If you're diagnosed with high cholesterol, your doctor will probably tell you that you need to change your diet. That doesn't mean going on a diet for a weight loss quick-fix; it means changing the way you buy, cook, and eat food.
What a Heart-Healthy Diet Means
A cholesterol-lowering diet isn't just about what foods you shouldn't eat — it includes foods that you should. The American Heart Association and the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute's National Cholesterol Education Program recommend these guidelines for heart health and lower cholesterol:
1. Total fat consumption each day should be between 25 percent and 35 percent of your daily calorie intake.
2. saturated fat intake needs to be less than 7 percent of your daily calorie intake.
3. Trans fat intake should make up less than 1 percent of your daily calorie intake. 4. Limit cholesterol in your diet to less than 200 milligrams (mg) every day if you already have high cholesterol.
5. Consume no more than 2,400 mg of sodium (salt) each day. That includes salt you sprinkle on your food, and salt that's already in packaged foods, so read labels.
6. Limit alcohol to only one drink per day or less for women, two drinks a day or less for men.
Part of a cholesterol-lowering diet includes knowing how much food to eat as well as which foods are appropriate. Even healthy foods have fat and calories, which can quickly add up if you're eating double or even triple the amount that you're supposed to eat. Here's an easy way to judge how much food you're eating: One cup is about the size of your fist; one serving of meat is about three ounces — imagine a piece of meat the size of a deck of cards.
Making Healthier Food Choices for Low Cholesterol
Food can be both delicious and good for your heart — if you know what to choose. Many foods are full of cholesterol, but there are lots of low-cholesterol options. Fill your plate with these delicious and heart-healthy foods:
Lean meats. Good options include skinless chicken or turkey, lean beef (sirloin, chuck, round, loin), pork tenderloin, or pork loin.
Light dairy. Dairy products are full of calcium, but can also be high in fat. Choose fat-free or low-fat dairy products like milk, cheese, cream, and yogurt.
Fiber. Choose whole-grain products like whole wheat bread, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta. Fruits and vegetables are also great sources of fiber. Be sure to include at least 25 to 30 grams of fiber in your diet each day.
Fruits and vegetables. You need at least four to five servings of fruits and vegetables every day — the more variety, the better.
Fish. Eat at least two servings of fish each week. Avoid fatty meats, processed meats, high-sugar drinks, cookies and other desserts, and chips.
Cooking Techniques for a Healthy Heart
Eating vegetables or lean chicken won't do you any good unless you prepare them in a healthy way. Try these cooking techniques to lower cholesterol and cut fat and calories:
Avoid salt. Instead, season with fresh herbs, spices, or even a squirt of lemon juice.
Don't fry. Bake, grill, or broil your foods instead.
Use vegetable oils. Skip the butter, shortening, or margarine and cook with low-cholesterol products like sunflower oil, olive oil, or canola oil.
Choose fresh. Instead of canned vegetables or fruits, prepackaged dinners, and other prepared foods, choose the fresh version. You'll save sodium and calories.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
FIBER BENEFITS
there are many health benefits of fiber, including:
1. Lowering cholesterol levels
2. Improving digestion
3. Reducing diabetes risk
4. Improving heart health
5. Reducing constipation
6. Reducing the risk of diverticulitis (inflammation of the intestines)
7. Maintaining steady control of blood sugar
Where to find fibers?
Fiber is always found in edible plant materials and in the healthiest foods, like whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. "They act differently in your body when they're being processed,” “Soluble fiber can be somewhat dissolved by water; insoluble fiber can't."
It's best that you get the fiber you need each day from foods in your diet rather than supplements. Most people need between 20 and 35 grams of fiber each day. Some good fiber-rich food choices are:
Whole-grain breads, cereals, and pastas Fruits and vegetables Brown rice Dried beans Oatmeal Popcorn Getting fiber is great, but don't suddenly jump on the fiber bandwagon and ramp up your intake all at once. Take it slowly, and gradually increase your fiber each day to prevent side effects like diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
1. Lowering cholesterol levels
2. Improving digestion
3. Reducing diabetes risk
4. Improving heart health
5. Reducing constipation
6. Reducing the risk of diverticulitis (inflammation of the intestines)
7. Maintaining steady control of blood sugar
Where to find fibers?
Fiber is always found in edible plant materials and in the healthiest foods, like whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. "They act differently in your body when they're being processed,” “Soluble fiber can be somewhat dissolved by water; insoluble fiber can't."
