Laser Treatments For Cellulite

Cellulite is a problem that plagues as many as 80 percent of women across the United States. It is not prejudiced to age or race, and though it poses no real health threat, it is a cause of embarrassment for many. There is an option available, however, for those who wish to have their cellulite reduced, and that is laser cellulite treatment.

Significance

Cellulite, when described technically, is a deformation of the skin that is caused by an overabundance of fat cells. It appears most commonly on the thighs, abdomen, buttocks and arms and is most commonly caused by weight loss, genetics and aging. Laser treatment offers people who have cellulite a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment option to reducing the amount of cellulite found in certain areas of their body. These treatments may also help to re-contour the body, making it look smoother and finer.

The Procedure

Laser cellulite treatment targets fat cells through the surface of the skin by applying heat to them. This heat promotes increased circulation, allowing for a better oxygen exchange, which results in an increase in the metabolism of fat cells. While this fat is metabolizing, new collagen is forming, ultimately leading to firmer skin.

Benefits

There are many benefits to treating cellulite aside from the reduction of the cellulite. First, there is an increase in blood circulation, which can result in fewer muscle aches and pains. Loose skin may tighten and become firm again, which results in a higher self-esteem. And though laser cellulite treatment is not meant as a weight loss treatment, some people may appear as if they have lost weight because their bodies are contoured and have a nicer shape. In addition, there is no pain associated with the procedure, and there is little, if any, recovery time, after completion of the treatment.

Disadvantages

Laser cellulite treatment is an expensive treatment, costing anywhere between $100 and $500 per session, depending on the facility and the extent of the treatment. Most people require more than one session for the treatment to be effective, with a majority of patients having to return for as many as 10 sessions. In addition, this could be money wasted if the patient returns to an unhealthy lifestyle of no exercise and poor eating habits once she has achieved her desired results.

Considerations

Though it appears that laser cellulite treatment is your miracle cure, you should keep in mind that is still a fairly new field and is not entirely developed yet. The long-term side effects and complications, if there are any, are not yet known. Because the safety of this procedure is not yet completely proven, it may be wise to try losing cellulite the natural way first--a healthy diet, exercise and topical cellulite creams.

Tags: cellulite treatment, laser cellulite, Laser cellulite, most commonly, that laser

Laser Radiation Treatment For Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is typified by unrestrained multiplication of cells lining the lungs. The National Cancer Institute reports that nearly 220,000 individuals are diagnosed with this condition annually in the United States. Despite no complete cure, treatments like laser radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery are commonly used to control the metastasis of the cancer cells.

Laser Radiation Therapy

Laser radiation therapy involves irradiating the malignant cells with high energy laser beams in order to damage the cancer cells and thus avert their subsequent spreading.

Time Frame

As per the NCI, radiation sessions are generally held twice a week for close to two months. However, the duration may differ depending upon the stage of lung cancer, and the internal metastasis of the cancerous cells.

Benefits

Laser radiation is a minimally invasive treatment form. It is especially beneficial to elder lung cancer patients and to those who are unable to undergo surgical removal of the cancerous cells because of heart ailments and other chronic medical conditions.

Effects

Difficulty in breathing and inflammation of the lungs are some of the side effects of laser radiation therapy when used to treat lung cancer. Other common complications include tiredness, nausea and vomiting.

Warning

You may be advised by your doctor to reduce exposure towards pollutants of the environment and sun rays while laser radiation sessions are being held.

Tags: cancer cells, cancerous cells, laser radiation, lung cancer, radiation sessions

Laryngeal Nerve Damage Symptoms

The two laryngeal nerves attach to the larynx, commonly called the voice box. They help move the vocal cords, which allows a person to talk, and they also help prevent food or liquid from getting into the trachea, or windpipe. Laryngeal nerve damage can result from a few different medical conditions and has varying symptoms.

Causes

Laryngeal nerve damage can be caused by a complication from surgery, particularly surgery involving the heart, thyroid or lungs. It also can result from a breathing tube in the windpipe, or tumors or other growths.

Throat Symptoms

Laryngeal nerve damage symptoms include difficulty speaking or swallowing, and hoarseness.

Respiratory Symptoms

Additional symptoms include difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.

Dangerous Symptoms

Dangerous symptoms include inhalation of food or liquid into the lungs, which can cause aspiration pneumonia.

Treatment

In some cases, the nerve recovers on its own, but sometimes the damage is permanent. Surgery may be needed, and some people need voice therapy.

Tags: Laryngeal nerve, nerve damage, symptoms include, food liquid, include difficulty, Laryngeal nerve damage

Activate Your Chakra

Activate Your Chakra

The concept of "Chakras" plays a large part in Buddhism, tying together theological knowledge of the spiritual, mental (intellectual) and physical (corporeal) self. Chakras are areas within your body through which energy passes. There are dozens of minor chakras, but only seven major chakras: Sahasrara, the crown; Ajna, the brow; Vishuddha, the throat; Anahata, the heart; Manipura, the navel; Svadhisthana, the sacral and Muladhara, the root. Activating or opening these chakras enables energy to flow smoothly throughout your body promoting spiritual, mental and physical well-being.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Study the teaching of Siddharta, Buddha, and work to comprehend how your body/mind function and interact, both internally and externally. This builds a foundation for the study of chakras.

2. Research the concepts of chakras and prana. Chakra is a sanskrit word meaning "wheel" or "flower." Prana refers to the energy that passes through the chakras.

3. Examine charts that explain the relationship between the chakras and physical organs. (e.g. The crown chakra is associated with the pineal gland. The heart chakra is associated with the thymus.) This exercise will deepen your understanding of the relation between spiritual and corporeal.

Activate Chakras

4. Clear a space to meditate. Set-up an entire room or a small area. Cover the bare floor with a mat to protect your skin. Eliminate strong drafts. Dim lights if possible.

5. Choose a chakra to open. While you may attempt to activate all chakras simultaneously, it is not recommended. Work to strengthen each chakra individually beginning with the root/base and working up towards the crown.

