Saturday, October 27, 2012

Top 5 Tips for Seniors

You want to live longer? Here are five proven ways to enjoy your senior years.
1. Choosing what you eat: the Japanese have a very simple way to ensure that every meal is as nutritious as possible: ensure that the food on your plate comes in five colors. This is like saying always include fruits and veggies in your meal. For example, you may include melons, yams, tomatoes, carrots, and broccoli. After all, seniors have a greater pressure to carefully choose what they eat on a daily basis, if only to stave off the progression of aging-related health problems. There are specific food groups that have specific health benefits, but generally, a diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and low in fat is the key to a healthy, disease-free life.
This article would not be enough to discuss in painstaking detail all the recommended food groups seniors should eat, but suffice it to say that the more fruits and veggies you include in your daily diet, the better it is. Seniors need a lot of fiber and calcium, as well as a host of other vitamins and minerals, and they would not get a sufficient amount of these needed nutrients if their diet is strictly lacking in diversity or freshness. Moreover, trying to take the shortcut by taking vitamin supplements instead of eating fruits and veggies may do more harm than good. One good example is vitamin E-only one synthetic form of this vitamin is supplied through capsules, whereas in nature, the same vitamin exists in many forms, and scientists do not know exactly how these differences work inside the body. So if you get your supply of vitamin E through capsules or pills alone, you are at risk of damaging some internal organ, mainly your liver. Also, carefully "senior-proofing" your diet also means you will have to significantly reduce your sodium intake (meat loaf, spam, anything that is salty or pickled) and avoid "bad" carbs (white flour, refined sugar, white rice).
2. Yoga: this ancient system of breathing and stretching postures has been known to provide relief from the multiple chronic disorders that plague most seniors. For example, there are certain yoga positions that can improve the sleeping habits of seniors-the sleep will be deeper and of higher quality. Chronic pain can also be alleviated by yoga, as well as reduce blood pressure (a huge benefit, as most drugs meant to reduce blood pressure have deleterious side effects), and improve the body's range of motion and flexibility (which then reduces the senior's risk of accidental falls). An important caveat, however: not all yoga formations or positions can benefit seniors. In fact, according to the findings of a recent New York Times article, yoga can literally "wreck your body" and cause serious injuries. So do not attempt to do any yoga position on your own, especially when there's no one around to come to your aid. Always seek the help of an expert yoga instructor, preferably one with a good track record of helping out seniors.
3. Exercising: even if you're well into your sixties or seventies, you should and must still perform routine workouts, but only keep it commensurate with your age and physical condition. If you had spent the past several years working at an office in a largely sedentary capacity, then suddenly springing to action on the treadmill can be fatal.
4. Staying physically active: Health experts say that when you stop moving, you begin to die. Despite the obviously morbid pronouncement, it makes perfect sense. When you spend days sitting at home doing basically sedentary stuff, your internal organs-primarily your heart-gradually suffer from decreasing vitality. When the heart is not regularly "challenged," it becomes at risk of conking out at the next physical exertion. Some ways to get encouragement in staying physically fit is by looking for local seniors organizations in your area and take part in their activities. Usually, there is a seniors organization that focuses on helping the said demographic group receive support. In our local community, for instance, there is a "walking group" whose sole goal is to encourage seniors take long walks in the mornings-surely, walking with a large group is easier than when you're walking alone; it's safer, too.
5. Staying connected and engaged: the results of several studies indicate that isolation, especially in old age, contributes to depression in the elderly and decreasing mental sharpness. Those who have no social life or do not participate in community activities are at risk the most. You can start by checking out some social networking sites, or checking out the scheduled activities of your local community's socio-civic organizations. Take part, forge new friendships, and always, always be nice.
Indeed, there are many fun and fulfilling ways for seniors to live longer, healthier lives-you only have to seek them out and take these methods to heart.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Cells Are the Smallest Unit of Life

