http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/health/medicine/acidophilus.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/medicine/acidophilus.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Acidophilus is often used in an attempt to prevent diseases, digestive problems, such as diarrhea, or infections, such as vaginal yeast or urinary tract, from gaining a foothold. Occasionally, acidophilus may be included as a supplement during treatment with antibiotics. In addition to these conditions, acidophilus may also be used in alleviating the symptoms of bad breath and flatulence.

When used to lessen symptoms of flatulence, however, it may take a few days for positive results to occur. Increased gas is also one of the possible side effects that one may experience when taking this supplement. Fortunately, no known drug or nutritional interactions are currently known. In fact, acidophilus has been used in many countries for years.

Acidophilus is found in certain foods, particularly yogurt. However, due to pasteurization, the amount of acidophilus present in yogurts varies. Therefore, no one can simply rely on the fact that they are getting acidophilus through their yogurt intake. In order to promote a reliable level of Acidophilus intake, some individuals may choose to incorporate acidophilus supplements into their diet.

The acidophilus supplements are available in several forms: liquid, powder, tablet, suppository, and capsules. The suggested dosage, usually between two and four times a day, varies according to the condition that an individual is attempting to treat. Dosage directions should be available on each product label.

If acidophilus is being taken as part of a daily regimen, then the dosage should be decreased. In addition, the dosage is generally taken with food to lessen the number of acidophilus organisms destroyed through contact with stomach acids.

Acidophilus supplements are available in most Health stores and online. It is important to research the different available products to determine which will be most beneficial for you. These products will vary in strength and concentration. Acidophilus products should contain live cultures and proper storage of the product is essential in order to ensure its usefulness.

As with any supplement, a physician should be contacted and the intended use of the product discussed. An informed decision is always the best one.

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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/fitness/its-never-too-late-to-start.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/fitness/its-never-too-late-to-start.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Those ways are getting easier to find. Top gyms and fitness programs are offering more low-impact exercises. Even the advertising is changing. No longer are they using only the god and goddess-like bodies of twenty-somethings but are picturing normal every day people with a little gray in their hair and a little fat on their tummies.

Now, if going to the gym is still not your "thing" no matter how many changes they make, don't worry. You can tailor your own home fitness routine to fit your lifestyle.

Walking may be the most obvious and simple place to start. Start slowly. You are just asking for an injury if you suddenly decide to walk two miles after a year of considering a jaunt through the supermarket aisle to be a hike. Even if you have been walking already, don't spontaneously add another two miles. Instead, walk a few steps farther or five minutes longer every day until you've reached your goal.

It's good to get thirty minutes of movement in a day. If you find thirty minutes at a time to be difficult, whether due to your current fitness level or time constraints, break it up. Walk for fifteen minutes two times a day. Or switch it up and do fifteen minutes of yoga and walk fifteen minutes. You are creating your own workout. Do it your way. But do it safely. Knee and back injuries are not uncommon and they can put a real crimp in your whole fitness goal.

If you are starting from scratch, you may want to start with strengthening exercises. Many of us are caring for elderly parents who have suffered broken hips or other injuries from falling. Maybe that’s what motivated you to get in shape. Strengthening exercises are the right place to start. It doesn’t take a big increase in muscle size to make a noticeable difference in strength and ease of movement. Strengthening exercises will also increase your metabolism and make you less prone to developing diabetes.

Another important exercise is for balance. Balance exercises, like strength exercises, can help you avoid a fall that could result in injury. Balance exercises target leg muscles.

Stretching exercises play a very important part in maintaining your range of movement. Doing stretching exercises can bring you more fluid, graceful movements and allow you to keep reaching for those healthy snacks you have hidden on the top kitchen shelf. They may also help you avoid the pain of strained or pulled muscles or tendons.

Also important are endurance exercises, which brings us back to walking. Swimming, jogging and biking also qualify as endurance exercises. Anything that increases your heart rate and breathing for any length of time is an exercise of endurance. Again, start out slowly and work your way up, incrementally, to your goal.

