Properties Of Orange Seed Extract

All parts of an orange, including the seeds, are rich in vitamin C.

Vitamins, nutrients and oil extracted from orange seeds are used in food flavorings, health supplements and beauty products. Alternative medicine practitioners often use plant extracts in their treatment of diseases, such as arthritis, cancer and heart disease. Through many generations, natural-products manufacturers have gained extensive knowledge on the capabilities and safety of plant extracts, including orange seed extract.

Uses

Essential oils extracted from Navel, Valencia and Blood Orange seeds provide flavorings for water, cake frosting and other food items. When added to bath and body products, orange seed oil provides a pleasing citrus aroma. Orange seed oil added to cleaning products provides a fresh scent as well as cleaning and de-greasing abilities.

Orange seed oil also is a great conditioning agent when used in hair care products. Orange seeds along with dried pulp can be ground into a powder for use in cosmetics and skin conditioning products as well. And since orange seeds provide a high-protein residue suitable for human and animal consumption, they're often used in cattle feed and fertilizer mixtures.

Botanical Properties

Botanical properties found in oranges and other natural foods are essential for product formulators to create natural and safe products. Herbs, roots, flowers, fruits and seeds of plants have been used in the manufacture of medicinal and cosmetic products for hundreds of years.

Medicinal Properties

All parts of an orange, including the seeds and leaves, are rich in vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. Compounds found in orange peels helps lower cholesterol naturally. Fiber in oranges helps prevent atherosclerosis and protects against rheumatoid arthritis. Eating oranges may prevent ulcers and reduce the risk of stomach and colon cancers. Limonoids, which are phytochemicals found in citrus fruits and other plants, help protect the body from mouth, skin, lung and breast cancers as well.

What Is Retinol Used For

What is Retinol Used for?

Retinol has been used as a major active ingredient in skin-care products since the late 1990s. Retinol represents the topical, natural form of vitamin A, which the skin needs to function properly and look its best. In addition to food sources of vitamin A, skin-care products also offer Vitamin A's derivative, Retinol, to benefit the skin with its anti-aging and rejuvenation properties.

Uses

From eye creams to all-over night creams, anti-aging cosmetic products that advertise Retinol as the main ingredient claim to repair skin discoloration caused by sun damage, and diminish fine lines and wrinkles. Some anti-acne products also boast Retinol as the main ingredient.

Misconception: Retinol and Retin-A

Often used interchangeably, Retinol and Retin A are not the same. Retin A, or retinoic acid, is the active metabolite conversion of Retinol. One might assume, then, that applying Retinol to the skin will ultimately provide the same effect as applying a Retin-A or retinoid product, since Retinol will convert to Retin-A. It seems logical; however, the conversion rate is low, due to the degradation of Retinol that occurs in air exposure and during storage. Other forms of Retinol and vitamin A will read on ingredient lists as retinal and retinyl palmitate.

Effectiveness

Applied topically, Retinol's effect on the skin greatly depends on its concentration in the product, as well as the quality of the skin-care product. The purity and stability of the vitamin A in the products are crucial to its effectiveness. Since any vitamin will oxidize and degrade immediately upon exposure to the air, packaging is, then, as important as the concentration of Retinol. If the Retinol is pure, the concentration is high, and the packaging air-tight, diminished sun damage and fine lines are attainable goals. However, Retin-A, as the converted enzyme, produces more dramatic effects for anti-aging, as retinoids are able to turn over dead cells quickly, and stimulate collagen growth, thus, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and skin discoloration more rapidly than its relative, Retinol.

Benefits

Incorporating either Retinol or Retin-A (or both) into an anti-aging skin regimen is beneficial in reversing and preventing the signs of aging. Retinol, being gentler on the skin, is often ideal for patients with sensitive skin---and patients who wish to incorporate the new products into their daily skin regimens gradually. Retin-A works harder and faster on the skin, can penetrate it immediately, and, therefore, can also produce more undesirable side effects, such as redness, itching, and overall skin irritation. The lower biochemical activity of Retinol may be preferable, even if it takes longer to achieve desired results.

Considerations

Always consult a dermatologist before incorporating a new skin-care product into your beauty routine. Both Retinol and Retin-A have particular "rules of use" contingent on skin type and condition, and many dermatologists warn against such things as using Retin-A in the morning, and using Retinol or Retin-A in conjunction with other products, including those with alpha-hydroxy acids. Confirm these facts with your dermatologist (and NOT through online skin care articles) to ensure safe and effective use of Retinol and/or Retin-A products.

Tags: Retinol Retin-A, fine lines, main ingredient, products also, Retinol main, Retinol main ingredient, Retinol Used

Overthecounter Treatment For Bacterial Vaginosis

Over-the-Counter Treatment for Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an overabundance of bad bacteria, called gardnerella, in the vaginal tract. Bacterial vaginosis is not well understood, however, the condition has been associated with sexual activity and having multiple sexual partners. There is also a link between using an intrauterine device for birth control and douching to development of the conditon. Symptoms include itching, burning, a fishy smell and a clear to grayish discharge. There are some over the counter treatments for bacterial vaginosis that have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Herbal Remedies

There is some evidence that a mixture of goldenseal as a vaginal suppository and vitamin A have some positive effect against BV. Because goldenseal is an immune system enhancer it seems to counterbalance the infection.

RepHresh

RepHresh is a product that claims to treat bacterial vaginosis by encouraging a positive pH balance in the vagina. It is approved by the FDA and is sold over the counter in the United States. RepHresh is inserted into the vagina with an applicator and used every three days to maintain vaginal balance. It is not recommended during menstruation, however, as it may congeal and clump.

Fem-Dophilus

The product Fem-Dophilus contains probiotics that help to increase healthy flora in the vagina. This encourages a natural balance that discourages the growth of the bad bacteria, gardnerella. This medication is over the counter and ingested orally for the treatment of BV.

Femigel

This natural lubricant is thought to maintain healthy vaginal moisture balance and bacterial levels by promoting healthy pH balance. It also contains 3 percent tea tree, which kills the bad bacteria in the vagina and helps maintain a healthy balance. The dosages are inserted in the vagina using an applicator and are used every few days to be most effective.

Natural Remedies

According to Bacterial-vaginosis.com, there are numerous natural remedies that might help fight bacterial vaginosis. They claim that beta-dine applied in a mixture with gentian violet will treat BV when applied topically. In addition, they advocate taking anti-oxidants to promote a health pH balance. Eating yogurt might also be helpful in restoring natural flora in the vagina by promoting the growth of good bacteria.

Tags: over counter, applicator used, applicator used every, bacterial vaginosis, Bacterial vaginosis, flora vagina, healthy balance

Health Fair Activity Ideas

Free vegetables are a must at any health fair.

Health fair activities are often geared toward children, but many public health fairs cater to older adults as well. A health fair is typically set up during the spring and summer. Several booths are hosted by teachers, health officials and other educators, depending on the intent of the fair as well as who is hosting. Each booth focuses on health foods, nutrition, vitamins or even other health-related topics such as hand washing and brushing your teeth.

Dance Activity

Designate a large grassy area at the health fair just for dancing. Hire a dance teacher and ask people to participate in dance class periodically throughout the day. Give out information packets about the importance of physical activity. If the health fair is for kids, hire a clown to lead the dances.

Antioxidant Booth

Create a booth featuring the benefits of antioxidants such as vitamin C, E and A found in fruit. Give away free information packets and make fresh fruit smoothies for people to enjoy. Talk about the nutrients found in the fruit smoothie. For instance, bananas are loaded with potassium and strawberries are loaded with vitamin C. Discuss the importance of antioxidants in your diet.

Dental Care

Free toothbrushes are essential at a dental booth.

