Twenty years ago we used cassette players, ten years ago it was portable CD players, five years ago we were burning our own CD?s and since then it has been the onslaught of the ever popular iPod and other related MP3 players. Our world has changed so drastically in such a short time period. This new revolution has been so big, that I am now crediting these iPod?s and MP3 players with literally tons of weight lost during exercising. For those us who exercise regularly, these devices have become the norm in our workout routines. Glance at any runner, walker or people working out at a gym in your area and you will see what I am talking about (as if you have been living in a cave). The percentages are much higher today than in the past. Have we become antisocial towards other people? Maybe, but maybe we are just in the ?iZone?. We love these things so much and for so many reasons.

So, what?s the big difference? Whether its twenty years ago or today, we are still listening to music. Why are we so addicted to these machines and what about them puts us in this ?iZone?. The differences are obvious. First comes size. Those old clunky cassette players and CD players were just too big. Although you could strap it to your waist or arm, it just was not that appealing to have it weighting you down, besides the fact that the CD?s often skipped and the cassettes needed to be flipped. The newest players are as small as a pack of gum or even smaller and we have an abundance of accessories that aid us in forgetting that we are wearing them.

Second, we can store a near infinite number of songs on our little white gems. Regardless of size we can choose from somewhere around 100 songs to tens of thousands. WOW! That just blows those old fossils out of the water. Imagine a new MP3 player on sale at your local electronics store that holds a whopping 15 songs! Huh? Doesn?t sound like such a hot buy? Well in the 80?s and 90?s our cassette players and CD players held just around that many.

Now lets talk about ease of use. We didn?t mind recording tapes and CD?s that much, but boy was it time consuming. We now use our computers with USB or Firewire cables and boy it is an absolute snap. We save time and picking songs is simple also. No more loading cassettes and then fast-forwarding to find a spot. CD?s may have been a little bit easier, but they still required the right equipment and time.

Those are the obvious differences, but not the leading reason for our lust. We are in love with the individuality and diversity that these machines afford us. The words individuality and diversity have been etched in our vocabulary over the past ten years and that is exactly what iPod?s and MP3 players deliver for us. With the ease of use and song storing capacity we gain an immense amount of power. We stuff these creations chock full of diversity. Everyday in our lives we have many moods. Maybe we just had a bad night or maybe we just got some great news. Without worrying about any extra time or thought, we can go to the gym and scroll through artist after artist and pick what our mood demands. We almost never have a loss for music that appeals to us. It could be a brand new hit single or some song from the past that gets us psyched and ready to go. The primitive ancestors we were accustomed to just couldn?t deliver this remarkable feature. Imagine being instantly motivated because of a library that seems endless. That is exactly what the creators of these modern marvels have done for us.

We hear stories about the obesity epidemic in America almost everyday. So how can my claim be substantiated? Regardless of any other factors, we have a large amount of people in this country who workout on a regular basis. Gym memberships have increased over the past decade. Of those people exercising, a significant percentage of them are utilizing our newest technologies to their advantage. iPod?s and MP3 players give us a chance to get out of our bodies and minds for that workout period and can actually make time seem to go faster. Instead of thinking about every step you take, your mind is focused on that song that is geared for a specific mood. You have an almost out of body experience. This ?iZone? creates a new place for us. This place allows us to perform at an optimal level regardless of where we are and who is around us. So keep those batteries charged and those song lists fresh and America?s weight loss will continue on its current hot streak for those of us who are committed to staying healthy.

If you haven?t begun yet, this is such a great way to get started and make a difference in your life. Pick up an iPod or take that one you have off your desk and start working out. Join the revolution. It can be as simple as a short walk here or there or you can renew that old gym membership. Any place can be a starting point to a new lifetime commitment. Update that song list and give it a try. Let those songs release your minds grip over your body. It can change the way you think about exercising. I guarantee you will experience the ?iZone? for yourself. Good Luck and what the heck, sing out loud while you run down the block!

Mike Michels is a Science Teacher at Indian Hills High School in Oakland, New Jersey. He has Co-Authored two books through Kagan Cooperative Learning. They are Cooperative Learning & Science: High School Activities and Higher-Level Thinking Questions: Biology. The books can be previewed and purchased online by visiting http://kaganonline.com/

As Featured On Ezine Articles

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Experts agree that dancing salsa can burn up to 10 calories per minute. But best of all, salsa dancing is easy to do. It?s an excellent workout exercise that combines aerobic and anaerobic training.

Let me explain the difference between the two? Aerobic ? Specifically refers to the use of the same large muscle group, rhythmically, for a period of 15 to 20 minutes or longer while maintaining 60-80% of your maximum heart rate. Basically it?s doing an activity for a long period of time at low intensity. Activities using aerobic exercise include jogging, swimming, walking, biking and cross-country skiing. Anaerobic - Anaerobic activity refers to activities that are short in duration and high in intensity. Some anaerobic activities include: weight lifting, sprinting, racquetball, downhill skiing, softball, soccer and football. Its high intensity and works the muscles quickly and rigorously. Aerobic refers to air or oxygen. To easily remember the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercise just think that since aerobic is air or oxygen, that these types of activities should allow you to speak while performing the activity without gasping for air. If you are gasping for air during your activity you are most likely working anaerobically ? which means faster, harder and at a higher intensity.

The continual movement of the salsa dance style steadily burns calories but also tones the body ? most specifically the legs. But not only does it tone the body but it also adds strength to muscles without the high impact of most other exercises like weight training or running.

Salsa is also an excellent exercise choice because it combines individual dance routines that can also be paired up with a partner. Actually, salsa dancing can be practiced alone and then adding a partner for added excitement. The social charm that partnered salsa dancing has is very appealing.

A night of dancing is an excellent workout. If you are just learning to salsa dance you most likely will be working anaerobically. But as you advance to quicker salsa movements that are more complex like the professional salsa dancers twirling through the air with jumps and intense spins requiring strength, you will most likely be working your body anaerobically. This means that your muscles are working at a high intensity level.

In general, salsa dancing is an excellent workout. You?ll get fit, more toned and look better but also have fun while you?re doing it! Start joining the salsa craze now by visiting www.salsadancedvd.com.

Evan Margolin shares his passion for salsa through DanceSF, the premier salsa studio in the Bay Area, his Learn to Salsa DVDs (http://www.salsadancedvd.com) and SalsaCrazy.com, a comprehensive guide to salsa news and events in the Bay Area.

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When the doctor recommends a coronary angiogram to someone close to you, the initial reaction is denial and non acceptance. Some people also believe that anyone who undergoes this test would invariably have to go through bypass surgery. Others believe that it will be painful, requiring prolonged hospital admission. But the truth is that it is a simple X-ray of the heart blood vessels, virtually painless and requires a short stay. Coronary angiogram is one of the most accurate tests in the diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). It is used to pinpoint the location and severity of CAD and is relatively safe. A coronary angiogram is the ?gold standard? for evaluation of CAD. The test is done in a special laboratory called a cardiac catheterization laboratory, which is similar to an operating theater.

How is a coronary Angiogram performed?

The procedure will begin with the physician inserting an intravenous line into a blood vessel in the patient?s arm. Coronary angiography is performed with the use of local anesthesia and is generally not terribly uncomfortable. During a coronary angiogram, a small catheter (a thin hollow tube with a diameter of 2-3 mm) is inserted through the skin into an artery generally in the wrist. Guided with the assistance of a fluoroscope the catheter is then advanced to the opening of the coronary arteries, the blood vessels supplying blood to the heart. Next, a small amount of radiographic contrast, which is easily visualized with X-ray images, is injected into each coronary artery. The images that are produced are called the angiogram.

The procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes. After the procedure, the catheter is removed and the artery at the wrist is treated with manual compression to prevent bleeding.

Risks and Benefits

Coronary Angiogram is the only test, which allows precise quantification of the severity of CAD to optimally take decisions for the treatment. In appropriate patients, the therapeutic information learned from the angiogram is far more valuable than the relatively small risk of the procedure. There is a small but finite risk of serious complication from coronary angiography, as it is an ?invasive? test, but in the hands of experienced physicians, this risk is quite small (well below one per cent). Following the test the patients will be given instruction from their physician regarding exercise and exertion, care for the incision area and the use of medications.

Long Term Outlook

Treatment depends on the diagnosis made after the angiography. Narrowed coronary arteries can be treated during the angiogram itself by angioplasty. Another option for severely narrowed coronary arteries is a bypass operation. A coronary angiogram, which is normal, is as precious as the one that shows disease. A normal angiogram rules out a life threatening disease and is an impetus for the further continuation of a healthy lifestyle.

Anna Brandy also writes on Yeast Infection Cure. More info: Symptoms of Yeast Infection

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You may be considering a low carb diet program, but wonder if they really work, and if so, how well?

Let's take the mystery out of low carb diets by giving you the 3 most important elements to their success.

First, you need to bring your carboydrate cravings under control. Some diet programs argue that most of us are addicted to carbohydrates. Others take a more moderate approach and link it to the glycemic index.

All of the low carb diets are consistent on this one fact though - you need to overcome short-term cravings to ensure long term weight loss success.

There is definite scientific proof linking simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, to cravings you have for more food.

Second, you need to focus on better carbs versus the worse carbs. What that means is simply that you must consider which carbohydrates result in more glucose spikes being created by your body.

Simple carbs are quickly absorbed and result in significant glucose spikes which, can result in more fat being stored in your body. Low carb diets balance overall carbohydrate input with the quality and type of carbohydrates.

Just by reducing the simple carbs in your diet such as sugar, milk, some fruit you can make a big difference in curbing your cravings for more food.

Third, you must gain confidence in the delicious foods you are able to eat on low carb diets so that you stick with the change. You cannot expect to achieve long term success with your diet program if you are not educated or satisfied with the amazing alternative foods at your disposal.

Low carb diets can lead to weight loss, health benefits and an entire lifestyle change - however you don't have to give up everything you enjoy in order to experience rapid weight loss.

By focusing on foods that trigger chemical and biological reactions in your body resulting in cravings, you can burn fat and increase your health at the same time.

