Sunday, December 23, 2012

Understanding Male Sexual Problems

 

Understanding Male Sexual Problems -- Diagnosis and Treatment

How Do I Know If I Have Sexual Problems?

The most important way for your health care provider to diagnose a sexual problem is to listen carefully to the story you tell, review the list of medications and substances you use (including natural remedies) to track whether your sexual dysfunction is connected with them, and try to determine whether your difficulties are recent or long-standing. It's also important for your health care provider to understand your level of knowledge about your body and about sexuality.
The health care provider will probably encourage talking about relationships, partners, past sexual history, any history of trauma, possible symptoms of depression, and any other stresses or concerns that may be interfering with your ability to respond sexually. Though these topics may seem extraordinarily private, they must be covered to properly evaluate sexual dysfunction and help you have a more satisfying sex life.

Recommended Related to Sexual Conditions

Don't try to treat a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, yourself. These diseases are contagious and serious. You must see a doctor. Bacterial STDs can be cured with antibiotics if treatment begins early enough. Viral STDs cannot be cured, but you can manage symptoms with medications. There is a vaccine against hepatitis B, but it will not help if you already have the disease. If you are given antibiotics to treat a STD, it is important that you take all of the drug prescribed to you, even if...
Your health care provider will give you a thorough physical exam, checking for high blood pressure, vascular disease, a neurological disorder, or obvious signs of conditions affecting your penis or testicles. You'll probably be given a blood test to check for diabetes, thyroid disease, and any other hormonal disorders your practitioner may suspect.
Because men normally have multiple erections during sleep, you'll probably be asked about whether you ever awaken with an erection. Sometimes men are asked to undergo a test in a sleep lab to be monitored for erections during sleep. While this information can help tell whether erectile dysfunction may be due to problems with the vascular or nervous systems, it doesn't necessarily indicate whether the erection is sufficient for sexual penetration.
An ultrasound exam that measures the blood flow within the pelvis (a penile Doppler study) can determine whether there is enough blood flow and pressure in the penis to allow for an adequate erection.
A measurement of blood pressure in the penis, called the penile-brachial index, may be helpful in diagnosing penile vascular disorders. A test dose of an erection-inducing agent, such as papaverine, is injected into the penis under a doctor's supervision, followed by monitoring for a subsequent erection. Also, penile blood pressure can be measured during the erection. During this exam, contrast dye may also be injected into an artery so X-rays can reveal any leaks in the vascular system that could account for erectile dysfunction. Surgery to correct the leaks has not been found to be effective.

What Are the Treatments for Sexual Problems?

Any underlying physical conditions will be treated in an effort to improve your sexual functioning. Medication may be given to increase testosterone levels, decrease prolactin, treat thyroid disease, or address high blood pressure. If your sexual dysfunction seems to be due to medications for another condition, your health care provider may prescribe an alternative with fewer sexual side effects. If you smoke, drink alcohol, or use any recreational drugs, you'll be encouraged to stop. If you avoid tobacco, you will provide more oxygen to the vascular tissues of the penis.

 

What Are the Treatments for Sexual Problems? continued...

If you live a sedentary lifestyle, your provider may suggest that you start an exercise program and eat healthy foods. Studies have shown that these measures may slow the buildup of fats that can block the blood vessels. Importantly,
Treating premature ejaculation: Premature ejaculation is commonly curbed by the "squeeze" technique, a kind of biofeedback. This method has a high success rate, and repeated practice usually leads to better natural control. When you feel that orgasm is imminent, withdraw from your partner's vagina or anus or signal your partner to stop stimulation. You (or your partner) then squeezes gently on the head of the penis with the thumb and forefinger, halting the climax. After 20 or 30 seconds, begin lovemaking again. Repeat the process if necessary.
Medications may delay ejaculation, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including sertraline (Zoloft), paroxitine (Paxil), and fluoxetine (Prozac). None of these drugs is specifically approved by the FDA to treat premature ejaculation.
Treatments for erectile dysfunction include any of the following:
  • The drugs sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), avanafil (Stendra), or vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
  • A vacuum inflation device that pulls blood into the penis
  • Prostaglandin urethral suppositories
  • Self-injection of medications directly into the penis
  • Vascular surgery to correct problems involving the veins of the penis (a procedure that has not been found to be effective)
  • Inflatable penile implants
Premature ejaculation may signal a more complex disorder, and any psychological aspects should be explored in therapy. To rely only on physical control may mask the symptom without resolving the cause.
Treating retarded ejaculation: This sexual problem is often treated by reducing anxiety and learning to control the timing of ejaculation. Sensate focus exercises may help; you should withhold penetration until you sense that ejaculation is inevitable. A common cause of retarded or delayed ejaculation is side effects from medication, especially antidepressant medications such as the SSRIs.
Treating retrograde ejaculation: Retrograde ejaculation may be corrected through medications or surgery that allows the valve at the base of the bladder to close. This is basically a harmless disorder, causing a problem only if pregnancy is a goal; in such situations, it may be possible to retrieve sperm from the bladder for artificial insemination.
Dealing with Environment and Psychological Causes of Sexual Problems
Your health care provider may be able to help you outline strategies to address non-medical issues. If you have psychological barriers to sexual functioning, your health care provider may suggest that you seek individual psychotherapy, couples therapy with your partner, or consult a sex therapist. A number of techniques and therapies can help traumatized individuals become more comfortable with their sexuality. Similarly, if your health care provider feels that you may need more information about sexual functioning to help you achieve greater enjoyment, you may be referred to a sex therapist.

Low Testosterone Affects Health, Mood, and Sex

How Low Testosterone Affects Health, Mood, and Sex

Low Testosterone and Sex Drive

Testosterone isn't the only fuel for a man's sex drive and performance. But low testosterone can reduce your ability to have satisfying sex. Lack of sex drive and erectile dysfunction are sexual problems that can result from low testosterone. If low testosterone is the cause, treating it can help.

