Today more than ever, medical practice management
is not just about caring for their patients - is also
about a successful business. If lack
efficiency, service quality ultimately
suffer. To prosper, it is necessary to make informed decisions,
but this can be a challenge. After all, as the saying
goes, "You do not know what you do not know." Without a way
as relevant financial and operational indicators,
you might find yourself based on educated guesses.
Fortunately, there is a good alternative to the riddles:
benchmarking - a strategic management tool that helps
assess the effectiveness and favors the setting of targets.
Essentially, benchmarking provides an overview of the
the performance of your business and helps you understand
where you are in relation to a particular standard. If
their accounts receivable are an average of 54 days a slow
and you wonder if this is normal, benchmarking
can show how you compare to the average for his specialty
only 45 days, means not only that you are trailing
behind their peers, but that a reduction should be
achievable. Or, if you find that your patient waiting times
have increased, benchmarking can help find the
optimal balance between the same day and the future appointment
openings. Benchmarking can even help effectively manage
its successes. Suppose that you know your practice is gaining
new patients at an astonishing rate. Only by analysing
this growth will be easily able to predict whether
it's time to hire another full-time employee, or whether it is
a short-term surge in workload.
So, what exactly should be the benchmark? In a
Simply put, statistics and trends that you need to gather
can be broken down into two categories; operational and
related income.
Opera benchmarking
Benchmarking its operations covering everything from
staffing and productivity for the office and flow analysis
procedures performed. This will help you discover such
details such as:
* How many patients per month each supplier is seeing,
* How many procedures of their practice is conducting
this last quarter,
* Should bottlenecks in the flow of cargo are
* What are your patient retention rates
All these factors affect the efficiency of its business.
Once you know, for example, the average number of declaration
Reminders is needed before a patient pays your bill, you
can calculate when to stop and mail reminders
to turn over the account to collections. The savings in
the resources that such measures may seem afford
Light, but will join in the course of several
months, can transform their practice. Even management
relationships with suppliers of reference, essentially a
marketing exercise, may benefit from benchmarking --
will be able to give some impressive aggregated data to
these providers that will help your stick in practice
their minds.
One of the biggest expenses in a practice comes in the
form of payroll. Are you paying too much or work overtime
you have too many employees to carry out operations offices
that could be automated or eliminated. I've seen
Many practices being carried out certain functions
(ie, logging patients manually) only because he has
has always done that way. If it does not serve a purpose,
must be eliminated.
Revenue benchmarking
Similarly, income-related trends and statistics --
whether concerning reimbursement, claims and denials
denials, the process of collections or payer trends - can
reveal the financial health of their practice and what
what you need to do to control it. Monitoring payer
contracts, in particular, reimbursement hired
fees for each procedure, may seem a lot of extras
work, but is a vital part of maximizing their income. A
2004 survey by the Medical Group Management Association
(MGMA) found that practices that do not lose sight of
payer contracts are reimbursed an average of four
percent less for the assessment and management (E / M) code
invoiced. Thinking that a payer always adhere to the
rate quoted in his contract without any input from its
practice can be a costly mistake to make.
More generally payer trends are also important to control
because it is likely to suggest a parallel trend to
their incomes. Armed with this knowledge, you can
negotiate with greater skill when the payer contracts
its renewal. The composition of taxpayers is also a
important factor, albeit one that is more difficult to
influence. Consider a practice that has a stable number
patient visits per month. If the composition of taxpayers
shifts most of the trade for most
self-government and taxpayers, accounts receivable days are
likely to increase total revenue and is likely to
decline. If you are proactive keeping track of these
changes rather than simply wait until that is reflected in
their cash flow, can apply for reimbursement policies
to safeguard their practice.
Set goals
For benchmarking to be effective, however, can not only
on the measurement of being รข € "but should also actively participate
setting goals. To set realistic goals, you need
to assess:
* How effective practice at present
* How much you have improved over time (compared with its
Latest data themselves)
* To what extent do you still have to go
His own best practice is the first benchmark --
compare this month to last month, as well as the same time
last year. What has changed? In particular, focus on a
Workflow audit and an analysis of how much
put in comparison with the amount you're leaving. How
can be quickly process payments and charges? What
percentage of the amount you bill will never be repaid?
Taxpayers who are rejecting the majority of claims?
Secondly, look beyond their practice if you can. Be that as
diligent can find information about it
specifically relevant to their specialty and type of
practice. For example, a fall in women's health clinic
Failure to provide the best information comparable to a
appointment of only OB / Gyn practice, even if the supplier
and the number of employees are similar.
Always use the analysis of associations such as:
* The medical group Management Association (MGMA)
* The American Health Information Management Association
(AHIMA)
* Health and Billing Management Association (HBMA)
* The National Association of Health Consultants.
In addition, seek information on best practices
within their specialty. Subscribe to peer-reviewed trade
magazines and network as much as possible through local
peer organizations, trade associations, user programs
meetings and opportunities within their specialty
societies.
Be Compatible
In an increasingly regulated industry, benchmarking also
has the additional benefit of helping carry out practices
The guidelines issued by the Inspector General's Office
(IGOs). These guidelines were issued to help doctors
third billing practices and medical companies
file claims with greater accuracy, prevent fraud and avoid
conflicts with federal health care law. The seven steps
OIG that the lists as an integral part of creating a compliance
program are:
1. The completion of internal control and audit
2. The implementation and enforcement of standards of practice
3. The designation of a compliance officer or contact
4. Achieving adequate training and education
5. Reply adequately to the offences detected and
development of corrective measures
6. The development of open lines of communication
7. Enforcing disciplinary rules across
and advertising guidelines
Benchmarking is responsible for steps one and two, because
provides greater structure, benchmarking also provides a sound
groundwork for the establishment of procedures, highlighting
action necessary, and other elements that are in
line with the guidelines. Following the guidelines,
its internal controls not only help you stay in
compliance with laws and regulations,
also benefit from its practice of increasing efficiency and
reducing errors and optimizing performance of employees.
Let technology do the hard work
Of course, one thing is knowing what should be
and doing quite another to implement it. I still talk to
Doctors who insist that simply do not have enough time
with reference to this level of detail. There is a
simple solution to this problem: automating its
practice. The law practice management software will not
just do benchmarking much easier (has been running reports
seconds rather than hours), but also rationalize
its workflow and maximize their income so that the objectives
you've established become much more attainable. In general,
the cost of automating their practice recovering quickly.
One option would be to elect a low-cost Internet-based
solution that does not require the purchase of expensive
servers or hiring IT support.
The most important aspect of your business that a good
practice management system can help is with the claims
process. Choosing a software solution that has claims
washing capacity. Thus, any errors in a purchase
CMS 1500 form are detected before the demand is
submitted, which means you will not have to face
resubmit forms returned several weeks later and
Billing black hole that can sometimes lead a. A
practice management system must have all the different
needs of each contributor and are stored in a dynamic fashion that
as requirements change, so does the software. To
example, as of this writing, if they submit a claim
patient on the age of 100 Medicaid Calif.,
software should know that at present, the payer is
only accepts the demand, if all dates are six digits
format (MMDDAA), except in section 19, where eight digits
date is required. Being able to track how real
reimbursement compared with the amount retained by each
payer also simplifies this important aspect of
benchmarking.
People power
Lastly, the only thing they only think of doctors
sometimes forget where a benchmarking
system: a successful practice can depend on their
staff. You can not be effective in unaided
benchmarking without buy-in of its employees.
Share benchmarks of its organization with its
employees is also vital for their performance! If they are
clear about what is expected of them, how will
whether they are doing a good job? Development of employment
descriptions of its employees may seem seasoned
unnecessary, but can help clarify responsibilities
enormously. Explain what you are trying to achieve with
benchmarking and how they can help. Share your goals!
Knowledge, whatever their profession, is power, and
keeping your finger on the pulse of his practice is a
obvious first step to keep healthy, both financially
and operationally. Being a doctor in the twenty-first century
century may involve some juggling of roles, but
benchmarking and establishing business goals are reasonable
ultimately reduce the problems presenta.t presents.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Natural Health Clinic colon Center Stone Mountain
Diet detoxification: the truth about colon cleansing
The alcohol detoxification Toronto
The opposite is true as has been proven over and over
again since then Prof Yudkin launched its attack on
sugars and starches in the 1960's. "Incorporating all
and you're well on your way to seriously detoxing
without having to go to a program. If you are in urban areas
zone is recommended that you find an area rich in oxygen
where they can perform deep breathing. Regular bathing
helps the body get rid of toxins that accumulate in
skin, and also opens the pores. Saunas and oil
massages help the body completely clean. Many
different approaches to detoxification and welfare are
work even though they attack the problem in different
levels.Physicians with a spiritual orientation tend to be
more inclined than others to use both fasting
personally and medically. Any deficiency in these
diet causes problems removing toxins.
Morgans diet plan Detox
Nor can the cells of waste products exit. A common
detox diet is the combination of nothing but fruit and
water for a specified period. The promotion of chemicals
matabilized is our bodies can be helped with
some vitamins. Think of it as a detox for spring cleaning
the body. Often, people end up with the side effects of a
detoxification programme hence, to emphasize the importance of doctors
Consultation supervision when on a diet
change. Who should detoxify? Despite everyone can
benefit from a detox cleanse those of us who are
overweight are unhealthy diet drink to take medicine
alcohol have health problems or are exposed to chemicals
in the workplace need it more than others. Most detox
programs begin with a strict diet.
Foods that detoxify
His body will have to be properly prepared and ready to
the detoxification program so that it can respond well. Simply
may not require your body to clean up immediately.
Over the years the consumption of processed foods not vegetarians
foods and sugars leads to obstruction of the interior walls of
colon with waste. Seventy percent of all
disease processes have some emotional component to them.
Therefore, if you're doing all the right things and taking all
the right drugs and dietary supplements and for something that
still is not running these drops can be your ticket. Our
body is designed to use natural substances. Any foreigner
substance obtain a response from the immune system
to try to eliminate it. The liver reduces toxins in
compounds that the body can handle and eliminate across
kidneys (urine), skin (sweat), lungs (as
expelled from the air) and intestines (such as feces). Consumption of three
Per serving raw vegetables and fruit cooked
vegetables (nine total servings) is the minimum
for optimal health, but want to take in five
servings of each per day for a total of 15 servings
rations / day in a detoxification program. See detoxification diet
free business plan Since most cafes is not
detoxification for this purpose, it is unlikely that
effective. This method of detoxification can be done at home
and at your convenience all you need is sweet organic
coffee beans and a French press coffee. Toxic
substances have penetrated every part of our lives;
the food we eat. Since the presence of these toxic substances
are known to cause the failure of several major
vitamins and minerals in the body the third step involves
restoration of these deficiencies of vitamins and minerals;
primarily through nutritional supplements.
Organo plans Detox diet
The cars we drive emit emissions that are detrimental to
our health. When filling station in the gas we breathe
the fumes of gasoline adds that the toxins from our
body. Transit times in a normally functioning
digestive system must be less than 21 hours. The
average person eating a normal Western diet have been
eight meals of undigested food and waste
in his digestive system. Experts agree that it is
is not good to try to lose excess weight at a rapid
. It's best to take your time and incorporate a
package of exercise. Your body has an incredible
self-healing mechanism built right in, but in order to
let the work you have to give him the rest he needs. See
Home Detox For more alternatives to Alcoholics
colonics expensive but you can find many products to
wonderful job of eliminating toxins from our body
turning them into a form more easily excreted by
body.
Symptoms of liver detoxification
Detoxification is undoubtedly very important for a long
lasting health. There are several ways to achieve
detoxification system, some depend on the type of
chemicals that are trying to rid the body while
others have a general effect. "Critics also believe that
it is very likely that weight gain will occur
quickly after completing this diet. Natural Health
therapists argue that a newspaper detoxification can confer a multitude
of health benefits. You may find your skin will get worse
before it gets better, but soon you'll see a clearer
radiant complexion. Acne improve, their eyes
see more clearly and as a bonus, you may find your appetite
decreases anxiety and decrease the sugar. A detoxification program
can also incorporate complementary therapies such as
homeopathy, aromatherapy massage or even colon
irrigation. More information
This is not http://www.detoxwithmastercleanse.info
becoming less important for your family's health.
The interior cleaning is a long process of living similar to
cleaning teeth and detoxing is a vital part in it.
The alcohol detoxification Toronto
The opposite is true as has been proven over and over
again since then Prof Yudkin launched its attack on
sugars and starches in the 1960's. "Incorporating all
and you're well on your way to seriously detoxing
without having to go to a program. If you are in urban areas
zone is recommended that you find an area rich in oxygen
where they can perform deep breathing. Regular bathing
helps the body get rid of toxins that accumulate in
skin, and also opens the pores. Saunas and oil
massages help the body completely clean. Many
different approaches to detoxification and welfare are
work even though they attack the problem in different
levels.Physicians with a spiritual orientation tend to be
more inclined than others to use both fasting
personally and medically. Any deficiency in these
diet causes problems removing toxins.