Many of the newer yoga programs incorporate all four of these exercises. Yoga programs are very popular and new centers are springing up everywhere. There are also tapes and DVDs available for home yoga workouts. I recommend investing in a mat whether you choose to take a class or follow a tape. It is difficult to concentrate if your hands or feet are sliding out of position. Also, wear comfortable clothing that is neither binding nor too loose. Whether you are working out alone or with a group, don’t worry about getting the latest yoga clothes. Anything that feels comfortable and allows you to move freely is perfectly fine.

Now, if you have been saving your pennies for years and the kids have graduated college and are creating lives of their own, you may want to consider a fitness get-a-way. You have worked hard over the years. You’ve been everything to everyone. Now, it’s time to take care of yourself. There are fitness trips to suit your travel and activity tastes. You can go to a mountain spa or take a cruise and learn to snorkel. Many of the spas offer healthy cooking classes so that when you get home, you can continue to feed your body with delicious life-extending and life-enriching meals. You can become a whole new person and be given the tools to maintain that person for a happier and healthier life when you get home.

This is the time you’ve waited for. These are the days you thought of once and called "someday." "Someday I’m going to get in shape." "Someday I’ll start eating right." "One of these days I’m going to start walking and getting out more." Well, this is one of those days. Grab a bottle of water, put on a good pair of sneakers and get out there. Breathe. Enjoy. This is the life you’ve been waiting for.


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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/medicine/exercise-and-ibs-whats-the-connection.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/medicine/exercise-and-ibs-whats-the-connection.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Unfortunately however, a large portion of IBS sufferers find that their condition cannot be fully cured. The medical profession has been unable to pinpoint exactly the causes of the syndrome. Thus, a cure has not been developed. In the absence of such a cure, however, the best thing and IBS sufferer can do is to get the best medical help available, as well as make relevant lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes may not be able to make IBS go away completely, but they will make the symptoms easier to cope with.

A change in diet is often necessary for IBS sufferers. By eating more fiber-rich foods such as apples, peaches, cabbage, and broccoli, an IBS sufferer can reduce the impact of both constipation and diarrhea. Food items such as carrots, peas, whole-wheat bread, and pineapples are good choices as well. On the other hand, alcohol and caffeine-rich beverages should be avoided.

Aside from changes in diet, one of the most important things an IBS sufferer can do is to get some regular exercise.

Exercise is vital to the IBS sufferer for two specific reasons. First, exercise makes your body stronger. Exercise strengthens the immune system, making it less likely that other illnesses or disorders will occur.

Second, exercise is a good way to relieve stress. Many doctors believe that IBS has psychological origins. When a mind is under unusual amounts of stress, it is more prone to mental problems. Mental problems, in turn, lead to physical problems. The symptoms of IBS often begin when a person is exposed to too much stress. Stress has not been proven to cause IBS; but it certainly makes it worse. Because of this, anyone with the syndrome should do his utmost to reduce his stress levels. Exercising, of course, is one of the finest ways to accomplish this.

People who exercise regularly report a feeling of well-being after their sessions. What happens is this: the brain releases endorphins. Endorphins are natural painkillers and antidepressants, so anyone in physical or mental pain will benefit from their release. Exercise isn’t only good for you; it makes you feel good as well!


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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/how-to-stay-healthy-this-winter.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/how-to-stay-healthy-this-winter.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
High Risk Individuals

Though anyone can come down with a cold or the flu, there are certain individuals who are at high risk. These include:

*Senior citizens.
*Pregnant women.
*Diabetics.
*Heart patients.
*Toddlers.
*Those with chronic diseases or those who are receiving chemo therapy or radiation treatments.
*Children with disabilities or chronic diseases.
*Those with compromised immune systems such as HIV or AIDS patients.

If you are an individual who is in this high risk bracket, talk to your family physician or health care professional to determine if you should have a flu shot.

If you aren’t in this high risk category, there are a few things you can do to reduce the chance of coming down with a cold or the flu.

