13 Healthy Habits to Improve Your Life

Disregard them, and you may well be taking a big gamble with your mental and emotional well-being.

By Dulce Zamora WebMD Feature

Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD

There are 13 ways to boost your chances of living a happy, healthy life. More can be added to this list, but, for simplicity's sake, we'll stick with this typically unlucky number.

Instead of bringing misfortune, however, the 13 habits promise a life of vigor and vivacity. There are, of course, no guarantees, but many of the practices mentioned here have been published in scientific journals. Disregard them, and you may well be taking a big gamble with your mental and emotional well-being.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 1: EAT BREAKFAST EVERY MORNING

Breakfast eaters are champions of good health. Research shows people who have a morning meal tend to take in more vitamins and minerals, and less fat and cholesterol. The result is often a leaner body, lower cholesterol count, and less chance of overeating.

"That one act [of eating breakfast] seems to make a difference in people's overall weight," says Melinda Johnson, RD, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association (ADA). She says breakfast can hold off hunger pangs until lunchtime and make high-calorie vending machine options less enticing.

Not only that, researchers at the 2003 American Heart Association conference reported that breakfast eaters are significantly less likely to be obese and get diabetes compared with nonbreakfast eaters.

Another study in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition showed that people who consumed breakfast cereal every day reported feeling better both physically and mentally than those who rarely ate cereal in the morning.

For kids, breakfast appears to enhance alertness, attention, and performance on standardized achievement tests, reports the ADA.

To get the full benefits of breakfast, the Mayo Clinic recommends a meal with carbohydrates, protein, and a small amount of fat. They say that because no single food gives you all of the nutrients you need, eating a variety of foods is essential to good health.

Yet, even with so much scientific support that breakfast does the body good; many people still make excuses not to eat in the morning. They include not having enough time and not feeling hungry. For these people, Johnson suggests tailoring breakfast to the day.

"When I'm getting ready in the morning, I don't really want to take the time to eat breakfast because that would mean sacrificing sleep," says Johnson. "So I bring my breakfast with me, and I know I have an hour when I'm reading emails in the office when I can eat it. By that time, I'm hungry because I've been up for almost a couple of hours."

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 2: ADD FISH AND OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS TO YOUR DIET

The AHA recommends a serving of fish two times per week.

Besides being a good source of protein and a food relatively low in the bad type of dietary fat called saturated fat, fish has omega-3 fatty acids -- which have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon, are rich in two kinds of omega-3 fatty acids: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Foods such as tofu, soybeans, canola, walnuts, flaxseed, and their oils contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which convert to omega-3 in the body. Even though the benefits of ALA are controversial, the AHA still recommends foods containing it as part of a healthy diet.

In addition to their heart-health benefits, there is some evidence that omega-3 fatty acids may also soothe an overactive immune system, says Johnson. Even though this benefit is still being studied, she says there appears to be a link between getting more omega-3s in your diet and reducing allergies, asthma, eczema, and autoimmune disorders.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 3: GET ENOUGH SLEEP

"Your body has to have enough time to rest," says Michael Fleming, MD, president of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Otherwise, he says you may find yourself feeling cranky and tired.

This may sound like common sense, but according to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), more than two-thirds of older adults suffer from sleep problems and many American adults don't get the minimum amount of shuteye needed to stay alert.

Sleep is vital to good health and to mental and emotional well-being. The NSF reports that people who don't get enough slumber are more likely than others to develop psychiatric problems and to use health care services. Plus, sleep deprivation can negatively affect memory, learning, and logical reasoning.

Not enough ZZZs can also be hazardous. More than one-half of adult drivers -- some 100 million people -- say they have driven drowsy in the past year, according to NSF polls. About one out of five of these drivers -- 32 million people -- say they've fallen asleep while driving.

Each year drowsy driving causes more than 100,000 car crashes, 1,500 deaths, and tens of thousands of injuries, reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The NSF recommends taking a 15 to 20 minute nap. Because it takes about 30 minutes for the caffeine to work, taking a nap while you wait for the caffeine to kick in can help restore alertness.

To avoid the pitfalls of insufficient sleep, make sure to get at least seven to 10 hours of slumber each night. Kids need more sleep, depending on their age.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 4: MAKE SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

Volunteer. Go to church. Join a club. Whatever you do, do it with people. Communal activities are good for your physical and mental health, according to a study published in the March/April 2004 issue of the American Journal of Health Behavior.

It makes sense, says C. David Jenkins, PhD, author of Building Better Health: A Handbook of Behavioral Change. He says social ties have many benefits, including:

• Providing information. You may think for instance your frequent nosebleeds, coughing, and sneezing episodes are trivial, but when a close friend or relative hears of it, he or she may encourage you to go to a doctor. If the symptoms turn out to be a serious condition, the social tie could have saved your life.
  
• Instrumental help. Friends and family can provide physical support in time of need. They may help with cooking, cleaning, running errands, doing grocery shopping, and driving to the doctor's office.
  
• Emotional support. Sharing a problem with a trusted person can help alleviate an internal burden. "It's a load off your chest," says Jenkins.
  
• Offering a sense of belonging. This feeling not only helps reinforce a person's identity, it also assists in preventing and overcoming depression and anxiety.
  

Community ties also help improve mental functioning, says Fleming. Group activities can help keep the mind active and maintain desirable levels of serotonin -- the brain chemical associated with mood. "Lack of social interaction will [decrease] serotonin levels," says Fleming.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 5: EXERCISE FOR BETTER HEALTH

We already know that physical activity has a bounty of benefits, which makes it so puzzling why so many people just don't do it. According to the CDC, more than 60% of Americans do not get regular exercise.

In case you needed an incentive, here is a review of the advantages of exercise, per the National Cancer Institute:

• Helps control weight
  
• Maintains healthy bones, muscles, and joints
  
• Reduces risk of developing high blood pressure and diabetes
  
• Promotes psychological well-being
  
• Reduces risk of death from heart disease
  
• Reduces risk of premature death
  

Studies have also shown a link between exercise and a reduced risk of certain cancers.

Besides its long-term effects, moving your body has immediate benefits, says Cedric Bryant, chief exercise physiologist for the American Council on Exercise. The short-term results of exercise include helping people to think and move better, manage stress, improve mood, and get an energy boost.

The excuses that people often give to not exercise are the precise reasons to exercise, says Bryant. People who say they are too tired or don't have time to workout don't realize that exercise gives people more energy and allows them to be more productive with the rest of their time.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 6: PRACTICE GOOD DENTAL HYGIENE

Flossing your teeth every day could add 6.4 years to your life, according to Michael Roizen, MD, author of RealAge. In his book, Roizen lists flossing as one of the most important daily activities -- along with exercise and quitting smoking -- that could extend life span.

Roizen's calculation may raise some eyebrows, but the idea that oral health is connected to overall health isn't far-fetched.

The mouth, after all, is an integral part of the body. "Teeth have a blood supply, and that blood supply comes from the heart," says Richard Price, DMD, consumer advisor for the American Dental Association (ADA).

Researchers suspect that the bacteria that produce dental plaque enter the bloodstream. They say these bacteria are somehow associated with the inflammation that occurs with plaque that blocks blood vessels and causes heart disease.

Other researchers have found links between oral bacteria and stroke, diabetes, and the birth of preterm babies and those that have low birth weight.

In addition to preventing disease, flossing and brushing can help keep your pearly whites intact for more than just cosmetic reasons. Teeth help you chew food, speak properly, and smile -- which, according to Price, can help you keep your dignity.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 7: TAKE UP A HOBBY

Look up the word "hobby" in the Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, and you will find the definition as "a pursuit outside one's regular occupation engaged in especially for relaxation."

Since they are relaxing activities, hobbies are usually enjoyable. Some people find joy in craftwork, bird watching, sports, going to flea markets, walking in the park, or playing cards.

The joy may help people live healthier and recover better from illness. For one thing, taking part in hobbies can burn calories, more so than just sitting in front of the TV.

In a study of people who had undergone surgery, Jenkins found that people who were involved in hobbies before their operation had better recovery six months later, compared with people who did not have hobbies.

The participants with hobbies tended to have more drive and interest in things and other people, says Jenkins. "It was a more active orientation to life."

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 8: PROTECT YOUR SKIN

Our skin starts to age as soon as we are born and, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the best way to protect it and look younger is to stay out of the sun.

The sun has harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause wrinkles, dryness, and age spots. Overexposure can cause sunburn, skin texture changes, dilated blood vessels, and skin cancers.

Avoiding the sun, however, is not always ideal or practical. To reduce the risk of skin damage, the AAD offers the following tips:

• Always wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
  
• Don a hat with a brim and wear other protective clothing.
  
