Health

Tales of Sickness, Hunger and Hope in Southern Sindh (07 Oct 2010)

2010-11-16T22:52:00.000-08:00

Kainat is due to marry today, but the wedding ceremony she awaits is not what she had dreamed of. Several of her nine siblings are sick, her father ill and without work, and since Pakistan's floods washed away her family home she lives in a dusty camp hundreds of kilometers away from where she was raised.....

Health Cluster Bulletin No.20 - 12 Oct 2010

2010-11-16T22:51:00.000-08:00

• WHO’s epidemiological bulletin will now be published on a weekly bases presenting trends, while daily information will be distributed only to concerned staff.

• Ongoing malaria surveillance in collaboration with the Malaria Control Programme has identified the following districts with high incidence of Falciparum cases: Layyah, Rajanpur, DG Khan and Muzaffargarh in Punjab; Jacobabad, Larkana, Thatta and Khairpur in Sindh; Naseerabad, Sibi, Zhob and Jhal Magsi in Baluchistan.
• New cases of Dengue and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) were reported last week. The MoH assisted by WHO is planning control measures.
• Over the past week, ten new poliomyelitis (polio) cases were reported, seven of which are from flood-affected districts.
• Plans for Early recovery for flood affected districts becoming a priority for the Health Cluster.
• Health cluster partners (key NGOs/UN agencies) have been identified to lead health cluster coordination activities in 5 most affected districts (Mianwali, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, DG Khan and Rajanpur).

Ministry of Health, WHO and FAO to upscale prevention to avoid Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever and Dengue and control in Pakistan (16 Oct 2010)

2010-11-16T22:48:00.000-08:00

16 October, 2010 ¦ Islamabad - Pakistan's National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed that cases of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) and Dengue fever have been recorded in the country. Twenty-two cases of CCHF have been confirmed this year (13 from Rawalpindi, three from Islamabad, one from Abbottabad and five from Balochistan), and 2164 suspected and 921 laboratory-confirmed cases of Dengue have been recorded, including 842 confirmed cases in Sindh, 24 in Punjab, 17 in Rawalipndi, 18 in Islamabad, 19 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and one in Azad Jamu Kashmire....

Celebs, big donors help fight Africa's war on malaria

2010-10-17T20:46:00.001-07:00

SESHEKE, Zambia — It had been a long and difficult journey, fully deserving of the marching band and choirs that greeted the convoy when it finally rolled into this village deep in the African bush.

The shipment had traveled from a factory in India by sea to Kenya, then overland across much of southern Africa to the place where the paved road ended.

The cargo was mosquito nets — weapons in a war against malaria, a disease that has long taken a back seat to AIDS in the world's consciousness of Africa's woes, even though it kills almost as many Africans a year as the HIV virus.

In recent years, however, malaria's profile has risen in the world of celebrities and high-spending philanthropists. Actress Sharon Stone gave the cause a spectacular boost in a 2005, and the shipment of 11,900 mosquito nets to the Zambian village of Sesheke was financed and accompanied by Neville Isdell, a former Coca-Cola CEO, and Chris Flowers, a billionaire American investor.

It was organized by British-based Christian Aid, which works with local churches to distribute the nets free of charge.

Chaze Simbotwe, a 72-year-old villager, was astonished at the spectacle of visitors traveling so far to help. She said she lost a child to malaria, and has suffered bouts of the disease herself.

"It is difficult for me to express my gratitude," she said. "These people have good hearts. Who would have thought of buying an old woman like me a mosquito net?"

Malaria kills close to a million Africans a year, mostly children, a death toll close to that of AIDS. Isdell himself suffered malaria as a boy growing up in Zambia.

"I have shivered in bed with it, but luckily I got over it," he told villagers in Sesheke when the nets arrived three weeks ago.

Flowers discovered the problem while visiting projects he was funding. In Zambia he encountered a mother who had just lost her two-year-old son to malaria. He realized she did not understand what simple steps might have saved that life.

"Your dollar goes a long way toward helping people in a profound way," he told The Associated Press. "It's such a big problem, and it's one where people feel they can have some impact."

Indeed, one reason malaria strikes a chord in the affluent West is that it seems so easily preventable: a $5 donation buys a net, and $5 more will pay to teach a villager rudimentary medical skills. The shipment to Sesheke cost about $100,000.

Actress Stone realized this at the 2005 World Economic Forum in Davos as she listened to Benjamin Mkapa, a former president of Tanzania, telling an audience of movers and shakers how cheap and lifesaving nets could be.

It struck her that "We can get bed nets, we can ship them now, we can change things now. They can have such an impact."

She stood up, pledged $10,000 and asked, "Would anyone else like to stand up and help President Mkapa today?"

"All of a sudden, 80 people stood up in unison," Stone recalled in a telephone interview from Los Angeles with the Associated Press. "I thought I was going to have a heart attack."

A net can be as effective against mosquitoes as a condom is against AIDS, and for those already afflicted, the drug regimen is much simpler and cheaper.

Still, "Malaria is, in fact, not a quick fix," said Awa Marie Coll-Seck, Senegal's former minister of health and now active in the campaign against malaria.

The nets have to be shipped in from afar. Then people have to be taught to use them correctly. Often they forget to use their nets, or the nets becomes frayed, or the insecticide wears off.

Mosquito breeding grounds must be sprayed regularly with insecticide. More clinics are needed, more doctors and nurses, quicker access to the latest drugs because the disease constantly develops new immunities.

Many countries lack the money and infrastructure to distribute nets. Sesheke didn't get its paved road until two years ago.

Susan Lassen, point woman for Isdell and Flowers in Africa, says Zambia has done well overall, organizing and spending donor money wisely. But elsewhere in Africa she has seen mosquito nets piled up in parking lots for lack of distribution systems.

"We've done a disservice by saying it's simple," she said. "It's very important that people understand it's not just '$10 saves a life.' It's not just a one-off. It has to be a continuous process."

And now there are fears the global economic downturn will slow donations.

This year, donors committed $11.7 billion to The Global Fund fighting AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria over the next three years. That was 20 percent more than was pledged for 2008-2010, but far below the $17 billion

Common pain meds can put you in a world of hurt

2010-10-17T20:39:00.000-07:00

After winning a 24-hour track run in record time, Stephanie Ehret should have been celebrating. Instead, she was in a Phoenix emergency room, vomiting up a strange substance, which a doctor informed her was part of her digestive tract lining. Feverish and nauseous, Ehret could barely move. "I'd never felt so bad," she says. "I was pretty sure I was dying."

Pick the right painkiller from your medicine cabinet

Problem: "I twisted my ankle on a run, and now it's swollen."
Pill to pop: Ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve)
Med sense: For injuries with swelling, ibuprofen or naproxen are your best bets. Take up to 3,200 milligrams per day for no more than four days.
Warning label: NSAIDs should never be combined, so take either ibuprofen or naproxen.

Problem: "I inherited my dad's bum knee and his heart disease."
Pill to pop: Naproxen
Med sense: Naproxen does not seem to increase the risk of heart problems like other NSAIDs do. Take 200 to 400 milligrams every 12 hours for up to four days.
Warning label: Avoid if you have kidney problems or high blood pressure. It can cause GI bleeding.

Problem: "My back is killing me, and so is this recession!"
Pill to pop: Aspirin (Bayer, Excedrin)
Med sense: Aspirin is the least expensive option for swelling and pain associated with a new injury. Take up to 650 milligrams every four hours as needed, for up to four days.
Warning label: If you're prone to ulcers or heartburn, aspirin can cause intestinal bleeding.

Problem: "My Achilles bothers me one day, but it's fine the next."
Pill to pop: Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Med sense: Acetaminophen doesn't impair the healing process like other drugs may. Take 325 to 1,000 milligrams, twice a day. But never exceed 2,000 milligrams in 12 hours.
Warning label: Don't use if you're drinking. Alcohol increases acetaminophen's liver toxicity.

A few hours later, doctors diagnosed the problem — rhabdomyolysis, a potentially fatal precursor to kidney failure. Though dehydration and overexertion contributed to Ehret's condition, doctors told her that the 12 ibuprofen pills she'd taken during the 24-hour race had pushed her kidneys into the danger zone.

When used properly, over-the-counter pain medications can be a godsend. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can tame many pains. And non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen can reduce pain and swelling in the first few days following an acute injury like an ankle sprain. The trouble comes, doctors say, when people, like Ehret, misuse these drugs. "A couple of ibuprofens really helped, so I figured more was better," Ehret says. Indeed, many runners treat anti-inflammatory drugs like "vitamin I," says pharmacologist Joe Graedon, co-author of The People's Pharmacy book series. "They think, I'm putting my body through a lot, so I'll just dose up on ibuprofen, without appreciating how potentially dangerous this drug can be."

Runners beware
Runners may think that as long as they don't go overboard like Ehret, they'll be safe. But experts say the benefits of popping even one pill before a 10K don't outweigh the risks. NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandins, hormones that help normalize blood flow to the kidneys. Mix an NSAID with physical exertion and dehydration, and you can overwhelm your kidneys.

What's more, NSAIDs can bump up your blood pressure, and when you add this to the natural rise that occurs when you exercise, "suddenly you have two things increasing your blood pressure," Graedon says. If you already have high blood pressure, "you could have a mini stroke or a heart attack," he says. NSAIDs also block an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX) that normally protects the heart, and this might explain why many NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, may raise the risk of heart attack.

Some forms of COX also protect the stomach lining from digestive acids, so when an NSAID blocks this enzyme, you may experience nausea, diarrhea, intestinal bleeding, and cramps. When used during a marathon or ultra, NSAIDs also seem to boost the risk of hyponatremia, an electrolyte imbalance that can cause the brain to swell. "It's something you can die of during a race," says Martin Hoffman, M. D., director of research at the Western States Endurance Run.

Many runners believe that NSAIDs increase their pain tolerance, but studies contradict this notion. In 2005, David Nieman, Dr. P.H., director of the human performance lab at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, examined ibuprofen use at Western States. About 70 percent of the racers said they took it to help them manage the discomfort of racing. But when he measured pain and muscle soreness in these pill poppers, he found no reduction compared with nonusers. Worse, ibuprofen takers had more inflammation. "There's no good reason to use ibuprofen during a race," Nieman says. "There are too many potential negatives." Any pain and inflammation that turns up while running is not something you should medicate but a signal that it's time to reevaluate your training regimen, he says.

For relief during or after exercise, Hoffman recommends acetaminophen since it works via a different mechanism than NSAIDs, and the drug doesn't have the side effects associated with aspirin or ibuprofen. "It's a relatively safe drug, and it doesn't present problems with the kidney or gut," he says.

But watch the dosage. While it's safe at recommended doses, acetaminophen can be toxic to the liver, especially when mixed with alcohol. "You can hit the tipping point pretty fast with acetaminophen," says Graedon. Acetaminophen overdose is the most common cause of acute liver failure in the United States, in part because the drug is found in many over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines, so it's easy to overdose if you take one of these drugs with Tylenol.

You Can Prevent Breast Cancer,Yes, You Can Prevent Breast Cancer

2010-10-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, women have even more reason to start paying attention to preventative measures: According to recent research presented at this year’s European Breast Cancer Conference (EBCC), taking specific steps to help lower the risk of breast cancer can make the difference between a healthy checkup and a dangerous diagnosis. Researchers analyzed years of studies and data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer to deduce that one-third of all breast cancer cases can be avoided simply through diet and exercise—a surprising conclusion that raised eyebrows worldwide and contradicts the common conception that some women are powerless against the disease due to genetic makeup or family history. What’s more, new research continues to compile to show exactly which nutritional and physical approaches can help best reduce your risk.

Ready to take action? We’ve sifted through the latest studies and talked to the leading experts so that you can know—and do—everything possible to prevent the disease.
During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, women have even more reason to start paying attention to preventative measures: According to recent research presented at this year’s European Breast Cancer Conference (EBCC), taking specific steps to help lower the risk of breast cancer can make the difference between a healthy checkup and a dangerous diagnosis. Researchers analyzed years of studies and data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer to deduce that one-third of all breast cancer cases can be avoided simply through diet and exercise—a surprising conclusion that raised eyebrows worldwide and contradicts the common conception that some women are powerless against the disease due to genetic makeup or family history. What’s more, new research continues to compile to show exactly which nutritional and physical approaches can help best reduce your risk.

Ready to take action? We’ve sifted through the latest studies and talked to the leading experts so that you can know—and do—everything possible to prevent the disease.

