Health Tips and Benefits

Breast Cancer Facts

2011-02-17T03:12:00.000-08:00

Breast Cancer and Omega 3 Oil

The growing incidence of breast cancer can be explained for the first time in light of Dr Warburg's discovery about lack of oxygen to the cells. The breasts consist of an exceptionally high amount of fatty tissue. A typical cell membrane in muscle tissue is half-fat and contains about one-third EFAs (oxygen transferors). However, fatty tissue like the breast contains areas of 80-95% fat concentration. These fatty components of breast tissue require and should have high EFA concentrations, but because of modern food processing they don't. Because important organs such as the brain, heart, lungs and kidneys require EFAs on a priority basis, there may not be enough left over to ensure that breast tissue receives an adequate amount of EFAs.

Therefore, oxygen deficiency in the breast tissue will be very significant. Given this premise, we can deduce that breast tissue should and would be the number-one expected cancer site in women worldwide, and it is. This conclusion makes so much sense in explaining the massive rise in breast cancer rates. Harvard's Dr W. C. Willett gives us the proof. In a study on the intake of parent omega-6 involving over 80,000 nurses, it was shown that the group with the lowest intake of linoleic acid (parent omega-6) exhibited the highest incidence of breast cancer (NEJM 1987; 316(1):22-28).42 Has your ob-gyn told you that you need this miraculous anti-cancer nutrient? I doubt it; he or she probably doesn't know.

Dr Otto Warburg discovered and clearly stated that the prime, most basic, cause of cancer is too little oxygen getting into the cell. "We find by experiment about 35% inhibition of oxygen respiration already suffices to bring about such a transformation during cell growth," he stated at a 1966 conference of Nobel laureates in Lindau, Germany. Learn more

Healing Power of EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids or Omega-3 oils
The Prime Cause of Cancer is Not Genetic

See: http://www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com/breastcancer.htm

Breast Cancer Care

When cancer is identified in the biopsy specimen, several other tests may be performed on the specimen in order to further classify the cancer and determine the optimal treatment strategy. Based on the stage of the cancer and the results of these tests, treatment of breast cancer is personalized for each individual. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or hormonal therapy.

Stage: Stage is a measure of the extent of the cancer, and is based on the size of the tumor and the presence or absence of lymph node metastases and distant metastases. Determining the stage of the cancer may require a number of procedures, such as blood tests, chest x-rays, mammography, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). For patients with early-stage cancer, the spread of the cancer to the axillary (under the arm) lymph nodes may be assessed through either sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection. Axillary lymph node dissection involves the removal of many axillary lymph nodes; the procedure can be associated with chronic side effects such as pain, limited shoulder motion, numbness, and swelling. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is a more recent procedure that involves the removal of only a small number of nodes, or even a single node. If the sentinel lymph nodes are negative (show no evidence of cancer), then no further lymph node surgery is required. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is becoming more widely adopted in the clinical setting for determining whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in women with localized breast cancer.

Predicting the need for chemotherapy: Among women with early-stage breast cancer, the expression, or activity, of certain genes has been linked with the likelihood of cancer recurrence and chemotherapy benefit; testing tumor tissue for the expression of these genes can provide important information about prognosis and likely response to treatment.

A genomic test that is included in guidelines from both the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is Oncotype DX®. Based on the expression of 21 genes, this test provides information about recurrence risk and likely chemotherapy benefit among women with newly diagnosed breast cancer that has not spread to the lymph nodes (node-negative) and is hormone receptor-positive. Oncotype DX has also shown promising results in women with node-positive breast cancer.[2]

For more information about OncotypeDX, visit http://www.mytreatmentdecision.com/

See: http://nfcr.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=463&Itemid=114

Herbal and Alternative Treatments for Breast Cancer

Medical Doctors are finding that alternative treatments, such as herbs, help women with breast cancer during their chemotherapy and radiation. Research papers have shown that women with breast cancer find herbal remedies and alternative medicine helps in relief of fatigue, nausea and sleep disorders.

Herbal remedies have been around for for thousands of years. Now, women with breast cancer facing chemotherapy and radiation are supplementing this traditional medicine with herbal remedies and alternative treatments. They are not abandoning the usual breast cancer treatment; they are using herbal remedies and alternative treatments to curb the side effects.

Ginseng has been used by the Chinese for centuries. They believe that it stimulates the immune system and energies the patient. There are more than 30 active compounds in the ginseng root. Many of the compounds are believed to have anti-tumor properties. In a Chinese study it was found that women who took ginseng before their diagnosis had a higher survival rate than the women who took ginseng after their diagnosis. Women have reported that they have a higher quality of life and suffer less depression while using ginseng.

There is a mushroom, the Maitake that helps in boosting the immune system. Here again, in the East this has been used widely. Lab studies have been done using liquid Maitake extract. Many researchers believe that the mushrooms contain beta-glucans which helps to enhance the immune system. They still don't know why, but they are working on it.

Mistletoe extract has been used in Europe to treat cancer patients for over 80 years. It has been shown to kill cancer cells and boost the immune system. There have been very few studies done here on mistletoe, but some research is under way and will be out at the end of this year. Researchers are studying the safety, the effects on the immune system and its toxicity.

Acupuncture is especially helpful for nausea and post surgical pain. Many studies done by research oncologists have shown that acupuncture was better for women with breast cancer than the medication taken to fight nausea. It also helps in loss of appetite, fatigue and sleep disorders. The AAMA recommends women with breast cancer should get acupuncture during their chemotherapy treatments but only after you have spoken to your primary doctor.

