Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Self Lymph Drainage Massage by MassageByHeather.com in Louisville, KY






Our lymph system is like the garbage disposal for the body, trapping and flushing toxins. Unlike our cardiovascular system, however, the lymph system does not have a pump to move the fluid. Instead, the movement of the body is responsible for preventing the stagnation of toxins in the lymph.

If our lymph fluid isn’t flowing as it should, a myriad of problems can arise. The body faces an increased toxic burden that affects all of our systems. The immune system takes a big hit if the lymph tissues are trapping but not flushing toxins.

To support the entire lymph system, a facial lymphatic drainage massage can be done numerous times a day. It only takes a few minutes.


Benefits of Facial Lymph Drainage

-Supports the flushing of toxins from the body
-Helps drain the sinuses, relieving sinus pressure from allergies and colds
-Reduces fluid retention in the face, which can define the jawline and slim the entire face
-Can help shorten the duration of a cold.

I found this helpful video on YouTube and I do a this facial lymph massage every morning (and before bed, if I remember). It reduces my “puffy morning face” and makes me feel refreshed and energized. I personally use Cloudless Morning with 12 Essential Oils recommended for lymphatic drain, cellulite and skin detoxification. See contraindications before using Essential Oils.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Radix Glycyrrhizae Uralensis: Licorice root



PHARMACEUTICAL NAME
Radix Glycyrrhizae Uralensis



ENGLISH NAME
licorice root

PART USED
dried root or root with rhizome


Radix Glycyrrhizae Uralensis is produced mainly in the provinces of Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Gansu, and Xinjiang. It is collected in spring and autumn, sliced and dried in sunlight, and used unprepared or stir-baked with honey.


FLAVOR, PROPERTY, AND CHANNEL TROPISM
Sweet in flavor, neutral in property, acts on the Heart, Lung, Spleen, and Stomach channels.

Licorice root has a remarkable list of properly documented uses, and might be among the highest overlooked of all natural treatments. It’s useful for several conditions including asthma, athlete’s foot, baldness, body odor, bursitis, canker sores, chronic exhaustion, melancholy, influenza, coughs, dandruff, emphysema, gout, heartburn, HIV, viral infections, fungal infections, ulcers, liver troubles, Lyme disease, menopause, psoriasis, shingles, sore throat, tendinitis, arthritis, tuberculosis, ulcers, and yeast infections.


Nine of the more commonly used health benefits of licorice root

Depression
There is research that shows that the Glycyrrhizic acid that is in licorice root can help with nervousness and depression by encouraging the function of the adrenal glands. Our adrenal glands control stress hormones including cortisol. When one’s stress hormone levels are low it can often be the cause of persistent fatigue, melancholy, anxiety, and having less resistance to infections and allergens. Licorice root also happens to also have the Asparagine amino acid that is needed to preserve equilibrium in the body’s nervous system.

Cardiovascular Disease Studies and High Cholesterol
There has been research that shows that licorice root may control the cholesterol ranges by enhancing the body’s flow of bile. There is also research to indicate that bile acids account for elimination of excessive cholesterol in your body. Also, the anti-oxidant action of licorice root may enhance capillary health and hinder the growth of arterial plaque.

Menopause
The phytoestrogenic and anti-oxidant action of licorice root is thought to be useful for hormonal problems including exhaustion, mood swings, and hot flashes in women who are going through menopause. Consequently, ingesting just one capsule of licorice root daily can help balance and control a woman’s hormone production if she happens to be going through menopause.

Menstrual and PMS Cramps
This herb has anti inflammatory, antispasmodic, and a moderate estrogenic action which might assist with PMS symptoms including breast tenderness, menstrual cramps, nausea and bloating, not to mention mood swings. Consuming licorice root as a tea each day starting about three days prior to one’s anticipated time of the month might help to alleviate PMS symptoms.

Skin Problems
Individuals have been making use of this herb as poultices and salves in treating eczema, skin rashes, psoriasis, and itchy and dry skin. A small medical research that was done indicates that the demulcent and anti inflammatory agents in licorice root gel may decrease the signs of atopic dermatitis (eczema). Just applying a salve made from licorice root onto the area 2 to 3 times daily can help alleviate skin problems.

Gastric and Abdomen Troubles
One benefit of licorice root that is used pretty frequently is that it can be used to deal with digestive abnormalities and many issues with the intestines. The licorice root’s flavonoids can help with discomfort and inflammation of the digestive system. Also, soothing agents in licorice root may quiet and soothe the digestion system, which in turn can help to promote a healthy bowel. Easy treatment would be to have some licorice root tea 2 to 3 times a day.

