It can be difficult to deal with diabetes if you are unsure how best to manage it. These tips will help you manage your condition better, and lead a healthier life.
1. Try to avoid stress in your life as much as you can. It is said that everyone needs a little stress in their lives, but too much of it is a very bad thing. You may find that your job has become very stressful – a diagnosis of diabetes might be frightening, but it may also give you the impetus you need to find a new, less stressful job if it’s possible. Your home life may be stressful. Talk with your family to see if there are ways that they could help ensure that your life is made less stressful. By reducing stress in your life, both your blood sugar and blood pressure should stay at safer levels.
2. Try some relaxation to reduce your blood sugar. This might be something as simple as listening to some soothing music, or you could try one of the many relaxation audio CDs which are available. Practice your breathing technique by taking long, deep breaths, in the through the nose, and out through the mouth. Do just ten repetitions, and you’ll be surprised how effective this can be, particularly if you close your eyes.
3. Are you carrying too much weight? Everyone should try losing weight if they need to, but for diabetics, this is even more important. Make sure you take advice from your GP on a suitable eating plan. Plan half an hour of gentle exercise into your daily schedule. The combination of healthy eating and exercise should see the excess weight coming off in no time at all.
4. If you’ve been prescribed medication, make sure you follow the directions on how to take it properly. If you need to have medication at a certain time, or after meals, make sure you do. It’s also sensible to take your medication at the same time every day. If you sometimes can’t remember if you’ve taken your medication or not, buy a pill box which has different sections for each day of the week, and sections for different times of the day. Fill it up once a week, and you’ll be able to see if you have taken the correct medication each day or not.
5. Avoid drinks with hidden sugar. Always check the label of any soft drink to see if it contains sugar. If you’re visiting a coffee shop, ask the barista if your drink contains sugar – if it does, then choose one which doesn’t have any sugar. It’s really easy to get caught out with sugary drinks that you don’t know contain sugar.
These tips should help you manage your diabetes, but if you’re ever in any doubt, always check with your GP.
Visit my website to get more free information about how to manage diabetes.
By Joel Gray
Individuals who are known to be at a high risk for diabetes should undergo frequent testing for signs of diabetes. These individuals need to understand the risk factors associated with a diabetic condition. These factors include, among other things, the body’s inability to regulate acidity in the blood sugar levels and regulate insulin and glucose hormones. A diet high in fats that raise bad levels of cholesterol coupled with little to no exercise also puts these individuals at a high risk for diabetes.
Diabetes has been considered a high risk factor for conditions such as heart disease, which is a coronary disease that causes the narrowing of the blood vessels carrying oxygen and blood to the heart. Heart disease has been labeled as the number one cause of death in the U.S. Individuals with heart disease become more and more limited and their risks for heart attacks increase drastically. Strokes are also common with individuals who have heart disease. Heart disease can also be a genetic disease. Diabetes is linked to heart disease, and heart disease is linked to other health problems, such as high cholesterol and hypertension.
Diabetes can become a vessel for these different conditions. There are good cholesterol levels (HDL) and bad cholesterol levels (LDL) in the body. High levels of bad cholesterol result in the cholesterol in the blood building up and sticking to the sides of the arteries. This plaque is a fat-like substance that mimics heart disease in that it narrows the vessels and can even block them. High cholesterol levels put an individual at high risk for hypertension. Diabetes is linked to those high risk factors for hypertension.
Linked to diabetes and high cholesterol levels, hypertension is known as the silent killer. Directly linked to the blood pressure flowing through the arteries, hypertension complications are increased when the walls of the arteries have been blocked or narrowed by high cholesterol levels. Essentially, this increases the blood pressure, and an individual is then said to have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is another symptom of heart disease and can also lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Not only does diabetes predispose individuals to high risks diseases, but environmental risk factors are directly tied in with diabetic conditions. According to as Stanford study, environmental factors, like chemicals in the soil and water around an individual, will increase the risk of developing diabetes. Three environmental elements were identified as being directly correlated with the increased risk of diabetes type II. Two elements identified were pesticides that contain heptachlor epoxide and PCBS. Surprisingly, the third element is a certain form of vitamin E, which is thought to have antioxidant factor for helping diabetic conditions. The clue may be in the potential toxicity of the build up of this vitamin, which is naturally found in large quantities in the tissues and blood of the body.
