Men : Erectile dysfunction

Very often men face with erectile problems, like difficulty in maintaining an erection, or difficulty raising an erection. But these problems should not be associated to impotency or lack of masculinity, as this may be caused due to various physical and psychological factors.

It may causes a lot of disturbance in your sex life and you may also feel very depressed and inferior, but do not worry these problems can be treated.

What is it?
The arteries that supply blood to the penis expand and allow more blood to fill the central tissues. The veins start compressing, when these tissues start filling up with blood, restricting the out flow of blood and resulting in blood build up in the organ resulting in an erection. Therefore, any drug or illness, which restricts the flow of blood to the penis, can cause erectile problems.

Causes
Many physical and psychological factors and drugs cause erection problems. Some of the major causes of erectile problems are:

Erectile problem associated to other diseases

Smoking
Alcohol
Tranquilizers
Narcotic drugs
Certain medicines used for blood pressure
Any illness associated to the nervous system
Stress
Tensions at home or office
Diabetes: Diseases like diabetes, which interfere with the flow of blood to the penis, can cause an erectile problem.

Blood pressure: High blood pressure, and heart diseases sometimes restrict the blood flow and make it difficult for you to maintain or get an erection.

Prostate surgery: Erectile problems can also occur after a surgery. Many such cases have been reported a surgery for prostate gland.

Hormone imbalances: Hormonal deficiencies, like deficiency of testosterone can cause difficulties with regard to erection.

Neurological diseases: Neurological diseases like multiple sclerosis, which cause considerable damage to the nerves, also cause erectile problems.

What to do?
Try to get into foreplay before your intercourse. Try not to hurry up and ensure that your partner also enjoys it.

In case the problem is due to some medication, consult your doctor immediately. Quit smoking and cut down the consumption of alcohol.

You may also try some oil massage, creams and gels after consulting your doctor.

Cold and Flu

Weather of winter is considered as a possible influence on our health conditions especially cold & flu is the common problem we face in the start of winter. Scratchy throat, sneezing, and a runny nose that starts out clear, turns discolored and then disappears are the usual signs of a cold. Other symptoms may include a low-grade temperature, swollen glands, headache, watering eyes, hacking cough, and a sick, achy feeling and a pain. Cold weather can increase stiffness in muscles and joints. As It's happens to everyone, that's why it's called the common cold, everyone is familiar with this kind of common cold, we are all very much known of one or two ways to fight it, which usually involve some sort of medication, or the remedy, a bowl of chicken soup. But there are much better ways to prevent and treat the common cold, using traditional non-drug remedies and good solid nutrition.

Experts suggest that the Cold and flu viruses always seems different then before, this season's cold or flu virus will probably be different from last season's virus. This is why you get a new cold or the influenza virus causes flu each year, Flu while many types of viruses can cause a cold. People usually not aware of cough or sneeze in public without covering up, the masks in the wintertime could be useful

Effects OF COLD & FLU:

The cold is caused by one of more than 200 known viruses. Symptoms usually show up about two days after a person becomes exposed.

• Reynard�S Disease causes a circulatory disorder of blood vessels of the extremities.
• Colds are contagious. It can be easily spread when a well person breathes in germs or comes in direct contact with an infected person or an object the infected person has touched.
• The common cold is a virus infect the upper-respiratory tract that attacks the nose and nasal passages, and can spread to the chest
• In the case of repetitive colds you feel repeatedly sick. Often, just when you start to feel better, you get sick again.
• The body not fully recovers from day-to-day stresses seams in the list of those infected by cold & flu.

Advises:

• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat good nutritious meals.
• Make it sure that you are suffering from cold.
• Antibiotics should not be taken mistakenly prescribed for colds.
• Vitamin C plays an active part to over come from cold & flu.
• A person with a large sleep debt is much more vulnerable to infections and other illnesses.
• Do not exercise or do heavy physical work.
• Smoking makes your symptoms worst.
• Some people suggest a patient should take hot-tub treatments at home three to four times weekly.
• Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue

Side effects:

• Those suffering from serious heart condition should not take any product for cold & flu without doctor's permission.
• Don't use products containing ingredients which you feel allergy with
• If you have problems with your thyroid, prostate, liver or kidneys.
• Stop taking the medicine and tell your doctor if you experience indigestion or heartburn, pain in stomach or other abnormal stomach symptoms.

Sex Education, Romance & Pregnancy

This matter is correct for educational purposes and addresses sexuality in a straight forward manner. While correct terminology is used, at times "street language" is used to reach the broadest section of people. If you think that you may be offended by such material you should automatically disconnect now. We believe that this matter is appropriate for those who are teenagers and older. Our hope is that it can provide you with some answers to sex related questions or concerns that you have. If you have doubts about anything given here, and even if you don't, you should always take the advice of a qualified doctor or a Public Health Unit.

Teenagers have many questions about sexuality. One of the most common is "Am I normal?" Most teens are concerned about body changes, fantasies, being sexually attracted to others and having sexual feelings. Teens are also curious about heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, masturbation, sexual satisfaction and just feeling OK about being curious. You may also have questions about birth control, pregnancy, abortion, sexually transmitted diseases and how to make decisions. It is normal to be interested in all of these. You may find answers to most of your questions in here.

It's also normal to be curious about heterosexuality -- sexual relationships with someone of the opposite sex, homosexuality -- or sexual relationships with someone of the same sex, and bisexuality -- sexual relationships with people of both sexes. You might find it helpful to talk over your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust, such as your parents, a counselor, a teacher, a school nurse, your doctor, or a friend.

We get ideas about sex from television, movies, music, ads, jokes, friends and family. You need to sort out your own ideas and values, what it is you want. Sometimes, one partner tries to pressure the other into becoming sexually active. Knowing your values and what you want will help you in this situation. No means No. Respect your partner and respect yourself. Sexual assault, even in a marriage or dating relationship, is a criminal offence. Only yes means yes.
Neither guys nor girls know all about sex. Take time to communicate your feelings and get to know your partner.
If you want more information, find books, or talk to an adult you respect and trust. You can call a local Planned Parenthood organization or Public Health Unit .

Hot Water and Cold Water

This is a very good article. Not only about the warm water after your meal, but about ladies and their heart attacks.

This makes sense.... The Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals...not cold water... Maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose, everything to gain...

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It Will slow down the digestion.

Once this "sludge" reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the Intestine.

Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is
Best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.

A serious note about heart attacks:
Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a Heart attack.

Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms. 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up.

Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive...

Drug Effect on Beauty

These women are Drug addict's. After on a long research with them, they found there beauty is slowly vanished due to Drugs, So girls be careful and avoid DRUGS!!!