Herpes and Shingles
Licorice root extract has been utilized in treating herpes simplex, sores, and shingles. Several studies show that the anti viral action of the herb may suppress the return and progression of cold sores due to the herpes virus. Easy treatment for shingles and herpes would be to ingest a capsule of of this root extract 2 times a day, and to use a salve made of the same extract on the affected region between four and five times a day.

Weight Reduction
Research demonstrates that individuals had significant reduction in body fat mass after getting three grams of licorice root extract everyday for 2 months. Nevertheless, the eating of licorice root isn’t something that anyone should do for long periods of time. Consequently, although most research indicates routine use of licorice root for two month periods of time, it is preferred to quit the use of the herb for 1 week after every two weeks throughout the two month interval. For weight loss, having a well-balanced diet along with regular exercise might lead to a substantial decrease in body fat.

Salivary Glands
Licorice isn’t a normal or usual herbal treatment for treating problems that include your salivary glands. Even though some treatments use licorice to assist in soothing a sore throat, there currently is no proof that the herb has any impact on saliva production. However, as I said, there have been many herbalists who have recommended the herb be used for this very purpose.

Do You Know the Side Effects of Licorice Root?
Long term eating of licorice root might cause hypertension, hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels), cataracts, and the retention of fluid in the body. Consequently, it’s not advised for individuals with heart problems. People that are allergic to Fabaceae (legume, pea, bean, or pulse) could be allergic to licorice root also since the herb is actually a member of the Fabaceae family.

Because of the estrogenic action in the root, it will be something that pregnant ladies will absolutely want to avoid. It’s recommended to talk to your primary care physician to go over any potential problems that licorice root might cause if you’re getting any hormonal medications, or any other medicine or supplements for that matter.

Glycyrrhiza glabra L.


Glycyrrhiza glabra L. 


Nombre Oficial
Glycyrrhiza glabra L.

Familia
Fabaceae
(= Papilionaceae)

Nombre Popular
Regaliz

Historia
El nombre Glycyrrhiza deriva del griego glykys "dulce" y rhiza "raíz". En la antigüedad el nombre fue latinizado y modificado a "liquiritia". En alemán, "lakritze", "licorice" o "liquorice" en inglés, "réglisse" en francés y regaliz en castellano.
Glabra del Latín glaber, que significa "blando", refiriéndose a las suaves cáscaras.
La planta de regaliz ya era conocida y utilizada por la medicina China hace más de 2.800 años A.C. y en el Tíbet donde formaba parte de la medicina clásica tibetana. En la tumba del faraón egipcio Tutankamon (1.350 a.C.) se encontraron indicaciones curativas sobre los beneficios de la raíz de regaliz. El uso del regaliz en preparados para aliviar infecciones de garganta y bronquiales está documentado desde el 2.000 a.C. En la Edad Media el regaliz se cultivaba de forma extensa en Europa Central. Hoy en día quedan todavía algunos herederos de los antiguos cultivos del siglo pasado.
En Europa la droga fue utilizada sólo como expectorante; no fue hasta la década de los 50 que el regaliz fue indicado también para los problemas estomacales.
Dioscórides, habla en su farmacología del regaliz, y de los beneficios de su jugo en caso de ronquera, ardor de estómago, trastornos pectorales y renales. La Abadesa Hildegard von Bingen también describía el regaliz como: "...concede al hombre claridad en la voz, siempre se puede comer, relaja la mente, aclara la vista y prepara el estómago para la digestión".


Características Botánicas
Arbusto vivaz de la familia de la leguminosa, con rizoma muy largo, ramificado, cilíndrico, rastrero y pardusco; el tallo que puede medir hasta 2 metros. Cada año salen tallos nuevos y consistentes. Sus hojas son alternas y con pecíolo hinchado y se dividen en foliolos ovales, enteros y un poco viscosos. Las flores son violetas y se disponen en espigas, cuyo largo pendúculo nace en la base de las hojas y aparecen entre mayo y julio. Sus frutos son vainas de hasta 2,5 cm. de largo y la raíz se recoge en otoño.