It's best that you get the fiber you need each day from foods in your diet rather than supplements. Most people need between 20 and 35 grams of fiber each day. Some good fiber-rich food choices are:
Whole-grain breads, cereals, and pastas Fruits and vegetables Brown rice Dried beans Oatmeal Popcorn Getting fiber is great, but don't suddenly jump on the fiber bandwagon and ramp up your intake all at once. Take it slowly, and gradually increase your fiber each day to prevent side effects like diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Men’s Health: Tips for Keeping Memory Sharp
There are Some ways to beat back memory loss include:
Keep your brain active. Challenging your brain and mental abilities is believed to stimulate brain cells and keep your thinking sharp. Reading, writing, developing a new skill, or relearning old skills are ways to give your brain a workout. You also can work on stimulating problem-solving and brain games and puzzles. These mental challenges should be a regular part of your life.
Let go of stress. Prolonged stress over many weeks has been shown to cause memory loss by altering brain chemistry and damaging the hippocampus, which is where the brain stores new memories.
Stay socially active. Relationships with other people can improve your mental performance. Social activities often are intellectually stimulating, which prompts good memory function. Friends also can provide support when you're feeling stressed. Research has linked loneliness with an increased risk of memory loss and dementia.
Exercise. Working out can keep blood flowing to the brain, leaving your brain cells well-nourished with oxygen and nutrients.
Don't smoke or abuse alcohol. Smokers have been shown to perform worse than nonsmokers in memory studies and tests of thinking skills. Heavy alcohol use is also known to cause memory loss.
Trauma. Head trauma is one of the major causes of memory loss, as well as something that can cause dementia later in life. Always use a helmet and other protective gear when participating in high-speed activities and contact sports.
Men’s Health: When Memory Loss Is Serious
How can you tell when your memory loss has become something worse, like a symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease? Here are some warning signs:
Forgetting things at a noticeably increased rate. Everyone occasionally forgets about plans they have or where they’ve put things, but if you find yourself missing scheduled activities much more frequently or misplacing items a lot more than you used to, that could be a sign that you need to have checked out.
Forgetting how to perform activities you've done many times before. No longer being able to balance a checkbook is one example.
Finding it difficult to learn new things. You just can't grasp something that's being explained to you, even though you feel it should be simple.
Repeating yourself. Telling the same stories, asking the same questions, or repeating the same phrases during a single conversation could be a sign of advanced memory loss.
Confusion. If you're suffering serious memory lapses, you might end up getting lost in a familiar place. You might also put something in an inappropriate place — your wallet in the oven, for example — because you can't remember where it should be kept.
If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, you should go see your family physician. The doctor will ask you questions to objectively test your memory and thinking skills, and do a physical exam and possibly other diagnostic tests. He may have suggestions to help you improve your memory function, and might even be able to prescribe medications known to help with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
Keep your brain active. Challenging your brain and mental abilities is believed to stimulate brain cells and keep your thinking sharp. Reading, writing, developing a new skill, or relearning old skills are ways to give your brain a workout. You also can work on stimulating problem-solving and brain games and puzzles. These mental challenges should be a regular part of your life.
Let go of stress. Prolonged stress over many weeks has been shown to cause memory loss by altering brain chemistry and damaging the hippocampus, which is where the brain stores new memories.
Stay socially active. Relationships with other people can improve your mental performance. Social activities often are intellectually stimulating, which prompts good memory function. Friends also can provide support when you're feeling stressed. Research has linked loneliness with an increased risk of memory loss and dementia.
Exercise. Working out can keep blood flowing to the brain, leaving your brain cells well-nourished with oxygen and nutrients.
Don't smoke or abuse alcohol. Smokers have been shown to perform worse than nonsmokers in memory studies and tests of thinking skills. Heavy alcohol use is also known to cause memory loss.
Trauma. Head trauma is one of the major causes of memory loss, as well as something that can cause dementia later in life. Always use a helmet and other protective gear when participating in high-speed activities and contact sports.
Men’s Health: When Memory Loss Is Serious
How can you tell when your memory loss has become something worse, like a symptom of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease? Here are some warning signs:
Forgetting things at a noticeably increased rate. Everyone occasionally forgets about plans they have or where they’ve put things, but if you find yourself missing scheduled activities much more frequently or misplacing items a lot more than you used to, that could be a sign that you need to have checked out.
Forgetting how to perform activities you've done many times before. No longer being able to balance a checkbook is one example.
Finding it difficult to learn new things. You just can't grasp something that's being explained to you, even though you feel it should be simple.
Repeating yourself. Telling the same stories, asking the same questions, or repeating the same phrases during a single conversation could be a sign of advanced memory loss.
Confusion. If you're suffering serious memory lapses, you might end up getting lost in a familiar place. You might also put something in an inappropriate place — your wallet in the oven, for example — because you can't remember where it should be kept.
