Loose It Back » healthy advise

HIV-AIDS awareness, must read

looseitback — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:18:41 +0000

Mainly, AIDS is the short for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. As the name itself tells us, this is a serious affection of the immune system. It is characterized by many syndromes, as opportunist infections, neurological dysfunctions and a large variety of other syndromes. While, HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, this virus is the one causing AIDS. It launches the disease; once this happened, the disease evolves continuously, until the death of the infected human.

For now, this disease is not curable. It can only be delayed in its evolution, with medicines and surgery. AIDS has been declared an official disease and aligned to the rest of the diseases in 1981. Unfortunately, the number of deceases caused by it is very large and growing. According to the World Health Organization, the number of deceases because of this disease was 2.9 million in 2006, and the world wide infected number of people is 39.5 million.

What really is bad is the fact that the number of infected people increases every year. According to the same organization, the number of people, which contact the disease every year, is up to 4.3 million. On a world level, it seems that the HIV infected people are about 1 percent, for the 15-45 age groups. It is also considered that in Africa, the percentage of people in the same age category, which have been infected with HIV so far, is 20 percent, or more in some certain regions. These statistics should be an alarm signal for all human beings around the world. The HIV, and what it can do to human bodies is awful and people should care more.

AIDS describes all the diseases associated with the HI (HIV) infection. This infection leads to the weakening and ultimately the destruction of the immune system of a human being. Almost all the infected and not treated persons will eventually develop the AIDS.

This has a disastrous effect especially on the young population, especially the young people who are sexually active. That is not a rule though, and it does not mean that the rest of the people categories are safe from it. It is usually transmitted by sexual contact but this is not the only way this virus spreads.

It can also be transmitted from the mother to the fetus; thus, a baby can be born carrying the virus. A baby born with this virus stands low survival chances and the possibility that child is dead before he or she gets to know the world and enjoy the gift of life and all the aspects a human should know before dying. The virus is transmitted by contact with the mother’s blood, or after the birth process, by breast-feeding. The final evolution of all the patients, which contracted AIDS, despite the most modern, sophisticated and expensive therapies, which have been applied so far, along with the spreading of the disease, are alarming. Considering that more and more children are affected and infected, we should fear this twenty first century calamity.

Chocolate can cause Digestive Problems?

looseitback — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 09:26:23 +0000

We must remember that chocolate is intended to be a pleasurable dessert, but if you develop gastrointestinal problems, you may want to avoid it. Most chocolate products do not cause digestive problems for most people. If you have certain digestive conditions, you may experience digestive complications, such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and bloating. If chocolate causes unwanted symptoms, stop eating it and call your doctor for an evaluation. Not all chocolates contain the same ingredients, which can make a difference in how your body reacts.

Caffeine is an odorless and flavorless substance found in various foods, such as cocoa beans, coffee beans, tea leaves and chocolate. Caffeine affects each individual differently, depending on the body’s tolerance of the stimulant. An ounce of bittersweet chocolate contains about 25 milligrams of caffeine, while chocolate milk contains between 3 and 6 milligrams per ounce. Common side effects of ingesting caffeine include diarrhea, bloating and abdominal pain, according to Drugs.com. If your body is sensitive to caffeine, avoid eating chocolate and talk with your doctor.

Most chocolate products contain lactose. Lactose is a complex sugar found in milk that needs to be broken down during digestion so that they body can absorb the sugar. The digestive enzyme needed to digest lactose is called lactase. During adolescence, your body stops making lactase as much as it did when you were a child. If you become lactase deficient, your digestion will not will be able to break down the lactose, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The undigested lactose causes increased gas, bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Symptoms may be prevented by taking a digestive enzyme supplement before the first bite of chocolate.

Chocolate can cause gastrointestinal symptoms if you have certain digestive conditions, such as Crohn’s and irritable bowel syndrome. These chronic conditions are primarily managed through dietary changes. Avoid dairy, chocolate and caffeine if you are diagnosed with these conditions.

Five Mile Run Training Guide

looseitback — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 04:06:48 +0000

Basically, running is a form of aerobic exercise that increases your energy level, can help fight signs of aging, reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer, and burns fat. You can train to run 5 miles with dedication and a solid plan. For example, if a newer runner is training for a 5-mile race, and we have a 10-week training plan, we want to be up to five on our long slow runs by week four. Training this way will allow you to adequately prepare your body for the challenge, both mentally and physically.

