Is an Alternative Asthma Treatment Really a Supplemental Option?

The dynamic nature and variables surrounding an asthmatic situation will help decide the correct alternative asthma treatment that's right for you. There are many inconsistent considerations a doctor may attempt to understand before recommending specific course of action. Even then, the therapy strategy will need to be adjusted over both the near term and long term as the patient symptoms and needs change. You however can use alternative asthma treatment options like supplements, breathing techniques and dealing with asthma triggers to lower the number of attacks. Find out more at the links below.

Just a few of these factors that help formulate the overall treatment strategy include:

*. Use of a PEFR meter to measure how well your lungs are operating. The Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) determines if your lungs are operating at a good rate or have been compromised.

*. Respiratory Tests such as the use of a spirometer (speh-ROM-et-er). This measures how much air and the speed with which you can blow out of your lungs after a deep breath.

*. Other tests such as chest x-rays and possibly even a heart EKG may be done to rule out other conditions.

*. A medical history may be taken to provide a baseline of information that the doctor can use to determine the cause and diagnose the illness. Previous physical health plays a role in helping to accurately determine the right alternative asthma treatment, if appropriate for the patient. This just makes sense to understand the basic illness before attempting any alternative treatment options.

*. A complete physical may also be done for basically the same reason. By having as much information as possible, a medical professional has a better chance of accurately diagnosing the problem. All this work is especially important when diagnosing pulmonary illness.

Using the symptoms and the results of this work-up, a diagnosis will be made. It may take a week or more depending on how fast the doctor can collect and review the test results. Remember that blood tests and x rays are probably going to be done at another location. A good rule of thumb is that any test that done at another facility and not at the doctors office will probably result in some delay of a final diagnosis.

The gravity or seriousness is all important in developing the right set of asthma treatments for your respiratory affliction.. Maybe it's not correct to assume that there should be any alternative asthma treatment options but should be more accurately considered supplemental treatment options instead. From mild intermittent to the much more "severe persistent" type, the treatment options are determined by the problems a patient is having. Relying on alternative treatment plans without the approval of your doctor could lead to serious problems and possibly even death.

Fast acting drugs like bronchodilators are used to relax the muscles and allow air to again move through the bronchial airways. No alternative asthma treatment option available can deliver relief in those critical moments when an emergency strikes. These are a critical part of and asthma treatment plan and should be used at the first signs of symptoms.

Longer term management includes the use of longer acting bronchodilators that relax lung muscle and are not anti-inflammatory. Usually used to control moderate to severe asthma and help at night. Long-acting beta-agonists are usually taken together with inhaled corticosteroid medicines

Limit exposure to asthma triggers. By changing the environment, it's possible to lower the rate of attack. By careful analysis, it's possible to identify those things that work as triggers and cause a bronchial event. Remove those triggers and the number of attacks diminishes. Some common triggers include dust mites, bugs, dust, pollen, certain types of exercise among other things. Get a FREE report using the link below

Find out how you can learn to live WITHOUT the treatment drugs using techniques that have been shown to be successful for many asthmatics. Visit the site below for more information.

Asthma is a very dynamic respiratory disease if only because the disease can change over the course of time. Your job should be to attempt to change the treatment plan to use only as much of the various medications as necessary for a symptom free life.

Toileting Posture - A Light-Hearted and Philosophical Discussion

When it comes to toileting posture, very few people can explain why they do it one way, but not the other. There is actually a reason why this is so, as explained in a story that goes something like this:

A young newlywed woman was preparing a meal of chicken for her new husband. She took great pains to cut the chicken in a particular, if not peculiar, way, prompting her new husband to ask her why she was preparing the chicken in that manner.

"Because my mother prepared it that way," replied the young bride.

"Well, why did your mother prepare it that way?" the husband asked her.

"I don't know, she just does," said the bride who was beginning to become quite flustered.

So the husband took it upon himself to call his new mother-in-law to learn the reason for preparing the chicken in such a bizarre manner. But the mother replied that she did not know, it was just the way that HER mother had always done it.

Upon consulting with the bride's grandmother (the mother-in-law's mother) the husband learnt that the reason grandmother prepared the chicken in such a manner was that this was the only way that she could get it to fit in her small pan!

In our daily lives we perpetuate similar practices, for similar reasons, because...

