Healthy Living

Treatment for Breast Cancer

2008-12-09T22:47:00.000-08:00

In recent years, there's been an explosion of life-saving treatment advances against breast cancer, bringing new hope and excitement. Instead of only one or two options, today there's an overwhelming menu of treatment choices that fight the complex mix of cells in each individual cancer. The decisions — surgery, then perhaps radiation, hormonal (anti - estrogen) therapy, and/or chemotherapy — can feel overwhelming.

1. Surgery

Surgery is usually the first line of attack against breast cancer. This section explains the different types of breast cancer surgery.
Decisions about surgery depend on many factors. You and your doctor will determine the kind of surgery that’s most appropriate for you based on the stage of the cancer, the "personality" of the cancer, and what is acceptable to you in terms of your long-term peace of mind.

LUMPECTOMY SURGERY

Lumpectomy is the removal of the breast tumor (the "lump") and some of the normal tissue that surrounds it. Lumpectomy is a form of “breast - conserving” or "breast preservation" surgery. There are several names used for breast-conserving surgery : biopsy, lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, re - excision, quadrantectomy, or wedge resection. Technically, a lumpectomy is a partial mastectomy, because part of the breast tissue is removed. But the amount of tissue removed can vary greatly. Quadrantectomy, for example, means that roughly a quarter of your breast will be removed. Make sure you have a clear understanding from your surgeon about how much of your breast may be gone after surgery and what kind of scar you will have.

Is Lumpectomy plus radiation right for you ?

While lumpectomy plus radiation is an excellent option for many women with breast cancer, it's not the best treatment for everyone.

Lumpectomy plus radiation may NOT be right for you under the following circumstances :

You have already had radiation to the same breast for an earlier breast cancer. Radiation cannot be given twice to the same area.
You have extensive cancer in the breast or have two or more separate areas of cancer in the same breast. If cancer is extensive or in multiple areas, a mastectomy may be required.
You have a small breast and a large tumor and removing the tumor would be extremely disfiguring.
Your surgeon has already made multiple attempts to remove the tumor with lumpectomy, but has not been able to completely remove the cancer and obtain clear margins.
You have a connective tissue disease, such as lupus or vasculitis, which would make you sensitive to the side effects of radiation.
You are pregnant. If you're pregnant, it's not save to have radiation therapy.
You are not willing to commit to the daily schedule of radiation therapy, or distance makes it impossible.
You believe you would have greater peace of mind with a mastectomy.

After Lumpectomy

You’ll be moved to the recovery room after lumpectomy surgery, where staff will monitor your heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure. Staying overnight in the hospital is not usually necessary with lumpectomy, unless you're also having lymph nodes removed. As you start to feel more awake, your surgeon or nurse will give you information about recovering at home :

Taking pain medication: You may be given pain medication in the recovery room, and your surgeon will probably give you a prescription to take with you when you leave the hospital. You might want to get it filled on your way home or have a friend or family member get it filled for you as soon as you are home. You may not need the medication, but it’s good to have it on hand in case you do.
Caring for the bandage (dressing) over your incision: Ask your surgeon how to take care of the lumpectomy bandage. Sometimes, the surgeon will ask that you wait until your first follow-up visit so that he or she can remove the bandage.
Caring for a surgical drain: If you have a drain in your breast area or armpit, the drain might be removed before you leave the hospital. Sometimes, however, a drain stays inserted until the first follow-up visit with the doctor, usually 1-2 weeks after surgery. If you’re going home with a drain inserted, you’ll need to empty the fluid from the detachable drain bulb a few times a day. Make sure your surgeon gives you instructions on caring for the drain before you leave the hospital.
Stitches and staples: Most surgeons use sutures (stitches) that dissolve over time, so there's no longer any need to have them removed. But occasionally, you'll see the end of the suture poking out of the incision like a whisker. If this happens, your surgeon can easily remove it. Surgical staples — another way of closing the incision — are removed during the first office visit after surgery.
Exercising your arm: Your surgeon may show you an exercise routine you can do after surgery to prevent arm and shoulder stiffness on the side where you had the lumpectomy. Usually, you will start the exercises the morning after surgery. Some exercises should be avoided until drains are removed. Ask your surgeon any questions you may have to make sure the exercise routine is right for you. Your surgeon should also give you written, illustrated instructions on how to do the exercises.
Recognizing signs of infection: Your surgeon should explain how to tell if you have an infection in your incision and when to call the office.

At-Home Recovery from Lumpectomy
You’ll recuperate at home for a few days after lumpectomy surgery. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Rest. When you get home from the hospital, you might be fatigued from the experience. Allow yourself to get enough rest so that you can return to your normal routine in a few days. There are a number of ways to manage fatigue.
Take pain medication as needed. You might feel a mixture of numbness and pain around the surgery area in the breast (and the armpit incision, if you had lymph nodes removed). If you feel the need, take pain medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Learn more about managing pain and armpit discomfort.
Take sponge baths until your doctor has removed your drains and/or sutures. You can take your first shower when your drains and any staples or sutures have been removed. A sponge bath can refresh you until showers or baths are approved by your doctor.
Wear a good sports or support bra. You’ll want a supportive bra to wear both day and night for a while to minimize any movement that could cause pain. If you have larger breasts, you may find it more comfortable to sleep on the side that has not been operated on, with your healing breast supported by a pillow in front of you.
Begin doing arm exercises. The morning after surgery, begin doing arm exercises if your surgeon has advised you to do so.

Weeks and months after lumpectomy

As nerves regrow, you may feel a weird crawly sensation, you may itch, and you may be very sensitive to touch. Your discomfort may go away by itself, or it may persist but you adapt to it. NSAIDs (pronounced EN-seds) such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen usually can address the pain related to this type of nerve injury. Opioids (pronounced OH-pee-oydz) also can be used to treat this type of pain.Lumpectomy risks

Like all surgeries, lumpectomy carries certain risks:

Loss of sensation : There is usually some numbness and loss of sensation in part of the breast after lumpectomy, depending on the size of the lump removed. Some or most of this ability to feel can return.
Breasts that don’t match exactly : Your breasts may not match precisely in size and shape after surgery. This is because removing breast tissue during surgery usually makes the affected breast appear smaller. You may not know this right away, because swelling in response to surgery may make your breast appear temporarily larger.

MASTECTOMY SURGERY

Mastectomy is the removal of the whole breast. There are five different types of mastectomy : "simple" or "total" mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy, radical mastectomy, partial mastectomy, and subcutaneous (nipple-sparing) mastectomy.

Is Mastectomy right for you ?

Mastectomy may be the right choice for you if the following is true for you :

If the tumor is larger than 5 centimeters, you will probably need a mastectomy. Depending on stage and other factors, some tumors smaller than 5 centimeters may still require mastectomy, although others may be addressed by lumpectomy.
If your breast is small and a lumpectomy would leave you with very little breast tissue, your doctor may advise you to have a mastectomy.
If your surgeon has already made multiple attempts to remove the tumor with lumpectomy, but has not been able to completely remove the cancer and obtain clear margins, you may need a mastectomy.
If lumpectomy plus radiation is not an option for your small tumor (for example, under 4 centimeters) because you have had prior radiation to the same breast, you have a connective tissue disease (lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), you are pregnant, or you do not want to commit to daily radiation treatment, you may need to have a mastectomy.
If you believe mastectomy would give you greater peace of mind than lumpectomy, you might decide to have a mastectomy.

Simple or Total Mastectomy

Simple or total mastectomy concentrates on the breast tissue itself :

The surgeon removes the entire breast.
The surgeon does not perform axillary lymph node dissection (removal of lymph nodes in the underarm area). Sometimes, however, lymph nodes are occasionally removed because they happen to be located within the breast tissue taken during surgery.
No muscles are removed from beneath the breast.

Who usually gets simple or total mastectomy?

A simple or total mastectomy is appropriate for women with multiple or large areas of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and for women seeking prophylactic mastectomies — that is, breast removal in order to prevent any possibility of breast cancer occurring.

Modified Radical Mastectomy

Modified radical mastectomy involves the removal of both breast tissue and lymph nodes :

The surgeon removes the entire breast.
Axillary lymph node dissection is performed, during which levels I and II of underarm lymph nodes are removed (B and C in illustration).
No muscles are removed from beneath the breast.

Who usually gets a modified radical mastectomy?
Most people with invasive breast cancer who decide to have mastectomies will receive modified radical mastectomies so that the lymph nodes can be examined. Examining the lymph nodes helps to identify whether cancer cells may have spread beyond the breast.

Radical Mastectomy

Radical mastectomy is the most extensive type of mastectomy:

The surgeon removes the entire breast.
Levels I, II, and III of the underarm lymph nodes are removed (B, C, and D in illustration).
The surgeon also removes the chest wall muscles under the breast.

Who usually gets a radical mastectomy ?

Today, radical mastectomy is recommended only when the breast cancer has spread to the chest muscles under the breast. Although common in the past, radical mastectomy is now rarely performed because in most cases, modified radical mastectomy has proven to be just as effective and less disfiguring.

Partial Mastectomy
Partial mastectomy is the removal of the cancerous part of the breast tissue and some normal tissue around it. While lumpectomy is technically a form of partial mastectomy, more tissue is removed in partial mastectomy than in lumpectomy.

Subcutaneous (nipple sparing) Mastectomy

During subcutaneous ("nipple-sparing") mastectomy, all of the breast tissue is removed, but the nipple is left alone. Subcutaneous mastectomy is performed less often than simple or total mastectomy because more breast tissue is left behind afterwards that could later develop cancer. Some physicians have also reported that breast reconstruction after subcutaneous mastectomy can result in distortion and possibly numbness of the nipple. Because subcutaneous mastectomy is still an area of controversy among some physicians, your doctor may recommend simple or total mastectomy instead.

After Mastectomy surgery

You’ll be moved to the recovery room after mastectomy surgery, where staff will monitor your heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure. If you are in pain or feel nauseous from the anesthesia, let someone know so that you can be given medication.

You’ll then be admitted to a hospital room. Hospital stays for mastectomy average 3 days or less. If you have a mastectomy and reconstruction at the same time, you may be in the hospital a little longer.

The morning after your surgery, your surgeon or nurse will show you an exercise routine you can do to prevent arm and shoulder stiffness on the side where you had the mastectomy and to help prevent the formation of significant scar tissue. Some exercises should be avoided until drains are removed. Ask your surgeon any questions you may have to make sure the exercise routine is right for you. Your surgeon should also give you written, illustrated instructions on how to do the exercises.

Before you leave the hospital, your surgeon or nurse will give you information about recovering at home:

Taking pain medication: Your surgeon will probably give you a prescription to take with you when you leave the hospital. You might want to get it filled on your way home or have a friend or family member get it filled for you as soon as you are home so that you have it available.
Caring for the bandage (dressing) over your incision: Ask your surgeon or nurse how to take care of the mastectomy bandage. The surgeon may ask that you not try to remove the bandage, and instead wait until your first follow-up visit so that he or she can remove the bandage.
Caring for a surgical drain: If you have a drain in your breast area or armpit, the drain might be removed before you leave the hospital. Sometimes, however, a drain stays inserted until the first follow-up visit with the doctor, usually 1-2 weeks after surgery. If you’re going home with a drain inserted, you’ll need to empty the fluid from the detachable drain bulb a few times a day. Make sure your surgeon gives you instructions on caring for the drain before you leave the hospital.
Stitches and staples: Most surgeons use sutures (stitches) that dissolve over time, so there's no longer any need to have them removed. But occasionally, you'll see the end of the suture poking out of the incision like a whisker. If this happens, your surgeon can easily remove it. Surgical staples — another way of closing the incision — are removed during the first office visit after surgery.
Recognizing signs of infection: Your surgeon should explain how to tell if you have an infection in your incision and when to call the office.
Exercising your arm: Your surgeon or nurse may show you an exercise routine you can do to prevent arm and shoulder stiffness on the side where you had surgery. Usually, you will start the exercises the morning after surgery. Some exercises should be avoided until drains are removed. Ask your surgeon any questions you may have to make sure the exercise routine is right for you. Your surgeon should also give you written, illustrated instructions on how to do the exercises.
Recognizing signs of lymphedema: If you have had axillary dissection, you will be given information on taking care of your arm and being alert to signs of lymphedema.
When you can start wearing a prosthesis or resume wearing a bra: The site of mastectomy surgery, and especially mastectomy with reconstruction, needs time to heal before you can wear a prosthesis or bra. Your doctor will tell you how long you may need to wait.

At-Home Recovery from Mastectomy

It can take a few weeks to recover from mastectomy surgery, and longer if you have had reconstruction. It’s important to take the time you need to heal.

In addition to your surgeon’s instructions, here are some general guidelines to follow at home:

Rest. When you get home from the hospital, you will probably be fatigued from the experience. Allow yourself to get extra rest in the first few weeks after surgery. Read more about managing fatigue.
Take pain medication as needed. You will probably feel a mixture of numbness and pain around the breast incision and the chest wall (and the armpit incision, if you had axillary dissection). If you feel the need, take pain medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Learn more about managing chest pain, armpit discomfort, and general pain.
Take sponge baths until your doctor has removed your drains and/or sutures. You can take your first shower when your drains and any staples or sutures have been removed. A sponge bath can refresh you until showers or baths are approved by your doctor.
Continue doing arm exercises each day. It’s important to continue doing arm exercises on a regular basis to prevent stiffness and to keep your arm flexible.
Have friends and family pitch in around the house. Recovery from mastectomy can take time. Ask friends and family to help with meals, laundry, shopping, and childcare. As your body heals, don’t feel you should take on more than you can handle.

In the months after Mastectomy

Your body will continue to adjust to the effects of the surgery over a period of months. Here are some things to keep in mind:

You may have “phantom sensations” or “phantom pain” in the months after mastectomy : As nerves regrow, you may feel a weird crawly sensation, you may itch, you may be very sensitive to touch, and you may feel pressure. Your discomfort may go away by itself, or it may persist but you adapt to it. Analgesics and NSAIDs (pronounced EN-seds) such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen usually can address the pain related to this type of nerve injury. Opioids (pronounced OH-pee-oydz) also can be used to treat this type of pain. Read more about managing phantom pain.
Continue doing regular arm exercises : Stay with your arm exercise routine to keep your arm limber.
You may experience fatigue from time to time in the early months after surgery : If you’re having trouble with fatigue, ask your doctor about things you can do.

Mastectomy Risks

Like all surgeries, mastectomy has some risks:

Numbness of the skin along the incision site and mild to moderate tenderness of the adjacent area: Numbness and tenderness can happen because the nerves were cut during surgery. Find out more about numbness.
Extra sensitivity to touch within the area of surgery: Touch sensitivity is also due to irritated nerve endings. The sensation usually improves as the nerves grow back. Read more about managing breast area sensitivity.
Fluid collecting under the scar: Fluid collection under the scar may be the result of hematoma — an accumulation of blood in the wound — or seroma, an accumulation of clear fluid in the wound. Both usually resolve on their own or after being drained with a needle by your doctor. Learn more about hematoma and seroma.
Delayed wound healing: During mastectomy, the blood vessels that supply your breast tissue are cut. Occasionally that can present problems when your body tries to heal the incision site. If there isn't enough blood flow to the flaps of your incision, small areas of skin may wither and scab or need to be trimmed by your surgeon. This is uncommon and is usually not a serious complication. Read more about managing delayed healing.
Increased risk of infection in the surgical area: If infection happens, it can usually be discovered early and responds well to treatment. Talk to your doctor about the warning signs of infection.
Scar tissue formation: With mastectomy alone and mastectomy plus reconstruction, there is a risk for scar tissue to form and build up over time. Sometimes the scar tissue can be lumpy or painful. Your surgeon can tell you about ways to manage any discomfort. Find out more about managing scar tissue formation.

LYMPH NODE REMOVAL SURGERY
If you have invasive breast cancer, your surgeon will probably remove some of the lymph nodes under your arm during your lumpectomy or mastectomy. Examining your lymph nodes helps your doctors figure out the extent of cancer involvement. Cancer in lymph nodes is associated with an increased risk of having cancer cells in other parts of your body.

Your lymph nodes act as filters for your body's lymphatic drainage system. That's why the lymph nodes are likely to "catch" or filter out cancer cells that might be floating in the fluid that drains away from the cancerous area of the breast. Doctors look at the different kinds of nodes that are involved with your breast :

The nodes around your collarbone and neck (supraclavicular, infraclavicular, and cervical nodes) are examined manually (by hand). Your doctor will feel this area for signs of enlarged nodes.
The nodes under your arm (axillary lymph nodes) are also examined manually and are relatively easy to get to during surgery. Surgery to remove some or all of the lymph nodes under your arm is called axillary lymph node dissection.

You can learn more about possible side effects of lymph node removal in our section on Arm Lymphedema.

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a systemic therapy; this means it affects the whole body by going through the bloodstream. The purpose of chemotherapy and other systemic treatments is to get rid of any cancer cells that may have spread from where the cancer started to another part of the body.

Chemotherapy is effective against cancer cells because the drugs love to interfere with rapidly dividing cells. The side effects of chemotherapy come about because cancer cells aren't the only rapidly dividing cells in your body. The cells in your blood, mouth, intestinal tract, nose, nails, vagina, and hair are also undergoing constant, rapid division. This means that the chemotherapy is going to affect them, too.

Still, chemotherapy is much easier to tolerate today than even a few years ago. And for many women it's an important "insurance policy" against cancer recurrence. It's also important to remember that organs in which the cells do not divide rapidly, such as the liver and kidneys, are rarely affected by chemotherapy. And doctors and nurses will keep close track of side effects and can treat most of them to improve the way you feel.

You'll also read about the different chemotherapy regimens and about deciding together with your medical oncologist which regimen would be best suited to you.

It's important to remember that every woman's ideal treatment plan is different. Be aware that your "chemo" regimen may be different from someone else's, based on very individual—and sometimes subtle—breast cancer factors. These include: lymph node involvement, tumor size, hormone receptor status, grade, and oncogene expression. Be prepared for your doctor to recommend a combination of chemotherapies—together or in a series.

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy — also called radiotherapy — is a highly targeted, highly effective way to destroy cancer cells in the breast that may stick around after surgery. Radiation can reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence by about 70%. Despite what many people fear, radiation therapy is relatively easy to tolerate and its side effects are limited to the treated area.

Your radiation treatments will be overseen by a radiation oncologist, a cancer doctor who specializes in radiation therapy.

Ten Key Points about Radiation Therapy

1. Radiation is a local, targeted therapy designed to kill cancer cells that may still exist after surgery. Radiation is given to the area where the cancer started or to another part of the body to which the cancer spread.
2. The actual delivery of radiation treatment is painless. But the radiation itself may cause some discomfort over time.
3. External radiation treatment, the most common kind of radiation therapy, does not make you radioactive.
4. Treatment is usually given 5 days a week for up to 7 weeks. Sometimes radiation may be given twice a day for 1 week.
5. Since the daily appointments usually take about 30 minutes, you'll most likely be able to follow most of your normal routine during treatment.
6. Radiation will not make you lose your hair, unless radiation is given to your head.
7. In the area where you are receiving radiation, your skin can turn pink, red, or tan, and may be sensitive and irritated. Creams and other medicines can soothe these symptoms.
8. During your treatment course, you may feel tired. This feeling can last for a few weeks–even months–after treatment ends.
9. Most radiation side effects are temporary.
10. Radiation therapy can significantly decrease the risk of cancer returning after surgery.

4. Hormonal therapy

Hormonal therapy is a very effective treatment against breast cancer that is hormone-receptor-positive. Find out if you should be tested to see if you need other therapies, as well. Sometimes called "anti-estrogen therapy," hormonal therapy blocks the ability of the hormone estrogen to turn on and stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.

For years, tamoxifen was the hormonal medicine of choice for all women with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. But in 2005, the results of several major worldwide clinical trials showed that aromatase inhibitors (Arimidex [chemical name: anastrozole], Aromasin [chemical name: exemestane], and Femara [chemical name: letrozole]) worked better than tamoxifen in post-menopausal women with hormone-receptive-positive breast cancer.

Aromatase inhibitors are now considered the standard of care for post-menopausal women with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. Tamoxifen remains the hormonal treatment of choice for pre-menopausal women.

Hormonal therapy is an important option for anyone with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. That includes women of all ages, with any stage of disease, and together with or separate from other forms of treatment. Some types of hormonal therapy can also help women who've never had breast cancer but who are at increased risk for developing the disease.

You might benefit from hormonal therapy if you have:

non-invasive disease, such as DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ). Hormonal therapy lowers the risk of the non-invasive cancer coming back. More importantly, it also lowers the risk of developing a more serious INVASIVE cancer in either breast.
early-stage invasive disease. Hormonal therapy can reduce the risk of the cancer coming back as well as the risk of developing a new breast cancer in either breast.
a large cancer in the breast. Hormonal therapy can help shrink the size of the cancer before surgery to help you keep your breast and avoid mastectomy.
a recurrence of a prior cancer. If the cancer that comes back is hormone-receptor-positive, then hormonal therapy can help. Hormonal therapy is used differently depending on whether the recurrence is:
- local (involves just the breast)
- regional (involves the lymph nodes next to the breast), or
- metastatic (involves other parts of the body).
advanced (metastatic) disease. Hormonal therapy can help get metastatic disease under control, shrink it, and limit further spread.
a high risk of breast cancer but no prior personal history of the disease. Hormonal therapy can help reduce the risk of ever getting breast cancer for women with:
- a strong family history of breast cancer
- a known breast cancer gene abnormality or
- a prior breast biopsy showing abnormal cell growth

Women who have breast cancers that are hormone - receptor - negative will want to consider other options for treatment. Without estrogen and progesterone receptors for hormonal therapies to work on, hormonal therapy offers hardly any benefit. And it's not worth dealing with side effects if there are no real benefits.

Factors to consider in choosing a hormonal therapy
Hormonal therapy can produce remarkable results with relatively few side effects in many women. But it's not perfect. There are factors you must sort out, and pros and cons you must weigh, before you start hormonal therapy. You and your doctor will go over the issues, balancing the potential benefits and side effect for your unique situation. You'll also want to discuss how these benefits and side effects may be influenced by your other health concerns.

Together with your doctor, first think about your cancer-related concerns. Learn as much as you can about the various types of hormonal therapy. Figure out which kind, or kinds, might help you. Next, look at the hormonal therapy's side effects. Then see how the hormonal therapy might influence your other medical conditions.

Step 1 : Find out wheter hormonal therapy is right for you

Here are the cancer-related concerns to help you and your doctor decide :

The cancer's hormone - receptor status — Does the cancer have hormone receptors for estrogen or progesterone (is it hormone - receptor - positive or hormone - receptor - negative) ?
Other treatments you've had — Have you already had chemotherapy and/or radiation? Have you had other forms of hormonal therapy before ?
Your risk of recurrence — Do any factors put you at high risk for breast cancer recurrence or a new breast cancer, and what can you do to lower your risk ?

Step 2 : With your doctor, choose the hormonal therapy that's right for you

If the answers to the above questions indicate that hormonal therapy will help you, the next step is for you and your doctor to choose the treatment plan that's the best one for you. You will need to consider all the factors below :

Menopausal status

Are you pre-menopausal (still getting your period every month), peri-menopausal (having irregular periods), or post-menopausal (no longer having periods)? (In addition to a change in menses, menopause brings with it a variety of other changes in the body, including bone loss.)
Tamoxifen is standard of care for pre-menopausal women.
Ovarian shutdown or removal is another option for pre-menopausal women, sometimes combined with another form of hormonal therapy.
Aromatase inhibitors are only for post-menopausal women.
Faslodex (chemical name: fulvestrant) is another option for post-menopausal women with advanced disease.

Stage of breast cancer

Tamoxifen is the only hormonal therapy approved to reduce risk for women at high risk (with no personal history of breast cancer) and for women with non-invasive breast cancer. It is standard of care for pre-menopausal women with any stage of disease.
Studies of aromatase inhibitors for risk reduction for women with no personal history of breast cancer are under way.
Aromatase inhibitors are the first choice of hormonal treatment for post-menopausal women with any stage of hormone-receptor-positive invasive breast cancer.
Other hormonal therapies may also be used, depending on the cancer's stage and your personal situation.

Nature of the cancer

There is early evidence that HER2-positive breast cancer in post-menopausal women may respond better to an aromatase inhibitor than tamoxifen. A study suggested choosing hormonal therapy in part based on the cancer's combined estrogen and progesterone receptor-status (ER+/PR+ or ER+/PR-).

Step 3 : Consider health concerns other than breast cancer
You may have other health concerns, unrelated to breast cancer, that might require extra management while you are taking hormonal therapy. These health concerns usually will not be the deciding factor in which hormonal therapy you should use. Rather, these health issues together with possible side effects of hormonal therapy may require extra attention and management during your course of therapy.

A personal history of blood clots
If you have had blood clots, your doctor will probably want you to avoid tamoxifen. But if you are pre-menopausal, your history of blood clots was not serious, and tamoxifen is an important part of your care, your doctor may recommend taking a blood thinner (such as baby aspirin) along with tamoxifen.
Serious osteoporosis
Some doctors will want to do bone tests before starting you on hormonal medication, because many of these medicines have been shown to affect bone health. If you have had a test to measure your bone density (a DEXA scan), your doctor will have told you whether you have osteoporosis (bone loss). If you do, you may be put on a bone-building medicine. If you don't respond to the medicine, and you've had broken bones already, then your doctor may recommend tamoxifen over an aromatase inhibitor. But if your doctor thinks that it's critical for you to be on an aromatase inhibitor, then a more effective bone-building plan may be recommended along with the aromatase inhibitor.
Arthritis
Arthritis is common in women with or without a diagnosis of breast cancer. Aromatase inhibitors can cause joint and muscle pain. This might be a new symptom for you, or hormonal therapy may make existing aches and pains worse.
No hysterectomy (you still have a uterus)
If you have NOT had a hysterectomy and still have your uterus, your doctor may suggest that you avoid tamoxifen, which is associated with a higher incidence of uterine cancer.