Get your body used to aerobic exercise and race preparation in the first four weeks. If you’re new to running or are used to shorter distances, spend your first week running at least 2 miles on two to three days of your first week. Continue to add another mile each week until you’re up to 5 miles.
Shift to longer distances after the first four weeks of training. Runners that are newer to longer distances fare better when, mentally, they feel that the distance can be achieved. It’s for this reason that it is recommended running 7 miles during week’s four to eight. Get comfortable with the distance you’ll be running, even if it means walking.
Incorporate interval workouts into your plan as your training continues. These components are Frequency, Intensity, Time and Type of exercise. Recommend plan of three to four days of long, easy runs mixed with two days of interval workouts to help build both strength and endurance. Interval training should focus on speed and recovery instead of distance. For example, try jogging for two minutes, then sprint up a hill. Immediately slow back down to a steady jog for two more minutes before sprinting again.
Scale back down to 5 miles during the final weeks of training. This will allow you to feel comfortable and fully prepared on race day.
Continue your training if you’re interested in competing in other events. After the first race, the plan could be adjusted to add some more repeats or pure speed.

Study Finds Fat Butts may be Healthy

looseitback — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:43 +0000

Most women who are striving to become thinner so that they fit the current beauty standard imposed by stars like Victoria Beckham and Keira Knightley should consider their diet plans twice before getting through with it. A new study comes to confirm the findings of older research, namely that storage of fat on the body, especially on the posterior and the thighs, is desirable.

This is not a new idea, as we were telling you about a year ago that research into this goes long back. Fat stored on the backside and the thighs can actually help the organism fight certain diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Oppositely, fat around the abdomen does no such thing, wherefrom the conclusion that having a pear shaped body is not only an indicator of good health, but also something that women should aspire to.

“The fact that body fat’s distribution is quite important for your health has been known for some time now,” lead researcher says of the findings of this new study. The only thing missing right now is the ability to determine how the body stores fat, so that it can be used in disease prevention. Once this is understood then one could think about therapeutic approaches to make use of that. Maybe, to make use [of it] in a preventive way by redistributing the fat. Stomach fat is considered more metabolically active than lower body fat. While that may sound good, as this fat breaks down easily, the result is a release of substances called cytokines, which have been linked to cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and diabetes.

In fact, research on mice reported in 2008 revealed that belly fat boosts inflammation and is linked with hardening of the arteries – known to increase the risk of heart attacks. But scientists think lower body fat, like that around the hips and thighs, produces beneficial hormones that protect against these diseases, though more research is needed to firm up this expectation.

Natural Acne Treatments that Work

looseitback — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:53:33 +0000

Mostly, blemishes occur from what we eat, our body oil, and other factors. It is important to learn how to properly take care of facial skin and other affected areas of your body when dealing with acne. Although, Acne is neither a direct resultant of dirt or uncleanness, it can clog pores and worsen the condition.

You should be able to find many natural acne treatments to help clear up your skin. Many people prefer to use natural acne treatments because they reduce the probability of acne scars. Also some people may be allergic to other forms of medication which limit them to this type of treatment.

There are a large selection of creams available over-the-counter which can help. These creams will usually have salicylic acid in them. Salicylic acid is what will make the skin peel to discard any impurities or dead skin cells that are located in inflamed pores. It is a natural type of fruit acid and is not known to cause harmful effects from long term use.

Another natural acne treatment is the use of herbs. You will find many products contain many different types of herbs and flowers that will add moisture, shine, and will make your skin appear healthier while cleansing the skin of any impurities.

Acne affects people in differently, so if you are choosing a treatment that involves external use on the skin, it is important to choose one that does not irritate your skin as this will not help your condition.

The most natural acne treatment for is dieting. By cutting down on fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, carbonated drinks, salt, wheat, and even milk can help reduce the effects of acne. These foods are unhealthy and have been reported to worsen acne. You should eat more vegetables and fruits instead of salty or sugar packed foods. You may also want to increase your vitamin A, zinc and Vitamin B6 levels in your body.

For further information on natural acne treatments, you may want to contact a qualified dermatologist or local doctor. They should be able to offer you advice, information and examine the severity of your condition based on the details you give them.

Diverse Abs Exercises

looseitback — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 06:21:15 +0000

Perhaps, you rely on the toning power of setups or crunches to achieve a tighter stomach. However, it can be repetitive and even boring to carry out the same exercises on a regular basis. Integrate alternative abs exercises such as the plank to tone and tighten your stomach. Adding a new exercise to your routine will invigorate and inspire you to reach new fitness levels.

The Plank – this is an exercise that tones and tightens the stomach muscles. Lie face down on the floor with your back straight and legs extended as if you were about to do a push-up. Lift yourself up on to your elbows and bring yourself up on to your toes. Pull your stomach in tightly. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Maintain this position for 20 seconds and repeat three to four times. Do the plank three times a week.