THAT IS THE WAY IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN DONE

In truth, people generally prefer the comfort of the status quo as opposed to learning and taking in new ideas, knowledge and ways of doing things, especially if the idea, knowledge or way of doing things - toileting posture included - is different from what they know and/or have been doing. And thinking is hard. It was Henry Ford who said that this was why no many people want to think.

The famed German philosopher, Martin Heidegger, put this in another way when he wrote: "The most thought-provoking thing in our thought-provoking time is that we are still not thinking."

New ideas, concepts and experiences can be frightening, especially when we are not really thinking. Combine this element of change with a taboo subject – toileting posture (squat or sit) – and you literally have people quickly running for cover.

We can use "potty humor" and poke fun at "the john" and "crap", yet when it comes to actually "doing the deed", the majority of people are covering their ears, their eyes tightly shut, chanting in a sing song tone: "I can't hear you! La la la la!"

"THAT IS THE WAY IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN DONE"

The reality is that while many Westernized countries have adopted the sitting toileting posture, it is not the healthiest practice. Numerous studies have linked the porcelain throne to many serious colon, bladder, prostate and pelvic health problems that are prevalent in the Western world.

In contrast, the groups which who have a squatting toileting culture, such as the Chinese, Indians, Japanese, Middle Eastern peoples and Africans, tend to have fewer occurrences of digestive and elimination problems.

Aristotle said, "If one way be better than another, that you may be sure is Nature's way."

This has been proven over and over to be true. Squatting is the natural position for elimination and the best way in which the body responds. Squatting promotes the correct and natural placement of the colon and other internal organs, allowing them to function properly.

Sitting simply does not facilitate the natural function of elimination. The use of sitting toilet posture is not only unnatural to the body, but also hinders its natural process of elimination.

SIDENOTE


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You can read about the specific ailments associated with

sitting toilets at this website on toilet-related ailments.


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Long ago, Buddha saw the strong connection between the mind and body when he said, "To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear."

It is time to return to what is natural, and to return to our roots before we are unable to even lift ourselves from the couch or adopt the correct toileting position that will allow us to expel waste completely.

That can only happen when everyone starts to think about and question accepted norms and practices, and rejecting the excuse…

THAT IS THE WAY IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN DONE

3 Remedies for Bad Breath that Work

Bad breath, or halitosis is what I like to call the sneaky disease. There are millions of people that have the problem, some of them dealing with it every day, but very few of them actually realize how bad the problem is. The reason is because having bad breath carries such a negative stigma that many of us just do not have the heart to tell the person that has halitosis that their breath stinks. Perhaps it is out of some feelings of pity, but telling them the truth could actually be the best thing that you have ever done for them. Once they know then they can go about solving the problem.

Perhaps that is why you are reading this article. Did someone tell you that you have a problem with bad breath? Then thank them, but only after you read this article. Now that you know you have a problem, here is how you can go about fixing the problem. Now the remedies for bad breath that I am going to give to you are considering that you actually have curable bad breath. If your halitosis is actually from another problem, such as a decaying tooth or a sinus infection, then you will need to seek some help from qualified professionals. That being said, here are my top 3 remedies for bad breath.

Sometimes the bad breath that you have is much deeper than an oral issue. It can be caused by a digesting problem. That is why I recommend that you up your water intake to see if this helps to cure the problem. Not only can additional water help you with your bad breath and digestive problems, but walking around dehydrated all the time is just plain old bad for your entire body.

If you drink a lot of milk then you might try kicking the cow for a while. An intolerance to milk and milk products can cause some people extreme digestive problems and this can cause bad breath. If you are concerned about calcium intake try supplementing it from another source while you check to see if the moo juice is the problem.

Perhaps your body is trying to tell you that you have some sort of a vitamin deficiency. Try taking such vitamins as zinc, vitamin c and b for a while to see if this clears up the problem.

Taking a natural approach to curing your bad breath will be much better for you in the long run than just trying to mask the problem with gum or mints. Hit the problem at the source and you will walk around with a fresh mouth for a very long time.

Health Tip - The Benefits of Water

Benefits of Water

Name any body part and you will find water is essential to keep it ticking over. Our bodies need H2O because we are 70% water - so drink up.

Here are ten reasons to drink water:

1. Keeps Headaches at bay:

Three quarters of your brain is water so if you need a top-up, this is one of the first places that will feel it. If your headache is caused by alcohol, then drinking lots of water - particularly before bed - will help get rid of it by flushing out toxins and re-hydrating the brain.

