Rabu, 30 Desember 2009

Going Bananas! Why Not? They Are Good For You

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Michael_M_Walsh]Michael M Walsh

Have you ever wondered where monkeys get their boundless energy and dexterity from? One can only marvel as with a sparkle that leaves us gasping they catapult from tree to tree, ricochet from branch to branch, and sprint through the undergrowth. You could be forgiven for thinking they have gone bananas. Well maybe they have done just that.

The banana fruit contains three natural sugars, which are very important to us all. These are sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with essential fibre. Together they give the body a considerable and sustained boost in energy levels.

Two bananas will give you enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout so it is hardly surprising that athletes favour it. No risks either with the drug analysts.

It gets better. Sustainable energy levels isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. Consider also the excellent effects it has on other maladies, some of which are down to modern lifestyles. The health service would be much relieved by putting this vital fruit on the tables of the nation.

RAISING THE SPIRITS

MIND, the mental health charity recently carried out a survey of people suffering from depression. It revealed that many felt their melancholia lift shortly after eating bananas. There was good reason for their renewed feeling of wellbeing. Bananas contain tryptophan, a protein which the body converts into serotonin. This is known to help you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. Similarly Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can be much relieved by tryptophan.

Like acne pre-menstrual syndrome is a rite of passage as time takes its toll. Why not cheat by putting bananas on your shopping list? Your glucose levels are regulated by vitamin B6 and a regular intake stabilises your moods. In fact B vitamins are an excellent nutrition for the entire nervous system.

Lifestyle and modern processed food, and perhaps too much alcohol intake can lead to anaemia but here again, bananas which are high in iron stimulate the body's natural production of haemoglobin, helping to return balance to the body's essential absorption of this vital mineral.

"REDUCE THE RISK OF A STROKE BY 40%"

Another bane of modern living, or a consequence of extended living, is of course high blood pressure. Many of the over fifties regulate theirs by taking prescribed medicine such as Perindopril. But this wonderful tropical fruit has a high content of potassium whilst at the same time is low in salt so will help to keep your blood pressure at a safe level without adversely affecting your quality of life.

We all know about the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's scientific excellence It was entirely in agreement with the banana industry's claim that including the fruit in one's diet helped to reduce blood pressure and lessen the risk of a stroke.

According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%.

Not clever by half? We have all heard that IQ levels can be demonstrably increased through listening to classical music but by eating bananas? It seems so. Two hundred students at a Twickenham school were given an intelligence boost when their daily diet became banana-based. There was none of that familiar drowsiness associated with lessons and exams. In fact the increase in alertness was clear.

It seems that the almost magical properties of bananas can improve the quality of our lives in one way or another. Because they are high in fibre, constipation becomes less of an issue so feel free to empty the bathroom cabinet of laxatives.

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A HUNG-OVER MONKEY?

You had a heavy night, your head is thumping and your tongue is disgusting. You're hung-over. Try this remedy. Whisk yourself a real banana milkshake and include liberal spoonfuls of honey. The fruit will settle your tummy, the honey restores your body's sugar levels, whilst the milk reduces the effects of de-hydration.

Those who suffer from heartburn, and we all do from time to time, will find that our wonderful fruit is high in anti-acid. Expectant mums also know that morning sickness can be a thoroughly unpleasant and recurring experience. It is a condition not helped by low blood sugar levels, which banana intake relieves.

Talking of mum conditions, in hot climates it doesn't help when high temperatures are present during childbirth. Many cultures see bananas as a 'cooling' fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Climate change means that no one is free of the risk of mosquito bites and many will testify to the relief gained by rubbing the inside of a banana skin on the affected area.

THE ANSWER TO STRESS

Contrary to popular opinion being overweight is a condition often found in stressful jobs. The constant pressure, according to scientists at the Institute of Psychology in Austria, leads to gorging on comfort food, low in nutritional value, high in fat.

Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates the body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of high-potassium banana snacks.

The report concluded that to avoid food cravings induced by pressure we need to control blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate bananas food frequently. By doing so we satisfy the cravings whilst giving our bodies the essential minerals needed to combat the consequences of stress, without putting on weight.

TUMMY REPAIR KIT

Ulcers are yet another ailment of modern society often caused by irregular and inappropriate meals, and of course stress. This disabling affliction can be eased by including bananas as part of a balanced diet. It really does bring relief to the delicate membranes and soft textures of the intestinal system.

Anyone who has ever given up smoking will tell you of the cravings endured. One expert claimed that it was easier to get a person unhooked from heroin than it was to free them from addiction to nicotine.

Can enjoying this tropical goody really help? Yes it can. When one's body is going through this particular profound shift it needs to recover its non-nicotine equilibrium. Undoubtedly the B6, B12 contained in bananas, plus the additional potassium and magnesium helps the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

WARTS AN' ALL

Warts can be stressful wherever they appear, especially for those conscious of their appearance, their health and those they come in contact with. Many swear by the healing properties experienced when the inside section of banana skin is placed over the wart, and fastened there by surgical tape or a plaster.

Never underestimate the power of nature harnessed inside a banana fruit. The doctor's advice is to keep away - by eating an apple a day. But the humble banana has four times an apple's protein, twice its carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium. It is simply one of the best value foods around.

This could be the opportunity to give doctors some well earned time off. After all, surely avoidance of ailments is better than cure. No wonder there are so many maxims associated with monkey guile, cuteness, agility and energy. ©

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Going-Bananas!-Why-Not?-They-Are-Good-For-You&id=3479971] Going Bananas! Why Not? They Are Good For You
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Stop Eating Sugar Tips - 7 Ways to Stop Eating Sugary Foods

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Adrian_Anley]Adrian Anley

Briefly let's take a look at what is actually going on with your body when you binge and continually eat the wrong foods. Stop Eating Sugar Tips, will be brief but educational so try to stay focused.

When you eat the body begins to digest food immediately and the carbohydrates you have eaten enter the blood. The pancreas is stimulated to produce insulin in order to lower the amount of sugar in the blood. This is a safety mechanism to prevent the sugar in the blood from rising too high. The sugar with the insulin moves into your body's cells to be used or turned into glycogen and stored away for later.

With excess carbohydrates or sugars the pancreas becomes over stimulated and starts to send out too much insulin. Basically, eating lots of sugars causes blood sugar to lower which in turn affects how you feel, your cravings and your health.

The brain only uses glucose for fuel and so the symptoms we feel when our blood sugar is out of balance are dizziness, irritability, feeling faint, confusion anxiety, mood swings and headaches. Unfortunately, what usually happens is a person would eat even more carbohydrates and sugars to "feed the fix" in a belief that it will go away. This is the start of a vicious cycle of addiction.

The answer to avoiding the ups and downs and stop eating sugar begin maintaining a well balanced blood sugar level is to start eating more of these:


Complex carbohydrates
Proteins
"Good" fats
Water-rich foods
Un-processed foods
High fibre content


By eating these types of foods the insulin response from the pancreas is not erratic and the sugar levels in the blood remain steady. You will begin to feel calmer and more satisfied.

Eating to keep blood sugar levels steady



To have a stable blood sugar level and be free from food cravings you will need to eat in a way that creates balance inside your body. When we are in a healthy and balanced state we tend to crave healthier water-rich foods such as vegetables and salads. The body is always seeking to equalize. When out of balance the body will just crave more carbohydrates in an attempt to self correct itself. So, a vicious cycle begins.

Ways to stop eating sugary foods




Eat vegetables at every meal. You will get plenty of fibre which is essential for digestion as well as providing the feeling of fullness.
Read the food labels. Maybe this seems obvious but it is very important to be aware of the many hidden sources of sugar in certain foods. Other types of sugar are honey, maple syrup, glucose, fructose, maltose, sorbitol and corn syrup.
Eat more foods such as fish, lamb, beef, turkey, duck and chicken.
Watch out for dairy products. Milk and yoghurt actually contain more carbohydrates than protein so when you are consuming these try to take notice of your reaction to the sugar as in some people these can trigger hunger or cause fatigue.
Try Hypnosis. This is a way to break deep-seated patterns by changing the perceptions of your subconscious. You can hypnotize yourself into preferring those foods that are better for you.
Take a look at your life. Is there something or someone missing that drives you to comfort eating? This is one of the stop eating sugar tips most of us take for granted. We all crave love, peace, safety and comfort. Learn to fulfill your deeper needs without being caught in an endless cycle of cravings.
Physical Exercise. Having a well balanced body and physical activity goes hand in hand and should not be taken lightly. Incorporate a physical activity as a regular routine in your new lifestyle. Yoga is a perfect choice where you will learn how to breathe correctly and add flexibility to your muscles.


So, as in the ways to stop eating sugary foods, you must change your inner state; your mind, body and spirit to coincide with your new healthy eating habits. All this as a whole will help create a perfectly balanced body for as long as you choose.

Want an eating plan that lets you eat foods you like and still lose weight fast? Visit Fat Burner Plan today and get information about a weight loss plan that can get you started today. Click http://fatburnerplan.net for great weight loss tips.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Stop-Eating-Sugar-Tips---7-Ways-to-Stop-Eating-Sugary-Foods&id=3483362] Stop Eating Sugar Tips - 7 Ways to Stop Eating Sugary Foods
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Child Nutrition - B is For Barry the Banana

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Amber_Cabrera]Amber Cabrera

Bananas have many surprising health benefits. Here are some facts about bananas:

Bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood which can fight anemia.