Environmental risk factors are more predisposed in type II diabetes than in type I diabetes. Sedentary lifestyles, high caloric intakes, very little exercise and a family history of diabetes, coupled with exposures to certain environmental factors, are deemed high risk factors for individuals to develop diabetic conditions.
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Controlling Blood Sugar Naturally
Diabetes can wreck havoc on one’s body. It can exacerbate health issues and create new ones. So controlling sugar levels is key. I have interest in the issue because I have family members with this disease. I am listing all the natural ways to regulate blood sugar. For those on medications and or insulin it may provide additional defenses.
Biotin
A water soluble B-Complex vitamin (B7) is said to help control diabetes and speed-up metabolism. It is essential for the formation of fatty acids and sugar (also called glucose). Studies have shown that taken in combination with Chromium Picolinate to be very effective in controlling levels. Capsules are the best supplement form to take with dosage range of 30-200mcg per day. Natural sources: Brewer’s yeast, liver, cauliflower, salmon, bananas, carrots, egg yolks, sardines, legumes, mushrooms.
Bitter Melon
A traditional herbal medicine. Also known as “African Cucumber”. This one is interesting. Has been shown in one study to reduce average levels by 25% after one month. “p-insulin” is the most active component. Also been shown to drop glycosiated hemoglobin. Best supplement form is powdered leaf in capsule or tablet with 1-2 grams per day. Also acts as a mild laxative.
Garlic
Garlic may lower blood glucose levels. It may also increase the release of insulin therefore should be used cautiously when taking drugs that lower levels. Best supplement forms is aged and dosage range is 300-900mg per day.
Vitamin B-6
Another B vitamin useful in controlling diabetes. In studies resistance to insulin increased average of 31%. Best supplement form is Pyridoxine. Keep doses under 75mg per day, doses over 200mg per day can be dangerous. Natural sources: Bananas, nuts, rice, fish, soybeans.
Fenugreek
Another interesting herbal medicine. Been used since ancient time to treat diabetes. Has been shown to be extremely effective in reducing levels as well as fasting blood sugar. Also shown to stimulate insulin production and reduce insulin resistance. Best supplement form powdered Fenugreek seed in capsules. Dosage range 1-2 grams three times a day.
Magnesium
This mineral is involved in the metabolism of sugar. It protects cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. Studies have shown diabetes can cause a deficiency of magnesium. Best form to take is Magnesium Gluconate. Dosage is 1-2 grams up to three times a day.
Gymnema Sylvestre
This old folk remedy enhances insulin production. It reduces levels and interferes with the absorption of sugar. Can reduce need for insulin by up to 50%. Also can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. Best supplement form GS4 Extract. Dosage range 400mg per day.
Chromium
Another mineral crucial to blood sugar levels. After a six week regimen levels fell average of 18% in diabetic patients in a recent study. Was identified in 1959 as element that enables hormone insulin to function properly. Can be toxic in high doses. Usual dose is 100-200mcg per day. Best supplemental form to take is Chromium Picolinate.
Coenzyme Q10
Reduces levels by 20% on average. Increases insulin production. Best supplemental form Coenzyme Q10 made from fermented sugar. Dosage range 50-250mg per day. In a twelve week study with 74 people it was shown to significantly control blood pressure and glycemic control. It’s present in every cell in the body.
Vitamin E
Very important to diabetics. Has the ability to improve blood sugar control and can effectively help prevent the disease. If taken in conjunction with diabetic medication needs to be closely monitored with your physician. Particularly important to diabetics is that E protects the retina and kidneys.