Morgans diet plan Detox
Nor can the cells of waste products exit. A common
detox diet is the combination of nothing but fruit and
water for a specified period. The promotion of chemicals
matabilized is our bodies can be helped with
some vitamins. Think of it as a detox for spring cleaning
the body. Often, people end up with the side effects of a
detoxification programme hence, to emphasize the importance of doctors
Consultation supervision when on a diet
change. Who should detoxify? Despite everyone can
benefit from a detox cleanse those of us who are
overweight are unhealthy diet drink to take medicine
alcohol have health problems or are exposed to chemicals
in the workplace need it more than others. Most detox
programs begin with a strict diet.
Foods that detoxify
His body will have to be properly prepared and ready to
the detoxification program so that it can respond well. Simply
may not require your body to clean up immediately.
Over the years the consumption of processed foods not vegetarians
foods and sugars leads to obstruction of the interior walls of
colon with waste. Seventy percent of all
disease processes have some emotional component to them.
Therefore, if you're doing all the right things and taking all
the right drugs and dietary supplements and for something that
still is not running these drops can be your ticket. Our
body is designed to use natural substances. Any foreigner
substance obtain a response from the immune system
to try to eliminate it. The liver reduces toxins in
compounds that the body can handle and eliminate across
kidneys (urine), skin (sweat), lungs (as
expelled from the air) and intestines (such as feces). Consumption of three
Per serving raw vegetables and fruit cooked
vegetables (nine total servings) is the minimum
for optimal health, but want to take in five
servings of each per day for a total of 15 servings
rations / day in a detoxification program. See detoxification diet
free business plan Since most cafes is not
detoxification for this purpose, it is unlikely that
effective. This method of detoxification can be done at home
and at your convenience all you need is sweet organic
coffee beans and a French press coffee. Toxic
substances have penetrated every part of our lives;
the food we eat. Since the presence of these toxic substances
are known to cause the failure of several major
vitamins and minerals in the body the third step involves
restoration of these deficiencies of vitamins and minerals;
primarily through nutritional supplements.
Organo plans Detox diet
The cars we drive emit emissions that are detrimental to
our health. When filling station in the gas we breathe
the fumes of gasoline adds that the toxins from our
body. Transit times in a normally functioning
digestive system must be less than 21 hours. The
average person eating a normal Western diet have been
eight meals of undigested food and waste
in his digestive system. Experts agree that it is
is not good to try to lose excess weight at a rapid
. It's best to take your time and incorporate a
package of exercise. Your body has an incredible
self-healing mechanism built right in, but in order to
let the work you have to give him the rest he needs. See
Home Detox For more alternatives to Alcoholics
colonics expensive but you can find many products to
wonderful job of eliminating toxins from our body
turning them into a form more easily excreted by
body.
Symptoms of liver detoxification
Detoxification is undoubtedly very important for a long
lasting health. There are several ways to achieve
detoxification system, some depend on the type of
chemicals that are trying to rid the body while
others have a general effect. "Critics also believe that
it is very likely that weight gain will occur
quickly after completing this diet. Natural Health
therapists argue that a newspaper detoxification can confer a multitude
of health benefits. You may find your skin will get worse
before it gets better, but soon you'll see a clearer
radiant complexion. Acne improve, their eyes
see more clearly and as a bonus, you may find your appetite
decreases anxiety and decrease the sugar. A detoxification program
can also incorporate complementary therapies such as
homeopathy, aromatherapy massage or even colon
irrigation. More information
This is not http://www.detoxwithmastercleanse.info
becoming less important for your family's health.
The interior cleaning is a long process of living similar to
cleaning teeth and detoxing is a vital part in it.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Rejuvenate Skin Injuries with All Natural Ingredients
Skin remodeling can be an effective procedure for distinct kinds of skin blemishes. The renewal of aging and blemished skin is a normal desire for people who miss the shiny skin they had in their youth. Whether you are looking for a way to remove the actinic keratosis on your face or the leftover acne scarring marking your cheeks, there is new 100% all natural skin product that can biologically remodel your skin with no precarious side effects.
Both men and women are burdened by wrinkles and fine lines. Old age is though to be the culprit but the real reason is the loss of collagen and elastin. Skin cells decrease their development and old cells are not remodeled at a suitable rate, causing the skin to lose its shape. Guaranteeing essential elements are passed on to the skin matrix to improve elasticity and strength is a form of skin rejuvenation.
Sun spots and red marks from blemishes torment a huge percentage of the population. Acne scarring and hyperpigmentation that keeps coming back can be renewed and managed using biological ingredients. No matter what kind of skin blemish you want to eliminate, you do not need to schedule surgeries or use harsh synthetic compounds. Due to a special biological ingredient, you can stimulate skin renewal from within and clear out skin blemishes and scarring with no hazardous side effects.
Cream for Dark Spots
Topical retinoids are a popular treatment developed from Vitamin A. Creams containing retinoids can be obtained over the counter at supermarkets. Stronger topical treatments containing tretinoin or isotretinoin require a doctor's prescription. Creams that contain retinoids may help revise the appearance of aging skin and also be useful in counteracting some of the changes due to photo-aging. This can include everyday problems like sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, and solar keratoses.
While retinoids can be useful, they can at the same time irritate the skin and increase the chances of UV damage. Increased sensitivity to the sun is one of the more dangerous side effects of these treatments. Intense sunburn can cause free radical development and even skin cancer if not cared for. Excessive retinoid use can result in flushing and flaking.
Alpha hydroxy acids have been prescribed for years for skin renewal. These are compounds that are embodied in chemical peels and provide results that are comparable to microdermabrasion. They can diminish fine lines and give skin a more lustrous appearance with 1 to 3 applications. Treatments must be repeated every few months to keep the flawless look.
When used as a treatment against old scars or deeper blemishes, the skin can experience more issues. The higher the concentration of the alpha hydroxyl, the more skin irritation occurs. Since older scars require a higher concentration, an individual can experience serious redness, flaking, and oozing skin that can last for up to a month.
Best Face Spots Cream
Do not give up hope, all is not lost in the skin remodeling world. There is a new 100% all natural skin rejuvenation cream that digests dead cells without irritating the skin like hydroxy acids. It works as a skin cream for burns and as a solar keratosis cream simultaneously. It renews skin, eliminates and repairs scars, moisturizes the lipid barrier, and even digests sun spots and keloid scars.
Thanks to thorough clinical studies and intense observation, we have discovered that the biological ingredient will fuse with your own skin cells and give older people with photoaging problems an opportunity to regenerate and renew their skin biologically.
When applied topically, it will:
* excite the renewal power of the skin.
* provoke cell remodeling and displace dying cells with new celluar growth. This naturally rejuvenates the skin by pushing dead cells to the surface of the skin and out, casting out the dead ones and making room for healthy ones. Impurites are exfoliated out from the buried layers.
* evenly distribute melanin in the skin. Melanin is the body's answer to UV damage. Sometimes the uneven rationing of the pigment can generate age spots and sections of off colored skin on sun damaged areas. Biological enzymes digest age spots and uneven growths in order to stimulate new cellular development.
* begin fibroblast development in the skin. New collagen and elastin components will rebuild the skin with resilient fibers. The sagging associated with wrinkles and fine lines will vanish due to renewed structural elements. New, flawless collagen and elastin fibers do not droop.
Both men and women are burdened by wrinkles and fine lines. Old age is though to be the culprit but the real reason is the loss of collagen and elastin. Skin cells decrease their development and old cells are not remodeled at a suitable rate, causing the skin to lose its shape. Guaranteeing essential elements are passed on to the skin matrix to improve elasticity and strength is a form of skin rejuvenation.
Sun spots and red marks from blemishes torment a huge percentage of the population. Acne scarring and hyperpigmentation that keeps coming back can be renewed and managed using biological ingredients. No matter what kind of skin blemish you want to eliminate, you do not need to schedule surgeries or use harsh synthetic compounds. Due to a special biological ingredient, you can stimulate skin renewal from within and clear out skin blemishes and scarring with no hazardous side effects.
Cream for Dark Spots
Topical retinoids are a popular treatment developed from Vitamin A. Creams containing retinoids can be obtained over the counter at supermarkets. Stronger topical treatments containing tretinoin or isotretinoin require a doctor's prescription. Creams that contain retinoids may help revise the appearance of aging skin and also be useful in counteracting some of the changes due to photo-aging. This can include everyday problems like sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, and solar keratoses.
While retinoids can be useful, they can at the same time irritate the skin and increase the chances of UV damage. Increased sensitivity to the sun is one of the more dangerous side effects of these treatments. Intense sunburn can cause free radical development and even skin cancer if not cared for. Excessive retinoid use can result in flushing and flaking.
Alpha hydroxy acids have been prescribed for years for skin renewal. These are compounds that are embodied in chemical peels and provide results that are comparable to microdermabrasion. They can diminish fine lines and give skin a more lustrous appearance with 1 to 3 applications. Treatments must be repeated every few months to keep the flawless look.
When used as a treatment against old scars or deeper blemishes, the skin can experience more issues. The higher the concentration of the alpha hydroxyl, the more skin irritation occurs. Since older scars require a higher concentration, an individual can experience serious redness, flaking, and oozing skin that can last for up to a month.
Best Face Spots Cream
Do not give up hope, all is not lost in the skin remodeling world. There is a new 100% all natural skin rejuvenation cream that digests dead cells without irritating the skin like hydroxy acids. It works as a skin cream for burns and as a solar keratosis cream simultaneously. It renews skin, eliminates and repairs scars, moisturizes the lipid barrier, and even digests sun spots and keloid scars.
Thanks to thorough clinical studies and intense observation, we have discovered that the biological ingredient will fuse with your own skin cells and give older people with photoaging problems an opportunity to regenerate and renew their skin biologically.
When applied topically, it will:
* excite the renewal power of the skin.
* provoke cell remodeling and displace dying cells with new celluar growth. This naturally rejuvenates the skin by pushing dead cells to the surface of the skin and out, casting out the dead ones and making room for healthy ones. Impurites are exfoliated out from the buried layers.
* evenly distribute melanin in the skin. Melanin is the body's answer to UV damage. Sometimes the uneven rationing of the pigment can generate age spots and sections of off colored skin on sun damaged areas. Biological enzymes digest age spots and uneven growths in order to stimulate new cellular development.
* begin fibroblast development in the skin. New collagen and elastin components will rebuild the skin with resilient fibers. The sagging associated with wrinkles and fine lines will vanish due to renewed structural elements. New, flawless collagen and elastin fibers do not droop.
The Causes Of Narcolepsy
What in the world could be causing such a strange disorder as Narcolepsy? Scientists have been asking this same question and have discovered quite a few interesting things. In fact, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has combined its efforts with the National Institute of Health (NIH) to conduct research about narcolepsy and other related sleep disorders. Different studies such as the “Safety and Effectiveness Study of a Single Dose of JNJ-17216498 in Patients With Narcolepsy” and “Body Weight Regulation in Patients With Narcolepsy”, many conclusions have been made. Other studies such as the “Effectiveness Of The Drug GSK 189254 In Treating Patients With Narcolepsy” and “Trial of Xyrem (Sodium Oxybate) for the Treatment of Narcolepsy” have helped to conclude that, while there are available medications to relieve some symptoms of narcolepsy, there is still no cure for the condition as a whole.
Thanks to some of the friendly doctors on the job, we are provided with some simple explanations about the causes of a very complex disorder. To make things more understandable to the average layman, it had been explained that narcolepsy is a chronic neurological condition caused by the inability of the brain to exercise normal and regular sleep and wake cycles. The underlying causes of this neurological condition are too complex for many people to understand, but there are four major symptoms that are associated with this condition. First, patients experience excessive daytime sleepiness or EDS. Second, they experience cataplexy or the sudden loss of muscle tone. Third, they experience vivid hallucinations during sleep or upon awakening and lastly they have brief periods of total paralysis. People with this condition do not have the luxury to exercise a regular sleep cycle from non-rapid eye movement to rapid eye movement. Instead, they must seek serious medical treatment.
One of the most common questions still remains for many people. “What causes narcolepsy?” If we are willing to stretch our minds a bit, a more complex explanation can be given for this strange disorder. First, there are some simple things that can be said to trigger the symptoms of this disorder. According to researchers, studies show that patients who suffer from narcolepsy had developed infection, immune-system dysfunction, trauma, hormonal changes, traumatic injuries, tumor growth due to exposure to toxins and stress prior to their narcolepsy symptoms attack. Although these are not considered definite causes for the disorder, they can be readily associated with its onset.