6. Sit in the lotus position. Rest your right foot on your left thigh. Repeat by placing the left foot on the right thigh. Sit cross-legged if the lotus position is uncomfortable.

7. Form the Dharmacakra mudra. (i.e. The Gesture of Teaching). Hold arms in front of the body resting your forearms on your legs. Touch your left index finger to your left thumb. Leave the remaining fingers loose and comfortably open. Repeat with the right hand.

8. Meditate on the root chakra. Concentrate on the flow of energy near your coccyx.

9. Think about problems or physical ailments that may be blocking your root chakra. Focus on your recent deviations from the Eightfold path; concentrate on Right View and Right Action. (e.g. Have you been glutonous? Have you denied yourself physical needs?)

10. Chant the phrase "Ooh lahmng" to resonate with your base and make it easier to focus on the root chakra.

11. Tense and release the muscle in this area to enhance your awareness of the chakra and flow of prana.

12. Use chakra activation tools as desired. Hold a ruby, the focal stone of the root chakra. Play music designed for root chakra meditation.

13. Conclude your first meditation session after 15-20 minutes. Repeat, gradually increasing the duration of meditation.

Tags: root chakra, your body, your left, Activate Your, Activate Your Chakra, associated with, chakra associated

Facts On Meniers Disease

Facts on Meniers Disease

Menier's disease is a condition that affects that inner ear and causes hearing and balance problems. The condition was named for Prosper Menier, the physician who, in 1861, first described the effects of inner ear problems on vertigo. The disease typically makes a slow progression, beginning with one symptom and slowly adding others. Not all of the symptoms need to be present before a diagnosis can be made.

History

Though first described in 1861, it was not until 1972 that the American Academy of Ontolyngology officially recognized and put forth criteria for diagnosing Menier's disease.

Effects

The effects of Menier's disease can be unpredictable and include periodic episodes of vertigo, hearing loss and pressure in one or both ears.

Prevention/Solution

While there is no cure for Menier's disease, symptoms are usually treated by reducing sodium in the diet, with lipoflavinoids, antihistamines, and, in severe cases, surgery to decompress the sac behind the inner ear.

Fun Fact

For unknown reasons, some sufferers of Menier's disease suddenly stop experiencing symptoms and make a full recovery after being sick for ten or more years.

Famous Ties

Several famous people are thought to have suffered from Menier's disease, including poet Emily Dickinson, astronaut Alan B. Shephard, Roman emperor Julius Caesar and actress Marilyn Monroe.

Tags: Menier disease, Facts Meniers, Facts Meniers Disease, first described, Meniers Disease

Reproductive Health Projects And Technologies

Many reproductive issues become highly politicized.

The World Health Organization defines reproductive health as the ability of people "to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life," "[enjoy] the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so," and access needed educational, social welfare and health care services. Thus reproductive health projects and technologies address wide-ranging but profoundly interconnected issues.

Gender-Based Violence

Among other ill effects on reproductive health, gender-based violence has actually imbalanced the ratio of women to men in the billion-plus population of India. The all-volunteer, Internet-based 50 Million Missing Campaign challenges violence against Indian women and girls, such as female feticide, female infanticide and dowry-related murders. To move a global audience to action, the Campaign uses an online petition, blogs, Facebook, Twitter, discussion forums and a Flickr-hosted photo gallery.

Sex Education

Men and women in the developing world are far more likely to have mobile phones than Internet connections or other means of obtaining vital reproductive health information. Thus the nongovernmental organization or NGO Family Health International launched its Mobile for Reproductive Health or m4RH. The free m4RH text messaging system educates users about different family planning methods.

Voluntary Family Planning

Improvement of supply chain logistics does not sound very sexy, but it is urgently necessary for the more than 215 million women worldwide, mostly in poor countries, who lack the access they want to family planning. The Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition, a global network of governmental, civil society and business groups, created the Hand to Hand Campaign to alleviate this problem.

Post -Abortion Care

The United States Agency for International Development or USAID is legally barred from "supporting abortion as a method of family planning," reflecting the controversial status of abortion in the global reproductive health community. USAID does publish the Post Abortion Care Global Resources website. This educates health workers, especially in developing countries, about evidence-based ways to address postabortion women's medical and psychological needs.

Maternal and Child Mortality

A coalition with governmental and civil society members in 152 countries, the White Ribbon Alliance seeks to counter the global epidemic of maternal deaths --- more than 1,000 per day --- related to pregnancy and childbirth, a significant cause also of child mortality. It holds governments and other stakeholders accountable to their commitments to prevent these deaths.

Environmental Pollution

Toxic chemicals, many of them from pesticides, household cleaners, and even personal care and beauty products, are now implicated in reproductive health problems like female and male infertility, miscarriage and prenatal health impairments. The US-based nonprofit Women's Voices for the Earth promotes personal action against these chemicals, for example through by reducing your exposure and responding to alerts on legislation and corporate practices.

HIV/AIDS Pandemic

South Africa, one of the most heavily HIV-infected countries, is home to the Treatment Action Campaign or TAC, an NGO world renowned for its advocacy of universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment services. It describes its "core programmes" as "prevention and treatment literacy...community health advocacy...[and] policy, communications and research."

Tags: reproductive health, civil society, family planning, governmental civil, governmental civil society

Korean Red Ginseng Effects

Korean red ginseng, a processed form of the root of the Panax ginseng plant, has a long history of use as an energizing tonic in its native country, and it has a strong following of users worldwide. Studies on red ginseng have indicated that it can affect sexual function, cancer treatment and diabetes.

History

The variety of Panax ginseng root known as Korean red usually is processed by steaming it until it becomes crystallized, red and somewhat brittle. This process is believed to strengthen several of the purported properties of the ginseng, especially the "heating" qualities believed to affect energy, immunity and sexual function. Korean red ginseng is now a common ingredient in energy drinks, and it is used by many professional athletes to enhance performance.

