Friday 23 September 2011

SEX - A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR TO A HEALTHY LIFE

 There are quite a number of solutions [health tips] people have proffered for life elongation and the likes but there are still some very important tips left without discussion, even the doctors don’t talk about it. Sequel to my research, I have come to discover that ‘SEX’ is essential for good health apart from the pleasure derived from. The following are some of the reason why sex is essential for a healthy life:
1                    SEX PROTECTS AGAINST COUGHS AND COLDS: Having regular orgasms is one great way to protect against coughs and colds. Sex saturates the blood with an antibody called immunoglobulin A that is known to boost immunity. At the moment of climax, a powerful chemical called DHEA is released, which also balances the immune system, as well as aids in tissue repair, improves cognition, and promotes bone growth.
2                    SEX HELPS YOU SLEEP BETTER: The oxytocin released during orgasm promotes sleep; and getting enough sleep has been linked with a host of other good things, such as maintaining a healthy weight and blood pressure. Something to think about, especially if you've been wondering why your guy can be active one minute and snoring the next.
3                    SEX CONTRIBUTES TO WEIGH LOSS: Sex is also wonderful for weight loss since 30 minutes will burn 200 calories! In addition sex calms food cravings because it stimulates the production of phenetylamine, a natural amphetamine that regulates the appetite.
4                    SEX IS A NATURAL ANTIDEPRESSANT: Several studies have shown that semen just might be a natural antidepressant. Woman who had regular unprotected sex were less likely to be depressed than women who did not have sex or used a condom. One explanation might be that the vagina absorbs all sorts of goodies from her lover's spunk including zinc, calcium, potassium, and protein.
5                     SEX BOOSTS IMMUNITY: Good sexual health may mean better physical health. Having sex once or twice a week has been linked with higher levels of an antibody called immunoglobulin A or IgA, which can protect you from getting colds and other infections. Scientists at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., took samples of saliva, which contain IgA, from 112 college students who reported the frequency of sex they had. Those in the "frequent" group -- once or twice a week -- had higher levels of IgA than those in the other three groups -- who reported being abstinent, having sex less than once a week, or having it very often, three or more times weekly.
6                    SEX BURNS CALORIES: Thirty minutes of sex burns 85 calories or more. It may not sound like much, but it adds up: 42 half-hour sessions will burn 3,570 calories, more than enough to lose a pound. Doubling up, you could drop that pound in 21 hour-long sessions. "Sex is a great mode of exercise," says Patti Britton, PhD, a Los Angeles sexologist and president of the American Association of Sexuality Educators and Therapists. It takes work, from both a physical and psychological perspective, to do it well, she says.
7                    SEX IMPROVES CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH: While some older folks may worry that the efforts expended during sex could cause a stroke, that's not, so, according to researchers from England. In a study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, scientists found frequency of sex was not associated with stroke in the 914 men they followed for 20 years. And the heart health benefits of sex don't end there. The researchers also found that having sex twice or more a week reduced the risk of fatal heart attack by half for the men, compared with those who had sex less than once a month.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE IMMUNIZATION

