Picture yourself in your medical doctor’s office and he looks at the results of the blood tests he requested for you the week before. “According to these blood test results you may soon be joining the more than two million other Canadians who are facing the challenge of Type 2 diabetes and will have to check the glycemic index of all the foods you consume,” the doctor says. You may answer, “I don’t have time for all that fussing around, just write out a prescription for me.”
“This is my prescription,” the doctor replies and hands him a page that shows the acid-alkaline balance of the foods you need to select, “the nurse will meet with you at the next group of pre-diabetics being held at the hospital and give you advice on your new journey and your family will help you as well.” The doctor nods, walks toward the exit door as he commends his patient for coming in for medical help before it was too late to remedy the situation.
A list of book titles may be included as part the prescription and you are ready to proceed with life’s new challenge as you go to the library or the book store to check out the recommended books for further information. “Of all the vegetables, tomatoes carry most of the vitamins in a balanced form but must be vine-ripened and when cooked for canning must be without any preservatives, especially with benzoate of soda, the most dangerous one. William A. McGarey, M.D. has endorsed many of the books as noted in the forewords.
THE POTATO: Those needing to overcome obesity that may lead to diabetes should eat only the part of the potato that is close to the jacket that keeps the system in the proper acid-alkaline balance. The interior of the potato is just starch that needs more fat cells built up to store up for future possible times of famine.
THE PARSNIP: To the question, “What is one of the best sources of calcium in foods?” The parsnip is one of the main ones as well as green leafy vegetables that are often mentioned as excellent body builders that help to eliminate constipation as well. For further information on these books to borrow or own that are endorsed by Dr. McGarey call 1-866-322-8209 in Canada or 1-800-333-4499 in U.S.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
CITRUS FRUIT
Citrus fruits may be feeling neglected and it is time to roll them on to the stage to show how important they are to help every body cell. Grapefruit in particular provides the first class house cleaners - being one of the all around scrubbers within the human body. Its fiber exercises the jaws and continues with its clean up job through miles of tubes and passageways clearing out waste materials to its final exit. On its way it tunes up the metabolism, and joins up with the tasty orange, with a hint of lemon or lime juice to give a boost to the B vitamins for improving digestive assimilations.
For people who want to improve memory these body beautifiers smooth out the rough edges of every body part helping to renew and replace the ones in need. There are other helpers along the way as the mind selects from the multiplicity of other healthy foods, water and air that stirs up the breath of life that is powered by the heartbeat. There is the lube job that requires the flax and fish oils that make it possible to keep every part in motion. Two tablespoons of these oils each day gently slide past every joint to keep the body in motion for the impetus to exercise that speeds us on the journey we call life.
Invisible and silently our soul records all thoughts, acts and deeds that carries everything in each individuals Book of Life, our hard drive, that comes with us in preparation for its journey into that next plane. As each person selects and practices the truths within our souls and makes kindness our practice in life, our journey can be pleasant and rewarding each day. Tune in again for more information on the kinds of foods needed nature has prepared for us and the amounts to consume for health and happiness.
For people who want to improve memory these body beautifiers smooth out the rough edges of every body part helping to renew and replace the ones in need. There are other helpers along the way as the mind selects from the multiplicity of other healthy foods, water and air that stirs up the breath of life that is powered by the heartbeat. There is the lube job that requires the flax and fish oils that make it possible to keep every part in motion. Two tablespoons of these oils each day gently slide past every joint to keep the body in motion for the impetus to exercise that speeds us on the journey we call life.
Invisible and silently our soul records all thoughts, acts and deeds that carries everything in each individuals Book of Life, our hard drive, that comes with us in preparation for its journey into that next plane. As each person selects and practices the truths within our souls and makes kindness our practice in life, our journey can be pleasant and rewarding each day. Tune in again for more information on the kinds of foods needed nature has prepared for us and the amounts to consume for health and happiness.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
THE YAM OR SWEET POTATO
A close friend was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes several years ago and found it necessary to give up eating the ordinary white potato which had been a mainstay for all of us born on the prairies. She now prefers the yam and I do as well as I learn more about its many benefits including a low glycemic index. Colored vegetables and fruits are also high in vitamin A.
