Obesity

There are six major types of obesity, according to a study conducted in the US and the UK. To battle the disease more effectively, the researchers suggest, the medical community could recognize these different sub-categories and treat them separately.

Taking into account the various demographic, health and behavioral factors that may play a role in obesity, researchers at the University of Sheffield in the UK and at the Harvard School of Public Health in the US have defined six different types of obesity.

The researchers worked with data on over 4,144 obese adults from the Yorkshire Health Study cohort. All of them had a BMI over 30 (average BMI in the group was 34), and the average age was 56. Fifty-eight percent of these participants were female.

After collecting details on the participants' lifestyle, diet, physical activity and previous efforts to lose weight, the researchers developed a questionnaire that was distributed to the participants through their doctors.

Based on the responses to the questionnaire, the research team was able to identify patterns in clinical characteristics and establish six types of obese patients:

1 Young healthy females, who have not yet developed complications from obesity such as Type 2 diabetes.

2 Heavy-drinking males, who consume at least 12 drinks per week.

3 Unhappy and anxious middle-aged individuals, predominately women with mental health issues.

4 Affluent and healthy elderly individuals, who are in fairly good health overall but have higher alcohol intake and high blood pressure.

5  Physically sick but happy elderly individuals, who exhibit good mental health but suffer from chronic conditions such as arthritis.

6 Poorest health individuals, who are economically deprived and suffer from a greater number of chronic conditions than the other groups.

In their study, published in the Journal of Public Health on April 18, the researchers suggest that recognizing these different types may be essential to fighting obesity. Between excessive alcohol intake, erratic eating behaviors and lack of physical activity, factors leading to the condition can vary between the different groups, and the idea is that taking this into account could help doctors to develop more targeted interventions. 

Article Credit : http://www.hindustantimes.com/

Brahmi

Brahmi (Gotu Kola)

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Named after one of the highest states of consciousness (Brahman or God consciousness), Brahmi (Centella asiatica or Gotu Kola) is one of the most powerful brain tonics in the Ayurvedic apothecary. The leaf of the Brahmi plant resembles the cerebellum and is traditionally used to promote memory and intelligence and to relax the central nervous system. Brahmi supports restful sleep, calms emotional turbulence, and simultaneously improves concentration and alertness.

Recent studies suggest that Brahmi supports healthy skin, lymph, and circulatory functions. In particular, Brahmi seems to balance the inner skin that lines the digestive tract. There, healthy skin supports healthy microbes, which make neurotransmitters that support healthy and stable mood and cognitive function. Brahmi, in Ayurveda, is known as a brain tonic and may actually work on the brain through its effect on the gut microbiology.

Sometimes used topically, Brahmi is known to support rapid healing and healthy circulation.

Taste (Rasa): Astringent, bitter and sweet

Energy (Virya): Cooling

Post-digestive quality (Vipaka): Sweet

Quality (Guna): Dry, light

Tissue (Dhatu): Blood, bone, fat muscle, and nerve

Channel (Srotas): Circulatory, Digestive and Nervous 

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Dementia

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People with more demanding jobs may live longer even after developing a form of dementia than people with less skilled jobs, says a new study. Frontotemporal dementia, which often affects people under the age of 65, results in changes in personality or behaviour and problems with language but does not affect the memory.

"The results show that having a higher occupational level protects the brain from some of the effects of this disease, allowing people to live longer after developing the disease," said Lauren Massimo from University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. People with frontotemporal dementia typically live six to 10 years after the symptoms emerge but little has been known about what factors contribute to this range. For the study, researchers reviewed the medical charts of 83 people, who had an autopsy after death to confirm the diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia or Alzheimer's disease. They also had information about the people's primary occupation. Occupations were ranked as factory and service workers in the lowest level; jobs such as trades workers and sales people in the next level; and professional and technical workers such as lawyers and engineers in the highest level. Researchers measured when the symptoms began by the earliest report from family members of persistently abnormal behaviour. Survival was defined as from the time symptoms began until death. The 34 people with frontotemporal dementia had an average survival time of about seven years. The people with more challenging jobs were more likely to have longer survival times than those with less challenging jobs. "People in the highest occupation level survived an average of 116 months, while people in the lower occupation group survived an average of 72 months, suggesting that individuals, who had been in the professional workforce may live up to three years longer," the authors noted. The study found that occupational level was not associated with longer survival for the people with Alzheimer's disease. The findings add evidence to the "cognitive reserve" theory that experiences such as more education, higher occupation and mental activity build up connections in the brain that create a buffer against disease. The paper appeared online in the journal Neurology. 

Article Credit : http://www.mid-day.com/

Better Sleep

Original Source: Jennifer Liu / http://www.allyou.com/

Cherries: Cherries are a great source of naturally occurring melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate your sleep cycle. In fact, one study showed that adults who drank two daily glasses of tart cherry juice slept on average 40 minutes longer with greater sleep efficiency. The juice has also been shown to help reduce the severity of insomnia in some sufferers. Add some dry tart cherries to a trail mix to snack on during the day, or drink up to two glasses of tart cherry juice to see the benefits for yourself.

Bananas: Bananas offer a double-whammy when it comes to good sleep-inducing benefits. The snack-size fruit can help promote sleep due to its magnesium and potassium content: Both minerals are natural muscle relaxants. Have a banana with breakfast for a health boost during the day and better sleep at night.

Walnuts: Walnuts are another standout snack for better sleep. Walnuts' melatonin content can help you achieve a better night’s sleep, plus they’re great for cognitive and heart health. Add walnuts to your trail mix and snack on them throughout the day (bonus: pair them with some dried cherries for a tasty and sleep-healthy boost!).

