General Skin Problems that Develop in Winter

In winter majority of us suffer with problem of dry skin but in few people it will be worst. The skin may show flaking, cracking and even inflammation. Cracked skin increases the risk of bacterial infections and hence, acne may also develop. Severe acne results in dark spots which totally ruin the appearance of the skin.

Photo by : personagrata.me

Source by : flickr

Top Skin Care Tips for Winter

1. Use oil based Moisturizers

   Majority of people use the same moisturizer for both winter and summer season. But, you need something more extra to protect the skin from cool breeze. It is recommended to use oil based moisturizers during winter season than the water based moisturizer. The effect of water based moisturizers remains only until either the water gets evaporated or the water is carried away by the bloodstream. After that the skin becomes stiff as usual. However, while selecting oil based moisturizers make sure to select those with natural oils such as avocado oil or almond oil. Avoid those containing either shea butter or oil as it blocks the facial pores. Take care of the skin even during nights by applying moisturizer before going to bed.

2. Apply Sun Screen Lotion

   It is highly recommended to use sunscreen lotion even during the winter season. Skin becomes very sensitive during the winter season and is hence, more susceptible to sun burn. Make sure to apply sun screen lotion if you are going out in sun even for a short period of time. For effective results and to avoid greasy feeling, apply the sunscreen at least thirty minutes before going out.

3. Install Humidifiers

   We use heaters during the winter season to keep the internal air warm. As a result all the moisture will be lost and the skin becomes dry. To prevent this install a humidifier in rooms to add back the lost moisture into the air. It is recommended to use humidifiers even in offices. Depending on the size of the house or the office install multiple humidifiers so as to spread the moisture evenly throughout the house or office.

4. Try Vitamin E gels

   Skin around the eyes is very sensitive and most of them develop crow’s feet i.e. fine lines around the eyes in winter season. This problem can be solved very easily by applying vitamin E gel around the eyes lids. Make sure to apply the vitamin E gel gently starting from the inside crease of the eyelids. If you rub vitamin E gel on the skin there is a risk of bruising the already sensitive skin. Vitamin E gel not only gets rid of the fine lines around the eyes but also reduces any swelling of the lower eyelids.

5. Exfoliate the Skin

   Deep cleansing of the skin helps to avoid most of the skin problems. You can use either the peach scrub or the apricot face scrubs for scrubbing the face once in every ten days. Scrubbing removes the dead skin cells that are blocking the skin pores and makes the skin glow. Thus, scrubbing helps to keep acne away from you. Make sure to not use the scrub daily.

6. Practice Steaming

   To deep cleanse the skin steaming is another alternative to scrubbing. By steaming the skin pores gets widened and makes it very easy to clean the debris that is blocking the skin pores. To enjoy a soft skin even in winter add few drops of rosemary or lavender oil in water while seaming.

   Natural skin care tips to moisturize the skin from inside

   If the busy daily routine is preventing you to take care of your skin then here are some natural skin care tips that are inexpensive and do not require any additional effort or time.

7. Drink Plenty of Water

   By drinking plenty of water it is very easy to overcome the problem of dry skin. It is recommended to drink eight to ten big glasses of water. Drinking plenty of water helps to eliminate the waste materials out of the body and also promotes the overall health. This is an inexpensive way to enjoy younger bright looking skin.

8. Take Flaxseed Oil

   This is an excellent way to moisturize the skin from inside the body. You can have it either in powder form or as capsules. Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3-fatty acids that can do wonders for your health.

9. Have more Fruits and Veggies

   Avoid junk and salty foods and concentrate on having more veggies. Root vegetables such as carrots, green leafy vegetables and water vegetables like pumpkins are good for skin. Fruits and vegetables provide all the required nutrients and improve the overall health.

10. Use Corn, Safflower or Soybean Oil for Cooking

    Make sure to use these oils for cooking. These oils help in hydrating the skin by allowing more water penetration into the cell walls.

Lastly, if none of these skin care tips for winter work for you visit a dermatologist immediately without negligence. They will assess the problem and type of your skin and accordingly suggest a treatment regime.

Drying-hair

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What do Expensive Hair Dryers Boast of?

Expensive hair dryers tend to base their key selling point on speed and heat. The speed is ok but the heat will sound good only for a short period of time. You will see high tech worlds used like ionic technology, ceramic or tourmaline-infused parts that help conduct the heat more efficiently, promising less wear and tear on your hair.

But when you continue to use strong heat on your hair, gradually, your hair is getting damaged from inside as you are boiling the water and moisture in the shaft of the hair. Gradually you get a condition known as bubble shaft, which weakness the already damaged hair from within and you get rough dry hair that are more likely to break.

Drying Hair in Salon

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What do the Cheaper Hair Dryers Promise?

You will see all the fancy features available in inexpensive dryers, too. So when picking a hair dryer, go for the one with lots of speed and heat settings, but use them on low settings only.

An average dryer’s wattage probably ranges from 1,200 to 1,875 and the expensive pro dryers can touch 2,500 watts. That means your hair dries faster.  If time is of the utmost importance, there is nothing wrong in investing in a dryer offering the best infrared or ionic technology, with a light weight body, an easy-to-use button to set hair and with years of warranty.

The Verdict

Go for the dryer that suits your needs the best. For some women, time is the essence while for the others the quality of their hair. A couple of the most expensive hair dryers introduced in the market are much lighter and promise to dry up hair 70 percent faster than an average hairdryer.

Again you should follow some tips when using the hair dryers

• Keep them at least a foot away from your hair to minimize the damage.
• It is best to let your hair dry naturally for some time before using the dryer.
• For best results, section your hair before using.
• Unless you’re diffusing curls, it is best to use the nozzle attachment on the hair dryer for faster results.

Hairdryer

Source by : wikimedia

Despite hefty differences in price and wattage, it was seen that there are not much variation in the drying time, among, the low cost as well as expansive hair dryer models. Just focus on your needs, weight, ease of use and noise factor when looking for the best dryer for yourself. And it need not be an expensive one.

