Alternative Therapies and Health News

A new research claims that frequent teeth brushing in kids, especially after every meal turns out to be more dangerous for kids than helpful. The research suggests that more than 79 percent of dentists are reporting acid erosion of the teeth on a weekly basis in kids. In addition, more than 53 percent of the kids aged 5 years seem to have a teeth problem where the enamel of the tooth rots away because of acid-containing foods and drinks.

Jimmy Steele, from the University of Newcastle is of the opinion that adult teeth begins to grow at the age of 6 which eventually stay on for a lifetime. In order to build the endurance of teeth, kids need to be trained on keeping them safe and protected before they attain 6 years itself.

Teeth-Training Tips
Parents can encourage their kids to keep their teeth less affected by the atrocities of foods and drinks by the following means:

• Teach your kids to consume acidic drinks with the help of a straw that is placed at the back of the mouth and away from the teeth
• Discourage your kids to brush their teeth immediately after eating acidic foods and drinks because at this point the teeth enamel is softest and can be scraped

Experts opine that the main cause of “acid erosion” is not just fizzy drinks alone but ones that contain fruits with high acidic content. Experts opine that eating oranges or sucking on the juice of oranges can also have a drastic effect on the teeth thereby causing acid erosion.

Another disturbing trend that emerged form the study was that nearly 93 percent and more parents were weary or unaware about the foods and drinks that were acidic in nature. In addition, about 58 percent of the parents claimed that their kids mixed foods with sauces and dressings without realizing the effects of acid erosion on their teeth.

Orthodontic specialists like Dr Peter Huntley claim that this could be an emerging problem with the new generation of kids who are so careless abut their eating habits and lifestyles. Keeping a check on their eating patterns and type of foods eaten has to start as early as before 6 years in order to save the young ones from enamel destruction which is caused by acidic foods and drinks.

Cholesterol is good for memory? Is it surprising you?  A study published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology of American Heart Association suggests that, low levels “good” HDL cholesterol can cause memory loss and dementia – that is, a disease which causes decreased cognitive functions. They show the important relation between cholesterol and memory. The capacity of the person to remember words is affected due to low level of HDL.

Is Cholesterol Harmful to Your Body?
The common belief is that cholesterol is harmful for our body forgetting the fact there are “good” and “bad” cholesterol. Like many other substances produced by the human body, cholesterol is also important in keeping our body fit and healthy. Cholesterol helps the body to produce cell membrane and essential hormones.

High density lipoproteins (HDL) are considered as good cholesterols, since it reduces the risk of heart attack. HDL carries cholesterol from human tissues through blood to liver and it would not harden the arteries. The researchers say that low level of HDL will increase the chance of heart attack. Earlier some researchers found the link between HDL cholesterol and Alzheimer’s.

How to Balance Good and Bad Cholesterol in Your Body?
The important fact is that you should keep the balance between good and bad cholesterols. There are some ways to keep balance between good and bad cholesterol which can be done by increasing the HDL cholesterol in your body. You can do it by modifying your life style.

Please try these to increase your HDL cholesterol level:

• Do aerobic exercise, like jogging, running, swimming, climbing etc
• Reduce your body weight
• Quit smoking
• Avoid foods which have  high fat content, like meat, butter, egg, pea nut butter, cream, chocolates, pastries, cakes etc
• Include foods which are rich in fibers, like whole grain flour, fruits( dried and fresh), vegetables (like broccoli, beans), green vegetables like spinach, beet greens
• Eat baked, steamed, broiled or grilled foods instead of fried ones

Do not say anymore that “cholesterol kills you”. Try to be benefited from the good cholesterols like HDL, and avoid the risks of heart attack and memory loss. This is the time to praise “good” HDL cholesterol.

We heard very often about Chikungunya in recent past. What is Chikungunya? Which virus causes it? What are the symptoms of Chikungunya? Is there any treatment for Chikungunya?  Chikungunya is a form of viral fever caused by an alphavirus that is spread by mosquito bites from Aedis aegypti mosquito. CHIKV( Chikungunya virus) is a member of the genus Alphavirus, in the family Togaviridae. ‘Chikungunya’ means ‘that which bends up’ in swahili.

First Isolation of Chikungunya:
Chikungunya virus is first isolated from the blood of a febrile patient in Tanzania in 1953. Since then it is identified in  Central, West, Southern African countries and in many Asian countries. It also been cited in numerous epidemics in above areas.  Aedis aegypti mosquitoes and monkeys transmitts  chikungunya virus  to human beings.

Symptoms of Chikungunya:
Chikungunya infection can cause a debilitating illness, which is often characterized by fever, headache, nausea, fatigue, vomiting, muscle pain and joint pain.

Incubation Period of Chikungunya Virus:
Incubation period means the time the virus takes to cause illness since the infection. Incase of Chikungunya incubation period can be 2-12 days but often it takes 3-7 days. Latent chikungunya infections are also reported which cause infection without illness.

Treatment of Chikungunya:
Chikungunya fever outbreaks very widely and rapidly because no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment is available. Symptomatic treatment is given with the help of Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Acataminophen or Paracetamol which may relieve symptoms of fever and aching. However, consult a physician before taking any medication.

No vaccine or preventive drug is there for Chikungunya infection. The best way to protect ourselves from Chikungunya infection is preventing mosquito bites. So, keep your environment clean and free of mosquitoes so that there is no chance for Chikungunya to set in.

Yes, it’s toned milk that can fetch you a healthy heart and hence a longer life. Researchers of this new revelation state that drinking toned milk helps in doing with heart ailments like heart stroke and other heart diseases.

The study further revealed that one serve or cup of low-fat milk or milk products educed the risk of poor kidney function related to heart diseases by 37 percent than those who do not drink regularly.

Infact, magnesium, vitamin D, calcium and milk protein are some of the basic nutrients required for a healthy heart. More than 5000 adults aged between 45 to 84 years were examined for their kidney function which is related to heart diseases.

The researchers also kept a track of the eating patterns of the volunteers and measured the Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (ACR), which if extremely low indicates poor kidney function and an increased risk to cardiovascular diseases.

It was revealed that volunteers who drank more of low fat milk or milk products reported lower ACR, which meant that the kidney functioned well along with reduced risks of cardiovascular diseases. Indeed, it was just low fat milk and milk products that were evaluated to estimate the risks for kidney dysfunction and heart diseases.

Infact, an overall balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low fat milk and milk products showed a lowered ACR by 20 percent that can be related to a healthy kidney and subsequently a healthy heart.

Expert’s advice to the public at large is to eat healthy foods and to ensure a serve or cup of toned milk or low fat milk products everyday to keep the hearty beating healthy.

