http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/QAA401025/The-Perils-of-Sleep-Debt.html
There's no doubt that sleep deprivation is widespread, at least in the United States, and that it can present serious risks to health. In addition to the obvious downsides such as increasing the risk of accidents caused by fatigue,
1)not getting enough sleep is a risk factor for weight gain, perhaps by disrupting production of the appetite regulating hormones ghrelin and leptin.
2)Sleep deprivation can also disrupt the body's regulation of blood sugar, which can increase risk of type 2 diabetes.
3)And laboratory studies suggest that not getting adequate rest may also elevate levels of stress hormones, boost blood pressure, and increase inflammation - all changes that may lead to disease later in life.
To get your full allotment of sleep, I suggest you heed the advice of Dr. Rubin Naiman, Ph.D., a sleep specialist at the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine. Naiman advises paying off any sleep debt you might be carrying and resolving to routinely get to bed early enough so that you can get the full amount of sleep you need. In this way, he says you can eliminate or significantly reduce dependence on an alarm clock, which artificially shortens the natural sleep cycle. If you still feel the need for an alarm, he recommends considering some of the newer, gentler devices, such as dawn simulators that awaken you gradually with increasing light. A clock radio set at low volume to a station that plays soothing music is another option.
So how do you get to sleep earlier? Don't think of it as a difficult task that takes great discipline. Try going to bed a bit earlier than usual each night until you're where you want to be. Dr. Naiman also advises practicing a mindful approach to sleep: when you get into bed, focus on the night's sleep, not the morning awakening. I love sleeping and consequently find going to bed relatively early no more difficult than sitting down to a delicious meal. It's your attitude - not acquiring some steely resolve - that matters most. Simply embracing and appreciating sleep is the best way to get enough of it.
Andrew Weil, M.D.
--------------------------------------------
http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03226/Alarmed-in-the-AM.html
Tuesday, 22 November 2011
Monday, 21 November 2011
Heartburn
http://www.medicinenet.com/gastroesophageal_reflux_disease_gerd/article.htm
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
(GERD, Acid Reflux, Heartburn)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD or acid reflux, is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up or refluxes) into the esophagus. The liquid can inflame and damage the lining (cause esophagitis) of the esophagus although visible signs of inflammation occur in a minority of patients. The regurgitated liquid usually contains acid and pepsin that are produced by the stomach. (Pepsin is an enzyme that begins the digestion of proteins in the stomach.) The refluxed liquid also may contain bile that has backed-up into the stomach from the duodenum. (The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine that attaches to the stomach.) Acid is believed to be the most injurious component of the refluxed liquid. Pepsin and bile also may injure the esophagus, but their role in the production of esophageal inflammation and damage is not as clear as the role of acid.
GERD is a chronic condition. Once it begins, it usually is life-long. If there is injury to the lining of the esophagus (esophagitis), this also is a chronic condition. Moreover, after the esophagus has healed with treatment and treatment is stopped, the injury will return in most patients within a few months. Once treatment for GERD is begun, therefore, it usually will need to be continued indefinitely although it is argued that in some patients with intermittent symptoms and no esophagitis, treatment can be intermittent and done only during symptomatic periods.
In fact, the reflux of the stomach's liquid contents into the esophagus occurs in most normal individuals. One study found that reflux occurs as frequently in normal individuals as in patients with GERD. In patients with GERD, however, the refluxed liquid contains acid more often, and the acid remains in the esophagus longer. It has also been found that liquid refluxes to a higher level in the esophagus in patients with GERD than normal individuals.
As is often the case, the body has ways (mechanisms) to protect itself from the harmful effects of reflux and acid. For example, most reflux occurs during the day when individuals are upright. In the upright position, the refluxed liquid is more likely to flow back down into the stomach due to the effect of gravity. In addition, while individuals are awake, they repeatedly swallow, whether or not there is reflux. Each swallow carries any refluxed liquid back into the stomach. Finally, the salivary glands in the mouth produce saliva, which contains bicarbonate. With each swallow, bicarbonate-containing saliva travels down the esophagus. The bicarbonate neutralizes the small amount of acid that remains in the esophagus after gravity and swallowing have removed most of the liquid.
Gravity, swallowing, and saliva are important protective mechanisms for the esophagus, but they are effective only when individuals are in the upright position. At night during sleep, gravity is not in effect, swallowing stops, and the secretion of saliva is reduced. Therefore, reflux that occurs at night is more likely to result in acid remaining in the esophagus longer and causing greater damage to the esophagus.
Certain conditions make a person susceptible to GERD. For example, GERD can be a serious problem during pregnancy. The elevated hormone levels of pregnancy probably cause reflux by lowering the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter (see below). At the same time, the growing fetus increases the pressure in the abdomen. Both of these effects would be expected to increase reflux. Also, patients with diseases that weaken the esophageal muscles (see below), such as scleroderma or mixed connective tissue diseases, are more prone to develop GERD.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
(GERD, Acid Reflux, Heartburn)
GERD Facts
- GERD is a condition in which the acidified liquid content of the stomach up into the esophagus.
- The causes of GERD include an abnormal lower esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia, abnormal esophageal contractions, and slow emptying of the stomach.
- GERD may damage the lining of the esophagus, thereby causing inflammation (esophagitis), although usually it does not.
- The symptoms of uncomplicated GERD are heartburn, regurgitation, and nausea.
- Complications of GERD include ulcers and strictures of the esophagus, Barrett's esophagus, cough and asthma, throat and laryngeal inflammation, inflammation and infection of the lungs, and collection of fluid in the sinuses and middle ear.
- Barrett's esophagus is a pre-cancerous condition that requires periodic endoscopic surveillance for the development of cancer.
- GERD may be diagnosed or evaluated by a trial of treatment, endoscopy, biopsy, X-ray, examination of the throat and larynx, 24 hour esophageal acid testing, esophageal motility testing, emptying studies of the stomach, and esophageal acid perfusion.