Cells are the smallest unit of life, the very building block of life, and together make us and all other multicellular organism what we are. Adult cells are usually specialized for specific function (i.e. cartilage, acid secretion in the stomache, etc). However, some cells remain less specialized and differentiated, called stem cells. They play a primary role in the healing process, and are capable of dividing into a wide variety of cell types. While they previously were collected using aspiration of bone marrow, recently they have been found in very high numbers in fat, which is much easier to collect and more abundant. The ease of obtaining adult stem cells from fat currently makes liposuction the preferred method for collection, and avoids the risk and controversy of embryonic stem cell use.
Dr. Mark E. Johnson, MD, Ph.D., specializing in cosmetic surgery and anti-aging, is one of only a few leading physicians to embrace these technologies, offering cutting-edge nonsurgical alternatives using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and innovative cellular therapies. Stem cells and PRP are also used for aesthetic procedures by Dr. Johnson. Fat can be "supercharged" to survive by adding additional stem cells back into it, allowing the surgeon to transfer the fat to where volume is desired with excellent long term results. This augmented fat can be transferred to the butt (Brazilian Buttlift), breasts (Natural Breast Augmentation), and face (Stem Cell Facelift). Also known as Fat Injections, these are virtually scarless procedures and provide volume enhancement that has a natural look and feel.
How Do They Work?
Although Cell therapy in various forms has been around for centuries, we are most familiar with blood transfusions, bone marrow and organ transplantations, and reproductive in vitro fertilizations. Stem cells, although still considered experimental by the FDA, are the ultimate form of cell therapy and this innovative technology is offering hope and promise for the treatment of many diseases which currently are inadequately treated by allopathic medicine.
Scientists have discovered that stem cells are inactive until triggered by signals of damaged cells. When triggered, the cells "awake" and start the normal healing process of the damaged area. However, in cases of some diseases, such as arthritis and autoimmune diseases, there may be inadequate signals to "wake up" the cells, or there may simply be too few to carry out the healing response, such as in joints or heart tissue. In these cases, studies indicate that injecting them into these areas can dramatically improve healing. The cells in these cases are activated by using Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), which is the serum of the blood containing high numbers of platelets containing the necessary growth factors. In stem cell rich areas of the body (soft tissues, muscle, tendons etc), use of this PRP to activate the resident cells is sufficient to very dramatically improve healing (remember Hines Ward before the SuperBowl?). In both cases, the treatment therefore is to use one's own cells to heal the body, very much as nature intended.
If you feel you might be interested in stem cell procedures, contact well-trained doctors in your area who practice these procedures, and find out if you are a good candidate.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Four Things To Consider When Choosing An Emergency Dentist

If you're not sure what sort of problems would constitute a need to visit an emergency dentist, here's a short list. Just remember, it's not all-inclusive, but it's enough to get you started in the right direction.
- Swollen gums
- Abscesses
- Infected cuts inside the mouth
- Broken dentures
- Broken teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
All of these issues should be taken care of as soon as possible. If not, they will only continue to get worse, and you may even develop even more issues as a result.
It's also very important to do your homework and compare the prices and services of different dental offices. This is a smart move, because you never know when the need will arise. The first thing to look for is availability-not just in location to your home, but also with available appointment times and open hours. Make sure they'll take time to help you if the need arises.
Expertise in tooth care is essential. Since you never know what type of situation will arise, you ought to find a practitioner who has experienced and knowledge in treating a variety of tooth ailments.
There are numerous places you can locate this oral specialist. Inquire at health facilities or hospitals, ask your loved ones or friends for references, search online, or check your local telephone directory. Don't worry if you aren't a regular patient of theirs. Simply explain that you're calling for a consultation in order to choose a regular healthcare provider. Good medical specialists are used to this tactic, and are happy to oblige.
Reliability is another important asset to look for. Ask them up front if it's possible to call them any time of the day or night and have access to quality customer care.
While it's important to have an oral specialist on hand for emergency situations, one of the best ways to avoid having to visit an emergency dentist is to make sure you get regular checkups. This, along with routine oral hygiene, is your best defense against any oral problems.
It's just not wise to ignore tooth pain however it comes into your life. It can be very dangerous to have it happen on a weekend, and you decide to wait until a week day to take care of it. That's why it's crucial you know the name and number of an emergency dentist and use them when you have to.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Good Health at Any Age