Gum or tooth aches can give the most perilous time for people. So your makeup and dressing could go waste if your gum or tooth aches are bothering the hell out of you at a party. Some experts are of the opinion that diet and/or foods play a major role in preventing gum and tooth decay. They also believe that sticky foods, wafers and chips when kept too long can cause cavities. Discover some of the healthiest foods you can treat your teeth to in the article below.

Top 10 Treats for Healthy Teeth and Gums
Listed below are some dietary tips that can result in healthy teeth and gums:

• Water: Water is considered very essential for optimum teeth health and nutrition of the gums and teeth. This is so because water helps in transporting essential nutrients like calcium and others to the cell membranes that restore the strength and health of teeth and gums.
• Cherries, Blueberries and Blackcurrant’s: Cherries and berries have a high concentration of bioflavonoid that can protect the gums against decay.
• Go Easy on Milk and Dairy Foods: Experts opine that calcium is very essential for strong teeth and gums but if you are lactose intolerant, then go for ewe, buffalo or goat milk.
• Tea: Tea is again considered very healthy for the teeth gums because flavonoids present in the tea can both protect the gums from decay and prevent plaque from fusing to the teeth. Tea also helps fight bacteria and/or infection of the teeth and gums.
• Apples: Studies reveal that apples can protect the gums and teeth from decaying due to a high concentration of vitamin C and boron. In addition, apples are also fiber-rich which help in keeping the teeth and gums clean.
• Fish: Proteins are the next most important ingredients for healthy teeth and gums and found abundantly in fish.
• Nuts: Nuts are considered to be rich in calcium and other essential minerals too which is again considered very healthy for the teeth and gums.
• Seeds: Experts are of the opinion that foods with seeds like pumpkin, sesame, sunflower and poppy seeds are all very rich in calcium, vitamins and minerals. As a result, seedy foods can help restore healthy teeth and gums. It is also recommended to look out for crackers and breads that contain seeds for nurturing healthier teeth and gums.
• Pulses: Pulses like chickpeas are said to be high on calcium, magnesium, zinc, proteins and fibers all very important for healthy teeth and gums.
• Sunlight: Experts believe that vitamin D helps in absorbing calcium effectively. That makes sunlight or sunshine the most effective source for vitamin D for healthy bones, teeth and gums.

If you don’t want to keep waking up to an aching tooth or gums, then you should really take care of what you eat. Avoid sugary foods, chips, fizzy drinks, white bread, white wine and processed cereals that are perfect teeth rotters. Stick to the basics of rinsing your mouth before and after meals and always munch on healthy food.

Come winters and the urge to eat more increases. Infact, chill cold months are just ideal for getting under the quilt or sitting in front of your television screens while you sip away on hot coffee and popcorns. Have you ever realized how quickly you eat while watching your favorite program? Well, experts opine that music and television can just about double the pace at which you eat.

Top Winter Fattening Foods
Listed below are some of the most fattening foods you maybe consuming in cold and chilly winter months:

• Candy Bars: Blame it all on the Halloween. These candy bars can carry as much as 320 calories. So try not getting tempted towards them as you would be gifted with twice as much weight in the New Year.
• Mash Potatoes: Potatoes twice as fattening when mashed with butter and milk. Experts opine mashed potatoes can contain as much as 200 calories in a half cup serve.
• Venti Pumpkin Spice Latte: Experts are of the opinion that caffeinated drinks are big on calories. Infact, this one can pack up about 510 calories and 20g of fat. So think hard before you get willing to pay for a cup of coffee.
• Apple Pie: The apple pie is like cherry on the cake to a thanksgiving dinner. This desert can accommodate as much as 400 calories with about 20g of fat. Adding ice cream to the apple pie can come up to nearly 530 calories. So you have decide what you want to lose, calories or the apple pie?
• Cider: A warm cup of cider can sound like a comfortable beverage but have you realized how many calories you maybe cashing on? Yes, sugar added to it can cost you heavily with 200 calories.
• Stuffing: Why do you think that they are called “stuffing”? It is because they are stuffed with 358 calories and 18g of fat. The stuffed turkey is very popular in the fall season and has a huge role to play on the Thanksgiving Day. Though difficult try healthier options instead of stuffing yourself with all that fat and calories.
• Candy Apple with Caramel: Apple itself contains nearly 60-100 calories. Dressing apple slices with caramel can add as much as 540 calories to your body. Experts opine that you could make savings on your dental bills and calories if the candy apple is avoided this autumn.
• Turducken: This combination of turkey, duck and chicken is the ultimate treat for the Thanksgiving Day. Just one serving of turducken can weigh as many as 749 calories and 34.5g of fat.

Come fall season and you have all reason to celebrate. So with the Thanksgiving Day, weddings and Christmas coming round the corner of every year, it could be quiet a task for to resist great meals and feasts. Even then, if you wish to start the New Year with a fit and toned body, control your taste buds in the latter half of the year.

Yes, researchers have made another discovery which claims that boring, regular and/or monotonous tasks can make freeze the brain literally. This happens because the brain gradually shift to the rest mode whether it likes it or not eventually. Researchers also revealed that when they began monitoring the area of the brain, they were also able to tell when the person was about to make a mistake before the person actually committed the mistake.

This study was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Tom Eichele from the University of Bergen (Norway) claims that there comes a time when your brain cannot take anymore and wants to stop doing a thing again and again but cannot do anything about it.

This sense of the brain not being able to function properly or as receptively can happen to almost anybody and the best thing about it is that you haven’t done one thing to induce it say experts. In such situations, researchers opine that blood flows to those potions of the brain which are active even during rest.

Tom asserts that since this situation actually comes about 30 seconds prior to a mistake that is committed, it is easy to design an early-warning system that can help the brain not to commit the mistakes and become more focused towards a work or task.

Experts opine that such an early-warning system can help build safe working environment and can also ensure better performance. For instance, better security screening at airports.

The device, Tom explains will obviously situated on top of the head for people to perform tasks better and not numb the brain in such a way to make mistakes. So ultimately, it isn’t going to be the brain which is going to decide whether you are doing right or wrong but the device which is going to the job for you.

Tom claims that there is a wireless mobile and light amplifier that is being designed to prevent the person from making mistakes on account of monotonous work and is expected to be ready in about 10 to 15 years from now.

As it has been confirmed that the brain can actually freeze if people continue doing the same task again and again, it is advisable that people find alternative ways to enrich their brains because it will take a while for the early-warning device to hit the market.

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Yes, a study reveals that when moms eat high-energy foods, they have more chances of conceiving baby boys. Similarly, the researchers also threw light on the fact that those who ate low-energy foods (with fewer vitamins, minerals and nutrients) were more likely to deliver baby girls.

Fiona Mathews from the University of Exeter (Britain) and her colleagues wanted further confirmation on the impact of mother’s diet on her offspring. About 740 first-time mothers with unborn fetuses were observed on the basis of their calorie intake. The women were classified into three categories as per the amount of calories they consumed on each day during the time of conception.