- GERD is treated with life-style changes, antacids, histamine antagonists (H2 blockers), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), pro-motility drugs, foam barriers, surgery, and endoscopy.
What is GERD (acid reflux)?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly referred to as GERD or acid reflux, is a condition in which the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates (backs up or refluxes) into the esophagus. The liquid can inflame and damage the lining (cause esophagitis) of the esophagus although visible signs of inflammation occur in a minority of patients. The regurgitated liquid usually contains acid and pepsin that are produced by the stomach. (Pepsin is an enzyme that begins the digestion of proteins in the stomach.) The refluxed liquid also may contain bile that has backed-up into the stomach from the duodenum. (The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine that attaches to the stomach.) Acid is believed to be the most injurious component of the refluxed liquid. Pepsin and bile also may injure the esophagus, but their role in the production of esophageal inflammation and damage is not as clear as the role of acid.
GERD is a chronic condition. Once it begins, it usually is life-long. If there is injury to the lining of the esophagus (esophagitis), this also is a chronic condition. Moreover, after the esophagus has healed with treatment and treatment is stopped, the injury will return in most patients within a few months. Once treatment for GERD is begun, therefore, it usually will need to be continued indefinitely although it is argued that in some patients with intermittent symptoms and no esophagitis, treatment can be intermittent and done only during symptomatic periods.
In fact, the reflux of the stomach's liquid contents into the esophagus occurs in most normal individuals. One study found that reflux occurs as frequently in normal individuals as in patients with GERD. In patients with GERD, however, the refluxed liquid contains acid more often, and the acid remains in the esophagus longer. It has also been found that liquid refluxes to a higher level in the esophagus in patients with GERD than normal individuals.
As is often the case, the body has ways (mechanisms) to protect itself from the harmful effects of reflux and acid. For example, most reflux occurs during the day when individuals are upright. In the upright position, the refluxed liquid is more likely to flow back down into the stomach due to the effect of gravity. In addition, while individuals are awake, they repeatedly swallow, whether or not there is reflux. Each swallow carries any refluxed liquid back into the stomach. Finally, the salivary glands in the mouth produce saliva, which contains bicarbonate. With each swallow, bicarbonate-containing saliva travels down the esophagus. The bicarbonate neutralizes the small amount of acid that remains in the esophagus after gravity and swallowing have removed most of the liquid.
Gravity, swallowing, and saliva are important protective mechanisms for the esophagus, but they are effective only when individuals are in the upright position. At night during sleep, gravity is not in effect, swallowing stops, and the secretion of saliva is reduced. Therefore, reflux that occurs at night is more likely to result in acid remaining in the esophagus longer and causing greater damage to the esophagus.
Certain conditions make a person susceptible to GERD. For example, GERD can be a serious problem during pregnancy. The elevated hormone levels of pregnancy probably cause reflux by lowering the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter (see below). At the same time, the growing fetus increases the pressure in the abdomen. Both of these effects would be expected to increase reflux. Also, patients with diseases that weaken the esophageal muscles (see below), such as scleroderma or mixed connective tissue diseases, are more prone to develop GERD.
Top face friendly foods
http://uk.specials.lifestyle.yahoo.com/body-beautiful/articledetails/article-top-face-friendly-foods-89
ffolkes,Mon, 17 Oct 2011 8:50 UTC 
by Rachael Anne Hill
As a nation we spend 3.8 billion pounds a year on products we hope will improve our appearance. The truth is however, that although these may offer some quick fixes, true, natural beauty has to come from within and what better place to start than your diet?
So, forget the idea of spending your monthly wage on the latest gimmick or potion and get back to basics with foods that will do more for your appearance than the cosmetic counter ever will.
WrinklesA diet high in anti-oxidants has been proved to help keep skin looking younger and wrinkle free by eliminating free radicals from the body. A study at The John Hopkins University in Baltimore compared the diets of 123 people during an 11 week period.
Top face friendly foods
by Rachael Anne HillAs a nation we spend 3.8 billion pounds a year on products we hope will improve our appearance. The truth is however, that although these may offer some quick fixes, true, natural beauty has to come from within and what better place to start than your diet?
So, forget the idea of spending your monthly wage on the latest gimmick or potion and get back to basics with foods that will do more for your appearance than the cosmetic counter ever will.
WrinklesA diet high in anti-oxidants has been proved to help keep skin looking younger and wrinkle free by eliminating free radicals from the body. A study at The John Hopkins University in Baltimore compared the diets of 123 people during an 11 week period.
The participants were divided into three groups. One group ate a diet low in fresh fruit and vegetables, one ate a moderate amount and the final group ate ten servings per day.
Researchers measured breath ethane levels which are a good indication of how efficient the body is at neutralising harmful free radicals. Results showed that those who ate the most fruit and vegetables had the lowest ethane levels and therefore were the most efficient at neutralising wrinkle inducing free radicals. Some of the best anti-oxidant foods are blueberries, blackberries, plums, sprouts and beetroot.
Dry skin
Dry skin can be a result of dehydration, a lack of vitamin A and too few essential fatty acids. Vitamin A enables the body to produce more keratin, a substance that helps to protect the skin from the elements and is found in apricots, milk, liver and egg yolks. Oily fish such as trout, mackerel, sardines or salmon are all rich in essential fatty acids so aim to eat them at least three times per week.
Vitamin E found in sunflower oil, avocados, soy milk, almonds, hazelnuts and polyunsaturated spread is another essential nutrient for skin. Its strong antioxidant properties help to maintain healthy skin by eliminating harmful free radicals which cause cells to break down causing wrinkles and other signs of ageing.