All doctors and researchers stress that diet and exercise play a key role in treating cancer. Stick to a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables and grains. The National Cancer Institute recommends at least 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables per day. Phytochemicals are found in fruits and vegetables and they prevent cancers in a number of ways. Research shows that they help in detoxification of carcinogens, DNA repair, boosting of the immune system and maintenance of cellular control mechanisms. Obesity plays a role in getting cancer. Change your diet, eat healthy and go for a walk or ride a bike. This is a suggestion we should all take to heart.

These alternative methods may well help you through your breast cancer treatment and perhaps even get you a speedier recovery. New studies are being done everyday for women with breast cancer. Discuss these alternative therapies with your Doctor and always let your physician and your oncologist know about any therapies you want to take, before you take them. This will make sure that the alternative therapy won't interfere with your chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor nor am I in the medical field. This is just information that I researched out of curiosity and the desire to know all of the options available.

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

About the Author

Mary Hanna is an aspiring herbalist who lives in Central Florida. Mary has also published articles on Cruising, Gardening and Cooking for more information on these subjects visit http://www.GardeningHerb.com, http://www.CruiseTravelDirectory.com and http://www.ContainerGardeningSecrets.com

Nutrition Therapy

Some nutritionists recommend daily supplements of beta carotene (precursor to vitamin A) and vitamins C and E, both to help prevent cancer and to slow its growth. However, studies suggest that foods high in these antioxidants are more effective. Good sources of beta carotene are orange and dark green vegetables and yellow and orange fruits; of vitamin C, many fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits and bell peppers; of vitamin E, wheat germ, legumes, seafood, and poultry. Although the role of other dietary components remains controversial, some studies suggest that a low-fat diet may cut the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. Such a regimen requires limiting the intake of all fats, especially those from animals, as well as animal protein, while increasing foods high in fiber, such as whole grain products and fresh fruits and vegetables. Other nutrition therapists and some naturopaths may recommend extreme macrobiotic and other restricted, low calorie diets for breast cancer patients. Oncologists warn that these diets should be avoided because they do not provide adequate calories, protein, and other nutrients that the body needs for recovery or to prevent the wasting that occurs in advanced cancer. Yog regular practice of yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help alleviate the stress and anxiety caused by cancer, which in turn may boost immune system function.

See: http://ezinearticles.com/?Alternative-Treatment-and-Herbal-Medicines-For-Breast-Cancer&id=1174802

Learn More about Breast Cancer

Patients who have already undergone surgery and lymph node evaluation and know their stage of cancer may select from the options below. In order to learn more about surgery and sentinel lymph node dissection, go to Surgery for Breast Cancer.

Carcinoma In Situ: Approximately 15-20% of breast cancers are very early in their development. These are sometimes referred to as carcinoma in situ and consist of two types: ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), which originates in the ducts and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), which originates in the lobules. DCIS is the precursor to invasive cancer and LCIS is a risk factor for developing cancer.

Stage I: Cancer is confined to a single site in the breast, is less than 2 centimeters (3/4 inch) in size and has not spread outside the breast.

Stage IIA: Cancer has spread to involve underarm lymph nodes and is less than 2 centimeters (3/4 inch) in size or the primary cancer itself is 2-5 centimeters (3/4-2 inches) and has not spread to the lymph nodes.

Stage IIB: Cancer has spread to involve underarm lymph nodes and/or the primary cancer is greater than 5 centimeters (2 inches) in size and does not involve any lymph nodes.

Stage IIIA: Cancer is smaller than 5 centimeters (2 inches) and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm or the lymph nodes are attached to each other or to other structures or the primary cancer is larger than 5 centimeters (2 inches) and has spread to the lymph nodes under the arm.

Stage IIIB: Cancer directly involves the chest wall or has spread to internal lymph nodes on the same side of the chest.

Inflammatory: Inflammatory breast cancer is a special class of breast cancer that is rare. The breast looks as if it is inflamed because of its red appearance and warmth. The skin may show signs of ridges and wheals or it may have a pitted appearance. Inflammatory breast cancer tends to spread quickly.

Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant locations in the body, which may include the liver, lungs, bones or other sites.

Recurrent/Relapsed: The breast cancer has progressed or returned (recurred/relapsed) following an initial treatment.

See: http://nfcr.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=463&Itemid=114

5 Health Tips For Christmas

2010-12-24T14:25:00.000-08:00

Health Tips for Christmas

Christmas and good health may not seem to go together particularly well, so you need to pay extra attention, if you want to stay illness-free this December. Here are 5 tips for staying healthy this Christmas.

1. Reduce stress
Stress is one of the biggest health worries at this time of the year as you try to juggle your finances and plan a feast for your family.

Try to plan your budget and work out what you can afford.
If it's a bit tight, don't feel pressured to overspend on anything and tell your friends and family that you're cutting back this year. They'll understand, they may even feel relieved!

2. Get some exercise
We know winter is dark and gloomy, but getting even the smallest amount of exercise will make you feel so much better. It's a brilliant way of relieving stress and boosting your energy, which means you will be mentally and physically prepared for when the relatives arrive!

A brisk walk is the easiest way, but if you prefer indoor exercise, why not spend 30 minutes swimming up and down your local pool - it works your whole body and is very low-impact, meaning it's less likely to put strain on your joints.

Of course, you may well be going to a Christmas party which is actually a great place to get some exercise. When the DJ sticks on Abba's Dancing Queen, make an effort to dance - it's a surprisingly easy way to get some exercise (and all the time you're dancing, you're not drinking!)

