Knee Pain Syndrome

Knee Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), or anterior knee pain syndrome, is pain under and around the kneecap that can’t be explained by other causes, such as tendinitis or bursitis. This syndrome also goes by other names. One is tracking disorder, because the patella tends to pull toward the outside. Another is chondromalacia patellae, meaning softening of the cartilage, because over time a rough-riding kneecap causes wear and tear on the cartilage beneath it, eventually leading to osteoarthritis. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is more common in women over 40 and in physically active teenage girls. Three major factors are involved, although their relative contributions can differ greatly from person to person:
Malalignment: People with a high Q-angle are at higher risk, as are people whose arches flatten with each step.
Muscle imbalance and tightness: Tight hamstrings, calves, and hip muscles increase the pressure between the kneecap and the thighbone. Of the four quadriceps muscles, three pull the kneecap toward the outside; if the innermost quadriceps muscle is relatively weak, this can create tracking problems.
Overuse: Bending the knee moves the patella tighter against the femur. Patellofemoral pain worsens with activities that put weight on the knee while it is bent, such as squatting or running on steps and hills.

from: everyday health

What Is Complementary and Alternative Medicine?

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Conventional medicine is medicine as practiced by holders of M.D. (medical doctor) or D.O. (doctor of osteopathy) degrees and by their allied health professionals, such as physical therapists, psychologists, and registered nurses. Some health care providers practice both CAM and conventional medicine. While some scientific evidence exists regarding some CAM therapies, for most there are key questions that are yet to be answered through well-designed scientific studies--questions such as whether these therapies are safe and whether they work for the diseases or medical conditions for which they are used.

The list of what is considered to be CAM changes continually, as those therapies that are proven to be safe and effective become adopted into conventional health care and as new approaches to health care emerge.

Are complementary medicine and alternative medicine different from each other?

Yes, they are different.
Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine. An example of a complementary therapy is using aromatherapy to help lessen a patient's discomfort following surgery.
Alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. An example of an alternative therapy is using a special diet to treat cancer instead of undergoing surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy that has been recommended by a conventional doctor.
What is integrative medicine?

Integrative medicine combines treatments from conventional medicine and CAM for which there is some high-quality evidence of safety and effectiveness. It is also called integrated medicine.

What are the major types of complementary and alternative medicine?

NCCAM groups CAM practices into four domains, recognizing there can be some overlap. In addition, NCCAM studies CAM whole medical systems, which cut across all domains.

Whole Medical Systems
Whole medical systems are built upon complete systems of theory and practice. Often, these systems have evolved apart from and earlier than the conventional medical approach used in the United States. Examples of whole medical systems that have developed in Western cultures include homeopathic medicine and naturopathic medicine. Examples of systems that have developed in non-Western cultures include traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda.

Mind-Body Medicine
Mind-body medicine uses a variety of techniques designed to enhance the mind's capacity to affect bodily function and symptoms. Some techniques that were considered CAM in the past have become mainstream (for example, patient support groups and cognitive-behavioral therapy). Other mind-body techniques are still considered CAM, including meditation, prayer, mental healing, and therapies that use creative outlets such as art, music, or dance.

Biologically Based Practices
Biologically based therapies in CAM use substances found in nature, such as herbs, foods, and vitamins. Some examples include dietary supplements, herbal products, and the use of other so-called natural but as yet scientifically unproven therapies (for example, using shark cartilage to treat cancer).

Manipulative and Body-Based Practices
Manipulative and body-based practices in CAM are based on manipulation and/or movement of one or more parts of the body. Some examples include chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation and massage.

Energy Medicine
Energy therapies involve the use of energy fields. They are of two types:
Biofield therapies are intended to affect energy fields that purportedly surround and penetrate the human body. The existence of such fields has not yet been scientifically proven. Some forms of energy therapy manipulate biofields by applying pressure and/or manipulating the body by placing the hands in, or through, these fields. Examples include qi gong, Reiki, and Therapeutic Touch.
Bioelectromagnetic-based therapies involve the unconventional use of electromagnetic fields, such as pulsed fields, magnetic fields, or alternating-current or direct-current fields.
What is NCCAM's role in the field of CAM?

NCCAM is the Federal Government's lead agency for scientific research on CAM. . NCCAM's mission is to explore complementary and alternative healing practices in the context of rigorous science, train CAM researchers, and disseminate authoritative information to the public and professionals.

from: everyday health

25 Ways to Lose Weight

By Lambeth Hochwald
Everyday ways you haven't heard of — and they work!

When it comes to losing weight, a little inspiration can go a long, long way. So we looked into the latest studies, combed the most intriguing research and interviewed real women on how they shed extra pounds to come up with 25 winning weight-loss tips that are well worth trying.
Remember to always check with your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program.