• Don't deliberately sunbathe.
  
• Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
  

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 9: SNACK THE HEALTHY WAY

The ADA recommends five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day as part of a healthy diet. These plant foods can do many things to boost good health, including:

• Reduce the risk of some cancers
  
• Beat the signs of aging
  
• Improve memory
  
• Promote heart health
  
• Enhance the immune system
  

One way to incorporate fruits and veggies into your diet is to have them as snacks. "If you can do one thing [to improve your health], concentrate on getting fruits and veggies," says Johnson. "They are low in calories and high in nutrients."

She says baby carrots and cut-up produce make tasty, convenient munchies. Other healthful snacks include low-fat yogurt and nuts (in moderation).

The best time to snack is when you are hungry between meals, says Johnson. But beware: Cravings could easily be mistaken for hunger cues, especially for people who are dieting.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 10: DRINK WATER AND EAT DAIRY

Water and milk are essential fluids for good health, but they can also help with shedding pounds.

The body needs water to keep properly hydrated and individuals vary widely in how much water they need. Joints need it to stay in motion, and vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidney, and liver need it to work properly.

If you don't get enough water, the body goes into emergency mode, and clings to every single water molecule it can find, reports the University of Minnesota Water Resources Center. The stored molecules appear as extra weight. The weight is only released once the body gets enough water.

The calcium in dairy, on the other hand, is known to be important for strong bones and teeth. Studies have also shown it can help prevent high blood pressure, kidney stones, heart disease, and colon cancer.

In the weight loss arena, three 8-ounce glasses of low-fat or fat-free milk appear to encourage body fat loss while maintaining muscle mass, according to the ADA. The dairy consumption must be part of a balanced reduced-calorie meal plan.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 11: DRINK TEA

"Decaffeinated tea is better," says Fleming, noting that the caffeinated variety can be dehydrating, and sugary drinks can lead to weight gain.

There is some evidence that tea may help in improving memory, and preventing cavities, cancer, and heart disease. Fleming says, though, that the overall research is still inconclusive.

"There may well be some beneficial effects of tea, particularly the potential antioxidant effect, but we don't have great data on that right now that is that specific."

However, there's no doubt that a cool iced tea can be a refreshing treat during hot days. Try flavoring your tea with juices, fruits, cinnamon sticks, ginger, and other condiments.

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 12: TAKE A DAILY WALK

We already mentioned the merits of exercise in habit No. 5. Now, here's a tip on how to incorporate physical activity into your daily life: WALK.

We're not talking about taking the time out of your busy schedule to work out -- that's important, too -- but infusing life- and limb-saving movement into your waking hours.

"Just move. Pace during phone calls, while you're brushing your teeth, while watching your son's soccer game," says Bryant, noting that every 20 steps a person takes is 1 calorie burned.

An eight-year study of 13,000 people also showed that people who walked 30 minutes daily had a significantly reduced chance of premature death compared with those who rarely exercised, reports the American Council on Exercise.

And there are plenty of opportunities to move those legs:

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
  
• Walk to the store.
  
• Window shop at the mall.
  
• Leave your desk and visit your co-worker instead of sending him an email.
  
• Walk and talk with friends instead of meeting for a meal.
  

HEALTHY HABIT NO. 13: PLAN

There is, perhaps, no better word in the English language to better illustrate how you can incorporate healthy habits into your everyday life.

"A little planning goes a long way," says Johnson. "Eating healthy never happens by accident."

For the most part, neither do good fitness, skin protection, healthy teeth, weight loss, and social ties. Many of these habits take effort that need to be scheduled into busy lives.

To eat healthy, for example, it would help to set aside time to draft a menu, make a grocery list, go to the store, prepare meals, and pack breakfast and lunch.

Chocolates

Chocolate: Universal Product of Pleasure, Love and Friendship Chocolate transcends all the barriers of age, gender, race, color, religion, language and nationality. Show a person who does not enjoy eating chocolates. It's in true sense a boundaryless entity.

History

• First chocolate house opened in London in 1657.
  
• Physician and collector Hans Sloane developed milk chocolate drink in Jamaica in 1689, which was later sold to Cadbury brothers.
  
• In 1700, mechanical mills were used to squeeze out cocoa butter that was used to make hard durable chocolate.
  
• The modern process of making chocolates was developed after the industrial revolution.
  
• New machines were manufactured and the product chocolate was sold throughout the world as a much liked product.
  

Process

• Cocoa is produced from cacao trees.
  
• Trees grow the pods containing in it the cocoa beans.
  
• Once the pods are fully ripe, they are harvested by cutting them from the trees.
  
• Beans are removed from the pods.
  
• Beans are placed in bins to ferment which gives them the famous chocolate taste.
  
• The beans are then quickly dried.
  
• Beans are transported to chocolate manufacturing site.
  
• Beans are cleaned, roasted and graded.
  
• Shells are removed to extract the nib.
  
• Nibs are now ground that releases and melts the cocoa butter producing chocolate liquor.
  
• Chocolate liquor is processed to give cocoa solids and cocoa butter which are used to make chocolates by mixing milk powder or condensed milk and sugar.
  

Production of Cocoa Beans

• Around 70% of world's cocoa is produced in Western Africa.
  
• Around 50 million people in the world are employed around the production of cocoa.
  
• Three most dominant chocolate makers are: Barry Callebaut, Cargill and Archer Danilels Midland Company.
  

Types of Chocolates

• Dark chocolate.
  
• Milk chocolate.
  
• White chocolate.
  

Caution for Storing Chocolates

• Chocolates are sensitive to heat and moisture.
  
• Therefore, take care to store the chocolates.
  
• Keep them in refrigerator.
  
• Ideal temperature for storage: around 17 degrees centigrade.
  
• Ideal relative humidity: less than 50%.
  
• Do not store them near other food items. Chocolates may absorb the aroma of other food items.
  
• Keep the chocolates properly wrapped.
  

Advantages and Dis-advantages of Eating Chocolates

• Gives pleasure.
  
• Dark chocolate is good for circulatory system.
  
• Brain stimulator.
  
• Anticancer.
  
• Cough preventer.
  
• Anti diarrhea.
  
• Taken in large quantity, results in obesity.
  
• It may be addictive.
  
• Possibility of mild lead poisoning.
  
  

_________________

Jessy-nicefun.net

A Quit Smoking Tip That Can Change Your Life

Do you want to quit smoking?
There is a very powerful quit smoking tip that can literally change your life – because it would ensure your 100% success. Do you want to know what this is? Read on and find out all about it.

What You Need To Quit Smoking Once For AllI read once a quip that made me smile – `Who says quitting smoking is difficult?

I have quit it five times and there is nothing to it.' Yes, usually this is what happens. You think you left smoking for good and the habit is behind you. Then, you just smoke once with your friends – for the sake of old times – and that is it.In your mind, this is just a one-time-smoke bit; nothing to worry about.

This would be like an occasional chocolate cake slice when you diet.
However, in no time, you find yourself `treating' yourself on a regular basis, and supposedly out of the blue you will back smoking regularly again. You need to know and keep in mind that getting back to smoking is extremely easy.
_________________

Stayer-nicefun.net

10 rules to stay young..!!!

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height.Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay "them!"
   
2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.
   
3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.
   
4. Enjoy the simple things.
   
5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.
   
6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.
   
7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.
   
8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable,improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
   
9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.
   
10. Tell the people that you love them, at every opportunity.
    AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
    Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
    _________________
    

Monica

Source ; milis nicefun

10 Reasons To Eat Fruit

1. Fruit consists for the largest part of water
   Just like the human body does. If you think about it, it's logical to consume food that contains as much water as your body does...
   
2. Fruit Stimulates Our Memories
   If you didn't know yet: fruit is the ultimate brain fuel. Fruit has a positive effect on our brains and makes you recall information easier and faster...
   
3. The Miraculous Healing Effects Of Fruit
   Spectacular stories about people that cured from cancer by a strict diet of raw fruits and/or vegetables are well known but do we want tobelieve them? We still don't know that much about fruit and its contents...
   
4. Fruit Is 100% Bad-Cholesterol Free
   No doubt about this reason. Too much cholesterol is not good for our bodies and fruit doesn't contain much cholesterol. Animal products like meat and dairy contain a lot of cholesterol...
   
5. Fruit Makes You Feel Better
   Several stories have told us about people that were frequently depressed and how they got out of their depression slowly but surely after consuming substantial amounts of fresh fruit on a regular basis. Eating a lot of fruit can have a mysterious healing effect on human beings...
   
6. Ethical Reasons To Eat Fruit
   
   Fruit doesn't have to be killed and slaughtered before you can eat it. The fruits are just hanging there waiting to be picked by you...
   
