Health Tips - Health Benefits of Eating Eggs

Eggs are very nutritious. They are not just fat (yolk) and protein (white). In fact, they contain a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals. Here is what's in an egg.

Vitamins :

A - Good for the skin and growth.

D - Strengthens bones by raising calcium absorption.

Minerals :

Iron - Essential in the creation of red blood cells.

Zinc - Good for enzyme stability and essential in sexual maturation.

Calcium - Most important mineral in the strengthening of bones and teeth

Iodine - Controls thyroid hormones

Selenium - Like Vitamin E, it protects cells from oxidation.

Source : TOI

Problems of Ageing - Part 2

PROSTATE

Almost doubles in weight between the ages of 20 and 90. Men over 50 are at a much greater risk of developing prostate cancer.

LIVER

We lose around one-third of our body weight between the ages of 30 and 90.

SEXUAL PEAK

Women are best in bed at 35, while men are thought to peak at 18, when testosterone is highest. However, it must be noted that peak hormones doesn’t mean peak sexual performance. After all, the average age of men buying medicines for this is 41.

MUSCLES

Muscle loss begins around 30. Without regular exercise, muscle mass in women declines by 22 per cent between 30 and 70 years, and 23 per cent in men.

JOINTS

Normal movement puts pressure on our joints and, with the added stress created by sports activities, they usually start to wear out between the age of 40 and 50. This can then lead to osteoarthritis – severe joint pain – in the over 65s.

BONES

These begin to lose density at 50, exposing us to a higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

SPINE

At about 60, the number of cells in the spinal cord begin to drop, which leads to a decrease in sensation.

Problems of Ageing - Part 1

Do you know how the body clock takes its toll on you? Read on to find out what happens to the body as you age.

BRAIN

We start losing the brain cells in our 20s but it’s a slow process. About 40 per cent of the people above 65 years have some memory impairment – one per cent of them develop dementia every year. One’s personality stabilises by 30 and any sudden change after that may indicate a degenerative illness.

EYES

Difficulty in focusing on something that’s close starts in the 40s and by the 70s, it is harder to distinguish between the fine details.

EARS

Age-related hearing loss occurs in 25 per cent of the people between 65 to 75 years and in 70 to 80 per cent of those over the age of 75.

SENSES

The ability to taste and smell deteriorates with age and this can start as early as 60. Around 30 per cent of 70 to 80-year-olds experience problems with their senses.

SKIN

Ageing begins at 20 but signs are not visible for another 20 years.

HEART

The risk of a heart attack increases with age – especially over 45 for men and over 55 for women.

HEIGHT

By the time we reach the age of 80, we lose as much as two inches in height due to the curving forward of the spine or because of the compression of the discs between the vertebrae.

Cancer Symptoms Women Are Most Likely to Ignore - Part 2 !!

11. Rectal bleeding or blood in stool

"I thought it was hemorrhoids" is one of the most common things doctors hear when diagnosing colorectal cancer. Blood in the toilet alone is reason to call your doctor and schedule a colonoscopy.

12. Unexplained weight loss

If you notice the pounds coming off and you haven't made changes to your diet or exercise regime, you need to ask why. Weight loss is an early sign of colon and other digestive cancers; it's also a sign of cancer that's spread to the liver, affecting your appetite and the ability of your body to rid itself of wastes.

13. Upset stomach or stomachache

As simple as it sounds, a good old-fashioned bellyache is what tipped off a number of lucky folks, whose doctors ordered ultrasounds and discovered early that they had tumors on their livers. Stomach cramps or frequent upset stomachs may indicate colorectal cancer; many cancer patients say their doctors thought they had ulcers.

14. A red, sore, or swollen breast

Everyone knows to check for lumps in the breasts, but too often overlooked are symptoms closer to the surface, which can indicate inflammatory breast cancer. Some women described noticing cellulite-like dimpled skin on an area of the breast. Others noticed that a breast felt swollen, hot, or irritated. Red or purplish discoloration is also cause for concern. Call your doctor about any unexplained changes to your breasts.

15. Nipple changes

One of the most common changes women remember noticing before being diagnosed with breast cancer is a nipple that began to appear flattened, inverted, or turned sideways. "My nipple started looking like it was turned inside out," said one woman. In addition, inflammatory breast cancer also causes nipple problems, such as itchy, scaly, or crusty skin on the nipple— so take any nipple changes seriously.