Oh, and as it's Christmas, remember, even shopping is exercise (as long as you're not sitting in front of a computer doing it!).

3. Down a smoothie
This is the time of the year, when many of us feel stretched pretty thin. When you're too busy or frazzled from the night before to eat properly, or even need a quick pick-me-up, then a smoothie is the quickest and healthiest way to get goodness inside you.

Try an Innocent Superfoods Detox smoothie (1l, £4 approx) - it's packed with potassium, which helps lower blood pressure and reduce strokes, and Vitamin E, which fights heart disease and bad cholesterol. A 250ml glass will give you the same amount of immune-boosting antioxidants as are in five portions of fruit and veg.

4. Help your hangover
No-one enjoys a hangover. They're nature's way of telling you what a great time you've had, but they also tell you how many essential vitamins your body has lost.

Surprisingly, even though it's the last thing many of us want to eat with a fuzzy head, a Christmas dinner is good to eat, because it's full of the vitamins needed to cure a hangover.
Turkey is a great source of vitamin B, which is vital for your nervous system and stopping you feeling queasy. Potatoes have more Vitamin C than a glass of orange juice, which is important, because it helps the liver to break down the alcohol. And green veg like broccoli and Brussels sprouts contain Vitamin E which detoxes the body.

If that sounds like too much hard work, gobble down a ripe banana. It contains a natural antacid to help your stomach, magnesium to ease your headache and sugar to top up your liver's natural sugar stores and lose that light-headed feeling.

5. Get some sleep
We know Christmas is all about having fun, eating and drinking, but research has shown that missing out on sleep could lead to a cold or other seasonal snuffle.
Your body and brain recharge when you're under the covers and also fight off infections. Try drinking a warm, milky drink before bed, and, if you've been up or out partying, make sure you give yourself time to wind down and switch off before jumping into bed.

Kate Corr
Good to Know

A great Christmas resource featuring advice on how to have a Cheap Christmas, inspiration for Christmas lunch and Christmas presents ideas.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Corr

Superfoods in Red Juice - For Detox and Weight Loss

2010-12-05T18:24:00.000-08:00

Quick Facts on Red Juice

· redjuice is a tasty fruit and vegetable beverage with over 30 natural ingredients covering a wide range of uses and benefits based on Tradition, Research and Clinical Trials - a first in Philippine history
· redjuice has been subjected to a Clinical Trial conducted by 5 Metro Manila-based Doctors involving over 70 patients – another first in Philippine history.

· redjuice is manufactured in the Philippines and in USA. It is locally distributed through Mercury Drug branches. North American consumers are served directly from the US manufacturing and distribution center.
· redjuice is one of the most widely covered health product in history: from news and features, to talkshows and forums - in print, television and radio.
· redjuice cleansing program takes only 7 days. Getting the accumulated poisons and toxins out of your body and tuning up your body's waste removal system is the quickest way to build a powerful health.

30+ Natural Ingredients

Redjuice is the only locally manufactured beverage packed with over 30 natural ingredients – A First in Philippine history. It contains proven 30+ natural ingredients for body cleansing and weight loss.

See the 30+ natural ingredients by clicking HERE.

Source: redjuice.org

Back Safety and Proper Lifting

2010-11-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

Sexy Abs Workout

2010-11-26T10:04:00.000-08:00

Superfoods - How Super Are They?

2010-08-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

Do you sometimes have a suspicion that you aren't as healthy as you might be? Do you worry that your health might begin to suffer if you don't change your lifestyle? Then you're in good company. These are common responses in food health questionnaires.

And it might make you very likely to buy something containing a superfood to hedge your bets and salve your conscience -- after all, making actual changes in your diet will seriously shake your comfort zone, won't it?

Should we eat superfoods?

What's a superfood? It has no legal definition, but in general use, it means a product especially rich in phytonutrients: plant chemicals especially good for nutrition. In the EU, anything advertised as a superfood must now have research backing for the claims.

I recently re-read a Readers Digest article from 1975. It rubbished the idea that some 'miracle' foods might have 'magical' properties, mentioning, for example, honey and brown rice. The article instead recommended taking expert advice based on long-standing scientific research. Is that right? Are what we now call 'superfoods' a waste of money, or even dangerous?

If you want to look it up, the article is in the April 1975 UK edition of RD and was by Elizabeth Whelan, condensed from the June 1974 Glamor (Condé Nast).

I reckon that, as usual, moderation is the name of the game here. In one country after another for decades, people in the West have been shown in medical surveys to be on average badly nourished -- which means that a majority are affected. Although for every health nut there's a real slob at the other end, most of us are a culture of ill-fed, junk food addicts. I suggested why in previous articles. And the idea that we might eat some 'special' food that would put right all the ills of overindulgent piggery is just as cracked now, yet just as common, as in 1975. The difference is that today's usual diet is even worst than a third of a century ago, so maybe people are more desperate for the miracle cure that some superfood peddlers advertize.

Most of us are short of essential nutrients

What are people short of? Over three quarters of us are low in chromium, copper, magnesium, vitamin B6 and Omega-3 oils. Worse, over half of us are also deficient in calcium, iron, selenium, zinc and vitamin A. And shockingly, a quarter of us also lack enough phosphorus, manganese, silicon and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B12, C and E -- all essential nutrients. That's one in four of people you know short of 19 essential nutrients out of a total of maybe 43 -- nearly half, then -- and you, dear reader, are odds-on to be lacking in five to ten of them.

