Yoga Provides Multiple Benefits for Cancer Survivors

Yoga has long been a form of relaxation, meditation and exercise, dating back to several thousand years B.C. Originating out of India, yoga teaches us to focus on the self: mind, body, spirit. Which is exactly what cancer survivors need to do to heal. So it makes sense that a new study found that yoga can aid survivors with sleep, energy and vitality.

Researchers studied 410 cancer survivors who had difficulty sleeping. Half of the subjects participated in two 75-minute yoga sessions per week, in addition to post-cancer care that the whole group received. The sessions consisted of 18 poses that incorporated breathing exercises and meditation. At the end of a month, sleeplessness improved in the yoga group by 100 percent.

Before the study started, only 15 percent of participants in both groups were sleeping soundly. At the end of the study, 16 percent of the control group were able to sleep soundly—an increase of only 1 percent—whereas the yoga group doubled their stats to 31 percent. Given the fact that the yoga group had decreased their sleep medication by 20 percent, while the control group increased theirs by 5 percent, there is a strong link between the practice of yoga and improved sleep ability.

The yoga group also reported an improvement in fatigue. “If you break down the program into its basics—breathing exercises, postures, mindfulness—it's not entirely clear which component ... is most important," lead researcher Karen Mustian said. "It could be they all work together to improve sleep, fatigue and quality of life ... or it could be that one of them is really the most important piece."

Very little is required to begin practicing yoga:

•Attire: loose-fitting pants or shorts that have some give so that you can move freely, along a tank top, t-shirt and/or a sports bra depending on coverage you are comfortable with. No special shoes are required. In fact, most classes are taught barefoot.

•Accessories: the only real accessory you should have is a yoga mat, which can be purchased inexpensively at your local Target or fitness store. The mat provides a comfortable, stable surface for movement, and provides traction so you don’t slip during poses. It also protects feet and hands from the harsh, hard nature of the floor. If you find it difficult to stand for any length of time but still want to get a workout in, consider purchasing a yoga ball. Available in a variety of sizes, you can sit and stabilize your body as you go through poses. An added bonus is a core workout while on the ball, as you do need to balance as you sit.

Feel Healthy, Look Healthy, Be Happy - A Lifestyle Makeover

Get ready for a shocker - almost none of us, yes, NONE OF US, are nearly as healthy, happy, and energetic as we could be, should be. This may not be a big surprise to you and me, but why then is no one doing anything about this epidemic? The simple answer is that we're all so used to doing things the way we have been for nearly a century that, not only is the idea of change overwhelming, but most of us simply don't know where to start.

I'm not here with some miracle solution, and certainly not one that will change your life overnight or will be super fast and easy to implement, but simply to give you a brief overview of what I've learned in my quest to be happy and healthy. You can make the necessary improvements with some effort and by giving yourself time to get used to and enjoy making these changes. Often we just need to hear that someone else has put in the work and is reaping the rewards, and I'm that person!

A little information about why we need to make some big changes

For starters we all put too many "fake" substances in our bodies. From the hygiene products we use, to cleaning products, make-up, and especially what we eat. It's true - most of what we consume is processed, convenience foodstuffs and NOT REAL FOOD.

We have all become so busy and live such fast-paced lives that we have come to rely upon whatever's the quickest and easiest solution for our needs. Unfortunately, we're doing this at the expense of our health and in many cases our very lives, and I'm not being overly dramatic. Many of us complain regularly about stress, exhaustion, and constantly getting sick, and this is just a preview of what can happen and often does as we age. Many illnesses that creep up on us are treatable or preventable. It's true - I've read the scientific research and anecdotal evidence, and experienced this myself as have many others in my life.

Do some fact-checking for yourself. You'll find all sorts of incredible claims that seem to belong in Ripley's Believe it Or Not, but they are completely factual and well-researched and documented. Actually, when you really think about it, it all makes perfect sense. You'll discover there are vegetables and fungi that can kill cancer cells in their tracks. There are illnesses that can only, at best, be moderately improved by medicine and surgery but those with these illnesses can be made virtually symptom-free or even cured through natural means and the detoxification and elimination of harmful, "fake" substances from their environments and diets. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.

The motivation to change my lifestyle

You may say you don't have time for such changes, or joke that you may as well move to a hippie commune. I made the same excuses and jokes until I became very ill with a disease called endometriosis. The short explanation is that the cells that line a woman's uterus end up outside of it, and can grow and spread into other organs which can in turn cause debilitating pain and complications. I had two surgeries to remove these invading cells and they didn't work - it is incurable and the endometriosis keeps coming back in most cases. I had a third surgery that worked in that it resulted in marked improvement, but I was still in constant pain and the endometriosis will return. I have Stage 4 endo, measured in stages the way cancer is, and it's very aggressive. My life has essentially been on hold for the past four years and I have been unable to work or do many of the things I used to due to the impact the pain has had on my life.

I'm not telling you all of this for pity, but to make a point about what all of this "convenience" has cost us. My condition is fed by too much estrogen and most of the fake substances we use or processed foods we eat take estrogenic action once they enter our bodies. If you read the list of ingredients on a bottle of foundation make-up for example, there is nothing natural there and believe it or not you can absorb way more through your skin than orally. Worse still, anything absorbed through your skin enters your bloodstream that much faster. So these chemicals are going directly into your blood and wreaking havoc on your body, making you toxic as they build up over time.

Get motivated to change your lifestyle now - don't wait until you get sick

Now I'm not trying to frighten anyone with this information. Many of us already have an idea that many of the products we use and foods we eat aren't the greatest for us, but as most of us have always lived like this we are accustomed to it. It's a big task to make a total lifestyle overhaul to be healthier and happier and prevent future illnesses, especially if you feel ok now. I was in that same boat until I got so ill that I took matters into my own hands, doing the research and realizing that my disease could likely have been prevented. When you are in pain 24-7 and are willing to do anything to get better and get your life back, changing your eating habits and switching to natural products in your everyday life is the easiest thing in the world to wrap your head around. And though I had researched this "natural treatment" for some time, I have only recently implemented it.