High in potassium and low in salt, bananas are the perfect food for reducing blood sugar levels and stroke risks.

Bananas are also high in fiber which can aid in remedying constipation.

College students everywhere will appreciate this one. To cure a hangover, make a banana milkshake with a touch of honey. The honey builds sugar levels, the banana calms your stomach and the milk re-hydrates your body.

For antacid relief from heartburn, eat a banana.

Eating bananas between meals help fight morning sickness by keeping blood sugar levels up.

Rub a mosquito bite with the inside of a banana peel. This is supposed to alleviate the swelling and irritation.

Bananas are a high carbohydrate food and are therefore great in avoiding sudden food cravings.

Vitamin B6 regulates blood glucose levels. This can affect your mood. Eat a banana in the case of PMS where this often occurs. Trying to quit smoking? Bananas have high levels of Vitamin C, A1, B6, B12, potassium and magnesium which are perfect for assisting the body to recover from nicotine withdrawal.

Place a piece of banana skin on a wart with the yellow side out. Hold the skin in place with plaster or surgical tape. Whether it is bananas or other fruits or vegetable, find those healthy foods that appeal to your child(ren) and then use them in a variety of different recipes.

There is a book called The Adventures of Tommy The Tomato by author and nutritionist, Jay Holt. It's a fantastic book of color-filled illustrations for both children and parents about nutrition. Tommy and his friends are a group of fruits and vegetables who teach kids about the fun of eating healthy. Each character is named after a letter of the alphabet, so it's easy to follow and reinforces primary learning. Children relate to each page of the story while learning about good nutrition. You can find out more at [http://www.tommythetomato.com]http://www.tommythetomato.com.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Child-Nutrition---B-is-For-Barry-the-Banana&id=3463224] Child Nutrition - B is For Barry the Banana
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Selasa, 29 Desember 2009

How Spices Can Help Improve Your Health



By Donna Cope


Spices add variety to our food and they also smell good. But did you know that spices can improve your health? Below are a list of common spices and the health benefits you can realize by using them.


  • Ginger - Ginger is great for relieving nausea and can also help soothe a headache. Compounds in ginger block the production of pain-causing chemicals as well as relax blood vessels.

  • Cinnamon - By adding a little cinnamon to any sweets, you can block some of their unhealthy effects. In one study, diabetes patients saw their blood sugar plunge by 30% and had lower cholesterol levels. Another study found that taking half a teaspoon of cinnamon with a tablespoon of honey each day can relieve arthritis pain in as little as a week.

  • Sage - The spice sage has been synonymous with wisdom for centuries and now new research proves that it really does boost your brain power. Apparently compounds in sage prevent the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine--this chemical transmits messages in the brain.

  • Vanilla - Research has shown that vanilla-scented rooms tend to help people fall asleep faster and feel better rested the following morning. New research suggests that vanilla's aroma contains chemicals that work biologically.

  • Allspice - Allspice contains an oil called eugenol. This essential oil boosts circulation, warms the body and kills fungi and bacteria. The aroma has also been shown to improve mood.

  • Peppermint - The scent of peppermint increases activity in the area of the brain responsible for alertness and arousal. Research shows that it can even reduce driver fatigue and car accidents. Studies have also shown that peppermint can make athletes perform better and work harder without even noticing.

  • Cloves - Researchers in Japan have found that the scent of cloves increases beta waves in the front of the brain, leading to more alertness, concentration and energy. Cloves have even been shown to improve memory and boost happiness levels.

Donna works as an accountant with a large corporation. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing and listening to music as well as watching old movies. She has recently learned how to build websites. Check out her latest effort related to handbags for women at http://www.handbagsforwomenshop.com.




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Food Labeling Terms and What They Mean to You

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anna_Maria_Volpi]Anna Maria Volpi

There is a lot of confusion on the food labels and even if more than 30% of consumers read them, only half understand the terminology. The most important parts of the food label are the "Nutrition Facts" and the "Ingredients list".

Calories and serving sizes

The first number to look for in the "Nutrition Facts" is the calories. Calories are an essential number if you are trying to control your weight, but calories alone will not give you the entire picture. What you really have to look for in the label are two numbers: "Calories" and "Serving Size". In fact it is common practice for the manufacturers to try to keep the calorie number low not to alarm the consumers and they achieve that lowering the portion size.

If you read closely the label you will discover that some serving sizes as indicated on the labels are ridiculously low. The portion size for potato chips indicated by the manufacturers on the bag is around one ounce or 10 to 15 chips and accounts for about 150 calories. In a bag they say there are about 15 servings. It is evident that this is not realistic information. If you snack in the morning eating half a bag you are in reality ingesting well over 1000 calories, and since the average calories per day for an adult are about 2000, you have already ingested about half your daily calorie allowance.

Fat and cholesterol content

The second very important piece of information is the fat and cholesterol content. Watch out for saturated and trans fats (also called trans fatty acids). In the ingredient list look for "partially hydrogenated" or "hydrogenated," which means the product contains trans fats. These are the bad fats and you should limit their intake as much as possible. Also cholesterol content should be low especially if you are approaching middle age or your have a history of hearth, coronary or arteries problems.

Sodium

Sodium should be limited to about 2,300 mg or about one teaspoon of salt per day. The quantity is further reduced if you have health problems like hypertension (high blood pressure.) In this case the total amount of sodium should be less than 1,500 mg per day. The sodium indicated on the labels will give you an idea of the quantity you are going to ingest while you eat that specific product. To go back to the potato chips example, sodium content would be about 200 mg per serving, but if you eat half a bag of chips you have now consumed about 1500 mg that is almost your complete recommended daily intake.

Sugar

Sugar is a direct factor in calories increase. The ingredients list sometimes indicate sugars with aliases like high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, molasses, invert sugar, turbinado, etc. If you are trying to control your weight and calorie intake chose products with low sugar content.

Dietary Fibers and Vitamins

A healthy diet should be rich in fibers. It is important to have at least 24-25 grams of fibers per day. Consider foods with high fiber content like whole grain cereals and breads. Remember that nothing compares to fresh food and vegetables when it comes to providing good fibers and especially vitamins.

Percentage daily values

The "Nutrition Facts" label should also indicate the suggested quantities based on a 2000 calories diet. This would give you an idea of how much each component should supply to your diet per day:
Total fat less than 65g, saturated fat less than 20 g, cholesterol less than 300 mg, sodium less than 2400 mg, potassium 3500 mg, total carbohydrates 300g, fibers 25g.

Ingredients list

Manufactures have to list all ingredients listed in order by weight [1]. Therefore if you are buying a can of marinated olives and water is listed before the main ingredients you should be suspicious about what you are buying. This is also very important information for anyone with food allergies. also, there are recommendations set by the FDA on what the food manufactures can claim is light or low fat, reduced or free. As an example "Healthy" food must be low in fat, with limited cholesterol and sodium. "Free", "Low sodium", "Low cholesterol", etc. on the package means the product contains only tiny amounts of the ingredient per serving. "Reduced" or "Light" should contain from 25% to 50% less fat or ingredients than the regular product. "Low calorie" should contain a maximum of 40 calories per serving, but again, what is the serving size?

In conclusion, it is extremely important to read the "Nutrition Facts" and the "Ingredients list". It is also very important also to use your own good sense and judgment in order to make the right choices.

[1] FDA, Food Labeling Guide, September 1994; Revised April 2008, Guidance for Industry, A Food Labeling Guide.

About the author:

© 2005 http://www.annamariavolpi.com traditional Italian cooking food recipes for tiramisu, pasta, pizza, lasagna, risotto, gnocchi and much more, articles and food newsletter.
Anna Maria Volpi is a cooking instructor and personal chef in Los Angeles.

Permission is granted for this article to reprint, distribute, use for ezine, newsletter, website, as long as no changes are made and the copyright, resource box, and ACTIVE LINK to her website are included. Not including active link is considered copyright infringement. As a courtesy please inform Anna Maria if you use this article: [mailto:anna@annamariavolpi.com]anna@annamariavolpi.com.

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Sabtu, 26 Desember 2009

Traditional Or Modern - Considering Possibilities With Goji Berries

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_Main]Jason Main

In spite of the fact that the world has gone high-tech, there remain things, which prove that people are still in touch with traditions. On a closer look at the products in the market today, there is an abundance of evidences that people have not entirely relinquished what could be viewed as somewhat historical ideas that are outside the boundaries of what's scientific and new.

If you are not convinced with this impression, take a look at the highly marketed products today and you would see a lot of herbs, fruits and other naturally abundant things that are being promoted for their health benefits. It is undeniable that these products are receiving warm consideration and many people who are after a healthy lifestyle and a sound manner of taking care of themselves purchase them.

One of these products is the goji berries. These are exotic fruits sourced out from several Asian countries such as China, Mongolia and Tibet. One would still not see a US-based or homegrown goji berry up to this time, but these fruits are available in the US markets both in dried and juice forms.

The berries are claimed to be high in essential nutrients that could promote defense against cancers and boost the immune system for a better resistance against common illnesses.

Goji berries are used in the ancient Chinese art of medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine includes adding these berries to congee or as an ingredient for making tea and other extracts. Some of the claimed benefits attached with the fruits are a boost to the immune system, improvement of the eyesight, inhibition of the oxidizing reactions of the free radicals to avoid cancer, improved sexual health, among others. Although there are no extensive researches to ground these claims, one cannot undermine the fact that historically, people have survived with the traditional use of this fruit as alternative care. Further, because the fruit's products are quite natural, one can expect an intake of lesser amount of artificial preservatives, which contain chemicals considered to be harmful to the body.