I am a semi-retired individual with an interest in staying healthy and well being. I recently started a website for like minded individuals that like informational articles related to health, exercise, etc., with an emphasis on natural approaches. My website (a work in progress):
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When it comes to lowering your LDL cholesterol, you have a few options. First, you can take prescription medication, but these can carry some harmful side effects. A better solution is to switch over to a diet specifically tailored for lowering your harmful cholesterol numbers. As an added benefit, when you eat these excellent foods, your overall health will improve as well. So, what foods are the best to add to your diet when trying to bring down your cholesterol levels?
Nuts:
These little snacks pack a punch. Ounce for ounce, they are the best food to consume for your heart and they will lower your cholesterol as well. Though they are high in fat, it is nearly all monounsaturated in form, which is actually good for your arteries. In fact, just by eating a handful of this health food every day, you will be lowering your LDL cholesterol by at least ten percent over time. They taste great, too, so they should be a part of any healthy diet.
Fish:
Again, you may be surprised that high fat content food is good at lowering your LDL cholesterol. The key is the type of fat you consume, as the healthy omega-3 essential fatty acids found in fish are vital for your health. They work to lower inflammation and your cholesterol as well. Also, you will crave the harmful trans fats found in many prepackaged foods less when you consume more of these instead. Replace another type of meat with fish as your main course at least twice a week and you will begin to see results. For even better lowering effect, you can use fish oil supplements on a daily basis as well.
Oats:
When lowering your LDL cholesterol, oats should be on the front line. Oats are a great breakfast substitute for that cholesterol laden meal of bacon and eggs, which will ruin any progress you are trying to make. Not only are they low in cholesterol, their fiber binds to the cholesterol already in your system, hindering your body’s ability to hold onto it. This means your numbers will fall just from adding a bowl of this great tasting food to your morning routine.
Beans:
Another fiber-filled food, beans are a great addition to your plan through smart food choices. They are versatile and you have many different varieties to choose from, so you should have no trouble adding them to the menu at least three times a week. Also, they tend to satisfy you for long periods of time, meaning you will be less inclined to grab an unhealthy food later for a snack.
There you have the best foods for lowering your LDL cholesterol numbers safely and effectively. Why resort to dangerous drugs when simply eating well will bring you much greater benefits? You will never have damaging side effects when you select these great foods, and you will begin to feel healthier as a whole as well.
Darran Butler is a heart health and cholesterol wellness expert with a passion for showing others how to live healthy and passionate lives. He has helped countless others achieve their health objectives and, specifically, lowering your LDL cholesterol. For more information on Darran Butler and how he can help you, visit his site for a free report that will show you how to stay super heart healthy with ideal cholesterol at http://ImprovingHealthSecrets.com.
By Gary Stanton
The NCEP recommends a diet low in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol. Complex carbohydrates are suggested in place of simple carbs.
Meat should become a very minor part of your diet. Replace fatty beef, pork and lamb with lean cuts or skinless white meat chicken or fish. Fat should be trimmed from all meats.
Always choose low fat or non-fat dairy products over whole milk or cream. Pretzels, carrots, popcorn, dried fruits and fresh fruits are a much better option than candy and potato chips. Store purchased bakery goods should be excluded from your diet.
Avoid butter or margarine when cooking and choose baking, broiling, steaming, roasting or stewing in lieu of frying. Stay away from coconut and palm oils since they are mostly saturated fat based.
Steer clear of all trans fats, they raise LDL and lower HDL.
The diet cholesterol connection
The first step in lowering your cholesterol should always be adopting a diet tailored for lowering cholesterol. Healthy eating habits should include the avoidance of saturated and trans fats. Those who have been regularly eating high fat foods and fried foods can lower their cholesterol levels as much as 25% by switching to a diet of lean meats, fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Always consider replacing a bad diet choice with a substitute. Instead of choosing a bacon cheeseburger and fried potatoes, select a lean grilled chicken breast or lean piece of meat 4 ounces or less and a baked potato, corn or salad.