Complex carbohydrates: Think cereals, rice, potatoes or white bread, which can be easily digested and prime your body for a good night’s rest, according to a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Lean proteins: There’s some truth in the Thanksgiving myth that turkey makes you sleepy. Tryptophan, an amino acid present in turkey and other lean meats such as fish and chicken, can increase your serotonin levels to help make you sleepy, if eaten in large quantities.

Legumes: Good news for those on a Paleo kick—certain legumes, such as beans, peas, and peanuts, contain a healthy dose of magnesium, a powerful relaxation mineral that can improve your sleep.

A glass of warm milk: Turns out that old insomniac's standby, the glass of warm milk before bed, actually can help you sleep better. Dr. Bazilian says this is probably due to two factors: First, the calcium in a glass of milk can help you relax, much like other minerals such as magnesium and potassium. And the ritual of having a glass of milk, especially if it’s warm and soothing, can help you power down after a long day, especially as part of a bedtime ritual that signals to your body and brain it’s time to hit the hay.

Herbal tea: The calming effects of chamomile or peppermint tea can help you fall asleep faster and deeper. Preparing a cup of tea before bed can also be a soothing part of an effective pre-bedtime ritual.

Bonus Sleep-Better Tip: As great as each of these foods can be for helping you get a more restful night of sleep, be wary of eating them too close to bed. If you consume anything too late in the day, your digestive system will be hard at work making sure your food is properly processed. While your body is still efficient when you sleep and can keep the digestion process going, the energy it uses during those sleeping hours will most likely result in lower-quality sleep overall.

Salad Dressing

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Dig into a crisp, cool salad for a perfect summer meal. Salads are easy to do, nutritious and make for a filling meal. However,  if you don’t play around with dressings flavours, then it can get a bit boring. Here are a few ideas that’ll jazz up your salads this summer:

1 Puree fun: Use puree of your favourite fruit as a dressing. Avocado puree with some lime and olive oil adds a nice, creamy texture to the salad and blends well with the basic ingredients. “It has  great nutritional value and the addition of lime balances the flavours very well,” says chef Kunal Kapoor.

2  Lemon-mint vinaigrette: Add a dash of citrusy freshness into your salad by using lemon-mint as your dressing. “Combine the flavours of lemon and mint to add sparkle to simple salads made with steamed vegetables, potatoes or grains, such as couscous,” says chef Adam Szczechura.

3  Strawberry –Tarragon Vinaigrette: Fresh strawberries with tarragon give your salad a dose of anti-oxidants, making your salad  healthy. You can also add bitter greens such as arugula or escarole, to give it a twist.

4  Sherry vinaigrette: For breezy summer evenings, top your salad with sherry. No matter how complex your salad is, sherry just makes everything smooth. Mix it up with just a touch of vinegar for tang and body, and with some and smooth olive oil.

5  Mint yoghurt and blueberry: Yoghurt and blueberry make for a fabulous dressing to go with lettuce or vegetables. “High in protein and vitamin, it also helps to fill up the thirst for moisture. A daily serving especially in summer keeps cold away. The combination works really well,” says chef Nishtant Choubey

6 Raspberry vinaigrette: This sweet dressing offers an excellent finish for a salad of mixed greens, fresh peaches or berries and grilled chicken.

7  Honey pepper vinaigrette:  This combination of honey, black pepper, and mint and sherry vinegar topped over fresh tomatoes, grilled shrimp or chicken breast is perfect and irresistible.

Recipe Credit : http://www.hindustantimes.com/

Eyeliner

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Applying eyeliner may cause vision problems

Women who apply eyeliner on the inner eyelid run the risk of contaminating the eye and causing vision trouble, a new study has warned.

This is the first study to prove that particles from pencil eyeliner move into the eye.

Researchers used video recordings to observe and compare the amount of eyeliner particles that migrated into the tear film - the thin coating protecting the eye - after applying makeup in different styles.

"We noticed that the makeup migration happened quicker and was greater when eyeliner was put on the inner lid margin," said Dr Alison Ng, a scientist at the University of Waterloo.

Each participant wore glitter eyeliner outside the lash line, and then on the inner lid area closer to the eye, or along the waterline. The vision scientists found that within five minutes, between 15 and 30 per cent more particles moved into the eye's tear film when subjects applied eyeliner to the inside of the lash line, compared to outside it.

The makeup also moved more quickly into the eye when eyeliner was applied inside the lash line.

As time passes, the amount of makeup entering the tear film steadily drops and by two hours, there was a negligible amount of eyeliner left.

However, Ng, who directed the study when she was at Cardiff University in Wales, and her colleagues say eyeliner can alter the tear film, adding to discomfort.

Eyeliner ingredients commonly include waxes, oils, silicones and natural gums to help eyeliner stick to eyelids and last for prolonged periods. It has to adhere through blinking, sweating and the secretion of natural oils.

Makeup that enters the tear film may cause discomfort for those with sensitive or dry eyes. But the eyeliner waxes and oils can also adhere to contact lenses and build up if used for more than one day.

Resulting complications include irritation and redness, introduction of harmful bacteria from the eyeliner, and in some cases, eye infections or blurred vision.

"People who wear contact lenses are most likely to notice some problems," said Ng.

"If they have eyeliner stuck to their lenses, increasing deposits might cause vision disruption as the lens becomes cloudier," said Ng.

While this study did not examine the bacterial aspect of makeup contamination to the eye, Ng notes that previous studies do show that old eye makeup can harbour bacteria.

