glaucoma is responsible for 14 percent to 18 percent of all blindness.

Open-angle Glaucoma appears to be a more aggressive disease in blacks. A prevalence study in Nigeria; the most populated black nation in the world, revealed that Glaucoma is the third leading cause of blindness, accounting for 19.4% of the blindness.


CAUSES


About 60%-70% of Glaucoma in the world is heredity in origin. This group falls into primary open-angle type. There is a higher prevalence of open-angle Glaucoma in relatives of Glaucoma patients. While the exact pattern of inheritance is not established, close relatives of Glaucoma patients have an increased risk of developing Glaucoma 5-6 times the general population.

Apart from genetic inheritance, other factors that can predispose Glaucoma are Myopia, Diabetes Mellitus, Retinal Vein Occlusion, Hypertension, Intraocular Tumors, Cataract, Accidental and Surgical Trauma and Inflammations in the eye.


MANAGEMENT OF GLUACOMA


Current accepted management of Glaucoma is to control intraocular pressure and lower it to a level at which damage to the optic nerve and retina is stopped.

Medical and surgical management can lower intraocular pressure and stop progression of peripheral visual field loss.

Primary open-angle Glaucoma may be managed both medically and surgically. Primary angle-closure Glaucoma is usually managed by surgical intervention after controlling the pain and elevated intraocular pressure by medical means.

Infantile Glaucoma requires immediate medical and surgical management in early life to prevent blindness.

Medical management is the more conservative method of managing Glaucoma because it is a chronic disease that medications do not cure. Several conditions must be met for medical management to be effective which include check up at regular intervals.

Early diagnosis plays a very important role in the prevention of blindness from Glaucoma. Relative of Glaucoma patient should present themselves for Glaucoma screening at least two times every year.

People that are suffering from conditions that predispose Glaucoma should equally go for eye check up at least twice yearly

GLAUCOMA: A MAJOR CAUSE OF BLINDNESS

Glaucoma occurs when the intraocular pressure exceeds the ability of the affected eye to tolerate it. This is as a result of aqueous humor, a clear fluid that is continually produced within the eye to bathe and nourish it. In a healthy eye, this fluid flows and drains out at the same rate. This maintains a steady pressure within the eye referred to as Intraocular Pressure (IOP).

In patients with Glaucoma, the eye continues to produce the aqueous humor, but it is unable to drain at the normal rate. The result is an increase in IOP. This high intraocular pressure results in visual loss by damaging the optic nerve and retina.

Glaucoma usually affects both eyes. Visual loss from Glaucoma is irreversible; no medical treatment or surgical operation can restore vision that has been lost as a result of Glaucoma.

Visual loss first occurs in the peripheral portion of the visual field if the disease is not controlled. A patient with Glaucoma may have good central vision but very restricted peripheral (side) vision.

The normal intraocular pressure is 10-21 mmHg. This is considered normal because the intraocular pressure of 95 percent of eyes measured falls within this range.

Glaucoma
may occasionally occur in any eye with intraocular pressure within the normal range. Such a case is called “Low Tension” Glaucoma. An intraocular pressure above 21mmHg does not necessarily mean that Glaucoma is present, but it should be suspected. Until Glaucoma is proven, such a patient is considered to be a “Glaucoma Suspect” or “Ocular Hypertensive”. The presence of ocular hypertension alone does not establish the diagnosis of Glaucoma; two out of the following three criteria usually are required to establish diagnosis of Glaucoma:

 Elevated intra ocular pressure

 Visual field loss

 Damage to the optic disc

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Fibroid Complications in Pregnancy

Due to emotions associated with Fibroid Complications in Pregnancy,the best course of action to take sometimes isn't clear until you've listed and considered your alternatives. The following paragraphs should help clue you in to what the experts think is significant.


Most pregnant women who have Fibroids will not experience any complications with their pregnancy. During pregnancy, there is usually an increase in the size of the Fibroid. In at least 75% of cases, there are no problems.

Some pregnant women do experience minor symptoms, particularly pelvic pain and light spotting. This is especially common if you experience Fibroid torsion, when a Fibroid growing on a stalk begins to twist. However, most pregnant women will not even know that the Fibroids are there.



SYMPTOMS OF FIBROID DURING PREGNANCY

Fibroids cause no symptoms or side effects for most women. Many become aware they have Fibroids only when they become pregnant. Though large Fibroids may cause some uncomfortable symptoms which may include;

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Constipation or bloating

• Prolonged Periods

• Heavy Bleeding

• Pain during Intercourse

• Pain in the back or legs


It's really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of FIBROID COMPLICATIONS IN PREGNANCY. What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.