Known in ancient Scotland as the yam, this root vegetable replaces the potato in tropical countries and known in southern U.S. as the sweet potato. It has risen to prominence recently because of the growing concern and increase of Type 2 diabetes. There are currently more than two million Canadians living with diabetes.
A book published in 1969 with a forward by William A. McGarey M.D. has found that many of his patients who have been willing to change their eating habits can reduce their insulin needs. Even grade school children have learned to study the glycemic index of various food items and are responsible for pricking their finger to determine how much of any food item they should consume.
In February of 2010 I cut off both ends of several yams and planted them indoors. They sprouted up with heart shaped leaves that climbed up my window sill and produced a lovely flower the shape and color of a morning glory. One of the men who sells vegetables at the Farmers Market told me he will be planting some yams in a protected area like one does with tomatoes and transplant them outside for selling in the fall.
Known in ancient Scotland as the yam, this root vegetable replaces the potato in tropical countries and known in southern U.S. as the sweet potato. It has risen to prominence recently because of the growing concern and increase of Type 2 diabetes. There are currently more than two million Canadians living with diabetes.
A book published in 1969 with a forward by William A. McGarey M.D. has found that many of his patients who have been willing to change their eating habits can reduce their insulin needs. Even grade school children have learned to study the glycemic index of various food items and are responsible for pricking their finger to determine how much of any food item they should consume.
In February of 2010 I cut off both ends of several yams and planted them indoors. They sprouted up with heart shaped leaves that climbed up my window sill and produced a lovely flower the shape and color of a morning glory. One of the men who sells vegetables at the Farmers Market told me he will be planting some yams in a protected area like one does with tomatoes and transplant them outside for selling in the fall.
Monday, January 24, 2011
THE RADISH AND THE RUTABAGA
I asked one of my three table mates, Lloyda, what the difference between the rutabaga and the turnip. Being familiar with the food business she said they were the same. Further research shows the other non official name for the rutabaga is Swedish turnip. But when the information is in book-print that has been checked over by a holistic medical doctor, the benefits of the rutabaga seem reliable. It is further stated that the rutabaga contains the right combination of minerals to provide strength for a person seeking to recover from Multiple Sclerosis as it balances the iodine with the potassium necessary for body building. For best results its cooking juices should be eaten (perhaps adding it to the soup.) The rutabaga along with “plenty of green vegetables” will become a part of a nourishing meal. This combination has been found helpful for those suffering from Parkinson’s disease as well as for those facing kidney problems.
It is important also to give proper credit to the little red radish that wants us to know it contains iron and silicon that balances the elements in the body that give resistive forces to help cure and eradicate cancer. Anemia as well as the entire nervous system has been helped by consuming the radish. It is best prepared in a gelatin salad and served about three times a week. The radish does not give up its resources easily and needs to be finely chopped for the best assimilation. Grate them, slice them, dice them or even toss them into your blender along with the rest of your “green drink” for a very healthful cocktail.
As in all colleges there are many subjects to study in "Earth School" besides nourishing our bodies with healthful foods. Sooner or later the subject of finances must be understood. I compromised my own retirement funds by deciding to help worthy students by saving the interest they would need for student loans. Many nieces and nephews have been helped without signing official documents, except one. When our son graduated from the University of Victoria he was the top student and won the gold medal that year. He paid his own tuition fees and other expenses through scholarships and summer work. It seemed like a good idea to use these funds to help his cousins and other nieces and nephews. I feel obligated to warn others that legal papers need to be signed before releasing funds. The paper needed for these documents can be made from the beetle killed trees and the environment is benefited as well. Both parties involved can avoid the stress and illness that can result when legal papers are not signed and thus health be compromised.
It is important also to give proper credit to the little red radish that wants us to know it contains iron and silicon that balances the elements in the body that give resistive forces to help cure and eradicate cancer. Anemia as well as the entire nervous system has been helped by consuming the radish. It is best prepared in a gelatin salad and served about three times a week. The radish does not give up its resources easily and needs to be finely chopped for the best assimilation. Grate them, slice them, dice them or even toss them into your blender along with the rest of your “green drink” for a very healthful cocktail.