Hand Washing

If you want to ward off colds and the flue, wash your hands frequently throughout the day. To wash your hands thoroughly, wet them with warm, not hot, water. Apply a generous amount of soap and massage it into your hands and around fingertips and fingernails for thirty seconds. Clean with soap all the way up your forearms to your elbows. Rinse thoroughly, being certain not to leave any soap residue. Dry your hands well. If you’re in a public washroom, wash your hands in the same manner as described above and dry them with a paper towel. Use the paper towel to shut off the tap and then to open the washroom door. Toss the paper towel into the garbage receptacle as you leave.

Stay Well Hydrated

Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to keep your body well hydrated. In summer, we tend to drink a lot because it is hot. It’s easy to neglect hydration when the weather turns cool. To keep your body well hydrated, drink eight to ten cups of fluid each day. Part of your fluid intake should be water. Other sources of fluids include fruit and vegetable juices, milk, tea and coffee. Raw fruits and vegetables are also a source of fluid. Keeping your body well hydrated will flush out all toxins and help you to ward off colds and the flu.

Healthy Food Choices

Make healthy food choices. Humans tend to eat more in the winter months. Eat well balanced meals and be sure to include fish in your diet at least once a week. Fish provides the body with Omega oils that help to boost the immune system. Eat lots of fiber and cut back on sweets, snacks and fast food to ensure your diet includes important antioxidants that fight off colds and the flu.

Be Active

In winter the majority of people become less active. Don’t be a couch potato. If you dislike cold weather, create an exercise regime that you can participate in within the comfort of your home. If you need others to motivate you, consider joining the YM-YWCA or a local gym or recreation facility.

If you like cold weather, take the kids tobogganing, go cross country or downhill skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating or try snowshoeing. Winter sports can be lots of fun and they help us to ward off germs that cause colds and the flu.

If you eat a well balanced diet, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, stay hydrated and get lots of exercise, you will stay in optimum health through the long winter months and won’t have to cope with a cold or the flu.


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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/food/meals-on-a-budget.html http://www.articletrader.com/food/meals-on-a-budget.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
First, make a list of all the foods your family likes; include prepared dishes like macaroni and cheese as well as single items like ham. This will help you plan meals that incorporate several of the same ingredients without feeding your family the same dish over and over again. Add to the list things you’d like to try.

Next, make a list of what you actually have on-hand, and make sure you note what you’ve had forever that hasn’t been eaten. If you have a lot of junk food, you have a lot of empty calories that aren’t feeding your family very well and cost a lot of money. By noting what you have that hasn’t been used, you know what to avoid (if it was something your family didn’t like) or maybe you need to find a recipe that uses that item. For example, I had garbanzo beans that I had no idea what to do with. I found a simple recipe for hummus, a healthy middle-eastern dip that goes well with bread, crackers and even veggies, and my family loves it! I use it as a snack, or to serve with "salad" dinners on nights when it is too hot to cook.

This will help you begin to build a basic pantry, which can be a huge money-saving tool. I always have shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella) frozen in week-sized packages, rice, bacon bits (which you can home-make and freeze for later), ranch salad dressing, vinegar, cooking oil and basic spices (basil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, sage, cinnamon, chili powder and dried onion) and condiments (ketchup, mustard, vinegar, barbeque sauce and red cooking wine. You will want to build a basic pantry around things you eat often and learn how to incorporate those things into your weekly planning. Do this slowly, as you do not want to stress your budget. Many of these things can be bought in bulk and put into smaller packages or you can grow your own in a small garden or several pots on a patio.

Once you know what you already have, sit down with a calendar and see what kind of time you’ll have to prepare your meals. In general, cooking things yourself will be less expensive than if you purchase pre-packaged items. It is possible to incorporate some items like these into your budget, or you can cook double amounts and freeze portions for quick, healthy home-cooked meals on a dime. Plan your meals according to the time you and your family will have. Include in this planning some time to make extras for days when time will be tight. My children eat cereal, oatmeal or eggs and toast for breakfast and drink milk (no juice!). For lunches we eat left-overs or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with seasonal fruit or carrots. Snacks are usually fruit, carrots or bread with peanut butter or goodies I’ve made myself. After dinner we like to have a treat of ice cream, so that is my family’s splurge. You should make sure you plan a splurge into your menu.

