Hyaluronic acid therapy

Hyaluronic acid therapy is a cosmetic surgery technique that is used for the facial augmentation. The therapy involves injection of the hyaluronic acid through the needle in the face, to mask or remove the facial flaws.

Hyaluronic acid is compatible and well tolerated by the human body because this substance is found in every living being. In the human body, hyaluronic acid is concerned with the task of acting as a network to transfer essential nutrients from the blood stream to the skin cells. Therefore, injection of hyaluronic acid for cosmetic treatment does not involve any allergic reaction test for the patient. Apart from its use in cosmetic treatment, hyaluronic acid is also injected in the body joints to get relieve from rheumatism and other kinds of joint pains.

Hyaluronic acid is a gel like substance that occupies the place between the skin and the connective tissues surrounding the skin. After injection, it acts like a cushion to support the facial structures and tissues. It also helps in the hydration of the skin by bringing water to the surface, thus giving it a refreshed and more youthful appearance.

Hyaluronic acid injections are termed dermal fillers by the plastic surgeons. It’s an easy procedure and has many benefits in the facelift approaches. Hyaluronic acid has lots of application in the plastic surgery. Some of the few problems that this biocompatible material can correct are:

• Frown lines between the eyebrows;
• Skin depressions in the jaws or cheeks;
• Redefining the border of the lip;
• Scars caused by burns, acnes or wounds;
• Marriot lines that run from the nose to the corner of the mouth.

One of the greatest advantages of hyaluronic acid treatment is that it has got zero side effects. Hyaluronic acid treatment is suitable for almost all people. It is considered to be an outpatient procedure and often, people return to their normal activity the very same day.

However, it should be remembered that hyaluronic acid treatment is a temporary solution and not a permanent cure to the facial problems. To maintain the youthful charm, people need to take the new hyaluronic injections twice or thrice a year. Often the desired result is not achieved in just one session if hyaluronic injections. On an average, most people need at least thrice visits before they are completely satisfied with the results. 

Diet to beat common cold

The common cold is caused by some of the infections and viruses. Diet including some of the nutrients plays a major role in preventing common cold. Proper nutrition also maintains proper immunity.

Vitamin C is most important vitamin in preventing cold. It also reduces the duration and alleviates the symptoms of the cold. Vitamin C can act like an anti histamine drug. Vitamin C acts like anti oxidant. Vitamin C rich foods include citrus fruits, tomato, guava, lychee, kiwi, peaches, nectarines, peppers, cabbage and cauliflower.

Zinc reduces common cold symptoms. Zinc inhibits the reproduction of viruses. Some of the food sources of zinc include milk, almonds, yogurt, fruits, oysters, cheese, peas, oat meal and fortified breakfast cereals.

Fluids: The type of fluid you drink is important it is better to avoid concentrated sugar juices etc. But adequate fluids are necessary to which helps in prevention of dehydration and also improves white blood cell function.

Exercise also helps in maintaining immunity and prevents from common cold. 

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are low calorie substances used as sweeteners to replace sugar and other caloric sweeteners. Many kinds of artificial sweeteners are available saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, alitame, neotame, acesulfame-K, sucralose and Stevia.

Saccharin is a synthetic, white crystalline powder; benzoic sulfinide has effectively no food energy and is much sweeter than sucrose. It is 350 times sweeter than sugar, but has an unpleasant bitter aftertaste. It is not easily digested by the body. Trade name is symcal. Used in soft drinks, chewing gums, jams, jellies, sauces, gelatin and salad dressings. Commercially available in three forms as a sodium salt, as a calcium salt and in the acid form.

Cyclamate is the sodium or calcium salt of cyclamic acid. It is 30–50 times sweeter than sugar. Available in three forms cyclamic acid, calcium cyclamate and sodium cyclamate. It is not suitable for diabetes. Used in caramels, chewing gums and hard candies.

Aspartame is the methyl ester of a phenylalanine/aspartic acid dipeptide. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar and 70 percent of all aspartame is used in sodas. It has flavour enhancing properties. When taken in less it is metabolized. Trade name is neutral sweet. Used for carbonated beverages, puddings, frozen fruit, juice, RTE products.

Alitame is similar to Aspartame in that it is made from amino acids, namely L-aspartic acid and D-alanine. It is 2000 times sweeter than sucrose.

Neotame is a white crystalline powder manufactured from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid. It is 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar, so very little of it is needed to sweeten foods.

Acesulfame-K is 200 times sweeter than sugar and the body can't break it down, so it's excreted from the body unchanged. It is freely soluble in water. It is not metabolized in the body. Used for imitation dairy products, pickles, beverages, marinated fish etc.

Sucralose is similar in structure to regular sugar and contains maltodextrin and it is 600 times sweeter than sugar. Your body absorbs very little of this artificial sweetener. No after taste. It can be used in all products.

Stevia is made from rebaudioside A, one of the components of the Stevia rebaudiana. It is 250 times sweeter than sugar. Many people who want to avoid sugar and calories use stevia in the form of a non-nutritive sweetener or as an extract.

Aspartin It provides same number of calories as sugar but the quantity is small, so calories added are less by giving less quantity.

Sugar alcohols:

Manitol: Manitol is converted into fructose. It is not metabolized and provides 2 kcals / Gm. It has laxative effect, when consumed in large quantity. It is less desirable in diabetic patients. Used in hard candies, cough drops chewing gums, jams and jellies.

Sorbitol: It is a common sweetener. In liver it is converted into fructose, it is metabolized independently of insulin. Used in chewing gums, cough drops, jellies, baked products, baking mixes, frozen dairy desserts.

Xylitol: Present in many fruits and vegetables. Metabolized directly in liver or indirectly by fermentation of bacteria in intestine. It is as sweet as sucrose.

Maltitol: Produced by hydrogenation of maltose. Enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch.

Body Signs that Something is Missing for your Health

According to recent studies, a human body sends many signs indicating that there is something missing in the individual’s health. These signs can identify the underlying medical problem that needs immediate attention and thus, in many circumstances, can prevent the declaration of any medical emergency. It is advisable to check ones’ body from head to toe for any tell-tale signs. Some of few such body signs are mentioned below:

Eyebrows: If one notices the loss of hair on the outer corner or they appear to be shortening, then that could be the indication of low thyroid hormone.

Eyelids: Tiny-yellow bumps in the inner corner of the eye can be fatty acid deposits, which is an important sign of high cholesterol level in the individual’s body.

Eyes: Bulging eye can be a sign of overactive hormone. Yellow coloration of eye may indicate liver disease or any problem associated with the gall bladder.

Earlobes: According to the NIH study, a diagonal crease in the earlobe is very significant. It may indicate a blocked circulation throughout the body and may be linked to a possibility of a heart attack.

Hair: Dry and brittle hair can be an indication of a thyroid problem or iron deficiency. Premature graying of hair indicates vitamin B12 deficiency. A sudden hair loss is considered a sign of too much stress.

Bruising: Bruising a lot more than usual could be an early sign of leukemia or reaction to medications.

Varicose veins and spider veins: Usually, these are hereditary. But, if they develop seemingly overnight accompanied with calf swelling or tenderness, then that could indicate an internal blood-clot (deep vein thrombosis), which is a medical emergency. A spider vein on the abdomen can be a sign of liver disease.

Finger nails: Dry and brittle nails can be an indication of a thyroid disease or an iron or vitamin B12 deficiency. Horizontal lines on the nail indicate heart disease or heart failure. Yellow or brown nails could be due to fungal infection or may even indicate a lung disease.

Small, painless lumps on the chest or under arm can be a sign of breast cancer in case of both male and female.

