Healthcare Concerns

The American public has been deceived about foods for the last 90 years or so, starting with WW1 and the priority to send our real butter to the troops overseas, and the invention of margarine and shortening for the home folks. That began the domestic vegetable oil processing industry, and pretty much, the corruption of the whole food industry. The technology for converting cheap, liquid vegetable/grain oil into solid fat that had a nearly infinite shelf life was hydrogenation. Hydrogenation is a process of adding hydrogen atoms to the carbon chain that forms the backbone of every fat molecule, in locations where there were no hydrogen atoms before. Fats with missing hydrogen atoms are called mono- or poly-unsaturated fats, and so hydrogenation is a process of making more-saturated fats out of unsaturated fats. So, in addition to making margarine, the oil folks could make ‘partially hydrogenated’ oils with that nearly infinite shelf life for use in the entire baked goods industry, and nothing went rancid ever again.

But before hydrogenation takes place the raw oils must be ‘refined’ to get rid of the colors, smells, tastes and any – God forbid – cloudiness. These oils were promoted as being ‘pure’ and put on grocery shelves in clear bottles so we could feel good about their purity. The primary reason for refining is again, shelf life. Refining removes all the short-chain fatty acids that go rancid (oxidize) in a heartbeat, and are rapidly degraded by light. It also removes the thousands of nutrients locked in the seed or fruit that were available in simpler times to those primitive folks who used unrefined oils, pressed fresh in their markets on a daily basis. Understand this – everything needed to pass life from one generation to the next is present in the grains and seeds pressed for oil. The oil contains all the fat-soluble nutrients necessary for life, and that mankind evolved getting a big part of our nutrients from these oils.

In fact, there are two fatty acids that are ESSENTIAL to our life – we can’t make them in our bodies, and if we don’t get them we die. These are alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid. These are referred to as essential fatty acids or EFAs. They enable a huge number of functions in our bodies, including energy production, oxygen transfer in our lungs, hemoglobin production, cell division and growth, and are highly involved in brain development and operation. They are essential components of every membrane of every cell we possess, and control the flow of nutrients into and waste/toxins out of the cells.

Now, to add insult to injury, refining and hydrogenation create a type of fat molecule that rarely existed in the food supply before – the trans-fat. Normal unsaturated fats are bent molecules, because a missing hydrogen atom kinks the carbon chain; that’s what makes them functional in the body. Trans-fats, however, are straight because of the errant position of an extra hydrogen molecule, and can’t perform the same functions as the normal or sis-fat. But the body can’t tell the difference and tries to use them for the same functions, crippling cells and their operations. Tragically, there are mountains of evidence that the health impact of these changes is profound, but the food industry and our watchdog FDA show little concern.

The entire meat industry has been impacted as well. For decades we have been feeding livestock manufactured feeds based on hydrogenated oils, so that the composition of the fats in our meats is vastly different than it was in the 1800’s. It is now nearly devoid of EFAs and much higher in saturated fat and trans-fats than livestock that is free-range fed or wild game animals.

I want to impress upon you that fats and oils are essential for life, and the low-fat insanity of the last 30 years has damaged the health of two generations. But, you must avoid the harmful fats (refined oils and transfats) and eat the right fats to be healthy. For the most part that means Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil and butter for cooking, and either flax oil or a balanced-EFA, unrefined oil mix such as Udo’s Oil by the tablespoon or as a base for salad dressings with meals. For general health take fish oil or cod liver oil as a supplement and everything will function better. For those of you who really want to get the truth in all its detail regarding the importance of fats in human physiology, I refer you to “Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill” by Udo Erasmus, 1993.

Also, the November,2005 edition of Life Extension Magazine (http://www.lef.org) has an article by Dr. Nicholas V. Perricone, MD. dealing with the history and detriment of the low fat insanity, as the primary cause of our rampant obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation, leading to heart disease, Alzheimer’s and more.

Good living – Frank

Frank Wilhelmi, a 66 year old electronic engineer still working in the defense industry, with a 33 year habit of bodybuilding and pursuing knowledge needed to keep fit and healthy. An avid student of the physical and biological sciences, and a certified fitness trainer, his website http://www.seniorfitness.com is an outgrowth of his personal lifestyle. He created the Senior Fitness website to pass on knowledge acquired over many years, and to collect the technical knowledge necessary to be fit into advanced age.