Erectile Dysfunction

One of the most popular and sensational uses of red ginseng in both ancient and modern times has been as a natural sexual stimulant for men. In a study published in November 2002 in the Journal of Urology, researchers in Korea conducted a double blind study on Korean red ginseng's effect on patients with clinically diagnosed erectile dysfunction. After eight weeks of supplementation with red ginseng, patients scored significantly higher on several markers involved in erectile dysfunction such as erection quality and maintenance.

Cancer

The search for natural treatments for cancer has led many people to turn to traditional herbal remedies such as ginseng. In a study conducted at the Korea Cancer Center Hospital in Seoul in 2001, researchers tested both red and white (unprocessed) ginseng on lung tumors in mice. They concluded that several compounds, known an ginsenosides, present in ginseng seemed to have anticarcinogenic properties and that these properties were more pronounced in the Korean red variety of ginseng.

Diabetes

Diabetes is sweeping the modern industrialized world like an epidemic, and since ginseng traditionally has been used to combat this potentially deadly disorder, scientists have begun to study how ginseng affects this disease. In an article published in the November 2008 Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Korean researchers concluded that red ginseng stimulates insulin production in rat pancreases.

Potential

Korean red ginseng is being studied for possibly efficacy in preventing memory loss, reducing symptoms of attention deficit disorder in children, boosting the immune system to prevent colds and the flu, and heart disorders.

It is available at most Chinese herbal shops, in health food stores and from a wide variety of online retailers.

Tags: Korean ginseng, concluded that, erectile dysfunction, Panax ginseng, published November, sexual function

Rsd Symptoms

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy, or RSD, is also known as complex regional pain syndrome. It is a painful condition that can affect muscles, bones, and skin and possibly gets worse over time. It most often occurs after a person has experienced an injury or a surgery but often there is no distinct reason for it. RSD can go away only to come back in a new area of the body years later.

Theories/Speculation

Although the exact cause of RSD in unknown the theory is that control of the various nervous systems of the body are changed through an injury or a surgery. Some of the causes connected to RSD that have been documented are heart attacks and heart disease, infections, paralysis on one side of the person, spinal cord problems, traumas, surgeries and repetitive motion disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. But in as many as 20% of the RSD patients the cause cannot be pinpointed. RSD usually starts in a limb that has been injured, such as a broken leg, and can spread eventually to other limbs.

Time Frame

RSD symptoms normally have a three stage progression. The acute stage occurs in the first one to three months of the ailment. The dystrophic stage comes after that and generally lasts from three to six months. The last stage is known as the atrophic stage and comes six months out from the onset of the condition.

Types

The signs and symptoms of RSD come in different types. If the nervous system is involved then there will be burning pain, the skin will change color to red or even blue, and the skin will feel hot or cold. The person will also be quite sensitive to the touch. The pain can come and go or always be there. If the immune system is involved with RSD then the pain will be in the joints, with swelling and redness also symptoms. Many infections are a possibility. When the motor system is involved there will be muscle spasms and tremors, weak limbs, and people will have a hard time just initiating movement.

Identification

RSD is a very difficult condition to diagnose. Other diseases must be ruled out that produce like symptoms. A patient's medical history will be considered and a neurological exam will be done, with the doctor especially anxious to see if strong pain is produced by mild stimulations. A battery of tests such as bone scans, MRI scans and blood tests will be utilized to help make a diagnosis of RSD.

Prevention/Solution

Those with pain symptoms of RSD will be given medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs and morphine to deal with them. Meds to alleviate muscle cramps and muscle stiffness can be prescribed. Physical therapy is an option as are nerve blocks that are designed to block the transmission of pain signals. In extreme cases of RSD surgery is a possible answer. A device called a TENS unit can be used to send low impulses to the spinal cord to short-circuit pain signals.

Tags: system involved, injury surgery, pain signals, skin will, spinal cord

Recognize Symptoms Of Gluten Allergy

Because the symptoms of gluten allergy closely mimic the symptoms of other digestive disorders, many sufferers are unaware of their allergy. As a result, they continue to eat foods that trigger a reaction, and in turn they deal with a variety of gastrointestinal problems.

Instructions

1. Although the symptoms of gluten allergy vary, most sufferers deal with ongoing abdominal pain and bloating. In most cases, discomfort occurs after eating foods that include gluten. Pain may be mild or severe, and bloating causes a full sensation.

2. Often times, gluten reactions are mistaken for lactose intolerance or irritable bowel syndrome. However, once sufferers remove certain foods from their diet, constipation and uncontrolled bowels subside.

3. If left untreated, a simple gluten allergy can become a serious problem. While conditions such as lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome don’t damage the gastrointestinal tract, a gluten reaction can. Those who don’t seek treatment are at risk for developing serious conditions such as Crohn’s disease, colon cancer and ulcerative colitis.

4. Some sufferers deal with low energy and ongoing exhaustion. In fact, a few gluten allergy sufferers have been misdiagnosed, in which doctors suspected they had chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia. Both autoimmune diseases cause tiredness and digestive problems.

5. Due to abdominal bloating and constipation, some gluten allergy sufferers have loss of appetite. Thus, they don’t eat as much, and they begin to lose weight.

Tags: gluten allergy, deal with, allergy sufferers, allergy sufferers have, bowel syndrome, conditions such

Difference Between Theanine & L Theanine

Difference Between Theanine & L Theanine

L-theanine is a non-protein forming, water-soluble amino acid commonly used to treat anxiety and high blood pressure. In both medical and commercial literature, "L-theanine" is often used interchangeably with "theanine," but there is a distinction.

Background

Most amino acids exist in both an L- form and a D- form. These raw forms refer to the direction in which their chemical chains spiral. The L- form is the version usually considered safe for human consumption. L-theanine is found naturally in green tea and certain mushrooms. D-theanine does not occur naturally in foods.

The term theanine usually refers to the commercially available extraction of L-theanine, though laboratory studies have found both forms of the amino acid in consumer products labeled theanine.