16. Unusually heavy or painful periods or bleeding between periods

Many women reported this as the tip-off to endometrial or uterine cancer. Unfortunately, many women also said their doctors weren't responsive, overlooking or misdiagnosing their complaints as normal perimenopause. Ask for a transvaginal ultrasound if you suspect something more than routine heavy periods.

17. Swelling of facial features

Some patients with lung cancer report noticing puffiness, swelling, or redness in the face. The explanation for this is that small cell lung tumors commonly block blood vessels in the chest, preventing blood from flowing freely from the head and face.

18. A sore or skin lump that doesn't heal, becomes crusty, or bleeds easily
Most of us know to watch moles for changes that might indicate skin cancer. But other signs, such as small waxy lumps or dry scaly patches, are easier to miss. Familiarize yourself with the different types of skin cancer—melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma—and be vigilant about checking skin all over the body for odd-looking growths or spots.

19. Changes in nails

Unexplained changes to the fingernails can be a sign of several types of cancer. A brown or black streak or dot under the nail can indicate skin cancer, while newly discovered "clubbing"— enlargement of the ends of the fingers, with nails that curve down over the tips—can be a sign of lung cancer. Pale or white nails can be an indication that your liver is not functioning properly, sometimes a sign of liver cancer.

20. Pain in the back or lower right side

As vague as this sounds, many cancer patients say this was the first sign of liver cancer, known as one of the "silent killers" (another is ovarian cancer). Breast cancer is also often diagnosed via back pain, which can occur when a breast tumor presses backward into the chest, or when the cancer spreads to the spine or ribs.

By Melanie Haiken, Caring.com senior editor.

Cancer Symptoms Women Are Most Likely to Ignore - Part 1 !!

Routine tests like pap smears and mammograms are important, but don't rely on tests alone to protect you from cancer. It's just as important to listen to your body and notice anything that's different, odd, or unexplainable. You don't want to join the ranks of cancer patients who realize too late that symptoms they'd noticed for a long time could have sounded the alarm earlier, when cancer was easier to cure.

Here, some signs that are commonly overlooked:

1. Wheezing or shortness of breath

One of the first signs lung cancer patients remember noticing when they look back is the inability to catch their breath. "I couldn't even walk across the yard without wheezing; I thought I had asthma, but how come I didn't have it before?" is how one woman described it.

2. Chronic cough or chest pain

Several types of cancer, including leukemia and lung tumors, can cause symptoms that mimic a bad cough or bronchitis. One way to tell the difference: The problems persist, or go away and come back again in a repeating cycle. Some lung cancer patients report chest pain that extends up into the shoulder or down the arm.

3. Frequent fevers or infections

These can be signs of leukemia, a cancer of the blood cells that starts in the bone marrow. Leukemia causes the marrow to produce abnormal white blood cells, which crowd out healthy white cells, sapping the body's infection-fighting capabilities. Often, doctors finally catch leukemia in older adults after the patient has been in a number of times complaining of fever, achiness, and flu-like symptoms over an extended period of time.

4. Difficulty swallowing

Most commonly associated with esophageal or throat cancer, having trouble swallowing is sometimes one of the first signs of lung cancer, too.

5. Swollen lymph nodes or lumps on the neck, underarm, or groin

Enlarged lymph nodes indicate changes in the lymphatic system, which can be a sign of cancer. For example, a lump or an enlarged lymph node under the arm is sometimes a sign of breast cancer. A painless lump on the neck, underarm, or groin can be an early sign of leukemia.

6. Excessive bruising or bleeding that doesn't stop

This symptom usually suggests something abnormal happening with the platelets and red blood cells, which can be a sign of leukemia. One woman with leukemia described bruising in strange places, such as on her fingers and hands, as well as red spots on her face, neck, and chest. Another noticed bleeding gums. The explanation: Over time, leukemia cells crowd out red blood cells and platelets, impairing the blood's ability to carry oxygen and clot.

7. Weakness and fatigue

"I kept having to sit down at work, and one night I was too tired to drive home," said one woman in describing the fatigue that led her to discover she had leukemia. Generalized fatigue and weakness is a symptom of so many different kinds of cancer that you'll need to look at it in combination with other symptoms. But any time you feel exhausted without explanation and it doesn't respond to getting more sleep, talk to your doctor.