Depression is a much bigger and widespread problem than many would believe. It is estimated that more than 1 in 20 Americans will develop depression in the next 12 months but most sufferers attempt to hide the problem from friends, family and physicians. This makes it incredibly difficult to diagnose unless you are specifically looking for the symptoms. Most sufferers find it difficult to diagnose depression and often attribute it to “feeling a bit down”. There is a big difference between feeling down and having depression. If you or someone close to you is suffering from depression it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

The Safe Use Of Natural Remedies

As well as psychological and medical treatment there are also a number of natural remedies that can help to eliminate or, at least, reduce stress and depression. Introducing these supplements, vitamins or nutrients into your diet it can be possible to avoid prolonged depression. Always check for interactions with any prescription drug you may be taking and, if necessary, consult your physician to ask their opinion of a particular natural remedy and whether you are safe to take it.

St Johns Wort

St Johns Wort is one of the most popular and effective of herbs to help combat depression. It has become increasingly popular over the last few years, as more and more people have been made aware of its effectiveness. St Johns Wort inhibits monoamine oxidase, a chemical within the human body that is known to encourage depression. However, St Johns Wort does much more than this. It can help to restore self-esteem, confidence and regular sleeping patterns making it not only useful for beating depression but restoring physical health as well. It also increases appetite and restores interest in life.

St Johns Wort is available in capsule, tea, tincture and oil form. There are some recorded precautions that need to be taken when considering taking St Johns Wort. Cases of photosensitivity in those with fair skin have been reported so care should be taken in the sun. You should also avoid combining St Johns Wort with cold and flu remedies as well as other prescription based anti depressants. Avoid using St Johns Wort if pregnant or breast-feeding.

Kava Kava

Kava Kava is another excellent product that can help to beat stress and anxiety. It is particularly effective in the battle against physical stress. Kava Kava promotes feelings of calm relaxation without the drowsiness that can be associated with prescription drugs and even other herbal remedies. Depending on the patient, feelings of euphoria and elation may also be experienced but this is experienced in the minority of cases.

Lemon Balm

Due to its calming aroma and effects, lemon balm is also popular as a herbal anti depressant. Lemon balm has been used for centuries as an antibacterial ointment and also as an infusion or a tea to help calm nerves and settle patients. Lemon balm can easily be grown in gardens throughout the world and by tearing the leaves, adding honey and hot water the perfect, natural relaxant can be made.

A Final Word On Natural Remedies

Nature produces many different herbs and more than a fare share of these can help with depression, stress and anxiety. While some care should always be taken regarding drug interactions and the misuse they are generally considered safe for regular consumption and use. If you are in any doubt then consult your physician; something you should definitely do if you are taking any form pf prescription drug.

Jacob Mabille writes for Health Guides & Articles where you can find more health tips and related articles. You may republish this article only if you retain resource box and active hyperlinks.

Feature Article Release Date: March 28, 2005
Contact: Phillip Fry, Manager, Mold Inspector Laboratory International, Ltd.
Phone: 63-921-352-1287
Email: moldinspector@yahoo.com

How to Collect Physical Mold Growth Samples for Low-Cost Mold Laboratory Identification of Mold Species

VANCOUVER, CANADA. Many property owners, apartment landlords, renters, employers, and employees want to know, and need to know, the precise identities of the various mold species infesting their moldy house, rental unit, or place of employment, according to Phillip Fry, Certified Mold Inspector and author of the book Do-It-Best-Yourself Mold Prevention, Inspection, Testing, & Remediation.

The accurate identification of mold species requires two steps: (1) physical collection of mold samples from the moldy building; and (2) mold laboratory analysis of the collected mold samples.

The least costly way to collect mold samples is the do-it-yourself approach carried out by gathering actual samples of mold growth to submit for mold laboratory analysis ($20.00 or more fee per sample analyzed).

Bulk Physical Mold Sampling

If a property owner or occupant sees mold growing on a wall, ceiling, floor, heating or cooling duct register, or any other surface, he can scrape mold particles off the mold growth area into a small ziplock bag. Collecting such a physical sample is “bulk mold sampling” or “physical mold sampling.”

During such scraping of the mold growth, the tester needs to wear rubber gloves and a full-face respirator mask with organic vapor filters (such as the 3M brand from a large hardware, home improvement, or safety store).

