Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, folate and potassium. Whether you like it steamed, raw or roasted, it's a healthy addition to your diet. Broccoli is typically good for several days to a week after you purchase it from the store, but there are times when you're not quite sure whether it's gone bad or not. Pay attention to all of the signs, as you may still be able to use it.
Instructions
1. Place the broccoli near your nose and inhale deeply. You might be able to smell "broccoli smell," but the odor shouldn't be too pungent. If the broccoli's gone bad, you might even be able to smell something off when you open your refrigerator.
2. Squeeze the stalk of the broccoli. Fresh broccoli should be firm to the touch and not have a lot of give. If the stem is limp, it may be past its prime.
3. Look at the color. have a dark green color. If it's starting to turn yellow, it's definitely gone bad.
Tags: broccoli should, Fresh broccoli, Fresh broccoli should, able smell, broccoli should have, green color
Colonic irrigation, also known as colon hydrotherapy, is a process in which water or other liquid solutions are injected deep into the colon to "cleanse" the colon of excess fecal matter and unhealthy bacteria and toxins. Colonic irrigation is a controversial subject, as some people believe it provides great benefits, while others believe it can be dangerous to your health. Others believe colonic irrigation should only be done in preparation for surgeries in which the colon needs to be cleared of feces.
Health Check
Before having a colonic irrigation, you should be thoroughly checked out by your primary care doctor for any health issues that may make the process dangerous for you. Problems such as hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and colorectal cancer can leave the body open to infection from colonic irrigation, especially if not performed with high levels of sanitation.
Insertion
Colonic irrigation is done using a specialized tubing system that can be inserted directly into the rectum. While lying on your side, the lubricated end of the tubing will be inserted into your rectum. The tubing is disposable and is never used for more than one patient. The colonic therapist will then slowly turn on the water system, which will deliver warm purified liquid into your colon.
Massage
While the liquid is entering your colon, the therapist may gently massage your abdomen. This is done to help break up and release any waste products from the sides of the colon walls.
Evacuation
Once you feel full, the therapist will reverse the flow of the liquid, allowing it and any accompanying waste to exit the body through natural peristalsis out of the bowels. After the liquid has been evacuated from the system, the therapist will being the process again. This will continue anywhere from a half hour to an hour, depending on the session.
Dangers
Besides diseases and medical conditions that make colonic irrigation contraindicated, the process can also be dangerous to healthy individuals. with herbs or coffee can lead to allergic or adverse reactions, potentially creating an emergency situation. Also, the use of unsanitary equipment or water can open up the colon and rectum to infection. Though colonic irrigation claims to help rid the colon of unhealthy bacteria, it also rids the colon of the healthy bacteria needed to facilitate digestion and protect the body from disease.
Co Q Enzyme 10 is also called Coenzyme Q10, CoQ10 or ubiquinone. It is an oil-soluble substance present in every animal cell, primarily in the mitochondria where it forms part of the electron transport chain necessary for cellular respiration. Because it is stored in the fatty tissues of animals, the best food sources of CoQ10 are healthy animal fats like fish oil.
Significance
In addition to its role in cellular respiration, CoQ10 is believed to have antioxidant anti-aging effects, which is why it is present in many topical skin care products. It is an antihistamine, and sometimes is prescribed for allergies, asthma or respiratory disease. Co Q Enzyme 10 helps create ideal conditions for lysosomal function, an important immune system response.
Fish
Fish often are cited as the best source for CoQ10 because their oils are sources of other essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, and are generally considered healthy. Mackerel, tuna, salmon, sardines, herring and trout are all good food sources of Co Q Enzyme 10, containing 1 to 2 milligrams per 3-ounce serving. There is no recommended daily intake value for CoQ10, but 3 to 5mg daily is considered normal.
Meat
Red meat, which is relatively fatty, is a good source of CoQ10. A 3-ounce serving of beef has about 2.5mg. Even higher concentrations, though, can be found in organ meats like liver, kidney, heart and brains, which contain 2 to 3 milligrams per ounce. Since these fats also create risks for heart disease, they should be consumed in moderation. Chicken, which is somewhat leaner, has about 1.4mg per 3-ounce serving.
Vegetarian Sources
There are some vegetarian sources of Co Q Enzyme 10 as well. Broccoli and cauliflower each have about 0.5mg of CoQ10 per half cup. Soybean and canola oils have more than 1mg per tablespoon. Peanuts, sesame seeds and pistachios have between 0.5 and 1.0mg per ounce. Spinach is another commonly cited source of CoQ10.
Supplements
Therapeutic doses of Co Q Enzyme 10 range from 100 to 300mg per day to as high as 3,000mg per day under doctor supervision. Clearly, these levels are impossible to reach without dietary supplements. Digestion of CoQ10 supplements is as low as 10 percent, although it is higher when taken with fatty meals. CoQ10 supplements are available without a prescription in the United States.
Vitamin B12 shots, which go by the generic name Cyanocobalamin and hydroxocobalamin often are administered to treat B12 deficiencies or as a supplement for patients who require higher levels of the vitamin due to a chronic disease. While there are rarely any side effects to taking oral doses of the vitamin, some people may suffer adverse reactions to B12 shots.
Mild Side Effects
Some relatively mild adverse reactions to vitamin B12 shots include temporary pain and a sensation of warmth at the site of the shot. The patient may also experience nervousness and anxiety. If these side effects persist, then the patient must seek medical attention form a doctor or pharmacist.
Benzyl Alcohol
When the B12 shot is administered to a newborn baby in the first few months of its life, the baby can have an adverse reaction to benzyl alcohol, a preservative that is contained in the vitamin B12 shot. Symptoms of an adverse reaction include a slow heartbeat, low blood pressure and sudden gasping for breath. The risk of an adverse reaction is even higher if the infant has a low birth weight, and it can sometimes lead to death. Ideally, the baby should be administered a B12 shot that does not use benzyl alcohol as a preservative.
Allergic Reaction
Some people may suffer adverse allergic reactions to the B12 shot, including difficulty breathing, chest pain or swelling of the tongue, throat, lips and face. These allergic reactions are infrequent, but can be serious. They occur because the different formulations of B12 shots, including hydroxycobalamin and cyanocobalamin, are synthetically derived formulations of the naturally-occurring vitamin B. In this case, the patient should instead take oral forms of B12 supplement, which typically do not cause allergic reactions.
Leber's Disease
Vitamin B12 shots may aggravate the progression of Leber's disease. Also referred to as Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), Leber's disease is a hereditary condition in which the individual's optic nerve gradually wastes away, progressively deteriorating the individual's vision. B12 shots can increase the rate of the nerve's atrophy, causing an even faster loss of vision.
Rosacea
B12 injections are especially used to administer high doses of the vitamin, commonly in amounts as high as 1,000mg. The National Institutes of Health report that high doses of B12 have been found to trigger a rare form of rosacea called rosacea conglobata. The report cite a case involving a 17-year old girl (See Resources section below.). The patient may also suffer a breakout of a skin rash or hives.
Know the relationship between IU and strength of vitamins and drugs.
Many consumers take vitamin and mineral supplements. The amount used for supplementation varies greatly depending on the particular vitamin or supplement. Common units of measure for vitamins and supplements are IU (international unit), milligrams (mg) and mcg (micrograms). IU defines the amount of a vitamin, mineral or drug that shows the same biological activity as a specified amount (weight) of the vitamin, supplement or drug. Milligrams and micrograms are units of weight or mass in the metric system.
Instructions
1. Convert from milligrams to micrograms. By definition 1,000 mcg = 1 mg. Multiply the number of milligrams by 1,000 to find the micrograms. For example, convert 2.56 mg to micrograms: 2.56 X 1,000 = 2,560 mcg.
2. Divide the number of micrograms by 1,000 to find the number of milligrams. For example, convert 526 mcg to milligrams: 526 / 1,000 = 0.526 mg.