So the answer to the question, "who is hormonal therapy for?" includes a pretty wide range of people. All along the way, you and your doctor will re-evaluate the balance of benefits and side effects.

Learning all about the different hormonal treatments will help you to have a more informed conversation with your doctor.

Benefits of Hormonal Therapy
You might think of hormonal therapy as a critical insurance policy to back up your other treatments. Hormonal therapy gives many benefits. It can :

reduce your risk of cancer coming back or spreading
reduce your risk of a new cancer starting in the other breast
shrink a medium-to-large breast cancer before surgery, making it possible for you to have lumpectomy and radiation instead of mastectomy

Also, if you have never had breast cancer but areat increased risk for getting the disease, hormonal therapy can reduce that risk.

Most of the different hormonal treatments have similar benefits. You and your doctor will choose the treatment that is right for you by looking at your medical history, your menopausal status, and your personal preferences. Your doctor's recommendation will be based on clinical guidelines as well as experience with many patients taking hormonal therapies over the years. Once you select a hormonal therapy, you have to take the medicine as prescribed in order to get the benefits.

In addition to considering the benefits, the two of you will need to look at the various side effects of the treatments. Weighing one against the other will allow you to select the best hormonal therapy for YOU.

5. Targeted Cancer Therapies

Targeted cancer therapies are treatments that target specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as a protein that allows the cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way. Targeted therapies are generally less likely than chemotherapy to harm normal, healthy cells. Some targeted therapies are antibodies that work like the antibodies made naturally by our immune systems. These types of targeted therapies are sometimes called immune targeted therapies.

There are currently 3 targeted therapies doctors use to treat breast cancer :

Herceptin
Herceptin (chemical name: trastuzumab) works against HER2-positive breast cancers by blocking the ability of the cancer cells to receive chemical signals that tell the cells to grow.

Tykerb

Tykerb (chemical name: lapatinib) works against HER2-positive breast cancers by blocking certain proteins that can cause uncontrolled cell growth.

Avastin
Avastin (chemical name: bevacizumab) works by blocking the growth of new blood vessels that cancer cells depend on to grow and function.

Melasma, causes and treatments

2008-12-09T22:13:00.000-08:00

There are a number of skin conditions that can manifest visibly and affect the appearance of your skin. Many of them are exacerbated by excessive exposure to the sun. Among them, melasma is one of the most common. Despite its prevalence, there seems to be a general lack of awareness regarding melasma.

What Is Melasma ?

Melasma presents as hyperpigmented areas on the surface of the skin. These areas appear darker than a person’s normal skin tone and are usually symmetric. While the skin condition is universal, it is most prevalent among women, commonly appear on the face (chin, cheeks, forehead, etc.). While there are no known health impacts associated with melasma, the condition can have an emotional impact on those afflicted with it.

Possible Causes Of Melasma

Though the definite causes of melasma remain uncertain, studies have suggested that the condition is linked to hormones. Exposure to the sun leads to increased melanin production. The cells that produce melanin (called melanocytes) may be stimulated by estrogen and progesterone. When melanocytes produce excessive amounts of melanin, melasma can occur. Sun exposure is also thought to generate free radicals which can stimulate melanocytes, resulting in excessive melanin production.

Many doctors believe that melasma is most prevalent in those who have a predisposition. This can include skin tone, gender and ethnicity. Women are more likely than men to develop the condition. And those with a light brown skin tone are generally more susceptible than others.

Melasma Symptoms

Dark discolored patches on skin of upper cheek, nose, lips, upperlip, and forehead.
Melasma does not causes any other health problems beyond the cosmetic discoloration.

Melasma Treatment

Drink more than enough water to purge all those toxins out of your body.
Eat and drink foods containing antioxidants such as dark colored fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants fight off free radicals in the environment (like pollution and the sun).
Take anti-oxidant supplement such as Pycnogenol 25 mg tablet with meals three times a day will enhance the results of your melasma treatment.
Treating pigmentation and age spot should always use a potent, natural lightening cream with antioxidants for your skin.
Cosmetic procedures can be helpful in some cases of hyperpigmentation are not recommended for melasma, they are expensive and may come back in a year.
To prevent melasma and protect skin from the sun by using sun protection scream with SPF 8 and above.
Hydroquinone is topical scream with a completely organic compound that occurs naturally in bombardier beetles. It works by gently lightening skin, and does not cause side effect as others.
Melasma will clear up on their own when baby is born and hormones are adjusted after birth. There is no need treatment for this.
Using calamine as moisturizing lotions and soothing extracts to maintain skin after successfully cure melasma.
MSM supplements are known to treat melasma. Start out with 1 to 2 grams a day, and see how your body reacts before consume more.
Facial peel with alpha hydroxyacids or chemical peels with glycolic acid.
Tretinoin is an acid that increases skin cell turnover. Avoid his treatment during pregnancy.

Melasma treatment methods to avoid

Some melasma treatments are controversial. There is some debate on how to treat melasma. Like I've said, there is no magic cure, but many products and treatments will make a difference. Be wary of these three melasma treatments.

1. Bleaching creams. By using a doctor-prescribed bleaching cream on your skin you are causing the melanin-producing cells to slow down production. This can be beneficial especially if you continue to use sun block all the time, but be wary of products that are truly poisonous. Talk to your doctor about possible side-effects and existing research. Bleaching ingredients such as hydroquinone are somewhat controversial and proven to be dangerous to pregnant women.

2. Microdermabrasion. This can be an excellent treatment for a variety of skin care problems, but melasma is often worsened by heat. I'd recommend avoiding microdermabrasion and opt for a gentler exfoliation process instead.

3. Lasers and lights. These are relatively new treatments that can be incredibly expensive. If you choose to receive these treatments, be sure to work with a dermatologist or investigate the credibility of the esthetician. Also, be wary of exorbitant prices because insurance rarely covers these expenses.

Sleep makes you look younger

2008-12-09T21:53:00.000-08:00

Every company today seems to be marketing a new product that can make you look and feel younger. You can find them all over billboards, magazines, T.V. and the internet. So why are there so many products claiming take ten years off? Simple, most people are willing to spend lots of time and money searching for the proverbial fountain of youth. If you’re one of these people, then I have a great secret to share with you. Instead of spending late nights buying creams and pills; put you wallet or pocketbook away and go to bed. If you want to look and feel younger, than look no further than a good night’s rest.

Who looks younger a healthy person, or a sick person? Chances are you answered “the healthy person”. Being sick can make you look old and haggard. Well, one big side effect of sleep deprivation is that it can severely compromise your immune system, making you get sick more often. Sleeping keeps you healthy and looking great.

Even if you don’t catch colds or other illnesses a lot; if you’re not getting enough sleep your body isn’t as healthy as it could be. Stage 4, or deep sleep, helps restore and renew the cells of our bodily organs. This helps them function properly and lets the body work as efficiently as possible. If our organs don’t work properly, it can take a toll on our physical appearance. That means you don’t look as good as you could. Plus, even if you’re not sick, you probably won’t feel as healthy as you might if you had enough sleep.

So you already now know that deep restorative sleep helps renew organ tissue and keep them in peak condition, but do you know what your body’s largest organ is? If you said skin, you’re absolutely right. And what’s the most important factor in determining how young or old you look? Your skin! Proper sleep will allow old, dead skin cells to be replaced with beautiful, fresh, new skin cells quickly and efficiently. This will leave you and your skin looking younger.

Have you ever noticed that when you’re in a bad mood, depressed, or just not feeling good about life, you don’t look as good? It’s not just your perception; how you feel affects facial expressions body posture, and other factors that determine how we look. When you’re well rested, you feel younger; and when you feel younger you look younger.
So how much sleep is enough to keep you looking and feeling younger? Well, that depends on you. Generally it’s recommended that adults get 8 hours of sleep; however, there are people who can function just fine on less. Others like myself, need at least 9 hours of sleep to feel refreshed. If you feel tired and sluggish in the morning, or require an alarm clock to get up (yes, I’m serious); you’re not getting enough sleep. If you get as much sleep as your body will allow and still feel sluggish in the morning, you may have a serious sleep disorder and should see a doctor.
So if you want to look younger and feel better, head to bed.

Prostate Cancer

2008-12-09T00:12:00.000-08:00

What is the prostate gland ?
The prostate gland is an organ that is located at the base or outlet (neck) of the urinary bladder. (See the diagram.) The gland surrounds the first part of the urethra. The urethra is the passage through which urine drains from the bladder to exit from the penis. One function of the prostate gland is to help control urination by pressing directly against the part of the urethra that it surrounds. Another function of the prostate gland is to produce some of the substances that are found in normal semen, such as minerals and sugar. Semen is the fluid that transports the sperm. A man can manage quite well, however, without his prostate gland. (See the section on surgical treatment for prostate cancer)

In a young man, the normal prostate gland is the size of a walnut. During normal aging, however, the gland usually grows larger. This enlargement with aging is called benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), but this condition is not associated with prostate cancer. Both BPH and prostate cancer, however, can cause similar problems in older men. For example, an enlarged prostate gland can squeeze or impinge on the outlet of the bladder or the urethra, leading to difficulty with urination. The resulting symptoms commonly include slowing of the urinary stream and urinating more frequently, particularly at night.

What is prostate cancer ?
Prostate cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor (growth) that consists of cells from the prostate gland. The tumor usually grows slowly and remains confined to the gland for many years. During this time, the tumor produces little or no symptoms or outward signs (abnormalities on physical examination). As the cancer advances, however, it can spread beyond the prostate into the surrounding tissues (local spread). Moreover, the cancer also can metastasize (spread even farther) throughout other areas of the body, such as the bones, lungs, and liver. Symptoms and signs, therefore, are more often associated with advanced prostate cancer.

Why is prostate cancer important ?

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in American men and the second leading cause of deaths from cancer, after lung cancer. Most experts in this field, therefore, recommend that beginning at age 40, all men should undergo yearly screening for prostate cancer.

What causes prostate cancer ?

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but the cancer is thought not to be related to benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). The risk (predisposing) factors for prostate cancer include advancing age, genetics (heredity), hormonal influences, and such environmental factors as toxins, chemicals, and industrial products. The chances of developing prostate cancer increase with age. Thus, prostate cancer under age 40 is extremely rare, while it is common in men older than 80 years of age. As a matter of fact, some studies have suggested that among men over 80, between 50 and 80% of them may have prostate cancer!

Genetics (heredity), as just mentioned, plays a role in the risk of developing a prostate cancer. For example, black American men have a higher risk of getting prostate cancer than do Japanese or white American men. Environment, diet, and other unknown factors, however, can modify such genetic predispositions. For example, prostate cancer is uncommon in Japanese men living in their native Japan. However, when these men move to the United States, their incidence of prostate cancer rises significantly. Prostate cancer is also more common among family members of individuals with prostate cancer. Thus, a person whose father, grandfather, or even uncle has prostate cancer is at an increased risk for also developing prostate cancer. To date, however, no specific prostate cancer gene has been identified and verified. (Genes, which are situated on chromosomes within the nucleus of cells, are the chemical compounds that determine specific traits in individuals.)

Testosterone, the male hormone, directly stimulates the growth of both normal prostate tissue and prostate cancer cells. Not surprisingly, therefore, this hormone is thought to be involved in the development and growth of prostate cancer. The important implication of the role of this hormone is that decreasing the level of testosterone should be (and usually is) effective in inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer.

Environmental factors, such as cigarette smoking and diets that are high in saturated fat, seem to increase the risk of prostate cancer. Additional substances or toxins in the environment or from industrial sources might also promote the development of prostate cancer, but these have not yet been clearly identified.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer ?

In the early stages, prostate cancer often causes no symptoms for many years. As a matter of fact, these cancers frequently are first detected by an abnormality on a blood test (the PSA, discussed below) or as a hard nodule (lump) in the prostate gland. Usually, the doctor first feels the nodule during a routine digital (done with the finger) rectal examination. The prostate gland is located immediately in front of the rectum. As the cancer enlarges and presses on the urethra, the flow of urine diminishes and urination becomes more difficult. Patients may also experience burning with urination or blood in the urine. As the tumor continues to grow, it can completely block the flow of urine, resulting in a painfully obstructed and enlarged urinary bladder.

In the later stages, prostate cancer can spread locally into the surrounding tissue or the nearby lymph nodes, called the pelvic nodes. The cancer then can spread even farther (metastasize) to other areas of the body. The doctor on a rectal examination can sometimes detect local spread into the surrounding tissues. That is, the physician can feel a hard, fixed (not moveable) tumor extending from and beyond the gland. Prostate cancer usually metastasizes first to the lower spine or the pelvic bones (the bones connecting the lower spine to the hips), thereby causing back or pelvic pain. The cancer can then spread to the liver and lungs. Metastases (areas to which the cancer has spread) to the liver can cause pain in the abdomen and jaundice (yellow color of the skin) in rare instances. Metastases to the lungs can cause chest pain and coughing.

What are the screening tests for prostate cancer ?

Screening tests are those that are done at regular intervals to detect a disease such as prostate cancer at an early stage. If the result of a screening test is normal, the disease is presumed not to be present. If a screening test is abnormal, the disease is then suspected to be present, and further tests usually are needed to confirm the suspicion (that is, to make the diagnosis definitively). Prostate cancer usually is suspected initially because of an abnormality of one or both of the two screening tests that are used to detect prostate cancer. These screening tests are a digital rectal examination and a blood test called the prostate specific antigen (PSA).

In the digital rectal examination, the doctor feels (palpates) the prostate gland with his gloved index finger in the rectum to detect abnormalities of the gland. Thus, a lump, irregularity, or hardness felt on the surface of the gland is a finding that is suspicious for prostate cancer. Accordingly, doctors usually recommend doing a digital rectal examination annually in men age 40 and over.

The PSA test is a simple, reproducible, and accurate blood test. It is used to detect a protein (the prostate specific antigen) that is released from the prostate gland into the blood. Most importantly, the level of the PSA is usually higher in people with prostate cancer than in people without the cancer. The PSA, therefore, is valuable as a screening test for prostate cancer. Accordingly, doctors usually recommend doing a PSA annually in men age 50 and over. Furthermore, for men who have high risks for prostate cancer as discussed above, most doctors recommend starting the PSA screening at an even younger age (for example, at age 40).

Results of the PSA test under 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood are generally considered normal. (See the next two sections on false-positive elevations of the PSA and on refinements in the PSA test.) Results between 4 and 10 are considered borderline. These borderline values are interpreted in the context of the patient's age, symptoms, signs, family history, and changes in the PSA levels over time. Results higher than 10 are considered abnormal, suggesting the possibility of prostate cancer. The higher the PSA value, the more likely the diagnosis of prostate cancer. Moreover, the level of PSA tends to increase when the cancer has progressed from organ-confined prostate cancer to local spread to distant (metastatic) spread. Very high values, such as 30 or 40 and over, are usually caused by prostate cancer.

How is the staging of prostate cancer done ?

The staging of a cancer refers to determining the extent of the disease. Once a prostate cancer is diagnosed on a biopsy, additional tests are done to assess whether the cancer has spread beyond the gland. For this assessment, biopsies of the surrounding organs, such as the rectum or urinary bladder, or of the nearby (pelvic) lymph nodes might be done. In addition, imaging tests are usually performed. For example, radionuclide bone scans can determine if there is a spread of the tumor to the bones. Additionally, CAT scans (coaxial tomography) and MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging) can determine if the cancer has spread to adjacent tissues or organs such as the bladder or rectum or to other parts of the body such as the liver or lungs. Newer scanning using a method called PET scan can sometimes help to detect hidden locations of cancer that has spread to various areas of the body.

In brief, doctors do the staging of prostate cancer based primarily on the results of the prostate biopsy, possibly other biopsies, and imaging tests. In staging a cancer, doctors assign various letters and numbers to the cancer, depending on which of the classifications for staging they use. The numbers and letters in the different classifications define the volume or amount of the tumor and the spread of the cancer. The stage of the prostate cancer, therefore, helps to predict the expected course of the disease and determine the choice of treatment.

Two main systems are used to stage prostate cancer. In the American urologic staging system, stage A describes a minimal cancer that can neither be palpated (felt) on physical examination nor seen by imaging techniques. Such a tumor is so small that it can be detected only by viewing it under a microscope. Stage B refers to a larger cancer that may be palpated, but that still is confined (localized) to the prostate gland. Stage C indicates local spread beyond the prostate into the surrounding tissues. Stage D1 signifies a spread to the nearby (pelvic) lymph nodes and D2 is for distant spread (metastasis), for example, to the bones, liver, or lungs.

The other main system for staging prostate cancer is called the tumor, nodes, and metastasis (TNM) classification. In this system, T1 and T2 are equivalent to stage A and B (respectively) in the American urologic system. T3 describes cancer that extends just beyond the capsule (coat) of the prostate, and T4 describes cancer that is fixed to the surrounding tissues. N1 is equivalent to Stage D1 and M1 is equivalent to D2.

What about surgical treatment for prostate cancer ?
The surgical treatment for prostate cancer is commonly referred to as a radical or total prostatectomy, which is the removal of the entire prostate gland. Since 1990, the radical prostatectomy has been the most common treatment for prostate cancer in the United States. This operation is done in about 36% of patients with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates a 90% cure rate nationwide when the disease is confined to the prostate and the entire gland is removed. The potential complications of a radical prostatectomy include the risks of anesthesia, local bleeding, impotence (loss of sexual function) in 30%-70% of patients, and incontinence (loss of control of urination) in 3%-10% of patients.

Great strides have been made in lowering the frequency of the complications of radical prostatectomy. These advances have been accomplished largely through improved anesthesia and surgical techniques. The improved surgical techniques, in turn, stem from a better understanding of the key anatomy and physiology of sexual potency and urinary continence. Specifically, the recent introduction of nerve-sparing techniques for the prostatectomy has helped to reduce the frequency of impotence and incontinence.

If post-treatment impotence does occur, it can be treated by sildenafil (Viagra) tablets, injections of such medications as alprostadil (Caverject) into the penis, various devices to pump up or stiffen the penis, or a penile prosthesis (an artificial penis). Incontinence after treatment often improves with time, special exercises, and medications to improve the control of urination. Occasionally, however, incontinence requires implanting an artificial sphincter around the urethra. The artificial sphincter is made up of muscle or other material and is designed to control the flow of urine through the urethra.

What about radiation therapy for prostate cancer ?
The goal of radiation therapy is to damage the cancer cells and stop their growth or kill them. This works because the rapidly dividing (reproducing) cancer cells are more vulnerable to destruction by the radiation than are the neighboring normal cells. Clinical trials have been conducted using radiation therapy for patients with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. These trials have shown that radiation therapy resulted in a rate of survival (being alive) at 10 years after treatment that is comparable to that for radical prostatectomy. Incontinence and impotence can occur as complications of radiation therapy, as with surgery, although perhaps less often than with surgery. More data are needed, however, on the risks and benefits of radiation therapy beyond 10 years, especially because late recurrences (reappearances) of the cancer can sometimes occur after radiation.

Choosing between radiation and surgery to treat organ-confined prostate cancer involves considerations of the patient's preference, age, and co-existing medical conditions (fitness for surgery), as well as of the extent of the cancer. Approximately 30% of patients with organ-confined prostate cancer are treated with radiation. Sometimes, oncologists combine radiation therapy with surgery or hormonal therapy in efforts to improve the long-term results of treatment in the early or later stages of prostate cancer.

Radiation therapy can be given either as external beam radiation over perhaps 6 or 7 weeks or as an implant of radioactive seeds (brachytherapy) directly into the prostate. In external beam radiation, high energy x-rays are aimed at the tumor and the area immediately surrounding it. In brachytherapy, radioactive seeds are inserted through needles into the prostate gland under the guidance of transrectally taken ultrasound pictures. Brachy, from the Greek language, means short. The term brachytherapy thus refers to placing the treatment (radiation therapy) directly into or a short distance away from the cancerous target tissue. The theoretical advantage of brachytherapy over external beam radiation is that delivering the radiation energy directly into the prostate tissue should minimize damage to the surrounding tissues and organs. The actual advantages or disadvantages of brachytherapy as compared to external beam radiation, however, are still being studied.

What about hormonal treatment for prostate cancer ?
The male (androgenic) hormone is called testosterone. It stimulates the growth of cancerous prostatic cells and, therefore, is the primary fuel for the growth of prostate cancer. The idea of all of the hormonal treatments (medical and surgical), in short, is to decrease the stimulation by testosterone of the cancerous prostatic cells. Testosterone normally is produced by the testes in response to stimulation from a hormonal signal called LH-RH. The LH-RH stands for luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone and is also called gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This hormone comes from a control station in the brain and travels in the blood stream to the testes. Once there, the LH-RH stimulates the testes to produce and release testosterone.

Hormonal treatment, also referred to as androgenic deprivation (depriving the prostate of testosterone), can be accomplished surgically or medically. The surgical hormonal treatment is removal of the testes in an operation called an orchiectomy or a castration. This surgery thus removes the body's source of testosterone. The medical hormonal treatment involves taking one or two types of medication. One type is referred to as the LH-RH agonists. They work by competing with the body's own LH-RH. These drugs thereby inhibit (block) the release of LH-RH from the brain. The other type of drug is referred to as anti-androgenic, meaning that these drugs work against the male hormone. That is, they work by blocking the effect of testosterone itself on the prostate.

Today, most men electing hormonal treatment choose medication over surgery, probably because they view surgical castration as more devastating cosmetically or psychologically. Actually, however, the effectiveness and side effects of medical hormonal treatment as compared to surgical hormonal treatment are very much the same. Both types of hormonal treatment usually effectively eliminate stimulation of the cancer cells by testosterone. Some tumors of the prostate, however, do not respond to this form of treatment. They are referred to as androgen-independent prostate cancers. The principal side effects of all of these hormonal treatments (that is, the side effects of androgenic deprivation) are enlarged breasts (gynecomastia) that often are tender, flushing (like hot flashes), and impotence.

The LH-RH agonists, leuprolide (Lupron) or goserelin (Zoladex), are given as monthly injections in the doctor's office. The anti-androgenic drugs, flutamide (Eulexin) or bicalutamide (Casodex), are oral capsules that are used usually in combination with the LH-RH agonists. The LH-RH agonists are often effective alone. The anti-androgenic drugs are added, however, if the cancer progresses despite the use of the LH-RH agonists. The hormonal treatments may have value, as well, when combined with radiation therapy. Studies are currently being conducted to determine if hormonal therapy enhances the therapeutic effect of radiation.

Generally, hormonal treatment is reserved for individuals who have advanced prostate cancer with local spread or metastases. Occasionally, an individual with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer will receive hormonal treatment because he has severe associated medical problems or simply because he refuses to undergo surgery or radiation. Hormonal treatment is used in less than 10% of men with organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. Remember that the intent of hormonal therapy usually is palliative. This means that the goal is to control the cancer rather than cure it because a cure is not possible.

What is cryotherapy for prostate cancer ?
Cryotherapy is one of the newer treatments that is being evaluated for use in the early stage of prostate cancer. This treatment kills the cancer cells by freezing them. The freezing is accomplished by inserting a freezing liquid (for example, liquid nitrogen or argon) through needles directly into the prostate gland. The procedure is accomplished under the guidance of ultrasound images. Actually, cryotherapy is not a new technique. Rather, it is a modification of a procedure that was tried previously, but had an unacceptably high rate of complications. Thus, cryotherapy was used in the 1960s to freeze the lining of the stomach to treat ulcers, but was discontinued because it also severely damaged the lining of the stomach.

At present, cryotherapy is recommended for patients with locally advanced prostate cancer who, for whatever reason, are not candidates for the more established treatments. Cryotherapy is further being studied to determine which other patients might benefit from this treatment. For example, studies are underway to establish whether cryotherapy is beneficial as an initial treatment for organ-confined (localized) prostate cancer. The effectiveness of cryotherapy in eliminating prostate cancer, however, has not yet been proven. We do know that sometimes the freezing liquid fails to kill all of the cancer cells. Moreover, the potential side effects of this treatment include damage to the urethra and bladder. This damage can cause obstruction (blockage) of the urethra, fistulas (abnormal tunnels) that leak urine, or serious infections.

What is chemotherapy for prostate cancer ?
Chemotherapeutic agents, or chemotherapy, are anti-cancer drugs. They are used (for hormone resistant prostate cancer) as a palliative treatment (palliation to relieve symptoms) in patients with advanced cancer for whom a cure is unattainable. Recall that the goal of palliation is simply to slow the tumor's growth and relieve the patient's symptoms. Chemotherapy is not ordinarily used for organ-confined or locally advanced prostate cancers because a cure in these cases is possible with other treatments. Currently, chemotherapy is used only for advanced metastatic prostate cancers that have failed to respond to other treatments.

Several chemotherapeutic agents have been used effectively to palliate metastatic prostate cancer. One such agent is estramustine (Emcyt). Another agent, mitoxantrone (Novantrone), has been shown to be effective in combination with prednisone for palliating androgen-independent prostate cancer. As mentioned previously, metastatic tumors that have not responded specifically to hormonal therapy are referred to as androgen-independent (hormone-refractory) prostate cancers.

The more common side effects of chemotherapy include weakness, nausea, hair loss and suppression of the bone marrow. The suppression of marrow, in turn, can decrease the red blood cells (causing anemia), the white blood cells (leading to infections), and the platelets (resulting in bleeding).

New chemotherapeutic agents for prostate cancer are continually being studied for their effectiveness and safety in cancer centers throughout the United States and elsewhere. For example, cancer specialists (oncologists) have been evaluating paclitaxel (Taxol) or docetaxel (Taxotere) for metastatic prostate cancer. (These two drugs are effective in palliating metastatic breast cancer). Another one of the newer chemotherapeutic agents under investigation for androgen independent prostate cancer is Suramin.

What about herbal or other alternative medicine treatments for prostate cancer ?
Alternative medicine, also called integrative or complementary medicine, includes such non-traditional treatments as herbs, dietary supplements, and acupunture. A major problem with most herbal treatments is that their composition is not standardized. Moreover, the way herbal treatments work and their long-term side effects usually are not known.