Therefore, it is extremely important for an individual to properly check his/her body on a regular basis for such indicators recognize the subtle changes and consult the doctor.

Besan for Skin

Besan (Gram flour) is very good for the skin it keeps the complexion glowing and healthy. In general flours of pulses have slight alkalizing effect, to convert it in to acidic nature for best cleansing effect it is mixed with yogurt, lemon juice. Besan paste can be used instead of soaps as they have an affinity to attract acids and dust particles blocked in the pores of the skin, as they have affinity to acids in the sweat, released as a result of bacterial action on fats and proteins in the sweat and thus body odor removed.

Besan for skin:

• For glowing skin mix full-cream milk and besan. Apply it on the skin and leave to dry for 20mintutes and then wash with cold water.
• Take one spoon besan mix with turmeric (haldi), honey and olive oil. This is very good for dry skin.
• Apply a mix of besan and lemon juice on knees, neck, underarms and hands regularly, this will help to whiten it.
• For pimple prone skins add curd to gram flour to make a paste and apply it on the face and gently massage it before it dries. Repeat this for once in two days. This also helps to remove blemishes.
• Make a paste with 1 cup curd, egg white from one egg, half lemon and 2 spoons of besan; apply it to hair before head bath. For dry hair, instead of egg white add a spoon of olive oil.
• Apply a paste of besan and fenugreek powder on the unwanted facial hair, peel it after it has dried. This will help remove unwanted facial hair.
• To remove blemishes apply besan with cucumber juice mixed to it. Wash when it dries this will tighten the skin pores.

Foods for Healthy Skin

Foods that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and some of the minerals are good for healthy skin. Diet that is rich in essential fatty acids is also good for healthy skin.

Almonds contain Vitamin which acts as antioxidant. It also contains magnesium; calcium and Vitamin D. Almond oil nourishes the skin and keeps it soft.

Brazil nuts, corn, walnuts, oat meal, sea food, eggs, and cheese contain selenium which acts as antioxidant and is good for healthy skin.

Zinc plays an important role for healthy skin. Beans, dairy products, fortified breakfast cereals are good sources of zinc.

Good hydration is needed for healthy skin. Drinking adequate water is good.

Green tea fight against free radicals and good for healthy skin.

Straw berries, blue berries, ras berries and black berries have good antioxidant property and good for healthy skin.

Soy beans, milk and egg contains proteins which is good for healthy skin.

Sprouted grams provide vitamin C which acts as antioxidant and good for healthy skin.

Essential fatty acids found in nuts, fish oils help to keep skin healthy.

Galvanic treatments

Galvanic facial is the best way to revitalize the skin thus helping the active ingredients of skin products gain deep penetration, which is not attained in manual applications. It also reduces acne by controlling the oil secretion by removing blockage in sebaceous gland thus helping to clean congestion. Galvanic facial helps to improve the normal functions and skin’s blood circulation.

Galvanic facial is based on the basic laws of electricity, “like repels, opposites attract”. The skin as it is pulled together like a magnet pushes the product in to the deeper layers. The capacity of your skin absorption is increased by the galvanic ion and this improves the penetration of nutrition products (anti wrinkle lotion) through your skin, it will be completely cleansed as negative ions force all the dirt and debris held within pores to the surface. At the same time the positive ions gives you a fresh look and plump the skin, banishing wrinkles.

Apple Shaped body and Pear shaped body

Both Apple shape body and pear shape body gives an idea about basic body shape. Body shape here refers to distribution of body fat. Apple shaped individuals carry most of their excess body fat around their middle abdomen. And pear shapes body carries most of their excess body fat on their hips and thighs. Women collect fat on their hips giving pear shape. After menopause a hormone estrogen level decreases and women start storing fat around abdomen becoming more apples shaped. While men collect fat around the abdomen. Apple shape people with fat concentrated around the abdomen are more risk at obesity comparatively pear shaped body.

Health benefits of Fenugreek

Fenugreek has been associated with number of health benefits. It is a common herb and used as a condiment for seasoning in Indian homes. This seed when used in cooking imparts a characteristic flavor and tang to food. Fenugreek leaves are well known for their high nutrient content of minerals and vitamins like potassium, calcium, magnesium, selenium, Iron and vitamin C, riboflavin, folate, vitamin B6. These leaves also have high fiber content and also Vitamin C. Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of fiber. It contains mucilaginous fiber and total fiber to the extent of 20% and 50% respectively. This mucilaginous fiber is recognized medically for its anti-inflammatory properties. Fenugreek seeds have many medicinal values. These include in the treatment of digestive problems, diabetes, kidney problems, wounds, cellulites, tuberculosis. A PASTE OF Fenugreek leaves or seeds , applied on face prevents pimples, dryness of skin, blackheads and it also have anti aging factors. The Fenugreek seeds contain “Diosgenin” which is more of a raw material substance used in medical steroids by pharmaceutical industries.

• Fenugreek seeds aids in proper digestion: It maintains good metabolism and prevents constipation. The soluble fiber found in Fenugreek seed extract may help slow digestion and absorption of food. It also helps to treat colon disorders. It also increases appetite.
• Fenugreek seeds are effective in treatment of skin disorders: It relieve skin inflammation. It is also used in the treatment of eczema, gout, boils and burns.
• Fenugreek seeds reduce fever: Fenugreek seeds with lemon and honey help to reduce fever and weakness .In fever it is beneficial to consume tea added with fenugreek seeds that helps to lower the intensity of temperature rising.
• Fenugreek eases menopause symptoms: It is effective in treating the menopause symptoms including anxiety, hot flashes and insomnia this is because of its natural estrogen.
• Fenugreek may help in preventing cancer: It is an effective antioxidant. It also have anti carcinogenic properties some studies have shown that this may be due to presence of Diosgenin.
• Fenugreek also acts as a natural blood purifier and helps to prevent acne. Its also very effective in curing of oily skin.
• Fenugreek can also be used for excessive hair fall. It is believed to enhance hair growth both in men and women. Fenugreek powder mixed with curd helps in controlling your dandruff problem.
• These seeds help in lowering the risks of heart diseases.
• Fenugreek seeds help to increase production of milk in lactating mothers. The seeds contain a chemical known as Diosgenin which acts as similar to estrogen and hence promote milk production during breastfeeding.
• It is also used in the treatment of arthritis and asthma.
• Fenugreek seeds help in management of Diabetes: The powder of seeds in the diet reduces blood sugar and urine sugar with improvement in glucose tolerance and diabetic symptoms in both insulin and non-insulin dependent patients. It also lowers the levels of serum lipids such as cholesterol and triglyceride. Depending upon the severity of diabetes the quantity of fenugreek seeds to be taken varies from 25g to 50g.The Fenugreek seeds powder can be incorporated in food preparations such as vegetable curries, roti and dhal etc. Seeds can also be taken as such after overnight soaking in water.

Foods for Healthy Skin

• Foods that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and some of the minerals are good for healthy skin. Diet that is rich in essential fatty acids is also good for healthy skin.
• Almonds contain Vitamin which acts as antioxidant. It also contains magnesium; calcium and Vitamin D. Almond oil nourishes the skin and keeps it soft.
• Brazil nuts, corn, walnuts, oat meal, sea food, eggs, and cheese contain selenium which acts as antioxidant and is good for healthy skin.
• Zinc plays an important role for healthy skin. Beans, dairy products, fortified breakfast cereals are good sources of zinc.
• Good hydration is needed for healthy skin. Drinking adequate water is good.
• Green tea fight against free radicals and good for healthy skin.
• Straw berries, blue berries, ras berries and black berries have good antioxidant property and good for healthy skin.
• Soy beans, milk and egg contains proteins which is good for healthy skin.
• Sprouted grams provide vitamin C which acts as antioxidant and good for healthy skin.
• Essential fatty acids found in nuts, fish oils help to keep skin healthy. 