Before vaccination was available for common childhood diseases, thousands of children died or were left with permanent disabilities from these illnesses. Unfortunately, even now, many people become ill or even die every year from diseases that are readily prevented by vaccines.
One reason some children are not protected is that parent refuse to have their children immunized or vaccinated, fearing the rare chance that procedure might be harmful. Vaccines have in these cases become victims of their own success. They have been so effective at preventing diseases that people have been lulled into a false sense of security. Reports of adverse effects of vaccination have led some people to falsely believe that the risk of vaccination is greater than the risk of diseases. Although, there is some risk associated with almost any medical procedure, there is no question that the benefit of routine immunization outweighs the very slight risk.
Routine immunization against pertussis [whooping cough] caused by a marked decrease in its incidence in United States and saved many adverse reactions to the killed whole cell vaccine being used at the time however, many parents refused to get their children vaccinated. By 1990, this refusal of vaccination resulted in the highest incidence of pertussis cases in 20 years and the deaths of some children, mostly those under one year of age.
The immune system, which is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs, defends people against germs and microorganisms every day. In most cases, the immune system does a great job of keeping people healthy and preventing infections. But sometimes problems with the immune system can lead to illness and infection.
WHAT IS IMMUNE SYSTEM
The immune system is the body's defence against infectious organisms and other invaders. Through a series of steps called the immune response, the immune system attacks organisms and substances that invade body systems and cause disease.
The immune system is made up of a network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body. The cells involved are white blood cells, or leukocytes, which come in two basic types that combine to seek out and destroy disease-causing organisms or substances.
Leukocytes are produced or stored in many locations in the body, including the thymus, spleen, and bone marrow. For this reason, they're called the lymphoid organs. There are also clumps of lymphoid tissue throughout the body, primarily as lymph nodes, that house the leukocytes.
The leukocytes circulate through the body between the organs and nodes via lymphatic vessels and blood vessels. In this way, the immune system works in a coordinated manner to monitor the body for germs or substances that might cause problems.

Thursday 22 September 2011

THE SECRETS OF HEALTHY LIVING: SOLUTIONS TO MENSTRUAL DISORDERS

THE SECRETS OF HEALTHY LIVING: SOLUTIONS TO MENSTRUAL DISORDERS

SOLUTIONS TO MENSTRUAL DISORDERS

There are quite a number of women who have in one time or the other regretted the day they were born female, the reason is not far fetch, the agony or pains they pass through during their monthly menstrual cycle. In fact, I have come across many women with diverse complaints about menstruation. This experience has made me to believe that any time I see a woman with mixed-feeling I will assume that she is passing through her monthly menstrual cycle. The questions are; what are the ways to manage your cramps, heavy bleeding, irregular, cycles, PCOS, endometriosis and other menstrual related problems?
There are several ways to alleviate the problems encounter during menstrual cycle that are better than birth control pills which some doctors usually recommend. Though the pill may be the best choice for certain women, many women would prefer to have other options.
Diet
Many menstrual disorders can be improved by modifying the diet. This could mean eliminating common triggers such as sugar, caffeine, salt and alcohol. Food sensitivities can cause a worsening of symptoms. Many women have IBS or poor digestion and are unable to appropriately absorb nutrients or eliminate waste. Starting with a hypoallergenic diet and digestive cleanse is an excellent way to explore the effects that diet can have on your symptoms.
Exercise
Movement is a key ingredient to health. Getting regular exercise throughout the month plays a large role in how you feel when your period comes. Numerous studies have proved that 30 minutes a day of aerobic exercise lifts your mood and reduces bloating that often accompanies PMS. For overall health, aim for a balance of aerobic, weight bearing and stretching exercises.

Monday 19 September 2011

Body Loving Microorganisms [Normal Flora]

        Contrary to the general believe or knowledge about microorganisms, there are quite a number of benefits human beings derive from microorganisms of which without, this life wouldn’t have worth living. In this article, I will explore some of the benefits we derive from microbes living on our body surface. Many people think of microorganisms as ‘germs’ that should routinely be avoided, failing to recognize that the microbial cell on the body actually outnumber human cells. Nearly all these microorganisms co-exist peacefully with the human body, often providing beneficial aspect.

The organisms that routinely reside on the body surfaces are called ‘’Normal Flora’’. It is a delicate balancing act, however, normal floral as well as microbes that make incidental contact with humans are quite able to exploit body fluids and tissues and a source of nutrients should the opportunity arise. Pathogens have developed the ability to make the products such as the toxins or molecules to subvert defence system causing a disruption in the delicate balance. Weaknesses or defects in the innate or adaptive defenses can make people vulnerable to invasion even by their own normal flora; the individual is said to be immunologically compromised or immune-compromised. Factors that can make individual becoming immune-compromised includes mal-nutrition, cancer, AIDS or other diseases, surgery, wounds, genetic defects, alcohol or drugs abuse, and immune-suppressed therapy that accompanies procedures such as organ transplant.

