Diabetes prevention: 5 tips for taking control

When it comes to type 2 diabetes — the most common type of diabetes — prevention is a big deal. It's especially important to make diabetes prevention a priority if you're at increased risk of diabetes, for example, if you're overweight or have a family history of the disease.

Diabetes prevention is as basic as eating more healthfully, becoming more physically active and losing a few extra pounds — and it's never too late to start. Making a few simple changes in your lifestyle now may help you avoid the serious health complications of diabetes down the road, such as nerve, kidney and heart damage. Consider the latest diabetes prevention tips from the American Diabetes Association.

Tip 1: Get more physical activity

There are many benefits to regular physical activity. Exercise can help you:

• Lose weight
• Lower your blood sugar
• Boost your sensitivity to insulin — which helps keep your blood sugar within a normal range

Research shows that both aerobic exercise and resistance training can help control diabetes, but the greater benefit comes from a fitness program that includes both.

Tip 2: Get plenty of fiber

It's rough, it's tough — and it may help you:

• Reduce your risk of diabetes by improving your blood sugar control
• Lower your risk of heart disease
• Promote weight loss by helping you feel full

Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

Tip 3: Go for whole grains

Although it's not clear why, whole grains may reduce your risk of diabetes and help maintain blood sugar levels. Try to make at least half your grains whole grains. Many foods made from whole grains come ready to eat, including various breads, pasta products and many cereals. Look for the word "whole" on the package and among the first few items in the ingredient list.

Tip 4: Lose extra weight

If you're overweight, diabetes prevention may hinge on weight loss. Every pound you lose can improve your health, and you may be surprised by how much. Participants in one large study who lost a modest amount of weight — around 7 percent of initial body weight — and exercised regularly reduced the risk of developing diabetes by almost 60 percent.

Tip 5: Skip fad diets and just make healthier choices

Low-carb diets, the glycemic index diet or other fad diets may help you lose weight at first, but their effectiveness at preventing diabetes isn't known nor are their long-term effects. And by excluding or strictly limiting a particular food group, you may be giving up essential nutrients. Instead, think variety and portion control as part of an overall healthy-eating plan.
source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/

Cholera - including symptoms, treatment and prevention

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by some strains of the bacterium Vibrio cholerae.

The cholera organism is known to be present in some rivers along the eastern Australian coast, but cholera acquired in Australia is very rare. In Australia, because of our high standards of sanitation, water and food quality, cholera outbreaks do not occur. Typically, cholera is seen only in travellers arriving from countries where the disease is still common, such as Africa, Central Europe, Latin America and Asia.

How cholera is spread

Infection occurs when the bacteria are taken in by mouth, usually in food or water contaminated by human faeces.

Cholera is spread by:

• drinking contaminated water
• eating food contaminated by dirty water, soiled hands or flies
• eating fish or shellfish from contaminated waters.

The cholera organism can survive for long periods in water and ice.

Signs and symptoms

Infection is often mild, or without any symptoms, but it can be severe.

Symptoms include:

• sudden onset of painless, profuse, watery diarrhoea
• nausea and vomiting early in the illness
• dehydration.

In severe untreated cases, death may occur within hours, but with simple treatment full recovery can be expected.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is suspected on clinical signs and confirmed by growing Vibrio cholerae from afaecal specimen.

Incubation period

(time between becoming infected and developing symptoms)

A few hours to 5 days, usually 2 to 3 days.

Infectious period

(time during which an infected person can infect others)

During the acute stage and for a few days after recovery. However, some people (called 'carriers') who do not have symptoms may still carry the bacteria and be infectious, sometimes for months to years.

Treatment

Anyone who has been in a high-risk region within the previous 5 days and develops severe vomiting and diarrhoea should seek urgent medical assessment.

Although cholera can be life-threatening, it is easily treated by immediate rehydration, that is, replacement of the fluid and salts lost through diarrhoea.

Oral rehydration fluid is recommended. This can be obtained from pharmacies.

Patients with severe dehydration or who are unable to keep oral fluids down require hospitalisation and intravenous fluid replacement.

Antibiotics shorten the duration of the illness and lessen the severity, but they are not as important as rehydration.