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are low calorie substances used as sweeteners to replace sugar and other caloric sweeteners. Many kinds of artificial sweeteners are available saccharin, cyclamate, aspartame, alitame, neotame, acesulfame-K, sucralose and Stevia.

Saccharin is a synthetic, white crystalline powder; benzoic sulfinide has effectively no food energy and is much sweeter than sucrose. It is 350 times sweeter than sugar, but has an unpleasant bitter aftertaste. It is not easily digested by the body. Trade name is symcal. Used in soft drinks, chewing gums, jams, jellies, sauces, gelatin and salad dressings. Commercially available in three forms as a sodium salt, as a calcium salt and in the acid form.

Cyclamate is the sodium or calcium salt of cyclamic acid. It is 30–50 times sweeter than sugar. Available in three forms cyclamic acid, calcium cyclamate and sodium cyclamate. It is not suitable for diabetes. Used in caramels, chewing gums and hard candies.

Aspartame is the methyl ester of a phenylalanine/aspartic acid dipeptide. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar and 70 percent of all aspartame is used in sodas. It has flavour enhancing properties. When taken in less it is metabolized. Trade name is neutral sweet. Used for carbonated beverages, puddings, frozen fruit, juice, RTE products.

Alitame is similar to Aspartame in that it is made from amino acids, namely L-aspartic acid and D-alanine. It is 2000 times sweeter than sucrose.

Neotame is a white crystalline powder manufactured from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid. It is 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar, so very little of it is needed to sweeten foods.

Acesulfame-K is 200 times sweeter than sugar and the body can't break it down, so it's excreted from the body unchanged. It is freely soluble in water. It is not metabolized in the body. Used for imitation dairy products, pickles, beverages, marinated fish etc.

Sucralose is similar in structure to regular sugar and contains maltodextrin and it is 600 times sweeter than sugar. Your body absorbs very little of this artificial sweetener. No after taste. It can be used in all products.

Stevia is made from rebaudioside A, one of the components of the Stevia rebaudiana. It is 250 times sweeter than sugar. Many people who want to avoid sugar and calories use stevia in the form of a non-nutritive sweetener or as an extract.

Aspartin It provides same number of calories as sugar but the quantity is small, so calories added are less by giving less quantity.

Sugar Alcohols:
Manitol: Manitol is converted into fructose. It is not metabolized and provides 2 kcals / Gm. It has laxative effect, when consumed in large quantity. It is less desirable in diabetic patients. Used in hard candies, cough drops chewing gums, jams and jellies.

Sorbitol: It is a common sweetener. In liver it is converted into fructose, it is metabolized independently of insulin. Used in chewing gums, cough drops, jellies, baked products, baking mixes, frozen dairy desserts.

Xylitol: Present in many fruits and vegetables. Metabolized directly in liver or indirectly by fermentation of bacteria in intestine. It is as sweet as sucrose.

Maltitol: Produced by hydrogenation of maltose. Enzymatic hydrolysis of corn starch.

Healthy Cooking tips

HEALTHY COOKING TIPS:

• The importance of a healthy diet for longevity and health, so maintaining healthy life starts with healthy cooking, healthy eating etc. The following tips could help for healthy cooking.

LOW FAT COOKING TIPS:

• Use low fat yoghurt or skim milk as thickener for cream based recipes.
• Instead of oil use cooking sprays.
• Select lean meat cuts and trim the fat.
• Instead of frying, boil or bake.
• Instead of mayonnaise on sandwich, use low fat spreads such as sauce or ketchup.
• Use low fat milk instead of whole milk.
• Use non stick cookware while you cook so that you don’t have to use much oil.
• Use fat free chicken broth.
• Cook fish, eggs and chicken in small amount of water. The method of cooking is known as poaching.
• Use low fat cooking methods like steaming, baking, poaching, broiling, grilling or sautéing.
• Use olive oil for medium cooking or for salad dressings.
• To prevent excess oil absorption, remove and drain on kitchen napkins.

COOKING TIPS TO RETAIN NUTRIENTS:

• Steam or microwave vegetables instead of boiling them.
• Avoid using copper vessels. It destroys vitamin content.
• Avoid cooking at high temperatures; this may destroy some of the vitamins due to oxidation.
• Wash vegetables before you chop them but not after chopping them.
• Steaming is the good cooking technique; it retains more nutrients than boiling.
• Use boiled vegetable water and dhal water for soups and gravies.
• Instead of soaking vegetables, rinse quickly.
• Boil potatoes and beetroots with the skin.
• Instead of peeling the vegetables scrub them, as many nutrients are found in the skin.
• Try to boil vegetables as whole and then cut it will retain nutrients.
• Store vegetables in a refrigerator to retain vitamin content.
• Add pinch of salt and soak vegetables.
• While cooking do not strain starch water from rice.
• Do not soak fruits for more than 15 minutes in water.

LOW SODIUM COOKING TIPS:

• Limit amount of margarine and butter as they contain lot of salt.
• Use fresh or frozen vegetables, since canned vegetables contain salt.
• Limit intake of cheese as it contain salt, or use salt free cheese.
• Use lemon juice, vinegar or spices to reduce need for salt.
• Limit intake of salty processed meats.
• Reduce use of sauces because they contain salt in high amount.
• Limit intake of pickles as pickles contain lot of salt.
• Don’t add too much of salt to your food.

GENERAL HEALTHY COOKING TIPS:

• Use neat and clean tools for cutting, especially the knife and cutting table.
• Use very small amount of water while cooking.
• Avoid use of food colors as it raises serious health issues.
• Use less soda or baking powder as it irritates intestine.
• Keep the lids closed, especially in case of cooking green vegetables to preserve green color.
• Avoid foods that are typically sprayed with pesticides.
• Always cut as big pieces because they carry more vitamins.

Polio Vaccine

The polio vaccine reduces the infection rate towards polio in the public. There are two types of polio vaccines available, the oral polio vaccine (OPV) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV).

Oral polio vaccine (OPV):
Oral polio vaccine (OPV) is a live-attenuated vaccine. OPV is developed from weekend live polio germs. It is administered through oral route as drops in the mouth that are swallowed.

Recommended age of administration:
The usual schedule for infants is a series of six doses it is given at the time of birth, 6 weeks after birth, 10 weeks after birth, 14 weeks after birth, 6months, and 9 months. And first booster dose is given at 18months and second booster at 5years.

Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV):
This vaccine is prepared from dead polio germs. It is administered through intra venal route or intra muscular route. Depending on the person’s age, the shot may be given into the leg or arm. IPV is the polio vaccine recommended in most of the common wealth countries. It can be given at the same time as other vaccines. The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) is usually given at ages 6 weeks, 10weeks and 14 weeks if opv is not given.

Rabies Vaccine

This vaccine is an inactivated viral vaccine. The vaccine is given in the deltoid muscle as a series of 3-5 shots. A vaccinated person should receive two more doses of rabies vaccine, one dose immediately and one three days later. This is proven very safe to be used in pregnant women.

Rabies vaccine is recommended for:

• It is recommended for veterinarians, animal handlers, certain laboratory workers and persons in high-risk occupational groups.
• Persons who are in frequent contact with rabid bats, raccoons, skunks, cats, dogs, or other species at risk for having rabies.
• International travelers who are likely to come in contact with animals in areas where dog rabies is common. 