For more information on [http://www.goji-berries.ws/the-health-wonders-of-goji-berry-juice]Goji Juice, visit the author's [http://www.goji-berries.ws/]Goji Berries blog

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Traditional-Or-Modern---Considering-Possibilities-With-Goji-Berries&id=3474482] Traditional Or Modern - Considering Possibilities With Goji Berries
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Goji Berries - Nature's Secrets and Our Health

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jason_Main]Jason Main

From the natural, rich endowment of Asian nature originates a wonder food that benefits every individual who eats it. From the robust environmental conditions of the Himalayas and some China regions are the goji berries. These fruits thrive in these harsh conditions to become one of the richest sources of essential compounds that give great health benefits.

With a bright red color and oval-shaped appearance, the fruit is a tableau of nature's mystery that waits to be revealed when tasted. The berries have a delightful and pleasurable taste that is similar to a kiwi and cherry. This tangy, exotic taste is not the only natural wonder that the fruit has. When consumed, the fruit brings longevity and more power to the immune system as two of the various benefits of eating the fruit.

Traditional practices of medicine in China has involved the use of these berries in curing many of the illnesses related to blood circulation, mental and sexual health, free-radical reactions and metabolic issues. Recent studies are being conducted to see the relevance of the fruit intake in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, in protecting the kidneys, decreased cancer susceptibility, memory enhancement, sexual health, and even sleep disorders. If scientifically proven cure these issues, the fruit can have a significant impact on the development of treatments for weak immune system disorders such as HIV and lupus.

The fruit is also being avowed as one of the naturally occurring fountains of youth. The anti-aging properties of goji berry have been an alternative popularly taken during the ancient times and until now in the many regions of China. The fruit has traversed hundreds of years while maintaining a revered reputation for its wonderful properties. The experience of these luxurious health benefits is unlocked by bringing the product of nature to our own tables.

For more information on Goji Berries, visit http://www.goji-berries.ws/

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Goji-Berries---Natures-Secrets-and-Our-Health&id=3474500] Goji Berries - Nature's Secrets and Our Health
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Selasa, 22 Desember 2009

Nutrition - How Much Milk Thistle Should One Use?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Henri_K._Junttila]Henri K. Junttila

In recent trends, more and more people are deciding to take an active role in their health and are taking better care of their bodies.

Because of these trends, more studies are being done on herbs and their healing properties are being revealed. Milk thistle is a plant that you may have never heard of, but it has gained a lot of attention for its healing properties. This also leads us to the question How much milk thistle should one use?

Uses of Milk Thistle

This powerful herb has been used to help with the treatment of various liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.

It has also shown to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, and helps reduce insulin resistance in those suffering with type 2 diabetes. Many studies have also shown that it has been proven helpful in patients with gall bladder problems.

What exactly is Milk Thistle?

While many of us find ourselves interested in the health benefits of this antioxidant, we also find ourselves wondering exactly what it is.

Otherwise known as Silybum Marianum, the milk thistle is a flowering herb that can be found indigenous to Mediterranean regions in parts of Europe. Other common names of this herb include Holy Thistle, Mary Thistle, and Silymarin.

How Much Milk Thistle Should One Use?

The best way to take the guess work out of how much you should be consuming would be to include a multi-vitamin supplement which includes this and other powerful herbal extracts as part of its makeup.

Finding a vitamin supplement that includes 80 mg of this herb will ensure that you receive exactly what your body needs to receive the most health benefits.

One of the other benefits of taking a multi-vitamin supplement is that you'll receive all the vitamins, herbal extracts and nutrients that your body needs, wrapped up in one pill.

If you're interested in learning the secrets of finding the best natural multivitamin with milk thistle and dramatically improving your health, visit my website, where I share what products I personally use for fast, safe and effective results.

Visit my website at: http://www.natural-supplements-advice.com/

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Nutrition---How-Much-Milk-Thistle-Should-One-Use?&id=3454115] Nutrition - How Much Milk Thistle Should One Use?
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Learn How Milk Thistle Helps Liver Disease

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Henri_K._Junttila]Henri K. Junttila

Most people who do not take care of their bodies and consume huge amounts of alcohol or even drugs are really doing a number on their liver. You may not really think about it, but liver disease is something that people still suffer from today, in fact millions still die each year from this illness. There has been some questions as to whether milk thistle helps liver disease or not, and the answer is a lot closer than you think!

It has been proven that this healing agent can actually help to stop and possibly work to reverse all of the damage that you have done to your liver. This means that an alcoholic can get natural treatment and detoxification with milk thistle. What happens is the agent will actually help to attach to the cells to rebuild the membrane walls and make them stronger. When this occurs it means that the liver's cells will now have the proper ability to fight off the toxins that you are putting into your body.

With liver disease the problem is a little bit more intensified, but milk thistle is said to do the same thing for the body. Rebuilding and repairing cells so that you can recover as quickly as possible. It is also being studied in order to find out if milk thistle can actually create new cells to replace the old ones. Taking a simple multivitamin containing this herbal agent could be a lot more beneficial than you think.

Right now it seems that herbal healing is a lot more effective than what we are typically used to in terms of health care. For patients with liver disease it has been studied to find out if milk thistle helps liver disease. A good way to boost your liver and overall health is to use the rel=nofollow best natural multivitamin that contains high-quality milk thistle.

If you're interested in learning the secrets of finding the best natural multivitamin and dramatically improving your health, visit my website, where I share what products I personally use for fast, safe and effective results.

Visit my website at: http://www.natural-supplements-advice.com/

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Learn-How-Milk-Thistle-Helps-Liver-Disease&id=3454119] Learn How Milk Thistle Helps Liver Disease
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Senin, 21 Desember 2009

Milk Thistle Extract - Common Health Benefits For the Human Body

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Henri_K._Junttila]Henri K. Junttila

Looking to naturally improve your health without breaking the bank? It has been known for years that natural multivitamin supplements can actually help to improve your health, rather than harm it. Milk thistle extract is a common and potent ingredient that is found in many of these natural multivitamins. Here are some common uses that you and your body may find increasingly useful.

There have been a few smaller studies that have been conducted on a smaller amount of patients that suffer from chronic hepatitis. As studies increase we will be able to see how milk extract can help ease the symptoms and allow the person to lead a normal, physical lifestyle.

If you have liver damage you might also find a lot of use with this type of natural extract. You may also be able to lower the bad cholesterol or high cholesterol levels in your body. Of course this can occur when you do take the proper action towards living a healthier lifestyle.

There is a lot of research that is still being conducted on this particular extract. As time goes on and technology is produced we should be able to see the results that we need to see in terms of liver function and care. Liver disease is still an issue among those who do not take the necessary steps against liver issues.

A milk thistle extract within a multivitamin can help to increase liver function and get rid of some of the fatty enzymes. Once the liver begins to function properly again you should start to feel energized and ready to take on the day once again! These helpful multivitamin products can be found online for a lower price so that you can get back to normal health!

If you're interested in learning the secrets of finding the best natural multivitamin with the highest-quality milk thistle and dramatically improving your health, visit my website, where I share what products I personally use for fast, safe and effective results.

Visit my website at: http://www.natural-supplements-advice.com/

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Milk-Thistle-Extract---Common-Health-Benefits-For-the-Human-Body&id=3454138] Milk Thistle Extract - Common Health Benefits For the Human Body
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Minggu, 20 Desember 2009

Nutrition - Where to Begin?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Anthony_Gucciardi]Anthony Gucciardi

A lot of mistakes are made inside the gym, but there is also an overabundance of erroneous decisions outside the gym. Implementing a strong nutritional basis for your goals is key, allowing your body to perform to it's optimum potential. The problem? Many people do not have the knowledge to build an effective yet healthy diet, ensuring that their goals are met and retained. There are many diets out there that warp your metabolism and destroy your body, resulting in a few pounds lost at the cost of your body's ability to burn more fat in the future. Only with proper nutrition can you obtain and keep the results. Read more to find out how to set one up right now.



Counting calories is like counting the stars in the sky


I'm not bashing people who are into calorie counting, and I understand calories will determine whether or not your body has "excess" based upon your metabolic maintenance level, but where are you getting the calories from? Is it 2500 calories a day from brownies and cupcakes, or 2500 calories a day from a variety of sources? What if you exercise? Do you subtract the calories burned when exercising from your total amount, and then eat the deficit away? Plenty of extremely lean individuals never count calories, and they never have to. What's more important is eating the right foods, not a fixed amount of anything you can shove in your mouth. Quality over quantity.

Instead of setting your fixed amount of calories at 2500 and eating whatever you want until that point, most likely not getting enough nutrients in the process, simply eat the right foods. Try and be creative with your diet, tampering with different combinations of great foods. In order to start your new way of eating off the right way, start purchasing and cooking by these guidelines:

Eat preferably organic - I understand some people can not afford to purchase all organic food, but for the small difference in most genuinely organic foods, the benefits are astronomical. While there has been a large-scale proliferation of pseudo nutritional science on the matter, such as the press claiming it's essentially the same as non-organic food, the studies clearly show eating organic is much healthier. If it is truly 100% organic then it will not contain harmful additives, or be genetically engineered (GMO). Also, it should not have high fructose corn syrup, which contains mercury. Overall it is a great choice to buy organic food over non-organic.