 

Hábitat
El regaliz es originario de Asia Menor y de Cáucaso. Se encuentra en la cuenca Mediterránea, en los Balcanes y en oriente Medio. Se cría en tierras profundas y mayormente arcillosas y ribereñas. A menudo invade los cultivos de tal manera que resulta muy difícil extirparlas.
En España es común en la cuenca del Ebro, del Tajo y del Jarama.
Las raíces se recolectan en otoño en plantas de 3 años, se cortan en trozos de unos 20 cm., se lavan y se ponen a secar en lugares secos y bien aireados


Modo de empleo
Para preparar la tintura madre, las finas láminas son maceradas en alcohol. Debido a su sabor dulce, el regaliz es utilizado como agente aromático en medicamentos de gusto desagradable y contra las nauseas.

Friday, November 7, 2014

Turmeric: A powerful medicine



Turmeric (Curcuma longa), the bright yellow of the spice rainbow, is a powerful medicine that has long been used in the Chinese and Indian systems of medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat a wide variety of conditions, including flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, bloody urine, hemorrhage, toothache and more.

Turmeric is high in curcumin, a substance with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Most studies used turmeric extracts that are standardized to include large amounts of curcumin.
Turmeric may be the most effective nutritional supplement in existence.
Many high quality studies show that it has major benefits for your body and brain.

Turmeric Contains Bioactive Compounds With Powerful Medicinal Properties
Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color.
It has been used in India for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb.

Here are the top 10 evidence-based health benefits of turmeric.

1. Turmeric Contains Bioactive Compounds With Powerful Medicinal Properties
Recently, science has started to back up what the Indians have known for a long time… it really does contain compounds with medicinal properties .

These compounds are called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin.
Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.

Most of the studies on this herb are using turmeric extracts that contain mostly curcumin itself, with dosages usually exceeding 1 gram per day. It would be very difficult to reach these levels just using the turmeric spice in your foods.

Therefore, if you want to experience the full effects, then you need to take an extract that contains significant amounts of curcumin.

Unfortunately, curcumin is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. It helps to consume black pepper with it, which contains piperine… a natural substance that enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000% (3).
Curcumin is also fat soluble, so it may be a good idea to take it with a fatty meal.


2. Curcumin is a Natural Anti-Inflammatory Compound
It helps the body fight foreign invaders and also has a role in repairing damage.
Curcumin is strongly anti-inflammatory, it is so powerful that it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs (7).


3. Turmeric Dramatically Increases The Antioxidant Capacity of The Body
Curcumin happens to be a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals due to its chemical structure (15, 16).
But curcumin also boosts the activity of the body’s own antioxidant enzymes (17, 18,19).
In that way, curcumin delivers a one-two punch against free radicals. It blocks them directly, then stimulates the body’s own antioxidant mechanisms.
Curcumin has powerful antioxidant effects. It neutralizes free radicals on its own, then stimulates the body’s own antioxidant enzymes.


4. Curcumin Boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Linked to Improved Brain Function and a Lower Risk of Brain Diseases 
Curcumin boosts levels of the brain hormone BDNF, which increases the growth of new neurons and fights various degenerative processes in the brain.


5. Curcumin Leads to Various Improvements That Should Lower Your Risk of Heart 
DiseaseCurcumin may help reverse many steps in the heart disease process (28).
Perhaps the main benefit of curcumin when it comes to heart disease, is improving the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of the blood vessels.

In one study, 121 patients who were undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery were randomized to either placebo or 4 grams of curcumin per day, a few days before and after the surgery.
The curcumin group had a 65% decreased risk of experiencing a heart attack in the hospital (32).

Curcumin has beneficial effects on several factors known to play a role in heart disease. It improves the function of the endothelium and is a potent anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant.

6. Turmeric Can Help Prevent (And Perhaps Even Treat) Cancer
Cancer is a terrible disease, characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells.Researchers have been studying curcumin as a beneficial herb in cancer treatment. It can affect cancer growth, development and spread at the molecular level (34).
Studies have shown that it can reduce angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels in tumors), metastasis (spread of cancer), as well as contributing to the death of cancerous cells (35).

There is some evidence that it may help prevent cancer from occurring in the first place, especially cancers of the digestive system (like colorectal cancer).
Curcumin leads to several changes on the molecular level that may help prevent and perhaps even treat cancer.

7. Curcumin May be Useful in Preventing and Treating Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease in the world and a leading cause of dementia.Unfo rtunately, no good treatment is available for Alzheimer’s yet.
Therefore, preventing it from showing up in the first place is of utmost importance.
There may be good news on the horizon, because curcumin has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier (39).
It is known that inflammation and oxidative damage play a role in Alzheimer’s disease. As we know, curcumin has beneficial effects on both (40).
But one key feature of Alzheimer’s disease is a buildup of protein tangles called Amyloid plaques. Studies show that curcumin can help clear these plaques (41).
Whether curcumin can really slow down or even reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s disease needs to be studied properly (42).
Bottom Line: Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to lead to various improvements in the pathological process of Alzheimer’s disease.