As in all colleges there are many subjects to study in "Earth School" besides nourishing our bodies with healthful foods. Sooner or later the subject of finances must be understood. I compromised my own retirement funds by deciding to help worthy students by saving the interest they would need for student loans. Many nieces and nephews have been helped without signing official documents, except one. When our son graduated from the University of Victoria he was the top student and won the gold medal that year. He paid his own tuition fees and other expenses through scholarships and summer work. It seemed like a good idea to use these funds to help his cousins and other nieces and nephews. I feel obligated to warn others that legal papers need to be signed before releasing funds. The paper needed for these documents can be made from the beetle killed trees and the environment is benefited as well. Both parties involved can avoid the stress and illness that can result when legal papers are not signed and thus health be compromised.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
TUNE UP YOUR BRAIN WITH BERRIES
An unpublished study of 3,774 people in Chicago suggests that certain substances, called polyphenols, found that berries reduce the inflammation of blood vessels of the brain. The study showed that a glass of blueberry juice with each meal every day for three months improved the memory of nine people who were experiencing memory loss. The regular consumption of strawberries has been linked to a slower rate of cognitive decline in women as they get older.
Animals in laboratory studies found that certain compounds in blueberries and strawberries prevented the growth of breast and colon cancer cells.
Animal studies conducted by researchers from the National Institutes of Health suggest that a blueberry-enriched diet might offer some protection against heart attacks.
When shopping for berries look for plump, firm fruit with a sweet aroma. Store them unwashed in an airtight container in fridge or freezer. Opt for fresh or frozen berries instead of jams or jellies, which are often packed with added sugar and the heat used to cook them reduces their vitamin C content.
Try for organic varieties, especially for blueberries and strawberries. The whole berries have more nutrients and fiber than juices and juice drinks, as well as fewer calories and less sugar. While planning your summer vacation now, include time to tune up your brain and improve your health in a U-pick berry patch.
Animals in laboratory studies found that certain compounds in blueberries and strawberries prevented the growth of breast and colon cancer cells.
Animal studies conducted by researchers from the National Institutes of Health suggest that a blueberry-enriched diet might offer some protection against heart attacks.
When shopping for berries look for plump, firm fruit with a sweet aroma. Store them unwashed in an airtight container in fridge or freezer. Opt for fresh or frozen berries instead of jams or jellies, which are often packed with added sugar and the heat used to cook them reduces their vitamin C content.
Try for organic varieties, especially for blueberries and strawberries. The whole berries have more nutrients and fiber than juices and juice drinks, as well as fewer calories and less sugar. While planning your summer vacation now, include time to tune up your brain and improve your health in a U-pick berry patch.
Friday, January 21, 2011
HANDS-ONLY CPR
A simplified version of cardiopulmonary resuscitation can save as many lives as standard CPR, according to two studies in the July 19, 2010, issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
In both, 911 telephone operators had given instructions to people helping victims of cardiac arrest, a condition that usually occurs after a heart attack or an acute heartbeat abnormality. Operators told them to do either chest compressions alternating with rescue breathing, or just chest compressions. Each approach was equally effective. The hands-only version is easier to explain and do. The American Heart Association now recommends hands-only CPR for people not trained in traditional CPR.
To do hands-only CPR:
· First, call 911.
· Push hard and fast on the center of the person’s chest. Aim for 100 compressions per minute.
· Continue until emergency services arrive. Swap with a partner if you can, since it is hard work.
· For more details, go to http://www.handsonlycpr.org/. The American Red Cross teaches complete CPR.
In both, 911 telephone operators had given instructions to people helping victims of cardiac arrest, a condition that usually occurs after a heart attack or an acute heartbeat abnormality. Operators told them to do either chest compressions alternating with rescue breathing, or just chest compressions. Each approach was equally effective. The hands-only version is easier to explain and do. The American Heart Association now recommends hands-only CPR for people not trained in traditional CPR.
To do hands-only CPR:
· First, call 911.
· Push hard and fast on the center of the person’s chest. Aim for 100 compressions per minute.
· Continue until emergency services arrive. Swap with a partner if you can, since it is hard work.