Spots
Spots can be the result of a whole host of nutritional imbalances. Too much refined sugar, processed foods, alcohol and fats starve the skin of essential nutrients and build up of toxins within the body. Try cutting back on pre-prepared and processed foods and increase your intake of whole foods such as wholegrains, nuts, seeds, beans, pulses and fruit and vegetables.
Forget tea and coffee first thing in the morning and have fresh carrot and orange juice to help detoxify the body and increase the supply of essential vitamins, especially the all important beta-carotene and vitamin C. Zinc, found in wheat germ, liver, poppy seeds, oysters, Quorn, cashew nuts and crab has also been found by a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology to be just as effective as oral antibiotics at combating acne.
Pale complexion
Although some people just naturally have pale skin others may be suffering from a lack of iron. If pale skin is accompanied by tiredness, weakness or breathlessness try upping your iron intake with plenty of lentils, sesame seeds, soya, liver and pumpkin seeds.
Dry, Brittle Hair
Hair is a protein so to ensure it remains in first class condition it is vital to eat plenty of good quality amino acids in the diet such as lean red meat, eggs, beans, pulses, nuts and seeds. Combat dryness by eating plenty of essential fatty acids in the form of sunflower seeds, nuts, fish, and low fat spreads and avoid the weakening of your hair with age by eating iron rich foods such as curry powder, ground ginger, fortified breakfast cereals and lean, red meats.
Dull whites
A yellowish tinge to the whites of the eyes could indicate a sluggish liver and a build up of too many toxins. Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, oregano, and rosemary help to flush toxins from the body and ginger, cayenne pepper, garlic, leeks and onions help to stimulate the lymphatic system and purify the blood. Herbal teas in place of coffee, tea and sugary drinks can also be very effective.
Red, blood shot eyes
This can be a sign of a lack of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Try eating plenty of Marmite, shredded wheat, grape nuts and bran flakes. Zinc found in seafood and anti-oxidants abundant in fresh fruit and vegetables are also important to help combat this condition.
Puffy, baggy eyelids
This can be caused by fluid retention. Cut back on your salt intake and increase the amount of naturally diuretic foods you eat such as melon, citrus fruits, celery, cucumber, watercress, lettuce, tomatoes, sweet peppers, and vegetable juice.
Bags under Eyes
Bags can be caused by not drinking enough water, drinking too much alcohol, tea and coffee or both. Drink at least two litres of water a day watch the excess baggage disappear!
Researchers measured breath ethane levels which are a good indication of how efficient the body is at neutralising harmful free radicals. Results showed that those who ate the most fruit and vegetables had the lowest ethane levels and therefore were the most efficient at neutralising wrinkle inducing free radicals. Some of the best anti-oxidant foods are blueberries, blackberries, plums, sprouts and beetroot.
Dry skin
Dry skin can be a result of dehydration, a lack of vitamin A and too few essential fatty acids. Vitamin A enables the body to produce more keratin, a substance that helps to protect the skin from the elements and is found in apricots, milk, liver and egg yolks. Oily fish such as trout, mackerel, sardines or salmon are all rich in essential fatty acids so aim to eat them at least three times per week.
Vitamin E found in sunflower oil, avocados, soy milk, almonds, hazelnuts and polyunsaturated spread is another essential nutrient for skin. Its strong antioxidant properties help to maintain healthy skin by eliminating harmful free radicals which cause cells to break down causing wrinkles and other signs of ageing.
Spots
Spots can be the result of a whole host of nutritional imbalances. Too much refined sugar, processed foods, alcohol and fats starve the skin of essential nutrients and build up of toxins within the body. Try cutting back on pre-prepared and processed foods and increase your intake of whole foods such as wholegrains, nuts, seeds, beans, pulses and fruit and vegetables.
Forget tea and coffee first thing in the morning and have fresh carrot and orange juice to help detoxify the body and increase the supply of essential vitamins, especially the all important beta-carotene and vitamin C. Zinc, found in wheat germ, liver, poppy seeds, oysters, Quorn, cashew nuts and crab has also been found by a study published in the British Journal of Dermatology to be just as effective as oral antibiotics at combating acne.
Pale complexion
Although some people just naturally have pale skin others may be suffering from a lack of iron. If pale skin is accompanied by tiredness, weakness or breathlessness try upping your iron intake with plenty of lentils, sesame seeds, soya, liver and pumpkin seeds.
Dry, Brittle Hair
Hair is a protein so to ensure it remains in first class condition it is vital to eat plenty of good quality amino acids in the diet such as lean red meat, eggs, beans, pulses, nuts and seeds. Combat dryness by eating plenty of essential fatty acids in the form of sunflower seeds, nuts, fish, and low fat spreads and avoid the weakening of your hair with age by eating iron rich foods such as curry powder, ground ginger, fortified breakfast cereals and lean, red meats.
Dull whites
A yellowish tinge to the whites of the eyes could indicate a sluggish liver and a build up of too many toxins. Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, oregano, and rosemary help to flush toxins from the body and ginger, cayenne pepper, garlic, leeks and onions help to stimulate the lymphatic system and purify the blood. Herbal teas in place of coffee, tea and sugary drinks can also be very effective.
Red, blood shot eyes
This can be a sign of a lack of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Try eating plenty of Marmite, shredded wheat, grape nuts and bran flakes. Zinc found in seafood and anti-oxidants abundant in fresh fruit and vegetables are also important to help combat this condition.
Puffy, baggy eyelids
This can be caused by fluid retention. Cut back on your salt intake and increase the amount of naturally diuretic foods you eat such as melon, citrus fruits, celery, cucumber, watercress, lettuce, tomatoes, sweet peppers, and vegetable juice.
Bags under Eyes
Bags can be caused by not drinking enough water, drinking too much alcohol, tea and coffee or both. Drink at least two litres of water a day watch the excess baggage disappear!