8. Bloating or abdominal weight gain—the "my jeans don't fit" syndrome

While this might sound too common a phenomenon to be considered a cancer symptom, consider this: Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer overwhelmingly report that unexplained abdominal bloating that came on fairly suddenly and continued on and off over a long period of time (as opposed to for a few days each month with PMS) is one of the main ways they knew something was wrong.

9. Feeling full and unable to eat

This is another tip-off to ovarian cancer; women say they have no appetite and can't eat, even when they haven't eaten for some time. Any woman who experiences noticeable bloating or weight gain numerous times (the diagnostic criteria is more than 13 times over the period of a month)—especially if it's accompanied by pelvic pain or feeling overly full—should call her doctor and ask for a pelvic ultrasound.

10. Pelvic or abdominal pain

Taken by itself, pelvic pain can mean a lot of things. In fact, because it's a common symptom of fibroids, ovarian cysts, and other reproductive tract disorders, doctors don't always think of cancer when you describe pelvic pain. Make sure your doctor looks at all possible explanations and does a full exam, since pain and cramping in the pelvis and abdomen can go hand in hand with the bloating that often signals ovarian cancer. Leukemia can also cause abdominal pain resulting from an enlarged spleen.

clot.

By Melanie Haiken, Caring.com senior editor

To Be Continued...

Health Tips - The Amazing Cucumber !!!

Creative and Fanciful ways to solve common problems with amazing Cucumber .

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

2. Feeling tired in the afternoon, put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminium to give off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool? Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes, the photochemical in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!!!

Source : This information was in The New York Times as part of their "Spotlight on the Home" series.

Health Tip - Benefit of Eating Cauliflower

How does one benefit frome ating cauliflower ?

Cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage can help beat cancer - and now scientists believe they have found out why. Research shows that chemicals found in vegetables can boost DNA repair in cells to prevent them creating tumors. A naturally occurring compund called I3C, found in brassica vegetables such as brussels sprouts and others, and a chemical called genistein found in soy beans - both increase the levels of vital DNA repair proteins in cancer cells. previous studies have suggested a link between eating such vegetables and protection against cancer. But the least research puts forward a molecular mechanism on how they might work, according to the British Journal of Cancer.

Source : TOI

Health Benefits of REIKI healing

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady and always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

One of the greatest benefits of Reiki is stress reduction and relaxation, which triggers the bodies natural healing abilities, and improves and maintains health. Reiki theraphy balances life energies and brings health and well being to the recipient.

This simple, non-invasive healing system works with the higher self of the receiver to promote health and well being of the entire physical, emotional and psychic body. Therefore, it is truly a system of attaining and promoting wholeness of mind, body and spirit. Reiki is a special type of subtle energy work in which healing is performed by the touch of the hands. Reiki healing is a pure energy form. When it is combined with the sincere desire of the healee, who is willing to effect a cleansing within their emotional and spiritual consciousness, a total health healing occur.

12 benefits of REIKI Healing :

1. Releases stress and tension.

2. Aids better sleep

3. Reduces blood pressure

4. Helps relieve pain

5. Detoxifies the body

6. Reduces side effects of drugs

7. Supports the immune system

8. Increases vitality

9. Postpones ageing

10. Helps spiritual growth

11. Raises vibrational frequency of body

12. Removes energy blockages.

Source : BT, Times of India

Healthcare Tips - Natural Tips for Shiny Hair

Natural Tips for Shiny Hair

Do you long for shiny tresses, but lack the funds for expensive products and treatments? Don't despair - you don't have to be a supermodel to have gleaming locks. Before you mourn your lackluster strands, head to the kitchen and try these simple solutions to lock in shine the natural way.

Sun, wind, saltwater, pollution, and chemicals are just some of the shine-depleting elements your hair may be subjected to on a daily basis. They can strip your hair of its natural oils and create build-up leaving it dull and lifeless. Fortunately, Mother Nature has a few remedies to share.

The Alluring Avocado

Mash an avocado (one avocado for short hair, two for long) in a bowl until it forms a thick paste. Spread the paste on your hair from root to tip and leave on for 20 minutes. Shampoo and rinse. Avocados are high in fatty acids and nutrients. Feed your hair!

Amazing Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix half a cup of apple cider vinegar with one quart of water and use as a hair rinse after your regular shampoo. Rich in alpha-hydroxy acids, apple cider vinegar helps break down residue build-up leaving your hair soft and full of shine. Rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar and it will be shining in no time.