Take a multivitamin - Due to the soil lacking nutrients thanks to our modern-day farming techniques, there is a major lack of vitamins in the food we eat. Even if you were to eat vegetables all day, you'd still b e lacking something. Multivitamins are a great support for maintaining your daily requirements. Unfortunately, the recommended daily value as directed by the medical establishment is extremely low. Vitamins like Centrum that cater only to this extremely minimum requirement should be avoided. A vitamin that contains the natural forms of the vitamins, instead of synthetic vitamins (made in a lab), are the highest quality. Personally I would check out NSI or Wellness Resources for pill-form multivtamins (I do not receive reimbursement from either company and it is simply my personal preference).

Diversify your intake - Just like working out, your body responds to change. There have even been studies done that suggest eating the same thing for two weeks makes your body respond negatively, creating a response similar to a minute allergic reaction. Regardless if this is true or not, it's great to vary your intake. If your daily intake consists of mainly carbohydrates and you're not getting the results you'd like, then switch it up. Try increasing your protein intake, or even fat intake. Variety is key here. When advising someone on sculpting there diet, it's always an important factor for me to find out what works for them, because what works for one person may not work for another.

Avoid toxic additives - Food additives like MSG (Monosodium glutamate) and aspartame have been linked to weight gain, brain damage, and kidney problems. Even more dangerous is the fact that a lot of food today is genetically modified. This food is known as GMO food, short for Genetically Modified Organisms. GMO food could very well be tampering with the very genetic coding of our bodies, some scientists are saying. Buying organic and checking the labels is a great way to avoid these toxic additives.

Your body will tell you when to eat, when to stop eating, and what to eat

Your body has an amazing way of telling you when you're done eating. In fact, it's been used as a weight loss trick for thousands of years. The trick is to eat slowly, around 20 or so minutes per meal, and your body will tell you when it's full. If you're full, stop eating. If you're still hungry, then keep eating. Be sure to distinguish whether or not you're hungry, or you just want something that tastes good. If you're craving sugar all the time, there is a nutritional deficiency in your diet. Your body craving a particular food or drink may mean that you're deficient in a certain nutrient. Get a good multivitamin as discussed earlier, and see if your body responds appropriately.

Just as your body can tell you when to stop eating, it can tell you when to eat and what to eat. Of course, you eat when you're hungry. The key though, is to break your meals up into 6 meals a day. The reason for this is the minimized load on your metabolism. Think about it like chopping wood. Would you rather chop a few pieces every couple hours, or chop 500 pieces in one hour? When you eat 6 meals a day, instead of 3, you allow your metabolism to properly process the food it is given. That is quite simple, but how do you know what to eat? Seeing how your body responds to certain foods is the easiest way to find out whether or not your body is approving of what you eat. Listen to your body, and experiment with a bunch of different foods.

Changing your life, not your diet

This is not a diet, this is a significant change in your life for the better. In order to feel better, look better, and think clearer, you need a strong nutritional base. Starting from the ground up, it is an enjoyable process to change your life for the better through food. Stop counting calories and hopping on the latest fad diets, and make a real change through implementing these techniques into your daily life.

Anthony is an independent journalist with a focus on natural health and wellness. As a writer for http://AmericaReclaimed.com and http://www.ShatterLimits.com, Anthony has researched both the monetary system and governmental policy in depth. Analyzing various aspects of international news, Anthony has built a reputation for being spot on when it comes to predicting the outcomes of world events. While he has written about a number of things, Anthony continues his inexorable campaign towards informing the world about natural alternatives.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Nutrition---Where-to-Begin?&id=3444708] Nutrition - Where to Begin?
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Vegetables With the Best Glycemic Index Values

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_T_Edwards]Jonathan T Edwards

The glycemic index (GI) is a really handy tool for anyone who is concerned about his or her blood sugar levels. The way that glycemic index values work is as follows: since foods have differing compositions, they are broken down by the digestive system at different speeds. Once the digestive system breaks down a given food, it is turned into glucose and hits the blood stream. In general, its best to avoid foods that are high on the Index as those foods can cause fluxuations in blood sugar levels. This means you can experience the dreaded "sugar rush" and the accompanying fall in energy.

There can be serious medical consequences in allowing your blood sugar levels to get "out of whack." This is a point almost any diabetic already realizes. Thus, keeping an eye on the glycemic index values of foods is a good idea for anyone looking to avoid the highs and lows of high GI foods.

We've all heard that fruits and vegetables are good for us. After all, fruits and vegetables are loaded down with lots of vitamins, minerals and important antioxidants that fight off a wide variety of diseases, including cancer. Everyone's diet should be filled with these foods. Luckily, most fruits and vegetables are low in glycemic index values and are thus ripe for the taking.

Luckily, there are lots of veggies that have low index values. They just so happen to be very healthy picks as well. Spinach, for example, is a nutritional giant and is packed with an assortment of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Spinach is high in Vitamin A, C, K and E and has plenty of iron as well. For those on a diet, spinach is truly a winner. Not only is this impressive vegetable low in glycemic index values, it is also low in calories, low in fat and, of course, very high in nutrition as well.

Another healthy choice that is also low in index values is the humble Brussels sprout. This little sprout, which resembles a mini-cabbage, has a lot to offer anyone who is looking for a low GI meal. While many people may not be a big fan of Brussels sprouts, they are clearly one of the best foods that one can eat. Brussels sprouts are very high in Vitamin C, and also contain a wide variety of B vitamins, Vitamin E, numerous minerals such as magnesium, and of course, low glycemic index values. All of this nutritional goodness is combined with the fact that Brussels sprouts are rich in antioxidants and are considered a cancer preventative food.

The vegetable world is full of options with low glycemic index values that are highly nutritious and contain a wide spectrum of additional benefits. By simply eating a nutrient dense spinach salad, for example, one is taking a big step towards a low GI diet and a far healthier diet as well. By just incorporating these two nutritional giants into a few meals a week, you can take advantage of the benefits of low glycemic index values.

Jonathan is main contributor and co-creator of the new Glycemic Index Values based web-site http://the-glycemic-index-guide.com. Also check out the FREE 10 part mini-course, "Glycemic Index Secrets", it might be all you'll ever need (and did I mention it was free!!)

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Vegetables-With-the-Best-Glycemic-Index-Values&id=3449042] Vegetables With the Best Glycemic Index Values
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Sabtu, 19 Desember 2009

Garlic (Allium Sativum)

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Watham_Zenith_Chanu]Watham Zenith Chanu and Vikram Chauhan

Garlic (Allium sativum)

English name: Garlic.

Hindi name: Lasan.

Sanskrit name: Lasuna, rasonam.

The first mention of garlic appears in a Sumerian recipe written in about 3000 BC. The Assyrians also used garlic as a food, brewed as a tea or mixed with wine for a variety of medicinal purpose and to strengthen the system and ward off diseases. In ancient India, there are records in the Sanskrit language documenting the use of garlic remedies about 5000 years ago and the Ebers papyrus written in 1550 BC appears to contain the first mention of garlic in Egyptian medicines. This codex gives 22 uses of garlic, including treatments for heart problems, tumours, headache, worms and bites. The Holy Bible also mentions garlic as a common food in Egypt.

Athletes in the early Olympic games used to eat garlic before competitions to gain strength and Greek soldiers ate it before battle. It was used as a battlefield medicines to prevent infection in wounds. Hippocrates himself recommended garlic for infections, cancer, leprosy and digestive problems. Galen, the greatest physician of Roman history, referred to garlic as theriaca rusticorum, 'peasant's heal all', a name which eventually reached England in the Middle Ages as 'poor man's theriacle', and it was known in Arabia as theriaka-al-fuqara (theriac of the poor).

It has been suggested that the wild ancestor of garlic was a flowering from producing seeds on aerial 'bulbils'. Under different soil and climate conditions, and different methods of cultivation in the ancient centers of civilization, other varieties arose.

Habitat:

A hardy perennial, native to central Asia and cultivated worldwide, garlic requires a fertile soil and a warm, sunny climate. The culture is annual or biannual. It grows by dividing the bulb and is harvested late the following summer.

Botanical description:

A perennial, erect, bulbous herb, 30-60 cm tall, strong smelling especially when crushed. The underground portions consists of a compound bulb giving rise above ground to a number of narrow, keeled, grass-like leaves. The leaf blade is linear, flat, solid, 10-2.5 cm wide, 30-60 cm long and has an acute apex. The leaf sheaths form a pseudo-stem. The inflorescence is umbellate; the scape coiled at first and subtended by a membranous, long-beaked spathe, splitting on one side and remaining attached to the umbel. Small bulbils are produced in the inflorescences. The flowers are variable in number and sometimes absent, seldom open and may wither in the bud. They occur on slender pedicles, consisting of a perianth of six stamens, about 4-6 mm long and pinkish. There are six stamens with the anthers exserted and a superior, three-locular ovary. Seeds are rarely produced.

Parts used:

Bulb.

