Iron deficiency and Anemia
Having iron deficiency anemia may cause you to feel tired and often look pale. It's a common type of anemia — a condition in which blood lacks adequate healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to tissues. Oxygenated blood gives your body energy and your skin a healthy color.
As the name implies, iron deficiency anemia is due to insufficient iron. Your body needs the element iron to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen.
Iron deficiency anemia is common, especially in women. One in five women and half of all pregnant women are iron deficient. Lack of iron in your diet is one cause of iron deficiency anemia, but there are other causes as well.
You can usually correct iron deficiency anemia with iron
supplementation. Sometimes, additional treatments are necessary,
especially if you're bleeding internally. mayoclinic.com
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What is Wheatgrass and the health benefits thereof?
Wheatgrass juice’s high vitamin content is of benefit to some skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis and also helps give healthy looking hair. Wheatgrass is also said to benefit dandruff problems.
Many people cite wheatgrass juice as having cancer preventing properties due
to it’s carcinogen and toxin neutralizing abilities. happyjuicer.com
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Dermatomyositis is one of a group of muscle diseases known as the inflammatory myopathies, which are characterized by chronic muscle inflammation accompanied by muscle weakness.
Dermatomyositis’ cardinal symptom is a skin rash that precedes or accompanies progressive muscle weakness. The rash looks patchy, with bluish-purple or red discolorations, and characteristically develops on the eyelids and on muscles used to extend or straighten joints, including knuckles, elbows, heels, and toes. Red rashes may also occur on the face, neck, shoulders, upper chest, back, and other locations, and there may be swelling in the affected areas. The rash sometimes occurs without obvious muscle involvement. Adults with dermatomyositis may experience weight loss or a low-grade fever, have inflamed lungs, and be sensitive to light.
Children and adults with dermatomyositis may develop calcium deposits, which appear as hard bumps under the skin or in the muscle (called calcinosis). Calcinosis most often occurs 1-3 years after the disease begins. ninds.nih.gov
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Calcium: Helps build and maintain strong bones. It's also vital for nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.
Protein: Important for a number of bodily functions — vital to brain development and the growth of body tissues.
Vitamin A: Maintains normal vision and skin. Helps regulate cell growth and integrity of the immune system.
Vitamin B-12: Essential for the growth and health of the nervous system. Linked to normal activity of folic acid and is involved in blood formation.
Vitamin D: Promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, and influences bone mineralization, the strengthening of bones.
Potassium: Regulates the body's fluid balance and blood pressure. It also is needed for muscle activity and contractions.
Phosphorus: Helps generate energy in the body's cells and influences bone mineralization, the strengthening of bones.
Niacin: Keeps enzymes functioning normally and helps the body process sugars and fatty acids. It is also important for the development of the nervous system.
Riboflavin: Helps produce energy in the body's cells and plays a vital role in the development of the nervous system. milkdelivers.org
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Carrots are an excellent source of antioxidant compounds, and the richest vegetable source of the pro-vitamin A carotenes. Carrots' antioxidant compounds help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer and also promote good vision, especially night vision.
Beta-carotene helps to protect vision, especially night vision. After beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the liver, it travels to the retina where it is transformed into rhodopsin, a purple pigment that is necessary for night-vision.
Beta-carotene's powerful antioxidant actions help provide protection against macular degeneration and the development of senile cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in the elderly. whfoods.com
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The pistachio nut is a member of the cashew family, and like most nuts, pistachios are cholesterol free. Furthermore, pistachios, besides making a delicious ice cream flavor, are packed with nutrients: a one-ounce serving of pistachios (about 45 nuts) contains over 10% of the daily requirements of dietary fiber, magnesium, copper, phosphorous, and B vitamins.
Pistachios are cholesterol-free and high in monounsaturated fat, The fat in pistachios contains no cholesterol or monounsaturated fat, which means that they, along with other nuts, will help protect you from heart attacks. The copper, magnesium, and B vitamins in pistachios all strengthen your immune system, making your body fit. askmen.com
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The awesome health benefits of Olive Oil
When cooking with fats, olive oil is a healthy choice. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fat, which can lower your risk of heart disease by reducing the total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol levels in your blood.