Testosterone and the Causes of Low Libido

Researchers haven't unraveled the mystery of just how testosterone increases libido. It's normal for a man's sex drive to slowly decline from its peak in his teens and 20s, but libido varies widely between men. What one man might consider a low sex drive, another might not. Also, sex drive changes within each man over time and is affected by stress, sleep, and opportunities for sex. For these reasons, defining what's a "normal" sex drive is next to impossible. Usually, the man himself identifies a lack of sex drive as a problem. Other times, his partner may consider it to be an issue.
Low testosterone symptoms don't always include feeling like you have no sex drive. Some men maintain sexual desire at relatively low testosterone levels. For other men, libido may lag even with normal testosterone levels. Low testosterone is one of the possible causes of low libido, however. If testosterone is lowered far enough, virtually all men will experience some decline in sex drive.
In a large study of men in Massachusetts, about 11% overall said they had a lack of sex drive. The researchers then tested all the men's testosterone levels. About 28% of men with low testosterone had low libido. These men were relatively young, with an average age of 47; older men might have worse sexual symptoms.
Low testosterone is only one of the causes of low libido. Stress, sleep deprivation, depression, and chronic medical illnesses can also sap a man's sex drive.

Low Testosterone and Erectile Dysfunction

Surprisingly, low testosterone by itself rarely causes erectile dysfunction, or ED. Low testosterone alone -- with no other health problems -- accounts for a small minority of men with erectile dysfunction.
Erection problems are usually caused by atherosclerosis -- hardening of the arteries. If damaged, the tiny blood vessels supplying the penis can no longer dilate to bring in the strong flow needed for a firm erection. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are the three main causes of atherosclerosis and erectile dysfunction.
At the same time, low testosterone is a frequent accomplice to atherosclerosis in creating erectile dysfunction. In studies, as many as one in three men mentioning ED to their doctor have low testosterone. Experts believe that in men with other factors causing erectile dysfunction, low testosterone can strongly contribute, making a difficult situation even worse.
Strengthening the connection, low testosterone is linked in some way with many of the conditions that lead to erectile dysfunction:
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Obesity
  • Endothelial dysfunction
  • Diabetes
Although low testosterone isn't known to cause them, the associations between other medical conditions and low testosterone can be significant.
Testosterone therapy improves sex drive and satisfaction with sex in many men. However, the long-term risks and benefits of testosterone replacement are unknown. Research trials on testosterone replacement in men are ongoing, although results are years away.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on June 12, 2012

Read if some one from family is popping daily : Crocin or similar drugs

Shocking but true to know...

PANADOL

My husband was working in a hospital as an IT engineer, as the hospital is planning to set up a database of its patients and he knows some of the doctors quite well. The doctors used to tell him that whenever they have a headache, they are not willing to take PANADOL / PARACETAMOL.

In fact, they will turn Herbal Medicine or find other alternatives. This is because Panadol is toxic to the body, and it harms the liver. According to the doctor: Panadol will remain in the body for at least 5 years.....!!
And according to the doctor, there was an air-hostess who consumed lots of Panadol as she needed to stand all the time and work under lots of pressure. She's now in her early 30's, and she is undergoing kidney cleaning (DIALYSIS) every month.
Whenever we have a headache, that's because it is due to the electron / Ion imbalance in the brain.
Some alternative solution to cope with this matter is Drink lots of water.

Another method will be to submerge your feet in a basin of warm water so that it brings the blood pressure down from your throbbing head.

As Panadol is a pain killer, the more Panadol you take, the lesser would be your threshold for pain (your endurance level for pain). We all will fall ill as we age.

Imagine that we had spent our entire life popping quite a substantial amount of Panadol (Pain Killer), when you need to have a surgery or operation, you will need a much more amount of general anesthesia.

The thought is scary enough to turn me to Herbal Medicine or other healthier alternative. Value your health, value your life, THINK TWICE before you easily pop that familiar pill into your mouth again.

Please don't take PANADOL always and try to send this e-mail to people you care.
Here in India it is sold as CROCIN or METACIN

Monday, December 3, 2012

Read for your Heart and for escaping Cancer ....GHEE


A spoon of ghee full of health: 'Poses no danger to cardiac health' and could protect us from cancer

PUBLISHED: 23:23 GMT, 6 October 2012 | UPDATED: 23:24 GMT, 6 October 2012

Desi Ghee or clarified butter oil - often blamed for obesity and heart diseases - is not that bad after all.

Indian scientists have just discovered that cow ghee could protect us from cancer.

Cow ghee enhances the availability of enzymes responsible for detoxification of cancer-causing substances and decreases the availability of those responsible for activation of carcinogens, scientists from the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) have reported in the latest issue of the Indian Journal of Medical Research.

The new finding, however, does not mean you can go ahead with liberal amount of ghee in your food.

Ghee poses no danger to cardiac health if the total fat intake is restricted to the prescribed limit, researchers said
Ghee poses no danger to cardiac health if the total fat intake is restricted to the prescribed limit, researchers said
One must ensure that the intake of total fat (including ghee) should not exceed the prescribed limit of fat consumption. In the experiments done in lab, scientists studied the effects of cow ghee compared to soybean oil on female rats which were artificially given breast cancer causing chemicals.

They observed that the initiation and progress of mammary cancer decreased in rats which were fed on cow ghee. However, there was a greater proportion of tumours in animals fed on soybean oil.
Fights Cancer
Researchers have deciphered the mechanism of ghee's protective properties.
'Feeding cow ghee decreased the expression of genes responsible for cell proliferation and raised regulated genes responsible for cell apoptosis', explained Dr Vinod Kansal, who led the research team.

One probable factor in cow ghee is the presence of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is known to possess beneficial properties.
Cow ghee is a rich natural source of CLA, whereas, vegetable oils lack this particular fatty acid.

Most vegetable oils contain high amount of unsaturated fatty acid as well as linoleic acid - which is considered pro-carcinogenic as it forms free radicals known to damage DNA.
The ghee available in India is mostly made from buffalo milk.

And though the study was done on cow ghee, scientists said buffalo ghee is also expected to be similarly effective because both contain CLA.