Exercise more—and turn up the tempo.

Study after study has shown that exercise helps lessen the likelihood of breast cancer, but how much do you really need to lower your chances? Carlo La Vecchia, MD, of the University of Milan, who helped present the exercise-diet conclusion at the 2010 EBCC, recommends logging at least “three to four hours of moderate exercise” a week. That’s a great starting goal, says Kathleen Wesa, MD, of the Integrative Medicine Service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, but “I suggest women aim for 30 to 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity five days per week.” Wesa defines 100 steps per minute while walking as moderate. “You want to increase your level of fitness, and if you’re sauntering, that’s not going to be effective.”

Indeed, going for a light walk or watching TV while leisurely pedaling the stationary bike may not be enough, according to a recent National Cancer Institute study of more than 110,000 postmenopausal women. Researchers tracked participants’ exercise habits for a decade to find that those who logged more than seven hours of moderate to vigorous exercise a week for the past 10 years were 16 percent less likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than those who remained inactive or exercised less or not as vigorously.

If the word “vigorous” triggers a guttural reaction, John Potter, MD, professor of epidemiology at the University of Washington and senior advisor of Seattle’s Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, says to start slowly. “Any activity is better than nothing,” says Potter, who recommends exercise-phobes begin by walking 30 minutes four days a week, then work up slowly to daily, regular intense activity lasting up to an hour. “Vigorous exercise—getting sweaty and breathing hard—is better than low-intensity exercise, but any exercise is better than setting the bar too high so that it causes failure, too much pain, or an injury,” Potter concludes.

Eat fruits and vegetables—but some more than others.

When asked which foods he deemed best for lowering the likelihood of breast cancer by that whopping one-third, La Vecchia responds that “a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and thereby in micronutrients and food components like flavonoids, appears to be most favorable.” (For more on micronutrients, see “Eat for Optimal Health” on page 25.) This—as well as the long-standing recommendation from the American Cancer Institute to eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily to prevent cancer—contradicts a much-publicized 2010 study from Mount Sinai School of Medicine’s Tisch Cancer Institute that found only a weak association between high produce intake and reduced cancer risk.

So which is it? Does food matter? “Not all fruits and vegetables are created equal, and not all people respond the same way to their presence in the diet,” says John Milner, PhD, chief of the nutritional science research group for the National Cancer Institute. “But fruits and vegetables likely play an important role in breast cancer risk reduction, as well as in the risk reduction of many other diseases.” Milner says berries, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, and bulb crops, including onions, leeks, and garlic, have the strongest data from the most studies to suggest that increased intake can help lower your likelihood. Additionally, he says, women should consider upping their intake of pomegranates: A new study from Israeli researchers discovered that pomegranate seed oil causes breast cancer cells to self-destruct in laboratory experiments. Milner and other experts believe the fruit, when consumed frequently and over time—within an appropriate caloric intake—may also help decrease a woman’s chance of getting breast cancer.

Adopt a Mediterranean diet—but keep it to one glass of wine a day

Boosting your dietary intake of fruits and vegetables is critical regardless of your everyday nutritional approach, but if you really want to do everything you can to guard against breast cancer, adopt the Mediterranean diet, say top experts. A study of more than 14,000 Greek women published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in July found that postmenopausal women who adhered to a Mediterranean-style plan—or who ate primarily whole grains, nuts, legumes, olive oil, fish, and up to 10 servings daily of fruits and vegetables—were 22 percent less likely to develop breast cancer than those who didn’t follow or only partially complied to the diet.

According to Roger Clemens, PhD, spokesman for the American Society of Nutrition, which publishes the journal in which the study appeared, the Mediterranean diet helps reduce cancer risk because it combines the right types of cancer-blocking foods into one healthy approach. “Consuming no one food or food group alone prevents breast cancer,” Clemens explains. “But eating the right blend of foods really reduces your risk of the disease.”

The caveat, say researchers, is to ensure that you do really adhere to the diet. “I recommend people eat three to five servings of fruits and three to five servings of vegetables daily, along with plenty of lean protein, extra-virgin olive oil, and unprocessed whole grains,” Wesa says.

Although wine, particularly red, has received much acclaim as an important age-reversing, disease-fighting component of the Mediterranean diet, most experts advise women at risk for breast cancer to drink no more than one five-ounce glass of the heart-healthy beverage a day. “Alcohol intake is a nuanced message,” says Michelle Holmes, MD, associate professor of epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health. “We know that drinking alcohol increases a woman’s risk of getting and dying from breast cancer, but moderate alcohol intake can also decrease her risk of getting and dying from heart disease. The balancing point—where the benefit of decreasing heart disease is more than the downside of increasing breast cancer—occurs among women who consume a half-glass or full glass of alcohol per day.”

Know your BMI—then change it.

Exercising more and opting for fewer processed grains and sugars and more fruits and vegetables will help you maintain, if not lose, weight. But for overweight and obese women, lowering overall body mass index, or BMI—the standard measure of body fat based on height and weight—should be priority No. 1. “Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor not only for breast cancer, but for many diseases,” Wesa says. Why? The reason is threefold, Potter explains. First, obesity increases the body’s insulin levels and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) that have a growth-promoting effect on cells—especially, perhaps on malignant and pre-malignant cells. But being overweight also boosts the body’s estrogen levels, which research shows stimulates cell growth of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer—the most common type of breast cancer among Western women. Finally, Potter says, recent studies have also proven conclusively that overweight and obese women have higher levels of inflammation, which provide an unsafe pro-cancer environment for the development of the disease in the breasts, lungs, and other organs.

According to the National Cancer Institute, any BMI over 25 increases a woman’s likelihood of incurring breast cancer significantly, while a BMI of more than 30, which is considered obese, pushes a woman’s risk of developing the disease to more than 60 percent, reports a 2006 British study of more than 6,000 women. To lower your risk, start by learning your BMI: Visit the National Institutes of Health’s website for a free online BMI Calculator (nhlbisupport.com/bmi). If your number is over 25, begin exercising and reducing your daily caloric intake immediately, while choosing fresh produce, lean protein, and healthy fats over processed carbohydrates, fatty meats, and sugary foods. “I won’t quibble with someone saying, ‘I’m big boned or muscular and can thereby weigh more and still be healthy,’” says Christine D. Berg, MD, chief of the early detection research group of the National Cancer Institute. The take-home? Stop making excuses and start taking steps that can help prevent your risk of breast cancer—it may just save your life.

Find toxins in your home—and eliminate them.

Diet and exercise aren’t the only factors that can increase your breast cancer risk. More and more studies examining the effects of environmental toxins suggest that everyday chemicals found in our homes and water supply may be responsible for rising rates of the disease, the incidence of which has increased by 30 percent over the past 25 years, says the American Cancer Society. Here are three ways to reduce your risk, according to Ruthann Rudel, director of research for the Silent Spring Institute, the leading nonprofit research group focused on finding links between the environment and breast cancer.

Throw out your chemical cleaners.

A 2010 study by Rudel and her colleagues published in Environmental Health found that frequent use of common chemical cleaners may increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer by as much as 50 percent. According to Rudel, many commercial cleaners contain hormone-disrupting chemicals that could effectively increase estrogen levels, shown to interfere with cell growth and development. Since scientists aren’t sure exactly which chemicals are hormonally active—and the chemicals aren’t tested before being added to commercial cleaners—Rudel says it’s best to limit use of commercial products, choosing toxin-free, simple alternatives like vinegar whenever possible. (For more on green cleaning products, go to naturalsolutions mag.com and type “Is Your Home Toxic?” into the search box.)

Increase indoor air quality by decreasing consumer products. In a study published in Environmental Science & Technology in August, Silent Spring researchers discovered that concentrations of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are higher in our homes than in outdoor air. “Based on laboratory experiments, EDCs in high concentrations increase the risk of breast cancer,” Rudel says. EDCs, found in commercial furniture, carpets, detergents, clothing, electronics, and building products, are difficult to avoid altogether, but Rudel says you can reduce your exposure simply by buying fewer commercially produced goods (do you really need that plastic bowl or another table for the foyer?). When remodeling or moving, she adds, opt for chemical-free rugs (avoid additives like “stain-resistant”) and choose woods instead of vinyls and plastics. Also, allow new products, including newly dry-cleaned clothes, to off-gas outside before bringing them inside.

Investigate the water supply. Ongoing research from the Silent Spring Institute continues to show that our groundwater supplies can be contaminated with high levels of endogenous hormones, chemical cleaners, and certain pharmaceutical drugs—all of which can increase your chances of incurring breast cancer. Rudel suggests women contact their local water department to find out about their water source—you can also look up your water supply online by visiting the Environmental Working Group’s Tap Water Database (ewg.org/tap-water/whats-in-your-water). Or you can buy a home-testing kit or send your water to a state-certified lab to be tested (find one by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800.426.4791 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 800.426.4791 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or visiting epa.gov/safewater/labs). 3M Clean Water Solutions (3mcleanerworld.com) offers free testing in some cities and then will suggest the right filter to address the contaminants found in your water.

If your water’s chlorinated or shows concentrations of nitrate (a chemical in fertilizer and septic-tank runoff) over 1 mg/L, invest in a filter, says Rudel, adding that you must change the filter when recommended to avoid oversaturation and the release of collected toxins back into the water. Finally, don’t even think about buying bottled water unless you choose a supplier that doesn’t use endocrine-disrupting bisphenol-A in its plastic bottles or jugs.

Stop eating so much

2010-09-17T00:53:00.000-07:00

Get Gaga for Tight Booty Workout Tutorial

2010-09-17T00:50:00.000-07:00

Sweat Is Sexy! Workout

2010-09-17T00:49:00.003-07:00

Sweat Is Sexy! Workout

2010-09-17T00:49:00.001-07:00

Do You Need Snack Therapy?

2010-09-16T09:01:00.000-07:00

By Julie Upton, RD

No matter where you are, you can be sure there’s a snack close by. As a nation, we snack everywhere—in our home, office, car, gym, and even at church. There’s a Snack Count mobile device that counts your daily nibbles, and I’m sure there’s one to locate your favorite crunchy munchies. Even McDonald’s is in the snack category with its new snack wraps that happen to be more like a meal, with 260–340 calories a piece.

There’s a big downside to all this unabashed between-meal eating: empty calories. And many food experts believe that excessive snacking is contributing to our ever-expanding waistlines.

Need proof? A 2010 study from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, found that adults are now eating some 579 calories from snack foods daily, or almost a quarter of their daily calories.

The researchers tracked snacking patterns from the late 1970s through 2006 and found some disturbing trends. Up to 97% of adults snack daily, compared to 71% three decades ago. Snacks used to contribute 357 calories (14% of total caloric intake) a day, but those between-meal calories have increased by 222 calories. Most of us now snack more than twice per day, and the average calories of our snacks is a whopping 226 calories (totaling 579 calories each day).

If we grazed on fresh fruit and veggies, there would be no harm in all the noshing, but our current snack choices are loaded with calories but lacking in nutrients. Dessert-type foods, salty snacks like potato and tortilla chips, and sweetened beverages were the top three contributors of the snack calories in this study. Other popular snack items include nuts, alcoholic beverages, candy, fruit drinks, and sports drinks.

(Getty Images)

We are humans, not cattle
As adults, many of us eat before we are physically hungry, and we stop eating way after we’ve had enough. We have lost all the ability to regulate caloric intake based on our internal hunger cues, and we respond to our emotional and environmental cues.

Unlike cows and other animals that graze all day, humans are genetically programmed for eating then fasting for short periods of time. Getting back to a more “normalized” eating pattern that consists of breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a mid-morning and afternoon snack (100- 200 calories max) can help break this pattern of all-day eating.

Like a bad financial investment, the calories in most snack foods (Doritos, Famous Amos cookies) are worthless, so try some of my favorite healthy snacks. When snacking, try to combine protein, fiber, and fat, like an apple and peanut putter, yogurt and fruit, or carrots and hummus. But portion control is just as important as snack choices. Remind yourself what 200 calories looks like and adapt it to your favorite nibbles. Happy snacking!

What other drugs will affect guaifenesin and hydrocodone?