Five ways to fight the signs of ageing
http://uk.specials.lifestyle.yahoo.com/body-beautiful/articledetails/article-five-ways-to-fight-the-signs-of-ageing-289
By Rachel Anne Hill
Forget surgery – here are five inexpensive and natural ways to delay the signs of ageing.
1. Curb your sweet tooth
Mounting evidence suggests that too much sugar in the diet can speed up the ageing process of the skin.
According to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, M.D., an expert on facial rejuvenation and best-selling author of ‘The Wrinkle Cure’ sugar accelerates the ageing process by attaching to collagen - a process known as "glycation," making the skin stiff and inflexible resulting in a loss of elasticity, deep wrinkles and sagging.
Cut back on the amount of sugar you eat by reading food labels. Look for the 'Carbohydrates (of which sugars)' figure in the nutrition information panel. More than 15g of sugars per 100g is high, 5g of sugars or less (per 100g) is low and anything in between is medium.
Swap soft drinks for fruit juices diluted with sparkling water, snack on fresh fruit, nuts and seeds instead of cakes and biscuits, avoid sugar coated cereals and spread your toast with peanut butter or low fat cream cheese instead of jam, honey or marmalades.
2. Drink up
The fastest way to banish fine lines and wrinkles is to ensure you are fully hydrated so make sure you drink at least eight glasses of water every day and go easy on alcohol and salty foods.
Try adding in a couple of cups of green tea to your day too. According to researchers at the Medical College of Georgia, green tea contains compounds called polyphenols that help eliminate the free radicals that speed up the ageing process.
The polyphenol most abundant in green tea called EGCG helps to re-activate dying skin cells, enhancing skin re-generation and producing a younger looking, fresher complexion.
3. Give yourself a natural facelift
Balance up combination skin with by combining half a cup of oatmeal with 2 tbsp of honey. Apply to your face and neck, wait 30-40 minutes then rinse well. Rehydrate dry skin by mashing half of an avocado in a cup with a fork, apply to your face and neck, leave for 20 minutes then gently wipe off and rinse with warm water.
4. Pay attention to your crowning glory
Dull, lifeless, brittle hair can add years on you so once a week treat it so an intense, natural, deep conditioning treatment. Simply shampoo well then massage a little olive oil right through from the scalp to the ends. Wrap in a warm towel, leave for 20 minutes then rinse out with warm water and finish with a blast of cool water to obtain a great shine.
5. Take a nap
Lack of sleep produces excess cortisol, a hormone that breaks down skin cells resulting in premature ageing. However, get enough rest and you'll not only allow your body more time to properly regenerate you’ll produce more human growth hormone too which helps skin remain thick, more "elastic," and less likely to wrinkle.
Five ways to fight the signs of ageing
ffolkes,Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:47 UTCBy Rachel Anne HillForget surgery – here are five inexpensive and natural ways to delay the signs of ageing.
1. Curb your sweet tooth
Mounting evidence suggests that too much sugar in the diet can speed up the ageing process of the skin.
According to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, M.D., an expert on facial rejuvenation and best-selling author of ‘The Wrinkle Cure’ sugar accelerates the ageing process by attaching to collagen - a process known as "glycation," making the skin stiff and inflexible resulting in a loss of elasticity, deep wrinkles and sagging.
Cut back on the amount of sugar you eat by reading food labels. Look for the 'Carbohydrates (of which sugars)' figure in the nutrition information panel. More than 15g of sugars per 100g is high, 5g of sugars or less (per 100g) is low and anything in between is medium.
Swap soft drinks for fruit juices diluted with sparkling water, snack on fresh fruit, nuts and seeds instead of cakes and biscuits, avoid sugar coated cereals and spread your toast with peanut butter or low fat cream cheese instead of jam, honey or marmalades.
2. Drink up
The fastest way to banish fine lines and wrinkles is to ensure you are fully hydrated so make sure you drink at least eight glasses of water every day and go easy on alcohol and salty foods.
Try adding in a couple of cups of green tea to your day too. According to researchers at the Medical College of Georgia, green tea contains compounds called polyphenols that help eliminate the free radicals that speed up the ageing process.
The polyphenol most abundant in green tea called EGCG helps to re-activate dying skin cells, enhancing skin re-generation and producing a younger looking, fresher complexion.
3. Give yourself a natural facelift
Balance up combination skin with by combining half a cup of oatmeal with 2 tbsp of honey. Apply to your face and neck, wait 30-40 minutes then rinse well. Rehydrate dry skin by mashing half of an avocado in a cup with a fork, apply to your face and neck, leave for 20 minutes then gently wipe off and rinse with warm water.
4. Pay attention to your crowning glory
Dull, lifeless, brittle hair can add years on you so once a week treat it so an intense, natural, deep conditioning treatment. Simply shampoo well then massage a little olive oil right through from the scalp to the ends. Wrap in a warm towel, leave for 20 minutes then rinse out with warm water and finish with a blast of cool water to obtain a great shine.
5. Take a nap
Lack of sleep produces excess cortisol, a hormone that breaks down skin cells resulting in premature ageing. However, get enough rest and you'll not only allow your body more time to properly regenerate you’ll produce more human growth hormone too which helps skin remain thick, more "elastic," and less likely to wrinkle.
Saturday, 19 November 2011
My Brilliant Brain - Born Genius, Accidental Genius, Made Genius_Utube
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nOaXho9NqY&feature=fvwrel
My Brilliant Brain - Born Genius, Accidental Genius, Made Genius
My Brilliant Brain - Born Genius, Accidental Genius, Made Genius
- Is it nature or nuture that makes the genius?
- Is there a gene for genius (ie is genetic important)?