Where do you think you rank here? The worst quarter? Or the healthiest? And what would you do if you had tests and proved the deficiency? Do you think it matters? Well, you should, because there's no possible doubt that nutrient deficiency is at the root of the rise in most of the modern diseases.
Rather a lot of people are now looking to improve their prospects by a radical change of diet along the lines nutritionists have recommended for decades, but even more turn to well-advertised (and pricey) fixes like superfoods and pills (sometimes pills of superfoods) and hope the problem will go away. The scale of public nervousness is obvious if you look in any health magazine or newspaper health section and see the adverts there for nutrient and superfood supplements.

Superfoods really are just that -- super.

They are richer in some of the essential nutrients than other foods. So there is no reason not to eat them, unless they take up too much of your diet for balance. (The main pitfalls here are excess of vitamins A and D, and high levels of fat and sugar, even natural ones.) You might think, then, that I shouldn't be casting doubt on them. Well, I'm not -- yet there are some warnings needed even though superfoods are certainly a better idea than simply popping supplement pills.

So, what to beware of?

I'll pick out three examples to show you that the old motto 'buyer beware' is still #1 when you're shopping or watching ads.

What's better for you -- 10g (1/4oz) of dried Goji berries, world's best food for vitamin C content, or 150ml (6oz) of fresh orange juice at the same price? The juice wins out handsomely -- far healthier. So be balanced. More of an ordinary food can outperform a superfood and cost less!
How much of a superfood is in the product? I recall a top brand fruit smoothie with three super berries: Blueberry, Acai and Goji. Great -- except it was mostly apple juice and banana. A fine smoothie, but not worth the premium price if you want to be healthy. Use a little more of a cheaper product to get the same benefits, plus more nutrition at less cost. Read the labels!
Advertisers extol the virtues of their superfood, then list its impressive health benefits. Most of these claims will be just as true for a lot of less exalted alternatives. Of course, this is what advertising is for -- to puff the product. So, don't be taken in by claims. Read them with scepticism and compare them with ordinary pure foods before you buy. On the whole, superfoods command a premium price while they're the latest fad, then become just 'food' when their replacement comes along. At that point, they may be good value.

Was the 1975 article right? I reckon, yes. And adding a few superfoods to your diet to avoid thinking about your slobbish lifestyle is just plain crazy.
Have you got a favourite superfood? Why is it better than any other rival? Let me know and we can argue a little.

David
This article came from my blog in July 2008. You can find more stuff about health in my Bad Health Blog, at http://www.davidsblog.typepad.com Do get back to me with your opinion on this article or any other stuff you'd like me to know. I love debate!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Croucher

Organic Food and Its Benefits

2010-05-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

With the development of the consumer society, home agriculture has decayed more and more. Plus, the chances of growing food independently, in urban areas is next to zero, and one depends on hypermarket chains and markets for the necessary supplies. Whole industries have grown out of the food demand, and the advantages of organic food have been forgotten by many of us. We are sometimes too busy, too ignorant or uninterested in the consume of naturally grown products. In the following lines we'll make a brief attempt at underlining the benefits of organic food once more, in the hope that more and more people will get back to nature.

Produced by organic farms, organic food is grown under strict government supervision. Under these guidelines, organic produce is grown and packaged without the use of any chemicals or pesticides. Traditionally grown, non-organic produce is subjected to a myriad of chemicals – most of which are have not been studied thoroughly enough to understand or contemplate their long-term effects on the human body. Researchers are still undecided as to whether or not these chemicals can be linked to everything from food allergies to certain types of cancer. The benefit of organic food is that they are not subjected to these unreliable substances.

Meat and dairy produced under organic guidelines are also chemical free. Traditional agricultural farmers often subject livestock to a bevy of chemical supplements designed to speed their growth and weight. Further, dairy cows are often given chemicals to increase their milk production. The benefit of organic food is that livestock is given only organic feed that is chemical and supplement free.

All the benefits of organic food could in fact be reduced to a singular concept: that of health convenience. If you are curious to analyze things in depth, you'll find out that there are dozens of studies, articles and materials that depict the advantages of the organic food. If people were more careful with what they ate, the number of diseases would decrease and so would mortality rates. The market thus changes its demands and hopefully evolves towards a healthier, safer future.

Red Wine Fights Aging

2010-04-18T04:26:00.000-07:00

You may have heard in the media, or perhaps on the internet that there is a lot to be gained from red wine. Anti-aging with red wine is recommended. The properties in this drink work wonders on the body. Of course, moderation should be practiced when consuming alcohol.

For longevity and overall health, drinking up to two glasses of red wine each day is considered good practice by all adults. Over drinking can cause organ damage, especially in the liver. The liver filters everything and too much alcohol consumption can result in cirrhosis.

Thus, on one hand, it is definitely best to view these things together with a little bit of wariness. Then again, though, there's almost no doubt that resveratrol can possess favorable effects. It is just a matter of working out just what these outcomes are, exactly.

Resveratrol supplement tests

One study in particular observed outstanding effects in laboratory mice who received excessive dosages of resveratrol. For one thing, the rodents could consume as much food as they wanted without risk of getting obese. This could make clear the so-called "French paradox"-that is, the strange phenomenon wherein people that reside in France have the ability to keep trim physiques while eating plenty of possibly fattening products like wine, cheese, and bread. It's far too premature to be sure, but perhaps resveratrol is the key.

And there's one additional startling conclusion regarding these trials: The scientists discovered that rodents that ingested huge amounts of resveratrol were invulnerable to cancers, and they also tended to survive for a longer time.

Is resveratrol the fountain of youth?