3. Determine the number of milligrams that a number of IUs represent. One IU represents an amount (milligrams) of the vitamin, supplement or drug that yields the same biological activity. This amount is different for every vitamin, supplement or drug, so there is no definite formula for this conversion, but the process is the same. For example, assume that 1 IU of vitamin E = 0.671 mg of vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol). Find the number of milligrams in 150 IUs of vitamin E. You can find the milligrams of vitamin E by multiplying the number of IUs by the equivalent amount of vitamin E in milligrams: 0.671 mg/IU X 150 IU = 100.65 mg of vitamin E.
4. Find the number of IUs that are equivalent to a defined amount (mg) of a vitamin, supplement or drug. Because you are dealing with IUs again, you require the same information as before to make any conversion. Assume you are working with vitamin E again but this time you need to find the number of IUs of vitamin E that equals 335.5 mg vitamin E. Substituting the known information into the following equation yields 335.5 mg / 0.671 mg/IU = 500 IU.
In ayurvedic medicine, the system of holistic health derived from Indian philosophy, all matter is organized into three main qualities, or doshas. Each person is made up of a unique blending of these three doshas. In most people, one dosha predominates, affecting personality and body type. Health lies in balancing all three. Follow these steps to balance the three doshas.
Instructions
1. Determine your predominant dosha (See the related eHow article, "Determine Your Ayurvedic Dosha"). Vata dosha is associated with coolness, dryness and activity; pitta dosha is sharp, hot and quick; kapha dosha has the qualities of heaviness, coolness and stability. Take an online quiz or see an ayurvedic practitioner to find out which dosha predominates in you, so you can tailor your balancing strategies.
2. Choose complementary foods to balance your doshas. Vata dosha people should choose sweet vegetables, nuts and cooked cereals, and cook foods in olive oil; they should limit salads or raw foods and dry foods like crackers or dry cereal. If your predominant dosha is pitta, balance the heat with sweet fruit juices, dairy products, bitter vegetables and dry foods; avoid salty and sour foods and hot spices. Balance kapha with bean soups and clear broths, broccoli, greens and crunchy foods like radishes and apples; watch grains, fats and salt, and limit sweets to a little honey.
3. Restore balance with herbs and essential oils. If your predominant dosha is vata, use ginger as a balancing spice and choose sweet orange or lavender for aromatherapy. Pitta people benefit from the cooling herb dandelion root, and should surround themselves with scents of sandalwood and rose. Clove is a good balancing spice for kapha people, who also benefit from the energizing scents of juniper and rosemary.
4. Balance your life. Vata people require regular schedules and lots of sleep to balance their active, sometimes restless nature; they should take care to keep warm in winter and to moisturize dry skin and hair. Pitta people need to stay cool by wearing natural fibers, and choose cooling exercise like swimming; if pitta is your dominant dosha, get to bed early, and balance your tendency to workaholism by scheduling time for play. Kapha people can jump start their slower metabolism with regular exercise, early rising and developing new interests and hobbies; if you are a kapha type, exfoliate regularly and drink warm water to cleanse your system.
5. See an ayurvedic practitioner. If your doshas are severely imbalanced, you may need to explore a prescribed diet, herbal treatments or other cleansing practices.
Tags: predominant dosha, your predominant, dosha, ayurvedic practitioner, balance your, balancing spice, benefit from
Vitamins are an important part of a balanced diet, but they can also help with weight loss. The B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin D/calcium can help enhance metabolism, boost the immune system and help reduce fat storage. Adding these vitamins to your diet can help you achieve your weight loss goals quicker and more effectively, while helping your body to function at its highest ability.
B Vitamins
The B vitamins (B2, B3, B5 and B6) are pivotal in helping to boost metabolism and thyroid function. Vitamin B2, riboflavin and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) are necessary for the proper production of the thyroid hormone. A thyroid imbalance can lead to weight gain. Vitamin B3 (niacin) helps regulate thyroid hormone production as well as sugar levels. Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) plays a role in releasing energy from fats, carbohydrates and starches. A deficiency of this vitamin results in low energy and listlessness.
The recommended dosages of B vitamins are as follows: 1.7 milligrams of riboflavin, 13 to 18 milligrams of niacin, 10 milligrams of pantothenic acid and 2 milligrams of pyridoxine per day.
Vitamin C
When the body is functioning properly, it can utilize the fat-burning process better, and vitamin C assists in various ways. Vitamin C is known for its many health properties, including boosting immunity and fighting against infection, but it also plays an important role in weight loss. Vitamin C has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels in the body, which can help maintain a healthy heart. It also is a component in glucose conversion, providing the necessary energy to cells. This energy is what helps the body effectively burn off fat and excess sugars.
Along with vitamin D and calcium, vitamin C helps with bone maintenance, which contributes to prevention of injury during exercise. Vitamin C also helps to improve the absorption of iron from food, which means a healthier blood supply to the body. While these methods indirectly assist weight loss, they are important, nonetheless. The recommended dosage for the average person is 60 milligrams per day.
Calcium/Vitamin D
Calcium helps reduce the likelihood of insulin-resistance syndrome and helps ward off fat retention. Evidence has shown that a diet high in calcium can fend off midlife weight gain by reducing fat storage. According to Angelo Tremblay, holder of the Canada Research Chair in Environment and Energy Balance, women who did not receive the recommended daily allowance of calcium had thicker waistlines, were more inclined to obesity and had more body fat. Since most individuals do not receive the recommended daily dosage, they put themselves at risk for weight gain. Simply incorporating low-fat or skim dairy products or a calcium supplement into your diet can help eliminate fat already stored on the body and prevent fat storage in the future. The recommended dosage for the average person is 1,000 milligrams per day.
Tags: weight gain, weight loss, average person, average person milligrams, diet help, dosage average
Your urinary tract system has many important functions, including flushing out and filtering toxins. The normal urinary output for most adults is around six cups a day, assuming you are getting the adequate eight glasses of water a day. There can be many reasons for decreased urinary flow, but increasing it can be easy and done by taking a few simple steps.
Instructions
1. Determine what may be causing your decreased flow. If you have difficulty urinating and have a burning or painful sensation, you might have an infection and need to see your doctor for diagnosis. If you have urinary hesitation, this means you get nervous urinating in certain situations and are otherwise healthy. You may also be dehydrated and not putting enough water into your system.
2. Keep a diary. Keeping a diary of your urine flow and symptoms can give you clues to the problem. If you try steps to increase flow, the diary can show which ones are having the most effect. If none is helping, it may show that you have an underlying health problem that needs diagnosis.
3. Ensure you are drinking plenty of water. The recommended amount is eight glasses of water a day, and at this rate you should be expelling six to seven cups of urine. Drinking water will help flush your urinary system and increase flow. If you already drink a day, try increasing to 10 to 12 glasses to increase flow.
4. Apply a hot compress. A hot compress, such as a hot water bottle or heating pad, applied to the lower abdomen can help stimulate your urinary tract system. If you feel the urge to urinate but are having difficulty for any reason, apply the hot compress and gently massage the lower abdomen for about 15 minutes to try to get urine flowing.
5. Avoid salt. As part of increasing your hydration, try to eliminate high-sodium, salty foods, which can dehydrate you. Also try to avoid alcoholic beverages, as these can cause dehydration.
6. Drink one to two glasses of cranberry juice a day. Cranberry juice has been found to have cleansing properties for your urinary . It can help aid in production and filtration and keep your system healthy, which will help ward off infections that can cause decreased urine flow. You can also try taking cranberry supplements daily instead of drinking juice. Supplements can be found at most health food stores.
7. Try listening to running water. The sound of running water, such as from a tap, can sometimes trigger urinary flow as your mind associates the sound with urination. You can try running your tap, or you can even purchase tapes that have sounds of running water, such as relaxation tapes, which will help relax your body and stimulate the urge to urinate.