Traditional and modern use:

Ayurveda uses garlic as a tonic, to built the health in general rather than treat a particular disease, although it recognizes garlic's effects on the digestive, respiratory, nervous, reproductive and circulatory systems. In Unani medicines garlic is used to treat dysentery, intestinal infections, colic in children, arthritis and food poisoning. In south-west America it is used as a cough remedy, and the Appalachians used garlic for treating pneumonia and chest colds. It is also recommended for earaches and deafness. In Thailand it is eaten to avoid diarrhea from parasites and a decoction of fresh bulb is taken orally as an anti-inflammatory. The crushed bulb is also used as a poultice on inflamed joints. In France it is used to treat allergies, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, asthma, urinary incontinence, hypertension and liver diseases. A hot water extract of fresh bulb has been taken in Yugoslavia for treating diabetes. In the West Indies extracts of the bulb are taken for hypertension and rubbed on the abdomen to facilitate parturition and in Africa it is used as an antibacterial for sore throats, infected wounds and boils. The essential oil is occasionally used as an antispasmodic, antimicrobial, diuretic, antiasthmatic and emmenagogue.

Safety profile:

The level of safety is reflected by its worldwide use as a food. Ingestion of fresh garlic bulbs, extracts or the oil may occasionally cause heartburn, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Ayurvedic properties:

Rasa: tikta (bitter), kashaya (astringent).

Guna: Snigdha (unctuous), tikshna (sharp).

Veerya: Ushna (hot).

Vipaka: Katu (pungent).

Dosha: Pacifies vata and kapha.

This article is submitted by Dr. Vikram Chauhan - MD -Ayurveda, Consultant Ayurveda Physician for http://www.planetayurveda.com Dr. Chauhan provides free online consultations to his patients worldwide.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Garlic-(Allium-Sativum)&id=3446652] Garlic (Allium Sativum)
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Learning to Choose Healthy Foods

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Boris_Chistyakov]Boris Chistyakov

Today's hectic and demanding lifestyle as well as the emergence of convenient stores is among the major reasons why people skip their healthy meals. After learning how to depend on fast food stores and convenience stores, it is easier for people to just grab a food that contains less nutrition compared to those foods that matter.

With all these drastic changes in the habit of eating, food preparation and food options, people have become more prone to various diseases because their bodies fail to absorb the nutrients it needs. Contrary to common conception, healthy foods need not to be expensive, rare or hard to prepare. In fact, most of these recommended foods for healthy living is cheaper, abundant, and easier to prepare compared to those that can be bought in the nearest convenient store.

Why Choose Healthy Foods?

Most food and nutrition experts say that healthy eating is not about what people cannot eat, it is about what people could eat in order to get the optimum nutrition that their bodies need.

If you are one of those who are on their way of learning to eat healthy foods, the best valuable thing that you can do when buying inside the grocery store or super market is to pick those that are fresh, unprocessed and whole. This is very ideal especially if you plan to buy fruit and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and sprouts.

Considered as live foods, being fresh ensures that the food still contain the greatest amount of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that provides the body with optimum nutrition. Make sure that you eat fruits that are fresh, dried without sulfur dioxide or frozen without preservatives and avoid eating fruits that are canned and in heavy syrup because these have preservatives, additives, and sweeteners. Also, eat veggies that are fresh or raw, lightly steamed, baked and dried without sulfur and avoid eating veggies that are frozen with preservatives, additives, sweeteners.

Always opt for fresh sprouts and avoid veggies that are fried or overcooked. When it comes to grains, opt for whole grain products that are unprocessed, nonirradiated, non genetically modified, sugar free, no chemical additives, no preservatives and other whole grain & sprouted grain products like bread, muffins, tortillas, cereals, and pasta, crackers. Avoid products with white flour, unbleached flour, enriched flour, sweeteners, chemical additives, refined and processed grains, white rice, quick oats, instant oatmeal, and instant cereals.

When it comes to legumes, choose beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Avoid using canned legumes prepared without animal fat, with chemical additives, sweeteners, pork and beans, and soybeans. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, filberts, pine nuts, cashews, raw seeds, sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, raw nut butters, and tahini should be eaten raw. Avoid eating dry roasted nuts and seeds. Also, make sure that you choose animal foods such as eggs, poultry and other meat that are free range, hormone and antibiotic free as well as grass fed. In fish, opt for those that have the lowest exposure to mercury.

Aside from this, you should always consider eating organic foods over to those commercially-produced ones. Nutritionists say that organic foods are indeed the purest and healthiest foods out there because they are not yet contaminated with pesticides and have higher percentage of nutrition.

Lastly, learning to read and check the label of the food item that you are about to buy is one of the best ways to ensure that you will be eating healthy food. Checking if the item is properly labeled - especially these are pre-packaged - is your main defense and protection against possible adverse effects and unwanted ingredients or contents.

Boris Chistyakov has been writing articles for 2 years. He specializes in various topics. His recent discontinued ceramic tile website has latest post about ceramic tile stores.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Learning-to-Choose-Healthy-Foods&id=3375473] Learning to Choose Healthy Foods
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Jumat, 18 Desember 2009

Tips For a Healthy Lifestyle With Help From Herbs Like Garlic - Part One

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ian_M_Bell]Ian M Bell

The more we learn of modern living and lifestyles, the more we become aware of the need for a healthy immune system. Air and water pollution are just two examples of man-made contributions to the general malaise that is insidiously invading our bodies. As a result many people globally are turning back to Nature and the more natural aids to health.

A decade ago, approximately 30 to 40% of the world's population had adopted natural methods of treating the body's ailments, or just having a fresher, more natural attitude toward simple good health. The percentage of people who now follow this regimen is closer to 70%, much to the chagrin of international pharmaceutical companies who have discovered that profits are beginning to show definite signs of dwindling.

Fortunately for the health-conscious consumer products created from naturally found substances cannot easily be patented and so the internationals have been steadily buying up health product manufacturers and then setting them up as their own outlets.

One of the problems facing these companies is that of the simple herb.

In existence for many thousands of years herbs, because they are found naturally everywhere in the world, present a stumbling block to any form of registration by a legal entity (company). This means that herbs are anyone's for the asking!

And this is good for nature followers because they can grow them at home with no restrictions - at the moment anyway; many suspect that it won't be too long before the 'Herb Police' will be patrolling. Any naturally occurring plant falls into the 'non-registerable' category and so, in a strange way, is protected from monopolisation for profit.

Although not strictly an herb per se, garlic (Old English garleac meaning 'spear leek') is best known throughout the modern world for its very distinctive and highly pungent aroma and flavour. Garlic is best described as a hardy perennial bulb - it is a member of the lily family, together with leeks, chives, shallots and onions. It has even been used as currency, so highly prized was it thousands of years ago in countries such as Asia, Africa, Egypt and Europe and around the Mediterranean and Aegean.

ANTI-MICROBIAL QUALITIES

Although garlic has a reputation for warding off vampires, protecting pregnant ladies from unmentionable harm and even credited with having aphrodisiacal properties, it is better known in modern times as being a 'germ fighter'.

Garlic has been called by many names including the 'Stinking Rose' and 'Russian Penicillin. The latter name was given to the miracle plant by World War I physicians who successfully foiled the onset of gangrene using poultices soaked in the juice of garlic. Other, more mundane but effective uses for garlic over the centuries, particularly by the Chinese, are:

· Garlic soup to treat pneumonia
· Juice to treat typhoid and meningitis
· Vapours for whooping cough

During the early 'fifties scientists in China successfully used two different types of garlic treatments to combat influenza. Western nations around the same period discovered that garlic was highly effective in the treatment of the common cold. Garlic has been found to be a powerful anti-microbial remedy effective against parasites in the human intestinal tract, bacteria, fungi and even viruses.

I'm Ian and I've been writing articles on how to acquire a proper golf swing for my site in the past, golf being a passion of mine. Now come and visit my latest website over at http://www.outdoorwirelesssecuritycamera.org which helps people with lots of information to find the best outdoor wireless security camera available on the market.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-For-a-Healthy-Lifestyle-With-Help-From-Herbs-Like-Garlic---Part-One&id=3441312] Tips For a Healthy Lifestyle With Help From Herbs Like Garlic - Part One
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Healthy Foods For the Kids

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Benton_Chandrel]Benton Chandrel

We all know that children are very picky with their food. If they are given a choice, they will always pick sweets over fruits and junk food over vegetables. That's why it's really a challenge especially for parents to get their kids to eat healthy foods. Sometimes the fault is also with the parents. They always buy foods that their kids want and not what their kids need. It is also necessary for parents to know what the different types of healthy foods for kids are.

Kids are always known to be very energetic. So it's important to feed them with foods that will meet their body's needs. Therefore, healthy foods for kids should always be available at home. From the start, you should train your kids to get used to eating healthily because this will benefit them in the long run. As we all know, kids have a sweet tooth, meaning they always want to eat sweets. Instead of giving them chocolates, candies and cookies, give them sweet fruits or make them sweet fresh fruit smoothies. They will surely enjoy it and you don't have to worry about the nutritional content.

You should also make sure that there are no junk foods available inside the house. Also avoid having sweets and other sugary snacks in places where your children can find it. It's hard to control your kids once they get used to the habit of grabbing something delicious yet unhealthy.

Another most important thing that parents should do is set an example for your children. If you are eating junk food and snacks in front of your kids, then they will also want some of it. Getting your kids to eat healthy foods can sometimes be a mission, but remember it is better in the future for their health and doing something about it is better than letting them pick up a bad eating habit.

Benton has been writing articles about diet, fitness and weight loss online for nearly 3 years. You can also check out his latest website on polo sweatshirts and polo sweatpants

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Healthy-Foods-For-the-Kids&id=3437910] Healthy Foods For the Kids
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Kamis, 17 Desember 2009

Blackberries - Top 10 in Antioxidant Capacity

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Cole_Tanner]Cole Tanner

As delicious as blackberries are -- they offer much more value than just a sweet summer treat. Research has shown that blackberries are low in calories, low on the glycemic index, are an excellent source of fiber, are chock full of vitamins B, C, and E, minerals, and ellagic acid (thought to be a potent cancer fighter), as well as antioxidants.

