Heartburn or GERD can Kill

Heartburn is a common annoyance. The busy lifestyle, quick meals, fatty or spicy foods all contribute to the occasional need of a chewable pain reliever. The acceptance of heartburn as an inconvenient, but natural, part of the daily grind can blind you to the warning that a severe heartburn symptom can bring.

Heartburn as a Disorder

Heartburn can be a symptom as well as a disorder. Simple heartburn or GERD can be controlled and dealt with. However, heartburn can signal the presence of a much more serious problem. If it’s heartburn, you will have a burning sensation in the chest usually after eating. There may be a spread of the burning to the throat, sometimes accompanied by a bad taste, difficulty in swallowing, belching, coughing, hoarseness and/or wheezing.

It can become worse by lying down or bending over or by eating. Relief can come from an antacid. While the more severe heartburn symptoms may be mistaken for a heart attack, simple heartburn is usually not made worse by exercise. If there is any concern that the pain may signal a heart attack, get help quickly.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Best Teeth Whitening Way

By Kimy Carter

Teeth whitening regime is the most popular health regime amongst men in their 30s.It has gained a huge popularity in past three decades. It is required by people, who have greatly stained teeth. The stains can be caused due to many reasons.

Starting color: Often the color of the teeth is also hereditary. We are all equipped with an inborn tooth color that ranges from yellow-brownish to greenish-grey, and intensifies over time. Yellow-brown is generally more responsive to bleaching than green-grey.

Starting color: Sometimes, teeth are naturally yellowish in teeth because of the deficiency of certain chemicals during the first growth of the teeth. Yellow-brown is generally more responsive to bleaching than green-grey.

Eating habits: The habitual consumption of red wine, coffee, tea, cola, carrots, oranges and other deeply-colored beverages and foods causes considerable staining over the years. In addition, acidic foods such as citrus fruits and vinegar contribute to enamel erosion.

Translucency and thinness: These are also genetic traits that become more pronounced with age. While all teeth show some translucency, those that are opaque and thick have an advantage: they appear lighter in color, show more sparkle and are responsive to bleaching.

Smoking habits: Nicotine leaves brownish deposits which slowly soak into the tooth structure and cause intrinsic discoloration.

Teeth whitening can be achieved by different methods the most effective ones are mention in this list:

In-Office Whitening

Significant color change in a short period of time is the major benefit of in-office whitening. This protocol involves the carefully controlled use of a relatively high-concentration peroxide gel, applied to the teeth by the dentist or trained technician after the gums have been protected with a paint-on rubber dam.

Take-Home Whitening Kits

Many dentists are of the opinion that professionally dispensed take-home whitening kits can produce the best results over the long haul. Take-home kits incorporate an easy-to-use lower-concentration peroxide gel that remains on the teeth for an hour or longer. Home teeth whitening kits like Dazzling White Teeth is the best teeth whitening gel and works fabulously with Bright Smile Teeth Whitening Strip.

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Acne Scars? 5 Ways To Gorgeous, Healthy Skin!

By Barry Crewse

Acne. Just the very word brings anger and frustration to those who suffer from it. Although acne can cause a variety of problems in one's life, severe acne can be profound and leave scarring that is difficult to treat.

Acne scarring is most often caused by what is known as pustules that develop deep within the skin. These type of infections cause an abnormal amount of tissue damage. The type of scarring which can occur because of this damage varies greatly and usually results in four distinct kinds of scars.

Ice Pick Scars: Deep pitting scars which are not only the most classic type of acne scarring but also the most common type.

Box Car Scars: These are an angular type of scarring that most often occurs on the cheeks and temples. These can be shallow in depth or very deep and resembles chickenpox scars.

Hypertrophics Scars: These are thickened scars which are generally higher than the surrounding skin and are also called keloid scars.

Rolling Scars: Scars that may give the skin a wavy looking appearance.

There are also what is know as pigmentation scarring which occur as a result of nodular or cystic acne. These are not true scars as most of the time they do fade with time.