Set up a booth with a dentist or dental hygienist. Give away free dental packets that include toothpaste, toothbrushes and information about dental care. Demonstrate properly floss and brush teeth. You can also hire a face painter to paint a white tooth, toothbrushes or other dental-related themes on children's faces. If the fair is more geared toward adults, you can discuss the benefits of teaching your children brush their teeth or highlight the importance of dental care for adults.

Vegetable Booth

Create a booth just for vegetables. Teach people about the importance of eating eight servings or more of vegetables per day. Discuss the benefits of nutrients and fiber contained in key vegetables. Display vegetable trays with low fat ranch dip. If the fair is for kids, have a puppet show with vegetable puppets talking about the value of this food.

Tags: about importance, away free, Booth Create, Booth Create booth, Create booth, fair kids, found fruit

What Are Leaching Foods

Coffee contains caffeine, a compound that leaches calcium from the bones.

Leaching foods deplete the body of vitamins and minerals. They drain the body's vitamin stores by preventing absorption, breaking down nutrients or damaging tissues such as bone. Minerals, including calcium, magnesium and iron are especially prone to leaching. If you're at high risk for osteoporosis or other diseases caused by nutrient deficiencies, limit your intake of the following foods and drinks.

High-fiber Foods

The fiber and phytic acids in whole grains and vegetables can bind to calcium, iron and zinc and keep the body from absorbing the minerals. Thin bones, anemia and skin problems can result. High-fiber foods have many benefits. For example, fiber also binds to cholesterol and sweeps it from the body and it can prevent constipation. Don't eliminate fiber from your diet, but avoid eating high-fiber foods within a few hours of taking calcium supplements or other minerals.

Salt

High sodium intake speeds up the loss of calcium through the kidneys, a process that leaches the mineral from bones. Federal nutritional guidelines call for eating less than 2,300 milligrams of salt a day, but people at high risk for salt-related health conditions should stay below 1,500 milligrams daily. Cut back on salt consumption by steering clear of processed foods such as canned soups, snack crackers and potato chips.

Foods with Phosphorous

The mineral phosphorous is important to human health. It repairs tissue damage, helps the kidneys filter toxins and balances absorption of other nutrients. However, too much phosphorous can keep the body from absorbing iron, calcium, magnesium and zinc. Phosphorous-high foods and drinks such as beef, chicken and colas will force the body to pull calcium from the bones to keep blood levels of both minerals balanced. Brittle or thin bones and dental problems can follow.

Caffeine

Caffeinated drinks and foods such as coffee, tea and even some chocolates hurt absorption of magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron, potassium and B vitamins, all of which are important to bone, tissue and heart health. Coffee and tea also increase urination, which can lead to quicker loss of vitamins and minerals. However, coffee, tea and dark chocolate also have health benefits, including boosting fat metabolism and preventing migraines. The Food and Drug Administration considers caffeine safe. Limit consumption only if you're at high risk of osteoporosis or other illnesses related to mineral deficiencies.

Alcohol

Drinking more than 3 ounces of alcohol a day prevents the stomach and pancreas from absorbing calcium and vitamin D. Alcohol suppresses estrogen, which slows the body's bone regeneration and can cause osteoporosis. Alcohol also increases the body's levels of the stress hormone cortisol and parathyroid hormone, both of which can break down bones if they're present in high amounts.

Tags: from absorbing, from bones, high risk, body from, body from absorbing

Use Garlic To Treat Coughs

Use Garlic to Treat Coughs

As part of the growing trend toward natural and homeopathic therapy, more people are embracing garlic and its medicinal properties rather than resorting to the synthetic drug treatments. Garlic has been used to treat coughs, upper respiratory infections and other common ailments.

Instructions

Treat Mild-to-Severe Coughs With Garlic Supplements and Teas

1. Use garlic to prevent coughs altogether. By taking advantage of the immune system boosting properties in garlic, you might be able to avoid coming down with a cold completely.

2. Consume raw garlic on a regular basis if you can. This will provide you with maximum health benefits.

3. Take a garlic supplement as part of your daily health regiment. Many people use a combination of supplements with vitamin C, echinacea, lysine and garlic in order to keep the immune system functioning at maximum capacity.

4. Use garlic to treat coughs and sore throats when they appear. Coughs caused by irritation in the lining of the esophagus can be effectively treated with a garlic-based tea drink that soothes the pain and reduces inflammation.

Make a Garlic-Based Tea to Soothe a Cough

5. Boil water as you would to make any tea.

6. Chop or mince the garlic so that is very fine.

7. Add the minced garlic to the hot water. Allow the garlic to steep for several minutes so you can get a good, strong brew.

8. Strain out the minced garlic and allow the tea to cool for several minutes. You can drink it hot, but it is best when served lukewarm.

9. Enjoy the soothing feeling as you drink the garlic tea. Its effects can be noticed right away. Unlike over-the-counter throat lozenges that simply numb the throat, your garlic tea will actually reduce the tissue inflammation. The severity and duration of your symptoms may be drastically decreased.

Tags: Garlic Treat Coughs, immune system, minced garlic, several minutes, treat coughs

Breed Ringneck Parrots

Breeding ringneck parrots can be an exciting experience.

Ringneck parrots, also known as Indian ringneck parrots, are striking, medium-sized birds with feathers that are usually blue, green or yellow. As their name implies, male parrots have a brightly colored ring around their necks. Females also have a ring, but it's paler. Compared to other parrot species, ringneck parrots are relatively easy to breed. However, ringneck parrots are very intelligent and require constant care and behavior training, and breeding them can sometimes be tricky because of their finicky nature.

Instructions

1. Select a pair of healthy birds to breed. Always select birds with good genetic histories and no health issues or undesired traits.

2. Separate your breeding pair of ringnecks from other pairs. Ringneck parrots don't mate for life and will often lose interest or attempt to swap partners if they can see other birds.

3. Keep your breeding pair together in one aviary, letting them get to know each other.

4. Watch your birds carefully. If your female is not interested in mating yet, she may harm the male. You can solve this problem by clipping her wings.

5. Begin feeding your ringneck parrots a diet rich in calcium and vitamins several weeks before you plan to breed them.

6. Breed your ringneck parrots. Ringneck parrots tend to breed in the winter, between December and February. However, cold weather can sometimes cause problems with the eggs, so if you want to breed your birds in warmer weather, don't put a nesting box into the aviary until springtime.

7. Give your bird a nesting box. This box can be wooden or metal, and you can either make it or buy it. It should be about 10 inches long by 10 inches wide and at least 20 inches deep. Putting this box in the aviary will encourage them to breed.

8. Fill the nesting box with a bedding material such as wood shavings.

9. Wait for your ringneck parrots to breed. Once the nesting box is in the aviary, and it has reached the wintertime breeding season, ringneck parrots should naturally breed on their own.

10. Allow the parents to incubate the eggs.

11. Watch the parents to make sure they are feeding and caring for the chicks after they hatch. Ringneck parrots are very sociable and, unlike many other parrot types, ringneck parrot chicks don't need to be hand-fed and reared by humans in order to become pets. However, like other parrots, ringnecks will occasionally abandon their eggs, in which case you will have to take over.

Tags: ringneck parrots, your ringneck parrots, ringneck parrots, your ringneck, birds with, breeding pair

Hormone Replacement Therapy Vitamins

If you are taking hormones for hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, there are a few vitamins that you should consider taking. Hormone replacement therapy can deplete certain vitamins, so supplementing these vitamins either through food or through vitamin supplements is important to the proper functioning of your system. Here are a few vitamins that should be supplemented while on hormone replacement therapy:

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 can become depleted while on HRT, and can be replaced by taking a supplemental vitamin or by eating bananas or chicken.

Magnesium

HRT can cause a magnesium deficiency, which can be supplemented using a vitamin or by eating pumpkin seeds or spinach.

Zinc

Zinc levels can decrease as a result of HRT therapy, and can be supplemented with a vitamin or by eating beef or green peas.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C can become depleted and can be replaced with a vitamin supplement or by eating citrus fruits or berries.