About The Author

Discover the Ultimate Weight Loss Resource Center. You Really Can Lose MORE Weight FASTER -- and keep it off. Find our more about Weight Loss programs, products, diets, recipes, pills and more...Right here: http://www.rapid-weight-loss.com

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Our LivingAfterWLS frequent contributor and my good friend Kim Stover underwent a surgical thigh lift yesterday. She is home today recovering nicely and has found a way to use the computer laying down. For the next two weeks she must lay down or stand, she cannot be in a sitting position. I look forward to update from her soon.

Though not often talked about a thigh lift is a common procedure following massive weight loss. For women it is biologically naturally to carry much fat in the thighs so when weight is lost excessive loose skin remains.

Also called a leg lift, the reconstructive surgery removes the loose, hanging skin in the thigh and buttocks. The procedure is intended to tighten and firm these areas, improving overall body contour. The 2-4 hour surgery removes lax skin and fat and places the scars in locations that can be hidden within the bikini line.

Commonly during a leg lift, an incision is made in the upper inner thighs (possibly into the lower inner thigh), and the excess skin and fat is lifted at the surgeon?s discretion. He or she will determine how much can safely be removed. Once the excess is removed, the remaining skin is closed with sutures that can be removed in about a week. The type of incision and a patient?s resulting scar will be determined by the location and amount of excess skin and fat. It may be limited to the upper groin crease or possibly extend to the knee area if this region requires treatment.

Like any surgical procedure there are risks and benefits that will be discussed at your consultation. Patients generally return to work two weeks after surgery and can resume strenuous activity within 4 to 6 weeks upon the surgeon?s approval.

Risks of a surgical thigh lift include scarring, wound healing problems, infection, blood or fluid collection, loss of sensation, asymmetry, wrinkling of skin, lumpiness, areas of depression. Nerve damage may cause weakness in foot or leg. Possibility of permanent discoloration.

In most cases results are long-lasting, but subject to weight fluctuation. Patients should maintain a steady weight following a thigh lift or any cosmetic contouring surgery.

For other reconstructive procedures after weight loss link to the LivingAfterWLS Body Reconstruction page.

Kaye Bailey ? 2005 - All Rights Reserved

http://www.livingafterwls.com
http://www.livingafterwls.blogspot.com

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They go by many different names including anabolic steroids, steroids, anabolics, juice, gear, and roids. But no matter what you call them, these powerful muscle-building drugs are now ingrained in the consciousness of bodybuilders and athletes everywhere. It?s safe to say that these drugs are rampant at all levels of sport from low-level amateur to upper echelon professional.

What they are

As news of the drug?s protein-building and muscle-promoting properties became known, it wasn?t long before weightlifters, bodybuilders, and athletes in other strength and power sports started taking them.

Who uses them?

Medically, these anabolic drugs are used for treating such conditions as delayed puberty, some forms of impotence, combating such wasting diseases as AIDS and cancer, anemia, and osteoporosis. Despite their legitimate medical uses, the biggest market for most of these drugs is in sports; and the sport most closely associated with these drugs is bodybuilding. It?s well known that virtually all professional and top amateur competitive bodybuilders use steroids in their stacks and cycles. And for every pro or national competitor who uses them there are probably a thousand recreational bodybuilders who will never compete. But it?s not just bodybuilders who use these muscle-building agents. Many of the world?s top track and field athletes also use them. And such sports as football, rugby, and powerlifting, see rampant usage.

How are they Used?

Anabolic steroids can be taken in a number of different ways. The two most common are orally (swallowing a pill) and injection (using a hypodermic needle to inject into the muscle). Orals are easiest to use but because of their chemical modifications, produce more side effects. Injectables require the use of a needle and all the risks that accompany breaking the body?s outer protective barrier. But this version is easier on the system with fewer side effects. A third method of delivery involves a patch containing creams or gels that absorb through the skin directly into the body.

What are cycles and stacks?

Most bodybuilders don?t just randomly pop pills and stick needles into their asses (at least the smarter ones); they combine the drugs into stacks and cycles. A cycle is a period of drug use followed by a period of nonuse. The most popular cycle would be 8 to 12 weeks on and 2 to 3 weeks off.

Pyramid Power!

Probably the most popular variation of this cycle is called the pyramid cycle. In this case the dosages start out low, gradually increase in potency, peaks for a few weeks, and then start to gradually decrease. There follows a drug-free period after this cycle before the user may start again. It?s thought that by arranging the dosages in this way, the body has time to adjust and avoid the side effects that sometimes occur. This type of cycle also gives bodybuilders and other athletes a better chance of passing drug tests.

Although the risks are greater, bodybuilders rarely take just one steroid in a cycle. Instead they take two or more drugs at the same time in what?s called a stack. Bodybuilders stack steroids because they find that drugs sometimes magnify each other?s effects by a process known as synergism.

The long arm of the law

Prior to 1991, bodybuilders could use steroids with relative immunity. That is, they didn?t have to worry about law enforcement agents knocking down their doors or raiding their gym bags. That all changed with the first federal Anabolic Control Act of 1991. Once this piece of legislation became law, steroids became part of the drug war and were placed in the same category as such street drugs as heroin and cocaine. Although prosecution mainly takes place at the state level, bodybuilders would be wise to seek alternatives to these drugs.

The legal alternatives!

Given the social stigma of using steroids and the potential for doing jail time, bodybuilders should check out the latest legal steroid analogs. These powerful compounds are outstanding for building muscle size and strength. They?ll also shred your muscles by eliminating body fat. These natural agents are made with pharmaceutical grade ingredients and are perfectly legal.

? Bob Howard 03/24/2006

Bob Howard expert on bodybuilding and steroids. Are you looking for more of his steroids articles? http://www.steroids.name/steroids-information.htm

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Oxygen masks are effective oxygen delivery device which is used mainly to supply oxygen from a storage tank to the lungs. Usually, this device is a mask or covering of the nose and mouth which is made of plastic silicon and rubber. Many people make use of this nowadays most especially medical care providers, aviators, medical researchers and hyperbaric chamber and other patients. Because of this, a wide variety of styles are now available for oxygen masks.

There are four available basic styles of oxygen masks. These include the simple facemask, the venture mask, the partial rebreather mask and the non-rebreather mask.

The simple facemask is the most commonly available oxygen mask to the public. This has a number of vents on both sides and can deliver 35-40 percent of oxygen. However if the oxygen flow increases to 10L/min, this can deliver up to 50 percent oxygen. The disadvantage with this type of oxygen mask is that this seals poorly and has large ventilation holes, thus oxygen flow is diluted with air.

The venture mask, on the other hand, is an oxygen mask that uses a mechanical venturi effect in order to increase the flow rate of oxygen into the mask. Usually, this is used online in a clinical setting and is not advisable to be used in the field since it only delivers supplemental oxygen which is only about 24 to 28 percent.

Another type of oxygen mask is the partial rebreather. This type of mask, which is often called as medium concentration oxygen delivery mask, almost looks like the non-rebreather mask but it does not have a one-way valve between the mask and the reservoir bag. This delivers almost 40 to 50 percent oxygen, and can increase up to 60 percent.

The last type is the non-rebreather. From the four types, this is the one that can deliver up to 90 percent of oxygen. This makes use of valves on both sides in order to prevent air and patient exhalation from diluting the oxygen in the reservoir bag. The valves open when the patient inhales and breathes in oxygen. However, masks of this type with valves on both sides are prescription masks only.

These are the different styles of oxygen masks. All are able to deliver the amount of oxygen needed. However, before choosing one, it is still best to seek medical advice especially if you are thinking about getting a non-rebreather oxygen mask.

Oxygen provides detailed information on Oxygen, Oxygen Sensors, Oxygen Bars, Oxygen Masks and more. Oxygen is affiliated with Mineral Make Up.

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Laser facial hair removal is the option preferred by many people around the world for removing unwanted hairs in the face. Other methods of facial hair removal such as shaving, plucking and using depilatory creams can be irritating and messy. To avoid such discomforts with these methods you can go for laser facial hair removal.

Before you go for a laser facial hair removal kindly consult your physician who can identify the best type of laser facial hair removal for your type of skin. You can opt for any laser. The type of laser that is to be used for facial hair removal has to be determined based on the type of skin a person has. This will be done by the doctor prior to the laser facial hair removal.

The laser facial hair removal is more gentle and non invasive. It is a long lasting solution for permanent removal of facial hairs. Laser facial hair removal can also be done with the laser light based devices such as Light Sheer Diode laser system and the IPL. These devices provide excellent results for laser facial hair removal.

Some precautions have to be taken before you go for a laser facial hair removal treatment. The patient is advised to stay away from sun light for at least a week prior to the laser hair removal session. The laser device has to be set correctly for the skin color of the person. For this a patch test is done in a small area before implementing the entire procedure.

Adam Jackson of http://www.bestlaserhairremoval.info enjoys sharing usefull information and has numerous self help sites.

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You live a very comfortable life. You party until the wee hours of the morning. You smoke like there is no tomorrow. You guzzle liquor like water. You never exercise or exert any kind of effort, because you do not like the feel of sweat rolling down your forehead. And after years of this lifestyle, time seems to have taken its toll.

At the present time, you are experiencing some chest pains, coupled with shortness of breath each time you try to walk some distance. You never thought that this would happen to you, even with the kind of lifestyle you lead. But now you realize that you are not as omnipotent and mighty as you thought you were.

One of your friends refers you to a doctor. The doctor is not just any kind of doctor. Your friend has referred you to a doctor who specializes in heart problems ? a cardiologist.

Generally, cardiology is a branch of medicine. And just like any other branch, cardiology has a specific function and focus. It has anything and everything to do with the heart and its specific functions. Cardiology covers disorders of the heart, disorders of the blood vessels, diagnosis and cures for diseases and malfunctions of this vital organ.

For cardiologists to find out what condition your heart is in, they perform a complete physical check up and examination first. The results provide data regarding your heart's condition. Along with that, you will be asked about your health history and your family?s as well. You will also be asked about your lifestyle and habits. This may seem totally unrelated to your condition, however these pieces of information will give the cardiologist answers regarding your heart condition.

Cardiology also entails several examinations, tests and procedures for patients complaining about possible heart problems. These could include an ultrasound of your heart, a cardiac stress test, an electrocardiogram (or also known as ECG and EKG) and the use of a blood pressure cuff among many others.