7. Fruit is not expensive at all
   Did you always think that fruit is an expensive product? Take a good look at how much money you spend on other food. It could be worth something to replace some of those expenses with fruit...
   
8. Fibers
   We do know now that a diet with plenty of fibers helps against corpulence, high blood pressure, and other factors that increase the chance for a heart disease. The food that contains these healthy (natural) fibers is.... right: FRUIT!
   
9. Fruit Is The Most Natural Food
   
   Fruit is food that has been made by plants to be eaten by animals and humans in order to spread its seeds...
   
10. The Human Diet
    Here at The Fruit Pages we are convinced that a good human diet should consist of freshly squeezed fruit juices, bread, vegetables and some water. Since it is hard for the average homo sapiens to conform him or herself to such a severe diet, we suggest that one starts by eating five to nine pieces of fruit a day...
    _________________
    

neha

Source ; milis nicefun

10 Foods that Keep Your Arteries Clean

Your arteries are blood vessels that transport oxygen and nutrients from your heart to the rest of your body. In order for this important process to occur, your arteries should be flexible, strong, elastic and clear of any deposits. All fruits and vegetables are said to help prevent heart disease, but certain varieties (like apples) pack a particularly powerful punch.

However, over time deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium and other substances can build up in your arteries. These plaques can severely restrict blood flow and, even more seriously, they can cause your arteries to rupture, leading to blood clots. Blood clots can then block your blood flow entirely, leading to heart attack and stroke.

In fact, a build-up of plaques in your arteries, known as atherosclerosis, is the main underlying cause of heart disease.So keeping your arteries clean is not only a key part of your heart health, it's a key to your health overall.While exercising on most days of the week is an excellent way to keep your arteries healthy, your diet also plays a major role. Here we've identified 10 foods that are especially adept at helping to keep your arteries clean.

1. Grapefruit: It contains a type of fiber called pectin, which has been shown in animal studies to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis.
   
2. Green Tea: This healthy beverage contains procyanidins, which have been found to help prevent blood clots and promote healthy endothelium (the tissues that lines blood vessels and your heart).
   
3. Apples: Apples (particularly Red Delicious and Granny Smith) are also rich in procyanidins.
   
4. Garbanzo beans: Garbanzo beans contain both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, which help to remove cholesterol- containing bile from your body. They are also known to help prevent heart disease.
   
5. Olive oil: Using olive oil as your exclusive source of oil may cut your risk of coronary heart disease almost in half, according to the CARDIO2000 case-control study, published in Clinical Cardiology. Meanwhile, studies show that particles of LDL (bad) cholesterol that contain monounsaturated fats (found in olive oil) are less likely to become oxidized. This is important because only oxidized cholesterol is able to stick to your artery walls and form plaques.
   
6. Spinach: This leafy green contains both vitamin C and vitamin A, which team up to prevent cholesterol from becoming oxidized (and thereby helping to prevent plaques from forming in your arteries).
   
7. Salmon: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fats, which make blood less likely to clot inside arteries and prevent cholesterol from becoming damaged or oxidized. Choose wild-caught salmon (instead of farm-raised) for the most benefits.
   
8. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may make LDL cholesterol much less susceptible to becoming oxidized -- again, this is the first step in the formation of plaque formation and is a major risk factor for heart disease.
   
9. Swiss Chard: Swiss chard is an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin E, which helps prevent free radicals from oxidizing cholesterol. Eating a diet rich in vitamin E has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
   
10. Garlic: Garlic helps your heart and arteries in numerous ways, including:
    

• Stimulating the production of nitric oxide in the lining of blood vessels, which may help them to relax
  
• Inhibiting coronary artery calcification, which serves as a marker for plaque formation
  
• Preventing the oxidation of cholesterol
  
• Reducing the formation of nanoplaque (the first building blocks of plaque) by up to 40% and reducing the size of the nanoplaque that has already formed by up to 20%, according to a study by German scientist Professor Güautnter Siegel, M.D., from the University of Medicine in Berlin
  __________________
  

Rabiya

Source ; milis nicefun

Allergy Prevention Tips

    * Air Conditioning and Allergies
To help alleviate problems with pollen, molds and dust mites, air condition your house and car and, if possible, add an air cleaner to your central air conditioner.

    * Anaphylactic Shock
Anaphylactic shock, the most severe allergic reaction, is most commonly associated with bee or fire ant stings. If welts (hives) erupt following a sting, this is a warning flag to seek prompt medical attention.

    * Attic Fans
Don't use your attic fan during allergy season. The fan sucks pollen into the house.

    * Avoid Dyes
Avoid dyes, especially the ones in toilet paper. Use white to wipe.

    * Bedding and Dust Mites
If dust mites give you trouble, seal your mattress, box springs and pillows in allergy-resistant plastic covers available at most discount stores.

    * Carpeting Causes Allergy Problems
Allergy experts recommend you dump the carpeting and use throw rugs instead. Since most people enjoy a carpeted home, try the new allergy care carpet treatments now available.

    * Cheap Fungicide
Clean humid areas, such as the bathroom and basement, with a fungicide (mold-killer). A cheap and effective one is bleach. Use a solution of 3/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water, let stand 5 minutes and rinse.

    * Choose Antiperspirants Carefully
Aluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate and zirconium chlorohydrate in antiperspirants often cause dermatitis, especially after shaving. Try to choose antiperspirants that contain the anti-irritants allantoinate, zinc oxide, magnesium oxide, aluminum hydroxide, or triethanolamine.

    * Cold Compresses for Allergy Relief
Are your allergy eyes giving you fit? Try a cold compress for 15-20 minutes. Wet a washcloth with cold water and place over your eyes.

    * Common Allergens and Allergy Symptoms
A listing of common allergens: pollen, mold spores, dust mites, animal dander, feathers, foods, medications, and insect stings. Common allergy symptoms: watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and a constant runny nose.

    * Common Pollens
The most common pollens causing allergies include: tree pollens (April - May), grasses (June - July) and ragweed (August - October).

    * Dandruff and Shampoo Dyes
Dandruff sufferers may be allergic to the dyes in the shampoo they use. Even dandruff remedy shampoos often contain dyes.

    * Decongestants and Blood Pressure
If you are hypertensive, over-the-counter decongestants are a big no-no. Decongestants raise blood pressure and can lead to heart attack or stroke.

    * Dehumidifier and Allergies
Keep the humidity in your home below 45%. To measure the humidity level, buy an inexpensive hygrometer available at many discount stores.

    * Driving and Antihistamines
Antihistamines often cause drowsiness and should not be taken if driving or operating machinery.

    * Drug Treatment for Allergies
The over-the-counter antihistamine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) works well for allergy treatment and has few drug interactions. Be sure to read the label for proper dosage, side effects, etc. and check with your doctor if you have any questions.

    * Face Masks
Wear a face mask when doing chores that are most likely to expose you to allergens like vacuuming and gardening. You can buy face masks at a hardware store.

    * Fall Allergies
Even though fall temperatures are mild, keep windows closed and use air conditioning to reduce allergy problems. Air conditioning filters out pollen and keeps humidity low, which keeps indoor mold down.

    * Hay Fever vs. Sinusitis
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is caused by allergies and is often characterized by a runny nose, sneezing and congestion, and itchy eyes, nose, throat and inner ears. Non-allergic rhinitis (sinusitis) is characterized by a swollen, inflamed nasal lining and a stuffy nose. It may be triggered by irritants such as smoke, changes in barometric pressure or temperature, or overuse of over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays.

    * Hidden Sources of Peanuts
Hidden peanut sources may include:
Artificial nuts can be peanuts that have been deflavored and reflavored with a nut, such as pecan or walnut. Mandelonas are peanuts soaked in almond flavoring.

    * Arachis oil is peanut oil.
It is advised that peanut-allergic patients avoid chocolate candies unless they are absolutely certain there is no risk of cross-contact during manufacturing procedures.  African, Chinese, Indonesian, Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes often contain peanuts, or are contaminated with peanuts during preparation of these types of meals. Additionally, foods sold in bakeries and ice cream shops are often in contact with peanuts. It is recommended that peanut-allergic individuals avoid these types of foods and restaurants.  Many brands of sunflower seeds are produced on equipment shared with peanuts.

    * Laundry Allergies
If you have severe allergies to laundry products, try using baking soda to wash your clothing and linens.

    * Mites and Mattress Pads
Wash your mattress pads weekly in hot water to kill dust mites.

    * Nasal Sprays
Don't be tempted to treat an allergy with an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray for more than three days. After a few days of use you may get a "rebound" effect, and your nose may become even more congested than before. These drugs are more useful for short-term use to relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold.