Folic Acid

Folic acid can diminish as a result of HRT therapy and can be supplemented with a vitamin or by eating pasta or lentils.

Tags: vitamin eating, with vitamin, become depleted, hormone replacement, replacement therapy, result therapy, result therapy supplemented

Get Elderly To Gain Weight

Helping elderly people gain weight depends on many factor---their physical, emotional and mental health, their dietary restrictions and medications. If an elderly person is underweight because of a recent illness, gaining weight may be as simple as good nutrition. However, if weight loss seems to be linked to a pervading health issue, weight gain should be pursued under a doctor's care. Helping elderly people gain weight is a special concern because many times they are already naturally losing essential vitamins as they age. Weight gain should be balanced and should be undertaken at an even and steady pace, rather than a quick one.

Instructions

Get Elderly to Gain Weight

1. Purchase vitamin and protein supplements. Elderly people often lose important vitamins as they age and may be less likely to absorb them from food. Calcium is an important element for bone density, which is often lost as people age. Protein will help sustain muscle health and support skeletal function. Mixing liquid vitamins and protein powers into fluids will help elderly people gain weight when taken regularly, in addition to meals, not only because of the extra calories, but also because the protein promotes muscle growth.

2. Create a diet plan that contains meals with foods that are higher in calories, although are not unhealthy. Foods such as potatoes, cheeses, certain types of meats, whole-fat milk and grains (breads). Avoid foods that are high in sugar or that are high in bad fats, such as oils and trans fats. Create a nutritional balance for these higher-calorie foods with fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables.

3. Create a schedule of meal times. Eating three large meals per day may not be enough to help an elderly person gain weight and may even make them feel as though they've eaten too much if they are overly full after each meal. Instead, make a daily eating schedule of 6 smaller meals and even include 2 snacks as well. Snacks can include protein bars or nutrition bars designed to promote weight gain. Eating medium-sized meals more often during the day, rather than 3 larger meals, may allow you to pack in more calories each day.

4. Set weight-gain goals for elderly people who can track their own progress. Because elderly people have a more fragile health status than younger adults, gaining weight too quickly could put a strain on the heart and other organs. Talk to a doctor about how much weight gain is realistic within a span of time and work to achieve those goals so that there is no health risk presented.

5. Purchase a set of weights that are "light weights" ranging from 1 to 6 pounds. Elderly people should still exercise regularly to sustain good muscle tone and overall health. Also, lifting weights may help add some muscle, especially in combination with a diet rich in protein.

Tags: elderly people, elderly people gain, gain weight, people gain, people gain weight

Choose Vitamins And Supplements To Prevent Flu

Having the flu is something we have all suffered. A healthy diet, aided with supplements, can go a long way in preventing the flu. Look at your current supplements and consider changing your routine in an attempt to stay healthy during flu season.

Instructions

1. Take a multi-vitamin. Although you may strive to get all your vitamins and minerals through your diet, unfortunately, we often fall short.

2. Boost your immune system. During cold and flu season, you can take additional vitamins and minerals to strengthen your immune system. Vitamin C, zinc and echinacea will help boost your immune system.

3. Consider taking probiotics. Studies have shown that these friendly bacteria help the digestive tract, but also are good for the immune system. They are now available in many yogurts.

4. Think about taking grapefruit seed, ginger, cinnamon and clove, which are all proven to help with cold and flu symptoms. Oregano and olive leaf oil are also beneficial.

5. Get a flu shot. This may be one of the best steps to prevent the flu. Each year, the flu shots are formulated for specific strains of the flu virus. Getting a flu shot reduces your chance of contracting the flu.

6. Get enough exercise and rest. Nothing helps you fight the flu better than a healthy body.

Tags: immune system, your immune, your immune system, vitamins minerals

Multivitamins For A Puppy

Puppies need vitamins to grow better and healthier.

Puppies normally need more vitamins than adult dogs to make them healthier during their period of rapid growth and development. Multivitamins, aside from nutrients included in commercial dog food, can give a puppy the entire supplement it needs to grow properly. Today's pet industry offers several types of multivitamin, with each type offering a specific vitamin and effect.

Fat-soluble Vitamins

Fat-soluble variants contain vitamins A, D, E and K. Vitamin A ensures supple skin and hair, good vision and optimum growth. Vitamin D keeps the puppy's teeth and bones strong. Vitamin E guarantees a healthy reproductive system and guards against brown-bowel syndrome, which can damage multiple organs including the liver and pancreas. Vitamin K, ordinarily synthesized in the puppy's own body, prevents hemorrhaging and impaired clotting if the puppy gets injured.

Water-soluble Vitamins

Water-soluble types contain vitamin C, B-vitamins, biotin, folic acid and niacin. Vitamin C boosts the immune system and renews damaged cells. Vitamin B1 sustains healthy nerves and reflexes and keeps the puppy strong, while vitamin B2 ensures the puppy's growth and keeps the eyes and heart functioning properly.

Vitamin B5 and biotin maintain healthy hair, normal aging and normal bowel movement. B6 keeps the blood healthy and safeguards against skin infections and inadequate growth. B12 and folic acid keep the blood cells healthy and nurtures the bone marrow, while niacin keeps the puppy's gums and appetite healthy.

Deficiencies

Lack of any of the multivitamins can result in several conditions, including unhealthy digestion, irregular bowel movement, prolonged bleeding, delayed recovery from sickness, poor vision and a weak integumentary system. The puppy's immune system can also be compromised because of poor blood circulation and low appetite.

Excessive Vitamins

Just as deficiency can prove to be a serious problem, excess vitamins in the puppy's system can also be detrimental. Giving a higher dosage than what is recommended or not following instructions on multivitamin administration can be toxic.

Tags: keeps puppy, bowel movement, folic acid, immune system, system also

Vitamin B Complex & Weight Loss

Vitamin B Complex & Weight Loss

Vitamin B complex is a vitamin recommended by some nutritionists to help with weight loss. Nutritionists suggest this vitamin because it helps by breaking down carbohydrates and fats, and boosts energy levels.

Composition

The composition that makes up vitamin B complex consists of several B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12.

Function

This vitamin can assist with weight loss because it ensures proper metabolism functions, helps the cells to use energy and assists with food digestion.

Food Sources

Food sources that contain vitamin B include cereals, grains, nuts, fruits and leafy vegetables. Meats such as chicken and fish are good sources, along with eggs. Yogurt, cheese and other dairy products also contain vitamin B.

Supplements

Though it generally is better to get daily amounts of vitamin B in the foods you eat, some people prefer to take a supplement. Vitamin B complex is available in pill form in different dosages at most health and vitamin stores.

Injections

Some doctors also administer a shot consisting of vitamin B complex for weight loss patients. This shot usually is given in connection with a medically-supervised diet and exercise plan.

Warning

People usually do not experience side effects with taking vitamin B complex, but too much of it may cause side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat and liver problems.

Tags: contain vitamin, side effects, Vitamin Complex, Vitamin Complex Weight, with weight

Get A Natural Looking Tan Using A Tanning Bed

Get a Natural Looking Tan Using a Tanning Bed

Tanning is your body's way of protecting itself from sunburns. This layer of protection is also known as the base tan. Moderate exposure to UV rays is good for you because the Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps your body control abnormal cell growth. Tanning in a bed allows you to control how much exposure you get. It's an all-over tan, so you can control how even and natural it looks.

Instructions

1. Fill out a questionnaire about your skin type and tone. Indoor tanning shops use this to determine how much time you should stay in the booth. Be honest about your skins tendency to burn.

2. Decide how tan you want to get. If you're looking for a base tan, you will only have to tan occasionally. If you're looking to get darker, you'll want to tan more often.