But now that I have made the changes I am telling you about, I am experiencing so many wonderful things that years of surgeries and painkillers could not accomplish for my chronic condition. The pain is diminishing steadily, I am in better physical shape, I have more energy, and my mood has greatly improved. At one point the pain was so extreme and constant that I was suicidal and was fighting just to exist - I wasn't "living" at all. Now I see a light at the end of the tunnel and know that not only am I getting better, but I will be in even better shape than I was before I got sick and, by continuing to live a much healthier life, my incurable illness may essentially be in remission before long!

Don't get me wrong - I still stumble, still cheat by having potato chips sometimes, or drinking with friends at a party, using an old bottle of Comet to scrub the bathtub when I've run out of baking soda and vinegar. But the key is to realize that like any big change it will take time and you will make mistakes. Start small and change one thing at a time.

Think of your body as a Cadillac. If you put sugar water into the tank instead of premium gasoline, it's going to breakdown. It's the same with you - put enough chemicals and processed substances into your body instead of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats etc., and you'll break down too. The issue is that you need to realize this and make the changes before your muffler falls off!

You may worry about making the time and think it will cost more but this is not the case. As I have already suggested, do a little research of your own and you'll see that it doesn't have to be difficult, expensive, or all that time-consuming and the benefits to your health, happiness, and life in general are immeasurable.

Look up recipes using all-natural ingredients to make your own home cleaners, make-up, skin treatments, and more. These things can be fun, quick, and easy, and in the long run cost far less and be more effective than the products you're currently using. If you're still unsure, this snippet of info is for the ladies - sugar ages you far faster than you would naturally. Aside from this many of the make-up and anti-aging products we waste money on contain substances that are widely thought to contribute to the onset of various cancers and other illnesses, and actually aid in the breakdown of our cells, aging us faster as well! Using tomato pulp on your face at night and extra virgin olive oil as a moisturizer does for more for your complexion and costs significantly less too (and castor oil fades existing wrinkles and prevents new ones!).

So stop making excuses - just pick a few things you can easily change now and get started. Before long you'll be amazed at how much better you look and feel, how much more energy you have, and how much more disposable income you have in your bank account. It's not hippie-dippy - it's simply getting back to basics and being good to our bodies!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ardra_Taylor

Whats The Difference Involving Fish Oil And Krill Oil

You will find reports saying that there's a new omega 3 supplement in town that will challenge the highly respected oil supplement - that new product is called antarctic krill oil. But could there be really much difference? Let us check more details on the fish oil vs. krill oil argument and know the facts.

It has already proven its prowess as a good supplement. In hopes to make the most out of the health rewards that Fish Oil will give, scientific studies have been performed to come up with supplements that are more efficient that will give more omega 3.

Not too long ago, it's been found that there might just be an alternate source that will give as much as Fish Oil can give. This has lead some to imply krill oil is some kind of miracle, while there are other people saying that it is just a marketing stunt to market this latest fad.

Krill and Fish oil - what they can do

Krill and Fish Oil are regarded as probably help reduce inflammation, support heart health and also cardiovascular health, it can also help improve mood levels, encourage fat reduction plus much more. These benefits are all because of omega 3 fatty acids. Krill Oil and Fish Oil are both natural supplements Which can be safely taken everyday without any unwanted side effects.

Does krill oil have more antioxidants?

What's notable in krill oil that makes a lot of people think that it might be better than fish oil is that it is made up of more antioxidants than some but not all brands of fish. One example of antioxidant present in krill oil is the astaxanthin which can be readily absorbed into the body easily. But, there are some fish oil that contain added astaxanthin and deliver more of it than krill oil does. Thus,there are brands of oils are better than krill if you use this measurement of astaxanthin antioxidants.

Krill oil May Contain Additional Vitamins A and D

Aside from its antioxidant content, krill supplements are also found to contain vitamins A and D which are absent in fish oil. This could be bad or good, depending on whether you are already taking a multivitamin that already contains enough vitamin A and D. There are doctors that advices not to take too much Vitamin A or D, so consult your doctor how much Vitamin A or D is good for you.

In spite of the new fad, many people still seem to stick with fish oil supplements. Here are some reasons why:

The possibility of krill extinction

Although Omega 3 fatty acid health benefits have already been established, krill hasn't been as thoroughly researched as fish oil. More importantly, there's some people believing that krill will also be included in the listing of species that are already decreasing in numbers - consuming them and producing them for oil might actually not be good for the environment. Krills are also of whales so the question arises: are we taking away food from endangered whales?

Krill oil is pricey

Presently, there are only some good health companies who manufacture krill oil. Currently, krill oil product generally cosst more than fish oil. This means you are going to shell out extra money on a product that has fewer studies to demonstrate whether it really gives health advantages equal to fish oil.

Krill oil has all the vital omega 3 fatty acids

While Fish oil is said to provide you with huge levels of omega 3 fatty acids, krill oil remains superior regarding levels of important omega 3 acids like EPA and DFA. What this mean is the specific benefits plus the desired effects might probably be better acquired with krill oil.

The verdict between Fish Oil and Krill Oil

Base on the debate above, paying more for krill oil maybe great for consumers. This means that there are maybe some concerns about taking krill oil supplements for now, you can maybe pay more to buy krill oil supplements, probably take food away from endangered whales, getting too mmuch vitamin A as well as much vitamin A and D. But the choice is still yours whether you want to stick with proven and tested fish oil until more studies are performed on krill oil.

It is also important to remember that there are also fish oil supplements now, have added astaxanthin antioxidants and as a result they've got this ingredient just like krill oil does. Consequently the same amount of antioxidants just like krill oil has.

Remember that these statements aren't health advice and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Fish oil supplements aren't meant to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease.

Reasons why krill oil is great for your health

It is a well known misconception that all fats that we eat are harmful for your body. This is definitely not true because there are some fats that are very good for your body. One category of fat that is beneficial for your body is the Omega3 fatty acids. Always bear in mind that foods rich in Omega 3 should form a part of our diet.

Krill Oil Benefits List

1. Maintain healthy cholesterol levels
2. Ease premenstrual syndrome and menstrual cramps
3. Combats signs of aging
4. protect cell membranes
5. supports liver function
6. supports memory plus learning
7. bolster immune system
8. important for healthy skin

What are Krills?