In addition to this, a more complicated explanation involves the fact that a number of variant forms of genes called Allenes affect the condition and are located in a region of chromosome 6 known as the HLA complex of the human gene. I told you this was going to be complicated! Anyway, Allenes have also been discovered to be an essential factor associated with narcolepsy. The HLA complex makes up the majority of interrelated genes that regulate vital roles in the immune system function. People who are diagnosed to have this condition have been shown to have only specific variants in certain HLA genes. These alone, however, are not sufficient to cause the disorder because there are clinical studies that prove the condition to be more unpredictable by nature. Many other genes, aside from those which make up the HLA complex may significantly contribute to the occurrence of narcolepsy. By considering the group of neurons in the brainstem and in the central brain which interact with each other to control sleep, there are large numbers of genes which are supposed to disrupt the brain’s neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters keep us awake when we need to be awake and individuals who lack these transmitters are found to develop many symptoms of narcolepsy. Now you see how complicated it all is! The good news is that you don’t have to be a genius to see the symptoms or to seek medical advice if you think you may be suffering from this condition.
As part of treatment and good management of this condition, medical practitioners strongly suggest that patients must adhere to certain behavioral strategies such as avoidance of alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine before bedtime. These behaviors, accompanied by proper medication to establish a regular sleep every night, are the best solutions known to help combat this strange disorder known as Narcolepsy.
Thanks to some of the friendly doctors on the job, we are provided with some simple explanations about the causes of a very complex disorder. To make things more understandable to the average layman, it had been explained that narcolepsy is a chronic neurological condition caused by the inability of the brain to exercise normal and regular sleep and wake cycles. The underlying causes of this neurological condition are too complex for many people to understand, but there are four major symptoms that are associated with this condition. First, patients experience excessive daytime sleepiness or EDS. Second, they experience cataplexy or the sudden loss of muscle tone. Third, they experience vivid hallucinations during sleep or upon awakening and lastly they have brief periods of total paralysis. People with this condition do not have the luxury to exercise a regular sleep cycle from non-rapid eye movement to rapid eye movement. Instead, they must seek serious medical treatment.
One of the most common questions still remains for many people. “What causes narcolepsy?” If we are willing to stretch our minds a bit, a more complex explanation can be given for this strange disorder. First, there are some simple things that can be said to trigger the symptoms of this disorder. According to researchers, studies show that patients who suffer from narcolepsy had developed infection, immune-system dysfunction, trauma, hormonal changes, traumatic injuries, tumor growth due to exposure to toxins and stress prior to their narcolepsy symptoms attack. Although these are not considered definite causes for the disorder, they can be readily associated with its onset.
In addition to this, a more complicated explanation involves the fact that a number of variant forms of genes called Allenes affect the condition and are located in a region of chromosome 6 known as the HLA complex of the human gene. I told you this was going to be complicated! Anyway, Allenes have also been discovered to be an essential factor associated with narcolepsy. The HLA complex makes up the majority of interrelated genes that regulate vital roles in the immune system function. People who are diagnosed to have this condition have been shown to have only specific variants in certain HLA genes. These alone, however, are not sufficient to cause the disorder because there are clinical studies that prove the condition to be more unpredictable by nature. Many other genes, aside from those which make up the HLA complex may significantly contribute to the occurrence of narcolepsy. By considering the group of neurons in the brainstem and in the central brain which interact with each other to control sleep, there are large numbers of genes which are supposed to disrupt the brain’s neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters keep us awake when we need to be awake and individuals who lack these transmitters are found to develop many symptoms of narcolepsy. Now you see how complicated it all is! The good news is that you don’t have to be a genius to see the symptoms or to seek medical advice if you think you may be suffering from this condition.
As part of treatment and good management of this condition, medical practitioners strongly suggest that patients must adhere to certain behavioral strategies such as avoidance of alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine before bedtime. These behaviors, accompanied by proper medication to establish a regular sleep every night, are the best solutions known to help combat this strange disorder known as Narcolepsy.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Depression and Pregnancy-What Is the Connection?
At one time, doctors believed that the hormones associated with pregnancy were a good protection against depression. In more recent years, however, there has been a growing body of evidence that depression during pregnancy is a serious problem, affecting 10-20% of all women - the same proportion that women as whole suffer without adding pregnancy into the equation. With figures like that and with the added concern that depression can factor into the health of the baby, it is important to know something about how depression and pregnancy are connected.
First, it's important to recognize what depression is and what the symptoms are.
Depression is a mood disorder that may have both biological and behavioral roots. Although healthy women frequently experience some of the following symptoms during a pregnancy, depression is usually diagnosed when the patient experiences three or more of the following symptoms in the space of two weeks:
* A sense that nothing feels enjoyable or fun anymore * Feeling blue, sad, or "empty" for most of the day, every day * Difficulty concentrating * Extreme irritability, agitation, or excessive crying * Trouble sleeping or sleeping all the time * Extreme or never-ending fatigue * A desire to eat all the time or not wanting to eat at all
If a woman experiences three or more of these, she may be suffering from clinical depression and should report the symptoms to her doctor.
Depression is a serious disorder, and is more than just having "the blues." Untreated depression can interfere with a woman's ability to care for her self during pregnancy, and can push a woman to neglect vital personal care, thus hurting her unborn child. In extreme cases, the condition can also put her at risk for suicide, and for abuse of substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs. Depression may also interfere with the ability to bond with the child, and can also increase the risk for having an episode of depression after delivery (postpartum depression). In addition, recent studies have shown the possibility of links between depression in the mother and such serious conditions as premature delivery, low birth weight, spontaneous miscarriage, and gestational hypertension, or preeclampsia.
Doctors feel that there are several major causes which can contribute to a depression during pregnancy. Having an existing history of clinical depression or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, a severe type of premenstrual syndrome or PMS) is paramount among these, as a predisposition to the disorder can increase the chance that pregnancy and its attendant stresses will bring on an episode. Age at time of pregnancy is also a factor -- the younger the woman is, the higher the risk of depression.
There are also environmental factors to consider. If the woman is living alone, without the support of a partner, and has limited social support; if there are already multiple children in the family, or there is a history of marital conflict and ambivalence about the pregnancy, there is a greatly increased risk of a significant clinical depression.
If a pregnant woman believes that she is experiencing depression, she should seek medical advice immediately. This is not a condition that will simply go away; treatment to avoid the serious consequences listed above is vital.
Fortunately, there are many ways to treat depression during pregnancy. One of the most important is for the woman to take a step back and realize that she may not have to do everything she did before the pregnancy. If a social network and supportive partner are available, much of the self-imposed stress of trying to maintain a normal, pre-pregnancy routine can be alleviated by doing less while others take up the slack. If these resources are not available, psychotherapy is an effective way to help the patient get at root causes of feelings of helplessness and low self-worth, thus allowing her to cope better.
Self care is critical - developing good sleeping habits, regular diet and exercise routines and the like are also effective treatments. Medications are also available, but as with any drugs taken during pregnancy, there are risks that must be considered. Some antidepressants have been associated with serious side effects for the baby; any use of these drugs should be discussed carefully with a trained doctor so that risks are balanced against the benefits. Keeping in mind that depression is a serious illness; there are times when the benefits of treating a depressive episode with drugs outweigh the possible downside.
As with any medical condition that occurs during a pregnancy, depression requires a skilled diagnosis and treatment by a trusted specialist. Women who are at risk for depression or who are experiencing the symptoms owe it to themselves to address the problem as soon as possible.
First, it's important to recognize what depression is and what the symptoms are.
Depression is a mood disorder that may have both biological and behavioral roots. Although healthy women frequently experience some of the following symptoms during a pregnancy, depression is usually diagnosed when the patient experiences three or more of the following symptoms in the space of two weeks:
* A sense that nothing feels enjoyable or fun anymore * Feeling blue, sad, or "empty" for most of the day, every day * Difficulty concentrating * Extreme irritability, agitation, or excessive crying * Trouble sleeping or sleeping all the time * Extreme or never-ending fatigue * A desire to eat all the time or not wanting to eat at all
If a woman experiences three or more of these, she may be suffering from clinical depression and should report the symptoms to her doctor.
Depression is a serious disorder, and is more than just having "the blues." Untreated depression can interfere with a woman's ability to care for her self during pregnancy, and can push a woman to neglect vital personal care, thus hurting her unborn child. In extreme cases, the condition can also put her at risk for suicide, and for abuse of substances such as tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs. Depression may also interfere with the ability to bond with the child, and can also increase the risk for having an episode of depression after delivery (postpartum depression). In addition, recent studies have shown the possibility of links between depression in the mother and such serious conditions as premature delivery, low birth weight, spontaneous miscarriage, and gestational hypertension, or preeclampsia.
Doctors feel that there are several major causes which can contribute to a depression during pregnancy. Having an existing history of clinical depression or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, a severe type of premenstrual syndrome or PMS) is paramount among these, as a predisposition to the disorder can increase the chance that pregnancy and its attendant stresses will bring on an episode. Age at time of pregnancy is also a factor -- the younger the woman is, the higher the risk of depression.
There are also environmental factors to consider. If the woman is living alone, without the support of a partner, and has limited social support; if there are already multiple children in the family, or there is a history of marital conflict and ambivalence about the pregnancy, there is a greatly increased risk of a significant clinical depression.
If a pregnant woman believes that she is experiencing depression, she should seek medical advice immediately. This is not a condition that will simply go away; treatment to avoid the serious consequences listed above is vital.
Fortunately, there are many ways to treat depression during pregnancy. One of the most important is for the woman to take a step back and realize that she may not have to do everything she did before the pregnancy. If a social network and supportive partner are available, much of the self-imposed stress of trying to maintain a normal, pre-pregnancy routine can be alleviated by doing less while others take up the slack. If these resources are not available, psychotherapy is an effective way to help the patient get at root causes of feelings of helplessness and low self-worth, thus allowing her to cope better.
Self care is critical - developing good sleeping habits, regular diet and exercise routines and the like are also effective treatments. Medications are also available, but as with any drugs taken during pregnancy, there are risks that must be considered. Some antidepressants have been associated with serious side effects for the baby; any use of these drugs should be discussed carefully with a trained doctor so that risks are balanced against the benefits. Keeping in mind that depression is a serious illness; there are times when the benefits of treating a depressive episode with drugs outweigh the possible downside.
As with any medical condition that occurs during a pregnancy, depression requires a skilled diagnosis and treatment by a trusted specialist. Women who are at risk for depression or who are experiencing the symptoms owe it to themselves to address the problem as soon as possible.
Boost Your Metabolism to Lose Weight
There are a lot of people who would give a lot to increase their metabolism. Having a high level of metabolism enables one to burn fat and lose weight fast with the least amount of exertion. Metabolism is the rate by which the body produces and consumes energy and calories to support life.
There are several factors that affect the metabolism of a person, such as the amount of muscle tissue, the frequency of the meals one consumes, genetics, the digestive system, stress levels, personal diet, and activity levels. Metabolism slows down due to the following: loss of muscle because of not enough physical activity, the tendency of the body to cannibalize its own tissue because there is not enough food energy to sustain it, and the decrease of physical activity that comes naturally with old age.
Here are several ways to fire up one's metabolism:
1. Build up on lean, mean body mass. It is only natural that metabolism decreases along with age, but it is possible to counter the effects. The amount of muscle a person has is a very strong determinant in the ability to burn calories and shed fat. So it goes without saying that exercise is essential. Build strength and resistance by working out at least twice a week, preferably with weights. Do easy exercises in between workouts. Simple tasks such as walking the dog and using the stairs in place of the elevator can already take off calories. The key is to match the amount of eating to the amount of activity one has. Here are some guidelines in getting the right exercise:
For strength training
-Increase the amount of repetitions of a particular exercise. -Add the level of resistance -Utilize advance exercise techniques if possible
For cardiovascular training
-Insert intervals between exercises -Perform cross-training and combine the exercises -Add up on resistance and speed
2. Eat breakfast. A lot of people are ignoring the fact that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Surprisingly, the ones who eat breakfast are thinner than the ones who do not. Metabolism can slow down considerably if breakfast is taken during mid-morning or if one waits until the afternoon to eat.
3. Avoid sugar. Sugar enables the body to store fat. It is recommended that a person consumes food that helps sustain an even level of blood-sugar. Additionally, progressive exercise 2-3 times a week should be in order to stabilize blood sugar.
4. Eat spicy foods. Hot cuisine with peppers can increase metabolism.
5. Sleep more. According to research, it is riskier for people who do not get enough sleep to gain weight. Also, muscles are regenerated during the last couple of hours of slumber.
6. Increase water intake. Water flushes out toxins that are produced whenever the body burns fat. Majority of bodily functions involves water, and lack of water causes the body system's operations to decrease its speed, and produces unneeded stress as a result.
7. Detoxify the digestive system. A clean and healthy digestive system not only helps the body to run more efficiently, it also gives you energy and helps you to crave healthier foods. This makes a cleansing program, such as Isagenix 9-Day Cleansing and Fat Burning System, a great way to jump-start a weight loss regimen.
8. Eat smaller meals. It is advisable to consume 4 to 6 small meals that are timed 2 to 3 hours apart.
9. Never skip meals. People tend to skip meals in order to lose weight, which is a big mistake since it slows down metabolism.