Indications

A study published in "Biological Psychology" in January 2007 found L-theanine to be effective in treating conditions such as anxiety and high blood pressure. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports studies confirming the augmentation of certain cancer drugs such as doxorubicin. L-theanine also appears to relieve insomnia, prevent dementia and provide cardiovascular support, though more evidence is needed. There are currently no known contraindications for L-theanine.

Dosage

There is little data to support recommended dosages for any of the conditions for which L-theanine is used. As with any drug or dietary supplement, an individual's age, any current or pre-existing medical conditions and overall health should be considered before taking L-theanine. Consult with your physician about the suitability of the supplement in your case.

Warnings

Though generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration, L-Theanine is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. Because it lowers blood pressure, interactions may occur if it is combined with anti-hypertensive medications or stimulant medications.

Additionally, theanine supplements can contain extracts of both the L- and D- forms of the amino acid. Because D-theanine does not occur naturally in foods and has not been studied for its effects on human biology, seek the advice of a health care professional when choosing an L-theanine supplement.

Other Names

L-Theanine is also known as 5-N-ethyl-glutamine, gamma-ethylamino-L-glutamic acid, gamma-glutamylethylamide, N-ethyl-L-glutamine, theanine and suntheanine.

Tags: amino acid, blood pressure, anxiety high, anxiety high blood, Between Theanine, Between Theanine Theanine

Kitchen Tips On Losing Stomach Fat

Preparing meals based on a Mediterranean diet can help lower stomach fat

We all know that losing fat requires consuming fewer calories, whether that means burning calories through exercise or reducing your caloric intake at meals. But as it turns out, a Mediterranean eating plan can not only help you lose weight, but may lower stomach fat specifically, according to Prevention Magazine. Following a few kitchen tips can help you more easily incorporate the mono-saturated fats characteristic of a Mediterranean diet into your daily meals.

Choices

Eating to lose stomach fat doesn't necessarily mean giving up the meals you love; it simply requires swapping your favorites for similar but healthier alternatives. Everyone needs some fat in their diet, but if you choose mono-saturated fats--for instance, nuts, seeds, avocado and olive oil--you'll get the feeling of fullness without the empty calories. Contrary to some beliefs, you need not nix bread to lose fat. Simply choose whole grains like whole grain bread, whole wheat pizza dough, brown rice, quinoa, or corn. When you do eat meat, opt for skinless turkey or chicken, fish and occasional lean cuts of red meat. And go for low-sodium alternatives whenever possible since salt retains water, making your stomach appear fatter.

Methods

Once upon a time, dieters believed everything they prepared in the kitchen had to be blandly steamed. While steaming food is a time-tested way to keep meals low-fat, other cooking methods can impart more flavor--and tastier food makes it easier to stick to an eating plan. For instance, roasting vegetables like sweet potatoes, squash, beets, broccoli or carrots (all of which are high in antioxidants) with a light drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper and a sprinkling of dried herbs gives a rich, complex flavor with very few calories. Grilling leaves meat with a hearty, smoky taste while allowing excess fat to drip off. If you're bored of salads, enliven your greens by mixing different lettuces and topping them with filling foods like roasted veggies, nuts, feta or goat cheese. Rather than a fatty, processed store-bought dressing, try drizzling your roughage with some olive oil and balsamic vinegar or honey.

Preparation

Cooking healthy food doesn't have to be a chore. If you dread spending time in the kitchen because you think you need to make elaborate meals, you risk getting discouraged and reverting back to eating less healthily. Preparing food for the barbecue is as simple as coating it lightly with olive oil and sprinkling with salt and pepper. Another time-saver is slow cooking. Even the leanest meat will be tender after spending eight hours in the slow cooker while you're at work. If prep time is what is slowing you down, consider buying the pre-cut vegetables offered in most grocery stores. For an easy meal, throw some veggies into a stir fry with low-sodium soy or teriyaki sauce and some eggs, and serve over brown rice.

Portions

Changing what you eat is one way to shrink stomach fat, but so is changing the way you eat. Noshing on five to six small meals a day rather than two or three large ones will keep you feeling satisfied and minimize the urge to raid the kitchen for not-so-healthy snacks like refined carbohydrates and fatty treats. Another tip is to consider updating the way you arrange your plate. Americans often focus meals around meat, with sides of veggies and grains as an afterthought. Instead, think of meat as a side dish and fill the majority of your plate with whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Hydration

Instead of raiding the fridge next time you get a craving, try heading to the faucet. Drinking two eight-ounce glasses of plain old water between meals can help people lose weight, according to a study by the American Chemical Society. The theory is that the water creates the feeling of fullness, thus reducing hunger. But drinking more water also means drinking less high-calorie beverages like soda, energy drinks or juice. You can also look at water as a motivator: every time you refill your cup you'll be reminded of your dedication to losing that stomach fat.

Tags: brown rice, eating plan, feeling fullness, lose weight, lower stomach

Stock Community Emergency Response Team Supplies

Hurricane Katrina illustrated that local assistance is critical to keeping communities safe. Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) are the key to quick response in times of widespread emergency when first responders, such as firefighters and police, may take hours or even days to arrive. This article provides step-by-step instructions for stocking supplies for CERT team volunteers.

Instructions

1. Print the list from this page or use the list from the link below as your shopping list for the CERT supplies. Purchase a sturdy backpack for each family member and two heavy-duty storage containers. If containers are larger than 40-gallons, select storage units with wheels.

2. Label the backpack and containers. Purchase CERT patches or print "CERT" on each backpack with a permanent marker. These packs should not be used for anything other purpose than CERT storage. Write "CERT" on each storage tub.

3. Pack the backpacks according to emergency use. In outside pockets place work gloves, flashlight, goggles, light sticks, chalk stick and extra batteries. On the bottom place the tarp, spare shoes, extra clothing and the pry bar. The next layer of the backpack should include the solar blanket, dust mask, safety vest and tools. Place the medical supplies in next, and put the hard hat on the top to protect any liquid items. Hook the whistle on the backpack strap. Wrap the rope loosely over the top of the backpack.