8. Arthritis Patients Respond Very Well to Curcumin Supplementation
Given that curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory, it makes sense that it could help with arthritis. Several studies show this to be true.
In a study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, curcumin was even more effective than an anti-inflammatory drug (43).
Many other studies have looked at the effects of curcumin on arthritis and noted improvements in various symptoms (44, 45).
Many studies show that curcumin can help treat symptoms of arthritis and is in some cases more effective than anti-inflammatory drugs.

9. Studies Show That Curcumin Has Incredible Benefits Against Depression
Curcumin has shown some promise in treating depression.
In a controlled trial, 60 patients were randomized into three groups (46).
One group took prozac, another group took a gram of curcumin and the third group took both prozac and curcumin.
After 6 weeks, curcumin had led to improvements that were similar to prozac. The group that took both prozac and curcumin fared best.
According to this (small) study, curcumin is as effective as an antidepressant.

There is also some evidence that curcumin can boost the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine (48, 49).

10. Curcumin May Help Delay Ageing and Fight Age-Related Chronic Diseases
If curcumin can really help prevent heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s… then this would have obvious benefits for longevity.
For this reason, curcumin has become very popular as an anti-aging supplement (50).
But given that oxidation and inflammation are believed to play a role in ageing, curcumin may have effects that go way beyond just prevention of disease (51).

Monday, June 2, 2014

Natural Treatments for Hypothyroidism



Spirulina
Hypothyroidism is a disorder caused due to inadequate production of thyroid hormone, in comparison to the normal body requirements. In this condition, the thyroid gland is said to be 'underactive'. Insufficient thyroid hormone results into slowing down of the overall body metabolism. Hypothyroidism affects both men and women, but women are eight times more susceptible. People of all ages can be affected by this disorder and over 5 million Americans have this disorder. Hypothyroid people are susceptible to cancers, heart disorders, and infections. Severe hypothyroidism in adults is called 'Myxedema' and in children it is called 'Cretinism'.

However, hypothyroidism is a treatable disorder and various simple and effective natural treatment options are available.

-Bladderwrack: Bladderwrack or fucus vesiculosus is a natural treatment for hypothyroidism and has proven to reduce the symptoms of the condition. It is actually a seaweed (a type of brown algae), found in several oceans across the globe. Bladderwrack is rich in iodine content, thereby proving to be an effective thyroid stimulant. It is seen to reduce the size of the thyroid gland during goiter and also restores its functioning. A person suffering from it can take a 600 mg Bladderwrack capsule with water 1-3 times a day.

-Black Cohosh: Black cohosh also called Actaea racemosa or Cimicifuga racemosa is a perennial plant of the buttercup family and is a native of North America. It is sold as a dietary supplement in the market and is seen to be effective in treating hypothyroidism. As black cohosh aids in balancing the estrogen levels in the body, it is quite useful to treat thyroid problems in females.

-Nettle: Another natural herb used for treating hypothyroidism is the nettle. This herb is found naturally in the temperate regions and is high in iodine. Since iodine deficiency is one of the main causes of hypothyroidism, this herb is beneficial to treat the condition.

-Irish Moss: Irish moss, also known as pearl moss, is a dried leaf-like structure of Chondrus crispus (a northern seaweed). It is found growing in the midst of submerged rocks, off the coast of France and Ireland. This is available in the form of Irish moss supplements and is believed to nourish the thyroid gland.

-Spirulina: These are free-floating, filamentous, cyanobacteria that are cultivated across the globe and used as dietary supplements for humans. It is available in flake, tablet and even powder form. It is believed that spirulina is quite effective for treatment.

-Black Walnut: Black walnuts are rich in organic iodine. Organic iodine is crucial for strengthening and nourishing of the thyroid gland. Thus, black walnuts are considered to be an effective remedy for the treatment of hypothyroidism.

-Extra Virgin Coconut Oil: Extra virgin coconut oil is known to support and stimulate the functioning of the thyroid gland. Coconut oil consists of lauric acid, which possesses thyroid stimulating properties. Extra virgin coconut oil is more effective, as compared to regular coconut oil and is very stable. The oil can be either added to the food while cooking or a spoonful can be ingested as a supplement.