Thursday, 17 November 2011
Treating alzheimers_ virgin oconut oil
http://www.realcuresletter.com/Health-Alert-Archive/View-Archive/2144/Alzheimers-treatment--Pay-250month-or-15month.htm
vol 4, Issue 46
November 17, 2011
Alzheimer's treatment —
Pay $250/month or $15/month
If you read my newsletter Real Cures, you may remember an Alzheimer's treatment I told you about last year around this time. In that report, I gave some startling new evidence that you can help Alzheimer's and many other brain dysfunction disorders by taking virgin coconut oil.
What was really dramatic about that report was the proof that foods can act in the same way that drugs do without any of the side effects.
Now, because of proofs like that, Big Pharma is getting into the food business. Only, as expected, this new food is going to be much more expensive than the real thing.
German Scientific Breakthrough Gives You Double the Nutrient
of Ordinary Chlorella
Only about 40% of the nutrients in chlorella are absorbed by your body. That's because the thick cell wall makes it very hard for your body to digest.
Now German scientists have found a way to open the cell wall and double the nutrients your body can absorb!
Learn more
You may have already seen it advertised on TV. But if you haven't, just wait. The new super food is called Axona. They are marketing Axona as "a prescription medical food intended for the clinical dietary management of the metabolic processes associated with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease." Sounds fancy. And they charge you a fancy price for it. It runs about $250 per month. And, according to the initial studies, it works every bit as well as virgin coconut oil.
Coconut oil works because it contains special fats called medium chain triglycerides (MCLs). When you digest MCLs, your body converts them into ketones. Ketones are primary brain foods. Whereas the brain gets most of its energy from glucose (blood sugar), it can get even more energy from ketones. So virtually any metabolic brain disorder from seizures to Alzheimer's may benefit from elevating the body's ketone levels. And that's exactly what Axona does.
Axona contains no drug. It consists entirely of the same medium chain triglycerides found in coconut oil. So it works in the same way that coconut oil does. Now you don't often hear me recommend Big Pharma products. But here's one that I have absolutely no problem with — except for the price. All you need is few hundred bucks each month and you're in business with Axona.
Of course, you can go out to your local health food store and buy some virgin coconut oil for about 10 cents on the dollar compared to Axona. Of course, insurance won't cover the store-bought oil. But it's still less than your co-pay. Either way, you will be using food as a medicine.
Every now and then I meet someone who can't stand the taste of coconut oil. So for them, I prescribe pure MCLs. You can buy pure MCLs online and also at most health food stores. They work just as well as coconut oil, but are a little more expensive.
Finding your Real Cures,
Frank Shallenberger, MD
REF: www.axona.com.
vol 4, Issue 46
November 17, 2011
Alzheimer's treatment —
Pay $250/month or $15/month
If you read my newsletter Real Cures, you may remember an Alzheimer's treatment I told you about last year around this time. In that report, I gave some startling new evidence that you can help Alzheimer's and many other brain dysfunction disorders by taking virgin coconut oil.
What was really dramatic about that report was the proof that foods can act in the same way that drugs do without any of the side effects.
Now, because of proofs like that, Big Pharma is getting into the food business. Only, as expected, this new food is going to be much more expensive than the real thing.
German Scientific Breakthrough Gives You Double the Nutrient
of Ordinary Chlorella
Only about 40% of the nutrients in chlorella are absorbed by your body. That's because the thick cell wall makes it very hard for your body to digest.
Now German scientists have found a way to open the cell wall and double the nutrients your body can absorb!
Learn more
You may have already seen it advertised on TV. But if you haven't, just wait. The new super food is called Axona. They are marketing Axona as "a prescription medical food intended for the clinical dietary management of the metabolic processes associated with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease." Sounds fancy. And they charge you a fancy price for it. It runs about $250 per month. And, according to the initial studies, it works every bit as well as virgin coconut oil.
Coconut oil works because it contains special fats called medium chain triglycerides (MCLs). When you digest MCLs, your body converts them into ketones. Ketones are primary brain foods. Whereas the brain gets most of its energy from glucose (blood sugar), it can get even more energy from ketones. So virtually any metabolic brain disorder from seizures to Alzheimer's may benefit from elevating the body's ketone levels. And that's exactly what Axona does.
Axona contains no drug. It consists entirely of the same medium chain triglycerides found in coconut oil. So it works in the same way that coconut oil does. Now you don't often hear me recommend Big Pharma products. But here's one that I have absolutely no problem with — except for the price. All you need is few hundred bucks each month and you're in business with Axona.
Of course, you can go out to your local health food store and buy some virgin coconut oil for about 10 cents on the dollar compared to Axona. Of course, insurance won't cover the store-bought oil. But it's still less than your co-pay. Either way, you will be using food as a medicine.
Every now and then I meet someone who can't stand the taste of coconut oil. So for them, I prescribe pure MCLs. You can buy pure MCLs online and also at most health food stores. They work just as well as coconut oil, but are a little more expensive.
Finding your Real Cures,
Frank Shallenberger, MD
REF: www.axona.com.
Tuesday, 8 November 2011
Lasik
Prof Dr Muhaya
Alhamdulillah this is the technology in Prince Court Medical Centre. PLease call 0321600332 or sms 0172639683 indicating interest for immediate appintment . There is 36 month interest free for Maybank credit card holder and 12 month interest free for Citibank card holder. Price is RM 6990 for age 35 and below with no reading problem and RM 7990 for above 35 and for reading problem. Youngest age is 18 and oldest patient is 67. Hopefully more can afford lasik and throw away your glasses and contact lens and multifocal glasses insyaAllah
http://www.londonvisionclinic.com/blog/london-vision-clinic-technology-carl-zeiss-visumax-laser-for-refractive-lasik-eye-surgery/
Alhamdulillah this is the technology in Prince Court Medical Centre. PLease call 0321600332 or sms 0172639683 indicating interest for immediate appintment . There is 36 month interest free for Maybank credit card holder and 12 month interest free for Citibank card holder. Price is RM 6990 for age 35 and below with no reading problem and RM 7990 for above 35 and for reading problem. Youngest age is 18 and oldest patient is 67. Hopefully more can afford lasik and throw away your glasses and contact lens and multifocal glasses insyaAllah
http://www.londonvisionclinic.com/blog/london-vision-clinic-technology-carl-zeiss-visumax-laser-for-refractive-lasik-eye-surgery/
Tuesday, 1 November 2011
Lower back pain
Lower back pain
http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/lower-back-pain-10/tips-for-a-healthy-back
http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/lower-back-pain-10/slideshow-exercises
Note:
Whenever you exercise, don't forget to take time to breathe. Deep breathing and relaxation training improve oxygen flow to your muscles. They're also great ways to relieve stress, which can cause muscles to tense up and trigger low back pain.