2010-07-28T05:13:00.001-07:00

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), clomipramine (Anafranil), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), and others;
atropine (Donnatal, and others), benztropine (Cogentin), dimenhydrinate (Dramamine), glycopyrrolate (Robinul), mepenzolate (Cantil), methscopolamine (Pamine), or scopolamine (Transderm-Scop);
bladder or urinary medications such as darifenacin (Enablex), flavoxate (Urispas), oxybutynin (Ditropan, Oxytrol), tolterodine (Detrol), or solifenacin (Vesicare);
a bronchodilator such as ipratropium (Atrovent) or tiotropium (Spiriva); or
irritable bowel medications such as dicyclomine (Bentyl), hyoscyamine (Anaspaz, Cystospaz, Levsin, and others), or propantheline (Pro-Banthine).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with guaifenesin and hydrocodone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone?

2010-07-28T05:12:00.002-07:00

This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by guaifenesin and hydrocodone.

Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as other cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by guaifenesin and hydrocodone.

Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, pain, or sleep medications without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Guaifenesin is contained in many medicines available over the counter. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much guaifenesin. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains guaifenesin.

What happens if I overdose?

2010-07-28T05:12:00.001-07:00

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, sweating, pinpoint pupils, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, confusion, cold and clammy skin, muscle weakness, fainting, weak pulse, slow heart rate, seizure (convulsions), weak or shallow breathing, or breathing that stops.

What happens if I miss a dose?

2010-07-28T05:11:00.003-07:00

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

How should I take guaifenesin and hydrocodone?

2010-07-28T05:11:00.001-07:00

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone can be taken with or without food.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Do not take more of this medication or take it for longer than is recommended. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Store guaifenesin and hydrocodone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Keep track of how many pills have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Hydrocodone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone?

2010-07-28T05:08:00.001-07:00

Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Hydrocodone should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to hydrocodone or guaifenesin.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

kidney disease;
liver disease;
asthma;
urination problems;
an enlarged prostate;
a thyroid disorder;
seizures or epilepsy;
gallbladder disease;
a head injury; or
Addison's disease.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to take guaifenesin and hydrocodone, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone passes into breast milk and may be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take guaifenesin and hydrocodone without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

What is the most important information I should know about guaifenesin and hydrocodone?

2010-07-28T05:07:00.001-07:00

This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by guaifenesin and hydrocodone.

Hydrocodone may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Hydrocodone should never be given to another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

What are the possible side effects of guaifenesin and hydrocodone?

2010-07-28T05:06:00.000-07:00

slow heart rate, weak or shallow breathing;
feeling like you might pass out;
confusion, fear, unusual thoughts or behavior;
seizure (convulsions); or
urinating less than usual or not at all.

Less serious side effects may include:

dizziness, drowsiness;
nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;
blurred vision;
constipation;
dry mouth; or
sweating.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is guaifenesin and hydrocodone (A-Cof DH, Canges-XP, Codiclear DH, Condasin, Cotuss V, Execlear, Extendryl HC, Hycotuss Expectorant, Hydrocod-GF,

2010-07-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in your chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through your mouth.

Hydrocodone is a narcotic cough suppressant.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone is used to treat cough and reduce chest congestion caused by the common cold, flu, or allergies.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

2010-07-23T05:06:00.002-07:00

Your pharmacist can provide more information about vitamin A, D, and E topical.
If u can't then call us without any hesitation +923009571394

What other drugs will affect vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:06:00.001-07:00

There may be other drugs that can affect vitamin A, D, and E topical. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while using vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

Avoid applying other creams, lotions, ointments, or other medicated skin products to the same areas you treat with vitamin A, D, and E topical.

Avoid excessive wetness of the skin areas you are treating. Keep clothing and diapers as dry as possible.

What happens if I overdose (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:04:00.001-07:00

It is unlikely that this medication would cause serious problems from an overdose. Do not apply vitamin A, D, and E topical over large skin areas. Call your doctor if you think you have used too much of the medicine.

Call a poison control center if anyone accidentally swallows this medicine.

What happens if I overdose (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:04:00.000-07:00

Call a poison control center if anyone accidentally swallows this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:03:00.001-07:00

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

How should I use vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:02:00.000-07:00

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication or use it for longer than recommended.

Keep the baby's diaper area as dry as possible. Change wet or soiled diapers immediately to keep wetness and bacteria from irritating the baby's skin. Always put on a new diaper when the baby first wakes up in the morning, and also just before putting the baby to bed each night.

At each diaper changing, clean the baby's skin thoroughly with a disposable baby wipe or clean wet washcloth. Gently wipe inside the skin folds between the thighs and genitals. When cleaning the diaper area of a boy, gently clean under the scrotum and beneath the foreskin of the penis. When cleaning the diaper area of a girl, always wipe from front to back across the vagina.

Call your doctor if your skin condition does not get better after using this medication regularly for 1 week. Contact your doctor at any time if your symptoms get worse.

Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:01:00.002-07:00

Call your doctor at once if you have swelling, redness, itching, pus, or other signs of infection. Tell your doctor if you feel any numbness or tingling while using vitamin A, D, and E topical.

Before using vitamin A, D, and E topical, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medicines or skin products, including soaps, oils, lotions, or creams.

What is the most important information I should know about vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:01:00.001-07:00

Call your doctor if your skin condition does not get better after using this medication regularly for 1 week. Contact your doctor at any time if your symptoms get worse.

Call your doctor at once if you have swelling, redness, itching, pus, or other signs of infection. Tell your doctor if you feel any numbness or tingling while using vitamin A, D, and E topical.

Do not apply vitamin A, D, and E topical over large skin areas. Do not use the medicine to treat a deep cut, an animal bite, or a serious burn. Call your doctor for instructions on how to treat these more severe skin injuries.

Avoid applying other creams, lotions, ointments, or other medicated skin products to the same areas you treat with vitamin A, D, and E topical.

What are the possible side effects of vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is vitamin A, D, and E topical (A & D, Aloe Grande, Lazer Creme, Vitamin A & D, Topical)?

2010-07-23T04:59:00.000-07:00

Vitamin A, D, and E topical is a skin protectant. It works by moisturizing and sealing the skin, and aids in skin healing.

This medication is used to treat diaper rash, dry or chafed skin, and minor cuts or burns.

Vitamin A, D, and E may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Going on a Boob Diet: Eating for Breast Health

2010-07-22T11:54:00.002-07:00

I’ve made a resolution to eat better for my breasts. I’m hoping that once I identify all of the most boob-healthful foods, I’ll start nibbling and “won’t be able to stop.”

OK, I adapted that line from an ad for the incredible edible candy bra (which popped up during my search for healthy breast food). Unfortunately, that kind of nibbling is not scientifically proven to enhance boob wellness—although I doubt that extensive studies have been done (any volunteers?).

What has been studied is less tasty.

For starters, you have to stop drinking so much (which immediately reduces the odds of ever putting on the incredible edible candy bra). While drinking one glass of wine is good for a woman’s heart, the experts aren’t so sure about the effects on the rest of your chest.

The National Cancer Institute, for instance, reports on studies that show the possibility of an alcohol-breast cancer link for even moderate drinkers. The good news: There is also research showing that 400 micrograms of folic acid each day (about the amount in a multivitamin) might offset the negative effects of that one glass of stress-reducing booze. I’m not a big drinker (I’d rather eat my calories than swill them), so it’s easy for me to play it safe.

A recent study out of the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center reinforced what researchers have reported before about the benefits of cruciferous veggies: Those very crunchy items like cauliflower, bok choy, and Chinese cabbage may have cancer-inhibiting qualities. More research needs to be done, but that study identified women with certain genes who had lower breast cancer risks because of their cruciferous diets.

I’ve never seen a piece of cauliflower that I liked—even covered with cheese sauce—and I don’t know if I have those particular genes, but more crunchy veggies can’t hurt, right? Luckily I have recently discovered an amazing slaw recipe made with fennel, and I’m hoping that, sans the high-fat prosciutto topping (certain fats, unfortunately, are another no-no when it comes to breast health, see below), it will help me get the five servings of veggies a day that will do my bust (and the rest of me) some good.

For more yummy ideas, check out these recipes featuring cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli.

How to Lose Man Boobs - The Ideal Diet to Remedy Your Embarrassment

2010-07-22T11:54:00.001-07:00

If you discover that you have enlarged boobs even if you are male by birth, then it is very possible that your man boobs is caused by an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise.

This condition is known as Gynecomastia and it is prevalent among the general male population throughout the world. One main reason for this condition is due to a less than optimal diet.

A healthy diet is responsible for the way we look and for the activities that we can perform in our daily lives. Talk to any sportsperson, physical trainer, physician, dietician and they will list out the many benefits of a healthy diet. Here are some issues concerning how diet can affect the way you look, and how it may have caused you inconvenience through Gynecomastia.

- Do you have a particular penchant for soya products? Food which are soya beans based may have high levels of plant estrogen which can result in growth of man boobs.

- Did you know that males are more likely to store fat in their upper torsos compared to their female counterparts? With this fact in mind you should definitely try to lose weight and tone your muscles with focus on your upper body.

- Fast food is a big no-no. And that means cutting down on the shakes, greasy burgers and oil drenched fries – cold turkey! Instead of steaks, ask for a lean cut of meat and instead of soda drinks do opt for a healthy glass of unsweetened fruit juice or plenty of room temperature water.

- Do you have the habit of going to work on an empty tummy in the morning and returning home to stuff yourself on helpings upon helpings of dinner? It is best to stop this habit and concentrate on having breakfast as well as regular meals throughout the day in order to give your body’s metabolism a boost. This will help in optimizing your weight loss endeavors.

- Love your breads and rice? It is best to practice moderation when you consume carbohydrate-based food because any unused carbs will be stored as fats in our system.

- Avoid run of the mill diet beverages because while this may work for some people, most dieters have reported that this method does not work in the long run. In fact you may even feel more famished as a result of not complementing your health shakes with the right food

Most people with man boobs find out that there is an improvement when they start eating healthily. Couple your optimal diet with a healthy exercise regime and you may see even more progress which given time, will cause your male boobs to disappear forever!

Vaginal Infection Causes

2010-07-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Bacterial vaginosis (bacterial vaginosis) is the most common cause of vaginitis, accounting for 50% of cases. bacterial vaginosis is caused by a change in the bacteria normally found in the vagina and causes an overgrowth of organisms such as Gardnerella vaginalis.
- Risk factors include pregnancy, intrauterine device (IUD) use, and frequent douching. It is associated with sexual activity, and possibly a new sexual partner or multiple sexual partners. Women who have never had sexual intercourse are rarely affected.
- You do not get bacterial vaginosis from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools.
- In the United States, as many as 16% of pregnant women have bacterial vaginosis. This varies by race and ethnicity from 6% in Asians and 9% in whites to 16% in Hispanics and 23% in African Americans.
Vaginal yeast infections are caused by a fungus, mainly by Candida albicans. This is also called candidiasis, genital candidiasis, or vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Yeast infection can spread to other parts of the body including skin, mucous membranes, heart valves, esophagus, and other areas. It can cause life-threatening systemic infections mostly in people with weakened immune defenses (such as women who are pregnant and people who are HIV positive, have diabetes, or are taking steroids).
- Nearly 75% of all adult women have had at least one genital yeast infection in their lifetime. Vaginal yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted disease, but 12% to 15% of men will develop symptoms such as itching and penile rash following sexual contact with an infected partner.
- Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of normally growing fungi in the vagina that creates unpleasant symptoms. The yeast are kept under control by normally growing bacteria in the body. If the natural balance of microorganisms is disrupted, the yeast grow out of control. It is not clear how fungal infections originate, but they are not thought to be sexually transmitted. Your own natural bacteria cause this type of infection when an imbalance occurs, possibly caused by any of these events:
  - Antibiotics use: Antibiotics destroy protective bacteria in the vagina. These bacteria normally stop the candidal organisms from overgrowing. Yeast infection may occur after taking a course of antibiotics for another condition such as strep throat.
  - Diabetes: Both diabetes and pregnancy make the vagina better suited for fungal growth. These conditions lower the glycogen store in certain vaginal cells. They may also raise the sugar content (and the pH) of the vagina and increase the risk of yeast infection.
  - Birth control pills: Changes in the vaginal environment occur with increased hormonal levels from estrogen-containing birth control pills. This change creates an environment for the fungus to grow and cause symptoms.
  - Hormonal changes such as ovulation, menopause, or pregnancy
  - Steroid use
  - Wearing underwear that is tight or non-cotton: This can increase temperature, moisture, and local irritation.
  - Weakened immune system: HIV/AIDS, for example
  - Use of douches, perfumed feminine hygiene sprays
  - Scratches in the vagina (during insertion of a tampon or other objects)
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease (also called trich, pronounced "trick") caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomoniasis is primarily an infection of the urinary and genital tract. For women, the vagina is the most common site of infection. For men, the urethra is most commonly affected.
Other causes of vaginal infection may be allergies to spermicides, vaginal hygiene products, and detergents and fabric softeners. Another type of sexually transmitted disease may be present. Older women may experience atrophic vaginitis (a thinning of the vaginal walls with menopause). Foreign objects such as a forgotten tampon or another foreign object may cause vaginal irritation.