Pill Systems: Natural ingredients combined together to help maintain the functioning of the thyroid gland are available in the form of pill systems. A thyroid supplement called 'thyromine' is used to increase production, thereby combating hypothyroidism. Thyromine supplements are made from natural and herbal ingredients, such as Nori (seaweed rich in iodine) and thyroid bovine powder (maintains functioning of endocrine system).

-Supplement Intake: Another simple method to treat hypothyroidism naturally, is by taking supplements. Iodine plays a crucial role in the production of thyroid hormone and zinc and selenium also aid in the hormone production process. Vitamin D is seen to act as a binding agent in the initial stages of thyroid hormone. Vitamin E plays the role of a sustaining device by converting T4 into T4 hormones (deiodinase enzymes). Thus, taking iodine, selenium, zinc and vitamin E supplements are quite helpful in treating hypothyroidism.

-Follow a Thyroid Diet: The consumption of sea food, shellfish and organic vegetables and fruits, rich in iodine content has proven beneficial in overcoming iodine deficiency. It is better to eat small meals rather than three large meals. Non-starchy fruits and vegetables and low-fat proteins should be consumed. Sugary and starchy food items like, pasta, desserts, sodas, white bread, rice, etc. must be avoided completely. An intake of at least 64 ounces of non-fluoridated water is necessary.

-Exercise in the form of a daily half hour walk, also proves beneficial to reduce low thyroid problems. Before consuming any herbal supplements, ensure that you consult an experienced herbalist. Do not try out any treatment, without taking the doctor into confidence.

Read more at  http://www.buzzle.com/articles/natural-treatments-for-hypothyroidism.html

The Dark Side Of Kale (And How To Eat Around It)




Moderation is the key. "In terms of human research, studies suggesting a strong link between cruciferous vegetables and thyroid disease are limited. Type "raw cruciferous vegetables" and "thyroid" into the ncbi database and you'll find one incident from 1945 when a Chinese woman who ate 3.3 pounds of raw bok choy daily for several months and suffered myxedema. The vast majority of the research supports the consumption of cruciferous vegetables to prevent thyroid cancer".

Now you can read this article in the following link:


Tuesday, April 29, 2014

What Happens When You Pee in the Pool?


What Happens When You Pee in the Pool?
April 26, 2014 |

By Dr. Mercola

One in five Americans admit they have peed in a pool, and among Olympic swimmers, the practice is so widespread that a former US National team member said nearly 100 percent of competitive swimmers pee in the pool… regularly.1

Swimming in a urine-contaminated pool is certainly not the most pleasant thought, but is it really so bad?

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps doesn't think so, and famously said that "chlorine kills it [urine]," making peeing in the pool a non-issue. But it's not the urine itself that you need to worry about.

Urine is virtually sterile when it leaves your body, so it doesn't pose the risk of causing illness the way fecal matter in a pool does. In fact, urine is a valuable source of nutrients that is now being used as an effective and natural fertilizer.

So it's not the urine that is the problem… it's what happens when urine mixes with pool chemicals, including chlorine, that is catching researchers' attention.
Peeing in the Pool Creates a Chemical Warfare Agent

Highly toxic disinfection byproducts (DBPs) form from reactions between pool disinfectants and organic matter, including hair, skin, sweat, dirt and… urine. In a new study, researchers mixed uric acid from human urine with chlorine and found it creates two DBPs: cyanogen chloride (CNCl) and trichloramine (NCl3).2

The former, CNCI, is classified as a chemical warfare agent and is a known toxicant to your lungs, heart, and central nervous system. NCl3 is linked to lung damage.

As for how dangerous this is, practically speaking, the researchers found that, in a worst-case scenario, urine in a pool might lead to about 30 parts per billion (ppb) of cyanogen chloride, which is well below the 70 ppb used as the maximum cyanogen concentration allowed in drinking water, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).3

Cyanogen chloride leads to coma, convulsions and death only at much higher levels (about 2,500 ppb), an amount that would be difficult, and probably impossible, to generate in a typical swimming pool from urination alone.4 This doesn't mean that smaller doses are "safe," however, as DBPs have been linked to serious health problems at levels found in swimming pools.