If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, you should go see your family physician. The doctor will ask you questions to objectively test your memory and thinking skills, and do a physical exam and possibly other diagnostic tests. He may have suggestions to help you improve your memory function, and might even be able to prescribe medications known to help with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
GREEN TEA BENEFITS
Even Oprah swears by the benefits of this fat-burning, metabolism-boosting antioxidant. When used in combination with a healthy-eating program and fitness plan, green tea can have a great impact on cholesterol levels, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes and other medical conditions.
Monday, June 15, 2009
World Health Organization Declares A(H1N1) Pandemic
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the A(H1N1) virus, commonly referred to as Swine Flu, has reached pandemic stage.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
SYMPTOMS OF AUTISM (AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER)
At birth, a child with autism spectrum disorder often appears normal. Symptoms may appear as early as the first year of life, but it may not be until the child is 2 or 3 years old that the parents realize something is not quite right.
Infants with autism spectrum disorder may respond abnormally to being touched. Instead of cuddling when they are picked up, they may stiffen or go limp. In addition, they may not show normal developmental behaviors during the first year of life, such as smiling at the sound of their mother's voice, pointing out objects to catch someone's attention, reaching out to others with their hands or attempting one-syllable conversations. The child may not maintain eye contact, may appear unable to distinguish parents from strangers and typically shows little interest in others. Symptoms vary from mild to severe.
Some behaviors associated with autism include:
Disordered play — A toddler with autism spectrum disorder usually ignores other children and prefers to play alone. The child may spend hours repeatedly laying out objects in lines, sitting silently in an apparent trance-like state or concentrating on only one object or topic. Any attempt to divert the child can provoke an emotional outburst. Children with autism spectrum disorder usually do not engage in make-believe play.
Disordered speech — A child with autism spectrum disorder may not speak much or may remain silent. When the child does speak, the words may be an echo of what another person said. Speech patterns may be different. Instead of saying, "I want a sandwich," the child may ask, "Do you want a sandwich?"
Repetitive behaviors — A child with autism spectrum disorder may perform repetitive behaviors, such as repeating the same phrase or a particular motion. Clapping, finger snapping, rocking, swaying and hand flapping are common.
Abnormal behaviors — Children with autism spectrum disorder may develop obsessive routines, such as wanting to take the same route to school every day or turning around before entering a room, or may become intensely preoccupied with something, such as parts of objects or a particular activity. Some may become hyperactive, aggressive, destructive or impulsive. Others may intentionally injure themselves.
Infants with autism spectrum disorder may respond abnormally to being touched. Instead of cuddling when they are picked up, they may stiffen or go limp. In addition, they may not show normal developmental behaviors during the first year of life, such as smiling at the sound of their mother's voice, pointing out objects to catch someone's attention, reaching out to others with their hands or attempting one-syllable conversations. The child may not maintain eye contact, may appear unable to distinguish parents from strangers and typically shows little interest in others. Symptoms vary from mild to severe.
Some behaviors associated with autism include:
Disordered play — A toddler with autism spectrum disorder usually ignores other children and prefers to play alone. The child may spend hours repeatedly laying out objects in lines, sitting silently in an apparent trance-like state or concentrating on only one object or topic. Any attempt to divert the child can provoke an emotional outburst. Children with autism spectrum disorder usually do not engage in make-believe play.
Disordered speech — A child with autism spectrum disorder may not speak much or may remain silent. When the child does speak, the words may be an echo of what another person said. Speech patterns may be different. Instead of saying, "I want a sandwich," the child may ask, "Do you want a sandwich?"
Repetitive behaviors — A child with autism spectrum disorder may perform repetitive behaviors, such as repeating the same phrase or a particular motion. Clapping, finger snapping, rocking, swaying and hand flapping are common.
Abnormal behaviors — Children with autism spectrum disorder may develop obsessive routines, such as wanting to take the same route to school every day or turning around before entering a room, or may become intensely preoccupied with something, such as parts of objects or a particular activity. Some may become hyperactive, aggressive, destructive or impulsive. Others may intentionally injure themselves.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
PARSLEY - FRESHEN YOUR BREATH, REDUCE CANCER RISK
Keep fresh parsley on hand. This herb is rich in Vitamin A and C. Parsley is rich in iron and chlorophyll, which is thought to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Not only does parsley add flavor to food, it's also a great breath freshener. Carry chopped parsley with you at all times and nibble on a bit in between meals.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
SWINE FLU - ARE YOU AT RISK?
SWINE FLU - (an acute and highly contagious respiratory disease of swine caused by the orthomyxovirus thought to be the same virus that caused the 1918 influenza pandemic)
You can get the swine flu if an infected person coughs or sneezes in close proximity to you, or by touching a virus-contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.