In contrast, saturated and trans fats — such as butter, tropical oils and hydrogenated margarines — increase your risk of heart disease by increasing your total and LDL cholesterol levels.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), consuming about
2 tablespoons (23 grams) of olive oil a day may reduce your risk of
heart disease. You can get the most benefit by substituting olive oil
for saturated fats rather than just adding more olive oil to your diet. mayoclinic.com
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I'm often asked about skin care and wrinkling of the skin. One question that comes up a lot is "How can I get rid of my sagging neck?" or "What foods help tighten the face muscles?"
Well, in my research, I have found only one food that helps tighten a sagging neck and that is the almond. For elderly people or those of you who intake a lot of salt daily, I suggest the unsalted type of almond. Eat about a handful a day.
For the muscles under the face, salmon is the only food that I found while researching this topic. Make sure that it is fresh and not farmed. Personally, I like canned Alaskan salmon, which I try and eat every day for lunch.
These two foods, combined with lots of daily water, exercise, sun screen, lots of sleep and other proper
dieting habits should help slow down and, in some cases, even reverse the signs of aging. An added note DON'T SMOKE... 'nuff said. Remember, you're never to young or old enough to start taking care of your skin.
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Have a blessed and peaceful day.
Pastor Ford
Insomnia - Causes and cures
The most common psychological problems include anxiety, stress, and depression. In fact, insomnia may be an indicator of depression. Many people will have insomnia during the acute phases of a mental illness.
Physiological causes span from carcadian rhythm disorders, sleep-wake imbalance, to a variety of medical conditions. Following are the most common medical conditions that trigger insomnia:
Chronic pain syndromes
Congestive heart failure
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer disease syndromes (Often insomnia is the deciding factor for nursing home placement) emedicinehealth.com
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Because they are not generally eaten in large quantities, one serving of chives is considered to be only 1 tablespoon (3 grams). Probably the most prominent vitamin contained in chives is vitamin K (8% of daily recommended amount per serving). They also contains vitamins A and C (3% each). Calcium is the most prominent mineral with 2.8 mg. There are also small amounts of magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium
Chives are known to be a mild anti-inflammatory. They also have some antibiotic properties, like the other plants in the allium group (onions, garlic, et al). Some studies indicate that they may have some cancer-fighting properties especially in stomach and colorectal cancers. It seems that chives contain organo-sulfur compounds and allyl derivatives that "inhibit carcinogenesis" But the quantities in which these substances would have to be consumed to have the optimum effect are not yet known. indepthinfo.com
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Apples are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that has been shown to reduce cholesterol. This pectin also appears to target "bad" cholesterol (LDL) according to recent tests. Eating two apples per day has dropped cholesterol levels in test subject humans by up to 16 percent.
Apples are also good for diabetics as the soluble fiber assists in regulating blood sugar, preventing a sudden increase or drop in serum sugar levels.
Apples are full of vitamins and minerals. There is no significant variation in the numbers between the different varieties. Most health benefits derive from eating the skin along with the flesh, so don't toss the peel! homecooking.about.com
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Talc is found in a wide variety of consumer products ranging from home and garden pesticides to antacids. However, the products most widely used and that pose the most serious health risks are body powders Talc is the main ingredient in baby powder, medicated powders, perfumed powders and designer perfumed body powders.
Because talc is resistant to moisture, it is also used by the pharmaceutical industry to manufacture medications and is a listed ingredient of some antacids. Talc is the principal ingredient home and garden pesticides and flea and tick powders. Talc is used in smaller quantities in deodorants, chalk, crayons, textiles, soap, insulating materials, paints, asphalt filler, paper, and in food processing. preventcancer.com
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Oatmeal and your health
According to Dr. James W. Anderson, professor of medicine and clinical nutrition at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine "Whole-grain products like oatmeal are among some of the best foods one can eat to improve cholesterol levels, in addition to other lifestyle choices," Anderson said. "Lifestyle choices, such as diet, should be the first line of therapy for most patients with moderate cholesterol risk given the expense, safety concerns, and intolerance related to cholesterol lowering drugs."