Decompression Sickness – What it is

Decompression sickness, which is also commonly known as “the bends” is a condition that occurs due to the formation of Nitrogen bubbles in the body tissues and bloodstream. The formation of bubbles generally takes place when a diver moves upwards from the deep waters towards the surface much too steeply because of the lowering water pressure as he moves upwards. The condition shows up symptoms almost immediately after the dive and has the potential of causing the death of affected divers. If there is any suspect the dive needs to be stopped immediately and the affected should be catered with first aid and appropriate treatments need to be provided.

Image by: Marion Doss

Source  by : flickr

The Symptoms of Decompression Sickness

Since the bubble formation can occur in different body parts, the symptoms of this condition can be varied. However, the most common ones noticed in decompression sickness victims include

• vertigo or headaches

• unusual fatigue

• joint pain

• paralysis

• weakness of the muscles of the hands and legs

• tingling sensations

• breathlessness

• unconsciousness.

In most cases, the appearance of the symptoms is shortly after the completion of the dive. Every 50 out of 100 divers with this condition, exhibit symptoms within an hour of the dive while in 98 cases out of 100, the symptoms appear within a period of 24 hours after the dive. It is recommended that air travel should be avoided for at least 24 hours after a dive as it has a good chance of triggering the symptoms of decompression sickness.

The Causes of Decompression Sickness

The air that we breathe in has a 70% content of Nitrogen. When a dive is taken, there is an intake of large quantities of Nitrogen into the tissues. The reason behind this simply this that the air pressure under water increases with depth below the surface. So the amount of nitrogen that is dissolve in the bloodstream depends directly on the depth of the dive and also its duration. However, this high quantity of dissolved nitrogen does not cause an issue at that depth because of the increased air pressure.

Once the diver starts ascending towards the surface, there is a fall in air pressure surrounding him and as a result, the surplus nitrogen is released through the lungs during expiration. However, if the rate at which the diver ascends is greater than the body’s expiration rate, Nitrogen bubbles are formed in the tissues and the bloodstream.

Avoiding Decompression Sickness

In order to avoid the risk of developing this condition, the divers are advised to take the following measures

• make safety stops once in every 5 meters of ascent

• never exceed an ascent rate of 10 meters/ minute

This is especially for those divers who have stayed at great depths for longer durations. Of course, these steps do not promise to completely avoid the chances as there are other factors too that affect the risk of developing decompression sickness. These include the duration of the dive, lack of body fluids, cold currents, fat percentage in the diver’s body, age, sex and physical condition.

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Decompression chamber

Image by : wikipedia

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy

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Preparing for Recompression

Image by : wikipedia

Image by Seegul

Source by : flickr

The Diagnosis of Decompression Sickness

If symptoms are noticed in a diver, immediate diagnosis is necessary to make sure whether it is decompression sickness that is affecting him.

• The diving history which includes information regarding the dive duration, ascent rate, dive depth, etc can be helpful in recognizing whether the condition is decompression sickness.

• A complete examination in which factors like coordination, balance, touch sensation, muscular strength and reflexes are tested to confirm the diagnosis.

• Also, on the basis of the diagnosis, a decision is made whether the affected diver needs a recompression or hyberbaric chamber treatment.

Treatment of Decompression Sickness

There is no specific medicine that can be used to cure this condition. However, the different kind of treatment provided to recover a diver affected with decompression sickness at different points are as follows

Treatment provided at the diving station and in the ambulance

• Plenty of fluid intake

• 100% oxygen provided at a 10-15 liters/minute

• Any chances of the diver catching a cold need to be avoided.

• In case of unconsciousness, the diver needs to be provided with first aid.

Treatment Provided at the Hospitals

• Recompression in a hyperbaric or decompression chamber

• The diver needs to be exposed to a pressure that is equivalent to the deep water pressure to facilitate the exhalation of the nitrogen bubbles

• The diver’s touch sensitivity, balance and coordination and muscle strength need to be monitored every now and then to see if there is any improvement

• Rest is advised after treatment in the decompression chamber and the period of rest is specific to each case.

Chest cold is a term that is generally used for Acute Bronchitis, a contagious disease of the lower respiratory tract. It is mainly caused due to viral infection like influenza which causes the bronchi and bronchioles of the lungs to get inflamed.

This condition is quite common and it occurs in any season of the year, although there are more cases which occur in winter. Although a chest cold can affect all kinds of people, the most susceptible ones include young children, infants and old people.

Acute Bronchitis

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Chest Cold – The Symptoms

The severity of symptoms caused due to chest cold can vary depending on age, medical history and general health. Generally, those with chronic illnesses suffer from more severe symptoms.

Common Symptoms

The most common symptoms of chest cold are

• Chest pain

• Tightness of the chest while coughing

• Chest congestion

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Fever

• Chills

• Wet cough with yellow or white phlegm

• Breathlessness and exertion
  

  Photo by : julep67

  Image Source by : flickr

Life – Threatening Symptoms

Although chest cold is a mild condition in most of the cases, there are certain cases where serious complications can occur with life-threatening symptoms like

• Disorientation

• Confusion

• Consciousness level changes

• High fever

• Rapid pulse

• Severe breathlessness

• wheezing

If such symptoms are seen, immediate medical treatment is essential.

Chest Cold – Causes

Chest colds can be caused by any of the following factors

• Viral infection like influenza- this is the most common cause

• Air pollutants

• Bacterial infection- very rarely
  

  Photo by : Sanofi Pasteur

  Image Source by : flickr

Factors that increase susceptibility to chest cold

• chronic lung or heart diseases like COPD, lung cancer, asthma

• exposure to air pollutants like smoke and lung irritants

• smoking

Chest cold risk reduction

The following steps can be taken to avoid the chance of catching a cold

• Prevent contact with an infected person

• Reduce exposure to lung irritants and air pollutants

• Strictly sticking to the treatment plans in case of chronic illnesses

Possible Complications Resulting from Chest Cold

In a serious case, chest cold can lead to complications, some of which are as follows

• Pneumonia

• Empymema

• Dehydration

• Lung abscess

• Sepsis

• Respiratory arrest or respiratory failure

• Shock

• Pleural effusion

• Hypoxia

Chest Cold Treatment

There is particular medication that can cure chest cold. However, the treatment of chest cold refers to using intervention that can help in reducing symptoms as much as possible and to avoid the chances of development of any kind of complications.