COMPLICATIONS OF FIBROID DURING PREGNANCY MAY INCLUDE


• Obstructed labor (If the fibroid grows into the birth canal)

• Postpartum Hemorrhaging

• Fatal Mal Presentations (sometimes fibroids grow into the uterus, forcing your baby into an unusual position)
• Stalled Labor


Fibroids may cause infertility and may lead to premature delivery. It could also cause habitual abortions (miscarriage).However, it is advised to first eliminate all other causes of infertility before considering Fibroids, as records abound of many women with large Fibroids getting pregnant and having children normally again and again.

Surgery should not be rushed into but should be considered after careful investigation and thought to weigh the risks against benefits.

After pregnancy, Fibroids tend to shrink in size, and probably won’t cause any problems. If symptoms persist, treatments are available for Fibroids. Treatments include:

• Ablation of the Fibroids
• Surgery to remove the Fibroids
• Hysterectomy
• Medications to shrink the Fibroids.



The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about FIBROID COMPLICATIONS IN PREGNANCY.

FIBROID; SYMPTOMS, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

The following article,Symptoms of Fibroid, covers a topic that has recently moved to center stage--at least it seems that way. If you've been thinking you need to know more about Fibroid,symptoms,treatment etc, here's your opportunity.



Some noted symptoms of Fibroid include;

 Sensation of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen;

 Increased urination because of pressure on the bladder;

 Painful menstruation;

 There may be constipation or back pain if it presses the rectum.

However, in most cases there are no symptoms. Fibroid is most times diagnosed during examination for a different condition. Where symptoms are present, they may depend on the size and position of the Fibroid. The effect of large Fibroid will depend on their position in relation to the uterine cavity. The nearer to the cavity, the greater the likelihood of symptoms. Which are often menstrual disturbances. Excessive menstrual bleeding is usual especially on the second and third day. If the fibroid is within the uterine cavity, their may be continuous bloody discharge.


DIAGNOSIS

For women complaining of infertility, Fibroid should however not be considered the cause of the infertility until other factors have been eliminated.

The diagnosis of Fibroid is made during physical examination by a doctor. An ultra-sound of the lower abdomen however would confirm diagnosis.



If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.




TREATMENT

There are some supplements which have been helpful in the treatment of Fibroid. While some of these supplements have been frivolous claims to its efficacy, some have however been successful in some persons. However, Fibroid treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Viz;

 Age of the Patient

 Whether or not she is pregnant

 Desire for future pregnancy

 General state of health

 Characteristics of the Fibroid


Non symptomatic Fibroid may only require monitoring with pelvic examination or ultrasound once in a while to determine its growth rate and whether or not there are changes.

Pain killers may be taken by those who have menstrual pain. Where the Fibroid presents with sever symptoms or complications. Fibroids definitive treatment is surgery. The kind of surgery will depend on factors such as those earlier mentioned. It ranges from just removing Fibroid to complete removal of uterus.


This article's coverage of the information is as complete as it can be today. But you should always leave open the possibility that future research could uncover new facts.

FIBROID;FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW



Current info about FIBROID is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest on the basic things you should know about FIBROID info available.


Fibroid also known as leiomyoma or myoma, is a non cancerous growth made up of smooth muscles and fibrous tissues within or attached to the wall of the uterus (womb).In recent times, Fibroid has assumed a very popular status due to the problems of infertility so often, but in most cases erroneously, attributed to it.

Fibroid hardly affects women less than 20 years and post menopausal women. Fibroid is prevalent in 30-40% of women over 30 years and occurs 2-3 times in black women than in white women. Fibroid may be present in 15-20% of women in their reproductive years.


If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.

Fibroid is the commonest tumor encountered in the female. Fibroids growth is slow but becomes obvious in the forth decade of life. The size of Fibroid can vary from as small as a peanut to as large as the size of a football.

Fibroid is more common in women who have never been pregnant or those who have had only one child, hence the popular saying “Bad Girls Get Pregnant, Good Girls Get Fibroid” Pregnancy and oral contraception lower the risk of developing new fibroid and fibroids stop growing after menopause.