4. Pack the tubs; water, food, another tarp and plastic bags should be stocked in one of the large plastic tubs. Place the blankets, toys and books in the second storage container.

5. Find a secure location to store the CERT supplies. This place should be above ground and easily accessible. Put the tubs on the bottom, and place the backpacks on top. Cots and the stretcher (optional) should be stocked in the same place. Some CERT volunteers place a duplicate backpack in cars or trucks for emergency use.

6. Restock the supplies. The water should be rotated every 3 to 6 months. Liquid medical supplies, as a rule, should be restocked every year. Check all expiration dates and restock food items as necessary.

Tags: bottom place, CERT each, CERT supplies, Community Emergency, Community Emergency Response, Emergency Response

Involve A Dog In Pet Therapy Work

Involve a Dog in Pet Therapy Work

There are a myriad of reasons to involve dogs in therapy work. Aside from curing loneliness and depression-regular visits from a lovable pooch can lower blood pressure, lower heart rates and ease the effects of Alzheimer's among seniors. Special needs children benefit by becoming more self-reliant and sociable from being around pets. And, not only does it benefit the two-legged, pooch therapists get the chance to spread some of that unconditional love to welcome recipients. So, if your canine is a "people dog," what are you waiting for? Here are some ways to get him started spreading that sunshine.

Instructions

1. Determine if your pooch would make a good therapy dog. There is a checklist of basic questions that your answer should be a resounding "yes" to. The main one being: Is your dog happy to be around people? Paws'itive Teams, a San Diego-based service dog organization provides a good checklist on their website (see Resources below).

2. Test your dog first to see if she has therapist potential. Take her on a leash to a place where there are a lot of people, such as a park, and see how she reacts to and interacts with people petting her. See if she responds to your commands while in a hectic environment.

3. Ascertain if your dog needs special training before doing therapy work. Some dogs automatically have what it takes and that includes being well behaved, well socialized and in good health.

4. Decide if you and your dog should start out on your own or join a professional organization such as Therapy Dogs Inc., which provides registration, support, insurance and other services to owners of therapy dogs. Facilities might prefer that your dog is registered with a professional organization.

5. Decide if you want to enroll your dog in therapy training to become certified. Many facilities (if not most) require certification and that your dog meets certain criteria, such as the ability to walk through a crowd that includes wheelchairs.

6. Contact hospitals, nursing homes, retirement residences, hospices, schools and any other special needs center in your area that could benefit from and welcome therapy dogs. Find out go about applying.

7. Pay visits to some prospective places on your own without your dog. Tour the facilities and get to know staff and residents, find out how receptive they would be to visits from a therapy dog and most importantly, whether or not they require your dog be certified.

8. Make sure your dog is current on all vaccinations before making therapy visits.

9. Bathe your dog close to the time of each visit, make sure his coat is free of parasites and trim his nails. Brush and comb your dog immediately prior to each visit.

10. Give your dog a verbal or physical cue before each therapy visit so that she'll know her destination and what to expect. She'll soon come to eagerly await the visits and the special "alone" time with her guardian and best buddy. Well, almost alone. It'll be sort of like a "Fido and Me" class.

Tags: that your, each visit, Involve Therapy, Involve Therapy Work, professional organization, that includes, therapy dogs

Prevent Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing is common in both children and adults.

Humans are designed to breathe through their nose and nasal passages instead of through their mouth. Mouth breathing can cause dry mouth, sore throats and snoring: More importantly, the quality of oxygen that enters our bodies is significantly poorer. According to Normal Breathing: Nose vs. Mouth Breathing Effects, nasal breathing delivers nitric oxide from our sinuses to our cells, lungs and blood, but mouth breathing doesn't because it bypasses that section of the sinuses.

Instructions

1. Clear your nasal passages. Try blowing your nose before bed or taking a mild nasal decongestant.

2. Test for allergies. If you find that your noise is constantly stuffy and blocked, you may need to see a doctor about your symptoms.

3. Cool the temperature in the room, especially at night. Overheating can cause mouth breathing when you sleep.

4. Consciously try to breathe through the nose. Like any habit, try to correct yourself when you catch yourself mouth breathing.

5. Tape your mouth at night. This is recommended only as a temporary measure. If you think that your mouth breathing is a habit and not a symptom of allergies or a stuffy nose, use surgical tape to close your mouth at night. This will force you to breathe through your nose.

Tags: breathe through, mouth breathing, your mouth, cause mouth, mouth night

What Foods Whiten Teeth

Eating for white teeth is more a process of avoiding stain-causing foods than eating certain foods that are teeth whiteners. Nothing works as well as professional dentistry, but certain fruits and vegetables do aid somewhat in the quest. Results are not quick or dramatic, but can still show some success.

Considerations

To keep teeth white, people should avoid stain-causing foods and substances as much as possible. Some of these include coffee, tea, blueberries, red wine and soy sauce. A simple rule is any food which causes a stubborn laundry stain can stain teeth also. Brushing teeth or at least rinsing one's mouth with water after consuming these foods helps a great deal. Tobacco also causes staining.

Identification

Some foods remove bacteria which causes plaque, the substance that hardens into yellowish tartar if not brushed away soon enough. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are the best bet here. Apples are perfect, and cauliflower, carrots and celery work also. The fiber cleans teeth, and these foods also stimulate production of saliva, which helps to keep plaque from forming.

Function

Lemon juice can have a whitening effect on teeth, but dentists advise against it because the acidic character can damage tooth enamel. A better fruit to try is the strawberry. A mashed strawberry can be combined with 1/2 tsp. of baking soda and water for a paste that provides some whitening benefit. Teeth should be brushed with toothpaste afterward to remove the fruit residue, gently so as not to cause any gum or enamel damage from the strawberry seeds. Baking soda also can be used alone with water for a paste. Either method should be used only once a week or less, because baking soda is hard on enamel.

Types

A teaspoon of white apple cider vinegar mixed with a glass of water makes an effective mouthwash for teeth whitening. It's important to dilute the vinegar with water because otherwise vinegar may damage tooth enamel over time.