And you may ask y not for boys, there is no messages for boys, because boys never worries about beauty.

You also want to be like this, so, please avoid DRUGS!!!!!!!!!!

Teen : Vaginal Infections

The vagina normally contains large numbers of organisms (germs) called lactobacillus (or acidophilus). Vaginal infections occur when other organisms grow and change the normal balance of organisms in the vagina.

You may have a vaginal infection if the colour of your vaginal discharge changes, becomes heavier or smells different or if you notice itching, burning, swelling or redness around the vagina.

Normal vaginal discharge
A normal discharge usually does not smell bad and is not accompanied by local irritation, redness, swelling or itching of the vaginal area. Most vaginal discharges are normal, and you may notice a vaginal discharge on your panties at some stage during your menstrual cycle. This discharge may be most noticeable mid-cycle, which is the time close to ovulation. But some women have a discharge almost throughout the month forcing them use sanitary pads. This is not normal

Common causes of vaginal infections
The most common form of vaginal infection is called bacterial vaginosis. Women with this infection have a large number of organisms called gardnerella vaginalis, as well as many other organisms, in their vagina.

If you have this infection, you may notice a different smell that is strongest after sexual intercourse and perhaps an increased amount of thin vaginal discharge, which may be white or discolored.

A fungal infection or candida vaginitis is another common type of vaginal infection. If you have this kind of infection, you may notice larger amounts of thick, white discharge, or no discharge at all. Other common symptoms include itching, swelling irritation or redness around the vaginal area.

Trichomonas vaginitis
Also known as "trick", this is the third most frequent vaginal infection. Like bacterial vaginitis, this infection often causes an increased amount of discharge, which may be discolored. Sometimes the discharge smells different. Itching may be present but is less likely than with a yeast infection

How to determine the cause
It is very hard to know the cause of vaginal symptoms unless your doctor tells you. So don't draw any conclusions. Examination of the vaginal discharge can provide a fairly accurate diagnosis and the right treatment can be started. If the cause of the symptoms is still unclear, to find out the right medicine to treat the infection, a sample of the vaginal discharge can be sent to a laboratory for testing.

Treatment
The treatment for vaginal symptoms depends on the cause. Bacterial vaginosis is often treated with a prescription medicine called metranidazole (Metrogyl, tini, fasigyn). Sometimes it may cause an upset stomach or nausea. Alcohol should not be taken while you are on this medicine as it may cause nausea and vomiting.

There are other medicines that may be taken orally for this infection, such as clindamycin and there are also vaginal creams or gels.

A fungal infection is usually treated with creams or suppositories that are placed in the vagina. The length of treatment may vary from one to seven days. If the infection doesn't get better or comes back soon, you should see your doctor to make sure of the diagnosis and treatment. When the infections are frequent or when it is difficult to cure, your doctor may prescribe some tablets or capsules.

Some of these medicines are now available without prescription, such as miconazole (Monistat) and clotrimazole and you may use them when you know you have a fungal infection.

Trichomonas vaginitis is also treated with metranidazole, which is taken orally. However, this infection is often passed between sexual partners. The organism being dormant I.e. Without symptoms, in the male, both partners should be treated simultaneously, to ensure proper cure and eradication of the infection.

N.B: You should always consult your doctor before taking any medicine / undergoing treatment

Facts About Vitamin Pills

Vitamin pills is not food, it has side effects

In addition to refined foods, markets are flooded with all kinds of synthetic vitamin supplements. There are many people who don't have enough time to prepare nutritional meals but think that they can swallow some vitamin pills to obtain enough nutrients.

Can vitamin pills really replace natural foods and provide all the nutrients that the body needs?
There was the biggest scientific, clinical experiment in this century performed by the Finland government a few years ago. They have spent 43 million dollars and involved 29,000 people in the experiment for 5 to 8 years. All participants are smokers.

They have found that there are 18% more lung cancers and 50% higher mortality due to heart diseases for the group that has been consuming vitamin A and vitamin E compared to the group that has not eaten any vitamin supplement.

When the experiment data came out, it came out in Newsweek, and it came out everywhere.All of the scientists were really shocked. We have been told by scientists that vitamin E is a good antioxidant, can prevent the hardening of our artery soit should be good for our heart. But why
Did such a big experiment give us a result completely opposite of what we were told ?

Dr. Herbert of the FDA explained that when the vitamin C is inside the orange, it is an anti-oxidant. However, when it is isolated away from an orange, it may become a pro-oxidant. In other words, it will produce billions of free radicals. It will give us side effects. Someone may say, "No problem, the vitamin pills I am taking are extracted from natural food. They are natural vitamins." Actually, there's no such thing as natural vitamins. It is only a commercial terms created by the merchants.

Natural vitamins and minerals only exists in natural plants. As long as it is extracted or isolated from the plants, it becomes pure chemical substance. It becomes drugs and has the effects as most drugs.
That is why there are always warning signs on the vitamin bottles saying 'Keep out of reach of children' or 'Take only one a day' and we don't see such warnings on vegetables and fruits. Some experiments showed that osteoporosis patients could utilize calcium very well if they take it directly from natural plants, but can not absorb calcium, which is from supplements.

Measured with quantum physic, we can see clearly that there is high energy level in the calcium that exists in the natural plants and low energy level in calcium tablets. In fact, after the calcium tablet has been taken it only travels along the blood vessels and get excreted from urine without being utilized
By the body to build bone. The calcium tablets will only increase the burden of our liver and kidneys.
If the calcium tablets can really help, why are there still so many people with osteoporosis?

A few years ago, the American FDA proposed to Congress of the vitamin's potential for toxicity that we should prohibit the sale of the vitamin supplements in the market place, because they have side effects. In fact, in the United States, there are 30,000 children reported to the poison control center due to the toxicity of vitamins every year.

Mothers think vitamins have no side effects. They give it to their children just like candies and don't think that they might get toxins from it. Besides, many food products on the market were added with
Synthetic vitamins, such as Vitamin C added in orange juice and Vitamin A and D added in milk.
Unknowingly, our children are eating overdose of vitamins. It causes more leukaemia and all types of cancer in children.

The FDA has warned the public that not only vitamin C causes cancers and heart diseases, vitamin F causes arthritis, vitamin D causes liver damage, and vitamin B6 causes central nervous system damage.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a vitamin (a substance the body requires in small doses for proper nutrition and function) that is fat-soluble, meaning that it is dissolved and stored in the fat of your body. Vitamin D maintains proper levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood and together with calcium builds strong bones. The November 9, 2005, issue of JAMA contains an article about sufficient levels of vitamin D for healthy bones.



SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE

Sun exposure for 10 to 15 minutes at least twice a week usually provides adequate amounts of vitamin D. Certain conditions such as cloud cover, northern climates, pollution, and the winter months may not provide adequate sunlight exposure. Excess sun exposure causes skin cancer, so you should limit exposure to sunlight, not use tanning beds, and wear protective clothing and a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 when outdoors for longer than 10 to 15 minutes twice a week. Infants should be kept out of direct sunlight all together.



VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY

When vitamin D levels are low, bones become weak and brittle. In children, vitamin D deficiency causes a disease called rickets, which results in poorly developed weak bones, delayed growth, immune deficiencies, and, when severe, seizures. In adults, vitamin D deficiency causes a disease called osteomalacia, which results in weak bones, fractures, bone pain, and weakness. Low levels of vitamin D may be a factor in osteoporosis (thin bones).



WHO IS AT RISK OF DEVELOPING VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY?

• Infants who are exclusively breast-fed or receiving less than about 2 cups a day of vitamin D–fortified formula or milk
• People who have darker-pigmented skin
• People with very limited sunlight exposure
• People with fat malabsorption diseases, such as pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, and surgical resection of the bowel
• People who have liver or kidney disease or enzyme deficiencies
• People in the northern hemisphere during winter

HOW MUCH VITAMIN D DO YOU NEED?

For infants to adults aged 50 years, the daily adequate intake is 200 international units (IU) of vitamin D. For adults aged 51 to 70 years, 400 IU is required, and for those older than 70 years, 600 IU is recommended. Discuss with your doctor the proper vitamin D intake and sun exposure for you and whether you should take a supplement, especially if you are at risk of developing a deficiency. Too much vitamin D can occur from taking excess vitamin D supplements and can cause serious problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness or even confusion and heart rhythm abnormalities.

Aspartame - The Silent Killer

For those who take Ricola & Fisherman , please note that they both contain Aspartame - the silent killer.



This website shows the adverse effects of ASPARTAME: nexusmagazine

Fisherman Sweets
FOR THOSE WHO LIKE TO EAT FISHERMAN SWEETS BE CAREFUL: Sugar free products contain ASPARTAME .. So don't consume Sugar free product ESP. 'fisherman sweets' ASPARTAME - THE SILENT KILLER (by Ron Harder)

To those who prefer to consume artificial flavouring:

There is an epidemic across North America today of Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus. Most people do not understand why this epidemic is happening, and they do not know why these diseases are so rampant. I would like to share with you the main reason we are having this very serious problem. Many people today use artificial sweeteners in their tea or coffee.

They do this because the ads they see on TV tell them that sugar is bad for their health. This is absolutely true. Sugar is toxic to us , but what most people use as a replacement for sugar is much more deadly. I am talking about ASPARTAME. It is the cause of the epidemic that was mentioned above. ASPARTAME is an extremely toxic chemical that is produced by a chemical company called Monsanto.

ASPARTAME is being marketed around the world as a sugar substitute and is found in all diet soft drinks, such as Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi. It is also found in artificial sweeteners such as NutraSweet, Equal, and Spoonful ; and it is used in many other products as a sugar replacement.



ASPARTAME is marketed as a diet product, but it is not a diet product at all. In fact, it will cause you to GAIN weight because it makes you crave carbohydrates. Causing you to gain weight is only a very small part of what ASPARTAME does. It is a toxic chemical that changes the brain's chemistry. It can and does cause severe seizures.

This chemical changes the dopamine level in the brain, and it is particularly deadly for anyone suffering from Parkinson's disease.

ASPARTAME is extremely poisonous, and here is why one of the toxic ingredients of it is wood alcohol. When the temperature of

ASPARTAME exceeds 86 degrees F, the wood alcohol in it is converted to Formaldehyde, and then to formic acid, which in turn causes folic acidosis.

FORMALDEHYDE is grouped in the same class of poisons as Cyanide and Arsenic which are very deadly toxins. The only difference is, Formaldehyde kills quietly, and it takes a little longer. And, in the process of killing people, it causes all kinds of neurological problems. There are 92 documented symptoms of Aspartame Poisoning leading to coma and death.

The majority of these symptoms are neurological, because the ASPARTAME attacks and destroys the nervous system. One of these symptoms is Lupus, which has become almost as rampant as Multiple Sclerosis, especially with Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi drinkers.

How does one get vaginal yeast infections?

How does one get vaginal yeast infections?

Yeast infections such as Candida, Monilia, or fungus infections are
considered to be the most common type of vaginal infections. They result
from the overgrowth of fungus, which is normally present in harmless amounts
in the vagina, the digestive tract and the mouth.
There are many other factors that may trigger the growth of microflora and
result in vaginal yeast infections.

Here are some of them:
Taking hormones, including birth control pills;
Taking antibiotics, especially "broad-spectrum" ones, which can suppress the
growth of protective micro-organisms and lead to overgrowth of fungus;
Hormonal changes that come with pregnancy or even before monthly periods;
Elevated level of blood sugar such as that found in uncontrolled diabetes;
Using perfumed tampons or sanitary pads;
Pregnancy

Are there any other ways to treat fibroids and cysts, besides the surgical
operation?

There are quite a few methods to treat fibroids nowadays, hormonal therapy
and phytotherapy among them. It is a surgeon or gynaecologist who will be
able to decide as to which method should be applied to treat the patient in
a particular case. The choice of treatment depends on many different factors

If fibroids are small, harmless and painless or not causing any problems a
doctor will wait and watch for any changes and may suggest waiting for
menopause, since fibroids often shrink or disappear after that time. If you
have problems during this "waiting" period (e.G., too much pain, too much
bleeding, your abdomen gets too big, or you have gastrointestinal problems),
you may decide that you do not want to wait for menopause, but instead
choose to have something done to treat your fibroids.
Hormonal medication is another non-surgical method of treatment for fibroids
One group called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist blocks the
production of estrogen by the ovaries. It shrinks fibroids in some cases,
but is not a cure. The fibroids return promptly when the medicine is stopped
Shrinking the fibroids might allow a minor surgery to be done instead of a
major one.

Yoga for Health

If the mind is kept cool and calm at all times, you will have wonderful
health, strength and vitality.

Let any disease remain in your body. Do not bother too much. Develop the
powers of endurance and resistance. Strengthen your body, mind and nerves.

Take plenty of open-air exercises, substantial nutritious food, medicated
oil bath and plenty of rest.

Be moderate in food, drink and enjoyments. Lead a spiritual life. All
diseases will leave your body by themselves.