Krills are shrimp-like animals of the sea. Krills are near the base of the food chain, serving as nutrition to many other marine creatures. Did you know that even the great whale feed on krills?

Human consumption of krills are not new. You just haven't heard of it. Krills are familiar delicacy in Japan probably even before 19th century. However, there a lot of krill types as there are fish. Remember that not all kinds of krills are to our body though.

This type of krill oil that have been tested and proven to be beneficial to us and that is what you call antarctic krill oil. Antarctic krill oil has many of health benefits which I will mention below. But for the meantime, let's investigate the alternatives!

Krill Oil and Fish Oil Comparison

People have been taking fish oil for quite some time now due to the health benefits that it promises. But there are many different types of fish which can end up in the production of fish oil & we're coming to discover out as time goes on that there may be certain kinds of fish oils which are better for the body than others. Fish oil are really beneficial to your health and wellness because it has 2 vital omega-3 fats to our well-being - the DHA & EPA. DHA & EPA are known to enhance healthy heart also supports your immune system.

Unlike krill, fish oil has scarcely any antioxidant in it. The problem with thisis, as omega-3 fats consumption increased, you need to raise your consumption of antioxidants too! The reason why you need to do this is because fish oil is very perishable. Antioxidants are needed to prevent fish oil from oxidizing and cause more damage than good.

Krill oil on the other hand, has not only both DHA and EPA but also strong antioxidants property. Therefore you do not need to be anxious regarding increasing your intake of antioxidants!

What's Krill Oil?

Krill are small crustaceans, much like shrimp, which grow to be from one to six centimeters lengthy. They reside along the oceans flooring, and feed mostly on phytoplankton. Eaten by a big variety of wildlife such as whales, seals, penguins, squid, and fish or all types, these creatures are pretty much on the bottom with the meals chain.

Most commercial kind krill fishing is done in the southern portions of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean, too as the northern part of Pacific Ocean, around the coasts of Japan and Canada. The fisherman catch these wildlife to use them in aquaculture and aquarium feeds, for sport fishing, or for meals. If krill is used for food in Japan it's known as okiami.

The oil that's naturally discovered in these creatures is extracted and offered as a dietary supplement. The cause for this is due towards the reality that it's very higher in omega 3 fatty acids. It also consists of an antioxidant which is known as astaxanthin. The algae that is eaten by krill produces the vibrant red pigment, astaxanthin which makes krill, shrimp, lobster and other crustaceans their pinkish color.

These anti-oxidants assist to shield the cells within our body from some thing called 'free radicals'. Free radicals are unstable substances which several think contributes to a number of various persistent illnesses. Astaxanthin crosses the blood to brain barrier, which can make most researchers think that it may shield the eyes, mind, and central nervous system from the damage brought on by totally free radicals. Other anti-oxidants do not cross this barrier.

People ingest krill oil for the exact same uses that they would ingest flax oils, fish oils, or other omega 3 fatty acids. Fish oil can occasionally trigger a fishy burp or aftertaste, that is a recognized after effect if fish oil. Krill oil also has a larger amount of astaxanthin than fish oils do. Its utilized for several different well being reasons which consist of:

• Decreasing Cholesterol- Inside a study done on the effects of krill oil on high cholesterol, 120 individuals were offered both krill oil, fish oil, or a placebo. The ones who ingested krill oil showed a reduction of 34% in LDL or 'bad' cholesterol, and an increase of 43.5% in HDL or 'good' cholesterol in comparison to those that took a placebo. Those who took krill oil also acquired a lowered triglyceride count. The ones who took the fish oil confirmed a reduction of LDL cholesterol by 4.6% compared to the placebo, and and increase in HDL by 4.2%.

• Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS- Research shows that krill oil may help wit the symptoms of PMS, by further research is nonetheless being conducted.

• Arthritis-According to research posted within the 'Journal with the American College of Nutrition' when people got 300 mg each day of krill oil in comparison with a placebo, those who took krill oil showed efficient outcomes in relieving arthritis pain, irritation, along with other signs.

As far as aspect effects are concerned, there are really very couple of. Of course, those with allergy symptoms to seafood ought to not ingest these oil. People who have bleeding disorder are advised to speak having a doctor and be supervised by a professional well being professional prior to using krill oil. It is not recommended to use it with blood thinners such as aspirin, warfarin, heparin, clopidogrel, or NSAIDS this kind of as ibuprofen, or naproxen should not use krill oil without checking with their medical doctors. The exact same goes for gingko bilobo and garlic. Side results may include looser stools and indigestion.

Different Types of Treadmills For Exercise

Walking, jogging or running can be a very fun way to do exercise, but for many who live in urban and crowded areas, going out armed with water bottle, portable music player, towel, running shoes and lots of energy sometimes can't be an option, hoping that the weather keeps holding. But alas, it happens more often that not, that it is not possible at all to exercise outdoors.

A good alternative is to get a treadmill, but the offer out in the market can be overwhelming, and for someone who is new to them, it can be a real challenge to choose the right one, since they all look the same, but there are many different models and types out there, literally hundreds of brands and models, all of them competing among themselves to gain more fans, offering diverse functions, materials, colors, tactile screens or even cardiac monitors for those who are also worried about their health.

The range varies from the budge, home designed manual treadmills to the big commercial ones, intended to be used in gyms or doctor practices.

The simplest ones have no motor, those designed for homes with little available space, since they can be folded to be stored under the bed or inside a cabinet. They are usually one of the cheapest kind of treadmills found in the market, but unfortunately, the durability of this kind of treadmill is rather limited and if they are used too roughly, they may tend to break down after a couple of months. These are recommended for the causal user, and not for somebody planning to use it every day for many hours each time. These are perfect for people who are just beginning and want to try out before deciding to go to the next step in home-training.

There are treadmills intended for home use equipped with a motor, and they can also be found in a multitude of models and with more or less functions programmed in them. They are built in a more stable frame, but they are also bulkier and use up more space, since very few of these can be stored away.

If the user is serious about exercising, these kinds of treadmills have different programs for more specific ends, copied from those used professionally in gyms: cardiovascular training, condition training, or simple weight loss. Whether these built in functions will work for everyone, depends on the user.