8. If you are still having difficulty with urination, make an appointment with your doctor and make sure you bring your urination diary with you to show your doctor the steps you've been taking. This will help a quicker diagnosis.
Tags: will help, eight glasses, increase flow, running water, tract system
Leg cramps are involuntary contractions of your leg muscles. Whatever the cause, a person can get relief by getting enough nutrients in their diet.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E can help aid poor circulation that might be another cause of leg cramps. You can get vitamin E by taking a supplement or eating foods rich in this nutrient. It is recommended to take 30 to 600 a day.
Magnesium
Magnesium is normally stored in muscle and bones. You can eat food rich in magnesium or take it in supplement form. Depending on test results and a person's leg cramps symptoms, it is usually recommended to take 400 mg up to three times a day.
Calcium
Calcium works by helping the muscles to contract. It is recommended to take 800 to 1,200 mg in supplement form, but you can also get calcium by eating foods with calcium or drinking milk. Try taking magnesium and calcium together for best results.
Zinc
Zinc deficiency can also be a cause of leg cramps. Start by taking 20 mg a day or more if your doctor recommends it.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D can help your body take in calcium and magnesium. Start with taking 1,000 to 2,000 international units a day or more if your doctor recommends it.
Tags: recommended take, , doctor recommends, eating foods, international units, more your, more your doctor
Vitamin A is one of two vitamins that can present problems if a cat ingests excessive amounts.
Typically, vitamin A toxicity in an adult cat occurs when the animal eats too much food that contains excessive amounts of liver. It also can occur if the cat has been given inappropriate amounts of supplements that contain vitamin A, such as fish liver oils, according to the veterinary website PetPlace.com. Cats that experience vitamin A toxicity usually display the same symptoms; however, the only way to know for sure is through a blood test.
Instructions
1. Observe your cat. Watch for any behavioral changes such as lethargy, anorexia and constipation. These are all signs of vitamin A toxicity.
2. Look for any physical problems developing in your cat. Cats with vitamin A lose weight, limp on the front legs, become sensitive in the neck and forelimb areas, and display stiffness.
3. Take your cat to its veterinarian for blood tests. The vet can run tests that will check the amounts of vitamin A in your cat's blood.
Tags: vitamin toxicity, , toxicity usually, vitamin toxicity usually
These are kidney stones of various shapes and sizes.
The pain of kidney stones has been compared to the excruciating pain of child birth. No one wants to go through weeks or months of suffering, so home remedies for dissolving kidney stones are becoming quite popular. There are a few ways to dissolve your kidney stones at home, which may save you a trip to the doctor.
The Facts
Kidney stones are made up of mineral deposits and acid salts. They are small and hard, and can be found on the inner surfaces of your kidneys. Kidney stones form when the urine is concentrated to the point where it can no longer dissolve the mineral deposits and acid salts. These substances then crystallize, stick together and a kidney stone is formed. There are five different types of kidney stones: calcium phosphate stones, calcium oxalate stones, magnesium ammonium phosphate stones, uric acid stones and cystine stones.
Vitamins
Vitamin C is useful for dissolving kidney stones. Taking vitamin C makes your urine more acidic, which breaks down the stones. If you have calcium phosphate stones or magnesium ammonium phosphate stones, get your daily fill of vitamin C. B-complex vitamins and magnesium help to dissolve calcium oxalate stones.
Diet
The most important step in dissolving any type of kidney stone is to increase your fluid intake. Drinking the recommended 64 ounces of water per day is beneficial for every part of your body, including your kidneys. Fruit and vegetable juices are healthy for you and they can assist the body in breaking down kidney stones. Grape, orange and carrot juices are the best to drink for this condition. Also, eat plenty of fresh vegetables, but avoid spinach and rhubarb because they contain large amounts of oxalates, which can cause kidney stones. Large amounts of sugar can cause obesity, diabetes and kidney stones. Lower your sugar intake and don't drink carbonated beverages.
Herbal Tea
Tea has many healing qualities, and can help break down your kidney stones. A special diuretic tea that is made of corn silk, dandelion, fennel seed, oat straw and nettle leaf can dissolve the stones and give you relief. To make the tea, mix 1/2 teaspoon of each herb together and pour one quart of boiling water over the mixture. Cover the mixture and let it cool for 20 minutes before filtering. Drink 1 cup of tea in the morning and in the evening.
Chromium picolinate is a trace mineral. Our bodies need only a small amount of chromium picolinate to stabilize blood sugar levels. Having a deficiency of this element is rare. If you're pregnant, you only need about 30 micrograms a day. You can likely get that amount when you take prenatal vitamins. Studies done on mice show that taking too much chromium picolinate during pregnancy may endanger the fetus, possibly causing birth defects. To avoid taking too much chromium picolinate during pregnancy, follow these steps.
Instructions
1. Stop taking chromium picolinate supplements as soon as you find out you're pregnant. Talk to your doctor about taking prenatal vitamins. You'll likely get enough chromium picolinate by taking them.
2. Read the labels on all the other supplements and multi-vitamins you take. Make sure none of them contain chromium picolinate.
3. Write up a list of foods that are high in chromium picolinate. The list will help you remember what foods to avoid or limit. Sources high in the mineral include whole-grain breads and cereals, asparagus, spinach, some mushrooms, oysters, meat, cheeses and peanut butter. One tablespoon of peanut butter contains 41 micrograms of .
Tags: chromium picolinate, chromium picolinate, chromium picolinate during, during pregnancy, much chromium, much chromium picolinate
Dry, cracked heels are very common, usually caused by dry skin. The skin that surrounds the sides of your feet becomes dry, they crack and as a result, you have cracked heels.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of cracked heels are hardened skin on the outer edge of the heel, yellow or dark skin on the heel, pain in thin-soled or open-back shoes, red or flaky patches on the heel of the foot, and peeling and cracked skin.
Significance
Interestingly, cracked heels can indicate a nutritional deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and other vitamins and minerals.
Prevention/Solution
It is important for people to have a diet rich in calcium, iron, zinc and omega-3 fats. are not naturally produced by our bodies, so we must get them through food or supplements.
Nutrition
Here is list of foods that can help avoid deficiencies that may cause cracked heels:
Foods rich in vitamin E include: vegetable oils, green vegetables, cereals, wheat germ, whole-grain products and nuts.
For calcium: milk, cheese, yogurt, goat's milk, fortified soy milk, mineral water, ice cream, tinned fish, juices, cereals and broccoli.
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in cold-water fish, flaxseed oil and flax seeds.
Conclusion
In most cases, cracked heels occur because of wear and tear, or neglect in taking care of our feet. Cracked feet can be easily healed through proper care and nutrition.
According to statistics, lung cancer claims the lives of more people each year than all other types of cancer combined. In 2004, 108,355 men received a lung cancer diagnosis. Sadly, 89, 575 of those men died from the disease. Such high percentage reflects the need to take preventive measures. Fortunately, you may be able to prevent lung cancer by supplementing your diet with vitamins.
Instructions
1. Include plenty of foods rich in beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. It has the ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce the risk of stomach and lung cancer. Preferably, you should obtain this pro-vitamin from foods like fruit and green vegetables. If this is not possible, supplementation is your next best option.
2. Consider vitamin C supplements. Vitamin C suppresses and protects DNA in cells from damage. Tumors can only survive if free radicals are present. Antioxidants destroy those free radicals.
3. Take vitamin E supplements. It destroys free radicals before they damage cells. Vitamin E plays an important part in immune system function, metabolic processes and DNA repair. All these factors are important in the prevention of lung cancer.
4. Consume an adequate amount of B vitamins. All B vitamins work synergistically with each other and serve as catalysts for other vitamins. They allow the body to perform normal functions, and if these body functions fail, the body becomes susceptible to disease, including lung cancer.