Prevention

• Exclude people with cholera from childcare, preschool, school and work until there has been no diarrhoea for 24 hours. If working as a food handler in a food business, the exclusion period should be until there has been no diarrhoea or vomiting for 48 hours.
• Infants, children and adults with cholera infection should not swim until there has been no diarrhoea for 24 hours.
• Follow good hand washing procedures.
• Severely ill patients should be isolated in hospital.
• People who are less severely ill can be nursed at home. Faeces and vomit can be disposed of into the toilet except in areas where there is not an adequate sewage disposal system.
• All linen and articles used by the patient should be washed in hot soapy water and the room thoroughly cleaned when the person has recovered.
• Vaccines are available but are recommended only for travelers to high-risk countries. They may not protect against all strains of cholera bacteria and protection is for several months only.
• When traveling to high-risk countries, seek advice from a travel medical clinic or an experienced general practitioner on how to protect yourself from cholera and other diarrhoeal illnesses. In particular, drink only water that has been boiled or disinfected with iodine or chlorine tablets. Carbonated bottled drinks are usually safe, if no ice is added.
• Good food handling procedures should always be followed, including when traveling.
• Contacts (for example, family members) of a case should be observed for 5 days from the date of the last exposure to the infected person. A contact is any person who has been close enough to an infected person to be at risk of having acquired the infection from that person.

source: http://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/

Seven Foods That Fight Inflammation and Belly Fat

Fruits and vegetables

All fruits and vegetables, due to their rich nutrient and fiber content, help to combat chronic inflammation, so make sure to include adequate amounts of these foods daily. Some types of fresh produce, however, are even more potent than others.

Some terrific anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables to include in your meal plan include apples, berries, broccoli, mushrooms, papaya, pineapple, and spinach.

source:  http://www.dummies.com/

Seven Foods That Fight Inflammation and Belly Fat

Fruits and vegetables

All fruits and vegetables, due to their rich nutrient and fiber content, help to combat chronic inflammation, so make sure to include adequate amounts of these foods daily. Some types of fresh produce, however, are even more potent than others.

Some terrific anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables to include in your meal plan include apples, berries, broccoli, mushrooms, papaya, pineapple, and spinach.

source:  http://www.dummies.com/

source:

Natural & Home Remedies for Ulcers

Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic or gastric ulcers, are open sores in the lining of the stomach. Because of the amount of acid present in the stomach, when ulcers occur, they are often extremely painful. The most common cause of stomach ulcers is the bacteriumHelicobacter pylori, or H. pylori. Ulcers may also be caused by overuse of painkillers, such as aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.

Stomach ulcers are often treated with antibiotics or medications to reduce, block, or neutralize stomach acid. There are also natural home remedies you can use to help ease the symptoms of a stomach ulcer and help it heal.

Flavonoids

Research suggests that flavonoids, also known as bioflavonoids, may be an effective treatment for stomach ulcers. Flavonoids are compounds that occur naturally in many fruits and vegetables. Foods and drinks rich in flavonoids include:

• soybeans
• legumes
• red grapes
• kale
• broccoli
• apples
• berries
• teas (especially green tea)

However, some foods and drinks that contain flavonoids — such as citrus fruits and red wines — can irritate a stomach ulcer.

Flavonoids are referred to as “gastroprotective,” which means they defend the lining of the stomach and could allow ulcers to heal. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, there are no side effects of consuming flavonoids in the amount found in a typical diet, but higher amounts of flavonoids may interfere with blood clotting. You can get flavonoids in your diet or take them as supplements.

Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice

Don’t let that long first word give you a stomach ache — deglycyrrhizinated licorice is just plain old licorice with the sweet flavor extracted. One study showed that deglycyrrhizinated licorice might help ulcers heal by inhibiting the growth of H. pylori. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice is available as a supplement. You can’t get this effect from eating licorice candy, though. Too much licorice candy can be bad for some people. Consuming more than 2 ounces daily for more than two weeks can make existing heart problems or high blood pressure worse.

Probiotics

Probiotics are the living bacteria and yeast that help keep your digestive system moving. They are present in many common foods, particularly fermented foods. These include:

• buttermilk
• yogurt
• miso
• kimchi

You can also take probiotics in supplement form. Studies have shown that probiotics may be helpful in wiping out H. pylori and increasing recovery rate for patients with ulcers.

Honey

Honey is far from simply sweet. Depending on the plant it’s derived from, honey can contain up to 200 elements, including polyphenols and other antioxidants. Honey is a powerful antibacterial and has been shown to inhibit H. pylori growth. As long as you have normal blood sugar levels, you can enjoy honey as you would any sweetener, with the bonus of soothing your ulcers.

Garlic

Garlic extract has been shown to inhibit H. pylori growth in lab, animal, and human trials. If you don’t like the taste (and lingering aftertaste) of garlic, you can take garlic extract in supplemental form. Garlic acts as a blood thinner, so ask your doctor before taking it if you use warfarin or other prescription blood thinners.

Cranberry

Cranberry is known for its ability to fight urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from settling on the walls of the bladder. Cranberry and cranberry extract also may help fight H. pylori. You can drink cranberry juice, eat cranberries, or take cranberry supplements.