Cardiology provides detailed information on Cardiology, American College Of Cardiology, Pediatric Cardiology, Clinical Cardiology Journals and more. Cardiology is affiliated with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension Attorney.

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Every person has a question in mind on how to lose weight fast. But I was not able to get the exact answers for this question. Everyone has his own views but the result remains the same. The urge to lose weight fast may lead people to harsh effects. In the race to lose weight fast you may ruin your health. It is advised that you consult your physician before the start of any treatment to burn fat.

I have come across the fact that mild exercises are human?s best friend. You can easily burn hundreds of fat with regular exercises. These exercises comprise of simple stretching techniques so as to show significant effect. You should not overstress your body as this may bring adverse effects.

You should have complete knowledge of calorie intake and calorie exhausted by your body. Try to consume only that amount of calories that are essential for your body. Excess consumption of calorie brings obesity.

A balanced diet is also required in conjunction with exercises. Your diet should not contain excess of fats and carbohydrates, as these two are the main source of obesity.

Morning walk is essential to control your body weight and to remove extra pounds. If you want to lose weight fast then you can spend more time on mild exercises by keeping in mind that you do these exercises with an empty stomach. As more exercise you do, more calorie you burn.

Water plays an important role in metabolizing body fat. You should drink more water, as this helps the kidney to flush out more toxin waste.

You should have fat burning food to get rid of body fat. They are generally called negative calorie food. A number of negative calorie foods are available in the market to lose weight faster as limes, lemons, grapefruit, oranges, watermelon, cabbage, carrot, apple and many more.

Market is full of number of Diet Pills to fight against obesity. These medicines should be taken with complete prior knowledge. Consultation with doctor is must when you are about to start your treatment through weight loss drugs. You can find a collection of weight loss drugs in the market as:

?Phentermine

?Bontril

?Diethylpropion

?Ionamin

?Didrex

?Adipex and many more...

These medicines are termed as short term treatment of obesity. Strict prescription of doctors are be adhered to avoid any unwanted repercussions. These medicines may have some side effects and you should acknowledge those side effects to your doctor. Moreover, you should not overdose these medicines at any cost, as this brings adverse effects.

Joseph Jones received training as a healthcare scientist. He has been working in the same field and writes informative articles for weight loss subject. To find Buy phentermine online, Cheap phentermine, Diet pills visit http://www.onlinephentermine.net

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With many well-known specialists living and working in the area, seeking dental implants in New York can be a relatively painless process.

The process of inserting a dental implant not only will eliminate the problem of tooth loss or decay, but it can also restore that beautiful smile you longed for, giving you back the confidence you might missed.

For those who are seeking dental implants in New York, it is important to understand the procedure, including the benefits and risks, before proceeding.

Fortunately, dental implants are among the safest, and most tooth-friendly procedures while also the most effective. Since they do not rely on support from adjacent teeth, long-term tooth or gum decay is not typically a risk, as it often is in the case of a cap or bridge placement. In addition, the results often produce sturdier, more realistic replacement teeth that are virtually identical to the real thing.

But, as with any surgery, the procedure is not without a certain level of risk. Dental practitioners will only perform dental implant surgery on patients who are already in good general health, without any presence of gum disease or other oral conditions that might cause complications. For this reason it is important for any patient seeking dental implants in New York to seeking out reliable consultation before electing to receive surgery.

Besides the obvious aesthetic concerns, missing or decaying teeth can affect the ability to speak, the ability to chew as well as one?s general dental health. One missing tooth often leads to many more or some form of advanced decay or disease. For this reason, dental implants in New York have become a reliable, attractive solution for many area residents.

Dental Implants Info provides comprehensive information on the procedure and cost of standard and mini dental implants, and focuses on the Las Vegas, Los Angeles and New York regions. Dental Implants Info is the sister site of Rhinoplasty Web.

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Diseases like arthritis and osteoporosis affect more and more people and natural arthritis treatments and health supplements are delivering the results people want. One look at the recent heart and cancer scares involving some commonly used arthritis drugs should also be enough for anyone concerned about their health to take a good look at natural alternatives.

Joint Pain, Arthritis and Osteoporosis

Before discussing natural arthritis treatments and health supplements, it?s important to understand how our bodies develop these problems in the first place.

Bone is constantly being broken down and built up every day. This process is regulated by hormones and involves the laying down of calcium and over 20 other minerals onto a bone matrix made up of collagen, the mineral copper, and vitamin C; vitamin D is also heavily involved in this process. As we get older the levels of these hormones begin to drop and if we don't have enough calcium, other minerals, vitamins and protein in our diet, then we start to break down more bone than we build.

As the calcium starts coming out of our bones it makes its way into the lubricating tissues between our joints and we eventually develop arthritis. This lubricant is made out of collagen and essential fatty acids (EFA) and the condition gets even worse when not enough collagen is being made or there aren't enough essential fatty acids in the diet to keep making joint lubricant. And arthritis is a warning signal that you have a raging osteoporosis!

The conventional alternatives are usually extremely painful joint replacement surgery which, if you're lucky, will last you for only 5-10 years; and anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs which can lead to kidney problems and worsen the condition - you have the pain for a reason! Other treatments like prednisone reduce pain and inflammation but interfere with the building of bone matrix. Talk to your doctor about alternatives. The other side-effects may include thinning skin and diabetes!

Arthritis Treatments - The Natural Approach

Natural osteoporosis and arthritis treatments work to prevent and reverse these conditions because you replace the minerals and vitamins which are lost and also rebuild the joint with proteins and essential fatty acids. Mineral health supplements such as plant derived colloidal minerals contain calcium, magnesium, manganese, boron, silica and many others in a form that is over 98% absorbable.

Additional calcium, magnesium, vitamins, collagen and other nutrients can be obtained from some of the better liquid calcium supplements available.

Omega 3 essential fatty acid supplements in fish oil form are also effective natural arthritis treatments because they reduce inflammation and help to rebuild the lubricating fluid.

Joint support and collagen supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin also help build bone matrix and lubricating fluid and are excellent arthritis and osteoporosis treatments.

Another recent and exciting discovery is CM or Cetyl Myristoleate. It is a natural complex derived from a combination of a fatty acid and an alcohol molecule and forms naturally inside the joint tissue and has been clinically proven to reduce pain, inflammation, and improve mobility.

Digestive Enzymes will help to improve absorption of these nutrients - particularly after we reach 40 and the amount of stomach acid we produce starts to decrease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is the most crippling form of arthritis and is thought to be an autoimmune disease by conventional medicine.

It's actually caused by a virus, bacteria or heavy metal and the clue here is that when it 'flares' most people get sick all over - not just at the site. In other words, the body is reacting to this 'bug' in the normal way by trying to kill it - hence the fever and sickness.

In addition to the arthritis treatments mentioned, a great deal of success has been had by treatment with a broad spectrum antibiotic such as minocycline. Talk to your health care practitioner about this and don't be afraid to get a second opinion.

This has relatively few side affects compared to modern antibiotics - however you should ensure that you look after your 'good' stomach flora so you can digest and absorb food. A quality pro-biotic supplement will help.

Diet and Exercise

Diet and exercise have an important role to play in natural arthritis and osteoporosis treatments. Here are some guidelines:

?Full-range of motion weight-bearing exercises such as walking, light weights, yoga etc can be very helpful

?Avoid foods containing sugar, caffeine and especially stay away from carbonated drinks - these will increase your loss of minerals, reduce your absorption and make your condition worse

Copyright http://www.Global-Longevity.com

Paul Newland is a health writer, sports training consultant and martial arts instructor and manages the Global-Longevity.com website. He is the author of numerous health information books and guides, including the Wellness Report, The Ultimate Antioxidant Report, The Selenium Report, The Bird Flu Report, The Ultimate Nutrient Guide and The Essential Fatty Acid Report and The Ultimate Sports Nutrition Guide - available Free (for a limited time) through Global-Longevity.com

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A tummy tuck is a serious medical procedure that many men and women undergo each year. Your commitment to recovery and self-care will ensure that your body has the best chance for full recovery. Following your physician?s instructions for post-operative care is the most important thing you can do for tummy tuck recovery.

After your tummy tuck, you will rest in a recovery room, or you might even be admitted to the hospital overnight. In either case, your physician will be monitoring you as you come out of general anesthesia, or the local anesthesia wears off. You will have swelling in the abdominal area, and it will be sore. You will be given antibiotics and painkillers to assist in your tummy tuck recovery. It is important that you communicate any allergies you have and any other vitamins, herbs or medications you take so that the medications prescribed for your recovery will be right for you. As with all antibiotics, it is important to take the full course of medicine, as prescribed.

Once you are released, most physicians will prescribe two to three days of bed rest. While they may seem like three very long days, it is crucial for your tummy tuck recovery that you follow your surgeon?s instructions. If possible, have a friend or family member stay with you for those initial days at home so that they can help you and keep an eye on you as you recover. You will receive personalized instructions on medication, compression, elevation and rest during this time. Your physician may even be able to give you advice on ways to minimize scarring.

After your initial tummy tuck recovery, you will slowly be able to return to your normal activities. Your level of fitness will ultimately determine how long your tummy tuck recovery takes. For most people, it takes about 6 months for full recovery. After your initial weeks of recovery, your physician will prescribe a diet and exercise routine to follow for optimal tummy tuck recovery. At any time, it is important to call your surgeon?s office if you experience excessive pain, swelling or bleeding. The office will be able to make suggestions, or schedule an appointment if necessary.

After your recovery is complete, scar tissue will continue to fade and your abdomen will have the flat, tight look that you desire. Great results are typically visible about 8 months after the operation.

Tummy Tuck Info provides detailed information on standard and mini tummy tucks, surgery and recovery procedures, and other advice, including the cost of surgery. Tummy Tuck Info is the sister site of Liposuction Web.

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An acid reflux diet typically restricts the intake of certain foods that are known to increase stomach acid. Some people even claim that there are foods that ?cure? the syndrome.

You can currently find for sale acid reflux diet books, alongside other popular diets and cookbooks. One author states that apples ?cured? his acid reflux. He is now selling a report in which he details ?three natural remedies? for acid reflux.