Proper nutrition is vital for bone health. Bones increase in both size and mass until about the age of 30, according to the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements. The NIH also says a proper diet is essential to delay and prevent serious bone disorders such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia in adults, and rickets in children. There are a number of vitamins and minerals found in foods and nutritional supplements that help to rebuild and maintain healthy bones, including calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, potassium and vitamin K.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for healthy bones. The vast majority of the body's calcium supply is stored in the bones and teeth, where it supports their structure, according to the NIH. The body also uses calcium stores to maintain normal biological functions. So if calcium intake or absorption is low, bone loss will occur. If bones lose enough calcium over time, osteopenia or osteoporosis can develop.
Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by porous and fragile bones. The NIH reports that it is a serious public health problem for more than 10 million adults in the U.S. The NIH adds that another 34 million Americans have osteopenia--a precursor to osteoporosis.
Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheese, are excellent sources of calcium. Broccoli is also rich in calcium. A number of foods are also fortified with calcium, including orange juice, tofu, and many breakfast cereals. Calcium is also sold as a dietary supplement, and is found in several medications, including antacids.
Magnesium
Magnesium is also vital for bone health. Roughly half of the body's magnesium stores are found in bone. According to the NIH, evidence suggests that magnesium deficiency alters calcium metabolism and may contribute to osteoporosis. Studies also show that density may improve with magnesium supplementation.
Spinach and other green vegetables are rich in magnesium. A number of legumes, such as green beans and nuts, as well as whole grains are also good sources of magnesium.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for proper calcium absorption. It enables the mineralization of bone and is needed for bone growth. The NIH warns that without sufficient vitamin D, bones can become thin, brittle or misshapen. Vitamin D helps prevent the softening of bones--a disorder known as rickets in children or osteomalacia in adults. Long-term vitamin D deficiency also contributes to osteoporosis.
Vitamin D does not occur naturally in many foods. Cheese and egg yolks contain small amount of vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight is the most common way people obtain adequate amounts of vitamin D. Many Americans also use fortified foods as a source of vitamin D. For example, most milk sold in the U.S. is fortified with vitamin D. Other fortified foods include, cereals, orange juice, yogurt, and margarine. Many calcium supplements include vitamin D, as well.
Potassium
Potassium promotes bone health by preventing the excretion of calcium in urine, feces and sweat. Adding potassium to a high-sodium diet may also help preserve calcium and bone mass.
Apricots, raisins, figs, bananas, avocado, potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli, tuna and halibut are all potassium-rich foods.
Vitamin K
Research reveals that vitamin K plays a key role in bone health, according to the NIH. Studies show that vitamin K is critical for the production of osteocalcin--an essential calcium-binding protein in bone. Moreover, vitamin K may increase bone mineral density and prevent fractures due to bone loss.
Spinach, asparagus, broccoli, peas and carrots are all good sources of vitamin K.
Tags: bone health, also fortified, bone loss, bone mineral, bone mineral density
Suffering from allergies while pregnant can be frustrating as it can be difficult to know what is safe and what is not. Many doctors recommend completely abstaining from allergy medications during the first trimester while the baby's organs are forming. Be sure to consult with your doctor before taking any medications for allergies. Take only the recommended dosages.
Antihistamines
Certain antihistamines can be used during pregnancy. These include diphenhydramine, which is more commonly known as Benadryl. You can also take chlorpheniramine, which is found in Chlortrimetron. Doctors' opinions differ on newer medications such as Zyrtec, Claritin and Allegra. These drugs are classified as Category B drugs, which indicates that studies in pregnant animals show no side effects, but no human studies are available.
Decongestants
Some decongestants are considered safe during pregnancy. Pseudophedrine, also known as Sudafed, is considered safe by most doctors during the second and third trimesters. Do not use during the first trimester because it can cause a greater risk for gastroschisis, a condition in which digestive organs can grow outside of the abdominal area. This drug is classified as a Category C drug, meaning that studies in pregnant animals may show adverse effects, but the benefits may outweigh the risks.
Allergy Shots
Most likely, if you take allergy shots, your doctor will have you continue them. However, it is not recommended that you start allergy shots during pregnancy. Doctors usually recommend reducing the dosage by about half of what is normally given. One side effect that doctors worry about is anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction, which can affect the fetus.
Natural Remedies
Some natural remedies are safe to use . These include saline and a humidifier. Saline is safe because it is basically salt water. Place a few drops in your nostrils a few times a day to congestion. Cool-mist humidifiers or vaporizers also help ease congestion. Use it at night. Be careful if you choose a vaporizer because they release warm air and can cause burns. Also, do not put any oils in your vaporizer without first consulting with your doctor.
Other Remedies
If you do not want to take any form of medication, there are other remedies you can try. Avoid your allergy triggers. If you are allergic to outdoor pollens, do not spend time outside in the early morning hours when pollen counts are the highest. Also, if you smoke, consider quitting. It will help ease your allergies, and your fetus will develop in a healthier environment. Avoid secondhand smoke, which can also cause allergies to become worse. Uses an air purifier to help get rid of allergens in the air inside your home.
Tags: during pregnancy, help ease, your doctor, allergy shots, , classified Category
B vitamins might be one of the greatest secrets of weight loss. A B vitamin complex--a combination of eight B vitamins--helps your metabolism and digestion in a way that if coupled with a few lifestyle changes can result in weight loss. If you are interested in trying this method to shed some pounds, here are some steps you can take.
Instructions
1. Choose a Vitamin B Complex. B vitamins are available individually, and each helps a different bodily function. But for best results, find a complex pill or powder and take it at the recommended intervals for your body type as dictated on the directions.
2. Add an exercise regimen to your life along with regular Vitamin B Complex routine. By exercising, you give your new vitamin supplements the added boost they need for success. Exercise increases your metabolism along with the vitamins, so the combination will help shed pounds.
3. Eliminate refined sugars from your diet. Choose sweet foods that are naturally sugared. Refined sugars are converted to fat and will battle the positive effects of Vitamin B. For example, an apple contains natural sugars, while a can of soda contains refined sugars.
4. Remove highly caffeinated items from your diet. The negative effects that caffeine has on your body’s metabolism may keep your Vitamin B Complex from fully helping you to lose weight. There are several options to replace these items, including organic decaffeinated coffee.
5. Boost your body’s level of Vitamin B by seeking out foods that contain this vitamin naturally along with your supplement and exercise routine. Oats, barley, wheat, avocado, salmon and nuts are all excellent sources of foods that are rich in various forms of Vitamin B. This addition to your diet will aid in the weight loss process.
Tags: Vitamin Complex, along with, foods that, weight loss, your body, your diet, from your
Ask your band or DJ to play songs that were popular at the time.
A 40th high school reunion is a big celebration. It's a time when you can see what everyone has been up to, and possibly the only time you spend with those you went to high school with. During high school, music may have played an important role in the experience of your class, so it's important to choose carefully.
School Songs
Ask the current, or past, school band to play the high school's fight song. Ask everyone to sing along. You can put the lyrics on a screen for those who don't remember the words. If you had other songs played at games or in band and choir, play those at the reunion as well.
Music Eras
Build playlists or ask the disc jockey to play songs that were popular during the time you were in high school. A reunion is meant to be a blast from the past, so play the songs during your celebration that were used at dances and on the radio. Ask people to dance as if it were the 1970s again. You can even ask the students what songs they want to hear at the reunion, or hire a band or a DJ willing to take requests.
Memory Songs
If you want to add a modern twist to your 40th high school reunion, play songs about graduating and moving on with life. For example "Time" by Backstreet Boys, "I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan or "Graduation" by Vitamin C. These are all songs anyone who graduated high school and wants to keep in touch with old friends, at any age, can relate to.
Local Bands
Those 40th high school reunions that include classmates who had music careers of any level should incorporate this music into the reunion. Ask the musicians to play live or ask them to submit songs they performed via CD or digital files. It shows you are proud of your classmates and their success.