In fact, according to the USDA, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries all rank in the top 10 for antioxidant capacity in more than 100 common foods. And, research published in the July 2006 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition ranked blackberries as far and away the most antioxidant-rich food based on a typical single serving out of more than 1,000 food types tested.

Many of the most potent antioxidants in blackberries are named anthocyanins, which are responsible for the purplish-black color in both blackberries and blueberries and have been shown to fight everything from heart disease and cancer to memory loss.

About one cup of blackberries will provide the approximately 75 calories, one gram of protein,.06 grams of fat, 18 grams of carbs, and about 7.6 grams of fibre.

So, whether you pick them yourself at a berry farm, grab some at your local produce market, or buy them fresh or frozen at the grocery store, blackberries make a healthy snack. And they're easy to enjoy, just add them to your cereal, make a cobbler, or top off your salad, ice cream or smoothie with them. Or, make a blackberry margarita.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Blackberries---Top-10-in-Antioxidant-Capacity&id=3407044] Blackberries - Top 10 in Antioxidant Capacity
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Child Nutrition - A is For April the Asparagus

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Amber_Cabrera]Amber Cabrera

Not only does asparagus have folic acid, which is great for the skin, but it is also a great vegetable for steaming, frying and/or baking. Slathering it with low fat cheese or wrapping it in turkey bacon are always great crowd pleasers too!

Childhood obesity is a major problem in this country. The snack food industry continues to find more ways to pump out prepackaged, unhealthy foods that are more convenient and seemingly less expensive than nutritional alternatives. However, they fall obscenely short on nutritional value. Combine that with limited school budgets that are forced to cut out recess and other extracurricular activities, and you are left with a generation of children growing up overweight.

As a parent, there is so much self-imposed guilt when feeling as though we are not doing enough to monitor our child(ren)'s diet. Full time jobs, endless 'to-do' lists, and time - all conspire to make us feel worse when we believe that we have no other option than to choose the quick and easy unhealthy meals.

There is good news on the horizon. Many fruits and vegetables have versatile preparation options that are fantastic alternatives to junk food and can be prepared in advance with very little effort. But this is only half of the battle.

The other half is to convince your child(ren) to eat more fruits and vegetables. If they are picky eaters, this can be difficult. That's why I recommend a book called The Adventures of Tommy The Tomato by author and nutritionist, Jay Holt. It's a fantastic book of color-filled illustrations for both children and parents about nutrition. Tommy and his friends are a group of fruits and vegetables who teach kids about the fun of eating healthy. Each character is named after a letter of the alphabet, so it's easy to follow and reinforces primary learning. Children relate to each page of the story while learning about good nutrition.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Child-Nutrition---A-is-For-April-the-Asparagus&id=3424941] Child Nutrition - A is For April the Asparagus
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Minggu, 13 Desember 2009

Why People Should Eat Healthy - 5 Tips to Eating Healthy

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ross_Gray]Ross Gray

The reasons why people should eat healthy are too numerous to list. Among the top contenders are avoiding many illnesses such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes. In order to eat healthy you don't have to give up all the foods you love or become thin as a rail. It is more about maintaining a healthy weight, increasing your energy level, and feeling terrific.

We all need to take more time and put more thought into what we are fueling our bodies with. We are all rushed, stressed, and short on time but that is no excuse to eating whatever is easiest or quickest. There are plenty of one pot, 30-minute meal recipes available, also believe it or not there are some prepackaged foods that are fairly healthy too. Here are some top tips to help you out.

1. Make sure to drink enough water. Water is an important component of a healthy eating plan. After all our body is comprised of approximately 75% water. Water helps us flush our bodies of toxins and waste products.

2. Consume more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. If we eat more of these items throughout the day our sugar and energy levels will remain in check.

3. Eat an adequate amount of calories but don't overdo it. Put some thought into how many calories you really need to consume throughout the day. A construction worker will burn up more calories than somebody who working in an office. Don't consume more than you will burn.

4. Watch the portion size of your meals. For some reason our portion sizes over the years have increased dramatically. I believe this has a lot to do with marketing. If you order your favorite entree at a restaurant and get a loaded large platter of food you will most likely be happy paying the price they are asking for the meal. The reality is that our portion size has doubled or tripled over years past. Be proactive and package up any food beyond a reasonable portion and make two meals out of it instead of one.

5. Consume a wide range of foods. Go out of your way to try new foods. I am always looking for ways to incorporate different types of whole grains into my diet. There are probably a lot of grains and legumes that you have never even heard of. Try some new exotic fruits or vegetables that you found at the market. The worst that can happen is that you don't like them. Keep your meals exciting and new by adding variety.

If you utilize the preceding tips it will not be that difficult to [http://EasyFitnessAndNutrition.info]eat healthy. Because the subject of healthy eating is such a broad topic, I recommend you do some additional studying about fitness and nutrition at [http://EasyFitnessAndNutrition.info]http://EasyFitnessAndNutrition.info. Click through my preceding link for a ton of science-backed information and strategies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ross_Gray http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-People-Should-Eat-Healthy---5-Tips-to-Eating-Healthy&id=3354178
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Kamis, 10 Desember 2009

How to Speak With Influence

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Zuraidah_Ali]Zuraidah Ali

Influence is most commonly associated with power and authority. Nevertheless, let's think of ways to unravel the hidden powers of language, as we use it every day, to influence the attitude, thoughts and behavior of people around us.

Have you heard of influence tactics and influence strategies? To start, we can try to appear more 'assertive' in negotiations and tap on 'coalition tactic' in group discussions in order to win majority support. Now, how much of this knowledge have you utilized in your life as a student, employee, or participant in any kind of discussion, competitions, challenge, etc?

In bringing the topic of "influence" closer to English as a Second Language (ESL), I have decided to delineate the effects of powerful and powerless language. I shall link this interest to "politeness theory".

To illustrate powerless language which indirectly carries the effects of "influence", we can look at a common habit to use 'hedges' like "I wonder if you could"... and "Could I maybe ask you..." in our daily conversation and interaction. If you stand on the receiving end, these expressions may sound humble and less threatening to your ego and disposition. In other words, it brings about the impression of politeness and respect.

Another example is our tendency to use words or phrases which 'minimize imposition' like "I need just a little bit of your time" in making requests or asking for some consideration. 'Hedges' and 'minimization of imposition' are both ways to redress face-threatening acts. They may seem 'powerless'; however, the gain is worthwhile.

In short, within the context of "influence", powerless language manifests politeness tactics which represents rituals of approach, social distance, and respect. You may sound humble and down-to-earth, yet you bring more attention to yourself. Hence, you will have more opportunity to influence the hearer of your assertion and reasoning.

Note: I encourage critical reading, critical thinking and writing via my academic blog. You can visit it and share your thoughts at http://speakup-avenue.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zuraidah_Ali http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Speak-With-Influence&id=3401355
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Rabu, 09 Desember 2009

Colorful Eating Habits For Good Health

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Neil_Roth]Neil Roth

We all know colorful fruits and vegetables are a good way for an aesthetically appetizing presentation of food. In fact Van Gogh used them with much success in his paintings. But did you know it is good for health to include fruits and vegetables of different colors in your diet? It sounds playful to include the rainbow in your diet chart but that is what the nutritionists now days are advising. In fact fruits and vegetables from each of the four primary color group should be included every day in your food.

So what are the colors that are so good for health? Yellow/orange, red, green and blue/purple is the favored color by the dieticians. But how and why color plays such an important role in our health and disease prevention? To begin with you have the effects of the pigments themselves which are great antioxidants. Did you know lycopene found in red tomatoes protects you against prostate cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer and even heart disease as per one preliminary study?

Pigments are just the first line of defense. They are the precursor for more health benefits.These include vitamins and, fiber. And also phytochemicals that help detoxify the body, battle tumor growth and activate protective genes. Did you know that the most intensely colored fruits and vegetables have the highest levels of protective phytonutients?

Take spinach for example. The dark green color of spinach is practically a one stop pharmacy. It delivers at least three important antioxidants, including the yellow pigment lutein, which helps prevent macular degeneration, the main reason that causes blindness in the elderly. In fact one serving of raw spinach contains about three quarter of your daily vitamin A, one quarter of your folic acid requirement and 185 percent your vitamin K...a vitamin that help strengthen bone.

The message is very clear. Use colorful fruits and vegetables to paint a picture of good health.

The writer of this article is Neil Roth who researches and writes about health and fitness.If you enjoyed this article you can have look at another article by this author on [http://lipcarecenter.com/lip-reduction-surgery/]Lip Reduction at this blog on [http://lipcarecenter.com/]Lip Enhancement.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neil_Roth http://EzineArticles.com/?Colorful-Eating-Habits-For-Good-Health&id=3380583
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Vitamin C to Fight Swine Flu and Influenza

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Shalah_Beckinghart]Shalah Beckinghart

The powers that Vitamin C has over fighting influenza and swine flu:

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects against infection and enhances immunity.

The daily suggested dosage of Vitamin C is about 100-200mg 2-3 times a day for adults. When faced with such stressors adults can take 500-1000mg 3 times a day. For severe cases such as the onset of influenza that ill person can take 500-1000mg every 2 hours. Its important that you stick to the normal recommended dosage and then only when faced with illness increase to the higher levels. Only on the onset of environmental stress such as trauma, fever or infection should you take higher dosages of Vitamin C supplement otherwise you can run the risk of Vitamin C overdose.