Results from their deliveries revealed that about 56 percent of the women who were loyal to high-energy foods, delivered sons.

Apart from a calorie-rich diet, moms who took more of potassium, vitamin C, E and B12 and calcium were also reported to have baby boys. Such findings, explain why there is a paradigm shift in favor of girls when it comes to evaluating the sex ratios in many countries.

Though obesity epidemic is on the rise in many advanced economies of the world, the intake of energy foods is on the fall. Infact, a number of adults, both boys and girls are famous for skipping their meals and/or breakfast.

Experts like Fiona opine that this could be a clear case of “gender selection”. It also shows how women in advanced countries choose to go for low calorie foods that can discourage the birth of baby boys.

While the true reason for this mechanism is not yet ascertained, the study clearly brings to light that higher level of sugar and/or glucose encourages the growth of male embryos than female embryos in an expecting mother’s womb.

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Experts have found links between video game addicts and Asperger. The typical symptoms of the Asperger’s disorder are to do with language delays quiet close to autism. It has also been reported the language and cognitive skills are mildly affected with the Asperger’s disorder.

In addition, researchers are also of the opinion that video game addicts are more likely to suffer a sense of alienation or isolation which gives rise to potential mental problems in the long run.

A team of researchers from the University of Bolton (England) examined 400 gamers, mostly male. Though the researchers did not study the gamers on the basis of the Asperger’s syndrome, they reflected traits of the disorder. The team led by John Charlton only sought to question the volunteers on how often they played the video games.

The researchers found that more the gamers engaged in video games, the more likely they were to possess 3 distinct traits of the Aperger’s syndrome. The 3 traits of the Asperger’s syndrome being:

• Neuroticism
• Lack of extraversion
• Lack of agreeableness

John Charlton also emphasized that people suffering from the Asperger’s syndrome were more likely to become video game addicts as it gives them the opportunity to escape into a world that doesn’t require face-to-face interaction with people.

Charlton however does not confirm that avid gamers are more likely to develop the Asperger’s syndrome. However, he says that the reverse can happen because children suffering from the Asperger’ syndrome cannot make eye to eye contact, cannot perceive social cues like boredom in others and in that sense suffer from alienation or loneliness that can cause depression. Researchers opine that video gaming aggravate the loneliness and depression in already emotionally and mentally affected kids.

Though the actual cause of the Asperger’s Disorder is not arrived at, researchers opine that it could be a genetic component. Treatments for the disorder include – improving social skills and breaking the repetitiveness which experts opine video games discourage.

Experts opine that when kids in their growing years are still exploring this world, video games come as a HUGE hurdle in weakening their abilities to interact with people thereby shutting them out from life much before their time!

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Experts opine that humans taste with their brains. This implies that the ability to “taste” involves a complicated process which calls for the interaction of tongue, psychological signs, nose and exposure to different kinds of foods. This indirectly implies that your sense of smell can actually determine the taste of the foods you eat.

How Do You Taste With Your Brains?
Researchers explain that “taste” does not begin when the foods touch the tongue but much before that. Infact, more important than sniffing is the act of “chewing” which sends the flavors to the back of the nose. Now, we feel that we are tasting the flavor but we are actually smelling the flavor. Now this sense of smelling flavor signals the brain through a more sensitive path than sniffing communicates with the brain.

Whereas the brain is trying to meet the conflicting wants of the stomach which is either saying “I am full” with the yum factor. That is when you brain identifies a food to be good and we say that the food tastes good.

When Does Food Taste Good?
Dr Linda Bartoshuk from the University of Florida points out that foods taste good to us when the brain is programmed to see it as good. Researchers from the University of Michigan also claim that when humans eat something tasty, the brain cells get fired up.

Researchers further opine that the intensity with which people smell different kinds of foods influences their health and well-being.

In addition, the association of a food with its taste an also hamper one’s health. For example, superstars who avoid vegetables because they find it bitter as compared to others are more often than not at an increased risk of developing colon cancer reports a study.

Can You Train Your Taste Buds?
Dr Bartoshuk is of the opinion that you can train your taste buds to like a food. For instance, he claims that the foods you ate as a child and the emotional connections you have with certain foods can all help in determining food preferences than biology itself.

Can You Trick Your Taste Buds?
Experts opine that you can also trick your taste buds. For instance, the traditional menu for the Thanksgiving Day includes sweetened vegetables. The caramelizing or sweetened flavor can to do the trick for your taste buds after all. Experts opine that taste buds also fade with age. So something like Brussels sprouts which may not appeal to your taste buds at 20 may appeal at 50 years.

Thereby confirming that taste is a result of brain signals, researchers and psychologists opine claim that the initial part of a meal, that is when you sit down to eat and start eating is when the brain cells are most fired up. That’s when you find the foods to be very delicious than you would otherwise feel after consuming them. So would you believe now that you taste with your brains and not tongue alone?

If you’re wondering whether you’re reading right, then let us confirm that you are. Researchers are here to state that a sudden whiff of air carrying fragrance when brought close to a sleeping person during a particular sleep state helps in boosting the memory levels of the person. Now, this is not to say that any odor at anytime during the sleeping hours can help in boosting the memories of people.

German scientists conducted a test on medical students to confirm the same. The students were made to play a computer memory game of cards where they wee supposed to find the match.

Some of these medical students were made to play the game in a rose-scented room. That night, while the students were in deep sleep state called the “slow wave sleep”, researchers gave them a whiff of the rose again.

Next morning, it was seen that the rose-scented sleepers who received the whiff of the roses at night remembered the locations of the cards better than those who did not get the whiff of rose at night. It was also observed that the rose-scented sleepers answered correctly almost 97% of the time as compared to the rest who answered correctly only 86% of the time.

It was also observed that students exposed to the odor during a lighter state of sleep known as the REM (Rapid Eye Movement), there was no boost in the memory power.

Neurobiologists from the University of Lubek also confirmed that other tricks also didn’t help in aiding the memory levels of the students. For instance, neither did any finger tapping sequence help or any scent to remember the location of cards.

When later, a numerical finger tapping test was conducted to observe memory skills while the brain rested and consolidated the cards according to their locations, the odor didn’t help enough to remember the card locations.

So anyone, say experts, who gets the whiff of a particular odor that dates back to a particular event like Grandma’s apple pie, knows exactly how the whiff of scented air and memory are connected.

As numerous studies have revealed earlier that how essential sleep is for memory, this one suggests how essential it is for a whiff of scented air to enhance your memory power. So wish you always have a scented night’s dream from now on!

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A World Health Organization (WHO) report suggests that about 25% of the diseases worldwide are a result of toxic environmental exposure. So whether it is about feeling lethargic, devoid energy or battling with the bulge, blame it all to the toxic lifestyles we lead and are exposed to both consciously and unconsciously.