Tags: high school, play songs, 40th high school, high school reunion, , 40th high, band play
When was the last time you looked at Mom or Dad's medicine cabinet? Does he or she use a weekly pill dispenser? Have you checked to see how many pills your parent is supposed to take on a daily basis? If you haven't, you're likely to be surprised.
Many individuals, but most often seniors, are prescribed at least three to four medications to take on a . They may run the gamut from antihypertensives to cardiac or diabetic medications to minerals and vitamins.
Mixing drugs can be harmful in the least and deadly at the worst. Make sure you and your parent know what each drug, medication or vitamin he is taking does, how it works and how they interact with each other.
Learn properly oversee medication for an elderly parent to make sure interactions don't occur and cause more problems for your parent's health.
Instructions
1. Make a list of every medication your parent is taking. Also write down nonprescription items such as vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements. If your parent takes an occasional over the counter (OTC) allergy or cold medicine, write that down, too. The list should contain the name of the medication or drug, it's current dosage and how many times a day the medication is taken.
2. Take the list of medications (including those over the counter) to each of your parent's doctors or other health care providers. Many times, one doctor is unaware of what another doctor has prescribed for your parent. Make sure every doctor, dentist and pharmacy that your parent uses has a copy of this list of medications.
3. Visit the doctor with your parent, if possible, or designate a friend, sibling or other family member to go along. Make sure that if any meds or dosages are changed, that your parent's other doctors or health care providers are also advised of the change(s).
4. Educate yourself and your parent about what prescribed medications are supposed to do. How do they work? What should he avoid while taking such medications? For example, some medications can't be taken with grapefruit juice or milk. Always ask the doctor or pharmacist about interactions with current medications.
5. Learn the basics about the prescription and over-the-counter medications and drugs in your parent's medicine cabinet. Learn the generic name and the trade name of pills. What are side effects of any particular medication? Pharmacies are more than happy to provide such information to customers and consumers.
Tags: your parent, care providers, daily basis, health care, health care providers, list medications
Supplements can be an affordable way to treat many conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome. Vitamin B6 helps your body form blood cells and several important amino acids. Follow some general guidelines when you use vitamin B6 to treat carpal tunnel syndrome because too much of it can be unhealthy.
Instructions
1. Look for foods that contain vitamin B6 and add them to your diet. Some breakfast cereals have as much as 2 mg, which is slightly over the total recommended daily value for most people. Potatoes, bananas and most beans also contain large amounts of vitamin B6.
2. Shop for a multi-vitamin that has a large amount of B6. You want to take between 10 to 25 mg of the vitamin per day to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. You may be able to find multi-vitamins with extra amounts of B2 and B12, which help the chemical reactions that involve B6.
3. See if you can find health drinks that contain the daily value of vitamin B6. Many of these drinks are primarily composed of water, so they will help keep you hydrated too.
4. Take your vitamins in the morning with a small breakfast. At the very least you should eat a piece of toast or a breakfast bar, as your body has an easier time processing vitamins if there is something else in your stomach.
5. Ask your doctor before taking vitamin B6 supplements if you are on any prescription medication. The use of large amounts of vitamin B6 to treat carpal tunnel syndrome can interfere with some other treatments. Generally, as long as you are taking less than 50 mg of B6 per day, the risk of interference is fairly low.
6. Expect to take vitamin B6 for several weeks before feeling any results. The effects of this supplement on carpal tunnel can be very subtle and work best when used with other treatments.
7. Continue to use vitamin B6 after your symptoms clear up. A sudden cutoff of the supplement could give your body a vitamin deficiency and bring your carpal tunnel symptoms back.
Tags: carpal tunnel, tunnel syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, treat carpal tunnel, your body
Warehouse stores have come into their own during the past decade. They offer the consumer a great outlet to save money and get everything they need all in one place. In today's trying times of economic uncertainty, business owners, families and even single people get more bang for their buck by being able to buy items in large amounts.
Function
The main function of warehouse stores is to offer small businesses and large families a way to buy items in large amounts for discount prices. To shop at warehouse stores, a membership is needed. Along with this membership also come discounts on other things, such as airfare, car rentals, cruises and hotels.
Types
Three of the biggest and most popular warehouse stores in North America are Costco, Sam's Club and BJ's Wholesale Club.
Costco warehouse stores are the largest, size-wise, averaging about 141,000 square feet per store. Costco operates 546 locations in eight countries, including Japan, Korea and Canada. The company employs about 142,000 employees worldwide and grosses more than $72 billion annually.
Sam's Club is a division of Wal-Mart. Currently, there are 7390 locations and they range in size from 110,000 to 130,000 square feet. Wal-Mart and Sam's Club combined operate in 14 countries, offering employment to more than 2 million people.
BJ's Wholesale started in 1984. It ismainly located on the East Coast and has 175 stores in 16 states.
Features
All warehouse stores have similar offerings and the same structure. They are large buildings with products that are packaged in extra-large boxes, bags, containers and bottles. Some of the common products that they offer are food, cosmetics, clothes, music, electronics, computers, gas, tires, oil changes and interior products. Products are also bulked together in cases and extra-large shopping carts are available to accommodate the larger items.
Identification
One great thing about Costco stores is that they always have a lot of product sampling. This is not actually done by Costco employees, but is outsourced to independent contractors. Expect to see a variety of cheese, chips, meats, salsas, ice cream and vitamin drinks when shopping there.
Benefits
One of the benefits of warehouse stores is the convenience of being able to buy in bulk. This can cause less trips to the store and in turn save on gas money if the store is a distance away. Speaking of gas, they also offer gas at a discounted price.
Another big benefit of warehouse stores is overall price savings. Being that items are sold in larger amounts and quantities, they are sold at cheaper prices. Stores display the unit prices as well to show the significance of the savings.
Tags: warehouse stores, being able, items large, items large amounts, large amounts, more than
Vitamin B12 injections, also called cyanocobalamin injections, are admistered to persons suffering from smptoms of Vitamin B 12 deficiency, which can include advanced age, anemia and chronic fatique syndrome. Side effects are varied, and are generally mild. During the adminsistration of Vitamin B12 injections to neonates, life threatening respiratory effects can occur.
Instructions
1. Expect some pain at the site of the injection. Vitamin B12 injections must be administered in a manner known as an "intramuscular" injection. This is a very deep injection that results in pain, warmth and sometimes itching at the site of the injection.
2. Be on guard for a feeling of tightness in the chest, palpitations, or rapid heartbeat can be side effects of Vitamin B12 injections.
3. Watch for gastrological side effects. Mild diarrhea, upset stomach and nausea may occur with the injection of Vitamin B12. These are among the more common but mild side effects of Vitamin B12 injections.
4. Monitor the patient for toxicity. Also known as cyanocobalmin, there is some conjecture that the cyano part of cobalomin is related to cyanide, which is extremely poisonous. Thus it may be toxic to cells.
5. Check for respiratory problems. The most serious side effect of Vitamin B12 injections is not caused by the vitamin itself, but by the preservative in the injection solution, which is benzyl alcohol. This can cause shortness of breath, coughing and wheezing. When administered to newborns, especially those with low birthweight, the symptoms of slow heatbeat, sudden gasping or low blood pressure indicates a serious respiratory effect that, if not treated immediately, can result in death.
Tags: Effects Vitamin Injections, Identify Side, Identify Side Effects, injection Vitamin, side effects
B12 is a vitamin that helps produce red blood cells and is needed for healthy nerves. It is found in meat and dairy products. B12 shots are given to patients who need to battle a deficiency. People who have chronic medical conditions such as pernicious anemia, Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, chronic ulcerative colitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, stress and skin problems need B12 shots at times. Strict vegetarians, older adults with atrophic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) and infants of malnourished pregnant mothers or strict vegetarians may require B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 has also become a fad supplement for dieters and people who are seeking energy boosts.