Although not a food, hydrogen peroxide is the main ingredient in most whitening products, including those used in professional dental procedures. The 3-percent hydrogen peroxide solution found in the brown bottle at discount stores and pharmacies can be used as a mouthwash at home for its bleaching properties--just be careful not to swallow it.

Prevention/Solution

Good dental care is the best preventive measure to keep teeth white. Brushing teeth after every meal rather than just twice a day is a good benefit. Changing to a new toothbrush at least every 2 months also helps, because bristles become worn down. Flossing at least once a day removes the residue that can eventually turn into tartar and appear as yellow areas around gum lines. A professional cleaning by a dentist at least once a year also is an excellent way to keep teeth white.

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The Different Types Of Mortar & Pestles And Their Effectiveness

The pestle and mortar is a simple tool that's been used worldwide for thousands of years.

A mortar and pestle set is a grinding tool used primarily for preparing spices and medicine. The pestle is a rounded baton used to crush ingredients and the mortar is the bowl in which ingredients are ground. Most mortar and pestle sets are similar in structure, but the materials used to make them vary greatly. So long as it fits in the mortar, just about anything can be crushed, mixed and ground with a mortar and pestle.

Porous Mortar and Pestle sets

Mortar and pestle sets made from porous materials like basalt (volcanic rock), granite, or wood will absorb flavor and require a great deal of maintenance. The hardness and rough surfaces of basalt and granite provide ideal grinding surfaces. Sets made of these materials are ideal for creating pastes, such as curry or salsa, because the rock will not degrade when crushing ingredients with high moisture content; however, due to the porosity of these rocks, ingredients, flavor and aroma can easily become trapped in the pores. As a result, they need to be washed and scrubbed thoroughly with hot, non-soapy water after each use and need to be seasoned prior to each use. Porous mortar and pestle sets are seasoned by grinding a small bit of white rice to a fine powder, discarding the greyish substance and repeating until the powder is completely white. Unlike rock, wood is very smooth which is great for grinding seeds, spices and dried ingredients, but will splinter and absorb flavor if anything with moisture is crushed in it, thus limiting its functionality.

Non-Porous Mortar and Pestle Sets

Nonporous mortar and pestle sets are made from materials that are completely smooth and repel absorption like marble, vitrified ceramic, and porcelain. Sets made out these materials are favorites in the culinary world because they are easy to clean and maintain. These materials are all very hard which provides an excellent grinding surface and naturally inhibit ingredients such as garlic or chili peppers from contaminating the surface with their potent flavors and odors. This means that after a quick scrub with water the mortar and pesle set is ready for its next use without the need to season the surface. Furthermore, because these surfaces are moisture resistant they are perfect for grinding pastes, sauces and moisture heavy ingredients. The only drawback of porcelain and ceramic is, depending on the density of the mortar, they could crack if grinding a particularly hard ingredient with heavy pounding.

Function and Use

Mortar and pestle sets are typically used for culinary purposes to mix spices, pastes and salsas and in pharmaceuticals to mix ingredients to make medicine. However, most people use mortar and pestle sets for culinary purposes because they offer complete control over the consistency or coarseness of the ingredients being crushed and mixed. According to "Fantes.com," the slow, low friction grinding that happens in a mortar and pestle set preserves the ingredients aromas and flavors, unlike when they are ground in a high friction machine like a food processor or electric blender. The major difference between nonporous and porous mortar and pestle sets as far as function and use are concerned is mostly maintenance. E xtremely hard surfaces of basalt, granite and marble will resist hard pounding better than ceramic, porcelain and wood.

Traditional Purposes

Traditionally mortar and pestle sets were used much like they are today for grinding medicines as well as food. Michael J. Brody, curator of the Marvin Samson Center for the History of Pharmacy at the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, writes that the mortar and pestle hold "a place of honor as the indispensable, and therefore most characteristic, tools of [pharmacy]." Furthermore, Brody points out that historical uses are well documented in early writing dating as far back as 1550 B.C.E. in ancient Egyptian papyrus. In addition, Brody claims that mortar and pestle sets are found in ancient, recent, and current societies with unchanged uses and purposes.

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Is There A Complete Cure For High Blood Pressure

Healthy lifestyle choices along with medication can help control high blood pressure.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a serious health risk that may lead to other conditions like a heart attack or stroke. Although there is no complete cure for high blood pressure, individuals can take several steps to control their hypertension.

Lifestyle

Smoking is a controllable risk factor for high blood pressure.

Lifestyle changes that can help reduce blood pressure include eating a healthy diet low in sodium, exercising regularly, reducing stress, quitting smoking and limiting the intake of alcohol, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

Drug Therapy

When lifestyle changes alone cannot successfully control blood pressure, drug therapy can help. Medications used in treating high blood pressure include alpha and beta blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, central alpha agonists, diuretics, renin inhibitors and vasodilators, according to Medline Plus.

Considerations

Finding enjoyable exercises makes the process of staying healthy easier.

Even when a person is on prescription drugs to help manage blood pressure, it is important to still maintain an overall healthy lifestyle.

Identification

Every individual's blood pressure goals are slightly different, based on varying factors like age and health. An individual should work with her doctor to see what a healthy blood pressure goal is for her.

Warning

Before beginning a new diet or exercise plan, an individual should first speak to her doctor to find out if she is healthy enough to pursue her plan.

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Joints Affected By Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease caused by joint inflammation and the tissue around the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is chronic and can last for several years without showing signs of symptoms.

Symptoms

Symptoms may come and go which are known as flares. When flares occur symptoms may include the lack of appetite, fatigue, muscle aches, joint aches and stiffness.

Joints Affected

The joints that could be affected by rheumatoid arthritis typically are the small joints of the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, spine and on rare occasions the cricoarytenoid joint (responsible for the vocal cords tightening).