1. Partial crunches can help strengthen your back and stomach muscles.
Breathe out as you raise your shoulders. Don't lead with your elbows or use arms to pull your neck off the floor. Hold for a second, then slowly lower back down. Repeat 8 to 12 times. Proper form prevents excessive stress on your low back. Your feet, tailbone, and lower back should remain in contact with the mat at all times.
2. Hamstring Stretches
Lie on your back and bend one knee. Loop a towel under the ball of your foot. Straighten your knee and slowly pull back on the towel. You should feel a gentle stretch down the back of your leg. Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds. Do 2 to 4 times for each leg.
3. Wall Sits
Stand 10 to 12 inches from the wall, then lean back until your back is flat against the wall. Slowly slide down until your knees are slightly bent, pressing your lower back into the wall. Hold for a count of 10, then carefully slide back up the wall. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
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http://www.rd.com/health/chronic-back-pain-breakthroughs/
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http://www.rd.com/health/chronic-back-pain-breakthroughs/
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http://www.rd.com/health/chronic-back-pain-breakthroughs/
4. Press-up Back Extensions
Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders. Push with your hands so your shoulders begin to lift off the floor. If it's comfortable for you, put your elbows on the floor directly under your shoulders and hold this.
5. Bird Dog
Start on your hands and knees, and tighten your stomach muscles. Lift and extend one leg behind you. Keep hips level. Hold for 5 seconds, and then switch to the other leg. Repeat 8 to 12 times for each leg, and try to lengthen the time you hold each lift. Try lifting and extending your opposite arm for each repetition. This exercise is a great way to learn how to stabilize the low back during movement of the arms and legs. While doing this exercise don't let the lower back muscles sag. Only raise the limbs to heights where the low back position can be maintained.
6. Knee to Chest
Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Bring one knee to your chest, keeping the other foot flat on the floor. Keep your lower back pressed to the floor, and hold for 15 to 30 seconds. Then lower your knee and repeat with the other leg. Do this 2 to 4 times for each leg.
7. Pelvic Tilts
Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat on floor. Tighten your stomach by pulling in and imagining your belly button moving toward your spine. You’ll feel your back pressing into the floor, and your hips and pelvis rocking back. Hold for 10 seconds while breathing in and out smoothly. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
8. Bridging
Lie on your back with knees bent and just your heels on the floor. Push your heels into the floor, squeeze your buttocks, and lift your hips off the floor until shoulders, hips, and knees are in a straight line. Hold about 6 seconds, and then slowly lower hips to the floor and rest for 10 seconds. Repeat
9. Lifting Weights May Help
Done properly, lifting weights doesn't usually hurt your back. In fact, it may help relieve chronic back pain. But when you have acute (sudden) back pain, putting extra stress on back muscles and ligaments could raise risk of further injury. Ask your doctor whether you should lift weights, and which exercises to avoid.10. Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise strengthens your lungs, heart, and blood vessels and can help you lose weight. Walking, swimming, and biking may all help reduce back pain. Start with short sessions and build up over time. If your back is hurting, try swimming, where the water supports your body. Avoid any strokes that twist your body.
11. Some Pilates Moves
Pilates combines stretching, strengthening, and core abdominal exercises. Under the instruction of an experienced teacher, it may help some people with back pain. Be sure to tell your teacher about your back pain, because you may need to skip some moves.
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http://www.webmd.com/back-pain/lower-back-pain-10/back-exercises
But once you've relieved the worst of your low back pain with medication, ice, or another treatment your doctor recommends, getting into a regular workout schedule is actually one of the best ways to speed your recovery. It can also help prevent future episodes of low back pain.
So what exercises can help your back pain? Strengthening and stretching exercises help keep the muscles, joints, ligaments, and discs that support your back limber and healthy.
In fact, one study found that men and women with chronic low back pain who worked out with weights four days a week had 28% less pain and 36% less disability than people who didn't exercise as often.
Your doctor may recommend that you do back exercises once or twice a day for 10 to 30 minutes at a time while you're recovering. Try to work up to at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.
Strength training exercises can help you build stronger muscles, especially the core muscles of the abs, lower back, pelvis and hips, which support your back. Isometric exercises, in which you contract the muscle and hold it (for example, by pressing against a wall) may be easier than lifting weights for some people with lower back pain. Adding an exercise ball to your routine can help stabilize your core while you exercise. A specific type of exercise that strengthens and helps you gain more control over your trunk muscles (called motor control exercises) appears to be especially good for combating low back pain and disability.
Stretching keeps your muscles more flexible, so you're less likely to injure them. It also can relieve tight spots in your back and elsewhere in your body, and improve your range of motion. Remember to move slowly into and out of each stretch while breathing deeply. Try to hold each stretch for at least five seconds. Never stretch past your limits. If it hurts, stop.
Yoga, with its series of poses that incorporate stretching and strengthening, can be good exercise for low back pain. According to studies, taking yoga classes can improve low back pain and function better than conventional treatment alone. And if you've been feeling down about your achy back, yoga might even improve your mood.