Significance
Vitamin B12 injections are needed to help patients gain the needed vitamin absorption to fight deficiency. B12 shots must be injected into the large muscle of the upper arm. They should be given at a doctor's office. A doctor can decide to have a nurse train the patient to give self-injections. A B12 self-injection can be awkward until the patient learns control the arm muscle and the syringe.
B12 Deficiency Symptoms
B12 and vitamin deficiency anemia symptoms can include muscle weakness, loss of balance manifested in unsteady movements and falls that can result in serious injury. Other possible symptoms are fatigue, memory loss, constipation, loss of appetite, irritability, sore tongue or mouth, pale or yellowing skin, numb or tingling feet or hands. Several diseases, conditions such as a lack of intrinsic factor or a tapeworm can cause a B12 deficiency. Intrinsic factor, a much-needed protein, goes from the stomach to the intestine, partnering with B12, enabling it to travel into the bloodstream. B12 requires intrinsic factor to be able to move into the bloodstream.
Function
The patient that requires vitamin B12 shots will either have appointments to see the nurse once a month or more frequently to receive the injection. The patient who can self-administer B12 shots will meet with the doctor who will write a prescription for syringes and small vials or bottles of liquid B12. The patient will open a single dose bottle and withdraw the B12 with the needle at home. Alcohol pads are needed to sterilize the upper arm to prevent bacteria from entering the injection site. Needles must be disposed of as they are a biohazard. Request a container to do so if you are prescribed B12 shots.
Untreated Deficiency
If a patient neglects to follow the doctor's orders and receive B12 injections or shots, there are serious repercussions. The patient's health may deteriorate further. Permanent nerve damage can take place when the body has a B12 deficiency. Falls due to loss of balance can result in broken bones, injury and possible hospitalization.
Warning
B12 can have interactions with prescribed drugs. Acid is needed in the stomach for the body to absorb vitamin B12. Use of H2 receptors can cause less B12 to be absorbed in to the blood stream. H2 receptors are products such as Zantac and Tagamet. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may also cause problems with B12 absorption. PPIs are used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers. The PPI slows down the acid, which helps B12 absorb into the body. The diabetic drug Metformin may interfere with B12 injections. B12 needs calcium in the absorption process and Metformin can change calcium metabolism. These treatments are needed for the serious conditions for which they are prescribed. It is important to keep in contact with the doctor, nurse or physician's assistant to monitor the B12 absorption and overall health.
Tags: conditions such, , intrinsic factor, loss balance, shots will
Celluite is a problem that plagues both men and women. It is most common on women due to hormones. Cellulite can be on both lean and overweight women. Cellulite results in dimpled skin due to fatty deposits and tissue underneath the surface of the skin. If you have cellulite, it can be difficult to remove. In order to feel confident in a bathing suit, learn hide cellulite on your thighs.
Instructions
1. Massage cellulite-reducing lotions onto your thighs. There are mixed results as to whether they are effective. Lotions that are for cellulite reduction contain caffeine which helps to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dimpling. Apply it once per day.
2. Wear nylons to cover cellulite. The color and tightening of the nylons makes legs look smooth and dimple-free. Sheer nylons are ideal if you do not want people to know that you're wearing them. The nylons should be ones that go all the way up to the waist, instead of just thigh-high nylons.
3. Wear clothing that hides cellulite on your thighs. If you love wearing skirts, just make sure that they do not go above knee length. Instead of standard shorter shorts, choose longer Bermuda shorts or cropped pants. Avoid wearing leggings or tight workout pants. It will cover but cellulite can be still visible and apparent.
4. Apply sunless tanner to your legs. Do not just apply it to your thighs as it will look odd if the rest of your legs are a different color. Tan skin makes cellulite less noticeable. It hides the dimpling caused by cellulite.
Tags: your thighs, your legs, cellulite your, cellulite your thighs, hide cellulite
Old dogs need many vitamins to protect against illness and health disorders.
As dogs grow old, owners should feed them a healthy, balanced diet along with vitamins. Vitamins play a large role in the health of dogs, from strengthening teeth and bones to boosting the to help prevent and fight off illnesses. Understanding the value of each vitamin can ensure that dog owners do their part in protecting their elderly dogs. A veterinarian should determine the dosage for individual vitamins, to avoid giving too much or too little. Multivitamins, such as Nutri-Vet Senior Vitality and Drs. Foster and Smith's Premium Senior Plus Dog Vitamins, are available for older dogs, to help ensure the proper dosage.
Vitamins A and C
Vitamin A helps to prevent hardening, dryness and itching of the dog's skin, and can also be helpful in protection against illness. Vitamin C makes dogs less likely to develop hip dysplasia, ruptured discs, viral disease, bacterial infections, skin problems and spinal disorders. It also helps boost the immune system, helping dogs fight off infections.
B Vitamins
B vitamins help give old dogs energy. Vitamin B1 boosts the intelligence of dogs and may help to prevent parasites. Vitamins B2 and B3 aid in fat and protein metabolism, and may prevent cataracts and control seizures. Vitamin B5 assists in the body's production of antibodies to fight off infections. Vitamin B6 is necessary for utilizing the minerals needed for a healthy nervous system; B6 deficiency can lead to anemia, artery disease and kidney stones. Vitamin B9, or folic acid, is important to prevent poor appetite. B12 works to prevent nerve damage and helps with the digestion of food. B complex is usually included in dog multivitamins, and is also available in an injectable form.
Vitamins D and E
Vitamin D is important in helping a dog's body metabolize calcium and phosphorus, which keep bones and teeth strong. Vitamin E works to improve the efficiency of the heart and circulatory system. This vitamin helps in dilation of small blood vessels, leading to increased oxygen supply to the entire body. These benefits may improve the immune system, muscle power and stamina.
Vitamins H and Calcium
Vitamin H helps prevent skin disorders in dogs. This vitamin also boosts the function of thyroid and adrenal glands, while also assisting the nervous system. Calcium is very important for keeping the bones and teeth of elderly dogs strong.
Tags: immune system, against illness, , disorders dogs, dogs help
The main ingredient in milk that helps to strengthen bones is calcium. Calcium is a key component of bones, and having a healthy daily intake of calcium is essential for bone health. Milk also contains vitamin D, which is key for regulating the absorption and processing of vitamin D. Without sufficient vitamin D, there is no way for the calcium to be absorbed and used by the body. Milk often has magnesium in it, which also aids in the absorption of calcium.
How does calcium strengthen bones?
Calcium, along with another compound called phosphate, is an important component of bones. The calcium and the phosphate are mixed together in a matrix that forms the basic structure of the bones. Human bones are constantly being remodeled by two types of cells: osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Osteoclasts break down the bone matrix and osteoblasts reform it. Because calcium is used by many other parts of the body, the bones are often used as a backup source of calcium. In the event that the body does not have enough calcium, osteoclasts become more active, breaking down the bones to release the calcium. This can lead to weaker bones.
Effects of low calcium levels
Initially, when blood calcium levels are low, the bones will be broken down to harvest the calcium that they store. In the elderly, this can lead to a condition called osteoporosis, which causes the bones to become brittle and frail. In children, this condition can develop into Rickett's syndrome, in which the long, weight-bearing bent and warped. If the calcium deficiency is not corrected, other symptoms may occur, including small spots appearing on the skin, tingling, especially in the hands and feet, and changes in the patient's EKG.
Vitamin K aids the body in cell growth, bone production and blood clotting. The recommended dietary allowance for vitamin K for adults is 90 to 120 mcg per day.
The body excretes vitamin K quickly. Therefore, people should attempt to eat foods rich in vitamin K every day. According to the USDA, Americans younger than 45 often get too little vitamin K in their diet.
Sources
A serving of chard provides the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin K.
Dark leafy greens are the best sources of vitamin K. The foods with the highest levels of vitamin K are kale, chard, turnip greens, spinach and collard greens. Other leafy greens, such as endive, beet greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, watercress, green leaf lettuce and parsley, contain more than the RDA of the vitamin. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus and green onions also have very high levels of vitamin K.