"If you thoroughly sharpen your pencil eyeliner before each application and get rid of the stuff that's stuck to the end, you'll have a fresh tip which can help prevent infection," said Ng.

"With twist-up eyeliner, cut some off the end before each use. And always make sure to fully remove eye makeup before bed," Ng added.

The findings appear in the journal Eye and Contact Lens Science and Clinical Practice.

Article Credit : http://www.mid-day.com/

Weight Loss

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Of course nights are great for going on dates, binge-watching Netflix, doing work, chatting on the phone—you name it. But you know what else they're great for? Setting yourself up for bigger and better weight-loss results. Just follow these tips to get yourself that much closer to your goal weight.

Have a Low-Sodium Dinner

"If you want to wake up feeling less bloated, definitely skip the Chinese dinner," says Keri Gans, R.D., author of The Small Change Diet. What happens is the salt stays in your system overnight, so you wake up puffier than you normally would. The best option is to cook a healthy meal of steamed veggies and a lean protein—neither of which should be loaded with salt.

Do a Nighttime Workout

You know that sweating can help you drop pounds, but you may think that exercising too close to bedtime can keep you up at night. Luckily, that's not true; a 2013 survey from the National Sleep Foundation found that active people are 56 to 67 percent more likely to say they usually get a good night's sleep—no matter what time of day they exercise. Check out these four reasons why it's OK to work out at night.

Pack Your Lunch

The average restaurant meal contains more than twice the number of calories you should be consuming in one sitting, according to a 2013 study—and that's not even taking into account the lower calorie count you'll want your lunch to clock in at if you're trying to drop pounds. But in the a.m. rush, who has time to make lunch? Save yourself from a midday diet-wrecker by prepping your meal the night before.

Drink Lots of Water

H2O flushes out your system, which helps you get rid of any water you're retaining. But since you don’t want to be up all night running to the bathroom (and getting quality shuteye is crucial to weight loss), Gans suggests putting a halt to your water chugging one hour before bedtime.

Make Sure Your Bedroom is Super Dark

The hormone melatonin can help your body produce more calorie-burning brown fat, according to an animal study published last year in Journal of Pineal Research. Since your body already produces melatonin when you’re in complete darkness, make sure your room is light-free to boost weight loss.

Turn Down the Thermostat Before Hitting the Hay

The idea of burning more calories while you sleep may sound too good to be true, but a National Institute of Health Clinical Center study found that people who slept in a 66-degree room burned seven percent more calories than people who snoozed at 75 degrees. Seven percent isn’t a ton—but it can’t hurt!

Article Credit : http://www.womenshealthmag.com/

Constipation

What Is Constipation?

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become difficult or less frequent. The normal length of time between bowel movements ranges widely from person to person. Some people have bowel movements three times a day; others, only one or two times a week. Going longer than three days without a bowel movement is too long. After three days, the stool or feces become harder and more difficult to pass.

You are considered constipated if you have two or more of the following for at least 3 months:

• Straining during a bowel movement more than 25% of the time
• Hard stools more than 25% of the time
• Incomplete evacuation more than 25% of the time
• Two or fewer bowel movements in a week

What Causes Constipation?

Constipation is usually caused by a disorder of bowel function rather than a structural problem. 

Common causes of constipation include:

• Inadequate water intake
• Inadequate fiber in the diet
• A disruption of regular diet or routine; traveling
• Inadequate activity or exercise or immobility
• Eating large amounts of dairy products
• Stress
• Resisting the urge to have a bowel movement, which is sometimes the result of pain from hemorrhoids
• Overuse of laxatives (stimulant laxatives such as senna (Senokot)) which, over time, weaken the bowel muscles
• Hypothyroidism
• Neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
• Antacid medicines containing calcium or aluminum
• Medicines (especially strong pain medicines, such as narcotics, antidepressants, or iron pills)
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Pregnancy
• Colon cancer
• In some cases, lack of good nerve and muscle function in the bowel may also be a cause of constipation.

What Are the Symptoms of Constipation?

Symptoms of constipation can include:

• Infrequent bowel movements or difficulty having bowel movements (straining)
• Hard or small stools
• Sense of incomplete bowel movement
• Swollen abdomen or abdominal pain
• Pain
• Vomiting

There may also be occasional diarrhea resulting from hard stool obstructing the colon.

How Can I Prevent Constipation?

There are several things you can do to prevent constipation. Among them:

Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fiber. Good sources of fiber are fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole-grain bread and cereal (especially bran). Fiber and water help the colon pass stool.

Drink 1 1/2 to 2 quarts of water and other fluids a day (unless fluid restricted for another medical condition). Liquids that contain caffeine, such as coffee and soft drinks, seem to have a dehydrating effect and may need to be avoided until your bowel habits return to normal. Some people may need to avoid milk, as dairy products may be constipating for them.

Exercise regularly.

Move your bowels when you feel the urge.

Home Remedy :

1. Oil…it gets more than cars running

Pure olive oil is more than just a healthy and tasty fat, it can also help relieve constipation. It’s not surprising really when you consider what olive oil’s texture and consistency is like- it’s practically the poster child for constipation home remedies. It stimulates your digestive system, which helps get things moving through your colon, and taken regularly it can prevent constipation as well.

You will need…

-1 tablespoon of olive oil

-1 teaspoon of lemon juice (optional)

Directions

In the morning consume one tablespoon of olive oil. It works best on an empty stomach, so have it before you eat anything else. If you forget, wait until later when you haven’t eaten for a while. You can mix it with a little bit of lemon juice if you like to lighten the flavor (lemon juice also acts as a natural aid for constipation.)