1. Put the kettle on. Drinking green tea (which is also known for its powerful cancer-fighting compounds) may help you burn more calories by inducing slight changes in metabolism, according to researchers at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

2. Choose cereal. Eating cold cereal with skim milk for breakfast and as a replacement for lunch or dinner can help jump-start your diet, according to a Purdue University study released last fall. The men and women in the study, who all ate Special K, lost an average of six pounds in two weeks.

3. Consider peanut butter. Foods rich in monounsaturated fats (including nuts, peanut butter, olive and canola oils and avocados) can help you lose weight, according to a study conducted at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. Researchers studied 101 overweight people who were divided into two groups. One group was put on a lowfat diet that got about 20 percent of its calories from fat; the other followed a diet that got 35 percent of its calories from fat, mostly the monounsaturated kind. While both groups of women lost an average of 11 pounds in the first year, only those on the so-called "peanut butter" diet were able to keep the weight off for 18 months or longer.

4. Keep sipping. Experts say you should drink enough water to equal half of your body weight in ounces. If you weigh 160 pounds, aim to drink 80 ounces a day. One way to keep tabs: Drink fluids with each meal and keep a water bottle with you at other times so you remember to drink, suggests Kimberly Glenn, M.S., R.D., L.D., a registered dietitian at Northside Hospital in Atlanta. Drinking adequate water will help keep you from mistaking thirst for hunger, which is a common pitfall.

5. Prioritize your workouts. "Once I put my workouts in my datebook, I found myself getting to the gym and enjoying my time there," says Pam Silvestri, 37, a public affairs manager in Dallas, who lost 15 pounds last year. "I consider my workouts just as important as any other business meeting."

6. Pump up the volume. Foods with high water or fiber content tend to fill you up faster, according to researchers at Penn State University. The idea here is that you'll eat less of (and it'll take longer to eat) a spinach omelet versus a plate of scrambled eggs.

7. Reach for dairy. Lowfat dairy products can be among the best weight-loss staples, according to researchers at Purdue University who studied a group of women for two years. Those who met the recommended dietary intake (RDI) for calcium (1,000 mg) and ate less than 1,900 calories a day lost an average of six pounds, while women who consumed the same amount of calories but less calcium actually ended up gaining weight. Researchers speculate that calcium may help promote the breakdown of the body's fat stores.

from: Everyday Health

The Basics of Hair Removal

from: everyday health

By Pat Wingert and Barbara Kantrowitz
Separate fact from fiction before deciding which method of hair removal is best for you.

Tweezing generally doesn't make hair grow back darker, and it's a perfectly adequate method of hair removal if you have only a few stray hairs on your chin. However, it can be tedious and time-consuming if you have a lot of ground to cover. To make it easier, invest in good tweezers and a high magnification mirror. Tweezing is easiest after a hot shower or bath. If the growth is a little heavier, you might try other temporary methods. (Shaving is effective on your legs, but not a good choice for your face.)
In addition to plucking, your options include waxing, bleaching, and chemical depilatories. Waxing keeps hair at bay four to six weeks. Plucking, bleaching, and depilatories last about two to three weeks or less. Each method has pros and cons. Waxing removes hair quickly and smoothly but can be painful and expensive if you get it done in a salon. You also run the risk of damaging your hair shafts and getting ingrown hairs. Bleaching is pretty easy, but it can burn and sting if you leave it on too long. Be sure to use a product made especially for the face, not the arms or legs. It's a good option if your hair color contrasts with your skin color. The day before, test a patch on your inner wrist to make sure you don't get redness or swelling. You should do a patch test with depilatories as well. These products, which come in aerosol, lotion, cream, and roll-on preparations, contain a chemical that dissolves the surface of the hair, separating it from the skin.
Read instructions very carefully; leaving a depilatory on too long can irritate your skin. Also, make sure you get a preparation made specifically for the part of your body you're targeting. A product aimed at hair on your legs could well be too strong for your face. In any case, you shouldn't use depilatories around your eyes or on inflamed or broken skin.
For longer-term hair removal, you can hit hair follicles with the more expensive options of lasers or electrolysis. Lasers work best when you're attacking dark hair on pale skin; however, some newer methods target other skin and hair combinations. It usually takes several treatments to get at hair in different stages of growth. Electrolysis also takes several treatments and can be painful; if your technician isn't properly trained, you could get an infection from an unsterile needle or even scarring. And both of these procedures can be costly. For either, be sure to check the credentials of the operator. Most states require people to be specially licensed to perform these procedures. If you can, get a recommendation from a dermatologist or your physician.
You may have seen ads for face creams and moisturizers that claim to slow hair growth. Try these products and see if you notice a difference. They may not actually slow growth but rather make it less obvious. That could be enough for you. If it isn't, you might ask your doctor about prescription medications to slow hair growth. One of the newest is Vaniqa (eflornithine HCl). After about eight weeks, you may find that you need to tweeze or wax less frequently.