These are supposed to be foods that cured his acid reflux. He does admit, however, that they may not work for everyone. In our opinion, it may be more effective in the long run to design your own acid reflux diet, using a food and symptoms diary to record what foods seem to trigger symptoms.

Natural remedies for acid reflux include changing the foods you commonly eat and even when you eat, how much you eat, and in what circumstances you eat. Such changes, believe it or not, may be effective for reducing symptoms of acid reflux.

Most doctors and other healthcare professionals recommend that in order to control symptoms, an acid reflux diet should exclude certain foods that are known to increase stomach acid. Tomatoes and citrus fruits, for example, are highly acidic. So is chocolate. And fried or fatty foods can also increase stomach acid and worsen symptoms.

You may think that an acid reflux diet must be bland, but while some spices trigger symptoms, some commonly used cooking herbs are considered natural remedies for acid reflux.

Changing from garlic and chili powder to ginger, fennel seed and turmeric may help. Ginger, fennel seed and turmeric were used in traditional medicine to treat indigestion and heartburn. Modern herbalists have combined some of these ?herbs for heartburn? to create natural remedies for acid reflux.

In addition to following an acid reflux diet that limits highly acidic foods, experts say that eating less than three hours before bedtime increases the likelihood that you will have nighttime symptoms.

This is because lying down after eating allows gravity to work against you and makes it easier for stomach acid to creep up into the esophagus. Knowing this, some companies sell wedge-type pillows calling them natural remedies for acid reflux, but some doctors who specialize in treating the syndrome maintain that these pillows may actually worsen symptoms by ?folding? the stomach.

These doctors recommend raising the head of the bed (with blocks, for example) 6 inches higher than the foot of the bed, so that gravity can still help keep acid in your stomach, without ?folding? and creating extra pressure on the stomach.

If it isn?t what you eat or when you eat, it could be how much you eat. An effective acid reflux diet plan may include several small meals every few hours throughout the day, rather than one or two large meals. The more food that is in the stomach, the more likely that acid will reflux.

Another one of the often suggested natural remedies for acid reflux is simply losing some weight. Extra pounds put extra pressure on the stomach and more acid creeps up. At night, this can lead to sleep disturbances, coughing, snoring and even sleep apnea.

Following an acid reflux diet plan that is low in fatty and fried foods and calls for meals every couple of hours is not only one of the effective natural remedies for acid reflux, but it could help you lose weight since it primes the metabolism.

Doctors typically recommend antacids or proton pump inhibitors, at least for short-term use, to prevent or neutralize stomach acid. There are a number of herbal and botanical products that may do the some thing.

For example, mangosteen juice (a health drink), taken before meals, effectively dilutes stomach acid and may be considered one of the natural remedies for acid reflux. An acid reflux diet alone may not be enough. If not treated, acid reflux can lead to damage of the esophageal lining, which can lead to esophageal cancer.

Components of the mangosteen have been shown to reduce inflammation and actually prevent the formation of cancerous tumors in laboratory studies. Tell your doctor about which acid reflux diet and what natural remedies for acid reflux you are using and get regular check-ups, even if your symptoms seem to be under control.

Mike Leuthen is chief editor of http://www.restore-your-health.com. Visit us to learn more about natural remedies for acid reflux.

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With the array of different diets and diet foods available to help with weight loss and health, it?s sometimes hard to figure out what?s healthy and what?s not. Of course, part of the problem is that people have different health needs: for example, while fruit juice is often a good source of vitamins and other nutrients, some people with diabetes may find that some fruit juices have more sugar than they can tolerate. So what sounds healthy may not be healthy for you. How to tell? Look past the advertising to get label-savvy and nutrition aware so that you can avoid sneaky foods that seem like a good idea but may clash with your health needs.

Check out these examples:

1) Bottled waters: Water seems like the one thing on earth that has to be natural? But many bottled waters, even ones promoted by athletes, may contain things besides water, including minerals and salts. Some bottled waters contain a big chunk of sodium, so if you?re on a low-sodium diet, check that label before you buy.

2) ?Low fat? foods: By law, foods labeled ?low fat? contain less than 3 grams of fat per serving. But check the label so you know what you?re getting. First, check serving sizes: if serving sizes are very small, and you?re planning a traditionally-sized serving, your intake of fat may be larger than you expect. Second, make sure you?re not trading off the benefits of lower fat foods for extra sugar and salt. Manufacturers may increase salt, sugars or artificial flavorings to compensate for the loss of flavor in low-fat foods. So, if you?re trying to lower your blood pressure (for example) check to make sure you aren?t getting a big dose of salt; if you?re trying to move towards a more organic or natural diet, you may want to compare levels of artificial sweetening.

3) ?Low carb? alternatives to regular prepackaged foods may also trade off carbohydrate content for other things that you might be trying to avoid, so get savvy about reading labels on prepackaged food. Keep in mind that the FDA has not yet fully determined what the qualifications are to be a ?low carb? food, so double-check the label to see if the carb content fits your needs. In addition, a number of reports suggest that ?low carb? labels are being used inappropriately, so look at the label to see the actual number of carbohydrate grams.

4) Guacamole: Avocados look like vegetables, but they are actually the fruit of an avocado tree. Fruits and vegetables are generally considered to be healthy foods ? just look at the number of servings that are recommended in the new FDA pyramid. But avocados are a sneaky fruit ? unlike most others, they are full of fat, which accounts for their less sweet taste and waxy feel. One medium sized avocado has about 31 grams of fat, equivalent to a Baskin Robbins milk shake! So if you?re trying to reduce the amount of fat or cholesterol in your diet, watch that guacamole. If on the other hand, you?re looking to increase vitamins C and A in your diet, avocados pack a positive punch.

5) Fish: Fish can be a great source of nutrition, with lean protein and many nutrients. Make sure that if you?re eating processed fish, it?s packed in something that you don?t mind eating ? if you?re cutting down on fats, tuna packed in oil isn?t for you. Lastly, not all seafood has the same nutritional content as fish ? unlike other fish, shrimp has a lot of cholesterol, even before you add butter or mayo.

Clinical Reference Systems, Adult Health Advisor, ?Food labels,? 2004.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ?Fact Sheet: Carbohydrates,? 2004

Schafer, E., et al, ?Bottled Water: to drink or not to drink?,? Iowa State University, PM 1813, 2000

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ?What you need to know about mercury in fish and shellfish,? EPA-823-F-04-009, 2004

U.S. Department of Agriculture, ?National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference,? 2004

Copyright (C) Shoppe.MD, PhenForum.com and Ian Mason, 2004-2005

Learn more about health, diet and exercise at our weight loss forum.

PhenForum.com is a popular discussion forum for weight loss programs, diet advice, and tips to help you burn fat.

All the best,

Ian Mason

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Repeat a lie often enough and people take it as truth. This describes the plight of the hackneyed statistic that 95% of all diets fail.

Writers still tout this number as ?Paul?s Gospel? even though this study happened over 50 years ago. Dr. Albert Stunkard, Emeritus Director of the Weight and Eating Disorders Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, crafted this investigation in the 1950?s.

After examining 100 dieters, Dr. Stunkard found that only two people out of 100 sustained their ideal dieting weight after two years.

Much in the world of dieting has changed since then, and new research heralds more change. Even Dr. Stunkard is a part of these advances. In 1996, he participated in a study that concluded that yo-yo dieting, or weight cycling, does not adversely affect the body?s metabolism or body fat distribution.

Other dieting insights published in the Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter discussed the finding of researchers at the University of Kentucky.

The investigators collected data from 29 weight-loss studies involving thousands of dieters. These participants followed detailed meal-planning instructions that lasted from eight to thirty weeks.

Five years after dieting, people kept off an average of about seven of the pounds they had originally lost. This is noteworthy, considering that many people naturally gain weight with age.

The study further demonstrated that those who exercised the most frequently kept an average of 33 pounds off. Yet, the people on stringent calorie restricted diets tended to lose an average of more than 40 pounds and, five years later, kept off only 15 of the pounds they lost.

To further expound upon the determinants of dieting success, psychologist Andrew J. Hill questioned the belief that dieting makes a person fat and published his finding in the British Journal of Nutrition.

As Hill? a lecturer at Leeds University School of Medicine at Leeds, England?sees it, we?ve oversimplified the environmental, social and psychological factors that influence our self-image and weight. Also, would-be dieters too often assume that thin people never diet, when in fact, these svelte folks may be dieting experts.

Similarly, Erin Putterman and Wolfgang Linden investigated whether dieting for health or vanity creates the negative situations associated with chronic dieting such as fasting and purging.

Their findings, released in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine, concluded that when health-consciousness inspires a woman to diet, she is less likely to engage in desperate dieting attempts.

Skinny Fat Chicks aims to expose self-sabotaging dieting habits of women while offering methods for sustaining dieting motivation for life.

In short, it proposes that women who failed at dieting have failed to resolve three critical issues? their identity crisis, educational crisis and celebration crisis.

Excepted from Skinny Fat Chicks: Why We?re Still Not Getting This Dieting Thing by Naweko San-Joyz

Are you a pro at yo-yo dieting? Let Naweko show you how to go from slob to sexy using the secret mind tools that even fitness models won?t tell you about. Get the real scoop on how to lose weight and keep it off at http://www.Noixia.com, home of ?Skinny Fat Chicks: Why We?re Still Not Getting This Dieting Thing? ISBN:0974912212.

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In acute cases of bronchitis, the patient should fast on orange juice and water till the acute symptoms subside. The procedure is to take the juice of an orange in a glass of warm water every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thereafter, the patient should adopt an all-fruit diet for two or three days.

In case of chronic bronchitis, the patient can begin with an all-fruit diet for five to seven days, taking each day three meals of fresh juicy fruits. After the all-fruit diet, the patient should follow a well-balanced diet of seeds, nuts and grains, vegetables and fruits.

For drinks, unsweetened lemon water or cold or hot plain water may betaken.

The patient should avoid meats, sugar, tea, coffee, condiments, pickles, refined and processed foods, soft-drinks, candies, ice-cream and products made from sugar and white flour.