When I plan, I start with the things I have on hand and build around those. I also noted that chicken was on sale at the local grocery store, so I bought a several pounds – again, some I will freeze and save, and the rest I will use this week. In the shopping list at the bottom, I’ve only noted the amount of chicken I used this week, not the total amount I purchased. I always try to take advantage of sales on meat.

To begin the week, I’ll make simple grilled chicken either on the grill or in a cast-iron skillet on the stove. Season this with garlic, butter and basil, and serve with a side of rice and a simple tossed salad and some grapes. The salad will re-appear throughout the week, as will the grapes. I’ll make spaghetti with meat sauce for Tuesday night. Using ¼ pound of hamburger I’ll make my own sauce from tomato paste and any seasonable veggies in my garden. I’ll serve the spaghetti with steamed broccoli and grapes or cantaloupe. While the sauce and noodles are cooking, I will assemble Wednesday night’s dinner, as it is a late day for me. Using my broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, bacon bits, grapes, ranch dressing and left over chicken, I’ll made a salad for the next night. The salad doesn’t need to be served with anything, but you could serve bread and butter. Thursday night I’ll make chicken cacciatore using more of the pasta sauce from Tuesday and the green pepper. Serve this over rice and with the tossed salad and whatever fruit you like. Friday night is another busy one, so we eat left-overs this night. Saturday we’ll have the rest of the chicken over noodles in a sauce made of milk, flour, basil, garlic and butter with steamed broccoli. Sunday I’ll use the rest of the hamburger to make a meatloaf topped with more of my sauce made on Monday.

Shopping List

3 pounds of chicken $6.44
1 small can of tomato paste $ .56
bag salad or lettuce $2.23
carrots $2.39
green pepper $ .75
red seedless grapes $1.46
cantaloupe $ .85
bananas $ .88
small head of broccoli $1.15
small head of cauliflower $1.23
1 pound hamburger (chuck) $2.76
milk (2 gallons) $5.14
wheat bread (2 loaves) $1.56
Cereal $2.35
Ice cream $4.67
Total $33.56


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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/medicine/msm-the-key-to-good-health.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/medicine/msm-the-key-to-good-health.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
One well-known advocate of MSM, Stanley W. Jacob, M.D., co author of "The Miracle of MSM," records having cared for over 18,000 patients with MSM. Some of the conditions that he claims to have successfully treated with MSM include myasthenia gravis, lupus, fibromyalgia and snoring. Another prominent spokesperson for MSM, Robert M. Herschler, Ph.D., has found MSM to be an effective "ameliorating agent" against many of the physiological responses to stress.

In experiments that have been performed with mice, MSM effectively reduced arthritis related joint deterioration, deformities and swelling. Other animal studies have shown that MSM has a potential for treating breast cancer, colon cancer and anemia. Studies done on humans showed MSM comparing favorably against a placebo when tested for effectiveness against such ailments as osteoarthritis of the knee and also hay fever.

MSM is a naturally occurring organic sulfur compound. It is present in fresh fish, meat, plants and fruit. That being the case, is there any need for MSM supplementation? Herschler states that the MSM that is in those substances is lost with even a modest amount of processing such as drying or heating. Since most people who live in North America rely heavily on processed foods, there may be little or no MSM in their diet. And as it is a crucial component in one’s health, the need for supplementation becomes clear.

Why is MSM so conducive for good health? It is a sulfur compound and sulfur is an essential mineral for the body. Sulfur is a component of bones, teeth and collagen (the protein in connective tissue.) The sulfur mineral is needed in the manufacture of many proteins, including those that form hair, muscle and skin. Thus all of those body parts are strengthened through the use of MSM.

How much MSM does one need to take and how often? Some of the research that has been conducted on MSM indicates that one needs to take a steady supply of it for it to help maintain one’s health. Phyllis and James Balch, in their book "Prescription For Nutritional Healing," recommend that one should start with a dosage of 1,000 milligrams of MSM a day. That should eventually be raised to 2,000 milligrams a day. There has been no evidence of any toxicity build up or harmful side effects from the regular use of MSM at those dosages. However, it is generally advised that pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid MSM.

MSM is available for use in capsules and tablets. It is also available for application to the skin as a lotion, cream or gel.