With these findings, can we say that resveratrol could possibly be considered a fountain of youth as well as a anti-cancer aid? Once again, it's far too early to say for sure. While the outcomes in the rodent tests have been fairly definitive, comparable studies have not yet been done on human subjects. One might suggest that the many wine-lovers throughout the world are possible subjects, and maybe the country of France can be a form of scientific laboratory in itself, but it is clear why experts may wish to perform a little more exploration prior to making any striking statements.

Furthermore, with regard to the laboratory mice, there's a slight problem: The quantity of resveratrol they were given would convert to the amount a person might get from approximately 20,000 bottles of red wine. Therefore, unless you're up for a legendary wine binge, you might like to preserve a small amount of wholesome skepticism regarding resveratrol.

Five Ways to Prevent Low Milk Supply When Breastfeeding

2010-02-21T05:49:00.000-08:00

Most mothers naturally make an adequate breastmilk supply to feed their infants. Unfortunately, some mothers will experience periods of low supply when breastfeeding. This may last only a short time such as a day, or it may stretch out into weeks and months. For most women facing a low breastmilk supply it is easily solved by taking a few simple steps. Knowing these five things will help you get your supply back up and prevent low supply from happening again in the future.

Take care of yourself. One of the most common causes of low breastmilk supply is the mother putting herself last on her list of priorities. Stress, lack of sleep, and low fluids can all cause a mother's breastmilk supply to dwindle. Breastfeeding mothers need to take the time to keep themselves healthy, both physically and emotionally. The more you worry about your breastmilk supply the lower it may become.
Breastfeed as frequently as possible. Breastmilk has a natural supply and demand system. The greater the demand for milk, the more your supply will become. Restricting infant eating through schedules and sleep training can often cause a woman's breast milk supply to drop. Allow your infant to feed as often as she wants and needs to stimulate your breasts into creating more milk. When not nursing spending time lying together skin to skin also helps to stimulate your breasts into creating more milk.
Use an efficient breast pump. If you are unable to nurse your infant more, using a good quality breast pump can be almost as effective. Though nothing will compare to your actual baby's latch, stimulating your breasts several times a day with a pump can cause you to make more breast milk. You may not notice much milk being pumped out at first, yet with repeated use you will notice your supply increasing. Be careful, however, as a low quality pump can cause pain and discomfort.
Enjoy milk stimulating herbs. There are a few herbs that are thought to increase breastmilk supply for many women. Though testing on these claims has been inadequate so far, there are many women who swear by herbs such as fenugeek, milk thistle, and Brewer's yeast. You can easily find these at most health food stores or in online herbal shops. Many breastfeeding sites also offer herbal teas already packaged and designed for increasing your supply to where you need it. Buying these premade teas can be a tastier way to get milk boosting herbs into your daily diet.
Caffeine can give a short term boost. Soda, coffee, and other drinks that have caffeine are good for giving a quick, yet temporary, boost in your supply. The caffeine stimulates your milk production and helps you make a little more. This can come at a cost, however, as the caffeine can also stimulate your infant and cause grumpiness and loss of sleep. If you need a quick boost caffeine will work, but be prepared for any possible negative effects you may face later.

It can be frustrating and a bit worrying when you notice that your breastmilk supply is lower than it should be. Luckily a few simple tricks will help you increase your milk supply and keep it up so that you can breastfeed with a little more peace. And having a little more peace will make the rest of your day go a lot smoother.

Summer Minor is a mother of three that shares breastfeeding advice at her site, Mama2Mama Tips.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Summer_Minor

Best Acne Treatment of the World Revealed - 10 Tips to Get Rid of Acne Forever

2010-01-27T15:31:00.000-08:00

Are you in search of the best acne treatment of the world? Do you think it must be some expensive cream? Or you are in search of some miracle drug? You'll be surprised to know that though the best acne treatment of the world has been found so far but neither is it an expensive cream nor a magical drug.

Rather these creams and drugs do not treat the cause of the acne. They are only formulated to treat the symptoms of acne. What more you are ready to face? These creams and drugs even give many side effects. I'm sure you must be aware that just few months back a famous drug has even been withdrawn from the market because of its harmful side effects.

What worse? This drug has already been sold to millions of acne sufferer. After making the sale the company decided to withdraw the particular drug from the market as it has to face thousands of lawsuits. This acne medication caused many serious side effects that include depression, psychosis and miscarriage or other birth effects in the pregnant woman.

You must be still wondering what the best acne treatment is then. The answer is the treatment of hormonal imbalance. This is also one of the explanation that why acne is more common in puberty. Most hormonal changes take place during this phase of life. So the best acne treatment of the world is the one that fights against acne from the inner side.

Here are few simplest tips to help you get started.

Skin blemishes start to appear when dead skin cells and oil clogs the pores. This requires a thorough cleaning of the face. It is good to wash the face with mild soap twice day. It is better to select the product that is non comedogenic.
Prepare a lotion by mixing water in 10 drops of propolis and then apply it on acne affected area.
Gently apply the pulp of tomato on zits. Leave it on face for around half an hour then wash the face with lukewarm water.
Make a paste of sesame seeds and water to fight against acne inflammation.
Apply honey to kill bacteria that are the main cause of blemishes.
Apply Aloe Vera gel to speed up healing process and for reducing swelling and redness
Healthy diet helps to boost the system. Eat plenty of furious and vegetables and take a multivitamin daily. Zinc supplements are also beneficial.
Get enough peaceful sleep. At least sleep for more than 8 hours to prevent hormonal imbalance.
Avoid stress. Engage in some relaxing activity like yoga.
Avoid touching the face often; as our hand is full of germs and bacteria. These germs and bacteria can cause more blemishes.