To do the scraping, use a new or thoroughly disinfected (with ethyl or rubbing alcohol) paint scraper. Disinfect the scraper after each individual sampling to remove any possible mold contaminants, and thus avoid mold cross-contamination in the sampling process from one source or location to another.

Print clearly and neatly on a large pressure sensitive label the property owner’s name, the property address, the precise test location at that address, the testing date, and the type of sampling method (“bulk sample”), along with the tester’s name and contact information.

The label should also include each individual test number, as listed on the mold chain of custody form, available free from the mold laboratory. Attach the label to the ziplock bag containing that respective, numbered mold sample.
Alternatively, the tester can scrape the mold particles directly into a mold test kit (Petri dish) to start the growing (“culturing”) of the mold sample. This “viable testing” growth process takes 5 to 7 days for accuracy in mold species identification.

The tester can then either watch the test kits for mold growth, or send the mold test kit to the mold lab immediately, or after the self-observation growth period.

Another bulk physical sampling technique is to cut out a small section (no larger than 2 inches by 2 inches) of a building material or home furnishing that contains significant mold growth. Then, put that cut piece into a small ziplock bag, or press firmly the moldy side down into a mold test kit. Follow the same labeling instructions explained above.

Examples of moldy materials from which bulk samples can be cut for mold lab analysis are wood timbers, drywall, plasterboard, wallpaper, ceiling tile, carpeting, padding, heating/cooling system filters, clothing, furniture upholstery, and any other favorite mold food.

Scotch® Brand Tape Lift Sampling

The easy steps involved in tape lift sampling to collect physical bulk mold samples are—

1. Cut a three-inch (3”) long strip of one-inch (1”) wide, transparent sticky tape, such as Scotch® Brand Tape.

2. While wearing rubber gloves and a breathing respirator mask (with organic vapor filters) from the local hardware or home improvement store, press the tape strip firmly (sticky side down) onto the visible mold growth or onto the surface being tested.

3. Remove (peel back) the tape from the surface.

4. Open up a small ziplock bag (a transparent, easily sealable plastic storage bag), and press lightly the lift tape sample sticky side onto the inside sidewall of the ziplock bag.

5. Close [zip shut] the ziplock bag completely. Tape it shut if necessary to make sure no airborne mold spores can escape.

6. Attach to the outside of the ziplock bag a large adhesive label with the same types of sample identification information specified above, except that the type of sampling method is “lift tape sampling.”

For more information about bulk physical mold sampling, lift tape mold sampling, mold laboratory analysis, and mold species identification, please visit—

http://www.moldlab.biz

http://www.moldinspector.com

http://www.moldmart.net

Mr. Phillip Fry is a Certified Mold Inspector and a Certified Mold Remediator. He had written DIY Mold Prevention, Inspection, Testing and Remediation ebooks. He had also co-authored the ebook Mold Legal Guide.

Back pain is the most common complaint among adults under 45. Back pain brings their activities to a complete halt and intervenes in the progress of their career. Researchers say that it is really a challenge to a physician to find out the true cause of back pain.

Here is a quick take on the anatomy of the human back. Our body depends on the spinal column for structural stability and mobility. We twist, bend and flex with the help of spinal column. The spinal column is made up of 24 vertebrae, 7 in the neck (the cervical vertebrae), 12 in the thorax (the thoracic vertebrae), and 5 in the lower back (the lumbar vertebrae). The sacrum, located just below the lumbar vertebrae, consists of 5 fused vertebrae. The tailbone, or coccyx, with its 3 to 5 fused vertebrae, lies just beneath the sacrum. These vertebrae are placed one on another from skull to pelvis. Spongy discs are present in between vertebrae .The spinal column is tightly wrapped by muscles and ligaments.

The spinal cord is enclosed within vertebral canal which is formed by alignment of vertebrae.

Acharya sushruta describes anatomy of spinal column as follows.
Prushte trimshat – The number of back bones are 30 (Cervical-7 , Thoracic – 12, Lumbar- 5, vertebrae fused in sacrum -5 , coccyx -

1 ). While describing the joints in spinal column it has been said as “ Chaturvimshatihi prishta vamshe “. This means there are 24 joints in spinal column.