Side Twists – this are good for targeting the obliques. Stand up straight keeping your back straight and your hands behind your head like you were about to do a crunch. Twist your body to the left, and then slowly twist your body to the right. Do two sets of 50 side twists three times a week.

Leg Raises – this will tone and tighten the lower abs. To perform leg raises effectively, lie on your back with your back straight on the floor. Extend your feet out in front of you. Keep your arms by your sides and feet together. Raise both legs about 4 inches off the ground, hold for 10 seconds and lower them back down again. Use your stomach muscles to stabilize your body. Lift and lower your legs until you have done 10 to 15 repetitions. Do three to four sets — and perform leg raises three to four times a week.

Alcohol Help Or Hinder Panic Attacks?

looseitback — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:10:08 +0000

Yet panic attacks are something that you need to be in control of and you should not use alcohol or narcotics to control the effects of panic. Doing so can lead to different types of emotional damage and might produce physical complications, especially if you are on medication for your panic. You should think about the fact that a panic disorder needs to be addressed in the right way and you should not do anything that may cause problems for you later on down the road.

Panic attacks are very dangerous when you mix them with alcohol. You might get into more trouble when you are using it for the temporary relief of the symptoms of panic attack. If you are experiencing panic disorders you need to see your doctor and get the treatment to bring the attacks under control. You need to get help with your problems and not rely on the use of alcohol and other stimulants to get you feeling the way that you believe you need to feel.

Using alcohol and narcotics will ultimately hide your problems for a little while. However some people become alcoholics when they are using it all the time trying to hide the effects of a panic disorder. It is better to focus on taking care of your body and doing what is necessary for your mental health from the advice of your physician. You need to take the right precautions against alcohol and substance abuse when it comes to panic disorders.

If you find that you are having problems letting go of your panic and using alcohol and other drugs to relieve the stress of panic attack symptoms, it is best to speak with your health care professional about it. You need to get it all out in the open so that they know what is going on in your life. They will be able to recommend strategies to help you feel better and get you on the right track to adequately deal with your panic. Put it all behind you so that you can feel better and get on to the life that you deserve without being hooked up with alcohol.

You should make sure that you are setting up a support system of reliable and trustworthy friends to help you in your time of need. Be open to things that can help you and identify the things that are not going to be good for you, such as the overuse of alcohol and other substances. This will be crucial to help you deal with the day to day things and ultimately how you deal with your panic.

Anxiety may Increase the Risk of Heart Attack?

Stages of Periodontal Disease

looseitback — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 15:50:19 +0000

If you ever wondered why your mom was always on your case about brushing your teeth and took you to the dentist all the time, you will be in for a rude awakening if you let these habits lapse. Inadequate dental hygiene can lead to gum disease. If the condition is not addressed and reversed, tooth loss may eventually occur. There are several stages and types of gum disease about which you should be aware.

Gum disease starts with the build-up of plaque, which is a thin layer of film that continuously grows on your teeth. Plaque harbors bacteria which, when left to themselves, began to infect the underlying gum. When plaque builds up, it can push the gums away from the base of one or more teeth, making room for even more plaque and bacteria to grow.

The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. This condition is usually not painful, but results in red and bleeding gums. If not corrected by adequate brushing and flossing, which toughens up and clean the gums, the condition may worsen to full blown peridontitis.

Chronic peridontitis is the most common stage of gum disease and is frequently found in adults. Peridontitis is an infection of the tissues and bones surrounding and supporting the teeth. In this stage of gum disease, the receding gum line shrivels and creates pockets around the root and bone structures of the mouth, creating reservoirs for bacteria to grow. As the gums weaken and shrivel, the tooth can become detached and loosen or even fall out. If not treated, the tooth may need to be pulled and replaced with a dental implant, bridge, or dentures.

Necrotizing peridontitis is the most severe stage of the disease and is most commonly found in malnourished persons or persons with suppressed immune systems. The gingival tissue actually necrotizes which means that it dies and turns black.

Acute peridontitis occurs suddenly and often appears in an otherwise healthy person. Common symptoms include rapid detachment from the bone of the surrounding gums. The bacteria feed on the bone and weaken the bone structure, causing one or more loose teeth.

The chances of developing gum disease are more prevalent in adults, but children and teenagers are also susceptible. Poor diet, lackluster brushing, and wearing braces all contribute to the risk factors for teen gum disease. One of the biggest risk factors for teens and adults is tobacco use. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), people who smoke or use chewing tobacco are at greater risk for advanced gum disease.

To ensure that your mouth stays healthy, it is important to schedule frequent visits to a qualified dental professional. If you dread going to the dentist, you can find one that specializes in sedation dentistry. Most importantly, if you haven’t already done so, make a habit out of brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal. Teeth are a precious commodity and should be taken care of diligently.