If you want to lead a toxic-free life, there are some strategies suggested by the nutritionist, Brenda Watson. Her basic guidelines to leading a healthier life are to do with identifying and eliminating toxic choices from our lives, be it in solid, liquid or gaseous states.

Steps to Detoxify Your Lifestyle
Listed below are some strategies for detoxifying your lifestyle suggested by the nutritionist Brenda Watson:

• Reduce Exposure to Toxins: Brenda claims that the first step to detoxifying your lives is to reduce your exposure to toxic substances. For instance, ensure that you are drinking purified water that s chemical-free. She claims that organic veggies and fruits can also prevent one’s exposure to harmful chemicals and/or pesticides.
• Eliminate Toxins from Your Body: Next, Brenda Watson goes onto explain how necessary it is for us to eliminate toxins from our body. One way to eliminate toxins from your body is through a regular process of internal cleansing. For instance, colon therapy or internal massage procedures can help squeeze out the gas, mucus and other toxins from your colon.
• Nourishment: The next important step to detoxifying yourself, says Brenda is to keep your body well nourished. For example, Watson is of the opinion that more than 60% of Americans are suffering from significant deficiencies in vitamins, water, proteins, minerals and/or carbohydrates. Watson claims that detox diets can help contribute to good health and efficiency levels. For instance, Watson recommends the Summer Smoothie Diet and the Diced Diet for reducing extra calories, reducing blood pressure levels, increasing energy, encouraging mental calm and rejuvenating moods.
• Increase Your Energy Levels: Brenda claims that is it as important to build on your energy levels by sticking to a healthy workout schedule or through meditation that helps take a control of your nerves and mind. Watson suggests that activities like brisk walking, yoga or cardio vascular exercises all help in flushing the toxins out of your body by increasing the blood flow.
• Wellness: The last most important part of detoxifying your lifestyle Brenda claims is to do with implementing the above 4 steps that contribute towards better health and wellness of a person. She explains that you have to make a conscious choice of committing or dedicating your entire life to “wellness” that can both revive and cleanse the mind and body off all toxins.

Brenda Watson very neatly has integrated some very practical strategies that can help us all lead a much detoxified life than we are currently leading. So don’t disappoint yourself when you decide to do away with all toxins that are affecting not just your life but everyone around you. Remember what you do is picked easily by your kids. So encourage your kids towards healthy living choices so that they wake up to a better tomorrow!

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Scientists are of the opinion that men and women differ from each other when it comes to fructose metabolization. Fructose is a sugar which is meant to sweeten foods and drinks. Researchers revealed that high level of fructose taken within a short span of time in men can raise the levels of triglycerides or fats in the body and at the same time decrease the level of insulin resistance. Such conditions have been linked with an increased risk to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

For women, the excess sugar is lost in a less dramatic way. Hence, researchers opine that there is a marked difference in the way men and women metabolize fructose in their bodies thereby suggesting that gender plays an important role in nutrition and metabolic disorders.

Dr Luc Tappy and his colleagues from the Lausanne University School of Biology and Medicine, Switzerland conducted a survey on about 16 healthy men and women who were non-smokers, of normal weight and aged 23 years.

They were put on two 6-day diets separated by a 4 weeks period. The enlisted people did not perform any exercise or sports activities and remained on the control diet. Their control diet also included lemon drink containing 3.5gof fructose.

The results were quiet clear with men showing a 5% increase in fasting glucose and 71% increase in triglycerides. Women on the other hand showed a 4% increase in fasting glucose and a mere 16% increase in triglycerides or fats. Thus confirming that men responded to an increase to 11 out of the 12 fasting metabolic factors or parameters as against women who responded to a mere 4 out of the 12 factors.

Dr Luc Tappy concluded on the note that it was yet to be confirmed whether fructose had harmful effects on people with a higher risk of metabolic disorders.

A new study claims that different seasons can influence fats to shift from one location to others in the body. This results in an altered shape of the body which is influenced by weather or seasonal changes.

The study suggests that varied levels of “testosterone” causes the body to change its shape. The hormone which is usually associated with the fierceness and brawns seems to fluctuate with time and different seasons say experts.

Experts opine that the waist and the hips are the most affected regions. For instance, it was observed that with the rise of testosterone levels in women, they became less curvy and their fats shifted to the waist.

Scientists conducted their study on about 220 women and 127 men. In order to confirm the seasonal fluctuations in testosterone, the saliva of men and women were studied as samples. The waists and hips of women were also measured during the course of the investigation.

Results of the study confirmed that testosterone levels were high in summer for women. On the other hand, the testosterone levels in men were lowest in spring. The study thereby suggests that women remain more curvaceous in spring and winter, whereas men appear manlier in spring.

Scientists are not sure that the changes in body shape and size happens on a conscious or subconscious level because the changes happen over a duration of time and are not apparent on the face.

Scientists are also not to sure as to how and why seasonal changes influence the levels of testosterone in people which causes the shifting of fats in their bodies, though earlier studies have proved that seasonal changes have a big hand in affecting the time of conception and cognitive performance as well.

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Did you know that you could paint your migraines away? Yes, experts are here claiming that migraines sufferers find much refuge in artistic expression like paintings. Tiffany Slayburgh, a migraine sufferer who stood first at a Migraine Masterpiece Art Contest funded by the National Headache Foundation confirms that painting is a powerful tool in expressing one’s emotions.

Slayburgh who was bearing up with severe headaches and nauseatic tendencies since the past 5 years says that it was a relieving experience to paint her headaches away.

Art Heals
Art has found its place as a therapy with Randy Vick, MS from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago claiming that art has the “healing power” which is not experienced by trained artists alone but by anyone who strokes the freshly dipped brushes on a lonely and white canvas.

Vick explains that art as a therapy helps people to recognize themselves and their significance and/or contribution to the piece of work being done by them. Art being a total act of self expression helps one explore his or her mental state of mind through the use of colors and with the gentle strokes of the paint brushes thereby giving the nerves a sense of calm and control over their pain or suffering.

Art Frees
Experts further opine that the art therapy is all about bringing the various body parts in absolute unison with the other with the heads, eyes, hands all moving towards one aim, that of relief. Therefore, artistic expression gives people a sense of being freed and illuminated. Art or painting to migraine sufferers is thereby a productive feeling that frees them from the clutches of headaches and vomiting bouts.

It was also brought to light that psychological stress played a major role in migraines. Evidence collected also revealed that reduced stress can help treating a migraine.

To confirm the connection between art and migraine, Vicks conducted a survey through the contest on about 150 entrants. A whopping 40% were ready to participate which itself is a revelation of how desperate the migraine sufferers were to get rid of their headaches through any and every means.

“Making” art as the therapy is much called seemed to have relived most of the participants who said that painting was much like a “miracle” that healed them from their unbearable headaches.

Though some migraine sufferers felt that their headaches were aggravated with the smell of paint, with the pressure of time limit and due to insufficient light, the survey was much of a success story for Vick.

