GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter(LES), the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach. Many people, including pregnant women, suffer from heartburn or acid indigestion caused by GERD. Doctors believe that some people suffer from GERD due to a condition called hiatal hernia. In most cases, heartburn can be relieved through diet and lifestyle changes; however, some people may require medication or surgery.

What is Gastroesophageal Reflux? Gastroesophageal refers to the stomach and esophagus. Reflux means to flow back or return. Therefore. gastroesophageal reflux is the return of the stomach's contents back up into the esophagus. The severity of GERD depends on LES dysfunction as well as the type and amount of fluid brought up from the stomach and the neutralizing effect of saliva.

What Factors Contribute to GERD? Dietary and lifestyle choices may contribute to GERD. Certain foods and beverages, including chocolate, pepperming, fried or fatty foods, coffee, or alcoholic beverages, may trigger reflux and heartburn. Studies show that cigarette smoking relaxes the LES. Obesity and pregnancy can also play a role in GERD symptoms.

What Are the Symptoms of Heartburn? Heartburn, also called acid indigestion, is the most common symptom of GERD and usually feels like a burning chest pain beginning behind the breastbone and moving upward to the neck and throat. Many people say it feels like food is coming back into the mouth leaving an acid or bitter taste. Heartburn pain can be mistaken for the pain associated with heart disease or a heart attack, but there are differences. Exercise may aggravate pain resulting from heart disease, and rest may relieve the pain. Heartburn pain is less likely to be associated with physical activity.

How Common Is Heartburn and GERD? More than 60 million American adults experience heartburn at least once a month, and about 25 million adults suffer daily from heartburn. Twenty-five percent of pregnant women experience daily heartburn. Recent studies show that GERD in infants and children is more common than previously recognized and may produce recurrent vomiting, coughing, and other respiratory problems.

What Is the Treatment for GERD? Doctors recommend lifestyle and dietary changes for most people needing treatment for GERD. Treatment aims at decreasing the amount of reflux or reducing damage to the lining of the esophagus from refluxed materials. Avoiding foods and beverages that can weaken the LES is recommended. These foods include chocolate, pepperming, fatty foods, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. Foods and beverages that can irritate a damaged esohageal lining, such as citrus fruits and juices, tomato products, and pepper, should also be avoided. Along with lifestyle and diet changes, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription treatments.

Although GERD can limit daily activities and productivity, it is rarely life-threatening. With an understanding of the causes and proper treatment most people will find relief.

http://www.webmd.com/

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL HEALTH

To live long and happy, we need to balance and maintain our mental and emotional health. Today, men and women undergo a lot of personal and professional stress, be it the boss issues, travel issues, spouse issues etc. Due to the imbalance, they end up causing and facing disasters in their lives. Take a look to know on how to avoid and achieve the emotional balance day to day.

1. CHECK WHAT YOU ARE EATING - According to the ancient Indian theory, it is definitely not about the diet or fitness but it is the type of food that matters to keep our emotions intact. "Tamas ahaar" are a certain type of food that can vary the emotion levels of a person. Over eating of salt and sugar, onions, chillies, garlic, drumstick, non vegetarian food and fermented drinks can increase certain hormones which can make you get angry during tensing situations. This is why philosophers and scholars avoid eating these types of food.

2. ANGER MANAGEMENT - Even when you get angry, you need to know the ways to tackle it. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, usage of stress balls and drinking water can control and help you maintain mental and emotional health.

3. MAINTAIN GOOD RELATIONSHIPS - Enrolling in laughter clubs, making friends and sharing problems with close ones can make you feel light from within. Learn to forgive and forget.

4. BE OPEN TO LEARN - Sometimes learning new things will help you get over with the problems in life. Join dancing, painting or singing classes (anything of interest to you) as this helps you feel good and diverts your attention from the worries of life. Keep your brain active and be aware of all of the things that you do.

5. TAKE IT EASY - Everybody makes mistakes, so take it esy and give a fair chance to yourself and people around you. Understand that the only way to have a satisified life is by living it to the fullest.

source: http://www.greynium.com/

OBESITY CRISIS: 6 WAYS TO LOSE THE LOVE HANDLES

Obesity has become a global health crisis as people eat more, exercise less and get unhealthier. In the US alone about one-third of people are obese. That's a lot of excess fat. There are many ideas cited as to why we're getting so big: the reasons range from lack of sleep, to vitamin deficiencies and lifestyle choices, all the way to not being breastfed when we were babies. Whatever the cause, the key now is to get people moving and eating right. The question remains as to what is the most effective way. Need some ideas on how to win the battle of the bulge? Here are six effective ways to trim down:

1. EAT RED PEPPERS: This spicy addition to a meal can help rev up your metabolism: it's also a good source of vitamins A, C, B6, folate, potassium, Vitamin E, Vitamin K and fiber.