According to the study researchers, since urinating in a pool introduces uric acid that will lead to the formation of a poison when it interacts with chlorine, it should be avoided:

" …uric acid chlorination may account for a large fraction of CNCl formation in swimming pools. Moreover, given that uric acid introduction to pools is attributable to urination, a voluntary action for most swimmers, these findings indicate important benefits to pool water and air chemistry that could result from improved hygiene habits on the part of swimmers."
Spending Just 40 Minutes in a Chlorinated Pool May Lead to DNA Damage

If you've ever wondered if the chlorine in a swimming pool poses a health risk, you'll find it unsettling to know that the DBPs created by chlorine reactions are far more dangerous. In fact, when researchers measured evidence of genotoxic (DNA damage that may lead to cancer) and respiratory effects on swimmers who swam in a chlorinated pool for just 40 minutes, they found:5
Increased micronuclei in blood lymphocytes, which are associated with cancer risk
Urine mutagenicity, a biomarker of exposure to genotoxic agents
An increase in serum CC16, which suggests an increase in lung epithelium permeability

Adding chlorine to a swimming pool results in the formation of hundreds of DBPs because of the organic matter in the water. The researchers found that total concentrations of four DBPs (trihalomethanes (THMs)) were seven times higher in exhaled breath after swimming than they were before. They noted:

"Our findings support potential genotoxic effects of exposure to DBPs from swimming pools. The positive health effects gained by swimming could be increased by reducing the potential health risks of pool water."
DBPs in Swimming Pools Are Linked to Cancer

It's known that trihalomethanes (THMs), one of the most common DBPs, are Cancer Group B carcinogens, meaning they've been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals. They've also been linked to reproductive problems in both animals and humans, such as spontaneous abortion, stillbirths, and congenital malformations, even at lower levels.

It's not only swimming pools that are problematic, as DBPs also exist in chlorinated drinking water. Ingesting chlorinated water with levels of DBPs common in many industrialized countries has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.6

However, when researchers also looked at exposure to DBPs through your skin and via inhalation (such as occurs while showering, bathing and swimming in pools), it was found to be an even greater risk than drinking water.7

Furthermore, people who frequent swimming pools have an increased risk of bladder cancer compared to those who do not,8 and DBPs have even been suggested as partially responsible for the increased risk of melanoma cancer among swimmers.9

According to one study published in the Journal of Environmental Sciences,10 the cancer risk of DBPs (in this case THMs) from various routes in descending order was:
Skin exposure while swimming
Gastrointestinal exposure from tap water intake
Skin exposure to tap water
Gastrointestinal exposure while swimming

The cancer risk from skin exposure while swimming comprised over 94 percent of the total cancer risk resulting from being exposed to THMs! The authors even went so far as to conclude that swimming in a chlorinated pool presents "an unacceptable cancer risk."
DBPs Pose Risks of Allergies, Asthma, and Other Health Problems

Most public pools are overloaded with chlorine, as the well-intentioned people who maintain public pools overly shock them with chlorine to make sure bacteria and other organisms get snuffed out quickly. But even the swimming pool in your backyard could be toxic if you treat it with chlorine – even if you know no one is using it to pee in.

Remember, any organic matter – including hair, skin, sweat, and dirt – can react with chlorine to create DBPs. So if you use chlorine, it's going to be virtually impossible to avoid some exposure. Many studies have pointed out the health risks associated with swimming in chlorinated water, and many of these are related to toxic DBPs:
Swimming instructors are more than twice as likely to suffer frequently from sinusitis or sore throat, and more than three times as likely to have chronic colds, than pool workers with less DBP exposure, such as catering employees or receptionists.11
Compared to the general population, pool workers with high levels of exposure were at a 40 percent greater risk for tightness of the chest and were over 700 percent more likely to suffer breathlessness while walking.12
DBPs may cause weakening of your immune system, disruptions to your central nervous system, damaging effects to your cardiovascular system, unhealthy functioning of your renal system and harmful impacts to your respiratory system.
Should You Avoid Swimming Pools?

The risk of DBP exposure from swimming pools is real, but it doesn't necessarily mean you have to give up swimming. Swimming in an ocean is an excellent alternative, as is swimming in a lake or other natural body of water. You can also find a way to keep your pool clean from bacteria, algae, and other organisms without the use of dangerous chemicals, such as choosing a saltwater pool.

One of the best solutions is NOT to chlorinate your pool and just use a maintenance "shock" treatment every five or six days, which will kill the algae buildup. The shock treatment volatilizes in about 24-48 hours and gives you a several-day window in which you can safely use your pool. You can also reduce the amount of organic material you bring into the pool, and thereby the amount of DBPs created, by showering prior to entering and teaching your children not to urinate in the water. You can also use ozone, which also oxidatively destroys the pool pathogens and lowers the need for chlorine.