You can get the swine flu if an infected person coughs or sneezes in close proximity to you, or by touching a virus-contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
BEWARE OF BREADED FOODS
Avoid breaded foods. Chicken and fish are healthy staples in your diet when properly prepared. However, coat them with flour and bread crumbs and fry them in oil and you have a fattening feast in an instant. Fried chicken or fried fish sandwiches are higher in fat and calories - and that's before they're drenched in mayonnaise or tartar sauce. Instead go for grilled, broiled, steamed or baked.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH FIBER?
Eat high-fiber cereals. The benefits of fiber are far reaching. From digestion to diabetes to cancer, fiber is responsible for improving these conditions. A person should consume 25 to 35 grams of fiber a day. While many people get their daily intake of fiber from fruits and vegetables, high-fiber cereals such as All Bran (1/3 cup = 8.5 grams), Fiber One (1/2 cup = 14 grams) and 100% Bran (1/2 cup = 8.4 grams) are all optimum sources for fiber.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
RAW DIET
In the name of good health, they are going raw. “They” are the followers of the raw diet, an eating plan based on unprocessed, organic whole plant-based foods that are eaten uncooked. Supporters of this way of life assert that raw and living foods contain essential food enzymes that are destroyed when cooked -- live food, live body; dead food, dead body. Raw food diets are used as a way of fasting and cleansing...
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
TOP FIVE FOODS TO LOWER YOUR CHOLESTEROL
1. Oatmeal and oat bran
Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which reduces your low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, apples, pears, psyllium, barley and prunes.
2. Walnuts, almonds and more
Walnuts can significantly reduce blood cholesterol. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, walnuts also help keep blood vessels healthy and elastic. Almonds appear to have a similar effect, resulting in a marked improvement within just four weeks.
3. Fish and omega-3 fatty acids
Research has supported the cholesterol-lowering benefits of eating fatty fish because of its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids also help the heart in other ways such as reducing blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. In people who have already had heart attacks, fish oil — or omega-3 fatty acids — significantly reduces the risk of sudden death.
4. Olive oil
Olive oil contains a potent mix of antioxidants that can lower your "bad" (LDL) cholesterol but leave your "good" (HDL) cholesterol untouched.
5. Foods fortified with plant sterols or stanols
Foods are now available that have been fortified with sterols or stanols — substances found in plants that help block the absorption of cholesterol.
Margarines, orange juice and yogurt drinks fortified with plant sterols can help reduce LDL cholesterol by more than 10 percent. The amount of daily plant sterols needed for results is at least 2 grams — which equals about two 8-ounce (237 milliliters) servings of plant sterol-fortified orange juice a day.
Plant sterols or stanols in fortified foods don't appear to affect levels of triglycerides or of "good" high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Nor do they interfere with the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins — vitamins A, D, E and K.
Consider your diet first
Before you make other changes to your diet, think about cutting back on the types and amounts of fats you eat, which can raise your cholesterol. That way, you'll improve your cholesterol levels and health overall.
Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which reduces your low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, apples, pears, psyllium, barley and prunes.
2. Walnuts, almonds and more
Walnuts can significantly reduce blood cholesterol. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, walnuts also help keep blood vessels healthy and elastic. Almonds appear to have a similar effect, resulting in a marked improvement within just four weeks.
3. Fish and omega-3 fatty acids
Research has supported the cholesterol-lowering benefits of eating fatty fish because of its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids also help the heart in other ways such as reducing blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. In people who have already had heart attacks, fish oil — or omega-3 fatty acids — significantly reduces the risk of sudden death.
4. Olive oil
Olive oil contains a potent mix of antioxidants that can lower your "bad" (LDL) cholesterol but leave your "good" (HDL) cholesterol untouched.
5. Foods fortified with plant sterols or stanols
Foods are now available that have been fortified with sterols or stanols — substances found in plants that help block the absorption of cholesterol.
Margarines, orange juice and yogurt drinks fortified with plant sterols can help reduce LDL cholesterol by more than 10 percent. The amount of daily plant sterols needed for results is at least 2 grams — which equals about two 8-ounce (237 milliliters) servings of plant sterol-fortified orange juice a day.
Plant sterols or stanols in fortified foods don't appear to affect levels of triglycerides or of "good" high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Nor do they interfere with the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins — vitamins A, D, E and K.
Consider your diet first
Before you make other changes to your diet, think about cutting back on the types and amounts of fats you eat, which can raise your cholesterol. That way, you'll improve your cholesterol levels and health overall.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
EAT BY THE CLOCK
Forget eating three big meals a day. Eat around the clock. That doesn't mean bingeing on junk food whenever you see fit. Instead they encourage eating small, balanced meals.