Eggs Over Olive Oil

Beat together two eggs for short hair, three for long, and add in three tablespoons of olive oil. Coat your hair from root to tip and leave on for 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse. Eggs contain eleven essential nutrients and are packed with protein. Combine them with olive oil for conditioning and nourishment and you have one powerful duo.

Coconut Craze

Warm three tablespoons of coconut oil and gently comb into your hair from root to tip. Wrap your hair in a hot towel and let the oil sit for 30 minutes. Shampoo and rinse. Loaded with antioxidants, coconut oil works to smooth dry and damaged cuticles and lock in shine.

Life doesn't have to be dull and neither does your hair! It's time to shine! Open your cabinet and start mixing, then sit back and bask in your natural glow.

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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.

This EMAIL is provided as general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor.

Health Tip : How can One Benefit From Wheat Germ & Seafood.

Benefits of Wheat Germ :

Wheat Gern is an excellent source of Vitamin E and folic acid. It also is a sodium and cholestrol free food. Try to use it on most of your foods, sprinkle some on fruits, cereal and use it as a coating for poultry, fish or chicken. Mix it into your very best baking recipes. It is great in meatloaf and poultry stuffing. A two teaspoon serving with added Vitamin E and folic acid may help to imrpove your vitality and promote a healthy heart. It also adds a nutritional boos and nutty crunch to all your favourite foods.

Benefits of Sea-Food :

Seafood contains a specific type of oil that is made up of long chains of molecules called Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help suppress the activity of prostaglandins and leukotrienes which can activate various diseases, including blood clots and joint inflammation. Omega-3s also helps protect the immune system. Not only is fish oil an anti-inflammatory agent, it also helps to protect the heart against arrhythmias (irregular heart beats). Arrhythmias are recognised as one of the most common triggers of heart attacks.

Source : The Tip, TOI

Some Junk Foods can actually be good - Part 2

Yesterday we saw 4 junk foods, that were good for health. We see some more such junk foods today.

Baked Snacks :

The latest in the snack category are the baked snacks. They are better then fried chips as they contain no oil. usually made of whole wheat with a dash of spice entertains the tastebuds and proves to be healthy for your body.

Processed Cheese :

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is found in many meat, milk and cheese products. But a recent study concentrates specifically on processed cheese, revealing that CLA contains anti-carcinogenic properties, as well as a possible effective antioxidant. The study says processed cheese contains more CLA then natural cheese, such as cheddar.

Dry Stout Beer :

Experts say that one pint of this thick and creamy dark beer may be as effective as a low dose of aspirin ti imrpoce blood circulation, hence lowering the risk of blood clots and heart attacks. It's proven to be better than aerated drinks and other type of beer.

Red Wine :

Resveratrol, an ingredient in red wine, effectively decreases life-threatening inflammation. The antioxidantsin red wine can also  help with preventing heart disease and cancer. For non-drinkers grape juice or even red grapes can be as effective.

Source : Body & Soul, TOI

Some Junk Foods Can Actually Be Good - Part 1

A recent study, proved that certain junk foods contain good amounts of anti-oxidants that can in fact be good amounts of anti-oxidants that can in fact be good for the heart. While it isn't recommended that one must thrive on these foods, but indulging in some of them in limit, of course may do you a whole lot of good.

Some examplesof these junk foods are given below :

Popcorn :

It may be the best accompaniment for movies but popcorn also helps curb the evening snack-craving. A bowl of home-made popcorn is even better as it is low on calories and high on anti-oxidants.

Dark chocolate brownies :

Yes, it is indeed good news especially for people with a sweet tooth. Dark choclate is proven to be good for the heart and if it is paired with a hole wheat brownie and some buts, it becomes rich in fibre as well.

Dark chocolate bars :

Due to the high amounts of antioxidants in dark chocolate, it has health benefits such as lowering blood pressure as well as decreasing the risk of herat disease if you eat around a 100 grams a day.

Crackers :

There are many kinds of whole wheat crackers available, which can be a good and healthy evening munch without the side-effects that other junk foods bring.