Aerobics

Aerobic exercise is one of the best exercise to do as it is a safe and a complete workout as well as a fun sport to do. Doing aerobics regularly can improve one’s heart rate, body condition and state of mind. Aerobics helps relax the tense muscles and a regular aerobics activity can make you feel happier.

The term “aerobics” literally means with oxygen. It implies that the body is using oxygen supplied for low and moderate intensity physical activities that are constant such as biking, jogging, etc. The body’s aerobic system works like an old water pump which need to be started a number of times before we get the desired result. Similarly, aerobic exercise plays the same role in the human body by pumping out deeply accumulated fat from inside the body.

Aerobics is an excellent way for a person to achieve physical fitness. A person performing aerobics has increased heart rate and increased metabolism rate. Increased metabolism rate speeds up sweating and eventually accelerates the fat burning process thereby resulting in the weight loss.

Carrying out aerobics has become the most happening workout trend among the both the youth as well as the aged. In this fast paced work, aerobics is just the right actions. A few moments of continuous aerobic workout leads to various health benefits. Aerobics involves using large muscle groups for a repetitively for a sustained amount of time. One of the plus points of aerobics is that it can be enjoyed even with the extended period of time. The most common types of aerobics include aerobic dance, bicycling, fitness walking and running, stair climbing and swimming. Dancing and continuous sports activity like running can improve circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

The benefits of aerobics include:

• It strengthens the body including the weight bearing bones and the cardiovascular muscles.
• It helps in losing the body weight and in toning up the body muscles.
• It is very easy and widely enjoyed form of physical exercise and can be enjoyed by people of all age groups. However, it is not recommended for very small children pregnant women. And elder people should perform it for a short duration.
• It increases blood circulation and lowers blood glucose and blood sugar levels.
• It increases oxygen supply to heart, lungs and blood vessels and thereby, results in the smooth functioning of the body.
• Aerobic workout is a great stress buster and acts as an effective remedy for depression, anxiety and tension. It helps to a great extent in the rejuvenation of the mind.
• It also boosts up the body immune system.

However, following precautions should be followed before and after the aerobics for getting the maximum benefits:

• Warm-up exercises should be performed at least 10-15 minutes before commencing the aerobics.
• Always wear perfect fitting clothes while doing aerobics. This is because loose clothes may restrict the free movements of the arms and legs.
• Bring in the necessary variations in the steps and make them personalized according to your body needs and requirements.
• Always cool down after performing the exercise. Stretching exercise should be done for 10 minutes after performing the workouts.
• Drink water (though not ice cold) few minutes after the workouts.

Sleep Disturbances

Here are some ways to improve your everyday sleep:

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco
• Use cognitive behavior therapy
• Create a sleep-conductive environment
• Dont nap during the day
• Exercise regularly
• Have a bedtime schedule
• Keep bed a place for sleep
• Use relaxation: massage, warm bath
• Drink warm tea or hot milk Wish you good luck

BCG Vaccine

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine is administered against tuberculosis disease. This vaccine is prepared from attenuated (weakened), avirulent live bovine tuberculosis bacillus, Mycobacterium bovis. This vaccine stimulates the body’s immune system against the tuberculosis disease. This vaccine is always given on the left shoulder and it is given only once in a lifetime. In very few cases, an MT test done - in case the MT is negative re-vaccination with BCG is mandatory.


Recommended age of administration: This vaccine should be given soon after the child is born.

Head Lice

• Prepare a mixture of two egg yolk and 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar and equal part of lemon juice mix it and apply on the scalp. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes and wash it with warm water this helps to remove head lice. 
• Prepare a mixture of two egg yolk and 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar and equal part of lemon juice mix it and apply on the scalp. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes and wash it with warm water this helps to remove head lice. 
• Take 1-2 tablespoon lemon juice and garlic paste each and mix them. Apply this mixture over the scalp and allow it to dry for 25-30 minutes. Wash your hair in cold water. This will get relief from head lice and dandruff. 
• Vinegar is also useful in removing head lice. Take 3-4 tablespoon of vinegar, add 2 tablespoon of lemon juice and garlic paste. Mix it well and apply it on the scalp. Allow it to dry for 2 hours and wash it off. Do this 3-4 times a month. This will get relief from head lice. 
• Apply olive oil on your hair and cover it with a plastic bag. Keep it overnight, later with the help of lice comb take out all the head lice. Repeat this after every 10 days. It is very easy and effective way to get rid of head lice. 
• Almond is another useful home remedy for head lice. Soak 10-12 almonds in water and make its paste. Add 3-4 tablespoon of lemon juice in it. Apply this mixture over your scalp, and allow it to dry for 1-2 hours. Wash hair with cold water.

Fruit Shrikhand

Ingredients

• Thick curd – 1 kg
• Banana (diced) – 100 gms
• Sugar – 250 gms
• Oranges (deseeded and threaded) – 100 gms
• Apple (diced) – 100 gms
• Mango (diced) – 100 gms
• Grapes (diced) – 100 gms

Method

• Dissolve saffron in 2 tsp lukewarm milk and keep aside.
• Hang the curd in a muslin cloth till the whey is drained.
• Add sugar and strain through a strainer by kneading and mixing with the help of a spoon or hands
• Gently mix all the diced fruits.
• Chill for 2-3 hours.
• Serve chilled.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth is always related to knowledge, our grandparents often says that when wisdom tooth comes it means that now the person has become wise. This is how it is related to wisdom and knowledge. No such studies and facts are present to prove this saying, apart from the fact that everyone knows this story. Wisdom tooth usually comes till the age of 17 years. Its eruption is the most painful phase of teething in one’s life. If jaw size is big and enough space is present to erupt then it is not painful otherwise it results in swelling and even need small surgery.

In some cases wisdom tooth comes on its appropriate place, but in some case it erupts in different angulations as shown in figure.

Mesial Impaction:- Impaction is the word given to condition when sufficient space is not available for the eruption of tooth as shown in figure .Wisdom tooth is hitting second molar and even causing gum infection in surrounding area.
In this case small surgery is required in which dentist has to give incision to extract wisdom tooth. After surgery sutures are placed to promote proper healing.

Distal Impaction: - In this case when tooth is placed distally, extraction has to be done very carefully. Little negligence can prove to make task difficult.

Vertical Impaction: - In this, tooth is placed vertically and space is not available for its eruption. During the extraction of vertically placed wisdom tooth dentist has to remove even bone.

Horizontal Impaction: - Extraction of horizontal impaction tooth is quite difficult as second molar lies close to wisdom tooth. Sometimes during extraction , second molar gets affected unintentionally.

Some precautionary measures after wisdom tooth extraction are as follows:-

• Do not remove the cotton swab for at least half an hour.
• Do not smoke after extraction for at least 3 days.
• Do not miss any of the medication prescribed by the Doctor.
• Do not use straw to sip drinks.
• Do not spit frequently; try to swallow for at least 1 day.
• Do not stretch your cheeks or prick finger in lesion.
• Do not use vigorous brushing till the sutures are removed.
• Take fluid diet for at least 2 days.
• Do warm saline rinses twice daily for 3 days.
• Keep mouth clean, use mouthwash so that plaque does not deposit on teeth.

Tips to Prevent flu/cold

As said “prevention is better than cure”, harmful microbes are everywhere, a strong immune system fights against these microbes. People who have weak immunity are prone to flu and cold attacks more frequently. Strengthening the immune system can prevent sneezing and coughing. Here are few tips to stay healthy, free from flu and cold.