2. Reduces Infections:

The lymphatic system is your waste disposal system, breaking down toxins like caffeine before passing them into the blood stream. Dehydration weakens the flow of lymph in the system and makes the body less resistant to infection.

With Water, lymph flows properly again, fighting infection and lowering feverish temperatures.

3. Gives you better skin:

Skin needs water for elasticity, so too little water leaves it looking dry, looking lined and feeling delicate.

4. Keeps up your concentration:

Your body needs water to help flush out poisons from things like junk food and additives.

If you are dehydrated, toxins hang around in the liver, making you tired and unable to concentrate. Water swills the poisons out and gets the system moving again.

5. Banishes Bags:

Sunken eyes and under eye circles are signs that you need water. Eyes sink because there isn't enough water to keep them suspended in the eye socket. Under-eye circles are due to thin skin being bruised as fluid drains away.

6. Stops Cramps:

Blood transports oxygen to the muscles for activities such as exercise. If there isn't enough oxygen in the blood, the muscles create lactic acid which causes painful cramps. Drinking more water helps to keep blood pumped with oxygen.

7. Reduces Cystitis:

A healthy hydrated body removes waste with light yellow virtually odorless urine. If you are not drinking enough, the darker urine is more highly concentrated and waste products linger in the bladder, leaving you prone to cystitis and kidney infections.

8. Keeps Bowels Healthy:

Without Water the contents of the colon (lower intestine) can dry out and get stuck, eventually causing diverticulitis. Constipation can also be a problem, because water is needed to bulk out feces. Drinking water, along with taking in water from Fruit and Vegetables, helps to rehydrate this waste.

9. Prevents Fluid Retention:

When you are felling puffy as women often do before a period, drinking water isn't your immediate thought. But it's the best treatment for reducing fluid retention.

If your body doesn't get enough water, it senses there is a shortage and begins to retain every drop it needs for vital daily processes.

10. Keeps your breath Sweet:

Bad breath is a classic sign that you need to boost your water intake. Saliva helps cleanse the teeth of bacteria and keeps the tongue hydrated.

Lack of water dries the mouth, leads to furry tongue and prevents bacteria from being washed away, all of which can cause halitosis.

An Explanation About The Many Wonderful Benefits Of Using All Types Of Aromatherapy

There are so many reasons why all of you should start thinking more about taking better care of yourselves and one fabulous way to start is by purchasing some aromatherapy products so that you can begin using them. You might not believe it but aromatherapy has a healing power within all of its amazing scents, lotions, oils, and all other skin care products and if you start using them consistently you might just be surprised by the results and by the way that you feel after using some of them. It is kind of difficult to explain all of the reasons why aromatherapy works so well and provides people with so many wonderful benefits but really the way that you should think about it is, the proof is in the pudding ok, you start using these products, you will see for yourself just how incredible they really are and you will never want to stop using them, I can assure you of that.

Aromatherapy is something that has been used for many, many years and most people that have used some types of it normally do it because they are feeling stressed, sore, tired, anxious, well, the list can continue but I'll stop at that for now, I think you get the drift right. These amazing products were formulated to help people in need and as soon as they became hot, more and more households were choosing to rely on such products to help ease their pain, stress, anxiety, depression and many other ailments that could be plaguing them. People find it to be so refreshing too because of the unbelievable scents that can come from most of these products. Our senses being lifted and awaken can really give us a feeling like no other, honestly. One might think that aromatherapy is really just about taking care of your skin, but that is not the case at all.

Sure, aromatherapy is great for many skin types but the majority of the people that are using these products are doing so because of the mental improvements it can bring forth after a period of time. Feeling good mentally can give you a more youthful feeling and it can also bring forth some improvements with the way that you look as well. The benefits definitely outweigh any minor irritants that could be brought on to certain individuals, so start your research today. By researching these types things you can start feeling and looking better, instead of just wishing that you could. After any of the essential oil products are diluted in water, by the way please make sure you remember to do so, you will immediately be able to tell the difference, the first second that you smell those wonderful fragrances filling the air that surrounds you. If you are hoping to be more energized there are aromatherapy products just for that and if you are simply wanting to relax, check out the other products, there is something in there for everyone's needs.

Immune System - What You Need To Know To Boost Your Body's Defenses

Cold season is a drag. Worrying about washing your hands all the time or a co-worker coughing on your food at lunch can get very aggravating. Wouldn't it be nice to not have to worry about getting sick so often?