2. REPLACE YOUR SNACKS WITH SOUP: Swapping out two typical daily snacks for two servings of soup may result in up to a 50 percent greater weight loss among overweight dieters - even if the soup and the snacks have the same exact number of calories. Your best bet is to go with soups rich in vegetables and low in sodium.

3. DRINK LOTS OF WATER: Drop more pounds faster by drinking two cups of water before each meal. You've probably heard that drinking water before you eat can help you lose weight, the theory behind this recommendation is that the water helps fill you up so that you end up eating less at mealtime, which leads to fewer calories consumed in the day.

4. DRINK GREEN TEA: Chemicals in green tea, along with caffeine, are thought to burn fat and reduce weight. They also improve body measurement parameters like body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio. Try replacing your morning cup of coffee with green tea and have another cup later in the day for an afternoon pick-me-up.

5. MAKE SURE YOU DRINK YOUR MILK: People trying to lose weight might have greater success if they have higher intakes of calcium from dairy products(milk, cheese, yogurt) and higher levels of Vitamin D in their blood. Make sure you're drinking low-fat or skim milk and try Greek yogurt since it has more protein than regular. Also, avoid flavored yogurts since they are just loaded with sugar.

6. WHEN YOU GET THE WEIGHT OFF, KEEP IT OFF: Exercise is your best bet to make sure that the pounds you shed stay off. Set a limit for yourself. If you find yourself gaining more than 5 lbs., it is time to get back on track. If you don't like scales, simply use your clothes. If they are feeling tight, it's time to get moving.

source: http://www.fyiliving.com/

CHINESE NEW YEAR 2012 - YEAR OF THE DRAGON

Chinese New Year is the first day of the Chinese calendar. Celebrated by Chinese people around the world, it is a major holiday where friends and family gather for a reunion dinner and celebration. Red clothing is worn to ward away evil spirits and bad fortune, and new clothing symbolizes starting the year anew.

RETHINK YOUR DRINK

Did you know? The average American drinks 50 gallons of soda and other sweetened beverages each year. There are almost 17 teaspoons of sugar in a regular 20-ounce cola;sweetened beverages are the largest source of added sugar in the American diet.

American teens drink almost twice as much soda and sweetened beverages as milk. A child's risk for obesity increases an average of 60 percent with every additional daily serving of soda(a serving is 12 ounces).

Frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages causes weight gain, which can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

The average soda sold in the United States has more than doubled in size since the 1950s, from 6.5 ounces to 16.2 ounces.

Marketers spend close to $500 million each year to target children and adolescents with messages about sugar-sweetened drinks, more than they spend on any other category.

What can you do? Make smart drink choices. Try the following tips:

1. When thirsty, drink water first.

2. When eating out, order water instead of high-calorie drinks.

3. Drink more low-fat or fat-free milk.

4. Drink 100 percent juice in limited amounts or mix juice with seltzer water.

5. Drink fewer sugar-sweetened drinks.

6. Make flavor-infused water by adding lemons, limes, berries, cucumbers, mint leaves or other natural flavors for a refreshing treat.

7. Choose unsweetened coffee or tea and lightly flavor it yourself.

8. Cut portion sizes of sugar-sweetened drinks by choosing a "small" instead of a "large."

source: http://www.redding.com/

FOUR TIPS TO PREVENT FALLS IN THE HOME

One out of three adults, age 65 and older, fall each year, but fewer than half of them talk to their healthcare providers about it. It's a largely preventable health problem. Here's how to reduce the risk:


1. Exercise regularly - to strengthen legs and improve balance; try Tai Chi


2. Get an eye checkup - at least once a year and get glasses updated as needed. Consider getting a pair with single vision distance lenses for activities such as walking outside.


3. Safety proof the home - reduce tripping hazards, such as loose rugs; add grab bars in shower/bath/next to toilet; ensure stair railings are in place; and improve lighting throughout home.


4. Review medications - have a doctor or pharmacist review medications/prescriptions for side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness.


When seniors fall, they usually develop a fear of falling, even if they are not injured. That fear can easily turn into a senior choosing to limit their physical activity, which in turn increases their risk of falling again.





source: www.dailypress.com/health

7 HEALTHY FOODS FOR LESS THAN $1

No one likes spending a lot of money at the grocery store. All too often, however, healthy good-for-you items are traded in for preservative-packed, high calorie ridden foods, just ot save a buck or two. Well, here is some good news for you! Even budget babes can make healthy choices! Next time you are shopping for groceries, try adding these cheap and healthy options to your cart:

1. BEANS: 52 CENTS OR LESS PER 1/2 CUP SERVING. Beans, beans, they are good for your heart! Did you know that just one serving of beans has 7 grams of fiber and 7 grams of protein? These fiber rich, protein packed beans are a great choice for lasting energy.