If you are suffering from acne and do not want to risk your skin by testing over-the-counter acne products, then check- Best Acne Treatment. This site is run by a dermatologist who wants to serve the people to have spotless skin. You can find here Natural Acne Treatment according to your skin type.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tehmina_Mazher

Prostate Cancer Treatment

2010-01-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

Prostate cancer is a complex heterogeneous disease that acts differently in different men. Therefore, treatment varies amongst individuals. A wide array of treatments exists for prostate cancer, which includes surgery, radiation, hormone deprivation therapy, chemotherapy, dietary changes and the use of various herbal supplements.

A patient may undergo hormonal therapy to reduce the level of testosterone in the body. Drugs that reduce testosterone production by the testicles like Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LH-RH) agonists are administered. The effect is not immediate and occurs 2-4 weeks after initiation of the therapy. Orchiectomy or castration is a surgical procedure that completely removes the testicles. It produces an immediate and permanent reduction in testosterone. Another alternative hormonal treatment is the use of hormone-blocking drugs, called antiandrogens. Antiandrogens like flutamide and nilutamide block the body’s ability to use androgens, such as testosterone.

Surgeons may use different techniques to remove the prostate. Surgical removal of the entire prostate gland is called radical prostatectomy. Radical prostatectomy is usually performed to remove early-stage prostate cancer that has not yet spread to other parts of the body. Side effects after radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer include incontinence and impotence. Cryosurgery, in which liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and kill prostate cancer cells is a common procedure. During cryosurgery, a warming catheter is inserted through the penis and this protects the urethra.

Radiation therapy involves the use of high-energy x-rays or subatomic particles to kill cancer cells. The rays may either be beamed from a machine or emitted by radioactive seeds implanted in the prostate.

Chemotherapy is also used to destroy cancer cells. Drugs are introduced into the body via the blood stream. The drugs work by destroying those cells that divide or grow rapidly. The most common side effects of chemotherapy are tiredness, nausea and hair loss.

Watchful waiting also known as “observation” is an option that physicians may use. The patients receive no active treatment unless symptoms appear. They may be asked to schedule regular medical checkups and report any new symptoms to the doctor immediately.

According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year relative survival rate for patients where cancer is detected while still in the local and regional stage is almost 100%.

Prostate provides detailed information on Prostate, Prostate Cancer, Prostate Health, Prostate Cancer Treatment and more. Prostate is affiliated with Prostate Cancer Treatments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Romando

Lose Weight and Stop Smoking by Reducing Stress

2009-12-11T08:18:00.000-08:00

Being concerned with weight or with a smoking habit can easily occupy much of one's attention. It appears that these, and similar issues, are serious problems that must be attacked head-on to be conquered. It feels like a war with a sinister and cunning opponent. But weight, smoking and such are usually not the real enemy. They are the visible symptoms of a common underlying cause and the real enemy - Stress. Stress is your true sinister and cunning opponent.

Here are six ways to de-stress your life, and in the process to jump-start your battle with weight, smoking, and other behaviors you wish to change...

1. Begin a project you love. Give yourself a little time each day to work on something creative that you love doing and that makes you feel good about yourself. Knit a scarf. Play the piano. Take up woodcarving.

2. Know that you are not responsible for the whole world. If you are going to make a difference, take up a cause. Campaign for the candidate of your choice, volunteer in your local soup kitchen, write a big check to Doctors Without Borders. But then turn off the eleven o'clock news. Worrying about the state of the world, or the economy, or crime in your community, or the health of your Aunt Judy in Des Moines, or whether your adult child's marriage is going to fail, is a waste of your time and causes much unnecessary stress.

3. Give your time to others. It's hard to worry so much about yourself when you give your time to help those less fortunate. Consider becoming a community volunteer.

4. Forgive everyone, especially yourself, for everything that has ever been done or been left undone. Your anger and hatred hurt you. Forgiveness is the salve that removes the sting of past injuries. Resentments and regrets do not cure the past, but unconditional forgiveness does.

5. Have gratitude for everything that has ever happened or not happened. All of your life is part of a grand plan. You wouldn't be who you are today if you had missed out on any of your experiences.

6. View life as an adventure. Everything changes. The inherent nature of life is constant change. To fear change is to fear life itself. Once you accept that whatever you hate about your life will change soon, and that whatever you love about your life will also change, you can view all of life as the adventure that it is, and end your stress.

Once you are serene and happy, you are far less likely to feel driven to overeat, smoke, or bite your nails. Begin by de-stressing your life, and changing your behaviors will follow naturally.

Jonathan Lockwood Huie, co-author of Simply An Inspired Life: Consciously Choosing Unbounded Happiness in Good Times and Bad, is known as "The Philosopher of Happiness," and writes the popular Daily Inspiration - Daily Quote which is available on-line at http://www.DreamThisDay.com and via free email subscription.

** Today is your day to dance lightly with life. It really is. - Jonathan Lockwood Huie **

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Huie

Natural Treatments for Alcoholism

2009-12-02T10:18:00.000-08:00

Alcoholics cannot resist the urge to drink alcohol, and then drink more alcohol. They are not stupid people (not always, anyway!). Most are aware of how bad excessive drink can be for the human body, but despite their knowledge they have lost their ability to control the amount of alcohol they drink. They drink beyond socially acceptable limits and are often a burden and embarrassment to their friends and family. This still does not stop them from drinking.

