If you have trouble falling asleep, feel constantly exhausted, can't each much and experience aching of muscles and joints on a daily basis, then you may have an autoimmune disease. There are over 80 types of autoimmune diseases, ranging from lupus and hepatitis to rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disorders. The most at-risk individuals are women just past the age of puberty. Health experts aren't 100% sure what triggers the body's defense system to attack itself, but since 79% of cases are with women, they suspect it may be hormone-related.
Rheumatoid arthritis, which is one of the common autoimmune diseases, affects women in 75% of the approximately 2 million cases; within a few years, it leaves 30-40% of untreated sufferers disabled. Patients suffer stiffness of joints, immobility, chronic fatigue and inflammation. Lupus is another of the autoimmune diseases that causes swelling, weakness, muscle or joint pain and insomnia. A butterfly rash and light sensitivity also typically occur as telltale signs of lupus.
The danger untreated lupus presents is serious damage to internal organs and kidney failure, as well as seizures, depression, blood clots, depression, psychosis, strokes or migraines. Other autoimmune diseases include multiple sclerosis (although some debate the classification), type 1 diabetes, hepatitis, Addison's disease, Wegener's disease, Guillain-Barre syndrome, Grave's syndrome and over/underactive thyroids, so you'll want to check your family history for those genetic diseases as well.
Other diseases and disorders are sometimes mistaken for an autoimmune disease. For example, it was long thought that chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia were autoimmune. With both, sufferers feel tired all the time and have a heightened sensitivity to pain, which makes each step more painful than the last. It's suspected that Chagas disease, chronic obstructed pulmonary disease, endometriosis, cycstitis, narcolepsy and schizophrenia may also be autoimmune diseases, but they have not yet been classified as such.
Why just "grin and bare it" when you can live a relatively pain-free life? Many sufferers of an autoimmune disease just try to wait out the flare-ups. However, doctors can prescribe many different medications to treat the symptoms, as well as offer practical lifestyle management tips to help patients get through the pain. If you are uninsured or worried about how much a doctor's visit may cost, then there are many free community resources and group counseling sessions that will help you once a diagnosis has been made. Check www.AutoImmuneDisease.com for more information.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
What Is An Autoimmune Disease?
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
The danger in teeth whitening procedures?
Most people are concerned about making their teeth white but how many of those are ever thought about the potential danger in teeth whitening procedures. Your mouth tissue and teeth could potentially be at risk.
By and large the potential risk can be minimized and nothing to be worried about but worth looking into.
3 Potential Dangers in Whitening Your Teeth
1) For those people who have sensitive gums and soft mouth tissue, they could respond negatively to the chemicals solutions such as carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that are normally used in tooth whitening procedures.
Special precaution should be taken if you try to apply these chemicals by yourself at home. Be careful not to let the chemicals touch your mouth tissue except the teeth.
Normally if the procedures is done at the dentist office the risk could be greatly minimized. Dental professionals could safeguard your teeth and mouth tissue from the toxic chemical used in the whitening procedure.
Some teeth whitening home kits do provide some protection tools such as mouth guard. Mouth guard does not work very well since it doesn't fit everyone. It will not work with everyone, though some people may fit nicely.
2) After the whitening treatment, people with sensitive teeth could have the negative effect. This reaction is normally very noticeable when eating food while they too are hot or too cold such as ice cream.
3) The chemicals used (carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide) in the whitening procedures could also be potentially dangerous if swallowed. Some people will have a reaction of stomach upset, nausea and vomiting.
Some case studies have shown that the use of hydrogen peroxide for teeth whitening has been associated with the development of tongue cancer. There is no statistical data to quantify the claims but it is always wise to be on the safe side.
Tips For Cellulite Solutions
Cellulite is a fat that forms under the skin and causes unsightly bumps. It is a problem that affects most people and not one of them is very happy about it. All they can think of is how they can eliminate cellulite from their body. If you are one of these people who is looking for a solution for cellulite, then the good news is that there are some options open to you.
Of course, there are a number of creams and cellulite gel varieties that you can use to treat this skin condition, but this will only work as a precautionary measure for the most part. These cosmetic work to keep the skin smooth and supple, and to infuse the skin's cells with collagen so that your cells won't lose the needed moisture that is necessary for healthy skin. You can also use cellulite soap for bathing, which has been known to serve as an ideal cellulite prevention treatment. Other treatments for cellulite include soap that is infused with seaweed, which helps to penetrate the layers of the skin to melt down the layers of fatty deposits. Results do vary but some women the soap works well.