Try to restrict your diet to include no more than 25% of your calories from fat. The NCEP guidelines also suggest consuming less than 200mg of cholesterol from food. Saturated fats are particularly dangerous because they stimulate the production of LDL cholesterol. Saturated fats can be identified by their appearance. They are solid or semi solid at room temperature. These include the fats found in eggs, some vegetable oils, meat, dairy products, coconut oil, cocoa butter, palm and palm kernel oils.
The opposite consistency is true for unsaturated, they are liquid at room temperature and are polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Some examples of polyunsaturated fats are fish oils, olive oil, cottonseed, safflower, peanut, canola and sesame. Where possible replace saturated fats with monounsaturated fats since this can help lower LDL cholesterol.
There are a number of people who do not respond enough from dietary changes. For these people it is recommended to increase intake of dietary fiber and increase intake of plant sterols and stanols.
There is a wide fluctuation in how different people respond to cholesterol in their diets. For some, high cholesterol diets have a direct causal effect on the amount of cholesterol in their blood stream. Others who consume high fat, high cholesterol diets have low levels of cholesterol in their blood streams. Since there are no reliable tests to know your individual profile, it is recommended that you adopt healthy eating habits and a low cholesterol and low saturated fat diet. If this helps, you know what you need to do. If not, seek alternatives to help.
by Acne Scar
Acne is a quite common skin problem that affects people in a large number everywhere in the world. And, it is a false impression that it attacks only youngsters, adults are also liable to this problem as it could possibly happen at any age. Some acne sufferers could experience annoying darkish spots, while others could have to abide the pain of symptoms like scars.
The acne scar treatment is possible. There are different phases of acne scarring and the acne scar treatment also depends upon the particular stage.
What Causes of Acne Scar?
The inflammation caused by acne can typically leave wounds in the skin. As acne wounds heal, an abundance of collagen can get left behind, forming acne scars that make the skin appear uneven.
Acne may also cause submit-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), a skin discoloration left behind after an infected acne wound has caused over-production of melanin in the skin.
Three Types of Acne Scars
- Ice Pick Scars – These scars are deep and very slender in appearance. With this specific type of scar, the skin appears to prefer it has been pierced by way of an ice pick. There is a small, however deep hole in the skin.
- Boxcar Scars – These scars are spherical with sharp vertical sides. These scars are wider than the above ones. With these scars, the skin has a really bumpy or rough appearance.
- Rolling Scars – This type of ace scars causes ‘rolling’ wrinkles on the skin. These acne scars arise when the fibrous tissue bands form between the subcutaneous tissue and skin.
Some Best Nutural Acne Scar Treatment that you need know:
- Lemon – Lemon can also be very effective for treating acne scars. It is a perfect acne scars cure. Lemon has great properties that work for healing and cleansing the body. It easily cures conditions like acne scars. You possibly can apply lemon or lemon juice in your acne scars. First, wash your face and then apply this acne scar cure. It actually works as an acne scarring treatment.
- Aloe Vera- Using Aloe Vera can actually help you as an acne scar treatment. This is a good acne scar cure that’s used by many people throughout the world. Aloe Vera works for a wide range of skin problems.It actually works to get rid of acne scars. This all natural acne scar treatment does not cause any unfavourable side effects. Apply it once or twice a day daily on the acne scars.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – It is a great natural acne scar cure. This acne scar treatment works efficiently for expelling out the toxins from the body. The apple vinegar maintains the functioning of your live in a superb condition which is very important for having a healthy skin. This is one of the best acne scar treatment.
- Lavender Oil – This oil is applied on the acne scars as this oil could be very mild and comprises regenerative characteristics. It’s widely well-liked as an acne scar treatment.
- Tea Tree Oil – This natural oil may be very useful for curing acne scars. This oil unblocks the skin pores and works for healing the acne scars. Tea tree oil is likely one of the handiest acne scar treatments.