2. Freshen up from the inside out

Ah the scent of a fresh lemon…did you ever think your stomach might appreciate it as much as your nose? The citric acid in lemon juice acts as a stimulant for your digestive system, and can also help flush out toxins and undigested material that may have built up along the walls of the colon. Mixing the juice with water not only lessens the intensity of the lemon flavor, but helps get you the fluids you need to get everything moving normally again.

You will need…

-1 fresh lemon

-1 cup of warm water

Directions

Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into 1 cup of warm water. Drink or sip until finished completely.

3. Molasses makes the world go ‘round

Blackstrap molasses has been a sweet savior for more than a few sufferers of constipation, be it chronic or occasional. The reason blackstrap molasses works so well is because of how it is made. Regular molasses is essentially pure cane sugar juice boiled to concentrate and crystallize the sugar. The third boiling results in blackstrap molasses, which is crystallized but contains significant amounts of vitamins and minerals, specifically magnesium, which is what helps the constipation. It’s natural, tasty, and while you thank goodness someone decided to repeatedly boil a bunch of sugar, your body will thank you for the natural remedy.

You will need…

-1 teaspoon of blackstrap molasses

-warm water or tea (optional)

Directions

Consume one teaspoon of blackstrap molasses. Start slow and small here-if you don’t like the flavor of molasses, you can add it to a cup of warm water or tea to dilute the taste. If you find that a teaspoon has not been effective, you can go as high as 1-2 tablespoons, but try less at first.

4. Coffee is our friend (sometimes)

A lot of people love their morning coffee, but it does more than just give off heavenly aromas and help you perk up. Caffeine is a natural stimulant for the digestive system, so indulging in a cup of joe will help get you up and running in more ways than one. 1-2 cups is fine, but make sure you don’t overdo it-too much can actually have the opposite effect. Coffee is a diuretic and makes you urinate more frequently, and if you drink it an excess, it can cause constipation by dehydrating your body and drawing out water that would normally soften your stool.

5. Get moving

If you want stuff to move through your body, you need to move too! Our lifestyle these days not only involves dietary changes that increase constipation, but we’re often sitting much more than we’re active. While there isn’t an exact scientific reason as to why lack of exercise is linked with getting clogged up, we can assume that moving the body helps get the smooth muscle in the colon moving as well. Keep in mind, however, that you should wait an hour after big meals before exercising. There are also specific stretches and workouts that are supposed to help with getting good old number 2 out the door.

6. Go natural (aka fiber, fiber, and more fiber)

You’ll hear people talk a lot about how a natural diet helps relieve and prevent constipation. An overall healthy diet just improves everything, and our bodies know how to process fruits, veggies, grains and roughage more than the refined or artificial foods that don’t pass as easily. To get more specific, natural foods tend to contain boatloads of fiber-that magical word that signifies the end of toilet suffrage. In short, fiber is material that cannot be digested, and it acts like a sponge. It draws water from its surroundings, making it swell, which softens stool and adds bulk to it, which in turn helps it pass. Like coffee, some kinds of fiber (like beans) can contribute to constipation, so always drink plenty of water. Some good fiber-filled foods include-

-Beans

-Apricots

-Whole grain bread

-Berries

-Broccoli

-Plums, pears, and apples

-nuts

-Potatoes (skip the fries though)

7. Get some FLAXitive

Flaxseed oil is a pretty simple home remedy for constipation. It sort of coats the walls of the intestine, as well as stool, and increases the number of bowel movements you are having. Enjoying your oil with orange juice is a double whammy when it comes to constipation, since oranges have a good amount of fiber in them (make sure to get orange juice with pulp, which is what has most of the fiber.)

You will need…

-1 glass of orange juice with pulp (8 oz.)

-1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil

Directions

Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil with 1 glass of orange juice. Drink as needed, but give it time (up to 5 hourse) to start working so you don’t overdo it.

8. Aloe-it’s benefits aren’t just skin deep

Aloe is known to soothe minor cuts and burns, but it can also soothe your tummy. It’s best to use pure aloe vera gel from the plant. The gel straight from the plant is more concentrated than commercial aloe juice so don’t use more than 2 tablespoons. If you don’t have an aloe plant, than drinking aloe juice can accomplish similar results.

You will need…

-2 tablespoons of pure aloe gel or 1 cup of aloe vera juice

Directions

Mix two tablespoons of pure gel with fruit juice and drink in the morning, OR drink one cup of aloe vera juice as needed.

9. Establish a routine

Potty schedules aren’t just for puppies, they’re a great way to relieve and prevent constipation in humans too. Regulating the timing of when you go to the bathroom will regulate your bowel movements as well. Set aside about 15 minutes anywhere from 1-3 times a day, and take your time, even if nothing happens. Make sure you stay relaxed, and eventually your body will catch on.

10. Baking soda does it all

Baking soda lies at the heart of home remedies. It’s is so incredibly versatile, and it pretty much does its job 95% of the time. It works incredibly well for constipation (and tummy aches in general) because it is a bicarbonate, which will encourage air to come out of you one way or another, and relieve pain from pressure. It also re-alkalizes the stomach, neutralizing the acid a little bit and helping things pass through your gut.

You will need…

-1 teaspoon baking soda

-1/4 cup warm water

Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with ¼ cup of warm water. Drink all of the mixture-the quicker you finish it, the better it seems to work.