There is a solution. Combined with proper nutrition and supplementation new science suggests that your state of mind can play a major role in your immune system function. White blood cell production is based on a negative feedback mechanism, meaning that your body has an average level of white blood cells (WBC's) and when WBC count rises above or drops below this level your body reacts to decrease or increase production accordingly.

If you get sick often your body may be accustomed to a lower than average WBC count. This can be directly linked an imbalance in neurotransmitters, chemicals in the brain that regulate all metabolic function. Neurotransmitters can get out of balance by eating an improper diet and by indulging in improper emotions. Feelings like anxiety, fear, anger, and worry will leave an impression on your neurotransmitter production and leave you more susceptible to getting sick. That feeling you have when you are worrying about getting sick is actually making it more likely that you will get sick, even beyond the precautions it produces.

The most powerful way to balance neurotransmitter production is to wake up between three and six am and too either exercise, perform yoga, or meditation. It is between these hours that the brain shifts from being controlled by melatonin, which regulates sleep patterns, to nor ephedrine, serotonin, and dopamine, which regulate all body functions. This is more powerful than any anti-depressant and the effects on your immune system will be paramount.

The second most powerful way is a proper diet and lifestyle. A well balanced diet should be eaten containing all core food groups and all six tastes; sweet, sour, salt, pungent, bitter, and astringent. A trusted supplement such as Pharmanex LifePak nano, which uses nano technology to ensure you get the nutrients should be used in cases of immune deficiency.

The Connection Between Indigestion and Breathing Problems

When someone is diagnosed with GERD or acid reflux disease, they are already well aware of many of the symptoms. They probably experience upset stomach, acid pain in the esophagus and throat, and they may already know that they need to adjust their diet, eat smaller meals and take some form of medication. What might surprise them is that there are other impacts that GERD can have, and one of those factors is the lungs. There are many people that have indigestion and breathing has become a problem for them. When a person isn't aware of the connection between GERD and breathing things can become very scary.

Most patients are aware that acid from the stomach can back up into the throat, mouth and even make it as far as the sinuses. What many don't realize however, is that it can seep into the lungs as well (called aspiration), causing damage and bringing on a host of problems.

People suffering with uncontrolled reflux often experience wheezing and other breathing difficulties, and they may go through a myriad of tests that are inconclusive until the reflux and lung connection is found. Most people with GERD know they have it, but there is a small percentage that have no idea it is a problem for them, and that makes the connection harder to find.

The stomach is equipped to deal with its own acid, but the other parts of the body are not. Even so, there can be damage in the stomach from the acid. This usually is found in the form of an ulcer. Though acid causes damage to the esophagus it can handle it in small doses, with damage occurring only over time.

The lungs, however, are very vulnerable when acid reaches the tissues, and damage will follow quickly. The larynx (or voice box) will be the first place with noticeable damage. The larynx performs the role of opening and closing to allow air into the lungs.

People with acid moving through the voice box might experience coughing, a rough voice, and some pain in the area. When the acid leaks into the lungs (usually while lying down at night) the lungs react to protect themselves from the caustic substance.

Normally, in healthy lungs there are small hair-like cilia lining the lungs that helps move toxins and mucus out of the lungs keeping them clean. However, when acid is present the cilia will be replaced with a growth much like the lining of the esophagus to protect the lungs. When this happens, the lungs struggle to perform their self-cleaning role like they normally do, and breathing problems are a result.

Left untreated, lung problems can become very serious. Infections can develop and turn into pneumonia and it can also trigger asthma. If left untreated, this can lead to serious and permanent damage to the lungs.

For more information on recognizing and treating acid reflux, heartburn and GERD symptoms naturally sign up for the free newsletter below.

When it comes to indigestion and breathing problems, there should be immediate treatment to get the acid reflux under control. Though heartburn might seem like an inconvenience at first, it is best to get it treated as soon as possible before the acid causes irreversible damage to other systems and organs of the body. Medications can clear things up in early cases, but other intervention might be necessary for severe cases and to get to the root cause of why the reflux occurred in the first instance.

Can Babies Use Aromatherapy?

It has been a known fact for many years that aromatherapy can be used for the treatment of illnesses such as emotional as well as physical challenges. Today you can still find people that do not believe in the use of aromatherapy but they are diminishing in numbers. People today are well educated and know that the usage of aromatherapy products can have even extreme effect when used for treatment purposes. Normally we find that aromatherapy is used when treating adults but as with most other treatments it can be used for children and babies as well. The great thing about aromatherapy is that it is a healthy way of treatment compared to the chemical treatments offered by the medicine industry.