    * No Open Windows
If you're an allergy sufferer do not ride in a vehicle with the windows down or vents wide open. It will worsen your allergies 200 percent. The same goes for your home. Invest in an air conditioner.

    * One Room Sanctuary
If central air conditioning isn't an option for you, make your bedroom your sanctuary. Install a window air conditioner, properly care for your bedding and keep the door closed at all times.

    * Pets, Bedrooms and Allergies
Pet dander is a common allergen, especially cat dander. To ease the suffering that Fido or Fluffy may cause you, ban them from your bedroom at all times.

    * Preventing a More Severe Peanut Allergy Reaction
In one of seven studies published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, researchers say liquid charcoal, which is often used when people ingest poison to block absorption, can also absorb peanuts.

"After you've eaten the peanut and you have an allergic reaction, you still have peanut in your stomach," explained Dr. Donald Leung, editor of the journal. "And so rather than allow further peanut to be absorbed and have an even more severe reaction ... drinking the charcoal will prevent the further triggering of increased symptoms."

Leung advised that parents of young children with the allergy keep liquid charcoal -- available in pharmacies -- in the home, in case of accidental ingestion.

    * Ragweed
Problems with ragweed, the most common weed pollen, usually start in the middle of August and continue until the frost begins. Interestingly, some regions are less affected than others: The West coast does not have any ragweed.

    * Synthetic Pillows
Dust mites like synthetic pillows as much as down or foam ones, but synthetic pillows have the major advantage of being washable in hot water which kills the mites.

    * Tree Allergies
Trees that can cause seasonal allergy symptoms include: maple, ash, oak, elm, birch and cedar. When they pollinate depends on the area in which you live.

_________________

Dr.T

BRAIN, LIVER DAMAGING HABITS & Food causing cancer

Posted by: "grace wijaya" cicak_cicak_di_dinding@yahoo.com


BRAIN DAMAGING HABITS

1. No Breakfast People who do not take breakfast are going to have a lower blood sugar level. This leads to an insufficient supply of nutrients to the brain causing brain degeneration.
   
2. Overeating=2 0 It causes hardening of the brain arteries, leading to a decrease in mental power.
   
3. Smoking It causes multiple brain shrinkage and may lead to Alzheimer disease.
   
4. High Sugar consumption Too much sugar will interrupt the absorption of proteins and nutrients causing malnutrition and may interfere with brain development.
   
5. Air Pollution The brain is the largest oxygen consumer in our 20 body. Inhaling polluted air decreases the supply of oxygen to the brain, bringing about a decrease in brain efficiency.
   
6. Sleep Deprivation Sleep allows our brain to rest.. Long term deprivation from sleep will accelerate the death of brain cells..
   
7. Head covered while sleeping Sleeping with the head covered increases the concentration of carbon dioxide and decrease concentration of oxygen that may lead to brain damaging effects.
   
8. Working your brain during illness Working hard or studying with sickness may lead to a decrease in effectiveness of the brain as well as damage the brain.
   
9. Lacking in stimulating thoughts Thinking is the best way to train our brain, lacking in brain stimulation thoughts may cause brain shrinkage.
   
10. Talking Rarely Intellectual conversations will promote the efficiency of the brain
    

The main causes of liver damage are:

1. Sleeping too late and waking up too late are main cause.
   
2. Not urinating in the morning.
   
3. Too much eating.
   
4. Skipping breakfast.
   
5. Consuming too much medication.
   
6. Consuming too much preservatives, additives, food coloring, and artificial sweetener.
   
7. Consuming unhealthy cooking oil. As much as possible reduce cooking oil use when frying, which includes even the best cooking oils like olive oil. Do not consume fried foods when you are tired, except if the body is20very fit.
   
8. Consuming raw (overly done) foods also add to the burden of liver. Veggies should be eaten raw or cooked 3-5 parts. Fried veggies should be finished in one sitting, do not store.
   

We should prevent this without necessarily spending more. We just have to adopt a good daily lifestyle and eating habits. Maintaining good eating habits and time condition are very important for our bodies to absorb and get rid of unnecessary chemicals according to 'schedule.'

The top five cancer-causing foods are:

1. Hot Dogs Because they are high in nitrates, the Cancer Prevention Coalition advises that children eat no more than 12 hot dogs a month. If you can't live without hot dogs, buy those made without sodium nitrate.
   
2. Processed meats and Bacon Also high in the same sodium nitrates found in hot dogs, bacon, and other processed meats raise the risk of heart disease. The saturated fat in bacon also contributes to cancer.
   
3. Doughnuts Doughnuts are cancer-causing double trouble. First, they are made with white flour, sugar, and hydrogenated oils, then fried at high temperatures. Doughnuts, says Adams , may be the worst food you can possibly eat to raise your risk of cancer.
   
4. French fries Like doughnuts, French fries are made with hydrogenated oils and then fried at high temperatures. They also contain cancer- causing acryl amides which occur during the frying process. They should be called cancer fries, not French fries, said Adams .
   
5. Chips, crackers, and cookies All are usually made with white flour and sugar. Even the ones whose labels claim to be free of trans-fats generally contain small amounts of trans-fats.
   

PASS THIS TO ALL WHOM YOU LOVE & CARE FOR.

Disclaimer : The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions of this article. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the Writer/Sender.

THE ROLE OF FLUOR TO PREVENT TOOTH’S DAMAGE

Many ascriptions in society that to look after tooth only require to be done with just toothbrush. Ascription like this can be correct, but earning wrong also, mean do not with just toothbrush. All important here is not about of true and false, but how society understand benefit from each element supporting conservancy or prevention of tooth's damage. Among existing element is fluor substance which in tooth paste, used every day when brushing tooth. This substance has vital important function in prevention of tooth's damage.

• What Fluor is? Fluor is one of the substances which in certain quantity there is freely in natures (like ground, water, and food-stuff like fish, bread, etc).
  
• Does fluor which implied in the food have last for preventing damage of tooth? If we are regularly eat food with enough content of fluor, hence the mentioned can prevent damage of tooth was without having to added with special fluor.
  

But because we do not have a line on the content, hence passing tooth paste also will follow to assist prevention of damage of tooth, besides hygiene, freshness and fragrance, so that add to feel self confidence. This substance has vital importance for the conservancy of tooth so that remain to health, especially for children, because with amount of fluor consumed will be able to assist forming of tooth enamel that more hold up to damage. Also, fluor useful preventing tooth from process of spoiled.

Actually, fluor can be used through 2 way, that is passing direct contact with tooth, like nut with special fluor condensation (like of fluoridation program for student, wearing tooth paste considering fluor, dabbing fluor to tooth directly done by dentist) and pass ingestion by drinking water or milk, use flour tablet or flour drop.

Actually, fluor in drinking water is very useful for many people and very effective in prevention of damage of tooth, especially for child which in growth progress.

"Fluor is not to heal tooth which have destroyed, but strengthening tooth endurance to influence of acidity causing holey tooth"

Is flour dangerous?
All substances when used abundant or not quite hence will cause problem or dangerous for health. Like also fluor to cause:

1. Damage at tooth in the form of change on tooth color becoming not white anymore like healthy tooth but becoming to turn pale and blur and tooth colors become dark and bitterly. That process referred as fluorosis. Fluorosis do not earn to be cured, but if the sign known earlier can be prevented so that is not continue anymore
   
2. Excess of the fluor also will destroy bone, resulting to feel super pain for bone and at most fatal effect can result paralysis
   
3. This matter also can cause anemia, tooth become spot or pock and dangerous which is very can cause kidney failure.
   

HOW ABOUT AVAILABLE TOOTH PASTE AND DRINKING WATER?
The mentioned above is good question, how people know that tooth paste circulating has enough of fluor's content and how about our drinking water? As we know that government has had all rules in making all product types used by society.

If it is true obeyed, hence the mentioned is not a problem. But we needing also to take heed possibility of negligence existence of officer. In this case all tooth paste products have under observation at processing, so that all paste can be used and just depended in feeling, and aroma of him. So do with our Drinking water.(Jimmy)

Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

Penulis: Health Canada
It is the time of year when the outdoor season in Canada begins, as we finally move away from a long, cold winter, to hours of outdoor fun in backyards, parks, and campgrounds. This time of year also marks the arrival of something far less welcome - mosquitoes and the threat of West Nile (WN virus).

Once regarded as nothing more than a pesky nuisance, mosquitoes now carry the risk of illness, disability and, in rare cases, death. Most people infected with the virus have no symptoms or they have mild, flu-like symptoms. Sometimes though, the virus can cause severe illness, resulting in hospitalization and even death.