Unfortunately, no specific amount of consumption is associated with relief. Too much cranberry in any form may cause stomach discomfort whether you have ulcers or not, so start with small amounts and increase gradually. In addition, many commercial cranberry juices are heavily sweetened with sugar and/or high fructose corn syrup, which can also cause stomach upset and add empty calories. Avoid those juices by buying juice sweetened only by other juices.

Mastic

Mastic is the sap of a tree grown in the Mediterranean. Studies of the effectiveness of mastic on ulcers are mixed, but at least one study shows that chewing mastic helps fight H. pylori. If your ulcers are not responding to other treatments, you might want to give mastic gum a try, since it doesn’t seem to be associated with any side effects. You can chew the gum or swallow mastic in supplement form.

Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grains

A diet centered on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is not just good for your overall health. According to the Mayo Clinic, a vitamin-rich diet can help your body heal your ulcer. Foods containing polyphenols, an antioxidant, can protect you from ulcers and help ulcers heal. Polyphenol-rich foods and seasonings include:

• dried rosemary
• Mexican oregano
• dark chocolate
• blueberries
• black olives

What to Avoid

Some foods can make ulcers worse, while some provide a preventive and healing effect. Greasy and acidic foods are most likely to irritate your stomach, as are spicy foods.

To reduce ulcer pain, avoid:

• coffee, including decaf
• carbonated beverages
• chilis and hot peppers
• processed foods
• salty red meats
• deep fried foods

Milk and Alcohol

Milk’s ability to coat the side of a glass may have you thinking that it also creates a protective barrier in your stomach. In fact, drinking milk may initially soothe your ulcer pain. But in the long run, milk is not good for ulcers. It seems to make things worse by causing your stomach to produce more acid.

If you’ve ever had a hangover, you know the effects that alcohol can have on your stomach. It also is directly associated with H. pylori infections, meaning it contributes to stomach ulcers and can make existing ones worse.

Excessive drinking is considered more than one drink a day for women, and more than two for men. If a couple of drinks after work is how you unwind, you might want to consider a healthier alternative.

Outlook

It can take some time, teamwork, and determination to find the right treatment for your ulcers, but don’t give up hope: Ulcers can be cured. In addition to a treatment plan agreed upon by you and your doctor, you can incorporate natural approaches that can give you some relief and accelerate healing. Adding plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet and reducing alcohol intake will almost certainly get you on the road to health.

SOURCE: http://www.healthline.com/

The Dangers of Self-Medicating with Prescription and OTC Drugs

It is often easier to avoid the cost and hassle of visiting a doctor and use over-the-counter or prescription medication to alleviate the symptoms of an illness or physical discomfort. Unfortunately, there are consequences associated with self-medicating that are just not worth the risks.

It is always best to discuss your symptoms and physical ailments with a trained medical professional. Getting a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan is the best way avoid any complications or health risks.

What does Self-Medicating Mean?

Self-medication refers to the practice of using prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs without discussing your symptoms with a medical doctor. Psychology Today (1) explains that the individual acts as his or her own physician in an effort to handle the symptoms of a physical or mental health concern.

The reasons that individuals may decide to self-medicate can depend on their personal situation. The Huffington Post (2) states that individuals may attempt to hide their current condition in plain sight or may be using a substance to mask their condition from others.

It may also be an attempt to resolve the issue without the cost of seeing a medical doctor or as a direct result of personal fears associated with a medical diagnosis.

Dangers of Self-Medicating

Since an individual may use a substance inappropriately, there are dangers associated with self-medicating. The National Institutes of Health (3) explains that individuals are not always responsible with the way they self-medicate and they do not have the training to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms.

Depending on the situation, the risks associated with a medication can vary; however, there are some risks that are common to many individuals.

The risks that are associated with self-medication include:

• Inaccurate diagnosis
• Using inappropriate medications that cause side effects
• Masking the symptoms of a serious condition
• Delaying medical advice
• Inaccurate dosage that leads to accidental overdose
• Mixing medications that are not safe to mix, which may result in legal costs or health concerns
• Risk of abuse
• Risk of developing an addiction or several addictions

In the worst-case scenario, self-medicating can lead to severe health conditions or even death.

If you or a loved one is experiencing pain, discomfort, or is ill for an extended period of time, then it is time to visit a trained medical doctor.

Talking to a Doctor

Self-medicating is dangerous. It can cause serious problems, so it is important to set up an It is often easier to avoid the cost and hassle of visiting a doctor and use over-the-counter or prescription medication to alleviate the symptoms of an illness or physical discomfort. Unfortunately, there are consequences associated with self-medicating that are just not worth the risks.