The art therapy has been tried on cancer patients who are inflicted with chronic pain but not as yet with migraines. However, this could be a step in realizing that the art therapy helps migraine sufferers too. Ask the migraine sufferers themselves and you’ll know what artistic expression means to them.

For instance, the runner-up of the contest, Thomas C. Lolan, a photographer from Cincinnati claims that he is in optimum control when he does his work and that is when he holds the camera in his hands.

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Numerous studies have confirmed that irregular bowel syndrome, heartburn and indigestion can rob you off your sleep. Experts also opine that it isn’t a rare problem with people. Infact, sleeplessness and indigestion go hand in hand. Though there aren’t strong arguments to support why indigestion leads to insomnia, experts believe that stomach pain is most likely to rob you off your sleep.

Experts opine that both indigestion and sleeplessness could be an outcome of a serious underlying Problem like depression, anxiety and/or other forms of emotional stress.

The survey which confirmed that indigestion could lead to disturbed sleep patterns in people brought to light a number of stomach problems like bloated stomach, gas, diarrhea and constipation which could all contribute well enough to snatch your sleep away.

Results of the Survey
Some disturbing results of the survey showed that among the 2269 people who responded to the survey, about 39% suffered from disturbed sleep patterns at least once in a month and about 6% the conditions of insomnia were terrible for them.

Additional results of the survey revealed that:

• 15% were said to wake up from their sleep only because of severe stomach pain
• About 15% claimed that their sleep was disturbed by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• About 10% were frequently suffering from indigestion
• About 13% were frequently suffering from heartburns

The strongest connection was observed to be between IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and lack of sleep.

Experts also revealed that people who have suffered more stress in their lives were more likely to experience uncomfortable conditions like – lack of sleep, heart burn and irritable bowel syndrome. Researchers stand by the assertion that further studies need to be done in order to establish a strong connection between intestinal problems and stress.

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Numerous studies suggest that “serotonin”, the “happy hormone” is responsible for boosting one’s mood and well-being. The World Health Organization for instance claims that there are as many as 121 million people worldwide who are facing depression at the hands of serotonin deficiency.

Anti-depressants like Prozac are designed to bring a balance in brain chemicals and for the brain to increase the level of serotonin. However, no such medication should be taken without a thorough medical examination and without consulting a doctor.

What is Serotonin?
Serotonin is a chemical produced in the brain which is meant to regulate the moods of a person. For example, anger, body temperature, sleep and appetite are all controlled by the levels of serotonin in one’s brain.

Experts opine that sufficient serotonin in the brain keeps us relaxed and feeling good. On the other hand, when the serotonin levels fall, people suffer from sudden bouts of irritation, anxiousness and depression.

What Causes the Deficiency of Serotonin?
Serotonin is acquired from an essential amino acid called “tryptophan”, which is not produced by the body. Dietary efforts can alone ensure sufficient levels of tryptophan in the body.

Other factors that can lead to the deficiency of serotonin are:

• Genetic factors
• Overworked immune system
• Brain damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption
• Long-term depression, stress or anxiety

Effects of Serotonin Deficiency
Serotonin deficiency can lead to the following:

• Migraine
• Eating disorders
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Stress and anxiety
• Sleeplessness or insomnia
• Attention and memory problems
• Obesity
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Panic attacks

Treatment for Serotonin Deficiency
There are some drugs and therapies which can help manage or boost the levels of the happy hormone or serotonin in the brain like Prozac, cognitive or holistic behavioral therapy and more.

Some effective ways to boost the happy hormone are listed below:

• Tryptophan rich diet
• Avoid sugary foods and carbohydrates that can boost the blood sugar levels
• Vitamin B and C, magnesium and zinc intake can convert the tryptophan amino acid into serotonin
• Herbs such as burdock, ginseng, dandelion, etc can help boost the levels of serotonin in the brain
• Tablets such as 5-HTP or ‘hydroxy L-tryptophan’ can be taken to boost the levels of the happy hormone but with the consent of a doctor
• Acupuncture can be another way of relieving stress and boosting the levels of serotonin production in the brain with the help of tryptophan amino acid
• Yoga, tai chi, walking and other stretching exercises are ways to boost the serotonin levels in the brain
• Sunshine can also ensure sufficient serotonin levels in the brain that can keep you feeling rejuvenated, fresh and happy
• Snack on healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, juices, rice cakes, etc
• Have plenty of water (about 8 glasses in a day)
• Drink herbal and dandelion tea at least once daily

As you can see, the most effective way to keep the serotonin or the happy hormone alive and bubbling in your brains would be to stick to suggested meal programs. Also try eating as much natural tryptophan that will enable the optimum production of serotonin to keep you happy and healthy through the days to come.

Though there are numerous studies which still suggest that alcohol is dangerous for the bones, there are some like these which claim that moderate alcohol consumption is essential for promoting bone health. Researchers go a step ahead in stating that a drink or two is not harmful but helpful in reducing the risks of osteoporosis in women and also in protecting the bones against fractures.

33 separate studies combined together have arrived at the conclusion that “moderate” drinking can help restore bone health by lowering the risks of hip fracture and lower bone mass.

Studies revealed that as against people who completely restricted themselves to alcohol consumption, those who did drink about half to one cup of alcohol in one day were reported to be 20% less prone to the risks of hip fractures. In addition, people who drank more than 2 drinks in one day were 39% more likely to suffer from hip fractures.

For women, moderate drinking implies one drink and less in one day while for men it implies two drinks and less in one day.

“Bones” are living and growing tissues. Bone mass is maintained through a process called “remodeling” which regulates the removal and replacement of bones. Experts opine that a number of things contribute to healthy building bones right from one’s childhood to adulthood.

Some healthy actions for healthy bone building include:

• Eating a balanced diet that includes calcium, vitamins and minerals
• Regular exercise and activity
• Protecting bones against injury or fall
• Limited alcohol consumption
• Avoiding excessive dieting
• Medical or professional help for building healthy bones

Healthy living is the “key” to better building bones.

A study conducted on women at London’s St. Thomas Hospital also reveals that women who took an average of 8 drinks in a week had denser bones than who consumed little. Though it was not ascertained that moderate alcohol consumption led to bone growth, it did reveal that moderate drinking contributed to greater mineral bone density.

Again, though some studies are very clear about excessive smoking and drinking affecting the bones, UK researchers claim that moderate drinking of beer can help prevent the onset of osteoporosis because of the high silicon contents which is required for bone formation.

Though experts are not certain about how alcohol consumption can affect bone density, some opine that hormones can explain. It is speculated that alcohol increases he circulation of estrogen which contribute in strong and healthy bones.