More recent data indicate that whole-grain oats, as part of a lifestyle management program, may confer health benefits that extend beyond total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol reduction. sciencedaily.com
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Collagen is classified as part of our body's connective tissue. Connective tissue is found virtually everywhere in the body. Our bones and skin are composed primarily from connective tissue, but it's found everywhere, in virtually all of our organs. It's the job of connective tissue to hold things together, to protect other tissue, and provide our body with support. Our tendons and ligaments are all connective tissue structures. whfoods.com
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The health benefits of cumin for digestive disorders has been well known throughout history. It can help with flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, morning sickness, and atonic dyspepsia. In this case, the seeds are boiled in water to make a tea of sorts - 1 teaspoon seeds to 1 glass water. Mix with salt and a teaspoon of coriander leaf juice.
Cumin is also said to help relieve symptoms of the common cold due to it’s antiseptic properties. Again, you’ll want to boil the seeds in a tea and then drink a couple of times a day. If you also have a sore throat then try adding some dry ginger to help soothe it. indepthinfo.com
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Aspirin - healer or killer?
The Wonder Drug of the 20th Century will probably not finish out the 21st Century with its wonderful reputation intact.
You may have heard about a recent study concluding that aspirin therapy may prompt serious digestive problems but very little cardiovascular protection for middle-aged women.
This study is worth a closer
look - especially for those who have been sold on the idea of aspirin
as the silver bullet of heart health - because as other studies have
revealed, there are a number of potential pitfalls for those who sign
on for the Wonder Drug treatment. thehealthierlife.co.uk
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Foods that are rich in Vitamin C have the properties of acting as fat burners. Limes, lemons, oranges, grapefruit and vegetables like, broccoli, cabbage, celery, carrot, watermelon and apple fall into this category.
Broccoli and cabbage contain high quantities of calcium and vitamin C, and is also fibrous. What vitamin C does it dilutes the fat and thus renders it less effective. It also becomes easier for such fat to be flushed out of the system.
Pectin is found in apples and mot fresh fruits. This substance is said to be able to limit the fat that is absorbed by the cells. In addition to this , pectin helps in the absorption of watery substances. The reaction of the watery substances on the cells makes it release fat deposits. indianchild.com
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A 'follicle' connects the pores to the glands. The oil substances secreted from the glands carry dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. A thin strand of the hair that grows through the follicle clogs up and as a result pimples start to appear. acnetalks.com
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With all the talk about Salmonella and food poisoning breaking out nearly every day, I thought it wise to post a health tip about it.
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that is usually found in poultry, eggs, unprocessed milk, meat and even in some water sources. It has also been found to be carried by pets such as birds and turtles.
Salmonella bacteria attacks the stomach and intestines and, in more serious cases, the bacteria may enter the lymph tracts. The lymph tracts carry water and protein to the blood. This killer bacteria attacks all age groups and both sexes. The elderly, children and people who are already ill are more likely to get a serious infection.
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White flour - Is it good or bad for your health? Check this out
White flour is what's left after stripping virtually all the nutrients and fiber out of a whole grain of wheat. So what you're left with is a dead, lifeless powder that no longer goes rancid and can be used as a perfect binding agent to hold together sugar, sodium, artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, additives, and other chemicals.
White flour is basically "white gold" for food manufacturers. Products made with white flour are nutritionally useless, yet the American Dietetic Association recommends that we eat 8-11 servings of them everyday. The public has been programmed to believe that white flour products are "healthy" because they are low in fat, cholesterol and calories.
So people eat things like pasta, bagels and pretzels and believe they are eating healthy because these foods are "fat-free." But what food manufacturers have failed to mention in their clever advertising is that white flour products have zero nutritional value and can lead to poor health. westonaprice.org
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According to an article in stomacin-u.com Vitamin U is listed in the Merck Index as methylmetioninesulfonium chloride, a therapeutic agent for the treatment of gastric disorders. It was originally called vitamin U because of its usefulness against ulceration of the digestive system. stimulates the formation of various categories of RNA and causes a quantitative increase in the RNA temperature function.
S-methyl methionine was found to increase activity of Saddens, selectively methylating the released homocysteine. This decrease the inhibition of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine and stimulated methylation process.
The
traditional use of raw cabbage juice as the treatment of choice for
peptic ulcers would seem to support the use of vitamin U supplements as
a healing aid for damaged and eroded intestinal mucous, and this has
been extensively confirmed by scientific research. more research
Pancreatic Cancer... what is this killer?