One new treatment for prostate cancer, new at least in the United States, is an herbal medicine called PC Spes. The name comes from PC, which stands for prostate cancer, and Spes, which is the Latin word for hope. In some initial trials of PC Spes in men who have failed the traditional treatments (hormonal therapy and chemotherapy) for advanced prostate cancer, this herbal medicine appeared to be promising. More rigorous studies are ongoing to evaluate more fully the risks and benefits of this treatment.

Can prostate cancer be prevented?
No specific measures are known to prevent the development of prostate cancer. At present, therefore, we can hope only to prevent progression of the cancer by making early diagnoses and then attempting to cure the disease. Early diagnoses can be made by screening men for prostate cancer. Screening is done, as mentioned previously, by routine yearly digital rectal examinations beginning at age 40 and the addition of an annual PSA test beginning at age 50. The purpose of the screening is to detect early, tiny, or even microscopic cancers that are confined to the prostate gland. Early treatment of these malignancies (cancers) can stop the growth, prevent the spread, and possibly cure the cancer.

Based on some research in animals and people, certain dietary measures have been suggested to prevent the progression of prostate cancer. For example, low fat diets, particularly avoiding red meats, have been suggested because they are thought to slow down the growth of prostate tumors in a manner not yet known. Soybean products, which work by decreasing the amount of testosterone circulating in the blood, also reportedly can inhibit the growth of prostate tumors. Finally, other studies show that tomato products (lycopenes), the mineral selenium, and vitamin E might slow the growth of prostate tumors in ways that are not yet understood.

Cervical Cancer - Causes And Treatments

2008-12-09T00:02:00.000-08:00

Cervical cancer causes are primarily related to a specific virus. Cervical cancer or cervical cancer signs symptoms usually evolve very slowly. Over a period of several years, cells on the surface of the cervix change from normal to abnormal.

As for cervical cancer causes, at least 95% or 9 out of every 10 cases of cervical cancer are linked to the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection.

Symptoms of HPV very often have no cervical cancer signs symptoms. Warts can appear after weeks or even years after sexual contact with anyone with HPV. These growths very often stay flat and invisible.

The Pap Smear is defined as a test for cancerous or precancerous cells of the cervix. HPV can be detected through an annual pap smear test. While pap smear tests are necessary because they are the best screening technique currently available, they are not always accurate in detecting a cervical signs symptoms. A newer testing method is being developed that uses a small fiber optic probe that may replace pap smears. This new method is still being tested and it should give women more accurate screening, eliminate unnecessary biopsies and find cervical cancer signs symptoms at its early stages. Research is ongoing to possibly find an HPV vaccine for men and women. Ask your doctor if any newer, more accurate tests are now available in his or her practice.

What are the early symptoms of cervical cancer ?

The cervical cancer symptoms are : vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse, pelvic pain, pain during sexual intercourse, unusual vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding between menstrual periods, heavy bleeding during your menstrual period, and increased urinary frequency.

When the early symptoms of the cervical cancer are suspected, Pap smear test and other screening techniques are currently available to evaluate the cells status in the cervix.

Treatment of cervical cancer

Staging

If the screening test shows that you have cancer, your doctor will do a thorough pelvic exam and may remove additional tissue to learn the extent (stage) of your disease. The stage tells whether the tumor has invaded nearby tissues, whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to what parts of the body.

These are the stages of cervical cancer :

Stage 0: The cancer is found only in the top layer of cells in the tissue that lines the cervix. Stage 0 is also called carcinoma in situ.
Stage I: The cancer has invaded the cervix beneath the top layer of cells. It is found only in the cervix.
Stage II: The cancer extends beyond the cervix into nearby tissues. It extends to the upper part of the vagina. The cancer does not invade the lower third of the vagina or the pelvic wall (the lining of the part of the body between the hips).
Stage III: The cancer extends to the lower part of the vagina. It also may have spread to the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes.
Stage IV: The cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or other parts of the body.
Recurrent cancer: The cancer was treated, but has returned after a period of time during which it could not be detected. The cancer may show up again in the cervix or in other parts of the body.

To learn the extent of disease and suggest a course of treatment, the doctor may order some of the following tests :

Chest x-rays: X-rays often can show whether cancer has spread to the lungs.
CT scan: An x-ray machine linked to a computer takes a series of detailed pictures of your organs. You may receive contrast material by injection in your arm or hand, by mouth, or by enema. (Some people are allergic to contrast materials that contain iodine. Tell your doctor or nurse if you have allergies.) The contrast material makes abnormal areas easier to see. A tumor in the liver, lungs, or elsewhere in the body can show up on the CT scan.
MRI: A powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of your pelvis and abdomen. The doctor can view these pictures on a monitor and can print them on film. An MRI can show whether cancer has spread. Sometimes contrast material makes abnormal areas show up more clearly on the picture.
Ultrasound: An ultrasound device is held against the abdomen or inserted into the vagina. The device sends out sound waves that people cannot hear. The waves bounce off the cervix and nearby tissues, and a computer uses the echoes to create a picture. Tumors may produce echoes that are different from the echoes made by healthy tissues. The picture can show whether cancer has spread.

Treatment

Many women with cervical cancer want to take an active part in making decisions about their medical care. It is natural to want to learn all you can about your disease and your treatment choices. However, shock and stress after the diagnosis can make it hard to think of everything you want to ask the doctor. It often helps to make a list of questions before an appointment.

To help remember what the doctor says, you may take notes or ask whether you may use a tape recorder. You may also want to have a family member or friend with you when you talk to the doctor—to take part in the discussion, to take notes, or just to listen.

You do not need to ask all your questions at once. You will have other chances to ask your doctor to explain things that are not clear and to ask for more information.

Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, or you may ask for a referral. Gynecologists, gynecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists are specialists who treat cervical cancer.

Getting a second opinion

Before starting treatment, you might want a second opinion about the diagnosis and treatment plan. Many insurance companies cover a second opinion if you or your doctor requests it. It may take some time and effort to gather medical records and arrange to see another doctor. Usually it is not a problem to take several weeks to get a second opinion. In most cases, the delay in starting treatment will not make treatment less effective. To make sure, you should discuss this delay with your doctor. Some women with cervical cancer need treatment right away.

There are a number of ways to find a doctor for a second opinion :

Your doctor may refer you to one or more specialists. At cancer centers, several specialists often work together as a team.
NCI's Cancer Information Service, at 1-800-4-CANCER, can tell you about nearby treatment centers. Information Specialists also can provide online assistance through LiveHelp at http://www.cancer.gov.
A local or state medical society, a nearby hospital, or a medical school can usually provide the names of specialists in your area.
The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) has a list of doctors who have had training and passed exams in their specialty. You can find this list in the Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists. This Directory is in most public libraries. Or you can look up doctors at http://www.abms.org. (Click on "Who's Certified.")

Preparing for treatment

The choice of treatment depends mainly on the size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread. If a woman is of childbearing age, the treatment choice may also depend on whether she wants to become pregnant someday.

Your doctor can describe your treatment choices and the expected results of each. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets your medical needs and personal values.

You may want to ask the doctor these questions before treatment begins:

What is the stage of my disease ? Has the cancer spread ? If so, where ?
What are my treatment choices ? Which do you recommend for me ? Will I have more than one kind of treatment ?
What are the expected benefits of each kind of treatment ?
What are the risks and possible side effects of each treatment ? What can we do to control my side effects ?
How will treatment affect my normal activities ?
What can I do to take care of myself during treatment ?
How long will treatment last ?
Will I have to stay in the hospital ? What is the treatment likely to cost ? Does my insurance cover this treatment ?
How often should I have checkups ?
Would a clinical trial (research study) be appropriate for me ?

Methods of treatment

Women with cervical cancer may be treated with surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, or a combination of all three methods.

At any stage of disease, women with cervical cancer may have treatment to control pain and other symptoms, to relieve the side effects of therapy, and to ease emotional and practical problems. This kind of treatment is called supportive care, symptom management, or palliative care. Information about such treatment is available on NCI's Web site and from NCI's Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

You may want to talk to your doctor about taking part in a clinical trial, a research study of new treatment methods. The section on "The Promise of Cancer Research" has more information about clinical trials.

1. Surgery

Surgery treats the cancer in the cervix and the area close to the tumor.

Most women with early cervical cancer have surgery to remove the cervix and uterus (total hysterectomy). However, for very early (Stage 0) cervical cancer, a hysterectomy may not be needed. Other ways to remove the cancerous tissue include conization, cryosurgery, laser surgery, or LEEP.

Some women need a radical hysterectomy. A radical hysterectomy is surgery to remove the uterus, cervix, and part of the vagina.

With either total or radical hysterectomy, the surgeon may remove both fallopian tubes and ovaries. (This procedure is a salpingo-oophorectomy.)

The surgeon may also remove the lymph nodes near the tumor to see if they contain cancer. If cancer cells have reached the lymph nodes, it means the disease may have spread to other parts of the body.

You may want to ask the doctor these questions about surgery :

What kind of operation will I have ? Will my ovaries be removed ?
Do I need to have lymph nodes removed ? Will other tissues be removed ? Why ?
How will I feel after the operation ?
If I have pain, how will it be controlled ?
How long will I have to stay in the hospital ?
Will I have any lasting side effects ? If I don't have a hysterectomy, will I be able to get pregnant and have children ? Is there increased risk of miscarriage ?
When will I be able to resume normal activities ?
How will the surgery affect my sex life ?

2. Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It affects cells only in the treated area.

Women have radiation therapy alone, with chemotherapy, or with chemotherapy and surgery. The doctor may suggest radiation therapy instead of surgery for the small number of women who cannot have surgery for medical reasons. Most women with cancer that extends beyond the cervix have radiation therapy and chemotherapy. For cancer that has spread to distant organs, radiation therapy alone may be used.

Doctors use two types of radiation therapy to treat cervical cancer. Some women receive both types:

External radiation: The radiation comes from a large machine outside the body. The woman usually has treatment as an outpatient in a hospital or clinic. She receives external radiation 5 days a week for several weeks.
Internal radiation (intracavitary radiation): Thin tubes (also called implants) containing a radioactive substance are left in the vagina for a few hours or up to 3 days. The woman may stay in the hospital during that time. To protect others from the radiation, the woman may not be able to have visitors or may have visitors for only a short period of time while the tubes are in place. Once the tubes are removed, no radioactivity is left in her body. Internal radiation may be repeated two or more times over several weeks.

You may want to ask the doctor these questions before having radiation therapy :

What is the goal of this treatment ?
How will the radiation be given ?
Will I need to stay in the hospital ? If so, for how long ?
When will the treatments begin ? When will they end ?
How will I feel during therapy? Are there side effects ?
How will we know if the radiation therapy is working ?
Will I be able to continue my normal activities during treatment ?
How will radiation therapy affect my sex life ?
Will I be able to get pregnant and have children after my treatment is over ?

3. Chemotherapy

Chemptherapy uses anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells. It is called systemic therapy because the drugs enter the bloodstream and can affect cells all over the body. For treatment of cervical cancer, chemotherapy is generally combined with radiation therapy. For cancer that has spread to distant organs, chemotherapy alone may be used.

Anticancer drugs for cervical cancer are usually given through a vein. Women usually receive treatment in an outpatient part of the hospital, at the doctor's office, or at home. Rarely, a woman needs to stay in the hospital during treatment.

You may want to ask the doctor these questions before having chemotherapy:

Why do I need this treatment ?
Which drug or drugs will I have ?
How do the drugs work ?
What are the expected benefits of the treatment ?
What are the risks and possible side effects of treatment ? What can we do about them ?
When will treatment start ? When will it end ?
How will treatment affect my normal activities ?

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

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Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) involves a multitude of symptoms occurring during the last week of the luteal phase (the weeks before menstruation) in most menstrual cycles. About half of the women who have PMS report only mild symptoms. For the remaining half, the symptoms are more severe. These symptoms usually disappear a few days after menstruation begins. PMS can occur at any time during the woman's reproductive years and seems to remain fairly constant until menopause, although symptoms may vary between cycles. The risk for PMS is usually higher in younger women, and in women who have a mother with PMS. In addition, women who have given birth to several children, those who are sedentary and women under stress have increased risks.

Causes and Symptoms

The exact cause of PMS is still unclear. One theory suggests that some women who experience PMS may be abnormally sensitive to normal amounts of estrogen and progesterone in their bodies - perhaps because of altered hormone receptors in the brain.

The following are some common symptoms :

Breast tenderness
Fluid retention
Weight gain
Acne
Abdominal bloating
Irritability
Depression
Mood swings
Increased appetite with specific food cravings, typically sweet and salty foods
Lethargy and fatigue
Insomnia

Keep in mind that these symptoms may also be caused by other factors, particularly if they persist or do not follow a pattern consistent with the occurrence of menses.

Suggested Lifestyle Changes

Keep a sympton diary. This may help you understand the symptoms when they occur, predict them rather than be taken by surprise, and rule out other causes of the symptoms if they are not actually tied to your menstrual cycle.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, including chocolate. Both of these can make the symptoms of PMS worse.
Keep blood sugar levels stable. Eat small, frequent, balanced meals throughout the day.
Get regular aerobic ecercise.
Practise relaxation. Use breathing exercises daily and make use of a technique like yoga or meditation.

Nutrition and Supplements

The following supplements can be of help in relieving symptoms:

Calcium. Recent studies have demonstrated that, when used for three months, supplemental calcium can help reduce the severity of PMS symptoms. I recommend supplementing with 500-700 mg daily.
Magnesium. Magnesium deficiency has been associated with PMS. Supplemental magnesium may help alleviate some of the emotional symptoms, fluid retention and breast tenderness.
Vitamin B6. Take a good multivitamin or B complex
Evening primrose oil or black currant oil. These are sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) that can help influence prostaglandin synthesis.
Dong quai is a readily available Chinese herb used traditionally as a general tonic for women, however this herb should not be taken if a woman is experiencing heavy bleeding. Chaste tree herb (vitex) can also be helpful.
Raspberry leaf tea is an effective remedy for painful menstrual cramps.

Should I Get Help?
Don’t feel badly if you can’t control PMS on your own. Many women can’t. If you need more help, see your health care provider for further treatment.

Medications sometimes used are : some types of birth control pills, a diuretic to help with bloating, an antidepressant, sometimes taken for only part of the cycle and which can help both the mental and physical symptoms.

Herbal treatment for impotence

2008-12-07T00:08:00.000-08:00

Alternative impotence treatments involve the use of herbal medications, which are usually extracted from the roots and leaves of plants and trees.

Ginseng – Panax ginseng

Ginseng has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine as a male sexual tonic. Ginseng contains phytochemicals which are said to increase stamina, lessen fatigue and improve overall wellbeing.

An article published in the British Pharmacology Journal concluded that an extract from ginseng known as ginsenosides enhances the effects of nitric oxide. This helps relax blood vessels in the penis, allowing for greater blood flow, which helps produce an erection. Used as recommended, Asian ginseng is generally safe. In rare instances, ginseng may cause overstimulation and possibly insomnia. Consuming caffeine with ginseng increases the risk of overstimulation and gastrointestinal upset. Persons with uncontrolled high blood pressure should not use ginseng. Long-term use of ginseng may cause menstrual abnormalities and breast tenderness in some women. Ginseng is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.

Tongkat Ali - Eurycoma longifolia

In the sensitive area of erectile dysfunction and male virility, there are many options available to aid and assist in regaining strength, performance, and regularity of the male reproductive system. One such assistance comes from the plant Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia). Originating from Malaysia and areas of Southeast Asia, it has long been used as an aphrodisiac. The Tongkat ali tree can grow to up to about 36 feet in height. All parts of the Tongkat Ali tree have been used to treat the male sex drive, while also acting as a tonic for general well-being. Physical trainers and athletes have also been known to use Tongkat ali to safely increase testosterone levels for increased muscle mass and definition.

This testosterone-enhancing herb is used to build up male libido, as well as combating fatigue, and strengthens the muscle and blood circulation to ensure proper and enjoyable sexual activity. Tongkat Ali has been shown in studies to increase testosterone levels in males up to 93%. In a study from the Reproductive Research Center in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, men between the ages of 31-52 regularly took Tongkat Ali. Results indicated increased testosterone levels; thus improving libido, energy as well as muscle mass (Source: Excerpt from Molecular Biology of the Cell, September 1, 2002) While there are many other benefits to this plant, the more popular use of this is to address sexual concerns. It stimulates sex drive, appears to thicken semen with increased sperm count, reduces incidences of premature ejaculation, and aids in maintaining erections.

Tongkat Ali acts as a tonic, not only for the immune system and the muscular system, but the reproductive system as well. The most important part of the semen is the spermatozoa, as it is the male generative cell which fertilizes the female ovum, and this is what the Tongkat Ali tones and strengthens. The stimulating nature of this herb assists in carrying a normal amount of blood to all parts of the body, equalizing circulation or restoring imbalances of circulation. An imbalance begins to occur in men from the age of 40 and onwards, when androgens (a steroid hormone) become deficient. This hormone has specific effects on tissue growth and brain function. The Tongkat Ali had been suggested to block the negative feedback to the pituitary gland and hypothalamus that initiates this deficiency, and essentially tricks the body into producing testosterone levels experienced by men in their 20s (Source: Dr. James Stoxen, Ch. 39-a, Eureka Bioscience Collection, October 3, 2003).

Although no studies have recorded side effects or contraindications, there have been incidences of patients describing experiences of insomnia when taking Tongkat Ali in high doses. One might notice a full-body flushing or warming sensation while ingesting a higher dosage of the herb, and this can be attributed to an increase in body temperature and increased blood flow. As with any form of medication, one must exercise caution and be careful not to abuse the remedy. However, a side effect that will not happen are those aggressively long erections that stay long after sexual activity had ceased. Based on this fact, Tongkat ali is an excellent natural alternative to sildenafil citrate, the active chemical in Pfizer’s Viagra.

Tongkat ali is sold on the open market in a number of different extract ratios and potencies. Many websites sell Tongkat ali powder which in its natural ground form can be very diluted and ineffective in smaller doses. Extracts of the Tongkat Ali herb are much more effective and allow administration of a much smaller serving with the same benefit. Some of the strongest Tongkat ali available is extracted to a ratio of 100:1 using a traditional water/alcohol extraction method. In this form, 100:1 Tongkat ali is sometimes referred to as LJ100. It is advisable to use smaller dosages of the highest extraction for maximum benefit and consistency.

Maca - Lepidium meyenii

Maca is a biennial plant that is native to the high Andes of Bolivia and Peru. It is notorious in those regions as an aphrodisiac. The Maca plant is related to the radish and turnip, and were harvested and used as a root vegetable in cooking. It’s also grown for its fleshy hypocotyl which is used as medicinal herbal. Historically, Maca was eaten by Inca warriors before going into battle, and also used as a form of payment of Spanish imperial taxes. As mentioned previously, the hypocotyls was used as food, however, the leaves are utilized as well. Both the hypocotyl and the leaves are used and can be fermented to produce a weak beer called chicha de maca. Both humans and livestock eat Maca, which suggests that risks from consumption is very minimal. Maca is being recognized by health professional today as a wonderful herbal extract to give to patients who suffer from sexual dysfunctions, ranging from low libidos to erectile problems.
Maca extracts have been shown to heighten libido and improve semen count in small-scale clinical trials. It appears to have no affect on sex hormone levels in humans. Maca has also demonstrated the ability to increase mating behavior in male mice and rats. Enlarged prostate glands in rats were shown to be reduced after applications of Maca; although this has not yet been studied in humans, it makes sense that this effect would also apply in men with enlarged prostates as well.

In a human study utilizing maca root at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, in Lima, Peru, the twelve-week trial in which treatment with different doses of maca was compared with placebo, indicated an improvement in sexual desire at 8 weeks of treatment. The subjects were men ranging in age between 21-56 years, and were each given 3g of Maca. The University also conducted another trial, this time a 4 month oral treatment with uses of tablets of maca. The semen was analyzed in male subjects between 24-44 years of age. This trial showed evidence of increased seminal volume, sperm count per ejaculation, and sperm motility.

In 1998, Dr. Qun Yi Zhen and his colleagues at the PureWorld Botanicals discovered 2 new compound groups in Maca: the macamides and macaenes. These agents are believed to the responsible for the sex-boosting powers of the Maca. To test the idea, the scientists conducted a series of animal experiments, of which the results were published in the April 2000 issue of the medical journal Urology. The rodents that were fed extracts of Maca demonstrated an increased level of energy and stamina. Another impressive find was the increase in sexual activity as compared to rodents that weren’t fed Maca. In human studies, results indicated in both men and women with low libidos, an increase in sexual desire; men with erectile problems noticed a clear improvement in sexual function.

U.S. toxicity studies of the maca root shows absolutely no toxicity and no adverse pharmacologic effects. While there have been minimal reports of insomnia, this side effect was a result of higher than normal doses. However, in the majority of cases, the more maca or maca extracts one consumes, the more benefits one gains from this phenomenal herb.

Horny Goat Weed - Epimedium

With all of the help out there for erectile dysfunction these days, nothing seems more appropriate than the Horny Goat Weed. How can one go wrong with a name like that?

Also known as Epimedium or Yin Yang Huo, this plant holds a high place in Traditional Chinese Medicine, and is fast gaining popularity around the world for its potency. The Horny Goat Weed grows in the wild, at mostly higher altitudes, native to Asia and the Mediterranean regions. Healers have been using this plant for 2000 years in the areas of sexual dysfunction such as boosting erectile function, restoring passion, alleviating fatigue, and soothing discomfort from menopause for women. This plant has also been used to address disorders of the liver, joints and kidneys.

Many species of Epidemedium have claims to aphrodisiac properties. They are sometimes sold as health supplement, usually in a pill form or raw herb. They are also blended with other supplements. The active ingredient in Horny Goat Weed is called icariin. They can be found in stardized extracts from 5% up 60% potent. One will usually find horny goat weed products which contain 10% icariin.

Icariin is alleged to work by increasing levels of nitric oxide, which relax smooth muscles. One research indicated that icariin relaxed rabbit penile tissue by nitric oxide and PDE-5 activity. Another research demonstrated that with injections of horny goat weed extract directly into the penis of a rat resulted in an increase in penile blood pressure. This is also effective for women, as it increases blood flow to the clitoris. In the area of menopause, Epimedium brevicornum was demonstrated as one of the highest with estrogenic activity.

It takes about 3-4 days before a user notices effects of the horny goat weed.

There are no drug interactions reported at this time. Horny goat weed does not have any addictive potential. As for side effects, horny goat weed comes with the same cautions as with any herbs. Any reports of side effects usually coincide with high dosing, resulting in insomnia and an increase in rate of heartbeat. However, with 2000 years of medicinal use behind this plant, one can feel very confident in using the Horny Goat Weed safely and effectively.

Catuaba Bark - Erythroxylum catuaba

This Brazilian wonder plant grows in the Amazon forest as a medium-sized tree. The bark itself is considered medicinal by the country’s natives, as an aphrodisiac and stimulant, as well as useful for poor memory, nervousness and sexual dysfunction when using as a bark decoction. This plant has traditionally been used by the natives of the Amazon for sexual enhancement and to aid in erections.

The Catuaba bark is one of most popular Brazilian aphrodisiac plants. The bark and the roots are used to increase libido, calm nerves and reduce anxiety. In addition to treating impotence, Catuaba bark has been used to treat and address many nervous conditions, such as hypochondria, insomnia, sciatica and neuralgia. A bark tea is used for impotence, sexual dysfunction, nervousness and exhaustion. There are no recorded side effects, and the long-standing use of Catuaba by the Brazilians proves this case. Catuaba is also shown to have be non-addictive.

In 1992, a Japanese research discovered that Catuaba bark extract had potential antibacterial and anti-HIV activity. In the research, mice given Catuaba were found to be protected from E.Coli and staph infections. The HIV virus was also prevented from attaching to cells, as well as prevented the deaths of white blood cells that were exposed to the HIV virus. Catuaba contains alkaloids, tannings, phytosterols, cyclolignans, aromatic oils and fatty resins. In terms of dosage, drinking one to three cups of catuaba tea steadily over a few weeks is sufficient enough to achieve the desired results. Almost immediately, erotic dreams begin once consuming the tea, followed closely by increased sexual desire. The herb is known for dilating and relaxing blood vessels, thus assisting in gaining and maintaining erections. Other healing properties and actions include pain relief, and killing bacteria and viruses.

For men who experience stress and depression, along with sexual dysfunction, Catuaba bark is also very beneficial, as it is showing up as part of formulations to address Depression, Stress and Nervous Disorders. This rainforest herb is also used as a tonic for overall health. There are many more benefits of this plant, such as addressing frigidity, tonic for the genitals, syphilis, fatigue, and general pain. But as an aphrodisiac is where Catuaba has gained its notoriety. The main form of preparation for Catuaba is by tincture or infusion. Infusion is well-known by most as “making tea”, and is one of the easiest ways to consume this remarkable plant. The natives that use this herb simply place a handful of the material into a glass of room-temperature water, let the herbs sit overnight, and then drink the decoction in the morning.

There are no contraindications or drug-interactions known at the current time.

Yohimbe – Pausinystalia yohimbe

Erectile dysfunction is a serious affliction, and such, research should be put into the herbal supplements that one wishes to try to address it. Yohimbe has grown into a popular form of relief, but at the same time, there have been conflicting reports on its usefulness and safety. As an evergreen tree that grows in Africa, the bark of this tree contains alkaloids, the principal of which is yohimbine. Commercially, the tree is grown in Cameroon and Nigeria. It takes ten years for one tree to reach its full growth, and which time, the bark is harvested. When the bark is stripped from the tree, the tree starts to die. Due to this fact, it’s safe to say that the tree has the potential of becoming an endangered species because of over-exploitation. Traditionally, the yohimbe was used in Africa to treat fevers, leprosy, coughs, and was also used as an aphrodisiac.