3. Apply an indoor tanning lotion to your skin before tanning. It helps the tan look more natural by moisturizing and protecting your skin. Skin that's not dry or flaky will hold a tan longer, too. Some lotions even come with wrinkle-resistors and firming formulas.

4. Set the timer for an appropriate amount of time. Tanning beds have a built in timing unit. It's usually operated by the shop employee. Typically, no one should stay inside a tanning bed for more than 20 minutes

5. Avoid going tanning too often. Many people allow themselves to get that orange look that just screams of tanning booth. That is definitely not natural looking.

6. Lift your arms occasionally while tanning. Even though the front and back of your body is getting hit by the tanning bulbs, your underarms and sides often come out white. Lying with your hands above your head will help you get color to those areas, too.

Tags: your body, your skin, about your, Looking Using, Looking Using Tanning, Natural Looking

Side Effects Of Icaps

Icaps is a type of multivitamin that consists of iron. This multivitamin and mineral supplement is intended for the health of the eyes. The multivitamin is composed of iron, as well as large doses of both zeaxanthin and lutein, both of which are essential for the protection of the retina. As with most medicines and dietary supplements, there are several possible side effects that could happen as a result of taking Icaps.

Common Side Effects

There are a handful of common side effects of Icaps. These common side effects are stomach upset, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects tend to be considered minor, because they usually subside quickly as the body adapts to the multivitamins. If you have any of these side effects, however, and find them to be particularly troublesome or long lasting, you need to consult your doctor regarding the situation.

Allergic Reactions

Severe allergic reactions to Icaps are uncommon, although they can occasionally occur. If you think that you are experiencing a serious allergic reaction to this multivitamin, you need to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible, as these reactions could result in serious consequences. Some signs of allergic reaction to Icaps include swelling and itching (particularly of the throat, face or tongue), difficulty breathing, extreme dizziness and rash on the skin.

Other Side Effects

Icaps can lead to some gastrointestinal side effects that are generally connected to dosage amounts. One of these side effects is darker colored stools (due to the iron contained within the multivitamin). People also might experience nausea, vomiting, heartburn and anorexia. If you have any of these side effects, you need to notify your doctor immediately.

Caution

Before taking any dietary supplement or medication, it is important to discuss the matter with your doctor. Icaps is no exception. Your doctor must be made aware of your entire medical history, allergies, and any conditions that you might presently have, especially if you have liver problems, intestinal or stomach-related ailments (like colitis or ulcer), and a past of alcohol addiction.

Overdose

If you are worried that you might have overdosed on this multivitamin, it is crucial that you seek emergency medical assistance, for safety purposes. Some symptoms of Icaps overdose include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and stomachache. If you experience any of these overdose symptoms after taking more than the appropriate, recommended dosage amount of Icaps, you most likely have overdosed.

Tags: side effects, your doctor, allergic reaction, common side, Effects Icaps, effects that, emergency medical

Murad & Pregnancy

Pregnant women should consult a doctor before beginning a skin-care regime.

Everyone is familiar with the saying that pregnant women have a glow to their skin. For most women, however, skin care remains an important daily regimen, despite what old sayings teach. Murad skin-care products are relatively popular, but when it comes to a baby's well-being, extra caution is always a good idea.

Murad Skin Care

Developed by Dr. Howard Murad, a board-certified dermatologist as well as a pharmacist and associate clinical professor of medicine in dermatology at UCLA, Murad skin-care products are designed to bring the quality of prescription skin care to drugstores and cosmetic stores. The regimen is three steps: cleanser, exfoliating gel and lotion.

Salicylic Acid

The main active ingredient in Murad's cleanser is salicylic acid. A beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid comes from willow tree bark. When taken orally it has been known to cause complications in pregnant women as well as birth defects. However, when applied topically, as the Murad cleanser is, one or two small doses a day are okay, according to the Baby Center website. Face and body peels, which contain greater concentrations, allow more salicylic acid absorption into the blood stream; the effect is similar to taking multiple aspirins, and should be avoided, it warns.

Retinol

Retinoids are a type of vitamin and can be found in the exfoliating gel. They speed up cell division, which leads to quicker skin renewal. Most commonly, retinol is used to decrease wrinkles. As with salicylic acid, it is considered safe in small doses when taken topically, according to Baby Center.

Glycolic Acid

Another main ingredient of the exfoliating gel is glycolic acid. Glycolic acid occurs naturally in fruits, sour milk and cane sugar and is used to smooth skin by loosening dead cells and decrease discoloration, such as age spots. The RN Guide to Skin Care states that as a type of alpha hydroxy acid, (AHA), glycolic acid occurs naturally in the body and is considered safe during pregnancy.

Consult a Doctor

With any pregnancy, it is important to check with a doctor before beginning a medical routine of any kind. Though the risks of the products are minimal at best, on his website, Murad advises consulting a doctor first.

Tags: salicylic acid, according Baby, according Baby Center, acid occurs, acid occurs naturally, Baby Center

Which Foods Have The Highest Concentration Of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that stabilizes synthesized collagen, allowing it to function within all our major body organs, including the brain, lungs, kidney, and the immune system. Although we normally associate vitamin C with oranges, there are other foods that contain far more of this beneficial nutrient. This article will help you choose foods that are the best choice for vitamin C intake.

Papaya

One papaya fruit contains a whopping 187.87 mg of vitamin C, about 313 percent of the suggested daily intake. Papaya is also rich in dietary fiber and potassium, making it a wonderful food choice.

Red Bell Pepper

One raw bell pepper contains 291 percent of the suggested daily intake of Vitamin C, and 104.9 percent of our daily value intake of vitamin A. Red bell peppers also reduce the risk of heart disease.

Broccoli

One serving of broccoli (about one cup) contains 205 percent of our daily value of vitamin C, and 194 percent of vitamin K. Broccoli protects us from a variety of cancers, boosts our immune systems and prevents cataracts.

Brussels Sprout

One cup of cooked brussels sprout contains 161 percent of our daily value of vitamin C, and 273 percent of our daily value of vitamin K. Brussels sprout protects against birth defects and boosts skin and health immunity.

Strawberries

One cup of strawberries contains 136 percent of our daily value of vitamin C. Strawberries also prevent macular degeneration and rheumatoid arthritis.

Cantaloupe

One cup of cantaloupe contains 112 percent of our daily value of vitamin C and 103 percent of vitamin A. Cantaloupes promote lung health and protects our vision.

Tags: daily value, percent daily, percent daily value, contains percent, daily value vitamin, value vitamin, contains percent daily

What Vitamins To Take Before Surgery

Any surgical procedure is hard on the body. Major surgery poses many risks. Every person handles surgery differently, and some people come through with flying colors while others suffer with long-term pain from adhesions or slow healing. However, there are many things you can do you to help your body prepare for a major surgery. You can take vitamins and eat super foods to strengthen your body before the surgery.

When to Start

If possible you should start implementing these changes up to a year before your surgery. The ideal situation would be to take these vitamins as just a regular part of your lifestyle. Yet, some people are not able to make the changes in time. If you don't have a year, then you should at least start taking vitamins three months before your surgery and while you are healing.

Take Your Vitamins

You should always take your vitamins with whole foods such as fruits and vegetables. Your body is better able to absorb vitamins when you take them with food. Be sure to drink a large glass of water about 30 minutes before eating your meal. Eat your vitamins before your meal. Prepare a healthy meal three times per day, in addition to eating healthy snacks when you are hungry. If you have a hard time swallowing large pills, you may want to take a liquid vitamin supplement.