For those who are planning to use it constantly, maybe the best option could be a commercial treadmill. There are simple, yet robust and equipped with a high-powered motor, and those with tactile screens, media players and cardiovascular monitors. It all depends on the particular use intended for it, and of course, the budget available.

The price and quality of the treadmill can vary and the person interested in buying one for his/her personal use, should first consider how often will be using it and what kind of training is planning to do. Depending on the quality and the price, will also depend the guarantee offered by the vendor, which can vary from model to model and it should be a detail to consider before finally buying a treadmill.

from ezinearticles.com

Stomach wraps more effective approach to treat severe acid reflux

Washington, Mar 17 (ANI): For treatment of severe acid reflux, stomach wrap operations could be a more effective option than acid suppression tablets, according to a new Cochrane Systematic Review.

The study shows a more pronounced improvement in symptoms shortly after surgery than with drug treatment.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a common chronic disease in which acid reflux causes heartburn, acid regurgitation, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.

GORD can be treated by changes to diet and acid suppression tablets, but in the most severe cases, doctors go for a surgical operation called a fundoplication, which involves wrapping part of the stomach around the lower part of the gullet.

However, it is not certain whether this procedure is more effective than medication.

The authors reviewed data from four trials, which together involved 1232 participants.

And their conclusions relate to findings from follow-up up to one year after treatment.

They found that fundoplication operations performed by keyhole surgery were more effective at reducing the symptoms of GORD over this timescale, but that there was little data available to indicate potential benefits over longer timescales.

"There is evidence to suggest that, at least in the short to medium term, surgery is more effective than tablets for treatment of GORD. But surgery does carry a risk and whether this is outweighed by the benefits in the long term is still not certain," said lead researcher Samantha Wileman of the Health Services Research Unit at the University of Aberdeen in the UK.

"Previous research, prior to the development of keyhole surgery for GORD, has suggested that the benefits of surgery for GORD are not sustained over time, highlighting the importance for future keyhole fundoplication studies to include longer term follow-up. We also need to know more about the clinical and cost implications of long term medication versus surgery," said Wileman. (ANI)

Useful Remedies For Acid Reflux

Health factors as well as eating habits can at times lead to several uncomfortable health conditions such as Acid reflux.

Acid reflux a uncomfortable condition that can lead to various health conditions. For example, people who usually suffer from acid reflux are more prone to develope esophageal cancers than those who dont usually suffer from it. The pain from the constant and persistent acid reflux can be debilitating whenever it attacks.

This article aims to help and give information on useful remedies for acid reflux. Listed here are some remedies that you can try to help you with your acid reflux.

Atacids - are one of the oldest and most popular remedies for acid reflux. It is usually chewable which neutralize the acids in your stomach. Although antacids are one of the most fastest acting remedy for acid reflux but also the most temporary. Calcium carbonate is usually the active ingredient of antacids but lately aluminum hydroxide is becoming a popular choice compare to antacid. More people prefer the latter one because it tastes better, upsets their stomach less, and works just as well as calcium carbonate.

Another remedies for acid reflux that are gaining popularity are acid reducers. Like antacids, acid reducers are also sold over the counter. Although the effect of acid reducers is slower compare to other remedies, you can instantly feel the relief it can give once it starts to kick in. Acid reducers can even give you hours of relief from heartburn.

On the other hand, here are some non-drug remedies that you can try for your acid reflux. It is also a good idea to find non-pharmaceutical options you may have in fighting acid reflux. Here are some non-pharmaceutical remedies or practices that you can do that don’t require taking a pill and may be enough in preventing any heartburn you are having.

* Elevating your bed
* Avoiding large or greasy meals
* Waiting at least three hours before lying down after eating

Health Care Reform and the Courts

The number of states jointly suing to overturn the new health care reform law on constitutional grounds swelled to 20 last week. It is the latest example of conservatives’ determination to thwart reforms that will do enormous good — and the latest reminder that politicians will continue to posture and demagogue the issue through the November elections and beyond.

The lawsuit, filed by state attorneys general and governors, all but one a Republican, seeks to overturn two central elements of the law: a mandate that virtually everyone obtain insurance or pay a penalty; and a big expansion of Medicaid, the state-federal insurance program that covers the poorest Americans. The suit contends Congress has no constitutional power to compel people to make purchases from a private company and that the required expansion of Medicaid is an “unprecedented encroachment” on the sovereignty of states.

Not surprising, many of the officials behind these suits are running for re-election or higher office. The lead plaintiff, Florida’s attorney general, Bill McCollum, is seeking the Republican nomination for governor. His campaign Web site urges voters to tell Washington that “expensive big-government health care is a violation of our nation’s Constitution and we won’t stand for it.”

The Obama administration has yet to file a response. It has responded to private litigation filed in a Federal District Court in Michigan by the Thomas More Law Center, a conservative Christian nonprofit law firm, and four individuals.

The group’s brief — which pointedly named Barack Hussein Obama as a defendant — contends it will be a hardship for the plaintiffs to buy insurance they don’t want or pay monetary penalties. It charges that Congress exceeded its authority under the Constitution by requiring, for the first time, that people buy something simply because they reside legally in the country.

The Justice Department first challenged the timing of the suits. It pointed out that the plaintiffs have filed suit “four years before the provision they challenge takes effect, demonstrate no current injury, and merely speculate whether the law will harm them once it is in force.”

The department argued that Congress can impose and enforce the mandate under its powers to regulate interstate commerce and to tax and spend to provide for the general welfare.

The law center had argued that people who refuse to buy insurance are not engaging in activity that affects interstate commerce, but choosing not to engage in such activity. The Justice Department replied that even refusals to buy insurance can, in the aggregate, have a substantial effect on interstate commerce.

If people without insurance need costly medical care and can’t pay, they typically get cared for anyway. The cost is shifted to hospitals, which in turn shift some of the costs to privately insured patients and to taxpayers who help subsidize the hardest hit hospitals.

Most important, a mandate is deemed essential to the effective functioning of individual health insurance markets that are clearly part of interstate commerce. If the healthiest people are allowed to opt out, the average premiums will escalate and make insurance increasingly unaffordable for everyone. These are novel but persuasive arguments that deserve deference from the courts.

The Justice Department also contended that Congress has the power to raise taxes for the general welfare and that the penalty for not buying insurance is effectively a tax and will generate revenues to help support the reform effort.