Foods with high amounts---60 to 90 mcg---of vitamin K per serving are okra, prunes, black-eyed peas and Chinese cabbage.
Foods with moderate amounts---30 to 60 mcg---of vitamin K per serving are cabbage, romaine lettuce, rhubarb, snap beans, peas, cucumber with the peel, celery, soybeans, tuna packed in oil, blueberries, pumpkin and kiwi.
Bone Health
Vitamin K may protect the body against osteoporosis.
Vitamin K is linked with reduced bone loss for older adults. Because of this, vitamin K may prevent osteoporosis, a disease that makes bones brittle.
The USDA states that people may need more than the RDA for optimal bone health. In a 2010 study, the USDA's Agricultural Research Service gave young men and women either four times the RDA of vitamin K or the RDA amount. Researchers found that the participants' bodies were able to produce more proteins involved in bone formation with the higher amount of vitamin K than with the RDA amount.
The current RDA reflects the amount of vitamin K needed for healthy blood clotting.
Preparation
Cooking foods with oil helps the body absorb vitamin K.
Cooking and freezing foods does not diminish vitamin K levels.
For the body to absorb vitamin K, meals must be eaten or prepared with fats. Preparing or serving foods with vitamin K in soybean oil, canola oil, olive oil or margarine will add extra vitamin K to meals since these oils also contain vitamin K.
Other sources
Older adults should take a daily multivitamin containing vitamin K.
Bacteria in the body's intestines produce a form of vitamin K, but researchers do not know how much vitamin K these bacteria produce. Researchers used to think intestinal bacteria produced 50 percent of a person's RDA, but now researchers believe this number is much less.
Many over-the-counter multivitamins contain vitamin K in amounts from 10 to 25 mcg, while bone health supplements contain 10 to 120 mcg. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University recommends adults, especially those older than 65, take a multivitamin and eat 1 cup of dark leafy greens daily.
Tags: leafy greens, absorb vitamin, allowance vitamin, amount vitamin, blood clotting, body absorb, body absorb vitamin
Healthy hair and nails are the outward appearance of a proper diet. On the other hand, there are vitamins that can aid in the development of healthy hair and nails. These vitamins aid the body to function properly in order to produce healthy hair and nails. Vitamins are not specific to hair and nail development but aid the immune system in fighting the harmful effects of the environment. As a result, the person looks healthier.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is well-known for promoting good vision and forming and maintaining healthy tissues and teeth. It is also known as retinol (active form of Vitamin A) and carotenoids. The National Institute of Health (NIH) defines carotenoids as "dark colored dyes found in plant foods that can turn into a form of vitamin A". Beta-carotene is one type of carotenoid and an antioxidant. Antioxidants are effective in fighting off the harmful effects of the environment by aiding the immune system. When the immune system is functioning effectively, it is fighting those sicknesses that can cause brittle hair and nails. Vitamin A and beta carotene can be found in foods such as eggs, meat and fish. Beta carotene is in carrots, pumpkins and grapefruits. The darker the color of the fruit or vegetable, the higher the beta carotene content.
Vitamin B
Vitamin B is not just one vitamin. It is a series of vitamins: vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12. Vitamin B is often referred to as B-complex vitamins. The B-complex vitamins aid the immune system in fighting diseases, provide energy to the cells, maintain the health of the nervous system and digestive systems. Vitamin B is found in whole grains, fish, chicken, beans, fruits and even mushrooms. The lack of vitamin B can lead to hair loss, eczema and even depression.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that flushes out of the body. Vitamin C is used to make skin, tendons and ligaments. Nails are considered skin, and to keep the nails strong and healthy Vitamin C should be part of the supplement regimen. Fruits and vegetables contain Vitamin C. The fruits with large amounts of Vitamin C include grapes, oranges and melons. Broccoli, sweet potatoes and green peppers are the vegetables that also contain large amounts of Vitamin C.
Vitamin E
Similar to vitamins A, B and C, vitamin E is also an antioxidant, and it also aids the immune system in fighting the effects of free radicals. According to a 1993 study published in the "New England Journal of Medicine", there was "evidence of a significant association between a high intake of Vitamin E...and a lower risk of heart disease." Vitamin E is found in corn, vegetable oil, spinach and other foods. The health effects of vitamin E are still being studied but in small doses it has been shown to help the heart.
Various healthy microwave diet-meals are available in the grocery stores.
Dieters try to make their meals healthy and nutritious by cutting out excess fat and carbohydrates and adding fiber, minerals, vitamins and proteins. Another goal is to get a balanced diet within the required daily calorie count.
Microwave meals can be an option for dieters if they are too busy to cook their own meals. Several light varieties like Lean Cuisine, Kashi, Healthy Choice and Weight Watcher's Smart Ones are available in the microwaveable entr e section. However, you must look for entrees with about 300 to 400 calories, low in sodium--less than 600 mg--and at least 4 to 5 grams each of fiber and fat.
Trader Joe's Chicken Tandoori With Spinach
This is one of the many healthy ready-to-eat meals by Trader Joe's. It has 360 calories, 520 mg of sodium and 5 g of fiber. This meal is full of protein from the lean meat of the roasted chicken. "Tandoori" is the Hindi word for roasted. Adding a small side of steamed vegetables or fruit will give fill you up and give extra fiber, minerals and vitamins.
Trader Joe's has several other healthy microwave meals like lentil and rice, pad Thai, chicken with long-grain basmati rice and vegetarian pizza. You can experiment with being a vegetarian if you like; because several balanced vegetarian microwave meals from Trader Joe's and other brands are easily available. )
Healthy Choice Fire Roasted Tomato Chicken
This is a complete meal with roasted chicken, penne pasta with roasted tomato sauce, vegetables and an apple crisp for dessert. And it gives you only 310 calories. It helps you stay within the calorie budget and fulfills the craving for a dessert in a smart way. This meal contains 5g of fat, 6g fiber and 500 mg sodium. The Weight Watcher's point system gives it 6 points.
Kashi Mayan Harvest Bake
Kashi has several microwave meals for dieters. These meals are made from seven whole grains, vegetables and natural meat like chicken or shrimp. The Mayan Harvest Bake meal contains 9 g protein, 380 mg sodium and 8 g fiber.
Kashi offers several vegetarian meals like Chana Masala, which provides your share of protein from beans like chick peas. The USP of Kashi; however is the chewy-nutty texture of the whole grains that encourage better chewing of food and the nutritious vegetables that balance any meal. Some of Kashi's foods are exotic and therefore they give you variety to choose from.
Harness the power of the sun and heat water with a .
Energy derived from the sun, known as solar energy, can be harnessed and used for thermal energy, or heat. Although people often rely on thermal solar energy to heat pools and even entire homes or businesses, you can also apply it to smaller applications. If you are in a remote location or otherwise want to heat water with a magnifying glass, you can rely on solar energy for a safe and practical method of harnessing solar energy.
Instructions
1. Prepare a container to hold the water. Although other materials like plastic and wood can work, copper is the best choice, as it is a better conductor of heat than most other materials and less prone to corrosion. The narrower a container you use, the faster the water will heat up. For tube-shaped containers, you must seal off the bottom to create a solid base before filling with water.
2. Fill the container with water.
3. Place the container in an area outside with a direct view of the sun.
4. Move the magnifying glass over the top of the container, positioned on a direct angle from the sun through the magnifying glass to the container. You can position the magnifying glass directly over the top of the water or aim it at the container if using copper or a similar metal. Warming up the pipe in this instance would conduct heat more rapidly and result in the water temperature increasing quicker.