Before treating acne scars most physicians or dermatologist will first try and evaluate the severity of the scarring by means of a grading scale. There are 3 main types of grading scales used and all use a numerical scale from 0 - 10 or somewhere in between. 0 being the least severe and the higher number on the scale they are using as being the most severe. Once you have been properly evaluated and the scarring graded you can then begin to explore the options available to you for treatment.

Successful treatment of acne scarring can be rather complex and has been hampered over the decades due to limited research but new and exciting treatments are emerging. Most people do not experience the exact same type scarring. In fact, most are very different from each other so treatment must be designed on an individual basis. With that in mind lets explore the different type of treatments available and the costs associated with them.

1. Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are generally recommended for those with mild scarring and appears to be very beneficial in up to 80% of those choosing this type of treatment. Chemical peeling can improve and smooth the facial skin by removing the outer damaged layers of skin. Generally phenol, tricholoracetic acid and alphahydroxy acid are used in varying strengths to accomplish the depth of peel desired. The benefit of chemical peels no only reduce the appearance of scarring but actually even control acne itself in certain cases. Make sure you consult carefully with your doctor prior to treatment. The cost of chemical peels can range up to $500 or more depending on how many treatments are required.

2.Laser Resurfacing

This type of treatment involves using lasers to remove the top layer of your skin which then permits new skin to grow and replace it. laser resurfacing in a relatively new procedure but results appear to dramatic. It too is used for mild or shallow scarring. There are two types of lasers which can be used. Pulsed carbon dioxide is the strongest type available. It is used mainly when the entire facial area is to be treated so that pigmentation throughout the face will remain consistent. Erbium laser, also known as Er:YAG is used more for minor and localized areas. Researchers are finding that by combining the two greater effects are produced and the recovery period appears to be shorter. The cost of this treatment can range up to $2500 and it too depends on the actual amount of treatments needed.

3. Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion also known as dermaplaning can be performed on small localized areas of skin or the entire face. It is also used for mild scarring and can be implemented along with other treatments such as chemical peeling. Dermabrasion involves the scrapping away of the outer layer of skin. Diamond burrs are most often used and you may liken this type of treatment to actually a sanding technique. An instrument called a dermatome is also used. A dermatome is like a razor which utilizes oscillating blades that effectively skim off the surface of the skin. This procedure can be used more than once. Results from this type of treatment can also be dramatic. Please not that it will take some time for the full effects to be realized but most report the treatment to be very effective. The costs range around $750 to $1500 per treatment.

4. Punch Techniques

As the name implies this treatment involves the actual punching out and replacing of the scar tissue itself. This type of procedure in most effective with ice pick type of scarring. The punch is most usually replaced with a skin graft. There is also punch excision which is actually removing the scar tissue and then closing the incision and allowing the area to heal. Your physician may consider combining this procedure with other treatments such as laser, chemical peel or dermabrasion to enhance the results. Cost are based on actual punches which can be as high as $75 each.

5. Augmentation

This type procedure involves injecting collagen or fat under the scar itself thereby causing it to rise to the surface. This is effective for deeper scars. This is a very promising procedure and research is continuing to determine the best type of material to use. The results seem to be temporary at this time especially with collagen. More permanent solutions appear to be on the horizon. Pricing is in the $200 to $750 range and is based on cubic centimeters treated.

Acne can be difficult but as you can see it is not impossible. Please be aware that all these procedure should be done by a qualified physician. With persistence and determination you too can have the healthy, beautiful skin you desire. Technology in this area seems to be doubling every 2 years or so. If you suffer from acne do not give up hope. With better research and procedures you can expect better results and lower costs.

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Varicose Veins - Foods That Could Ease The Symptoms

By Erin Mullins

Dietary deficiencies or the loss of skin flexibility due to aging can be major factors causing varicose veins. As we grow older, the valves and veins in the legs lose some of their strength and muscle tone. Veins begin to stretch and weaken causing pooling in the lower legs and ankles increasing the risk of developing varicose veins, leg heaviness and discomfort.

Varicose veins can be painful mentally as well as physically. If you're fearful about what the effects may be for your health due to varicose veins or spider veins, take heart, making little changes in your diet can make a massive difference in how you feel about yourself and will give you smoother, more interesting legs! To ease varicose veins and spider veins, it is advised that you consume at least thirty grams of fiber a day from whole foods.