I lost a good friend to this terrible disease and, let me tell you, it is truly terrible. The only good side to it is that the person usually goes pretty quickly and, thus, the suffering is fairly short.
As pancreatic cancer grows, the tumor may invade organs that surround the pancreas, such as the stomach or small intestine. Pancreatic cancer cells also may break away from the tumor and spread to other parts of the body.
When pancreatic cancer cells spread, they often form new tumors in lymph nodes and the liver, and sometimes in the lungs or bones.
The new tumors have the same kind of abnormal cells and the same name as the primary (original) tumor in the pancreas. For example, if pancreatic cancer spreads to the liver, the cancer cells in the liver are pancreatic cancer cells. The disease is metastatic pancreatic cancer; it is not liver cancer.
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The Sunflower seed - delicious, nutritious and good for you too
Looking for a health-promoting snack? Enjoy a handful of mild nutty
tasting sunflower seeds with their firm but tender texture to take care
of your hunger and get a wealth of nutrition at the same time.
Sunflower seeds are the gift of the beautiful sunflower that has rays of petals emanating from its bright yellow, seed-studded center.
The flower produces grayish-green or black seeds encased in tear-dropped shaped gray or black shells that oftentimes feature black and white stripes. Since these seeds have a very high oil content, they are one of the main sources of polyunsaturated oil. A handful of sunflower seeds will take care of your hunger, while also enhancing your health by supplying significant amounts of vitamin E, magnesium and selenium.
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Is cooking or storing foods with Aluminum dangerous?
It is unlikely
that significant amounts of aluminum are released from aluminum
cookware and, thus, cooking in aluminum is not considered dangerous. It is important to make sure the surface of
the cookware is undamaged and, if it is, throw it away. more research
Endive and your health
Originally from Mediterranean areas, endives are known from ancient times and they were planted by the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. The thick leaves can be consumed. Besides this, endives have also some medical properties.
Endives contain essential amino acids, fats, starch, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium and B1, B2, C, K and P vitamins.Because they are bitter, endive juice stimulates appetite. At the same time they are diuretic-depurative and light laxative. They are recommended in anorexia, biliary insufficiency and gastric and digestive problems. You can use it as they are or in salads (endive lettuce). more research
According to eyecarebasics.com, eye twitches are commonly known as Blepharospasm, and defined as the repetitive and rhythmic contraction of the eyelid muscles and usually affect both eyes.
Eye twitches are also less commonly known as Fasciculation and defined as the twitching or continuous movement of muscle fiber groups.
Sometimes eye twitch is confused with Nystagmus, which is the jerking or jumping of the eye itself. This is an entirely different condition and an optometrist or ophthalmologist should be able to make a proper diagnosis after a full examination.
Simply stated, eye twitches are muscle spasms and, like most muscle spasms, they generally have no long term side effects. more research
Addison's Disease - Causes and cures
According to the ALD foundation "Addison's disease is an endocrine or hormonal disorder that occurs in all age groups and afflicts men and women equally. The disease is characterized by weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, and sometimes darkening of the skin in both exposed and non exposed parts of the body.
Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough of the hormone cortisol and, in some cases, the hormone aldosterone. The disease is also called adrenal insufficiency, or hypocortisolism."
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Spinach - Loaded with health benefits
Their are at least 13 different flavonoid compounds in spinach that function as antioxidants and as anti-cancer agents. Many of these substances fall into a technical category of flavonoids known as methylenedioxyflavonol glucuronides.
The anticancer properties of these spinach flavonoids have prompted researchers to create specialized spinach extracts that could be used in controlled studies. These extracts have been shown to slow down cell division in stomach cancer cells (gastric adenocarcinomas) and in studies on laboratory animals, to reduce skin cancers (skin papillomas). more research
The many health benefits of the celery stick
The entire plant has a pleasant, distinctive odor, making this vegetable an ideal ingredient in stews, salads, soups, mix in cocktail drinks etc.
Celery leaves are eaten for diabetes and the roots for dropsy, the condition of excess fluid in the body. The stalks are considered more valuable than the branches. Celery grows best in cool, moist soil.