Celebrity Secrets for Looking Great at Any Age

8 stars spill what keeps them looking their best
By Jessie Sholl

from: Everyday Health

Beautiful in Your 40s, 50s, and BeyondLotions, potions, cosmetic surgery — how do celebrities manage to stay so healthy and beautiful long after the rest of us have begun to, well, age? And "Forty is the new thirty," is so yesterday — some of the most gorgeous celebrities are in their sixties and even seventies. If you've been wondering how they do it, you're in luck: While we still haven't found an actual "fountain of youth," we did find some celebrities who were willing to share their secrets for staying fit and fabulous. (Hint: It doesn't always come from the outside.) So get ready to take notes!

Mind Games Former Charlie's Angel Cheryl Ladd, 57, says, "Just like our bodies, our minds and memories can slow down as we age. Mind games are a fun way to keep your brain active and agile. And it might sound clichéd, but try to live a happy life. I stay very involved with my loved ones, including my husband of 27 years, our children, and grandchildren. I also make sure to leave plenty of time for golf, one of my biggest passions, which helps keep me physically and mentally fit."

Eat Like a Champion "I am a vegetarian — although I do eat fish — and I have been that way for the last 28 years," says former NBA star Spencer Haywood, 59. "I take a lot of Omega 3-6-9 fish oil tablets. It helps lubricate my knees and heart, keeps cholesterol levels in check. I also take a liquid multiple vitamin, aloe vera capsules, and glucosamine/chondroitin for flexibility." He adds, "I live by Abraham Lincoln's motto: 'You are only as happy as you decide to be,' And I strive not to be distracted by negativity — that is the key."

Arrested Aging"Looking good at any age requires discipline, more as the years go by," says Jessica Walter, 66, who played the hilariously indifferent mother Lucille Bluth on the television series Arrested Development. "Clean living, watching your diet, exercise, not smoking, and staying out of the sun are all important. But to me of equal importance is inner happiness and self-fulfillment. Your looks reflect that, and the happier you are — and the contribution you make to those around you and society as a whole — shows!"

From the Inside Out Actress Loretta Devine, 58, a regular on Grey's Anatomy, played teacher Marla Hendricks on Boston Public. Now she can teach us a thing or two about staying young. "To stay beautiful you must work inside out. Meditation helps. A few minutes a day, you sit quietly until you hear your own heart beating. Relax and love yourself a bit," Devine suggests. "Doing things I enjoy, like reading, knitting, beading, and embellishing evening gowns — a hobby of mine — is a true joy. I also dabble in acrylics and water colors and singing for charities; those keep me happy, healthy, and feeling good about myself."

Trainer to the Stars Stacey Griffith, a 20-year fitness veteran whose celebrity clients include Brooke Shields and Jody Foster, offers this advice: "Turn on the music and dance. You can even do it while you are washing dishes or folding laundry. It provides a cardio boost to your day and helps burn body fat." Griffith also suggests "taking time to 'speed smile' by making an exaggerated smile and repeating it at a medium pace for about a minute. It works several muscles in the face and is great for maintaining the skin's elasticity."

Trainer to the Stars Stacey Griffith, a 20-year fitness veteran whose celebrity clients include Brooke Shields and Jody Foster, offers this advice: "Turn on the music and dance. You can even do it while you are washing dishes or folding laundry. It provides a cardio boost to your day and helps burn body fat." Griffith also suggests "taking time to 'speed smile' by making an exaggerated smile and repeating it at a medium pace for about a minute. It works several muscles in the face and is great for maintaining the skin's elasticity."

Feeling Like a 10.0 "Do the things that make you feel good about yourself. If that means carving out extra time for a walk, getting the sleep you need, or taking time to look your best, do it!" urges former gymnast Nadia Comaneci, 46, a five-time Olympic gold medal winner. "When we feel great on the inside, it's okay to want your outside to reflect this! To be honest, for me, that meant using Botox, and with the "11" gone," — Comaneci says, referring to the vertical wrinkles commonly found between eyebrows — "I really do feel like a 10 again!"

Judge Your Choices When 49-year-old Judge David Young, who stars in the eponymous television show, is asked how he stays good-looking, he responds, "Me good looking?! That is a matter of public debate. But staying healthy is easy — Weight Watchers. It's made me more aware of the bad choices I've made. Knowing that I have to weigh in every Saturday makes me more accountable for my food decisions. As my mother says, 'You can't fool the shopkeeper.'" He adds, "Staying well groomed is important as well. Weekly manicures and monthly pedicures are a must."

Your Relaxation Tool Kit

Stressed out? Try these 12 tension-taming tools and tips.
By Jen Laskey

from: Everyday Health

Time to Unwind

While some types of stress can be beneficial, helping you meet a challenge or a goal, other kinds of stress are, well, stressful. Chronic stress, in particular, can have serious emotional and physical consequences. So how can you try to control stress when it starts to creep up on you? Deena Frank, an aerial dancer and a yoga and Gyrotonic instructor at Centerpoint Yoga Studios in New York City, suggests creating a Relaxation Tool Kit. "It's one of the simplest and most inexpensive ways to rejuvenate and reconnect with yourself," she says. If you're looking to unwind, try these chill-out methods from Frank's own Relaxation Tool Kit.