One of the most effective remedy for bronchitis is the use of turmeric powder. A teaspoonful of this powder should be administered with a glass of milk two or three times daily. It acts best when taken on an empty stomach.

Another effective remedy for bronchitis is a mixture of dried ginger powder, pepper and long pepper taken in equal quantities three times a day. It may be licked with honey or infused with one?s daily tea. The powder of these three ingredients have antipyretic qualities and are effective in dealing with fever accompanied by bronchitis. They also tone up the metabolism of the patient.

The onion has been used as a food remedy for centuries in bronchitis. It is said to possess expectorant properties. It liquefies phelgm and prevents its further formation. One teaspoon of raw onion juice, the first thing in the morning will be highly beneficial in such cases.

A simple hot poultice of linseed should be applied over the front and back of the chest. It will greatly relieve pain. Poultices act by diluting the vessels of the surface and thereby reducing the blood pressure. The heat of the poultics acts as a cardiac stimulant. A poultics should be applied neatly and carefully and should be often renewed, so that it does not hamper respiration.

Turpentine may be rubbed over the chest with fomentation for the same object.

A hot Epsom-salts bath every night or every other night will be highly beneficial during the acute stages of the attack. This bath is prepared by dissolving three lbs. of Epsom-salts to 60 litres of water having a temperature of 100 o F. The patient should remain immersed in the bath for about 20 minutes. In case of chronic bronchitis, this bath may be taken twice a week. Hot towels wrung out and applied over the upper chest are also helpful. After applying three hot towels in turn for two or three minutes each, one should always finish off with a cold towel. A cold pack should also be applied to the upper chest several times daily in acute conditions. The procedure is to wring out some linen material in cold water, wrap two or three times round the affected part and cover it with some flannel. The pack can remain for about an hour at a time.

Fresh air and outdoor exercises are also essential to the treatment of bronchitis and the patient should take a good walk everyday. He should also perform yogic kriyas such as jalneti and vamandhouti and yogic asanas such as ekpaduttansana, yogamudra, bhujangasana, shalabhasana, padmasana and shavasana. Simple pranayamas like kapalbhatti, anuloma-viloma, ujjai and bhramari are also highly beneficial.

To learn more about the energy principle in healing, please read:

Cost-free Miracle Asthma Cure
Overcome Type I Diabetes and Type II Diabetes Naturally
Alternative Treatments for Incurable Diseases made easy

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Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the common ingredients used to treat acne. You can find this active ingredient in the form of a cream, gel, lotion, facemask, or cleansing bar. Benzoyl Peroxide is very effective in treating mild cases of acne. This acne treatment drug is available in non-prescription form for concentrations of 2.5%, 5% and 10%. If you are looking for concentrations higher than 10%, you need a doctor's prescription. Several studies have shown that 2.5% benzoyl peroxide is equally effective to combat pimples and is less irritating. Therefore, if you want to try Benzoyl Peroxide to treat your acne, you should begin with a low concentration (example 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide).

How Benzoyl Peroxide works

Before we go into details on how benzoyl peroxide can prevent acne, it is useful to understand how acne is formed. Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) is a bacteria that causes the skin disorder acne. P.acnes is a major inhabitant of human skin and is the causative agent of acne. This skin-dwelling organism will multiply rapidly within clogged sebaceous follicles if left untreated. Fortunately, these bacteria cannot live in the presence of oxygen. Benzoyl Peroxide is an oxygen-releasing chemical in the organic peroxide family. Upon applying on the affected area, this chemical is absorbed into the pores and releases the oxygen to destroy P.acnes.

Side Effects of Benzoyl Peroxide

It is important to note that there are some side effects when using this anti-acne medication:

a. Dryness

If you are using 5% or 10% of benzoyl peroxide, you may want to try a lower concentration, say 2.5% of benzoyl peroxide.

b. Irritation

For irritation, you can reduce the usage frequency. If you encounter severe irritation even the usage frequency is low, you should discontinue using the product.

c. Allergy

If you are allergic to Benzoyl Peroxide, you should discontinue using it and consult your dermatologist for other acne treatments.

d. Bleach

Benzoyl Peroxide is a powerful bleaching agent. You should prevent your hair from contacting this bleaching agent as this medicine can cause permanent color dampening.

Before using Benzoyl Peroxide for your acne treatment, please take note that this medicine generates free radicals in the skin. The result is redness of the skin due to oxidative stress. The effect is similar to unprotected sun exposure. If you are using a benzoyl peroxide product to treat your acne, you should avoid unnecessary sun exposure and use a sunscreen during the day.

Please be reminded that the above information is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to replace any health care services you need. The information provided is strictly not meant to diagnose medical conditions, offer medical advice, or endorse specific products or services. Do not rely upon the information provided alone for medical diagnosis or treatment. Kindly consult your doctor about any personal health concerns.

Julian Chee is the founder of Skincare Daily. This accredited skin care website provides information on acne, acne treatments and acne products. For more acne information, please visit http://www.skincaredaily.com

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While oxygen is the key to human survival, it is also responsible for maximum damage to the human body as ?free radicals?. Free radicals form when oxygen is metabolized or burned by the body for its functions. Free radicals are also produced through environmental pollution and cigarette smoke

Tens of thousands of them are formed everyday in the body. These free radicals travel through the body causing immense damage to the cell structures and causes chronic disease, anti aging as well as other health problems including DNA mutations leading to cancer.

Thankfully the answer to such destruction at the cellular level is anti oxidants. The body produces anti oxidants as well as they available through fruits and vegetables. Anti oxidants scavenge free radicals; convert them to harmless substance before they can cause damage to the cells and tissues of the body.

Vitamin C beta carotenes and vitamin E are rich sources of anti oxidants. While a balance diet rich in these vitamins are an ideal source of natural anti oxidants they are also available as nutritional supplements and have gained much popularity in the past decade.

The efficacy of such anti oxidants remains questionable. Studies have suggested that anti oxidants occurring naturally as in fruits and vegetables have a far more protective effect than the dietary supplements.

However what has been proven beyond doubt by research is that anti oxidant intake does stave off degenerative diseases and especially cancer. It also improves the overall health and boosts immunity.

The best bet for improving your health dramatically is a complex range of natural anti oxidants. Here is a list of anti oxidants found in foods.

Vitamin C: All types of citrus fruits, kiwi, papaya, strawberries and leafy green vegetables, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower etc.

Vitamin E: Hard to find sufficient quantities of vitamin E from diet alone. A good source is almonds. Take supplements derived from natural sources.

Carotenoids: Beta carotenes are found in oranges, and vegetables like carrots, apricots, beets, sweet potatoes are a good source. Most of the red and green leef vegetables would have beta carotenes.

Flavanoids: Found in whole lot of vegetables and fruits. Onions, beets, citrus fruits and berries contain flavanoids. Green tea is a good source.

Take 4 to 6 servings of these fruits and vegetables daily for getting the complete range of anti oxidants and you can be sure of keeping many of the degenerative diseases, cancer, blood pressure and heart problems at bay. The icing on the cake is you can look younger and beat the ageing of your skin and tissues.

R.G. Srinivasan is a Managerial professional, Writer and Author. He is passionate about alternate therapies and holistic herbal medicine. Check out his site at http://alternative-healthnews.blogspot.com for interesting articles, healthnews, links and health resources.

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At the very least, a Yoga teacher should have knowledge of the latest trends in Yoga classes, and the latest continuing education options for Yoga teachers. If something does appeal to you, there are many different continuing education options available for Yoga teachers. There are a number of workshops, seminars, and camps around the world for interns and established Yoga teachers.

If you already have a running Yoga studio, children, or responsibilities at home, onsite Yoga teacher training may not always be the best option. You may want to consider Yoga distance learning, also known as ?Yoga Home Study,? as a viable option. This is a recognized form of continuing education for Yoga instructors by most of the certifying bodies.

Due to time constraints, family commitments, and working a full time job -Yoga teachers often find Yoga teacher training correspondence courses to be a convenient way to expand on their existing knowledge of Yoga.

Now, let?s take a close look at options for specialization in the Yoga teaching profession.

Hot Yoga: Obviously this is self-explanatory and requires a tolerance to heat - in the neighborhood of 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Most Hot Yoga classes are based upon Bikram Choudhury?s style of Hatha Yoga.

However, it is extremely unwise to copy his exact sequence of postures, as they are patented. Regardless of whether you think it is right or wrong to patent a Yoga sequence, who wants to go to court over it? It never ceases to amaze Yoga teachers when they hear about the potential to be sued. In order to by- pass this dilemma, teaching a Hot Yoga class can be accomplished without a legal battle.

What I see most Hot Yoga teachers do is somewhat similar to Bikram?s style, but you may also see Sun Salutations and a variety of postures that are not seen in most Bikram studios. Hot Yoga classes are popular for all ages. There are a surprising number of Yoga students who are beyond middle age in these Yoga classes.

Some people love the heat, while others simply cannot adapt to these temperatures. Therefore, if you want to become a Hot Yoga instructor, make sure that you are up to the task of leading a Yoga class under these temperature conditions. It is one thing to take a Hot Yoga class, but it is quite a different experience to actually teach one.

? Copyright 2006 ? Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

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Fighting inflammation is a critical part of any treatment for arthritis. In fact, it's an important part of fighting many other conditions, too, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and even aging. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural, safe ways to reduce inflammation in general and arthritis in particular.

1. Supplements are necessary.

Take a good quality anti-inflammatory supplement. Taken by themselves or together as part of a blend, Glucosamine, MSM and Chondroitin are all excellent choices.

Any anti-inflammatory diet should include eating fish or taking fish oil in a gel form (1,000 mg) once or twice a day. A multivitamin is recommended - as well as extra Vitamin C and E.

Also drink green tea and sprinkle ground flaxseed and anti-inflammatory spices such as: turmeric, ginger, rosemary and cayenne liberally on your food.

2. Avoid these foods.

It can help to cut out the two most common food allergens (gluten & dairy) for two weeks to see if you notice an improvement in your arthritis, or any other chronic symptom, for that matter.

You can help ease arthritis by cutting back on food portions, and eating less white flour, sugar, and hydrogenated fat.

3. Exercise half an hour daily.

Water aerobics and stretching are the best type of exercises for people with limited motion. Walking is great, too - the speed doesn't matter.