Dr Kansal said 'Ghee poses no danger to cardiac health as long as the total fat intake remains restricted to the prescribed limit.'

Moreover, ghee improves blood HDL level, which is good for heart, he added. 'I have serious reservation about doctors prescribing vegetable oil brands with highly unsaturated fat which is pro-carcinogenic,' the researcher said.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

CURE FOR INCURABLE DISEASES thru Auyrveda ..

Caution: Not tried by me: Alok
 

CURE FOR INCURABLE DISEASES

Good news for people suffering from long run incurable diseases that cannot be cured by medicines.
Any of the below mentioned diseases can be cured by the alternative therapy called ChakraSiddh Nadi Vaidyam.   Diseases will be cured within a short time without using medicines
Vertigo
Nodding Disease
Cervical dystonia
Dystonia
Acidity
Neuro mortan
Brainstem stroke
Knee problem
RA Problem
Polio
Migraine
Backpain
Cervical Spondylosis
Frozen Shoulder
Pseudomuscles
Slip Disc
Parkinson’s
Neuromuscular Disorders
Pls forward this mail to those who are in need.
See the below link for more details
http://chakrasiddh4u.blogspot.in/2008/11/curing-incurable-diseases-without.html
Contact us for further details on the below mentioned mobile or email id.
Regards
Shankar
+91 9866222074
treatments@chakrasiddh.com
chakrasiddh.treatments@gmail.com

Sunday, November 18, 2012

9 Surprising Benefits if you Sleep Well


9 Surprising Benefits if you Sleep Well


If you're getting less than the recommended seven or eight hours of sleep a night, here are nine reasons that you should shut down your computer, turn off the lights, and go to bed an hour early tonight.
1. Better health.
2. Better relations with spouse
3. Less pain. If you have chronic pain -- or acute pain from a recent injury -- getting enough sleep may actually make you hurt less.  Many studies have shown a link between sleep loss and lower pain threshold. Unfortunately, being in pain can make it hard to sleep.
Researchers have found that getting good sleep can supplement medication for pain. If pain is keeping you up at night, there are also medications available that combine a pain reliever with a sleep aid.
4. Lower risk of injury. Sleeping enough might actually keep you safer. Sleep deprivation has been linked with many notorious disasters, like the destruction of the space shuttle Challenger and the grounding of the Exxon Valdez. The Institute of Medicine estimates that one out of five auto accidents in the U.S. results from drowsy driving -- that's about 1 million crashes a year.
Of course, any kind of accident is more likely when you're exhausted, says Jodi A. Mindell, PhD, a professor of psychology at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia and author of Sleep Deprived No More. "When you're overtired, you're more likely to trip, or fall off a ladder, or cut yourself while chopping vegetables," she says. "Household accidents like that can have serious consequences."
5. Better mood.
6. Better weight control.
7. Clearer thinking.
8. Better memory.
9. Stronger immunity.

Friday, November 9, 2012

TONE UP!

TONE UP!
What do beach balls, bare feet, and Slim Fast have in common? They remind us of summer. While the first two conjure images of enchanted childhood and July afternoons, the latter unfortunately signifies, for many of us, the annual “I-have-to-lose-weight-fast” ritual. How else to squeeze into last year’s bathing suit? For those of you cringing at the thought of another Slim Fast race to lose weight, you can avoid crash dieting by simply starting to get into bathing-suit shape now. Here’s how:

Skinny isn’t always swank. Think about what looks attractive. Thinness is not always best, despite current societal ideals. Good posture and an air of confidence can do wonders for any couch potato body. To look like a million dollars regardless of your weight, practice standing up straight and walking as if you don’t have a care in the world.

Get buff. Add upper-body strength training exercises to your weekly routine to tone your upper arms, back and abdomen. Start now and you’ll have visible results by June. If you don’t belong to a gym, buy a light barbell set or several dumbbells at your local sporting good store and create your own program at home. There are several books available that can help you get started,

But I want to lose weight. If you’re truly motivated to lose weight before summer, here are a few tips. First, set a realistic goal. Don’t try to lose 50 pounds in two weeks. Instead, aim for a gradual reduction of one to two pounds per week. Sure, you can temporarily lose weight faster on the latest fad diet, but you’ll spend the rest of the summer watching those pounds (plus more) come bouncing back.

Lose the Super-Size

The mere fact that food now comes in bigger sizes may make people eat more. Consider a recent study conducted at the Food and Brand Research Lab at the University of Illinois. It found that people who were given a medium-sized tub of popcorn, a large-size tub or a jumbo-size tub ate about half the popcorn in each tub regardless of the size of the tub. In other words, the more you get, the more you’ll eat.

Kill your snack tray. After you set a reasonable goal, take a close look at your eating habits. Do you snack while watching television? If so, what are you eating and how much are you eating? Extra calories are easy to take in when you aren’t paying attention. Try having lower calorie snacks available, such as fresh fruit or veggies, when watching TV. Or do the unthinkable: turn off the TV and do something productive.


Cut back on added fats. You can easily shave up to 300 calories a day with these painless measures:

• Use skim or 1 percent milk instead of 2 percent or whole milk

• Skip the “special sauce” or cheese on your hamburger

• Refrain from super-sizing (see below)

• Replace French fries with a garden salad

• Munch on pretzels instead of potato chips

• Use wine or broth for stir-frying instead of oil or butter

• Split an entrĂ©e with a friend or take the other half home for tomorrow’s dinner

• Get a sub sandwich (roast beef, chicken, or turkey) instead of a burger and fries

A warning: don’t go overboard trying to reduce your fat intake. Some fat is needed for health and let’s face it: fat tastes good. Just aim to cut back on “unnecessary fats.” That’s the easiest way to lose weight without feeling like you are on a diet.


It’s all marketing. It’s hard to keep from eating too much when we are surrounded by good-tasting, fast, and inexpensive food. Almost every gas station now contains a fast food franchise and it’s reported that McDonald’s corporate goal is to have no American more than four minutes from one of its restaurants. By being aware of the encroachment of fast food into our daily lives, you can learn to resist the marketing ploys urging you to eat it everyday and everywhere.