General Medical Treatment

Chest cold treatment generally includes the following

Antibiotics

In case of bacterial infection, antibiotics can be helpful in reducing symptoms. In case of severe infection, intravenous antibiotics administration can become necessary.

Bronchiodilators

These can help in relieving symptoms like breathlessness. They help in opening up the airways by relaxing the bronchioles thereby aiding in easy breathing. A device known as an inhaler can be used for this purpose.
Intubation

In severe cases of breathlessness, airway intubation with mechanical ventilation and breathing tube can become necessary. This becomes necessary in the event of occurrence of respiratory failure, hypoxia, shock, pneumonia, etc.

Oxygen Therapy

A mask or nasal prongs can be used to relieve breathlessness and to make sure that the important organs of the body aren’t deprived of oxygen. The devices used to deliver oxygen and the delivery concentration can be varied according to how severe the patient’s condition is.

Medical Suction

If there is too much phlegm clogging the sinuses, medical suction to get rid of it can be helpful in providing relief from chest congestion.

Home Remedies for Chest Cold

In most cases, where the condition is only mild, home treatment is effective in helping the improvement of symptoms. Some of these include

Increasing fluid intake

Chest cold causes the body of the infected person to get dehydrated and in order to avoid any severity, the fluid intake should be increased. Drinking plenty of water can be helpful thinning out the mucus and phlegm so as to get rid of it quickly. Also, juices with Vitamin C can be very helpful as they increase the body’s immunity, thereby aiding in speedy recovery.

Vapor Inhalation

Steam inhalation is one of the best home remedies for chest cold as the steam helps in opening up the clogged sinuses caused due to cold, thereby making breathing easier. A few drops of eucalyptus oil and peppermint added to the steaming water can increase the effect.

Drinking Hot Tea

Hot tea made with herbs such as peppermint and chamomile is a great home remedy for chest cold as it helps in loosening the mucus that clog the airways thereby instantly alleviating chest congestion.

Chest Massage

Vapor balm massage of the chest can be helpful in relieving chest congestion in patients.

What is the difference between Female Hair Loss and Male Hair Loss?

Alopecia in male is not only characterized by severe hair fall and balding but is easily recognized because of the distinguishing male patter baldness inherited by an individual. In similar manner, there is also a specific patter of baldness among women who suffer from extreme hair fall due to alopecia.

What Causes Alopecea Areata?

Hair loss cause due to alopecea areata is blamed to genetics and other auto-immune disorders like thyroid diseases, ulcerative colitis, lupus, vitiligo and rheumatoid arthritis.

What are the Hair Loss Treatments and Alopecia Areata Treatment options?

There is various alopecia areata treatment which can be applied or performed on the patients. Some of these are as follow

Hair Transplant

Those who have suffered from severe alopecia areata choose to undergo hair transplant as option for their hair restoration and hair treatment. Unfortunately, you should re-consider hair transplant treatment as option because there is sufficient reason that points it is an ineffective way of preventing balding and future hair fall. What the patient needs is not ready made hair grown synthetically on his or her scalp but sufficient vitamins for hair loss which can help strengthen the hair and thus prevent the thinning hair of an individual. Moreover, the hair transplant cost is very much expensive that it can only be luxuriously afforded by rich individuals.

Use of Hair Growth Vitamins

Hair growth vitamins like Vitamin A, B, C, D, and E are effective treatment for hair restoration. You can take pills which contain these in different amounts or you can choose hair loss products like shampoos and conditioners which may contain rich amounts of these vitamins.

Alopecia areata bald spot

Image By : wikimedia

Hair Growth Shampoo for Alopecea Areata

In choosing hair growth shampoo as hair restoration treatment is a wise and practical choice but you should know which types of hair loss products to choose so you can guarantee its effectiveness.

Stick with hair growth shampoo which contains natural sources of vitamins for hair loss like jojoba oil an grape seed oil extract. Anything that comes from nature, combined together into one potent solution and approved by the FDA are the best hair loss products to buy in the market. Not only will it stop hair loss but it may assist you in maintaining the wonderful luster of your hair.

Rogaine

This is a popular hair loss treatment product which is by far the only FDA approved and clinically proven hair loss treatment sold in the market today. It contains a potent ingredient, Minoxidil, which has been researched as an effective ingredient in hair restoration for both hair loss in men and hair loss in women. It is a powerful hair re-growth stimulant which will provide you visible results in a few week time.

However if you experience shedding during the first days, do not be alarmed because it is simply part of the normal process of hair growth. Continue with the hair loss treatment and follow its rule on proper application. For the occurrence of any unwanted negative side effects, it is best to go see your doctor to check which caused the allergen attack.

Hair Cloning

If hair transplant is not that favorable by doctors, hair cloning is more accepted. It is acclaimed to be the only solution that will forever stop hair loss and one of the best gifts medical science and technology has given.

During the process of hair cloning, new hair follicles will be extracted, cultivated and stimulated not from a donor but from the patients himself or herself. It makes use of proteins like Laminin 5-11, derma papilla and derma sheath.

This was discovered and developed by researchers who wish to put an end to the worries of many who are suffering from balding and thinning of hair. Of course, the visible signs of hair re-growth may take a few weeks but the moment new hair springs from your scalp these are guaranteed to be permanent hair that will stick to your scalp for several days.

Hair Loss Comb

If you haven’t tried using a hair loss comb as treatment for hair loss then several positive comments related to the use of these products may change your mind.

Gokkum comb is the traditional name of this hair loss comb. It is made from cow’s horn so it naturally contains protein substances that can help stimulate the growth of healthy hair strands. Combine this with herbs that are known to stimulate the follicle and you may soon find yourself with a good quantity of hair on your bald spot.