4. Meditation & prayer are very essential.

Meditation, yoga or deep breathing are all excellent forms of easing pain and assisting our bodies into aging.

Praying is so personal, please choose whatever method you desire, remembering that we do not know, or cannot know, everything that is best for us.

If you are worrying, complaining, and thinking negative thoughts, your pain will worsen and disease can eventually take over.

5. Get regular medical check-ups.

Your doctor can test your sedimentation rate to find if you have inflammation in your body or joints. You may not notice the inflammation so this is an important step.

Find a doctor who encourages natural methods of coping with illness. Sometimes surgery is necessary to improve mobility and pain; do not live in denial.

Supplements of the Month:

Vitamin C

Benefits of Vitamin C:

Vitamin C plays an essential role in the immune system. It is found in every cell of our body and performs various functions:

? Contribute to healthy bones.

? May help reduce allergy symptoms.

? Helps with inflammation and pain.

? Helps protect the fat-soluble vitamins A & E & fatty acids from oxidation.

? Aids in neutralizing pollutants.

? Needed for antibody production.

? Natural antihistamine properties.

? Help prevent periodontal disease.

? Aids in healing wounds.

? Aids iron absorption.

? Break down histamine.

? Offer potent antioxidant protection.

? Protect lung function.

Omega 3 Fish Oil

Benefits of Omega 3 Fish Oil:

'Take Your Vitamins' brand of Omega 3 Fish Oil is molecularly distilled to remove any residual heavy metals from the product.

The omega-3 essential fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), has been recognized by researchers as being vitally important to achieving optimal health, energy, and longevity. EPA and DHA are the building blocks for the cells in your vital organs and your body requires these Omega-3s to function properly.

Clinical research has shown EPA and DHA support:

? A Healthy Heart.

? A Healthy Brain.

? Increased Fat Burning.

? Balanced Mood.

? Healthy Joint Movement.

? Healthy Cholesterol and triglyceride Levels.

? A Healthy Immune System.

? Healthy Kidneys.

? Strength and Stamina.

As with any vitamin or supplement, please consult your doctor before taking.

Author Beverly Terhune speaks from 35 years of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and shares her experience, strength & hope on how to lead a healthy, substance-free life.

Are you looking for ways to improve your memory, energy level or fight depression?
Purchase our all natural vitamins, minerals, herbs and teas at wholesale prices.
Subscribe to our free health tip newsletter. Visit: vitaminbaron@com Baron Import & Export: 'Take Your Vitamins'
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?I?ve put on 40 pounds in one year!? ?It doesn?t matter how much I workout, I can?t lose weight.? ?My doctor must think I?m eating pizzas in the closet.?

With nearly 4 million Americans weighing in at over 300 pounds, is it any wonder the above cries are heard each and every day by countless frustrated people who can?t lose weight? One such cause for the ever increasing need to buy larger pants is a disease known as Syndrome X.

Syndrome X is also referred to as Metabolic Syndrome, Metabolic Syndrome X and Insulin Resistance. It is a very common disease; however it is widely overlooked by many medical professionals. One statistic reveals 1 in 3 people suffer from it.

This syndrome is a precursor to developing Diabetes Type 2. Sufferers have a high level of insulin. Their bodies are unable to process all the insulin that is being made from their diet. As a result, they become insulin resistant.

Think of it like this: You knock on someone?s door because you want to come in. If they don?t answer, what normally happens? You knock again, right? Sometimes you may even knock a third time, trying to gain entry. Insulin works in the same manner. The pancreas produces insulin (knock). Some foods cause the body to produce even higher levels of insulin (knock again). Once you become insulin resistant, develop Syndrome X, the body is unable to properly process the glucose, therefore the pancreas tries to make up for it by producing even more insulin. It thinks ?no one is home? and just keeps making more.

The main purpose of glucose is to be used as fuel for the cells in the body to produce energy. Unprocessed glucose translates into fat. If the body keeps making it and it?s not being processed, where does it go? Hips, thighs, stomach, and buttocks, that?s where!

In addition to hypertension and heart disease, elevated insulin may be associated with weight gain and difficulty with weight loss, other blood sugar problems such as hypoglycemia, and some menstrual related imbalances.

Genetics is partially responsible for causing this disease. More likely though is lifestyle. In many cases years of high starch, processed foods, simple sugars, lack of exercise, smoking, and increased stress may be the culprit for Metabolic Syndrome X.

Now what? For starters, start exercising today. Increase water intake and totally omit starches, sugars, processed foods from your diet. Limit or omit caffeine. Try to maintain at least one third of your daily food intake to vegetables. Ask your doctor to test your sugar levels. Change what you?re eating and get walking and you?ll be amazed at the pounds start to fall off. The fatigue and fuzziness will start to disappear and in turn you?ll feel much better.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.

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Most people get their health out of a bottle these days, be it a bottle of vitamins or pharmaceuticals. However, with a little effort and dedication you really can get a hold on your life, turn it round and live it to the full!

If you've been diagnosed with heart disease or are at risk of developing heart disease regular exercise is essential for the health of your heart, body and mind. In fact, aerobic exercise and heart health really do go hand in hand.

With busy lifestyles and lack of time, regular use of home equipment, such as a treadmill, an elliptical trainer, a stationary cycle, a stair-climber, etc. is becoming increasingly popular. These items are now precision health giving apparatus that really can help get you in shape. Gyms are also getting more and more members, but often people slack off because of time restraints. If this is you, working out at home may be the answer for you ?

However, before jumping into your gym shoes talk to your doctor about your desires and objectives. Your doctor may be able to give you some useful insights you didn?t consider as well as coaching from a medical point of view. If your doctor gives you the OK, try to work some exercise into your daily routine. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests, for example, that patients start by walking five minutes a day, then increasing gradually to 30 minutes over several weeks. Walking is a wonderful way to start, as it is low impact, you need no special equipment, and it costs nothing. Swimming may be another good choice. This type of exercise is called aerobic training that involves large muscle groups, such as the legs, and keeps your heart rate pumping for a set amount of time. Unless there are deformities of the heart muscle, aerobics and heart health are often found together and not only does the heart benefit, there are other advantages too.

Aerobic Exercising and Heart Health

As you can see, take it slow initially; it?s really not necessary to sign up at the local gym or aerobic class. Although, after some time you might want to do just that.

Depending on where you live walking or swimming may not be an option. In such cases, you may like to consider a piece of home aerobic equipment such as a treadmill, stationary cycle or elliptical trainer. However, before purchasing a home trainer consider whether you will really use it. If the answer is yes, best get the best home aerobic equipment you can afford. Your heart will thank you.

Lack of exercise and heart disease

The American Heart Association has now added lack of exercise to the list of major risk factors for heart disease. The other risk factors are smoking, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol.

Exercise not only helps fight heart disease and gets you in shape, but if you live a sedentary lifestyle, a regular exercise routine can also:

help control high blood pressure,

reduce the risks of type II diabetes,

help prevent osteoporosis,

improve your general wellbeing and help fight depression, anxiety and stress,

greatly help to lose weight

Those are just some of the benefits of doing regular exercise. I wanted to make a list of some of the disadvantages, but I can?t think of any!

In an ideal world, in order to get the best results possible you should exercise three to five times a week for 30-60 minutes within your target heart rate. But even normal day to day events, such as taking the stairs instead of the lift, walking to work, walking the dog, or gardening can help. You can do many things to increase physical activity during the day; just try thinking about what you can do. The benefits are well worth the effort.

Another thing that has proven to be effective is cross training. In cross training you participate in 2 or more different types of exercise during the week, for instance: Monday walking, Tuesday treadmill, Wednesday swimming, Thursday elliptical training, etc. You may also like to insert some strengthening exercises too, such as weight lifting.

Not only will cross training help to tone your whole body, it will help stop boredom setting in. Many people stop training not because they don?t have the time (that?s the reason they don?t start), but because they get bored. If you can arrange a routine where you do something different each day, it is going to be difficult to get bored.

So, talk with your doctor and start now! Once you notice the result, nothing will stop you. You?ll loose weight, be more toned and fit, will have a sharper outlook on life and, oh yes I almost forgot, you?ll live longer!

About the Author:
Nicholas Webb, of AllAbout Heart Disease, speaks and writes with a passion telling it is as it is; helping others to live life to the full. This article is extracted from his newsletter ?The Web?s Heart?. To subscribe, or read other articles visit The Web?s Heart

To learn more about how to beat heart disease and get into shape visit: http://www.AllAbout-Heart-Disease.com

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Like many Americans my age, I grew up with a positive association to fluoride. Toothpaste commercials told me that fluoride helped prevent tooth decay and that I should brush my teeth with fluoride toothpaste, so I used it every day. The dentist gave me fluoride treatments for my teeth. Fluoride was also added to municipal water supplies, so drinking tap water (and anything made with it) gave me a daily dose of fluoride too. Like most other people, I assumed it must be healthy. Otherwise, why would people add it to toothpaste and water?

Many years ago though, I started hearing rumors about fluoride being potentially unhealthy. I realized I?d never looked into fluoride and didn?t really even know what it was and why I should be consuming it. I had to admit that all my knowledge of fluoride ultimately came from the people who were marketing it. People market plenty of other products that aren?t healthy (cigarettes, junk food, etc.), so why should I assume fluoride was healthy just because the marketers said it was?

So way back in 1997, I got curious and started taking a deeper look into fluoride. Today this is very easy to do because there?s plenty of info available online. I?ll share some of that info with you and provide some links so you can look into it further if you so choose. My goal is to help you consciously decide whether you wish to continue using fluoride.

What is fluoride?

The substance fluoride is technically a fluorine ion. Fluorine is a gas, and in nature it will be found bonded with other substances, forming compounds such as calcium fluoride.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance found abundantly in the earth?s crust. Consequently, it is found in natural water supplies, usually in very low levels (well below 1 part per million). Plants naturally absorb fluoride from the soil, so small amounts of fluoride compounds are present in all our food. Fluoride is also commonly used in pesticides, so plant foods grown with pesticides will have a higher concentration of fluoride.