If you are looking for ways to quit smoking cigarettes, laser therapy might be perfect for you! This idea has a staggering 85-90% success rate – the highest success rate of all smoking cessation programs!
Laser therapy has been around since 1962 and by the end of the 1960s. Not only has cigarette smoking found to be greatly successful in the treatment of smoking cessation but this great method level laser therapy has also been found to be successful in treating many musculoskeletal injuries as it promotes healing & tissue repair while reducing inflammation. This same laser treatment which is used to help eliminate the cigarette smoking cessation is helping people today in treating weight control and stress management as well.
The FDA has classified low level-laser therapy devices as “non-significant risk medical devices.” The laser has been compared to an ultra-sound in that it is completely non-invasive, heatless and pain-free.
All you need is a strong desire to quit cigarette smoking. No matter what other programs you’ve tried and no matter how long you’ve smoked cigarettes. This therapy has helped thousands of people in quitting cigarette smoking and is highly successful. Nicotine addiction consists of both a physical and mental addiction. Laser therapy addresses the physical aspect. The process can not be guaranteed.
Offices who administer laser therapy to patients who would like to quit cigarette smoking apply a low-level or “cold” laser to your body’s natural energy flow points to stimulate the release of endorphins in the body. Endorphins are the body’s natural mood elevators. These same chemicals are raised artificially when you smoke. The laser treatment causes the body to feel effects similar to what you get when you smoke cigarettes – relieving the physical withdrawal symptoms.
The therapy treatment takes about 20 minutes. However, you should allow about 35 minutes for the evaluation and paperwork during the initial visit.
Many patient only require one treatment to successfully quit smoking and alleviate cravings. However, a booster/second treatment is offered for up to 8 weeks of the initial treatment if needed to assist in combating the mental habit.
The effects of the laser are immediate and you will feel the tension leaving your body. Many patients feel completely relaxed and some even fall asleep during the laser treatment. In fact, patients return for another session for its calming and relaxing effects.
For most people, the physical cravings to smoke cigarettes will be gone forever. You would be excluded from receiving a laser treatment if you are pregnant, taking photosensitive medication or steroids, have cancer or epilepsy, or use a pacemaker. No adverse side effects have been documented. Laser Centers do not treat these particular conditions as a precautionary measure. It is recommended that you consult with your physician if you have specific concerns related to your medical health.
The laser is completely safe and provides no known adverse side effects. In fact, many clients feel very relaxed during and after the treatment.
2012 is here. Many people will resolve to lose weight and become healthier. Here are 5 easy strategies to help your diet and weight loss goals:
1. Drink More Water
A 2010 study found that obese dieters who drank two cups of water before each meal lost 5 pounds more than a group of dieters who did not. A year later, the water drinkers were able to keep more of the weight off. Water is also the healthiest beverage we consume. It has zero calories while a can of soda can contain upwards of 140 and your favorite large latte can be 400 or more! Americans drink a disproportionate amount of their calories, the less you get from your liquids, the thinner and healthier you will be. Promise.
2. Exercise
You don’t have to join an expensive gym or become a triathlete, simple power walking is as healthy as any exercise. A 30-minute brisk-walk can burn anywhere from 200-400 calories. Try to walk daily if you are able to, or at least 4-5 per week. You will not only feel better, you will give your diet and mood a boost.
3. Eat More Vegetables
Vegetables are amongst the most nutritionally dense foods and are low in calories. Just watch the dipping sauces, cheeses, etc. If you want to do your diet a favor and your health too, stack up on the vegetables. The more you do the less of other, less healthy, fatty foods, you will be eating. Vegetables are not only fabulously nutritious, they are delicious. Some of my favorites include: avocados, bell peppers, broccoli, rapini, tomatoes, sea vegetables, spinach, squash, and sweet potatoes.