11. Empty out with Epsom salt

Epsom salt is an effective home remedy for constipation for two main reasons. First, the salt draws water from its surroundings, softening up stool and making it easier to pass. Second, the magnesium that is present in the salt promotes contraction of the bowel muscles, which also makes passing easier. Table salt can be useful in terms of drawing water out, but it lacks the magnesium that Epsom has, so try and use Epsom salt if possible.

You will need…

-2 teaspoons of Epsom salt (for adults) OR ½ teaspoon (for children)*

-1 cup of water or fruit juice

Directions

Dissolve 2 teaspoons of Epsom salt in one cup of water or fruit juice and drink all of it. If within 4 more hours there is no sign of bowel movement, you may take one more dose. Only use ½ teaspoon for children.

*Consult the box for dosing

12. Don’t forget the prunes…

Perhaps one of the most classic cures for constipation is prunes or prune juice. The fruit works as a natural laxative because it has high amounts of fiber, and contains sorbitol. Sorbitol softens stools because it is a natural carbohydrate that is not easily ingested, causing it to draw a lot of water as it passes through the intestines and adding bulk to stool. Be careful though-too much and sorbitol can cause gas and make stool too soft.

You will need…

-2 glasses of prune juice (8oz)

Directions

Drink one glass of prune juice in the morning and one at night to relieve constipation. It should start working within a few hours, so it’s important to let one glass pass through your intestines before attempting to drink another-or else you risk diarrhea. You can also eat several prunes instead of drinking the juice if you prefer.

13. Heed natures call

This is a preventative measure to help ward off those uncomfortable bouts of constipation in the future, and it’s pretty straightforward. When you need to go to the bathroom-go! Your body is giving you the signal for a reason, and it’s a good idea to listen. The longer you hold it in, the more water is absorbed from the stool, and the harder it becomes. You’re body also only sends the signal to have a bowel movement for a certain amount of time, after a certain amount of time. That’s why if you have to go really badly and don’t, you stop feeling like you have to go. Delay the duty and you may not get the heads up to go until you’re even more clogged.

14. Dandy Dandelions

Dandelions are a terribly annoying weed, but you might view them differently after they help relieve your constipation. The constituents of dandelions make it a gentle laxative as well as an effective detoxifier, and a cup of dandelion tea will be enormously beneficial to those who are suffering from constipation due to inactiveness or the consumption of a lot of processed foods (although drinking it does not mean you don’t need to exercise or eat healthy!)

You will need…

-1-2 teaspoons of dried dandelion leaves

-1 cup of hot water

Directions

Put 1-2 teaspoons of dried dandelion leaves into a mug, and pour hot water over them. Cover and let steep for 6-10 minutes. Drink up to 3 times a day.

15. Bacteria is necessary

Healthy gut flora is vital to keep our digestive system working properly, especially in these times, when our stomach is getting pounded with all sorts of processed sugars and foods. Working to keep the good bacteria in our bodies strong and plentiful will help prevent constipation, and lessen its severity should it still occur. There are a number of ways to go about helping your bacteria flourish, but one simple method is to enjoy a cup of yogurt, which is filled with probiotics, with breakfast and during the day.

You will need…

-1-3 cups of plain yogurt

Directions

Eat a cup of yogurt with breakfast, and then on its own or with snacks throughout the day.

16 Home Remedies to Relieve Constipation

constipation“Potty problems” are something we avoid in our everyday conversations. While you may be more than willing to share how much your sore throat is torturing you, rarely do you go into the office and announce that you haven’t pooped in five days. However, constipation is not something to be embarrassed about, and if you’ve had it (and we all have) than you understand that it is no laughing matter-in fact it can be downright debilitating. Before running to the drugstore for a quick-fix laxative (which often worsen the problem) try some simple home remedies to relieve your discomfort, and keep it from coming back.

Spider Veins

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How to Get Rid of Those EVIL Spider Veins

So What Causes Them?

The thin, twist-and-turning veins get their name from resembling spider legs. And if your mom—or someone else in the family—has them, there's a good chance you'll get them, as well; the most common cause is genetics (although you won't necessarily get them if your mom did).

Certain lifestyle choices can up your risk for developing spider veins, too.

"Smoking, obesity, and hormonal birth control can all contribute to the formation of spider veins," says Luis Navarro, M.D., a board-certified surgeon and the director of the Vein Treatment Center in New York City. "Smoking and obesity can restrict circulation, which in turn causes vessels to swell, which causes spider veins."

Obesity, he explains, puts a lot of stress on the body in general, which can be harmful to the circulatory system. And birth control alters your hormones, which can weaken vein walls and speed up the formation of spider and varicose veins (a more serious vein problem that can cause pain and lead to serious health issues like deep vein thrombosis).

Is There Anything You Can Do to Prevent Them?

Unfortunately, there's not much you can do. When it comes to heredity, prevention isn't possible, says Navarro. If spider veins don’t run in your family, though, working up a sweat might help keep them away. "Running and exercise are beneficial for circulation, which can help prevent veins from forming," he says. 

What Are the Treatment Options?

The most effective option is sclerotherapy, which "consists of injecting a solution, made out of salt, fatty acids, and glycerin, into the faulty vein," says Navarro. This collapses the vein and allows the blood to flow back safely into the blood stream. Sclerotherapy feels just like any normal injection, only takes a few minutes, and doesn't require any downtime. "Some patients may experience bruising, but [that] usually clears up in one to two weeks," says Navarro.

A completely painless version of the treatment, called cryo-sclerotherapy, incorporates a blast of cool air that numbs the skin. The last option is foam sclerotherapy, which uses foam to cling to the vein wall, but can take longer to see results. "This is typically performed on larger veins," says Navarro.