Sweat! Of course, the most important step toward shedding a few pounds is to get some aerobic exercise on a regular basis. Running, biking, and swimming are all good aerobic activities, but there are many others such as kick-boxing, hiking and brisk walking. To lose body fat, the intensity needs to be cranked up a notch or two—long, slow aerobic bouts do not burn more fat as many people believe. Granted, a long, slow workout has other health benefits, but if your goal is to lose body fat, be prepared to sweat.

The take-home lesson: start now to get healthy. Don’t wait for the hot summer sun to prod you into action. In a couple of months, the three things that remind you of summer will be beach balls, bare feet—and heads turning your way.

Good health advice - take the stairs

Good health advice - take the stairs




NEW YORK, Apr 27 (Reuters Health) - For years, experts have been encouraging Americans to exercise, using steps as simple as taking the stairs instead of an elevator and walking to work, where possible. A recent study bolsters this advice -- it shows that frequent bouts of intense activity throughout the day can have considerable health benefits.

The study, published in the current issue of Preventive Medicine, found that just 2 minutes of stair climbing several times a day can lower total cholesterol, raise HDL ('good') cholesterol and improve the resting pulse rate in sedentary young women.

'Such improvements may have important implications for the health of women, since poor (cardio-respiratory) fitness has been shown to be a strong, graded, and independent risk factor for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in women, on par with cigarette smoking,' conclude Dr. Colin Boreham with the University of Ulster in Belfast and colleagues.

Further, improvements in total cholesterol levels achieved in the study could cut the rate of heart disease in women by a third, they note.

The team of researchers from the United Kingdom measured cholesterol levels, oxygen uptake, heart rates and blood lactate concentrations (a measure of metabolism) in 12 women between 18-22 years old, before and after the exercise program.

The women used a public access staircase for about 2 minutes a day for 5 days a week.

Compared with a group of 10 women who did not participate in the progressive stair-climbing program, the women who climbed stairs showed significant improvements in health and fitness levels after 7 weeks.

However, they did not show any evidence of weight loss.

'A short-term stair-climbing program can confer considerable cardiovascular health benefits on previously sedentary young women, lending credence to the potential public health benefits of this form of exercise,' the authors conclude.

They add that 'stair climbing may be a particularly efficient way of incorporating health-promoting exercise into an individual's daily lifestyle.'

Experts advise consulting with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program.

SOURCE: Preventive Medicine 2000;30:277-281.

Heart disease is the #1 killer

Heart Disease


Heart disease is the #1 killer. The good news is there are many ways you can

make a difference now to avoid putting yourself at risk.


Factors associated with heart disease include:


Smoking: Smoking is the biggest risk factor for and the leading preventable

cause of heart disease.


Exercise: Studies have shown that inactive people are twice as likely to

develop heart disease as those who are more active.


High cholesterol: High cholesterol is not a disease in and of itself, but it

is a factor associated with increased risk for heart disease that can be

easily affected by daily eating habits and exercise.



Excess weight: The more overweight you are, the higher your risk for heart

disease. Excess weight also contributes to other risk factors, including high

blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and high blood sugar.



'Good' and 'Bad' Cholesterol: What's the Difference?

Cholesterol is one of several lipids (blood fats) that combines with proteins

to form packages called lipoproteins that transport fat into the bloodstream.

There are two types of cholesterol:



'Good' cholesterol, or HDLs (high-density lipoproteins): Removes cholesterol

from the blood and therefore prevents it from building up in the body.



'Bad' cholesterol, or LDLs (low-density lipoproteins): Can clog arteries by

leaving fat deposits.

The human body creates all the cholesterol it needs; however, we take in

additional cholesterol from meat, poultry, fish, milk, milk products and egg

yolks - which means we all ingest more cholesterol than we need. This increase

in dietary cholesterol raises blood cholesterol levels in many people,

increasing their risk for heart disease. On the other hand, soluble fibers

found in beans, oats, fruits and vegetables, and regular exercise are thought

to increase the body's level of 'good' cholesterol.



When you go in for your annual physical exam, ask your health care provider

about checking your overall cholesterol level, as well as HDL and LDL levels,

especially if someone in your family has high cholesterol. For all adults, a

desirable total blood cholesterol level is less than 200 mg. Keep in mind that

a total blood cholesterol level of 200 to 239 mg is considered 'borderline

high.'

Learn to Reduce Stress!

We all have too much stress in our lives. Don't add to it by letting little things get to you. Learn to:

• Focus on one task at a time - worrying about work yet to be completed only distracts you from carrying out the job at hand.

• Reward yourself for your accomplishments - give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.

• Maintain perspective - don't stress over relatively insignificant events.

What Can I Do About Irritable Bowel Syndrome?


What Can I Do About Irritable Bowel Syndrome?



February 17, 2000

Kimberly: I have had irritable bowel syndrome since 1992. It hits me three consecutive days a week after every meal. And I mean immediately after every meal. I can't even get to my car; it makes traveling very hard.

Dr. Dean: I'll bet.



Visit the Digestion Center



Irritable bowel syndrome is the number one stomach complaint that people see doctors for. It's a perplexing condition that is as last getting a lot of play in the medical journals. There's a lot of research in progress, although I don't yet have any exciting findings to report.

The definition of IBS is any cramping discomfort in the abdomen accompanied by any alteration in bowel habits. Possible causes are drinking too much coffee, eating too much fiber, or lactose intolerance.

We do suspect that people with irritable bowel syndrome may have an exaggerated gastrocolic reflex. This is the reflex we all have that signals the lower intestines to make room for incoming food.

It also seems to be triggered by stress and anxiety. Nervousness causes some of us to get sweaty, some of us to get headaches, and some of us to get churning intestines.

Because of the mind/body connection, biofeedback and meditation are practices that might ease irritable bowel syndrome.

Just don't give up. Often if a doctor has no solution to a problem, the patient just goes away. You need to keep trying. Talk to a gastroenterologist who is experienced with and interested in this condition, and wants to present you with alternatives.