As well as with all other treatment types used for adults, you need to keep in mind that at child is not as big a human as an adult and therefore you will need to correct to dose used. You wouldn't not want to give your child an overdose even with the usage of the aromatherapy oils that are normally safe to use. Secondly it is always advised when using "adult products" and "adult treatments" on babies, that you consult with a professional aroma therapist to avoid causing any harm.

The good thing about the use of aromatherapy for babies is that you can treat them safely and will not have to pump medicine into their tiny bodies to relief them of illness symptoms. You will be doing your child a huge favor as it has been proven many times that extensive use of medicine can cause other diseases later in life.

Will Any Type of Aromatherapy Work?

When you first start out buying aromatherapy oils and essential oils with various scents, there are a few basic things that you will need to be aware of and to pay attention to. First of all it is crucially important that you go for the essential natural oils and not the (much cheaper) synthetic oils. Unfortunately most people have not done their homework and might think that as long as it is called aromatherapy oil, it must all be the same. Fact is that is very far from the truth.

The difference between using natural essential aromatherapy oils and synthetic ones are that the natural one is plant based. It is made from extracts from herbs and plants while the synthetic ones (as the name clearly states) are man or machine made and often comes from different types of chemicals that are mixed together.

Some synthetic oils have been the cause of skin irritations and some have actually been banned from the market. Not that you are in a situation where you are thinking of using oils to treat your child or even your baby, is would an absolute catastrophe if you by doing so caused skin irritations because you wanted to save those extra few dollars. I you think of it in another way you should ask yourself the question: "What is my child's health worth to me?" Will I risk it to save a few dollars? Hopefully your answer to that question is NO.

To find essential oils you need to start with the list of ingredients. Does the list look like it is made up of natural ingredients such as herbs or does it seem synthetic? Secondly the way the oils are packed will often tell you whether it is quality or not. Lousy packing is often the same as lousy quality. Finally the price will often give away the natural essential oils. It will be sold at a far higher price than the synthetic ones but there is also no comparability in effects at all.

When you have found what you are looking for there is only the choice of scent and the desired effect. I suggest that you talk to the person selling you the oils and tell them that it is for your baby and that the symptoms you want it to work for is so and so. That will provide you with the best possible start to use aromatherapy as a way of treatment.

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease (STD). A sexually
transmitted disease is a disease that you get by having sex with someone who already has the disease. Genital herpes is usually caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (known as HSV-2). The disease is usually transmitted by sexual intercourse, with the virus passing from the infected partner via the skin, vagina, penis, or anus. Once you are infected, the virus stays in your body for life. You can give herpes to another person if you have sex when your herpes virus is active. HSV remains in certain nerve cells of the body forever, and can produce symptoms off and on in some infected people.

Genital Herpes is spread through direct contact. So, a genital herpes infection will stay in the area it originated unless transferred elsewhere via direct contact or skin-to-skin transference. Herpes won't just show up on its own somewhere else on the body. Because herpes is spread through direct contact, it is important to avoid contact with infected areas. If a herpes infection is not localized, further complications may occur. Herpes is equally common in males and females.

HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but it more commonly causes infections of the mouth and
lips, so-called "fever blisters." HSV-1 infection of the genitals can be caused by
oral-genital or genital-genital contact with a person who has HSV-1 infection. Genital
HSV-1 outbreaks recur less regularly than genital HSV-2 outbreaks.

Most of the people who are infected with HSV-2 have no symptoms of disease or they do not recognize their symptoms. Only about one third of people who first become infected with HSV-2 have symptoms. These symptoms often include fever, headache, genital pain, genital discharge, and blisters. Even if you have no symptoms, genital herpes can be diagnosed by testing your blood for an antibody to HSV-2. When signs do occur, they typically appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender ulcers (sores) that may take two to four weeks to heal the first time they occur.

Typically, another outbreak can appear weeks or months after the first, but it almost
always is less severe and shorter than the first episode. Although the infection can stay
in the body indefinitely, the number of outbreaks tends to go down over a period of years.
Once the virus infects you, it moves from the skin or membranes around the genitals to the
central nervous system, where it remains for life. The virus can "wake up" or reactivate
to cause a recurrence of the disease. When reactivation occurs, the virus travels down the
nerves to the skin. It may cause blisters, genital itching, tenderness, burning, tingling,
or redness, but it usually just makes copies of itself with no symptoms.