Ongoing alcoholism has dire effects on the body. It interferes with the normal function of all organs. It is especially hard on the liver, brain, kidneys and heart. Cirrhosis of the liver is one of the most serious effects of prolonged alcoholism. This is a scarring of the organ that is almost irreversible. It is rare that a cirrhosis-affected liver can ever be returned to full health and functionality. Alcohol interferes with digestion, which starts to starve the body of needed nutrients. Each time alcohol is imbibed it dulls a little more of the senses. Over a long period of time these sensory losses can become permanent.

There are some natural remedies and herbs that can be helpful in the treatment of alcoholism.

Herbs:

- Aloe vera helps to strengthen the liver and prevent cirrhosis, one of the first effects of alcoholism noticed by many sufferers.

- Ashwagandha helps strengthen the alcoholic through reducing vata vitiations. Vata is instrumental in the health and strength of the brain. It stimulates natural physical coordination.

- The gotu kola herb is also a brain revitalizer. It is an important ingredient to anyone suffering from alcohol withdrawal.

- Musk, or jatamansi, is also good for vata vitiation. It has a cooling effect and helps your body recover from the effects of alcoholism.

Ayurvedic Treatments:

Ayurvedic treatments come in different levels, depending on how entrenched the alcoholism is in the body.

If one has just begun to recognize alcoholic signs, methods include irrigating the head in cold water, eating only cold food, and the use of cold packs of mud for the body.

The more severe sufferer of alcoholism who may have been drinking for many years may require a more stringent treatment involving inducing vomiting, taking medicines to assist digestion, and fasting.

These are just two examples of a wide variety of Ayurvedic treatments.

Home Remedies:

Fruits are very good at lowering the negative effects of alcoholism. Juice from citrus fruit is very good at relieving hangover symptoms. Apples and bananas help remove toxins from the bloodstream.

Grapes and dates have the ability to reduce one's urge to drink alcohol. In fact, if you eat only grapes and dates and nothing else for a couple weeks, your drinking temptation will be gone.

Start drinking more and varied types on non-alcoholic beverages regularly. This, too, will reduce the need to drink alcohol. When you feel the need to drink, grab a glass of carrot juice instead. It will help remove that urge.

A hard-core drinker will undoubtedly fail when trying to completely stop drinking all at once. Instead, phase out alcohol from your diet slowly and steadily. Things that will help you on this goal are:

- Slow down with wine or beer instead of hard liquor. Eventually these, too, can be quit.

- Take an interest in a hobby or sport to take your mind of the times you would have been drinking before.

- The love and support from family and friends goes a long way to helping the sufferer rid himself of his alcoholism.

- Alcoholics Anonymous meetings give the alcoholism sufferer hope and support from others with personal experience with the same problem

Whatever you do, if you even think you might be leaning towards alcoholism, start taking action.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Alcoholism

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Signs And Symptoms of Breast Cancer

2009-11-15T04:51:00.000-08:00

It is very important for each and every one of us to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer for us to be able to know what will be possible and most effective way to overcome such. Well, the first particular sign and symptom of this kind of disease is a lump that is different from the surrounding tissues around the breast. It is said that if a woman felt a lump in her breast, then it is a cancer, more than 80% of breast cancer cases are discovered in this manner, this is based on the Merck Manual. And the first objective indications or medical signs of breast cancer is discovered by a mammogram or is detected by a doctor. The lymph nodes located at the armpit are where the lumps are found and or the collarbone can also be a sign of breast cancer.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer other than a lump may also include changes that may in the breast's size and breast's shape; also, dimples appear in the skin, inversion of nipples, or a single-nipple discharge that is spontaneous. Pain is not a reliable tool to determine the presence or the absence of a breast cancer, but it can also be a sign of other breast-related health problems like the mastodynia.

If a breast cancer cells enter the dermal lymphatic by force, the small lymph vessels in breast's skin, the inflammatory breast cancer is the inflammation that resembles on the skin presentation. The signs and symptoms of the inflammatory breast cancer comprise pain, swelling of the breast, over all warmth and redness of the breast and also the texture of the skin that looks like an orange peel and is called or referred to as "peau d'orange"

Another complex symptom that is reported on this kind of disease is the Paget's disease of the breast. And this disorder is known as the eczamatoid, in this manner, the skin changes in color, it will be red and the nipple skin will have a mild flaking texture. As the Paget's disease of the breast moved forward, the signs may consist of itchiness and the increase of the sensitivity of the skin, burning and it will be painful too. Discharge from the nipple may also occur. Actually almost half of the women who are diagnosed with Paget's are also suffering from lump in the breast.

The cancer that is spread further than the original organ is a metastatic disease. The metastatic breast cancer can cause signs and symptoms depending on the metastasis location. Metastasis's common location may be found in the bone, in the liver, in the lungs and in the brain. The weight loss that is unexplainable can be sometimes the indication of a disease, the signs can also be determined as fevers and chills. Also, a bone and joint pains can be a sign sometimes, as well as the jaundice or a neurological signs. But these signs are not that specific, because it can also be a sign and symptom of any other illnesses.

Always remember that most signs and symptoms of breast disorder is not really the best representation. The mastitis and fibro adenoma of the breast are the benign breast diseases and are more common causes and signs of breast disorder. And both patient and the doctor must take seriously the new development of signs and symptoms that may occur, because there may be instances that breast diseases may occur at an early age too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erlinda_Carla_B._De_Guzman-Mangila

The Best Way To Lose Weight For Diabetics

2009-11-06T12:40:00.000-08:00

It is a common notion that diabetics are advised to lose weight. Most weight watchers and health conscious diabetics are in the search of the best way to lose weight.