Whole Food Multivitamin

Choose a whole food multivitamin and mineral supplement that is well rounded with all of the necessary vitamins and minerals. You need to be sure that you're getting a good dose of vitamins such as vitamin B12 and vitamin E, and important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Whole food vitamins are easier for the body to utilize because they are made from food. You can find vitamins at your local health food store or online.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one vitamin that you must include in your life before your surgery. Vitamin C will help your body heal much faster. Taking vitamin C also helps prevent you from getting sick, which is something you do not want to experience after a major surgery. For the best results take 2000 mg of vitamin C per day. If you find that you are getting diarrhea, decrease your dose to 500 mg per day, and gradually increase your dosage to give your body time to adjust up until the surgery. If you do experience diarrhea, be sure to drink extra water as well.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a very important vitamin when it comes to healing. Vitamin A protects cells and helps to renew tissue. The safest form of vitamin A is beta carotene, which is found in carrots. This is a form of vitamin A that is not toxic to the body and easily digestible. You can simply eat three to four carrots per day, or take a beta carotene vitamin supplement each day. For best results you need to take 20,000 IU of beta carotene daily for one week before surgery.

Cod liver oil

Cod liver oil is another important nutrient that you need to include in your diet before surgery. The omega-3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil help to reduce inflammation and speed the healing process. In addition, the cod liver oil also help to prevent blood clots. Blood clots are a complication that can arise after or during a surgery. Everyone is at risk for developing blood clots, but some people are more susceptible, such as people with a family history of clots or elderly people. Take 1 tablespoon of cod liver oil every day.

Superfoods

Super foods help give your body additional strength and energy needed to prepare for what is ahead. Two major super foods that you need to include in your diet are chlorella and spirulina. Both of these foods are sea algae that have potent levels of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

You get the best results if you take both types of sea algae because each has unique properties. Spirulina is a better source of protein that is more easily digestible, but chlorella has additional cleansing benefits for the body. Chlorella binds to toxins and flushes them out of the body quickly.

Also be sure to buy chlorella that says the cell wall has been cracked on the bottle. This helps your body to better absorb the nutrients in chlorella. In addition to eating powerful superfoods, include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet. Be sure to drink 8 to 10 glasses of pure water each day. If you are taking medications or have concerns, talk to your doctor before implementing any of these changes.

Tags: your body, before your, before surgery, before your surgery, best results

Crushed Calcium Vitamins For A Vegetable Garden

Growing vegetables requires that your soil contain calcium.

Some gardeners put eggshells in their vegetable gardens because the micronutrient calcium is essential to healthy plant growth -- and eggshells contain calcium. Signs of calcium deficiency in plants include yellowing, curling leaves, stunted growth, increased problems with fungi and shoots that rot and turn black. Calcium in the soil is rapidly depleted by plants, so it needs to be supplemented often. There are several options including calcium carbonate tablets sold for human consumption, to repair calcium deficiencies in your garden soil and prevent the deficiency from happening in the first place.

Testing the Soil

If you suspect your garden soil is low in calcium, have it tested using a percent Base Saturation values. If your percent Ca is lower than 40, you should add calcium in some form -- such as calcium tablets, eggshells or agricultural lime. If you cannot get a soil test that provides the information you need, ask your county agent or a local agricultural extension service to see if the soil in your area is generally lacking in calcium. If you cannot get any information on calcium in your soil, do your own test. Plant two groups of peppers or tomatoes in your garden. Add calcium to one group, leave the other supplement-free. See if you can tell the difference when the plants mature.

Calcium Tablets

Of the many varieties of calcium tablets available for human use, the most effective to use in your garden is calcium carbonate. Crushing the tablets and adding them to your garden soil will have the same effect as adding agricultural lime. However, calcium tablets are expensive, and trying to raise the calcium level in your soil by this method might be demanding on your budget. Use calcium tablets if you have them left over in your medicine cabinet -- but choose some other method of adding calcium to perform routine maintenance.

Other Sources of Calcium for the Garden

Crushed eggshells are an inexpensive solution to the calcium problem in your garden. Scatter the eggshells on top of your garden and work them into the soil. Spreading lime over your garden is a good way to raise the pH of the soil and to add calcium. Quicklime, or calcium oxide, is one available source of lime. It acts fast, but you run the risk of damaging plants if you overuse it. A safer source of lime is ground limestone, or agricultural lime. This works more slowly, but is less likely to damage plants. Gypsum-calcium sulfate adds calcium to the soil without raising the pH level. If your soil has high pH and low calcium, this is a good choice. Wood ash is 45 percent calcium carbonate. If you have a wood stove, working wood ash into your garden soil is a very inexpensive way to improve it.

Tags: your garden, garden soil, your garden soil, your soil, agricultural lime, calcium carbonate, calcium tablets

Cure And Treat Diarrhea Naturally

Unfortunately, everyone experiences diarrhea on occasion. Here's treat diarrhea naturally.

Instructions

1. First it is important to know that if you are experiencing any signs of dehydration due to diarrhea, you should seek medical advice immediately. You may have a serious medical condition that needs attention ASAP. Children, the elderly and those with weak immune systems will suffer from dehydration quickly.

2. Be sure to contact a doctor quickly if diarrhea persists, is excessive or contains blood and mucus. Three or more episodes a day is reason to call the doctor.

3. Eat plenty of bananas. Bananas are a great source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium. Bananas also help regulate bowl movements with their high fiber content which makes this fruit the perfect food for times like this.

4. Apple Sauce has been known for many generations to cure diarrhea. Apple Sauce contains vitamins, water and fiber.

5. Carrot Juice in particular has been cited to be a cure for diarrhea. Drinking three glasses a day is advised. Fresh carrot juice is the best but bottled will work just fine.

6. Drink plenty of fluids including fruit juices, sports drinks and decaffeinated teas. Avoid apple juice, carbonated sodas, coffee, dairy and alcoholic beverages which may aggravate diarrhea.

7. Eat plain simple foods such as rice, toast, crackers and pretzels. Any foods that are saucy, spicy or fatty will cause diarrhea to increase.

Tags: Apple Sauce, cure diarrhea

What Vitamins Will Improve Memory

A number of nutrients are essential to brain function, including some that become increasingly important as you get older. A number of herbal supplements also have been shown to improve brain function. Supplementing your diet with more of these herbs and vitamins can improve many brain functions, including memory.

Vitamins

One vitamin found in the brain is acetyl-l-carnitine, which protects brain cells and improves blood flow in the brain. Research shows that increasing acetyl-l-carnitine intake can even improve brain chemistry in Alzheimer's and diabetes patients. Vitamin B12 helps repair nerve fibers in the brain, and vitamin E has been shown to protect cells from nerve damage. Vitamin E, however, also has been shown to interfere with blood-clotting medicines and should be prescribed by a physician. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce dementia but may not improve normal brain function.

Herbal Supplements

Ginseng, which can help improve brain function by increasing the release of hormones, has been used to treat people with learning disabilities. Gingko Biloba improves blood flow to the brain, which in turn increases the flow of nutrients to the brain; Gingko traditionally has been used in Chinese medicine, but formal research on its effects are ongoing.

Other Methods of Improving Memory

There are also non-medicinal means to improve memory and other brain functions. In particular, keeping the brain active is important. Research shows that about three hours a day of mental exercises can help prevent senile dementia. Learning a new skill or language can help keep the brain from becoming stagnant; many people do crossword puzzles to keep their brains active.

Tags: been shown, brain function, improve brain, been used, blood flow, blood flow brain, brain functions

Foods That Cure Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K is a vital nutrient in the human body that aids in coagulation of the blood. A vitamin K deficiency leads to excessive bleeding from the gums, blood in the urine, abnormal menstrual flows and easy bruising.

Risk Factors

People that tend to suffer from a vitamin K deficiency are newborns, male alcoholics, people who suffer from intestinal conditions and those on certain prescriptions that inhibit the body's natural production of vitamin K.

Vitamin K Rich Vegetables

Many vegetables help fight vitamin K deficiency. These foods consist mostly of leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and collard greens. Broccoli, alfalfa, and Brussels sprouts work great too.