· For more details, go to http://www.handsonlycpr.org/. The American Red Cross teaches complete CPR.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
EXERCISE AT WORK
Workdays can be made more active by walking to a colleague’s office instead of calling or sending an e-mail. Working meetings can also be walking meetings. It might be less disturbing to others in a nearby cubicle by alternating left heel while raising the right toe area creating more movement while at work.
Keep elastic bands on hand or hand squeezers on your desk. Sometimes substitute an exercise ball for your chair. Even gentle movements can stimulate thought patterns that bring new ideas to mind.
Keep elastic bands on hand or hand squeezers on your desk. Sometimes substitute an exercise ball for your chair. Even gentle movements can stimulate thought patterns that bring new ideas to mind.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
RESULTS OF ONE LESS SUGAR DRINK
The conclusion of a study published online in May 2010, researchers followed 810 people for 18 months. Those who consumed an average of one less 12-ounce sugar-sweetened drink a day – such as sodas and fruit drinks – tended to have lower blood pressure levels than those who drank more. With summer’s heat only a few months away, it is hard to beat a drink of cool water.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
GENERAL HEALTH TIPS
According to a July 2010 study by researchers at Purdue University, postmenopausal women who lose excess weight through a high-protein diet are more likely to also experience bone loss if they get most of their protein from meat rather than other sources. Good non-meat sources of protein include beans, low-fat dairy products and tofu.
According to a study in the July 12, 2010, issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine, adults 65 and older with low blood levels of vitamin D are up to 60 percent more likely to experience substantial mental decline.
According to a study in the July 12, 2010, issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine, adults 65 and older with low blood levels of vitamin D are up to 60 percent more likely to experience substantial mental decline.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
RED BELL PEPPERS, BROCCOLI, AND BEETS
According to research conducted by scientists at Cornell University at Cornell University at Ithaca New York red bell peppers contain the greatest amount of phenols – plant chemicals that protect blood vessel health and prevent cell damage that is thought to contribute to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. The unripe green pepper is more difficult for many people to digest and should be left on the vine until it has reached its full depth of maturity.
Together with colourful beets and broccoli which has been in the news lately, we have a powerful way of slowing down on the serious problem of Diabetes 2 that affects millions resulting in huge social changes in the way we live. With patient education, the way we eat and take charge of our own health will diminish the necessity of surgery and amputation of limbs that seriously compromises the quality of life in our later years. http://www.diabetes.ca/ or call 416-586-4800, extension 4447, for more information.
Together with colourful beets and broccoli which has been in the news lately, we have a powerful way of slowing down on the serious problem of Diabetes 2 that affects millions resulting in huge social changes in the way we live. With patient education, the way we eat and take charge of our own health will diminish the necessity of surgery and amputation of limbs that seriously compromises the quality of life in our later years. http://www.diabetes.ca/ or call 416-586-4800, extension 4447, for more information.
Friday, January 14, 2011
SLEEP WELL WITHOUT DRUGS
According to Orfeu Buxton, Ph.D, an instructor at the Harvard Medical School sleep deprivation throws hormonal secretions out of whack, impairs the body’s ability to regulate insulin and control of blood sugar, fires up stress systems, and stokes inflammation. It can trigger overeating by altering the levels of hormones that regulate appetite. Primary-care doctors don’t ask about sleep problems, and if a patient raises them, doctors often turn to drugs without considering alternatives, says Steven M. Scharf, M.D., director of the sleep disorders Center at the University of Maryland. Such medication can help for a few nights if you have insomnia due to travel or stressful events. Sleeping problems that last more than three nights a week for a month usually have an underlying cause that pills can’t fix. Drugs can lead to dependence and drowsiness, and if you stop using them, rebound insomnia.
Set a bedtime and wake-up time to set the body’s internal clock. Soon the resulting sleepiness will make your bedtime fall into line. Limiting alcohol, caffeine and nicotine are important. Refrain from smoking two hours before bedtime. Large late meals can disturb sleep and if bathroom calls are too frequent cut back on all beverages. Set a cut-off time for TV-watching so it is best to turn off the technology including sending e-mails.