Fibromyalgia Relief - Discover How To Get Fibromyalgia Relief With SAMe

In this article you will discover:

• What is s-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAMe)?
• Why is SAMe good at fibromyalgia relief?
• How much SAMe do you need to take for fibromyalgia relief?

What Is S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe)?

S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAMe) is a metabolite of the essential amino acid L-methionine.

S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAMe) is a natural substance which is present in the body's cells.

S-adenosyl-l-methionine is also referred to as:

• Ademetionine
• S-adenosylmethione
• SAM
• SAMe
• SAM-e

SAMe is not abundant in the diet; vitamin B12 and folic acid are needed for the synthesis of SAMe within the body.

Why Is SAMe Good At Fibromyalgia Relief?

Taking SAMe supplements is good for fibromyalgia relief because clinical trials have shown it to reduce pain, fatigue, trigger points, painful areas and improve moods in people who are suffering from fibromyalgia.

Note: the benefits from taking SAMe supplements can take up to six weeks to develop.

How Much SAMe Do You Need To Take For Fibromyalgia Relief?

For fibromyalgia relief, tried taking doses of up to 800 mg of SAMe supplements per day.

For the best results, it is a good idea to take this dosage in two lots of 400 mg of SAMe supplements a couple of times per day.

Note: taking SAMe supplements is generally considered safe.

In some people it can cause stomach upset, but as with all supplements it is best to consult your doctor for taking them.

So, to sum up…

S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAMe) is a metabolite of the essential amino acid L-methionine.

SAMe good at fibromyalgia relief because clinical trials have shown it to reduce pain, fatigue, trigger points, painful areas and improve moods in people who are suffering from fibromyalgia.

Are you Heading For Long Term Disability in the Future?

Over the past year I have read several articles about the poor state of the general populations health. Unhealthy lifestyle is the major point of each article and many times the solution seems to be to purchase long term disability insurance.

The insurance companies think they can make a tremendous profit feeding off the fears of individuals who believe aging and long term disability are predestined. You do have control over 70% of your health and its outcome. You are the one who makes the personal decisions every day that mold the life in which you live and your health.

You do have choices that can lead you towards a healthier life and more secure financial future. The 21st century has made available quicker and faster technology and most individuals are looking for a quick fix which in some cases is just a "bandaid" approach. Many individuals rely on medication to fix a problem without making the necessary healthy lifestyle changes in their life which may help them not to need certain medications at all.

The obesity epidemic has been talked about frequently over the last several years, yet the population's waist line continues to grow and it is still an epidemic. The common denominator for most illnesses such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and certain cancers is related to poor nutrition, unhealthy height/weight ratio, stress and lack of physical activity. Their is no magic pill for this. It is called "getting real", get honest with yourself and make the necessary changes in your lifestyle that will yield a more secure financial future without worrying about depleting your retirement saving due to long term illnesses. You do have choices and thinking that your only option for the future is to rely on long term disability insurance is a shame.

IBS Treatment Options

The cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is unknown. However, researchers do know that IBS occurs when muscles in the intestines contract faster or slower than normal. These contractions cause pain, cramping, excessive gas, sudden bouts of diarrhea, or prolonged periods of constipation.

IBS treatments generally focus on alleviating the symptoms and include high fiber diets or antispasmodic drugs to relieve constipation, or anti-diarrhea medications to relieve diarrhea. Other treatments include stress management techniques, psychotherapy and biofeedback. Many people turn to alternative IBS treatments such as acupuncture, herbal remedies or colonics.

Listed below is a brief overview of the various IBS treatments. As with any disorder, it's best to consult with a qualified practitioner.

Acupuncture is an ancient form of healing modality used in China for thousands of years. Fine needles are inserted under the skin, along primary meridians. These meridians regulate all physical and mental processes. The Chinese believe the energy (chi) in these meridians can become blocked, flow too quickly or too slowly; resulting in illness and disease. Acupuncture can bring balance to these meridians.

Aromatherapy dates back at least 5,000 years and is considered to be one of the oldest healing methods. It involves the inhalation or absorption of essential oils directly into the body. When treating illness, only therapeutic essential oils should be used. Some IBS sufferers have found relief from IBS symptoms by using the essential oil of Chamomile.