The body usually needs three to four hours to digest an average size meal. To prevent the body from going into starvation mode, you should refuel it on cue. This also prevents your blood sugar from dropping in between meals. Keep healthy snacks on hand, and enjoy them between breakfast and lunch, and lunch and dinner.
The body usually needs three to four hours to digest an average size meal. To prevent the body from going into starvation mode, you should refuel it on cue. This also prevents your blood sugar from dropping in between meals. Keep healthy snacks on hand, and enjoy them between breakfast and lunch, and lunch and dinner.
Friday, February 13, 2009
BAD BREATH - HOW TO ELIMINATE?
Don't let bad breath spoil a romantic evening. Some simple steps — from daily flossing to snacking on sugar-free foods — can help keep your breath fresh.
Fortunately, there's much you can do to battle bad breath. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Brush and floss daily.
2. Brush your tongue and use a tongue scraper if necessary.
3. Rinse with plain water after meals if brushing isn't an option.
4. Get regular professional checkups to catch and treat periodontal disease.
5. Seek medical care for underlying health problems.
6. Snack on sugar-free foods (such as carrots and celery) or chew gum sweetened with xylitol to clear away debris and keep saliva flowing.
7. Use an over-the-counter mouthwash containing zinc. Your dentist may also prescribe a rinse with chlorhexidine. Be aware, though, that long-term use of this ingredient can stain teeth.
Fortunately, there's much you can do to battle bad breath. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Brush and floss daily.
2. Brush your tongue and use a tongue scraper if necessary.
3. Rinse with plain water after meals if brushing isn't an option.
4. Get regular professional checkups to catch and treat periodontal disease.
5. Seek medical care for underlying health problems.
6. Snack on sugar-free foods (such as carrots and celery) or chew gum sweetened with xylitol to clear away debris and keep saliva flowing.
7. Use an over-the-counter mouthwash containing zinc. Your dentist may also prescribe a rinse with chlorhexidine. Be aware, though, that long-term use of this ingredient can stain teeth.
Monday, February 9, 2009
ARE YOU GETTING ENOUGH POTASSIUM?
Potassium is an important mineral whose importance is often overlooked. However, it plays a huge role in optimal functioning of both the heart and the nervous system. Potassium also plays a role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in body cells. The average person should consume an estimated 2,000 milligrams of potassium per day. Excellent sources of potassium include: raisins, prunes, bananas, strawberries, watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges, beans, peas, turkey and fish.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
IMPROVE YOUR SEX LIFE... LOSE WEIGHT
A little weight loss can go a long way...in the bedroom. Research shows that losing just 10 percent of those extra pounds can dramatically improve your sex life. Experts say that's because people tend to have a better self image when they lose weight, making them more comfortable when it comes to intimacy. Shedding just 10 pounds can improve your libido. Following a low-fat diet that helps improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels will also boost your sex drive.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
BULIMIA -- DO YOU HAVE THIS?
Bulimia nervosa is a disorder that involves uncontrollable eating of large amounts of food, regardless of hunger. People with bulimia may also try to get rid of the food they have eaten by vomiting, taking laxatives, or other methods.
Monday, February 2, 2009
WORRIED ABOUT HAIR LOSS?
Want to know how much hair you're losing?
Start counting -- the hairs on your comb, not on your head.
Dermatologist demonstrated that a so-called "60-second hair count" is a simple and reliable away to get a grip on whether you're balding and, if so, how fast.
The procedure, which can be carried out in the convenience of your own home, may reassure the adult male -- or not.
Hair loss is fraught with emotions... Here is a hair count that allows the person to get a handle as to what's going on with their hair.
With something like the 60-second hair count, you can participate and monitor in an objective fashion what's going on with your hair."
The reality is that hair loss is incredibly common among men and women. Fifty percent of both genders will have hair loss by the age of 50. That's a big number.
Not only do experts not know how much hair loss is normal, they also don't have any standardized way of assessing the amount of hair lost on an average day.
Here are instructions on how to perform the count:
• Comb your hair for 60 seconds over a pillow or sheet of contrasting color before shampooing. Pull the comb from the back top of the scalp forward to the front of the scalp for 60 seconds. "That 60 seconds allows you to dislodge any of the resting hairs that are supposed to be shed.
• Repeat the procedure before three consecutive shampooing sessions, always using the same comb.
• Count and record the number of hairs in the comb and on the pillow or sheet.