1. Get a Good Workout

"Exercise is an excellent tension tamer," says Frank. "It loosens up your body, activates your endorphins, and makes you feel great." Whether you work out in a gym, on your own, or at a Pilates, yoga, or dance class, your body will benefit and you'll reduce stress at the same time.

2. Enjoy a Deep Massage

Therapeutic treatments or "touch therapies," such as massage, acupressure, acupuncture, and chiropractic care, can not only relieve pain when our bodies ache or feel tense but also help fulfill our need to be physically comforted. In particular, Frank says, deep-tissue massage and acupuncture are important to help reduce stress and achieve relaxation. "I use them to help loosen tight muscles, alleviate pain, and improve my overall sense of well-being."

3. Hang Upside Down!

"Hanging upside down can be very relaxing," says Frank, who spends more time upside down than most people because of her work. She suggests relieving physical tension by "hanging over a chair, exercise ball, or going to a yoga class to learn how to do head, hand, and shoulder stands." Why is being inverted beneficial? It's believed that yoga inversions help move stagnant energy, relieve pressure on the heart, and cleanse the lymphatic system. You shouldn't do these inversions, though, if you have heart disease, hypertension, glaucoma or other eye diseases, or are pregnant.

4. Smell the Roses

Scented essential oils, candles, natural room sprays, incense, perfume, fresh-cut flowers, and even the aroma of foods – really, anything that smells good to you – can help you relax. "I personally find the scents of peppermint and rose calming when I'm feeling stressed," says Frank. She recommends keeping your preferred scents in places where you often experience stress, such as at your work desk or in your car for getting through rush-hour traffic. Keep in mind, though, that essential oils may not be a good idea if you're undergoing cancer treatment; have high blood pressure, diabetes, or skin sensitivities; or if you're pregnant or nursing. Talk to your doctor first in these cases.

5. Take an Essential Bath

"There's nothing like a hot bath to help you unwind after a difficult day, and adding bath salts and essential oils can intensify those calming effects. Lavender, peppermint, and jasmine are some of my favorites," says Frank. The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy also suggests these essential oils for relaxation: ylang-ylang, geranium, peppermint, lavender, lemon, sage, chamomile, and rosemary. To find what works best for you, consult with a trained aromatherapy professional when buying essential oils. Also keep in mind that essential oils may not be a good idea if you're undergoing cancer treatment; have high blood pressure, diabetes, or skin sensitivities; or if you're pregnant or nursing. Talk to your doctor first in these cases.

6. Try Meditation

Clearing your mind through meditation is an ancient spiritual tradition, but the National Institutes of Health has found that Americans are also using it to treat anxiety, depression, and stress-related and other health problems. Frank insists that there are no rules: "You can meditate alone or with a group, using a CD or silence — you can even meditate while walking or dancing." She adds that meditation reduces stress by slowing your heart rate, balancing your blood pressure, and increasing deep breathing.

7. Drink a Cup of Tea

Tea, the second most widely consumed beverage in the world (after water), is another tension tamer. Green, black, and red teas all contain health-promoting antioxidants. Herbal teas, in the form of tisanes and infusions, have been used medicinally for centuries and are popular today in helping people relax. Chamomile, in particular, is known for its soothing effects. Frank recommends taking time out from your busy schedule to sit down and enjoy a cup each day — to ease your body and your mood.

8. Lose Yourself in Drama

When a temporary time-out from daily life is what you need, turn to a good movie or book. Losing yourself in a drama or funny story can help push your stressors aside. "Sometimes all you need is a little time to take your mind off your problems," says Frank. "When you return to tackle them later, you might be surprised at how much more manageable they seem."

9. Make a "Music I Love" Mix

Prepare the ultimate playlist of your favorite soothing songs — the type of music doesn't matter. "This will depend on your individual taste – you might find classical or jazz relaxing, or perhaps you prefer rock, or even rap – whatever works for you," says Frank. Upload the songs to your iPod or burn a CD, then pump the tunes when stress strikes. Listening to music you love can increase your deep breathing and improve your mood too.

10. Nibble on Dark Chocolate

"Eating a really good piece of dark chocolate can be very relaxing. Choose chocolate with at least 60 percent cacao, so you get the benefits of its antioxidants along with your moment of chocolate-covered bliss," says Frank. Recent studies indicate that besides boosting your mood, the flavonoids in chocolate can help reduce high blood pressure and decrease the risk for heart disease. But remember, chocolate also contains fat and sugar, so indulge in moderation.

11. Take a Walk in the Park

It's not a coincidence that many popular relaxation CDs include the sounds of nature. Whether you're walking in the woods, sitting on a beach, or strolling through a city park, nature will rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Frank, a self-proclaimed nature lover, says she would keep a redwood tree in her pocket if she could. She encourages everyone to relax outside in natural settings whenever possible.