According to the independent Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, valerian and melatonin are considered alternative sleep aids when needed for jet-lag or shift work. It is best to avoid animal-derived melatonin because they could be contaminated with a virus. If unsure about the ingredients check with your doctor or pharmacist. Both supplements appear to be safe but should not be taken with alcohol, sleeping pills or other sedatives since supplements and not well-regulated and may not contain what is listed on the label.
Set a bedtime and wake-up time to set the body’s internal clock. Soon the resulting sleepiness will make your bedtime fall into line. Limiting alcohol, caffeine and nicotine are important. Refrain from smoking two hours before bedtime. Large late meals can disturb sleep and if bathroom calls are too frequent cut back on all beverages. Set a cut-off time for TV-watching so it is best to turn off the technology including sending e-mails.
According to the independent Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, valerian and melatonin are considered alternative sleep aids when needed for jet-lag or shift work. It is best to avoid animal-derived melatonin because they could be contaminated with a virus. If unsure about the ingredients check with your doctor or pharmacist. Both supplements appear to be safe but should not be taken with alcohol, sleeping pills or other sedatives since supplements and not well-regulated and may not contain what is listed on the label.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
EXERCISE WITH VIDEO GAMES
The American Heart Association has teamed with Nintendo to promote active versions like Wii Fit Plus and Wii Sports Resort for people of any age who don’t get 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. These devices – which use wireless, motion-sensitive, handheld controllers to interact with your TV – might help burn calories and can help improve balance, which might help prevent falls.
Elizabeth Orsega-Smith, PhD, a professor of Health Behavior Sciences at the University of Delaware, studied 24 people 66 to 74 and found that they burned an average of 103 calories during 30 minutes of Wii bowling and 70 calories playing Wii baseball.
A second study, of 31 adults 51 to 89, found an improvement in balance after four weeks of playing games that emphasize balance, such as skiing.
Our 2008 tests of the Wii Fit concluded that while the devices don’t offer much of a workout to people who are already fit, they might motivate people to become more active. Caution is necessary. The devices might interfere with pacemakers and, like real sports, can cause injuries. It is a good idea to talk with your doctor if you are middle aged or older and only beginning to exercise.
Elizabeth Orsega-Smith, PhD, a professor of Health Behavior Sciences at the University of Delaware, studied 24 people 66 to 74 and found that they burned an average of 103 calories during 30 minutes of Wii bowling and 70 calories playing Wii baseball.
A second study, of 31 adults 51 to 89, found an improvement in balance after four weeks of playing games that emphasize balance, such as skiing.
Our 2008 tests of the Wii Fit concluded that while the devices don’t offer much of a workout to people who are already fit, they might motivate people to become more active. Caution is necessary. The devices might interfere with pacemakers and, like real sports, can cause injuries. It is a good idea to talk with your doctor if you are middle aged or older and only beginning to exercise.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
GO GREEN TO PREVENT DIABETES
According to a review in the August 19, 2010, issue of the British Medical Journal, people who consume an average of about 1.5 servings of green leafy vegetables per day have a 14 percent lower risk of Type 2 diabetes compared with those who eat less than half a serving of those vegetables per day.
There are some side benefits as well if you grow some of those vegetables yourself in your flower beds or your veranda and will add its own special health and beauty to your life. Lettuce, Swiss chard, beet tops (with stem as well as root) and spinach are among the most beneficial plants that are easy to grow and will retain more vitamins with their daily supply of fresh greens. Spring will soon be here to offer fresh air and simple exercises to add to the pleasures of your day. Finding those first two green leaves that have suddenly burst forth from Mother Earth to reach for the sun brings a special joy to the children as they rush inside to report the emergence of the first two green leaves to the rest of the family.
There are some side benefits as well if you grow some of those vegetables yourself in your flower beds or your veranda and will add its own special health and beauty to your life. Lettuce, Swiss chard, beet tops (with stem as well as root) and spinach are among the most beneficial plants that are easy to grow and will retain more vitamins with their daily supply of fresh greens. Spring will soon be here to offer fresh air and simple exercises to add to the pleasures of your day. Finding those first two green leaves that have suddenly burst forth from Mother Earth to reach for the sun brings a special joy to the children as they rush inside to report the emergence of the first two green leaves to the rest of the family.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
PROTECT YOUR VITAL ORGANS
Liver disease affects one in ten adults in the U.S. and is on the rise. That might be due to increasing rates of obesity and Type2 Diabetes. Some drugs and supplements can harm the liver as they pass through it before being eliminated. A damaged liver is less able to perform such functions as processing nutrients, helping the blood supply on its constant journey trough the body and preparing toxins for elimination from the body.