The states’ lawsuit raises similar arguments against the mandate and also contends the reform law is an encroachment on state sovereignty because it requires states to greatly expand Medicaid programs.

Congress has long required states to cover specified groups of people up to specified levels of income. Extending those requirements is consistent, and is in no way an “unprecedented” encroachment on state affairs.

We believe the reform law has been carefully framed to stay within constitutional bounds. We are certain it will contribute to the nation’s overall welfare by covering tens of millions of uninsured Americans and taking steps to improve the quality and lower the cost of medical care. We hope these suits stumble over procedural hurdles. If they go forward the courts should rule against the states and allow the reforms to proceed.

source: The New York Times

Obese People Lose Weight at High Altitudes

Here's a possible future diet tip: Move to a mountaintop.

In a recent study, obese individuals who spent time at a mountain facility at high altitudes lost weight without going on a diet. And they kept the pounds off for at least four weeks once they returned to normal altitudes.

The researchers suspect part of the weight loss can be attributed to the thin air, which may have decreased participants' appetites and increased their metabolism, meaning they burned more calories sans a workout. While at high altitudes, the obese subjects also showed an increase in levels of leptin, a hormone that when present can make one feel full.

But don't head for the hills just yet - these findings are very preliminary and were only tested in a small sample of people. Further research is needed to confirm the weight-loss effect, and understand why it may occur.

The study is detailed in the Feb. 4 issue of the journal Obesity.

Mountain Living

Previous research has found that people tend to lose weight at high altitudes. But most of these studies were done in athletes and hikers who engaged in lots of physical activity.

But would the same effect hold true for obese subjects who were relatively sedentary?

To find out, Dr. Florian Lippl, of Ludwig Maximilians University in Munich, Germany, and his colleagues enrolled 20 obese male participants, with an average weight of 230 pounds (105 kg). They monitored the subjects for one week at low altitudes, looking at what they ate, and how much they walked. Then, the participants spent two weeks in an air-conditioned research facility, located on a mountain at about 8,700 feet (2,650 m) above sea level.

The participants had no restrictions in what they could eat, but they weren't allowed to exercise rigorously. After their stay, the subjects were brought down to normal altitude, and followed up for four weeks.

On average, the participants lost about 3.3 pounds (1.5 kg) while at altitude, Lippl said. This decrease might not seem like much, but it was statistically significant compared with the starting weight.

The researchers think some of the loss can be explained by the fact that the subjects naturally ate less on the mountain, cutting back by 734 calories per day on average.

But a change in diet alone couldn't account for all of the weight loss. The researchers think some of the decrease had to do with a bump in metabolism. On average, the participants' metabolism increased, meaning their bodies burned more calories at rest, without requiring extra movement.

The Hunger Hormone

In the case of this study, there may be a physiological reason why the participants ate less.

The researchers measured levels of a hormone called leptin, which plays a role in controlling appetite. An increase in your leptin levels means you feel full, while a decrease makes you hungry. Since the obese subjects showed a general increase in there leptin levels at altitude, the researchers say this "hunger hormone" could have been a factor.

Though Lippl and colleagues aren't sure why leptin levels increased on the mountain, they speculate the thin air may have something to do with it. Studies have shown that when human cells are put in a low-oxygen environment (similar to the air at high altitude) they produce more leptin.

Holidays in the Mountains

Interestingly, the participants maintained their reduced weight after they had returned to normal altitude and stayed there for four weeks, a finding the researchers did not expect.

But the subjects walked a little bit more, which may have helped keep off the pounds. The researchers aren't sure about the cause of this extra activity, but they think it may be related to the high altitude "training effect," the performance boost athletes experience when they train at high altitudes and race closer to sea level, Lippl told LiveScience.

Without the stress of the low-oxygen, mountain environment, the obese patients may have felt fitter, and were able to exert themselves more, Lippl said.

So could future diet regimes involve skiing vacations?

"With a little humor, I tell my patients now, if they want to take holidays, they should think of mountain holidays [rather] than spending their holidays at the sea," Lippl said.

But in seriousness, Lippl says, the study is really a starting point for further research. He plans to do another study involving more participants over a longer period of time to see if mountain stays can help promote long lasting weight loss.

source: www.foxnews.com

Compounds in Green Tea May Protect Against Common Eye Diseases

Green tea has increasingly become one of the world’s most popular beverages, and for good reason. The purported health benefits of green tea are nothing short of amazing. It appears to reduce the risk for a wide range of diseases, from bacterial or viral infections to chronic degenerative conditions including cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and periodontal disease. Green tea can also be used as a weight loss tool when used alongside a healthy diet. Researchers in Japan have found that drinking five cups of green tea a day can burn up to 70 to 80 calories, which translates to about seven pounds a year. And recently, researchers at the Chinese University in Hong Kong discovered yet another benefit of drinking this health-promoting brew—it could protect against common eye diseases such as glaucoma.

For their study, published in the current issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, Chi Pui Pang and colleagues gave laboratory rats green tea extract and then analyzed their eye tissue. The researchers found that different parts of the eye absorbed varying amounts of catechins, antioxidants which are believed to prevent damage caused by oxidation. The retina, the part of the eye responsible for sensing light, had the highest concentration of the antioxidants, while the least amount was found in the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. The antioxidant activity lasted for up to 20 hours after consumption of green tea extract. “Our results indicate that green tea consumption could benefit the eye against oxidative stress,” the authors concluded. Oxidative stress leads to retinal diseases like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Green tea is the least processed, made by briefly steaming the just harvested leaves, rendering them soft and pliable and preventing them from fermenting or changing color. After steaming, the leaves are rolled, then spread out and dried with hot air or pan-fried in a wok until crisp. Because of green tea’s minimal processing, its catechins, especially epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is believed to be responsible for most of the health benefits linked to green tea, are more concentrated. It wasn’t known until now, however, if the catechins were able to make their way from the mouth, through the gastrointestinal system, and be absorbed into the tissues of the eye. More studies will be needed to confirm the protective effect in humans.