12. Hug Someone You Love

Never underestimate the power of affection to help comfort you. Not only is physical contact considered a basic human need, but research shows that it lowers the risk for both depression and the ill effects of stress. Frank adds that "a hug is not just a hug; it's a demonstration of emotional support, which is possibly the most precious tool you can keep in your Relaxation Tool Kit."

Health Tip: Prevent Urinary Tract Infections in Women

from: Everyday Health

(HealthDay News) -- A urinary tract infection may have symptoms including painful and frequent urination, cloudy urine, pressure in the lower belly and fever.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these suggestions for women to help prevent these infections:

Always urinate when you feel the urge. Don't wait too long.

Always urinate before and after sex.

After urinating, always wipe from front to back.

Thoroughly clean the genitals every day.

Avoid douching or using a feminine spray.

Wear underwear with a cotton crotch.

If you tend to get UTIs, talk to your doctor about what's causing them.

Smart Snack Options

By Woman's Day

from: Everyday Health

100 CALORIES

· 1 hard-cooked egg (75) with half a slice of toasted wheat bread (34)

· 1⁄2 cup ice milk or sherbet (100)

· 1 large rectangular graham cracker (60) with 11⁄2 tsp peanut butter (45)

· 1 slice (1 oz) angel food cake (70) with 1⁄2 cup fresh strawberries (25)

· 1⁄2 cup wheat-flake cereal (55) with 1⁄2 cup nonfat milk (45)

· 1 cup chicken-noodle soup (75) with 2 saltines (25)

· 1 small (4") whole-wheat pita (74) with 1 Tbsp hummus (24)

· 1⁄2 cup cranberry juice cocktail (72) and 1⁄4 cup nonfat plain yogurt (34) blended with ice

· 1 slice whole-wheat bread (69) with 1 oz sliced turkey breast (28) and mustard

· 1⁄2 cup 1% lowfat cottage cheese (80) with 1 cup cherry tomatoes (30)

· 1 cup baby carrots, celery and bell peppers (30) with 2 Tbsp light dressing (70)

· 1⁄4 cup 1% lowfat cottage cheese (40) with 1 cup canned peaches in water (60)

200 CALORIES

· 6 oz nonfat fruit yogurt (160) mixed with 1 Tbsp raisins (30)

· 1 slice whole-wheat bread (69) with 1 Tbsp peanut butter (90) and 1 tsp jelly (19)

· 1 oz peanuts (166) with 1⁄2 oz pretzels (50)

· One 8" flour tortilla (150) with 2 oz sliced turkey (55), lettuce, tomato and balsamic vinegar

· 1 medium baked potato (161) with 1⁄4 cup 1% lowfat cottage cheese (40)

· 1 container Fantastic Foods Hearty Cups Vegetable Barley soup (150) with 4 saltines (50)

· Subway Veggie Delite 6" sandwich without cheese (230)

· Thai Kitchen Mushroom Medley Rice Noodle Bowl (188) 1⁄2 cup lowfat frozen yogurt (114)

with 3⁄4 cup sliced fresh fruit (75)

Source: Woman's Day

9 Foods That Help Relieve Nausea

from: Everyday Health

Eating may be the last thing you feel like doing when your stomach is upset, but some foods actually ease the symptoms, so consider giving these a try.
By Melissa Johnson

Apple
A little fiber goes a long way toward clearing nausea-inducing chemicals out of your system — but too much at one time can make you feel even worse. Throughout the day, snack on such fiber-rich foods as a whole apple (Gala apples are a good choice) and crunchy raw vegetables. Try applesauce or apple juice if you're having trouble digesting solid food.

Crackers
Foods high in starch — such as saltines, bread, and toast — help absorb stomach acids and settle a queasy stomach. Keep a handful of crackers on your nightstand; eating a few before you get out of bed may help ease nausea in the morning.

Ginger
Capsules of powdered ginger have been found to reduce nausea and vomiting. You could also try a cup of ginger tea, a glass of ginger ale (some people swear it works better if it's flat), a few gingersnap cookies, or a piece of ginger candy. Pickled ginger, the kind that usually comes with sushi, may also help.

Water
Small sips from a plain glass of water will help you stay hydrated — and avoid the headaches that often accompany nausea. Start out by slowly drinking tiny amounts until you feel you can stomach a larger amount.

Nuts
A lack of protein can make nausea feel even worse, so look to protein-packed foods, such as nuts — even peanut butter (as long as you're not allergic) — that are easy to digest. They'll quickly replenish your depleted energy and help keep your nausea at bay.


Chicken Broth
Chicken soup may make you feel better when you have a cold, but it's too heavy when you're nauseated. Instead try chicken broth to soothe your symptoms — the lower in fat, the better. Broth made from bouillon cubes may be your best bet because it's easy to prepare and less likely to spoil.