Eat healthy: A well balanced diet is necessary to boost the immune system. Choose food wisely. Intake of high carbohydrates gives more chances for microbes to invade the linings of digestive tracts. Consume plenty of organic protein and animal fats.

Vitamin C supplements: Vitamin C is one of the best foods to prevent cold. Include a cup of vitamin C rich fruits or homemade juices from citrus fruits. Avoid processed juices as they contain high sugar content and synthetic vitamin C.

Hygienic lifestyle: Follow a hygienic lifestyle. Sanitize hand before cooking and eating; cover your nose when sneezing or coughing. Avoid roadside foods, drinks etc. Keep your house and surroundings clean.

Avoid antibiotics: Take an antibiotic only if your condition is worse. Frequent use of antibiotics will kill the useful bacteria that line the digestive tract. The best remedy for cold or flu attack is good rest. Adopt natural remedies like honey and lime drink, turmeric and pepper in milk, etc. Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Quit smoking: Smoking destroys immune system, which increases the frequency of cold attacks.

Tips to relive common cold/flu:

• Eat chicken soup/tomato soup: Soup is found to relieve nasal discomfort and congestion.
• Herbal remedy: Adopt natural remedies like honey and lime drink, turmeric and pepper in milk, etc to soothe the throat. Apply eucalyptus oil to relieve nasal congestion and headaches.
• Keep hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and moist.
• Add yogurt: Regular intake of yogurt strengthens the immune system.

High frequency treatments

The high frequency treatment for face is done for people who have dry, lined or dehydrated skins. This current creates warmth to body tissues and stimulates the nerve endings, which results in increased blood circulation, healthy metabolism, healthy cell function and faster skin healing. This treatment is divided into two parts, the direct method (using electrodes directly on to the skin) or the indirect method (Viennese massage) a kind of superficial massage.

• The direct method is also called as sparking, which creates mild antiseptic and has a drying effect on the skin. This results in the blemish free skin.
• The indirect method best for people with dry skin as it produces a warming effect on the skin and stimulates the sebaceous and soporiferous glands.

Empty Calories

Our body needs proper nutrition with all the nutrients in right amount. Empty calories usually provide only calories and are low in nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Mostly junk foods are filled with empty calories. Soda and carbonated beverages provide empty calories which are not good for health. Examples of foods containing empty calories are refined cereals, fried foods, chips, beer, wine, candy, cookies, pastries fried chicken etc. Empty calories are not fulfilling the hunger but still provide high calories, and leave hunger for the next diet. Empty calorie foods are not a good option for proper health.

Tips to avoid empty calories:

• Avoid fried foods.
• Avoid sweetened and canned drinks.
• Avoid carbonated beverages.
• Avoid refined cereals. 

DPT Vaccine

DPT Commonly known as triple vaccine refers to a class of combination vaccines against three infectious diseases in humans: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough) and tetanus. 0.5ml of DTP vaccine is given through intramuscular route on the anterolateral aspect of thigh.

Recommended age:

• It should be given 6-8 weeks after birth.
• Three doses have to be taken at 4 weeks interval followed by 2 booster doses at 1.5 and 5 yrs of age.

DPT vaccine is not recommended after 6-7 yrs of age, DT should also be used for the following:

• A child having convulsions within 3 days of receiving the vaccine.
• Reaction to first dose.
• Persistent screaming within 72 hrs of injection.
• Hyperpyrexia.

Remedy for Under Eye Dark circles

Lack of proper sleep, exposure to hot Sun and some allergies are responsible for the formation of under eye circles. This makes the eyes to look tired and puffy. The following are some of the tips to lighten the skin under eye area.

Sleep: This plays a vital role in beauty, eight hour sleep is good for health and skin.

Alcohol: Say no to alcohol as it dilates the blood vessels under the skin, which can cause under-eye circles to become even more prominent.

Keep a pillow: Lifting the head while sleeping can help to keep fluid from collecting under your eyes which leads to dark circles.

Vitamins: Deficiencies of Vitamin B, A or C and lack of antioxidants may result in dark circles. Add proper nutrients to diet; add a multivitamin as daily routine.

Stay cool: Cold compresses helps in reducing dark circles as it reduces swelling beneath the eyes. Apply cucumber juice or green tea bags which revitalize the skin while reducing the puffiness.

Alpha hydroxy acids lotion: Apply a lotion containing Alpha hydroxy acids as it plump up the thin skin beneath the eyes and activate the blood vessels that create the dark circles.

Sunscreen: Exposure to sun may increase the melanin and darken the skin which leads to dark circles, apply a sunscreen which has SPF around the eyes and cover the eyes with sunglasses.

Make up: Mask the dark circles with make up if other treatment doesn’t help, use a concealer to lighten the skin shade.

Visit a clinic: A doctor would help in providing intensive treatment to help dark circles through chemical peels, laser treatments or injectable fillers like Restylane.

Health Benefits Of Lemon Tea

Lemon tea is a popular beverage that gives the drinker a refreshing experience of drinking tea with its citrusy aroma and tang. Lemon has many medicinal properties, while tea has a refreshing property and when the two are combined their benefits are compounded. If you prefer soda or coffee to tea, why don’t you just give lemon tea a try and see the difference? Not only you will find the taste likable, but the health benefits that you will get from it are immense as well. While lemon helps to eliminate the harmful toxins from the blood, tea is a natural energy booster that refreshes you within minutes. Nothing is as refreshing as iced lemon tea especially on a hot summer’s day. If you love green tea, you can jazz it up by adding a few drops of fresh lemon juice. If you wish to know the different health benefits of lemon tea, then steer through the following section to learn more.

Health Benefits Of Lemon Tea:

• Lemon tea helps to eliminate harmful toxins from the blood that are produced as end products of different metabolic activities. By removing the toxins from the blood, lemon tea helps keep the body system clean.
• Lemon tea acts as a great energy booster. It refreshes the mind and body and helps you get a new start to carry on with your work.
• The lemon is loaded with natural antioxidant, antibacterial, and antiviral properties and thus helps to fight different infections and diseases. Lemon tea is particularly good to combat the common cold.
• Lemon tea has a soothing effect on the stomach. If you are suffering from digestion problems, then drink a cup of hot steaming lemon tea as it will help you get some relief.
• The natural antioxidant property of the lemon helps to eliminate harmful toxins from the blood. This reduces the risk of developing cancer. Plus, it also promotes a clear skin and helps fight off signs of aging.
• Lemon tea acts as a purifying agent, and to get maximum benefits from it drink lemon tea early in the mornings.
• Drinking lemon tea early in the morning helps you to stay fresh throughout the day, plus it also boosts your metabolic rate.
• If you are on any weight loss diet program, then lemon tea is particularly beneficial for you.
• Are you feeling weary and tired? If yes, just sip a cup of hot steaming lemon tea. There is nothing like hot lemon tea that provides you energy instantly and refreshes your body.
• Iced lemon tea is particularly good during summers. A glass of lemon tea during hot summer months charges you up instantly.
• Lemon is rich in vitamin C which has cleansing properties, plus, studies have shown that vitamin C also helps to slow down symptoms of arthritis.

If you are a green tea lover, just add a few drops of lemon juice to it! Not only you will love the taste, but the health benefits you get from lemon green tea are enormous. When lemon juice is added to green tea it boosts its antioxidant property, as the combination of lemon juice with green tea complement each other very well.
Now that you are familiar with the different lemon tea benefits, next time you feel tired just try lemon tea. You are definitely going to love it!