Researchers from Copenhagen (Denmark) are here to state that using mobile phones during pregnancy can lead to behavioral problems in children. Mothers-to-be who used cell phones at least 2-3 times per day were reported to give birth to children, who suffered from psychological problems, erratic and anti-social behavior and were hyperactive.

For the same study, about 13159 Danish children were examined who were born in the 1990s. One half of the mothers did not use mobile phones at all during pregnancy while the rest did to some extent.

The study revealed that using cell phones at least 2-3 times in a day could increase the risk of having children subject to behavioral problems by 54%. The risk seemed to increase to 80% when the children began using cell phones during their growing years. Exposure to mobile phone radiation has not yet been determined as the exact cause for such erratic and anti-social conduct in children.

Among the children who were reported to suffer from behavioral problems the following figures were arrived at:

• About 25% of them suffered from emotional problems
• 34% of them had problems relating to their peers
• About 35% were reported to be hyperactive
• About 49% had problems with their code of conduct

The Danish researchers admit that they haven’t made any conclusions on the basis of the radiation levels. However, it is but natural to assume that the regular use of mobile phones during and after pregnancy could be an indication of how a mother’s attention is divided between the new born baby (or the baby to be born) and the conversation over the phone thereby leading to the baby suffering from feelings of insecurity and rejection.

Numerous studies have revealed that unhappiness has a negative effect on health. While a recent study shows a delayed connection between stress and cardiovascular disease, the other shows a deep link between depression and atherosclerosis. Reports also suggest that the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases increased by 53% post 9/11.

Research also shows increasing wealth and opportunities in the West (including Europe and America) have led to decreased happiness levels. The power of super foods and exercises is only limited to making you physically fit but the key to a healthy mind is happiness, positivism and satisfaction.

Happiness Facts
Much to your belief there is something called the “science of happiness” which clearly enables you to look within yourself and address the issues which are destroying your happiness.

Some scientific facts about “happiness” are listed here below:

• Women remain unhappy till they reach the age of 50 years where men too catch up
• Disappointment leads to unhappiness
• Happiness is measurable
• Not even one thing can make us completely happy
• Strong social connections contribute towards happiness and well-being
• Excess wants leads to unhappiness
• Happiness is a magical experience
• Wealth doesn’t completely make one happy
• Tireless journeys from home to office and back make people stressed and anxious
• Happily married couples remain happy most of the time
• Yoga and meditation techniques can calm the mind
• Friendship and bonding calls for happiness
• The religious, pious and philosophers are much happier in life than others
• Caring for others and doing good for others leads to true happiness

Authors like Cohen Sheldon from the Carnegie Mellon University are of the opinion that emotions can directly influence health by means of affecting our lifestyle choices, functioning of the immune system and the nervous system. However, he asserts that further discovery and research is required for determining whether “emotions” can influence health or trigger an illness or disease instantly.

As documented, personal wealth, successful relationships, successful careers and spirituality are the keys to happiness. Experts opine that people should start from nutritional alteration to improve their physical, mental and spiritual states.

It is believed that healthy eating habits can have an emotionally healing effect on the body. This makes us believe that happiness is a natural way of detoxifying the body from all the impurities or worries that may have accumulated over time.

Happiness has the power to make things easy for people which contributes to a stress-free life and hence a much healthier and longer life. Good health rests on our ability to do things which make us happy, satisfied and peaceful; so start now!

If you’re convinced that you’re selecting and eating the right foods, to keep lean, thin and beautiful, then you may have to reconsider your diet again. Experts opine that most people resort to unhealthy eating patterns which contribute to problems like obesity, diabetes and the like because they are always under the misconception of the food type and the impact they can have on the body.

So whether it is about eating all the wrong stuff or about eating nothing to lose weight, the result is miserable health. Pizzas, sugar-filled drinks, fatty snacks and fried foods are all major contributors to ill health and weight gain. Though kids below the age of 8 years do not always suffer from eating disorders, eventual weight gain in their childhood can force them to depend on quick loss diets or unhealthy diet patterns which ultimately prove very harmful for the body.

The American Psychiatric Association reports that about 1% of the late-adolescent women in America have been diagnosed with anorexia (low body weight with fear of gaining weight and body distortion) and 2% of the teens with Bulimia (repeated binge eating also referred to as purging).

Top 10 Unhealthy Fatty Facts You Must Know
Listed below are some 10 disturbing facts about health which throw light on the eating patterns and behavior of both children and adults in today’s society:

• The average weight of a 10 year old girl was 77 pounds (1963), now 88 pounds; the average weight of a 10 year old boy was 74 pounds, now 85 pounds.
• A 2006 study revealed that among 2000 children belonging to low-income groups from about 20 cities, every third child was found to be obese or overweight before the age of 4 years.
• Obesity is said to cause more medical complications and expenditure than smoking and drinking can says the Rand study (University of California, Los Angeles).
• A Harvard University study reveals that kids and teens consumed as much as 110-165 calories over a 10 year time span which means they gained as much as 58 pounds over this period.
• The United States Department of Agriculture claims that 2% of kids in the United States are eating healthy diets.
• A 2006 study shows that more than 250000 children below 6 years of age did not fulfill the weight standards for normal car seating arrangements.
• Studies also suggest that soft drinks consumption in 20 year-olds has increased by 300% in the United States.
• Reports suggest that 25% of vegetables consumed in the United States are in the form of French fries and chips.
• Reports also reveal that 25% of the American population believe in bingeing on fast food at least once daily.
• Finally, Americans are reported to be consuming 20% more calories than they did one generation ago which comes mainly from fats, sugar, oils, and grains.

It’s high time you realize what foods are healthy and which not. Children deserve a better life than to be sitting round screens or fast food joints. Encourage healthy eating patterns and exercises at home so that generations to come can be saved from the perils of obesity and other health complications that follow.

Dr Aurore Cote from the McGill University Health Center, Montreal (Canada) is of the opinion that prolonged sitting of infants less than one month old can cause sudden infant deaths. The study revealed that continuous sitting postures contributed to about 3% of the infant deaths.

The study which has been published in the archives of Disease in Childhood suggests that parents should take heed of not letting their kids sit too long on car seats, prams and other sitting devices.

Dr Cote and his colleagues suggest that earlier studies too have been prompt in proving that levels of oxygen in the bloodstream of an infant while sitting is maximum as compared to when the infant is laid down on a bed.

The study carried out by Dr Cote and his colleagues had much to do with a 10 year old review through the December month of 2000 in Quebec. Researchers tried to find reasons for the sudden unexplained infant deaths occurring in children between the phase of birth and 1 year. 99 infant deaths were reported to be on account of heart related problems and/or infections whereas about 409 infant deaths were still a mystery.

The research further revealed that 10 infant deaths among the unexplained group and 7 infant deaths among the explained died while infants were made to sit on the car seats or any other sitting device. However, other infant deaths occurred while the kids were lying down.