• Repeat the procedure every month and discuss results with your dermatologist
Try it at home so you would know if you are balding or not. FUN AND EASY.
Start counting -- the hairs on your comb, not on your head.
Dermatologist demonstrated that a so-called "60-second hair count" is a simple and reliable away to get a grip on whether you're balding and, if so, how fast.
The procedure, which can be carried out in the convenience of your own home, may reassure the adult male -- or not.
Hair loss is fraught with emotions... Here is a hair count that allows the person to get a handle as to what's going on with their hair.
With something like the 60-second hair count, you can participate and monitor in an objective fashion what's going on with your hair."
The reality is that hair loss is incredibly common among men and women. Fifty percent of both genders will have hair loss by the age of 50. That's a big number.
Not only do experts not know how much hair loss is normal, they also don't have any standardized way of assessing the amount of hair lost on an average day.
Here are instructions on how to perform the count:
• Comb your hair for 60 seconds over a pillow or sheet of contrasting color before shampooing. Pull the comb from the back top of the scalp forward to the front of the scalp for 60 seconds. "That 60 seconds allows you to dislodge any of the resting hairs that are supposed to be shed.
• Repeat the procedure before three consecutive shampooing sessions, always using the same comb.
• Count and record the number of hairs in the comb and on the pillow or sheet.
• Repeat the procedure every month and discuss results with your dermatologist
Try it at home so you would know if you are balding or not. FUN AND EASY.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Sex, masturbation linked to prostate cancer risk
Did you know that men who are very sexually active in their 20s and 30s run a higher risk of prostate cancer, suggests a new study.
The study of more than 800 men, led by the famous University, also found that frequent sexual activity in a man's forties appears to have little effect and if done in fifties it could in fact offer protection from the disease.
However, the study attributed most of the differences to masturbation rather than sexual intercourse.
The researchers looked at the sexual practices of more than 431 men who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 60, together with 409 controls.
All the men were quizzed on all aspects of their sex life from their twenties onwards, including how old they were when they became sexually active, how often they masturbated and had intercourse, how many sexual partners they have had and whether they have had any sexually transmitted diseases.
We were keen to look at the links between sexual activity and younger men as a lot of prostate cancer studies focus on older men as the disease is more prevalent in men over 50.
"Hormones appear to play a key role in prostate cancer and it is very common to treat men with therapy to reduce the hormones thought to stimulate the cancer cells. A man's sex drive is also regulated by his hormone levels, so this study examined the theory that having a high sex drive affects the risk of prostate cancer.
"What makes our study stand out from previous research is that we focused on a younger age group than normal and included both intercourse and masturbation at various stages in the participants' lives.
"Overall we found a significant association between prostate cancer and sexual activity in a man's twenties and between masturbation and prostate cancer in the twenties and thirties. However there was no significant association between sexual activity and prostate cancer in a man's forties.
"A possible explanation for the protective effect that men in their fifties appear to receive from overall sexual activity, and particularly masturbation, is that the release of accumulated toxins during sexual activity reduces the risk of developing cancer in the prostate area.
This theory has, however, not been firmly established and further research is necessary." (ANI)
Therefore, we have to control our self not to experience this kind of deadly disease.
The study of more than 800 men, led by the famous University, also found that frequent sexual activity in a man's forties appears to have little effect and if done in fifties it could in fact offer protection from the disease.
However, the study attributed most of the differences to masturbation rather than sexual intercourse.
The researchers looked at the sexual practices of more than 431 men who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 60, together with 409 controls.
All the men were quizzed on all aspects of their sex life from their twenties onwards, including how old they were when they became sexually active, how often they masturbated and had intercourse, how many sexual partners they have had and whether they have had any sexually transmitted diseases.
We were keen to look at the links between sexual activity and younger men as a lot of prostate cancer studies focus on older men as the disease is more prevalent in men over 50.
"Hormones appear to play a key role in prostate cancer and it is very common to treat men with therapy to reduce the hormones thought to stimulate the cancer cells. A man's sex drive is also regulated by his hormone levels, so this study examined the theory that having a high sex drive affects the risk of prostate cancer.
"What makes our study stand out from previous research is that we focused on a younger age group than normal and included both intercourse and masturbation at various stages in the participants' lives.
"Overall we found a significant association between prostate cancer and sexual activity in a man's twenties and between masturbation and prostate cancer in the twenties and thirties. However there was no significant association between sexual activity and prostate cancer in a man's forties.
"A possible explanation for the protective effect that men in their fifties appear to receive from overall sexual activity, and particularly masturbation, is that the release of accumulated toxins during sexual activity reduces the risk of developing cancer in the prostate area.