When it comes to these procedures, the number of sessions you'll need varies depending on the severity of the veins—although Navarro taps the average at two to four treatments and a follow-up appointment with your doctor. Each treatment costs between $500 and $1,000 per session.

Although pricey, there is very little chance of side effects. "All spider veins start healing immediately [after treatment]," says Navarro. What's more, "Patients will usually not develop any more. However, there is a chance that different veins will form over time, especially if veins are genetic."

In addition to the in-office treatments, a horse chestnut seed extract supplement (available at health stores) can help alleviate swelling and redness—but it won't get rid of the spider veins, says Navarro. Makeup and self-tanner can help camouflage, but no topical treatment will remove the swelling and discoloration completely.

Article Credit : http://www.womenshealthmag.com/

Soda

Drinking Soda is Even Worse For You Than We Thought

The latest research presents yet another reason to lay off of sweetened carbonated beverages.

Recent studies have already connected soft drinks and other sugary beverages with diseases such as diabetes and obesity—and previous research has found a correlation between soda and a higher likelihood of suffering a stroke. The latest nail in soda's coffin is a study from the Journal of Nutrition, which suggests that, while an occasional bottle of pop every few weeks won't do much damage, sipping more than two eight-ounce sodas or sweetened juice drinks per day raises your stroke risk by up to 22 percent.

Researchers used self-reported data from about 68,000 men and women, who filled out questionnaires about how often they consumed sweetened drinks, what their workout routines were, and more. After following up with study participants 10 years later, researchers found an association between those who consumed more than two sodas a day and higher odds of a type of stroke called a cerebral infarction (which is caused by a blockage of blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the brain). It didn't matter if the drinks were sweetened with artificial sweeteners or real ones, either; both increased study subjects' risk of a cerebral infarction, as well as their overall risk of any type of stroke.

Now, it's important to keep in mind that self-reported data is often unreliable. It's entirely possible that the people in the study were under-reporting how much soda they drank daily (either intentionally or unintentionally), which could skew the results. But still—pretty scary stuff.

What's the mechanism behind the soda-stroke link? Researchers aren't sure, but they theorize that soda increases blood-glucose levels, which in turn boosts a person's odds of developing diabetes—a known risk factor for cerebral infarction. It may also be that soda increases inflammation in the body, and inflammation is also associated with stroke risk. Whatever is behind the study findings, the bottom line is this: You should make soda or sweetened fruit drinks an occasional splurge or treat, not the beverages you wash your meals down with on a regular basis.  

Article Credit : http://www.womenshealthmag.com/

Kissing

8 Health Benefits of Kissing

By Dr. Mercola

Kissing is a uniquely human trait that’s said to have emerged as a way to pass germs from one person to another, ultimately building immunity. But that’s rather unromantic, isn’t it? While it seems plausible that kissing would have an underlying biological function, there’s also no denying its role in bonding… or overall health.

8 Health Benefits of Kissing

Kissing not only feels good, it’s good for you. It relieves stress and releases epinephrine into your blood, making it pump faster, which may result in a reduction of LDL cholesterol. Kissing may even be a novel way to receive certain hormones, like testosterone:

“'Mucous membranes inside the mouth are permeable to hormones such as testosterone. Through open-mouth kissing, men introduced testosterone into a woman’s mouth,' which 'is absorbed through the mucous membranes… and increases arousal and the likelihood that she will engage in reproductive behavior.”

Interestingly, Andréa Demirjian, author of Kissing: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about One of Life's Sweetest Pleasures, believes “a kiss a day really can keep the doctor away.” And she recently shared eight reasons why with CNN:

1. Reduce Your Blood Pressure

Kissing helps to dilate your blood vessels, which may help lower your blood pressure.

2. Relieve Cramps and Headaches

The blood-vessel-dilation effect described above also helps to relieve pain, particularly from headache or menstrual cramps.

3. Fight Cavities

When you kiss, saliva production increases in your mouth, and this helps to wash away plaque on your teeth that may lead to cavities. That said, cavity-causing bacteria can also be transmitted via a kiss, especially if the person you’re kissing has poor oral habits. It’s even been shown that cavity-causing bacteria can spread from a mother’s kiss to her baby.

4. Release Your Happy Hormones

Kissing prompts your brain to release a happy elixir of feel-good chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. This isn’t only important for your happiness, it also may also help to strengthen your relationship. As MSN reported:

“’This [oxytocin] is the hormone of love, and the better the oxytocin levels, the more capacity for love,’ explains psychotherapist Arthur Janov, Ph.D., author of ‘The Biology of Love’ and the director of the Primal Center in Santa Monica, Calif. ‘We have found that those who cannot commit in a love relationship are low in oxytocin.’”

Interestingly, kissing activates the same areas in your brain linked to reward and addiction. According to the researchers who revealed this finding:

“Kissing may have evolved as a way to stimulate brain systems associated with sex drive, romantic love, and attachment so that humans are triggered to seek a variety of potential mates, then focus attention on one for mating, and finally be able to tolerate that mate long enough to raise a child as a team.”

Your lips are also densely packed with sensory neurons, which are stimulated by the touch of another’s lips. This prompts the release of sebum, which is thought to play a role in bonding.

5. Burn Calories

It’s not going to replace your workout session… but a vigorous kiss may burn 8-16 calories. Not too shabby for a kiss.

6. Boost Your Self-Esteem

One study found that men who received a passionate kiss before they left for work earned more money.8 This suggests the kiss (and perhaps the happy home-life it suggests) makes people happier, boosts self-esteem and, ultimately, more productive at work.