Although the risk of serious illness is higher for older people and people with weakened immune systems, anyone can be bitten by an infected mosquito and should take active steps to protect themselves and their communities. It is very important to reduce the risk to you and your family by taking steps to avoid mosquito bites.

Recently, scientists have discovered WN virus can be transmitted in other ways, including blood transfusions and organ/tissue transplants. The risk of getting WN virus this way is considered to be quite low. There is also evidence that pregnant women can pass the virus to their unborn babies and that the virus may be passed through breast milk. In addition, laboratory workers who handle infected specimens can get WN virus through needle punctures or cuts.

There is no evidence to suggest that people can get WN virus by touching or kissing someone who is infected, or from being around a health care worker who has treated an infected person. Nor is there evidence that the virus can pass from infected animals to people, including horses and pets.

Who is at risk?
Anybody can have serious health effects with WN virus infection; however, people with weaker immune systems are considered to be at greater risk for serious health effects.

• Older people.
  
• People with chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, alcoholism, or heart disease.
  
• People that require medical treatment that may weaken the immune system, such as chemotherapy.
  

Although individuals with weaker immune systems are at greater risk, WN virus can cause severe complications for people of any age and any health status. This is why it is so important to reduce the risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes. Anyone exposed to mosquitoes in an area where WN virus has been detected is at some degree of risk for infection.

Reduce your risk!
To avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, you can take action on two fronts:

• 
  
  Minimize your exposure to mosquitoes:
  • Mosquitoes can bite at anytime - day or night
    
  • When going outdoors, use insect repellents that contain DEET or other approved ingredients.
    
  • Wear protective clothing such long-sleeved shirts, long pants and a hat. Light coloured clothing is best because mosquitoes tend to be more attracted to dark colours.
    
  • Make sure that door and window screens fit tightly and have no holes that may allow mosquitoes indoors.
    
• 
  
  Eliminate mosquito breeding sites around your home and cottage:
  Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water and it takes about four days for the eggs to grow into adults that are ready to fly. Even a small amount of water, for example, in a saucer under a flower pot, is enough to act as a breeding ground. As a result, it is important to eliminate as much standing water around your property as possible by:
  • Regularly draining standing water from items like pool covers, saucers under flowerpots, recycle bins, garbage cans etc.
    
  • Remove old unused items from around your property including old tires, which have a tendency to collect water.
    
  • Change the water in wading pools, birdbaths, pet bowls and livestock watering tanks twice a week.
    
  • Cover rain barrels with screens.
    
  • Clean out eaves troughs regularly to prevent clogs that can trap water.
    
  • If you have an ornamental pond, consider getting fish that will eat mosquito larvae.
    

What about pesticides?
Over-the-counter products that are designed to get rid of garden pests are not effective for overall mosquito control. For other pesticides, only workers who are licensed by provincial authorities and are trained in the safe use of pesticides can carry out mosquito control programs. Decisions on whether or not to use pesticides to control the spread of WN virus in your community will be made by local and provincial health authorities. For more information, see the Health Canada information sheet "Using Pesticides to Control Mosquitoes".

West Nile virus symptoms

What to watch for
Many infected people do not get sick and show only mild symptoms or none at all. When infection does cause illness, symptoms will usually appear within two to 15 days. The extent and severity of symptoms vary widely from person to person.

Mild symptoms:

• Fever
  
• Headache
  
• Body aches
  
• Mild rash
  
• Swollen lymph nodes.
  

For those with weakened immune systems WN virus can develop into encephalitis (swelling of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain or spinal cord). These conditions can be fatal.

Severe symptoms:

• Rapid onset of severe headache
  
• High fever
  
• Stiff neck
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Difficulty swallowing
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Confusion
  
• Loss of consciousness
  
• Lack of coordination
  
• Muscle weakness
  
• Paralysis.
  

Anyone who has a sudden onset of these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
During 2002, several other symptoms of WN virus were identified including movement disorders, parkinsonism, poliomyelitis-like syndrome and muscle degeneration. Because WN virus is an emerging disease, the long-term effects are not fully understood. Studies to date show that some people with serious symptoms and health effects recover completely, while others experience prolonged health problems.

These problems can include:

• Physical effects- long-term muscle weakness and paralysis, fatigue and headache
  
• Cognitive effects-confusion, depression, concentration problems and memory loss
  
• Functional effects-difficulty making meals, going out, shopping or other tasks.
  

Scientists do not know why some people recover while others continue to have varying degrees of health problems.

Is there a cure on the horizon?
There is currently no specific treatment, medication or cure for the virus although many of the symptoms can be treated. At this time, there is no licensed vaccine to protect people against WN virus. In the United States, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has supported research to develop a vaccine against WN virus, with human trials to begin this year. Health Canada is monitoring these developments closely.

Prostate and Testicular Cancer

Penulis: CCS
There are many good reasons to take charge of your health. As we grow older, the risk of developing a chronic disease like cancer increases. Understanding what's normal for your body is an important part of staying healthy. So get to know your body, learn the warning signs of cancer and follow a healthy lifestyle.

Scientists are researching new tests and examinations to find cancer before it has a chance to grow and spread. Already some common types of cancer can be found early through screening tests. It's important to talk to your doctor about what screening programs are appropriate for you and make sure you take advantage of them.

Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Canadian men. It is a tumour of the prostate gland, a gland located just below the bladder where the fluid of semen is produced.

What causes prostate cancer
There is no single cause of prostate cancer, but some factors appear to increase the risk of developing it:

• Age - particularly after 65 (prostate cancer is uncommon in men under 50)
  
• Family history of prostate cancer
  
• Being of African ancestry
  
• High levels of testosterone
  
• Using cadmium at work
  
• Some men develop prostate cancer without any of these risk factors
  

What you can do

• If you are 50 years of age or older talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of screening for prostate cancer.
  
• If you have a higher than average risk for prostate cancer, you may wish to discuss the possibility of starting screening at a younger age.
  

What to watch for

• frequent, difficult or painful urination
  
• dribbling urination
  
• urine that contains blood or pus
  
• pain in the lower back, pelvic area or upper thighs
  
• pain during ejaculation
  

Testicular cancer
Although testicular cancer is quite rare, it is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 20 and 45. But it can almost always be treated successfully. The testicles are located behind the penis in a sac called the scrotum. Testicular cancer may cause one or both of the testicles to enlarge or it may cause a lump in the scrotum. There may or may not be pain with the swelling.

What you can do

• All men aged 15 or over should check their testicles regularly.
  
• Become familiar with your testicles so you can detect any changes early; report any changes to your doctor.
  
• Have regular medical check-ups by your doctor that include testicular examination.
  

What to watch for

• Any change in size, shape, consistency, swelling or sensation of your testicles or scrotum
  
• Pain in the testicles or scrotum
  
• A dull ache or heaviness in your lower abdomen
  
• Unusual and persistent backache
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  

Reducing your risk of cancer
Research continues to show that some cancers can be prevented. Start with these steps and begin to reduce your risk of developing cancer.

• Get to know your body.
  
• Don't shrug off the warning signs.
  
• Follow a healthy lifestyle.

Osteoporosis Recognized, Then Avoid

Penulis: Drg. James Johnson, MPH
Osteoporosis come from word of osteo with the meaning bone, porous mean bar. Osteoporosis is disease marked by the decreases of mass and bone mineral so that cause the condition of bone become brittle, porous and breakable. First time hear word of osteoporosis, possible many questions pop out in our mind. Do I can be hit? How his sign? Whosever able to be hit? How to prevent?

Osteoporosis is not new matter for us, but still many people who not yet understood cause and prevention of him. At fact that happened in this time, osteoporosis not again property of old people but also them which is have young age too. It can be prevented altered indisposed life style (badly eat pattern, low physical activity, alcohol consumption and smoking), enough for sunshine and enough for calcium input which is adjusted for each age.

WHY BONE CAN EXPERIENCE OF POROUSED?
As effect of lack of everyday physical activity done by children until adult, and also the lack consume of calcium, so density of bone become to lower until the happening of osteoporosis. Bone is organ which always change and experience of renewal (remodeling).

The renewal process started with absorption process of bone mass (resorpsi), and then continued by re-filling gap process that happened at bone (formation). Unhappily, increased happened of age also change of its process, where process of resorpsi occur abundant without followed by enough formation process. As result, bones become attenuate and brittle.

OSTEOPOROSIS AFFECTED INDICATION?
At early stadium osteoporosis do not give real indication, we earn to distrust if there is feeling pain in undercarriage back, there is high curtailment of body. Effect of weak backbone, hence will easy to fall and burst, which is common indication the happening of osteoporosis. Part of body which is gristle broken is neck area, thigh jetty, backbone and around] wrist.