I get a lot of questions on food choices... "How can I avoid wrinkles, belly fat, loss of skin elasticity and reading glasses?" In short, folks want to know my anti-aging secrets. My first response is look at the up side----did you think about the alternative to aging? OK now that I've helped them get life in focus, here are a few of my anti-aging guidelines for good health at any age.
You'll need to eat well to look and be well. What you eat is essential to keeping a youthful glow. There is no magic food, just make sure you choose a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, good for you fats, lean protein, whole grains and water.
Fruits and vegetables will contain the nutrients that are needed for a healthy body. The more colorful the better. For example, red beets provide vitamins and minerals including vitamin C which promotes immunity and tissue repair. Folate which aids in red blood cell function and potassium, which helps regulate mineral and fluid balance; magnesium for strong bones and antioxidants.
Pomegranates, also are power-packed they're good sources of vitamins C and K. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and plays a role in building bone. Dark green leafy vegetables---spinach, kale, broccoli and collards are excellent sources of vitamins A, C and K. Additionally they are a good source of calcium, iron and fiber.
Fats in the diet carry flavor, but it is best to limit fats to polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Polyunsaturated fats are most often found in plant-based foods and oils. Research studies have shown that these fats improve cholesterol levels and are beneficial for heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids also a polyunsaturated fat is found in fish such as salmon and trout, walnuts and flaxseed. Monounsaturated fats are sources of the antioxidant vitamin E, and are found in olives, avocados, hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and olive, canola, and peanut oils.
Sleep is critical---the sleep-deprived will need to change their habits, adjusting their schedule to get six to eight hours each night. A good night's sleep goes a long way toward ensuring that people are rested, alert and able to manage stress.
Exercise is also a key; 30 to 45 minutes of exercise 3 to 4 days a week are a major factor in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If you feel like you don't have time to squeeze in any exercise, get a pedometer and clip it onto your waistband to make sure you log 10,000 steps a day. To help get to this number, park further from the door when you head out for errands and consider taking the steps and not an elevator when you can.
Last but not least, stay hydrated. Make sure you drink plenty of water---8 to 10 glasses of water a day will help keep you alert, and hydrated, providing ample moisture to help maintain a healthy complexion. In addition to water, add a healthy smoothie to your weekly diet, and try this recipe for my favorite smoothie-I call it the Fountain of Youth!
Fountain of Youth Smoothie
Cherries, blueberries, and cranberries are all fantastic sources of vitamin C and anthocyanins, antioxidants that may protect against some types of cancer. Vitamin C supports the growth of strong collagen fiber. Collagen fiber is found in soft connective tissue and bone and may help prevent some of the affects of aging. Enjoyed on a regular basis, I'll claim this smoothie as just one of my secrets to staying young.
1 cup low-fat cherry yogurt
¼ cup cranberry juice
1 cup frozen pitted cherries
¾ cup frozen unsweetened blueberries
Combine the yogurt and cranberry juice in a blender. Add the cherries and berries. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately.
Makes about 2 ½ cups; serves 2
Per serving: calories 230; calories from fat 2g, (8%); total fat 2g; saturated fat1g; cholesterol 8 mg; carbohydrate 49 g; fiber 3 g; protein 5 g.
The take-away: Make sure to plan daily meals to include a variety of foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and 8 to 10 glasses a water. Exercise and 8 hours of sleep along with healthy eating habits will go a long way toward keeping signs of ageing at bay.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

What to Expect From a Babymoon

Long gone is the honeymoon because now you are talking about a babymoon. For those who are expectant mothers, there is a lot of anticipation about this miracle growing inside you. Though many people do not think to leave the home and take such a retreat, doing so could be one of the best things you do for yourself, your body, and your baby. In fact, it may be something that you enjoy so much so that you feel a new connection with your child afterwards. The right facility will make all of the difference.
What's the Point?
There are many benefits to having a babymoon with your child. If you think about what a honeymoon is, you will see what to expect from this process. On a babymoon, you will spend time relaxing and getting to know your child. You will find yourself more in harmony with your life and your body once you leave. You will find that even in situations where the child is not the first one, this type of break allows you to bring some balance into your life. Find out what the facility offers and see if this is something right for you.
What You Could Learn
Each facility is somewhat different in what it offers, but sometimes, that is a good thing. Choose the types of activities right for your needs. For example, you may learn new techniques to connect with a child's father or your significant other. You may find yourself incorporating simple tips into your lifestyle that can help you to relax far more so than you are now. You may be able to learn how to care for your body and your emotional well being on such a trip.
It is not just about the expectancy either. In some cases, you will take such a trip or outing with your child. In these cases, you will learn things like infant massage. Imagine learning how to massage your spouse as well as your child to create a relaxing environment. Meditation may also be a part of the process. Ultimately, the type of experience you have can be anything you want it to be. What it should be, though, is a relaxing experience.
Find out if a babymoon is something that you need. When you do, you will learn exactly what the facility offers and what you can expect when you arrive. No matter if you have just a few hours or much longer, this amount of connection and attention can make all of the difference in the way you feel right now. Give yourself this unique opportunity to connect with your child and to bring balance into your life.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Improving Your Body With Core Strength Training