Do not go to the doctors very often unless emergency. Endeavour to qualify
yourself as your own doctor. Understand the laws of nature and the
principles of hygiene and health.

Bask in the sun. Expose your body to the rays of the sun for a short time
daily. This is heliotherapy or sun-treatment. Sun is the source of energy
and power. You will derive energy and power from the sun.

Soak 12 almonds at night. Remove the skin and take the almonds with some
sugarcandy in the early morning. Or you can make a refreshing beverage by
grinding these almonds with a little black pepper and sugarcandy. This is a
fine, cooling and strength-giving tonic.

Rest in bed is necessary. Adjust your diet. Take simple, wholesome, easily
digestible, bland and non-irritating food. Give up hot, pungent curries,
chutneys and chilliest.

If you can fast for a whole day, it is all the better. Fasting eliminates
poisons and overhauls the system thoroughly. You can take sago and milk
barley water and fruits like sweet oranges, grapes, etc.

Observe Brahmacharya. Get up at 4 a.m. And practice Japa of 'Hari Om' or any
other Mantra and also meditation for one hour. The Name of the Lord is the
best medicine or tonic in the world.

You should have intense faith in the power of the Names of the Lord.
Incurable diseases are cured by Japa or singing Hari's Name.

Meditation creates new, healthy vibrations in all the cells of the body and
removes any kind of disease. All the tissues are bathed in the nectar that
flows during meditation. All germs that cause diseases are destroyed.

Resort to Nature Cure and Yogic Chikitsa. Practise regularly Pranayama,
breathing exercises, Asanas, concentration and meditation. This is the ideal
treatment.

Pregnancy Risk Factors

Pregnancy Risk Factors that Every Pregnant Woman Should be Aware of

Pregnancy Risk Factors that Every Pregnant Woman Should be Aware of.......

Many factors affect the development of a fetus into a healthy child, some
which are beyond your control and others that are within your control. Here
are the most common pregnancy risk factors that can be controlled or
influenced:....

Exercise - Moderate exercise is helpful as it improves the mother's mental
state and can increase oxygen flow to the fetus. However, over-exertion can
be dangerous. Most experts recommend reducing your exercise intensity during
pregnancy. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga are popular for
pregnant women.

Prenatal Care - Regular doctor visits are important to your baby's
development. The body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. Some side
effects may be completely normal, whereas other may not. Regular monitoring
by a professional will help ensure that your baby will be born healthy.

Exposure to chemicals - During pregnancy, reduce exposure to unnatural
chemicals, particularly pesticides in food. Many people now eat organic
produce, which is grown without chemicals. The simplest precaution to take
before consuming vegetables or fruits is to wash them thoroughly. Also,
removing the outer surface of vegetables can be helpful since most
pesticides will rest on the outside of the vegetable or fruit.

Smoking - Smoking is not only bad for you, but bad for your baby as well.
Smoking during pregnancy reduces the amount of oxygen that the baby receives
and increases the risk of miscarriage, bleeding, and morning sickness.
Chemicals inhaled while smoking may lead to other health problems with the
baby. Reduced birth weight, premature birth, increased risk of SIDS, and
stillbirth are other possible consequences. Pregnant women should also avoid
second hand smoke.

Alcohol - Drinking can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, including symptoms like
low birth weight, medical problems, and behavior abnormalities. As soon as
you know you are pregnant, stop drinking. For more detailed information on
problems that can be caused by alcohol,

Caffeine - There are many conflicting studies about caffeine and pregnancy
and some believe that caffeine is not as harmful as it was once thought to
be. Nevertheless, the FDA warns against caffeine consumption during
pregnancy and suggests quitting or reducing consumption at the very least.
Caffeine has been shown to affect fetal heart rates and awake time (fetuses
grow when sleeping). Decaffeinated coffee can also be harmful since
producers often add additional chemicals to remove the caffeine. Caffeine
can also increase risk of stretch marks. Suddenly quitting coffee intake can
cause headaches; so most experts recommend gradually reducing the amount
consumed.

Drugs and Herbal Remedies - Always be careful about drugs or herbal remedies
that are not prescribed by a doctor. These substances may affect the
development of your unborn child.

Nutrition - Good nutrition is crucial to a developing child, particularly
getting enough folic acid. Lack of folic acid can cause birth defects. At
least 400-1000 micrograms of this B vitamin is suggested (about ten times
more if you've already had a child with neural tube birth defects) starting
one month before pregnant and throughout the entire pregnancy. Leafy
vegetables, orange juice, and beans are some natural sources of folic acid.
Many stores sell vitamins with folic acid.

Other factors - Many other factors can affect fetal development, including
heart disease, the mother's age (before 15 years and after 35 years is
riskier), asthma, excessive stress or depression, diseases, and bleeding.
Consult your physician if you are affected by any of these conditions.

Psoriasis and the Immune system Disorder

"hydrogen peroxide can cause cellulitis which is an infection that causes
the ifected area to swell and cause great discomfort. If untreated it can
cause death."

I suggest that for any of you deciding to go in for the Peroxide treatment
to kindly do it only under medical supervision of your family physician ..

New methods that are effective should always be encouraged but one shouldn't
disregard even basic safeguards while doing it ..

Here's todays post ...

Psoriasis and Immune System Disorder
Jerry G. Scott R.N.C.
Author of Psoriasis: The Real Way Out

The small intestine serves as both a digestive/absorptive organ and a
barrier to the uptake into the blood of toxic compounds as well as large,
incompletely digested food molecules. Various factors, including improper
diet, can disrupt the structure and regulatory function of this barrier,
resulting in intestinal hyper-permeability or "leaky gut."

The intestines contain numerous pathogenic microbial species and antigens,
as well as food antigens that can elicit immune system reactions. Studies
have shown that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) disrupt the
intestinal barrier function causing excessive permeability. Conceivably,
increased permeability exacerbates the disease process among arthritis
sufferers and others who take
NSAIDs on a regular basis.

When large food particles and microbial pathogens are able to bypass the
intestinal protective barrier, inflammatory immune responses occur in the
bloodstream. The kidneys, liver, and skin must labor overtime to compensate
for the resulting increased toxic load.

Hyper-permeability of the intestinal mucosal barrier encourages inflammation
which is a natural, reactive immune response designed to counter the
invasion of foreign molecules into the bloodstream. Clearly, this has
important implications for sufferers of chronic inflammatory diseases such
as psoriasis.

The inflammatory immune response to an invasive challenge can take place in
any tissue. Overactivity in the skin-layers of specialized white blood cells
(called T-cells) catalyzes an abnormal increase in the production of skin
cells. Thus, when T-cells travel to the site of a psoriasis lesion and
populate it, rapid proliferation of the skin cells and inflammation occurs.