Sports Drinks
Most sports drinks contain the electrolytes sodium and potassium, which help restore an athlete's depleted nutrients. While you may not be up for sports, sports drinks can help even non-athletes feel better when they're suffering from nausea.


Banana
If your nausea is accompanied by dehydration, or if you have been vomiting, snack on a piece of this peel-and-eat fruit. Bananas can help restore potassium, which is often depleted as a result of diarrhea and vomiting. Doctors also recommend starting on "bland" foods like bananas when you're ready to eat solids again.


Sprig of Mint
The refreshing aroma alone may be enough to make you feel better, but actually chewing on fresh mint or drinking a glass of mint tea is considered an effective remedy for nausea.

Top 12 Allergens

These main allergy triggers can have you sneezing and sniffling — and more — all year long.
By Michelle Olson


from: Everyday Health

1. Mold
Here's the bad news for those who suffer from mold allergies: The sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and itchy eyes won't necessarily clear up once summer is over. Sure, mold thrives outdoors in the warmer months in rotting wood, fallen leaves, grass, grains, and dead plants. But it also loves the moisture-rich areas of your home, especially the bathroom, kitchen, and basement. Because mold is spread by floating spores, it's especially good at finding its way into your nasal passages — all year long. To lessen symptoms, keep outdoor time to a minimum during the late summer months, when mold is rampant, and use air filters on indoor vents in your home.

2. Dust Mites
Not in my clean house, you say? Don't be so sure. These microscopic eight-legged arthropods live in every American home. All they need to thrive is the dead skin you and your family naturally shed every day. It's actually not the mites themselves that cause the sneezing and watery eyes brought on by breathing dust — it's their waste. Dust mites get particularly comfy in the bedroom, so if you're allergic to these pests, avoid down pillows and blankets, wool rugs, curtains, and upholstery.

3. Pollen
Although bright, pungent-smelling flowers often take the heat, it's actually non-showy plants that are to blame for the most common chronic disease in the United States: hay fever. Trees, weeds, and grasses release pollen into the air to fertilize nearby plants — a process that inevitably causes this fine powder to land on passersby as well. Ragweed, the most notorious offender, is responsible for 75 percent of all pollen allergy symptoms. Hay fever sufferers can protect themselves by avoiding high pollen counts in the early morning, paying attention to local pollen reports, and taking one of the many available prescription or over-the-counter antihistamine and decongestant medications.

4. Pet Dander
Your furry or feathery companion might be your best friend, but the dead skin, saliva, and urine on its body are the worst enemies of those who suffer from pet dander allergies. The cause is a highly sensitive immune system that overreacts to the harmless proteins found in pet dander. In extremely sensitive allergy sufferers, the dander particles can enter the lungs and cause wheezing and difficulty breathing, and possibly lead to chronic asthma. People can be allergic to all or just certain breeds of dogs, but cat lovers take heed: Cat allergies are twice as common as the pooch-induced kind.

5. Latex
Natural rubber products like adhesive bandages, latex gloves, condoms, and balloons are made from the sap of Brazilian rubber trees; proteins in these trees are the cause of latex allergic reactions. The most common reaction is contact dermatitis, a blotchy, itchy red rash that develops within 24 hours. Accompanying symptoms may include stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, asthma symptoms, nausea, rapid pulse, light-headedness, and fainting. In some cases, anaphylactic shock can ensue, causing the blood vessels to widen and blood pressure to drop — this life-threatening reaction requires immediate medical attention. Fortunately, nonlatex substitutes for these products are widely available.

6. Insect Stings
Stinging insects like wasps, hornets, bees, and fire ants (all of which are members of the order Hymenoptera) protect themselves from their enemies with toxic venom. For most people, stings from these insects leave an annoying, mildly painful bump that disappears within a few days. In some people, though, the first insect sting can cause an allergic reaction with symptoms that include severe local swelling that takes weeks to dissipate. The second sting can cause a total-body, anaphylactic reaction, including swelling of the tongue, dizziness, chest constriction, breathing difficulty, fainting, heart attack, and, if medical attention is not sought, death. Epinephrine kits and immunotherapy vaccinations are a couple of precautions doctors recommend for those who have had a severe reaction to insect stings.

7. Seafood
The deep blue sea might be teeming with delicacies, but seafood and shellfish are the most common causes of food allergies. Reactions include hives, eczema, asthma, digestive problems, and anaphylactic shock. Shellfish allergic reactions can be triggered either by mollusks (clams, mussels, and oysters) or by crustaceans (shrimp, lobster, and crab). Common seafood allergens are scaly and bony fish like cod, salmon, trout, and halibut. It's not uncommon for a person to be allergic to only one seafood species, which makes avoidance a bit easier. Still, anyone with this type of allergy should beware — fish by-products can lurk in foods, medicines, cosmetics, and lotions, so read labels carefully.