1-3yrs old, 15mg normal dosage/ 400mg onset of illness dosage per day

4-8yrs old, 25mg normal dosage/ 650mg onset of illness dosage per day

9-13yrs old, 45mg normal dosage/ 1200mg onset of illness dosage per day

14-7yrs old, 65-75mg normal dosage/ 1800-2000mg onset of illness dosage per day

18yrs old and older, 80-85mg normal dosage/ 2000-3000mg onset of illness dosage per day

Pregnant women, 80-85mg normal dosage/ 1800-2000mg onset of illness dosage per day

Breast-feeding women, 115-120mg normal dosage/ 1800-2000mg onset of illness dosage per day

Vitamin C Overdose mostly comes by taking high levels of lab made or lab manipulated Vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid and the like. Overdose can cause diarrhea, gas, stomach upset and cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. The more major overdose conditions that come with vitamin C overdose are developing kidney stones, Vitamin B12 and copper deficiencies, and also the increased need for oxygen. Pregnant mothers taking 5000-6000mg or more of Vitamin C can possibly subject their babies to develop rebound scurvy. People that have iron overload diseases need to avoid Vitamin C overdose since it increases the absorption of iron. Patients with Hemochromatosis should not take extra Vitamin C either due to the accumulation of nonheme iron in the presence of vitamin C. Long term problems caused by vitamin C overdose includes: acute right sided conjunctivitis, kidney disease, diabetes, and hypoglycemia.

The absolute best Vitamin C to take is naturally occurring Vitamin C in the form of whole foods or whole food botanical supplements. One would need to ask themselves. Where in nature do you find "ascorbic acid"? The answer is nowhere. Most companies use chemical ascorbic acid that mimics real Vitamin C. Now again on the onset of influenza however by all means you can take those dosages of Vitamin C(ascorbic acid), but just for that time.

Natural ways to get Vitamin C is in camu camu berry, acerola cherry, rhus coriana, rose hip, indian gooseberry (amla fruit), and hibiscus. These botanicals are rich in Vitamin C and you can get them in capsule form if you like.

Learn what [http://fightinfluenzanaturally.blogspot.com]Fight Influenza Naturally suggest on the best natural RAW food Vitamin C supplements and other foods rich in Vit C by reading this article in its entirety at [http://fightinfluenzanaturally.blogspot.com/search/label/vitamin%20c]natural Vitamin C to fight swine flu and influenza naturally. Here's to good health!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shalah_Beckinghart http://EzineArticles.com/?Vitamin-C-to-Fight-Swine-Flu-and-Influenza&id=3338788
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Senin, 21 September 2009

A Natural Way to Get Vitamin D in Your Body

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Rosalie_Lynch]Rosalie Lynch

I have read that one simple vitamin deficiency is causing the increase in diabetes, arthritis, many cancers, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, and a host of other preventable diseases. Nearly 100% of people with the diseases listed above lack the proper amounts of vitamin D in their body.

Our lives have changed so much from when our grandparents and great-grandparents were outside, working, walking where they were exposed to the sun every day soaking up the rays on their skin. Sun is a great source of vitamin D; however, in today's world we manage to get 30 seconds it takes to walk from our cars to the building and stores we are entering. And if we do actually go out in the sun, we cover ourselves with sunscreen and hats which blocks the vitamin D production. There are dangers in being over exposed to sun. Do you remember when people use to lay outside for a couple of hours, some falling asleep in the sun, to get a beautiful tan? How about golfers playing 18 holes and developing skin cancer? These illustrations are not what we are talking about in receiving the benefits of sunshine on our skin. When you participate in the above activities, it is necessary to use sunscreen and wear hats for protection.

I was shocked when I learned that half of adults and 40% of all children in the United States are deficient in vitamin D. The Food and Nutrition Board of the US does make recommendations on the amount of vitamin D people should receive by age categories; such as:

200IU for those under 50 years of age,

400IU for ages 51-70, and

600IU for those 71 and over

Unless you take a vitamin pill daily you can receive the necessary dosage in a natural way. How about going outside for:

15-20 minutes daily in the summer

25-30 minutes in the spring and fall, and

35-40 minutes in the winter.

Make an effort to expose as much skin as you can to sunshine.

I personally invite you to come to http://www.livehealthybywalking.com Take action by signing up for updates of new postings, activities and informational articles relating to walking your way to a healthy lifestyle. If you are under the impression that you just go outdoors to walk, you may be surprised what you will learn about Nordic Walking, Interval Walking, Power Walking, Walking in light rain; walking and training for marathons and much more. Claim your health by joining other walkers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rosalie_Lynch
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Natural-Way-to-Get-Vitamin-D-in-Your-Body&id=2865260

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Jumat, 07 Agustus 2009

Can This Green Food Kill Bacteria Antibiotics Can't?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joseph_F._McCaffrey_M.D.]Joseph F. McCaffrey M.D.

You may or may not have heard about a unique bacterium called Heliobacter pylori - H. pylori for short. It's unique because it can survive in the acid of the stomach. And infection with H. pylori can cause serious problems. It's associated with irritation of the stomach wall, ulcers and even stomach cancer.

Eradicating H. pylori reduces the risk of recurrent ulcers as well as the risk of other problems, including stomach cancer.

However, treating H. pylori with traditional medications often proves to be difficult. Physicians typically treat the infection with at least three drugs for 2 or sometimes 4 weeks. Even with that aggressive treatment, the success rate is only around 80%.

Now there's good evidence that a simple green sprout added to your diet can reduce or eliminate H. pylori.

The sprout is question is broccoli.

You've undoubtedly heard the advice to eat more vegetables. You've probably heard that vegetables of the cruciferous class (broccoli, cabbage, etc.) are especially good for you. There are any number of beneficial nutrients in these vegetables, but one compound that has been studied extensively is sulforaphane.

Sulforaphane is a phytochemical that triggers the production of beneficial enzymes in the stomach. These enzymes protect against inflammation, free radicals and DNA damage - and have a number of health benefits.

Research studies show that regularly including vegetables containing sulforaphane in your diet protects against several types of cancer (including bladder cancer), heart disease and may even help arthritis.

Sulforaphane levels are 50 times higher in broccoli sprouts than they are in mature broccoli, so sprouts are an especially good source.

In addition to the already known health benefits, there's now evidence that broccoli sprouts are effective against H. pylori. In a study in mice infected with H. pylori, over 70% percent of the infections were cleared in the treated group while none were cleared in the placebo group.

Other laboratory studies have shown that sulforaphane kills over 90% of tested strains of H. pylori, even those resistant to antibiotics, by 2 mechanisms - induced enzymes and direct effect.

A study in humans infected with H. pylori showed significant suppression of H. pylori infection, if not complete eradication, in people who ate about 2 ounces of broccoli sprouts a day.

You can make your own sprouts, but they're widely available under the brand name BroccoSprouts. They're available in my little town so you can probably find them where you are. Even if you don't have any concerns about H. pylori, including broccoli sprouts in your diet regularly is still a great idea. It's another example of why we all should emphasize a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in our diets.

By the way, there's an interesting "inside story" about the Australian researcher who first recognized importance of H. pylori. I use it to help my colleagues keep their perspective when they seem a little closed minded. You can read about it at: [http://www.jfmccaffreymd.com/another-reason-to-eat-your-broccoli.html]Another Reason to Eat Your Broccoli

And since you're interested healthy eating you may want to check out: [http://www.jfmccaffreymd.com/healthy-eating.html]Healthy Eating in 10 Easy Steps

You'll learn a simple way to painlessly transform the quality of your diet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_F._McCaffrey_M.D.
http://EzineArticles.com/?Can-This-Green-Food-Kill-Bacteria-Antibiotics-Cant?&id=2613838

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Sabtu, 20 Juni 2009

Physical Therapy Software - Increasing Net Revenue Per Patient

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jill_Howell]Jill Howell

With 35 employees and ten physical therapy clinics throughout central Missouri, Peak Performance Physical Therapy needed to find a way to solve its mounting IT challenges to avoid administrative and clinical problems. The group's existing patient care tracking and billing processes were simply not efficient for the rate at which the clinics were opening, and Peak Performance decided to take control of clinical documentation and reimbursement. By using a therapy software system, the group was able to increase the accuracy and quality of its clinical documentation, while improving productivity and optimizing reimbursement schedules.

Peak Performance now experiences a 35 percent increase in net revenue per patient visit - contributing directly to the group's profits and ability to expand into new regions. For years, all areas of Peak Performance's documentation process - including administrative and clinical functions - had been conducted manually, and it was beginning to show. This outdated process was having an effect on not only workflow efficiencies, but also on bottom line results. On the administrative side, Peak Performance was constantly at risk of losing money because the group often unknowingly scheduled visits that were not approved by the payor. If a patient was authorized for eight physical therapy appointments, but ended up meeting for ten visits, the group was not reimbursed by the payor and had to incur the expense of the additional two visits.