Fibroids often develop within the walls of the uterus and can be found at any part of the uterus .As it increases in size, about 70% remain within the wall, and 10% grow into the uterine cavity. The remaining 20% grow outwards. It is called Penduculated Fibroid when it hangs from a stalk and become like a pendulum on the outside of the uterus

Although the cause of Fibroid is obscure, its growth seems to depend on the hormone estrogen which is a female reproductive hormone. As a result, Fibroid continues to grow as long as the woman menstruates. Note that the growth is slow. It is very possible for only one Fibroid to develop on the uterus; they are usually more than one at the same time. In fact, they are usually multiple.

If you've picked some pointers about FIBROID that you can put into action, then by all means, do so. You won't really be able to gain any benefits from your new knowledge if you don't use it.

Monday, August 13, 2007

Hand Washing


When was the last time you washed your hands? While Hand washing, did you use soap? What have you done since you washed your hands? Have you eaten, put your fingers in your mouth or touched someone else?

Studies have shown that 1 in 3 persons do not wash their hands after using the rest room.

Hand washing is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infection. You can spread certain “germs” (a general term for microbes like viruses and bacteria) casually by touching another person. You can also catch germs when you touch contaminated objects or surfaces and then touch your face (mouth, eyes and nose).


Different situations where people can pick up “germs” include:

1. Using the toilet
2. Blowing your nose
3. Sneezing in your hands
4. Touching raw meat, poultry or fish
5. Handling garbage
6. Visiting or caring for the sick
7. Handling pets, animals and animal waste.



WHAT TO DO…

Here are some simple steps for scrubbing those germs away


1. Hand washing in hot running water after any of such activities above. Make sure the water is not too hot for little hands.

2. Use soap and lather up to about 10 to 15 seconds during hand washing



3. Make sure you get in between the finger and under the nails where uninvited germs like to hang out. And don’t forget under jewelry and the writ.

4. Rinse thoroughly under running water; with a paper towel.

5. Dry your hands with a single use towel or air dryer.

6. Be sure to clean nails properly.


If your child is reluctant about hand washing, try using colorful soaps made especially for kids. Some come in interesting shapes and fun scents.

Make sure hand washing is a frequent exercise for every one at home especially:

 Before eating at home and cooking.

 After cleaning around the house.

 After touching animals including family pets.

 After visiting or taking care of any sick friend or relative.

 After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.



By making hand washing a habit in your home, you would keep your whole family fresh and clean and would get rid of those germs that try to hang around your home in every possible way.



Think about what you've read so far. Does it reinforce what you already know about hand washing? Or was there something completely new? What about the remaining topics on this site?

Sunday, August 12, 2007

LEARN TO EAT RIGHT


If you have even a passing interest in the topic of eating right, then you should take a look at the following information. This enlightening article presents some of the latest news on the subject of eating right.


Eating right is one sure way to enjoy radiant health all the time. You can improve your sense of well being and watch your body blossom gracefully if you would only watch what you eat.

Eating right is to eat healthy. Most people equate eating right to loosing flavor. This cannot be more untrue. Outlined below are foods that you need to cultivate a healthy diet; thus giving your body the opportunity to grow in grace.



BREAD, CEREAL, RICE AND PASTA.


Whole –grain breads are low in fat, they are also high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Choose these breads for sandwiches and as additions to meals. Avoid rich bakery foods such as donuts, sweet rolls, and muffins, these foods can contain more than 50% fat calories.

Snacks such as angel food cake and ginger snap cookies can satisfy your sweet tooth without adding fat to your diet.Avoid fried snacks such as potato and tortilla chips. Try the low-fat or baked versions instead. Hot and cold cereals are usually low in fat.




VEGETABLES AND FRUITS


Fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat .they add flavor and variety to your diet. They also contain fibre, vitamins and minerals, margarine, butter, mayonnaise and sour cream add fat to vegetables and fruits. Try using herbs and yogurt as seasoning instead.



FISH

Poaching, steaming, baking and broching are the healthiest ways to prepare fish. Most seafood are low in saturated fat.Omega-3 fatty acid are found in some fatty fish, such as salmon and cold-water troat. This is good for your heart.



DRY BEANS, PEAS, AND LENTILS

These offer protein and fiber without the cholesterol and fat that meats have.



MEAT (BEEF, PORK, VEAL, AND LAMB) AND POULTRY

Baking, boiling and roasting are the healthiest ways to prepare meat and poultry. Use either a nonstick pan or non-stick spray coating instead of oil. Trim outside fat before cooking. Trim any inside, separate fat before eating.

Chicken breasts are a good choice because they are low in fat. Use domestic goose and duck occasionally because both are high to fat. Use herbs, spices, fresh vegetables and nonfat marinades to season meat. Avoid high-fat sauces and gravies.