8. Soy
The health benefits of soy products are being shouted from the rooftops these days. Yet people with soybean allergies are up against the 15-plus allergy-provoking proteins that have been found so far in this Asian legume. Symptoms such as hives, eczema, asthma, nasal inflammation, and anaphylactic shock can occur after an allergic person ingests soy products. Some foods contain this allergen even though the word "soy" doesn't appear anywhere in their names. For example, tempeh, miso, and tofu all contain soy and can produce allergic reactions; fermented soy products, however — like soybean oil — do not often have an effect.

9. Peanuts
Approximately 2 percent of Americans are allergic to this member of the legume family — and it's the leading cause of food-related deaths in the United States. Trace amounts of peanuts can be found in everything from soups, baked goods, and cereals to ice cream and energy bars. People who are sensitive to peanuts exhibit extreme reactions to even the smallest exposure, with symptoms including eczema, hives, asthma, and anaphylactic shock. These reactions can occur throughout the allergy sufferer's lifetime, so the person must be diligent about reading food labels and inquiring about foods when eating out and at other people's homes. A peanut allergy is often present in people who are allergic to tree nuts like cashews, almonds, and pecans.

10. Milk
An allergic reaction to cow's milk is caused by an immune system that overreacts to one of the 20 or so proteins found in this dairy product. A reaction to milk can take the form of eczema, hives, asthma, or anaphylactic shock. Milk allergies are most prevalent in children under 3 — though people sometimes outgrow this allergy. Because derivatives of milk proteins like casein and whey are commonly found in other products, people with a milk allergy must be on the lookout for these ingredients as well.

11. Eggs
Oddly enough, some people are allergic only to the yoke of the egg, while others are affected only by the white. Whatever part of the egg causes the reaction, it's the proteins found in eggs that are to blame. Egg allergy symptoms can include hives, eczema, asthma, digestive problems, and anaphylactic shock. Eggs are found in an array of foods — baked goods, pastas, cereals, condiments, soups, and beverages — making avoidance difficult. They are also sometimes included in cosmetics and drugs. To make it more difficult, eggs are sometimes disguised by names like albumin, lecithin, silici albuminate, vitellin, and a variety of words beginning with "ovo-," so people with this kind of allergy must be on the lookout.


12. Penicillin
Beta-lactam antibiotics, including penicillin and amoxicillin, are widely used to treat bacterial infections. An allergic reaction to penicillin is not a side effect of the drug, but rather a severe immune reaction to it. Symptoms such as hives, eczema, asthma, swollen lips or tongue, and anaphylactic shock can occur within minutes of taking the medication but may not appear until days later. People are not born with a penicillin allergy; rather, they develop it after exposure to the drug. Reexposure to the drug, then, is when symptoms first arise.

Health Tip: Keeping Off the Weight

from: Everyday Health

(HealthDay News) -- Losing weight is a challenge, but keeping it off can even more difficult without a good plan and healthy habits.

Here are suggestions to help you keep the weight off that you've worked so hard to lose, courtesy of the American Heart Association:

------Understand what works best for you -- such as what rewards best motivate you, what tempts you most, and what helps you resist those temptations.

----- Be realistic about how much weight you should lose.

----- Maintain a good balance of calories taken in versus calories burned.

---- Get enough exercise. Even a brisk daily walk can help you keep those pounds off.

--- Keep notes and records of your food intake and daily activity.

--- Plan your meals, and make healthy food choices at the grocery.

--- Don't weigh yourself more than once a week. Plan ahead for holidays, special occasions, and other times when you may be likely to splurge and take in additional calories.

Health Tip: Take a Short Nap

from: Everyday Health

(HealthDay News) -- While a full night's sleep is vital to good health, stamina and alertness, a short nap also can do wonders for your mood and performance.

The National Sleep Foundation offers these suggestions for good napping:

Limit the nap to 20 minutes to 30 minutes. This shouldn't leave you feeling groggy or interfere with your ability to fall asleep at night.

Make sure you have a good sleep environment. Choose a cool, dark and quiet room to help you fall asleep and have a restful nap.

Choose the right time to nap. Your body may not be ready for more sleep if it's early in the day, while napping too late can cause problems falling asleep at bedtime.

12 Foods That Stain Teeth

Avoid these top offenders to keep your smile white and bright
By Anne L. Fritz


Black Coffee
It might be hard to get going in the morning without it, but a cup of joe is one of the worst stain offenders. Why? "The outer layer of the tooth is very porous," says cosmetic dentist Debra Glassman, of New York City. That means foods and liquids are absorbed — and stay there. But you don't have to go without java — try adding a splash of milk to lighten it up. As a bonus, you'll get milk's calcium and vitamin D, both of which keep teeth strong.

Tea
You might think tea would be a better option than coffee, but because of its tannins, it's a teeth stainer, too. The good news is that some varieties are better than others. Avoid darker-colored teas, like English Breakfast and Earl Grey. Instead, opt for green, white, and herbal teas. Because they're lighter in color, they won't stain your teeth as much.