Affects on the Body

Synovium will cause the immune cells to migrate from blood into the joints and joint lining tissue, which in turn will cause inflammatory substances. Inflammatory substances then causes joint cartilage wear down, irritation, excessive fluid, swelling and the inflammation of joint linings.

Diagnosis

Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed through medical history, lab tests, X-rays, physical exams and symptom patterns.

Treatment

Treatment options can be made through medications, surgery or home remedies.

Home Remedies

Home remedy treatments may include devices such as canes, crutches, walkers, orthotics, braces, splints, reachers and elevated chair legs. Other remedies may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral modification, acupuncture, massage, electric shock therapy, herbs and dietary supplements or counseling.

Cures

Currently there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis.

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Extract Juice From Pineapple Rinds And Cores

Homemade pineapple juice is one of those treats that's hard to beat. Many home cooks use only the most succulent parts of the fruit to make their juices, discarding the prickly rinds and tough cores as waste. You might be surprised to learn just how much juice you can extract from these parts with the right tools! Read on to learn how you can get more out of your pineapples. Yes, it's possible to extract juice from pineapple rinds and cores.

Instructions

1. Twist the leafy top off of the pineapple with your hand. Set this aside. Using your kitchen knife, carefully carve the rinds off of the outside of the fruit.

2. Carve the fruit off of the core, and set the fruit aside for eating, using in recipes or making juice.

3. Cut the core into several chunks.

4. Put the chunks of core and the pieces of rind into a blender. Add about two tablespoons of water to help facilitate processing. Put the lid on the blender and blend at medium speed until completely liquefied, with the exception of the chunks of rind and the hardest parts of the core. You may need to add more water a little at a time if the mixture looks too thick.

5. Line the strainer with two layers of cheesecloth. Place the strainer in or over the bowl or container you want to use to collect the juice.

6. Slowly and carefully pour the blended mixture into the strainer. The cheesecloth should catch all of the hard chunks and bits of rind. It should leave only fresh juice in your container.

7. Consume or serve the juice shortly after juicing. Pineapple juice ferments quickly, and this results in bitter flavor if you wait too long.

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Use Natural Remedies For Heartburn Relief

You can use natural remedies for heartburn to relieve that burning sensation that can occur in your chest after a meal. It occurs when acid from the stomach works its way up into the esophagus. The acid causes the unpleasant burning feeling. A few lifestyle changes along with these remedies can help get rid of the uncomfortable feeling.

Instructions

1. Don't over eat. Take your time to enjoy your meal. Chew your food completely. Eat just enough to satisfy your hunger.

2. Avoid foods that trigger heartburn. This includes citrus fruits and juices, caffeine, chocolate, vinegar, and spicy foods. Also try to stay away from carbonated drinks, onions, garlic, foods that are high in fat, and alcohol.

3. Do not lie down right after eating. This can cause the stomach acid to roll up into your esophagus, which can lead to heartburn. If you are tired after a meal, sit up in a soft comfortable chair or sofa. Wait at least 2 hours before you lie down to give your stomach a chance to empty itself.

4. Lose excess weight. Excess fat in the abdominal area can put pressure on the stomach and push acids up into the esophagus. Talk to your doctor about a healthy diet plan that you can follow to shed extra pounds.

5. Chew gum to counteract the stomach acid. Chewing gum causes a person to produce more saliva. Saliva provides protection from acid. Also, gum chewing causes a person to swallow more, which will push the acids out of the esophagus.

6. Drink aloe vera juice. Aloe vera juice is among the most effective natural remedies for heartburn because it can soothe the irritation in the esophagus. Drink about one fourth of a cup of aloe vera juice before each meal. Be sure to only use the form that is made specifically for internal use.

7. Don't smoke. Smoking can make heartburn worse. That's because smoking can inhibit the muscle that helps make the acids stay in the stomach.

8. Soothe your esophagus with marshmallow. This herb has properties that create a protective coating along the lining of the esophagus. One way to consume marshmallow is by drinking it as a tea. Take one tablespoon of the dried root and add it to 8 ounces of boiling water. Cover and steep it for about 10 minutes and then strain it. Drink 3 cups daily.

9. Stay physically active. This can help relieve stress, which is believed to be a contributing factor to heartburn. Also, it can help prevent the acid reflux, which causes heartburn.

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Make Tea With Ashwagandha

A cup of ashwagandha tea can be restorative.

According to the website for the Chopra Center for Wellbeing, the herb ashwagandha "is one of the most vital herbs in Ayurvedic healing...known for its restorative benefits." Ashwagandha tea may have anti-inflammatory benefits, help stabalize blood sugar, improve memory and learning and reduce anxiety and depression. You can buy ashwagandha, sometimes known as winter cherry, as a supplement at most health food stores, and the dried root is also available for brewing a medicinal tea. While ashwagandha is generally considered safe, it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Instructions

1. Measure out a 3- to 6-gram piece of dried ashwagandha root.

2. Boil approximately 3 1/2 cups of water and immerse the root in the boiling water. Allow it to boil for 15 minutes.

3. Remove the pan of water from the heat and use tongs to take out the spent root. Strain the liquid through a strainer if you see any bits of root floating in it.

4. Fill a cup with the brew and drink it. Drink up to three cups of ashwagandha tea per day for best results.

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Ayurvedic Treatment For Ringworm

Treating ringworm

Ringworm (tinea) is a highly contagious fungal skin disease identified by inflammation of the skin by a darkened red-ring rash. The lesion spreads in a circular pattern. Called dadru in Ayurvedic medicine, treatment approaches are herbal and dietary remedies.

Herbal pastes

Side Effects Of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese form of alternative medicine, notable for its claim to have fewer negative side effects than Western medicine. There are, however, a few things to be careful of when using acupuncture.

Dizziness

Once in a while acupuncture patients experience dizziness or nausea during the procedure. Because there are needles involved and possibly blood, these side effects may actually be queasiness caused by a psychological fear or loathing of being stuck with needles or of blood rather than any physiological reaction to the procedure.