The highest dietary concentration of fluoride occurs in animal foods and in processed foods, especially fish. Fluoride builds up in the tissues of animals. And whenever fluoridated water is used in food production, fluoride will be concentrated in the final product. The same goes for cooking with fluoridated water.

Although it is a natural substance, fluoride is highly toxic to human beings, even more so than lead. If you were to injest a mere 2-5 grams of sodium fluoride (a common ingredient in toothpaste), you would probably die. The amount of fluoride in a typical tube of fluoride toothpaste is sufficient to kill a small child if it were consumed all at once. Fluoride toothpaste contains a much higher concentration of fluoride than what is found in nature.

In the USA the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates fluoride usage.

Is fluoride necessary for health?

Not remotely. Unlike calcium or magnesium, fluoride is not an essential nutrient for your body. If you were to consume zero fluoride your entire life, you wouldn?t suffer for it. There?s no such thing as fluoride deficiency.

What is fluoride?s purported role in tooth decay?

Fluoride acts as an enzyme inhibitor. For this reason it is believed to help prevent cavities by literally poisoning the bacteria in your mouth. Unfortunately, because fluoride is so toxic, you?re taking a big risk by using it to try to prevent cavities. You not only poison the bacteria in your mouth but your other cells as well.

?Fluoride inhibits enzymes that breed acid-producing oral bacteria whose acid eats away tooth enamel. This observation is valid, but some scientists now believe that the harmful impact of fluoride on other useful enzymes far outweighs the beneficial effect on caries prevention.? - UNICEF, Dec 1999

Fluoride only works topically. If you swallow fluoride, it won?t help your teeth at all except to the extent it touches them. So fluoride supplements are utterly worthless.

What are the risks of fluoride consumption?

Aside from the risk of death, fluoride can cause serious problems even at low levels of injestion that come from using toothpaste or mouthwash or drinking fluoridated water.

One risk is a condition known as fluorosis, caused by excessive exposure to fluoride. This comes in two kinds: dental fluorosis and skeletal fluorosis. Dental fluorosis occurs at a young age, and the main symptom is discolored and/or pitted teeth, but the outward signs on the teeth are believed to be linked with a deeper neurological impairment.

Skeletal fluorosis is an arthritic disease caused by a build-up of fluoride in the bones that can cause the bones to become brittle. Studies published in the Journal of the American Medical Association noted that hip fractures are more common in communities that fluoridate their water supply.

Drinking fluoridated water is linked with reduced cognitive ability in children. There are also over 30 animal studies showing that fluoride is a neurotoxin which reduces learning and memory. Essentially, fluoride makes you a bit less intelligent.

If you wish to look into this further, you can find a lengthy list of health problems associated with fluoride and links to some of the research here: Fluoride Health Effects Database

There are many more health problems than the few I?ve listed above, including kidney damage and cancer. Fluoride problems are an active area of research. A lot of new information has come out in just the past decade.

Why did people start adding fluoride to toothpaste and water?

You don?t want to know. Really you don?t.

But if you do, you can start by reading these articles: Industry and Fluoridation Fluoride, Teeth, and the Atomic Bomb

And if you really want to hurt yourself, you can read all about the fluoride fraud here: Suppression of Scientific Dissent on Fluoride?s Risks and Benefits

If you don?t want to read the above, the bottom line is that fluoride is an industrial pollutant which became a serious problem several decades ago, and this problem was essentially solved by devising ways to feed the stuff to humans. Today it?s become a difficult issue that involves big business, large sums of money, the ADA, the FDA, and somewhere near the bottom of the political food chain? health.

What about water fluoridation?

Water fluoridation is common practice in the USA. About 60% of the U.S. water supply is now fluoridated. My city of Las Vegas started fluoridating its water supply a few years ago (in what was apparently something of a political fiasco).

The last time I checked, water fluoridation was banned in Japan, China, India, and most European countries. What?s interesting though is that in Europe the levels of tooth decay are no worse than in the USA. In both the U.S. and Europe, the levels of tooth decay have been falling at about the same rate for decades. Fortunately for non-U.S. residents, the politics of fluoride which have infected the U.S. have not similarly infected the rest of world.

The theoretical reason for water fluoridation is that it supposedly helps prevent tooth decay. The problem, however, is that the theory just doesn?t hold true. There?s no evidence that water fluoridation helps prevent tooth decay at all. The evidence in fact shows that fluoridation has no effect whatsoever on tooth decay, but fluoridation does cause other health problems such as fluorosis.

?All of the recent large-scale studies on fluoridation and tooth decay show that fluoridation does not reduce tooth decay. Studies from New Zealand, Canada, Europe, and the US have confirmed no difference in decay rates for permanent teeth of residents of fluoridated vs. non-fluoridated communities.? (source)

?In summary, we hold that fluoridation is an unreasonable risk. That is, the toxicity of fluoride is so great and the purported benefits associated with it are so small - if there are any at all - that requiring every man, woman and child in America to ingest it borders on criminal behavior on the part of governments.? - Dr. J. William Hirzy, Senior Vice-President, Headquarters Union, US Environmental Protection Agency, March 26, 2001

?I am quite convinced that water fluoridation, in a not-too-distant future, will be consigned to medical history.? - Dr. Arvid Carlsson, Winner of the 2000 Nobel Prize for Medicine

So what are the health reasons for water fluoridation? There aren?t any. The real reason for fluoridation is a combination of business and politics. The health claims are largely used to draw attention away from the real reason. In the USA it isn?t so hard to get fluoridation policies passed in new cities simply by leveraging the previous marketing work that has been done in favor of fluoride. Communities will vote in favor of fluoridation because most of the people doing the voting don?t know any better. People will emotionally defend something as true which deep down they never understood.

What about bottled water?

It depends on the source. Most water from natural springs will have on the order of 0.1 ppm fluoride, which is about 10% of the level found in fluoridated municipal water supplies. So with bottled water your exposure to this toxin is greatly reduced.

Be aware that some bottled water delivery companies do fluoridate their water. I called two of them to ask: Sparkletts and Arrowhead. Sparkletts told me they do fluoridate their water. Of course I let them know that I would never be a customer of theirs as long as they do so. Arrowhead told me they do NOT deliver fluoridated water unless the customer specifically requests it. Consquently, I have been an Arrowhead customer for many years. If I find out that they?ve started fluoridating their water, they will lose my family as a customer.

If you want to know whether or not your water contains fluoride, call the company and ask them how much fluoride is in their water and whether or not they add fluoride to it. They will be able to tell you how many parts per million of fluoride their water contains.

One fluoride-related web site suggested specifically avoiding Trinity Springs water because it contains a very high concentration of fluoride, on the order of 4 ppm. That?s about 4x the level you?ll get from fluoridated tap water.

You can also use a water filter to reduce fluoride from tap water. In this case you will need a reverse-osmosis filter, which will remove 90%+ of the fluoride. Distillation will also remove fluoride from water.

Is there such a thing as non-fluoride toothpaste?

Yes, absolutely.

Fluoride is not the ingredient in toothpaste that cleans your teeth. It is the abrasive calcium carbonate that does most of the cleaning. Fluoride?s only role is to poison the bacteria (and of course the rest of you gets poisoned in the process). Additionally, commercial toothpastes often contain sweeteners that can actually promote tooth decay.

I can recommend a couple brands of fluoride-free toothpaste which I?ve been using for years: Nature?s Gate and Tom?s of Maine. You should be able to find these at any health food store. I buy them at Whole Foods and Wild Oats.

My personal favorite is Nature?s Gate Herbal Creme de Peppermint. My wife prefers Tom?s of Maine. Tom?s of Maine also has children?s fluoride-free toothpaste available, which our 5-year old daughter uses. Both of these companies are cruelty-free as well, meaning they don?t test any of their products on animals.

These toothpastes are made from all-natural ingredients, and they don?t contain extra sweeteners. One thing I like about Tom?s of Maine is that they list all the ingredients on the box along with a description of what each thing is and why it?s there.

My wife also wrote a short review of Nature?s Gate toothpaste on her web site many years ago. One thing she noted was that because of the lack of sugar, it took us a few days to get used to these toothpastes. But after that we never looked back.

What about dentists?

I challenge you to ask your own dentist for detailed information on fluoride. Test his/her knowledge of this subject, and see if the answers you get make you more confident or more doubtful.

Ask your dentist to tell you exactly what fluoride is and what the lethal dosage is. Ask your dentist where the fluoride in their toothpaste and fluoride treatments originally comes from (trust me ? you really don?t want to know). Ask your dentist how s/he came to believe that fluoride helps prevent tooth decay. Ask your dentist to tell you about the dangers of fluoride exposure. Ask your dentist to tell you where you can obtain the proof that fluoride usage is safe and effective.

Wouldn?t you expect your dentist to know this information?

Personally I have never met a dentist who knew even the most basic facts about fluoride. Dentists apparently learn about fluoride from the same people that market it to consumers. Most likely your dentist doesn?t know much more about fluoride than you do aside from the information that?s been provided to them by marketers. In fact, simply by reading this article, you probably know a lot more about fluoride than your dentist does, unless your dentist happens to be exceptional.

What should you do?

I think you should look into this for yourself and make your own conscious decision.

Look beyond the fluoride marketing hype and decide if fluoride is something you want to put into your body on a regular basis. Common sense suggests that you shouldn?t ingest such a toxic substance unless you fully understand what you?re doing. Remember that you have no dietary need for fluoride, so if you have any doubt, leave it out. In my opinion that?s the safest bet.

Fluoride is not addictive, so I think you?ll find it easy to do without. You may even notice some health benefits in doing so. Who knows? Maybe your IQ will even go up a few points ? that effect is certainly conceivable given that fluoride is a neurotoxin and has been linked to reduced IQ in children.

At the very least, doctors recommend not using fluoridated water to make infant formula. Don?t give young children any fluoridated water if you can avoid it. Fluoride?s toxicity is relative to body mass. So the smaller the person, the more toxic a particular dose will be. Consider nature?s example ? the level of fluoride found in human breast milk is about 100 times lower than in fluoridated water (i.e. 0.01 ppm vs. 1.0 ppm).