For diabetics the best way to lose weight and stay away from the signs of diabetes is to stay away from the sugar loaded snacks. Most diabetics already know that they should stay away from deserts as sugar is a straight "NO" to them. However the truth here is that a little amount of sugar is allowed to diabetics.

Experts in the field of weight loss industry and diabetes are of the view that diabetics can eat a few sugary things as long as they maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The fact here is that sugar is not the real culprit; rather it is the starches. Sugar itself does not cause the blood sugar level to shoot up in a manner as starches does. Sugar is simply one class of carbohydrates.

It is not advisable for the diabetics to load sweets in their diabetic diet plan if their goal is to lose weight. Further this does not help them to maintain ideal levels of blood sugar.

Read the Labels Of Food

If you are diabetic and in search of the best way to lose weight then practice reading the information given on the package of the label. Read the nutritional information printed on the package in detail. In this way you will be in a better position to determine the quantity of sugar or the carbohydrate in your meal.

Practice Substitution Of Foods

It is critical to practice substitution of healthy foods for unhealthy foods

Example: Just consider that today you ate cookies that you bought last week for your kid. Now you have to cut down something from your diet plan. The cookies will automatically substitute for the food you will cut in. If your diet plan says that you have to eat a chicken breast with baked potatoes then the better idea is to give up potato and go for the grilled chicken breast.

The snacks full of sugar are not prohibited to diabetics as they cause them to put on weight rather the reason is they cause the blood sugar level to rise instantly and Signs Of Diabetes become more obvious.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tehmina_Mazher

How to Get Six Pack Abs in 6 Minutes

2009-10-25T21:48:00.000-07:00

How To Get Six Pack Abs In 6 Minutes On Your Couch. This Works! - These bloopers are hilarious

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Fitness Program Over 40

2009-10-24T12:42:00.000-07:00

Wondering how to start your fitness program over age 40? Good for you! Here are some great tips for getting started with your own fitness program.
Starting your own personalized fitness program is a good way to improve your overall health and as soon as you have your doctor’s blessing you can start right into the physical activity that is involve in your exercise program.

1. Start by assessing your baseline fitness level. Start by recording your pulse rate before and after you complete your warm up exercise. Know your maximum heart rate by subtracting 220 by your age (220-age). Maximum heart rate is your heart rate limit during exercise. Record your initial body weight and circumference of your waist before starting your exercise program. This baseline information will help you gauge your progress.

2. Design your own personal fitness program. Start by determining your fitness goals. What do you want to accomplish – lose weight, improve your cardiopulmonary function, or perhaps gain muscle?

List down what it is you like and dislike when it comes to exercise and activities. Be cautious while doing your exercises to avoid injury. Remember to spice up a bit such as listen to music while doing your exercises or make variation of your exercises so you won’t get bored.

3. Choose your Fitness Gym. Make sure the fitness gym you choose have a complete exercise equipments to meet your needs and have a fitness professional that will assist you throughout your exercise program.

4. If at home, assemble any exercise equipment you have. Choose your exercise equipment properly. Make a good room layout. Assemble and place them to your gym according to your choice of exercise. After you are all set up you are ready to start your exercise program and be on your way to a healthier you.

5. Start slow and gradually build up. Make sure your warm up is adequate so that everything becomes easy. Start light and then build to a higher level such as increase sets, reps, weights, or length of time in doing your exercises as your ability gets better. Make sure also to do cool down exercises after the main event to avoid exercise-induced injury.

6. Categorize whether you want to lose weight or build muscle. Whether you just want to lose weight or build muscle will depend on what type of exercises you incorporate into your workout and for how long your workout will be. That’s what your personal fitness program is all about.

If you want to lose weight, concentrate on high-repetitions-low-resistance exercises, treadmill, and stationary bike and aim for longer exercise sessions. Go to burning cholesterol fast.

If you want to build muscle, concentrate on low-repetitions-high-resistance exercises. Exercise until you fatigue your target muscles.

Drink fluids during exercise. Better if energy drinks.

7. Make progress report. Make daily, weekly or monthly record of your progress to be able to shift to another exercise level and be able to lengthen your exercise sessions.

Exercise at least three times a week. If your target is losing weight, it is best to exercise daily.

Remember also that shorter more frequent sessions work very well. Fit 10 minutes of exercise into your busy day. If you can, make it 30 minutes. Try one hour a day as you progress. It’s that easy to get your fitness program into your busy day.
Listen to your body. If you feel shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea during exercise, you need to take a break from your fitness program immediately. If you experience pain in an area, reduce the amount of exercise for a bit to give it a chance to heal.

It is very important to monitor your progress because otherwise you have no way of knowing if your fitness program is working for you. You also don’t know when you should make things easier or harder.

Take time to weigh and look in the mirror every now and then and note changes on your muscles.

Now that you’ve created your own personal fitness program you have no excuse to get busy, even over 40.

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Healthy Body Essential For Life

2009-10-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

The human body consists of many systems. As the steward of our own life, we have the responsibility to maintain the general framework of our body in good condition. In this part we tend to seek professional help. Furthermore, we tend to seek means to provide our body's maintenance. In this modern times, technology has go far advance that the internet is of great value to all of us who seek immediate source for answers to all our questions. Here comes the importance of 'Health Tips And Benefits'. It answers most of your questions regarding general body health.

Thank you for visiting my blog and I am hopeful that this would help you in your quest for good health.