Adding green tea to your diet is simple and inexpensive. It also provides a healthful alternative to sugar-and-chemical laden soft drinks which are helping to fuel soaring rates of diabetes and obesity. And if you are like millions of Americans who have a hard time getting the recommended number of servings of fruits and veggies, two cups of green tea equals one serving. You could also try this great recipe for sautéed vegetables in green tea:



2 tablespoons canola oil

2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh red chili pepper

1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

1 teaspoon loose tea leaves, preferably gunpowder

4 cups broccoli florets

1 cup yellow zucchini or summer squash, cut into 1/4 inch diagonal slices

1/2 cup brewed green tea
1/4 cup red bell pepper squares (1 inch)

salt and pepper to taste

Add the oil to a nonstick wok or cooking pan over medium-heat and swirl the pan to coat. Add the chili pepper, lemon peel and tea leaves. Stir fry until fragrant for about 1 minute. Add the broccoli florets and zucchini. Stir fry for 2 minutes. Add the tea and bell pepper, season with salt and pepper. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates and serve hot.

Makes 4 servings.

Source: Cooking with Green Tea

Dinner Table Myths Debunked

By Heather Mayer

Think everyone wins when you bribe Junior to finish his broccoli for a scoop of ice cream? Wrong! Here we debunk the top five nutritional myths parents encounter on their quest to raise healthy and happy children.

MYTH: Clean your plate. There are starving children in (insert third-world country here).

Attention baby boomers! It is no longer forbidden to leave the dinner table without finishing everything on the dinner plate. “Clean plate clubs,” which advocated food conservation, began in schools during World War II to encourage youngsters to clear their plates.

But times have changed. Since World War II, restaurant portions in the United States have more than doubled, in some cases, making “clean your plate” an unhealthy rule, at least when dining out. Research has shown that when Americans are given larger portions, they ignore their feelings of satiety and continue eating. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that adults who were given larger portions ate 30% more.

Children who are forced to clean their plates override their natural ability to monitor how much food they need to grow at a healthy rate. One study showed that preschoolers who were rewarded for cleaning their plates ate more. Don’t worry about your child going hungry; infants and toddlers are able to self-regulate their energy needs and intake, says Jane Uzcategui, a registered dietitian in upstate New York.

Try this: Start serving your child small portions and let them ask for more. A 2003 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that when children served themselves food, the portions were appropriate for their age, whereas when adults served them double portions, the children ate 25% more.

MYTH: Eat your veggies or no dessert

It seems easy enough: bribe picky eaters to eat the nutritious food with a sweet, satisfying dessert. The kids get their nutrition, and you avoid a headache. But this mentality can be harmful to children in the long run because it builds a greater aversion to foods like broccoli, sweet potatoes, and peas, according to research by Leann Birch, PhD, a professor of human development at Penn State University.

Sweets should be a once-in-awhile treat, not a nightly ritual to force-feed picky eaters their vegetables. Once parents get into the pattern of bribing their children with dessert, the association of healthy food with “bad” food becomes ingrained..

Candy, cake, and other desserts don’t add any nutrition to your child’s diet, so you’re not depriving your toddler in any way. In fact, you may be helping them. One study has shown that kids whose parents used food and treats as a reward struggle with food controlling their behavior as adults—making this dinner table rule a lifelong battle.

Try this: Depriving children of sweets will encourage them to eat more sugary treats outside of the house. Instead, offer healthier alternatives like fruit or natural sweeteners like honey.

MYTH: What my kids eat now won’t affect them later

It’s hard for parents to wrap their heads around the idea that what their toddler munches on during snack time will have a lasting effect on their health down the road.

“The period from birth to two years is a critical window for the promotion of optimal growth, health, and behavioral development,” according to the International Food Information Council.

“If (a child) is used to poor nutrition quality, they’re missing key nutrients,” says Uzcategui. If a 2-year-old has grown accustomed to drinking soda at lunch and dinner, he or she runs the risk of forming poor nutrition decision-making and being deficient in nutrients provided by milk and 100% juices.

These key nutrients can’t be made up through taking a multivitamin, she says. According to a 2005 report from the federal Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, children are not getting adequate amounts of calcium, fiber, magnesium, vitamin E, and potassium.

“Poor eating habits never fare well in the long run,” Uzcategui explains. Children who learn to make poor diet choices are at more risk of becoming overweight or obese, and these habits are learned younger than parents might think, she says. While you may see that scrawny toddler running around with a bag of chips and a sugar juice drink, chances are, those calories and poor habits will catch up.

Try this: Don’t use food, especially junk food, as a comfort tool. Build good habits by finding the real reasons why your child is upset and treating the problem appropriately. Food should only be used to relieve hunger.

MYTH: Sugar hypes kids up

The kids are off the wall—throwing toys, yelling and screaming, running around—and you blame it on the sugar-laden cereal. Unfortunately for parents, it turns out sugar isn’t to blame. Contrary to popular belief, sugar does not have a physiologic effect, like a “sugar high.”

Barbara Strupp, PhD, a professor of nutritional sciences at Cornell University explains that parents tend to believe what they see.

“There are numerous studies in which children have been studied after consuming sugar, and on other occasions after consuming a drink without sugar, and the sugar clearly does not alter the behavior of the kids,” Strupp says. “It is very clear from the scientific literature that sugar does not cause hyperactivity in children, and in fact does not alter their behavior.”

Both Strupp and registered dietitian Jane Uzcategui relates this “sugar high” phenomenon not to sugar itself, but to the atmosphere kids are in when they consume sugar: birthday parties, family gatherings, holidays. Occasions like these excite children with or without sugar.

Sugar isn’t getting off completely scot-free. It’s still the culprit for cavities and a key player in overweight and obesity. And if children fill up on soda or candy, they won’t be hungry for nutritious foods, possibly leading to nutrient deficiencies and over-consumption of calories.

Try this: Choose water or milk instead of juice drinks and soda with meals. Juices “drinks” are not real juices; they are higher in sugar than 100% juices. Be sure to read the labels carefully.


MYTH: My child won’t eat; he’s going to starve

Whether it’s a picky eater or a young child who is “never hungry,” parents’ number one concern is whether their child is eating enough.

Just as children can regulate how much food they need, they also regulate when they’re hungry. Uzcategui says that children who might skip a meal will make up for those calories later. Parents shouldn’t be concerned about how much their child is eating unless they are not following their growth chart, which is measured at pediatrician visits.