This theory has, however, not been firmly established and further research is necessary." (ANI)
Therefore, we have to control our self not to experience this kind of deadly disease.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Six Myths about STRESS
Stress is a part of our lives and there’s no getting around it. But as much as we all live with it, many of us misunderstand some of the basics about stress and its role in our lives. Why does this matter? Stress has been indicted in many research studies in exacerbating very real physical illnesses — everything from heart disease to Alzheimer’s disease. Reducing stress can not only help you feel better, but also live a longer, disease-free life.
Let’s look at some of the common myths surrounding stress.
Myth 1: Stress is the same for everybody.
Stress is not the same for everybody, nor does everyone experience stress in the same way. Stress is different for each and every one of us. What is stressful for one person may or may not be stressful for another; each of us responds to stress in an entirely different way.
For instance, some people may get stressed out paying the monthly bills every month, while for others such a task isn’t stressful at all. Some get stressed out by high pressure at work, while others may thrive on it.
Myth 2: Stress is always bad for you.
According to this view, zero stress makes us happy and healthy. But this is wrong — stress is to the human condition what tension is to the violin string: too little and the music is dull and raspy; too much and the music is shrill or the string snaps.
Stress in and of itself is not bad (especially in small amounts). So while stress can be the kiss of death or the spice of life, the key is to understand how best to manage it. Managing stress makes us productive and happy, while mismanaging it may hurt us and cause us to fail or become even more stressed.
Myth 3: Stress is everywhere, so you can’t do anything about it.
So is the possibility of getting into an automobile accident everytime we get into our cars, but we don’t allow that to stop us from driving.
You can plan your life so that stress does not overwhelm you. Effective planning involves setting priorities and working on simple problems first, solving them, and then going on to more complex difficulties.
When stress is mismanaged, it’s difficult to prioritize. All your problems seem to be equal and stress seems to be everywhere.
Myth 4: The most popular techniques for reducing stress are the best ones.
No universally effective stress reduction techniques exist (although many magazine articles and pop psychology articles claim to know them!).
We are all different — our lives are different, our situations are different, and our reactions are different. A comprehensive stress management program tailored to the individual works best. But self-help books that can teach you many of the successful stress management techniques can also be of great help, as long as you stick to the program and practice the techniques daily.
Myth 5: No symptoms, no stress.
An absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of stress. In fact, camouflaging symptoms with medication may deprive you of the signals you need for reducing the strain on your physiological and psychological systems.
Many of us experience symptoms of stress in a very physical way, even though stress is a psychological effect. Feeling anxious, shortness of breath, or simply feeling run down all the time can all be physical signs of stress. Feeling overwhelmed, disorganized and having difficulty concentrating are common mental signs of stress.
Myth 6: Only major symptoms of stress require attention.
This myth assumes that the “minor” symptoms, such as headaches or stomach acid, may be safely ignored. Minor symptoms of stress are the early warnings that your life is getting out of hand and that you need to do a better job of managing stress.
If you wait until you start feeling the “major” symptoms of stress (such as a heart attack), it may be too late. Those early warning signs are best listened to earlier rather than later. A change in lifestyle (such as exercising more) to deal with those early warning signs will be far less costly (in time and economics) than dealing with the effects of not listening to them.
This article is based upon a similar article, courtesy of the American Psychological Association.
Let’s look at some of the common myths surrounding stress.
Myth 1: Stress is the same for everybody.
Stress is not the same for everybody, nor does everyone experience stress in the same way. Stress is different for each and every one of us. What is stressful for one person may or may not be stressful for another; each of us responds to stress in an entirely different way.
For instance, some people may get stressed out paying the monthly bills every month, while for others such a task isn’t stressful at all. Some get stressed out by high pressure at work, while others may thrive on it.
Myth 2: Stress is always bad for you.
According to this view, zero stress makes us happy and healthy. But this is wrong — stress is to the human condition what tension is to the violin string: too little and the music is dull and raspy; too much and the music is shrill or the string snaps.
Stress in and of itself is not bad (especially in small amounts). So while stress can be the kiss of death or the spice of life, the key is to understand how best to manage it. Managing stress makes us productive and happy, while mismanaging it may hurt us and cause us to fail or become even more stressed.
Myth 3: Stress is everywhere, so you can’t do anything about it.
So is the possibility of getting into an automobile accident everytime we get into our cars, but we don’t allow that to stop us from driving.
You can plan your life so that stress does not overwhelm you. Effective planning involves setting priorities and working on simple problems first, solving them, and then going on to more complex difficulties.
When stress is mismanaged, it’s difficult to prioritize. All your problems seem to be equal and stress seems to be everywhere.
Myth 4: The most popular techniques for reducing stress are the best ones.