Benefits of Organic Shampoo for Hair Care

We all have heard about the benefits of buying organic products and items made of organic substances. But very rarely do we have tried to investigate the benefits of organic shampoo for our hair care. This can be mainly due to the high market prices of the organic shampoos where as the normal shampoos are much cheaper in comparison. However, we must keep in mind that the traditional shampoos though are cheaper, contain various harmful chemicals and toxins that instead of maintaining our hair, compliment in their damage.

There is no doubt that organic products of all types are gaining popularity. Whether it is food, clothing or personal care products, consumers are becoming more savvy and educated. People are beginning to realize the harmful effects that the non-organic products have on their body and on the environment and therefore, the trend is shifting towards the use of organic products.

The benefits of organic shampoos and conditioner are as follows:

• Hair and scalp receive the benefits of various natural ingredients that are present their in the shampoo.
• Organic shampoos comprise of natural extracts without chemicals.
• They are more gentle on the skin.
• They contain extra vitamins.
• They are free of toxic chemicals.
• They are non-irritant in nature and stimulate new hair growth.
• They don’t leave any residue behind on the scalp while rinsing.

Some of the common organic shampoo ingredients can include organic lavender water, French lavender essential oils, citric acid, organic tea tree oil, soy protein, rock salt, vitamin E, vitamin B5, chamomile herbs and bergamot amongst many others.

Organic products are not subjected to any kind of animal testing prior coming to the market. Therefore, they are preferred by many people who are against the cruel and inhumane testing of the products on the animals. The use of organic shampoos removes the risks of reactions and long term harmful products.

True organic shampoo and conditioner products offer a wealth of benefits for your hair and scalp that will be immediately noticeable. When we use organic shampoos and conditioners, we are also helping our environment by letting bio-degradable substances go down the drain and not harsh chemicals.

Home remedies for Sinusitis

Many people get sick when weather changes. One of the most common ailments is the sinus infection. Sinus infection or sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses and nasal passages.

• Sinus infection can result in different ailments like headaches, pressure in the eyes and nose, coughs, fevers, bad breath, stuffy nose and runny nose. Sinus infection can be experienced commonly after a viral infection or due to the exposure to allergens. The best remedy for sinus infection is the home care.
• One of the best home remedies for sinus is consuming half liter of vegetable juices like carrot, cucumber, beet and spinach. This is a very beneficial remedy for sinusitis.
• Fruits rich in Vitamin A are very effective for treatment of sinusitis. Mango is very rich in vitamin A.
• Drink plenty of water. Hot tea with lemon or honey is great since it give a soothing effect to the throat. Drinking plenty of apple cider vinegar is also very effective.
• Use steam or vaporizer with Vicks to loosen the mucus so that it is easily drained off.
• Sinusitis is well treated with cumin seeds. Ground roasted cumin seed mixed with pure honey is one of the effective remedies for sinusitis.
• Inhalation of black cumin seeds tied in a thin cotton cloth is one of the common home remedies for sinusitis.
• Consumption of fenugreek tea increases the perspiration which in turn reduces fever along with the sinusitis.
• Pungent foods like onion and garlic also prove to be very beneficial for the treatment of sinusitis.
• During sinusitis one should avoid consuming cold items, oily foods, junk foods and cold drinks. These items trigger the upper respiratory diseases.
• One should avoid direct blow of wind in any form. This includes driving in open air without wearing the helmet or covering the face except eyes; sitting directly under the fan or in front of the air-conditioner.

Tea or Coffee: Which is more Healthier?

A cup of hot tea or coffee along with a newspaper and our favorite music playing in the background- that’s a perfect morning for most of us. Almost 95% amongst us like to start our day with a cup of tea or coffee. The cup of tea or coffee stirred with milk or sugar has different flavor, depends on the persons taste.
There has always been controversy regarding the health benefits of tea and coffee. Let’s check out which one is healthier.

Tea:

• All tea, whether green, black or white, contain high level of strong anti-oxidants. These anti-oxidants help purge the human body of toxins, may prevent the inflammation of blood vessels and reduce the risk of cancer.
• Daily cup of tea decrease the risk of Parkinson’s disease, the liver, the cancer of Gallstones and diabetes.
• Tea can also act as a mild pain-reliever due to the high levels of quercetin found in it. This can give relieve from mild arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Green tea is the healthiest among all due to its extremely high anti-oxidants content. It prevents cancer, fight plaque on teeth, and lower cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure.
• A cup of tea calms the disturbed mind.

Coffee:

• Although coffee is preferred for its strong taste, unlike tea, coffee has got high caffeine contents and is absorbed by the blood stream faster thus leading to the “caffeine crash” (sudden loss of energy).
• By drinking too much of coffee, one may feel anxious and jumpy, followed by a sudden loss of energy.
• Researches have shown that coffee increases the risk of heart disease and has been linked with increased blood pressure.
• Caffeine present has one benefit: it has the ability to relax the airways in the lungs which can be of great benefit for asthma patients.

The benefits of drinking tea far outweigh the benefits of drinking coffee. Though coffee is not bad for health, in short we can say that “Drinking tea is much healthier than drinking coffee.”

Childhood Obesity Prevention

Obesity has already acquired the role of an epidemic. The cases of childhood obesity have been continuously increasing throughout the world. There have been many articles in newspapers and documentaries on television asking the parents to get up and prevent their children from falling prey to obesity. There are easy ways that parents can become the first line of defense for their children and truly be instrumental in reducing the risk for childhood obesity within their child.

• Have the child evaluated regularly by the family physician or the pediatrician. A health and wellness checkup is important for every child, because it can help to evaluate medical problems while assessing risk factors for potential and future medical problems.
• Encourage healthy eating by removing high fat and sugary snacks, and replacing them with healthier choices like fresh fruits and vegetables. Numerous healthy low fat snacks are also available in the market.
• Take a stand against sedentary activity. Motivate and encourage your child for more physical activities rather than just sitting at one place and getting glued to television, computer or video games. Always remember that the child who abstains from physical activities is more prone to obesity.
• Communicate acceptance to the child in case he/she is already obese. An obese child knows they have a weight problem, and they do not need to have the parental ridicule to deal with on top of the peer ridicule they probably receive daily. Parents should love their child unconditionally and accept them for who they are. They should form a partnership to help their child reduce the risk of obesity and combat weight problems.
• Always remember to be a positive role model for your child because children learn from the example set by their parents. So, practice what you preach.

Foot care

Feet are part of the body that is neglected by most of us. A person’s hygiene can be found out by looking at his feet. Therefore, good health of feet depicts one’s personality. Foot care is simple and easy. It not only keeps the feet clean but also a stress reliever. Here are few tips that can help to maintain healthy feet.

• Soak feet regularly in lukewarm water. Use a pumice stone or foot scrub to remove dead and rough skin. These dead skin if left unattended, become thick and cracks, leading to infections.
• Feet are a place where the nerve endings are pooled up. Therefore a good massage to the feet relaxes the whole body.
• The soles of the feet lack oil glands, so apply a moisturizer very night in regular basis. This nourishes the skin and keeps it fresh. Do not apply cream in between toes.
• Choose shoes of right size. Preferred time to buy shoes is later in a day. That is the time when feet are a bit swollen. Shoes that are comfortable at that time are the right choice.
• Make sure the feet are dry before wearing a socks or shoes. Apply a sun screen if you are wearing sandals.

Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea is an ancient drink once known only to the Chinese and Japanese, now it has gained popularity across the world, beginning from Asia to the Western world. This refreshing drink is known to have many health benefits. Green tea has antioxidant properties.