WHOSO EVER WHICH IS SUSCEPTIBLE OF OSTEOPOROSIS?

• Less physical activity and sport
  
• Experiencing of menopause quickly (praecox)
  
• Habitual of smoking / drink of alcohol
  
• Under normal weight of body / less nutrient
  
• Have history of osteoporosis in family
  
• Have used steroid medicines during long times, or use drug of antitiroid redundantly.
  
• Fatness / obesities.
  

Is it correct that woman more susceptible?
Woman in age 0-35 year, if she follows healthy life pattern, the body will make more bone mass deposit than bone mass that absorbent by his body. But starting age 35 year, intake of bone mass become a more regular, while depository of bone mass just remain.

At the moment entering age 35 year, bone density of woman decrease 0.5% - 1% in every year. After entering a period of menopause, where hormone rate of estrogen significantly decreased, woman can lose 2%-3% bone mass in every year and that take place during 10 years in early days of menopause. Estimated during the life, woman will lose bone mass 30% - 50%, while man only 20% - 30%. But it is not mean, that all woman with menopause will experience of osteoporosis. Density of bone, factor of nutrition, and physical activity have very big influence.

CALCIUM CAN PREVENT OSTEOPOROSIS?
Calcium is tight of bearing with health of bone, because this mineral which make bone. 90 % of calcium in body kept in tooth and bone, the rest spread over in blood and soft network. Suggested mean of calcium in Indonesia is 500-800 mg per people, for day. For old age and woman with menopause, suggested until 1000 mg / day.

Every day better have never overcome to drink milk, besides the content of salutary, strength of bone will well guaranteed until old age. Soy bean is one of good food which able to pursue osteoporosis. Combining to consume of calcium with sport can preserve from the attack of osteoporosis. Appearances remain to sturdy, nimble and energetic over 20 - 30 year come.

THE BENEFIT OF SPORT PREVENTS OSTEOPOROSIS?
Sport is one of the 'weapon' to overcome osteopeni (flimsy of bone) and osteoporosis (bone porously). Physical practice in forming of strong and healthy bone will respond to accepted burden. Regularly doing encumber sport like foot steps, cycling, jogging, dance, tennis / badminton or go up down stair. And better combine also with flexing practice and balance.

Everyday Physical Activity
Doing healthy life pattern can start since awaking up morning. Momentary after awaking up morning, use opportunity intentionally for have simple sport in house yard about 10 - 15 minutes. If usually alight from vehicle is precise ahead of office, from now used to go down about 200 meter before office. Or if bringing own vehicle, parked the vehicle in place most far from entrance, continuing journey by foot.
Things required to paid attention by patient of osteoporosis when have sport:

1. Avoid burden in front of body Bringing burden in front of body can dangerous, because will encumber backbone to cause broken caused by pressure
   
2. Avoid stomach muscles practices Example: Sit - up do not be suggested because can cause compression fracture.
   
3. Avoid practice entangling backbone Example: stooped forwards from position sit or stand up facilitated the happening of compression fracture.
   

SUNSHINES AS PROHIBITED OF OSTEOPOROSIS?
Enough get morning sunshine shelf as source of vitamin D at least 10 minute along, especially between at the time of 06.00 - 09.00. Better, body which hit by sunshine do not protect by sun screen and long arm clothes, so that forming of vitamin D do not blocked. If Sunshine shelf is not enough yet, its can be assisted by drinking vitamin D supplement with dose 400 - 800 IU.


DON'T FORGET!
CONSULTED YOUR HEALTH AND VISIT YOUR DOCTOR!

Take Care Of Your Heart For The Future

Penulis: Drg. James Johnson, MPH
Heart sickness is one of the Disease Not Catching (PTM) which high is enough from year to year that cause death of human being in this time. And patient age of this disease is young progressively, if is above 40 years old, but now under 40 year old. This disease is caused by life style besides other factor. With progress of technology this time, hence a lot of diseases that is resulting, among others is Disease Not Catching (PTM).

How heart sickness can regarding someone?

We require knowing that heart organ is appliance pump in our body to channel blood to entire our body every day, passing venous which is on body. If these pump stuck or annoyed hence will fatal result for other body organ and result paralysis until death. If us less take care of our behavior in everyday hence possibility there is something that cause venous wall coat stuff up or damage so that venous become to narrow and will facilitate gagging. As a result blood will difficult emit a stream of at ease.

And muscle of heart less gets food supply in the form of oxygen and blood. This matter that is often marked felt pain in bone at chest, especially used up do activity. Its can also marked with chest felt to depress or like crushed, accompanied out of breath. Sometime followed to feel heat in chest until of liver. Can also accompanied by head float, cool sweat, queasy, and throw up. And most complicating of heart attack do not typically, body felt unpleasant like catching a cold habit. Above require taking heed immediately consultancy with cardiologist doctor or to hospital to get information or help utilize further prevention.

Which factor can cause him?

• Clan factor.
  
• Pattern of eat in everyday: food every day plenty of influencing health's of heart, like food which containing many fats, fiber-less and fruit. Because food which containing many fats will be able to result the easiness of pursuing blood stream, besides also will cause fat hoard at heart muscle so that bother heart movement. While fruit or fiber can lessen cholesterol rate.
  
• Smoking: as we know smoke very dangerous for lung and heart and also other body organ.
  
• Less sport or regularly physical activity. Lack of sport regularly or do minimum physical activity about 30 minute will result excess of calorie in body so that castaway do not pass combustion. This matter will cause conglomeration of fat in body so that influence heart motion in pumping blood, so that many organs less oxygen.
  
• Other disease, like high blood pressure and diabetic. Stress: stress which often, can cause badly for the health of heart, where will be able to race harder heart activity.
  

How to prevent?
If we pity with our heart hence we have to Dressy of Healthy Life everyday, that is by:

• Eat by well-balanced menu of nutrition (protein, carbohydrate, many fiber and fruits, lessening fat and salt), Enough of physical practice and sport regularly (minimum physical activity 30 minute every day),
  
• Controlling stress,
  
• Do not smoke or avoid becoming passive smoker,
  
• Avoid drink have alcohol, dangerous drug, narcotic,
  
• Doing inspection of health regularly, especially when have progressively or feel to have symptom like above.
  

Healthy Life Style Tips

• Consciousness eat by well-balanced menu of nutrition and many fibers and also fruit.
  
• No smoking.
  
• Lives consecutively, rest enough, lessening stress.
  
• Start everyday activity with physical activity or sport (minimum 30 minute).
  
• Inculcating self-confidence every doing work.

Nutrient and Health Promotion

Health with well-balanced nutrient is represent as one of the condition of food menu which is good to be accompanied with vegetables and fruit and can also added with flesh which do not contain fish or fat and also fresh beverage of juice and lessen fat and sugar.

Besides eating with well-balanced nutrient added with eating vegetables and fruits nor smoke, doing physical activity regularly every day for minimize 30 minute, avoid to drink alcoholic beverage, and take care of body weight lessened eating many foods considering fat and avoid eating snack or eat in between eat session. This matter can avoid danger with heart and cancer.

From result of Survey Health of Household (SKRT 2001) among resident for 25 year and upstairs indicating that 27% men and 29% woman suffer hypertension, 0,3% experiencing of heart sickness of ischemic and stroke, 1,2% experiencing of diabetes and 1,3% men and 4,6% woman experiencing of body overweight. Cancerous is 6% that cause of death in Indonesia. Disease of cardiovascular as cause of death have mounted from 11th (year 1972) becoming 3rd (year 1986) and become cause of first death in the year 1992,1995 and 2001.

Health Department through Center of Health Promotion has started to do breakthrough that require to be done by preventive effort and tackling have the disease made comprehensive strategy and policy concerning some related element. So that in the year 2003 published policy and inwrought strategy for the prevention and tackling of un-infect disease.

Caused by very close relation between status of nutrient, health degree and diet, hence require to be done by promotion which do well by ate with well-balanced nutrient with many eating fruits and fibers in society, family and each individual for every day.

Smoking and Health Promotion

Tobacco or cigarette is riskiest matter for health of human being. Cigarette widely has come to one that cause biggest death in the world. Anticipated till nearing year 2030 death of effect smoke will reach 10 million people per year. So far, epidemic smoke have happened in developed countries.

And in the year 2030 as estimated not less than 70 % of death, which because of cigarette will happen in developing countries. Indonesia is one of the developing countries owning consumption smoke and high production of cigarette. Product variation and price of smoke in Indonesia have caused Indonesia become one of the producer and at the same time as biggest cigarette consumer in the world.

According to World Bank, consumption of smoke in Indonesia are around 6,6% from entire world consumption. Result Of Susenas (Social Survey of Economics National) 2001 mentioning that:

• 27% citizen have age to 10 year and above express to smoke in one last month.
  