With this in mind, pharmaceutical researchers are now developing drugs that
reduce T-cell function, resulting, in turn, in down-regulation of skin cell
production. While this may improve psoriasis symptoms in the short-term, it
will also negatively impact the immune system as T-cells are front-line
troops of the body’s defense mechanism.

A more judicious approach to curtailing abnormal T-cell proliferation in
psoriasis involves a concerted effort to heal the intestinal lining, thus
reducing the leaky gut activity that sends the immune system into overdrive.
Essentially, said drugs act through suppression of the immune system. While
they may reduce the discomfort of psoriasis symptoms, they do nothing to
address one of their root causes: intestinal hyper-permeability. Invariably,
unresolved intestinal hyperpermeability
Will worsen, and diverse disorders (such as psoriasis) that it
Contributes to will ultimately become more virulent and difficult to treat.
A safer, more rational way to deal with this whole matter is explained in my
book.

For more information, visit: www.psoriasisUSA.com.

And another interesting tidbit here ...

Can you guess what medicinal herb has been used to treat headaches, lung
diseases, epilepsy, internal bleeding, nervous conditions and tumors?

I'll give you a hint: The ancient druids of Europe called it "all heal."

Need another hint? Okay: If you stand under a sprig of it at Christmastime,
you just might get a smooch.

Now you've got it. The mistletoe kissing tradition is a tame version of
pagan rituals in which special altars were festooned with mistletoe. And let
s just say that a lot more than kissing went on at those altars. But when
the party was over, pagan healers put this botanical to use in a variety of
healthy ways.

Those ancient healers are long gone, but some practitioners still use
mistletoe extract, even as a somewhat controversial cancer treatment.

--------------------------------------------
International herb
--------------------------------------------

In the early 20th century, a naturalist named Rudolf Steiner developed
extracts of mistletoe for injection, paving the way for studies that
explored the use of mistletoe in the treatment of cancer. Over the years,
some of those studies have demonstrated that mistletoe may kill various
types of cancer cells while also stimulating the immune system.

Injectable forms of mistletoe are currently illegal in the U.S. (pending FDA
approval), but European doctors have been using the botanical for some time
now. Most notably, mistletoe appears to improve cancer survival rates while
easing the harsh side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. A National
Institutes of Health study is currently underway to test the effectiveness
and safety of mistletoe injections when given with chemotherapy.

All of the healing benefits of mistletoe come from varieties of the plant
grown in northern Europe, Korea and China. Those sprigs hung over doorways
at this time of year are almost certainly the American species of mistletoe,
which has far less medicinal potency. And while some U.S. Naturopathic
doctors and herbalists use mistletoe extracts to stimulate insulin
production and improve blood sugar levels for diabetics, this botanical can
be quite toxic, so it should only be used under the care of a knowledgeable
professional.

But it's still quite safe for coaxing a holiday kiss.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Information

Natural Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Subscribe to a FREE Supplement Research Update newsletter. Twice a month we email a brief abstract of several studies on various supplements and natural medicine topics, including rheumatoid arthritis, and their practical interpretation by Ray Sahelian, M.D.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which joints, usually those of the hands and feet, are symmetrically inflamed, resulting in swelling, pain, and often the eventual destruction of the joint's interior. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common inflammatory joint disease and a major cause of disability, morbidity, and mortality. It occurs worldwide, affecting approximately one per cent of adults. Rheumatoid arthritis may be accompanied by fatigue, weight loss, anxiety, and depression. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the tissue that lines and cushions joints (certain immune cells, perhaps mast cells, attack the carbohydrate
molecules, known as glycosaminoglycans, in the joints). Eventually, the cartilage, bone, and ligaments of the joint erode, causing scars to form within the joint. The joints deteriorate at a highly variable rate.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet
A regular, healthy diet is generally appropriate. Some people have flare-ups after eating certain foods. A diet rich in cold water fish has beneficial effects on inflammation. Eating a relatively large amount of red meat every day appears to increase the risk of inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Research has linked smoking and drinking a lot of coffee to rheumatoid arthritis, while suggesting that eating lots of fish and vegetables may protect people from the condition.

Natural options for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
I will update this page as more studies become available regarding the natural approach to rheumatoid arthritis. In the meantime, I have come across some studies regarding natural supplements that I wish to share with you. You may decide to discuss with your doctor to see whether these herbs and supplements are appropriate for you. At this time I am not aware of a
rheumatoid arthritis cure. Fish oils are certainly one of the first supplements to try for rheumatoid arthritis since they reduce inflammation. Cat’s claw a small study showed a reduction in pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients given Cat's claw extract.

Green tea extract
Curcumin has antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. Curcumin is derived from turmeric.
Guggul has anti-inflammatory activity and may be helpful in rheumatoid arthritis
Lyprinol, a green mussel extract, has been found to be helpful for rheumatoid arthritis, (see study below). Folic acid (see below) for rheumatoid arthritis patients on methotrexate

Stop smoking
Go for a low fat diet with plenty of fish and fish oils

Gluten free diet may be tried
Yoga improves hand grip strength in normal persons and in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, though the magnitude of improvement varies with factors such as gender and age.

Tai Chi is helpful
Rheumatoid arthritis exercise -- For people with extensive damage in large joints from rheumatoid arthritis, high-intensity, weight-bearing exercise accelerates the progression of joint damage. However, intensive exercise appears to be safe for arthritis patients with little or no joint damage. Mild to moderate exercise programs to improve muscle strength and aerobic
capacity are beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis can also produce a variety of symptoms throughout the body. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis isn't known, but many different factors, including genetic predisposition, may influence the autoimmune reaction. Rheumatoid arthritis develops in about 1 percent of the population, affecting women two to three times more often than men. Usually,
rheumatoid arthritis first appears between 25 and 50 years of age, but it may occur at any age. In some people, the disease resolves spontaneously, and treatment relieves symptoms in three out of four people; however, at least 1 out of 10 people eventually becomes disabled. Is different than rheumatoid arthritis.

Traditional treatment of rheumatoid arthritis ranges from simple, conservative measures such as rest and adequate nutrition to drugs and surgery. Treatment starts with the least aggressive measures, moving to more aggressive ones if needed. A basic principle of rheumatoid arthritis
treatment is to rest the affected joints, because using them aggravates the inflammation. Regular rest periods often help relieve pain, and sometimes a short period of total bed rest helps relieve a severe flare-up in its most active, painful stage. Splints can be used to immobilize and rest one or several joints, but some systematic movement of the joints is needed to
prevent stiffening.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment - Drugs - Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication
The main categories of drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), slow-acting drugs, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressive drugs. Generally, the stronger the drug, the more severe its potential side effects, so that closer monitoring is needed.