10. Plan meals in detail. Always prepare the right amount of food to be consumed at the designated intervals. Do not commit the mistake of eating meals in sporadic patterns.
11. Ditch the stress! Stress, be it physical or emotional, triggers the release of a steroid called cortisol, which decreases metabolism. Also, people tend to eat excessively when stressed.
12. Guzzle up on green tea. It can be used as a substitute for coffee. Tea has the ability to stimulate metabolism, and unlike coffee, it has no undesirable side effects when too much is consumed.
13. Include more energy foods in the diet, such as fruits and vegetables, beans and whole grains.
Achieving the desired body weight is never impossible if one has the determination and patience needed to stabilize the metabolism level, which plays an important role in weight loss. A person needs to realize that eating right and working out is not just a passing fancy, but a way of life. Fighting cravings is hard for most of us. A great help in the quest to eat healthier --and fight those unhealthy cravings-- is a body cleansing program. Visit www.loseweightandcleanse.com for details on Isagenix's 9-Day System.
There are several factors that affect the metabolism of a person, such as the amount of muscle tissue, the frequency of the meals one consumes, genetics, the digestive system, stress levels, personal diet, and activity levels. Metabolism slows down due to the following: loss of muscle because of not enough physical activity, the tendency of the body to cannibalize its own tissue because there is not enough food energy to sustain it, and the decrease of physical activity that comes naturally with old age.
Here are several ways to fire up one's metabolism:
1. Build up on lean, mean body mass. It is only natural that metabolism decreases along with age, but it is possible to counter the effects. The amount of muscle a person has is a very strong determinant in the ability to burn calories and shed fat. So it goes without saying that exercise is essential. Build strength and resistance by working out at least twice a week, preferably with weights. Do easy exercises in between workouts. Simple tasks such as walking the dog and using the stairs in place of the elevator can already take off calories. The key is to match the amount of eating to the amount of activity one has. Here are some guidelines in getting the right exercise:
For strength training
-Increase the amount of repetitions of a particular exercise. -Add the level of resistance -Utilize advance exercise techniques if possible
For cardiovascular training
-Insert intervals between exercises -Perform cross-training and combine the exercises -Add up on resistance and speed
2. Eat breakfast. A lot of people are ignoring the fact that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Surprisingly, the ones who eat breakfast are thinner than the ones who do not. Metabolism can slow down considerably if breakfast is taken during mid-morning or if one waits until the afternoon to eat.
3. Avoid sugar. Sugar enables the body to store fat. It is recommended that a person consumes food that helps sustain an even level of blood-sugar. Additionally, progressive exercise 2-3 times a week should be in order to stabilize blood sugar.
4. Eat spicy foods. Hot cuisine with peppers can increase metabolism.
5. Sleep more. According to research, it is riskier for people who do not get enough sleep to gain weight. Also, muscles are regenerated during the last couple of hours of slumber.
6. Increase water intake. Water flushes out toxins that are produced whenever the body burns fat. Majority of bodily functions involves water, and lack of water causes the body system's operations to decrease its speed, and produces unneeded stress as a result.
7. Detoxify the digestive system. A clean and healthy digestive system not only helps the body to run more efficiently, it also gives you energy and helps you to crave healthier foods. This makes a cleansing program, such as Isagenix 9-Day Cleansing and Fat Burning System, a great way to jump-start a weight loss regimen.
8. Eat smaller meals. It is advisable to consume 4 to 6 small meals that are timed 2 to 3 hours apart.
9. Never skip meals. People tend to skip meals in order to lose weight, which is a big mistake since it slows down metabolism.
10. Plan meals in detail. Always prepare the right amount of food to be consumed at the designated intervals. Do not commit the mistake of eating meals in sporadic patterns.
11. Ditch the stress! Stress, be it physical or emotional, triggers the release of a steroid called cortisol, which decreases metabolism. Also, people tend to eat excessively when stressed.
12. Guzzle up on green tea. It can be used as a substitute for coffee. Tea has the ability to stimulate metabolism, and unlike coffee, it has no undesirable side effects when too much is consumed.
13. Include more energy foods in the diet, such as fruits and vegetables, beans and whole grains.
Achieving the desired body weight is never impossible if one has the determination and patience needed to stabilize the metabolism level, which plays an important role in weight loss. A person needs to realize that eating right and working out is not just a passing fancy, but a way of life. Fighting cravings is hard for most of us. A great help in the quest to eat healthier --and fight those unhealthy cravings-- is a body cleansing program. Visit www.loseweightandcleanse.com for details on Isagenix's 9-Day System.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Synergy - The Remedy In The Herbal Supplement
Synergy refers to the idea that the sum of the parts adds up to more (or less, in some cases) than the whole. This idea is an important one for herbalism where it is essential to combine different herbs thoughtfully and carefully in order to maximize the benefit a patient will receive. When you combine different herbs, the result can be a great deal more powerful (and sometimes different) than any of the herbs taken individually or separately. A well constructed formula will therefore be harmonized so that your body will not respond negatively to individual herbs but instead be able to fully accept the desired actions.
Furthermore, synergy is enhanced when absorption and bioavailability of an herb is increased in a body. It should also be noted that while herbs can work very effectively in combination due to their synergistic effects, alone they can be far less effective and sometimes produce opposite actions. For example, Ginger has an anti-ulcerogenic action which is considered to be the work of a zingerberene compound within it. This compound was isolated and tested to measure its results. It was found that the whole ginger extract was sixty six times more effective than the zingerberene compound.
The synergy of herbal remedies can actually be quantified because less of a herb is required to achieve the same effect when it is enhanced by the action of other appropriate herbs. For example, when 60 mg of Valerian is combined with 40 mg of Hops the results are the same as if the patient had been given 400 mg of Valeriana on its own. This can be an important example as Valerian can cause stomache pain to many people in large doses, therefore the lower the dose of Valerian with the same result would be optimum in herbology.
Negative synergy can apply to herbal combinations. For example, the combination of Echinacea and Andrographis enhances the immune system and is very beneficial in acute infections, however, Echinacea and Astrogalis / Huang Qi in combination can only be used in chronic conditions requiring immune stimulation and will exacerbate an acute condition. This is why where herbal preparations are concerned it is wise to consult with an experienced and qualified herbalist rather than self prescribing.
Each herb enhances the ability or action of the other ones. If you combine Echinacea and angustifolia root you will achieve an immune enhancing result greater than taking Echinacea on its own. If you take Echinacea Purporea on its own you will receive an immune enhancing result. However, if you add the two types of Echinacea together you will obtain at least three times that effect, not twice the effect. Putting them together gives a greater benefit than the two of them separately would give. This is the essence of synergy.
Another example of how the action of herbs alters in combination is that of codonopsis (Dang Shen) and Astragalus (Huan Qi). Both of these herbs behave similarly to Ginseng and will raise your energy and tonify your Qi. However, when they are combined their main action is to increase immunity and increasing energy or tonifying Qi is secondary.
Synergistic results are also obtained when you give someone senna in conjunction with ginger. Senna will not only create a strong laxative effect, it can also cause griping stomach pains. To avoid this negative side effect of the herb, you can add ginger to the mix. By doing this, you will still obtain the laxative benefits but you will no longer have the cramping.
Synergy also lowers the cost of herbal medicine because ‘assisting herbs’ reduce the amount of expensive herbs required to achieve the same result. For example, Ginseng is an expensive herb but if you add ‘assisting herbs’ to create a much longer lasting formula that will also increase energy and tonify Qi you will be able to get excellent results, for the same or even lower cost.
Phytomedicine or herbalism relies heavily on synergy to create natural medicines that promote healing in the best possible way for the patient. The synergistic benefits of herbal combinations can be quantified and used but cannot be fully explained. That said, there is an enormous amount of evidence that synergy enhances the performance of herbs in the right combinations and is an important aspect of natural healing.
Yet the market is still full of single herb products. I believe this is due to the fact that companies rely on selling you herbs that you have heard of, not on making a forumla that is best suited for the ailment or condition. I continuously write on this subject, and the reason I learned Eastern and Western Herbology. I use the best herbs for the job in a carfully developed, and most importantly synergenic formula. There are times that Echinacea is not the right herb for the job, there is a suitable lower cost substitute for Goldenseal in many cases, etc.
Furthermore, synergy is enhanced when absorption and bioavailability of an herb is increased in a body. It should also be noted that while herbs can work very effectively in combination due to their synergistic effects, alone they can be far less effective and sometimes produce opposite actions. For example, Ginger has an anti-ulcerogenic action which is considered to be the work of a zingerberene compound within it. This compound was isolated and tested to measure its results. It was found that the whole ginger extract was sixty six times more effective than the zingerberene compound.
The synergy of herbal remedies can actually be quantified because less of a herb is required to achieve the same effect when it is enhanced by the action of other appropriate herbs. For example, when 60 mg of Valerian is combined with 40 mg of Hops the results are the same as if the patient had been given 400 mg of Valeriana on its own. This can be an important example as Valerian can cause stomache pain to many people in large doses, therefore the lower the dose of Valerian with the same result would be optimum in herbology.
Negative synergy can apply to herbal combinations. For example, the combination of Echinacea and Andrographis enhances the immune system and is very beneficial in acute infections, however, Echinacea and Astrogalis / Huang Qi in combination can only be used in chronic conditions requiring immune stimulation and will exacerbate an acute condition. This is why where herbal preparations are concerned it is wise to consult with an experienced and qualified herbalist rather than self prescribing.
Each herb enhances the ability or action of the other ones. If you combine Echinacea and angustifolia root you will achieve an immune enhancing result greater than taking Echinacea on its own. If you take Echinacea Purporea on its own you will receive an immune enhancing result. However, if you add the two types of Echinacea together you will obtain at least three times that effect, not twice the effect. Putting them together gives a greater benefit than the two of them separately would give. This is the essence of synergy.
Another example of how the action of herbs alters in combination is that of codonopsis (Dang Shen) and Astragalus (Huan Qi). Both of these herbs behave similarly to Ginseng and will raise your energy and tonify your Qi. However, when they are combined their main action is to increase immunity and increasing energy or tonifying Qi is secondary.
Synergistic results are also obtained when you give someone senna in conjunction with ginger. Senna will not only create a strong laxative effect, it can also cause griping stomach pains. To avoid this negative side effect of the herb, you can add ginger to the mix. By doing this, you will still obtain the laxative benefits but you will no longer have the cramping.
Synergy also lowers the cost of herbal medicine because ‘assisting herbs’ reduce the amount of expensive herbs required to achieve the same result. For example, Ginseng is an expensive herb but if you add ‘assisting herbs’ to create a much longer lasting formula that will also increase energy and tonify Qi you will be able to get excellent results, for the same or even lower cost.
Phytomedicine or herbalism relies heavily on synergy to create natural medicines that promote healing in the best possible way for the patient. The synergistic benefits of herbal combinations can be quantified and used but cannot be fully explained. That said, there is an enormous amount of evidence that synergy enhances the performance of herbs in the right combinations and is an important aspect of natural healing.
Yet the market is still full of single herb products. I believe this is due to the fact that companies rely on selling you herbs that you have heard of, not on making a forumla that is best suited for the ailment or condition. I continuously write on this subject, and the reason I learned Eastern and Western Herbology. I use the best herbs for the job in a carfully developed, and most importantly synergenic formula. There are times that Echinacea is not the right herb for the job, there is a suitable lower cost substitute for Goldenseal in many cases, etc.
Why You Should take Vitamins
Vitamin benefits are many but not with all brands and types of vitamins. The main reason vitamin benefits are so vital is mainly because in the past it become an outbreak of vitamin incomplete foods. Although a lot people has been ongoing on their debate about the value of taking vitamins supplements. Even though some recent studies suggest that taking too much multivitamins can cause serious health problems. However, still there is one vitamin which is usually regarded as a healthy supplement.
The most useful vitamins of all are vitamin C. From the days of scurvy, people have recognized its importance. Vitamin C has many benefits you may already be aware of including a essential role in the production of collagen, an ability to help the healing of wounds, has an ability to boost your immune system, protects artery linings, and it may help in the prevention of cataracts. It is also reduce the colds, cut down on dangerous free radical and help in any other ways.
I see everywhere more and more vitamins benefit is being touted by company after company. We all know we need vitamins, but we don't think about getting them from our foods. We would rather pop a vitamin pill for several reasons in the morning and then eat junk for the whole day. I realized that the vitamin benefits that I need come from what I eat each day and that eating these food makes me feel better than any pill ever I have.
You will become sick and weak if you don't take vitamins in your body because nowadays there are a lot of vitamins with great vitamins benefits. Even though there are diseases that can occur from a simple vitamin insufficiency don't be scared, it doesn't mean that you have to run out to buy a vitamin supplements to stay healthy. All you need to do to help you is to eat better, but there are problems if you take too much. You should talk to your doctor if you really want a vitamin benefits and you think you need the help of a supplement.