Researchers also pointed out that about 9.4% of the infants who died before the age of 1 year died while they were in a sitting position. In addition, older infants accounted for 2.4% of sudden infant deaths while sitting.

Dr Cote and his colleagues believe that sitting continuously for long hours could have led to the presence of airway or breathing problems which may ultimately caused sudden infant deaths. Researchers thereby advice all parents and caretakers to reduce the sitting time of infants less than a year old either on car seats or any other sitting devices to avoid premature death of infants.

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Sleep is very precious to health but research claims that one in three Irish people are getting less than 6 hours of sleep every night. About 500 people took part in this survey from Dublin, Galway, Cork and Limerick. The research also went onto to assert that about 32% of the Irish population aged between 26-45 years experience less than 3 hours of sleep each night and 23% getting the recommended amount of 8 hours sleep. In addition, the research also revealed that men were not getting half as much as the amount of sleep women were getting.

The revelations of the study also confirmed that older generation of people aged between 36-55 years were losing out on sleep than those aged between 26-35 years. This is a clear indication of the fact that people in their mid-careers earning the bread for other members of the family are the ones’ neglecting sleep to the maximum.

What are the Negative Impacts of Sleep Deprivation on Health?
The negative impacts of sleep deprivation on health are listed here below:

• Fatigue
• Disturbed state of mind
• Increases the risk of heart diseases
• Increases the risk of diabetes
• Increases the risk of obesity
• Increases Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Reduced concentration
• Decreasing social skills

Road safety authorities are also of the opinion that lack of sufficient sleep or drivers fatigue can cause up to 20% of the fatal crashes. Experts accept that modern life is demanding and hectic but if the body doesn’t get enough rest, it cannot fulfill the demands and challenges effectively.

Sleep is precious to everyone but in some cases people may not be able to give themselves the sleep due as a result of burdening responsibilities, harrowing schedules or timeless sleeping. Treating sleep as one of the most important daily chores or as one of your most prized possessions can save you from all mental and physical problems.

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Though numerous studies continue speculating about the dangers and benefits of sleeping less or sleeping more, there is also a cloud of sleep myths emerging. Dr Lisa Shives (medical director) from the Northshore Sleep Medicine, Evanston clearly makes a demarcation between what is true and what is not about sleeping patterns.

Top 7 Sleep Myths
Some sleep myths as perceived to be true by people are listed here below:

• One is not suffering from any sleep problem if he or she can fall asleep anywhere and at any time: Dr Shives opines that it is normal for people to take on an average about 10-20 minutes to fall asleep. Therefore, people who can fall asleep in less than 5 minutes genuinely suffer from some kind of sleep disorder.
• As we grow older, we require more sleep: This is completely not true says Dr Shives. She further explains that everyone needs the same and a minimum amount of sleep. Elderly people may have a problem getting enough sleep which can be dealt with special attention and treatment.
• Overweight men suffer from sleep apnea: This is not completely true because though men above 40 have a tendency to suffer from sleep apnea, reports from the American Sleep apnea Association suggests that 12 million Americans, of all ages suffer from sleep apnea.
• Alcohol or other beverages fetches you a good nights sleep: This is completely not true say experts because alcohol starts by making a person tired which ultimately is perceived as an effective reason for sound sleep. Instead, one can be disturbed with a fragmented pattern of sleep. Alcohol is also said to induce snoring and sleep apnea conditions.
• Going to bed early means you’re getting enough sleep: Experts believe that this is really not the case because a person gets best sleep in the first few hours of sleep. Thereby it is immaterial to connect the quality of sleep with how early or late you’ve slept.
• Teenagers sleeping late and getting up late is a sign of laziness: This again is not so true say experts but a physical condition in adolescents. Experts opine that the body naturally puts off the sleep-related hormone which in teenagers is released during the late hours of the day. So when people think of sleeping, teenagers think of waking up (source).
• The brain sleeps while we sleep: Experts opine that it is just the opposite as people perceive it to be. The brain works harder and controls major bodily functions while the body is at rest or sleeping like breathing, controlling the 2 sleep states (rapid eye movement sleep and the non-rapid eye movement sleep) – source.

Dr Shives from the Northshore Sleep Medicine also brings a significant issue forward by stating that many children are not diagnosed properly for sleep disorders. Instead, they are simply put on stimulants. In addition, insomnia may not necessarily be a final diagnosis but also a symptom of conditions like the Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome or Pickwickian Syndrome (combination of obesity, falling oxygen levels in the bloodstream and increasing carbon dioxide during sleep).

The Harvard Men’s Health Watch in its May review is peculating some connection between optimism and better health. Though a series of studies have suggested that optimists lead a better life than pessimists do, the standing verdict is that optimism does lead to a healthier life.

Studies reveal that optimism influences health in a positive way. For example, one study reported that optimistic coronary bypass patients were half the time less likely to be re-hospitalized than those who were pessimist patients. In addition, pessimist patients were 3 times more vulnerable to developing high blood pressure.

People with positive feelings were also said to have normal blood pressure levels. Pessimistic men are considered to be more likely to developing heart diseases says another study. Though all these studies glorify the presence of optimism as the key player in improving the quality of life in people, it works very much the opposite way. For example, healthy people can see things more positively as those who are ill and suffering from fatal diseases.

To neutralize this argument, scientists made other observations with regard to the medical conditions of people. They confirmed that an illness did not destroy the advantages of optimism.

One benefit of optimism has been explained to be “behavioral”. For example, if one is ill and optimistic, he or she leads a healthier and longer life because the person very consciously adapts to healthier lifestyles, establishes better social networks and hence gets better attention and treatment.

Finally, genes or hereditary factors could also play an important role in influencing elements of optimism in people. In the same way, it is genes again which determine health and longevity of a person. The Harvard Men’s Health Watch claim that further studies are required to support the fact that optimism can lead to a healthier life as other mechanisms could be involved in promoting the same.

From uncomfortable seating arrangements to poor filtered air, your workplace maybe giving your mind and body a stressful time. The eyes undoubtedly are most strained because of constant staring at the computer screens.

An ophthalmology study suggests that the computer users are open to eye risks like – tired eyes, redness and burning eyes which can lead to what is called “blurred” vision or “double” vision. The study also emphasized that computer user’s blink up to 60% less while gazing at their computer screens which leads to dry-eye symptoms.

Some ways to protect your eyes at work:

• Look away from the screen every now and then and stare at an object for at least 30 minutes
• If you feel that your eyes are really strained then apply eye drops sparingly and after consulting a doctor
• Protective eyeshades or eye glasses for a person who uses reading glasses and works for more than an hour in front of computer screens

Eye injuries or conditions are not only a result of staring continuously at computer screens but often the result of working under hazardous conditions. For instance, most of the eye injuries are caused due to – moving objects, dust particles, tools, chemicals, harmful radiation, smoke, poisonous gases, welding light, electrical arcs, etc.