These foods ease varicose vein symptoms while buttressing leg vein walls :

* masses of fresh fruits, including berries, cherries and citrus fruit ensuring to nibble on the inside of the rinds to get maximum amounts of vitamin C and bioflavanoids.

* lots of steamed veg like spinach, cabbage, carrots, turnips and cauliflower for fibre.

* ginger, garlic and onions help break down the fibrin surrounding the varicose veins. Without adding these foods to your diet, varicose veins will continue to multiply.

* whole grains, particularly buckwheat and millet, oats, barley, beans, peas, lentils, baked potato with the skin, brown rice and unprocessed wheat. The fibre in whole grains takes some of the pressure off varicose veins and prevents constipation.

* seeds, nuts, raisins, figs and dates.

* flavonoid-rich foods such as yams, onions, grapes and berries.

* lots of fish.

Food to be avoided, these foods worsen varicose vein symptoms :

* bread, peeled potatoes and starchy foods cause trots which can put more strain on leg veins.

* all condiments, salt, alcohol, coffee, robust tea, fried foods, processed and refined foods, bleached flour products, white sugar and white sugar products, cheeses and ice cream. These foods can be constipating and could cause lethargic circulation, leg pain and cramps associated with varicose veins.

* it is suggested to cut down on red meat as much as possible and prohibit greasy animal protein to stop worsening your symptoms.

Varicose vein creams and lotions made with safe but powerful herbs and fancy oils excite lethargic circulation in the legs and help pump blood back up to the heart, enlarging leg energy, comfort and ease.

Look for creams that contain calendula, pony chestnut and gingko biloba. These herbs reinforce circulation, seriously reduce pain and swelling and regenerate weak veins.

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When You Buy Omega3 Will You Buy The Best?

By Terry Johnston

You buy Omega3 because of all the health benefits for:

*the heart

*the brain

*the joints

*the skin

*the immune system

*our vision

*aiding digestion

Omega 3 fatty acids are most potent in fish oil--a natural source. Because natural sources are the most effective way to introduce nutrients to your body, when you buy Omega3, make sure it is naturally sourced.

With so much of the Earth's water ways are contaminated with heavy metal toxins like mercury and PCBs. The fish caught from those waters produce bad fish oil and should not be eaten--heavy metal contaminants concentrate in the flesh of fish over time. Good fish oil is sourced from cleaner waters.

The best fish oil is purified and free from contaminants, is produced with a low oxidation (decomposition) level for freshness. Being naturally sourced means it has natural triglycerides or ethyl ester form which is not produced artificially.

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an important ingredient as an anti-inflammatory, so you need to look for fish oil that has high levels of DHA when you buy Omega 3.

It has been found that there is an unexplained concentration of anti-inflammatory inhibition when non-concentrated hoki oil is combined with concentrated ester tuna oil. This has been dubbed the x-factor because of the synergistic effects of the combination.

Only Omega 3 oils that have this blend will provide "2 times" the anti-inflammation action of normal fish oil and double that of refined and concentrated fish oils--according to studies done by "Trinity Bioactives", part of Wellington School of Medicine in New Zealand. When you look to buy Omega 3 oils look for this formula.

Reducing inflammation is a huge reason many choose to buy Omega 3. "The secret killer" article in Time Magazine (May 2004). Offers solutions like: aspirin, Statins, Beta blockers and ACE inhibitors or you could take some Omega 3 fish oil. It's much stronger than aspirin, but easy on the stomach.

Now you can buy Omega 3/DHA in higher concentrations of anti-inflammatory then you can get by eating fish. Newer supplements on the market have some of the most highly effective fish oil concentrates, higher than normal fish oil that many people buy.

Omega 3 Fatty acids and in particular DHA have been linked to improved brain function.

One of the most impressive clinical studies found Omega 3 fatty acids or fish oils taken on regular basis reduced the risk Alzheimer's by 60%.