Even so, experts still don't quite agree on how much vitamin C you should get and what is the best way to take it. Is natural vitamin C important, or can you get supplements with a synthetic kind? Should you get all of it from food, or should you get some of it from pills as well? Most of all, is there any truth to the claims that taking huge amounts of vitamin C can help you fight off infections? Does it really help, or does it actually just put added strain on your system which has to get rid of all of the excess vitamins?
People really don't know if it is really helps to take many times the US RDA of vitamin C. However, it seems not to harm the body and there is no such thing as a serious vitamin C overdose. If you take too much of the vitamin, it is simply flushed out of your system. Seldom, it can give you an upset stomach, but that is about it. You certainly will not have to be rushed to the hospital!
Here this is evidence that it does really help in a variety of unexpected ways, aiding the treatment of anything from acne to cancer. In fact, vitamin C acne cream is now an ordinary product at many health food stores and pharmacies. And you should usually use a caution when taking high dose vitamins; in this case you can rest at ease. Vitamin C can not hurt you, and they help you a lot with different physical processes. Sill there is an open question in your mind how much they help?
Recently I did a series of article regarding with vitamin benefits, and I was surprised to see what can happen if you take too much or getting enough vitamins. It would almost seem like it is too hard to get right in the middle, but it is easier than you might think. All you need to do is to eat balanced and healthy meals, so that you are going to get what you need. If you think there is a problem, you can't decide on your own that you need extra vitamin D or B. Your doctor is the best source where you can find your vitamin information.
You tend to go to a store like GNC and be beaten with information about the vitamin benefits that you are missing. You should know that you probably don't know. It's just like Gatorade. I can't stand the bits and pieces, but it was not made for me. There are great vitamin benefits that can come from things like this, and Gatorade is made to re-hydrate, but rarely does the average person get so dehydrated that they need this. Water would work just fine. Athletes and those with very labor-intensive jobs are the ones who should be drinking it. They might also get more vitamin benefits from a supplement and you might just waste your money.
Complete vitamin mineral supplementation is the only effective way to get the full vitamin benefits and ensure that all the essential interactions take place, and this is why a high-quality multi vitamin is necessary. Vitamins are vital to sustain life and we must get them from our natural foods or dietary supplements. The nutrition they provide help people feel better, more energetic and assist the body with normal functions. Vitamins and minerals are needed for our growth, vitality and well-being.
The most useful vitamins of all are vitamin C. From the days of scurvy, people have recognized its importance. Vitamin C has many benefits you may already be aware of including a essential role in the production of collagen, an ability to help the healing of wounds, has an ability to boost your immune system, protects artery linings, and it may help in the prevention of cataracts. It is also reduce the colds, cut down on dangerous free radical and help in any other ways.
I see everywhere more and more vitamins benefit is being touted by company after company. We all know we need vitamins, but we don't think about getting them from our foods. We would rather pop a vitamin pill for several reasons in the morning and then eat junk for the whole day. I realized that the vitamin benefits that I need come from what I eat each day and that eating these food makes me feel better than any pill ever I have.
You will become sick and weak if you don't take vitamins in your body because nowadays there are a lot of vitamins with great vitamins benefits. Even though there are diseases that can occur from a simple vitamin insufficiency don't be scared, it doesn't mean that you have to run out to buy a vitamin supplements to stay healthy. All you need to do to help you is to eat better, but there are problems if you take too much. You should talk to your doctor if you really want a vitamin benefits and you think you need the help of a supplement.
Even so, experts still don't quite agree on how much vitamin C you should get and what is the best way to take it. Is natural vitamin C important, or can you get supplements with a synthetic kind? Should you get all of it from food, or should you get some of it from pills as well? Most of all, is there any truth to the claims that taking huge amounts of vitamin C can help you fight off infections? Does it really help, or does it actually just put added strain on your system which has to get rid of all of the excess vitamins?
People really don't know if it is really helps to take many times the US RDA of vitamin C. However, it seems not to harm the body and there is no such thing as a serious vitamin C overdose. If you take too much of the vitamin, it is simply flushed out of your system. Seldom, it can give you an upset stomach, but that is about it. You certainly will not have to be rushed to the hospital!
Here this is evidence that it does really help in a variety of unexpected ways, aiding the treatment of anything from acne to cancer. In fact, vitamin C acne cream is now an ordinary product at many health food stores and pharmacies. And you should usually use a caution when taking high dose vitamins; in this case you can rest at ease. Vitamin C can not hurt you, and they help you a lot with different physical processes. Sill there is an open question in your mind how much they help?
Recently I did a series of article regarding with vitamin benefits, and I was surprised to see what can happen if you take too much or getting enough vitamins. It would almost seem like it is too hard to get right in the middle, but it is easier than you might think. All you need to do is to eat balanced and healthy meals, so that you are going to get what you need. If you think there is a problem, you can't decide on your own that you need extra vitamin D or B. Your doctor is the best source where you can find your vitamin information.
You tend to go to a store like GNC and be beaten with information about the vitamin benefits that you are missing. You should know that you probably don't know. It's just like Gatorade. I can't stand the bits and pieces, but it was not made for me. There are great vitamin benefits that can come from things like this, and Gatorade is made to re-hydrate, but rarely does the average person get so dehydrated that they need this. Water would work just fine. Athletes and those with very labor-intensive jobs are the ones who should be drinking it. They might also get more vitamin benefits from a supplement and you might just waste your money.
Complete vitamin mineral supplementation is the only effective way to get the full vitamin benefits and ensure that all the essential interactions take place, and this is why a high-quality multi vitamin is necessary. Vitamins are vital to sustain life and we must get them from our natural foods or dietary supplements. The nutrition they provide help people feel better, more energetic and assist the body with normal functions. Vitamins and minerals are needed for our growth, vitality and well-being.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Acidity verses Alkalinity
Although I start at the origin, to avoid the subject like the plague, I felt the need to a minimum, to speak because there are so many very different viewpoints on what it actually means , what to do about this and how it really affects your overall health. I was very pleased that the Chief Science Officer at Univera LifeSciences, Steven Cherniske, has published a very informative article "The Mystery solved Acid alkaline" on the subject. For any of you who have read any of Stephen Cherniske work, you will not be surprised to see that it comes with all the references that we could expect and the straight harsh realities very confused on this issue. As a result of this that I will not try to be the subject of justice by attempting to recreate an article of equal caliber. Verses reinvent the wheel, I will just hit some highlights for those of you who prefer the notes of the cliff. For those who would like to read all the details that I will leave for Stephen and his article, "The Acid alkaline mystery solved." First, what is an acid or alkaline a substance elsewhere? These substances are measured on a scale of pH of the water was neutral to 7.0. With values of less than 7.0 acid and the pH of the strongest acid. As you may have guessed alkaline (or base) substances have a value greater than 7.0, with a maximum of 14. Now you may be wondering where our body should fall on this scale. First, when we speak of an acid / base balance in the body we are talking about the pH balance in our blood and tissues which should remain in a fairly narrow range of around 7.4-slightly alkaline. The real heart of the problem here is the by-product of the digestion of food we consume and absorb. The biggest contributors to the fact that ACIDOSIS is at its highest are the facts that most Americans are consumers of beef and / or poultry several times a day, Americans are now consuming more soft drinks than the water consumption of coffee (caffeine and decaffeinated) And finally treating many of our foods have removed all of the alkaline minerals. Upon reflection on the food we eat, you can not take the natural state of a food as the main indicator of how the food that will interact with our bodies. For example, most of the fruit consumed resulting residue of ash alkaline once digested, even though they may naturally high in acid in its natural state, even oranges. The main formation of acid in your diet of foods containing minerals, sulfur, phosphorus and iron. Typically, you can find these minerals in proteins, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, cereals, nuts and most soft drinks (due to high levels of phosphate). The minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium form alkaline reactions in the body and are found primarily in fruits and vegetables, and so these foods are classified as food alkali. As many of you are aware of the consumption of alkaline forming vegetables and fruit is at its lowest. This has resulted in an increase of acidosis accelerates catabolic damage and degradation of our body anabolic repair process. One of the best examples is the fact that it has long been known that diets high in protein significantly increase the risk of osteoporosis. Although there are many theories on the subject, it seems that the body is simply taking a part of the organization to support other systems that have been depleted because of the body to remain in such a state acidosis. In an attempt to help us make this change in our food Univera LifeSciences has created MetaGreens ™. MetaGreens ™ is extraordinary mix of land and sea vegetables, all of which are rich in minerals alkali. I take great comfort to know that these greens are without pesticides, grown on soil nutrient that has never been chemically fertilized. In addition, Univera LifeSciences takes great care to ensure that the vegetables are harvested at the height of their nutritional value and then these ingredients are processed by dehydration at low temperatures to keep all raw food goodness and manufactured in small quantities for to maximize freshness. While the word "acid" have a negative connotation to many of you because you have been brain washed over the years by the non-stop advertisements on how the excesses stomach acid is the cause of all your ailments. While I will be able to spend days will address this issue I will pass. For those of you who want to read a very well presented explanation of why our stomach acids are actually a good thing please read Stephen Cherniske article. Personally, I still rely on Univera LifeSciences Aloe Gold product to help keep my digestive track in order and functioning properly. For those of you who have not tried Aloe Gold take a moment to ask all those who have used the product and I am sure you will hear great praise for the way they have helped many digestive disorders track. I hope you found this latest entry of the interest and most informative. When I barely scratched the surface here I hope I have helped to clarify some of the confusion associated with the acid alkaline debate. For those of you who are keen to learn more about what I can strongly recommend not enough that you read Stephen Cherniske's article acid alkaline mystery solved.
Using your health savings account to pay international travel
Thousands of American citizens who take advantage of the low cost and high quality of hospitals by foreigners traveling abroad for medical care. The savings are often 75 percent or more, and the entire cost of treatment may even be paid to the tax-free money from a health savings account. Medical Tourism began to get popular in the 1990's, when people began to travel in large numbers to Brazil for cosmetic surgery. But as costs have continued to rise, thousands of Americans have traveled overseas for health status, such as the knee, bypass operations, heart valve replacement, and other problems serious. Many countries see medical tourism as a way to attract overseas money. In many cases, the quality of available drugs overseas is equal to the top hospitals in the United States have shown patients at places such as the Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad, India, part of a contract 36 hospital chain founded by a cardiologist at the Massachusetts General. A heart valve replacement can cost $ 50000 to $ 100000 in the United States, and only $ 12000 in India, including travel. Escorts Heart Institute and Research Center, in Delhi, India, is another popular tourist destination medical. It was founded by Dr. Naresh Trehan, an authority on robotic cardiac surgery formerly based at the University of New York. Blue Cross Blue Shield has announced that they will pay for treatment at the hospital Bumrungrad International, in Bangkok, Thailand, for individuals from South Carolina. More than 80000 Americans received treatment last year. The hospital has more than 200 of its physicians are board certified in the United States, and to conduct an operation of a replacement knee 20 percent of what it would cost to the United States Who's that? Dodie Gilmore is 60 years old rodeo barrel-racing Champ Oklahoma. She runs a 180-acre ranch, but could not mount a horse because she needed a hip replacement. His health insurance plan had an exclusion that would not cover its operation, and she really did not want to pay the $ 35000 it would cost her. Instead she and her partner flew to India where she had surgery at the Institut Max Joint orthopedics and replacement. Her doctor was Dr. SKS Marya, which had an average of one American hip replacement patient each week. Dodie total of the coast, including travel, was only $ 11000. She even managed to take a tour of the Taj Mahal. Forty to sixty percent of the respondents said they would consider surgery abroad if it could save $ 5000 or more. Escaping the United States (and perhaps only for Mexico), could be a useful strategy if you have an exclusion clause waiver of your policy, if you are going to have surgery is not covered by your plan health insurance, or if you have a large map franchise. What is the risk? According to the Institute of Medicine, more than 100000 accidental deaths occur each year in hospitals. And it is here in the US hospitals is a dangerous place to be, and you want to spend as little of your life in one as possible. So there are risks everywhere in the world, and probably more likely outside the United States But the magic of the free market would give you some protection. There is a lot of money flowing to countries and international practice that hospitals in high-quality medicines. If a hospital does not provide a quality service, you can bet its customers will go elsewhere, especially if they are choosing from anywhere in the world. The influx of foreign patients (and money) is more attractive doctors trained in the West to return home, so that the choices are actually increasing, as well as the quality and prices continue to improve . I believe that if you use care in choosing your provider and structuring of your treatment, the risks are no greater than the surgery here in the United States How your search options Keep in mind that most health insurance plans do not cover treatment outside the United States, especially if you travel specifically to receive medical treatment. So, check with your insurer if the cost of treatment will exceed your deductible. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations evidenced here in American hospitals Their international division, International Joint Commission, certifies hospitals, the rest of the world. Make sure that the property you are considering has been certified by them. Consult your doctor. Confirm that he or she is English and was trained in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or Germany. Finally, consider hiring a consultant to help you choose the best surgeon in the hospital and your needs. A good service will be put in place not only treatment, but it can also take care of all travel plans, to meet you at the airport, and to act as liaison while you are being treated. If you spend money from your savings account to pay for health care, international medical, the withdrawal is tax free. Health regulations savings account, you can also cover the cost of the trip if the reason you are traveling to get medical care is not "purely for personal reasons." When choosing how to manage your health, we must carefully consider all your options. International travel is a great option for people with health savings accounts.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Reduce Your Cholesterol With Natural Vitamins
Because of the great efforts of the American Heart Association and other similar organizations, we have gained a lot of knowledge on cholesterol and its effects on our health. We know that high cholesterol levels increase our risk for heart attacks and strokes. We also know that lowering our cholesterol levels will reduce this risk and keep our hearts and blood vessels healthy. Additionally, we know that diet, weight loss, and exercise can help us lower our cholesterol levels. Prescription drugs that lower cholesterol have recently become available and advertised by pharmaceutical companies. However, these medications have some serious side effects including myopathy, reduction in CoQ10 levels, which can lead to heart disease, and rhabdomyaolysis, a rare, but fatal condition. Fortunately, there is a safe alternative to these prescription medications, pantethine and plant sterols, which are also known as phytosterols, are nature’s solution to high cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol, a soft, waxy, fat-like substance, is found in every cell of the body. It is needed to help digest fats, strengthen cell membranes, insulate nerves, and make hormones. Made primarily by the liver, our body makes all the cholesterol that we actually need, but we also get additional cholesterol from the foods that we eat. The highest sources of cholesterol are egg yolks and organ meats including liver and kidney. Peanut butter, avocado, and all other plant-derived foods contain no cholesterol. However, all foods from animal sources do contain cholesterol. Even though cholesterol is responsible for many important functions in the body, too much cholesterol in the bloodstream can be very dangerous. Once blood cholesterol has reached high levels, it builds up on artery walls, and therefore increases the risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. Because the heart is a muscle, it needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients. The bloodstream, which transports these nutrients to the heart through coronary arteries, cannot transport the oxygen if the arteries become narrowed or clogged by cholesterol and fat deposits. Depending on the severity, this can result in coronary heart disease, angina, or heart attack.