Although jewelry may be the first thing that springs to mind when someone says "gold", injecting a liquid form of the metal can help people with rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, gold therapy has been around for a while and now new research shows it can be effective when combined with another treatment. In the study, reported in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism, gold therapy reduced the severity of arthritis in patients who had a poor response with methotrexate, the standard drug used to treat the disease. Even if an initial course of methotrexate for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis gives disappointing results, persistence may pay off. A second course may be more successful. Many patients continue to have active
disease in spite of intensive therapy with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Steroid Use in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis who are treated with low-dose of the steroid prednisone have an increased risk of coming down with pneumonia. Most other drugs used to treat arthritis don't have this drawback. Prednisone, a steroid, tends suppresses the immune system and at high enough doses this could increase the chances of infection. Even though prednisone
is commonly used to treat arthritis patients, there have been no studies looking at it's effect on the risk of pneumonia -- which is one of the major causes of death in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The most common treatments for rheumatoid arthritis are methotrexate, prednisone, Remicade, hydroxychloroquine and Enbrel. There appears to be no significantly
increased risk associated with so-called TNF-blockers -- Remicade, Enbrel or Humira -- or with methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine or sulfasalazine.

Prednisone use is common in rheumatoid arthritis and is therefore a potentially important health risk. Arthritis & Rheumatism, February 2006.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptom
Rheumatoid arthritis early symptom. Common symptom for rheumatoid arthritis include fatigue, weight loss and anemia. Affects about 2 million Americans, three times more women than men. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are different than symptoms of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis sets a body at war with itself, as white blood cells attack healthy tissue in the joints. The cost of that war may be greater than previously thought: people with rheumatoid arthritis are twice as likely to die of heart disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise
Progressive resistance training can help patients with rheumatoid arthritis who experience muscle wasting. Generalized muscle wasting in rheumatoid arthritis is common although often masked by a concomitant increase in fat mass. Progressive resistance training is an effective treatment for this metabolic complication of rheumatoid arthritis.

Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis Research Update
Newer drugs like Enbrel and Remicade have been a boon to many rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, but researchers now report that such drugs may lead to the development of an inflammatory disorder of blood vessels, usually affecting the skin. The rheumatoid arthritis drugs, called TNF blockers, have been linked to a condition called leukocytoclastic vasculitis, or LCV, according to an article in the Journal of Rheumatology. With LCV, bleeding of small blood vessels under the skin causes purplish raised areas to appear usually on the legs.

Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with the potent TNF-alpha blocking drugs -- such as Enbrel and Remicade, for example -- is linked to an increase in dermatological conditions. The skin conditions included infections and eczema, both of which might logically be related to the way TNF blockers work, by interfering with the immune system. The investigators also
documented drug-related skin ulcers and malignant tumors, as well as a list of less common problems.

Systemic inflammation increases the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, a new study shows, even afterfactoring in the effects of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and other illnesses. The rate of illness and death from cardiovascular disease is higher among rheumatoid arthritis patients, and there is increasing evidence that inflammation plays a key role in the development of atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries.

A Johnson & Johnson promotion for rheumatoid arthritis drug Remicade is misleading because it makes unsupported claims about the drug's effectiveness and omits important information about risks.

Efficacy and tolerability of a combination of Lyprinol and high concentrations of EPA and DHA in inflammatory rheumatoid disorders. Adv Ther. 2004 May-Jun;21(3):197-201. This 12-week drug-monitoring study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Sanhelios Mussel Lyprinol Lipid Complex on 50 adult men and women with inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis. A total of 34 patients required drug therapy before and during the study. By the end of the Lyprinol study, 21 (62%) patients were able to reduce their dosage and 13 were able to terminate drug therapy. At the end of the Lyprinol treatment period, 38% were regarded symptom free, and the number of patients with severe pain decreased significantly from 60% at baseline to 25% at the completion of the trial. A significant effect was observed for each investigated parameter.
The special combination of Lyprinol and omega-3 fatty acids was generally very well tolerated. This dietary supplement with Lyprinol may therefore be considered an effective and well-tolerated component of treatment regimens for inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis. Effects of n-3 fatty acids on serum interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha and soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor p55 in active rheumatoid arthritis.

J Int Med Res. 2004 Sep-Oct;32(5):443-54. We investigated the effects of a low n-6 fatty acid (FA) diet supplementedwith fish oil on serum pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations and clinical variables in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (Rheumatoid arthritis). Sixty patients were randomly assigned to receive a diet low in n-6 FAs and n-3 FAs supplement (fish oil group), a diet low in n-6 FAs and placebo (placebo group), or no special diet or intervention (control group).

Serum cytokines and clinical and biochemical variables were evaluated at baseline and various timepoints. At week 18 the fish oil group had significant reductions in linoleic acid, C-reactive protein (CRP) and soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor p55 (sTNF-R p55), and significant
elevations in eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid compared with baseline. There were no significant differences in the clinical variables between the three groups. At week 24 there were significant reductions in interleukin-6 and TNF-alpha in the fish oil and placebo groups.

Supplementation with n-3 FA and a low n-6 FA intake decreased serum sTNF-R p55 and CRP levels in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis. Folate, homocysteine, and methylcobalamin status in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with methotrexate, and the effect of low dose folic acid supplement.

J Rheumatol. 2004 Dec;31(12):2374-81.
To investigate the effect of methotrexate (MTX) treatment of rheumatoid arthritis on folate metabolism, and to determine the effect of low dose folic acid on toxicity, efficacy, and folate status. METHODS: A 52-week prospective study of 81 patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with MTX and self-administered low dose folic acid; 38 rheumatoid arthritis patients
were included prior to MTX therapy, 33 rheumatoid arthritis patients continued established MTX therapy, and 10 rheumatoid arthritis patients were excluded. Drug efficacy and side effects were monitored with biochemical and clinical indicators. RESULTS: MTX treatment resulted in decreased concentrations of red blood cell (RBC) folate and a rise in plasma
homocysteine. Intracellular concentrations of MTX were inversely correlated to RBC folate levels after treatment for a longer period (mean 41 months).

Supplement with low dose folic acid prevented or diminished the influence of MTX on folate status and had a protective effect on MTX induced liver toxicity without changing the efficacy of MTX. CONCLUSION: MTX interferes with folate and homocysteine metabolism. Our results indicate low dose folic acid supplementation has a beneficial effect on MTX toxicity in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Measuring levels of antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) help predict future disease activity in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis, The anti-CCP antibody test is as sensitive as rheumatoid factor but a more specific diagnostic marker for recent onset rheumatoid arthritis.