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Working Towards a Sound Immune System

Working Toward a Sound Immune System The immune system, which is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs, defends people against germs and microorganisms every day. In most cases, the immune system does a great job of keeping people healthy and preventing infections. But sometimes problems with the immune system can lead to illness and infection. Having a healthy and strong immune system is essential to having good health.

Your immune system is the main unit that fights germs and other bacteria that are harmful to your health. It also fights viruses. So if you want to keep it strong there are several things that you can do to make this possible. One of the first things that you must do to keep your immune system in top shape and at its peak performance is to have a healthy nutritious diet. I try to have a proper diet as much as I can. I cannot stress this enough. Healthy eating is critical to a well-functioning immune system. You want to give your cells and organs the right food so that they can stay healthy and function properly. A diet rich in whole grains, fish, fruits, Vegetables and legumes is the proper way to eat. Legumes are especially great for your health because the fibres in these foods will help to move food through the body and eliminate constipation. The average American diet is filled with foods that are of very low nutritional value. The average American eats too much salt, fat and sugar. In addition to these horrible dietary habits, the average American is said to only have two to four bowel movements in an entire week. Think about that for just a moment. It is no wonder why so many people have all of these health problems.

Monday 12 September 2011

Step by Step to Weight Loss

Do you want to slim down fast for that beach vacation or high school reunion? While there are many things you can do to shed pounds, losing weight too quickly, like any sudden change to your body, can be dangerous. While fad diets, diet pills, and fasting may indeed induce rapid weight loss, these methods can cause you to get gallstones, start losing muscle and hair and may also injure your heart and other organs fairly quickly. The best solution? Do not go for an overnight miracle. Instead, follow these steps to lose weight rapidly, healthily, and sustainably.

Steps to Weight Loss
Have confidence in yourself: You should know the exact reason that stimulates you to reduce your weight. This will help keep you motivated in your weight loss program. Know that millions of people are able to do this, so why not you? You're never too out of shape to get into shape! Be consistent, disciplined, and have self motivation.