7. Tone Your Facial Muscles

A vigorous kiss helps you shape up your neck and jawline by working out a number of facial muscles.

8. Check Out Your Partner’s Compatibility

A kiss can be a powerful measure of your initial attraction to a person, so much so that the majority of men and women surveyed reporting that a first kiss could be a turn-off. Women, in particular, place more importance on kissing as a “mate assessment device” and as a means of “initiating, maintaining, and monitoring the current status of their relationship with a long-term partner.”

Kissing May Even Boost Your Immune System and Provide Significant Stress Relief

The average person spends more than 20,000 minutes of their life kissing,  and for very good reason. In addition to the benefits above, kissing has been shown to boost your immune system and reduce allergic responses in people with skin or nasal allergies.

Separate research also revealed that people who spent six weeks making kissing a priority with their partners reported significant decreases in their levels of stress. In addition to improvements in stress, the kissing participants also reported greater relationship satisfaction and improvements in total cholesterol.

There may actually be an even more primal reason for why “kissing” developed, however. Because some cultures don’t include kissing in their mating rituals, it’s possible the first kiss was given by a mother to her child rather than being shared between a couple.

Psychologists conjecture that kiss-feeding – exchanging pre-masticated food from one mouth to another -- was how babies received the nutrients needed to grow up strong and healthy either in addition to, or after, breastfeeding. This jump starts the digestion process and makes vitamins like B-12 more easily absorbable while also promoting attachment and bonding.

Article Credit: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/01/30/8-kissing-benefits.aspx

Vitamin E

Vitamin E capsules for Hair 

Unbeknownst to many, Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that helps in keeping the heart and skin healthy. But more than this, vitamin E proves to be beneficial to hair health as well. Although scientists and medical experts alike cannot exactly determine how vitamin E aids in keeping the hair healthy, they believe that it produces the same exact mechanism that it does for keeping the heart healthy. It has been proven to show positive effects to hair such as prevention of hair loss and promoting hair growth by enabling growth of the capillaries.

Benefits of Vitamin E for Hair

There are countless benefits that vitamin E can provide for the body including healthy hair growth. Regular intake of this vitamin can prove to be beneficial and its effects can be seen in just a matter of weeks. This supplement can also be applied to skin or scalp topically to further enhance and accelerate the appearance. The quality and texture of the hair can be improved when it is regularly applied with vitamin E oil.

Here are some specific benefits that Vitamin E can provide:

Used For	Description
Hair Growth	Vitamin E is a great stimulant for growth of capillaries, when the capillaries are healthy and profuse, the blood circulation in the scalp will be enhanced which will therefore promote strong and healthy growth of hair.
Pre-mature Greying	Vitamin E contains effective and potent antioxidants that inhibit good health of our body tissues, when our body tissues are strong and healthy, our aging process slows down as well. Therefore, aging signs that may appear in our skin and hair will slow down as well. With regular intake of vitamin D, you will notice that not only will the skin look younger, but premature graying of the hair will be prevented as well.
Lustrous Hair	Because vitamin D oil can be used topically, it can directly condition the hair making it more lustrous, shinier and stronger than it was before. This vitamin oil can also be combined with commercially manufactured conditioner and then massaged on to the scalp to further make the hair soft and smooth.
Split Ends	A lot of women often complain about having split ends, and this is understandable as its appearance can really make hair look dull, dry and lifeless. This can be caused by constant use of hot hair tools without using proper protection on the hair or by regular dyeing of the hair. In order to restore the hair’s health, hair experts advise to treat it with the combined mixture of equal amounts of coconut, olive, jojoba and hemp oils to make 12 ounces. Mix in two oz. vitamin E oil into the mixture and apply to the roots up to the tips of the hair.

Travelling

Top 5 Hygiene Tips While Travelling

Trying out new things, going on an adventure, sampling local cuisine, shopping and having the best time of your life etc. are 'little' expectations you have when you go out to explore the world. But, do you know that there are certain little things which you often ignore amidst all the fun in your travel plans? And those little things are germs. Ignore them and all your travel plans will go for a toss. So, if you want to enjoy a trouble free vacation, then follow these simple hygiene tips which will let you enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Prepare a Travel Kit

You must carry a hand sanitizer, disposable tissues, face wash and a first-aid kit with you to ensure that your vacations go without a hitch. These small things will protect you from the vicious bacteria and germs that can make your stomach upset or make you fall sick on the way. Irrespective of the expected menstrual cycle time, a woman should always carry sanitary napkins in her bag.

Nature's Call and Dirty Toilets

Not just public toilets, airline toilets are also a breeding ground for germs. With hundreds of people using the same commode, it is natural that it becomes the hub of viruses and germs. So for your peace of mind, always clean the rim of the toilet seat with sanitizing wipes. And also, touch the toilet door knob using a tissue paper.

Whenever you travel, carry your own toilet paper which will be useful while using public toilets. It is always advisable to carry your own disposable soap sheets, rather than using the liquid soaps available in the public toilets.

Examine Your Hotel

Your hotel room may appear clean to you, but you never know what the true story is. Pillows and bed sheets are the two things which tend to be "germy" in a hotel room, as they have been used by many people.

Therefore, it is advisable to carry a bed sheet which can be used underneath the quilt or sheet provided in the hotel. Besides this, examine each and every nook and cranny of your hotel room. If you are unsatisfied, then talk to the cleaning staff and give them your feedback. Do not forget to give them a good tip as well. They will surely appreciate your gesture and put an added effort to clean your room.

Food

Hygiene goes for a toss when you see mouth watering street food in front of you.