Source : Body & Soul, TOI

Healthy Tips : The Real Meals To Stay Healthy - 2

THE IDEAL MEAL :

BREAKFAST

1 Fruit (carbohydrate, fibre) + 5 almonds + 1 walnut (proteins and good fats) + 2 slices of whole wheat toast with lettuce, tomato (carbohydrate and fibre) and curd spread (cource of vitamin B12 and proteins for vegetarians)

OR

Oats (excellant source of fibre, vitamin B, thiamin, manganese) + 1/2 cup skimmed milk + 1 chopped apple (an antioxidant and low in glycemic index) + 2 teaspoons raisins (natural sugar and rich in iron) + 1 tablespoon chopped walnut + 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds (essential omega 3 fatt acids)

MID-MORNING SNACK

1 cup green tea ( as it is an antioxidant )

OR

Ginger Tea + 1 banana (An excellant source of potassium, vitamin b12, folate & fibre)

LUNCH

Unlimited veggeis + salads (anti-oxidants, fibre) + 1 bowl of sprout (rich in proteins) + 1 cup low-fat curd + multi-grain roti or rice (carbohydrates),

Pulses are a good source of protein and combined with rice, they give a complete meal comprising of all the eight amino acids which the body needs. Curd has Vitamin B which gives energy.

MID-EVENING SNACK

15-18 nuts (Walnuts, almods and pistachios). Nuts are power snacks as they are rich in proteins, vitamins and fatty acids.

DINNER

Dal (proteins) or fish (excellant source of complete protein, iron, omega 3 fatty acids and mineral) + veggies + steamed rice or roti + salad.

Avoid sprouts at night as they can gause gas. Also avoid read meat as it is high in fat and very heavy to digest.

Source : Times Network

Healthy Tips : The Real Meals To Stay Healthy - 1

Real Meals

When you're on your toes 24x7, the last thing on your diet should be incorrect food consumption. Extract maximum energy by going for 'real' meals

A greasy cheese burger, fries, coffee from the fast food joint down the street robs you off energy! You should ideally eat with care and be aware of what your body requires. The virtues of water are oft-praised. One must have lots of water! Atleast 8-12 glasses each day is an absolute must as it hydrates your body. Lots of time, most of us mistake our thirst to be hunger and overeat adding the extra calories to our diet.

Some high water content foods are cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, watermelon, asparagus, cauliflower, mushrooms, strawberreis, broccoli, carrots, oranges, peaches and apricots. make sure you have enough of these.

Often we avoid carbohydrates thinking it makes us gain weight. In fact, they are major fuel sources and provide energy and help the body to function properly. Carbohydrate rich foods are fruits, vegertables, beans, and whole grains. Milk and milk products also contain a significant amount of carbohydrates.

Also avoid skipping meals as it tends to lower the blood sugar levels and make one feel weak and dizzy.

Some top foods to keep in your desk or locker whilst you are at work are nuts and seeds, especially, almonds and walnuts, apricots, any fresh fruit, whole wheat crackers, herbal infusion packets, a small bag of popcorn and carrot sticks.

Next Topic will talk about the REAL MEALS you should have....

Source : Times Network

Health Tips : Worried of Dandruff, Here's Some Treatment

Dandruff Treatments :

* If you have only a mild case of dandruff, shampooing your hair with a regular shampoo daily or twice a day will usually do the trick.

* Start out by trying a mild shampoo, stronger shampoos can irritate and dry out your hair making dandruff flaking worst.

* If your standard shampoo doesn't get rid of your dandruff, buy an anti dandruff shampoo and your dandruff condition should improve signifigantly in a couple of weeks.

* Once you have found an anti dandruff shampoo that works for you, keep on using it or your dandruff will most likely reoccur.

* Lather and rinse twice when using anti dandruff shampoos, the first time cycle will clean your scalp, the second cycle will medicate it.

* If you think you may have a severe case of dandruff, it is advised that you set up an appointment with a dermatologist.

* Poor health may be the cause of your dandruff, so be sure to get enough sleep, eat nutritiously, and avoid stress inducing activities.

* If you have to scratch your head, avoid using your fingernails to scratch (you'll risk an infection if you do) instead use the pads of your fingers.

* Wear a hat outside on days that are extremely cold, windy, and when you're going to be out in the sun for a lengthy period.

* Limit the use of hair coloring and hair styling products with alcohol which dries out hair.

* Make sure that you get an adequate ammount of B6 in your diet, which will help prevent dandruff.

* Massage your scalp with the pads of your fingers in a circular motion to increase circulation.

__________________________________________________________

Source : DSD Email Group. 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.

 

This EMAIL is provided as general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor.

Health Tips : Tips For Your Feet !!

Feet Up !!