2. EGGS: 23 CENTS PER LARGE EGG. Not only are eggs a source of high-quality protein(yes, even the yolk), they also contain the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which help keep your eyes healthy and functional. For a delicious and nutritious breakfast, eat a two-egg omelet mixed with fresh salsa and spinach.

3. BANANAS: 40 CENTS PER BANANA. Bananas are an awesome on-the-go snack. Keep a few bananas handy for when you are running late and need a quick bite to eat. A large banana fulfills one of your daily fruit servings. Also, it is a great source of potassium, fiber, vitamin C and vitamin B6.

4. POTATOES: APPROXIMATELY 44 CENTS A PIECE. Although potatoes are high in starch and shouldn't be part of your everyday diet, there is no arguing that potatoes are one of the cheapest grocery staples. They are loaded with a great percentage of fiber, potassium and vitamin C. One great way to eat potatoes is to mix carrots in with thick slices of potato, then roast them in the oven with a little bit of olive oil and black pepper.

5. YOGURT: 49 CENTS PER 8-OUNCE SERVING. Not only is yogurt an excellent source of calcium and protein, it tastes great as well! Add fresh strawberries and blueberries to plain yogurt for a naturally sweet taste. Save money on your favorite yogurt by purchasing it in bulk - you'll pay lots more if you buy single-serving containers.

6. LEAN GROUND BEEF: $1.02 PER 3-OUNCE SERVING OF 93% LEAN GROUND BEEF. Red meat may get a bad rap among healthy eating circles, but lean beef is actually a great low-fat source of protein and iron. It's easy to cook and versatile too!

7. FROZEN VEGETABLES: 30 CENTS FOR A HALF-CUP SERVING OF FROZEN PEAS. Frozen veggies are an incredibly smart buy when you are trying to save money. Frozen veggies are picked at the peak of ripeness and frozen to seal in maximum nutrients. They don't have the added sugar and sodium content like canned veggies do - making them a healthier food option.

source: http://www.bangstyle.com/

TELEPHONE TIPS FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS


Who hasn't been frustrated when calling a doctor's office, government agency or an insurance company? We all have stories about encountering rude people, getting the runaround and sifting through multiple menu options before finally speaking with a live person. While the Web is a valuable resource, sometimes you just have to break down and use the phone to resolve an issue or attain information. Below are some telephone tips to help make this nagging task less burdensome.

1. Make the phone call when you have adequate time - not when you're rushed.

2. Prepare yourself. Review any written material first, write the questions you want to ask beforehand, and keep paper and pen handy to take notes during the call.

3. Psych yourself up to calm your jitters. Think positively. Plan what you're going to initally say.

4. Be modest. Tell the person on the other end of the line that you're an amateur, and that you hope they can give you some guidance. Enlist sympathy and, thereby, help.

5. State the issue or what you want clearly. Practice saying it before you pick up the phone.

6. Begin questions with "where" or "how" so people will be open to suggest possibilities.

7. Be persistent and patient, and don't get intimidated. You have the right to information and respectful service.

8. Be polite, but don't get brushed off. If you're constantly meeting roadblocks, ask to speak to a supervisor.

Obtaining information and breaking through red tape can be daunting. When one approach doesn't work, try another. There is more than one way to get information or resolve a problem, so remain optimistic.





source: http://www.rightathome.net/

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET

The name conjures up images of golden-skinned Greek gods and goddesses, sapphire blue sea shores, and exotic Italian vacations. But really, the Mediterranean Diet isn't about richness at all. Instead, it's about finding depth and range in simple, fresh foods, while staying healthy and fit in the most natural way possible. It's based on the traditional eating habits of the poor coastal regions of Southern Italy, Crete, and Greece and was initally promoted by Dr. Ancel Keys, who studied the eating habits of a small Italian fishing village for more than a quarter century. In the 1990's, Dr. Wlater Willet of Harvard University modified the diet in the form that is recognizable today. The essential elements of the diet are:

1. Lots of vegetables and legumes.

2. Fresh fruit every day.

3. Olive oil as the principal source of fat.

4. Dairy products, mostly as yogurt and cheese.

5. Fish and poultry in moderate amounts.

6. Very little red meat.

7. 0-4 eggs a week.