In upcoming weeks I want to post more news about it to HealthCentral.com, so stay connected.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Sugar and skin

Asian Heart Inst CSG] Sugar and skin
 
P. Venkatraman via returns.groups.yahoo.com
6:03 PM (15 hours ago)
to AsianHeartInst.
 

Ever seen a alcoholic? You can easily recognize one by the pale texture of his facial skin. He looks aged far beyond his years. His skin lacks vibrancy and is often described as being 'papery'.

Ever seen a diabetic? He has the same looks as a alcoholic. Even a diabetics skin is papery.

Whats common in both cases?

What is common is that both have a lot of sugar in various forms cruising in their blood streams in a rather out of control fashion.

Sugar when consumed, causes a process called 'Glycation'. This goes and destroys the proteins that make the skin vibrant and young.

Here is a quick note titled 'What is Glycation'

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-glycation.htm

And an extract and link from Elle advising women why they should avoid sugar.
"The proteins in skin most prone to glycation are the same ones that make a youthful complexion so plump and springy—collagen and elastin. When those proteins hook up with renegade sugars, they become discolored, weak, and less supple; this shows up on the skin’s surface as wrinkles, sagginess, and a loss of radiance. "

http://www.elle.com/beauty/makeup-skin-care/sugar-aging-how-to-fight-glycation-614621

You may not be an alcoholic or a diabetic. But the sugar that you consume is sure going to be glycating with your collagen and your elastin.


Venkat

Quickest way to stop diarrhoea

The secret is in rice water.

Never heard of this cure before. To my surprise, it worked, and they were even able to go out for dinner the next day. Both were exclaiming how the rice water did the trick of making them well again. Well, lucky it worked, I thought to myself.

Then his results were published in the Lancet, the Medical Journal all doctors read. In fact, said Shanta, he was credited for saving the lives of 2 million African babies by this method.
It is rice water and not rice, that does the trick. I have found it effective again and again.
THE EXACT RECIPE
You take a handful of rice and boil it in a large saucepan with lots of water. Like three or four large glasses. Then you cool that and drink the water. If you are in a hurry to relieve the ailing person, take the saucepan off the fire and dunk it in a frying pan or basin of cool water with ice cubes if necessary. This gives the patient a chance to drink the rice water sooner and cure himself or herself sooner.

When drinking the rice water, make sure there is lots of it. You have to tell the patient that enough water must go in to line your guts
from throat to other end, all 10 to 12 metres of it. If you take rice, it stays in the stomach. If you take broth, some of it may go into the small intestine..But if you take rice water, it will carry rice water to every inch of your small and large intestine to the end where the problem is.
How does it work? Even Prof Wong Hock Boon doesn't know. Read the article by going to this site:
http://rehydrate.org/dd/dd06.htm#page2

It is good to pass on the news to everyone you know because the complaint is so common and people suffer unnecessarily. You
would be doing your friends a great favour to relieve them of their misery when the occasion arises.

benefits of a cup of Yoghurt per day

Read & Digest the benefits of a cup of
Yoghurt per day.

A cup of yoghurt a day... is a way of keeping the doctor away.

********

Research proves that yoghurt is not just a food accompaniment,
a dessert or merely a diet food. There is growing evidence
to show that it is packed with microscopic warriors -
Beneficial bacteria that are essential for good health.
It is also a nutritional goldmine.
********


According to the National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad,
a cup of yoghurt (250 mg) contains 370 mg of calcium
(compare that with 300 mg in 250 ml of milk).
This is 30-40 per cent of most adults' daily needs.
*******

Besides, at eight grams of protein per cup, yoghurt meets 20-25
per cent of an adult's average daily needs. It is also a good
source of Vitamin B (including folacin) and phosphorus.
And, a cup of yoghurt contains 250 mg of potassium -
almost as much as a banana does.

********

"If you want to have your own stockpile of B vitamins without
having to buy them, eat yoghurt. By a strange chemistry,
it sets up an efficient little factory in the intestinal tract and
manufactures B vitamins for you," says Pratima Kaushik,
chief dietician at the Vidyasagar Institute of Mental
Health and Neurosciences, Delhi.

********




Besides, yoghurt also provides lactic acid, which aids protein,
calcium and iron assimilation.

********

For those on a low-calorie diet, yoghurt is a boon in any case.
"Easily available anywhere, it is a snack that tastes great at any time of
the day; it is low in calories and can be sufficiently filling when
combined with a high-fibre vegetable or fruit," says Dr Shikha Sharma of
Clinic deRejuvenation, Delhi.The benefits of yoghurt go beyond its
nutritional value and low-calorie appeal.

********

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, in an article published
in 2000, says, "Increased yoghurt consumption may enhance the
immune response, which would in turn increase resistance to
immune-related diseases."

In addition, yoghurt plays an important role in restoring the
digestive tract to its normal condition after a course of antibiotics.



"The drugs often wipe out every bacterium in their path, good and bad,
altering the natural balance of the digestive tract. When harmful
bacteria dominate the intestine, essential nutrients are not produced
and the levels of damaging substances, like carcinogens and toxins, rise.
By killing the harmful `bugs,' yoghurt helps maintain a healthy balance
of intestinal bacteria," Says Dr. Mridula Chichra,
a Delhi-based gynaecologist.

********

In the Indian context particularly, doctors and practitioners
of alternative medicine, often recommend yoghurt to patients recovering
from diarrhoea, and help ease other intestinal tract ailments.

********

Elixir for women

Women stand to benefit immensely from yoghurt. For instance,
women are often prone to vaginal candidosis, which causes itching
and possibly, a thick, white discharge.
The risk of this infection increases during pregnancy, diabetes
or when a woman is on birth control pills.
"Eating yoghurt that contains natural bacteria and yeasts
helps re-establish the equilibrium," says Pratima.