The Best Hair Products Reviewed for You

2010-05-26T04:01:00.001-07:00

Hair Products

There are many hair products out there but to cure your hair you should know what to use and in the right way too. For instance if there is a new dandruff shampoo in the market then be sure to read the unbiased reviews for it first before getting in to buy it. You might not be happy with the use either way but it is also great to follow up reviews before ending up spending your money.

There are places that give assorted and unadulterated shampoo reviews that give you the guarantee of honest opinions no matter what. If you pick the right kind of hair product you are in for great luck. You will know that it is suiting your hair for the time being when you feel good about it. Remember to change your shampoo according to the needs of your hair. So what you may like something today might not be the thing for you tomorrow as our hair type tends to change with changes in weather, atmosphere, hormonal changes, chemical applications and styling as well as internal biochemical changes. Read products for different categories. A particular product may be good for oily hair types and not for other kinds. However if you know what each product is meant for then you are in safe hands to use them. For these reasons shampoo reviews come in handy.

You will know and understand what your hair needs and be able to choose your shampoo accordingly. It is also a good thing to know the composition and different components of the shampoo before you use them. You will be more aware of what causes what and you can avoid your possible allergens that way! Save time, money and unnecessary hassles when you know the reviews well. Reading through reviews gives you a fair idea of what might be ideal for you. It does not necessarily mean that you will hit the right thing at the first try but it could really make your work so much better!

Holistic Practices for Hair Growth

2010-05-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hair Growth

Alternative therapies and holistic practices are always great for maintaining high health and great looks. You will have great skin and hair when you are focused on your well being from inside out. For increased hair growth some of the best vitamins are Vitamin E, Vitamin B6, B3 and B5. Hair loss occurs due to many factors but particularly with the absence of these Vitamins in diet. Other than B and E vitamins biotin, sulfur, zinc, inositol, folic acid and magnesium are really important for good hair growth. Vitamin B5, B6 and B3 or pantothenic acid, pyridoxine and niacin are really important for overall luxuriant hair that you might be missing otherwise.

You may take your look for granted and would not even know that you could produce such a wonderful crop of hair! But one can seriously maximize one’s hair growing potential through the addition of these vitamins as a form of supplement to one’s current diet. The diet should however be, as much as possible, free from junk food or processed foods. Whole foods are really the way to go along with ditching the caffeine. If you continue taking in creepy caffeine you would not see the results of the supplements as most caffeine high bodies are unable to absorb nutrition from food or additional nutrients.

For really fast actions on hair growth there is no magic bullet other than the inclusion of hair extensions. There are however different ways through which one can grow hair from the roots but this takes time and adjustment of lifestyle and does not come overnight. Along with the above mentioned Vitamin sources and minerals there are certain amino acids which must not be neglected for purpose of growing hair. So even if you have B Vitamins you would not get the benefits unless you take Biotin and nutrient rich inositol.

Not having water or inadequate hydration or lack of calcium can even get you deprived of long hair. So to be sure one must take an additional high Vitamin E and B supplement. Biotin rich fruits and leafy green vegetables also provide enough fodder for a great volume of mane. Restoration of hair or rediscovering the beauty of your hair is thus more of an inside work rather than outward application.

Essential Fatty Acids are also some of the most important items in giving you great looking hair. EFAs present in evening primrose oil, flaxseed oil, coconut oil, fish oil, etc. These are great for hair as well as skin health. Since the human body cannot produce these fats it is important to have supplements through these sources. These prevent dryness and brittle nature of hair and will help you get the desired lush in hair.

Large doses of Vitamin A may even trigger greater hair loss. Deficiencies with Vitamin A are going to lead the same result as well but overdoing will definitely lead to hair loss. Balance nutritional intake will however correct this problem. Raw thymus can also balance the hair as does having coconuts (oil, extract or anything).

Nutritional yeast, bran, cauliflower, peas, beans as well as most nuts contain B Vitamins that help you get results. Other than measuring everyday you can be content with an overall supplement of these as well. Inositol also happens to be one of the most important sources for hair growth that can be taken twice daily.

Importance Of Vitamins And Minerals

2010-05-26T03:59:00.000-07:00

Vitamins and minerals are required for the body as essential energy elements. They are important to keep the body healthy and providing it with balanced health status. A healthy person requires them as well as an ill person. People with a disease have more body requirements for the intake of vitamins and minerals than a normal healthy person.

They are not an essential element for keeping the body healthy or in an unhealthy condition, but they do hold significance for the growth of children, as well as for the athletes to provide extra energy boost. We cannot underestimate the functions of minerals and vitamins as they play an important role in almost all of them directly or indirectly.

The efficient role of vitamins and minerals has recently been known with historical references from 400 B.C., the father of modern medicine, Hippocrates. He was the first to advocate the use of liver to cure night blindness, now known occurring due to the deficiency of vitamin A.

Finding a vitamin or a mineral is not a ‘mission impossible’, as they are found in foods; vegetables, fruits and dairy products. Else they are taken through dietary supplements and medicinal formations i.e. pills and tablets. Some foods are also known as vitamin enriched, meaning thereby that they are prepared in a vitamin rich way; they become an effective source of vitamin derivative.

Vitamins are organic compounds whereas minerals are embodiments of chemical compositions. Both of these are required as nutrients in small amounts by organisms. Vitamins hold various biochemical functions such as Vitamin D is a hormone motivator, Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, and vitamins like Vitamin A act as mediators of cell signals and regulations of tissue growth.

Vitamin B is found in the largest numbers and is efficient predecessor for cofactor bio-molecules that are coenzymes. These coenzymes are quite helpful in acting as catalysts and substrates in metabolism. Vitamins also act as carriers for chemical compounds of in between enzymes.

A body which has vitamin deficiency can house a number of diseases. Likewise minerals deficiency can harm the health too. Minerals are rich source of calcium, sodium, silicon, aluminum, lead, chlorine, magnesium, graphite, and carbon. Almost all of these have medicinal qualities and are used today to produce the best curing medicines.

Despite of their unmatched benefits for health and cure, a lot of people are unaware of the nutrients that can be derived from the intake of vitamins and minerals.

The Truth About Mouthwash

2010-05-26T03:57:00.001-07:00

The Truth About Mouthwash

Have you ever wondered what goes on when you use a mouthwash? Some people believe that what one product does, they all do, with possibly some variances in taste being the main difference between them. The truth is they have a point here. Many people are surprised to learn that most mouthwash products use the same ingredients, with some minor changes to affect taste and color.

Mint mouthwash is a popular choice today, as well as Listerine mouthwash. People will often buy Listerine because they believe, or have been told, that the ingredients in this product are powerful and effective. Anyone who has had a taste of Listerine would certainly agree that it is powerful, too powerful for many people.

Some other common brands that are on the market today include:

* Scope Mouthwash
* Crest Pro Health Mouthwash
* Magic Mouthwash
* And a host of other brands

One ingredient that you will find in many brands of mouthwash is alcohol. This is the ingredient that is used to kill bacteria and it is bacteria which causes most bad breath problems. Research has shown time and again that when certain bacteria release certain by-products (usually in the form of sulfur compounds) we end up with an episode of bad breath. This being the case, you would think that alcohol would be a good thing, right>

The answer to that questions is no. The bacteria that causes bad breath, also known as halitosis, will thrive best when it is in an environment that has less oxygen. Saliva is rich in oxygen and therefore the bacteria are held in check to some degree. By using mouthwash that contains alcohol we set ourselves up for dehydration which leads to less oxygen which leads to more odor-producing bacteria being produced. In other words, the more alcohol you put into your mouth, even in the form of mouthwash, the more likely you are to increase your odds of having bad breath.

Yes, you will kill germs on contact, but once the mouthwash is gone, the bacteria will return, and in many cases, return stronger than before.

The answer to this problem is to use a product, such as OraMD®, that has no alcohol in it. Non-alcohol based mouth wash products are also much safer for children and elderly people. These products are usually much easier on the taste buds as well. But most importantly, they inhibit the new growth of bacteria that causes the bad breath that we all wish to avoid.

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Posted by Health Time Products

4/18/10

Foods That Trigger or Worsen Canker Sores

It is a well known fact lysine may help those suffering with canker sores in trying to speed up the healing process. At the same time, those who may find their nutritional intake is to blame for the development of canker sores can find another option in relief. Taking vitamin C in capsules or pill form can also help a great deal, if a vitamin deficiency is the trigger of canker sores in a patient. On the other of the spectrum there are foods that trigger or worsen canker sores. At times there is little way of knowing exactly which foods to avoid, unless the sufferer simply relies on the age old trial and error method.

It is not uncommon for an individual to suffer from minor canker sores. In fact, the patient may not notice the sores until they drink something acidic (orange, lemon, lime or grapefruit juice, for example). Since many of these drinks are also very healthy, the fact sufferers of minor sores simply try to bear the pain is understandable. It is the sufferer whose mouth may have an ulcerated sore that is unable to stand this kind of pain even for short period of time.

There has been some speculation acid content of the food ingested may actually be a reason why some folks experience more sores than others. If you consider the typical college student (who subsists on a diet of pizza and soda), the odds are good you are going to find an individual who is at a higher risk for sores as well. Tomato sauce is very high in acidity, even on pizza. This fact combined with studies that suggest sores being more prevalent in the younger generations do appear to bear out this theory.

With this evidence being brought to the table, it is a good idea to reevaluate the nutritional intake when one is suffering from canker sores more frequently than others. As a preventative measure it is a good idea to cut lemonade, orange and grapefruit juice acidity in half. You can do this easily by diluting the commercially available drinks with water. The same is true for commercially packaged tomato paste or sauce. Diluting it with water or milk for cream sauces is a great way of still enjoying the health benefits these items have to offer. However, it allows you to enjoy them without suffering from the ramifications acidity brings to the mouth.

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Advanced Gum Disease

2010-05-26T03:54:00.000-07:00

Advanced Gum Disease

Advanced gum disease is a common problem. Advanced gum disease can cause gingivitis or periodontitis. Gingivitis is an inflammatory process of the gums in which the junction between the tooth and gum is altered but remains attached to the tooth. Periodontitis occurs when the ligament and bony attachment of the tooth have been lost . When plaque, the bacterial film that grows on your teeth, builds up too much, advanced gum disease can result. The plaque that causes advanced gum disease irritates the gums, making them bright red, tender, swollen, and sensitive.

Advanced gum disease and heart disease is common problem, because the signs of gum disease can be easily missed, and most affected people don't even know they have advanced gum disease. However, most cases of advanced gum disease can be prevented with proper oral hygiene.

There is a special need for good oral hygiene to prevent advanced gum disease. With superior oral hygiene, advanced can be almost entirely avoided. Rinsing the mouth with a warm saltwater solution can be effective. Also effective is OraMD®. OraMD® is an all-natural dental care product made from the essential oils of almond, spearmint, and peppermint. OraMD® offers a long-term solution for preventing advanced gum disease by cleaning the mouth and killing the bacteria that causes plaque, thus preventing the problem before it starts.

Try all-natural OraMD® with confidence. Our product works so well we unconditionally guarantee your total satisfaction with our - no quibble, money-back guarantee - no matter how many you order.

Learn more about preventing advanced gum disease with OraMD®.

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A Painful Agony Having Canker Sores

2010-05-26T03:53:00.000-07:00

A Painful Agony Having Canker Sores

Ulcers in the mouth can occur for many reasons other than canker sores. A doctor can diagnose cankers based on a history of recurring ulcers in the mouth if no other condition is identified that can be causing the ulcers. The history of ulcers will usually start in childhood or early adulthood.

The cause of canker sores is not well understood. More than one cause is likely, even for individual patients. Canker sores do not appear to be caused by viruses or bacteria, although an allergy to a type of bacterium commonly found in the mouth may trigger them in some people.

The sores may be an allergic reaction to certain foods. In addition, there is research suggesting that canker sores may be caused by a faulty immune system that uses the body’s defenses against disease to attack and destroy the normal cells of the mouth or tongue.