Reference

• http://www.med.upenn.edu/timm/documents/PriceNEJMrev.pdf

• http://jddonline.com/articles/dermatology/656

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome Fact Tidbits

1. It is a rare disorder which is characterized by tumors referred to as gastrinomas. These gastrinomas typically develop in the duodenum or pancreas.
2. There is a great similarity between ZES symptoms and that of peptic ulcer.
3. It is typical for doctors to conduct ZES diagnosis by measuring the stomach acid and amount of gastrin circulating in the blood.
4. It is possible for ZES treatment to use chemotherapy.
5. Anyone can be inflicted with ZES but it more common among men under the age group of 30 to 50 years old or those who have inherited multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1.

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome Causes

ZES cause is attributed to gastrinomas which releases the gastrin hormone, a hormone needed by the stomach in digestion.

Normally, gastrin is produced in controlled amount such that it travels through the bloodstream in order to send signal to other cells for the release of gastric acid that will help break down the food consumed by the body.

Unfortunately, patients with Zollinger Ellison Syndrome encounter excessive production of gastrin which results to excessive gastric acid in the stomach which results to gastrinomas in the duodenum and the pancreas.

However, there are certain cases wherein gastrinomas appears sporadically. In this special instances, scientists are still at lost on what could possible trigger such growth and development of these gastrinomas.

Zollinger-Ellison-syndrome

Photo by : wikipedia

Recently, studies have lead to link with the Zollinger Ellison Syndrome. 25% of those who suffer from ZES syndromes have another thing in common they have inherited a genetic disorder referred to as multiple endocrine neoplasia type

1. This disorder triggers the release of certain hormone releasing tumors like insulinomas and prolactinomas which dictate the brain to produce unnecessary hormones.

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome Symptoms

There is a very big similarity between ZES symptoms and that of peptic ulcer. These symptoms are as follow: diarrhea, weight loss, burning abdominal pain, severe gastroesophageal reflux, and nausea and vomiting.

In some instances, patients may also experience a sensation of fullness, bloating or pressure accompanied by pain which develops approximately 30 to 90 minutes after taking a meal. However, this abdominal pain is often relieved by taking antacids.

Vomits of patients with Zollinger Ellison Syndrome are accompanied by blood or particles that quite resemble coffee grounds. As for the burning pain and gnawing in the abdomen experienced by the patient, it affects areas between the navel and the breastbone. If you experience any of these and these are combined with sudden weight loss, fatigue and weakness then there is a big possibility that these are ZES symptoms.

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome Diagnosis

The following tests are conducted in order to identify the cause of the pain experienced by suspected individuals with Zollinger Ellison Syndrome.

• Barium X-Ray

• Calcium Infusion Test

• Upper Endoscopy

• Gastrin Blood Level Test

• Octreotide Scan

• Secretin Stimulation Test

• Imaging Technique like CT scan, MRI scan, ultrasound and nuclear scan.

Results from these tests will be analyzed and compared with the symptoms suffered by the patient.

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome Treatment

Surgery is the most common recommended treatment for Zollinger Ellison Syndrome especially for ZES gastrinoma types. Nevertheless, if surgical treatment is not applicable then the following alternative treatment may be performed in order to help destroy the gastrinomas.

1. Embolization or cutting off the blood supply from these areas;
2. Radio frequency ablation or the use of electric current as an attempt to get rid of the cancer cells;
3. Chemotherapy for the slow down of the tumor growth; and
4. Injectible drugs to help relieve the patient from cancer symptoms.

For Zollinger Ellison Syndrome with accompanied ulcer problems the following medications may be prescribed by doctors:

Acid Blockers

This will help reduce the production of gastric and gastric acid in the stomach. Medication drugs include Tagamet, Zantac, Axid and Pepcid.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

These acts as effective medication that will help suppress acid production while promoting faster healing of the stomach linings. This inhibitors include Protonix, Prilosec, Asiphex, Prevacid and Nexium.

Zollinger Ellison Syndrome Prognosis

Based on statistical report, ZES prognosis involves 50% of Zollinger Ellison Syndrome tumors to be cancerous. Thus, early diagnosis of this condition is the best preventive measure in order to halt the danger of gastrinoma spread in the stomach, duodenum and pancreatic walls.

Health Complications Associated with Zollinger Ellison Syndrome

The following complications may arise if the patient is not treated promptly.

1. severe diarrhea and weight loss
2. continuous spread of the tumar cells to other organs in the body like the lymph nodes and the liver
3. intestinal bleeding
4. hole perforation

If you feel any of the specified ZES symptoms mentioned above, it is highly recommended that you go consult with your physician so as to avoid the further spread of these complication which may aggravate your condition.

References:

• http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11144036

• http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1412583/pdf/gut00626-0035.pdf

Terminologies

Acne Vulgaris is also confused by some as the same with acne rosacea but is more commonly known as pimples, spots, whiteheads, blackheads, zits which leave behind acne scars and acne marks.

Type of Acne Vulgaris

There are different types of acne vulgaris which varies in its severity of its condition.

Acne Rosacea

This type of adult acne appears in people aged thirty and beyond. It is characterized by red rashes which are confined in the cheeks, chin and forehead however these bumps are accompanied by bumps, skin blemishes and pimples. As the condition of acne rosacea worsens, blood vessels may appear more visible and may even lead to swelling nose and growth of excess tissue on the face called rhinophyma. Due to the complexity of this skin irritation, acne treatment is rarely given to patients with acne rosacea.

Whiteheads

This is a type of hormonal acne which appears on the face when pores are completely blocked by trapped oil, dead skin cells and bacteria.

Acne Vulgaris

Image by : wikimedia

Blackheads

This is another type of hormonal acne which is the result of partially blocked pores cause by bacteria, dead skin cells and trapped sebum. The black color, although often associated with dirt, is a result of the skins own pigment reacting with oxygen in the air.

Papules

These are types of acne that are red, inflamed and appears as tend bumps but without heads. Never attempt to squeeze papules because it will only exacerbate acne scars.

Pustules

These are types of acne that are inflamed with the appearance of red circles with a white yellow center. It may be squeezed but if you do no know how to handle these properly it is best not to pop it and instead apply the best acne products to help get rid of acne scars.

Best Treatment for Acne

There are different ways of getting rid of acne scars especially if you have already identified what causes acne.