Ayurvedic medicine is a form of traditional medicine used in India. Ayurvedic medicine is based on the belief that there are three "doshas" which control the health of the body. If any of the doshas become imbalanced, then illness will result. Triphala is the most popular Ayurvedic herbal formula used to treat IBS. Composed of three fruits, Triphala is a laxative that cleanses and detoxifies the body, without depleting its reserves.

Biofeedback is tool used to help people learn how to better control their reaction to certain events and stimuli. In biofeedback therapy, sensors are placed on the patient's body and used to measure body processes. The sensors measure various bodily functions and results are displayed on a computer monitor in the form of graphs or sounds. This information is then used by a trained biofeedback therapist to help the patient modify or change any unusual responses.

Colonics are used to wash out waste products from the colon. Warm, sterile water is inserted into the rectum and fecal matter is expelled through a plastic tube connected to a colon irrigation machine. Because colonics induce peristaltic contractions in the colon, many IBS patients are sensitive to colonics and may find them to be uncomfortable or even painful.

Enemas are used to help soften the stool and may be useful for IBS treatment for patients who suffer from chronic constipation. Enemas use water or other liquids and solutions to cleanse the lower part of the colon. Health advocates claim that enemas contribute greatly to the strength of the digestive system by improving the blood circulation to the entire digestive system.

Herbalism involves the use of remedies made from the various parts of plants including leaves, roots, berries, barks and oils. Remedies are generally available in the form of tablets, tinctures, teas, and essential oils. Peppermint oil can reduce abdominal pain and distension. Fennel seed can relieve IBS spasms. Clown's mustard can help restore tone to the gastrointestinal tract. Caution should always be used when ingesting herbs. Just because it is natural does not mean that it is safe. Pregnant women should avoid the use of any herbs or herbal preparations unless under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.

Homeopathy is a system of medicine used to treat a variety of health conditions. The science of homeopathy is based on the Law of Similars. The Law of Similars states that "since exposure to a substance can cause specific symptoms in a healthy person; that substance -- when correctly prepared as a homeopathic remedy -- can stimulate the body's curative powers to overcome similar symptoms during illness."

Simply put, a substance which would cause a certain symptom when given in large doses; is given to a patient in very small doses and diluted many times, to treat that same symptom. Homeopathy is practiced in many regions of the world, including Europe, Asia, the U.K., and the U.S. Homeopathic practitioners have collected information on the use of several hundred remedies, as well as documented clinical trials. It's best to work with a qualified homeopathic physician to establish a proper IBS treatment.

Hypnotherapy is a well-established treatment for IBS. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a special form of hypnotherapy developed for IBS and digestive disorder sufferers. It uses gut-specific treatments and suggestions aimed at normalizing bowel movements and removing pain and bloating.

Reflexology is a technique of foot and hand massage that may help to open blockages in the body's meridians. Reflexology is based on a theory that different zones on our feet and hands correspond to other areas of our body. Light pressure is applied to reflex zones corresponding to the area of the body that is out of balance. There is no evidence to support that reflexology has any affect on IBS symptoms. However, many people who use reflexology claim that it helps reduce abdominal pain and episodes of diarrhea.

Yoga is a practice of discipline developed in India. Yoga focuses on physical postures, breathing exercises and meditation. Yoga can be a helpful IBS treatment, as it is known to help reduce stress. Stress often causes flare-ups of irritable bowel syndrome. Yoga may also be beneficial in treating IBS pain.

Holy Basil - Medicinal Aspects of Holy Basil

Holy basil is a common name of a world-renowned herb Tulasi. It is a secret herb that has a mythological back ground. Tulasi is supposed to be a beloved of Lord Krishna, a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, the operator of this world. Hence the herb got its name from there. This herb is worshipped throughout India as well as in various other parts of this world. It is especially associated with lord Krishna and is found in every temple of His. Even you can trace a Tulasi plant in almost every Indian home.

As per the properties of Tulasi are considered, it has a diversified usage. It has both therapeutic as well as general usage. Due to its application in various aspects of our life it has been considered as healer. References of holy basil can be traced back in Riga Veda, the oldest written book of the world. It clearly mentions that people at that time were aware of the multiple benefits of Tulsi and used them very often. Even the Charka Samhita, a medicinal book of ayurveda is also mentioned various therapeutic uses of Tulsi and has mentioned it in list of esteemed herbs.

In general Tulasi is of two types,

· Shyama Tulsi or the Tulsi that has black colored leaves

· Rama Tulsi or the Tulsi with green colored leaves.