The American Heart Association has issued guidelines based on clinical studies that show Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil have proven benefits for heart health and they recommend a daily dosage.

In conclusion, when you buy Omega 3/DHA, and start taking it you will realize many health benefits, based on proven clinical studies. Look for Omega 3 in a concentrated supplement for from natural triglycerides, with high amounts of DHA for the best results.

For more information about he amazing benefits of Omega 3/DHA fish oil, please visit my Web Site

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Research Shows Fluoride In Water Is Dangerous!

By Terry Johnston

Fluoride and the Pineal Gland

Fluoride was heralded as the way to save a generations teeth from tooth decay, and studies found that naturally occurring fluoride in water seemed to lower the incident of tooth decay of the population drinking it.

Armed with that knowledge government set about adding fluoride to drinking water to protect children's teeth. Fluoride has 4 isotopes (2 natural and 2 manufactured) Cheapest of these isotopes (is made from industrial waste).

FLUORIDE IS TOXIC--that's why there are warnings on toothpaste containers about never swallowing the toothpaste.

Fluoride effects the pineal gland-- a small structure in the brain. It produces melatonin, a a hormone that controls: circadian rhythm--wake, sleep cycles, the beginning of puberty, and the immune system.

Over half of U.S. citizens suffer from some form of sleep disorder.

The question is Why? Worldwide sleep is at pandemic levels.

When you suffer lack of sleep because melatonin levels are down your immune system begins to weaken. The condition is linked to depression, stroke, and heart disease all because melatonin levels are too low. In younger females this can bring on premature puberty.

A 1955 study showed young girls who drank fluoridated water begin having their periods an average of 5 months earlier than their same aged peers who did not drink fluoridated water. Early onset puberty in young girls has been linked to breast cancer and obesity.

A recent study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, showed early menstruation nearly doubled the odds of someone becoming obese.

Fluoride was suspected as the culprit affecting the pineal gland and scientists wanted to know more about the process.

Dr. Jennifer Luke, Ph.D., discovered the pineal gland attracts fluoride and that interferes with melatonin and its functions. She also learned, (during autopsy studies) extremely high concentrations of fluoride, averaging 9,000 ppm (parts per million) and ranging all the way up to 21,000 ppm were found in the pineal gland of the autopsied victims.

Mongolian gerbils (the best research animal for studying effects on the pineal gland) were given small doses of fluoride and developed lower levels of melatonin

Is fluoride the cause of early onset puberty we are seeing more and more? There is strong evidence that a great deal of insomnia is caused by fluoride found in the pineal gland. Which is contributing to the pandemic of sleep deprivation.

Reducing your fluoride intake could be critical. A kitchen top filter system won't do, not will a shower head filter.

A whole home water filtration system will remove much of the synthetic fluorides (40%-60%). The remaining fluorides are naturally occurring. Lobby government to stop putting fluoride in the water--regardless of how much money the fluoride company contribute to the election campaign.

The only system that will eliminate 100% all fluoride from water is an experimental aluminum salt based filter that adds aluminum to the water during the filtration process. A number of experts agree this cure could be more deadly than the disease and we will need to see a very much improved system before this could be recommended.

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) is currently testing fluoride for its potential to interfere with the human hormone system.

Hopefully they will do something in regard to fluoride.

For more information about systems to purify your water, please visit my Web Site

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Monday, July 27, 2009

Three Signs Of An Eating Disorder

By Bella Holly

Whether you have a teenage daughter suddenly dropping weight and expressing touchy or odd behavior, or a grown sister who just does not seem right when it comes to food, recognizing the symptoms of anorexia and bulimia which could be right under your nose can often be difficult. Yet, it could save the life of someone you love.

What makes the situation to hard to come to terms with is that you don't want to think of something like bulimia or anorexia happening to what is otherwise a well rounded, beautiful, individual. You may also feel extremely uncomfortable with the idea of having to approach this person with your belief that he/she may be hurting unintentionally.

There are some common signs of an eating disorder that everyone should be aware of. More and more people are becoming victims of anorexia, bulimia, and binge disorders. It is affecting not only teenaged girls but women of all ages and a lot of men as well.