As parents, it’s important to make available healthy foods so when a child is hungry, he will eat nutritiously. Even if a child doesn’t like carrots, if there is nothing else available and he is hungry, those carrots will be appetizing, explains Uzcategui.

Frequently, young children will experience food jags—when they only eat one particular food for a certain period of time. Children will move from food to food, but they will eat enough to maintain their energy balance.

Try this: It takes eight to 10 times for a child to decide if he or she really likes or dislikes a food. Often, parents offer a food once, and if the child doesn’t eat it, they never reintroduce it. “The key is to constantly introduce (children) to new foods,” says Keri Gans, RD, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association.

10 No-Cost Strategies to Fight Depression

Feeling depressed?

With the economy stuck in neutral, people have more reasons to be depressed—and less money to treat their depression—than in the past.

The cost of medication and talk therapy add up even if you have health insurance—and more than 46 million people in the U.S. (and counting) do not.

If you’re depressed, and especially if you have bipolar disorder, lifestyle changes and other do-it-yourself strategies are not a substitute for professional help. But even if you are already taking antidepressants or seeing a therapist, there are many things you can do to help yourself feel better—and they don’t cost a dime.

Don't blame yourself

This is the simplest, cheapest, and most important thing you can do to beat depression. The stigma of depression, plus feelings of guilt and inadequacy, can get in the way of recovery. Managing the symptoms of depression requires a practical, proactive approach—and patience.

“You need to be able to own the reality that depression is a physical illness like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer,” says Richard Raskin, PhD, a clinical psychologist in New York City and Litchfield, Conn. “You can’t get over it by ‘trying harder’ or adjusting your attitude. It requires acceptance that you have a physical illness that requires attention, and that it makes no sense to blame yourself for it.”

Talk about it

It’s not easy, but telling people about your depression is better than keeping it a secret.

“Not everybody is going to understand and be supportive,” says Raskin. “If you have a broken arm, or back pain, or a headache, everybody can relate to those, for everyone has experienced them. Not so with mental illness.”

But even if they don’t entirely understand what you’re going through, friends, family, and other confidants can provide emotional support, help you seek out treatment options, and serve as sounding boards. “Don’t let yourself become isolated,” says Raskin. “To the degree that you can reach out, reach out.”

Get regular exercise

It may be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re depressed, but going for a run or hitting the gym can actually make you feel better.

When done regularly, 30 minutes or more of vigorous exercise has been shown to improve the symptoms of depression. In one study, patients who worked out regularly on a treadmill or stationary bike for 12 weeks saw the severity of their symptoms reduced by nearly 50%.

Exercise has short-term benefits too: Other research has found that workouts can boost your mood for up to 12 hours.

Postpone major decisions

Depression can affect your perceptions and judgment, so it’s wise to put off big decisions about your relationships or career until you’re feeling better.

“One of the symptoms of depression is having a negative outlook on many things going on in your life,” says Raskin. “This alters your judgment on almost everything, and you might not be aware of it. So to the extent possible, important decisions should be delayed.”

If you absolutely must make a decision, don’t be impulsive. Before making the decision, Raskin suggests, consult people close to you whom you trust, such as your therapist, family, friends, or a clergy member.

Take care of your health

If you’re feeling depressed, it's tempting to let your health slide. But failing to take care of your overall health can make depression symptoms worse.

The relationship between depression and health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease is a chicken-and-egg phenomenon. Research suggests that depression can exacerbate these conditions, but the opposite also appears to be true. People who experience diabetes-related complications are more likely to be depressed, for instance, and there is also some evidence that the stresses of heart disease contribute to depression, especially following a heart attack.

Maintain a daily routine

Sticking to a regular routine as much as possible is important for people who are battling depression, according to Raskin.

“Whatever activities you decide to engage in, try to do them at the same time every day,” he says. “A routine—anything from jogging and shopping to doing the dishes—helps you avoid the stay-in-the-house-in-your-pajamas syndrome, which can make things worse; a routine demonstrates to you and to others that if you are capable of getting through the day, you are capable of recovery.”

Eat a healthy diet

What you eat affects your brain, not just your body, so if you’re feeling depressed it’s important to eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and protein.

No food is a silver bullet for fighting depression, but some foods may affect your mood more than others. For example, carbohydrates and foods that contain vitamin D boost levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood (and the same one targeted by drugs such as Prozac).

And some research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish and fish-oil supplements, can help fight depression.

Avoid drugs and alcohol

Although it can be tempting to drink or use drugs, don’t do it.

Substance use and abuse can wreak havoc in people with depression. People who suffer from depression and anxiety often turn to alcohol and drugs to relieve their symptoms, but that strategy tends to be harmful in the long run.

Drinking and drug use affect brain chemistry, and they can cause problems in relationships, work, and other aspects of life. (They can also be dangerous when combined with some antidepressants.) Although the occasional glass of wine probably won’t hurt you, people with depression should limit their alcohol consumption, and, of course, say no to drugs.

Try to sleep well

Depression and a lack of sleep often go hand-in-hand. Sleep problems such as insomnia are common in depression, and for many people a lack of sleep depresses mood.

This isn’t true for everybody, however; though the effect tends to be short-lived, sleep deprivation actually boosts mood in some people with depression. It can also trigger mania in people with bipolar disorder.

Much remains unknown about the connection between depression and sleep, and everyone has different sleep needs, but experts recommend that depressed people get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule.

Don't overschedule

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed is a common trigger for depression symptoms. If you’re struggling with depression, it’s important not to overschedule your time and take on more than you can manage. If you have complicated tasks to perform at work or at home, break them up into manageable pieces.

And remember: It’s OK to slow down a bit. “Maybe you can’t work at 100% capacity,” Raskin says. “Maybe you can work at only 75% capacity. Still, that’s an accomplishment.” But, he adds, “if you really can’t function, you have to be compassionate with yourself. You deserve a break; take a sick day, whatever you need.”


source: health.com

Get a Better Workout by Hitting the Stairs

Every day my sixth-floor walk-up reminds me that I could be in better shape. I hit the gym every morning and do a few endurance events a year, but I’m always out of breath when I reach the top of the stairs.