Aerobic exercises, such as walking, biking, or dancing, get your heart pumping, increase your cardiovascular fitness, and keep your body in overall better health. Sometimes non-impact aerobic exercises like swimming are easier and more comfortable for people with low back pain.
Whenever you exercise, don't forget to take time to breathe. Deep breathing and relaxation training improve oxygen flow to your muscles. They're also great ways to relieve stress, which can cause muscles to tense up and trigger low back pain.
It helps to have a physical therapist get you started on your new routine. They can make sure you're doing the exercises properly and monitor your progress. Physical therapy sessions can help you learn how to stretch and strengthen your back muscles -- and the muscles that support them -- correctly. Your physical therapist will also teach you how to stand and sit to prevent strain and pain.
When you first begin your exercise program, go slowly and follow these tips:
So what exercises can help your back pain? Strengthening and stretching exercises help keep the muscles, joints, ligaments, and discs that support your back limber and healthy.
In fact, one study found that men and women with chronic low back pain who worked out with weights four days a week had 28% less pain and 36% less disability than people who didn't exercise as often.
Your doctor may recommend that you do back exercises once or twice a day for 10 to 30 minutes at a time while you're recovering. Try to work up to at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.
Exercises for Low Back Pain
According to research, strength training and stretching may be the most effective low back exercises.Strength training exercises can help you build stronger muscles, especially the core muscles of the abs, lower back, pelvis and hips, which support your back. Isometric exercises, in which you contract the muscle and hold it (for example, by pressing against a wall) may be easier than lifting weights for some people with lower back pain. Adding an exercise ball to your routine can help stabilize your core while you exercise. A specific type of exercise that strengthens and helps you gain more control over your trunk muscles (called motor control exercises) appears to be especially good for combating low back pain and disability.
Stretching keeps your muscles more flexible, so you're less likely to injure them. It also can relieve tight spots in your back and elsewhere in your body, and improve your range of motion. Remember to move slowly into and out of each stretch while breathing deeply. Try to hold each stretch for at least five seconds. Never stretch past your limits. If it hurts, stop.
Yoga, with its series of poses that incorporate stretching and strengthening, can be good exercise for low back pain. According to studies, taking yoga classes can improve low back pain and function better than conventional treatment alone. And if you've been feeling down about your achy back, yoga might even improve your mood.
Aerobic exercises, such as walking, biking, or dancing, get your heart pumping, increase your cardiovascular fitness, and keep your body in overall better health. Sometimes non-impact aerobic exercises like swimming are easier and more comfortable for people with low back pain.
Whenever you exercise, don't forget to take time to breathe. Deep breathing and relaxation training improve oxygen flow to your muscles. They're also great ways to relieve stress, which can cause muscles to tense up and trigger low back pain.
The Right Way to Do Back Exercises
As you get ready to launch a lower back exercise program, don't go it alone. See your doctor or an orthopedic specialist to help design a workout program that works for you.It helps to have a physical therapist get you started on your new routine. They can make sure you're doing the exercises properly and monitor your progress. Physical therapy sessions can help you learn how to stretch and strengthen your back muscles -- and the muscles that support them -- correctly. Your physical therapist will also teach you how to stand and sit to prevent strain and pain.
When you first begin your exercise program, go slowly and follow these tips:
- Start with as little as 10 minutes of a gentle workout daily. Gradually work your way up to longer and more intense workouts, but always be conscious of your limits.
- Avoid any exercises that can aggravate your low back pain, including straight leg sit-ups, leg lifts while lying on your back, or lifting heavy weights above your waist.
- Never work out to the point of pain.
BPA Exposure in Womb Linked to Behavioral Woes in Girls
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=150838
BPA Exposure in Womb Linked to Behavioral Woes in Girls
By Jenifer GoodwinHealthDay Reporter
MONDAY, Oct. 24 (HealthDay News) -- Girls who are exposed to high levels of bisphenol A (BPA) while in their mother's womb may be more likely to show signs of behavioral and emotional problems as toddlers, new research finds.
BPA is a chemical widely used in plastic and other household products. In the study, 244 mothers gave urine samples that were tested for BPA while they were pregnant and shortly after giving birth. Their children's urine was tested for BPA at ages 1, 2 and 3.
The vast majority of had some level of BPA in their urine, including 85% of moms and more than 96% of the children.
Researchers found no connection between girls' or boys' levels of BPA in early childhood and their behavior. Nor did they find a link between the mothers' BPA levels during pregnancy and boys' behavior.
However, researchers did find that the higher the moms' BPA concentration levels during pregnancy, the more likely their daughters were to have higher scores on measures of anxiety, depression and hyperactivity, and poorer emotional control and inhibition at age 3.
None of the girls' behavior, which was described by their mothers in questionnaires, was out of the range of normal, noted study author Joe Braun, a research fellow in environmental health at Harvard School of Public Health.
"What we found was that the mothers' concentrations of BPA in urine during pregnancy were associated with behavioral problems in daughters at 3 years of age, but we didn't find this relation between mothers' BPA and the boys, and we also didn't observe any relationship between the child's BPA concentrations and behavioral problems," Braun said. "These results suggest that the girls may be more vulnerable to the effects of gestational BPA exposures and there is this unique window of brain development that is susceptible to BPA exposures."
The study is published in the Oct. 24 online edition of the journal Pediatrics.
BPA is used to make polycarbonate plastic (hard, clear plastic) and epoxy resin. While BPA is beginning to be phased out in the manufacture of baby bottles and other children's products, it's still widely used in many other applications, including electronic and medical equipment, cars, sports safety equipment, and food and drink containers.
Virtually everyone living in an industrialized nation is exposed to some amount of BPA, according to the study.
Most human exposure to BPA is believed to occur when the chemical leaches into food and drink from packaging, particularly from the liners of canned foods, experts say. Thermal receipts used in many cash registers are also a source of BPA.