The most common sites for canker sores are the movable parts of the mouth such as the inside lining of the lips and cheeks and the tongue. In certain cases even the palate can be affected.

In its earliest stage, the ulcer begins as small round reddish swelling that usually burst within a day, exposing raw mucous membrane. Shortly after the rupture, the sore appears to be covered with a thin yellow white and visibly highlighted by a red halo of inflammation which endures until the healing is complete.

If you do nothing to treat a canker sore that has formed, they will go away generally in 1-3 weeks on their own. During this time it can be painful if you happen to drink juices, or drinks that contain a lot of acid in them. Even brushing your teeth can give you a jolt. The pain can send you through the roof.

Most doctors recommend that patients who have frequent bouts of canker sores undergo blood and allergy tests to determine if their sores are caused by a nutritional deficiency, an allergy or some other preventable cause.

The keys to success in the battle against gum disease and most oral problems are hidden in nature. Fighting the bacteria that causes the problem is the first place to start and specific species of peppermint and spearmint oils are scientifically proven to be anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-microbial. Get your mouth in mint condition today

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Cure for Bleeding Gums

2010-05-26T03:52:00.001-07:00

Cure for bleeding gums is the wrong way to think about the problem. When your gums bleed, it is not stopping the bleeding that should be your concern, it is the root condition that causes the bleeding that should be addressed. Bleeding gums are caused by gum disease, an inflammation or swelling of the gum tissues that afflicts many people. Untreated, gum disease can cause gingivitis and periodontal disease which can cause tooth loss and oral damage. There is no hard and fast cure for bleeding gums, but there are things you can do to help prevent gum disease.

A cure for bleeding gums - early prevention is the key. Gum disease affects the tissues that surround and support your teeth. The cause is bacteria, which can turn into tartar and plaque buildup, irritate your gums and lead to bleeding and receding gums. Left unchecked, gingivitis can lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. This long-term infection can eventually cause loss of your teeth. Gum disease generally doesn't hurt. You may have it for years before you feel discomfort.

Top quality oral hygiene is the answer to a cure for bleeding gums . OraMD® is an all-natural dental care product made from the essential oils of almond, spearmint, and peppermint that provides superior oral hygiene. OraMD® offers a long-term solution for bleeding gums by cleaning the mouth and killing the bacteria that causes plaque, thus preventing the problem before it starts.

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Learn more about ending bleeding gums with OraMD.

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Cure for Bleeding Gums

2010-05-26T03:52:00.000-07:00

A tale of two girls

2010-05-20T01:27:00.001-07:00

Inspired by The world health report 2003, this feature story contrasts the lives of two baby girls born in Japan and Sierra Leone, where average life expectancy for women differs by 50 years.

The report affirms that the key task of the global health community is to close the gap between such contrasting lives by providing the poorest people with greatly improved health care.

A tale of two girls [Flash movie. Requires Flash player]

Great expectations The subject of World Health Day 2005 was maternal and child health.

2010-05-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

Six mothers share their experiences of pregnancy, childbirth, and life with a young bab

Great expectations

The subject of World Health Day 2005 was maternal and child health.

In Great expectations, six mothers living in different countries of the world are sharing their experiences of pregnancy, childbirth, and life with a young baby. The babies are now one year old. This is the final instalment of Great expectations. The series was launched over 12 months ago to highlight World Health Day 2005 – the theme of which was maternal and child health.

Happy birthday, babies!

One year after giving birth, our mothers – Damiana from Bolivia, Samah from Egypt, Hiwot from Ethiopia, Renu from India, Bounlid from Lao People's Democratic Republic, and Claire from the United Kingdom – celebrate their baby's first year.

At one year, our babies are becoming little people. They are taking their first steps and speaking their first words. They are also, thankfully, healthy. Every child, with the exception of Lang in the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is fully immunized against childhood diseases. All six children are now eating solid foods and four are still breastfeeding.

WHO recommends that all children receive immunizations against polio, tuberculosis, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, measles, hepatitis B and haemophilus influenzae type B by their first birthday. Starting at six months, WHO also recommends that infants be fed freshly-prepared, nutrient-rich food while continuing to be breastfed for up to two years.

Some of the parents want to have another child. WHO recommends that couples wait at least two years from one birth to the time a woman attempts to become pregnant again.

At WHO we are grateful to the families for giving us, and the world, unique insight into their lives. We hope that you – our readers – do too. Please feel free to wish the babies happy birthday at internet@who.int. We will make sure that your best wishes are conveyed to the families.

Saving the future generation in Darfur

2010-05-20T01:25:00.002-07:00

Saving the future generation in Darfur

WHO/Yassir Abo Gadr

Four million people currently need humanitarian assistance in Darfur, Sudan. They include some two million internally displaced persons (IDPs). The security situation and the large influx of people in need of care have had a negative impact on access to health care in Darfur. Children under the age of five face grave risks, as they are especially vulnerable to disease and death.

In 2006, WHO initiated a programme to strengthen service delivery and ensure free primary and secondary health care for people affected by the conflict in Darfur. Health facilities are being provided with clinical specialists, essential drugs and training. As a result of WHO support, by January 2007, more than 50 000 people in Darfur had benefited from free outpatient care and more than 10 000 had received free inpatient care. Almost 5 000 surgical operations were performed free of charge.

WHO is also working closely with the Sudanese Ministry of Health and non-governmental organizations to implement the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) strategy. By January 2007 IMCI was being implemented in 26 health facilities, including three IDP camps, in North Darfur.

This photo story provides snapshots of the ways in which WHO is helping to provide health care for children at hospitals, clinics and IDP camps in Darfur.

10 facts on child health

2010-05-20T01:25:00.001-07:00

10 facts on child health

WHO/Yassir Abo Gadr

29 October 2007

Nearly 10 million children under the age of five die every year - more than 1000 every hour. Almost all of these children could survive and thrive with access to simple, affordable interventions.

The loss of a child is a tragedy - families suffer and human potential is wasted. WHO is improving child health by helping countries to deliver integrated, effective care in a continuum, starting with a healthy pregnancy for the mother, through birth and care up to five years of age. Investing in health systems is key to delivering this essential care.

10 facts on breastfeeding

2010-05-20T01:23:00.000-07:00

10 facts on breastfeeding

July 2009

WHO/H. Anenden

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. A lack of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life contributes to over a million avoidable child deaths each year.

Globally less than 40% of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed. Adequate breastfeeding support for mothers and families could save many young lives.

WHO actively promotes breastfeeding as the best source of nourishment for infants and young children. This fact file explores the many benefits of the practice, and how robust help for mothers can increase breastfeeding worldwide.

10 facts on adolescent health

2010-05-20T01:22:00.000-07:00

10 facts on adolescent health

UNAIDS/L.Tayl

A huge proportion of the world's population - more than 1.75 billion - is young, aged between 10 and 24 years.

Adolescents (aged 10 to 19 years) have specific health and development needs, and many face challenges that hinder their well being, including poverty, a lack of access to health information and services, and unsafe environments. Interventions that address their needs can save lives and foster a new generation of productive adults who can help their communities progress.

This fact file explores topics of concern to adolescents and strategies to improve their health across the globe.

10 facts on injuries to children

2010-05-20T01:21:00.000-07:00

10 facts on injuries to children

WHO/C. Khasnabis

Every day, 1000 child deaths could be prevented by proven injury prevention measures. For every child who dies from an injury, many more are left with lifelong disabilities.

The first world report on child injury prevention discusses the five most common unintentional injuries to children and teenagers that cause death, as well as ways to reduce rates of injuries and save lives.

Road accidents, suicide and maternal conditions are leading causes of death in young people

2010-05-20T01:19:00.000-07:00

WHO-supported study of global mortality patterns shows 2.6 million young people die each year

Related link

Child and adolescent health

11 SEPTEMBER 2009 | GENEVA -- The first study of global patterns of death among people aged between 10-24 years of age has found that road traffic accidents, complications during pregnancy and child birth, suicide, violence, HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis (TB) are the major causes of mortality. Most causes of death of young people are preventable and treatable. The study, which was supported by the World Health Organization (WHO) and published in The Lancet medical journal, found that 2.6 million young people are dying each year, with 97% of these deaths taking place in low- and middle-income countries.

There are more young people in the world today than ever before -- 1.8 billion, accounting for 30% of the world's population. Until now, there has been very little information available on the causes of death among young people globally and by region. This study is intended to inform the development of policies and programmes to ensure that they improve the lives, and prevent the deaths, of young people.

Daisy Mafubelu, WHO's Assistant Director-General for Family and Community Health, said: "Young people are transitioning from childhood to adulthood - at the threshold of becoming productive members of society - yet they often fall through the cracks. It is clear from these findings that considerable investment is needed - not only from the health sector, but also from sectors including education, welfare, transport, and justice - to improve access to information and services, and help young people avoid risky behaviours that can lead to death."

WHO recommendations

WHO recommends the following interventions to promote safe behaviours, improve health and prevent deaths among young people:

Road traffic accidents can be prevented through speed management (for example, creating low-speed zones in urban settings, setting speed limits according to road type); strictly enforcing drink-driving laws that limit blood alcohol concentration to 0.05 g/dl with lower limits for young or novice drivers); increasing the wearing of good quality helmets, and increasing the use of seat-belts.
Sexual and reproductive health can be improved by ensuring that young people receive sexuality education, have access to condoms and other contraceptives, safe abortion to the full extent of the law, antenatal and obstetric care, HIV testing and counselling, and HIV/AIDS care and treatment.
Violence and suicide can be prevented by ensuring that young people have access to life skills training; promoting positive parental involvement in the lives of young people, reducing the use of alcohol by young people, and reducing their access to lethal means (including firearms, knives, pesticides and sedatives).
The immediate and long-term consequences of injuries and violence can be significantly reduced by improving access to effective community-level care and emergency medical care, and providing treatment and support for young people exposed to child abuse, youth violence, and sexual assault.

For more information, contact:

Olivia Lawe-Davies
Communications Officer
WHO, Geneva
Telephone: +41 22 791 1209
Mobile: +41 79 475 5545
E-mail: lawedavieso@who.int

Why do we need to invest in the health and development of adolescents?

2010-05-20T01:11:00.000-07:00

Why do we need to invest in the health and development of adolescents?

There are an estimated 1.2 billion adolescents - one in every five people - in the world today. Adolescence is a period of major physical and psychological change, as well as great changes in social interactions and relationships.

Although most adolescents make the transition into adulthood in good health, many do not. Some of the health problems faced by adolescents affect them during adolescence itself, such as a death caused by suicide or interpersonal violence, or from the consequences of an unsafe abortion. Others affect the individual later in life, for example, HIV-related illnesses in adulthood resulting from infection during adolescence, or lung cancer resulting from tobacco use initiated during adolescence.

The health of adolescents also has an intergenerational effect. Babies born to adolescent parents have a higher risk of being underweight and of dying. They are also likely to suffer from any social and economic disadvantages encountered by their parents. There are compelling economic arguments for addressing the health of adolescents. Improving the health of school-going adolescents increases their enrolment and retention in school, their cognitive achievements, and leads to greater productivity. There is also a need to safeguard investments in child survival, and in the education of children who lived to become adolescents.

Children and adolescents have important needs as they grow and develop into adults. Virtually all governments have confirmed their right to have these needs fulfilled, with the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Schizophrenia - Home Treatment

2010-05-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

The best way to prevent relapse of schizophrenia is to stick with your treatment plan. There are many steps you can take to improve the quality of your life while living with this disease, including:

Taking your medicines as prescribed. Never stop taking your medicines without the advice and supervision of your health professional.
Attending your counseling sessions and classes even when you do not feel like it or when you think they are not helping you.
Knowing your legal rights. People with schizophrenia have the same rights as other citizens. For example, they have the right to vote and to participate in legal agreements, such as marriage, divorce, or business ventures. Most states and many health care institutions have a bill of rights for people with serious mental illness. These rights include the right to privacy (or confidentiality) with respect to their illness and treatment plan and the right to treatment that places the fewest restrictions on their lifestyle.
Joining a self-help or support group. These groups can be very helpful for some people with schizophrenia. Self-help and support groups are usually run by the members of the group (not health professionals).
Developing a plan to take care of your personal affairs during times of relapse.

It is important for all family members and other people close to a person with schizophrenia to learn about the disease and how it affects their lives. Family members who learn the first signs of relapse and see that their loved one gets help early may prevent a long and difficult relapse.