Body lifts and wraps, as well as hosiery and other undergarments that claim to provide an improvement for cellulite will not get rid of the problem permanently, but these items can provide you with a smooth look for your skin while your wearing the items. Following a detox diet to get rid of cellulite also doesn't prove to be effective, though it can help you to lose weight and may improve the look of your skin and give you more confidence when wearing certain items of clothing. The cellulite lift is also becoming more popular and women are trying this method for slimmer thighs and a smaller stomach area. The lift is most appealing for women who have lost a significant amount of weight, as the lift will improve the look and quality of the skin, yet it won't get rid of the fatty deposits.
Taking up a diet plan will help with the treatment for cellulite but stick with a proven diet plan rather than the latest fad diet. The Top 10 Diets is now the leading place to find a recognized diet plan that will help you lose weight and treat you cellulite.
These days, the treatments for cellulite are as varied as the people who have a problem with fatty deposits. You can get rid of cellulite with specific exercises that can help target this stubborn fat or you can try one of the many lotions or potions that can help you to eliminate this problem. Cellulite can be very difficult to get rid of and the new treatments available are great news to all those afflicted.
Cellulite is a often misunderstood condition. You do not have to be overweight to be afflicted with cottage cheese-like skin on certain areas. It is a condition that researchers are not quite sure of how it comes to form. Genetics, diet, hormones and other factors can all be causes of this skin condition. No matter how much you diet you just cannot seem to rid yourself of these problem areas. It can be extremely frustrating for anyone to deal with. Do not resort to liposuction or other cosmetic procedures without first checking out this information: Click Here Now
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Avoid Possible Injury With The Proper Stretching Exercise
It is a well known fact that before any type of fitness training it is necessary to carry out some simple stretching exercise so there is less chance of injury. But to help further with your workout there are some other things you may wish to do to make it more enjoyable.
Ok so none of what I have said so far is a secret but you would be amazed how many people do not do it but were you aware that you should also continue this stretching at the end of a workout as the muscles are warm and more flexible.
For instance, stretching movements for a warm up only have to last a third of the time that the same movements do when you are doing a cool-down, so they need to last for about a minute. It is not advisable to stretch and then relax straight away but to return to the original position slowly.
Ideally the stretch should last a few seconds then a slow return because it is easy to damage joints or even pull muscles when this is not done correctly. Work slowly in increments instead of immediately proceeding to doing the hardest exercise or position so make sure that you have stretched or warmed up all muscle groups.
A neck workout is as important as the rest of your body and is quite easy, only requiring pressure from the palm of the hand as it rests against the forehead which can then be repeated at the side of the head and the back. By performing stretching exercises, whether at the gym or not will increase both your flexibility but help increase your strength and improve your breathing and fitness training as well. It is a common sight seeing relative newcomers try to compete with people who are far more advanced but this is never a good idea; just stick to what your body is comfortable with and you will gradually increase you abilities. Do not expect your body to be able to carry out the same exercises and level of training every time you go to the gym because some days you will have a better workout than others; this is perfectly normal and to be expected. Fitness training everyday can be punishing for the muscles and does not allow them to heal and grow so try to leave a day between workouts. Aerobic exercises are the best for you because they will improve you cardiovascular system, improve your stamina, lung capacity and overall fitness; exercises like skipping running, rowing, swimming, stepping machines etc.
Many people find music good for exercise, especially something with a regular beat that can be worked to; of course mp3 players are ideal for this. If you are someone who has trouble relaxing or sleeping then you may want to consider stretching exercises as it is good for you even if you are not working out. Even if you do not intend to workout, stretching is an excellent way for the body to relax, especially if you find yourself in one position for a good deal of the day.
More info on stretching exercises will be found here Physical Therapy Exercise and also here Physical Therapist Job
Improve Your Skin with a Home Sauna
Relaxing in a sauna after a good workout is a luxury not too many of us have the time for. Even fewer of us have access to a sauna, period. If you can't get out to a sauna, how can you reap its many benefits? Treat yourself to a home sauna!
A home sauna is a great addition to any home. It’s always there and unlike exercise equipment you can be sure that it won’t go unused in your home. This can be a great investment that everyone in the household will enjoy. Not only will it be a fun way to relax together but you can also enjoy the health benefits of your home sauna.
Saunas are basically an enclosed space with a heat source that makes them very warm; the purpose is to make your body sweat in order to gain some benefits for your health. There are actually two different types of sauna that you can choose from, which are a steam sauna or a dry sauna.