Liver damage can exist for years without symptoms. So if you regularly take drugs that react negatively check with your doctor periodically and ask to have your liver checked. If damage is detected, stopping the medication usually solves the problem and your doctor can explain it to you. To further protect your liver drink alcohol only in moderation, lose excess weight and get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if you are at risk in any way.
Consumer Reports on Health, December 2010.
Liver damage can exist for years without symptoms. So if you regularly take drugs that react negatively check with your doctor periodically and ask to have your liver checked. If damage is detected, stopping the medication usually solves the problem and your doctor can explain it to you. To further protect your liver drink alcohol only in moderation, lose excess weight and get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B if you are at risk in any way.
Consumer Reports on Health, December 2010.
Friday, January 7, 2011
GIVE YOUR HDL LEVELS A BOOST
High-density lipoprotein that abbreviates itself as HDL (the good cholesterol) is a great boost to everyone’s health as it sweeps up the stalled LDL (bad cholesterol from hardened fats and lack of exercise) clearing it from your arteries on its journey to keep every body cell healthy. There are ways to encourage it. Road blocks need to be removed since every cell needs the good HDL to clear the way for the major organs and all the body’s cells. Hopefully foods have been eaten that contain the fish oils and products like flax or other grain oils needed for a smooth journey. The digestive system has been busy throughout the hours of the day preparing the required healthy nourishment for the energy needed to continue the breath of life.
“What is that road block I see around that curve,” inquires one guard cell to the leader (yes indeed the body cells are busy sending messages all the time and note every strategic move or any unnecessary delays and has its own very efficient computer). Two other assistant guards are already dialing up a couple of websites. “I have http://www.chefshirley.ca/ on the line and http://www.karenkook.ca/ is already recording her message. Our journey is being blocked by an army of our major enemies and they are well armed and well paid. The cigarette companies are continually advertising for new recruits. A journalist cell comes forward with pen in hand and volunteers to continue the needed research that proves the damage that tobacco does to every body cell.
Our politicians have promised all of us they will cooperate and do what they can to keep our bodies and our country healthy and strong. It should be noted that smoking tobacco is known to cause early deaths from lung cancer. It also affects the breath negatively, the taste buds in the mouth, and every part of the body as well as all association with friends, family and others.
“What is that road block I see around that curve,” inquires one guard cell to the leader (yes indeed the body cells are busy sending messages all the time and note every strategic move or any unnecessary delays and has its own very efficient computer). Two other assistant guards are already dialing up a couple of websites. “I have http://www.chefshirley.ca/ on the line and http://www.karenkook.ca/ is already recording her message. Our journey is being blocked by an army of our major enemies and they are well armed and well paid. The cigarette companies are continually advertising for new recruits. A journalist cell comes forward with pen in hand and volunteers to continue the needed research that proves the damage that tobacco does to every body cell.
Our politicians have promised all of us they will cooperate and do what they can to keep our bodies and our country healthy and strong. It should be noted that smoking tobacco is known to cause early deaths from lung cancer. It also affects the breath negatively, the taste buds in the mouth, and every part of the body as well as all association with friends, family and others.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
GOOD-FOR-YOU BACTERIA
Probiotics, beneficial bacteria that normally live in your gut, are thought to promote digestive health and a strong immune system. They’re usually found in yogurt, kefir and other fermented dairy products, but they are also sold as supplements, and manufacturers now add them to bars, cookies, granola, juices and tea.
The two most widely studied strains of products are from the lactobacillus and bifidobacterium genera. Some of the possible benefits: The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, an independent research group that evaluates natural products, says that certain strains of lactobacillus are likely effective for diarrhea.