Vitamin B
Riboflavin
Niacin
Vitamin C
Calcium
Iron
Phosphorus
Potassium
Fat
Carbohydrates
Protein
Calories
So, go ahead on, chomp down that delicious stick of celery, I like it with cream cheese or... yup... peanut butter... ummmm sooo good! more research
Aloe Vera - Health and beauty inside and out
It can protect the skin, moisturize, soothe an upset stomache and even extend life.
Aloe was used in ancient times for cosmetic beauty as well as medicinal purposes, and its relevancy has not diminished today.
Aloe Vera is a cellular regenerator and has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects. It contains magnesium lactate, an itch inhibitor, in the minerals contained in the plant. It brings relief to insect bites, acne, sunburns, rashes, and other topical conditions. more research
Spirulina is one of hundreds of algae species and is commonly known as blue green algae. Because so many different kinds of algae exist, they are identified primarily by their color. Algae, including spirulina, are tiny organisms that usually grow in water. Some of the different algae are blue-green, green, yellow-green, red, and brown.
Unlike most other plants, spirulina does not have roots, leaves, or stems. Spirulina, does however, contain a pigment called chlorophyll which is required by all plants to turn sunlight into food energy. Spirulina also removes carbon dioxide from the air and releases oxygen. Unlike many other plants, spirulina creates proteins and sugars just as animals do. more research
Horseradish and your health
Do you sweat? Sweating is our bodies way of ridding itself of toxins. One of the best foods you can eat to induce sweating is horseradish.
Horseradish has many great health aspects as well as having lots of flavor and no fat. In just one tablespoon of horseradish, there is only 6 calories, 1.4 grams of carbohydrates, 14 milligrams of sodium, 44 milligrams of potassium, 9 milligrams of calcium, 5 milligrams of phosphorous and zero fat. more research
Soy and memory loss - Does it help?
In my studies on memory, I have found that many doctors feel proper nutrition may play a significant role in maintaining memory health as we age.
It is said that soy may help short-term memory annoyances become less of an annoyance. Several studies suggest that soy supports a normal memory in women and men.
Although soy isn't documented to prevent or cure memory disease, it may be a smart dietary choice for anyone who wants to support a healthier memory. A leading hospital is currently studying soys impact on memory in post menopausal women. more research
Your liver and your health - How important is it?
Although there are many things we do not understand about the liver, we do know that it is impossible to live without it, and the health of the liver is a major factor in the quality of our life's.
There are many kinds of liver disease, and the causes of most of them are not known. Poor nutrition is not generally a cause, with the exception of alcoholic liver disease found among starving populations. On the other hand, good nutrition... a balanced diet with adequate calories, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates... can actually help the damaged liver to regenerate new cells. more research
Is it healthy of harmful?
The fiber found in alfalfa may help reduce blood sugar by slowing the rate at which calories are released from food. Fiber also has positive effects on cholesterol levels and heart health. Although alfalfa is rich in calcium, magnesium and beta-carotine some studies have shown it to be toxic.
Some tests have even shown that alfalfa sprouts inhibit the immune system and can contribute to inflammatory arthritis and lupus. The alfalfa seed contains an amino acid called canavanine that can be toxic to humans and animals when taken in quantity. Canavanine is not found in mature alfalfa plants and is apparently metabolized during growth. more research
Dealing with insomnia
The purpose of sleep is to allow the body to repair and rejuvenate. Sleep also reduces fatigue and stress. Dreaming helps to clear the nervous system.
There are five distinct stages of sleep. Stages 1 & 2 are considered light sleeping which takes place the majority of the night. Stages 3 & 4 are deep sleeping or "delta sleep " and rest and restoration. Stage 5 is the dream state which generally involves rapid eye movement or REM.
Patterns of sleep generally look like this: light sleep - deep sleep - REM - light sleep - deep sleep - rest and restoration. The first period of light sleep lasts about 45 minutes.
Insomnia problems include: You can't get to sleep. You wake up in the middle of the night, and can't go back to sleep. And waking up too early, between 3:00 and 5:00 a.m., and you can't get back to sleep.
The 24 hour cycle (12 on, and 12 off) is called "Circadian Rhythms ". When it gets dark, the body clock stimulates the Pineal gland which produces melatonin. Bright light or sunshine shuts off melatonin production.