In recent years, concern about the effects of BPA, particularly on fetuses and young children, have been growing. Animal studies have shown BPA can cause reproductive abnormalities to both males and females by disrupting the endocrine system. Other research has linked BPA to an increased risk of diabetes, cancer and heart arrhythmias.
Dr. Hugh Taylor, chief of the division of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Yale University School of Medicine praised the new research, adding the caveat that the findings show an association, but not causality.
"This is an important study that follows BPA-exposed children to 3 years of age. It proves that the effects of BPA on behavior are long-lasting, and implies that these effects will be there for the life of the exposed individual," Taylor said. "BPA is a hormone-like chemical that interferes with estrogen action. The effects were more pronounced in girls; this is not surprising, as estrogens play an important role in brain development in both boys and girls, however, testosterone is converted to estrogen in the brain, so the boys likely had enough to protect against the BPA."
The fetus, he added, may be especially vulnerable to harmful chemicals.
"We are just starting to appreciate that exposures in the womb may have subtle lasting deleterious effects that are not immediately apparent at birth," Taylor said. "Behavior and reproduction are often affected by hormones in the environment and adverse effects in these areas are not apparent at birth."
Chemical industry representatives, however, said the study has "significant shortcomings" and that other research has found BPA does not cause ill health effects at typical exposure levels.
"The study released in Pediatrics has significant shortcomings in study design and the conclusions are of unknown relevance to public health," a statement released by the American Chemistry Council said. "The researchers themselves acknowledge that it had statistical deficiencies, including its small sample size and the potential for the results being due to chance alone."
For pregnant women worried about reducing exposure to BPA, experts advised avoiding canned foods, plastics that contain BPA and cash register receipts.
Braun and his team plan to continue following the children in the study to see if the symptoms of depression and anxiety seen in some girls develop into full-blown depressive or anxiety disorders as they get older.
BPA Exposure in Womb Linked to Behavioral Woes in Girls
By Jenifer GoodwinHealthDay Reporter
MONDAY, Oct. 24 (HealthDay News) -- Girls who are exposed to high levels of bisphenol A (BPA) while in their mother's womb may be more likely to show signs of behavioral and emotional problems as toddlers, new research finds.
BPA is a chemical widely used in plastic and other household products. In the study, 244 mothers gave urine samples that were tested for BPA while they were pregnant and shortly after giving birth. Their children's urine was tested for BPA at ages 1, 2 and 3.
The vast majority of had some level of BPA in their urine, including 85% of moms and more than 96% of the children.
Researchers found no connection between girls' or boys' levels of BPA in early childhood and their behavior. Nor did they find a link between the mothers' BPA levels during pregnancy and boys' behavior.
However, researchers did find that the higher the moms' BPA concentration levels during pregnancy, the more likely their daughters were to have higher scores on measures of anxiety, depression and hyperactivity, and poorer emotional control and inhibition at age 3.
None of the girls' behavior, which was described by their mothers in questionnaires, was out of the range of normal, noted study author Joe Braun, a research fellow in environmental health at Harvard School of Public Health.
"What we found was that the mothers' concentrations of BPA in urine during pregnancy were associated with behavioral problems in daughters at 3 years of age, but we didn't find this relation between mothers' BPA and the boys, and we also didn't observe any relationship between the child's BPA concentrations and behavioral problems," Braun said. "These results suggest that the girls may be more vulnerable to the effects of gestational BPA exposures and there is this unique window of brain development that is susceptible to BPA exposures."
The study is published in the Oct. 24 online edition of the journal Pediatrics.
BPA is used to make polycarbonate plastic (hard, clear plastic) and epoxy resin. While BPA is beginning to be phased out in the manufacture of baby bottles and other children's products, it's still widely used in many other applications, including electronic and medical equipment, cars, sports safety equipment, and food and drink containers.
Virtually everyone living in an industrialized nation is exposed to some amount of BPA, according to the study.
Most human exposure to BPA is believed to occur when the chemical leaches into food and drink from packaging, particularly from the liners of canned foods, experts say. Thermal receipts used in many cash registers are also a source of BPA.
In recent years, concern about the effects of BPA, particularly on fetuses and young children, have been growing. Animal studies have shown BPA can cause reproductive abnormalities to both males and females by disrupting the endocrine system. Other research has linked BPA to an increased risk of diabetes, cancer and heart arrhythmias.
Dr. Hugh Taylor, chief of the division of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Yale University School of Medicine praised the new research, adding the caveat that the findings show an association, but not causality.
"This is an important study that follows BPA-exposed children to 3 years of age. It proves that the effects of BPA on behavior are long-lasting, and implies that these effects will be there for the life of the exposed individual," Taylor said. "BPA is a hormone-like chemical that interferes with estrogen action. The effects were more pronounced in girls; this is not surprising, as estrogens play an important role in brain development in both boys and girls, however, testosterone is converted to estrogen in the brain, so the boys likely had enough to protect against the BPA."
The fetus, he added, may be especially vulnerable to harmful chemicals.
"We are just starting to appreciate that exposures in the womb may have subtle lasting deleterious effects that are not immediately apparent at birth," Taylor said. "Behavior and reproduction are often affected by hormones in the environment and adverse effects in these areas are not apparent at birth."
Chemical industry representatives, however, said the study has "significant shortcomings" and that other research has found BPA does not cause ill health effects at typical exposure levels.
"The study released in Pediatrics has significant shortcomings in study design and the conclusions are of unknown relevance to public health," a statement released by the American Chemistry Council said. "The researchers themselves acknowledge that it had statistical deficiencies, including its small sample size and the potential for the results being due to chance alone."
For pregnant women worried about reducing exposure to BPA, experts advised avoiding canned foods, plastics that contain BPA and cash register receipts.
Braun and his team plan to continue following the children in the study to see if the symptoms of depression and anxiety seen in some girls develop into full-blown depressive or anxiety disorders as they get older.
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