My viewpoint is that if you want to convince me to injest a toxic substance on a regular basis, the burden of proof is all yours. By default I?m not going to take poison, so if you can?t provide rock-solid evidence that your substance is worth consuming, you won?t convince me. And fluoride is a substance where the mountain of evidence has convinced me I?m better off without it.

You don?t need to poison yourself just to try to prevent cavities. I hope you can begin to see the insanity in that approach. If you have excessive bacteria eating away your tooth enamel, realize that it?s a sign of a greater imbalance in your body. Don?t try to correct the imbalance by poisoning the symptoms (i.e. the bacterial growth). Address the root cause. By reducing the acidity of your diet, you can safely prevent your teeth from dissolving. Especially cut out refined sugar and coffee if you can, and eat more raw fruits and vegetables.

If you aren?t going to change your diet, at least acknowledge that tooth decay is not the worst health problem in the world. Even if you do get cavities, it?s a fixable problem, and in my opinion, it?s not worth taking poison to try to prevent one problem and cause yourself far greater grief in the long run. You might miss your teeth, but I think you?ll miss your brain, bones, and kidneys even more.

I want to look into this further. Hook me up.

First, you can start with a simple Google search on fluoride or on such terms as ?fluoride toxic poison? (without the quotes), and you?ll find plenty of sites to look through.

Here are a couple of my favorite fluoride sites with loads of articles, information, and research references:
The Fluoride Debate
Fluoride Action Network

At the very least, I recommend you read the home page of The Fluoride Debate site to give yourself a nice overview. But you will certainly learn a lot by diving deeply into both of these sites.

There are also some books on the subject (you can find both at Amazon): The Fluoride Deception by Christopher Bryson and Theo Colborn Fluoride: Drinking Ourselves to Death by Barry Groves

I just can?t believe any of this. It?s too unbelievable.

I?m sorry to be the one to shatter your blissful fluoride fantasy. Really, I am. I know you?ll probably curse me the next time you pick up your toothpaste and see a tube of IQ-lowering poison instead of sugary cavity-fighting bliss.

I?m just the messenger though. I didn?t invent any of this information. And my goal isn?t to convince you not to use fluoride. My goal is far more insidious ? it is to encourage you to think for yourself and make decisions more consciously, whether you agree with me or not.

Copyright ? Steve Pavlina

Steve Pavlina
Personal Development for Smart People
http://www.stevepavlina.com
http://www.stevepavlina.com/blog (blog)
http://www.stevepavlina.com/articles (articles)

Steve is intensely growth-oriented. He trained in martial arts, ran the L.A. Marathon, and graduated from college in three semesters with two degrees. He can juggle, count cards at blackjack, and make damn good guacamole. Steve is also a polyphasic sleeper, sleeping just 2-3 hours per day and only 20 minutes at a time. So chances are good that he's awake right now.

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1. What is ADD?

ADHD is a neurobiological disorder located in the prefrontal cortex, and it is also a type of brain wiring different than the general population. It can be considered a disorder and a gift, and it affects all areas of functioning to a degree. But the main area of life it will affect is your executive function, or the area of the brain that organizes, plans and executes goals.

What is generally focused on with ADHD is a short attention span, or the inability to focus for long periods of time. People with ADD have minds that tend to wander, drift and get distracted by other things. What is very interesting about ADD is that sufferers can pay attention very well to things that are new, very stimulating, interesting or upsetting. These events provide enough stimulation in and of themselves that they activate the part of the brain that enables concentration. This is because people with ADD do not have enough adrenaline and need this in order to focus.

People with ADD have trouble paying attention to daily, routine activities that do not provide high stimulation such as chores, homework, and paperwork. Unfortunately, these activities are everywhere and are needed in order to function in society.

2. What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?

Attention Deficit Disorder is a very complex, and often times misunderstood, disorder. Its basis is physiological, but it can have a host of ramifications that come along with it. That aside, what are the differences between ADD and ADHD? ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, with the main symptoms being visible hyperactivity and/or impulsivity. These are the symptoms that stand out to the objective observer. ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder with the main symptoms being inattention. Now many other things can come along with both of these subtypes of ADHD, but those are the distinguishing features of both.

For many years, the typical picture of Attention Deficit Disorder has been the little boy that is bouncing off the walls and driving his teachers and parents crazy. ADHD is by far the most diagnosed of the two subtypes because it is so much more visible than ADD. Since hyperactivity creates a lot more distraction and problems for classrooms, it gets the most attention and will be picked up on a lot faster. Unfortunately, even though ADD is less invisible, the results of the disorder can just as destructive.

With inattentive attention deficit disorder, or ADD, the person suffering from it will seem spacey and disorganized. Most often, sufferers with this type will be staring out the window during classes and will appear as if they are never quite present. It is much more difficult to diagnose and many people with this form of ADD go years without even knowing they have it. But the results of the wandering mind can be just as destructive.

3. What about Adult ADD?

For many years, ADHD was thought to be a child disorder, and more specifically a disorder only found in young boys. But with medical technology and research evolving, it has been found that many children with ADD do not grow out of it when they become adults. Although some of the hyperactivity tends to decrease, the core symptoms of the disorder do not disappear. Hyperactivity can turn into impulsivity in adulthood, which can potentially be very destructive.

92 percent of adults diagnosed with ADHD who were treated after age 18 wish they had been diagnosed sooner, according to research done by Harris Interactive surveys. Research also indicated that 90 percent of teachers felt that late diagnosis affected both academic and social development in students.

Keith Londrie II is a well known author. For more information on ADHD, please visit ADHD for a wealth of information. You may also want to visit keith's own web site at http://keithlondrie.com/

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A chemical skin peel is a popular procedure used to treat various skin problems and conditions from acne, age spots, wrinkles and even some cancerous and precancerous growths. A caustic acid or substance is applied to the skin to burn and usually slough off or remove the outer layers of the skin (epidermis) and allow new skin to grow. Some chemical peels may go deeper into the dermis (next layer of skin). The purpose of this chemical peeling is to remove damaged, blemished, sun-damaged, freckled skin and replace it with younger, healthier skin. After healing the skin will be tighter, thicker (due to increased collagen production ? an added benefit of the stronger peels). Upon healing the skin may appear fuller, smoother with smaller pores and with less wrinkles and fine lines. Basically ones skin will look rejuvenated and more youthful following a chemical peel.

There are many types and varieties of these chemical peels. They are usually grouped and defined by their relative strength and depth of the peel that is achieved. There are basically four groups, the light peels (AHA), light oil-based peels (BHA), medium peels (TCA), and deep peels (Phenol).

AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) - These are the mildest of the peels. They are usually sugar derived hence their names, glycolic, malic, lactic and other fruit acids. These peels are usually performed by a dermatologist or esthetician and have minimal healing or downtime. Downtime is referred to as the time when the skin is healing and may be uncomfortable to be viewed in public due to peeling and possibly discolored dead skin that is usually associated with a deeper peel. These lighter peels are usually done on an outpatient basis and are commonly referred to as a 'lunch time' peel. An occlusive dressing similar to plastic wrap or layering (more than one application at one time) may be used to drive the acid in further and result in a deeper peel. They are effective for light skin pigmentation problems, reduction of oil produced by overactive sebaceous glands, sun spots, light sun damage and other minor skin problems. Usually multiple treatments are required to have the desired effect as it is not a deep peel. AHA?s are easily dissolved in water and are prepared either as a liquid or a cream. Glycolic acid is the most popular and extensively used of these peels.

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids) ? The main difference between these acids and alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) is that BHA?s are only oil soluble. There is basically only one BHA, salicylic acid. This unique feature of being oil soluble makes this acid very effective in cleaning and removing bacteria, dead skin cells and sebum oil from deep inside the pores. Because of this solubility difference, salicylic acid is better suited for use on oily, irritated skin with postules, blackheads and whiteheads. It is available in numerous forms, cream, gel, lotions, shampoo and topical solutions. The latter two forms are primarily for treating the scalp as salicylic acid has also been found effective in the treatment of dandruff, psoriasis, and dermatitis of the skin and scalp. Same as with AHA peels, occlusive dressings and/or layering may be used to drive the acid in farther.

TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) ? TCA or trichloroacetic acid peels are deeper medium depth peels. TCA is a more effective and longer lasting peel than the sugar and citric peels as it goes deeper into the dermis and can therefore treat more skin ailments, conditions and problems. A TCA peel does not require layering or occlusive dressings (methods used to drive AHA and BHA peels deeper). TCA, being a deeper peel, is effective on more skin conditions and problems. Basically a TCA peel has the benefits of both AHA and BHA peels along with deeper penetration and longer lasting effects. Healing or downtime tends to be longer as much as several weeks or more depending on the depth achieved. Peeling is more severe and the results more dramatic. TCA peels are routinely used by dermatologist and plastic surgeons in office as recommended treatments for all stages of acne including acne vulgaris. Numerous clinical studies have found to be every bit as effective as Accutane without any of the side effects (Accutane has been in the news lately for some rather severe potential side effects). TCA peels have also been proven to remove and treat freckles, years of sun damage, bad pigmentation, scars, loose skin and wrinkles and fine lines. TCA has recently even been used by doctors to treat, remove and lighten tattoos.

Phenol Peels. Phenol peels are the deepest chemical skin peels. They commonly result in a permanent bleaching pigmentation effect as they reach deeply through the dermis.. Phenol is toxic when absorbed through the skin and can effect heart rate, function and cause arrythmias, so a phenol peel is always done in a doctors care and with anesthesia as it is the deepest and most painful of the peels. It is a last resort peel due to its harshness and bleaching properties. Phenol is rarely performed nowadays due to its toxicity and the advent of safer medium depth peels like the TCA peel. Phenol peels have a long healing process and can require extensive care.

There are various derivatives of each of these 4 groups, but basically these are the various chemical skin peelsl. Clinical studies published in the Annals of Plastic Surgery and elsewhere show the TCA peels are the most effective of the peels on the most skin conditions and problems. Regardless of the peel used, maximum sun protection must be used to protect the new skin from harmful UV rays that can cause cancer in unprotected skin. A high SPF (sun protection factor) sun block and protective attire (hats) are recommended.

David Maillie is an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests and manufactures various skin peels and other for doctors offices and medispas. For more information on TCA peels please visit: http://www.bestskinpeel.com

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