5. Hold the magnifying glass in place until the water reaches the desired temperature.
Tags: magnifying glass, solar energy, energy heat, heat water with, other materials, water with, water with magnifying
Eczema is where the skin because inflamed an irritated. A skin condition also know as dermatitis. Eczema treatment can be used with home remedies, or medicine prescribed by doctors. It's quite common for infants to suffer from eczema, but it can effect those from any age. Eczema symptoms are scratching of the skin, typically before a rash even shows. A lot of times allergies can cause eczema. An overactive immune system can be a cause for eczema as well. Sometimes getting a better diet, and eating foods the contain vitamins can help prevent eczema. It's important to drink a lot of water. Eliminating salt, saturated fats, caffeine, cigarettes, and alcohol can help. It helps eating a lot of fruits and foods that are rich in antioxidants.
Instructions
1. Keep the skin moist. Taking bleach baths(1/2 cup), oatmeal baths(1 cup of blended oats), or using epsom salt(450g) in baths can be helpful ways to help treat eczema. Too much water can tend to cause dry skin. Don't take long baths, but keeping the skin moist definitely helps those with eczema.
Bleach has been recommended by many doctors to use, specifically with infants. Bleach can help reduce itching and rashes from eczema.
Oatmeal is another effective method to use when bathing. Oatmeal is said to help eliminate the itching, and is recommended fro bathing for those with skin problems. Use colloidal oatmeal, which comes in a form of a powder.
Epsom salt. A lot of people have had wonderful effects using epsom salt. It doesn't have any side effects. The magnesium sulfate in epsom can help relieve pain and reduce itching.
2. Use Virgin Coconut Oil when treating treating eczema. There's a lot of moisturizers on the market that can help when treating eczema. Virgin coconut oil is a natural healer for the skin. It helps protect the skin and helps avoid inflammation in the skin. Apply coconut oil on the skin, after taking a warm bath or shower.
3. Use turmeric. Turmeric is an anti-flammatory India spice, that can be used to treat skin problems. It will heal the skin and can help eliminate pain along with itchiness. Make a turmeric paste, by applying enough water until it's think. Apply to the skin. Symptoms should clear up within a month.
4. Check with a doctor. You might need some kind of steroid cream to help treat eczema. In very severe cases dealing with eczema, medical treatment is needed. It's good to contact your doctor, specifically with infants suffering from eczema. Less severe cases can be treated with home remedies.
Tags: from eczema, cause eczema, help eliminate, help treat, help treat eczema, home remedies
How Much Calcium Should You Take With Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease in which the density of the bone is significantly diminished and becomes thin and brittle. The bones in your body are constantly changing, with old bone being broken down by the body and new bone being deposited. During this process, the body uses minerals, mainly calcium and phosphate, to help create and deposit the new bone. If there is not enough calcium in your body, you will have trouble continuing to create and deposit new bone, which may lead to osteoporosis in the future.
Calcium and Bone Development
Calcium is a much needed mineral for your overall health. Different parts of your body use calcium to help them function, such as your heart, lungs and other organs. When your body does not have enough calcium available, certain functions of the body will suffer. Although creating and depositing new bone is important, your body's first priority is to provide calcium to these other critical organs. With an calcium deficient diet, your body will begin to remove calcium from the overall structure of your bones, to help your other organs function and stay healthy. It is more important for these organs to receive as much calcium as necessary, however over time, your bones will suffer damage if they keep losing calcium. According to WebMD and eMedicineHealth calcium alone cannot prevent osteoporosis from taking place, since it may be possible to have bone loss from medications, smoking, alcoholism or even lack of estrogen.
Bone Development Timeline
According to WebMD and eMedicineHealth, 90 percent of all bone mass is developed before the age of 20, with much of the developing happening during puberty or ages 11 to 15. During this period is the most critical time to be conscious about your calcium diet. To help create strong and healthy bones, adolescents must consume their daily requirement. Although this is the most critical time for bone development, that does not mean that later in life calcium becomes less important. A small loss in bone mass is natural as ages. However, with a calcium-deficient diet, you may lose bone mass at an increasing rate, causing osteoporosis later in life.
Amount of Calcium by Age Group
The Food and Nutrition Board at the Institute of Medicine recommend the following in terms of calcium intake:
0 to 6 months: 210 milligrams/day
7 to 12 months: 270 milligrams/day
1 to 3 years: 500 milligrams/day
4 to 8 years: 800 milligrams/day
9 to 13 years: 1300 milligrams/day
Males age 14 to 18 years: 1300 milligrams/day
Males age 19 to 50 years: 1000 milligrams/day
Males 51 and over: 1,200 milligrams/day
Females age 14 to 18 years: 1300 milligrams/day
Females age 19 to 50 years: 1000 milligrams/day
Females 51 and over: 1200 milligrams/day
According to The Food and Nutrition Board, your body can consume up to 2,000 milligrams of calcium a day. Any excess is secreted through your urine. Although it is unlikely to have problems with consuming too much calcium, extreme amounts may result in kidney stones.
Calcium Rich Foods
According to the National Library of Medicine, the following is a list of calcium rich foods. It is good to know that the preferred source of calcium is from dairy products, however calcium supplements can be just as effective, especially for individuals that are lactose intolerant.
2 ounces of Swiss cheese = 530mg of calcium
8-ounce glass of milk = 300mg of calcium
6 ounces of yogurt = 300 mg of calcium
2 ounces of sardines with bones = 240mg of calcium
6 ounces of cooked turnip greens = 220mg of calcium
3 ounces of almonds = 210mg of calcium
Assiting Calcium Absorption
It is recommended to spread out the amount of calcium consumed throughout the day, taking in 500 milligrams or less during each meal throughout the day. It is also important to note that Vitamin D aides with the overall absorption of calcium in the body. Vitamin D can come from two different sources: direct sunlight through the skin and through diet. It is recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board to consume 200 to 600 IUs of Vitamin D a day. Other vitamin and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K and Magnesium can also aide in calcium absorption, along with consistent healthy activities such as exercising.
Tags: , calcium ounces, 1300 milligrams, body will, bone mass, Food Nutrition, Food Nutrition Board
Menopause occurs when the aging ovaries can no longer ovulate and produce estrogen. During the process, women will start to experience physical symptoms including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sweating, backache and insomnia. Vitamins can play an important role in alleviating menopausal discomfort, however, and may, in fact, determine the severity of its symptoms.
Vitamin C
Many women experience excessive bleeding during menopausal menstrual flow, to the point of changing pads or tampons a dozen or more times a day. This may be somewhat alleviated by loading up on vitamin C and bioflavonoids. One thousand milligrams of the vitamin daily can initiate a reduction of bleeding by strengthening capillary walls, which are weak just before and during menstruation. In addition, vitamin C may reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Food sources of vitamin C are absorbed by the body more efficiently than supplements, so eat oranges, pineapples, cantaloupes and peppers.
Vitamin E
About 80 percent of menopausal women will have hot flashes. Although no conclusive scientific studies done since the 1940s have proven the effectiveness of vitamin E for menopausal problems, taking 800 international units of vitamin E daily may be a healthier natural alternative than hormone replacement therapy. The vitamin acts as an estrogen substitute, not only relieving hot flashes but also night sweats, mood swings and vaginal dryness. Food sources rich in vitamin E include sunflower seeds, wheat germ, whole grains and spinach.
Niacin
Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, has been known to relieve menstrual cramps, as well as to help women sleep better during menopause. A daily dose of 25 to 100 mg is recommended. Chicken breast, veal and fortified cereals are good sources of niacin.
Vitamin B-6
Stress, depression, fatigue and irritability, which are caused by hormonal fluctuations during menopause, may lead to a depletion of vitamin B-6. To relieve these symptoms as well as cramps, and to help the liver regulate estrogen levels, a daily dose of 30 mg (but never in conjunction with vitamin E) is recommended. Foods containing B-6 include bananas, avocados, eggs, brown rice, chicken and lean beef.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is vital for producing red blood cells. A B-12 deficiency can lead to anemia, which can result in lower energy levels during menopause. To get the recommended daily dose of B-12, take six micrograms daily. Food sources include clams, ham, king crab, salmon and tuna.