Help a person who is hallucinating by quietly calling the person by name, or by asking the person to tell you what he or she is experiencing and telling him or her that the voices are not real.
Help a person who is paranoid by not arguing. Call for help if you fear the situation could become dangerous.
Encourage a person to take medicines by talking about how the medicines keep them from hearing voices and by helping them monitor the medication side effects.

Sometimes people with schizophrenia are too sick to get treatment on their own. Depending on the severity of their symptoms, some people need to be held or treated against their will. Talk with your local law enforcement officials about the laws and procedures in your area for seeking treatment for an affected family member. Having this information before you need it will reduce your fears and concerns and enable family members to work together to get help for their loved one.

Some people with schizophrenia are likely to display aggressive or violent behavior.⁹ It is important to know the signs to watch for.

Warning signs of suicide, such as talking about death or heavy use of drugs or alcohol
Warning signs of violence towards others, such as talking about harming someone or unexpected and aggressive mood changes

Family members and other people involved in the care of a person with schizophrenia need to take care of themselves, such as seeking separate counseling, joining a support group, and maintaining their own interests.

Over 80% of people with schizophrenia smoke cigarettes.¹² Smoking increases the risk for other diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. For information on how to stop smoking, see the topic Quitting Tobacco Use.

Bipolar Disorder - When To Call a Doctor

2010-05-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Think you cannot stop from harming yourself or someone else.
Hear voices that are new or more upsetting than normal.
Want to commit suicide, or you know someone who has mentioned wanting to commit suicide.

Warning signs of suicide include:

Use of illegal drugs or drinking alcohol heavily.
Talking, writing, or drawing about death, including writing suicide notes and speaking of items that can cause physical harm, such as pills, guns, or knives.
Spending long periods of time alone.
Giving away possessions.
Acting aggressive or suddenly appearing calm.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting may be enough if a mood episode has just started and you are taking proper medicines. If your mood episode has not improved within 2 weeks, call your doctor.

If you have a loved one who is experiencing a manic episode and is behaving irrationally, help the person seek treatment.

Who To See

Bipolar disorder is complex and hard to diagnose because it has many phases and symptoms. Sometimes it is misdiagnosed as only depression (unipolar depression) because people are more likely to seek treatment during a period of depression.

After you are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it is important to keep a long-term relationship with your doctor or therapist to make sure that your treatment is consistent and that your medicines can be adjusted as needed.

Although other health professionals can diagnose bipolar disorder, you will probably be referred to a psychiatrist who specializes in treating such disorders and can prescribe medicines and provide counseling. Other health professionals who can diagnose bipolar disorder include:

Schizophrenia - When To Call a Doctor

2010-05-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Have thoughts of suicide or are threatening suicide.
Hear voices, especially if the voice tells you to hurt yourself or someone else, or to do something illegal such as destroy property or steal.

Call a health professional if you (or someone you know):

Have a sudden change in behavior, such as refusing to eat because you think someone has poisoned your food.
Have experiences you usually do not have (such as hearing someone calling your name when no one is there).
Have difficulty taking care of yourself or become confused doing simple chores or tasks.
Show warning signs of suicide, such as talking about death or spending long periods of time alone.
Show signs of schizophrenia, such as seeming to talk to people who are not present or believing things that you know are false.
Show the first signs of relapse, such as difficulty concentrating or withdrawing from other people.

Watchful Waiting

Sometimes people can have symptoms that appear similar to those of schizophrenia.

Extreme stress can cause confusion and forgetfulness.
Life-threatening situations, such as a serious accident or natural disaster, can cause extreme fear or heightened alertness.
Grief after the loss of a loved one can cause a person to think he or she hears or sees the loved one.

If the unusual behavior lasts longer than 1 week, or if the experiences interfere with normal social function, talk with a health professional about your concerns.

Sometimes people have some of the positive symptoms of schizophrenia without having schizophrenia. These positive symptoms can occur after you take certain illegal drugs, as side effects of certain medicines, as complications of not sleeping or being overstimulated, or as symptoms of another medical condition. Positive symptoms of schizophrenia may also be symptoms in other illnesses such as severe depressionor bipolar disorder. If you have had symptoms of psychosis (such as hearing voices) or are concerned about changes in your thoughts or feelings, see a health professional for an evaluation.

A Feel-Good Workout

2010-05-16T10:15:00.001-07:00

Do you dread the thought of daily hard workouts? Studies show you might feel healthier without them. In a recent study, people who exercised vigorously for short periods of time every day reported experiencing at least 14 unhealthy days throughout the year. People who exercised at a moderate level of intensity for more than 20 minutes at a time, with time off in between workouts, reported fewer unhealthy days.

People who don't exercise at all have more unhealthy days than people who engage in any form of exercise, no matter if the exercise is vigorous and of a short duration or if it is of moderate intensity and duration. Exercise may help boost immune system function, which could in turn help people enjoy more healthy days. Exercise also can boost energy levels and help people feel stronger and better equipped to meet daily challenges.

RealAge Benefit: Doing stamina-building exercises for at least 60 minutes per week can make your RealAge as much as 6.4 years younger.

Diet Myths Exposed: Part 1

2010-04-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

The following diet myths come up over and over again at my nutrition center. My next two blog entries will help set the record straight. Hope you find this helpful!

If you eat late at night, the food turns straight into fat.

Not true.If your overall calories are appropriate for weight loss, you certainly can eat something after dinner. Late night calories will ultimately get used the next day (and even while you sleep).

However, for the sake of energy, it is always better to eat your calories during the day when your body needs the fuel. Plus, eating consistently throughout the day will stabilize blood sugar levels -- so you’ll feel energized and experience fewer cravings. If you are going to snack after dinner, I suggest choosing something 250 calories or less.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are more nutritious than frozen.

Not necessarily. Frozen can be a great produce option (just avoid varieties with added salt, sugar, and sauce). Frozen foods are picked in the peak of ripeness, then frozen. You can eat them as you need them -- and most of the nutrients are locked in. On the other hand, fresh fruit and vegetables are typically harvested before they ripen, and can have nutrient variability. Also, the longer fresh produce sits around in your fridge, the less nutrients it will contain.

Bottom line: Buy both fresh and frozen and eat as much as you can.
Cravings are your body's way of telling you it needs something.

This has never been proven. You normally crave what you like to eat (or smell or see someone else eating). Also, hormonal changes are sometimes responsible for food cravings. Ice cream and pickles anyone?
Any type of water is always better than soda.

No. There are a few caloric waters with sexy marketing ploys. In fact, some brands have quite a bit of sugar. Always check labels.
Certain foods, like grapefruit, celery, or cabbage soup can burn fat and make you lose weight.

These are anecdotal stories that have no scientific back up. It’s true these foods are low in calories, but they do NOT actually burn fat.

100 Smartest Diet Tips Ever

2010-04-30T20:59:00.002-07:00

By Top Dietitians of the American Dietetic Association for Prevention

Got a diet dilemma? Ask a true diet pro: an RD, or registered dietitian. Her job is turning complex nutrition research into doable plans for real people.

Courtesy of the American Dietetic Association (ADA), we took our readers' eleven toughest diet problems and ran them by some of the top dietitians in the US: RDs who, in addition to their private careers, serve as media spokespersons or heads of specialty practice groups for the ADA.

Here's what they told us, in their own words. These tips are solid gold, learned from successful experience with thousands of clients. Some tips are new. Some you've heard before, but they're repeated because they work. This treasure trove of RD wisdom could change your life-starting today.

I Can Only Handle One Diet Change Right Now. What Should I Do?
1. Add just one fruit or veggie serving daily. Get comfortable with that, then add an extra serving until you reach 8 to 10 a day.

2. Eat at least two servings of a fruit or veggie at every meal.

3. Resolve never to supersize your food portions—unless you want to supersize your clothes.

4. Make eating purposeful, not mindless. Whenever you put food in your mouth, peel it, unwrap it, plate it, and sit. Engage all of the senses in the pleasure of nourishing your body.

5. Start eating a big breakfast. It helps you eat fewer total calories throughout the day.

6. Make sure your plate is half veggies and/or fruit at both lunch and dinner.

Are there Any Easy Tricks to Help Me Cut Calories?
7. Eating out? Halve it, and bag the rest. A typical restaurant entree has 1,000 to 2,000 calories, not even counting the bread, appetizer, beverage, and dessert.

8. When dining out, make it automatic: Order one dessert to share.

9. Use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate.

10. See what you eat. Plate your food instead of eating out of the jar or bag.

11. Eat the low-cal items on your plate first, then graduate. Start with salads, veggies, and broth soups, and eat meats and starches last. By the time you get to them, you'll be full enough to be content with smaller portions of the high-calorie choices.

12. Instead of whole milk, switch to 1 percent. If you drink one 8-oz glass a day, you'll lose 5 lb in a year.

13. Juice has as many calories, ounce for ounce, as soda. Set a limit of one 8-oz glass of fruit juice a day.

14. Get calories from foods you chew, not beverages. Have fresh fruit instead of fruit juice.

15. Keep a food journal. It really works wonders.

16. Follow the Chinese saying: "Eat until you are eight-tenths full."

17. Use mustard instead of mayo.

18. Eat more soup. The noncreamy ones are filling but low-cal.

19. Cut back on or cut out caloric drinks such as soda, sweet tea, lemonade, etc. People have lost weight by making just this one change. If you have a 20-oz bottle of Coca-Cola every day, switch to Diet Coke. You should lose 25 lb in a year.

20. Take your lunch to work.

21. Sit when you eat.

22. Dilute juice with water.

23. Have mostly veggies for lunch.

24. Eat at home.

25. Limit alcohol to weekends.

How Can I Eat More Veggies?
26. Have a V8 or tomato juice instead of a Diet Coke at 3 pm.

27. Doctor your veggies to make them delicious: Dribble maple syrup over carrots, and sprinkle chopped nuts on green beans.

28. Mix three different cans of beans and some diet Italian dressing. Eat this three-bean salad all week.

29. Don't forget that vegetable soup counts as a vegetable.

30. Rediscover the sweet potato.

31. Use prebagged baby spinach everywhere: as "lettuce" in sandwiches, heated in soups, wilted in hot pasta, and added to salads.

32. Spend the extra few dollars to buy vegetables that are already washed and cut up.

33. Really hate veggies? Relax. If you love fruits, eat plenty of them; they are just as healthy (especially colorful ones such as oranges, mangoes, and melons).

34. Keep seven bags of your favorite frozen vegetables on hand. Mix any combination, microwave, and top with your favorite low-fat dressing. Enjoy 3 to 4 cups a day. Makes a great quick dinner.

Can You Give Me a Mantra that will Help Me Stick to My Diet?
35. "The best portion of high-calorie foods is the smallest one. The best portion of vegetables is the largest one. Period."

36. "I'll ride the wave. My cravings will disappear after 10 minutes if I turn my attention elsewhere."

37. "I want to be around to see my grandchildren, so I can forgo a cookie now."

38. "I am a work in progress."

39. "It's more stressful to continue being fat than to stop overeating."

I Eat Healthy, but I'm Overweight. What Mistakes Could I Be Making without Realizing It?
40. Skipping meals. Many healthy eaters "diet by day and binge by night."

41. Don't "graze" yourself fat. You can easily munch 600 calories of pretzels or cereal without realizing it.

42. Eating pasta like crazy. A serving of pasta is 1 cup, but some people routinely eat 4 cups.43. Eating supersize bagels of 400 to 500 calories for snacks.

44. Ignoring "Serving Size" on the Nutrition Facts panel.

45. Snacking on bowls of nuts. Nuts are healthy but dense with calories. Put those bowls away, and use nuts as a garnish instead of a snack.

46. Thinking all energy bars and fruit smoothies are low-cal.

What Can I Eat for a Healthy Low-Cal Dinner if I Don't Want to Cook?
47. A smoothie made with fat-free milk, frozen fruit, and wheat germ.

48. The smallest fast-food burger (with mustard and ketchup, not mayo) and a no-cal beverage. Then at home, have an apple or baby carrots.

49. A peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread with a glass of 1 percent milk and an apple.

50. Precooked chicken strips and microwaved frozen broccoli topped with Parmesan cheese.

51. A healthy frozen entree with a salad and a glass of 1 percent milk.

52. Scramble eggs in a nonstick skillet. Pop some asparagus in the microwave, and add whole wheat toast. If your cholesterol levels are normal, you can have seven eggs a week!

53. A bag of frozen vegetables heated in the microwave, topped with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped nuts.