In contemporary society, the yohimbe bark is sold as an extract to address erectile dysfunction and other sexual issues. As a natural aphrodisiac, the yohimbe increases libido and treats erectile dysfunction by relaxing and dilating blood vessels in the penis, which results in increased blood flow and erection. The dried yohimbe bark can be made into a tea, or taken orally as a capsule or tablet. Yohimbe can be used either daily, or in advance of sexual activity. It is more appropriate to consume this herbal supplement as needed one to three hours prior to sex, rather than taking it daily. It’s important not to be too liberal with herbal supplements. The yohimbe effect lasts several hours. Yohimbe can have a stimulating property, so it’s not advisable to take before sleep, as well as mixing with alcohol or stimulating drugs, including high amounts of caffeine.

In clinical studies, yohimbe appears to work better for erectile dysfunction not directly caused by a physical problem. A study in Germany examined whether 30mg/day of yohimbine for 4 weeks could assist men with their erectile dysfunction, and found that yohimbine was found to 71% more effective than placebo. However, more studies into Yohimbe have produced conflicted findings. One study has found that yohimbe is beneficial for organic erectile dysfunction, while at another uncontrolled study, it was just as effective as a placebo.

In terms of safety, there are numerous reports of unsafe reactions to this herb. The FDA in the United States, as well as the German Commission E, both contain reports of kidney failure and seizures attributed to this plant. There are too many side effects associated with Yohimbe to even bother taking it for treating erectile dysfunction. While you may get an erection, you’ll have other “surprises” such as rapid heartbeat, insomnia, anxiety, dizziness, and this is just from taking the normal dose of Yohimbe. A higher dose of 40mg a day or more can cause changes in blood pressure, hot flashes, nausea and hallucinations. Overdosing on Yohimbe can prove fatal.

Yohimbe should not be taken by people with kidney or liver disease, heart disease, high or low blood pressure, panic and anxiety disorders, diabetes, stomach ulcers and post-traumatic stress disorder. Yohimbe should definitely not be combined with antidepressants. The list grows longer as one must also avoid products that contain phenylpropanolamine (such as in nasal decongestants), and avoid liver, cheeses and red wine because it contains tyramine. As with most herbal supplements, it should not be consumed by women who are pregnant or nursing, children, or elderly people. There are many more safer and more effective herbal supplements which can be taken, that have few or no side effects, than Yohimbe. The side effects alone are not worth it.

Muira Puama – Ptychopetalum olacoides

The wonders of the Amazon never ceases. Another great creation from the jungle is a small tree called Muira puama, also known as potency wood. The native Brazilians and Amazon locals use this the bark and roots of the tree in treating sexual dysfunction, fatigue, rheumatism, depression, pain and hosts of other conditions. Muira puama is becoming popular in the U.S. and in Canada, as a use for treating sexual dysfunctions and female related issues, such as PMS and menstrual cramps.

The root and the bark of the muira puama are used, as they are rich in essential oils, plant sterols, coumarin, lupeol, and muirapuamine (an alkaloid). Natives of Brazil create a root decoction for use in baths and messages, for treating paralysis. A tea of root and bark is used for sexual debility, grippe, rheumatism, and heart weaknesses. It’s also used to prevent baldness – a vice for most of the male population. However, the main use and primary reason for using muira puama in Brazilian herbal medicine, is that it is a powerful sexual stimulant, and has the reputation as an aphrodisiac. Muira puama has also been shown to increase energy and enhance mood. However, there is still much research that needs to be done to verify these findings. Muira puama has shown to be a tonic, specifically for males. It also lowers blood pressure and prevents ulcers, due to its calming properties.

There have been numerous studies that shows encouraging results in treating impotence with Muira Puama. One such study conducted in France, revealed that of the 262 patients complaining of sexual dysfunction, 62% of them claimed that treatment from muira puama extract was helpful. Using a daily dose of 1 to 1.5 grams of muira puama 4:1 extract, results were shown within two weeks. Another study indicated that women can benefit from this wonder plant as well. In a 2000 study, the mix of muira puama and gingko biloba was tested on 202 healthy women complaining of low sex drive. Improvements were evident in all areas of the sex act, including sexual fantasies, desires, and satisfaction.

As with most herbs, the usual common side effect is insomnia. The muira puama induces alertness, so it’s not a good idea to consume this prior to bedtime. One dose a day is sufficient, and it’s also important to rest between pills by taking a day off every 2 or 3 days.

Tribulus Terrestris

Tribulus terrestris is a flowering plant that grows throughout India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It has many names such as Puncture Vine, Caltrop, Yellow Vine and Goathead. Indian ayuvveda practice utilizes this plant as a tonic. It’s also used in Turkey as folk medicine to address high blood pressure and cholesterol. However, this plant is another wonder used towards the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men. The active chemical in Tribulus terrestris is protodioscin (PTN). The active compounds are called steroidal saponins.

The current claim is that Tribulus terrestris increases testosterone levels by increasing the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) which in turn stimulates the production of LH and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). With increased testosterone, a body increases fertility and libido. Due to this claim, Tribulus terrestris is currently being promoted as a sex-drive booster. Independent studies have suggested that the extract form slightly increases hormone levels, though they continue to be within normal range. In animal studies, it has shown to be helpful in increasing sex drive. Sex behavior and intracavernous pressure (ICP) were studies in normal and castrated rats. An improvement was indicated in sexual behavior, along with an increase in mounting activity. Tribulus terrestris may work due to the relaxing of the smooth muscles and increasing blood flow into the penis. In this case, this herb may also be beneficial for abdominal colic sufferers. There have also been positive effects on bone marrow activity and the immune system.

Chinese studies have discovered that this plant is able to reduce the frequency of angina pectoris; it contains anti-microbial and anti-tumor potentials, as well as lowers cholesterol and hypertension. There is also speculation that Tribulus terrestris contains anti-oxidant properties as well.

There have been no reported side effects except from those users who’ve consumed high dosages, such as experiencing more energy, feeling warmer, having a slightly faster heartbeat, and restlessness. As in all cases of consuming herbal supplements, it is necessary to take breaks between treatments, and to exercise caution with regards to dosage. Taking more doesn’t necessarily mean getting better results. With Tribulus terrestris, is can be possible to achieve results in as little as 45 minutes.

Ginko Biloba

Traditional Chinese medicine has used ginko biloba as a beneficial treatment for male impotence for thousands of years. Ginkgo biloba is extracted from the leaves of the tree bearing the same name, which is believed to be one of the oldest surviving tree species.

Ginko biloba is said to have a beneficial effect on blood circulation and the central nervous system. Because it boosts oxygen supply to the blood, it enhances blood flow, particularly to the penis. The blood vessels are able to dilate, fill with blood and produce an erection. Ginkgo biloba is essentially devoid of any serious side effects. Mild headaches lasting for a day or two and mild upset stomach have been reported in a very small percentage of people using ginkgo. There are no known contraindications to the use of ginkgo by pregnant and lactating women.

Damiana – Turnera difusa

This plant grows in the tropical and subtropical America. This plant reaches fifty centimeters high, the leaves are green and rough, and their flowers are yellow. The leaves of Turnera have diuretic effects.

It is a sexual stimulant in cases of masculine impotence, as of feminine frigidity, especially in the cases of nervous origin. It also has an action in the cases of precocious ejaculation.
Prepare an infusion, boiling 20 grams of their leaves in one liter of water, drinking a cup twice a day. Higher doses of damiana may induce a mild sense of euphoria. The leaves have a minor laxative effect, which is more pronounced at higher intakes, and may cause loosening of stools.

Premature Ejaculation

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What is premature ejaculation ?

Premature ejaculation is uncontrolled ejaculation either before or shortly after sexual penetration, with minimal sexual stimulation and before the person wishes. It may result in an unsatisfactory sexual experience for both partners. This can increase the anxiety that may contribute to the problem. Premature ejaculation is one of the most common forms of male sexual dysfunction and has probably affected every man at some point in his life.

Impotence starts when a man is incapable of providing the blood flow necessary to generate an erection. And premature ejaculation is caused when a man is incapable of lasting and ejaculating earlier than intended.

What causes premature ejaculation ?

Most cases of premature ejaculation do not have a clear cause. With sexual experience and age, men often learn to delay orgasm. Premature ejaculation may occur with a new partner, only in certain sexual situations, or if it has been a long time since the last ejaculation. Psychological factors such as anxiety, guilt, or depression can cause premature ejaculation. In some cases, premature ejaculation may be related to an underlying medical cause such as hormonal problems, injury, or a side effect of certain medicines.

What are the symptoms ?

The main symptom of premature ejaculation is an uncontrolled ejaculation either before or shortly after intercourse begins. Ejaculation occurs before the person wishes it, with minimal sexual stimulation.

How is premature ejaculation diagnosed ?

Your health professional will discuss your medical and sexual history with you and conduct a thorough physical examination. Your doctor may want to talk to your partner as well. Because premature ejaculation can have many causes, your health professional may order laboratory tests to rule out any underlying medical problem.

Treatments and Drugs

Treatment options for premature ejaculation include sexual therapy, medications and psychotherapy. For many men, a combination of these treatments works best.

Sexual therapy

In some cases, sexual therapy may involve simple steps such as masturbating an hour or two before intercourse so that you're able to delay ejaculation during sex. Your doctor may also recommend avoiding intercourse for a period of time and focusing on other types of sexual play so that pressure is removed from your sexual encounters.

The squeeze technique

Your doctor may instruct you and your partner in the use of a method called the squeeze technique. This method works as follows : Step 1. Begin sexual activity as usual, including stimulation of the penis, until you feel almost ready to ejaculate. Step 2. Have your partner squeeze the end of your penis, at the point where the head (glans) joins the shaft, and maintain the squeeze for several seconds, until the urge to ejaculate passes. Step 3. After the squeeze is released, wait for about 30 seconds, then go back to foreplay. You may notice that squeezing the penis causes it to become less erect, but when sexual stimulation is resumed, it soon regains full erection. Step 4. If you again feel you're about to ejaculate, have your partner repeat the squeeze process. By repeating this as many times as necessary, you can reach the point of entering your partner without ejaculating. After a few practice sessions, the feeling of knowing how to delay ejaculation may become a habit that no longer requires the squeeze technique.

Medications

Certain antidepressants and topical anesthetic creams are used to treat premature ejaculation. Although none of these drugs are specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat premature ejaculation, some treatment guidelines recommend their use for this purpose. You may need to try different medications or doses before you and your doctor find a treatment that works for you.

Antidepressants

A side effect of certain antidepressants is delayed orgasm. Doctors suggest men who have premature ejaculation can take antidepressants to benefit from this specific side effect. Your doctor may prescribe one of several selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil) or fluoxetine (Prozac) to help delay ejaculation. If the timing of your ejaculation doesn't improve, your doctor may prescribe the tricyclic antidepressant clomipramine (Anafranil), which also has been shown to benefit men with this disorder. You may not need to take these medications every day to prevent premature ejaculation. Taking a low dose several hours before you plan to have sexual intercourse may be enough to improve your symptoms. Other side effects of these antidepressants can include nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness and decreased libido.

Topical anesthetic creams
Topical anesthetic creams containing lidocaine or prilocaine dull the sensation on the penis to help delay ejaculation. Applied a short time before intercourse, these creams are wiped off when your penis has lost enough sensation to help you delay ejaculation.
Some men using topical anesthetic creams report reduced sexual pleasure because of lessened sensitivity. Although the cream is wiped off before intercourse, in some studies female partners reported that it also reduced their genital sensitivity and sexual pleasure. In rare cases lidocaine or prilocaine can cause an allergic reaction.

Psychotherapy
This approach, also known as counseling or talk therapy, involves talking about your relationships and experiences with a mental health professional. These talk sessions can help you reduce performance anxiety or find effective ways of coping with stress and solving problems. For many couples affected by premature ejaculation, talking with a therapist together may produce the best results.

Prevention

In some cases, premature ejaculation may be caused by poor communication between partners or a lack of understanding of the differences between male and female sexual functioning. Women typically require more prolonged stimulation than men do to reach orgasm, and this difference can cause sexual resentment between partners and add pressure to sexual encounters. For many men, feeling pressure during sexual intercourse increases the risk of premature ejaculation.

Open communication between sexual partners, as well as a willingness to try a variety of approaches to help both partners achieve satisfaction, can help reduce conflict and performance anxiety. If you're not satisfied with your sexual relationship, talk with your partner about your concerns. Try to approach the topic in a loving way and to avoid blaming your partner for your dissatisfaction.

If you're not able to resolve sexual problems on your own, talk with your doctor. He or she may recommend seeing a therapist who can help you and your partner achieve a fulfilling sexual relationship.

Tips to Avoid Diabetes Complication

2008-12-06T20:40:00.000-08:00

Diabetes is a serious disease. Following your diabetes treatment plan takes round-the-clock commitment. But your efforts are worthwhile. Careful diabetes care can reduce your risk of serious complications.

The diabetes complications :

NEUROPATHY (NERVE DISEASE)

Diabetic neuropathies are among the most frequent complication of long-term diabetes. It is estimated that 60% to 70% of diabetics have mild to severe forms of nervous system damage. The femoral nerve is commonly involved giving rise to symptoms in the legs and feet. Pain is the chief symptom and tends to worsen at night when the person is at rest. It is usually relieved by activity and aggravated by cold. Paraesthesias are a common accompaniment of the pain. Cramping, tenderness and muscle weakness also occur but atrophy is rare. Advanced femoral nerve disease is a major contributing cause of lower extremity amputations. Nerves in the arms, abdomen and back may also be affected. Symptoms may include impaired heart function, slowed digestion, reduced or absent perspiration, severe oedema, carpal tunnel syndrome, alternating bouts of diarrhoea and constipation, bladder atony, urinary and faecal incontinence and impotence.

With respect to sexual impotence, diabetes is probably the single most common disease associated with erectile failure (termed neurogenic impotence in the diabetic). Since diabetes is a metabolic disease with vascular and nervous system complications and an erection involves all levels of the nervous system from the brain to the peripheral nerves, lesions anywhere along the path may be responsible for erectile failure. It has been estimated that close to 50% of diabetic males have some degree of erectile dysfunction. Neuropathies usually improve with the control of the diabetes. Severe or chronic changes may require several weeks or months to show maximum improvement.

RETINOPATHY (EYE DISEASE)

Changes occurring in the eye which are distinctive of diabetes involve the narrowing, hardening, bulging, haemorrhaging or severing of the veins and capillaries of the retina. This is a serious complication known as retinopathy and may lead to loss of vision. Visual changes in the earlier stages may include diminished vision, contraction of the visual field, changes in the size of objects or photophobia. In the more advanced stage, termed 'proliferative retinopathy', haemorrhages, retinal detachment and other serious forms of deterioration are observed. When the disease progresses to this late stage total blindness may occur.

It usually takes between 10-13 years for diabetic retinopathy to develop and it is present in some degree in most diabetics who have had the disease for 20 years. In only about half of the diabetics who develop it however, is vision markedly impaired and blindness occurs in only about 6%. Still, diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in adults 20 to 74 years old and is estimated to cause from 12,000 to 24,000 new cases each year. Two other complications of diabetes, cataracts and glaucoma, can also lead to loss of vision

The development of laser therapy will probably reduce the prevalence of diabetes-induced blindness, however this therapy is not without occasional side effects (haemorrhage, retinal detachment and loss of visual field) and is therefore indicated only for the more serious conditions.

ARTERIOSCLEROSIS (VESSEL DISEASE)

The diabetic state is associated with earlier and more severe vascular changes than normally occur at a given age. Cardiovascular- renal disease is the leading cause of death among diabetics. Atherosclerosis can be accurately described as the end stage of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, since the vast majority of diabetes patients will die from an atherosclerotic event. Most commonly these events are cardiovascular in nature (an estimated 60% to 65% of diabetics have high blood pressure) although 20-25% of atherosclerotic events may be cerebrovascular or microvascular.

The incidence of coronary occlusion in persons with clinical diabetes has been estimated at from 8-17% with diabetic adults having heart disease death rates about 2 to 4 times as high as the general population. The risk of stroke is also found to be 2 to 4 times higher in people with diabetes. Arteriosclerosis obliterans in the lower extremities, a form of peripheral vascular disease, may produce disturbances in sensation, decrease in muscular endurance, intermittent claudication on effort, absence of peripheral pulses in the lower legs and feet and gangrene, and ultimately lead to amputation of the extremity. Diabetic gangrene usually involves the toes, heels or other prominent parts of the feet and is precipitated by trauma, infection or extremes in temperature. Needless to say, careful attention to proper foot care, avoidance of injury and consistent use of methods to improve peripheral circulation, including withdrawal from tobacco use in any form, are critical for the diabetic. The aetiology of large vessel disease is multi-factorial in the diabetic as well as the non-diabetic population with lipoprotein metabolism, hypertension, physical activity, obesity, cigarette smoking, stress, personality and genetic and racial factors all playing a part.

NEPHROPATHY (KIDNEY DISEASE)

Nephropathy is a common and important accompaniment of diabetes and one that in young diabetics takes precedence over heart disease as a cause of illness and death. As with eye changes, there is a wide variation in the type and degree of renal damage. Nephropathy is less frequent than retinopathy and where it occurs is also a development of long standing diabetes. Nevertheless, diabetes is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the US, accounting for about 40% of new cases. In 1995, a total of 98,872 people with diabetes underwent dialysis or kidney transplantation and 27,851 developed end-stage renal disease.

One study reported that among 200 juvenile diabetics who survived 20 years after onset, one half had evidence of renal disease. Another study found that the majority of these patients have hypertension and two thirds show significant albuminuria, but the fully developed nephrotic syndrome of hypertension, proteinuria and oedema occurs in less than 10% and renal function is impaired in only one half to three quarters of those patients.

Like other long-term complications, good blood glucose control goes a long way towards reducing the risk of diabetic nephropathy. In addition to monitoring the blood sugar levels, periodic monitoring of a diabetic patient’s kidney function (blood urea nitrogen, uric acid, creatinine and creatinine clearance) is important.

HYPOGLYCAEMIA

If there is too much insulin in the body compared to the amount of blood sugar, and the blood sugar falls below normal levels, a condition known as hypoglycaemia occurs. This problem of hypoglycaemia due to insulin or oral hypoglycaemic drugs is much more common in Type 1 than Type 2 diabetes since the Type 1 diabetic is directly injecting insulin. If too much insulin is administered, or the person misses a meal or over-exercises, hypoglycaemia may result. In this condition, commonly referred to as insulin shock, the brain is deprived of an essential energy source. The first sign is mild hunger, quickly followed by dizziness, sweating, palpitations, mental confusion and eventual loss of consciousness. Before the condition reaches emergency proportions, most diabetics learn to counteract the symptoms by eating a sweet or drinking a glass of orange juice. In some cases, the only effective measure is an intravenous injection of glucose.

DIGESTIVE DISORDERS

Based on the 1989 US National Health Interview Survey, diabetics are more likely than the general population to report a number of digestive conditions, including ulcers, diverticulitis, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea and gallstones.

ORAL COMPLICATIONS

Periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss, occurs with greater frequency and severity among diabetics. Periodontal disease has been reported to occur among 30% of people aged 19 years or older with Type1 diabetes.

INFECTIONS

Studies in clinic, community and hospital populations indicate that diabetic subjects have a higher risk of some infections, including asymptomatic bacteriuria, lower extremity infections, re-activation tuberculosis, infections in surgical wounds and group B streptococcal infection. Populationbased data suggest a probable higher mortality from influenza and pneumonia.

COMPLICATION OF PREGNANCY

The rate of major congenital malformations in babies born to women with pre-existing diabetes varies from 0% to 5% among women who receive preconception care, to 10% among women who do not receive preconception care. Between 3% to 5% of pregnancies among women with diabetes result in death of the new-born; the rate for women who do not have diabetes is 1.5%4.

KETOACIDOSIS

Another acute complication more likely to occur in the IDDM is ketoacidosis, a condition caused by a lack of insulin leading to a build-up of ketoacids. Chemical compounds called ketones are one of the natural by-products of fat metabolism. Excessive ketone bodies are formed by the biochemical imbalance in uncontrolled or poorly managed diabetes. The condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis can directly cause an acute life-threatening event, a diabetic coma.

The possibility of ketoacidosis is suggested by:
• Confusion or coma, the patient almost always appearing extremely ill.
• Air hunger - an attempt to compensate for metabolic acidosis.
• Acetone odor (fruity) invariably on the breath.
• Nausea and vomiting almost always present.
• Abdominal tenderness which may mimic viral gastroenteritis.
• Extreme thirst and dry mucous membranes.
• Diabetic history (present in about 90% of cases).
• Weight loss.

Before the discovery of proper treatment by insulin and other intravenous injections, acidosis was the chief cause of death among diabetics. Today diabetics can use a simple urine dipstick at home to measure the level of ketones (excreted ketoacids) in the urine.

Here are TIPS to take an active role in diabetes care and enjoy a healthier future.

1. Make a commitment to managing your diabetes.

Members of your diabetes care team — doctor, diabetes nurse educator and dietitian, for example — will help you learn the basics of diabetes care and offer support and encouragement along the way. But it's up to you to manage your condition. After all, no one has a greater stake in your health than you.

Learn all you can about diabetes. Make healthy eating and physical activity part of your daily routine. Maintain a healthy weight. Monitor your blood sugar level, and follow your doctor's instructions for keeping your blood sugar level within your target range. Don't be afraid to ask your diabetes treatment team for help when you need it.

2. Schedule yearly physicals and regular eye exams.

Your regular diabetes checkups aren't meant to replace yearly physicals or routine eye exams. During the physical, your doctor will look for any diabetes-related complications — including signs of kidney damage, nerve damage and heart disease — as well as screen for other medical problems. Your eye care specialist will check for signs of retinal damage, cataracts and glaucoma.

3. Keep your vaccines up-to-date.

High blood sugar can weaken your immune system, which makes routine vaccines more important than ever. Ask your doctor about:

Flu vaccine. A yearly flu vaccine can help you stay healthy during flu season, as well as prevent serious complications from the flu.
Pneumonia vaccine. Sometimes the pneumonia vaccine is a one-shot deal. If you have diabetes complications or you're age 65 or older, you may need a five-year booster shot.
Other vaccines. Stay up-to-date with your tetanus shot and its 10-year boosters, and ask your doctor about the hepatitis B vaccine. Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may recommend other vaccines as well.

4. Take care of your teeth.

Diabetes may leave you prone to gum infections. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss your teeth once a day, and schedule dental exams at least twice a year. Consult your dentist right away if your gums bleed or look red or swollen.

5. Pay attention to your feet.

High blood sugar can damage the nerves in your feet and reduce blood flow to your feet. Left untreated, cuts and blisters can become serious infections. To prevent foot problems:

Wash your feet daily in lukewarm water.
Dry your feet gently, especially between the toes.
Moisturize your feet and ankles with lotion.
Check your feet every day for blisters, cuts, sores, redness or swelling.
Consult your doctor if you have a sore or other foot problem that doesn't start to heal within a few days.

6. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control.

Like diabetes, high blood pressure can damage your blood vessels. High cholesterol is a concern, too, since the damage is often worse and more rapid when you have diabetes. When these conditions team up, they can lead to a heart attack, stroke or other life-threatening conditions.

Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly can go a long way toward controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol. Sometimes medication is needed, too.

7. Take a daily aspirin.

Aspirin interferes with your blood's ability to clot. Taking a daily aspirin can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke — major concerns when you have diabetes. In fact, daily aspirin therapy is recommended for most people who have diabetes. Ask your doctor about daily aspirin therapy, including which strength of aspirin would be best.

8. Don't smoke.

If you smoke or use other types of tobacco, ask your doctor to help you quit. Smoking increases your risk of various diabetes complications, including heart attack, stroke, nerve damage and kidney disease. In fact, smokers who have diabetes are three times more likely to die of cardiovascular disease than are nonsmokers who have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. Talk to your doctor about ways to stop smoking or to stop using other types of tobacco.

9. If you drink alcohol, do so responsibly.

Alcohol can cause either high or low blood sugar, depending on how much you drink and if you eat at the same time. If you choose to drink, do so only in moderation and always with a meal. Remember to include the calories from any alcohol you drink in your daily calorie count.

10. Take stress seriously.

If you're stressed, it's easy to abandon your usual diabetes care routine. The hormones your body may produce in response to prolonged stress may prevent insulin from working properly, which only makes matters worse. To take control, set limits. Prioritize your tasks. Learn relaxation techniques. Get plenty of sleep.

Above all, stay positive. Diabetes care is within your control. If you're willing to do your part, diabetes won't stand in the way of an active, healthy life.

Can We Avoid Diabetes ?

2008-12-06T20:10:00.000-08:00

Diabetes means your blood glucose (often called blood sugar) is too high. Your blood always has some glucose in it because your body needs glucose for energy to keep you going. But too much glucose in the blood isn’t good for your health.

Diabetes is a disease that strikes more and more people every year, and the increase seems to only continue. This disease can lead to severe complications such as heart problems, kidney trouble, blindness, and amputation of limbs.

What are the signs of diabetes ?

being very thirsty
urinating often
feeling very hungry or tired
losing weight without trying
having sores that heal slowly
having dry, itchy skin
losing the feeling in your feet or having tingling in your feet
having blurry eyesight

You may have had one or more of these signs before you found out you had diabetes. Or you may have had no signs at all. A blood test to check your glucose levels will show if you have pre-diabetes or diabetes.

What kind of diabetes do you have?

People can get diabetes at any age. There are three main kinds :

Type 1 diabetes, formerly called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is usually first diagnosed in children, teenagers, or young adults. With this form of diabetes, the beta cells of the pancreas no longer make insulin because the body’s immune system has attacked and destroyed them. Treatment for type 1 diabetes includes taking insulin, making wise food choices, being physically active, taking aspirin daily (for some), and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol.

Type 2 diabetes, formerly called adult - onset diabetes or noninsulin - dependent diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. People can develop type 2 diabetes at any age—even during childhood. This form of diabetes usually begins with insulin resistance, a condition in which fat, muscle, and liver cells do not use insulin properly. At first, the pancreas keeps up with the added demand by producing more insulin. In time, however, it loses the ability to secrete enough insulin in response to meals. Being overweight and inactive increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes. Treatment includes using diabetes medicines, making wise food choices, being physically active, taking aspirin daily, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol.