Maamsaanyatra nibaddhani siraabhihi snaayubhistatha. |
Asthinyaalambanam kritwaa ||
The ligaments and tendons hold the bones and muscles together.
Causes for back ache

Bones and thighs are mainly occupied by Vata . Vata controls and directs the body movements.Back pain occurs when vata in this region gets aggravated due to unwise physical activities (mithya yoga of karma), exaggerated physical activities (Ati yoga of karma ) or less physical activities (hina yoga of karma).
1. Back ache usually arises from spasm of muscles that support our spine. The muscles supporting spine go into spasm when we lift things unwisely, bending over too sharply, sitting in a unsuitable chair, etc.

These type of movements are called as “Mithyaa yoga of karma or action ” in ayurveda.

2. Back pain can be triggered when we sneeze, climb into a car, or bend down to pick up the newspaper.

3. Osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, viral infection, bladder or kidney infection, gynecological problems in women, tumors and trauma may also cause back pain.

4. Lack of motion or hina yoga of karma and bad posture may affect us when we sit or stand for long periods of time. On the other hand repetitive motion or Ati yoga of karma like too much of bending, lifting or twisting also affects our back.

5. Other potential causes for back ache are:

• Overweight

• Wearing high heeled shoes

• Carrying heavy weight

The vitiated vata causes stiffness of joints, pain and limits the movements of back.

Solutions for back pain

1. Stay calm.

2. A complete bed rest for 24 – 48 hrs relieves back pain in most of the instances. Walk a little every few hours to keep the blood flowing and the muscles toned.

3. Applying vata balancing oil like ksheerabala oil on affected region and Naadi sweda (mild steam bath on affected area ) of affected region relives the pain quickly.

See your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

1. If you are above 50 and sudden onset of severe pain or pain localized to spine .

2. Pain due to recent fall or trauma.

3. Pain in hip and leg.

4. Back pain unrelated to posture.

5. Bowel or bladder control problems.

6. Numbness in the groin or rectal area.

7. Extreme weakness in legs.

8. Unsteadiness while walking

9. Fever or weight loss accompanying the pain.

10. Pain that does not lessen over time even after rest

Prevention of back pain

1. Keep the muscles well conditioned by improving sitting, standing, stretching postures. Well-conditioned muscles are less susceptible to injury.

2. Never bend at the waist or stoop to pick up an object. Instead, lower the body to the level of the object by bending the knees. Grasp the item, hold it close to the body, and raise yourself with your legs while keeping your back straight.

3. Do not lift very heavy objects.

4. Whenever possible, prop yourself up.

5. Lean against a wall or pillar while waiting for a bus or standing in line at the bank.

6. Keep footstools around the house. Alternatively prop up one leg on stool while doing standing chores.

7. Sleep on a firm mattress and find a comfortable position.
8. Wear low-heeled shoes.

9. Standing straight will do wonders for your back.

10. Sit on a comfortable chair that supports the curve of lower back.

11. While sitting for long hours rest feet on a low stool so that knees are above hips.

12. Do not sit or stand in one position for a very long time. Get up periodically and walk for a while.

13. Avoid activities which hurt back.

14. Do not sit in same position for long hours. It may prove hazardous to back. Take break in between and move around.

15. Avoid becoming overweight. Overweight increases the risk of back pain.

Tips for software professionals to avoid back pain:

1. Select a correct chair, with a relatively straight back and good lower back support. If the chair doesn’t offer lower back support, keep a rolled up towel or cushion to support the back.

2. Correctly position the chair, keyboard, and monitor. Feet should be on the floor, with knees at hip level; forearms should form a right angle with upper arms; and the computer terminal should be at eye level.

3. Adopt a relaxed, upright working posture and allow the chair to support.

4. Avoid slouching forward or leaning back too far.

5. When you are at work stand up, walk around, stretch forward, backward, and side to side once in 30 minutes.

6. Increased stress and strain enhances the chances of back pain. Hence remember to relax! Yoga and meditation are best techniques to relax

7. Eat healthy food which is rich in fiber. Avoid sweets, oil, soft drinks and overeating to reduce the chances of weight gain.