If we compare the therapeutic values of these two varieties, black colored Tulsi is of more importance than the other one.

Uses of Tulsi

· Respiratory tract problems – Tulsi is very effective in treating the cold and related disorders. It is a boon for respiratory tract disorders. It helps in treating all the disorders that are related to our throat. Tulsi is blessed with certain properties that helps in increasing the immunity of the body therefore it helps in fighting against any antigen or infection that invades our body. It is also very helpful in expelling out the extra amount of mucus that gets accumulated in our respiratory tract especially in lungs.

· Headaches – some analgesic properties have been discovered in Tulsi and are a great assert in providing remedy to various pains that might happen in the body. It has been seen that Tulsi is very helpful in relieving the head aches. It has certain properties that helps in releasing spasm in the muscles hence is extremely helpful in relaxing the body.

· Abdominal disorders – it is one of the potent herbs that are very helpful in treating all a kind of abdominal disorders. It is very effective in increasing the peristaltic movements in the GI tract. It is very helpful in improving the appetite. It also has some mild laxative properties therefore helps in evacuation of the bowel.

· Inflammation – Tulsi is considered a good herb that has the anti-inflammatory properties. It is very effective in suppressing any kind of edema that happens in the body. It is very much used in reducing the pain and improve the blood circulation in the body thereby is very helpful in fading away wit the swellings that creeps in our body.

· Heart diseases – Tulsi is useful in curing heart related problems. It provides strength to the heart muscles and also helps in improving the blood circulation. It also helps in improving the blood supply to heart muscles. It is also helpful in reducing the cholesterol levels in the body.

How To Lose Man Boobs

Lose man boobs with diet and exercise to prevent cosmetic surgery, pain and expense.
Some men develop boobs called Gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is enlarged breastbone that can become embarrassing especially when doing activities like swimming where you do not wear your shirt.

Gynecomastia is becoming a widespread topic. Men are trying new things to get rid of their large breast. Surgery is the real way to eliminate and reduce fat breast tissue on most men.

Teens between the ages of 13 and 18 sometimes become upset and scared when they notice they are getting boobs. Do not feel frighten or think you have female traits, since it simply isn't so. When teen boys start developing and at puberty, they will notice their chest is getting larger. As teens begin to grow during the puberty ages, their breast will begin to blend in with the rest of their body to balance out. It usually takes about two years for the chest to balance with their body.

If you're teen doesn't seem to lose the extra large signs of breast development they need to see a doctor for advice on what to do. Your family physician can take x-rays and blood test to make sure whether it is Gynecomastia or fatty tissue that can be control to an extent with diet and exercise.

There is no known cause for Gynecomastia. However, medications and surgical procedures are available to get rid of man boobs. Cosmetic surgery has proven to eliminate boobs. Most insurance companies do not pay for cosmetic surgeries and it could be very costly however. When having cosmetic surgery, it can be very painful as well as costly so do some serious thinking before going this route.

Exercise will help when trying to lose man boobs by working off the fat and toning the breast tissues and muscles around them. You can build up muscles for a manlier look by doing some breast reduction exercises. Start an exercise program today to change fat to energy. Concentrate and focus on the chest and shoulder areas when planning your reduction exercise for loosing man boobs. By walking, biking, aerobic in a brisk fast pace will help tone the chest and help to reduce the appearance of large breastbones.

Don't try to shrink your man boobs by going on crash diets and taking supplements that are suppose to help eliminate your looks. Make sure that you are certain what you are dealing with by letting your family physician take x-rays and blood test.

Learning to control your diet by not overeating and including a lot of fiber will help lessen the appearance of Gynecomastia. By eating a lot of fiber like fruit and cereal help to digest your meal to turn the fat into energy.

Do not eat one hour before going to bed. When you feast, fat sits up and remains constant if you are not exercising.
Eat separate meats from grains; like meat and pasta. Eating too much fatty foods is not healthy. In addition, it could increase your chances of developing man boobs.

Try to eat your largest meal early in the day. For instance instead of eating a full meal at supper, eat a healthy noon meal or better yet, a larger breakfast. By eating large meals earlier in the day, you have more time to burn off the extra calories that are consumed. Eat your smallest meal at night to prevent a large amount of fat from just laying there.

Work off extra calories by doing exercise programs to help keep fat from forming around the chest. Slow down and lose man boobs by learning to stay in control.