In their daily schedule, therapists would postpone the handling of administrative functions such as charting clinical notes to the end of the day, but with a stack of patient charts piled up, the quality of the clinical notes inevitably dropped. "It just wasn't an efficient system because the delay from treatment to charting would sometimes lead to not only poor documentation in the patient charts, but also incorrect and incomplete application of billing codes," said Phil Threatt, Administrator of Peak Performance Physical Therapy. From an accounts receivable standpoint, it was clear that the reimbursement process was ineffective and just not up to payor standards. Claims were regularly reimbursed at a lower rate, and were sometimes rejected altogether. "Physical therapy practices continually need to find ways to become more efficient and receive payments faster while providing great patient care," said Threatt. "Care and reimbursement are always intertwined and you cannot separate the two. We needed an outpatient information system that would bring the two elements together in a cohesive, fluid process."

The Solution After a long assessment process in which multiple outpatient information systems were evaluated, Peak Performance selected a software designed as a complete solution for rehabilitation clinics, and manages everything from scheduling, registration, management reporting. "We chose the the system because it is built for physical therapists, by physical therapists," said Threatt. "The company understands our market, challenges and nuances. This was a refreshing change from the other software companies who try to be all things to all people and sell the same practice management system to a physical therapist that was just sold to a pediatrician or OB/GYN. "We needed a specialized solution." Upon implementation, the system immediately solved Peak Performance's scheduling challenges because it automated the front desk processes through task prompts and intelligent drop-down menus. The group's administrative staff no longer had to worry about scheduling unauthorized visits, because the system actively notifies the user if a patient has met his/her allotted visits.

Their [http://www.sourcemed.net/therapysource/]physical therapy software merges patient care and administrative aspects by providing a much needed structure in the way Peak Performance therapists enter clinical notes. The group's clinical notes are laid out against both short-term (2-4 weeks) and long-term (4-8 weeks) goals. When therapists create daily S.O.A.P. (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) notes for their patients, the system prompts therapists through each step of the process. Therapists can then instantly track the progress of each patient, so they can justify directly to the payor, the rate at which each patient is reaching treatment goals. Because of the inherent flexibility of the system, Peak Performance's therapists have been able to customize the use of the software to their own documentation needs and past experience with similar information system tools.

"The support team assigned to us by the company has been very receptive to implementing our suggestions," said Threatt. "The company continually offers upgrades and added functionality to the system to make it more useful to our specific needs." The wireless, point-of-care system has enabled Peak Performance to increase revenue by strengthening its ability to capture and manage more complete and accurate clinical documentation. The group now experiences a 35 percent increase in net revenue per visit by limiting the clinical errors associated with poor handwriting, treatment omissions and unclean notes. "The therapy software provides us with an intelligent way to track the number of patient visits, referrals and treatment histories," said Threatt. "And, because scheduling, registration and reporting can be accessed from multiple computers and facilities through a secure connection, this solution just made more sense than competitive offerings based at an on-site server." Today, the group also uses the system as a self evaluation tool.

At any given point, Peak Performance administrators can use the physical therapy reporting functions to evaluate therapist and administrative staff efficiency, which can be an invaluable tool when trying to coordinate the workflow of employees across ten locations. "The software makes the parts of the job that therapists like least - documentation and administrative processes - easier," added Threatt. "With all of the automated functionality, our therapists have been able to spend less time on administrative processes and more time on what they do best... patient care."

The therapy software chosen by peak performance was SourceMedical's TherapySource. The industry leading outpatient rehabilitation software.

Jill Howell

Source Medical Software Solutions

Marketing Director

[mailto:jill.howell@sourcemed.net]jill.howell@sourcemed.net

205-969-4685


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jill_Howell
http://EzineArticles.com/?Physical-Therapy-Software---Increasing-Net-Revenue-Per-Patient&id=2479750

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Kamis, 18 Juni 2009

World of Emotions

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kiran_Bala]Kiran Bala

A Typical day: Alarm goes off and you continue to sleep, suddenly you wake up. You are late. You are upset. First encounter with Emotion. You run, grab a cab. Reach office. It's late. You are scared. You are nervous. Emotions. You focus. Share a joke with friends. Get an appreciation mail. You are happy. Emotions - again. While crossing the road a taxi splashes water on you. You are furious. Emotions - again & again. Kids playing. You smile. Emotion-yet again. And life goes on in this roller coaster of emotions!

The word emotion has come from the Latin word 'emovere' which means 'to move'. Something which moves us is an emotion. Centuries ago when man was a caveman, all of his survival decisions were based on emotions. Neo-cortex or the thinking brain was not developed and learning was purely emotional. Simplest of decisions were driven by emotional memory like whether to stay in particular place based on what happened there yesterday, if he was attacked by predators there, fight or flight?. Learning was all based on emotions stored in 'Amygdala' (part of brain responsible for processing emotions and storing them, otherwise called 'feeling brain'). As human beings evolved, neo-cortex or new brain got developed. New-cortex is mainly responsible for thinking (logic/reasoning). In other words, it's called the 'thinking brain'. However evolution of new brain in no way discards the importance of Amygdala or the 'feeling brain'. Even after centuries the way our brain works- we still FEEL before we think!

Let's look at the simplest of decisions you make day in and day out. For instance, you have to make a decision on whether to take stairs or the elevator to go down from second floor. Most people will press the button for elevator and then take the stairs! Surprised? Well that's purely because this is the way our brain functions. It's the feeling that comes first, somewhere in your feeling brain you have the memory of comfort associated with elevators and that makes you press the button without any thought. However when you get down to waiting, you realize and reason you could very well take the stairs as its only second floor. That's how emotions govern smallest of decisions to biggest of challenges in life.

When you are making biggest decisions of your life, no matter how strong the facts, if something is not feeling right, chances are you won't go for it. How one is feeling when he/she enters the boardroom more or less decides how he/she is going to look at the figures presented, points raised, perspectives shared. If one is upbeat or happy in general, while discussing the possibilities or new business opportunities he or she will generally look at things presented in a positive manner and vice versa. There was a recent article in Harvard Business Review on how one feels while entering a business meeting dictates the course of meeting and decisions made.

Emotions are body's manifestation of information received and processed, simply ignoring them has helped no one. They are to be understood and managed, which we all know is easier said than done. Emotions have lot of energy ( positive and negative), anyone who is angry and want to thump the table knows it, anyone who feels furious and wants to scream or cry out loud knows it, anyone jumping with joy knows it. It is this energy in different emotions we want to harness and channel which can only happen once we are able to perceive, assess and manage emotions of ourselves and those of others. That's Emotional Intelligence is all about!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kiran_Bala
http://EzineArticles.com/?World-of-Emotions&id=2462088

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Understanding Integrity Can Free You From Emotions of Unworthiness

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Leon_Cautillo]Leon Cautillo

For the most part your integrity is 'out' whenever you are giving your attention to something you believe doesn't work according to what you believe does. For example if you believe eating meat on Friday is a sin and you do, you'll feel some degree of emotional guilt. If no one ever suggested to you that it was a mortal sin you will not feel guilty for there is no conflicting emotion. Now that is a fairly simple example but I'm sure it conveys the message.

There is a significantly more primary understanding that must be considered here. How does the context that would allow the idea that eating meat on Friday get considered? How does a human being believe something is 'bad' or 'sinful'? They feel it. If I told you that wearing blue shirts before noon was a mortal sin and you came in wearing a long sleeve bright blue André Benjamin, I don't believe you'd feel bad. Why? Now why is that? You might feel silly but you surely would not have any negative emotion.

If you were told early on as a child that if you were to disobey the Commandments and Jesus died for you, that would be enough to make you feel guilt and shame and you would be unworthy, undeserving. If you were a rational 25 year old adult you could not feel these kinds of emotions as the brain by now has built a rational defense. Well there is no context for it, no good and bad emotions.

How you know you are out of alignment (that your integrity is out) is by your ability to interpret your emotions rightfully. You have the emotion you desire to feel and the emotion you are feeling that you ate that meat. If the feelings are conflicting there will be the experience of two conflicting emotions that will cause a vibrate 'negatively'.

The scale of emotions could range from possible 'happy, joy, bliss' to the other side 'hopelessness, despair, powerlessness'. These will surely inhibit a positive self esteem.

There are a few notions to dispel in order to understand the road to joy. First, integrity has nothing to do with right or wrong, good or bad and second, or that a human being could be unworthy. These are things a human being can think but nothing a person could ever be.

The context for life is the phenomenon that the word 'works' points to.
The actions of the particles in the cells are moving in a direction that works or does not work to produce life. To what end? To live, to exist, to self actualize.

The question to ask is does it work? Not is it right or wrong good or bad. Is it moral or immoral? The notion that something could be immoral is a man made invention to manage societies. Particles attract like particles not because they are good particles, they do so because it works to produce life.

Your strongest wish is to exist and continue to exist. But before that which is most desired is turned into words, such as I want to exist, I want to live there is the desire to feel more joy as I continue to reach for more of life. The intention to live is primary, to feeling better. The reach towards more joy and happiness is always a reach for live, for freedom. Though there is much more to be said on this subject, these are the fundamental notions. The release of negative emotions allows for greater and greater experiences of happiness to fill ones life.

If you understand about the power of directing your emotions in a particular kind of way, I invite you to visit and learn about the iCap. http://www.insightsforworkability.com

Biofeedback has advanced beyond our imagination. You can discover and manage your emotions such as to seek and discover more joy and happiness than you can imagine. And because of the personal computer, the cost is affordable and the advances have been remarkably pleasing.

Stop by when you can.

Leon Cautillo, Author/Instructor
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leon_Cautillo http://EzineArticles.com/?Understanding-Integrity-Can-Free-You-From-Emotions-of-Unworthiness&id=2481998
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