No universally effective stress reduction techniques exist (although many magazine articles and pop psychology articles claim to know them!).
We are all different — our lives are different, our situations are different, and our reactions are different. A comprehensive stress management program tailored to the individual works best. But self-help books that can teach you many of the successful stress management techniques can also be of great help, as long as you stick to the program and practice the techniques daily.
Myth 5: No symptoms, no stress.
An absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of stress. In fact, camouflaging symptoms with medication may deprive you of the signals you need for reducing the strain on your physiological and psychological systems.
Many of us experience symptoms of stress in a very physical way, even though stress is a psychological effect. Feeling anxious, shortness of breath, or simply feeling run down all the time can all be physical signs of stress. Feeling overwhelmed, disorganized and having difficulty concentrating are common mental signs of stress.
Myth 6: Only major symptoms of stress require attention.
This myth assumes that the “minor” symptoms, such as headaches or stomach acid, may be safely ignored. Minor symptoms of stress are the early warnings that your life is getting out of hand and that you need to do a better job of managing stress.
If you wait until you start feeling the “major” symptoms of stress (such as a heart attack), it may be too late. Those early warning signs are best listened to earlier rather than later. A change in lifestyle (such as exercising more) to deal with those early warning signs will be far less costly (in time and economics) than dealing with the effects of not listening to them.
This article is based upon a similar article, courtesy of the American Psychological Association.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
30 Minutes A Day Keeps Fat Away
In the time that it takes to watch a re-run of Friends, you could have burned a significant amount of calories.
There's no need to go to the gym simply try any of the following activities when you have a spare half hour.
An individual who weighs 150 pounds will burn 272 calories in 30 minutes.
Thirty minutes of gardening burns 136 calories while jogging burns 238 calories.
So what are you waiting for? Let us try this simple but terrible tips on how to keep fit in just a few minutes.
There's no need to go to the gym simply try any of the following activities when you have a spare half hour.
An individual who weighs 150 pounds will burn 272 calories in 30 minutes.
Thirty minutes of gardening burns 136 calories while jogging burns 238 calories.
So what are you waiting for? Let us try this simple but terrible tips on how to keep fit in just a few minutes.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Is Snoring dangerous?
Snoring is often a symptom of this serious condition.
Sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition that affects approximately 308 million adults in the around the world, and is most common among overweight men. In sleep apnea, the airway becomes blocked or breathing muscles stop moving. Breathing stops or becomes shallower hundreds of times each night. People with sleep apnea are often less aware of their fatigue and sleepiness than are people with other types of sleep disturbances.
Sleep experts say that doctors should be more vigilant in diagnosing apnea because it contributes not only to daytime sleepiness, but also to traffic accidents, cognitive difficulties, and heart problems.
Until recently, sleep apnea was considered uncommon, and it often remained undiagnosed. Physicians rarely checked for it except in the stereotypical patient — an overweight, middle-aged man who snored. But in 1993, researchers learned that apnea is more common in both men and women than previously thought. They looked for sleep apnea in 602 state employees, ages 30–60, as part of a larger sleep study, and were surprised to find that 9% of women and 24% of men had at least five episodes of reduced breathing, or hypopnea, per hour. About 4% of men and 2% of women were estimated to have the full syndrome of sleep apnea, which includes abnormal breathing events and daytime sleepiness.
So if you are experiencing this, do not hesitate to visit your health provider so you could easily get treated to prevent any unwanted things to happen in your life.
Sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition that affects approximately 308 million adults in the around the world, and is most common among overweight men. In sleep apnea, the airway becomes blocked or breathing muscles stop moving. Breathing stops or becomes shallower hundreds of times each night. People with sleep apnea are often less aware of their fatigue and sleepiness than are people with other types of sleep disturbances.
Sleep experts say that doctors should be more vigilant in diagnosing apnea because it contributes not only to daytime sleepiness, but also to traffic accidents, cognitive difficulties, and heart problems.
Until recently, sleep apnea was considered uncommon, and it often remained undiagnosed. Physicians rarely checked for it except in the stereotypical patient — an overweight, middle-aged man who snored. But in 1993, researchers learned that apnea is more common in both men and women than previously thought. They looked for sleep apnea in 602 state employees, ages 30–60, as part of a larger sleep study, and were surprised to find that 9% of women and 24% of men had at least five episodes of reduced breathing, or hypopnea, per hour. About 4% of men and 2% of women were estimated to have the full syndrome of sleep apnea, which includes abnormal breathing events and daytime sleepiness.
So if you are experiencing this, do not hesitate to visit your health provider so you could easily get treated to prevent any unwanted things to happen in your life.
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