Some women develop gestational diabetes during the late stages of pregnancy. Although this form of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born, a woman who has had it is more likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life. Gestational diabetes is caused by the hormones of pregnancy or a shortage of insulin.

Can we prevent or delay the onset of diabetes ?

Yes, here are simple ways to allow you to avoid or delay this disease.

Eat healthy and wisely. Eating smaller portions is a great way to lose weight. You can make it look like more by using a smaller plate or a salad plate. Avoid snacking while you are cooking. Don’t be tempted to eat the unfinished food to keep from throwing it away or storing it in the refrigerator. Eat breakfast every day, and make your meal and snack times regular by having them at the same time each day.
Limit your meat, poultry, and fish intake to no more than three ounces a day. In size, this is equal to about the size of a pack of cards. Another good tip is to listen to music instead of watching TV while you are eating. If you are watching TV while you are eating, you are not aware of how much you are eating and will almost always overeat.
Skip desserts and refined sugars. When eating out, have a good-sized vegetable salad to take the edge off your appetite. When you receive your entrée, share it with your dinner companion, or ask for a take-home box immediately after receiving your meal. Have meals that have been stir fried or baked.
Use low-salt broth instead of oil and butter.
Drinking a full glass of water before eating will also help reduce your appetite.
If you are eating at a fast-food restaurant, choose the healthier foods, such as grilled chicken, salads and fruits.
Increase your exercise. Next to diet, exercise is vital to a healthy body especially for diabetics. If nothing else, try walking every day or swimming at your local club. Taking walks is a nice way to keep up with your friends and an enjoyable, healthy way to take a break from work related stress. If possible, avoid the elevator and take the stairs as much as you can. You can try to march in place if you cannot get outside for some reason.

All of these activities can help you prevent the onset of diabetes and all can improve your overall health levels. Try them !

Herbal Medicine for Diabetes

2008-12-06T00:32:00.000-08:00

Since antiquity, diabetes has been treated with plant medicines. Recent scientific investigation has confirmed the efficacy of many of these preparations, some of which are remarkably effective. Only those herbs that appear most effective, are relatively non-toxic and have substantial documentation of efficacy are covered here.

1. INDIAN KINO, MALABAR KINO

The tree (Pterocarpus massupium) is the source of the Kino of the European pharmacopeas. This herb has a long history of use in India as a treatment for diabetes. It has actually been used to regenerate functional pancreatic beta cells. No other drug or natural agent has been shown to generate this activity. The flavonoid, epicatechin, extracted from the bark of this plant has been shown to prevent alloxan –induced beta cell damage in rats.

2. GYMNEMA SYLVESTRE (Gurmar, Cherukurinja)

Gymnema helps the pancreas to produce Insulin in Type 2 diabetes. It also improves the ability of insulin to lower blood sugar in both Type I and Type 2 diabetes. It decreases cravings for sweet. Some people use to take near about 500 mg per day of gymnema extract.

3. BLUEBERRY LEAVE

Leave of the Blue berry are commonly used by the folk since many years, for the treatment of diabetes. It is most active ingredients is myrtillin (an anthocyanoside). Its single dose produces beneficial effects lasting several weeks. Blueberry leaves also increases capillary integrity, inhibit free-radical damage and improve the tone of the vascular system. It can be also in the treatment of eye disease chiefly diabetic retinopathy.

4. ASIAN GINSENG

Asian ginseng is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat diabetes. It has been shown to enhance the release of insulin from the pancreas and to increase the number of insulin receptors. It also has a direct blood sugar-lowering effect.

5. GINKGO BILOBA

Ginkgo biloba extract may prove useful for prevention and treatment of early stage diabetic neuropathy.

6. BILBERRY

It lowers the risk of diabetic complications such as diabetic cataracts and retinopathy.

7. STEVIA

It does not show direct anti diabetic effect, but its use as a sweetener could reduce the intake of sugars in diabetic patients.

8. CINNAMON

Cinnamon is derived from the bark of a tree of the laurel family. In addition to spicing up foods; it also relieves stomach gas, eases nausea, and treat the loss of appetite. More than a decade ago, the researchers have discovered that Cinnamon makes fat cells more responsive to insulin. Cinnamon increases the conversion of glucose to energy by twenty times. It also blocks the formation of dangerous free radicals. Reduction in the free radical activity, helps to slow down the progression of diabetic complications.

9. FENUGREEK

Fenugreek, when taken internally, reduces blood sugar, increases lactation and enhances wound healing. Fenugreek is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region. The fenugreek plant produces seeds that have long history of use for various remedies, such as treating loss of appetite, digestive problems and inflammation of the skin. The fenugreek seeds are rich in fibres is mainly responsible for the herbs blood sugar lowering effect. The seeds also contains and active compound called trigonelline which acts as a blood-sugar lowering agent.

10. INDIAN GOOSEBERRY

It is also known as Amla. Amala is very rich in Vitamin C. It has near about 20 times the vitamin C content of grapefruit and 15 times that of lemon. In dried amla (pieces or powdered) vitamins are retained and protected due to the natural antioxidant properties of the fruit. One teaspoon of Amla juice is mixed with a cup of bitter gourd juice and is used for diabetic patients. It is because amla contains the properties due to which it stimulates the Pancreas which secrete insulin for reducing blood sugar. Amla seeds or dried Amla are equally useful for controlling diabetes. Amla also serves several other functions such as it produces cooling effect and reduces body heat. It also inhibit phlegm and bile. It also increases the production of semen and thus helps in urinary and gynaecological problems. Amla is also good for lungs problems. It also reduces body fat, improves hair texture and eye health.

11. ISPAGHULA

It can be used safely in diabetics because the sweetening agents used in it are, Aspartame and saccharin. It can be taken in the form of seeds or in the form of husk. It can be used during pregnancy and breast-feeding because ispaghula husk is not absorbed by the body. But them also doctor’s advice is necessary. It can be used in vegetarians because it does not contain any animal by-products. Ispaghula is also used to relieve constipation and are known to be as bulk forming to be as bulk-forming laxatives. This is to be used with care by individuals with diabetes. In case of diabetics, it controls blood sugar by inhibiting the excessive absorption of sugar from the instestines.

12. MANGO LEAVES

The mango enjoys a unique status among the fruits. It is also known as the King of Asiatic Fruits. It is considered as a valuable item for both diet and a house hold remedy. But in addition it also possesses medicinal properties. Its leaves are of the utmost importance in diabetics. Mango tree has tender leaves which helps in lowering the blood glucose level in diabetics. The fresh leaves of mango are soaked in water for an overnight. Then they are squeezed well in the water before filtering them in the morning. Thus, this prepared infused water is taken every morning to control early diabetes. If patients don’t want to prepared infusion, then the leaves can be dried in shade, powdered and preserved. Half a teaspoonful of this powder is to be taken twice a day that is in the morning and evening.

The mango is of high value in diarrhoea heart stroke, gastrointestinal disorders, etc. The fruit is grown widely in China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Philippines. In Vedas, mango is praised as a heavenly fruit. The mango is used as food in all stage of its development. Green or unripe mango contains large amount of starch. It disappears completely when the fruit is fully ripe. Green mango is a rich source of pectin. Unripe mango is sour in taste.

13. NEEM (MARGOSA)

In ancient times neem was the most celebrated medicinal plant of India. The leaves of the Margosa tree posses’ anti-diabetic properties. The juices of these leaves are helpful in controlling the blood sugar levels in diabetics. Neem is in fact a herbal medicine used for treatment of various other diseases also such as skin problems, warm infections, ulcers, gingivitis, head lice, heart disease, etc. The other names of Neem are Bead Tree, Holy Tree, Indian Lilac, and Pride of China. Neem is mainly believed to be an air purifier and thus is used as preventive measure against malarial fever and cholera. The use of neem is treatment of diabetes consist of use of about five milliliter of juice of neem on and empty stomach early in the morning. This treatment should be continued for at least three months.

14. CURRY LEAVES

The curry leaves are of high value in people suffering from diabetes because it contains lots of herbal properties. Curry leaves are usually made into chutney. Juice of curry leaves can also be made, which is then incorporated into buttermilk or lassi. Curry-leaves are of great value in losing weight and therefore they are of great importance in the treatment of diabetes occurs as a result of obesity. It is because due to reduction in weight, the diabetic patient stops passage of sugar in urine. It has been known that by eating ten fully grown curry leaves every morning for at least three months will prevent diabetes of heredity related. Although the curry leaves are little bitter but they are very beautiful.

15. SWEET POTATO LEAVES

The leaves of sweet potato are of high value in preventing diabetes, by lowering blood sugar level. The sweet potato is grown all over India. It is highly nutritious vegetable, is pinkish in colour and contains starch contents. Preparation of sweet potato leaves is used in the tea of diabetic patients. Near about 60 g of fresh laves or 30 g of dry leaves of sweet potato are mixed with 100 g of fresh skin or 12 g of dry skin of ash gourd. They are then cut into small pieces and boiled in water.

16. MADHUCA

The Indian name for Madhuca is Madhua. It is also possess excellent antidiabetic properties and is therefore highly beneficial in treating raised blood glucose levels. Commonly the Madhuca Tree posses a large bark of near about 20 metre in height and there is spreading top.

17. TENNER’S CASSIA

It is a shrub and just grows up to 30 to 60 cms in height. It is useful in treating diabetes. It may be used as a whole plant, bud or its flower or seeds. The powder of Tenner’s Cassia may also be used by mixing with honey. The use of plants to treat diabetes is a centuries-old practice, dating back to ancient Egyptian physicians in 1550 B.C. Nowadays it has been observed that the oral diabetes drugs have also been derived from herbs. The oral diabetic drug Metformin (Glucophage) originated from goat’s rue or French lilac, an herb used to treat diabetes since medieval times. Metformin is the only diabetes drug that has its origin from a botanical source. Worldwide, more than four hundred herbal remedies have been described for managing diabetes.

18. BITTER MELON

Bitter melon, also known as balsam pear, is a tropical vegetable widely cultivated in Asia, Africa and South America, and has been used extensively in folk medicine as a remedy for diabetes. The blood sugar lowering action of the fresh juice or extract of the unripe fruit has been clearly established in both experimental and clinical studies.

Bitter melon is composed of several compounds with confirmed anti-diabetic properties. Charantin, extracted by alcohol, is a hypoglycaemic agent composed of mixed steroids that is more potent than the drug tolbutamide which is often used in the treatment of diabetes. Momordica also contains an insulin-like polypeptide, polypeptide-P, which lowers blood sugar levels when injected subcutaneously into type 1 diabetic patients. The oral administration of 50-60 ml of the juice has shown good results in clinical trials.

Excessively high doses of bitter melon juice can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. Small children or anyone with hypoglycemia should not take bitter melon, since this herb could theoretically trigger or worsen low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Furthermore, diabetics taking hypoglycemic drugs (such as chlorpropamide, glyburide, or phenformin) or insulin should use bitter melon with caution, as it may potentiate the effectiveness of the drugs, leading to severe hypoglycemia.

19. ONION and GARLIC

Onion and garlic have significant blood sugar lowering action. The principal active ingredients are believed to be allyl propyl disulphide (APDS) and diallyl disulphide oxide (allicin), although other constitutents such as flavonoids may play a role as well.

Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that APDS lowers glucose levels by competing with insulin for insulin-inactivating sites in the liver. This results in an increase of free insulin. APDS administered in doses of 125 mg/ kg to fasting humans was found to cause a marked fall in blood glucose levels and an increase in serum insulin. Allicin doses of 100 mg/kg produced a similar effect.

Onion extract was found to reduce blood sugar levels during oral and intravenous glucose tolerance. The effect improved as the dosage was increased; however, beneficial effects were observed even for low levels that used in the diet (eg., 25 to 200 grams). The effects were similar in both raw and boiled onion extracts. Onions affect the hepatic metabolism of glucose and/or increases the release of insulin, and/or prevent insulin's destruction.

The additional benefit of the use of garlic and onions are their beneficial cardiovascular effects. They are found to lower lipid levels, inhibit platelet aggregation and are antihypertensive. So, liberal use of onion and garlic are recommended for diabetic patients.

20. TURMERIC

The Indian scientists in their latest research report shows that curcumin blocks a key biological pathway which induces the development of diabetic retinopathy, an eye complication among diabetics that leads to blindness if left untreated.

Cinnamon

2008-12-05T23:33:00.000-08:00

Introduction

The Ancient Egyptians used cinnamon in their embalming mixtures. By the Roman Empire , it was a highly valuable commodity for both medicinal and culinary purposes. While cinnamon is actually native to the West Indies, by the 18th century it was the Dutch who had monopolized the cinnamon trade and refused to allow any commercial farming of the tree until 1776. Some sources even claim Cinnamon’s rarity and near-sacred status as one of the factors that eventually spurred world exploration. Its impact is still evident today, as a popular ingredient in everything from toothpaste to pastries to potpourris. Cinnamon is difficult to grow in less than ideal conditions. In Southern climates, gardeners can find some varieties available for primarily ornamental purposes. Cinnamon prefers sandy soil, very well drained and maintain with proper nutrients. Latin Names - Cinnamomum zeylanicum

What It Is Used For

Cinnamon's history as a medicinal plant goes as far back as the Ancient Egyptians. As it increased in availability across Europe, its medicinal uses were included in most early herbals. The curative properties of Cinnamon are just as numerous today. Here is a list of some of the medicinal uses of cinnamon: * Diabetes (lowers blood sugar) * Weight Loss and Weight Control (With each cup you drink, you can burn up to 90 extra calories) * Athlete's Foot * Cold and Flu * Helps the immune system * Memory Enhancer * Diarrhea * Menstrual Problems * Digestive Problems * Yeast Infections * Arthritis * Boosts metabolism * Dental Pain * Appetite loss

How It Is Used

You can take cinnamon. Add a pinch of the ground spice to your favorite tea. Or, add it to the food you eat. Just remember that less is more. You should not consume more than 1/4 tsp. a day or else you could develop problems such as mouth inflammation or digestive distress. You can also try adding a pinch to your morning coffee.
It has been proved that honey contains a natural ingredient, which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu. Longevity Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly arrests the ravages of old age. Take 4 spoons of honey, 1 spoon of cinnamon powder and 3 cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, 3 to 4 times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life span also increases and even if a person is 100 years old, starts performing the chores of a 20 year old.
Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples completely.
Daily in the morning, 1/2 hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup water. If taken regularly it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also drinking of this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.
Those suffering from hair loss or baldness, may apply a paste of hot olive oil, one tablespoon of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder before bath and keep it for approx. 15 min. and then wash the hair. It was found to be very effective.

What the Science Says

Recent research has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month 3 times a day. Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful than detrimental to the body strength. Senior citizens who take honey and cinnamon power in equal parts are more alert and flexible. It is said that half tablespoon honey taken in one glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3.00 p.m. when the vitality of the body starts decreasing, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

Side Effects and Cautions

Avoid during pregnancy due to this herb's emmenagogue effects.
Avoid with nursing mothers as this herb may cause allergic hypersensitivity due to its cinnamein content.
Avoid with stomach and intestinal ulcers due to its stomachic effect. E.
Prolonged use of this herb may cause tissue irritation due to potential toxicity.
Gastro-intestinal irritation may result where large amounts of the pure essential oil are ingested, causing violent vomiting and possible kidney irritation.

Turmeric

2008-12-02T23:51:00.000-08:00

Introduction

Many people are familiar with turmeric as a traditional Middle_Eastern spice, but few know of its medicinal virtues. Turmeric, otherwise knowns as Circuma longa, is a member of the ginger family, Zingaberaceae. The latin name is derived from the Persian word, "kirkum" which means "saffron", in reference to the rhizome's vibrant yellow-orange color. It is indigenous to Southeast Asia, but has long been used and cultivated throughout India.

What It Is Used For

Turmeric is a natural antioxidant, and thus protects the body from oxidative damage. Laboratory studies have found that tumeric inhibits the development of cataracts, breast cancer, colon cancer, and lymphoma. In one study, smokers that took just 1 teaspoon of tumeric a day for 30 days had lower levels of cancer-causing mutagens. In another study, just 500 milligrams of curcumin each day significantly reduced participants' cholesterol levels in as little as 10 days. Some studies indicate that turmeric's ability to lower cholesterol may provide the same heart-protective benefits as its close relative ginger, including blood clot prevention and reduced blood pressure.
Turmeric helps detoxify the body, and protects the liver from the damaging effects of alcohol, toxic chemicals, and even some pharmaceutical drugs. Turmeric stimulates the production of bile, which is needed to digest fat. Turmeric also guards the stomach by killing salmonella bacteria and protozoa that can cause diarrhea.

How It Is Used

Turmeric is available in the familiar powder form used in cooking, as well as commercial capsules and tinctures. The usual dosage is 445 milligrams in capsules or 1 teaspoon of extract three times a day, or 1 teaspoon of tumeric powder in warm milk as a digestive aid. Curcumin supplements are also available, and are more effective for treatment of arthritis.

What the Science Says

Western medicine only recently began to study turmeric. However, this spice has long been used in Indian ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine to treat infection, gallbladder problems, dysentery, arthritis, and liver disorders. Several studies performed by Indian scientists have supported many of tumeric's traditional use to fight inflammation, indigestion, and liver and heart disease.
Turmeric contains curcumin and curcuminoids, which are powerful anti-inflammatory phytochemicals that act as natural cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors in the body, and inhibit the production of the prostaglandins that cause inflammation and swelling. Indian researchers found that tumeric relieved joint pain and swelling in people with arthritis as well as prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without side effects such as abdominal bleeding or stomach upset.
The Indian scientists in their latest research report shows that curcumin blocks a key biological pathway which induces the development of diabetic retinopathy, an eye complication among diabetics that leads to blindness if left untreated.

Side Effects and Cautions

The benefits of turmeric have been enjoyed in its use as an ingredient in food for hundreds of years and has not shown ill effects when consumed in moderate quantities. Many people of the world eat curry based meals every day that containins turmeric and curcumin. Studies are finding that these people have lower incidence of some cancers.

Turmeric is on the FDA's generally recognized as safe (GRAS) list and is considered a safe health food when recommended doses are not exceeded. As with any supplement, always read and follow label directions.
However doctors advise that turmeric extract be avoided by anyone with gallstones except under doctor supervision, and it should not be taken women who are pregnant.

Ginger

2008-12-02T23:03:00.000-08:00

Introduction

One of the most popular of the hot-tasting spices is ginger, which is obtained from the root of Zingiber officinale. The plant is indigenous to southern China, from whence it is spread to the Spice Islands and other parts of Asia, and subsequently to West Africa and to the Caribbean. India is now the main producer and exporter. Extracts of ginger are used in foods, condiments, baked confections, candies, beverages, cosmetics and perfumes. It is common to find it in many supermarkets for use in food preparation or as an herbal medicine. China produces a ginger which is particularly suited for confectionery, whereas Japanese ginger lacks the typical aroma. Pickled ginger (gari or sushoga) is always used as a condiment for sushi. Overall, ginger products vary considerably in taste, pungency and smell, while the root varies in consistency, depending on the country of origin and the variety of the crop.

What It Is Used For

As a herbal medicine, Ginger has long been used as a cold, cough, fever and sore throat remedy. It helps in the digestion and absorption of food, lowering of cholesterol, alleviating nausea and vomiting. It has antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The benefits :

Relieves rheumatic pains & muscle pains
Alleviates sore throat, fever, nausea
Intestinal disorders and slow digestion
Treat intestinal worms
Hinder diarrhea, gas pains
Relieve indigestion (dyspepsia), toothaches
Lower cholesterol levels
Aids treatment of tuberculosis

How It Is Used

Boil the root in water and drink. The more concentrated the better.
For sore throat and tooth ache, remove the skin and chew small portions.
For cuts & bruises, apply the juice directly to the skin
For rheumatism and muscle pains, pound the root and apply to painful areas - can be mixed with oil for easy application

What the Science Says

A limited number of human studies suggests that 1 gram daily of ginger may be safe and effective for pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting when used for short periods (no longer than 4 days). Several studies have found that ginger is more effective than placebo in relieving nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy. In a small study including 30 pregnant women with severe vomiting, those who ingested 1 gram of ginger every day for four days reported more relief from vomiting than those who received placebo. In a larger study including 70 pregnant women with nausea and vomiting, those who received a similar dosage of ginger felt less nauseous and experienced fewer vomiting episodes than those who received placebo.

Side Effects and Cautions
Do not take ginger without first talking to your doctor if you :

have gallstones or any other disease of the gallbladder
have diabetes or if you are taking a medicine to control your blood sugar levels
have any heart problems or take any heart medicines
have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder or are taking a medicine to increase or decrease the clotting of your blood such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), or heparin or
take other herbs, antioxidants, or health supplements (these may affect blood thinning)

Mangoosteen

2008-12-02T17:57:00.000-08:00

Introduction

Mangosteen is the name referred to the evergreen mangosteen tree and the mangosteen fruit. The tree is slow growing (6-24 meters high) and is indigenous to Southeast Asia. The mangosteen fruit is round in shape, dark-purple, 2 to 3 inches in diameter and contains 4 to 8 segments of snow-white, delicious soft flesh. The fruit may or may not contain seeds. Encasing the flesh is a purple skin 6 to 10 cm thick.

Because of its taste and medicinal properties, the mangosteen is often called "The Queen of Fruits". For centuries, the mangosteen has been honored and cherished by the peoples of Southeast Asia.

Latin Names— Garcinia mangostana L.

What It Is Used For

The strong anti-oxidant properties of the mangosteen fruit fights free radicals in the body. This helps strengthen the immune system, promote joint and cartilage function, helps support a strong respiratory system and helps maintain good health.

The other benefit of mangosteen :

Anti-tumor & anti cancer
Anti-inflammatory properties
Prevents & treats infections
For treatment of diarrhoea, cystitis, eczema, gleet and gonorrhoea.
Anti-proliferative activity against human breast adenocarcinoma cell line.
Anti-micro bacterial activity
Inhibitory activity against histamine release

How It Is Used

A decoction of the rind (boil in water) is cure for gonorrhoea, cystitis, diarrhoea and gleet
A decoction of the whole fruit, bark and leaves of the mangosteen tree can also be used
Eat the flesh of the mangosteen fruit for overall good health
Dried and powdered mangosteen rind (skin) is given to cure dysentery. The powder can be made into a cream and applied to skin to treat eczema and other skin disorder

What the Science Says

Recent studies shows that the rind (skin) has anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-tumor properties. Initial results also reveals that mangosteen have anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory medicinal properties. The active therapeutic compound found in mangosteen is called "Xanthones".

Xanthones provides many times more anti-oxidants than Vitamin C & E. Xanthones have been receiving much attention lately from researchers and scientist for its medicinal value. It appears to benefit every organ of the body. The whole mangosteen fruit is the single, best source of Xanthones.

Dr. Kenneth J. Finsand has this to say : "This is probably the most famous use of all the qualities found in the mangosten : it is by far the most powerful anti-inflammatory I have ever seen in 30 years of practise. Research has proven this to be true, along with folk medicine history."

Dr. Frederic Templeman tells us that the anti-inflammatory properties of mangosteen have been compared in strength to one of the most potent anti-inflammatory prescription drugs, Dexamethasone. In his words, "this drug knocks the socks off Vioxx in terms of potency." The following excerpt taken from the audio "The Miracle Mangosteen."

Side Effects and Cautions

Toxicity studies were done in the laboratory with rats, using the human equivalent of 3 liters of mangosteen juice per day, with no adverse behavioral or tissue effects noted. Also, there are no historical records of a ny folk medicine warnings after centuries of medicinal use of the plant in Southeast Asia. It is always recommended that you consult your physician. If you have have a known medical condition or allergy before using any food supplement. Mangosteen is safe for use by children and adults under almost any condition.

Garlic

2008-12-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

Introduction
Garlic is the name given to the leek (herb) with gar (spear) shaped leaves. Its Latin name Allium sativum is derived from al = burning, sativum = harvested. The plant may have arisen as a wild variant (“ramson”) in Siberia, but it has spread world-wide, and is harvested in

China

India

, Gilroy in California, and in many other places. As a food, it was favored by the Hebrews in biblical

Egypt

, and it is now beloved in both homespun and gourmet cooking everywhere. Garlic has had a long-held reputation as a medicine, and it was regarded by the popular 17th century British herbalist, Culpeper, as the “poor man’s treacle”, implying that it had value as an antidote to poisons and as a panacea for illnesses. Chicago is named after the Indian term for the place where the wild garlic grows.

What It Is Used For

It's medicinal properties has been known for a long time and has been specially proven during World War II. Because of Garlic's antibacterial compound known as Allicin, lives were saved by preventing wounds from having infection and later develop into gangrene when the juice of garlic was applied to the wounds.

Garlic is known as nature's antibiotic. It's juices inhibits the growth of fungi and viruses thus prevents viral, yeast and viral infections. Preliminary test also shows some positive results in the treatment of AIDS.

Garlic contains several potent antioxidants, and there is evidence that its addition to the diet may help reduce the incidence of gastric and colorectal cancers.

The chemicals in garlic can help reduce serum cholesterol, hypertension, blood clotting, blood sugar, bowel parasites, respiratory and other infections, and the aging process itself.

Garlic has also been used topically (on the skin) to treat corns, warts, calluses, ear infections, muscle pain, nerve pain, arthritis, and sciatica.

Today as more research is done with garlic, more medicinal and therapeutic properties become more evident.

How It Is Used

For disinfecting wound, crush and juice the garlic bulb and apply. You may cover the afflicted area with a gauze and bandage.
For sore throat and toothache, peal the skin and chew. Swallow the juice.
Aside from being an herbal medicine for hypertension, arteriosclerosis and other ailments, garlic is also recommended for maintaining good health - eat raw garlic bulb, and include bawang regularly in the food you eat. It's healthy and taste good in a variety of dishes.