One of the most noticeable signs of an eating disorder is the obsession of food or weight in general. If you notice someone who constantly makes remarks about being "fat" or weighs him/her self too often, that person may be struggling with an unhealthy mentality that often leads to or accompanies a physical eating disorder. It can also be evident if the person is extremely strict about what they eat, or goes to extreme measures with food, such as weighing food before consuming it.

Another symptom is the person's bathroom habits. If they disappear into the bathroom directly after food consumption they may be purging their meal. You may hear the water running as a mask for the sound of throwing up. Similarly, if they are just always in the bathroom and seem to have stomach discomfort they may be abusing laxatives.This is known as the bulimia eating disorder.

Yet another symptom of an eating disorder is hidden food or finding a lot of empty food packages that you know no one else consumed. Binge eaters will do it in private and they will eat thousands of calories at a time. They may also hide food or even steal food from others in the house. There is often a great sense of depression associated with a binge. Some people will go so far as to weigh their food before eating it, and then weighing their vomit afterward to determine how much of the food they were able to expel; the goal being to remain the same weight..

You may have a gut feeling that a loved on is suffering with some form of eating disorder, and the chances are that you're right. The best thing you can do is to confront the person with your observations and encourage a truthful response. Be aware that many who suffer from an eating disorder (especially in the cases of teenage eating disorders) will likely lie or make excuses to keep from being found out, so a bit of perseverance may be required on your part.

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Acne Breakouts

By Gail Jones

Acne is one of the commonest skin problems afflicting the human race and it affects people irrespective of age, caste, colour or gender. Acne is an extremely embarrassing and burdensome problem, because it is so obvious and off-putting. Acne can be defined as red eruptions on the skin, sometimes filled with a white substance, causing itchiness and irritation. The most common form of acne is called acne vulgaris or puberty spots.

Acne vulgaris can be defined thus: ... an inflammatory disease of the skin, caused by changes in the pilosebaceous units (skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland) . Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, spots or zits - [source: Wikipedia]. It is a heart-breaking problem that we do not appear to have complete control over. However, there are different ways to cure acne: you can go in for medication from a skin specialist or you can go in for home or natural treatments.

Natural remedies are less time consuming, less costly and have no side effects. However, they do require a little more patience, because a few routines have to be followed diligently in order to get rid of the problem once and for all. A home cure for acne is equally efficacious as any medication. Here are a few natural remedies to eradicate your acne. To start with, your daily consumption of water ought to be a minimum of eight to ten glasses. This helps you to detoxify your system and kill the harmful bacteria that cause acne.

A surfeit of oily food also leads to acne, therefore fried and spicy food should be strictly avoided. A near complete abstinence of fried and fatty food will have a notable, beneficial effect on an outbreak of acne. Furthermore, including chromium and zinc in your diet also helps to eradicate acne. There needs to be the correct balance of nutrition and skin care.

A solution of ground nutmeg with unboiled milk regularly applied on the affected area also helps to eradicate acne. Cinnamon powder mixed with honey is equally efficacious in eradicating. The cooled liquid from boiled Neem leaves applied to acne works as a disinfectant. [The Neem Tree is a tall, usually evergreen East Indian tree (Azadirachta indica) widely cultivated in tropical Asia for its timber, resin, bitter bark, and aromatic seed oil, which is used medicinally and as an insecticide (source: 'Free Online Dictionary')].

The infected area should be washed with anti-acne soap at least three or four times a day. Make-up should be strictly avoided when one is suffering from acne. Make-up makes an acne condition worse. Acne should never be squeezed as it may cause infection or / and become worse. Squeezing your acne can also lead to permanent marks on your skin, which results in your skin looking unsightly. Avoid letting your hair fall onto the acne-affected area too.

Your hair should be kept tied back to avoid touching the acne. Pillow covers should be washed on a daily basis to prevent the germ spreading. The regular cleansing of your skin should be observed to keep it free from germs. Besides this, a healthy lifestyle should be observed with a balanced diet, exercise and sleep. Remember, if you take good care of yourself, illnesses will have less chance of afflicting you, especially such a small thing as acne!

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