Because cholesterol and other fats can’t dissolve in the blood, they can’t travel on their own. Instead, they are transported to and from cells by special carriers called lipoproteins. There are two major lipoproteins: low density lipoproteins (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, and high density lipoproteins (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. LDLs cause atherosclerosis because they clog up our arteries with the continual buildup of fat. On the other hand, HDL prevents fat buildup by carrying it away from the arteries to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated.
Triglycerides, which are fats used as fuel by the body, can make the blood more sluggish and less capable of transporting oxygen when in high amounts. There are many medications prescribed by physicians for people with elevated triglyceride levels. Some of the most effective, and most harmful, are the statins. The all-natural combination of pantethine and plant sterols can safely lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels, while increasing HDL cholesterol.
Pantethine, which is a form of pantothenic acid that is found in liver, salmon, and yeast, is known for its ability to lower cholesterol by blocking its production. The production of cholesterol in the human body is a very complex process, involving many biochemical reactions and enzyme activity. Pantethine inhibits several of these enzymes, blocking the activity of those coenzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis by about 50%. To compensate for the lowered cholesterol production, the liver pulls LDL out of the bloodstream, resulting in a lower total cholesterol level.
Plant sterols, which are the fats of plants, are found in nuts, vegetable oils, corn, and rice. They are structurally very similar to cholesterol and are therefore able to act as a stand in for cholesterol and block its absorption, causing it to be eventually excreted. If we eat enough plant sterols, the amount of cholesterol transported from the intestinal tract to the liver is greatly reduced. And, just like pantethine’s effect on the liver, this cholesterol reduction causes the liver to pull LDL cholesterol out of the blood, which reduces both total and LDL cholesterol levels.
Because the plant sterol and pantethine found in food just aren’t enough to have much of an effect on our health, we need to take a concentrated combination of pantethine and plant sterols in just the right ratio. Plant sterols, which are bound in fibers in the plants, can not be adequately consumed even if we ate lots of raw fruits and vegetables. There are also several forms of plant sterols, with some ratios of these plant sterols being more beneficial than others. While pantethine is found in several food sources, it is hard to get beneficial amounts from our food. Manufacturers of high quality nutritional supplements offer pantethine and plant sterols in the most beneficial ratio, proven by research. The best results are found when taking a combination of 400 mg of plant sterols and 200 mg of pantethine three times a day. Recent studies have shown that lowering cholesterol in people without heart disease can greatly reduce their risk for ever developing CHD, along with heart attacks and atherosclerosis. This is also true for those with high cholesterol levels and for those with average cholesterol levels. Most physicians would never consider prescribing statin drugs to people without actual heart disease or high cholesterol levels because of the many health risks of the drugs. However, the combination of pantethine and plant sterols are very effective in helping those people with heart disease, high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, as well as those just wanting the extra health insurance for their hearts. Pantethine and plant sterols are both very safe. Although some people may experience a mild upset stomach when first taking pantethine, taking the combination of pantethine and plant sterols with meals can usually solve this problem. Pantethine and plant sterols are available at your local or internet vitamin store.
Cholesterol, a soft, waxy, fat-like substance, is found in every cell of the body. It is needed to help digest fats, strengthen cell membranes, insulate nerves, and make hormones. Made primarily by the liver, our body makes all the cholesterol that we actually need, but we also get additional cholesterol from the foods that we eat. The highest sources of cholesterol are egg yolks and organ meats including liver and kidney. Peanut butter, avocado, and all other plant-derived foods contain no cholesterol. However, all foods from animal sources do contain cholesterol. Even though cholesterol is responsible for many important functions in the body, too much cholesterol in the bloodstream can be very dangerous. Once blood cholesterol has reached high levels, it builds up on artery walls, and therefore increases the risk of blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. Because the heart is a muscle, it needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients. The bloodstream, which transports these nutrients to the heart through coronary arteries, cannot transport the oxygen if the arteries become narrowed or clogged by cholesterol and fat deposits. Depending on the severity, this can result in coronary heart disease, angina, or heart attack.
Because cholesterol and other fats can’t dissolve in the blood, they can’t travel on their own. Instead, they are transported to and from cells by special carriers called lipoproteins. There are two major lipoproteins: low density lipoproteins (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol, and high density lipoproteins (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. LDLs cause atherosclerosis because they clog up our arteries with the continual buildup of fat. On the other hand, HDL prevents fat buildup by carrying it away from the arteries to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated.
Triglycerides, which are fats used as fuel by the body, can make the blood more sluggish and less capable of transporting oxygen when in high amounts. There are many medications prescribed by physicians for people with elevated triglyceride levels. Some of the most effective, and most harmful, are the statins. The all-natural combination of pantethine and plant sterols can safely lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels, while increasing HDL cholesterol.
Pantethine, which is a form of pantothenic acid that is found in liver, salmon, and yeast, is known for its ability to lower cholesterol by blocking its production. The production of cholesterol in the human body is a very complex process, involving many biochemical reactions and enzyme activity. Pantethine inhibits several of these enzymes, blocking the activity of those coenzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis by about 50%. To compensate for the lowered cholesterol production, the liver pulls LDL out of the bloodstream, resulting in a lower total cholesterol level.
Plant sterols, which are the fats of plants, are found in nuts, vegetable oils, corn, and rice. They are structurally very similar to cholesterol and are therefore able to act as a stand in for cholesterol and block its absorption, causing it to be eventually excreted. If we eat enough plant sterols, the amount of cholesterol transported from the intestinal tract to the liver is greatly reduced. And, just like pantethine’s effect on the liver, this cholesterol reduction causes the liver to pull LDL cholesterol out of the blood, which reduces both total and LDL cholesterol levels.
Because the plant sterol and pantethine found in food just aren’t enough to have much of an effect on our health, we need to take a concentrated combination of pantethine and plant sterols in just the right ratio. Plant sterols, which are bound in fibers in the plants, can not be adequately consumed even if we ate lots of raw fruits and vegetables. There are also several forms of plant sterols, with some ratios of these plant sterols being more beneficial than others. While pantethine is found in several food sources, it is hard to get beneficial amounts from our food. Manufacturers of high quality nutritional supplements offer pantethine and plant sterols in the most beneficial ratio, proven by research. The best results are found when taking a combination of 400 mg of plant sterols and 200 mg of pantethine three times a day. Recent studies have shown that lowering cholesterol in people without heart disease can greatly reduce their risk for ever developing CHD, along with heart attacks and atherosclerosis. This is also true for those with high cholesterol levels and for those with average cholesterol levels. Most physicians would never consider prescribing statin drugs to people without actual heart disease or high cholesterol levels because of the many health risks of the drugs. However, the combination of pantethine and plant sterols are very effective in helping those people with heart disease, high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, as well as those just wanting the extra health insurance for their hearts. Pantethine and plant sterols are both very safe. Although some people may experience a mild upset stomach when first taking pantethine, taking the combination of pantethine and plant sterols with meals can usually solve this problem. Pantethine and plant sterols are available at your local or internet vitamin store.
The Hidden Side of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes continues to be in the headlines as a health crisis because more people are getting the disease and not enough of them are doing what it takes to minimize the complications that come with it. This is hard for those around them to understand. Friends, family and co-workers can’t grasp why it is so hard to get a healthier lifestyle if it means less suffering and pain. They wonder why those with cancer or other life-threatening diseases take action, while those facing diabetes seem stuck and unwilling to take better care of themselves. Are you one of those asking this question?
Unfortunately many of those at risk or who already have diabetes don’t understand it themselves. They don’t know why it is so hard to make changes or maintain better habits. It just is. But what so many of them do know is they feel misunderstood, frustrated and sick of dealing with the disease. The result is that millions of them simply give up trying and shut off their feelings, which leads to resignation and a denial of their situation.
I have worked with enough pre- and diagnosed type 2 diabetics (people with insulin resistance) struggling with lifestyle changes to understand their mental state, why it is so hard to take action and what can help them turn things around. And I will admit right up front that not everyone can be helped, but many can by understanding that diabetes is often a personal crisis for the individuals involved. They just can’t see it.
The typical person diagnosed with insulin resistance has not lived a healthy lifestyle, is often overweight, probably suffers from low self esteem (due to their weight, feeling out of control around food or other issues) and may be depressed. Upon diagnosis their life changes immediately. They must change the way they eat, monitor their carbohydrate intake and blood sugar levels throughout the day, and take an insulin sensitivity medication at specific times. The guidelines are very specific and rigid. They must also lose a certain amount of weight and given a deadline for when their blood sugar levels should get into the normal range. Many leave their appointments overwhelmed, in shock and frightened.
Initially people follow the guidelines fairly well and attempt to do what is asked of them, but it is a dramatic change from what they are accustomed to doing. As with dieting, they inevitably have days when it is too hard to do. This makes them feel guilty, believing they are bad and failing, further impacting their self esteem and depression. The more often this happens, the lower they feel. And the lower one’s self esteem or depression, the less likely they will take care of themselves. This becomes a downward spiral. If you have ever been depressed, you can appreciate this.
For most it is also challenging to comply with the exercise requirements. Many try, but it is tough to create a regular routine, especially if they’ve been sedentary. So despite their initial efforts to eat right and get exercise, the majority can’t keep it up and they discover something interesting. It doesn’t seem to make much difference in how they feel when they don’t exercise or eat so well. Sure their blood sugar levels go up or down too much, but it doesn’t seem so urgent or important when there aren’t obvious ramifications. What they can’t see or feel is the damage building up and the slippery slope of no return when they get past a certain point. But that can be several years from the initial diagnosis.
As an onlooker, what we see is their denial and refusal to do more. What they are actually experiencing is something far deeper: the repression of their emotions. They are dealing with feelings (many that contributed to their eating habits, lifestyle and diagnosis) such as shame, unworthiness, not being good enough or perfect enough. Add to that fear, stress, and all their other painful feelings that are pushed down and out of reach. Hiding beneath the surface is a personal crisis driving their behaviors.
The way to address it is with a non-judgmental approach to lifestyle intervention that is flexible and slowly rebuilds confidence through small goals and successes and provides a place for feelings to be released and beliefs to be changed. It can be done, but it may take about a year of weekly coaching and lots of patience. Even if they don’t believe it at first, those struggling with insulin resistance are worth it. This week reconsider what it is like to be struggling with this disease and understand that there is more than meets the eye.
Unfortunately many of those at risk or who already have diabetes don’t understand it themselves. They don’t know why it is so hard to make changes or maintain better habits. It just is. But what so many of them do know is they feel misunderstood, frustrated and sick of dealing with the disease. The result is that millions of them simply give up trying and shut off their feelings, which leads to resignation and a denial of their situation.