********

A study conducted by E. Hilton et al (Annals of Internal Medicine) in 1992,
found that yoghurt consumption decreased vaginal infections three-fold.
"A particular feature of vaginal infection is the reduction or absence of
lactobacilli in the vaginal flora. Yoghurt is full of lactobacilli, hence,
the logic in its use," explains Dr. Mridula.

Then, of course, there is osteoporosis, especially in women.
Studies have shown that most people consume far less calcium
than the recommended daily levels, which could cause osteoporosis.
While there are many calcium supplements that are not readily or
effectively absorbed, yoghurt provides an excellent source of
easily absorbed calcium.
********

That's not all. Daily consumption of yoghurt also helps improve
complexion, making it more radiant.

********



A word of caution, though. The fruit varieties of yoghurt are high
in calories, even though it has a low-fat profile.
"The jams and fruit concoctions added for flavor can dump in as much as
seven teaspoons of sugar per cup and more than double the calories.
So go easy on these, particularly when calories are a concern," says Dr. Shikha.
If you want a fruit flavour but do not want to lose out on calcium or gain
calories, mix chopped fruit with yoghurt. You'll get all the calcium, and
also the extra vitamins and fiber from the fruit.

*******

However, to be effective, yoghurt must contain sufficient amount of`live'
lactic cultures, meaning it must be `fresh.'
Make it at home, is Dr Shikha's advice.
Or, when buying it, look for packing as close to the date
of manufacture as possible to get maximum beneficial bacteria.
She adds, "Always keep it cold, as the helpful bacteria in yoghurt
cannot withstand high temperatures."

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Jain way of eating and Jain timing of eating

If one follows Jain way of eating and Jain timing of eating then acidity/ heartburn will never happen. ....Alok

8 ways to quell the fire of heartburn
Heartburn is a common problem. It’s caused by the backwash of stomach acid into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. This is formally called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). More than just a minor discomfort, heartburn can significantly reduce quality of life. “Heartburn can cause damage to the esophagus and even increase the risk of cancer if ignored and untreated,” says Dr. William Kormos, editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch and a primary care physician at Massachusetts General Hospital.
These eight steps can help ease heartburn.
  1. Eat in a heartburn-smart way. Large meals put pressure on the muscle that normally helps keep stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. The more you eat, the longer it takes for the stomach to empty, which contributes to reflux. Try smaller, more frequent meals and don’t wolf down your food.
  2. Avoid late-night eating. Having a meal or snack within three hours of lying down to sleep can worsen reflux, causing heartburn. Leave enough time for the stomach to clear out.
  3. Don’t exercise right after meals. Give your stomach time to empty; wait a couple of hours. But don’t just lie down either, which will worsen reflux.
  4. Sleep on an incline. Raising your torso up a bit with a wedge-shaped cushion may ease nighttime heartburn. Wedges are available from medical supply companies and some home goods stores. Don’t just prop your head and shoulders up with pillows. Doing so can increase pressure on the stomach by curling you up at the waist.
  5. Identify and avoid foods associated with heartburn. Common offenders include fatty foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, garlic, milk, coffee, tea, cola, peppermint, and chocolate. Carbonated beverages cause belching, which also causes reflux.
  6. Chew sugarless gum after a meal. Chewing gum promotes salivation, which helps neutralize acid, soothes the esophagus, and washes acid back down to the stomach. Avoid peppermint gum, which may trigger heartburn more than other flavors.
  7. Rule out medication side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of the medications you take might cause pain resembling heartburn or contribute to reflux.
  8. Lose weight if you need to. Being overweight puts more pressure on the stomach and pushes stomach contents into the esophagus. Tight fitting clothing and belts that come with weight gain may also be a factor.
When to consider medication
If the lifestyle steps above don’t get heartburn under control, the most effective treatment is a type of drug called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by drastically reducing acid secretion by the stomach. You can get some PPIs over-the-counter — for example lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec). Others are available by prescription only.
A PPI can get heartburn under control, but many people end up taking one indefinitely. This isn’t ideal since research has linked PPIs to increased susceptibility to bacterial infection and long-term risk of hip fracture, among other potential risks.
After a PPI cools your heartburn symptoms, ask your doctor if you can taper it off and then combine good preventive measures with targeted use of other medicines to keep heartburn from returning. H2 blockers are good for this purpose. They include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid).
If your symptoms persist, you may need additional testing such as endoscopy. Reflux sufferers who have damage to the esophagus (esophagitis) or precancerous changes (Barrett’s esophagus) may have to take a PPI indefinitely.
For more on relieving heartburn and treating a sensitive gut, purchase The Sensitive Gut, by Harvard Medical School.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Your knee....don't easily go for replacement

Taming tendinitis in the knee
Tendons are the bands of fibrous tissue that attach muscle to bone. Tendinitis — tendon inflammation — is often a repetitive strain injury. You get it by repeating the same motion over and over, which irritates the tendon. Joints commonly affected by tendinitis include the elbow, heel, and wrist.
Weekend warriors (folks who engage in high-intensity activities such as running or basketball on the weekend but do little to maintain conditioning during the week) often develop tendinitis in the knees. Simply being overweight can also contribute to knee tendinitis. Age is another risk factor. Over time, tendons become less flexible and the involved muscles lose strength, both of which further stress the tendons. Inflexible hamstring and quadricep muscles make you more susceptible as well.
Symptoms of tendinitis of the knee include:
pain above or below the kneecap
swelling
pain that recurs with particular activities and eases with rest
in severe cases, pain becomes constant (in spite of resting the joint) and can even disrupt sleep.


Here are some simple steps you can take to quell tendinitis pain. At the first sign of trouble:
limit activities that put stress on your knees
apply ice
use over-the-counter pain relievers, ideally aspirin or another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen or naproxen
use a knee support.


Once the pain and any swelling are gone, try easing back into your normal activities and hold off on more demanding athletic activities for a few weeks. Typically, tendinitis goes away in a few weeks or months. Your doctor may recommend extra treatments for particularly stubborn cases.
To keep tendinitis from coming back, ask your doctor about exercises to improve flexibility and address and muscle imbalances that may be placing stress on your knees.
 