Typically, home remedies for acne is best used and applied on the skin because it is free from synthetic and harmful products which may cause skin irritation and allergies. However, there are instances wherein professional treatment may be necessary so as to remove acne scars.

Natural Acne Treatment

The following acne home remedies are recommended and are considered the best treatment for acne.

1. Drink plenty of water. This may be disregarded by some but drinking at least eight glasses of water each day is the most basic acne tips everyone should follow.
2. Eat fruits particularly berries and apples that are rich with powerful anti-oxidants as your snack instead of junk foods. Help combat acne marks and avoid acne scar by considering these fruits as natural acne cures.
3. Make your own concoction of natural acne cure by combining apple cider vinegar, honey, and oatmeal as a natural acne medication.

Acne Scar Treatment

Amidst the strong advice of dermatologists to their patients to avoid popping out their pimples, some refuse to follow this recommendation so they end up with acne marks and acne scars. It becomes too severe that dermatologists are left with no other option but to perform laser treatment for acne like dermabrasion on their patients. Nevertheless, as much as possible dermatologist would wish to avoid these types of laser treatment for acne because it is costly so they prescribe acne pills like asepxia and other anti-acne products that can help acne scar removal.

Dermabrasion

This is a type of surgical skin planning which makes use of wire brush or diamond wheel with rough edges so as to remove the upper layers of the skin which has suffered extreme acne scars and marks. The brush is allowed to rotate rapidly to help take off and level the top layers of the skin thus make room for the growth of new and healthier set of skin.

Asepxia

This is an alternative acne treatment which works similarly with Max Clarity, Clearasil, and Proactiv which are known as one of the best acne treatments. This is very a very prominent acne cure for teens in South America and Mexico and is very much applauded because of its efficacy against acne.

Acne vulgaris

Image by : wikimedia

Arm Acne Vulgaris

Image by : wikimedia

Blackheads

Image by : wikimedia

Rosacea

Image by : wikimedia

There are varying causes of acne and dozens of acne treatments which claim that their product is the best treatment for acne however the most believable acne solution is proper skin hygiene and healthy diet. There is nothing more effective that what is found in nature. There are several reports of anti-acne products which instead of providing solution to acne problems results to severe types of acne.

If you are not sure with the anti-acne product to use it is best to wait for the opinion of your dermatologist about it.

References

• http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1601712/

• http://www.garfield.library.upenn.edu/essays/v5p364y1981-82.pdf

Given the large number of essential human nutrients, understanding the nutrient requirements of children is a huge task, but this needs to be taken seriously. A “healthy diet” is one that provides important nutrients in the right quantities that come from a variety of natural foods covering the basic food groups.  These nutrients include protein, carbohydrates, energy, fats and lipids, a host of minerals, a range of vitamins and trace elements. It provides the energy that children need to maintain healthy weight. It does not contain excess of unwanted stuff like sugar, salt or fat.

This child nutrition guide aims at bringing about an understanding of the nutritional needs of children, as kids who don’t have healthy diets when young will mostly continue to make unhealthy choices as adults.

Children and Nutrition

Proper nutrition in childhood can set your child on the path to good eating habits and contribute to the overall well-being of children, leading to a healthy and happy life.

The Department of Nutrition for Health and Development continually reviews new research and information from around the world.  Over the past few years, significant new evidence has been documented revealing the link between eating food with high nutritional value and learning.

fruits and vegetables

Source : wikimedi

Lack of nutritious food intake is associated with quantifiable negative consequences for academic, cognitive, health and mental health functioning. In fact, proper nutrition is crucial in the first few years of life for life-long health and well-being.

Healthy eating contributes to overall healthy growth and development, including healthy skin, bones, energy levels; lowered risk of dental caries, constipation, malnutrition, eating disorders and iron deficiency anemia.

Food For Children

Infancy – During infancy, the best gift a mother can give her child is breastfeeding, according to the World Health Organization. WHO recommends starting breastfeeding within one hour of life and continuing it exclusively for 4-6 months.  After this, breast milk may not provide enough iron and zinc and iron-fortified infant cereal and strained fruits, vegetables and pureed meats are to be introduced. But breastfeeding needs to be continued for up to two years of age or even beyond.  It is also suggested not to go low-fat crazy for children below two.  According to Dr. Shu, “You don’t want to restrict fats under age two because a healthy amount of fat is important for babies’ brain and nerve development.”

Young Children – Young and growing children are impressionable and easily influenced by the food preferences of parents and peers. When you find a five-year old eating junk and chocolates, it has to be understood that the child does not go and buy them by himself, he finds them at home.

Dietary style is taught through example and by enabling the child to find proper food at home.  You would be surprised to note that it has been demonstrated how mothers’ eating style during pregnancy, along with the diet followed during toddler years can modify genes expressivity (this is the way genes influence the characteristics of individual’s lives) and predispose the appearance of chronic metabolic disease.  This brings to light the importance of a good nutritional diet and how this should start during childhood and involve the child’s entire family.

What Are Macronutrients?

Proteins, fats and carbohydrates are the structural elements on which our life is based and they are called macronutrients. Proteins are needed to form the structure of the human body and to repair eventual damages; fats and carbohydrates help produce the energy our body needs to live.

Proteins

They play a structural and functional role. The daily need of protein depends on the age of the person, and it is inversely proportional – younger the child, higher the need.  But it is not all about quantity; it is also about the quality of proteins.

The daily protein ration has to provide the essential amino acids that the body cannot produce by itself. The best thing to do is to balance your child’s diet with both animal and vegetal proteins. Vegetal proteins are derived from cereals and pulses and in smaller quantities from vegetables and fruits, but they lack a few essential amino acids.  Animal proteins have a higher biologic value because they provide all the essential amino acids in the right quantities. They are found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.

• Alternate between animal and vegetal proteins and combine them with cereals and pulses.

• Do not serve meat twice a day and do not serve meat or pork fat.

• Serve fish frequently, even fatty fish is good for kids.

• If you’re feeding a vegetarian meal, balance both the vegetal and animal protein like butter, cheese and milk.

• Do not combine meat and cheese proteins at the same meal.

• Do not give your children butter and fermented cheese together at any meal.