What the Science Says 
Much present research is aimed at identifying the compounds responsible for    the health-protective effects of garlic. The most active medicinal components    of garlic are the sulfur-containing compounds, and the compound allicin is the    major source of its antimicrobial action. (The characteristic strong odor of    fresh garlic is also largely due to allicin.) Some garlic experts also consider    allicin the key to its cardiovascular benefits as well, but this is more controversial. Researchers report about the other benefits of garlic :  

Garlic's anti-cancer properties may be partly due to selenium -- an element found in garlic.
Garlic may slow the progression of coronary artery calcification in patients on statin therapy.
In addition to its cholesterol-lowering potential, blood-pressure-lowering effects and antioxidant properties, garlic may help moderate levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that is a marker for coronary artery disease.
Garlic may inhibit platelet aggregation -- a major contributing factor to cardiovascular disease -- by suppressing calcium mobilization.
Garlic may reduce precancerous gastric lesions.
Garlic may suppress progression of precancerous lesions of the large bowel.

Side Effects and Cautions

The ingestion of one to two cloves of raw garlic per day is considered safe in adults. The most common side effect of ingested garlic is breath and body odor. Consumption of excessive amounts of raw garlic, especially on an empty stomach, can cause gastrointestinal upset, flatulence, and changes in the intestinal flora. There have been reports of allergic dermatitis, burns, and blisters from topical application of raw garlic.

Garlic appears to have no effect on drug metabolism, although recent studies in healthy volunteers show conflicting results related to garlic's effect on protease inhibitor pharmacokinetics. It has been suggested that patients taking anticoagulants use caution when taking garlic because of its antithrombotic properties. It seems prudent to stop taking high dosages of garlic seven to 10 days before surgery because garlic can prolong bleeding time and has been associated (in one case report) with spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma.

Cures for Impotence

2008-12-01T21:42:00.000-08:00

Actually you can help yourself! When you take care of the blood supply to your penis, you can enjoy sex all your life. To take care of your blood supply follow this suggestions :

Stop smoking.
Cut alcohol consumption
Exercise aerobically
Eliminate the "bad" fat in your diet, i.e. saturated (animal products such as all meats, dairy, eggs) or hydrogenated (prepared foods from supermarket.)
Keep your weight down
Watch your medication use
Forget illegal drugs
Avoid stress and anger
Have at least one close confidant in your life.

Sounds suspiciously like what you do to keep blood flowing to your heart, doesn't it?

If the problem recurs, seek help from a urologist and or sex therapist.

If the problem is psychological, counseling can help.

If the problem is physical, these are several options including:

Medication changes
Prescription drug Viagra
Self-injections of drugs that cause erections (ouch)
Penile implants
Vacuum devices
Hormone therapy
A return to a healthy lifestyle

There are various cures for impotence available today. What are the real differences of these cures and which one is the best ?

Viagra
Viagra is currently the most popular drug for impotence patients and the sexually active alike, because it is effective. Only qualified doctors can prescribe this drug; Most online stores selling Viagra are actually selling fake (highly illegal) or generic versions of the drug. Viagra sells at around $10 per pill, and low prices ($1.5 per pill) are only available when one orders a bulk amount. Again, many of these sold online are generic versions which are less effective than the real thing. Viagra takes around 30 minutes to more than 1 hour to take effect.
Viagra has adverse drug reactions. Viagra's side effects include sneezing, dizziness, headaches, flushing, dyspepsia, photophobia, palpitations, priapism, heart attacks, strokes and sudden death. The serious side effects are rare, however they can happen. And the common side effects are much more common. There have been news stories about these side effects and men that have fallen victim into them.

Cialis
Cialis is another drug that does the exact same thing as Viagra. However, they have different chemical structures. Cialis is 5 times stronger than Viagra; a 20mg Cialis is almost equivalent to a 100mg dose of Viagra. Cialis can cost up to $22 per pill for the real brand name pill. It is marketed by Eli Lilly and Company as Cialis. Its chemical name is actually Tadalafil.
Cialis is gaining more popularity nowadays due to its long-lasting effect. Cialis can last over 36 hours (compared to Viagra which lasts 4 hours) and it is called the "weekend pill" due to its long-lasting benefit. Cialis has fewer side effects than Viagra and Levitra. Its only side effects are back pain, flushing, muscles aches, headaches and stuffy/runny nose. More recently, the FDA discovered that Cialis can cause a loss of vision. There are similar stories that link Viagra to blindness.

Levitra
Levitra is another impotence drug that is very similar to Viagra and Cialis in terms of its role and effectiveness. Its chemical name is Vardenafil. Levitra does the exact same thing as Viagra and Cialis because it is a PDE5 inhibitor as well. Levitra also has side effects such as nausea, abdominal pain, back pain, eye pain, rash, palpitation, heart attacks, penile tissue damage and permanent loss of potency. Levitra lasts around 4-5 hours in total and takes more than 40 minutes to take effect.
Levitra is gaining more popularity as the preferred alternative to Viagra. However, they are pretty much the same drug. Levitra has a more powerful effect, because a 10mg dose of Levitra is comparable to a 50 mg dose of Viagra.

Herbal Alternatives
There are herbal alternative impotence pills that are made of herbal ingredients. These newer products have similar effects to the chemical drugs. They work in 30 minutes, last 4 hours. The main benefit of these herbal alternatives is that there are no side effects, as the ingredients are natural medicine. Herbal alternatives are cheaper and easier to obtain, because a prescription from the doctor is needed to acquire Viagra, Cialis or Levitra.

Stop Smoking Tips

2008-12-01T20:57:00.000-08:00

Step 1: Think About Quitting

According to a recent survey, around 15 million smokers try to quit smoking each day. However, less than 3% of these people stop smoking successfully for 3 to 12 months. If you’re thinking about quitting or have stopped smoking but failed to quit, don’t lose hope because smokers often try to quit more than once before they actually succeed.
In this section, you will learn about the history of cigarette smoking, facts about smoking, smoking cessation and benefits of quitting smoking. To give you a strong reason to quit smoking, this section will also tackle dangerous diseases – such as lung cancer, heart disease, strokes, diabetes, etc – caused by smoking cigarettes. In addition, this section will explain the reasons why it is extremely hard to quit smoking, hurdles in quitting and possible nicotine withdrawal symptoms that you may encounter throughout this process.

Step 2: Effects of Smoking

Years of clinical studies have proven that using Tobacco causes people to become sick, disabled or die. Since the first Surgeon General’s Report in 1964, over 12 million smoking-related deaths have occurred. More than 500,000 deaths in the U.S are caused from smoking-related illnesses. Adult smokers reduce their lifespan by an average of 13 to 14 years. In this section, you will learn about the dangerous effects and health risks of smoking. You will understand the facts about smoking addiction, the hazardous effects of smoking on a pregnant woman, on passive smokers, on your facial charm and on your teeth. You will also learn how stress could play a role in cigarette smoking. This section also deals with the effects on secondhand smoke, effects of smoking on vitamin A and C, dangerous effects of smoking on men and women, as well as the differences between cigar and pipe smoking.

Step 3: Preparing To Quit Smoking

The first key to quitting smoking successfully is planning and preparation. You need to prepare your body and mind before actually quitting. Determine your personal goals, discover your reasons for quitting and get rid of temptations that may become a hindrance to your stop smoking program. Tobacco smoke contains nicotine, a drug that is addictive and can make it very hard, but not impossible, to quit. Similar to other substances drug abuse needs professional help.
In this section, you will face the facts about nicotine addiction before your last stick of cigarette. You will learn the most effective steps to be followed when planning to quit smoking. You will also find out about the real reason why it is so hard to quit smoking. To help you plan your quit smoking program, you need to confront your personal reasons to start quitting and understand what you need to do stop smoking. This section also deals with the psychological recovery stages to stop smoking and provides helpful tips to quit smoking.

Step 4: Stop Smoking Tips

Even if you have no idea where to start and what to do, you can quit smoking as long as you have the mindset and commitment to do so. Stop smoking tips can help you create a good stop smoking plan and lifestyle changes that could lead to a healthier, smoke-free life.
In this section, you will learn some of the simplest ways and useful tips to quit smoking for good. You can choose from several psychological areas that can help you to stop smoking based on your lifestyle. This section also deals with stop smoking tips that will help your loved ones quit this deadly habit and tips on how to overcome nicotine withdrawal symptoms using an effective stop smoking plan, attending support groups and establishing a smoking cessation program.

Step 5: Stop Smoking Aids

When smoking cigarettes has played a large part in your life, quitting smoking may not be that simple. Fortunately, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved seven over-the-counter stop smoking aids – five of these help in managing nicotine withdrawal symptoms, while the other two help in reducing cigarette cravings.
In this section, you will learn about different proven stop smoking methods like Water Therapy, Psychological Therapy and Nicotine Replacement Therapy. This section also deals with other useful stop smoking aids such as nicotine nasal sprays, nicotine lozenges, nicotine inhalers, nicotine patches, nicotine gum and stop smoking pills.

Step 6: Stay a Quitter

After sometime, some quitters get back to their smoking habit due to temptation and persistent nicotine carving. Some may slip and puff “just one cigarette”, while others experience total relapse. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, smokers who quit are at greater risk of relapsing in the first three months of becoming smoke-free.

Causes of Hair Loss

2008-12-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

Hair loss is caused by :

Genes
Common baldness cannot occur without the presence of specific inherited genes. These genes can be passed on by either parent. A gene is a single bit of chemically encoded hereditary instruction that is located on a chromosome and actually represents a tiny segment of DNA. Chromosomes occur in pairs (humans have 23 pairs), and every individual gets one set of chromosomes from each parent. Hair loss in men is now felt to involve more than one gene. When several genes govern a trait, it is called polygenic.
Genes that are located on the X or Y-chromosomes are call sex-linked. Genes on the other 22 pairs of chromosomes are called autosomal. It is felt that the genes governing common baldness are autosomal (not sex linked). This means that the baldness trait can be inherited from the mother's side of the family or the father's side with equal frequency. The commonly held notion that baldness comes only from the mother's side of the family is incorrect, although for reasons not fully understood, the predisposition inherited from an affected mother is of slightly greater importance than that inherited from an affected father.
The term, "dominant" means that only one gene of a pair is needed for the trait to show up in the individual. A "recessive" gene means that both genes need to be present in order for the trait to be expressed. The genes involved in androgenetic alopecia are felt to be dominant.
Just because one has the genes for baldness, it doesn't mean the trait will manifest itself. The ability of a gene to affect one's characteristics, i.e. be visible in a particular individual, is called "expressivity". Gene expression is related to a number of factors, the major ones being hormones and age, although stress and other factors can play a role in some individuals.
It is of interest that, although genes for some types of male hair loss have been mapped, none of the genes for male pattern baldness have yet been identified. This suggests that any kind of genetic engineering to prevent common baldness is still many years away.

Hormones
Hormones are biochemical substances that are made in various glands throughout the body. These glands secrete their products directly into the bloodstream so that the chemical they make is spread throughout the body. These chemicals are very powerful so that only minute amounts of them have profound effects upon the body.
The major male sex hormone is called testosterone. Testosterone and other related hormones that have masculinizing effects are made primarily in the testicles; therefore, the hormonal levels that are seen in adults do not reached significant levels until the testicles develop and enlarge during puberty. In fact, these same hormones are the cause of many of the changes that occur in puberty; growth of phallus and scrotum, sperm production, development of a sex drive, change in the voice, growth of axillary and pubic hair, development of an adult aroma in the sweat, increase in bone and muscle mass, and change in the basic body shape.
These same hormones that cause acne and beard growth can also signal the beginning of baldness. The presence of androgens; testosterone, and its related hormone DHT, cause some follicles to regress and die. In addition to the testicles, the adrenal glands located above each of our kidneys, produce androgenic hormones, and this would be similar in both sexes. In females, the ovaries are an additional source of hormones that can affect hair.
The specific relationship between testosterone and hormonally induced hair loss in men was discovered by a psychiatrist early in this century. At that time, castration was commonly performed on patients with certain types of mental illness as it seemed to have a calming effect upon many patients and castration reduced the sex drive of patients who had no outlet for their desires. The doctor noted that the identical twin brother of one patient was bald while the mentally ill (castrated) twin had a full head of hair. The doctor decided to determine the effect of treating his patient with testosterone, which had recently become available in a purified form. He injected the hairy twin with testosterone to see what would happen. Within weeks, the hairy twin began to lose all but his wreath of permanent hair, just like his normal twin. The doctor, then, stopped giving the testosterone to see whether the process would be reversed, but the balding process continued and his patient never regained his full head of hair. It was apparent to him that eliminating testosterone will slow, or stop, further hair loss once it has begun, but it will not revive any dead follicles.
The hormone felt to be directly involved in androgenetic alopecia is actually dihydrotestosterone (DHT) rather than testosterone. DHT is formed by the action of the enzyme 5-a reductase on testosterone. DHT acts by binding to special receptor sites on the cells of the hair follicles to cause the specific changes associated with balding.
In men, 5-a reductase activity is higher in the balding area. This helps to explain the reason for the patterned alopecia that males experience. The enzyme 5-a reductase is inhibited by the hair loss medication finasteride (Propecia).
DHT decreases the length of the anagen (growing) cycle, and increases the telogen (resting) phase, so that with each new cycle the hair shaft becomes progressively smaller. In addition, DHT causes the bitemporal reshaping of hairline seen as adolescents enter adulthood, as well as patterned baldness (androgenetic alopecia). DHT also causes prostate enlargement in older men and adolescent and adult acne.
It is interesting that testosterone effects axillary and pubic hair, whereas DHT effects beard growth, hair on trunk and limbs, patterned baldness and the appearance of hair in the nose and ears (something that older men experience). Scalp hair growth, however, is not androgen dependent, only scalp hair loss depends on androgens.

Age
The presence of the necessary genes and hormones are not alone sufficient to cause baldness. Even after a person has reached puberty, susceptible hair follicles must continually be exposed to the hormone over a period of time for hair loss to occur. The age at which these effects finally manifest themselves varies from one individual to another and is related to a person's genetic composition and to the levels of testosterone in the bloodstream.
There is another time factor that is poorly understood. Male hair loss does not occur all at once nor in a steady, straight-line progression. Hair loss is characteristically cyclical. People who are losing their hair experience alternating periods of slow and rapid hair loss and even stability. Many of the factors that cause the rate of loss to speed up or slow down are unknown, but we do know that with age, a person's total hair volume will decrease.
Even when there is no predisposition to genetic balding, as a patient ages, some hairs randomly begin to miniaturize (shrink in length and width) in each follicular unit. As a result, each group will contain both of full terminal hairs and miniaturized hairs (similar to the very fine hairs that occur on the rest of the body and are clinically insignificant) making the area look less full. Eventually, the miniaturized hairs are lost, and the actual follicular units are reduced in number. In all adult patients, the entire scalp undergoes this aging process so that even the donor zone is not truly permanent, but will gradually thin, to some degree, over time. Fortunately, in most people, the donor zone retains enough permanent hair that hair transplantation is a viable procedure even for a patient well into his 70's.

Stress
You may have heard that stress can cause hair loss, and it’s true. Excessive physical or emotional stress, like that associated with injury, illness or surgery, can cause one of two types of hair loss :

The more common type is called telogen effluvium. With this less severe type of hair loss, the hair stops growing and lies dormant, only to fall out 2 or 3 months later. Then it grows back within 6 to 9 months.
The other type of stress-induced hair loss is known as alopecia areata, and involves a white blood cell attack on the hair follicles. With this type of hair loss, the hair also falls out within weeks (usually in patches), but can involve the entire scalp and even body hair. Hair may grow back on its own, but treatment may also be required.

Cellulite - Causes & Cures

2008-12-01T20:15:00.000-08:00

Why women have cellulite ?

More than 80% women know the meaning of cellulite. Moreover, even half of them think that cellulite destroys their ability to live a normal life. Let’s discuss what factors cause this hated defect.

Cellulite is a kind of fat tissue just below the surface of the skin. This layer of skin contains bands of connecting tissue that have many fat cells and is surrounded by a liquid that nourishes it and provides an effective waste system. The waste products should be removed, however, because when toxins are trapped in the skin, this connective tissue thickens and gives the dimpling effect of cellulite. This layer also thickens as we age, which can produce the rippling effect of cellulite too.

There is a difference between cellulite and fat, though, in that fat insulates the body and cushions the organs, nerves, and muscles. Cellulite, on the other hand, provides no padding and only occurs in certain areas on the body, such as the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and breasts.

Cellulite is not necessarily a factor of bodyweight. You don't have to be overweight to have cellulite. Though diet and lifestyle affect cellulite formation, a large part of cellulite is comprised of toxins and fat that build up in the body and can affect women of any size, weight, and body structure.

Usually, cellulite can be attributed to a combination of factors and isn't usually caused by just one. Below are the most common :

Bad food quality : Firstly, if you want get rid of cellulite - forget about fast food forever. Also, many women, who prefer to eat food full of trans fat acid (milk products and fat meat), suffer from cellulite more often then other ones. More to say, there was made a research and its results showed that in France and Japan, where people usually prefer to eat fish dishes and use much oil, there are less amount of women having the "orange peel" on the thighs. Bear in mind, that the fish oil improves peripheral blood circulation, so it is recommended to eat salmon, tuna, herring or scomber 2-3 times per week.
Diets : If a woman is on a diet for a long time, she will lose weight mostly from the upper part of body, but when she comes back to normal eating, she will usually gain weight on the buttock and thighs. Why is it so? There is a proportion of specific receptors in female’s body, which are responsible for fat storage and destruction: in the upper part of a body there are receptors that destruct fat and in the lower part that store fat. It means, that fast weight loss is not only unhealthy, but it also won’t help to get rid of cellulite, because woman will lose not only fat, but muscles too. Therefore, woman should better choose healthy eating and fitness instead of diets – it will help to restore skin’s elasticity, so cellulite will become not so visible.
Female hormones : Researchers had proved that cellulite belongs to the hormones’ balance in female organism, because they have an influence on the blood vessels. That is why cellulite usually appears during the adolescence, pregnancy, climacteric period and even when woman takes birth control pill. It means, that cellulite may appear even when you are only 14 years old.

Genetics : Does your mother or grandmother suffer from this condition ?

Lack of exercise : by following a strength training and cardiovascular program, you'll be able to lower your body fat as well as increase muscle tone, both of which can reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Insufficient water intake : water helps flush excess toxins from the body. Aim for at least 12 cups of water per day.

Smoking : you don't need me to tell you the evils of smoking, but perhaps you didn't know it can also contribute to cellulite formation. Smoking can weaken the skin due to the constriction of capillaries and damage the connective tissue that causes the dimpling effect of cellulite.
Stress : stress can cause muscles to seize up with tension while also causing the connective tissue that covers that muscle to seize up. Tension also blocks the tissue, preventing proper waste elimination and purification.

Now you know how it's caused and what it is ... But can you get rid of it ?

The only surefire way of reducing the appearance of cellulite is through consistent exercise, a healthy diet, and plenty of water to flush out the toxins.

Don't just rely on long, "slow-and-go" types of cardiovascular exercise alone to get rid of the cellulite. You'll have to incorporate some strength training into your workouts too to increase the muscle tone and also decrease body fat. Many women want to reduce body fat but also firm up their problem areas—becoming leaner and firmer—weight-training will defiantly help to re-shape your body by adding nice, lean, toned muscle tissue to the places you want to firm up.

A program that targets the lower body may be ideal for you. For instance, you could do lower body strength training twice per week but incorporate different exercises on both days.

Great exercises for glutes and thighs include :

Hamstring curls (on a machine or with a Swiss Ball)
Step-ups onto a flat exercise bench
Lunges—you can do a variety of lunges, such as walking lunges, stationary lunges, and split squats
Squats (barbell or on a Smith Machine)
Stiff-legged deadlifts (with dumbbells)
Hyperextensions

Aim for 15 to 20 reps on each exercise, and do three different exercises on each of your lower body days.

With regards to diet, losing weight won't eliminate all cellulite, so don't try to crash diet. This will cause your body to hold onto the fat and may even worsen the appearance of the cellulite. Aim for a healthy, low-fat lifestyle that incorporates plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates, and some essential fats. And be sure to limit "saturated" fats.

Do the creams, potions, and treatments work for reducing cellulite ?

Alleged "anti-cellulite" products include loofah sponges; cactus fibers; special washcloths; horsehair mitts; creams and gels to "dissolve" cellulite; supplements containing vitamins, minerals, and/or herbs; bath liquids, massagers, rubberized pants; exercise books; brushes; rollers; body wraps; and toning lotions. Many salons offer treatment with electrical muscle stimulation, vibrating machines, inflatable hip-high pressurized boots, "hormone" or "enzyme" injections, heating pads, and massage. I won't go through all these (especially the rubberized pants!), but let's touch on some of the more popular "solutions."

Cellulite creams and gels form the bulk of all cellulite treatments offered.

Some of the newer "body lift" creams such as Christian Dior's Svelte Perfect and Nivea's Body Skin Firming Lotion are all over the women's magazines. In fact, though, these are merely temporary solutions at best that work by plumping up the skin, giving it a sleeker appearance.

Endermologie treatments can be carried out at most day spas.

This is the first FDA-approved non-surgical cellulite treatment. This French machine kneads and massages the skin to release cellulite-forming toxins and increase circulation. Sessions run about $100 each, and it usually takes 10 to 15 sessions to see results. After that, it's recommended you have monthly maintenance sessions. Again, it's a temporary effect that you'd have to carry on with to continue to see results.

Body wraps are another popular treatment in day spas.

These treatments claim to be able to reduce inches off the waist, hips, thighs, and other areas of the body. Generally these facilities apply a special cream or lotion and then tightly wrap your body—often you're subjected to a heated sauna in your "mummified" state! Wraps do work to reduce some inches off the body; however, it's just temporary water weight, which is fine for a special event or night out, but it definitely doesn't reduce bodyfat levels. Losing the fat can only be done through a combination of diet and exercise.

Herbal supplements available in health-food stores.

Supplements such as borage oil, grapeseed extract, and Ginkgo biloba are believed to improve circulation, stimulate fat metabolism, and reduce localized fat storage. These haven't been clinically proven to work on cellulite, though, and a clinical study carried out in November 1999 on a popular herbal cellulite remedy showed no effect on cellulite or body fat levels. (Lis Balchin, M., "Parallel Placebo Controlled Clinical Study of a Mixture of Herbs Sold as a Remedy for Cellulite," Phtyother Res 13.7 (1999 Nov) : 627-9.)

Some of the above treatments may help smooth your skin and temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, but you'll get much better results by doing some of the strength training aimed at your particular trouble spots and taking another look at your nutrition to see if there's anything that can be eliminated, such as caffeine.

Many factors influence sexual potency

2008-12-01T20:01:00.000-08:00

Sexual potency can be influenced by various reasons. Many advertisments with regard to potency have brought the subject of impotence to the attention of thousands of people. Impotence was once a taboo subject, but attitudes are changing.Many men are taking help, particularly as large segments of the population age. Many men suffer from impotence. Estimates range from 12 million to 30 million men in the United States alone.

Approximately 75 percent to 85 percent of impotence is caused by medical rather than psychological reasons. Several factors that greatly influence the sexual potency of the aging male should be considered :

A physician should be consulted if the male questions his level of sexual desire or performance. Medical conditions such as diabetes, blood vessel disease, nerve injuries and low levels of male hormones can cause sexual impairment. Also, certain medications can affect sexual potency. The physicians often can modify doses of the medication which might decrease adverse side effects.
Smoking can be a factor. Smoking can affect genital blood flow and can decrease sexual capability.
Excessive intake of alcohol can have a negative effect on sex drive and performance, especially as one ages.
Being in good shape physically can certainly affect sexual desire and performance. Those wishing to enhance their sex life should seek to restore physical fitness.
Worry, depression, excessive stress and dissatisfaction in life can play a part in sexual satisfaction. A man unhappy with his job or worried about finances may need to explore these factors with a trained mental-health counselor if medical causes have been ruled out.
An abnormal decrease in sexual desire and performance can be linked to an unhealthy relationship. Negative feelings between husband and wife can be a major factor in sexual difficulties. - The belief that all sexual activity will cease at a certain age can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, but it is an unnecessary and even unhealthy belief. Some experts on human sexuality believe there is a correlation between longevity and sexual activity. The old saying ``use it or lose it'' applies here.

Therapies for impotence include medication changes, lifestyle changes, mechanical devises, oral medication and counseling.

smoking spreads cancer

2008-12-01T19:42:00.000-08:00

Smoking among women is on the rise. But the alarm bells are soaring against the same when the researchers identify that female smokers with breast cancer face an increased risk of their tumors spreading to the lungs and other organs than do nonsmokers

"There is a relationship between smoking and the spread of the disease," says study author Susan Murin, MD, associate professor of medicine at the University of California at Davis.

Dr. Murin says the research may help explain why breast cancer is more likely to be fatal among smokers as it is common for breast cancer to metastasize to the lung. Smoking also causes changes in the lungs that increase the risk of tumors spreading from other sites.

Inspite of the fact that it is not completely clear whether smoking provides a nidus in the lungs which envisages the spread, there may also be some lifestyle factors to explain the risk.

Murin also points out, however, that it's not completely clear whether smoking affects something in the lungs directly to make breast cancer more likely to spread or whether smoking causes a systemic response in the body that encourages cancers to grow and spread to other organs. There may also be other lifestyle factors unique to smokers that may also help explain the link. Smokers can still reduce their risk of dying by quitting - even after the cancer is diagnosed.