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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/depression/natural-anti-depressants-st-johns-wort-kava-kava-and-lemon-balm.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/depression/natural-anti-depressants-st-johns-wort-kava-kava-and-lemon-balm.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
The Safe Use Of Natural Remedies

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

St Johns Wort

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

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

Kava Kava

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

Lemon Balm

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

A Final Word On Natural Remedies

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

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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/poison-prevention.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/poison-prevention.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
A couple of years ago, my beloved cat accidentally got out of the house and ended up being a victim of antifreeze poisoning. Although it was never clear whether the poisoning was deliberate or accidental, his tragic death was needless and preventable.

Even the best-fed pets tend to rummage through garbage if given the opportunity. Dogs may chew on empty or partially empty containers. It’s in their nature just as young children are curious and may tend to explore low area cabinets such as under the sink where household cleaners may be stored. We can’t always protect our children and pets from every danger they may encounter but we can take measures toward poison prevention.

Don’t store household cleaning products, insecticides or other chemicals on low shelves or anywhere that young children may be able to reach. Don’t leave cleaning products setting out where children can get their hands on them, even when you are using them. In the time it takes to answer the phone or door an accident can happen. Always make sure that all lids are tightly secure.

Don’t use any type of rodent poison in an area where children may play or any place that is accessible to the family pets. The same precautions should be applied when using rat or mousetraps. Curious little fingers and paws could sustain injury. Be careful when letting pets outside. Neighbors may use chemicals around their homes to ward off rodents or in their gardens. Unsuspecting pets that are out for a stroll could become victims of such poisons. Try to keep cats indoors and walk your dog rather than letting them out by themselves. Automotive products such as antifreeze are deadly to pets. If containers are left outside or a vehicle is leaking such a product, an animal could be drawn to the harmful mixture. Be careful not to leave such items open in a garage or basement. If you keep your vehicle inside a garage that pets have access to, make sure you keep it maintained and check often for leaks or other hazards.

Medications and even some beauty products can be hazardous as well. Always be sure to keep medicines out of reach. Keep them on a high shelf, in a medicine cabinet or somewhere safe from small hands. Many medications now come with childproof caps that help to prevent accidental poisoning. They work rather well considering that sometimes adults have difficulty opening them.

Although Poison Prevention Month is all about preventing poisoning you should be prepared and know how to react in the event poisoning does occur. It may be difficult but try to remain calm. Call the Poison Control Center and get assistance. If the container is available or you know what the substance is, describe the type of poison that was ingested. Let the center know if you have any idea how much of the poison was consumed. Stay on the phone and listen carefully because you will be instructed how to proceed. Don’t give a child any water, milk or any other substance to dilute the poison or induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by the Poison Control Center. Although in some cases, such an action may be beneficial, depending on the type of poison, it could actually do more harm.

If you suspect a pet has been poisoned get the animal to a veterinarian immediately. Prevention is always the best medicine in any case. Keep all household products and toxic substances out of reach. Don’t let pets wander. Keep dogs on a leash when walking. Put safety first at all times.

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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/nutrition/the-possible-benefits-of-fish-oil.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/nutrition/the-possible-benefits-of-fish-oil.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
The Heart

The American Heart Association recommends that people eat fish, preferably oily fish, at least twice a week. Studies have shown that diets rich in omega-3 fats decrease the levels of triglyceride – a type of fat linked to heart disease – and decrease the risk of irregular heart rhythms thus lowering the possibility of sudden cardiac arrests or strokes. These diets have also been linked to lowering blood pressure.

Doubts have arisen about this recently because a new British study showed that fish oil may not be any use at all in preventing heart disease. However, many more tests need to be done.

Greenland Eskimos and the Japanese have very low rates of heart disease and this may be because of the high quantity of oily fish in their diet.

The Brain

Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids may be very important for foetal development of the brain and the eyes. Oily fish can contribute to the health of brain tissue and the retina.

Depression

Greenland Eskimos have virtually no incidence of depression while the Japanese have very low rates. New Zealanders, who eat the highest amounts of omega-6 or harmful fatty acids, have the highest rates of depression. This may be because Eskimos and Japanese consume a lot of oily fish.