8. Sex should be avoided during acute stage of back pain as it exaggerates the condition.

Ayurvedic Home remedy for backache

Remedy
Ingredients

• Nirgundi leaves (hindi – samhaalu) (Bot- Vitex negundo) (Eng – Five leaved chaste)

• Karanja leaves ( hindi – Ditauri) (Bot – Pongamia pinnata) (Eng – Indian beech)

Collect fresh leaves of Nirgundi and Karanja. Tie them in a thin cotton cloth to form a big ball . Boil this leaves’ ball in water and when it is tolerably hot apply this on affected part. When the leaves become cold reheat them by putting the leaves’ ball in boiling water. After half an hour take out the leaves from ball , grind them to a paste and bind it on affected area.
This article is copy righted. The author Dr.SavithaSuri is an Ayurvedic Physician and web master of http://www.ayurhelp.com

Biography of Dr.SavithaSuri

Dr.SavithaSuri has been an Ayurvedic Practitioner since 1989. After getting a graduation degree in ayurveda (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) in 1988 from University of Mysore, India, she started practising ayurveda . Her articles about ayurveda have been published in news papers and websites. She is a regular health columnist to a regional news paper.

Dr.SavithaSuri lives in Mysore , Karnataka, India. She gives consultations in Mysore and also in Bangalore, the silicon valley of India.
http://www.ayurhelp.com
email doctor@ayurhelp.com

Ph:91-0821-2451405
Mob: 91-0821- 9342115292

A healthy life always leads to happiness and prosperity. Health is the weapon that keeps a human going on in his regular activities and functions. Reproductive health is an important part of general health that needs universal concern. It is very important for women during their reproductive years because health many reproductive health related problems arise during this period. Any failures in living a healthy reproductive life shall lead to different sexual diseases and other deficiencies that could also cause a risk to the life of a woman.

Why Health reproductive woman?
Women reproductive health is important because women have many reproductive health problems that have added up in the number of maternal mortality rate. Women have great complications during pregnancy and childbirth. They are more open to risks while preventing unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, reproductive tract infections and burden of contraception.

What are important health factors?
There are situations where a woman bears the risk of infertility, contraception and many other infections caused through sexual intercourse and practices. Fertility is the stage where a woman conceives after fertilization of a male sperm and female ova. Infertility is whereby a woman is unable to conceive as ovulation fails even after a sexual intercourse. Irregular menstrual periods or absence of menstrual cycles among women causes such ovulatory dysfunctions.

What are sexually transmitted diseases?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are found both in men and women but women are the major victims of such diseases whereby they get infections in the reproductive tracts. Commonly found STD’s are Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Hepatitis, HIV (Aids), Human papillomavirus Infection, Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, Syphilis, Genital herpes and Trichomoniasis.

1. Bacterial Vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused in women leading to a bad smelling discharge. It also causes itching around the vagina or burning sensation while urination.

2. Chlamydia is a STD causing irreversible damage to reproductive organs even leading to infertility. It is a silent disease caused by the infection of cervix (opening to the womb) and the urethra and can spread to the rectum. Burning sensation or discharge while urination is the common symptoms found among women.

3. Gonorrhea is a disease caused by the growth of bacteria in the moist areas of reproductive tract normally cervix, uterus, urethra and fallopian tubes among women. Symptoms are burning sensation while urination, vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding during menstrual cycles.

4. Hepatitis is a disease caused by a virus called hepatitis that attacks the liver and blood organs of the body.

5. HIV is mostly caused STD because of unsafe sex practices and is the worst of all the sexually transmitted diseases.

6. Genital Human papillomavirus Infection HPV infection is caused due to infection in the genital areas among women like the vagina, cervix in the form of soft, moist, pink, or flesh-colored swellings.

7. Pelvic inflammatory disease is another infection caused among women in the uterus, fallopian tubes and other reproductive organs.

8. Syphilis has many symptoms that could be least distinguished from other diseases. Symptoms are sores, skin rashes, fever, weight loss, muscle aches, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss, headaches and fatigue.

9. Trichomoniasis is commonly found among women lead by green-yellow odor vaginal discharge. This causes discomfort during urination and intercourse and sometimes lower abdominal pain.

10. Genital Herpes is caused by a virus and symptoms are sores, swollen glands, fever and flu like infections.

To know more visit our website womensreproductivehealth.info

Olivia Andrews, writer of womensreproductivehealth.info is a freelance journalist and has written many reviews on subjects such as finance, education, health, entertainment, music, gifts, crafts, travel, apparels and mobile phones.