MILK, YOGURT AND CHEESE

Choose skim milk or low-fat buttermilk. Substitute evaporated skim milk for cream in recipes for soups and sauces. Also, take low fat cheeses instead.

Carefully choosing and eating right meals will enable you to grow healthy and gracefully. Why not give it a try.




As your knowledge about eating right continues to grow, you will begin to see how eating right fits into the overall scheme of things especially healthy living. Knowing how something relates to the rest of the world is important too.

BASIC SKIN CARE

Would you like to find out what those-in-the-know have to say about skin care? The information in the article below comes straight from well-informed experts with special knowledge about skin care.


The skin is a strong elastic covering that enclose the body and protects it from damage by injury or infection. The skin is made up of an outer layer of cells (epidermis), an underlying part containing blood vessels (Dermis) and a deeper subcutaneous layer. In the deeper parts of the dermis are hair follicles from which hair grows.

The skin continually regenerates itself during life, though the process becomes slower as we grow older. Skin care applies equally to men and women irrespective of the race and color, although the darker the skin, the greater is its built-in protection against strong sunlight.


It's really a good idea to probe a little deeper into the subject of skin care. What you learn may give you the confidence you need to venture into new areas.


Bath with soap regularly. This remains the first principle. Soap emulsifies grease so that it can be washed off by water. Soap and water remove dirt, dead skin scales, and some of the bacteria, which normally live on skin. The skin usually replaces the removed grease within hours.

Avoid cold winds, extreme temperature and raised barometric pressure because they cause increased dryness and scaling of the skin, which may need treatment with a cold cream.

Over-exposure to sun’s rays can also harm the skin. Acute sunburn is painful if short lasting, and the discomfort can be eased by calamine lotion or similar application. More serious effects on the skin are caused by continual exposure to the skin over many years.

White skin is more susceptible to sunlight than dark skin, and prolonged sunbath can prematurely age the skin, causing loss of elasticity, thinning and wrinkling. It I also implicated in skin cancers.


The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about skin care.

PREVENTION OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY


Are you looking for some inside information on Overweight and Obesity? Here's an up-to-date report from Overweight and Obesity experts who should know.


Overweight and Obesity are both are both labels for ranges of weight that are greater than what is considered healthy for a given height. For adults, Overweight and Obesity ranges are determined by using weight and height to calculate a number called the “Body Mass Index” (BMI).BMI is used because for most people, it correlates with their amount of body fat.

1 An adult who has a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered Overweight

2 An adult who has a BMI of 30 or higher is considered Obese.

Body Mass index can be calculated using Kilograms and meters (or Centimeters)


BMI = WEIGHT IN KILOGRAMS
(HEIGHT IN METERS) X (HEIGHT IN METERS)




STEPS IN PREVENTING OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY


1. Be physically active. This plays a key role in energy balance because it uses up calories consumed. It is recommended that a person accumulate at least 30 minutes (Adults) or 60 minutes (Children) of moderate physical activity most days of the week. Greater amounts of physical activity may be necessary for the prevention if weight gain, for weight loss or for sustaining weight loss. Additionally, if your job does not require you to expend so much energy, then engage in leisure time activity like walking. Skating,biking, swimming, dancing, tennis, football, and aerobics.


Those of you not familiar with the latest on Overweight and Obesity now have at least a basic understanding. But there's more to come.


2. To prevent Overweight and Obesity, reduce the amount of time you and your family spend on sedentary activity such as watching TV or playing video games.

3. Eat meals together as a family as often as possible.

4. Carefully cut down on the amount of fat and calories in your diet. Plan for healthy snacks.

5. Don’t place yourself in a restrictive diet.

6. Drink lots of water and limit your intake of beverages with added sugars, such as soft drinks, fruit juice drinks and sports drinks.

7. Stock your refrigerators with fat-free or low fat milk, fresh fruit and vegetables.

8. Aim to eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.

9. Don’t cultivate the habit of eating meals or snacks while watching TV if you want to prevent Overweight and Obesity.

10.Eating a healthy breakfast is a good way to start the day and may be important in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Overweight and Obesity are a result of energy imbalance over a period of time. The cause of energy imbalance for each individual may be due to a combination of several factors. Individual behaviors, environmental factors, and genetics all contribute to the complexity of the obesity epidemic. However, the choices a person makes in eating and physical activity also contributes to Overweight and Obesity.


There's a lot to understand about Overweight and Obesity. We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.