• 54,5% citizen of men is smoker and only 1,2% woman which smoking.
  
• There is improvement equal to 4 % of citizen above 10 year which smoking in range of time 6 year.
  
• 92,0% from smoker express the habit of smoking in home with other household member, thereby most household members are passive smoker.
  
• 68,5% resident start to smoke at age 20 year, mounting 8% from Susenas 1995 that is 60,0%.
  
• Improvement of young age which smoke, age group 25-29 year (75%) and age group 20-24 year (84,0%).
  

Cigarette become especial issue in influencing health, especially for laboring people with young children like teacher, coach etc. From the data above, in fact we have earned to see that more and more underage children have smoked and progressively day progressively mount.

For that, need to always improved for Area Without Cigarette Programs in schools and do counseling and spreading of information, and also added by policy of school concerning enjoinment about smoke in school area. Smoke is one of the very difficult addiction discontinue him.

There is a success people desist to smoke without serious effort, this matter generated with very strong intention. People that have smoked to suggest people to which not yet smoked for don't try if do not want get a problem. Advantage of people desisting to smoke, that is: In 20 minute blood pressure will downhill, pulse go down to become normally, body temperature will become normal return.
(Jhnsn)

Healthy Mouth Healthy Body

Penulis: Nora Underwood

Why dental health is not just about your teeth
We all know that taking care of our teeth every day helps prevent cavities and gum disease. But there are even more compelling reasons to maintain good oral hygiene. In fact, different studies have indicated a link between poor oral health and other health concerns, including diabetes, heart disease and respiratory problems. There is even evidence that may connect periodontal disease in mothers with the development of their babies.

What happens is this: When we eat, the bacteria that is always present in our mouths produces acids-particularly when we eat sugary or starchy foods. In the absence of good oral hygiene, the acids may lead to tooth decay. And without proper brushing and flossing, plaque may form on the teeth and irritate the gums. Unaddressed, the problem can lead to gum disease and ultimately the loss of the tooth. "It's painful," says Dr. Louis Dubé , president of the Canadian Dental Association and a practitioner in Sherbrooke, Quebec, "and painful on your wallet."

A wide-ranging, far-reaching impact
But the problem can get much worse. If there is an abscess or local infection around the tooth, oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and wreak havoc elsewhere. One suggestion is that the bacteria attaches itself to the blood vessels in the heart and contributes to clotting, which prevents the heart from functioning normally.

Another theory is that the bacteria from the mouth may increase the amount of plaque in the coronary arteries. Both may increase the likelihood of heart attack. Similarly, some researchers believe that bacteria in the throat and mouth may be aspirated into the lungs, causing pneumonia or worsening existing lung conditions.

Serious concern for diabetics
Typically, says Dubé, someone who has diabetes is often less capable of combating any disease. And gum disease is no exception, particularly for those who do not have their diabetes under control. In fact, as Dubé notes, gum disease will add doubly to diabetics' concerns as it can make blood sugar levels more difficult to control. Conversely, one study of diabetic Pima Indians with periodontal disease strongly showed that once the oral problems were cleared, diabetes improved.

Gum disease and the developing baby
He also points to a possible connection between a mother who does not have good oral health and the development of her baby. Research has indicated that statistically there is more chance of a pregnant woman having a baby too early or of low birth weight if she has gum disease. "The research hasn't shown a direct effect but we can say there is a potential link," adds Dubé, "so why take a chance?"

Brush up on your dental hygiene
The good news is that sidestepping these problems is relatively easy. "One of the things you have to do to maintain good oral health is brush and floss every day," says Dubé, "but also see your dentist regularly so if there are any problems they can be taken care of when they're small."

Other things you can do to prevent periodontal disease:

1. Eat a well-balanced diet to ensure you get all the vitamins and minerals you need. And if you keep the sugar and starch intake low-or at least brush well after eating-you'll get fewer cavities;
   
2. If you smoke, you not only raise your chance of having heart or lung disease but the tar and nicotine in cigarettes makes you more prone to developing gum disease;
   
3. Check your gums regularly. Look for redness, puffiness, soreness, bleeding or sensitivity-anything that's not comfortable.
   
4. See your dentist regularly, whether or not you are experiencing problems. "Just because you don't see anything doesn't mean there isn't something wrong," adds Dubé. "When we do an exam, we look for any sign of tissue that is not healthy."

Getting serious about the flu

Penulis: Canadian Health Network
It's winter and that means that winter illnesses are heading our way. Influenza or "the flu" is a common infectious, respiratory disease that affects between one in four and one in ten Canadians each year. It can also be serious and deadly. Every year, up to 1,500 Canadians, mostly seniors, die from influenza-related pneumonia and many others die from other influenza related complications such as an aggravation of underlying chronic heart and lung disease.

It's time to take the flu seriously.
Recently it seems that our newspapers are filled with reports of various infectious diseases around the world, with SARS and Avian Influenza as the most recent examples. In all cases, prevention is the key to containing and controlling the spread of infectious diseases. As we prepare for the annual flu season, there are many practical things that Canadians can do to protect themselves against the spread of the flu.

What is the flu?
The flu or influenza, is an infectious, respiratory disease that begins in your nose and throat. The flu is caused by the highly contagious, influenza virus, and spreads rapidly from person to person - usually by a simple cough or a sneeze. It has nothing to do with what some people call 'stomach flu' which causes abdominal upset and diarrhea.

There are many viruses that are in the environment around us, passing from person to person or through contaminated objects. This is even more of a problem when we're all crowded indoors during the colder months. Some of these viruses cause a simple cold. Others cause influenza.

How do you know if you have the flu?
There are clear ways to tell whether you have symptoms of influenza or just a cold. A typical flu begins with a headache, chills and cough, and rapidly develops into fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches and fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, especially in children.

When you have a common cold you generally have a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion and throat irritation. Fever is uncommon and you will improve in 2-3 days. The flu is miserable to have. If you have the flu, usually you will have a high fever that lasts for 3-4 days, a headache and muscle aches, extreme fatigue that may last 2-3 weeks, and a bad cough.

Fortunately, for healthy adults, the flu is very rarely a serious disease, but its complications can be severe, even deadly for some people, particularly the elderly or people with chronic illnesses. These complications can include bronchitis, pneumonia, kidney failure or heart failure.

How can the flu be prevented?
Get a flu shot every year
Healthy eating, adequate sleep and physical activity are essential to your health, but won't protect you completely from the influenza virus. To prevent influenza, the most effective way is to get the vaccine. Flu shots are especially important for certain groups of people.

Each year, the World Health Organization predicts the three most common strains of the influenza virus and a vaccine is developed for that year. Because the viruses are constantly changing, you need a new vaccine each year to make sure your body forms antibodies against these new flu viruses.

And there is another reason to be extra cautious about influenza this year which is that the early symptoms of the flu are very similar to those of SARS. The difficulty of distinguishing between the early symptoms of SARS and the flu is one reason that world experts are recommending that all health care workers get the influenza vaccine this year.

Fall is best
It is best to get your flu shot between October and December, however, influenza immunization should be provided any time during the current influenza season from October to March, even after the influenza has been reported. The flu shot takes about 2 weeks from the time the shot is given to provide full protection.

Getting yourself vaccinated also helps to protect those around you. This is especially important if you live or work with seniors and people who have chronic diseases, including asthma, diabetes, heart disease or other conditions that weaken the immune systems.

Flu shots do not give you the flu
You cannot get the flu from the vaccine. This is because the viruses used to make the vaccine have been killed. People who think they caught the flu after receiving their shot are confusing their symptoms with those of a cold, or another virus. They could also have caught another strain of influenza not included in the vaccine.

Wash your hands and cover your mouth
Viruses can live for up to 48 hours on the surfaces of toys, coffee makers, doorknobs, computer keyboards, and other hard surfaces. It can take up to a week for flu symptoms to appear, and in that time you can infect others. To reduce the risk of spreading the virus, it's a good practice to wash your hands often with hot water and soap.

The influenza virus also spreads quickly from person to person through droplets in the air. These droplets come from our noses and mouths, so it's important to cover them when you cough or sneeze.

If you get the flu
If you do get the flu, rest and drink plenty of fluids. The aches and fever can be treated with over the counter medication such as acetaminophen. Children should not be given acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. If your symptoms do not improve, see your doctor; you may be suffering from serious side effects of the flu. Antibiotics have no effect against a viral illness like the flu.

5 Times on Day with Colors

The death of about 2.7 millions world citizen in every year caused by his insufficient consume of fruits and vegetables. This low consume make it come into 10 big causing factor of death in the world.