This will be difficult if you're visiting a public swimming pool or waterpark, however. Surveys show that 35 percent of Americans say they do not shower prior to entering a pool. Finally, because DBPs exist in all chlorinated water, I recommend installing water filters that remove chlorine for both your shower/bath and your kitchen tap.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

TOXIC PROTEIN

Beyond human cruelty against animals, the toxic food Industry is selling poison toxic protein.
Please watch and share. Do not watch in front any children.
The terrible life and horrible death of these animals, does not produce just meat for us to eat, but a toxic, poison protein. We are eating poison and is killing us.

The United States Department of Agriculture is aware of this. Why are they ignoring this? because it is a corrupt and toxic food industry feeding us.

"The protein nitrification process begins with arginine, an amino acid that is present in the diet and circulates in the bloodstream. If significant stress is present, more arginine is transported into cells by a specific transporter. This is one of the body's initial attempts to fight harmful consequences of stress.”

This research is part of Food Animal The United States Department of Agriculture http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/ar/archive/jan02/animal0102.htm

Why are we sick?


Saturday, February 15, 2014

Portion Distortion


Food Portions: The #1 Factor That Makes You Fat
OCTOBER 29, 2013 by ADMIN in HEALTH NEWS with 2 COMMENTS
http://diet-sage.com/health-news/food-portions-the-1-factor-that-makes-you-fat

One phrase that has been neglected in the American food industry is “portion control.” The fast food industry has been very influential in this factor. Over the past decade there has been an increase in the sizes of the soft drinks, French fries, as well as the sandwiches at fast food restaurants. The popularity of “super-sized” food has spilled over into the marketing of other food such as potato chips, bottled soft drinks, and candy bars. These large portions also influence the way that food is portioned when meals are cooked at home.

When considering portion sizes, many people believe they are getting a better value for their money, but what they do not consider is the taxing effect that eating larger portions has on their bodies.

Ever notice how you feel after you eat a large meal, perhaps at a holiday celebration or on a day when you were feeling famished so you overate?

Well, with the huge portions found at fast food restaurants and often on the dinner plates at people’s homes, this feeling is probably occurring regularly. The physical discomfort felt is a sign that the body and organs are distressed. The liver cannot work efficiently when there is too much food to digest and therefore some of the food is not properly digested when it enters the intestines.

If the food is not digested properly and builds up in the digestive system it may lead to problems. Overeating over long periods of time may cause the body to be susceptible to diseases and decreases the functionality of the body’s natural digestive system. Not to mention the weight gain that is caused from eating huge portions of food during meals and snacks.

On average, the size of the meals found at fast food restaurants is four times larger than it was in the 1950s. The sizes today are at least double of what they were twenty years ago. Five cups of popcorn at the movie theater used to be considered large but that has increased to eleven cups in the large portion today. One bagel today is three times the size of what a bagel was twenty years ago.

Fast food portions have increased by three to five times of what they were in the past. This increase in portion size is a growing trend that needs not be ignored because it has already gotten out of control. As food portions have increased over time, the amount of overweight or obese people in America has also increased.

“American size” is the name that the Japanese have given to the extra-large portions that are most commonly seen in America. The portion size of food in America is generally double the size of the same food in other countries. For example, a quesadilla in Mexico is traditionally made with a 5-inch tortilla, but in America the tortillas are typically 10-inches. The amount of chicken and cheese in the quesadilla is also doubled.

The other countries around the world may eventually follow suit with their portion sizes, at least to a certain extent. People in other countries tend to see America as the trendsetter nation and what is available in America often becomes popular in other places. Yet, these other countries also seem to understand that these portions are unhealthy and perhaps they will continue eating the traditional smaller portions.

Many countries also appreciate the value of food and do not want to be wasteful by overeating and therefore the portions are consistently smaller. An exception is when people of other countries move to America. Studies have shown that foreign people moving to America gain a significant amount of weight within very small periods of time after they move to the USA.

One of the reasons people buy larger portions is the perceived value of the smaller amount of money spent on the larger amount of food. Yet, there is a problem with this logic. Since the digestive system of humans is not made to function with these large portions, it will malfunction if forced to eat like this over a long period of time.

Therefore, there will be a necessary increase of the amount of money spent on medical issues and healthcare that could have been prevented through not overeating. This faulty logic needs to be considered when fast food companies advertise “two-for-one” or “fifty percent extra” for hamburgers and sodas.