Smelly feet are one of the most embarrassing body features. Feet usually start smelling because of the sweat trapped in your footwear. Feet have more sweat glands than any other part of the body, so they sweat profusely and the sweat can’t evaporate due to being enclosed in footwear. However, it is relatively easy to control most cases of smelly feet by taking number of preventative steps :

 Bathe your feet daily in lukewarm water with a mild soap and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.

 Change your socks at least once a day ( change your shoes as well if you do sweat a lot).

 Dust your feet frequently with a foot powder ( always wipe between the toes to remove excess moisture, so that it does not clog between the toes). Applying antibacterial ointment also may help.

 Wear thick, soft socks to help absorb the moisture. Natural fibre socks such as wool or cotton and other absorbent materials are better.

 Avoid the use of nylon socks or plastic shoes. Wear shoes that are made of leather, canvas, mesh or other materials that let the feet breathe.

Source : DSD Group Email

Health Tip - Seasonal Asthma - Breathe light and Easy !

A change in weather can trigger seasonal asthma. Hers how to keep breathing free..

All it takes is damp, musty weather to trigger a seasonal asthma attack. The monsoon results in rising humidity levels, frequent changes in temperature, dust storms. These factors increase chances of an asthma attack, which is often misdiagnosed as a cough or cold. You could miss out on proper treatment that prevents an attack.

Watch Out For :

In an asthma attack, there is a temporary narrowing of the airway with spasms. The patient experiences breathlessness, wheezing and tightness in the chest. A few people may experience coughing without breathlessness or wheezing. Some patients may experience breathlessness or other symptoms only when they exercise, while some have these symptoms at night.

Do And Don’ts :

Do continue to take prescribed preventive medication

Avoid exposure to frequent temperature change (going out in sun from an A/C environment or drinking chilled water immediately after returning from the heat).

Avoid exposure to dist, cover your face and nose with a mask, if possible.

Keep your environment clean; house dust can also trigger an attack.

Take a flu vaccine once every year and a pneumonia vaccine once in three years.

Do not try alternative treatments at home. Asthma can be fatal. Always seek medical advice.

Myths & Facts :

Myth : Modern medicines don’t offer a complete cure.

Fact : Diagnosis at the right time, with suitable treatment, can control the condition.

Myth : Inhalers are recommended only for advances cases of asthma.

Fact : Established medical standards advise the use of inhalers as a first line of therapy as its most efficacious and has minimum side-effects. When you show symptoms, take a puff. A nebulizer can also be used at home. If inhalation fails to give relief within half an hour, opt for emergency medical treatment.

Myth : Asthma patients should not use steroids

Fact : Usage is unavoidable in case of potentially life-threatening conditions. In some cases, withholding steroids has proved to be fatal. Therefore, self-care instructions include self-administration of the first dose of steroid even before seeking medical help.

Source : Dr. Mani, Artemis Health Institute.

Health Tip - Improve Body Alignment with Pilates

PILATES FOR ABS & BODY ALIGNMENT

If you think that the only benefits of pilates is abdominal strength, think again. Although pilates is great for abs, there are several other benefits of Pilates practice, which also improves your alignment and coordination and makes you more flexible.

Pilates has the ability to increase the strength of your stabilizer muscles that may not be usually be worked out in a regular exercise class. Since pilates stresses the use of graceful and fluid movement, you will discover that you can balance yourself much better regardless you are in.

The older you get, the more likely are the chances of arthrities, rheumatism, painful and stiff joints. Pilates is an apt form of working out for it prevents injury.

Conventional workouts tend to create bulky muscles. Pilates elongates and strengthens, improving muscle elasticity and joint mobility making for a flexible body.

Source : TOI

Health Tips - Do's & Don'ts for Festive Season

How Does One Benefit From Eating TOMATOES ?

The red pigment contained in tomatoes is called lycopene. This compound appears to act as an antioxidant, neutralising free radicals that can damage cells in the body. Only recent, studies have revealed that lycopene may have twice the punch of another well-known antioxidant - betacarotene. Isareli researchers have found that lycopene is a powerful inhibitor of lung, breast and endometrial cancer cells.

Three DO's for a FESTIVE Season -

Eat Fibre

Fibre adds bulk to food and is an important source of roughage. This component in fibre aids digestion, helping the body's elmination process. All fruits and vegetables are high on fibre.

Drink Water

Water regulates body temperature, assists digestion, transports, nutrients and eliminates waste. You need 8 to 10 glasses of water every day.

Exercise Regularly

Discover the benefits of regular exercise. Exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but also revs-up your entire system.