Studies have also shown that fish oil may help to control mood swings in people with depression.

Eyes

Consuming a high quantity of omega-6 fatty acids has been linked to the increase in the West of two eye diseases: dry eye syndrome and macular degeneration. Eating more oily fish may help to prevent these diseases.

Cancer

A few studies have shown that fish oil may lessen the risk of developing cancers of the breast, prostrate and lung. However, a recent review of studies involving more than 700,000 patients, found that it probably doesn’t help to prevent cancer. Studies are continuing, however.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Fish oil can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and may lessen the need for patients to take NSAIDS which can have harmful effects.

Conclusion

Although the best way to obtain fish oil is by eating fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, there have been recent reports about high levels of mercury in fish. Pregnant women and those with young children should avoid eating fish with high mercury levels.

Some doctors, such as Doctor Judith Reichman in her article "Fish Oil – Better than Risk of Polluted Fish" at MSNBC, conclude that taking fish oil supplements is a better idea – it is best to ask the doctor before considering a radical change in diet or taking supplements.

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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/remember-the-rosemary.html http://www.articletrader.com/health/alternative/remember-the-rosemary.html Sun, 03 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0500
Rosmarinus Officinalis is one of the most aromatic, beautiful, and useful of herbs. You can use rosemary in the kitchen, the bathroom, even the bedroom; for cologne, cosmetics, simple home remedies and delicious home cooked meals.

Rosemary deserves a place in any well stocked herb garden and is easy to grow. The best position for rosemary is a well drained spot that receives full sun. Rosemary grows well along paths, or anywhere that encourages visitors to brush up against it, releasing the wonderful aromatic fragrance into the garden.

Rosemary is steeped in lore and legend. It is associated with remembrance, and the heady fragrance helps sharpen concentration. If you start feeling stale and tired, and lose concentration, try sniffing a sprig of rosemary, or keep a piece of cotton wool soaked in rosemary oil near your work station to dab on your temples. This will soothe a headache.

One of the most famous uses for rosemary is Hungary Water. First used by Queen Isabella of Hungary, an invalid who claimed it made her feel young again, Hungary Water is simply made by steeping rosemary flowers and leaves in vodka for a month. Other essences, such as rosewater and orange flower water can be added, in which case it can be used as a skin tonic.

If you don’t want to use alcohol, you can steep the rosemary in equal parts of witch hazel and rosewater, or orange flower water. Put some in a small spray bottle and keep it in the fridge for an instant lift on a hot day. Use this gentle lotion as a skin tonic and you will see why the Queen of Hungary was so taken with it.

Medicinally, rosemary is used to treat headaches and lift the spirits. If you have a lot of study to do, or a heavy workload, rosemary tea will help keep you fresh and focused. If you love sport, try steeping rosemary sprigs in a bottle of almond or sunflower oil. Leave the bottle in the sun for a week or two and use it to massage sore muscles and sprains.

Mediterranean woman have long used rosemary to keep their hair dark and beautiful. A simple rinse of rosemary leaves steeped in hot water (cool before use) makes a wonderful conditioning rinse for brown or dark hair. Rosemary stimulates the scalp and is helpful for hair loss.

Most people know that rosemary is the right herb for cooking lamb, and it certainly makes the best roast lamb you’ve ever tasted. Simply cut deep slits in the roast and insert rosemary leaves with slivers of garlic before cooking for a sweet, tender roast.

But rosemary can also be added to soups and stews to give them extra flavor and goodness, or worked into bread dough to make a delicious accompaniment to any meal. Adding rosemary to a meal aids digestion, which is why it traditionally accompanies rich meats such as lamb.

To store dried rosemary for future use, harvest the long sprigs well after the sun has risen, when the dryness and warmth makes the aromatic oils at their most fragrant. Tie the sprigs in bunches and dry them in an airing closet or hang them in muslin bags in the open.

When the needlelike leaves are dry they can be easily rubbed off the sprigs. That’s all you need to do – simply store the rosemary leaves in clean dry jars. Once you have used fresh rosemary from your garden, you will want to use it all year round.

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

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>