Causes of chronic insomnia associated with psychological
problems can be deeply rooted in stress, anxiety and/or depression.
Insomnia associated with medical problems can be caused by a variety of
things including: iron deficiency anemia, breathing disorders, kidney
dysfunction, diabetes, and in the case of HIV, can be associated with a
variety of medication side effects. Insomnia can also be due to poor
eating habits, caffeine, & lack of exercise. more research
Are you pregnant? Here are some early signs and symptoms
According to an article on womens health “Am I pregnant?” is probably the most common health question women ask. The signs and symptoms of early pregnancy are easy to recognize – even more so when this is not your first pregnancy. Whether this is your first, second, or third pregnancy, the signs and symptoms are the same. However during one pregnancy, you may experience incredible breast pain or nausea and vomiting, while during another pregnancy you might not experience these symptoms at all. The simple fact is that each pregnancy, just like each newborn, is different and you can’t count on having the same symptoms or the same intensity of symptoms during consecutive pregnancies.
Signs and Symptoms
Swollen, tender, or sore breasts and/ or nipples – Often this is the first physical sign of pregnancy.
In fact, some women know when they are pregnant based on this sign alone. The reason breasts and/ or nipples are often sore, swollen, or tender during early pregnancy is because the breasts are undergoing changes to prepare for breastfeeding. The reason for this is the increased production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone that occurs and the breasts and/ or nipples are often particularly painful during a first pregnancy.
* My Period is Late
* Cramping
* Morning Sickness
* Constant bathroom calls
* Headaches
* Mood swings
* Feeling weak, faint, or dizzy
* Increased basal body temperature or BBT
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Persimmons - Delicious, nutritious and just plain good for you
Persimmons are rich in vitamin A, potassium, fiber, and disease-fighting phytochemicals lutein and lycopene, as well as other antioxidants. They even outrank apples. A recent study pitted persimmons against apples in a head-to-head comparison, and found that persimmons had twice as much fiber, and significantly higher levels of potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and manganese.
Two types of the fruit were brought here from China and Japan in the
mid to late 19th century, and now grow primarily in California. The
Hachiya persimmon is acorn-shaped and soft, with a tangy-sweet flavor
when it’s ripe. And the Fuyu is smaller, rounder, and more
tomato-shaped, with a firm texture and sweet taste. more research
Eye care - Are your eyes dimming? Check this out
Bilberry is best known as a specific for the eyes because of its antioxidant qualities and its general effects on the circulatory system. Bilberry has been used since the middle ages, where the fruit was used for its astringent, tonic and antiseptic properties, and in the management of diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhoids, gastrointestinal inflammations and various other infections. Nowadays, Bilberry (fruit) extract, is most commonly used to treat various eye disorders and to promote general capillary health.
Research suggests that the way Bilberry Extract may improve the functionality of the eyes and other organs is by increasing the ability of fluids and nourishment to pass through veins to the capillaries to their end destination. Because of its natural abilities Bilberry also has also been shown to help prevent and treat bruising, general subcutaneous bleeding, and may relieve inflammations such as those which occur in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gum disease. more research
The awesome health benefits of strawberries
The USDA recommends that every American eat at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily, but unfortunately, most people don't even come close to that. Adding fresh strawberries to your diet, whether they are in salads, smoothies, or on their own, is a great way to get the servings of fruit you need for a well-rounded body and a healthy immune system.
Strawberries contain a range of nutrients, with vitamin C heading the group. They also contain significant levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants, which fight free radicals. These antioxidant properties are believed to be linked to what makes the strawberry bright red.
So what are these weird free radicals? Free radicals are elements that can damage cells, and they are thought to contribute to the formation of many kinds of cancer.
In addition to vitamin C, strawberries also provide an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese, as well as folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, copper, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Strawberries are among the most versatile of fresh fruits. Unfortunately, they are quite perishable as well. So purchase fresh strawberries only a few days before they are to be eaten. When strawberries are in season locally this is rarely a problem. But at other times of the year, it may be necessary to make due with frozen strawberries, which lose much if not all of their nutrition. more research
Nine quick nutrition tips to help reduce your risk of getting a heart attack
1 Eat more fish.
2 Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes.