Some strains are possibly effective against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Other strains are possibly effective in reducing the severity of respiratory infections in children and may lower high cholesterol (LDL).
How to Choose: Look for the Live & Active Cultures seal from the Natural Yogurt Association, which indicates that the product contained viable bacteria when it was manufactured. Stick to the well-studied ones such as Culturelle (lactobacillusGG). Store probiotics carefully since they can lose effectiveness over time. If you are taking antibiotic medications, probiotics are likely to survive if you consume them at least two hours before or after the antibiotic. Some of these products can cause gas for a few days. People with suppressed immunity or ill should talk to their doctor before trying probiotics. Consumer Reports on Health, November 2010.
The two most widely studied strains of products are from the lactobacillus and bifidobacterium genera. Some of the possible benefits: The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, an independent research group that evaluates natural products, says that certain strains of lactobacillus are likely effective for diarrhea.
Some strains are possibly effective against irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Other strains are possibly effective in reducing the severity of respiratory infections in children and may lower high cholesterol (LDL).
How to Choose: Look for the Live & Active Cultures seal from the Natural Yogurt Association, which indicates that the product contained viable bacteria when it was manufactured. Stick to the well-studied ones such as Culturelle (lactobacillusGG). Store probiotics carefully since they can lose effectiveness over time. If you are taking antibiotic medications, probiotics are likely to survive if you consume them at least two hours before or after the antibiotic. Some of these products can cause gas for a few days. People with suppressed immunity or ill should talk to their doctor before trying probiotics. Consumer Reports on Health, November 2010.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
AVOID EXCESSIVE TESTING
Medical imaging can be life saving, but computed-tomographic (CT) scans and other tests also pose risks. The average radiation done from medical imaging is estimated to be six times higher now than it was a few decades ago. A 2009 analysis of nearly one million medical records suggest that roughly 20 percent of the adults in the U.S. younger than 65 have a moderate or higher annual dose of radiation. Such exposure increases cancer risk, especially for younger people and women. For CT scans of the heart cause one extra cancer for every 270 40 year-old women who undergo the test, researchers estimate. Yet in a study of CT scans investigating abdominal hip, or pelvic pain, only nine percent of emergency room doctors knew that the scans increased cancer risk.
To reduce excessive imaging:
· Ask about alternatives. Make sure that the scan is really necessary and there aren’t simpler, safer options.
· Avoid duplicate tests. Make sure that medical records travel with you to different departments and facilities. A study of 410 patients transferred to trauma centers found that more than half had imaging tests repeated.
· Ask about guidelines. Following established protocols could reduce the number by 20 to 40 percent. For example, most people seen in an ER with only minor head trauma and normal neurological exams don’t require a CT scan of the head.
To reduce excessive imaging:
· Ask about alternatives. Make sure that the scan is really necessary and there aren’t simpler, safer options.
· Avoid duplicate tests. Make sure that medical records travel with you to different departments and facilities. A study of 410 patients transferred to trauma centers found that more than half had imaging tests repeated.
· Ask about guidelines. Following established protocols could reduce the number by 20 to 40 percent. For example, most people seen in an ER with only minor head trauma and normal neurological exams don’t require a CT scan of the head.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
HEALTHY ADVANCES DURING 2010
After the nationwide recall of eggs in August new restrictions were placed on the diabetes drug rosighitazone (Avandia) in September and raised questions about medication safety. The new Food Safety Modernization Act has now gone to press and offers hope. The Food and Drug Administration will inspect all high-risk facilities at least yearly in the U.S. The strongest line of defense remains how we choose and handle food.
*Wash all produce again, even though it says pre-washed.
* Hands, utensils and cutting boards that have been in contact with raw meat before they touch other food and cooking meat, fish and eggs thoroughly.
*Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
The outbreak of salmonella from tainted eggs sickened more than 1600 people, is a small part of the problem. About 76 million people in the U.S. get food borne illnesses each year and were hospitalized and 5,000 died.
*Wash all produce again, even though it says pre-washed.
* Hands, utensils and cutting boards that have been in contact with raw meat before they touch other food and cooking meat, fish and eggs thoroughly.
*Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
The outbreak of salmonella from tainted eggs sickened more than 1600 people, is a small part of the problem. About 76 million people in the U.S. get food borne illnesses each year and were hospitalized and 5,000 died.
Monday, January 3, 2011
HEALTH BUILDING TIPS
AVOIDING DIABETES: Brown rice still has its kernel intact which leaves the bran and germ layers available for the body’s needs. These layers are packed with nutrients and fiber, which might explain why a recent study linked brown ice to a reduced risk of Type 2 Diabetes. Canada and the United States are alarmed at the Diabetes Explosion. Curbing the incidence of Diabetes will reduce the occurrence of many life-altering complications associated with the diseases, such as blindness, heart disease, kidney failure and amputation as a result of circulatory problems. Eating a careless diet can promote obesity and not getting enough physical activity sets this downward spiral in motion. Type 2 Diabetes marches in step with the rate of diabetes in North America since many have engineered activity out of daily life, and loaded their plates with too much food.
Liquid or chewable supplements give the body a head start on absorption because they’re already broken down when they reach the stomach. Calcium carbonate has the highest percentage of calcium and usually costs less. To check your supplement’s solubility, place it in a container of vinegar for 30 minutes and stir periodically. If it doesn’t dissolve, it may not be well absorbed in the stomach. I tested one of my calcium tablets by placing it in a water and lemon juice mix and it soon softened and was much easier to swallow. Liquid calcium can be kept in the refrigerator after opening and is always the easiest to swallow.
People who express gratitude to each other for small gestures like being given a cup of tea or coffee, or other courtesy feel more satisfaction in their relationships, according to a recent study.
Liquid or chewable supplements give the body a head start on absorption because they’re already broken down when they reach the stomach. Calcium carbonate has the highest percentage of calcium and usually costs less. To check your supplement’s solubility, place it in a container of vinegar for 30 minutes and stir periodically. If it doesn’t dissolve, it may not be well absorbed in the stomach. I tested one of my calcium tablets by placing it in a water and lemon juice mix and it soon softened and was much easier to swallow. Liquid calcium can be kept in the refrigerator after opening and is always the easiest to swallow.
People who express gratitude to each other for small gestures like being given a cup of tea or coffee, or other courtesy feel more satisfaction in their relationships, according to a recent study.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
CHOLESTEROL AND CANCER
High levels of HDL cholesterol, which is the good cholesterol, has long been known to protect the heart and now it is known may also help ward off cancer, according to an analysis published in June 2010. This analysis combined the results of 24 prior studies and included 140,000 people. Every 10 point increase in HDL was linked with a 36 percent deceased cancer risk.
Eat a Mediterranean-style diet, which is known to give good heartbeat variability indicates a flexible cardiovascular system with a heartbeat that returns to normal quickly after exercise, according to a July 2010 study.
If requested your doctor will explain and/or give you a copy of your Haematology, Chemistry and Hormone Analysis that is kept in your file.
Eat a Mediterranean-style diet, which is known to give good heartbeat variability indicates a flexible cardiovascular system with a heartbeat that returns to normal quickly after exercise, according to a July 2010 study.
If requested your doctor will explain and/or give you a copy of your Haematology, Chemistry and Hormone Analysis that is kept in your file.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
GOING GREEN TO PREVENT DIABETES
According to the August 19, 2010 issue of the British Medical Journal, people who eat an average of about l.5 daily servings of green leafy vegetables daily have a 14 percent lower risk of type 2 diabetes compared with those who consume less than half a serving of those vegetables per day.
It would seem that while we are protecting ourselves from the possibility of incurring diabetes, going green helps heart problems according to a review in the September 2010 issue of Circulation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, these benefits incurred add to the protection of the heart and mind, that feeds these major organs that keeps the body’s pump working for the needed breath of life. Mother Nature seems to be giving us frequent hints lately to take care of purifying the very air we breathe.
It would seem that while we are protecting ourselves from the possibility of incurring diabetes, going green helps heart problems according to a review in the September 2010 issue of Circulation Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, these benefits incurred add to the protection of the heart and mind, that feeds these major organs that keeps the body’s pump working for the needed breath of life. Mother Nature seems to be giving us frequent hints lately to take care of purifying the very air we breathe.
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