8. Red wine in moderate amounts.

Typically, the Mediterranean diet includes primarily whole-grain and unprocessed carbohydrates that have very few unhealthy trans-fats. Nuts are a big part of a typical Mediterranean diet, and while nuts are high in fat and calories, they are very low in unhealthy saturated fats and high in healthy, polyunsaturated fats. Besides being a pretty successful weight loss diet, the Mediterranean diet has also been shown to lower the risk of:

1. Dying from heart disease.

2. Dying from cancer

3. Developing Type 2 diabetes

4. Hypertension

5. Raised cholesterol levels

6. Becoming obese

7. Developing Alzheimer's disease

8. Developing Parkinson's disease

The Mediterranean diet is well balanced, functional, and oftentimes delicious. There are really no health-related drawbacks to it. It's a diet you can maintain for the rest of your life with no resulting negative health issues, and it teaches you how to recognize healthy foods on your own.


source: http://www.healthline.com/

SAVE WINTER SKIN WITH THESE FOODS

We normally have a natural layer of oil that helps keep our skin soft and protect it from the environment, but harsh winter weather can suck the moisture right out of it. When your skin gets dry, it's generally a sign that you're doing something that's stripping its natural oils. The good news is that you can keep your skin glowing all winter with a few changes to your diet.

1. Drink more water. The body loses more fluid with each breath when it's cold and dry, so it's fairly easy to get dehydrated in the winter. Try to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day.

2. Eat a balanced diet. Several nutrients, such as protein, vitamin A, zinc, and essential fatty acids, are important for keeping your skin healthy. Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish and poultry, and healthy oils are the foundation of a diet that's good for your skin.

3. Eat more fruits and vegetables, and skip the sugary desserts. In a study that looked at the diets of U.S. women, those who had the most vitamin C in their diets had the healthiest skin. Too much sugary food has been shown to have the opposite effect. Get more vitamin C by eating at least five servings a day of fruits and veggies.

4. Focus on healthy fats. Although research is still ongoin, preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help keep your skin hydrated. Vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and avocados are good sources of omega-6s, and fish, walnuts, and flax seed sontain omega-3s. If you are taking an omega-3 supplement, be sure it provides DHA and EPA.

5. Enjoy lean protein. The amino acids in lean protein(poultry, seafood, lean meats) are essential for radiant skin. Try to add a little to every meal and you'll look more youthful(and have more energy!) in no time.

6. Ramp up your skin-care-routine. There's a lot you can do on the surface, as well, such as applying a heavy moisturizer while your skin is damp, turning down the thermostat, and protecting your skin with hats and gloves.


source: http://www.eating.health.com/

STROKE HEALTH CENTER - SYMPTOMS

If you have symptoms of a stroke, call 911 or other emergency services right away. General symptoms of a stroke include:

1. Sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.

2. Sudden vision changes.

3. Sudden trouble speaking.

4. Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple statements.

5. Sudden problems with walking or balance.

6. A sudden, sever headache that is different from past headaches.

Symptoms can vary depending on whether the stroke is caused by a blood clot(ischemic stroke) or bleeding(hemorrhagic stroke), where the stroke occurs in the brain, and how bad it is.

A stroke usually happens suddenly but may occur over hours. For example, you may have mild weakness at first. Over time, you may not be able to move the arm and leg on one side of your body.

If several smaller strokes occur over time, you may have a more gradual change in walking, balance, thinking, or behavior.

It is not always easy for people to recognize symptoms of a small stroke. They may mistakenly think the symptoms can be attributed to aging, or the symptoms may be confused with those of other conditions that cause similar symptoms.

source: http://www.webmd.com/

JANUARY IS THYROID AWARENESS MONTH


The thyroid may be only a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, but the hormones it produces are essential; they deliver oxygen and energy to every cell in the body.


The most common thyroid problem is insufficient thyroid hormone, known as hypothyroidism, low thyroid or an underactive thyroid. Hypothyroidism causes metabolism to slow down, and can result in fatigue, depression, weight gain, hair loss, infertility, low sex drive, memory and concentration problems, and a host of other symptoms.


Sometimes, the thyroid can go into overdrive, and produce too much thyroid hormone, a conditin known as hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. When too much thyroid hormone floods the body, it's common for heart rate and blood pressure to go up, and an overactive thyroid can cause anxiety, tremors, panic attacks, diarrhea, muscle weakness, eye problems, insomnia, and rapid, debilitating weight loss.


The thyroid can also get enlarged(known as a goiter), develop lumps(known as nodules), and in rare cases, those lumps can be cancerous. Thyroid cancer is, unfortunately, one of the fastest growing cancers in the United States.


source: http://www.thyroidawarenessmonth.com/

GLAUCOMA AWARENESS MONTH

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month, an important time to spread the word about this sight-stealing disease.

Glaucoma is called "the sneak thief of sight" since there are no symptoms and once vision is lost, it's permanent. As much as 40% of vision can be lost without a person noticing.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of preventable blindness. Moreover, among African American and Latino populations, glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness, and it is more prevalent. Glaucoma is 6 to 8 times more common in African Americans than Caucasians.

Over 4 million Americans, and nearly 70 million people worldwide, have glaucoma. Experts estimate that half of them don't know they have it. Combined with our aging population, we can see and epidemic of blindness looming if we don't raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations to preserve vision.

source: http://www.glaucoma.org/