Vitamin K Rich Foods

Other foods that help with vitamin K deficiency are fish, yogurt, soybeans and seaweed. Foods that are broke down in the intestines produce Vitamin K as a natural byproduct.

Considerations

People should take vitamin K supplements and consume foods rich in vitamin K carefully. Vitamin K deficiencies are rare and not lethal, but people on anticoagulant prescriptions are advised to avoid foods rich in vitamin K.

Warning

If a diet consisting of foods that cure vitamin K deficiency is not helping, people who suffer excessive bleeding should consult with a licensed health professional. An underlying condition may require immediate treatment.

Tags: vitamin deficiency, excessive bleeding, foods rich, foods rich vitamin, people suffer, rich vitamin, suffer from

Make Rose Hip Tea

Rose hips

Rose hips are the fruit of rose flowers, and are high in vitamin C and vitamin A. They contain a large amount of carotene, similar to what is found in carrots. Making your own rose hip tea using dried rose hips takes little effort, and results in a nutritious, tasty and refreshing beverage. The drink is easily customizable, and can be suited to most tastes. This recipe yields approximately one quart, or four cups, of rose hip tea.

Instructions

1. Place the dried rose hips and lemon balm or mint into a large saucepan. Cover with one quart of cold water, and place the pan over medium heat.

2. Place a lid on the pan, and bring the mixture slowly to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer the rose hips undisturbed for 15 minutes.

3. Place a large bowl under a fine mesh strainer to catch the tea. Strain the liquid through the strainer to separate the rose hips and dried herbs from the tea.

4. Mash the rose hips with a fork to extract all the vitamin enriched juice from the fruit. Discard the spent plant material when all the tea has been strained into the bowl.

5. Add the sugar and lemon juice to the tea, if desired. Stir to combine until the sugar has completely dissolved. Transfer the rose hip tea to clean coffee mugs and serve immediately, or store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours in a covered container.

Tags: rose hips, dried rose, dried rose hips, rose hips, Rose hips

Natural Remedies For A Urine Infection In Pregnancy

Pregnant women are at greater risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs) because the pressure of their uterus on their bladder often leads to incomplete emptying of the bladder. Urinary tract infections can cause pregnancy complications, including premature birth. Because a urinary tract infection in pregnancy can have serious consequences, begin natural treatment as soon as you notice any symptoms and see your health care provider if natural remedies do not resolve the condition.

Cranberry or Blueberry Juice

Unsweetened cranberry or blueberry juice can reduce the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract. Unsweetened cranberry juice can prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Use unsweetened juice only; avoid juice blends or juice "cocktails." Midwife and herbalist Aviva Romm recommends 8 ounces of juice every four hours, together with four 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Continue drinking the juice for several days after the infection is gone. Cranberry extract is available in a supplement form; if you choose the supplement, be sure to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water as well. Staying hydrated will help flush bacteria from your system and decrease the chances that you will have a recurrent infection. Avoid products containing caffeine, which can cause dehydration.

Vitamins and Minerals

Take a prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement daily if you are not already doing so. Your health care provider can prescribe one, or you can buy an over-the-counter product. Make sure the supplement contains Vitamins A, C, E and the B-complex. When you have an urinary tract infection, Romm recommends 500 milligrams of Vitamin C, taken four times a day, for three to five days, then following up with a few days of cranberry juice as described above. You also need Omega 3 fatty acids every day; talk with your health care provider about an appropriate supplement if your prenatal vitamin does not include these essential fatty acids. If you have been taking antibiotics or have frequent urinary tract infections, take the probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus to maintain the normal bacteria that helps you stay healthy.

Herbal Remedies

Echinacea root tincture helps reduce inflammation, is antimicrobial and helps strengthen the immune system. You can take up to 1 drop for every 2 pounds of your body weight every four hours until symptoms are gone. Twenty drops three times a day also works as a preventative; however, do not take echinacea for more than 10 days in a row without taking a one-week break. Teas made from corn silk or uva-ursi are also beneficial. Do not take uva-ursi teas for more than 10 days in a row. Note: Not all herbs are safe for use during pregnancy. Before you use herbal remedies, consult a trained herbalist or alternative medicine practitioner.

Tags: urinary tract, care provider, health care, health care provider, tract infections

Increase Antioxidant Intake

Consuming more antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables can prevent oxidative stress, which is caused by oxygen making contact with cells, this is also known as free radicals. Free radicals damage cells they come in contact with by destabilizing them. Once the free radicals begin to attack proteins, fats and DNA the damage to the cells begin to cause occurrences of various diseases and also speeds up the aging process. By increasing your antioxidant intake you can avoid free radicals and the damage they cause to cells.

Instructions

1. Choose foods and beverages that are scientifically proven to consist of powerful antioxidants. By opting for antioxidant rich foods you will help to stabilize free radicals and repair the damage they caused to the cells. Antioxidants can be found in various vitamins and minerals or other organic compounds.

2. Eat your fruit. Choose fruits shown to be rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Some great options for antioxidant rich fruits are strawberries, cherries, honeydew melons, raspberries, figs, papaya, kiwi and nectarines— just to name a few.

3. Pile on the veggies. Consuming raw vegetables are an excellent way of getting the maximum dose of antioxidants into your diet. There are a variety of delicious antioxidant packed vegetables like eggplants, squash, sweet potatoes, broccoli, kale, spinach, zucchini and snow peas. When choosing vegetables look for colorful vegetables that are in season—your local farmer’s market is a great place to start.

4. Go fishing. Choose heart-healthy fish such as, wild caught salmon which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, proteins and antioxidants. There are a variety of fish readily available at your local fish market or whole foods store, choose wild caught fish like haddock, flounder, grouper and salmon to get a great intake of antioxidants. Adding extra virgin olive oil to the fish during preparation or cooking is another great way to increase your antioxidant intake.

5. Relax with a cup of green tea. Green tea has been shown to provide a refreshing amount of antioxidants in one cup. Red wine is yet another beverage that, if drank in moderation, provides a wonderful serving of rich antioxidants and minerals. Also consider drink a glass of grape juice with no added sugars. It contains heart healthy vitamins and antioxidants as well.

Tags: antioxidant rich, contact with, damage cells, damage they, free radicals, free radicals, radicals damage

Do Parakeets Need Sunlight

A parakeet needs a certain amount of sunlight.

Parakeets are small parrots known as budgerigars, or budgies, in their native country of Australia. These small and slim long-tailed birds can learn to talk, live for between four and 15 years and make lively pets that adapt well to small apartment life. Parakeets do need sunlight in measured amounts for good health, but too much has the opposite effect.

Vitamin D

Parakeets need natural sunlight to be healthy. Just as human bodies manufacture vitamin D in the presence of sunlight, it also helps parakeet bodies make the vitamin. Cages located next to windows do not always give birds the quality of light they require. This is because windows are often treated to block the UV rays needed for the formation of this vitamin. Never locate inside cages or outside cages in full sunlight, without available areas of shady, because this overheats the parakeets.

Breeding Cycle

Breeding parakeets need 12 hours of sunlight a day. These natural creatures go to sleep as the sun goes down and wake up when it rises. Aid your parakeets to breed successfully by keeping their daytime cycles as close as possible to natural daylight timing. Darken cages with heavy covers in rooms where electric lights burn after dark. Sunlight causes the breeding feathers on a parakeet's head and neck to glow, indicating it's ready to breed to other parakeets. Human eyesight is not sensitive enough to notice this effect. Glandular systems in parakeets that control the breeding cycle are also stimulated by sunlight.

Eyesight

The process of vitamin D formation, under the influence of sunlight, is vital to Parakeet eyesight. Sight is the strongest sense in parakeets. They use their sharp eyesight in the wild to look for food, as well as to find breeding partners. These birds naturally see a wider range of colors than humans do. The UV spectrum is visible to parakeets that spend sufficient time in sunlight, which is how they see the fluorescence of another bird's breeding feathers.