To lose weight effectively, you need to stick to your weight loss plan religiously so as to see results. When you think about giving up, visualize the benefits of slimming down successfully.
Set an achievable goal for your weight reduction. If the aim is not practical then you will easily get disheartened and stop following your regimen. You must set a target that has a time limit. The amount of weight you want to lose and the time within which you would like to lose it should be decided beforehand. If the time and amount of weight is clearly decided primarily, your enthusiasm will keep you on the track until you reach your destination.
Determine your daily caloric intake. Losing weight is simply an activity. Lower your calories intake without starving. Remember to calculate your metabolism. The metabolism is a large part of your calories burned in an average day. To win the battle, know how many calories you consume in a day. Write down all the things you eat on a typical day. Carry a small notebook with you and write down every snack, every drink, and the contents of every meal. There are also great websites that you can use to keep track of calories, get recipes, and help achieve your goal. Don't forget to include the pats of butter or the spoonful of sugar in your coffee. It's best to do this for at least a couple weekdays and a weekend; it's even better if you can go a full week
 Do an itemized calorie count: When possible, write down the number of calories in each food you eat as you eat it. Keep in mind that the recommended serving size is often considerably smaller than the serving you actually eat. Look up the calorie count on the internet for foods that don't have calories listed on the container or for fast food meals. You don't have to be 100% accurate, but you do want a good estimate of the number of calories you're taking in. There is an idea that multiplying your ideal weight by ten will produce a rough estimate of the number of calories you need to eat per day to maintain your weight. This is not true for everyone. You may wind up grossly under or over estimating the number of calories you should be eating. Consult a nutritionist. Use a scientific or health website to determine the number of calories you should eat a day or consult your doctor.
Everyone has different metabolisms and there is no blanket rule that covers everyone's recommended calorie intake. Reducing 500 calories per day from the calories you eat to maintain your weight can help you lose a pound of fat per week. Go over the list and decide which foods to cut out or reduce. Cutting calories is usually a lot easier than you might think.
For example, that daily tall latte in the morning may pack 500 calories. Since a pound of flab (lost or gained) is roughly equivalent to 3,500 calories, replacing that rich beverage with black coffee can help you lose a pound a week. Other easy cuts include salad dressing (salad dressing is the number one source of fat in the average American woman's diet, soda pop, candy, and butter. Look at the nutritional information for the foods you eat, pay special attention to your intake of saturated fats and empty calorie, high-sugar foods. You don't need to cut these things out entirely, but if you reduce your intake of high-fat, high-calorie foods you'll lose weight faster.
Seek out alternatives to the unhealthy foods you've identified. You can simply reduce the amount of soda you drink or mayonnaise you put on your sandwiches, or you can substitute healthier choices. Low-fat and low-calorie options are also available for most foods, and many of these are natural, (although some may contain chemicals), and tasty. Start trying to eat healthy in most meals: Choose lean meats. Chicken and fish are both very low in fat, and certain fish like salmon, sardines, and fresh tuna are excellent sources of antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are also beneficial to your health, so aim to replace some or all of the beef or pork in your diet with these foods.
Replace high-calorie side dishes with healthier alternatives. Many people get a ton of calories from side dishes such as macaroni and cheese, French fries, or potato salad. You can eat healthier and lose weight by replacing these with fresh vegetables and salads. Pre-made salads are practically effortless, and when accompanied by a reduced-calorie dressing or no dressing at all, they're weight-loss gold Start your days off right. A fattening breakfast of bacon and eggs or a pastry can be replaced with yogurt, oatmeal, high-fiber, low-sugar cereals; or fresh fruit for fruit smoothies. However, for those on a low carbohydrate diet bacon and eggs are a great combo for breakfast, since neither have carbs. But don't fall into the trap of skipping breakfast. Eating a healthy breakfast increases your rest metabolic rate earlier in the day, and reduces snacking before lunch.



Thursday 1 September 2011

SOLUTIONS TO HEPATITIS


Liver condition called hepatitis occurs as a result of the usage of drugs, alcohol, unprotected sex, tattoos, and body piercings among others.
The liver is one of the body's powerhouses. It helps process nutrients and metabolizes medication. The liver also helps clear the body of toxic waste products.
The word hepatitis means an inflammation of the liver. It can be caused by one of many things — including a bacterial infection, liver injury caused by a toxin (poison), and even an attack on the liver by the body's own immune system. However, the condition is usually caused by a virus. The three most common hepatitis viruses are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C. Two other types of hepatitis virus, D and E, are rare in the United States.

Getting to know the effects of anaemia

What Is Anemia?
To understand anemia, it helps to start with breathing. The oxygen we inhale doesn't just stop in our lungs. It's needed throughout our bodies to fuel the brain and all our other organs and tissues that allow us to function. Oxygen travels to these organs through the bloodstream — specifically in the red blood cells.
Red blood cells, or RBCs, are manufactured in the bodies’  bone marrow and act like boats, ferrying oxygen throughout the rivers of the bloodstream. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that holds onto oxygen. To make enough hemoglobin, the body needs to have plenty of iron. We get this iron, along with the other nutrients necessary to make red blood cells, from food.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases


Sexually Transmitted Diseases
      Sexually transmitted diseases (also known as STDs — or STIs for "sexually transmitted infections") are infectious diseases that spread from person to person through intimate contact. STDs can affect guys and girls of all ages and backgrounds who are having sex — it doesn't matter if they're rich or poor.
Unfortunately, STDs have become common among teens. Because teens are more at risk for getting some STDs, it's important to learn what you can do to protect yourself.
STDs are more than just an embarrassment. They're a serious health problem. If untreated, some STDs can cause permanent damage, such as infertility (the inability to have a baby) and even death (in the case of HIV/AIDS).
How STDs Spread