Alcohol

Acupuncturists recommend you not receive acupuncture for at least an hour after consuming alcoholic beverages or if you have been using recreational drugs. This recommendation is based on anecdotal evidence and the experience of acupuncturists rather than from any specific scientific studies.

Pregnancy

There are some acupuncture points in the abdomen or lower back that should not be used if the patient is pregnant. You should warn the acupuncturist if you are pregnant so he can adjust the treatment strategy accordingly.

Physical Pain

Some patients experience a brief stinging sensation at the site of the puncture. Others feel a dull ache around the needle once it is inserted.

Side Effects of Healing

Some acupuncturists have observed a worsening of symptoms, changes in sleep patterns, digestion or elimination for a short time after treatment. Acupuncture therapists attribute these side effects to indications that treatment is beginning to work.

Practitioner Errors

When an acupuncturist makes a mistake and injures a patient, for instance, by pushing a needle into a vital organ, blood vessel or nerve center, serious complications and even permanent injury can occur. Failure to properly sterilize needles may result in the spread of infections. However, acupuncturists have a good safety record according to the National Institutes of Health.

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Top 10 Cervical Cancer Questions

Women who know what questions to ask their doctors can make informed decisions regarding the risks and treatment of cervical cancer. Knowing the facts and likely causes of cervical cancer helps women make healthy lifestyle choices, which may decrease their risks.

What Is Cervical Cancer?

The cervix lies at the bottom of the uterus and above the vagina, and serves as a passageway for menstrual flow and childbirth. Abnormal cervical cells can be a prelude to cancer, as can a rapid growth of these cells. An increased number of abnormal cervical cells increases the risks of developing cervical cancer. As cells grow out of control, the cancer can spread beyond the cervix.

How Does It Develop?

The most common cause of cervical cancer is human papillomavirus, also known as HPV. This is a sexually transmitted virus. Smokers and anyone with a weakened immune system are at greater risk.

Are There Other Risk Factors?

Caucasian women ages 45 to 70 have an increased risk of dying from cervical cancer. African-American women in their 70s have a higher risk as well. Women who have had many children, use oral contraceptives or have had many sexual partners at a young age are more at risk.

How Is It Detected?

Screening is by a Pap test, which takes a sample of surface cervical cells during a pelvic exam. They are examined microscopically for abnormalities. Positive results often call for a HPV DNA test to look for a cause.

Does Screening Have Risks?

False-negative tests results may delay needed treatment. False-positive tests cause anxiety and unneeded invasive tests such as colposcopy, an examination of the cervix and vagina with a lighted scope.

What Are the Symptoms?

There are typically no symptoms. However, cervical cancer can produce abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during sexual activity, bloody vaginal discharge and unexplained menstrual changes. Look for cervical bleeding when the cervix is touched by a diaphragm or other such object.

What Are the Stages?

Stage 0 is "in situ" or noninvasive and only on the cervix surface. Stage 1 indicates the cancer is only in the cervix. Stage 2 indicates movement beyond the cervix but not the pelvic wall. Stage 3 means the pelvic wall is involved and includes tumors, which can prevent urination. Stage 4 involves the rectum and bladder or areas beyond the pelvis.

What Is the Treatment?

Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer. In the early stages, a cone biopsy, or a hysterectomy to remove the cervix and uterus, are recommended. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy is often used in the later stages. Surgery to remove lymph nodes may be required.

What Are the Survival Rates?

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 11,270 new cases of stage 1 or higher "invasive" cervical cancer will be diagnosed in 2009. Their statistics show that the relative five-year survival rate is 92% for women who are diagnosed in the earliest stages of invasive cancer of the cervix.

Does Menopause Lower the Risk?

Menopause has no influence on the development of cervical cancer. Yearly Pap tests should be performed on women of all ages. The exception is between the ages of 65 and 70 with three or more normal Pap results, according to the National Cancer Institute.

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European Diets

Countries in the EU may be becoming more unified in dietary habits.

A 2005 study by the Food and Agriculture Organization found that over a 40-year period, the diet of the countries of the European Union underwent great changes. Not only has the diet of EU nations converged, but it has grown distinct from that of the United States. Moreover, contrary to what might be supposed, the study showed that Northern European countries cut back on saturated fat and sugar, whereas Mediterranean countries increased intake of these foodstuffs.

Northern European Diets

Characterized by high levels of protein in the form of meat and dairy products, supplemented by small accompaniments of starch and vegetables, the diet of Northern European countries such as England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Ireland and France tends to be low in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. An English breakfast might consist of bacon, eggs and smoked herring, called kippers. Traditional dishes may focus on steak or fish or cheese. French cuisine is known for its richness, in which most meals are accompanied by wine. According to Diet.com, cardiovascular disease is high in these countries, even in France where the "French Paradox" of high saturated fat intake and low rates of heart disease underplays the fact that while relatively lower than in other countries, the disease is still the top cause of death in France.

Central European & Russian Diets

The countries of Central Europe, namely Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, have seen political upheavals that have changed these countries' eating patterns. The fall of Communism in Eastern Europe in 1989 saw changes in consumption patterns with the increase in intake of fruits and vegetables, a decline in the use of butter and high-fat milk and increased use of vegetable oils. Diet.com says that Communist-era foods in the USSR, Poland and Romania were characterized by nutritional deficiencies, in the context of an environment of chronic stress and tension. After communism, cardiovascular disease declined, although rates still lag behind the rest of Europe.

Southern European & Mediterranean Diets

The diet of the countries of Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece and southern France may be grouped together inasmuch as the foods eaten in these countries are informed by distinct influences. Southern European food, with early influences by Greek culture with the introduction of olives and fish stew, as well as Muslim and Asian influences in the form of spices and sweetmeats, is characterized by meals based on grain products, such as rice, pasta and bread. Southern Europeans eat abundantly of fruits and vegetables and partake sparingly of red meat, chicken and eggs. Fish and red wine are a staple of many meals, which are often accompanied by a siesta. Lifestyle and food choices in this region have resulted in lower incidences of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity than in other Western nations.

"Fad" European Diets