Smoking Is a Vital Cause among Impotent Men

2008-12-01T19:29:00.000-08:00

According to a recent study conducted among 8,000 men aged 16 to 59, it was found that men who smoke a packet of cigarettes a day are almost 40 % more likely to be impotent than non-smokers. They reported suffering erection problems for a month or more in the previous year. Those who smoked less than 20 cigarettes a day were 24 % more likely to report impotence problems. Anti-smoking campaigners welcome this kind of research as they think that it would discourage more people from smoking. The study results were published in the journal Tobacco Control. The researchers, including a team from Imperial College London, found that the more men smoked, the more likely they were to suffer erection problems. Older men and those with heart disease were also more likely to suffer from impotence. The Sexual Dysfunction Association (SDA) says smoking is a contributory factor in many cases of impotence. The main reason behind this is that nicotine present in the cigarette affects the circulatory system and blocks the blood vessels supplying blood to the sexual organs. Research also suggests a smoker who is diagnosed as impotent can be more difficult to treat than a non-smoker. The other disadvantage of smoking is that it increases the likelihood of developing abnormalities in the blood cells in the penis. Chris Millett, a researcher from Imperial College, said that about one in three British men aged 20 to 34 years is a smoker. Lung cancer and cardiovascular disease are the later effects of smoking but impotence may be a more immediate problem to tackle. The anti-smoking group Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) said that statistics show that about 700,000 men aged 30 to 50 in UK are smokers who would be suffering from impotence. Deborah Arnott, the director of ASH, said that, for decades, cigarettes had been marketed as a symbol of virility but the reality is that smoking is a primary cause of impotence, which may also be an early indicator of coronary heart disease.

Don't do this after meal

2008-12-01T19:16:00.000-08:00

Don't smoke - Experiment from experts proves that smoking a cigarette after meal is comparable to smoking 10 cigarettes (chances of cancer is higher).

Don't eat fruits immediately - Immediately eating fruits after meals will cause stomach to be bloated with air. Therefore take fruit 1-2 hr after meal or 1 hr before meal.

Don't drink tea - Because tea leaves contain a high content of acid. This substance will cause the Protein content in the food we consume to be hardened thus difficult to digest.

Don't loosen your belt - Loosening the belt after a meal will easily cause the intestine to be twisted & blocked.

Don't bathe - Bathing will cause the increase of blood flow to the hands, legs & body thus the amount of blood around the stomach will therefore decrease. This will weaken the digestive system in our stomach.

Don't walk about - People always say that after a meal walk a hundred steps and you will live till 99. In actual fact this is not true. Walking will cause the digestive system to be unable to absorb the nutrition from the food we intake.

Don't sleep immediately - The food we intake will not be able to digest properly. Thus will lead to gastric & infection in our intestine.

Choosing The Right Body Building Supplement

2008-12-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

Before wasting your money on a pile of bodybuilding supplements you really need to work out what you are hoping to achieve. Don't lose sight of the fact that sound nutrition forms the basis of any muscle building program and no amount of supplementation with the latest and greatest products will make up for bad eating habits. The bottom line is, bodybuilding supplements should be used in addition to regular food, not instead of it.

Now that we've got that out of the way, let's go on to think about what supplements could be of use and this is something that can only be determined by your physical and performance goals. Don't make the mistake of copying your training partners or believing all the garbage spouted in magazine ads. Decide first what you want to achieve and then choose the supplements that will help you reach your goals.

Determined to build muscle? This cannot be achieved without dedication, sheer hard work and sound nutrition. With a solid foundation in place you can help the process along with supplements like creatine, whey protein, prohormones, testosterone boosters and amino acids.

Need to lose fat? There is no point in building awesome muscles if they're covered by layers of fat. Once again, the key to success is hard work but you can boost fat loss by using products from supplement categories that include fat burners, stimulant-free products, appetite suppressants and carb blockers.

Many more supplements are available to support your bodybuilding endeavors. These include energy boosters and products aimed at enhancing the condition of your mind and body.

Muscle Building Tips : Do's and Dont's

2008-12-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

Muscle Building Diet: It occupies a prominent area in MUSCLE BUILDING pie-chart. You should be highly careful related to your muscle building diet. Always ask your trainer to write down a diet schedule for you.
Stretching properly to facilitate easy growth...
Give rest to your body between two sets, say for two minutes.
Not work on more than two muscle groups at a time. Train those mucles in a group which work with each other. This technique has proven to be effective. For example: Chest and Triceps or biceps and backs.
Don't be biased to any body part. Proper balance is a necessity. Having big upper body and skinny legs is no good. Work out on entire body.
Don't neglect the window of opportunity for rapid growth by not taking Whey protein and creatine immediately after training...
always focussing your mental muscle on who you want to become

How to Gain Weight and Build More Muscle !

2008-11-30T23:04:00.000-08:00

For many thin guys around the world, gaining weight without using illegal steroids has been a challenge. For thousands of lean young men, the dream is to gain weight, but no matter how much they eat they remain thin. Some people are naturally thin; that means their genetic makeup is in such a way that the body burns more calories than others. The very basic method of weight gain is to eat more calories than your body burns off. By providing the body with more calories, this balance can be altered and body mass can be increased. Weight training is of great importance in this context, which enables the body to absorb more nutrients from the food by increasing the level of certain hormones and increasing the muscle mass.

There are many incorrect beliefs and theories bout building muscle. The type of food to be eaten is an important factor which decides the type of weight gained, whether it is muscle mass or mere accumulation of fat. Some types of calories are not equal to others for gaining muscle; because most processed junk food contains empty, totally nutritionless calories. These foods promote accelerated fat storage, and do not provide the body with the correct nutrients essential for gaining muscle. High quality protein, which the body breaks down into amino acids, should be the centerpiece of all your meals. Intense exercise increases demand for amino acids, which support muscle repair and growth.

Another factor is the selection of the right type of weight training. Resistance exercises will help with muscle growth. Whereas aerobic exercises can result in the reduction of weight. For maximum muscle gain, the focus of your workouts should consist of free weight exercises, rather than machines or bodyweight exercises. To get a very effective workout, you must stimulate as many muscle fibers as possible, and machines do not do this. The main reason for this is a lack of stabilizer and synergist muscle development. Stabilizer and synergist muscles are supporting muscles that assist the main muscle in performing a complex lift.

The results of weight training can vary from person to person, and will usually depend on your consistency and commitment to your program. You should have the patience and motivation for building a powerful body with a consistent diet and exercise schedule.

Exercise Guidelines for building muscle

Weight training involves the use of equipment that enables variable resistance. This resistance can come in the form of free weights like barbells and dumbbells, machines that use cables or pulleys to help you lift the weight, and bodyweight exercises like pull-ups or dips. The more stabilizers and synergists you work, the more muscle fibers stimulated. The exercises that work the large muscle groups are called compound (or multi-joint) movements that involve the simultaneous stimulation of many muscle groups. These compound exercises should be the foundation of any weight training program because they stimulate the most amount of muscle in the least amount of time. Multi-jointed free weight exercises like the bench press require many stabilizer and synergistic muscle assistance to complete the lift.

Free weight exercises like the dumbbell press or squat put a very large amount of stress on supporting muscle groups. You will get fatigued faster and not be able to lift as much weight as you did on the machine. But you will gain more muscle, become stronger very quickly and have a true gauge of your strength.

If you use machines in your program, they should be used to work isolated areas and only after all multi-jointed exercises have been completed. Beginners should begin with a limited combination of machine exercises, bodyweight exercises and multi-jointed free weight exercises. Before increasing the weight levels, they should work on becoming familiar with the proper form and execution of each.

The following are some proven basic exercises to encourage muscle and strength gain unlike any other exercises.

Bench Presses - works the chest, shoulders, triceps

Overhead Presses - shoulders, triceps

Pull-ups/Barbell Rows - back, bicep

Squats - legs, lower back

Dead lifts - legs, back, shoulders

Bar Dips -shoulders, chest, arms

To build mass, you must weight train with heavy weights. To consider a weight heavy, you should only be able to do a maximum of 4-8 reps before your muscles temporarily fail. A weight is considered 'light' if you can do more than 15 reps before muscle fatigue sets in. Heavy weights stimulate more muscle fibers than lighter weights which result in more muscle growth. Heavy weight training puts a huge strain on your body, so adequate rest and recuperation after your workouts is essential.

Eating guidelines for building muscle

A high protein diet is an inevitable part of any weight training programme, importantly, protein derived from animal sources. Proteins you need to be concerned with are those found in whey, casein (cottage cheese), eggs, beef, poultry, and fish. Soy protein, tofu and bean curd are some alternatives. Eating the right amount of foods consistently will force your body to grow beyond what you may think possible. The diet also should contain an adequate amount of carbohydrates (potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, oatmeal, cream of wheat, cream of rice, rice, beans, bread, pasta, all cereals) and fat. Green leafy vegetables and fruits also should be included.

When you train with weights, you should eat a minimum of 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight. You also must have protein at every meal. To enable your body to actually assimilate and use the all the calories you will ingest, you have to reduce your meal size and increase your meal frequency. Splitting your calories into smaller, more frequent portions will enable food absorption and utilization of nutrients.

During the past 20 years there have been great developments in the scientific understanding of the role of nutrition in health and physical performance. Studies shown that adequate dietary carbohydrate should be ingested (55-60% of total energy intake) so that training intensity can be maintained. Excess dietary saturated fat can exacerbate coronary artery disease; however, low-fat diets result in a reduction in circulating testosterone. So the balance between protein, carbohydrate and fat should be maintained.

So the focus on weight gain programmes must be on two components, lifting heavy weights, which will stimulate the largest amount of muscle fibers. Your body responds to this stimulus by increasing your muscle mass and secondly eat more calories than your body is used to. When you overload your system with plenty of protein and fats, your body has no other choice but to gain weight.

A Mass Gaining program is incomplete without the timely measurements to monitor your progress. Without it, you won't know how exactly your body is responding to your diet and training routine. Just looking in the mirror and guessing is not acceptable. If you want to start getting great results, you must develop the habit of accurately tracking your progress. This also provides the motivation to continue with the weight gain schedule and for the further progression. So even though you have a very thin body type, and haven't been able to gain weight no matter what you try, you will definitely succeed with a well planned weight gain programme.

Best Fat Burning Strength Exercises

2008-11-30T22:59:00.000-08:00

This is the best calorie burning exercises that you can use to get the most out of your workouts in the shortest amount of time. All of this exercises will help you lose abdominal fat because they work A LOT of muscle.

PUSH UPS - are an exercise that will work your chest while the rest of your body stays straight. Push ups can get your upper body very strong. If you aren't used to doing push ups you can always do them from your knees at first. Doing a lot of push ups will challenge anyone and will help you develop some nice definition in the upper body.

SQUATS - are great because they work your whole lower body. Squats are just like standing up from a chair except. You can do them slow with weight to build muscle or fast and quick to get your heart rate up. Squats make your lower body strong and will burn lots of calories.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS - are an exercise that will work your whole body and especially your core. Mountain climbers can be very challenging if you do them fast because this really burns a lot of calories which results with being able to burn abdominal fat more efficiently. They start with getting in the push up position and alternate brining each knee to your midsection with a sort of "running" motion.

PLANKS - are an exercise that will certainly make your core muscles work hard. Doing planks consists of facing the ground while in a horizontal position and supporting all your weight with your toes and your forearms. You lift your hips a few inches off the ground and keep the glutes and abs tight.

DUMBBELL PUSH PRESSES - combined squats and overhead dumbbell presses into one exercise. You squat down and then push the dumbbells overhead when as your squat upward. If you do 25 straight reps you will really feel all the muscles in your body working hard. This is a great example of combining strength training and cardiovascular training into one exercise.

LUNGES - will really work your whole lower body. Lunges are essentially like squats except that you take a big step forward while lowering and raising your torso from the ground. Remember to keep your abdominal muscle tight the whole time to keep the core muscles working hard. Lunges will make your legs very strong and will burn a lot of calories. If you have never done lunges before then you might feel a little leg soreness the next day - which is a good thing!

Performing the above exercises in a "circuit" format is a great way to put together a workout that will burn lots of calories, get your stronger, and lose stomach fat. This type of workout will also increase your resting metabolism so that you are still burning calories after you are finished exercising. You can achieve great gains in strength, more lean muscle mass, and better cardiovascular conditioning by using exercises like the ones in this article!

If you focus on doing total body workouts and doing cardiovascular training, you can maximize the amount of calories you can burn off with exercise. This is how you burn abdominal fat with exercise. Notice that we are not talking about doing any crunches or sit ups. These exercises do not burn many calories and they are not a very efficient use of your time in the gym. Use these exercises with a smart diet and you can burn abdominal fat faster than you ever thought possible.

DO NOT train on an empty stomach

2008-11-30T22:57:00.000-08:00

One of the great arguments in fitness and nutrition that may never get settled is whether or not to do cardio on an empty stomach. "Fasted cardio", say its proponents, will allow you to burn more fat than if you eat beforehand.

Let's look at the pros and cons of this approach.

Glycogen is the stored carbohydrate that your body uses as its preferred fuel source during exercise. The fasted cardio crowd says that because glycogen is somewhat depleted in the morning after the night's fast, your body will burn a greater percentage of fat during training as its next resort.

Now a smart nutritionist will tell you that your body can store glycogen for 12 to 16 hours before it absolutely must be replenished by a meal. If it isn't, your body will turn to MUSCLE to break down for glucose (quick energy). This isn't negotiable. With trace levels of glycogen in your system, your body CAN'T burn fat. It has to use muscle. When you burn up muscle, you're basically inviting your body to store more fat, not to mention look and feel weaker and flabbier. Sucks, doesn't it?

Most of us have some sort of meal within two hours before we go to bed and we rarely sleep for more than 8 hours, so if you get up and start training 10 or so hours after your last meal, your glycogen will be low, but it won't be gone. So it could be argued that you'll have just enough glycogen left to allow your body to burn fat, but low enough levels that you'll burn more fat than normal to compensate for it.

Now the question becomes what kind of cardio you're doing. The fasted cardio believers usually say to keep it to a light jog or elliptical session for around 45 minutes. When your body exercises at a low intensity, it does use more fat than carbohydrate. However, because the work is easier, you're not burning as many calories. It's pretty clear that you couldn't run sprints or do some other high-intensity exercise as the lack of glycogen in your system wouldn't allow for it. You'd feel tired and you wouldn't be able to train hard. Worse, you'd force your body to harvest muscle that much sooner.

With all this said, I recommend that you DO NOT train on an empty stomach. Yes, many bodybuilders do it, and they're huge. But they're also bodybuilders, and thanks to good genetics, a high level of muscle mass, and - sometimes - steroids, muscle burning isn't as big a problem for them. If in fact you do burn more fat on an empty stomach, and let's say you avoid burning up any muscle for fuel, it's still not going to get you the best results in the least time. Scores of studies and a ton of evidence as presented by the world's best trainers shows that brief, intense workouts are best for making drastic and lasting changes to your body--building muscle and burning fat.

You'll be able to burn more calories in a session if you train after a solid meal, and you'll support muscle mass, which burns calories all day long just by sitting on your body. So if you want to lose fat and get a lean, ripped look, I would recommend the following.

Perform strength training three days a week and cardio three days a week. The time of day isn't important, as long as the cardio does not directly precede the strength training. Let the cardio be interval training. For example, sit on an exercise bike and pedal hard for 10 seconds, and then easy for 20-30 seconds. Repeat that for 15-20 minutes. You can also sprint, jump rope, do circuits of body-weight exercises... it doesn't really matter. Just adhere to the idea that you have to train hard for short bursts, and then go easy a little while to recover.

Eat a carbohydrate-dense meal about an hour before every workout, such as oatmeal or a whole-grain cereal, and have a protein and carb meal soon afterward, such as chicken and rice.

Some things to avoid during pregnancy

2008-11-29T09:00:00.000-08:00

When you're pregnant, what you don't put into your body (or expose your body to) is almost as important as what you do.

Here are some things to avoid :

Alcohol

Although it may seem harmless to have a glass of wine at dinner or a mug of beer out with friends, no one has determined what's a "safe amount" of alcohol to consume during pregnancy. One of the most common known causes of mental and physical birth defects, alcohol can cause severe abnormalities in a developing fetus.

Alcohol is easily passed along to the baby, who is less equipped to eliminate alcohol than the mother. That means an unborn baby tends to develop a high concentration of alcohol, which stays in the baby's system for longer periods than it would in the mother's. And moderate alcohol intake, as well as periodic binge drinking, can damage a baby's developing nervous system.

If you had a drink or two before you even knew you were pregnant (as many women do), don't worry too much about it. But your best bet is to not drink any alcohol at all for the rest of your pregnancy.

Recreational Drugs
Pregnant women who use drugs may be placing their unborn babies at risk for premature birth, poor growth, birth defects, and behavior and learning problems. And their babies could also be born addicted to those drugs themselves.

If you're pregnant and using drugs, a health clinic such as Planned Parenthood can recommend health care providers, at little or no cost, who can help you quit your habit and have a healthier pregnancy.

If you've used any drugs at any time during your pregnancy, it's important to inform your health care provider. Even if you've quit, your unborn child could still be at risk for health problems.

Nicotine

You wouldn't light a cigarette, put it in your baby's mouth, and encourage your little one to puff away. As ridiculous as this scenario seems, pregnant women who continue to smoke are allowing their fetus to smoke, too. The smoking mother passes nicotine and carbon monoxide to her growing baby.

The risks of smoking to the fetus include:

stillbirth
prematurity
low birth weight
sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
asthma and other respiratory problems

If you smoke, having a baby may be the motivation you need to quit. Talk to your health care provider about options for stopping your smoking habit.

Caffeine

High caffeine consumption has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, so it's probably wise to limit or even avoid caffeine altogether if you can.

If you're having a hard time cutting out coffee cold turkey, here's how you can start:

Cut your consumption down to one or two cups a day.
Gradually reduce the amount by combining decaffeinated coffee with regular coffee.
Eventually try to cut out the regular coffee altogether.

And remember that caffeine is not limited to coffee. Many teas, colas, and other soft drinks contain caffeine. Try switching to decaffeinated products (which may still have some caffeine, but in much smaller amounts) or caffeine-free alternatives.

If you're wondering whether chocolate, which also contains caffeine, is a concern, the good news is that you can have it in moderation. Whereas the average chocolate bar has anywhere from 5 to 30 milligrams of caffeine, there's 95 to 135 milligrams in a cup of brewed coffee. So, small amounts of chocolate are fine.

Certain Foods

Although you need to eat plenty of healthy foods during pregnancy, you also need to avoid food-borne illnesses, such as listeriosis and toxoplasmosis, which can be life-threatening to an unborn baby and may cause birth defects or miscarriage.

Foods you'll want to steer clear of include:

soft, unpasteurized cheeses (often advertised as "fresh") such as feta, goat, Brie, Camembert, and blue cheese
unpasteurized milk, juices, and apple cider
raw eggs or foods containing raw eggs, including mousse, tiramisu, raw cookie dough, homemade ice cream, and Caesar dressing (although some store-bought brands of the dressing may not contain raw eggs)
raw or undercooked meats, fish (sushi), or shellfish
processed meats such as hot dogs and deli meats (unless they are reheated until steaming)

Also, although fish and shellfish can be an extremely healthy part of your pregnancy diet (they contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and are high in protein and low in saturated fat), you should avoid eating:

shark
swordfish
king mackerel
tilefish
tuna steak

These types of fish may contain high levels of mercury, which can cause damage to the developing brain of a fetus. When you choose seafood, limit the total amount to about 12 ounces per week — that's about two meals. Also, if you eat canned tuna, limit consumption to no more than 6 ounces per week. Also, check any local advisories before consuming recreationally caught fish.

Changing the Litter Box

Pregnancy is the prime time to get out of cleaning kitty's litter box. Why? Because toxoplasmosis can be spread through soiled cat litter boxes and can cause serious problems, including prematurity, poor growth, and severe eye and brain damage. A pregnant woman who becomes infected often has no symptoms but can still pass the infection on to her developing baby.

Over the Counter and Prescriptions Medications

Even common over-the-counter medications that are generally safe may be considered off-limits during pregnancy because of their potential effects on the baby. And certain prescription medications may also cause harm to the developing fetus.

To make sure you don't take anything that could be harmful to your baby:

Ask your health care provider which medicines — both over-the-counter and prescription — are safe to take during pregnancy.
Talk to your health care provider about any prescription drugs you're taking.
Let all of your health care providers know that you're pregnant so that they'll keep that in mind when recommending or prescribing any medications.
Also remember to discuss natural remedies, supplements, and vitamins.

If you were prescribed a medication before you became pregnant for an illness, disease, or condition you still have, consult with your health care provider, who can help you weigh potential benefits and risks of continuing your prescription.

If you become sick (e.g., with a cold) or have symptoms that are causing you discomfort or pain (like a headache or backache), talk to your health care provider about medications you can take and alternative ways to help you feel better without medication.

Healthy pregnancy

2008-11-29T08:38:00.000-08:00

Staying healthy during pregnancy depends on the mother. Key to protecting the health of your child is to get regular prenatal care. If you think you're pregnant, call your health care provider to schedule an appointment. You should schedule your first examination as soon as you think that you are pregnant.

At this first visit, your health care provider likely do a pregnancy test, and will figure out how many weeks pregnant you are based on a physical examination and the date of your last period. He or she will also use this information to predict your delivery date (however, an ultrasound performed sometime during your pregnancy will help to verify that date).
If you're healthy and there are no complicating risk factors, most health care providers will want to see you:

every 4 weeks until the 28th week of pregnancy
then every 2 weeks until 36 weeks
then once a week until delivery

Throughout your pregnancy, your health care provider will check your weight and blood pressure while also checking the growth and development of your baby (by doing things like feeling your abdomen, listening for the fetal heartbeat starting during the second trimester, and measuring your belly). During the span of your pregnancy, you'll also have prenatal test, including blood, urine, and cervical tests, and probably at least one ultrasound.

If you still need to choose a health care provider to counsel and treat you during your pregnancy, there are several options:

obstetricians/gynecologists (also known as OB/GYNs — doctors who specialize in pregnancy and childbirth, as well as women's health care)
family practitioners (doctors who provide a range of services for patients of all ages — in some cases, this includes obstetrical care)
certified nurse-midwives (advanced practice nurses specializing in women's health care needs, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum care for uncomplicated pregnancies; there are also other kinds of midwives, but you should look for one with formal training who's been certified in the field)

Any of these is a good choice if you're healthy and there's no reason to anticipate complications with your pregnancy and delivery. However, nurse-midwives do need to have a doctor available for the delivery in case an unexpected problem arises or a cesarean section (C-section) has to be performed.

Nutrition and Supplements

Now that you're eating for two (or more!), this is not the time to cut calories or go on a diet. In fact, it's just the opposite — you need about 300 extra calories a day, especially later in your pregnancy when your baby grows quickly. If you're very thin, very active, or carrying multiples, you'll need even more. But if you're overweight, your health care provider may advise that you consume fewer extra calories.

Healthy eating is always important, but especially when you're pregnant. So, make sure your calories come from nutritious foods that will contribute to your baby's growth and development.

Try to maintain a well-balanced diet that incorporates the dietary guidelines including:

lean meats
fruits
vegetables
whole-grain breads
low-fat dairy product

By eating a healthy, balanced diet you're more likely to get the nutrients you need. But you will need more of the essential nutrients (especially calcium, iron, and folic acid) than you did before you became pregnant. Your health care provider will prescribe prenatal vitamins to be sure both you and your growing baby are getting enough.

But taking prenatal vitamins doesn't mean you can eat a diet that's lacking in nutrients. It's important to remember that you still need to eat well while pregnant. Prenatal vitamins are meant to supplement your diet not be your only source of much-needed nutrients.

Calcium

Most women 19 and older — including those who are pregnant — don't often get the daily 1,000 mg of calcium that's recommended. Because your growing baby's calcium demands are high, you should increase your calcium consumption to prevent a loss of calcium from your own bones. Your doctor will also likely prescribe prenatal vitamins for you, which may contain some extra calcium.

Good sources of calcium include:

low-fat dairy products including milk, pasteurized cheese, and yogurt
calcium-fortified products, including orange juice, soy milk, and cereals
dark green vegetables including spinach, kale, and broccoli
tofu
dried beans
almonds

Iron

Pregnant women need about 30 mg of iron every day. Why? Because iron is needed to make hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells. Red blood cells circulate throughout the body to deliver oxygen to all its cells.

Without enough iron, the body can't make enough red blood cells and the body's tissues and organs won't get the oxygen they need to function well. So it's especially important for pregnant women to get enough iron in their daily diets — for themselves and their growing babies.

Although the nutrient can be found in various kinds of foods, iron from meat sources is more easily absorbed by the body than iron found in plant foods. Iron-rich foods include:

red meat
dark poultry
salmon
eggs
tofu
enriched grains
dried beans and peas
dried fruits
dark leafy green vegetables
blackstrap molasses
iron-fortified breakfast cereals

Folate (Folic Acid)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all women of childbearing age — and especially those who are planning a pregnancy — get about 400 micrograms (0.4 milligrams) of folic acid supplements every day. That can be from a multivitamin or folic acid supplement in addition to the folic acid found in food.

So, why is folic acid so important? Studies have shown that taking folic acid supplements 1 month prior to and throughout the first 3 months of pregnancy decrease the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%.

The neural tube — formed during the several weeks of the pregnancy, possibly before a woman even knows she's pregnant — goes on to become the baby's developing brain and spinal cord. When the neural tube doesn't form properly, the result is a neural tube defect such as spina bifida.

Again, your health care provider can prescribe a prenatal vitamin that contains the right amount of folic acid. Some pregnancy health care providers even recommend taking an additional folic acid supplement, especially if a woman has previously had a child with a neural tube defect.

If you're buying an over-the-counter supplement, keep in mind that most multivitamins contain folic acid, but not all of them have enough folic acid to meet the nutritional needs of a pregnant woman. So, be sure to check labels carefully before choosing one and check with your health care provider.

Fluids

It's also important to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, during pregnancy. A woman's blood volume increases dramatically during pregnancy, and drinking enough water each day can help prevent common problems such as dehydration and constipation.

Exercises

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes (that's 2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week if you're not already highly active or doing vigorous-intensity activity. If you are very active or did intense aerobic activities before becoming pregnant, you may be able to keep up your workouts, as long as your doctor says it's safe. Before beginning — or continuing — any exercise regimen talk to your doctor first.

Exercising during pregnancy has been shown to be extremely beneficial. Regular exercise can help:

prevent excess weight gain
reduce pregnancy related problems, like back pain, swelling, and constipation
improve sleep
increase energy
improve outlook
prepare for labor
lessen recovery time

Low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise activities (such as walking and swimming) are great choices. You can also opt for yoga or Pilates classes, DVDs, or videos that are tailored for pregnancy. These are both low-impact and work on strength, flexibility, and relaxation.