3 Choose fat calories wisely.
4 Limit total fat grams.
5 Eat a bare minimum of saturated fats and trans fats.
6 When you use added fat, use fats high in monounsaturated fats.
7 Eat a variety -- and just the right amount -- of protein foods.
8 Limit cholesterol consumption.
9 Feed your body regularly.
Combining these nutrition tips with a regular exercise routine will help keep that heart of yours healthy. However, If you have any health problems, be sure to consult with a doctor before starting any health regimen.
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What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?
Sudden
infant death syndrome (SIDS), also known as
crib death or cot death, is the number one
cause of death for infants from one month
to one year of age. Ninety percent of all SIDS deaths
are in babies under six months old. After almost 50 years, researchers say
they still do not know how or why it happens.
Over a million
babies have died of this "syndrome" over the last century. But what parents
are virtually oblivious to... through no fault
of their own... is that a highly convincing
explanation for this tragedy has been found,
along with a simple means of eliminating it.
This explanation is backed by a significant
amount of evidence, but has been and continues
to be completely ignored by SIDS organizations,
the medical community, and the government, for whatever reasons. The result is that
babies continue to be at risk from deaths
that may easily be prevented.
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The Grapefruit - So very, very healthy for you
I started reading about fiber and the benefits of it. All fruits contains fiber. An orange will give you seven grams, an apple five, and a banana four. But half a grapefruit provides six grams. That's about a quarter of the amount health authorities recommend. As with most fruits, roughly half of grapefruit's fiber is insoluble (which helps prevent constipation and which may reduce the risk of colon cancer) and half is soluble (which helps lower cholesterol levels).
There's a catch, though. To get all that fiber you have to eat the
walls that separate the segments (It's okay to skip the stringy white
stuff that's attached to the inside of the rind). That means peeling
and eating your grapefruit like an orange, or digging out the walls
with your spoon.
The American Heart Association (AHA) has certified Florida
grapefruit and grapefruit juice as part of a heart-healthy diet.
What's Florida grapefruit got to do with your heart?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice are low in fat, saturated fat, and
cholesterol, so they're foods that, when included in a low-fat balanced
eating plan, can help to lower the risk of heart disease. more research
Beautiful skin - How do I get it?
I recently have been getting a lot of questions about better skin. It's common knowledge that applying a food topically, rather than just eating it, can deliver higher concentrations of the active ingredient directly where it's needed most. Our skin has high levels of fatty acids in the cell membranes of the epidermal layer, a part of the skin that undergoes replacement and renewal every three weeks or so. Because of this constant need for fatty acids, the skin thrives with adequate essential oils in the diet and loves their topical application even more so.
Seaweed is excellent and one of the best skin foods their is. You can bathe in it, eat it in salads, use it in masks, and it's loaded with minerals and trace elements.
Other healing foods for the skin include oregano oil and oatmeal. If someone is suffering from an abscess or has a skin infection you can use oregano oil on the surface of their skin, since oregano oil is a powerful antimicrobial agent. Though it works internally very well also, some people have a hard time taking it orally because it is so bitter and so powerful.
Oatmeal is another incredible topical product for inflamed skin, for drawing out
impurities and for calming it down. Although you can buy oatmeal
products like Aveeno, you also can make an oatmeal poultice yourself.
As for eating oatmeal, cooking it until the oats
turn milky white will get you the maximum calming effect.
Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or CFS
Most are seriously impaired and at least a quarter of them are unemployed or on disability because of CFS.
However, only about half have consulted a physician for their illness.
The sooner a person with CFS receives medical treatment the greater the likelihood that the illness will resolve. Just as important, about 40% of people in the general population who report symptoms of CFS have a serious, treatable, previously unrecognized medical or psychiatric condition such as diabetes, thyroid disease, substance abuse.
CFS is a serious illness and poses a great dilemma for patients, their families, and health care providers.
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The sweet little raisin... Oh how healthy
When you review the nutrition facts
about raisins, it is easy to see why some people consider raisins to be
nature's best food, especially for kids. Among the things that raisins
have going for them include that they are:
Raisins are low in fat, low in cholesterol, fairly high in fiber (2g per serving), which is good if your child has constipation, a good source of iron and have some calcium and a good source of potassium.What about all the sugar? While raisins do have a lot of sugar in them, they are natural, simple sugars. These are better than the added sugars that most other sugary snacks that children eat and it is this sugar that gives raisins their sweet taste that most kids love.