4 ways to put off joint replacement
A desire to stay active and natural aversion to pain sends more than 770,000 of us to orthopedic surgeons each year for a hip or knee replacement. And we're turning to doctors for these surgeries much earlier in life. According to Dr. Scott Martin, associate professor of orthopedic surgery at Harvard Medical School, this isn't a healthy trend. "A lot of joint replacements are being done because they can be," says Dr. Martin.
Every surgical procedure carries the risk of complications — or even death. Because the average joint that's replaced only lasts 10 to 15 years, having the procedure done at age 50 instead of 70 means there's a good chance you'll need a second procedure when you're older and at higher risk for complications.
Here are four tips that can help you extend the life of your joints and keep the need for replacement in the very distant future.
Tip #1: Lose weight
One of the most important ways to care for your joints is to stay at a healthy weight. For every extra pound you carry, you put about three pounds of additional pressure on your knees and multiply the pressure on your hips by six. If you have arthritis, losing just 15 pounds can cut your knee pain in half. If you do eventually need a joint replaced, losing weight beforehand can reduce your risk of having complications from surgery. Even if you have tender joints, you can still work out — as long as you stick with exercises that are gentle on your joints, such as swimming, walking, or riding a stationary bike.
Tip #2: Take care when using your joints
Using poor posture and the wrong techniques during your daily activities adds more stress to damaged joints. By standing up straight instead of slouching you can protect the joints in your neck, hips, and knees. Also use the proper technique when lifting or carrying anything heavy. If any activity hurts, stop doing it right away.
Tip #3: Try nonsurgical approaches before turning to surgery
There are a number of ways to tackle joint pain other than replacing the joint itself. Treatment with steroids is one approach. Benefits can last anywhere from four to six months. However, this doesn't work for everyone. Viscosupplementation involves injecting a lubricating fluid into damaged knee joints to treat osteoarthritis. Studies show this therapy doesn't work any better than steroid injections. Yet it is another alternative for pain relief and mobility if other treatments haven't worked or you can't tolerate them.
Tip #4: Get pain relief
Instead of heading straight to your doctor to treat sore joints, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), or the prescription medicine celecoxib (Celebrex), can relieve both joint inflammation and pain. Do talk with your doctor before deciding to use an over-the-counter NSAID. These drugs can cause side effects such as stomach upset, bleeding, and kidney and liver damage. Take them for the shortest possible time to relieve your discomfort. There is also some evidence that the dietary supplement glucosamine chondroitin can lead to subtle improvements in arthritis pain. "It doesn't rebuild joints, but it does seem to help with the pain," Dr. Martin says.
When to consider surgery
If you can't escape from joint pain even while at rest, your pain is only relieved by narcotic medications, or your function is severely compromised, it's time to consider a joint replacement. "I would stick with your own joint if you can, but if it's physically, mentally, and emotionally wearing you down, then it's time to go and have it done," Dr. Martin says.
Before you consider joint replacement surgery, find out all of your treatment alternatives. Know exactly what the surgery may do for you, what complications it might have, and what is involved in recovery and rehabilitation. And find out exactly how long you'll need to stay off the joint after your surgery.

Monday, October 22, 2012

GHEE



GHEE

Fact:
Ghee is composed almost entirely of saturated fat. What you're already shaking your head with disgust??? Just read on and have patience. Remember a good cook must have a lot of patience.

Fact:
When cooking, it can be unhealthy to heat polyunsaturated oils such as vegetable oils to high temperatures. Doing so creates peroxides and other free radicals. These substances lead to a variety of health problems and diseases. Hey now even vegetable oils sound scary! Good we're making progress here.

Fact:
Ghee has a very high smoke point and doesn't burn easily during cooking. Ghee has the more stable saturated bonds and so is lot less likely to form the dangerous free radicals when cooking. Ghee's short chain fatty acids are also metabolized very readily by the body. Hmm... So now aren't you confused? Is ghee good or bad you ask with a puzzled look? Be patient, just a bit more.

Lab studies have shown ghee to reduce cholesterol both in the serum and intestine(aren't you surprised?!). It does it by triggering an increased secretion of biliary lipids (stuff coming out of your bile). Ghee is also good for nerves and brain. It helps control eye pressure and is beneficial to glaucoma patients. I bet you didn't know these, did you?

Ghee is most notably said to stimulate the secretion of stomach acids to help with digestion, while other fats, such as butter and oils, slow down the digestive process and can sit heavy in the stomach. You don't want that really.

In addition to ghee's nutritional value, it is rich with antioxidants and acts as an aid in the absorption of vitamins and minerals from other foods, feeding all layers of body tissue and serving to strengthen the immune system. A high concentration of butyric acid, a fatty acid that contains anti-viral properties, is believed to inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors.It is also good for treatment of burns and blisters; a little kitchen remedy there for y'all. According to Ayurveda ghee promotes learning and increased memory retention. Make sure you remember that. And it'll help you remember if you had some ghee!


However, as a caveat, while in a healthy person consuming ghee may reduce your cholesterol or not affect it, it not advised for people already suffering from high cholesterol.

So should you eat Ghee or not???
If you're healthy, ABSOLUTELY. It is safer than butter and has more nutritional use than oil. No you understand how the Punjabi’s have tonnes of ghee and still are fitter and stronger than any other group of Indians? Go get some ghee you weakling.

A high concentration of butyric acid, a fatty acid that contains anti-viral properties, is believed to inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors.

Although tests and research are still ongoing, it has been used in Indian medicinal practice to help with ulcers, constipation, and the promotion of healthy eyes and skin. An Indian folk-remedy for thousands of years, ghee is also said to promote learning and increased memory retention. It is used in Indian beauty creams to help soften skin, and as a topical for the treatment of burns and blisters.

10 Best Fruits for winter

10 Best Fruits for winter ....courtesy SITA GITA

So, it s not the season of mangoes. It s upsetting, but winter also brings along a bagful of fruity delights. The winter fruits are not only savory rich, but also full of antioxidants and vitamins that help keep the skin glowing and smooth as well as promote good health. Here is a list of 10 best fruits to fill up on this season.