Increased blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation, are seen long before symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis appear.

Recently developed drugs called TNF-blockers have brought relief to many people with inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or the intestinal disorder, Crohn's disease. However, the drugs do carry a risk. Federal health officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta point out that patients taking TNF-alpha antagonists, such as
Remicade (infliximab), Enbrel (etanercept), and Humira (adalimumab) have an increased risk of tuberculosis.

Does diet have a role in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis?
Proc Nutr Soc. 2004 Feb;63(1):137-43. Although dietary factors have been extensively studied in many chronic diseases, the role of diet in the epidemiology of rheumatoid arthritis has
received little attention. Fruit and vegetables and dietary antioxidants are thought to play a protective role in the pathogenesis of heart disease and some cancers, but few studies have investigated these dietary components in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil supplementation has consistently been shown to have a beneficial effect on the symptoms of
established rheumatoid arthritis, but it is not known whether the fish oils can reduce the risk of developing the disease. There is evidence that rheumatoid arthritis is less severe in the southern Mediterranean countries, such as Italy and Greece, where oil-rich fish, fruit, vegetables and olive oil are consumed in greater amounts than in many other countries. Overall,
the evidence for a role of diet in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis is limited to a small number of observational studies of very different designs

Recently, it was demonstrated that lower intakes of fruit and vegetables and dietary vitamin C are associated with an increased risk of developing inflammatory polyarthritis in a free-living population in Norfolk, UK. These findings provide further evidence for a role of diet in the development of inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis, although the mechanisms involved are
uncertain.

Randomized double blind trial of an extract from the pentacyclic alkaloid-chemotype of uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw) for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
J Rheumatol. 2002 Apr;29(4):678-81.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate safety and clinical efficacy of a plant extract from
the pentacyclic chemotype of Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw) in patients with
active rheumatoid arthritis. Forty patients undergoing sulfasalazine or
hydroxychloroquine treatment were enrolled in a randomized 52 week, 2 phase
study. During the first phase (24 weeks, double blind, placebo controlled),
Rheumatoid arthritis patients were treated with UT extract or placebo. In
the second phase (28 weeks) all patients received the plant extract.
RESULTS: Twenty-four weeks of treatment with the UT extract resulted in a
reduction of the number of painful joints compared to placebo (by 53% vs
24%). Rheumatoid arthritis patients receiving the UT extract only during the
second phase experienced a reduction in the number of painful and swollen
joints compared to the values after 24 weeks of placebo. Only minor side
effects were observed. CONCLUSION: This small preliminary study demonstrates
relative safety and modest benefit to the tender joint count of a highly
purified extract from the pentacyclic chemotype of cats claw in patients
with active Rheumatoid arthritis taking sulfasalazine or hydroxychloroquine.

Tai chi for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2004;(3):CD004849.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease
that results in the destruction of the musculoskeletal system. Tai Chi,
interchangeably known as Tai Chi Chuan, is an ancient Chinese
health-promoting martial art form that has been recognized in China as an
effective arthritis therapy for centuries. OBJECTIVES: To assess the
effectiveness and safety of Tai Chi as a treatment for people with
Rheumatoid arthritis. Studies reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest Tai
Chi does not exacerbate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, Tai
Chi has statistically significant benefits on lower extremity range of
motion, in particular ankle range of motion, for people with Rheumatoid
arthritis.
Epidemiology of rheumatoid arthritis: determinants of onset, persistence and
outcome.
University of Manchester Medical School, Oxford Road, Manchester UK.
Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2002 Dec;16(5):707-22.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common chronic inflammatory joint disease.
There is some evidence that Rheumatoid arthritis may have been brought from
North America to Europe during the 18th century. Its arrival in rural parts
of the developing world is still more recent. The incidence and prevalence
of Rheumatoid arthritisvappear to have fallen in Europe, North America and
Japan in the last 50 years. During this time the peak age of onset has risen
Risk factors for the development of Rheumatoid arthritis include genetic
factors, an adverse pregnancy outcome, smoking, obesity and recent
infections. The oral contraceptive pill and some dietary constituents may be
protective. Older age and female gender are risk factors both for the
development of Rheumatoid arthritis and for a worse outcome. This risk
factor profile offers some opportunities for primary and secondary
prevention. However, treatment is the greatest determinant of Rheumatoid
arthritis outcome.
Some patients with Rheumatoid arthritiswho take the anti-rheumatic drug
Arava (leflunomide) develop peripheral neuropathy, a nerve problem that
involves numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet.
Blocking the activity of a natural protein involved in inflammation may be a
new approach to treating rheumatoid arthritis. Japanese researchers have
shown that a synthetic antibody targeting the receptor for a hormone-like
protein called interleukin 6 (IL-6) significantly reduces disease activity
in patients with difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis. IL-6 regulates the
immune response, inflammation, and bone metabolism, the team explains in the
medical journal Arthritis & Rheumatism. Overproduction of IL-6 is thought to
play a role in rheumatoid arthritis.
Folate supplementation and methotrexate treatment in rheumatoid arthritis: a
review.
Rheumatology (Oxford). 2004 Jan 6
The folate antagonist methotrexate (MTX) has become established as the most
commonly used disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) in the treatment
of rheumatoid arthritis but is commonly discontinued due to adverse effects.
Adverse effects are thought to be mediated via folate antagonism. In this
paper we summarize the current data on the use of folates as a supplement to
MTX use in rheumatoid arthritis for the prevention of adverse effects and as
a potential modulator of cardiovascular risk, and propose guidelines for
standard practice. METHODS: A Medline search was performed using the search
terms 'methotrexate', 'folic acid', 'folinic acid', 'folate' and
homocysteine'. Literature relevant to the use of folates as a supplement to
MTX in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis was reviewed and other papers
referred to as references were explored. RESULTS: The use of supplemental
folates, including folic and folinic acid, in rheumatoid arthritis patients
treated with MTX has been shown to improve continuation rates by reducing
the incidence of liver function test abnormalities and gastrointestinal
intolerance. Folate supplements do not appear to significantly reduce the
effectiveness of MTX in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore,
supplemental folic acid offsets the elevation in plasma homocysteine
associated with the use of MTX. This may in turn reduce the risk of
cardiovascular disease, which is over-represented amongst patients with
rheumatoid arthritis, and for which hyperhomocysteinaemia is now recognized
as an independent risk factor. CONCLUSIONS: We propose that folic acid
supplements be prescribed routinely to all patients receiving MTX for the
treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. We recommend a pragmatic dosing schedule
of 5 mg of oral folic acid given on the morning following the day of MTX
administration.
Influence of co-administrated sinomenine on pharmacokinetic fate of
paeoniflorin in unrestrained conscious rats.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 May 13;99(1):61-7.
Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (Ranunculaceae) root( Chinese Peony ) and
Sinomenium acutum Rehder and Wilson (Menispermaceae) stem are two herbs
widely used in Chinese medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
serrapeptase
5-htp
coq10
vinpocetine
nattokinase
vinpocetine
lipoic