Carbohydrates

They form the energy base for our children and are made up of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. There are complex and simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates have a sweeter taste and are easily digested and absorbed by the body.

Complex carbohydrates are less sweet, absorb slowly and are the main energy source for the body.  Maintain a balance between animal and vegetal carbs, such as honey, fruits, vegetables, liver and meat etc.

• Do not add sugar to any drinks or food you feed your kids.

• Get them used to brown sugar or raw honey at an early age.

• Avoid sugared canned fruits and juices.

• Serve only whole cereals containing complex or slow absorption sugars.

• Get them used to eating brown bread or whole wheat bread and brown rice.

• Include plenty of pulses in their meals

Fats

Fats are found in all foods and they improve their taste and consistency. In a balanced diet there should be 25% of fat intake, with a presence of essential fat acids.  As opposed to popular belief that fat is bad for children, fat intake is essential for their growth and development.  Children need fat for their nervous system and brain to develop.  What parents need to concentrate on is to ensure kids eat the right kinds of fat in the recommended amounts.

Fibers

Fiber is found in cereals, fruit, pulses and vegetables.  In children, although fiber is extremely useful for the regulation of intestinal transit, care has to be taken not to overdo it as fiber can interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients, which are necessary for rapidly growing bodies. It can also lead to constipation, abdominal pain and gas, as well as resulting in overweight because of the high glycemic load.

This is the reason, it is suggested that whole foods should not be given in large quantities during the first year of life to ensure there is no interference of mineral and vitamin absorption.  Child nutrition suggests a balance of refined foods and foods rich in fibers in the growing years.

What are Micronutrients?

These are substances that our body contains but in smaller quantities and they are very important. Vitamins, mineral salts and other substances like antioxidants fall under this category. They are fundamental sources of energy producing chemical reactions that happen in our body.

Foods rich in proteins are seen to represent our children’s well being; however, if they are not properly balanced with fats and carbohydrates, it provokes increased degenerative and metabolic diseases.

Research shows that children should be eating at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day, as they are rich in antioxidant substances.

By doing this, parents are introducing the right amount of minerals and vitamins that are extremely useful in preventing almost all sorts of metabolic and degenerative diseases, and perhaps some types of tumors too.

The following fruits and vegetables should form the base of the diet for children and of course it goes without saying, parents too.

Amla; Guava; Citrus Fruits like Oranges and lemons etc.; Mango; Papaya; Pomegranate; Apricot; Pineapple; Watermelon; Kiwi; Banana; Grapes; Apple; Melon; Lemon; Mint; Aubergine; Spinach; Pumpkin and Zucchini; Beetroot; Broccoli; Carrot; Cabbage; Cucumber; Capsicum; Tomato; Turnip; Onion; Garlic; Milk; Cheese; and Buttermilk.

Other foods that are needed for growing children are fish, dry fruits, almonds, walnuts, coconut, sesame, olives, and whole foods.

Nutrition-pyramid

 Source : wikimedia

Oranges

 Source : wikimedia

fruits and vegetables

Source :  wikimedia

junk food

 Source : wikimedia

Healthy Eating For Children

All the studies done in the field of nutrition have shown that the existing habits of children and adolescents are far from the advised ones and lead to cardiovascular and metabolic problems as adults.

Here is a simple plan for children that parents can follow

• Serve breakfast every morning at leisure (wake them up 15 minutes earlier if needed), regular lunch and dinner, morning snack at 10 am and afternoon snack at 5 pm.

• Ensure the child does not eat out of these main meals.

• Do not serve snacks or sweets as prizes.

• Avoid all snacks rich in sugars, calories, fats, aerated and sweetened drinks.

• Do not insist if your child feels full and does not want to eat. (Of course, if this happens all the time, you will need to consult a doctor).

• Limit the use of proteins, reduce eggs, cheese and meat and increase fish. Never mix the different kinds of proteins like meat, cheese, fish and eggs.

• Let the child play a lot in the open air and during winters also, allow him to play outside in the cold. Natural cold and movement will help burn a lot of calories. (not artificial cold from A/C.)

Child Nutrition Overview

As you have seen thus far in this child nutrition guide, a healthy diet helps children grow and learn. It keeps weight-related diseases and obesity at bay.

• Ensure your children get five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

• Eggs, lean meat and nuts are healthy sources of protein.

• Whole-grain breads and cereals high in fiber content are good for kids.

• Reduce serving fried foods.  Try and grill, steam or broil them instead.

• Keep children away from junk and fast food as much as possible.

• Substitute milk and water for sodas and sugary drinks.

We hope this child nutrition guide helps you learn about your children’s nutrient requirements. It is important to know that the iron and calcium requirements change as children grow older. Concentrate on giving them a diet that contains foods from different food groups, such as breads and grains, fruits and vegetables, meats and dairy.  This will help prevent nutrient deficiencies.  The American Medical Association recommends that children get all their nutrients from foods rather than vitamin supplements, unless the pediatrician advices otherwise.

We suggest you take a look at my plate which is the latest in child nutrition.  My plate tells parents all about children and nutrition, of the different food groups, and how they are to be served to their children for optimum child nutrition.

What is Cosmetic Surgery?

Cosmetic surgery also known as ‘aesthetic’ surgery is all about making us not only look better, but feel better as well by improving self-confidence and self-esteem. It is an essential part of plastic surgery, where plastic surgeons use cosmetic surgery principles to improve overall appearance.

There are two types of cosmetic surgery:

• Rejuvenation

• Alteration

Rejuvenation focuses on minimizing the effects of aging. This is for people with a strong self-image who are bothered by how their looks are changing and they’d like to improve their looks. The aging but young at heart among us know how depressing it can be to start looking old. Then there are factors like the genes, Sun and gravity that drive the aging process.  As the tissue loses elasticity, gravity pulls downward, resulting in wrinkles, bags, jowls and pouches. No medicines, creams or magic potions can bring the skin back to its youthful contours.  The only magic that can be performed lies in the hands of the plastic or cosmetic surgeon who can tighten the tissues enough to fit the frame again.

image by smile_kerry

Source : flickr

Alteration involves changing the size or shape of the face or body. For people born with something they are not happy with, a possible cosmetic flaw that has diminished their self-esteem over time.  Cosmetic surgery is very common and can be approached just as you would other physical problems. Problems like a big nose, small chin, underdeveloped breasts or huge breasts and many such problem areas can be rectified through cosmetic surgery.

Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

Image by Lifestyle Lift

Source : flickr

Cosmetic surgery can improve almost all the body parts. Here are just some of the more common cosmetic surgery procedures that people get done:

Face

• Facelift

• Rhinoplasty or nose surgery

• Eyelid surgery

• Ear surgery

• Brow lift

• Facial implants

Body

• Body contouring

• Liposuction

• Tummy tuck

• Labiaplasty

Breasts

• Breast augmentation

• Breast lift

• Breast implants

• Breast reduction

• Breast reconstruction

• Gynecomastia (breast enlargement in men)

Skin

• Anti-aging

• Skin resurfacing

Cosmetic Surgery Options

There are several options in cosmetic surgery to change your face or body. Be open about what you want when you discuss with your surgeon, but be willing to listen to their recommendations. Often a less invasive procedure may work as well as a more involved surgery.

Minimally Invasive Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

Image by thinkpanama

Source : flickr

For many, the method of choice has shifted from the more traditional open surgery to the less invasive techniques. Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures are simple non-surgical treatments done with the aid of a viewing scope and special surgical instruments. The surgeon performs surgery using the scope and makes several tiny openings, without making a large incision.

These procedures can remove unwanted hair, even out skin pigmentation, reduce facial lines etc.  But just because cosmetic procedures like chemical skin peels, dermal fillers, collagen fillers, botulimum toxin injections, microdermabrasion, laser sin resurfacing, laser and ultrasound assisted liposuction do not require surgery, does not mean they don’t hold any risk.  You have to make sure you get them performed by a well-reputed surgeon with the highest standards of safety and care.

Some of the major cosmetic surgery procedures also have minimally-invasive options using smaller incisions, and they are meant to treat smaller problems. These include a micro neck-life, micro-lip and a mini facelift. These mini and micro procedures are used many a time as a touch-up that lasts for about five years.

These minimally invasive alternatives usually have less pain, less scarring and the recovery is quicker.  The health care costs are more affordable as well.  These procedures use newer technologies, such as laser to perform procedures that earlier required extensive surgery and recovery time.

Most cosmetic procedures can now be performed on an outpatient basis either under local or general anesthesia.

Cosmetic Surgery Facts To Consider

Image by Ianz

Source : flickr

Before going ahead with any type of cosmetic surgery, do learn everything there is to know about the cosmetic procedure and what you are getting yourself into.

• Pain

Most procedures are not painful and you are made comfortable with an anesthetic.  Although, there may be pain and discomfort after the procedure, it can be controlled with medication and will subside in a few days.

• Recovery

This is totally dependent on the type of procedure performed and the job one holds. Most patients can get back to work within 7 – 14 days.

• Outward Signs

Good cosmetic surgery does not leave any visible signs.  It works on enhancing looks naturally. From others perspective, the improvement may often be attributed to exercise, a new diet, or a relaxing vacation.

• Results

As far as alteration surgery, such as work on nose, chin, breast augmentation, breast reduction, etc., for most people there can be definitive changes lasting a lifetime.  But for rejuvenation procedures, since aging is a natural process and cannot be stopped, the only thing that is done is make the clock tick slower.  Procedures like a face lift and eyelid surgery can turn the clock back by five or ten years, and make one look much younger than before.

• Scars

This depends on how experienced the cosmetic surgeon is.  Cosmetic surgeons make every effort to ensure scars are hidden in natural creases and lines, and for a majority of people, the scars fade with time becoming barely noticeable.

• Hospitalization

While most cosmetic procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, extensive procedures may require overnight stay.

• Expenses

The cost varies based on the procedure performed. Quality cosmetic surgery performed by an experienced surgeon can be expensive, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. You must also take into consideration the cost of follow-up care or additional corrective procedures, if any. Doctor’s advice people to seek quality as opposed to hunting for bargains.

• Insurance

Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic surgery. However, they may do so when the procedure is medically necessary.  Even in such cases, they may just cover a part of the expenses.  You will have to check with your insurance company before going ahead.

• Financing

Today, you will find plenty of financing options available for people who qualify.

• Consultation

Consult a qualified cosmetic surgeon to find out in what way cosmetic surgery can help you. Choose one who specializes in the procedure you want to get done. You can even check if the surgeon is certified in the specialty by a board recognized by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery if you live in the United States, or an authorized board in your country.  In fact, you can short list a few surgeons and hold consultations with all of them individually, before zeroing in on one.

• Risks

Take into consideration the possibility of dissatisfaction after any type of cosmetic surgery, as it may not turn out exactly the way you wanted it to. Risks involve surgical complications, such as an infection or excessive bleeding.

Finally, here are some questions you should be asking your surgeon.

Examines the nasal cavity

Source : wikimedia

Before getting down to actually solidifying your decision of getting cosmetic surgery done, it is very important to sit and have a no-obligation consultation with more than one cosmetic surgeon.  Find out everything there is to know and then note down what each one has to say and base your decision on that.

Some important questions that need to be answered:

• Are you a good candidate for the procedure?  If yes, why?  If not, why not?

• Is there any alternative to cosmetic surgery that can solve your problem?

• How many times has the surgeon performed the procedure?

• What were the results of the procedures performed by the surgeon?

• Would you be able to see some photos to help you understand the procedure and the results better?

• How will the anesthetic used affect you and what type is used?

• Are there any surgical options?

• Is hospitalization needed?  If yes, how long?

• Can there be complications? If yes, what are they?

• What follow up care will you get?

• How much will the procedure cost?

• Will there be a need for touch-up surgery? If there is, is that covered in the cost estimate?

Many people get cosmetic surgery done expecting perfection and a complete transformation.  You cannot expect to turn into a movie star.  While some patients may experience an unexpected and unbelievable improvement, this is very rare; in most cases, a surgeon only advices patient to anticipate improvement and not perfection.