EATING DISORDER,DO YOU HAVE IT


The following article presents the very latest information on eating disorder. If you have a particular interest in eating disorder, then this informative article is for you.

It is normal to want to look good. There is nothing wrong with wanting to be comforted when you’re anxious or depressed. But if you’re nervous when its meal time because you’re afraid you’ll gain weight, or you’re terrified of getting fat; and you throw up food after eating; if these attitudes describes you, you’re not alone. The fact is, millions of youth-most of them girls –have an Eating Disorder.

Each of these Eating Disorders, Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge eating has distinct symptoms but all of them involve an abnormal attitude toward food.


ANOREXIA EATING DISORDER:

This Eating Disorder describes a girl no matter how slim she may be, sees an obese person whenever she looks in the mirror. To lose weight, she will resort to extreme measures. Weight loss is a common symptom, hair loss; dry skin, fatigue and loss of bone density are other symptoms. Menstrual periods can become irregular or even cease for several consecutive months. These symptoms may sound harmless but make no mistakes Anorexia eating disorder is life threatening. One study shows that up to 10 percent of sufferers of this Eating Disorder die. Usually as a result of organ failure or other problems related to improper nutrition.


BULIMIA EATING DISORDER:

The sufferer of bulimia eating disorder does not avoid food rather binges, consuming as many as 15,000 calories in just two hours, then purges what has been eaten, usually by inducing vomit or by taking laxatives or diuretics. Bingeing is usually carried out in secret. After the binge, however, guilt sets in.

Despite any seeming benefit, purging is dangerous. Laxative misuse weakens the intestinal lining and can lead to inflammation or infection. Frequent vomiting can result in dehydration, tooth decay, damage to the esophagus, and even heart failure.



BINGE EATING DISORDER:

Like the bulimic, a sufferer of the eating disorder will consume large amount of food .The difference is that there is no purging. As a result, the binge Eating Disorder sufferer may be overweight. Some will however, starve themselves after a binge or engage in rigorous exercise. Sometimes when weight is maintained in this way, family and friends remain oblivious to the binger’s plight.

Even without purging, bingeing Eating Disorder is dangerous. It can lead to diabetics, high blood pressure, heart disease and a number of other maladies. It can also take a heavy emotional toll.

The best time to learn about eating disorder is before you're in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable eating disorder experience while it's still free.


Note that most people who want to lose weight or get into shape do not have an eating Disorder. Still after considering the above, you might wonder if you are heading in that direction; ask yourself;

 Am I ashamed or embarrassed about my habits or rituals related to food?

 Do I hide my eating habits from others?

 Has food become the biggest part of my life?

 Do I weigh myself more than once a day?

 Am I willing to take risk to lose weight?

 Have I experimented with self induced vomiting, laxatives or diuretics

 Have my eating habits affected my social life for example, do I prefer to be alone rather than with others so I can binge or purge in secret?


If your answers to these questions indicate that you have an eating disorder, ask yourself:

• Am I really happy living this way?

• What can I do about the situation?

The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about eating disorder.

BLOOD PRESSURE: THE BASIC FACTS


Do you ever feel like you know just enough about blood pressure to be dangerous? Let's see if we can fill in some of the gaps with the latest info from blood pressure experts.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood Pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. Blood Pressure is recorded as two numbers. For example 120/80.The larger number indicates the pressure in the arteries as the heart squeezes out blood during each beat. It is called the Systolic Blood Pressure. The lower number indicates the pressure as the heart relaxes before the next beat. It is called the Diastolic Blood Pressure. Blood doesn’t circulate in an even stream around the body, but travels in a constant series of spurts. Therefore the pressure peaks in the blood vessels just after a heart beat and then ebbs until the next one. This is a continuous process.


What is Normal Blood Pressure?

If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.


There are no hard and fast figures which represent a normal Blood Pressure range. However, it is usually agreed that somewhere between 110/70 and 125/80 is considered to be an average Blood Pressure for a grown person. Though someone with naturally low Blood Pressure may be closer to a range of 100/60.A Blood Pressure of 140/90 is considered to be high, although as a person gets older, this falls into the normal range for people.


What Does High Blood Pressure Do To the Body?

High Blood Pressure causes the heart to work harder, putting a person at increased risk for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney and eye problems. A Blood Pressure above 140/90 may be considered to be on the high side for a young adult, but a Blood Pressure higher than 180/110 is too high and dangerous. There are no symptoms to identify High Blood Pressure and therefore many people are unaware that they have it. High Blood Pressure usually does not give warning signs.