After all, everybody loves gol gappas in Delhi, momos in Kolkatta, gaeng som in Thailand and hot dogs in New York. However, before you order from a joint, always go through the below mental checklist.

"    Is the wok spotless?

"    Are the surroundings clean?

"    Are the serving dishes being washed carefully?

If you are a little confused about where to go, you can talk to the locals and ask them to recommend some good food joints. While on a road trip never take a risk and go to an unhygienic restaurant. Just walk into a super market and get some juice, bread, chocolate bars, assorted cheese and fruits.

Water

While travelling, always buy mineral water. A few places may claim to have clean water, but do not take their word for it. You can also make an investment in a mini water purifier. Carry it around wherever you go and enjoy clean and safe drinking water for free.

Article Credit: http://in.lifestyle.yahoo.com/top-5-hygiene-tips-while-travelling.html

Antioxidants

10 Surprising Sources of Antioxidants

About to hit the weights? First munch on some watercress. The dark, leafy green can protect against the DNA damage from a tough workout, according to a new study in the British Journal of Nutrition.

Watercress is packed with antioxidants, which snatch up DNA-damaging free radicals.

While all non-processed foods contain antioxidants, some have more than others. But certain foods, like spinach, blueberries, and tea, hog all the antioxidant-packing glory. No more. With the help of Alexandra Caspero, R.D., owner of weight-management and sports-nutrition service Delicious-Knowledge.com, we dug into the research to discover these 10 surprising superfoods. (For more delicious ways to instantly upgrade your health, read the 10 Best Foods You Aren’t Eating.)

1. Watercress: This leafy green, a member of the cabbage family, has a light, peppery flavor.
Why it’s healthy: One cup of watercress has just 4 calories, but it’s loaded with vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains lutein and zexanthin, two antioxidants that are beneficial for eye health.
How to eat it: Swap watercress for the lettuce on your next sandwich, or toss a bowl of the leaves with goat cheese, toasted pistachios, and your favorite vinaigrette.

2. Vanilla Beans: Growing off climbing vanilla orchid plants, these fruits have a famously sweet fragrance and flavor.
Why they’re healthy: These little beans pack big phenolic compounds, which work as potent antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammation agents.
How to eat them: Drink them. Combine 1.5 cups pear juice, 6 oz. vodka, and seeds from 1/2 of a vanilla bean. Shake it all up, pour it over ice, and start sipping. (Learn how to make more great drink recipes in one minute or less.)

3. Cocoa Powder: The commercial name for cocoa solids, it’s the low-fat component of the cacao bean.
Why it’s healthy: It contains several minerals including calcium, magnesium, and sodium, and can contain up to 10 percent of its weight in flavanoids, which may prevent heart disease and stroke.
How to eat it: Make a mole sauce with unsweetened cocoa powder or add a small amount (a little goes a long way) to savory sauces.

4. Sorghum: This gluten-free grain is similar in taste and texture to wheat berries.
Why it’s healthy: With 70 percent starch—and a good chunk of protein—it’s a solid energy source. What’s more, it lowers cholesterol and packs B-complex vitamins.
How to eat it: Try it in your Tabbouleh salad instead of bulgur wheat, or sub sorghum syrup for honey in any recipe. (Is Gluten Making You Fat? Find out the truth about this hot controversy.)

5. Raisins: We assume you know what a raisin is.
Why they’re healthy: While dark raisins pack anthocyanins that provide the same carb boost as an energy gel, all are a top source of boron, which helps to build and keep strong bones.
How to eat them: Kick your oatmeal up a notch by sprinkling a handful of raisins on top.

6. Ginger Root: The horizontal stem of the ginger plant, it has a slightly hot, citrus-like taste.
Why it’s healthy: Nine compounds found in ginger can improve your gastrointestinal function. Even better, the plant eases muscle pain associated with exercise.
How to eat it: Grate a little fresh ginger root on anything from your stir-fry to your morning mimosa.

7. Kidney Beans: Also known as chili beans or red beans, they have a dark red skin and curvy shape (hence their name.)
Why they’re healthy: A quarter cup of red kidney beans has more than 6,000 antioxidants, plus 3 grams of cholesterol-fighting fiber. What’s more, they pack plenty of muscle-boosting protein.
How to eat them: Mash them up and mix them into ground beef when making hamburger patties. Or go the southern route by whipping up beans and rice.

8. Coffee: America really does run on Dunkin’: Good old Joe is the number one source of antioxidants in the American diet.
Why it’s healthy: A cup of java—both caffeinated and decaf—contains a host of antioxidants, including chlorogenic acid, which prevents the oxidation of bad cholesterol. (Learn Which Is Best: Coffee or Tea?)
How to drink it: Espresso, Americano—order whatever you like. Just take it easy on the sugar and whip.

9. Barley: A major cereal, its small, oval-shaped grains are fun for more than feeding livestock.
Why it’s healthy: This fiber jackpot lowers your cholesterol and carries a heap of nutrients including molybdenum, folate, and manganese. It might even boost your brainpower.
How to eat it: For a grain, this thing is pretty darn versatile. Add it to soup, use it for risotto, or sprinkle it on salad for an extra crunch.

10. Eggs: How many times can we say it? Eating eggs does not raise your risk for heart problems.
Why they’re healthy: Where do we start? Whole eggs contain more vitamins and minerals per calorie than pretty much any food. They’re also one of the best sources of choline, a chemical your body needs to break down fat for energy.

Image and Article Credit: http://news.menshealth.com/surprising-antioxidants/2012/05/09/