Safe Amounts

Parakeets that live primarily inside that house need a few hours of sunlight a day. Between four and six hours a day in a cage outside is optimal, but even a couple of hours a day is good for your bird. Direct sunlight's not required, or even desirable, especially if it's very strong. Make sure parakeets have an area of shade in their cage, to escape harsh sunlight and prevent overheating. Parakeets that are exposed to the sun for too long begin to pant and need immediate cooling down by taking the cage into a cool, quiet room.

Tags: breeding feathers, hours sunlight, need hours, need hours sunlight, Parakeets need

Solve Skin Thinning Problems Caused By Steroids

Steroids are used in various medications to treat itchy or irritated skin. While steroids are effective at treating certain issues, they can cause new problems. When applied topically, steroids can sometimes cause skin irritation, oftentimes making skin thinner. Thankfully, this side effect is generally temporary and will only continue for as long as you use the cream. You can then correct the issue quite simply through a variety of treatment methods.

Instructions

1. Stop using steroid creams. Steroids can significantly damage your skin, leaving it paper-thin in some areas.

2. Switch to a non-steroid cream. If you use steroid creams for an ongoing skin condition, such as eczema, talk to your doctor about other treatment creams. There are various immunosuppressant creams that are free of steroids.

3. Apply Vitamin C to your skin. When applied topically, Vitamin C plumps up the skin. Since it encourages collagen production, your skin will become thicker with regular use. You can find Vitamin C in a variety of lotions, creams and serums.

4. Talk to your doctor about Retin-A. Retin-A encourages skin cell production, helping to greatly thicken your skin. You need a prescription for Retin-A. It is available in ointment, cream and serum forms.

5. Massage your skin daily. Massage increases circulation, helping blood and nutrients to more readily reach the area. As your skin is better nourished, it will begin to thicken. Use firm pressure to massage the area twice daily for at least 90 seconds.

6. Puncture a Vitamin E capsule and squeeze the contents onto your skin. Vitamin E is essential to skin health. When applied topically, it promotes thicker, healthier skin.

Tags: your skin, applied topically, When applied, When applied topically, doctor about, steroid creams, your doctor

Dissolve Nodules Naturally

The thyroid gland can develop nodules due to poor health or deficiences.

Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Supplements

Peripheral neuropathy is characterized by pain, numbness, tingling or burning sensations in the extremities, such as hands and feet. It is a common complication of diabetes. Blood sugar levels that are out of control can cause nerve damage over time. The best treatment for peripheral neuropathy is to keep blood sugar in check. However, certain supplements can also help.

Capsaicin

Topical capsaicin cream (available over the counter) may help relieve some of the pain of neuropathy. Rub it on the affected area, but be careful not to get it in your eyes. Capsaicin is extracted from cayenne pepper.

Gamma-Linolenic Acid

Gamma-linolenic acid is found in evening primrose oil, borage oil and black currant seed oil. GLA can help to improve nerve function and prevent peripheral neuropathy symptoms.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E helps protect the body from the affects of free radicals. As an antioxidant, it helps guard against the common complications of diabetes, including neuropathy.

B Complex Vitamins

The B vitamins are essential for nerve health. In particular, B-12 helps regenerate the nerve coverings, which are called myelin sheaths. Benfotiamine is a lipid-soluble form of vitamin B1. This means that it metabolizes more quickly and is more effective.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Try a daily dosage of about 20 to 50 mg of alpha lipoic acid. Because it assists in blood sugar control, it may help peripheral neuropathy that is caused by diabetes.

Tags: peripheral neuropathy, blood sugar

Raise Ferritin Levels

Ferritin is a compound of proteins that stores iron inside cells. When your levels of ferritin are low, this is a sign that your iron levels are low. According to Priscilla Slagle, M.D., as reported in the August 2004 issue of "The Way Up" newsletter, iron deficiency can cause many unpleasant symptoms, including hair loss, anemia, weakness, difficulty swallowing, increase of ADD or ADHD symptoms, tingling in the hands and feet, asthma and even heart palpitations. If you experience low ferritin levels you should consult a doctor, and begin working to increase the amount of iron in your body.

Instructions

1. Talk to your doctor before you start taking any supplements or undertaking any radical diet changes. Iron supplementation can be dangerous if not done properly. Your doctor will help you create a strategy for increasing your levels of ferritin.

2. Eat foods high in iron. These foods include organ meats (especially kidney, heart and liver), lean red meats, beans and other legumes, nuts and seeds, dried fruit, caviar and blackstrap molasses. Be sure to discuss the increase of iron in your diet with your doctor in order to prevent ingesting toxic levels of iron.

3. Take supplements to improve your iron absorption. According to Dr. Slagle, these include vitamin C, copper, folic acid, vitamin B12, chlorophyll, molybdenum and selenium. All these work to increase the amount of iron your body gets from food and supplements.

4. Take iron supplements. According to Dr. Shari Lieberman, author of "The Real Vitamin & Mineral Book," the optimum daily intake of iron is 15 to 25 mg for men and 18 to 30 mg for women. A healthy human being can tolerate up to 75 mg a day without adverse side effects.

5. Avoid substances that inhibit iron absorption. Dr. Slagle states that wine, coffee, tea, soy protein, high fiber diets and the chemical phytate found in the bran contained in whole grains all inhibit iron absorption. So also do excesses of zinc, calcium, cadmium, nickel, magnesium, chromium, phosphorus and manganese.

Tags: iron absorption, iron your, amount iron, amount iron your, increase amount, increase amount iron

How Much Vitamin C Does One Person Need Daily

Vitamin C comes from food, especially citrus, and/or supplements.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant. According to "Healing With Vitamins," vitamin C is used protect areas of the body from cancer, for heart health, to help with stroke prevention and it may help delay or prevent cataract formation in the eyes. "Healing With Vitamins" also states that all types of vitamin C supplements are equal, no matter the cost. But the "Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements" suggests getting this vitamin through foods that are naturally rich in it.

Infants

Even babies need vitamin C in their diets.

Infants under 6 months old need 30 milligrams of vitamin C daily, according to the "Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements." The book also reports that infants 6 to 12 months old need 35 milligrams each day. Vitamin C is vital in the production of collagen, which holds the body together. This is why vitamin C is not only important in adults, but also in infants and children so that they can grow up healthy.

Children

Growing children need vitamin C to help build collagen.

Children 1 to 3 years old need 40 milligrams of vitamin C daily. Those 4 to 10 need 45 milligrams, while 11- to 14-year-olds need 50 milligrams. The amount increases as people get older because their systems demand more, according to "Healing With Vitamins."

Adults

Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more vitamin C than other adults.

On the vitamin scale teens 15 years and older are considered adults and need 60 milligrams of vitamin C every day. This is the same amount that adults, both male and female, need. Pregnant women need 70 milligrams, while lactating mothers should be getting 95 milligrams.

Sources

Oranges are a great source of vitamin C.

Instead of opting for supplements to get the right amount of vitamin C daily, there are many foods that can supply the needed daily recommendations. Each of the following is based on a per 3-1/2 ounce serving, according to the "Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements." Oranges and orange juice contain 50 milligrams of vitamin C. Spinach has 51 milligrams. For higher dosages try broccoli (113) or parsley (172). Even liver contains vitamin C, 23 milligrams to be exact.

For A Cold

The amount of vitamin C intake can be increased to fight off a cold or to lessen its duration, according to the "Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements." The recommended dosage for this situation is 1 to 6 grams of vitamin C per day.