I have worked with enough pre- and diagnosed type 2 diabetics (people with insulin resistance) struggling with lifestyle changes to understand their mental state, why it is so hard to take action and what can help them turn things around. And I will admit right up front that not everyone can be helped, but many can by understanding that diabetes is often a personal crisis for the individuals involved. They just can’t see it.
The typical person diagnosed with insulin resistance has not lived a healthy lifestyle, is often overweight, probably suffers from low self esteem (due to their weight, feeling out of control around food or other issues) and may be depressed. Upon diagnosis their life changes immediately. They must change the way they eat, monitor their carbohydrate intake and blood sugar levels throughout the day, and take an insulin sensitivity medication at specific times. The guidelines are very specific and rigid. They must also lose a certain amount of weight and given a deadline for when their blood sugar levels should get into the normal range. Many leave their appointments overwhelmed, in shock and frightened.
Initially people follow the guidelines fairly well and attempt to do what is asked of them, but it is a dramatic change from what they are accustomed to doing. As with dieting, they inevitably have days when it is too hard to do. This makes them feel guilty, believing they are bad and failing, further impacting their self esteem and depression. The more often this happens, the lower they feel. And the lower one’s self esteem or depression, the less likely they will take care of themselves. This becomes a downward spiral. If you have ever been depressed, you can appreciate this.
For most it is also challenging to comply with the exercise requirements. Many try, but it is tough to create a regular routine, especially if they’ve been sedentary. So despite their initial efforts to eat right and get exercise, the majority can’t keep it up and they discover something interesting. It doesn’t seem to make much difference in how they feel when they don’t exercise or eat so well. Sure their blood sugar levels go up or down too much, but it doesn’t seem so urgent or important when there aren’t obvious ramifications. What they can’t see or feel is the damage building up and the slippery slope of no return when they get past a certain point. But that can be several years from the initial diagnosis.
As an onlooker, what we see is their denial and refusal to do more. What they are actually experiencing is something far deeper: the repression of their emotions. They are dealing with feelings (many that contributed to their eating habits, lifestyle and diagnosis) such as shame, unworthiness, not being good enough or perfect enough. Add to that fear, stress, and all their other painful feelings that are pushed down and out of reach. Hiding beneath the surface is a personal crisis driving their behaviors.
The way to address it is with a non-judgmental approach to lifestyle intervention that is flexible and slowly rebuilds confidence through small goals and successes and provides a place for feelings to be released and beliefs to be changed. It can be done, but it may take about a year of weekly coaching and lots of patience. Even if they don’t believe it at first, those struggling with insulin resistance are worth it. This week reconsider what it is like to be struggling with this disease and understand that there is more than meets the eye.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
What You Should Know About Facial Skin Care
Facial skin care� take discipline more than anything. You should find a routine that suits you (and you need to stick to your skin care regimen as close as possible). We will see what makes for the best skin care tips and solutions . It's pretty simple, there are several steps to health glowing skin:
* Cleaning
* Toning up
* Exfoliating
* Moisturizing
If you desire to know where to start first, it's with cleansing. Cleansing prevents damage to the skin by removing dust, pollutants, grease and extra oil from your skin. Just apply a good cleansing lotion or cream to your face and neck and gently massage it into your skin using upward strokes. Use a soft face tissue or cotton wool to wipe your face in a gentle patting fashion (do not rub). Realize that cleansing is not a once a day proposition, but must occur twice a day, i.e. morning (as part of complete facial skin care routine) and evening (on a standalone basis). Remember to use a water soluble cleansers are the best for inclusion in your facial skin care routine.
Toning is the the optional part of the facial skin care routine. If you clean your skin well you can sometimes bypass toning. If you want to remove all traces of dirt, grease and excess cleanser then toning is for you. You can using toning occasionally i.e. when you have been exposed to particularly harsh environment/pollution, Try the above suggestion instead of making it part of your daily facial skin care routine, .
Exfoliation is again, kind of, optional step in everyday routine for facial skin care. All the same, exfoliation is essential at least once a week (or twice, dependent on the skin type and the environmental circumstances). Exfoliation finds its target in facial skin care routine because of the natural disposition of skin to replenish the skin cells every 3 or 4 calendar weeks. As a facial skin care proficiency, exfoliation aids in getting rid of the dead skin cells that block the pores, thus aiding the skin in the natural process. Still, inordinate or harsh exfoliation can induce damage to your skin; so you need to balance it out.
The following thing in facial skin care is moisturizing. As a matter of fact, moisturizing is the most crucial part of facial skin care routine. Moisturizers keep your skin from getting dry. Dry skin is really undesirable since it cause the upper layer skin to break, leading to dead skin cells. Once again, use easy upward strokes to make the moisturizer more effectual. Moisturizers work the best when applied on warm and damp skin. Thusly do not try to take away all the moisture in the former steps of facial skin care routine.
As well as the conventional facial skin care routine, you ought also exercise the accompanying for facial skin care:
* Utilize suitable make-up remover instead of just washing it away with a heavy gel.
* Give ear to your skin type and the surroundings, when selecting facial skin care products.
* Test a new facial skin care product, by applying it on a short patch of skin e.g. ear lobes.
* Never rub your skin too hard, friction can be bad.
* Employ sun blocker applications for protective cover against sunlight.
* Cleaning
* Toning up
* Exfoliating
* Moisturizing
If you desire to know where to start first, it's with cleansing. Cleansing prevents damage to the skin by removing dust, pollutants, grease and extra oil from your skin. Just apply a good cleansing lotion or cream to your face and neck and gently massage it into your skin using upward strokes. Use a soft face tissue or cotton wool to wipe your face in a gentle patting fashion (do not rub). Realize that cleansing is not a once a day proposition, but must occur twice a day, i.e. morning (as part of complete facial skin care routine) and evening (on a standalone basis). Remember to use a water soluble cleansers are the best for inclusion in your facial skin care routine.
Toning is the the optional part of the facial skin care routine. If you clean your skin well you can sometimes bypass toning. If you want to remove all traces of dirt, grease and excess cleanser then toning is for you. You can using toning occasionally i.e. when you have been exposed to particularly harsh environment/pollution, Try the above suggestion instead of making it part of your daily facial skin care routine, .
Exfoliation is again, kind of, optional step in everyday routine for facial skin care. All the same, exfoliation is essential at least once a week (or twice, dependent on the skin type and the environmental circumstances). Exfoliation finds its target in facial skin care routine because of the natural disposition of skin to replenish the skin cells every 3 or 4 calendar weeks. As a facial skin care proficiency, exfoliation aids in getting rid of the dead skin cells that block the pores, thus aiding the skin in the natural process. Still, inordinate or harsh exfoliation can induce damage to your skin; so you need to balance it out.
The following thing in facial skin care is moisturizing. As a matter of fact, moisturizing is the most crucial part of facial skin care routine. Moisturizers keep your skin from getting dry. Dry skin is really undesirable since it cause the upper layer skin to break, leading to dead skin cells. Once again, use easy upward strokes to make the moisturizer more effectual. Moisturizers work the best when applied on warm and damp skin. Thusly do not try to take away all the moisture in the former steps of facial skin care routine.
As well as the conventional facial skin care routine, you ought also exercise the accompanying for facial skin care:
* Utilize suitable make-up remover instead of just washing it away with a heavy gel.
* Give ear to your skin type and the surroundings, when selecting facial skin care products.
* Test a new facial skin care product, by applying it on a short patch of skin e.g. ear lobes.
* Never rub your skin too hard, friction can be bad.
* Employ sun blocker applications for protective cover against sunlight.
10 Weight Loss Tips for Permanent Weight Loss
1. Eat only when you are hungry.
This means stop eating the minute you are full. This means if you go out to dinner and eat all the bread in the breadbasket you don't eat your dinner. This means if it is lunch break at work and you aren't hungry don't eat. This means if you are in the middle of a sandwich and you are no longer hungry, you stop eating.
2. When you aren't hungry and eating for joy only, make sure you are eating something fantastic and tasting every bite.
There will be times when you want to eat just for the joy of it. I say if you only do this 10% of the time you can still lose weight. But the trick is to make sure you enjoy each bite, taste it fully and stop as soon as the joy of eating it fades. If you pay attention, you will be surprised how soon this might be.
3. Be curious about yourself-not judgmental.
When you do something that you think is "off" you plan of what you would like to be doing, be curious and try to find out why you do what you do. Explore the thoughts that lead to the action. Be kind and understanding with yourself. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt.
4. Believe it is possible to be thin without being mean to yourself.
You do not have to beat yourself into submission for thinness. In fact, I have found the opposite is true. Loving yourself and being kind to yourself is a much better path to permanent weight loss.
5. Feel your feelings.
Be anxious. (Don't eat.) Be sad. (Don't eat.) Be afraid. (Don't eat.) Be angry. (Don't eat.) If you use eating as an alternative to feeling you are most likely going to be overweight. The sooner you feel your feelings the sooner they will subside.
6. Stop expecting things "out there" to change so you can feel better.
Don't wait for a better job, a thinner body, a nicer husband or a better tasting diet in order to be happy. You can be the source of your own joy by finding out what you love to do and who you love to be. By living your own truth, you can be happy no matter what is going on "out there."
7. Even when you think you have "blown it" write down every piece of food that goes into your mouth and then read that list with fascination.
It may feel better to write in the food journal when you are eating fuel most of the time, but that is not when it is the most important. When you are fog eating and storm eating and binging and going crazy with food, you have the best opportunity to learn about yourself and why you do what you do. No matter how much you have eaten and no matter how big the binge was, write down every single thing that went into your mouth and look at it with kind curiosity.
8. Realize that eating when you aren't hungry is not satisfying hunger or comforting you-it's just making you heavy.
Notice the terminology you use when discussing food. " I had my chocolate fix." " I needed comfort food." "I wanted to give myself a treat." Food is not a good source of emotional comfort and it cannot fix you.
9. Remember the past does not equal the future
We have all been on many many diets. Many of us have been heavy a long time. This does not mean that you can't lose weight. You have been doing the best you can. And when you know better- you do better- and you look better….
10. Never give up!
Enough said.
This means stop eating the minute you are full. This means if you go out to dinner and eat all the bread in the breadbasket you don't eat your dinner. This means if it is lunch break at work and you aren't hungry don't eat. This means if you are in the middle of a sandwich and you are no longer hungry, you stop eating.
2. When you aren't hungry and eating for joy only, make sure you are eating something fantastic and tasting every bite.
There will be times when you want to eat just for the joy of it. I say if you only do this 10% of the time you can still lose weight. But the trick is to make sure you enjoy each bite, taste it fully and stop as soon as the joy of eating it fades. If you pay attention, you will be surprised how soon this might be.
3. Be curious about yourself-not judgmental.
When you do something that you think is "off" you plan of what you would like to be doing, be curious and try to find out why you do what you do. Explore the thoughts that lead to the action. Be kind and understanding with yourself. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt.
4. Believe it is possible to be thin without being mean to yourself.
You do not have to beat yourself into submission for thinness. In fact, I have found the opposite is true. Loving yourself and being kind to yourself is a much better path to permanent weight loss.
5. Feel your feelings.
Be anxious. (Don't eat.) Be sad. (Don't eat.) Be afraid. (Don't eat.) Be angry. (Don't eat.) If you use eating as an alternative to feeling you are most likely going to be overweight. The sooner you feel your feelings the sooner they will subside.
6. Stop expecting things "out there" to change so you can feel better.
Don't wait for a better job, a thinner body, a nicer husband or a better tasting diet in order to be happy. You can be the source of your own joy by finding out what you love to do and who you love to be. By living your own truth, you can be happy no matter what is going on "out there."
7. Even when you think you have "blown it" write down every piece of food that goes into your mouth and then read that list with fascination.
It may feel better to write in the food journal when you are eating fuel most of the time, but that is not when it is the most important. When you are fog eating and storm eating and binging and going crazy with food, you have the best opportunity to learn about yourself and why you do what you do. No matter how much you have eaten and no matter how big the binge was, write down every single thing that went into your mouth and look at it with kind curiosity.
8. Realize that eating when you aren't hungry is not satisfying hunger or comforting you-it's just making you heavy.
Notice the terminology you use when discussing food. " I had my chocolate fix." " I needed comfort food." "I wanted to give myself a treat." Food is not a good source of emotional comfort and it cannot fix you.
9. Remember the past does not equal the future
We have all been on many many diets. Many of us have been heavy a long time. This does not mean that you can't lose weight. You have been doing the best you can. And when you know better- you do better- and you look better….
10. Never give up!
Enough said.
What You Should Know About Brain Injury
One of the most devastating and traumatic injury that you can get from an accident is traumatic brain injury or commonly known as simply head injury. Brain injury is usually the result of head trauma like when the head suddenly or violently hits an object. Common accidents like car accidents and slip and fall accident may result in head trauma. Other causes of brain injury is when objects violently hit the head or pierce the skull and enters the brain tissue. Premise liability accidents like falling debris or objects from buildings or shelves are examples of accidents resulting in this kind of brain trauma.