The problem is that FDA does not have a close monitoring system, which means you cannot be sure that the product contains the ingredients listed on the label or has unlisted ingredients. There simply are no short cuts when it comes to burning fat, no matter what the ads say.

The simple logic behind losing weight is: you need to burn more calories than you consume. The safest way is to make lifestyle changes such as including natural fat burners in your diet and exercise on a regular basis.

If after following healthy eating habits and exercising, you can’t seem to lose excess weight, then it is time to talk to your doctor to see what else could be wrong.

Researchers from different parts of the world uncover the truth about natural foods and declare some as the best fat burners. You don’t have to wait for next January to make resolutions. Why not make the following your natural fat burners of 2011?

Source : doverpost

Some of the Best Fat Burners

High Fiber Foods

There are many areas of nutrition that elicit controversy, but dietary fiber is certainly not one of them. Every health book you’ve ever read talks about fiber as most important for your body.  Scientific evidence links fiber to a plethora of health benefits. Fiber-containing foods help increase satiety with fewer calories, and maintain a healthy digestive system.  When your body digests the food you eat properly, it is less likely to convert it into fat.  Fiber-rich foods digest slowly, which means your body works harder, burning more calories and boosting metabolism.

Some of the foods rich in fiber are oatmeal, dates and navy beans. The USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference shows a list of whole to fortified foods that are rich in fiber.  They suggest powering up on bran, beans with navy beans containing the maximum fiber, berries, whole grains, sweet peas, green leafy vegetables, nuts, fruits etc.  So, it would not be out of place to call high fiber foods as the best natural fat burners.

Best Fat Burners

Source : flickr

Dairy Calcium

It is common knowledge that calcium helps in building strong and healthy teeth and bones.  In the past couple of years, studies have shown that dairy calcium can aid in weight loss. A University of Tennessee study reveals that calcium helps in burning body fat.  Dairy products like cheese, low-fat yogurt and fat-free milk increase fat breakdown in fat cells, thus acting as fat burners.  A dairy rich diet is said to nearly double weight loss. Overweight people who consumed 3 servings of calcium-rich dairy products/per day including milk showed almost twice the weight loss compared to people who took less dairy calcium.  Studies show that the more people reduced their dairy product consumption, the more body fat they gained.

Dairy Calcium

Source : flickr

Almonds

Almonds are high-fiber foods, but they have been found to be special fat burners. Studies have for many years indicated that almonds may just be what you need, if you are overweight. Findings suggested that eating one serving (22) of almonds daily for six months helps in achieving a sustained weight reduction.  You can keep almonds handy to be consumed as a snack throughout the day. They are great energy boosters and can also be added to salads, yoghurt or oatmeal.

Almonds

Source : flickr

Hot Peppers

Jalapenos contain capsaicin, which is a chemical that gives peppers their pungent flavor and increases heart rate, boosting metabolism. Research found that eating small snacks with hot peppers helps the body not run out of fuel and makes sure the metabolic rate does not drop.  It is recommended that you add chili peppers to pasta, omelet or any stir fry to benefit from their powerful fat burning properties.  Eating cayenne pepper with just one meal is said to boost metabolism by 25% and the calorie burn lasts for 3 hours after they are consumed.

Hot Peppers

Source : bp.blogspot

Fish

Leptin is a hormone in the body that is linked to weight loss and it is found in most types of fish. A diet rich in fish keeps leptin levels in the body lower. Salmon contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which can alter the levels of leptin in the body, and the lower the levels the higher the caloric burn. University of Georgia states that studies have consistently shown this to be true and it is one of the best fat burners. This hormone also makes you feel fuller faster.

Salmon also provides the essential Vitamin D that preserves metabolism-revving muscle tissue. Researchers found that most people, especially older people don’t get enough through their diet.  Other good sources are tuna, shrimp, tofu, eggs, and fortified milk.

Silver Salmon at Pure Food

Source : wikimedia

Chocolate

A study shows that pure, dark chocolate is an excellent source of anti-oxidants that fight fat cells. One serving of dark chocolate eaten slowly is said to work wonders. However, here they are talking of 100% Cacao..real chocolate.. and not the mix of milk, sugar and vegetable fat that we refer to as chocolate.  Tests also showed that people who drank ‘real chocolate drink’ burnt significantly more fat than others who drank the standard chocolate drink.

Chocolate

Source : flickr

Green Tea and Coffee

There is so much talk about green tea but there is no strong consensus on green tea being a fat burner.  But according to some research studies, green tea has a chemical called EGCG that makes the brain and nervous system work faster, burning more calories. Although, green tea, which contains caffeine, is not a miraculous solution to burn fat, researchers say that it does show good promise in weight loss. Coffee also contains caffeine, which helps speed up the heart rate and helps in burning calories.  Whether it is iced coffee or hot coffee, the benefit is said to be the same.  Of course, you are bound to put on more weight if you add full-cream milk and heaps of sugar to it. Consider drinking it plain but don’t over do it.

Note: Doctors warn that both green tea and coffee should not be consumed much or avoided totally, if you have high blood pressure, heart problems, kidney disease or any heart related issues, as they increase the heart rate.

Green Tea and Coffee

Source : photos.jasondunn

Cold Water

We all know that water is good for us but little did we know that it could be one of the natural fat burners. But only when you don’t drink water at room temperature, according to German researchers! They say that drinking 6 cups of cold water in a day (approx. 48 ounces) can boost resting metabolism by about 50 calories daily – which can help shed 5 pounds in a year. That may not sound like much, but every little bit counts. They believe this could happen due to the work it takes inside our body to heat the cold water to body temperature.

Cold Water

Source : flickr

It is always better to eat a well-balanced meal that includes all food groups and exercise regularly.  There are plenty of foods that act as natural fat burners and these are healthy foods that you can embrace for life. Combining a healthy diet with more activity is the best way to burn fat and keep it off for the long-term.

Caution: It goes without saying that even when choosing natural fat burners, you have to constantly be aware of any health problems or allergies you may have, as certain foods may not be good for you. Consult with your doctor if you are in doubt.