Oranges
Tangy and savory, oranges are citrus fruits that provide a good amount of vitamin C to the body. Oranges help the body to fight free radicals and maintain excellent health. From the family, blood oranges are also a good fruit. Dark red in color, they are a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A and calcium.

Mandarins

Another citrus fruit loaded with vitamin C and fiber. Mandarins are juicy and taste sour and sweet at the same time. They are beneficial for the overall health as they boost the immunity. Another plus about mandarins are that they will make you feel fuller for a while, facilitating the weight control program.

Kiwis
One of the fruits that are available all the year round, kiwifruits have a sweet taste plus a good deal of fiber, antioxidants and vitamins. Surprisingly, kiwis have more vitamin C than oranges and they contain as much potassium as bananas which make them an essential fruit to eat throughout the year.

Grapes
Mouthwatering, exquisitely tangy and packed with vitamin C, grapes are low in calories and high in fiber and folate. Grapes have enzymes that help in burn body fat. Other than grapes, red grapes also come with a bucketful of health benefits. They contain potassium, folate, calcium, iron, vitamins A, C and B6 along with many antioxidants.

Pineapple
The toothsome of all, pineapples are full of vitamin C and fiber both of which help in weight loss and immune system strengthening. Pineapples are also a good source of manganese which is quite helpful in the formation of bones.

Pomegranates
Pomegranates should be consumed in all seasons – they are packed with more antioxidants than green tea and even berries. Furthermore, they are a rich source of potassium, iron and vitamin C. If you have one pomegranate a day for about two weeks, you will have a radiant-than-ever-before skin, a stronger liver and plenty of energy.

Bananas
The sweet creamy fruit has Vitamins C and B6, calcium, potassium. Fiber and loads more. Bananas have great health benefits – they regulate blood pressure, reduce chances of muscle cramps, boost cardiovascular health, moderate sugar levels and even elevate the mood.

Passion Fruit
Tremendously rich in vitamin A and C, passion fruits enable body to fight the free radicals and provide protection from a number of diseases. Since it has a strong flavor, one should consume it in small amounts.

Pears
They aren t as delicious as other fruits, but pears boost the immune system which is specifically required during winters because our body becomes more vulnerable to coughs and colds and flu. The good things about pears are that a single fruit makes your stomach feel fuller for long and it s great in keeping skin allergies at bay.

Persimmons (Japani Fal)
Famously known as the Japani fal in India, persimmons are an excellent source of vitamin A. in northern parts of the country, this fruit is used as an herbal remedy for various ailments including diarrhea, asthma, lung infections and others.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Managing Back Pain

Managing Back Pain
Management of back pain has been cited as one of the reasons for large economic burdens in the world. Healthcare costs in the management of lower back pain are said to have spiralled beyond billions each year and is very much likely to increase given the sedentary lifestyle that modern living has given rise to.

Often, managing pain has been seen as the best practice in curing the problem. And simple things can work wonders when it comes to managing back pain.

It is always best to get a comprehensive medical evaluation or a diagnosis as pain is often a signal indicating that something is wrong and needs medical attention.

Whatever the medical condition, there are a number of techniques to help cope with back pain, and most of these techniques are simple and can be done anywhere, anytime. All of these techniques make use of four types of basic skills that include:
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Distracting one's attention away from the pain signals
  • Diverting one's thoughts towards pleasant images or sounds and
  • Developing detachment and distance
Muscle relaxation: Muscle relaxation involves slow deep breathing exercises to release tension from the muscles to relieve pain. Learning to relax needs time, patience and practice. But the technique of relaxation once mastered, can focus attention away from your pain and release tension from all your muscles.

Distracting one's attention away from the pain signals: This technique gently manoeuvres one's attention from negative or painful images to positive mental thoughts. Simple activities such as watching television or a favourite movie, reading a book, listening to your favourite music or talking to a friend can distract ones attention to positive thoughts.

Diverting one's thoughts towards pleasant images or sounds: Concentrating on pleasant visual imagery helps in diverting one's attention from pain. One can divert one's thoughts to some pleasant memories of pleasant scenes or events or mentally repeat positive words that instil confidence to manage pain.

Developing detachment and distance: This technique helps one to develop a sense of detachment or distance from the pain. If one masters the art of relaxation through deep breathing and calming, one can easily extricate the mind from focusing on the pain and develop detachment.

As the saying goes, 'prevention is better than cure', preventative maintenance of spine is always worth a pound of cure. And some of the ways to maintain a supple spine is through simple routine exercises.
  • Exercises that strengthen the back muscles: The abdominal and back muscles in the body support our upper body. The actions of these muscles balance or support one another. Thus weak or tight muscles can be a precursor to back injuries. Back muscle strengthening programs like yoga and Pilates are excellent ways to prevent any kind of injury to the back. Studies have shown that people who practice yoga twice a week for eight weeks make significant gains in strengthening their back muscles. This leads to flexibility and endurance that are essential for a strong back.
  • Eat right and get enough sleep: Your diet plays a strong role in building and healing the soft tissues in your body. Fresh fruits and vegetable play their role in supplying effective vitamins necessary for a strong back. Sleep is the most essential ingredient for your body to relax and heal. Thus, ensure that you have a good seven to eight hours of sleep to stay healthy.
  • Breathe: The same muscles that help you in breathing also function as posture muscles. Thus breathing exercises through yoga, martial arts or Pilates can help in developing these posture muscles. They in turn help in developing a strong core and a good alignment of the body.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight puts pressure on the nerves, muscles and bones of the back. If you maintain a healthy weight for your height, chances of developing a back ache reduces considerably.
  • Maintain your posture: Do not slump. Slumping tends to put weight on your back. Be careful when lifting heavy objects. Bend and straighten from the knees when lifting heavy objects.
Statistics show that there is no sure fire treatment for managing back pain. Millions who suffer know that it is often a process of trial and error to see what works best for them. If you're one of them, make sure you are guided and helped by a medical practitioner to get the best possible option of dealing with it.