• Green tea helps to boost metabolism thereby aiding to weight loss by burning up calories.
• Green tea helps to regulate glucose in the body and prevents type 1 diabetes and slows the advancement for those who already have diabetes.
• Green tea is considered as a better drink due to its high amount of antioxidant property when compared to black tea.
• Green tea also could be use to prevent the tooth decay.
• Green tea has shown that it may reduce the risk of cancer up to 60 percent.
• Green tea lowers the levels of stress hormones which makes more relaxed.
• Green tea prevents heart attacks and strokes by inhibiting the production of blood clots.
• Three cups of green tea a day proves to give health benefits, however the drink should not exceed ten cups a day.
• Green tea contains a minimal amount of caffeine when compared to a cup of coffee. So this can be a substitute for a cup of coffee especially to pregnant women.
• Green tea has the ability to kill bacteria and is known to deter food poisoning.
• Green tea helps to lower LDL Cholesterol levels.

Benefits of Juices

Fresh fruit and vegetable juices are good for health. It is good to start our day with a glass of vegetable or fruit juice. Instead of having soft drinks or carbonated beverages it is better and healthy to have fresh juices. Juices supply lot of nutrients and also enzymes. A daily intake juice improves glamour. It is always good to have juice without straining as fiber will benefit your health. Drinking fruit juices or vegetables juices without adding sugar is best for you good health. One serving of vegetables or fruits can be substituted with a glass of juice. Every juice has its own importance depending upon with which fruit and vegetable is the juice made. some of the common juice we drink are carrot juice, Tomato juice, Apple juice, Pomegranate juice, Beet root juice, Orange juice, Grape juice , cranberry juice etc.

Some of the health benefits of each fruit and vegetable juice:
Orange juice: Orange is a citrus fruit and citrus fruit provides vitamin c. And vitamin c acts as antioxidant.

Carrot juice: Carrot juice is rich source of Vitamin A. Drinking carrot juice is very beneficial it improves eye sight, it gives glow to the skin etc. It has antioxidant properties and fights & eliminates cancer causing agents.

Beet root juice: Drinking beet root juice improves digestion as chlorine is present in it. Beet root juice improves hemoglobin levels and thus it is good for anemia patients. It also a rich source of folic acid, vitamin C and potassium. Drinking Beet root juice keeps you healthy and fit.

Pomegranate juice: It has lot of antioxidant properties. It improves HDL and decreases LDL bad cholesterol. Pomegranate juice is good for skin glow and glamour. It also reduces skin and breast cancer. It provides many health benefits for diabetic patients.

Cranberry juice: It lowers blood pressure. It is a good source of vitamin C. Cranberry juice has antioxidant properties. It lowers LDL and improves HDL cholesterol.

Apple juice: Apple juice is a good source of Vitamin A and vitamin C. Fresh juice made from apple is a source of soluble and insoluble fiber which has many health benefits.

Low Fat diet

A diet low in fat is called low fat diet. Some dietary fat is actually necessary. In certain medical conditions the body cannot tolerate much fat. So, a low fat diet may help people with these medical conditions. Some of the medical conditions where low fat diet is prescribed is Gall bladder disease, Delayed stomach emptying, Fatty liver and malbsorption syndrome.

Gall bladder secrets bile which helps to break down and absorb fat. When Gall bladder diseases or Gall stones are present there is not enough bile secreted or no bile produced by the gall bladder and so fat from food cannot be digested properly and this may cause diarrhea. A low fat diet allows your gall bladder adequate rest. Due to excess of cholesterol in the bile Gall stones are formed.

Gastroparesis is also known as delayed stomach emptying. In this disease the stomach empties food into intestine very slowly. When high amount of fats are present in foods we eat then this delays stomach emptying and cause gastroparesis. So low fat diet is good for gastroparesis.
Malabsorption and low fat diet: steatorrhea which is due to malabsorption of fat , where more than 6% of dietary fat is excreted in stool. In pancreas and small intestine diseases, patients have trouble in absorbing nutrients from diet, that include fat. A low fat diet helps may help
to control symptoms.

Fat is normally not stored in liver. Due to number of reasons fat may accumulate in the liver and this may damage to liver. A low fat diet may be helpful.

List of low fat foods:
Non stick cooking spray, puddings with skim milk, soy milk, Low fat yogurt, whole wheat pasta, Brown rice, Whole wheat bread, Popcorn, Millets, Muesli, Whole Rye, Whole wheat tortillas, Oat meal, Black beans, Chick peas, Green peas, Lentils, Lima beans, Kidney beans, White beans, soy beans, Navy beans, Egg whites, Lean pork Lean lamb, skinless chicken, Liver, Skinless turkey, Rabbit, sea foods ,fresh vegetables and fresh fruits, Low fat tofu.

Tips To Follow Low Fat Diet:

• Avoid fried foods.
• Avoid carbonated beverages.
• Drink low fat milk or low fat dairy products.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and stop smoking.
• Increase physical activity.
• Include more number of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Substitute one egg with two egg whites.
• Eat lean meat.
• Avoid fried chicken.
• Avoid fast foods.
• Use cooking spray instead of oil.

Fluid Requirements

Fluid requirements vary between individuals. Body contains 62% of weight as water. Adequate hydration is important to maintain body temperature. Blood, lungs, kidneys and heart are made of 80% of water. Muscle, skin, brain and intestines are made of 72 to 75 % of water. Fat tissue is 10% water and even bones are 22% water. An average person needs 8 to 10 glasses of water per day just to replace average losses.

• In normal healthy adult the fluid requirement is around 25 to 20 ml per kg body weight per day.
• Adult 55 to 75 years fluid requirement is 30ml/kg body weight per day.
• Adult greater than 75 year’s fluid requirement is 25 ml/ kg body weight/day.

Fluid requirements for pediatrics:

• Body weight less than 10 kg, 10 ml/kg fluids per day.
• Body weight between 11 and 20 kg 1000 ml per day + 50 ml/kg for each kg and above 20 kg.
• Body weight greater than 20 kg 1500 ml per day + 20 ml/kg for each kg and above 20 kg.

An increase or decrease in fluid requirement is based on number of factors:
Factors that increase fluid requirement are vomiting, fever, diarrhea, fistula, pressure ulcer, excessive perspiration.

Factors that decrease fluid intake are edema, renal disease, cardiac disease, congestive heart failure, hyponatremia.

Dental Health Care for Children

Dental or oral health care of children starts from the day when baby is born. Few simple steps which can contribute to healthy teeth are:

1. Always wipe off gums after feeding the baby.
2. Try to avoid bottle feeding as far s possible.
3. Never allow baby to sleep with milk bottle in his mouth.
4. Once your child starts going to play school, teach him how to brush. Brushing regularly with fluoride toothpaste avoid caries.
5. Teach him good oral habits. For example, rinsing after every meal and brushing twice a day.
6. Avoid thumb sucking habit. Teeth start protruding outside if this continues for a long time.
7. Avoid sweets and sugary snacks in between the meal, this can lead to cavities.
8. Young children tend to swallow toothpaste, so take proper care and do not allow them to swallow as toothpaste contains fluoride.
9. Regular dental checkups are useful to have a proper record of baby’s teeth.
10. During teething always take care of dental hygiene. Tethers or gum soothers used should be properly washed and clean.