It is always best to discuss your symptoms and physical ailments with a trained medical professional. Getting a proper diagnosis and a treatment plan is the best way avoid any complications or health risks.

What does Self-Medicating Mean?

Self-medication refers to the practice of using prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs without discussing your symptoms with a medical doctor. Psychology Today (1) explains that the individual acts as his or her own physician in an effort to handle the symptoms of a physical or mental health concern.

The reasons that individuals may decide to self-medicate can depend on their personal situation. The Huffington Post (2) states that individuals may attempt to hide their current condition in plain sight or may be using a substance to mask their condition from others.

It may also be an attempt to resolve the issue without the cost of seeing a medical doctor or as a direct result of personal fears associated with a medical diagnosis.

Dangers of Self-Medicating

Since an individual may use a substance inappropriately, there are dangers associated with self-medicating. The National Institutes of Health (3) explains that individuals are not always responsible with the way they self-medicate and they do not have the training to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms.

Depending on the situation, the risks associated with a medication can vary; however, there are some risks that are common to many individuals.

The risks that are associated with self-medication include:

• Inaccurate diagnosis
• Using inappropriate medications that cause side effects
• Masking the symptoms of a serious condition
• Delaying medical advice
• Inaccurate dosage that leads to accidental overdose
• Mixing medications that are not safe to mix, which may result in legal costs or health concerns
• Risk of abuse
• Risk of developing an addiction or several addictions

source:  http://www.alternativesintreatment.com/

Effects of Drug Abuse and Addiction

Drugs are chemicals. Different drugs, because of their chemical structures, can affect the body in different ways. In fact, some drugs can even change a person's body and brain in ways that last long after the person has stopped taking drugs, maybe even permanently.

Depending on the drug, it can enter the human body in a number of ways, including injection, inhalation, and ingestion. The method of how it enters the body impacts on how the drug affects the person. For example: injection takes the drug directly into the blood stream, providing more immediate effects; while ingestion requires the drug to pass through the digestive system, delaying the effects.

Most abused drugs directly or indirectly target the brain's reward system by flooding the circuit with dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter present in regions of the brain that regulate movement, emotion, cognition, motivation, and feelings of pleasure. When drugs enter the brain, they can actually change how the brain performs its jobs. These changes are what lead to compulsive drug use, the hallmark of addiction.

Injuries

More deaths, illnesses and disabilities stem from substance abuse than from any other preventable health condition. Today, one in four deaths is attributable to illicit drug use. People who live with substance dependence have a higher risk of all bad outcomes including unintentional injuries, accidents, risk of domestic violence, medical problems, and death.

Health Problems

The impact of drug abuse and dependence can be far-reaching, affecting almost every organ in the human body. Drug use can:

• Weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
• Cause cardiovascular conditions ranging from abnormal heart rate to heart attacks. Injected drugs can also lead to collapsed veins and infections of the blood vessels and heart valves.
• Cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
• Cause the liver to have to work harder, possibly causing significant damage or liver failure.
• Cause seizures, stroke and widespread brain damage that can impact all aspects of daily life by causing problems with memory, attention and decision-making, including sustained mental confusion and permanent brain damage.
• Produce global body changes such as breast development in men, dramatic fluctuations in appetite and increases in body temperature, which may impact a variety of health conditions.

Effects On The Brain

Although initial drug use may be voluntary, drugs have been shown to alter brain chemistry, which interferes with an individual's ability to make decisions and can lead to compulsive craving, seeking and use. This then becomes a substance dependency.

• All drugs of abuse - nicotine, cocaine, marijuana, and others - effect the brain's "reward" circuit, which is part of the limbic system.
• Drugs hijack this "reward" system, causing unusually large amounts of dopamine to flood the system.
• This flood of dopamine is what causes the "high" or euphoria associated with drug abuse.

Behavioral Problems

• Paranoia
• Aggressiveness
• Hallucinations
• Addiction
• Impaired Judgment
• Impulsiveness
• Loss of Self-Control

Birth Defects

Nearly 4 percent of pregnant women in the United States use illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, Ecstasy and other amphetamines, and heroin1. These and other illicit drugs may pose various risks for pregnant women and their babies. Some of these drugs can cause a baby to be born too small or too soon, or to have withdrawal symptoms, birth defects or learning and behavioral problems. Additionally, illicit drugs may be prepared with impurities that may be harmful to a pregnancy.

Finally, pregnant women who use illicit drugs may engage in other unhealthy behaviors that place their pregnancy at risk, such as having extremely poor nutrition or developing sexually transmitted infections.