One of the most important parts of your workout routine is core strength training. What you are going to find is that these exercises help to improve the muscles that are essential for the transfer of energy in your body. These core muscles in turn are the ones that are most used when you are participating in sporting events and running.
Your muscles in this core region include the abdominal muscles, the muscles in your hip are and the muscles along your spine. This means that no single exercise is going to give you the core strength training that you need and that you will need to incorporate a series of exercises if you want to end up with the best results possible.
The following is a list of 15 exercises that you can do to help boost the strength of these muscles. It is recommended you have a medicine ball, stability ball and a desire for a shredded midsection on hand to ensure that you can successfully do all these exercises.
Improving Your Body With Core Strength Training Exercises
  • Prone Bridge
  • Lateral Bridge
  • Supine Bridge
  • Pelvic Thrusts
  • Russian Twists
  • Lunges
  • Lateral Pull Downs
  • Deadlifts
  • Crunches
  • Bear Crawls
  • Jump Squats
  • Cleans
  • Box Jumps
  • Squatted Dumbell Press
  • Leg Raises
When you have gone through these core strength training exercises, you are going to find that you have quite a few benefits that will come from it. These benefits will include everything from improved balance and control, to moving in a more efficient manner. You'll even find that when you utilize these exercises regularly, you are going to have better athletic performance with fewer injuries experienced.
While you're doing your core strength training, it will be important that you do focus on improving on each workout you do. As you increase the amount of weight you lift and the number of reps you do, you slowly build up your body strength. You might even consider setting a day aside during your lifting routine strictly for core work. Try performing each of the above mentioned exercises for 2 sets a piece and see how you feel.
Above all, you need to ensure that you're including a healthy diet with your exercise routines. By doing that, you can be confident that you are getting the essential nutrients like complex carbohydrates and lean proteins that your body is going to need to remain energized and to ensure that your muscles can continue to rebuild and grow.
Alright insider's, that's it for this one. Your core strength training can consist of any exercises you choose. Just make sure that you don't overwork any area for more than a couple of days in a row and give the different sections of your body a few days of rest to ensure that you don't overwork your muscles as the growth and strength you end up having will occur during your recovery time.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Foods You Enjoy That Might Make You Constipated

Constipation is a condition of the digestive system which causes one to have feces that are difficult to expel. Part of the function of the digestive system is to eliminate waste from the colon through bowel movements. When feces cannot be readily eliminated the colon can become a breeding ground for bad bacteria and inflammation. Constipation is defined by infrequent bowel movements and hard, dry stools. When one needs to strain to have a bowel movement it can be very uncomfortable and painful. Sometimes constipation is temporary and can be easily corrected. However, if it becomes chronic other health issues can arise.
Foods that usually cause constipation are those that are low in fiber and high in fat. Fiber is the part of fruits, vegetables and grains that the body cannot digest. The body needs both soluble and insoluble fiber for proper digestion of food. Soluble fibers create a gel that softens stools that collect in the colon. Insoluble fibers provide bulk for adhering and accumulating properties needed to help expel feces. It is the bulk of fiber which helps to prevent dry, hard stools. Low fiber is a major factor in causing constipation. Natural fiber has been removed from refined and processed foods which causes them to be low or totally devoid of fiber. Convenience foods such as prepackaged meals and snacks also fall into a category of low fiber foods. In fact Low fiber foods make up the majority of foods that many people eat on a daily basis.
Meat is a very heavily consumed low fiber food, especially red meat like beef or pork. It takes hours for meat to digest in the intestines. In the meantime it just sits undigested in the body. Many people eat meat on a daily basis with each meal which may be one reason why so many people suffer with constipation.
Dairy products are also low in fiber and high in fat. This includes foods like milk, cheese, ice cream and butter.They can contribute to cardiovascular problems and cause constipation in many people.
Baked goods such as bread, cookies, cakes, crackers, pies and other pastries are another culprit. This is because most commercial baked goods are made with sugar, white flour and hydrogenated oils which are totally lacking in fiber.
Snacks and processed foods include corn chips, potato chips, pizza, frozen potatoes, frozen dinners and fries are also devoid of fiber. Many people consume these foods on a regular basis. However, many of them often suffer from some degree of constipation afterwards.
It is usually easy to eliminate constipation. For starters, it will be a good idea to reduce meat consumption. Also, reduce the amount of other refined foods that you may be eating. Instead eat more high fiber foods. Add plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Choose whole wheat bread which has fiber as opposed to white bread which does not. Consuming prune juice is a tried and true remedy for eliminating constipation. Also, be sure to consume more water. Make an effort to drink between 8 to 10 glasses of water each day.