Red Wine
It may be good for your heart, but red wine is bad for your smile. If you've ever looked in the mirror and smiled after sipping a glass of Shiraz or cabernet sauvignon, you've seen the results. On the upside, studies have shown that wine reduces inflammation, which can help reduce or prevent gum disease. You can always opt for white wine or swish water around your mouth after drinking, suggests Dr. Glassman.

Cola
Dark sodas, including diet, are especially harmful to teeth because of their staining color. The temperature of soda can also be a factor because very cold (as well as very hot) temperatures cause teeth to contract, which makes them more porous and easier to stain. In addition, the phosphoric and citric acids in soda erode tooth enamel, and the sweeteners in regular soda promote tooth decay. Opt for a seltzer, which is healthier than soda to start with. If you can't give up your soda habit, at least sip it through a straw to limit the beverage's contact with your teeth.

Cranberry Juice
Fruit juices, too, can dull your pearly whites. The concentrated dark color and acids are known to yellow teeth. To keep your teeth white, you're better off drinking fruit juice spritzers or sticking with light-colored solid fruit. An apple, for instance, is an excellent choice; its crisp texture and light color act like a detergent on teeth, wiping away stains, says Dr. Glassman.

Popsicles or Slushies
There's nothing quite like them on a hot summer's day, but it stands to reason that if a food stains your lips and tongue, it's staining your teeth too. Choose a lemon ice instead. Another sweet treat that's even better for your teeth is sugarless gum. In fact, Dr. Glassman recommends that all her patients chew it after a meal to whiten teeth and remove bacteria, which can hasten staining.


Soy Sauce
It's not just dark beverages that will stain your teeth — dark liquids used to flavor foods, such as soy sauce, can produce the same effect. A general rule to follow is that if a food can stain your carpet or T-shirt, it can stain your teeth too. If you do eat sushi or Chinese food, use the soy sauce sparingly. Soy sauce is also heavy on sodium, so keeping your teeth white is just one more reason to take it easy on the sauce.


Balsamic Vinegar
It's certainly flavorful and delicious, but balsamic vinegar's richness comes with a cost: Its dark color makes it a tooth stainer. But don't give up those salads just yet. According to Jonathan B. Levine, D.M.D., of New York City, lettuce helps protect your teeth from stains. The lettuce forms a film over teeth that acts as a barrier to stain-forming foods. Alternatively, you can use a lighter-colored vinegar, like rice vinegar, or a spritz of lemon juice.

Tomato Sauce
Mamma mia! Whether you serve spaghetti marinara or Bolognese, tomato-based sauces can stain your teeth — but that's no reason to avoid this Italian staple. Just eat an appetizer of spinach or broccoli first. These veggies, like lettuce, form a protective film over teeth so foods that stain can't seep into your teeth's pores.

Blueberries
One of nature's superfoods, blueberries are packed with antioxidants. The only downside is that the dark blue skins stain teeth. That's not enough of a reason to shun their health-boosting benefits, though. Just be vigilant about swirling water around your mouth after you've eaten them.

Beets
Anyone who has ever touched beets knows about their power to stain. Beets are particularly potent in juice form, in which they're the most concentrated. Be sure to brush your teeth within an hour after eating beets so stains don't have time to form.

Curry
This staple of Indian cuisine is notorious for making teeth yellow. The color of curry is so intense, you can practically tell it will stain your teeth just by looking at it. The same precautionary rules apply here as with other foods that stain teeth: Brush your teeth after enjoying your plate of chicken curry, or at least swish some water in your mouth.

Everyday Health

The Secrets to Whiter Teeth

The Secrets to Whiter Teeth
A bright, white smile takes years off your appearance and boosts your confidence. Bleaching your teeth is effective and generally safe, but to keep teeth their whitest, it helps to avoid foods that stain teeth in the first place. It's particularly important to avoid these foods immediately after a whitening treatment because the bleaching process makes teeth extra absorbent. Read on for a list of foods and beverages that can stain your teeth and dim your smile.

from: Everyday Health

Health Tip: Walking for Exercise

(HealthDay News) -- Walking is a safe and easy way to get exercise, but you should maintain proper form to prevent injury.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions:
Swing your arms as you walk.
Walk with your head up, and make sure your back is straight.
Keep your abdomen flat.
Point your toes straight ahead.
Walk with a long, easy stride that doesn't strain you.

from:health and beauty

What Causes Constipation?

Symptoms of Functional Constipation

Functional constipation is constipation whose symptoms cannot be linked to any infection or structural abnormality.

At least two of the following during any 12 weeks over the past year:
--- straining during more than one-quarter of bowel movements
--- having lumpy or hard stools during more than one-quarter of bowel movements
--- having a sensation of incomplete evacuation in more than one-­quarter of bowel movements
--- having a sensation that your rectum or anus is blocked during more than one-quarter of bowel movements
--- resorting to manual maneuvers such as using a finger to help facilitate movement during more than one-quarter of bowel movements
--- fewer than three defecations a week.

from here