It’s not only humbling, but it’s also annoying. How can I run a 5K at a seven-minute-mile pace and not make it to the top of the stairs without panting?

Here’s why: Unlike running, stair climbing has a vertical element. This upwards movements makes your lower body muscles—quads, hamstrings, and glutes—work harder to lift your body weight against gravity. Common activities such as running, swimming, and biking get your heart rate up, but none of them have the vertical element. Most of your daily activities move you forward instead of up, which is why our bodies aren’t used to fighting gravity.

And for a 130-pound woman, simply walking up stairs burns only 60 calories less than jogging at 6 mph for the same amount of time. Not to mention the added bonus of tightening up your lower half.

So, it’s not surprising that stair-running events have begun to sprout up worldwide in all sorts of historic settings. There’s the Go Vertical Chicago climb in Chicago, the CN Tower climb in Toronto, and my personal favorite, the Empire State Building Run-Up.

I’ve done a lot of crazy things in my life—namely, swimming in the Hudson River—but running 86 flights of stairs seems slightly insane. Or is it?

A 2000 study found that for sedentary women, even a few minutes of daily stair climbing can improve cardiovascular health by reducing heart rate, oxygen uptake, and blood lactate, and improving good cholesterol. If climbing stairs six times a day (like the women in the study did) had that effect, then maybe the key to bumping up my workouts lies in taking a few more trips up and down my stairs.

Now that I’m set to run the NYC Half Marathon at the end of March, I’m looking for anything that will help me beat my last half marathon time of 1:42. And I think the way to do that lies in finishing my runs with a race up to the top of the stairs. Because if I can beat gravity, they I can surely beat my former time.

source: health.com

Organic food 101: What’s the difference between organic and conventional food?

For millions of years, humans have farmed and raised organic food. That is, food grown and raised without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides and herbicides. The use of these synthetic growth aids has increased in popularity over the 20th century and has become so common food grown or raised in this way is now considered conventional.

A few key differences between conventional and organic produce are:
* Organic produce is not grown with any synthetic pesticides, herbicides, fungicides or fertilizers.
* Growing produce organically is better for the environment than conventional.
Organic produce typically has higher nutritional content and better flavor than conventionally grown produce.

A few key differences between conventional and organic meats are:
* Organic cows & chickens have access to fresh air and exercise; typically conventionally farmed animals do not.
* Organic animals are fed a diet rich in organic foods; conventional animals are typically raised on grains and cheaper feeds full of synthetic fillers
* Organically farmed animals live a life resembling that of the animal in its natural habitat.
* Organic meats often have less fat content then conventional.
* Organic animals are raised without the use of growth hormones

Eating organic is choosing to eat the way our ancestors did; respecting the earth and ourselves by the high-quality food we choose to eat.

Denver-area Sunflower Markets & Sprouts have a great selection of organic products. For a grocery store specializing in all natural and organic products; check out your Denver-area Natural Grocers.

source: www.examiner.com

Want an Alternative to Caffeine? Meet Teeccino

Trying to cut the caffeine habit can be impossible if you’re used to waking up to a strong brew and refilling your mug a few times a day at the office. Decaffeinated coffees and teas still carry traces of the stimulant that can wreak havoc on your body even if you don’t realize it. Discovered by a German chemist in 1819, the chemical compound in coffee was coined “kaffein” and is synonymously called “guaranine” from the guarana plant’s berries, “theine” found inside tea leaves, and “mateine” when isolated from the yerba mate plant. Either way you pronounce it, inside the human body, caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and produces a temporary feeling of alertness. Many people who drink decaf coffees, espressos, and teas, are either unable or unwilling to feel the consequences of a regularly caffeinated drink, but still enjoy the taste. With Teeccino, decaf-lovers can get the taste of real drip coffee in a natural, herbal mixture without the stimulating aftershock of caffeine.

Caroline MacDougall, an herb expert and creator of Teeccino, was working for various tea brands as an herbalist before she started making a name for herself in the early '90s with her own mixture she calls “herbal coffee,” a replacement way to drink your coffee without the addictive or dangerous qualities of caffeine. Knowing that many people are addicted to caffeine through coffees and teas, Carolyn sought a way to bring her knowledge of the Mediterranean rainforest to her morning cup and then share it. The basic ingredients of her herbal coffee are a simple and delicious blend of roots, nuts and fruit found in nature: roasted carob, barley, chicory root, figs, dates and almonds.

Drinking a coffee alternative can still imitate the rush that coffee can give you in the morning without the negative health effects associated with caffeine. For example, each cup of Teeccino is infused with around 80 milligrams of potassium which sends oxygen to your brain causing an energy boost that just might help you start you day.

So you’re probably wondering why a certified organic “herbal coffee” drink would be any healthier for you than a regular cup of java if it also has a stimulant in it—albeit a natural mineral—to help you be more alert. Caffeine can lead to infertility, it is a leading cause of stress by helping put your heart under pressure, and caffeine is a large inhibitor of heart disease. By shocking your nerves into having more energy, caffeine also stimulates your hunger, making you more susceptible to sweet cravings, ultimately spiking your blood sugar which can lead to a sugar intolerance or diabetes. Anxiety and depression are also linked to caffeine and the stimulant actually decreases your memory and cognitive skills.

Sean Paajanen, coffee and tea guide from About.com, applauds Teeccino’s efforts to be unlike other coffee alternatives and doesn’t mind the taste, “An excellent herbal coffee that contains no caffeine, but does taste remarkably just like regular coffee. No need to deny yourself in the mornings if you want to cut your caffeine.” Paajanen continues, “I've tried a few coffee substitutes…but was always disappointed to find they don't really taste like the coffee I know and love. I have been completely impressed with Teeccino, as the first coffee substitute I have found that tastes like coffee. Really. It has the rich, full-bodied taste that I love in my cup. And the many flavours make this a very versatile product to enjoy.”

So next time you have a caffeine headache and you drive through your local coffee cart, think how much you could save your body and your wallet by using a healthy alternative. Even if herbal coffee doesn’t taste exactly like your precious Starbucks latte, your homemade drip, or Peet’s best cup of tea, it might be worth a try to save your future health.

source: www.healthnews.com