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PREVENTING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE


This interesting article addresses some of the key issues regarding preventing high blood pressure. A careful reading of this material could make a big difference in how you think about preventing high blood pressure.


Lifestyle is very important to prevent High Blood Pressure and it’s associated risks. There are ways you can help to prevent high blood pressure. Some of them include


Achieve And Maintain A Healthy Weight.

It is important to maintain a healthy weight and not have excess fat in the body because too much fat and cholesterol can cause Atherosclerois. This condition narrows the lumen of the arteries; thereby increasing the pressure the heart requires to push blood through and is one of the main causes of High Blood Pressure. You can maintain your fat and cholesterol levels by eating healthy and exercising.



Use Salt Moderately.

High salt content attracts water from around your body cells into your blood to dilute it. The more the fluid in your blood, the harder the heart has to pump and this raises the Blood Pressure. To reduce salt intake, eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, choose low fat bread and cereals; avoid seasoning processed foods and takeaway foods which are high in salt.


Once you begin to move beyond basic background information, you begin to realize that there's more to preventing high blood pressure than you may have first thought.


Eat A Wide Variety Of Healthy Foods.

Too much calories and fatty foods puts extra stresses and strains on the heart so make sure you eat well. Healthy eating is about choosing mainly plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits and legumes (dried peas, dried beans and lentils);grain-based foods(preferably wholegrain) such as bread, cereals, pasta, noodles and rice; moderate amounts of lean meat, poultry, fish and reduced fat dairy products, moderate amounts of polyunsaturated and monosaturated fats.



Be Active Every Day

Regular exercise improves heart function and lowers your High Blood Pressure and Blood cholesterol. 30 minutes of exercise a day is recommended.




Avoid Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol taxes the liver and reduces the ability to detoxify blood, thus causing more oxidizing and damaging substances to remain in circulation where they can harm blood vessels. For a normal Blood Pressure, alcohol should be avoided.


Knowing enough about preventing high blood pressure to make solid, informed choices cuts down on the fear factor. If you apply what you've just learned about preventing high blood pressure, you should have nothing to worry about.


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Blood Pressure Reduction Guild
Get Natural! Drop Your Blood Pressure

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

KEEPING YOUR BODY ODOUR FREE


So what is Body odour really all about? The following article includes some fascinating information about Body odour--info you can use, not just the old stuff they used to tell you.



Body odour is the unpleasant spell caused by the mixing of perspiration, or sweat, and bacteria on the skin. Sweating or perspiration is the body’s way of relieving heat from within the body. Sweat is generally an odourless body secretion; however, the skin surface provides nutrients that help bacteria grow. These bacteria break down sweat into aromatic fatty acids, which produce the unpleasant odour. The concentration and number of bacteria vary in different parts of the body, the maximum being in parts like the scalp, armpits, genital areas and the feet.



ESSENTIAL TIPS ON MAINTAINING FRESHNESS


It is note worthy that body odour is often due to poor personal hygiene, but excessive perspiration is sometimes involved. Regardless of the cause, the need to cultivate the following habits is priceless.

1. Change Your Diet: This is perhaps the most neglected area in treating body odour. The only real long-time treatment will come from good hygiene, internal cleansing, elimination, and proper diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables and take less meat and dairy products. Drink lots of water.



2. Quiet The Diet: Certain foods will give you more sweat e.g. Chili, red hot pepper, coffee and nicotine. The aroma of certain pungent foods could also be carried in your sweat e.g. onion, garlic and beer. Cut down on these foods.

3. Keep Your Body Clean: Wash with soap daily; particularly your armpits, groin, and feet, where there are many sweat producing glands. If you sweat a lot, you may need to bath two or more times a day. Epson salts bath, alternate cold and hot showers daily will improve the blood circulation and reduce congestion in the body.

4. Use Antiperspirants And Deodorants Daily: Preferably, deodorants
with aluminum or Zinc, as these metals kill odour-causing bacteria. Note however, that to keep yourself odour free you need to maintain cleanliness of yourself first.Shave your armpits at least once in two weeks.

5. Wash Clothes Thoroughly; particularly clothing exposed to sweaty
areas such as cocks, underwear, and shirts. Never wear yesterday’s
cloths no matter how clean your body is.

Wear natural fiber cloths: e.g. Cotton. Avoid wearing synthetic and
tight fitting clothes.




There's no doubt that the topic of Body odour can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about Body odour, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.