Since raisins have so many things going for them, why would you ever think about not offering them to your children? Consider that one dentist, in an article about common dental problems, lumps raisins in with all of the other typical junk foods that kids eat and goes so far as to say that 'parents that supply snacks such as raisins, dried fruit snacks, sweetened cereals, and fruit juices may be contributing to the demise of their children's dentition.
On the other hand, raisins were recently found to contain phytochemicals which have been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria that are commonly found in the mouth and are thought to be responsible for causing cavities. This study was in a lab though, and whether this translates into really inhibiting cavities in kids who eat raisins hasn't been proven yet. more research
Canola oil and your health
According to soyatech.com "Canola was developed in the early 1970s using traditional plant breeding techniques by Canadian plant breeders to remove the anti-nutritional components (erucic acid and glucosinolates) from rapeseed to assure its safety for human and animal consumption. The canola plant also produced seeds with a very low level of saturated fat, seven percent or below.
Christened “Canola” from “Can” (for Canada) and “ola” (for oil low acid), canola is not, strictly speaking, rapeseed. There is a internationally regulated definition of canola that differentiates it from rapeseed, based upon its having less than two percent erucic acid and less than 30 umoles glucosinolates. Oilseed products that do not meet this standard cannot use the trademarked term "Canola."
I don't know about you... but I am sticking with olive oil as my personal favorite, which is mentioned all throughout the Bible.
Pastor Ford
Hey, got a cigarette?
The chemicals in cigarette smoke can increase your risk of developing a number of diseases, including cancer. In Australia, around 19,000 smokers die each year from diseases caused by their smoking. One in two smokers will die of a smoking related disease.
Some of the health risks of cigarette smoking include:
* Lung Cancer: tobacco smoke is the largest single cause of lung cancer. Tobacco smoking is responsible for 90% of lung cancers in Australian males and 65% of lung cancers in Australian women.
* Other cancers: tobacco smoke is known to increase the risk of developing cancers of the lips, mouth, tongue, throat, voice box, oesophagus (gullet), bladder, pancreas, liver, cervix, vulva, penis and anus. Cigarette smoking has also been linked to cancers of the stomach, kidney and some leukaemias (cancers of the blood).
* Other lung diseases, including emphysema and pneumonia.
* Effects on the eyes: macular degeneration
* Effects on the skin: wrinkles, signs of aging, wound infections, hair loss
more research
Dates - God's candy
Palm trees have been around for ever, and their fruits are small, brown and very sweet; Dates. Dates make a great dessert, but they also make a good, nutritious meal in them selves!
They are rich in minerals such as calcium, iron and potassium, and full of vitamins like vitamin A, B and C, they are also Cholesterol free.
Dates are used to cure lots of digestive illnesses; they are good for fighting constipation and heart-burns. They are also a great cancer fighter.
May the Lord bless you, your health and all you touch, in Jesus name, amen and amen.
Pastor Ford
more research
Infant development and Iron deficiency
Infants with iron deficiency anemia score lower on tests of mental and motor development than those with better iron status. Even after a full course of iron therapy (two to three months), this difference still exists. Results of a recent study evaluating the effect of four months of iron therapy, however, demonstrated an improvement in scores.
Lozoff and associates designed a study to determine whether extended iron therapy corrects lower developmental test scores in infants with iron-deficiency anemia. Thirty-two children 12 to 23 months of age who were iron deficient were identified and enrolled in the study, along with 54 nonanemic children who served as the control group.
Nonanemic children were randomly assigned to receive either an oral iron preparation or placebo drops twice a day for six months. All of the anemic children received orally administered iron twice daily (3 mg per kg per dose), also for six months. more research
The potato... Healthy or harmful?
Potatoes contain no fat or cholesterol and minimal sodium. What they do have is natural fiber in the skins, all those vitamins and minerals and great flavor. And a six-ounce potato contains 3 grams of highly digestible protein, almost as much as half a glass of milk, making it a great foundation for a whole meal.
Because of the variety of potato colors, shapes, sizes and textures and their versatility as recipe ingredients, you can