Three DON'Ts for a FESTIVE Season -

Don't Eat When You Are Not Hungry

Not sure? Drink a glass of fresh fruit juice or water, then ask yourself, "Am I still hungry?"

Don't Eat Late

The later you eat, the harder it gets to digest the food. If you have to have a late dinner, eat a small snack in advance, that way you won;t be ravenous at dinner time.

Don't Over Eat If You Are Stressed Out

Avoid eating as an antidote to emotional pain. It can lead to digestive problems and weight gain. Keep chewing fennel (saunf) as it is a digestive.

Source : Namita Jain, weight management expert.

Foods to avoid for a good night’s sleep !

Fatty, high-protein foods. We all know how important it is for good heart health to ease up on saturated animal fats, but doing so can also help the state of your adrenal glands–important not only for good sleep but also for your overall health. Red meat contains high levels of the amino acid tyrosine, which causes the adrenal glands to pump cortisol through your body. This hormone is part of the fight-or-flight reaction that prepares us to face or run away from danger–and certainly puts us in a heightened state that’s hardly conducive to falling and staying asleep. “Under normal circumstances, your adrenal activity is at its highest when you wake up and then descends throughout the day so it’s at its lowest ebb before you go to sleep,” says Taylor. “To promote good sleep, you need to support this adrenal rhythm with the foods you eat.” And for most that means turning the typical American diet upside down. Because high-protein foods stimulate the body, eat them in the morning and at midday, suggests Taylor. For dinner, steer clear of meats and other high-protein foods that will spike your adrenal glands and opt for vegetables and plant-based sources of protein instead.

 

Caffeine. While you may think that morning cup of joe or two won’t interfere with your ability to wind down later in the day, think again. Caffeine is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Although most doctors say it takes between four and seven cups of regular coffee a day to hinder sleep, caffeine–like red meat–revs the body up. “Caffeine can overstimulate the adrenals, which actually compounds fatigue as it wears off,” says Kravich. If you must have your morning cup, eat something nutritious with it and add milk or soy milk to dull the negative effects of the caffeine.

 

High-sugar, empty-calorie sweets. “Think of cakes and cookies as the other end of the spectrum from whole grains,” says Taylor. “Sweets give you quick energy followed by a crash,” she says. “Because the energy you get from sweets isn’t long and sustained, odds are you’ll wake up because you’re hungry.” Instead of typical desserts, opt for fruit or even some healthy fats and whole grains, such as a quarter of an avocado spread on whole grain toast. “Healthy fats are satisfying, and they calm the nervous system,” says Taylor.

 

Cold foods. Even during the hot summer months when you might be craving cold foods, such as salads, smoothies, and ice cream, do keep in mind that they’re not necessarily the best for promoting sleep, says Taylor. “When you eat cold foods, your body has to work hard to bring the food’s temperature up to your body temp,” she says. “If the food has been cooked, your body doesn’t have to spend as much energy breaking down the food, which is ideal for evening meals when the goal is to help your body unwind and work less.” Instead of a cold salad, for example, steam veggies and eat them at room temperature with a good olive oil drizzled on top.

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Source : DSD Group Email

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Health Tips - Remove that Stress & Tension

BUST THAT STRESS AND TENSION IN DAILY LIFE

Stress is evil and can only wreak havoc on our mind, body and spirit. One can learn to cope with the following survival kit:

First, find out what's causing the stress. A relationship issue, financial loss, failure, an accident or a change that's not necessarily negative, like shifting to a new house, a marriage or a long trip can be the source. Some common stressors are a violent parent or spouse, a bullying boss, being trapped in a bad marriage or job, excessive workload or responsibilities, a medical illness or chronic pain, or memories from a trauma, like sexual abuse.

It's equally important to become aware of your individual coping style. Find out what you perceive as the cause of stress and how you're emotionally responding to it.

Once identified, you need to evaluate how many changes you could incorporate in your environment and even in yourself. The assessment has to be honest and realistic. You can seek advice from within the family or friends or take professional help.

Learn to tell the difference between facts and fears.You can only deal with reality and then treat your fears! 

Don't constantly micromanage. Learn to accept uncertainty and your limitations in certain situations.

Know your own limits — don't be too competitive or expect too much of yourself.

 

Source : DSD Group Email

Health Tip : Top 5 Cancer-causing Foods !!

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.

 
Source : DSD Group Email