Unfortunately, when it comes to large portions for smaller prices, it’s typically junk food and not healthy food. This also gives the perception that there is a greater value in purchasing unhealthy food in larger amounts, which is false once again. If the money spent on unhealthy food was spent on organic fruits and vegetables, there would potentially be a large decrease in the obesity epidemic and people would have healthier bodies overall.
What can you do?

There are many ways that eating smaller, healthier portions can be maintained. One way of doing this is to order an appetizer instead of a large meal at a restaurant. Or split a meal with another person instead of eating the whole portion. These are simple changes that can make a huge difference in the amount of food eaten during one meal. Another great way to decrease the amount of food you eat is to cook for yourself. You have control over the amount you put on your plate and you can also cook less so that you are not tempted to overeat.

If you cook smaller portions and begin to eat less food, over time you will start to save money which you can use to purchase healthier food. It is also possible to find two-for-one deals on healthy foods. Yet, it may require effort to find these deals as they are not as prevalent as the same deal on junk food. Buying healthy food in bulk is often easy to do online and knowing that you have healthy food at home may decrease the temptation of eating huge portions of food at restaurants.

With the popularity of fast food in America and the steady increase of portion sizes, it is difficult to maintain a healthy diet. Yet, the benefit of doing so far outweighs the difficulty of the challenge. Eating smaller portions and eating healthier food gives people a more vital life and does not cause weight gain. Therefore, it is important to continue to strive for these healthy goals and eating habits even in the face of so much temptation.

About the Author:

Emma Deangela is the best selling author of The Alkaline Diet Program and 80/20 Fat Loss. She has helped over tens of thousands of men and women to lose weight and transform their health with sound nutrition advice.

Which wonderful friends in your life would appreciate this information about food portion? Are they consciously eating bigger portion than what they should eat?

Please help them by sharing this eye-opening article with each of them using any of the social media and email buttons below.

If you have been to countries out of US and notice about their food portion, do share it with everyone by writing your experience in the comments below. Other readers will appreciate your share tremendously!

Share and Enjoy

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Study finds a potent painkiller in traditional Chinese medicine

News--
Study finds a potent painkiller in traditional Chinese medicine

Jan 2, 2014 Los Angeles Times

By Deborah Netburn



 CR Corydalis Relaxe


When it comes to treating pain, a new study suggests traditional Chinese medicine has been getting it right for thousands of years.

A chemical compound found in the underground tubers of the Corydalis plant can effectively alleviate three different types of pain in mice, according to a paper published Thursday in the journal Current Biology.

The study also shows that mice do not build up a resistance to the naturally occurring compound, which means it could one day be used for managing chronic pain in humans.

The pain-relieving compound is known as dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB). It was isolated by Chinese researchers as part of the herbalome project -- an ambitious endeavor launched in 2008 to catalog all the active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicines.

The Corydalis plant is a member of the poppy family. It grows mainly in central eastern China, and has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries. Its tubers are dug up, ground, and then boiled in hot vinegar. The resulting medicine is often prescribed to treat headaches and back pain.

"This medicine goes back thousands of years, and it is still around because it works," said Olivier Civelli, a pharmacologist at UC Irvine and one of the authors of the study. "The question is, what makes it work. There are many compounds inside this plant."

For this study, Civelli collaborated with the lead researcher on the herbalome project--Xinmiao Liang of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dalian in northeast China. Liang's group extracted chemicals from the plant and then sent more than 80 of them to Civelli's lab in Irvine to see which ones had pain relieving properties.

Civelli and his team determined that at least one of those chemicals -- DHCB -- was an effective pain reliever in mice, but they were surprised to find that it used D2 dopamine receptors, rather than morphine receptors.

"Dopamine receptors are generally associated with the pleasure center of the brain, so it was not expected that dopamine was important for pain," Civelli said.

Still, the findings were clear. Mice in which the D2 dopamine receptors had been removed did not experience any pain relief from DHCB in tests.

Civelli and his team synthesized DHCB so they would have enough to work with. Then they ran a series of tests on mice that had received DHCB. They found that the compound alleviated temporary acute pain like what you might experience if you got a broken ankle or a burn, as well as the inflammatory pain you might feel if your joints were swollen, and chronic pain that comes from nerve damage.

Civelli said there are likely more compounds in the Corydalis tuber that work in conjunction with DHCB to combat pain, and he would like to find those as well.

"There are likely many compounds inside those plants that have some effect on a particular disease or disorder. Our goal is to find the most powerful of those compounds," he said.