Great Benefits
If you feel like your skin looks dull or tired then a home sauna could be a great way to restore a healthy glow to your skin. The toxins contained in your body are frequently a cause of any skin problems you may be experiencing. Using a cleanser to wash your face will only remove dirt and contaminants from the surface.
A home sauna can be very useful for cleaning out your skin below the surface. The lymphatic system will be revved up and all those toxins that lead to a variety of skin problems will be eliminated.
Do some exercise before you climb into the sauna to cleanse your skin. It needn't be too intense. Just something that will get your heart rate up and produce a light sweat. When you've broken a sweat, it's time to get in the sauna and relax for fifteen minutes.
Don't spend more than fifteen minutes at a time in the sauna; take a break for a few minutes, then go back in, aiming for forty five minutes in total. You want to shower and cool down after each fifteen minute session. Don't forget to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water prior to and during your treatment.
Not only will you find that your skin looks better but you will feel better as well. You're likely to discover that you are more relaxed after spending some time in the sauna. This is a fantastic stress reduction technique after putting in a long day; it can help you relax and you'll feel the day's tension slipping away.
What can help you sleep ?
Here are some suggestions to help you sleep.
A glass of warm milk can quickly put someone to sleep.
A well used and healthy body has very little trouble sleeping. If you have followed all the tips for getting enough sleep — sleeping on a regular schedule, avoiding caffeine and daytime naps, exercising regularly, and managing stress. Then you will probably only have trouble falling asleep occasionally.
• Make sure your bed is comfortable. Different types of mattresses help with different issues. Some mattresses are made to accommo¬date different type’s bedmates’ sleeping habits and comfort levels. Others are made to adjust to your firmness preferences. In addition, try therapeutic-shaped foam pillows that cradle your neck or extra pillows that help you sleep on your side. Make sure your sheets are com¬fortable and clean.
• Ensure your bedroom remains primarily a place for sleeping. Don’t use your bed for paying bills, doing work, etc. Help your body recognize that this is a place for rest or intimacy.
• Keep your bedroom peaceful and comfortable. Make sure your room is well ventilated and the temperature is consistent, and try to keep it quiet. If you have a problem with out¬side noise, a fan or a “white noise” machine can help block it out.
• Hide your clock. A big, illuminated digital clock may cause you to focus on the time and make you feel stressed and anxious. Place your clock so you can’t see the time when you are in bed.
• Do not nap during the day. If you are having trouble sleeping at night, try not to nap during the day. If you are feeling especially tired and feel as if you absolutely must nap, be sure to sleep for less than 30 minutes, early in the day.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol. Avoid drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages for several hours before bedtime.
• Don’t smoke. Nicotine is a stimulant and can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
• Expose yourself to bright light/sunlight soon after awakening. This will help to regulate your body’s natural biological clock. Likewise, try to keep your bedroom dark while you are sleeping so that the light will not interfere with your rest.
• Exercise early in the day. Twenty to thirty minutes of exercise every day can help you sleep, but be sure to exercise in the morning or afternoon. Exercise stimulates the body and aerobic activity before bedtime may make falling asleep more difficult.
• Check your iron level. Iron deficient women tend to have more problems sleeping, so if your blood is iron poor, a supplement might help you sleep
But the best suggestion comes from our mothers; a glass of warm milk will always help put you to sleep.
Reduce The Risk Or Estrogen Related Cancer By Restoring Estrogen Balance To The Body With DIM
Have you ever noticed the difference between men and women’s ability to lose weight? A man can simply stop eating junk food and two weeks later will have lost ten pounds. On the other hand, after hours in a gym and weeks of calorie counting many women will have not lost a pound. The main reason for this huge difference is an imbalance of too much estrogen as compared to lower levels of progesterone, which is called estrogen dominance. This imbalance leads to weight gain and obesity, as well as cervical dysplasia, breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers. Up until now, women have been told that the only way to treat a hormone related health problem is to take additional hormones. However, the correct answer is finding a balance of hormones, which can be done by using diindolylmethane (DIM), a powerful nutrient that is found in broccoli, cauliflower and other vegetables that have a direct effect on hormone balance. This does not mean that eating broccoli will eliminate estrogen dominance. When broccoli is chewed, plant enzymes are activated that release healthy compounds. However, many of these compounds are too unstable to constantly provide health benefits. In turn, these unstable compounds lead to the release of diindolylmethane, which is a very stable compound. Although broccoli is a very nutritious vegetable, we would have to eat at least two pounds of broccoli each and every day in order to get the adequate amounts of DIM. Thanks to ongoing research, the development of a stable pure DIM dietary supplement with special absorption enhancing formulas has been created. These DIM supplements can easily and efficiently restore hormonal balance and eliminate the symptoms of estrogen dominance.