But you should limit high-impact aerobics and avoid certain sports and activities that pose a risk of falling or abdominal injury. Typical limitations include contact sports, downhill skiing, and horseback riding.

It's also important to be aware of how your body changes. During pregnancy, your body produces a hormone known as relaxin, which is believed to help prepare the pubic area and the cervix for the birth. The relaxin loosens the ligaments in your body, making you less stable and more prone to injury.

So, it's easy to overstretch or strain yourself, especially the joints in your pelvis, lower back, and knees. In addition, your center of gravity shifts as your pregnancy progresses, so you may feel off-balance and at risk of falling. Keep these in mind when you choose an activity and don't overdo it.

Whatever type of exercise you choose, make sure to take frequent breaks and remember to drink plenty of fluids. And use common sense — slow down or stop if you get short of breath or feel uncomfortable. If you have any questions about doing a certain sport or activity during your pregnancy, talk to your health care provider for specific guidelines.

Sleep

It's important to get enough sleep during your pregnancy. Your body is working hard to accommodate a new life, so you'll probably feel more tired than usual. And as your baby gets bigger, it will be harder to find a comfortable position when you're trying to sleep.

Lying on your side with your knees bent is likely to be the most comfortable position as your pregnancy progresses. It also makes your heart's job easier because it keeps the baby's weight from applying pressure to the large blood vessels that carry blood to and from your heart and your feet and legs. Lying on your side can also help prevent or reduce varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and swelling in your legs.

Some doctors specifically recommend that pregnant women sleep on the left side. Because one of those big blood vessels is on the right side of your abdomen, lying on your left side helps keep the uterus off of it. Lying on your left side optimizes blood flow to the placenta and, therefore, your baby.

Ask what your health care provider recommends. In most cases, lying on either side should do the trick and help take some pressure off your back. To create a more comfortable resting position either way, prop pillows between your legs, behind your back, and underneath your belly.

The habits that make prematurely-aging skin

2008-11-29T01:16:00.000-08:00

Many of the external causes of aging skin are determined by the health and lifestyle decisions you make every day. Making unhealthy choices can cause prematurely aging skin, and this makes you look older, faster.

An important part of any anti-aging skin care program is to know what you may be doing that is harming your skin and speeding up your skin's aging process.

Cigarette smoke
Whether you smoke, or you spend time with a smoker, cigarette smoke is damaging -- and aging -- to your skin. Research has shown that exposure to cigarette smoke significantly increases skin wrinkles and dryness. This is partly due to the behavior of smoking, and also because cigarette smoke depletes your body of vitamin C, which is a key ingredient for keeping skin plump and moist.
Some researchers believe that exposure to cigarette smoke (whether you smoke or not) is as damaging to aging skin as exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Sun exposure
Sun exposure is very aging to skin. Unprotected skin that is exposed to the sun becomes more mottled in appearance. Freckles can turn into brown sun spots, the skin takes on a dry, leathery appearance, and wrinkles and sagging increase. The risk of skin cancer is significantly increased by sun exposure.
The good news is that sun damage is avoidable, and if you start now, you can improve the condition of sun damaged skin.

See your health care provider to assess the amount of sun damage you may have, and to rule out possible skin cancers. He or she may be able to prescribe medication that can help to reduce existing sun damage.
If you want to avoid aging skin but don’t want to avoid the sun, make sure you use sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Choose sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher, and use it all year-round, even on cloudy days. Clouds do not protect you from ultraviolet ray exposure.

Lack of exercise
Living a sedentary life contributes to aging skin, because exercise helps to tone your muscles and get your blood flowing. Exercise should be an important part of every anti-aging skin care program. Researchers have also discovered that sedentary older adults are at higher risk for dementia.
In addition to the physical benefits of exercise, the benefits of a regular exercise program will show on your face. Having a bright smile and lots of energy will help you look and feel younger, at any age.

Exposure to cold weather
Cold winds and low temperatures contribute to aging skin by making skin dry, so if you venture out in the cold be sure to use a good moisturizer.
It’s important to use moisturizer indoors too, as heated rooms can be very drying to skin. Consider using a humidifier to help keep your skin more comfortable and reduce the aging skin effects of heated rooms.

Alcohol use
Alcohol contributes to aging skin by dilating small blood vessels in the skin and increasing blood flow near the skin's surface. Over time, these blood vessels can become permanently damaged, creating a flushed appearance and broken vessels on the skin’s surface.

Stress
Maybe you’ve heard this expression: “Don’t frown, your face could stay that way.” Stress and worry cause frowning, and over time the muscles in the face actually conform to that movement.
To help reduce aging skin due to stress, be aware of your stress level and try to vary your facial expressions during the day. A good anti-aging skin care program should include meditation, yoga, gentle exercise or other relaxation techniques. Keeping stress in check -- and frown lines and aging skin wrinkles to a minimum -- will help you look and feel younger.

Lack of sleep
Too little sleep makes you look and feel tired. One of the first places lack up sleep shows up is on the face, with dark circles and bags under the eyes, and sagging skin. Lack of sleep is also a major factor in memory loss and symptoms of depression that include low interest in daily activities and negative thinking.
Research has shown that most adults function best with 8-9 hours of sleep each night. Reduce caffeine during the day (with none in the evening), avoid eating at least 2 hours before bedtime, and maintain a sleep routine that includes going to bed at the same time each night.

How to make natural facial masks

2008-11-29T00:45:00.000-08:00

Here is several natural aids have been found useful in promoting healthy and beautiful skin.

Lime Juice

Lime juice is an important natural aid for healthy skin.

1. To cure pimples

Squeeze lime into a bowl. Add a glass of boiled whole milk and a teaspoon of glycerin to it. Stir well and let it stay for half an hour. Apply this mixture on the face, hands and feet before going to bed at night. This treatment every night will help you to look young and beautiful. It will also help cure pimples.

2. For very oily skin

Squeeze lemon juice in a bowl of iced water. Splash this over the face, massage for five minutes and then wash off with water.

3. To improve a dull and greasy complexion

Mix half teaspoon of lime juice with one teaspoon of cucumber juice and a few drops of rose water. Apply on the face and neck and leave on for 15 minutes. Remove with water.

4. To improve a dry and rough skin

Take an egg yolk and mix in a few drops of lime and olive oil. Spread on the face and leave it till the skin feels dry. Wash off with ordinary water and splash on cold water.

5. To relieve tired eyes

Take four tablespoons each of lime juice and iced water. Saturate cotton pads in this water and place over your closed eyelids for 10 minutes.

6. To remove freckles

Blanch and grind two almonds. Mix it with white of an egg to which half teaspoon of lime juice has been added. Spread on the face and leave it on till the skin feels dry. Then, wash off first with warm water and then with cold water.

Peach Treatment

The skin of the peach is useful in improving the complexion.

Gently massage the inside of peach peelings on the face every night for a few minutes. Don't rub off the moisture afterwards. This will cleanse the skin thoroughly and free the pores. It also has an astringent action and tightens the muscle of the face slightly, thus preventing sagging tissues.

Honey

Combine 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of honey. Smooth over your face and rinse after 15 minutes. Honey is popular in facial treatments for dry skin.

Strawberry

Mix 1 cup of over-ripe strawberries and 1/4 cup of cornstarch to make a drawing facial mask for deep-cleaning the skin. Leave on for 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly

Orange Tonic

Blanch and grind a couple of almonds to a paste and mix in two tablespoons of milk and one tablespoon each of carrot and orange juice. Apply thickly on face and neck and leave on for half an hour. Removes scars and blemishes from the face and makes it soft and smooth.

Watermelon Juice

The juice of water-melon is useful in the removal of blemishes on the skin.

Prepare a lotion by grating and squeezing the juice of a small slice of water-melon. Apply this lotion over the face and neck for fifteen minutes. Wash with hot water. Follow this by a splash of cold water.

Tomato

Tomato, used externally, is good for getting a good complexion.

Apply the pulp of a tomato liberally on the face. Leave this for an hour. Then wash off with warm water. Repeat this daily. You will have a good complexion. It will also remove ugly-looking pimples in a short time.

Cucumber

Grate or blend a cucumber. Apply this over the face, eyes and neck for 15 to 20 minutes. It is a great tonic for the facial skin. Regular use of cucumber prevents pimples, blackheads, wrinkles, and dryness of the face.

Almonds

Make a paste of almonds with mild cream and fresh rosebud paste. Apply it daily over the face. This softens and bleaches the skin and nourishes it with the choicest skin-food. Regular application of this mixture prevents the early appearance of wrinkles, blackheads, dryness of the skin, pimples. It also keeps the face refreshed.

To improve rough and dry complexion

Take a teaspoon of almond oil and mix it with half a teaspoon each of milk cream and lime juice. Apply every night before going to bed both on the face and on the neck.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a very important natural beauty aid.

Apply yogurt on the face every morning. Wash it off after a few minutes with cold water. This will keep the complexion smooth, healthy and fresh. A mixture of yogurt and lemon juice is ideal for softening hands.

A paste of lentil and yogurt, applied as a mask, cleanses the skin and gives it a glow. Let it dry. When dried, remove it with fingertips and wash off with water.
Honey, olive oil and a mixture of turmeric and sandalwood paste are all very effective in rejuvenating dry , parched skin.

Apple Tonic

Mix one tablespoon of apple juice with one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice. Leave on for 20 minutes. Makes excellent tonic for combating oily skin.

Amaranth Juice Treatment

The juice of amaranth, applied over the face with a pinch of turmeric powder, bleaches the skin, prevents it from drying and wrinkling, cures pimples and makes one look fresh.

Add to this mixture milk and lime juice. Massage the mixture delicately over the face and neck for half an hour. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this every night before going to bed. This is an effective skin tonic that increases and retains its beauty.

Mint Juice

Application of fresh mint juice over the face every night, cures pimples and prevents dryness of the skin. The juice can also be applied over eczema and contact dermatitis with beneficial results.

Cabbage Mask

Grind a couple of cabbage leaves and extract juice. Dissolve one-fourth teaspoon of yeast in it and stir in one teaspoon of honey. Mix well and apply thickly over face and neck. Keep it for 15 minutes. Remove with cotton-wool soaked in water. This mask will counteract any tendency towards wrinkles and dryness and give your skin a flower-like bloom.

Tangerine Juice Treatment

The use of orange or tangerine juice has also been found valuable for a glowing complexion.

Dip your fingers in fresh tangerine or orange juice. Apply it liberally over your face, chin, neck, and forehead. Make a paste from the powdered sun dried pips of unripe oranges. Use this paste on the pimples and acne at bed time.

Cleansing Lotion

To one-fourth teaspoon of lime juice stir in one teaspoon each of milk and cucumber juice. Apply on the face and neck and wash off after 14 minutes. This lotion cleanses and purifies the pores of the skin.

Anti-wrinkle cream

Mix a teaspoon of olive oil with an egg. Smoothen the face and neck with it. Let it remain till the skin gets dry.

To Remove The Cream:

Add a teaspoon of soda bicarbonate to hot water. Stir. Dip a piece of cotton-wool to this mixture and use it to remove the cream.

Natural Beauty Mask

Ingredients

1 tablespoon of gram flour

1/4 teaspoon orange peel powder

1 tablespoon beaten yogurt

1 teaspoon olive oil

Mix the ingredients well and apply the paste to your face and neck. Let it remain till the skin starts feeling a little dry and then rub your face with your hands till it glows.

Wash your face first with warm water and then with cold water. This will remove all the embarrassing blemishes from the skin and make the skin soft and smooth.

To improve a dark and dull complexion

Ingredients

1 teaspoon of gram flour

pinch of turmeric powder

few drops of lime juice

1/2 teaspoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon milk

Mix the ingredients together. Apply the mixture to your skin. Leave it on for half an hour. Wash off with water.

Tips for your healthy skin

2008-11-29T00:12:00.000-08:00

SLEEPING BEAUTY

I don’t care what else you do to your skin, if you are sleep deprived your skin will look sallow, dull, tired, and saggy; with your puffy eyes, you will resemble a frog prince or princess. And of course, your energy level will be less than desirable. Your skin, which is prone to damage during the day, is repaired as you sleep. Some people require as much as eight to nine hours sleep every night, others can make do with just five.
Remember, there is so substitute for sleep if you want great skin.
Sleep is the best-kept skin care secret.

YOU MUST DRINK A LOT OF WATER
What goes in must go out, and water helps move everything along. Impurities not disposed of in a timely manner via the internal organs of elimination (such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, and large intestine) will find an alternate exit, namely your skin, sometimes referred to as the “third kidney.” Pimples and rashes may develop as your body tries to unload its wastes through your skin. Consciously make an effort to have at least eight to 12 glasses daily will help cleanse your body of toxins and keep your colon functioning as it should. Water also keeps your skin hydrated and moisturized, so drink up!

DO SOME EXERCISE

Try to exercise outside, to help oxygenate your cells with fresh air and facilitate waste removal through your skin. Exercises such as walking, biking, in-line skating, and weight lifting improve cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance, which translates into increased energy and a rosy complexion. If you live in a city, try to find a green space—a park or a greenway—in which to exercise. If city streets, with their attendant pollution, are your only outdoor option, exercising in a gym may be a better alternative.

FOODS FOR YOUR HEALTHY SKIN
Most people do not consciously realize that what they eat affects the health of their skin and eat the wrong things which cause all these problems. They get skin care products that never work because the root problem is still present. Diet is probably one of the more common causes of skin problems, so eat well and you may even be able to dump your skin-care products in the bin forever.

Eating foods rich in anti-oxidants is one of the keys in having great skin. This slows down cell-damage and as you may have already heard a million times, fights free radicals. Berries such as cranberries and blueberries are one of the richest sources of bio flavonoids, antioxidants that destroy free radicals which destroy tissue and reinforce the cells that make up blood vessel walls, increasing blood circulation and giving you those beautiful rosy cheeks. Bright colors on vegetables and fruits signify richness in antioxidants, so eat more of these as well. They include plums, apricots, strawberries, spinach, broccoli and other leafy vegetables.

Chicken, fish and other seafood are also great foods that will benefit the skin. These are good sources of high-quality, low fat protein which helps make your skin more elastic and toned. An additional advantage of eating these is stronger, shinier hair. Also, try to avoid red meats as these will cause less desirable effects on the skin. You have to eat about 60 grams of these a day for a difference in your skin.

Foods with Omega-3 fatty acids are also great for the skin. You can get these as daily supplements, or you could find them in fatty fish like Salmon, Cod and other foods including ground flaxseeds, walnuts, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and cabbage.

Vitamin E rich foods will help to prevent dry skin and also helps in the repair and reduction of scars and stretch marks. These foods include hazelnuts, almonds, broccoli, spinach, mango, kiwi, peanuts and sunflower seeds.

Poultry, red meat, fish, bananas, peanut butter and eggs are a rich source of Vitamin B. Eat foods with a low glycaemic Index as they are absorbed very slowly by the body and not cause a sudden rush in blood sugar level. When the blood sugar level increases too rapidly, the pancreas will produce excess insulin that will cause cell-damaging chemicals which cause inflammation. This causes premature aging, among other illnesses such as cancer.

THE THINGS YOU MUST AVOID

Avoid your sugar

This may hurt, but try to avoid sugar as much as possible. Sugar has been known to weaken the collagen fibres of the skin and also cause them to lose their elasticity. Brown discolouration marks and age spots are caused by this, and no wonder even the middle-aged people nowadays have skin that look decades older. Sugar is hard to avoid, especially now where it is used in many of our processed foods that we don’t even realise contain this sweet substance. Soft drinks and alcohol are one of the most notorious for having plenty of sugar and should be avoided as much as possible.

Control your carbohydrate intake. Eating too much of carbohydrates will cause a hike in your blood-sugar level. Bread, corn, white rice, peas, pasta, potatoes and all refined pastries are high GI carbohydrate foods which you should avoid.

Cut back on caffeine

Caffeine makes it very unlikely that the skin cells will ever pick up enough water, even if you drink a gallon of water a day.

Avoid cigarette smoke

Cigarette smoke exposes you to damaging free radicals that will accelerate the aging process by damaging the microcapillaries in the skin.

Say good-bye to stress

Stress and tension accelerate the formation of lines around your eyes and can even produce abnormal skin conditions like eczema (where the skin gets dry and itchy; it can even result in broken skin and bleeding).

The way to have a healthy and beautiful skin

2008-11-28T23:43:00.000-08:00

YOUR SKIN PORTRAYS YOUR HEALTH AND HOLDS THE KEY TO YOUR OVERALL BEAUTY

Your skin, especially the skin on your face, is probably one of the last things you want looking terrible with pimple scars, acne and an oily appearance.

The skin is the organ that determines most of our appearance and how good we look, so taking care of it to make sure it is always at its most pristine state is vital for a great image. No one likes acne-infested faces or skin with age spots. They simply look unpleasant and sometimes leave the impression of contagiousness, which leaves people afraid of even going near you.

It's never too late to start caring for your skin; of course the earlier you start the better. 'Prevention is better than cure'. A good cleansing routine is important for looking after the skin externally, but a balanced nutritious diet, plenty of water and another factors is a combined effort to have a beautiful skin.

CARING FOR YOUR SKIN

The skin naturally produces sebum (oil), sweat and grease naturally build up on the skin and can block pores and follicles and lead to infection. But that's not all, on top of that we love to layer on the make-up, 'cosmetics here we come', which can also cause congestion and irritation, especially if not removed properly. Not to mention all the pollutants in the air, especially if you work in a city. Dust and dirt in the air land on your skin and build up a healthy layer throughout the day and rubbing or touching our faces with grubby mitts just adds to all the congestion. As you can imagine by the end of the day there is quite a collection of yuk built up on our skin and consequently blackheads and spots can fester…

Cleanse your skin twice daily using a mild, natural, inexpensive cleanser designed for your skin type. Add a couple of drops essential oil of rose, spearmint, or orange to your cleanser to boost its cleaning effect and aromatic quality. Cleansing your skin is especially important before going to bed, because your body excretes toxins through your skin as you sleep. If facial pores are clogged with makeup and dirt, breakouts can occur. If you perspire a lot in your line of work or exercise heavily, then rinse off and massage your body with a coarse cloth or loofah before retiring to remove salt and dead-skin buildup. Your skin needs to breathe while you sleep !

This is 4 steps to keep your skin look young and healthy :

CLEANSING
There are lots of different products on the market for cleansing the skin. I would generally recommend a cleaning milk, lotion or cream. They should state on the packaging which skin type they are most suitable for, but generally, if it says it's a lotion, its for combination or greasy skin; if it says its a cream, its for dry or mature skin; and milk tends to be for dry skin prone to sensitivity or sensitive skin.

TONING

Toners not only balance the skins natural pH, they are recommended to remove all traces of cleanser and grease. They cool the skin, creating a tightening effect and closing the pores, so reducing the flow of sebum and sweat onto the skins surface (so great for oily skins).

EXFOLIATING

Exfoliating encourages cell regeneration - so brilliant for mature skin - and with no dead skin cells and grease to block its absorption, means moisturisers can be soaked up more easily into the skin. As with all products, there are lots of different types of exfoliants; on the face make sure you use a facial exfoliator (they are more gentle)! The granules in them are either chemical or vegetable origin. I don't think that is terribly relevant, it's a matter of personal preference, which you go for. I'd recommend exfoliating once to twice a week, concentrating on areas like the nose and forehead where you get the most congestion.

MOISTURISING

It is important to moisturise even if you have an oily skin. When the skin is exposed to cold, less sebum is produced; this means the skin has reduced protection, allowing moisture to evaporate. The loss of moisture from your skin is affected by the water content in the air around you (humidity). In hot dry weather humidity is low - the amount of water in the air around you is low - so the air, as such, absorbs the water out of your skin. In mild conditions humidity is high - there's plenty of water in the air - so water loss from your skin will be low. With central heating we create a humidity similar to that in a desert environment - it is very drying on your skin. In very hot weather your skin sweats and you loose lots of moisture through this perspiration. Extremes of weather or alternating hot and cold, for example going into a heated building in the winter or going into an air conditioned office in a hot summer can lead to broken capillaries. All of these damaging effects caused by the climate can be reduced by using moisturisers and facial oils - these spread a protective layer of oil on the skin, pushing nourishment and moisture into the skin while reducing evaporation of water from the skin. In a building with central heating humidifiers can be used to moisten the air.
Moisturisers also plump out fine lines, and provide a protective barrier between your skin and cosmetics and pollutants. They often contain additional ingredients and nutrients, the most common being vitamin E. A lot of moisturisers these days also sensibly contain some UV filter to protect against the age-accelerating effects of sunlight. They protect, soften and nourish the skin and are, I would say, the most important part of your skin care routine. I often suggest my clients use a moisturiser and a facial oil, especially if they have a dehydrated skin or are concerned about aging.

strategies to avoid breast cancer

2008-11-28T23:16:00.000-08:00

1. Limit alcohol

A strong link exists between alcohol consumption and breast cancer. The type of alcohol consumed — wine, beer or mixed drinks — seems to make no difference. To help protect against breast cancer, limit alcohol to less than one drink a day or avoid alcohol completely.

2. Eat fruit

You can't go wrong with this – almost all dietary advice comes down to the single instruction to eat more fruit and veg. Diet is thought to be a key factor in one in four cancer deaths – and animal fat in the diet is the suspect ingredient in breast cancer. The Japanese, who eat a diet of fish, rice and vegetables that is extremely low in animal fat, also have low rates of breast cancer.

A high-fat diet increases the levels of the female hormone estrogen in the blood, which encourages the growth of cancer cells. In populations with a high-fat diet, women tend to start their periods earlier and reach menopause later so they are exposed to high levels of estrogen for longer, increasing their risk of breast cancer.

Studies into what effect eating fruit and vegetables has on breast cancer have produced mixed results. One study found that, when combined with taking exercise, the results were dramatic. Published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology last June, it showed that women who ate their five portions a day and walked briskly for at least 30 minutes halved their risk of breast cancer.

3. Walk

It is enjoyable, simple and requires no equipment. Walking is good for all aspects of physical and mental health – and cancer is no exception. Brisk walking (or other exercise) for 30 minutes a day, five times a week, is all that's needed. Currently only one in four women manages this. If all women did, Cancer Research UK estimates it would prevent 1,400 cases a year.

Three large studies in Italy and the US showed that inactivity caused 11 per cent of cases of breast cancer. Exercise works best before the menopause, but it is effective afterwards, too. It is thought to alter estrogen metabolism, resulting in a weaker version being made.

4. Avoid HRT

Hormone replacement therapy is seen as the principal avoidable risk for breast cancer. At the height of its popularity, in 2002, an estimated two million women were taking HRT in the UK, and millions more worldwide. Tens of thousands of women will have developed breast cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer (of the lining of the womb) as a result. Overall, women currently taking HRT are 63 per cent more likely to develop these three cancers than those who are not. Earlier hopes that these risks would be counterbalanced by a reduction in heart disease have not been borne out. Gynecologists recommend that women who wish to use it to ease the symptoms of the menopause do so for as short a time as possible.

5. Get screened

Women diagnosed with breast cancer at the earliest possible stage have a nine in 10 chance of a successful recovery. This is the rationale for screening – to detect a tumour by mammography when it is still too small to feel. Women aged 50 to 70 are invited for screening every three years – shortly to be extended to ages 47 to 73. It is estimated that the scheme saves 1,400 lives a years in England – one life for every 500 women screened.

However, there is a downside in the shape of false alarms. Screening picks up abnormalities in the breast that look like cancer but turn out not to be. Several thousand women each year suffer the anxiety and discomfort of being recalled for further tests and undergoing biopsies of the breast to check for cancer – before being given the all-clear. Screening is now more accurate, since two views of the breast are taken, reducing the chances of cancers being missed.

6. Give birth

Having children, especially before the age of 30, helps protect against breast cancer. It is down to those hormones, again. Over the last century, economic progress has led to delayed childbirth and smaller families as women with their own careers have sought to balance the demands of work and home. But researchers estimate that delaying childbearing increases the risk of breast cancer by 3 per cent for each year of delay.

7. Breast-feed

Breast-feeding protects against breast cancer, as well as being best for the baby. But smaller families and the rise in the number of working mothers has meant the time spent breast-feeding has reduced. Breast-feeding for six months reduces the risk, experts say. Yet many women never get that far. In England, 77 per cent of mothers start breast-feeding but more than a third switch to bottle-feeding in the first six weeks.

8. Lose weight

Obesity increases the risk of breast cancer – but only after the menopause. A large European study called Epic found post menopausal women who were obese had a 31 per cent higher risk of breast cancer than women with a healthy weight. Reducing obesity could save 1,800 cases of breast cancer a year.

Obesity increases the risk of other cancers including those of the bowel, womb, kidney and esophagus. Overall it is estimated that 5 per cent of cancers in women and 3 per cent in men are due to being obese or overweight. In the UK, 12,000 people might avoid getting cancer each year if they maintained a healthy body weight.

9. Sleep Safely

Shut out all light: Sleeping in a dark room aids production of neurotransmitter serotonin, which is crucial in making melatonin.

Get nine hours' sleep: A Finnish study found that women who slept nine hours were one-third as likely to get breast cancer as those who slept seven-eight.

Get a red light bulb: Place a red light bulb in one fixture. If you get up in the night, only use this one.

Get outside in the morning: Just 10-15 minutes of morning light will send a strong time-keeping signal to the brain's clock, leaving it less likely to be confused.

10. Live somewhere clean

It has long been claimed that exposure to pollutants used in the manufacture of products from plastics to cosmetics has an "endocrine disrupting" effect. The chemicals are said to mimic the action of oestrogen and have been blamed for feminised fish and frogs and declining sperm counts in men. A report from the World Wide Fund for Nature last year claimed their role in breast cancer had been neglected. It pointed out that less than half of new breast cancer cases can be explained by genetic and lifestyle factors and chemicals in the environment could be the missing link. Other studies have contradicted this suggestion and experts point out that compared with the natural levels of oestrogen in a woman's blood, the level of the chemicals is too small to have significant impact.