30 Tips for Perfect Health

1. Drink eight glasses of water a day.
2. Start the day with a glass of warm water and a dash of lime.
3. Include two vegetables and one fruit in every meal. Include high fiber foods plenty of fruits, vegetables and grains in planning your diet.
4. Include one green vegetable and one yellow vegetable in every meal.
5. Begin each meal with a raw vegetable salad.
6. Make a light snack of assorted sprouts.
7. Use only fresh vegetables and meals, and not the leftovers and refrigerated.
8. Once a week have only fresh fruits until noon and make lunch the first meal of the day.
9. Go on a juice fast for a day. Start with vegetable juice, and sip fruit for lunch and dinner.
10. Kick the old coffee habit and avoid beverages like soda, coffee, colas and so on. Have a glass of fresh fruit juice instead.
11. Cut out all deep-fried foods and high sugar products like soft drinks, ice-cream, candy and cookies from your diet.
12. Never skip a meal, even if you are on diet. Eat a fresh fruit or have vegetable juice instead.
13. Use salt in moderation
14. Wash vegetables thoroughly in clean water before chopping.
15. Retain peels of potato, cucumber, carrot and tomato while cooking.
16. Don’t rush through your meals. Set aside enough time to appreciate, enjoy and digest your food.
17. Make every meal an enjoyable experience. Set dishes out attractively and chew slowly to appreciate the full flavor of the foods you eat.
18. Choose to be radiantly healthy. Keep yourself informed about the nutritive value of every food you buy.
19. Watch out for eating habits paired with emotional states, like reaching for a chocolate when you are depressed.
20. Eat popcorn (rather than chips) while watching a movie.
21. Sit at the table at meal times. Don’t read the paper or review bills while eating.
22. Get a good night sleep, every night.
23. Take a brisk, 20 minute invigorating walk each morning.
24. Do not use elevators when you can climb the stairs.
25. Learn to relax. Spend 20 minutes consciously relaxing each muscle of your body.
26. Spend 20 minutes a day in silent meditation, prayer or contemplation.
27. Learn the healing power of laughter. Watch a crazy movie, recall a joke or read a funny book and laugh out loud.
28. Balance your lifestyle. Devote equal time each week to work and fun.
29. Eat just to the point of the fullness. Don’t stuff yourself!
30. Restrict alcohol consumption and stop smoking.

Head Lice in Children

Head lice infestation is very common especially among school going children. Head lice are parasites that live by the host’s blood in the hair and head scalp and which can develop in large numbers. That is most horrifying thing about hair lice, it just few lice to make a large population.

Head lice are pretty unpleasant and most people have suffered an infestation at some point or another. Children are more likely to get them, due to contact through play and being around lots of other kids at school or at the playground. Despite being gross and a bit of nuisance, they are very common, pretty harmless.

It is mostly assumed that head lice spread from one head to another by close contact only. However, they can also spread through the sharing of items, such as a hair brush, pillow, soft toy or hat. It should be also noted that killing the lice will not solve the problem. This is because lice eggs hatch after about 7-10 days. If they are not removed the person will be re-infested.

Personal hygiene has nothing to do with the lice infestation. Symptoms of lice infestation include:

• Tickling feeling in the hair
• Frequent itching
• Sores from scratching

There are many treatments which are available now for this kind of threat. The best and safest way to start the treatment of lice in the child is through all kinds of natural remedies, like use of various essential oils, mayonnaise, vinegar, herbs and many more. Lice combs are also available which are specially made for killing lice.

Medical treatments in the form of anti-lice hair shampoos are also available in the market. Before using shampoos consult a dermatologist or a good doctor to make sure that product is safe for the child or the infested person.
In case of lice infested, it is very important to act fast and not to delay.

How to Help a Choking Child?

Children, particularly those between the ages of 1 and 5, often put objects in their mouth. This is a normal part of how they explore the world. Some small objects, like marbles and beads, are just the right size to get stuck in a child’s airway and cause choking. The best way to avoid this is to make sure those small objects like marbles and beads are kept out of your child’s reach.
A child that is choking is extremely frightful. This is due to the fact that a child's airway is smaller than an adult’s, making it easier for food or any other thing from lodging in the airway preventing air in or out.

It is a common believe that when a child is choking, he/she should be hit on the back. However, the American Heart Association does not approve this. Evidences have shown that hitting someone on the back that is choking causes the food or the object to go further down the trachea making it harder to resolve the situation.

Some common indications that something is blocking the child's throat include coughing a lot, inability to speak, cry, or breath, face turning bluish, or in the worst case, the child passes out.

The following precautions are recommended to help a choking child:

• Stand behind the child. Wrap your arms around the child's waist.
• Make a fist with one hand, thumb side in. Place your fist just below the chest and slightly above the navel.
• Grab your fist with the other hand.
• Press into the abdomen with a quick upward push. This helps to make the object or food come out of the child's mouth.
• Repeat this inward and upward thrust until the piece of food or object comes out.
• Once the object comes out, take your child to the doctor. A piece of the object can still be in the lung. Only a doctor can tell you if your child is OK.

Avoid foods like apples, hot dogs, chips, hard candy, etc., that can become easily lodged in the throat/trachea for the child. Also, do not let the child run around with these types of foods in their mouths. Children get so occupied with playing that sometimes they are not paying attention to the food in their mouth. Eventually this often leads to a choking child. However, providing the child the first and timely medical support can save his life.

Ancylostomiasis

Hookworms are widespread in the tropics and the subtropics. In 1995, WHO estimated that there were 151 million persons infected with hookworms and 65,000 deaths occurred from hookworm disease.

Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia among older people. Dementia is a brain disorder that seriously affects a person's ability to carry out daily activities. AD begins slowly, first involves the parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language.
Alzheimer's disease can be categorized into early onset-Alzheimer's disease and late onset- Alzheimer's disease. People with AD may have trouble in remembering things that happened recently or names of people they know. Over time, symptoms get worse. People may not recognize family members or have trouble speaking, reading or writing. They may forget how to brush their teeth or comb their hair. Later on, they may become anxious or aggressive, or wander away from home. Eventually, they need total care. This can cause great stress for family members who must care for them. AD usually begins after age 60. The risk goes up as one get older.The risk is higher if a family member has the disease.

Allergies

Allergy is a disorder of the immune system called as atopy. Allergic reactions occur to normally harmless environmental substances known as allergens which are acquired, predictable, and rapid. Allergy is one of four forms of hypersensitivity and is called type I hypersensitivity.

Types:

• Hay Fever
• Hives
• Poison Ivy & Plant Allergies
• Bee Sting Allergy
• Pet Allergies
• Latex Allergy
• Mold Allergy
• Cosmetic Allergies
• Drug Allergies
• Eczema
• Eye Allergies
• Food Allergies etc...

Alcohol abuse

Alcohol Abuse is a disorder characterized by the excessive consumption and dependence on alcoholic beverages, leading to physical and psychological harm and impaired social and vocational functioning. Alcohol abuse causes extensive damage to health and society. It results in thousands of innocent deaths each year, and exacerbates situations involving violent crimes and domestic violence.

AIDS

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a final stage in a development of disease resulting from a viral infection known as the Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which is characterized by a weakening of the immune system by destroying lymphocytes (CD4 cells). AIDS is not hereditary but develops after birth from contact with a disease causing agent (HIV). Roughly 40 million people around the world living with AIDS.

Anatomy of heart

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Asthma causes recurring periods of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and coughing. The coughing often occurs at night or early in the morning. They tend to react strongly to certain substances that are breathed in. As a result muscles around them tighten. This causes the airways to narrow, and less air flows to lungs. The swelling also can worsen, making the airways even narrower. Cells in the airways may make more mucus than normal. Mucus is a sticky, thick liquid that can further narrow airways.About 12 percent of children (< 18 years) and 8 percent of pregnant women have asthma.

Types:

• Allergic Asthma
• Intrinsic Asthma
• Exercise-Induced Asthma
• Nocturnal Asthma
• Occupational Asthma
• Steroid-Resistant Asthma