Brain trauma are said to be either mild, moderate or severe depending on the extent of trauma or injury to the brain. If you are involved in a car accident and you hit your head on the steering will or who were hit by objects flying inside your car, chances are you may experience brain injury. You will know if you have mild brain injury if after the accident you lose consciousness for a few seconds or minutes, experienced headache, confusion, lightheadedness, blurred vision, bad taste in the mouth, dizziness, trouble with memory, mood changes or trouble with thinking or concentration. If on the other hand, aside from the above symptoms you also experience worsening headaches, repeated vomiting or nausea, seizures, slurred speech, loss of coordination and continued restlessness or agitation and confusion. If, however, after the accident you experienced serious head trauma, you don’t have to worry about the symptoms. You would probably wake up on a hospital bed and days have past after your accident happened.
At the time of the accident, treatments for head injury usually entails trying to stabilize the injured person to prevent further injuries. The concern of the medical personnel is insuring proper oxygen supply to the brain and the rest of the body, maintaining adequate blood flow and regulating blood pressure.
If after the car accident and you were diagnosed with mild to moderate brain injury, chances are you may receive skull and neck X-rays to check for bone fractures or spinal instability, MRI and CT scan.
Also, in case of moderate to severe brain injury, you will definitely need to get rehabilitation that involves individually tailored treatment programs in the areas of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, physiatrist (physical medicine), psychology/psychiatry, and social support.
As you can see, brain trauma is not only a serious injury, it also entails serious medical expenses. Hence, if you are involved in a car accident and you are fault free, secure the services of a competent personal injury lawyer immediately. Otherwise, aside from brain trauma, your finances might also be paralyzed.
Brain trauma are said to be either mild, moderate or severe depending on the extent of trauma or injury to the brain. If you are involved in a car accident and you hit your head on the steering will or who were hit by objects flying inside your car, chances are you may experience brain injury. You will know if you have mild brain injury if after the accident you lose consciousness for a few seconds or minutes, experienced headache, confusion, lightheadedness, blurred vision, bad taste in the mouth, dizziness, trouble with memory, mood changes or trouble with thinking or concentration. If on the other hand, aside from the above symptoms you also experience worsening headaches, repeated vomiting or nausea, seizures, slurred speech, loss of coordination and continued restlessness or agitation and confusion. If, however, after the accident you experienced serious head trauma, you don’t have to worry about the symptoms. You would probably wake up on a hospital bed and days have past after your accident happened.
At the time of the accident, treatments for head injury usually entails trying to stabilize the injured person to prevent further injuries. The concern of the medical personnel is insuring proper oxygen supply to the brain and the rest of the body, maintaining adequate blood flow and regulating blood pressure.
If after the car accident and you were diagnosed with mild to moderate brain injury, chances are you may receive skull and neck X-rays to check for bone fractures or spinal instability, MRI and CT scan.
Also, in case of moderate to severe brain injury, you will definitely need to get rehabilitation that involves individually tailored treatment programs in the areas of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, physiatrist (physical medicine), psychology/psychiatry, and social support.
As you can see, brain trauma is not only a serious injury, it also entails serious medical expenses. Hence, if you are involved in a car accident and you are fault free, secure the services of a competent personal injury lawyer immediately. Otherwise, aside from brain trauma, your finances might also be paralyzed.
Drug Detox Q & A: Can Opioid Pain Therapy Create Drug Addicts?
Risk of drug addiction is higher with opioid painkillers than with other drugs
We frequently hear or read about people who have become addicted to painkillers after being prescribed them by their doctor for chronic pain. The problem is that once the pain is gone or manageable, the person can find themselves trapped by the drug and has to keep taking it. Next thing you know, they’re “doctor shopping”, stealing drugs from medicine cabinets, buying them off the Internet, or from drug dealers. Really, their only hope at that point is a drug detox program that will help them get off the drug.
These stories are always sad and somewhat frightening. For me, they also raise a number of questions: How many people actually suffer from the severe chronic pain that requires these prescriptions? And how do they become addicted? Some of the answers I found were shocking.
A study conducted by Stanford University Medical Center found that one in five adult Americans suffer from chronic pain – pain lasting for several months or longer. And, according to a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, common and chronic pain costs American workers more than $61 billion a year in lost productivity. These facts alone provide significant incentive to ask for, and write prescriptions for painkillers. People don’t want to be in pain, and they do want to go to work. So, they are likely to be on these drugs for an extended period of time.
But will they become drug addicts? That depends on a number of factors. First, the type of drug they’re taking; If they’re taking opium-based painkillers like OxyContin, Dilaudid, Vicodin, Percocet, oxycodone, or morphine, it is almost certain the person will become physically dependant and, if taken for a long period of time, they’ll probably require drug detox to safely get off the drug with a minimum of debilitating withdrawal symptoms.
However, even though the risk of drug addiction with opioid painkillers is higher than with other drugs, addiction goes beyond mere physical dependency. It is more a mindset – it’s a solution that enables a person to cope with the stresses of living life. And it takes more than drug detox to handle it. Drug detox helps the person handle their physical dependency, but they’ll need drug rehab to conquer the addiction.
Whether or not someone is addicted to a drug is a complex question. But the bottom line is this: given the right set of conditions, there is a great risk of addiction.
The best way to find out if someone is addicted is to get them treatment in a medically-supervised drug detox center that helps them withdraw safely from the drug and then provides counseling to determine if further treatment is needed.
We frequently hear or read about people who have become addicted to painkillers after being prescribed them by their doctor for chronic pain. The problem is that once the pain is gone or manageable, the person can find themselves trapped by the drug and has to keep taking it. Next thing you know, they’re “doctor shopping”, stealing drugs from medicine cabinets, buying them off the Internet, or from drug dealers. Really, their only hope at that point is a drug detox program that will help them get off the drug.
These stories are always sad and somewhat frightening. For me, they also raise a number of questions: How many people actually suffer from the severe chronic pain that requires these prescriptions? And how do they become addicted? Some of the answers I found were shocking.
A study conducted by Stanford University Medical Center found that one in five adult Americans suffer from chronic pain – pain lasting for several months or longer. And, according to a study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association, common and chronic pain costs American workers more than $61 billion a year in lost productivity. These facts alone provide significant incentive to ask for, and write prescriptions for painkillers. People don’t want to be in pain, and they do want to go to work. So, they are likely to be on these drugs for an extended period of time.
But will they become drug addicts? That depends on a number of factors. First, the type of drug they’re taking; If they’re taking opium-based painkillers like OxyContin, Dilaudid, Vicodin, Percocet, oxycodone, or morphine, it is almost certain the person will become physically dependant and, if taken for a long period of time, they’ll probably require drug detox to safely get off the drug with a minimum of debilitating withdrawal symptoms.
However, even though the risk of drug addiction with opioid painkillers is higher than with other drugs, addiction goes beyond mere physical dependency. It is more a mindset – it’s a solution that enables a person to cope with the stresses of living life. And it takes more than drug detox to handle it. Drug detox helps the person handle their physical dependency, but they’ll need drug rehab to conquer the addiction.
Whether or not someone is addicted to a drug is a complex question. But the bottom line is this: given the right set of conditions, there is a great risk of addiction.
The best way to find out if someone is addicted is to get them treatment in a medically-supervised drug detox center that helps them withdraw safely from the drug and then provides counseling to determine if further treatment is needed.
Bodyweight Fitness: 5 New Turbulence Training Exercises to Help Busy Dads Burn Belly Fat Now
Gone are the days when you could spend an hour in the weight room and another 30 minutes doing cardio. With kids, there's just no time to even drive to the gym, let alone workout for more than 20 minutes. But by using the most convenient exercise equipment available – your own bodyweight – you can burn belly fat fast. And you can get your muscle definition back with simple bodyweight exercises.
So, you can forget the fancy machines, expensive gym memberships, or sharing equipment with sweaty strangers. You can forget about not spending enough time with your wife or kids. You can do this workout when you wake up or before you go to sleep. You can do this bodyweight training circuit at home before or after work. You can even close your office door and do this entire workout while everyone else is out for lunch.
5 Bodyweight Training Exercises to Help the Busiest Executives Reduce Stress & Lose Fat Fast:
1. The Prisoner Squat
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise stretches your chest and works your entire body, including your upper back (an area of stress for many busy dads).
To perform this exercise, start with your hands behind your head, and elbows back. Pull your shoulder blades together to exercise your upper back and relieve your stress. Start with your feet shoulder width apart, and push your hips back and squat until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Sit back as if you were sitting into a chair. Pause briefly at the bottom and stand back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times.
2. The Decline Pushup
This turbulence training body weight exercise is a harder variation of the regular pushup. To effectively perform this exercise, place your feet on a bench, chair, or step, so your feet are at least 6 inches off the ground. Start with your hands just wider than shoulder width apart. Brace your abs, and bend your arms to lower your chest to the floor. Stop one inch above the ground and press back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times. Feel the burn and see how ready you are for the busy day or night ahead of you.
3. Split Squats
Follow the pushup with a set of split squats. To complete this turbulence training bodyweight exercise, step one leg forward. Move your other leg back so it looks like you are making a slightly larger than normal step. Do this close to a wall so you can use your hands for balance if necessary.
Now, balance on your front foot and on the ball of your back foot. Your back heel will be off the ground for the entire exercise. Bend your back knee. Start the movement by dropping your hips straight down until your back knee is two inches above the ground. Press through your front leg to stand back up. Do eight repetitions for one leg and then switch sides and repeat.
4. Mountain Climbers
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise works your abs, your chest, and your legs. Get into the pushup position. Brace your abs. Now lift one foot and bring your knee to your chest. Touch the foot down, and then return it to the start position. Alternate sides and complete ten repetitions for each side.
5. Stick Ups
To finish the circuit, you will do a turbulence training bodyweight exercise called "Stick-ups". Stand with your feet six inches from the wall. Now place your back, butt and head flat against the wall. Put your arms overhead as if someone told you to "Stick-em up!"
Keep your hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders against the wall. Now slowly slide your arms down the wall and tuck your elbows into your sides. Again, keep your arms and back against the wall. No cheating! Do this exercise twelve times.
Do these five exercises in a circuit, without resting between exercises. When you've completed the circuit once, rest one or two minutes and repeat the circuit two more times. You'll feel great, boost your metabolism, and sculpt your body without spending a penny.
So, you can forget the fancy machines, expensive gym memberships, or sharing equipment with sweaty strangers. You can forget about not spending enough time with your wife or kids. You can do this workout when you wake up or before you go to sleep. You can do this bodyweight training circuit at home before or after work. You can even close your office door and do this entire workout while everyone else is out for lunch.
5 Bodyweight Training Exercises to Help the Busiest Executives Reduce Stress & Lose Fat Fast:
1. The Prisoner Squat
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise stretches your chest and works your entire body, including your upper back (an area of stress for many busy dads).
To perform this exercise, start with your hands behind your head, and elbows back. Pull your shoulder blades together to exercise your upper back and relieve your stress. Start with your feet shoulder width apart, and push your hips back and squat until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Sit back as if you were sitting into a chair. Pause briefly at the bottom and stand back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times.
2. The Decline Pushup
This turbulence training body weight exercise is a harder variation of the regular pushup. To effectively perform this exercise, place your feet on a bench, chair, or step, so your feet are at least 6 inches off the ground. Start with your hands just wider than shoulder width apart. Brace your abs, and bend your arms to lower your chest to the floor. Stop one inch above the ground and press back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times. Feel the burn and see how ready you are for the busy day or night ahead of you.
3. Split Squats
Follow the pushup with a set of split squats. To complete this turbulence training bodyweight exercise, step one leg forward. Move your other leg back so it looks like you are making a slightly larger than normal step. Do this close to a wall so you can use your hands for balance if necessary.
Now, balance on your front foot and on the ball of your back foot. Your back heel will be off the ground for the entire exercise. Bend your back knee. Start the movement by dropping your hips straight down until your back knee is two inches above the ground. Press through your front leg to stand back up. Do eight repetitions for one leg and then switch sides and repeat.
4. Mountain Climbers
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise works your abs, your chest, and your legs. Get into the pushup position. Brace your abs. Now lift one foot and bring your knee to your chest. Touch the foot down, and then return it to the start position. Alternate sides and complete ten repetitions for each side.
5. Stick Ups
To finish the circuit, you will do a turbulence training bodyweight exercise called "Stick-ups". Stand with your feet six inches from the wall. Now place your back, butt and head flat against the wall. Put your arms overhead as if someone told you to "Stick-em up!"
Keep your hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders against the wall. Now slowly slide your arms down the wall and tuck your elbows into your sides. Again, keep your arms and back against the wall. No cheating! Do this exercise twelve times.
Do these five exercises in a circuit, without resting between exercises. When you've completed the circuit once, rest one or two minutes and repeat the circuit two more times. You'll feel great, boost your metabolism, and sculpt your body without spending a penny.
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