The estrogen hormone tells cells in the body to grow. Throughout our lives, estrogen has important a vital functions such as orchestrating menstruation from the time we reach puberty through the time we reach menopause, keeping our bones strong, and maintaining low cholesterol levels. Estrogen is made in our ovaries and then sent through our bloodstream, where it comes in contact with every cell in our body. However, only certain cells with estrogen receptors will respond to its presence.
Estrogen dominance is characterized by an abundance of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include: mood swings, feeling anxious, painful periods, sore breasts, hot flashes, night sweats, foggy thinking, low libido, problematic PMS, and stubborn weight gain. It can begin by exposure to estrogen mimics (xenoestrogens), which are certain chemicals in the environment such as pesticides, plastics, soaps, emulsifiers, household cleaning products, and even car exhaust. These estrogen mimics look and act enough like natural estrogens that our body accepts them as estrogen. They latch on to estrogen receptors on cancer cells, and signal the cancer cell to grow and divide, making the cancer spread. They can also latch onto estrogen receptors on healthy cells and send false signals, or block the natural estrogen hormone from binding to its receptor, causing more estrogen to circulate in the bloodstream. Estrogen dominance can also be caused by a slow estrogen metabolism. If the rate of the metabolism that breaks down estrogen after they complete the activity on their target cells is too slow, an excess of unmetabolized estrogen is left circulating the body.
Researchers have also discovered that estrogen can be metabolized in two different pathways in the liver, which results in two different kinds of estrogen, “good” and “bad” estrogen. “Good” estrogen metabolites are released into the bloodstream there they cause many of the benefits estrogen provides, such as prevention of heart disease, and strong, healthy bones. “Bad” estrogen, in large quantities, can result in many health problems including autoimmune disorders, breast cancer, cervical dysplasia, clinical depression, fibroid tumors, infertility, magnesium deficiency, osteoporosis, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and zinc deficiency.
When dealing with estrogen dominance, it is not a good idea to take more progesterone to even out hormonal balance. Taking more progesterone won’t necessarily restore hormonal balance. Rather, it might be metabolized into more estrogen, resulting in an even greater hormonal imbalance and greater estrogen dominance. Instead, one should take the DIM supplement, which improves hormonal balance and eliminated estrogen dominance by shifting the way that estrogen is metabolized in our body. This creates more “good” estrogen metabolites and less “bad” estrogen metabolites. Although it does not increase or decrease estrogen levels, it directs how the estrogen is metabolized.
Research has suggested that DIM may also help to prevent breast cancer. After studying a group of women for periods up to nineteen years, the women who developed breast cancer were noted to have a significantly lower ratio of “good” estrogen metabolites as compared to “bad” estrogen metabolites. In comparison, those who did not develop breast cancer had a high ratio of “good” estrogen metabolites to “bad” estrogen metabolites. Scientists have determined that DIM actually inhibits the growth of cancer cells. It enhances the activity of enzymes found in certain pathways of the liver, which are important for the healthy estrogen metabolism that reduces the risk of cancer development.
When buying a DIM supplement, it is suggested that you read the label of the DIM product you’re going to buy. Be certain that you are getting 120 mg of DIM complex, which is standardized to 30 mg DIM per dose. Because DIM is very hard to absorb, the products needs to be in a specialized complex that improves bioavailability. Although most women only need one dose of DIM per day, women suffering with a large amount of estrogen dominance symptoms may find greater relief by doubling the dose and taking DIM twice a day. Because some women may have a minor stomach ache after taking DIM, taking the supplement with food will eliminate the problem. Research of DIM’s safety has shown no harmful effects, even when the doses were at hundreds of times the amount provided in the supplements. A common side effect of DIM is a harmless changing of the color of your urine. Because these changes can occur when you eat a large amount of broccoli or asparagus also, drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day will solve the problem.
If you have estrogen dominance, adding more hormones will only put you at a greater risk for cancer. Instead, restore your hormonal balance by taking the powerful, all-natural DIM supplement. Estrogen restorative supplements can be found at your local Health Food Store or Internet Health Food Store.