How to Prevent and Control Acne

looseitback — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 07:54:43 +0000

Acne (aka “acne vulgaris”) is a skin condition characterized by what are often called pimples or zits. It can occur anywhere on the body and at any age, though it typically affects teenagers on the face and back. Some factors, such as being in puberty, can’t be altered, but you can take steps to avoid and prevent acne. Keep yourself healthy and presentable by removing factors that contribute to acne. Although you cannot prevent acne, there are steps you can take at home to keep acne from getting worse.

Gently wash and care for your skin every day. Avoid scrubbing too hard or washing too often.
Avoid heavy sweating if you think it causes your acne to get worse. Wash soon after activities that cause you to sweat.
Wash your hair often if your hair is oily. Try to keep your hair off of your face.
Avoid hair care products such as gels, mousses, cream rinses, and pomades that contain a lot of oil.
Avoid touching your face.
Wear soft, cotton clothing or moleskin under sports equipment. Parts of equipment, such as chin straps, can rub your skin and make your acne worse.
Avoid exposure to oils and harsh chemicals, such as petroleum.
Avoid long periods of time in sunlight, as this doesn’t help acne and can increase your risk of skin cancer. Use sunscreens when you are out in the sun.

Anxiety may Increase the Risk of Heart Attack?

looseitback — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 12:12:57 +0000

Xanax is now one of the most trusted of medications for the relief of anxiety. But, to many unsympathetic individuals, anxiety disorders are not real illnesses. You can always hear the complaints. These people are faking it to avoid working for a living. This kind of prejudice is difficult to fight because anxiety is something that happens inside your head. You seem out of control. You take a Xanax. You seem calm again. It is not like a broken leg that everyone can understand.

To be anxious or even a little afraid is the most natural thing in the world. Ever since animals first developed a memory, they have learned that danger can result in injury or death, giving us the basic instinct to fight or flee. Today, there are fewer predators lurking in the bushes, but the sense of dread about what faces us in the future remains just as real. Someone who suffers from agoraphobia can be frozen with panic when trying to go outside. Similarly, a person caught up in a social situation where embarrassment is in prospect may start sweating, heart racing and fainting imminent. Xanax relieves these symptoms.

Have you noticed how there is a fairly consistent theme in horror stories? There is a “blood-curdling scream” or “the blood froze in his veins”. Well, a team of researchers based in Germany has found empirical evidence that the blood of those with anxiety disorders does act in an unusual way and that this increases the risk of a stroke or heart attack.

The team recruited sixty participants, half of whom suffered from a severe form of anxiety or panic disorder and were treated with Xanax or an equivalent. The control group were “healthy”. To compensate for factors of gender and age that might influence anxiety levels in different social situations, each of the “disordered” patients was matched with a “normal” participant of the same gender and age. Although this is not a perfect method for eliminating bias, it does at least attempt to compensate for it.

The participants gave a blood sample, performed a series of computer-based tests, and then gave a second sample. Both samples were analysed to determine the levels of clotting factors. The results were clear. The group with anxiety and panic disorders showed a much more active coagulation system than the control group.

The body’s system for clotting is fundamental to keeping us safe when injured. If blood vessels are damaged and blood leaks out, the blood thickens and hardens into a plug to prevent further leakage. The opposite process is called fibrinolysis. It breaks down clots that might interfere with the smooth flow of blood through the arteries and veins.

The new research shows that those with anxiety and panic disorders have a more active coagulation system with fibrinolysis inhibited. This is a unexpected result because apart from the breaks in the skin to take the two blood samples, there was no injury. It clearly demonstrates that the clotting system was unbalanced. This could be dangerous because, in extreme cases, a coronary artery could be blocked. However, the coagulation levels actually measured were only high within the “normal” range.

This research offers an explanation of the statistical data showing those suffering from an anxiety or panic disorder are three or four times more likely to die of a stroke or heart attack. Thus, when there are other factors such as obesity or smoking which increase the risk profile, an anxiety disorder can tip the coagulation balance into the danger zone.

The moral is clear. The earlier an anxiety or panic disorder is diagnosed the better. In the short term, treatment with Xanax can reduce the psychological triggers for anxiety states. There can be parallel treatment for lifestyle changes, say to reduce weight and stop smoking, so that the risk of heart disease can also be reduced. Xanax in combination with other preventative measures can save lives.

And, of course, the German results do provide empirical evidence that the anxiety and panic disorders have very real and dangerous physical consequences. So keep taking the Xanax as prescribed by your doctor and stay safe.