Citrus, zinc may cut rheumatoid arthritis risk: study
Zinc and an antioxidant found in citrus fruit may lower the risk for
rheumatoid arthritis a new study suggests, but the researchers say the
findings are preliminary and there are still no well-defined risk factors
for the disease. The researchers looked at nearly 30,000 women from the Iowa
Women's Health Study. All had answered a food questionnaire in 1986 that
assessed how much and how often they ate certain foods as well as their
vitamin and supplement intake. Years later, there were 158 cases of
rheumatoid arthritis among the women. The diets of those women were compared
with those of study participants who remained free of the illness. The
doctors found that women getting less than 40 micrograms of
beta-cryptoxanthin, which is found in citrus fruits like oranges and
grapefruit, were at a slightly higher risk of developing rheumatoid
arthritis than women who consumed more than that amount. When they looked at
the amount of zinc in each woman's diet, they found that those who took zinc
supplements had a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis. But getting an
equivalent amount of zinc from food was not associated with decreased risk.
Their results are published in the February issue of the American Journal of
Epidemiology. SOURCE: American Journal of Epidemiology 2003;157:345-354.
Rheumatoid Arthritis emails
Q. I am a 38 year old woman who has been dealing with Rhematoid Arthritis
since my child bearing years. I started seeing an rheumatoid arthritis
doctor about 7 years ago and had been using a Naproxen prescription since
then for pain, inflammation, morning and night stiffness. Not wanting to
continue taking Naproxen for recent concerns about its safety. I started
taking MSM advised by my mother who recently was diagnosed with RA. I have
been taking 3 grams of MSM in the morning and night for the past 3 months
with no need for addition pain medications. I am truley amazed at the
results I've had. If anyone has had cronic pain from arthritis like I have
had it is worth trying MSM.

10 Smart Eating Habit

Hi, Friends,

Good Evening!

Most of us have a busy work schedules and a dozen other commitments to look into.

But, to do justice to all these various aspects of your life, you MUST pay attention to your diet and health. How you eat your food is as important as what you eat. So, the next time you sit down to eat, enjoy your meal by keeping these pointers in mind.

1. Eat slowly; chew your food well

It takes 20 minutes before your stomach sends a clear message to your brain that you're full.

If you take the time to chew your food well, you will find you end up eating less. Ideally, you should have smaller, frequent meals as opposed to larger, infrequent ones.


2. Eat more

If you want to lose weight, starving yourself does not help -- you need to eat well.
Surprised?
Here's the explanation: When your body doesn't receive the required nutrients, your metabolism slows down. Metabolism is the rate at which you burn calories while resting. So, if you don't eat enough, fewer calories will be burnt and there will be less fat loss. You should eat small meals at regular intervals to keep your energy levels high. Eat till you are satiated (at the same time, don't forget what we suggested in Tip No 1).


3. Eat less red meat

Red meats are high in saturated fat and should be avoided by people with high cholesterol. Chicken and fish are the best meats to consume. Fish is better than chicken because it has antioxidants. Antioxidants are organic substances that include vitamins C, E, A and carotenoids; carotenoids add pigment to some fruits and vegetables. For instance, carrots wouldn't be orange without them. Beta-carotenoid is the most popular of carotenoids. Antioxidants help prevent cancer, heart disease and stroke.

These meats can be baked, grilled or roasted. Frying will add unnecessary fat.


4. Prevent constipation

Add fibre to your diet; this adds bulk to your food and prevents constipation. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, bran, wheat germ, brown rice, fruits (especially with their skin), prunes (dried plums), etc, are all good sources of fibre. Home remedies for constipation including the following:

~ Have guavas with the seeds.

~ Have honey in a glass of milk twice a day.

~ Have one tablespoon of corn syrup in a glass of water. Corn syrup is actually corn starch, which is primarily glucose. It is used in making candies, jams and jellies because it does not crystallise like sugar. Corn syrup is available in any well-stocked supermarket.


5. Have onion and garlic

Onion decreases blood pressure and garlic decreases cholesterol. Any amount and form of onion and garlic will give you the benefits of their properties, but a raw garlic clove taken on an empty stomach in the morning is the best.


6. Use less salt in your cooking

Use minimum amount of salt for cooking if you have high blood pressure. Salt also causes water retention. This means your body will retain water if it is not receiving enough.

After all, it still has to carry on the normal functioning of the organs and if you are not drinking enough H2O, then the body starts keeping it.

Water being taken in other forms, such as, soups, dals , drinks, etc, is retained for later use. Bloating and puffiness are all signs of water retention.


7. Have calcium-rich foods

Use skimmed or double-toned milk and milk products as these contain less fat. Double-toned milk has lesser fat than toned or full cream milk.

In the non-packaged variety, cow's milk is just as good as skimmed milk; it is definitely better than buffaloes' milk as the latter contains large amounts of fat. You should have between one and two glasses of milk a day. Other sources of calcium and protein can be taken instead of milk, if one is allergic to it. Calcium rich foods include almonds, figs, red kidney beans, mustard greens, etc. Proteins can be found in meats, sprouts, soya, dals, etc.


8. Switch from maida to whole grains

Replace maida products with whole grains, whole wheat, soya breads, etc, as these have a good amount of fibre; fibre helps in binding cholesterol, which helps in less production of bad cholesterol. Whole grain foods like oatmeal, bran, wheat germ and brown rice, fruits, especially with skins, prunes, etc, are all good sources of fibre.

Too much fibre may cause loose stools, so you have to monitor your individual intake accordingly. Medically, approximately 25 gm of fibre a day is enough to help maintain your digestive system.

A good indicator: four slices of brown bread contains five grams of fibre; so does one large banana or orange.


9. Have foods that contain iron

These include red meats, especially liver, fruits like watermelon and pomegranate, vegetables like spinach, beans, beets and broccoli, whole grains, dried fruits, especially prunes, sunflower seeds, etc.


10. Relish the flavours

You may have heard some of these before. But the best good food habit, which we all seem to overlook, is to actually taste and enjoy the flavour of the food with your emotions instead of just your tongue.