54. Prebagged salad topped with canned tuna, grape tomatoes, shredded reduced-fat cheese, and low-cal Italian dressing.

55. Keep lean sandwich fixings on hand: whole wheat bread, sliced turkey, reduced-fat cheese, tomatoes, mustard with horseradish.

56. Heat up a can of good soup.

57. Cereal, fruit, and fat-free milk makes a good meal anytime.

58. Try a veggie sandwich from Subway.

59. Precut fruit for a salad and add yogurt.

What's Your Best Advice for Avoiding those Extra Holiday Pounds?
60. Don't tell yourself, "It's okay, it's the holidays." That opens the door to 6 weeks of splurging.

61. Remember, EAT before you meet. Have this small meal before you go to any parties: a hardboiled Egg, Apple, and a Thirst quencher (water, seltzer, diet soda, tea).

62. As obvious as it sounds, don't stand near the food at parties. Make the effort, and you'll find you eat less.

63. At a buffet? Eating a little of everything guarantees high calories. Decide on three or four things, only one of which is high in calories. Save that for last so there's less chance of overeating.

64. For the duration of the holidays, wear your snuggest clothes that don't allow much room for expansion. Wearing sweats is out until January.

65. Give it away! After company leaves, give away leftover food to neighbors, doormen, or delivery people, or take it to work the next day.

66. Walk around the mall three times before you start shopping.

67. Make exercise a nonnegotiable priority.

68. Dance to music with your family in your home. One dietitian reported that when she asks her patients to do this, initially they just smile, but once they've done it, they say it is one of the easiest ways to involve the whole family in exercise.

How Can I Control a Raging Sweet Tooth?
69. Once in a while, have a lean, mean salad for lunch or dinner, and save the meal's calories for a full dessert.

70. Are you the kind of person who does better if you make up your mind to do without sweets and just not have them around? Or are you going to do better if you have a limited amount of sweets every day? One RD reported that most of her clients pick the latter and find they can avoid bingeing after a few days.

71. If your family thinks they need a very sweet treat every night, try to strike a balance between offering healthy choices but allowing them some "free will." Compromise with low-fat ice cream and fruit, or sometimes just fruit with a dollop of whipped cream.

72. Try 2 weeks without sweets. It's amazing how your cravings vanish.

73. Eat more fruit. A person who gets enough fruit in his diet doesn't have a raging sweet tooth.

74. Eat your sweets, just eat them smart! Carve out about 150 calories per day for your favorite sweet. That amounts to about an ounce of chocolate, half a modest slice of cake, or 1/2 cup of regular ice cream.

75. Try these smart little sweets: sugar-free hot cocoa, frozen red grapes, fudgsicles, sugar-free gum, Nutri-Grain chocolate fudge twists, Tootsie Rolls, and hard candy.

How Can I Conquer My Downfall: Bingeing at Night?
76. Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The large majority of people who struggle with night eating are those who skip meals or don't eat balanced meals during the day. This is a major setup for overeating at night.

77. Eat your evening meal in the kitchen or dining room, sitting down at the table.

78. Drink cold unsweetened raspberry tea. It tastes great and keeps your mouth busy.

79. Change your nighttime schedule. It will take effort, but it will pay off. You need something that will occupy your mind and hands.

80. If you're eating at night due to emotions, you need to focus on getting in touch with what's going on and taking care of yourself in a way that really works. Find a nonfood method of coping with your stress.

81. Put a sign on the kitchen and refrigerator doors: "Closed after Dinner."

82. Brush your teeth right after dinner to remind you: No more food.

83. Eat without engaging in any other simultaneous activity. No reading, watching TV, or sitting at the computer.

84. Eating late at night won't itself cause weight gain. It's how many calories—not when you eat them—that counts.

How Can I Reap Added Health Benefits from My Dieting?
85. Fat-free isn't always your best bet. Research has found that none of the lycopene or alpha- or beta-carotene that fight cancer and heart disease is absorbed from salads with fat-free dressing. Only slightly more is absorbed with reduced-fat dressing; the most is absorbed with full-fat dressing. But remember, use your dressing in moderate amounts.

86. Skipping breakfast will leave you tired and craving naughty foods by midmorning. To fill up healthfully and tastefully, try this sweet, fruity breakfast full of antioxidants. In a blender, process 1 c nonfat plain or vanilla yogurt, 1 1/3 c frozen strawberries (no added sugar), 1 peeled kiwi, and 1 peeled banana. Pulse until mixture is milkshake consistency. Makes one 2-cup serving; 348 calories and 1.5 fat grams.

87. If you're famished by 4 p.m. and have no alternative but an office vending machine, reach for the nuts—. The same goes if your only choices are what's available in the hotel minibar.

88. Next time you're feeling wiped out in late afternoon, forgo that cup of coffee and reach for a cup of yogurt instead. The combination of protein, carbohydrate, and fat in an 8-ounce serving of low-fat yogurt will give you a sense of fullness and well-being that coffee can't match, as well as some vital nutrients. If you haven't eaten in 3 to 4 hours, your blood glucose levels are probably dropping, so eating a small amount of nutrient-rich food will give your brain and your body a boost.

89. Making just a few changes to your pantry shelves can get you a lot closer to your weight loss goals. Here's what to do: If you use corn and peanut oil, replace it with olive oil. Same goes for breads—go for whole wheat. Trade in those fatty cold cuts like salami and bologna and replace them canned tuna, sliced turkey breast, and lean roast beef. Change from drinking whole milk to fat-free milk or low-fat soy milk. This is hard for a lot of people so try transitioning down to 2 percent and then 1 percent before you go fat-free.

90. Nothing's less appetizing than a crisper drawer full of mushy vegetables. Frozen vegetables store much better, plus they may have greater nutritional value than fresh. Food suppliers typically freeze veggies just a few hours after harvest, locking in the nutrients. Fresh veggies, on the other hand, often spend days in the back of a truck before they reach your supermarket.

91. Worried about the trans-fat content in your peanut butter? Good news: In a test done on Skippy, JIF, Peter Pan, and a supermarket brand, the levels of trans fats per 2-tablespoon serving were far lower than 0.5 gram—low enough that under proposed laws, the brands can legally claim zero trans fats on the label. They also contained only 1 gram more sugar than natural brands—not a significant difference.

Eating Less Isn't Enough—What Exercising Tips Will Help Me Shed Pounds?
92. Overeating is not the result of exercise. Vigorous exercise won't stimulate you to overeat. It's just the opposite. Exercise at any level helps curb your appetite immediately following the workout.

93. When you're exercising, you shouldn't wait for thirst to strike before you take a drink. By the time you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated. Try this: Drink at least 16 ounces of water, sports drinks, or juices two hours before you exercise. Then drink 8 ounces an hour before and another 4 to 8 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes during your workout. Finish with at least 16 ounces after you're done exercising.

94. Tune in to an audio book while you walk. It'll keep you going longer and looking forward to the next walk—and the next chapter! Check your local library for a great selection. Look for a whodunit; you might walk so far you'll need to take a cab home!

95. Think yoga's too serene to burn calories? Think again. You can burn 250 to 350 calories during an hour-long class (that's as much as you'd burn from an hour of walking)! Plus, you'll improve muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance.

96. Drinking too few can hamper your weight loss efforts. That's because dehydration can slow your metabolism by 3 percent, or about 45 fewer calories burned a day, which in a year could mean weighing 5 pounds more. The key to water isn't how much you drink, it's how frequently you drink it. Small amounts sipped often work better than 8 ounces gulped down at once.

How Can I Manage My Emotional Eating and Get the Support I Need?
97. A registered dietitian (RD) can help you find healthy ways to manage your weight with food. To find one in your area who consults with private clients call (800) 366-1655.

98. The best place to drop pounds may be your own house of worship. Researchers set up healthy eating and exercise programs in 16 Baltimore churches. More than 500 women participated and after a year the most successful lost an average of 20 lb. Weight loss programs based on faith are so successful because there's a built-in community component that people can feel comfortable with.

99. Here's another reason to keep level-headed all the time: Pennsylvania State University research has found that women less able to cope with stress—shown by blood pressure and heart rate elevations—ate twice as many fatty snacks as stress-resistant women did, even after the stress stopped (in this case, 25 minutes of periodic jackhammer-level noise and an unsolvable maze).

100. Sitting at a computer may help you slim down. When researchers at Brown University School of Medicine put 92 people on online weight loss programs for a year, those who received weekly e-mail counseling shed 5 1/2 more pounds than those who got none. Counselors provided weekly feedback on diet and exercise logs, answered questions, and cheered them on. Most major online diet programs offer many of these features.

127 Foods That Fight Fat

2010-04-30T20:59:00.001-07:00

By Howard M. Shapiro, DO, Prevention Weight loss starts with shopping. Taking control of what you eat begins with taking control of what you buy.

Every time you toss a low-calorie food into the cart, you're taking responsibility for losing weight—even before you sit down to a meal.

There's a very simple formula for low-calorie eating: Stock up on low-calorie staples. These are the basic packaged, canned, and frozen ingredients that you'll reach for to create tasty, healthful, low-calorie meals anytime.

The Picture Perfect Anytime List is a menu of the lowest-calorie produce, soups, sauces, condiments, marinades, dressings, dips, candies, desserts, and beverages available. Stuff your pantry, refrigerator, and freezer with them, and reach for them anytime. Feel free to go to the foods on the Anytime List when you want a snack or are planning a meal. Eat any amount of them for any reason. When the Anytime List becomes the core of your eating—in other words, the main dish around which you build your meals—you'll have no trouble staying thin for life.

The Anytime List
Fruits and vegetables
All fruits and vegetables—raw, cooked, fresh, frozen, canned—belong on the Picture Perfect Anytime List. Avoid any packaged fruits that have added sugar. Otherwise, the more fruits and vegetables you eat, the better.

Soups
You've heard of value for your money. Soups give you very good value for the calories. They are filling; a bowl of soup can be an entire meal. They are satisfying. For many people, they are more satisfying than raw vegetables, while many give you all the benefits of veggies (if you choose the soups chock full of vegetables). They are inexpensive, convenient, easy, and quick to make. Soups don't make you feel like you're on a diet. Above all, soups are versatile. They can serve as a snack, as part of a meal, or as a cooking ingredient.

Sauces, Condiments, and Marinades
Put the following items at the very top of your shopping list. They're invaluable for adding flavor, moisture, texture, and versatility to every food and every meal.

Salad dressings: oil-free or low-calorie (light or lite)

Mayonnaise: fat-free or light

Sour cream and yogurt: fat-free, plain, or with NutraSweet (or low-fat nondairy substitutes)

Mustards: Dijon, Pommery, and others

Tomato puree, tomato paste, and tomato sauce

Clam juice, tomato juice, V8 juice, and lemon or lime juice

Butter Buds or Molly McButter

Cooking sprays (such as Pam) in butter, olive oil, garlic, or lemon flavors

Vinegars: balsamic, cider, wine, tarragon, and others

Horseradish: red and white

Sauces: salsa, cocktail sauce, tamari, soy sauce, A1, Worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce, ketchup, duck sauce, chutney, relish, and others

Onion: fresh, juice, flakes, and powder

Garlic: fresh, juice, flakes, and powder

Herbs: any and all, including basil, oregano, tarragon, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, dill, chives, sage, and bay leaves

Spices: any and all, including cinnamon, cloves, ginger, cumin, nutmeg, coriander, curry, paprika, and allspice

Extracts: vanilla, almond, peppermint, maple, coconut, cocoa powder, and others

Dressings and Dips
I recommend fat-free or light dressings and dips. The light category—low-fat, reduced-fat, and low-calorie—is midway between totally fat-free and regular, and it's often more pleasing to the palate than fat-free.

Dressings can be used as all-purpose condiments, dips, toppings, even cooking liquids. They already contain a mixture of ingredients, so just slather them on vegetables, seafood, and pretty much anything else. Or cook with them to make up for the lack of butter or oil.

I recommend keeping several varieties of dressings and dips on hand, including at least one creamy version. Try brushing a light creamy dressing on seafood, then broiling; the dressing adds moisture and flavor.

Candy
Yup, candy. The real thing—not the dietetic variety—is best when your sweet tooth starts aching. Dietetic candies have almost as many calories as regular candies, often lack flavor, and are an incentive to eat more. Stick to the real thing.