For people working under dangerous conditions, protective eye wear is absolutely essential. Other options include – welding helmets, face shields, full-face respirators or goggles.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor statistics claims that about 800000 Americans suffer from eye injuries at work every year. The best way to defend yourself is to assess the dangers at work, wear eye protection and try eliminating the risks before starting your work.

Red foods like cherry juice is said to relieve joint pains says scientific evidence. About 46 million which accounts to one in five adults are diagnosed with arthritis every year and this figure is reported to increase by 40% by 2030. Celebrating the “National Arthritis Month” this May, scientists latest endeavor is to discover alternative ways to manage arthritis conditions.

Researchers from the University of Michigan are of the opinion that tart cherries do not only relieve joint pains but also help in reducing the inflammation at joints. Scientists further explain that is the property of “anthocyanins” present in tart cherries which actually help in reducing the swelling at joints.

Reports collected from other studies also reveal that foods rich in antioxidants can help reduce nitric oxide levels which are commonly associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. About 27 million people in America are said to be suffering from osteoarthritis after having attained the age of 45 years.

With the growing prevalence of arthritis with the aging American population, consumers are frantically agreeing to resort to cherry juice. A survey revealed that a whopping 81% agreed to add cherries in their regular diet.

Cherries are an easy option to deal with the symptoms of arthritis say experts. As it can be a painful and debilitating experience for many, the choice of tossing cherries in cereals or smoothies can help reduce inflammation and pain at joints.

Cherries are always available in dry, frozen or juice forms. The recommended serve is half cup (dry cherries), one cup (frozen cherries), 8 ounces or 2 tablespoons full of (cherry juice).

Not all people believe in maintaining good health because they cannot curb their desire to eat unhealthy foods. Researchers claim that proper digestive health is essential for preventing long term health complications. Numerous studies suggest that a healthy digestive tract boost the immunity levels, absorbs essential nutrients and does away with waste and harmful compounds from the body.

5 Miracle Foods for Digestion
Listed below are 5 foods that can aid digestion:

• Water: Water is considered very essential for the proper digestion of foods. Water enables digestion by allowing the nutrients from the foods to be circulated throughout the body and to allow the foods to pass easily through the intestines. During summer, experts recommend people to drink 10-14 glasses of water every day because much of fluid is lost through perspiration.
• Onions: Onions aid digestion because they are an effective source for a fiber called “inulin”, which is a healthy food for the healthy bacteria thriving in the intestines. Inulin it has been found, improves digestive health by maintaining regular bowel movements. Researchers also opine that onions help in the absorption of nutrients like calcium.
• Fiber Cereals: High fiber cereals are considered very beneficial for digestive health because they help in retaining fluid in the intestinal tract. This fluid or water enables the easy flow of wastes from your body and thereby prevents constipation.
• Beans: Beans of any size, shape or color is considered to be very healthy for digestion. Experts opine that beans are not only an excellent source of fiber which can prevent constipation but also helps essential nutrients from the foods to get emptied into the intestines. This in turn leads to a better regulation of nutrients to other parts of the body as well. Studies suggest that a steady flow of nutrients throughout the body help control conditions like diabetes, etc.
• Yogurt and Kefir (liquefied yogurt): Experts opine that fermented foods like yogurt and kefir contain live bacteria (good bacteria called probiotics) which is considered healthy for the digestive tract. Studies suggest that 70% of the digestive tract is responsible for boosting the immune system. Thereby if that much space is taken up harmful bacteria then the body will become more prone to infections.

These foods can help improve digestion which is surely going to be a boon for long-term secure health.

Gut health can be ensured only with the sufficient intakes of fibers in your diet. Scientists from the Australia Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) are of the opinion that foods eaten with Himalaya 292 starch-laden barley, can help improve bowel health by increasing the levels of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) by 57%.

A report published in the British Journal of Nutrition also suggests that the ph scale (measures the acidity, neutrality and alkalinity of a substance – less than 7 is said to be acidic, 7 shows neutrality and more than 7 shows alkalinity) of faeces decreased while the excretion of butyrate (SCFA) increased which is a leading contributor to a healthy colon mucosa.

Experts opine that starch usually gets digested and absorbed by the small intestine. Sometimes, starches which resist digestion pass into the large intestine acting like dietary fiber to regulate and balance digestive health.

About 17 volunteers were observed aged between 31 to 66 years to study bowel function improvement with the effects of barley. They were put on a diet that included whole wheat, cereals and Himalaya 292 barley.

The fiber levels were examined to be 45 in barley, 32 in whole wheat and 21 in cereals. Results of the study showed that an increased intake of fibers with the barley-rich foods increased the faecal weight by 33% while the ph scale of the faeces decreased from 7.24 to 6.98.

Your life couldn’t be devoid of those moments when you’ve tried ignoring signs and passing them off as insignificant disturbances. Though some signs like a mild cough and cold are what elders say people should suffer from that shows that the body is responding in an appropriate way, there are some signs which you just cannot afford to ignore as they can be an indication of a serious underlying problem.

10 Unhealthy Signs You Cannot Afford to Ignore
Listed below are about 10 unhealthy or unfit signs that can prove to be dangerous for you:

• Extreme Weight Loss or Weight Gain: A drastic change in body weight could be a sign of depression, an indication of a liver disease, an overactive thyroid or cancer.
• Lumps: Though swollen glands are not considered to be that harmful, experts opine that you couldn’t ignore a growing lump under your skin. For instance, a lump could be an indicator of an underlying non-cancerous growth, cancerous growth, infection, aneurysms or hernia.
• Prolonged Fever: Though high fever is not an indication of a serious illness, it still indicates the body is trying to fight against an infection. Similarly, less temperature also does not indicate less infection or illness. However, as experts recommend the doctor should be consulted for a prolonged duration of fever that usually remains stagnant and above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Headaches: Experts opine that severe headaches should not be ignored at any cost. For instance, sudden headaches which are also referred to as “thunderclap headaches”, headaches with rashes, fever, etc or headache that continues after a head injury should not be ignored at all. Headaches can be an indicator of underlying serious causes like – brain tumor, meningitis, swollen blood vessels, stroke or aneurysm.
• Bowel Change: Unexplained changes in bowel movement should be discussed with a doctor say experts. Any bowel condition like diarrhea which lasts for more than 2 days or mild diarrhea that lasts for more than a week or constipation which lasts for more than 2 weeks should not be brushed aside at any cost. Experts believe that these conditions can be an indication of colon cancer, infections or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Breathlessness: If you realize that you’re having difficulty in breathing air then you need to consult a doctor. Breathlessness could be a clear indicator of panic attacks, hypertension, pulmonary embolism, chronic bronchitis, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis or heart problems.
• Swollen, Red and Warm Joints: This sign is a clear indicator of an infection which has the tendency to spread to others areas of the body