Tags: need milligrams, Encyclopedia Nutritional, Encyclopedia Nutritional Supplements, milligrams vitamin, Nutritional Supplements

Risks Of Optifast

Optifast is an all-liquid and quick weight loss diet that is intended for a short period of use primarily by people who are very obese, meaning people who can loose at least 50 pounds and are experiencing complications because of their weight. This diet must be completed under the close supervision of a trained physician because of the extremity of the diet and the possible health risks. The diet is made up of four phases: screening, active weight loss, transition and maintenance. The screening phase is essentially to make sure the person is healthy enough to withstand the diet. The second phase, active weight loss, is four to six weeks of the person on a liquid-only diet that includes Optifast products like nutrition bars. In the third phase, transition, the person is slowly reintroduced to solid foods with fats and carbohydrates. The maintenance phase starts when the person is able to make healthy eating choices from all of the food groups and use exercise as a way to maintain their weight.

Lack of Minerals

Because the Optifast diet only allows about 800 calories a day, it only contains the amount of vitamins and minerals recommended for healthy living. But because the recommended amount of vitamins and minerals are for someone who is healthy, this may not be sufficient enough for someone who is obese. This can cause many unforeseen complications, especially for someone who is severely obese.

Increased Risk of Gallstones

Gallstone formation happens at a more increased rate in people who have a very low caloric intake, and more so in women than men especially when losing weight very quickly.

Risk of Overdose

When a person is on the Optifast diet and taking prescribed medication for another ailment or condition, they may find themselves in danger of overdosing. This is because some medication strengths are determined by a person's weight. If a person loses a large amount of weight while on the Optifast diet, their medication may become too strong.

Short-Term Side Effects

Nausea, fatigue, constipation and diarrhea are all additional side effects of this low-calorie diet. These effects are usually short-term and disappear once the body grows accustomed to the amount of calories provided.

Financial Risks

Because the Optifast diet is managed through a clinic and requires medical supervision, the cost of the diet can be very expensive. This can prove to be a financial risk, especially since most people will find it very hard to endure up to six weeks of a liquid diet with only Optifast products as solid food.

Tags: Optifast diet, weight loss, active weight, active weight loss, amount vitamins

Overthecounter Vitamins To Raise Hdl Cholesterol

Niacin, a B vitamin that is available in over-the-counter supplements and multivitamins, is known to increase the levels of high density lipoproteins, or HDL, which is also known as good cholesterol. However, when used for this purpose, higher dosages are needed and that typically will require a prescription from your physician. In addition, high doses of niacin can cause side effects that include skin flushing and gastrointestinal upset. The Mayo Clinic recommends that you consult a health care professional before you use niacin to raise your HDL level.

Other B Vitamins

Vitamins B6 and B12 help process an amino acid found in the blood called homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine have been linked to cardiovascular disease, which can be caused by high levels of cholesterol. It is premature to assume that increasing the intake of vitamins B6 or B12 will reduce the incidence of heart disease, but this is an area that future researchers may explore, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health.

Vitamin C

Some researchers claim to have documented a link between higher dosages of vitamin C and lower levels of LDL or bad cholesterol, which could leave people with higher proportions of HDL in their blood. For example, according to studies originally reported in 2008 in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, test subjects who took at least 500 mg of vitamin C daily for three to 24 weeks reduced LDL levels by 5 percent, while showing little signs of change in their HDL levels. Other sources claim there is little evidence to establish a link between a higher intake of vitamin C and lower cholesterol, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is typically associated with bone health. However, one study claims to verify a connection between higher intake of vitamin D and improved health of people with congestive heart failure. There is no available research on a link between higher levels of vitamin D and improved cholesterol levels, according to the American Heart Association.

Vitamin E

Certain research studies performed in labs have shown vitamin E can prevent the oxidation of LDL or bad cholesterol. Observational studies involving a large group of nurses have demonstrated a link between higher intake of vitamin E, mostly through supplements, and a 30- to 40-percent lower incidence of heart disease. However, clinical studies on middle-aged and older men and women found no correlation between vitamin E intake and lower cholesterol or lower heart disease. Some believe that further research involving a younger group of individuals over a longer period of time is needed, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health.

Proven steps to improve your cholesterol

Proven steps to lower your total cholesterol are similar to those needed to raise your HDL cholesterol, according to the American Heart Association. Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Limit the amount of saturated fat that you eat. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Exercise regularly. Maintain a healthy weight. In three to six months, a healthy lifestyle change may lower your cholesterol. If it doesn't, your physician may recommend medication to manage your cholesterol.

Tags: between higher, link between, link between higher, your cholesterol, according Office, according Office Dietary, between higher intake

Organic Chemistry Tutorial

Nutrients such as vitamin C molecules are understood and manipulated using organic chemistry.

An organic chemistry tutorial covers many topics and lessons in order to be comprehensive. Naming and recognizing common collections of atoms called functional groups is one of the relevant topics. Atomic electronegativity is crucial to predicting general molecule behavior. You will practice predicting reaction products and transformations. Intermediate molecules and parallel reactions are important in predicting mass/energy dynamics during and after organic processes.

Instructions

1. Memorize common organic functional groups and the related naming scheme. For instance "-OH" is the hydroxyl functional group common in many organic compounds. Propyl alcohol and potassium hydroxide both contain the "OH" functional group even though the two substances are named slightly different with respect to the "OH." "Alcohol" and "hydroxide" refer to the same oxygen-hydrogen group. This "multiple naming" phenomenon is common in organic chemistry.

2. Organize atoms by electronegativity. This is done to predict likely reaction paths. Groups with low electronegativity are electron donors. Higher electronegativity values imply electron acceptors. Partial charges help to indicate electron donors and acceptors. Consider methanol, expressed as CH3---OH. The "OH" hydroxyl has a higher electronegativity due to the oxygen than methyl (CH3). Therefore, the carbon end of the molecule has a slight positive charge and the "OH" electron acceptor has a corresponding slight negative charge.

3. Practice predicting organic reaction products. Electrons and atoms shuffle between---and within---organic molecules with surprising complexity. Steric and kinetic effects influence correct, or even likely, reaction steps.

4. Capture information about intermediates and parallel reactions. Intermediates exist briefly before transforming into other intermediates and/or products. Parallel reactions may be obvious or subtle, producing only tiny traces of "parallel product." Intermediate molecules and parallel reactions are inferred by methods such as spectroscopy, mass and energy balance as well as reaction mechanism predictions.

Tags: parallel reactions, common organic, electron donors, functional group, functional groups, Intermediate molecules

Vitamins Found In Bean Sprouts

Put healhy mung bean sprouts on a sandwich.

Bean sprouts generally refer to the young sprouts of the germinating mung bean. Bean sprouts are found in Asian dishes as vegetables or raw in salads. They are a good source of protein and fiber in addition to being a rich source of vitamins. Eat them raw or lightly cook bean sprouts no more than 30 seconds to retain their crunchiness.

Vitamin C

A one cup serving of raw, sprouted mung beans has 13.7 mg of vitamin C. Stir-fried bean sprouts contain 19.8 mg of vitamin C. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, helps protect the immune system, cardiovascular system, eyes and it promotes healthy skin.

Vitamin B

Vitamin B-6, which aids in metabolism, totals about 0.092 mg in raw mung bean sprouts and 0.161 cooked. Niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, totals about 0.779 mg in raw sprouts and 1.488 mg if cooked. Vitamin B-3 is needed for a properly functioning central nervous system and digestive system.

Vitamins K and E

Raw bean sprouts contain 34.3 mcg of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting. Raw bean sprouts contain 10 mg of vitamin E, an antioxidant that also aids in the proper functioning of muscles. When cooked, bean sprouts contain no vitamin K or vitamin E, according to the USDA's National Nutrient Database.

Vitamin A

Raw bean sprouts contain 22 IU of vitamin A. When they are cooked, bean sprouts contain 38 IU of vitamin A. Raw bean sprouts contain beta and alpha carotene in 6 mcg each. Beta and alpha carotene convert to vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for healthy eyes.

Tags: bean sprouts contain, sprouts contain, bean sprouts, contain vitamin, sprouts contain vitamin