Chewing gum or gum balls: any and all

Hard candy: any and all, including sour balls, candy canes, lollipops such as Tootsie Pops or Blow Pops, Jolly Ranchers, Werther's Original, and TasteTations

Frozen Desserts
Any fat-free frozen yogurt, frozen nondairy substitute, or sorbet is a fine addition to the freezer. Try the lower-calorie choices. Here are some examples:

Soft serve: up to 25 calories per ounce, including Skimpy Treat; TCBY, Colombo nonfat frozen yogurt, and Tofutti

Hard pack: up to 115 calories per 1/2-cup serving, including Sharon's Sorbet, Low-Fat Tofutti, all Italian ices, and Sweet Nothings

Frozen bars: Creamsicles, Fudgsicles, and Popsicles; any others containing up to 45 calories per bar, including Welch's Fruit Juice Bars, Weight Watchers Smart Ones Orange Vanilla Treats, Tofutti Chocolate Fudge Treats, Weight Watchers Smart Ones Chocolate Mousse, Dolly Madison Slender Treat Chocolate Mousse, and Yoplait

Individually packaged frozen bars: up to 110 calories each, including FrozFruit, Hagen-Dazs bars, and Starbucks Frappuccino Blended Coffee Bars

Beverages
Avoid beverages labeled "naturally sweetened" or "fruit-juice sweetened," but help yourself to these:

Unsweetened black coffees and teas

Diet teas and juices: Crystal Light, Diet Snapple, Diet Natural Lemon Nestea, Diet Mistic, and others

Noncaloric flavored waters: orange, chocolate, cream, cherry-chocolate, root beer, cola, and other flavors of bottled or filtered water

Seltzer: plain or flavored, but check the calorie count if the product is labeled "naturally sweetened," since this usually means that the product has sugar in one form or another

Hot cocoa mixes: 20 to 50 calories per serving, including Swiss Miss Diet and Fat-Free and Nestle Carnation Diet and Fat-Free; avoid cocoa mixes with 60 or more calories per serving

Let's Go Shopping
Today's supermarkets are filled with choices for the weight conscious. Here are some of the lowest-calorie choices for a variety of food categories that aren't covered in the Anytime List.

Cereals

Cheerios: a whole grain cereal with 110 calories and 3 g fiber per cup

Kellogg's All-Bran with Extra Fiber: 50 calories and 15 g fiber per 1/2 cup

Original Shredded Wheat: 80 calories and 2.5 g fiber per biscuit

Fiber One: 60 calories and 14 g fiber per 1/2 cup

Wheaties: 110 calories and 2 g fiber per cup

Whole Grain Total: 110 calories and 3 g fiber per 3/4 cup

Spreads

Peanut butter

Low-sugar or sugar-free jams and jellies with 10 to 40 calories per tablespoon

Breads

Light breads with 40 to 45 calories per slice: oatmeal, premium white, wheat, rye, multigrain, sourdough, Italian

Whole grain regular breads or rolls

Rice and Pasta

Whole wheat/whole grain pastas: Hodgson Mill, Ancient Harvest

Brown rice

Whole wheat couscous

Pearled or hulled barley

Other whole grains: quinoa, whole grain cornmeal, kasha, bulgur, millet

Frozen Meals

Low-calorie frozen breakfast foods such as those from Kellogg's, Aunt Jemima, and Pillsbury—and a special mention for the low-calorie, whole grain offerings from Van's

Low-calorie, vegetable-focused frozen meals in the 150- to 350-calories-per-package range, especially the Amy's brand

Beans

All beans, dried or canned

Health Valley canned bean/chili combinations

Low-fat or fat-free refried beans

Snacks

Make it a point to eat starchy, crunchy snacks only in conjunction with a food from the Anytime List. For example, have fruit with popcorn or soup with crackers. Fill up on the former, and go easy on the starchy snack.

Protein Foods

Legumes: beans, peas, lentils, chickpeas

Soy products: bean curd/tofu, meat-replacement products by Boca, Gardenburger, Yves, and Lightlife

Seafood: fresh (do not fry!), smoked, canned, frozen

5 Major Eating Mistakes Busted!

2010-04-30T20:58:00.000-07:00

By Holly McCord, RD, with Gloria McVeigh, Prevention

Ever get the guilty feeling that you're being watched as you toss the double fudge brownie mix into your grocery cart? Well, you are!

We checked with some of the top US nutrition experts, who admitted they secretly spy on the rest of us as we make real-world choices in restaurants and grocery stores. Here are their top five gripes.

1. We can't tell the good fats from the bad ones.
"Most people still don't get that some fats are actually good for you," says Alice Lichtenstein, DSc, an American Heart Association spokesperson. "You want to avoid saturated and trans fats, but you need more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Good sources are fish, nuts, avocados, and soybean and canola oils."

Smarter: Fit in good fats. "If you keep track of total calories, you don't have to worry about how much fat you eat, just what kind," explains Dr. Lichtenstein. Grandpa Po's Slightly Spicy Nutra Nuts use only canola oil (160 cal, 10 g fat, 1 g sat. fat, 2 g fiber, 60 mg sodium); at healthy food supermarkets.

2. We supersize to save money.
"People think that supersizing a restaurant meal is a money saver, but it's not a health bargain if it has way too many calories," says Karen Weber Cullen, DPH, RD, research nutritionist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

Smarter: Judge with your palm, not your purse. A serving size is about what fits into the palm of your hand (larger for men than women, smaller for children). For most meals, pick one protein, one starch, one veggie, and one fruit based on the serving that will fit into your palm.

3. We think anything liquid has no calories.
"What freaks me out is the amount of sugared soda and juice we drink," says Judith Stern, ScD, RD, professor of nutrition and internal medicine at the University of California, Davis. "I'd like to see all the sugared drinks sent out into space, where they could orbit the Earth forever." Sugared drinks balloon your calorie intake and squeeze out more nutritious foods.

Smarter: Try a cup of tea. Available in myriad varieties, the calorie-free brew promotes heart health, staves off several types of cancer, strengthens bones and teeth, and protects the skin.

4. We don't know how "hungry" really feels.
"If you don't know when you're hungry, you don't know when you're full, so you won't know when to stop eating," says Elisabetta Politi, RD, nutrition manager of the Duke University Diet & Fitness Center in Durham, NC.

Smarter: Tune in with mindful eating. Here's how.
1. Before you eat, relax, and rate your hunger from 1 (hungriest) to 7 (fullest).
2. Eat slowly, pausing often to rate how your hunger changes.
3. When finished, rate yourself one more time. Try to stay between 2 1/2 and 5 1/2: not too ravenous when you start and not completely full when you stop.

5. We have a microwave addiction.
Many women come home from work and pop a frozen entrée into the microwave. "Eating too many heavily processed foods can leave you short on fiber and antioxidants such as vitamin C," explains Jo Ann Hattner, RD, clinical dietitian at Stanford University Medical Center.

Smarter: Complement a frozen entrée with a green salad, a 100 percent whole wheat roll, and fruit for dessert. Stock up on the freshest fruit for maximum flavor.

Health Tip: If You Have Fibromyalgia

2010-04-30T20:57:00.001-07:00

(HealthDay News) -- Fibromyalgia is a disorder with no identified cause that results in fatigue and widespread pain. As many as 90 percent of people who are diagnosed with the disorder are women.

The National Women's Health Information Center offers this list of typical symptoms:

Pain in the muscles and joints, and joint stiffness.
Fatigue.
Insomnia.
Headache.
Pain in the jaw.
Feelings of nervousness or depression.
A tingly sensation in the feet and hands.
Cramps in the legs.
Difficulty remembering and thinking.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Painful menstrual cramps.
Gastrointestinal problems such as stomach ache, bloating, diarrhea, constipation or abdominal cramps.
Difficulty swallowing.
Pain during urination, or having to urinate often.

Fat Americans pose a threat to national security: generals

2010-04-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

US soldiers eat lunch on Christmas day at a military camp in Nuristan Province in 2009. Increasing rates of obesity among young Americans could undermine the future of the US military, with potential recruits increasingly too fat to serve, two retired generals said on Friday.(AFP/File/Tauseef Mustafa)

WASHINGTON (AFP) - Increasing rates of obesity among young Americans could undermine the future of the US military, with potential recruits increasingly too fat to serve, two retired generals said on Friday."Obesity rates threaten the overall health of America and the future strength of our military," generals John Shalikashvili and Hugh Shelton, both former chairs of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, wrote in a commentary.

Obesity disqualified more potential recruits for military service than any other medical factor, the two former commanders wrote in the Washington Post.

The two generals urged Congress to adopt legislation that would ensure better nutrition in schools, offering children more vegetables, fruits and whole grains while cutting back on foods with high sugar, sodium and fat content.

"We consider this problem so serious from a national security perspective that we have joined more than 130 other retired generals, admirals and senior military leaders in calling on Congress to pass new child nutrition legislation," wrote the commanders, part of a non-profit group called "Mission: Readiness."

The warning came amid growing concern that childhood obesity has turned into an "epidemic," affecting a staggering one in three American youngsters.

A study released in March warned more American children are becoming extremely obese at a younger age, putting them at risk of dying decades younger than normal-weight children and of suffering old-age illnesses in their 20s.

The US military also faces a problem with troops already serving who are overweight, with some soldiers losing out on promotions because of their failure to meet fitness standards.

Although the military enjoyed record-breaking recruitment levels last year, officials say the growing problem of obesity could present a serious problem for recruitment efforts over time.

The two retired generals endorsed a plan by President Barack Obama's administration to increase funding by one billion dollars a year over ten years for child nutrition programs.

Investing in nutrition made sense as the country was already spending 75 billion dollars a year on medical costs associated with obesity, they said.

Citing figures from the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, the commentary said the proportion of potential recruits who flunked their physical tests because they were overweight has jumped nearly 70 percent since 1995.

Shalikashvili, who led the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1993 to 1997, and Shelton, who held the same post from 1997 to 2001, cited school lunch legislation passed in 1946 as a model.

Military leaders at the time recognized that poor nutrition reduced the pool of qualified candidates for the armed forces, they said.

"We must act, as we did after World War II, to ensure that our children can one day defend our country, if need be."

5 Quick Ways to Stop Back Pain

2010-03-11T08:45:00.000-08:00

From Crunches to Lunches, How to Ease the Ache

Roughly 8 out of 10 people suffer from back pain at some point during their lives. Women, in particular, are prone to posture and back problems—thanks to toting around outrageously heavy purses, going through pregnancy, or giving one-hip rides to kids. Whether you’re in the midst of fighting the ache or just want to prevent it, here are some expert-endorsed quick-and-easy ways to wage your war.

Study: AIDS May Hide in Bone Marrow

2010-03-11T08:44:00.001-08:00

The virus that causes AIDS can hide in the bone marrow, avoiding drugs and later awakening to cause illness, according to new research that could point the way toward better treatments for the disease.

Finding that hide-out is a first step, but years of research lie ahead.

Dr. Kathleen Collins of the University of Michigan and her colleagues report in this week's edition of the journal Nature Medicine that the HIV virus can infect long-lived bone marrow cells that eventually convert into blood cells.

The virus is dormant in the bone marrow cells, she said, but when those progenitor cells develop into blood cells, it can be reactivated and cause renewed infection. The virus kills the new blood cells and then moves on to infect other cells, she said.

"If we're ever going to be able to find a way to get rid of the cells, the first step is to understand" where a latent infection can continue, Collins said.

In recent years, drugs have reduced AIDS deaths sharply, but patients need to keep taking the medicines for life or the infection comes back, she said. That's an indication that while the drugs battle the active virus, some of the disease remains hidden away to flare up once the therapy is stopped.

One hide-out was found earlier in blood cells called macrophages. Another pool was discovered in memory T-cells, and research began on attacking those.

But those couldn't account for all the HIV virus still circulating, Collins said, showing there were more locations to check out and leading her to study the blood cell progenitors.

Finding these sources of infection is important because eliminating them would allow AIDS patients to stop taking drugs after their infection was over. That's critical in countries where the treatment is hard to afford and deliver.

"I don't know how many people realize that although the drugs have reduced mortality we still have a long way to go," Collins said in a telephone interview. "That is mainly because we can't stop the drugs, people have to take it for a lifetime."

The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health, Burroughs Wellcome Foundation, University of Michigan, Rackham Predoctoral Fellowship, National Science Foundation and a Bernard Maas Fellowship.

Survey: Share Your Embarrassing Confessions

2010-03-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder if those embarrassing things you keep to yourself happen to other people too? Take our survey and share your embarrassing confessions.

Have you ever tried waxing down there yourself?

No, I prefer others to inflict pain on me
Yes, once or twice
Yes, all the time