It is proven, that consuming vegetable and fruit in abundance help to prevent a large amount of disease conversely, pushing remains to look after of health well. In Indonesia, there are a few societies that less consumes it. This matter influenced by local culture, and others factor like difference of diet program, and so do with other specific local food with different nutrient of each.

Various chronic diseases not only monopolize developed countries society. This time, in developing countries and impecunious, there was progressively increase having such disease.

Urbanization played very big role to the change. Urban community tends to consume food with solid energy, high saturated fat content and carbohydrate. Sudden change in the food menu in combination with life style that means expand its physical activity, triggering drastic effect.

There are reasons why some society group do not want to consume vegetable and fruit, for example is expensive, fresh, and stigma feel factor. So far, in the entire world, the lower to consume both source have contribution 31 % to heart ishaemic and 11 % stroke. WHO also estimate existence contribution about 5 - 12 % to all kinds of cancer, specifically digestion channel cancers contribute 20-30 %.

Why important?
The increasing of chronic un-disease, either in impecunious and also developed countries, some have caused by decreasing in the physical activity and abundant energy food consume. WHO was reckon almost 3 million world citizen death every year because the effect of the disease. A definition that is much similar with tobacco consumption and behavior of unsafe sex which causing death.

The problem so modestly, all that related which is not abundance his consume of fruits and vegetables. The twice of source food is full of the mineral and vitamin, it's serve a large amount of important function in body. Of course, sufficient of fiber will help to release dangerous substance from body and degrade level of blood cholesterol.

Benefit of each vitamin:
Vitamin A: Keep health of eye and improve resilience of body to disease infection, sharing to improve function of nerve and muscle.

Vitamin B: Essential to food conversion become energy for body, also significant lessen birth handicapped risk to baby and prevent disease.

Vitamin C: Purpose strong anti-oxidant which can protect cell from cancer cause agent, and peculiarly able to improve body absorption for calcium (mineral for bone and dentition) and ferrum from other food-stuff. Especially to ferrum, if its resources very low in body can cause anemia which in this time a lot of people were suffered.

Colors as the key
Consume various food very suggested by all hygienist and nutrients, because eating of assorted different vegetable and fruit will push to ascertain accomplishment of requirement of nutrition to everyone.
Of course, perhaps it is not simply eating a lot of fruit and vegetable, but more important is eat which each different color. The reason is, because difference color of fruits and vegetable tend to different combination of nutrition and phyto-chemicals, each giving separate function for body health. More over color in eating progressively make healthy our diet.

The lost obtained
In consequence of trouble from heaviest nutrition in the world is handicap born, growth of physical and bounce tardy, weakness of body immune system, blindness, and even death. It's because of less vitamins and the mineral diet program. Can be said that the lower absorption of fruits and vegetable is biggest contributor factor for the deficiencies.


 
Source : Promo kesehatan

Cytomegalovirus

Posted by: "konsultasi.kesehatan@gmail.com"

• Cytomegalovirus (CMV) [si-to-MEG-uh- lo-vi-rus] is a virus that infects most people worldwide.
  
• CMV spreads from person to person by direct contact.
  
• Although CMV infection is usually harmless, it can cause severe disease in persons with weakened immune systems.
  
• There is no treatment for CMV infection.
  
• Prevention centers on good personal hygiene, especially frequent handwashing.
  

What is cytomegalovirus?

Cytomegalovirus, or CMV, is a common virus that infects most people worldwide. CMV infection is usually harmless and rarely causes illness. A healthy immune system can hold the virus in check. However, if a person's immune system is seriously weakened in any way, the virus can become active and cause CMV disease.

What is the infectious agent that causes cytomegalovirus infection?

Cytomegalovirus is a member of the herpesvirus family. Other members of the herpesvirus family cause chickenpox, infectious mononucleosis, fever blisters, and genital herpes. These viruses all share the ability to remain alive, but dormant, in the body for life.

A first infection with CMV usually causes no symptoms. The virus continues to live in the body silently without causing obvious damage or illness. It rarely becomes active for the first time or reactivates (causes illness again in the same person) unless the immune system weakens and is no longer able to hold the virus in check.

Where is cytomegalovirus found?

CMV is found worldwide. The virus is carried by people and is not associated with food, water, or animals.

How do people get infected with cytomegalovirus?

CMV is spread from person to person. Any person with a CMV infection, even without symptoms, can pass it to others. In an infected person, the virus is present in many body fluids, including urine, blood, saliva, semen, cervical secretions, and breast milk.

CMV can be spread by any close contact that allows infected body fluids to pass to another person. CMV can spread in households and child-care centers through hand-to-mouth contact with infected body fluids. CMV can spread by sexual contact, blood transfusions, organ transplants, and breastfeeding. CMV can also be passed from an infected pregnant woman to her fetus or newborn.

Who is at risk for cytomegalovirus?

Anyone can become infected with CMV. Almost all people have been exposed to CMV by the time they are adults, but the virus usually does not make otherwise healthy people sick. However, some people are at increased risk for active infection and serious complications:

• Babies born to women who have a first-time CMV infection during pregnancy
  
• Pregnant women who work with infants and children
  
• Persons with weakened immune systems, including cancer patients on chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, and persons with HIV infection
  

What are the signs and symptoms of cytomegalovirus?

Active infection in otherwise healthy children and adults can cause prolonged high fever, chills, severe tiredness, a generally ill feeling, headache, and an enlarged spleen.

Most infected newborns have no symptoms at birth, but, in some cases, symptoms will appear over the next several years. These include mental and developmental problems and vision or hearing problems. In rare cases, a newborn can have a life-threatening infection at birth. Infants and children who get CMV infection after birth have few, if any, symptoms or complications. When symptoms do appear, they include lung problems, poor weight gain, swollen glands, rash, liver problems, and blood problems.

People with weakened immune systems can have more serious, potentially life-threatening illnesses, with fever, pneumonia, liver infection, and anemia. Illnesses can last for weeks or months and can be fatal. In persons with HIV infection, CMV can infect the retina of the eye (CMV retinitis) and cause blindness.

How soon after exposure do symptoms appear?

Most exposed people never develop symptoms. In those who do, the time between exposure and symptoms is about 3 to 12 weeks.

How is cytomegalovirus diagnosed?

There are special laboratory tests to culture the virus, but testing requires 2 to 3 weeks and is expensive. Blood tests can help diagnose infection or determine if a person has been exposed in the past.

How long does disease from CMV infection last?

The duration of disease varies, depending on the type of infection and the age and health of the infected person. Serious CMV infections that were acquired before birth can cause developmental problems that can affect a child for a lifetime. CMV infections in transplant recipients, cancer patients, and persons with HIV infection can be life threatening and require many weeks of hospital treatment. On the other hand, infections in young adults might cause symptoms for only 2 to 3 weeks.

What is the treatment for cytomegalovirus?

There is no specific treatment or cure for CMV infection. Anti-virus medicines can be helpful in treating CMV retinitis in persons with HIV infection.

How common is cytomegalovirus?

CMV is common worldwide. An estimated 80% of adults in the United States are infected with CMV. CMV is also the virus most often transmitted to a developing fetus before birth.

Is cytomegalovirus an emerging infectious disease?

Yes. Increasing numbers of persons are at risk for CMV infection. Expanding use of child-care centers is increasing the risk to children and staff. Also, the number of people with weakened immune systems is growing because of increases in HIV infection, organ transplantation, and cancer chemotherapy.

How can cytomegalovirus be prevented?

CMV is widespread in the community. The best way to prevent infection is to practice good personal hygiene. Wash hands often with soap and warm water. Avoid mouth contact with the body fluids of young children.

This fact sheet is for information only and is not meant to be used for self-diagnosis or as a substitute for consultation with a health-care provider. If you have any questions about the disease described above or think that you may have cytomegalovirus infection, consult a health-care provider.


 
http://www.dhpe. org/infect/ cytomegalo. html

you're gonna like this kind of doctor

Posted by: "Hakiki Akbari" hakikiakbari@yahoo.com hakikiakbari

Ilove this Doctor

• Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
  
• A:Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
  
• Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
  
• A:You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanismof delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
  
• Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
  
• A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up!
  
• Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?
  
• A:Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc.
  
• Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
  
• A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good!
  
• Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
  
• A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ...... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be badfor you?
  
• Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
  
• A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.
  
• Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
  
• A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans ! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around!
  
• Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
  
• A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me.
  
• Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
  
• A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape! Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.

And remember:

'Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways -Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other -body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming 'WOO HOO, What a Ride' AND.....

For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
   
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
   
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
   
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
   
5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION

• Eat and drink what you like.
  
• Speaking English is apparently what kills you.
  
• 'Today is a gift, that is why it is called The Present.'