Fiber has been shown to help us absorb less fat. Fiber alone contains no calories, plus it gives you the feeling of satiation (full stomach). There are 2 types of fiber: water-insoluble and water-soluble. Vegetables, whole-grain breads and cereals contain water-insoluble fiber which adds bulk to the diet. Water-soluble fiber is found in seeds, legumes, oat products and fruit. It helps your stomach feel fuller longer. Foods high in fiber also take longer to eat, which results in the stomach feeling fuller longer and makes you feel satisfied longer, reducing the needs for snacking between meals.
5. Consider Calcium and Magnesium Supplements
If your diet lacks calcium, there is an increase in fatty acid synthase, an enzyme that converts calories into fat. It has been shown that diets that are calcium-deficient an increase in fatty acid synthase occurs that is as much as five times as much as in diets that are calcium-rich. The mineral Magnesium plays an important role in your body including influencing fat-regulating stress hormones which can deposit abdominal fat, and adiponectin, a hormone that controls fat cell activity. A daily recommendation of 1200 mg of calcium a day and 600-800 mg of magnesium.
Please remember that weight management really is about calories. Regardless of what the latest ‘fad’ diet of the month is advocating. It is calories in and calories out. Watch your calorie consumption and portion sizes and incorporate the above strategies and you should be well on your way. I have battled weight a few times in my life losing 70 and 60 lbs on two separate occasions – I really do feel your pain. You not only feel better and are healthier (decreasing your risk of many chronic conditions) afterwards you also achieve a wonderful sense of accomplishment because you are doing it for YOU!
I wish you much success. Let’s make 2012 our healthiest and best year yet! I welcome any questions you may have and it would be a sincere pleasure to be of assistance. Please email me at alivemedicine@gmail.com.
Spine pain has become a very common complaint among the people in the United States. Research shows that four out of every five people will develop a spinal problem at some point in their lives. There is a big list of the causes of back pain and spine related conditions. But generally these disorders are associated with general causes such as strained muscles. A specific cause of back pain may be the diagnosis of conditions such as lumbar herniated disc or degenerative disc disease. Most people, when they experience some back pain, take it lightly and feel that a painkiller will do away with the pain.
Interestingly, the severity of back pain, in most cases, has no relationship with the amount of physical damage. Lower back spasms, for instance, which results from a simple back strain but will usually, cause unbearable lower back pain. This can be extensive to the point that makes it even difficult to walk or stand. Ironically, a large herniated disc can actually be totally painless. This phenomenon can be very misleading; most people will ignore mild back pain and will only seek serious medication when the back pain has become a big bother. This misinterpretation can be costly especially when the mild pain is a signal of great damage in the spine.
Back pain should therefore be managed immediately if it is discovered. The person suffering should seek means of relieving the pain in the early stages. Most of the spine conditions only need therapeutic and/or medicinal relief methods. But first before engaging in any treatment plan, it is advisable to talk to a doctor. Spine doctors are professionals who have competency in back pain treatment. A spine doctor will give patients guidance to treat and manage their current situation as well as some behavioral patterns that they should adhere to prevent future pains.
There are different methods of dealing with spine pain. A common method is physical therapy which has proved to be effective on many patients. The use ice or heat to relieve back pain is also practiced. More severe conditions need more advanced methods for diagnosis and treatment. MRI and CT scanners have been used to diagnose severe spine pain among patients. Although surgical operation is costly and risky, it is the most effective for extreme cases. However, most spine centers will try to avoid surgery as a method to treat spine pain.
Most people who are diagnosed with spine pain find it difficult to manage. Coping with the pain may require that person to first accept what they are going through. Take time to learn about the diagnosis and treatment. Also, it might be a good idea to discuss with the doctor about how the experience feels. Patients should also look to get support from their family and friends to help them manage their condition.
The process of dealing with spine pain is therefore both medical and morally supported. The professional treatment should be enhanced with support from friends and family to help the patient heal completely.
At The Spine Center, renowned Houston Spine Surgeon uses advanced, minimally invasive, back surgery solutions that can correct a wide range of back problems and help you rediscover a pain free life!
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