Archive for September, 2007

The Power of Ganoderma in Oriental Medicine

Saturday, September 29th, 2007

By R.G. Srinivasan Ganoderma, a rare variety of Mushroom credited with the highest medicinal qualities by the classic Chinese Seng Nong is indeed a subject of much research from the ancient china of 100 B.C. or earlier to the modern times by various universities and research organizations. It is also known as Linghzi in China and Reishi in Japan. It is said that in the ancient times anyone who found the rare Linghzi herb never revealed the place and kept it a secret of health, longevity and wealth. The Japanese revered the herb as Gods Herb where it is known as Reishi. Lingzhi herbal mushrooms in medicine was considered so auspicious that its medical efficacy has been attested to in the oldest Chinese medical text (over 2,000 years old). The book, which is known in Japan as “Shinnoh Honsohkyo”, is now accepted as being the original textbook of Oriental medical science. In it, 365 kinds of medicines are classified and explained. Ganoderma is classified as Superior Herb or “God’s Herbs” and they are for perpetual youth and longevity. The book states that for “superior” medicines, any amount can be taken as desired on a continuous basis with no unfavorable effects. Of the superior medicines listed in the text, Lingzhi was rated number one. You can see how important and powerful Lingzhi was considered in ancient times. It achieved its ranking in the Chinese text not because of its symbolic importance as a good omen but because of its medicinal properties. Centuries ago, Lingzhi was said to be a medicine that would grant you eternal youth and longevity. But after 2,000 years, Lingzhi has jumped into the spotlight as a specific medicine for cancer. This must be a bitter irony for those in the modern medical profession who discounted the herbal remedies and oriental medicine as being old wives’ tales”. The families of many cancer patients who have received a diagnostic “death sentence” now seek reishi as the only way left for them. The Linghzi Mushrooms grows only on old tree barks with specific conditions difficult to replicate. Till 1971 the herb was so rare that it was hardly sited except in mountainous areas. Many researchers had attempted to plant Ganoderma artificially but failed. Till in 1971 directed by Naoi Department of Agriculture and Professor Zenzaburo Kasai, Kyoto University made a breakthrough in its cultivation. Presently the herb is grown only by 10 countries. The demand far outstrips supply due to the increasing evidence through various researches on its efficacy in treating many disease including Cancer, HIV, Hepatitis, Diabetes, Liver disorders and mainly as a preventive due its rich anti oxidant and detoxifying qualities. Some of the research in Japan indicates that those that have taken Ganoderma for over a year the visit to doctors dropped into half. There are thousands of research paper available including on the internet on the subject of the healing breakthroughs achieved by Lingzhi or Ganoderma in various treatments and too lengthy to discuss here. However we can highlight the research in short. Summarized from these reports, it is found that Lingzhi have the following properties: Improves cholesterosis, coronary insufficiency. Improves hyper and hypotensions. Improves nervous tension, neurosis. Improves chronic bronchitis, hepatitis. Improves leukocytopenia and reticuloendothelial system. Effective in numerous other ailments. The three major killers these days are: cancer, cerebrosis and coronary diseases. The latter two have their etiology closely linked to the blood circulatory system. Related problems like stroke, heart block, arteriosclerosis, obesity etc. are all tied to problems in the blood circulation. One out of three persons dies from one of the above ailments everyday. Lingzhi can correct this imbalance and strengthen the system to prevent further deterioration. What is noteworthy are its preventive capabilities. For the 21st century man, stressed out, poisoned by the polluted atmosphere, wrong food habits and drug induced illnesses of the modern medicine. While modern medicine has been very effective in treating certain conditions effectively and immediately, they do not address the holistic approach of the ancient medicine as a preventive and for regeneration of wasted tissues and damaged cells. In conclusion, Ganoderma has been proven to exert significant effect on diminishing pain, fortifying the body’s immune system and prolonging life. Even though its role in cancer control has not been determined 100 percent yet. Ganoderma has a history of 3,000 years, during which time it is widely used by many people with no reported unfavorable side effects. It is therefore highly recommend for prevention. I hope that people from all walks of life will take a concerned interest and share in development of Herbal treatments. Hopefully, with so much research and emerging evidence, Ganoderma can bring a brighter outlook to the human race in the conquest of longevity. R.G. Srinivasan is a Managerial professional, Writer and Author. He is passionate about alternate therapies and holistic herbal medicine. Check out his site at http://venturelinks.googlepages.com for interesting articles, healthnews, links and health resources. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=R.G._Srinivasan http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Power-of-Ganoderma-in-Oriental-Medicine&id=6022 buy cheap tramadol online online ultram prescription buy ultram tramadol online canadian pharmacy tramadol

Caring For Your Oil Painting

Thursday, September 27th, 2007

By Vijay Kanth Paintings and their frames are made of several different materials. These oil paintings include: varnish, glue, paint, canvas, wood, metal, gilding and plaster. Put all together they would form a complex structure, which could be easily damaged if dropped or knocked. The materials are also too sensitive and could be damaged by its surrounding atmosphere, extremes and changes in humidity and heat, amount of light and dirt. Survival of an oil painting depends on: Keeping the painting in a good environment. Sensible usage, storage and display. What can go wrong with your painting? Tears, punctures and holes, drooping canvas, bulges and dents, crack canvas edges. Splits distort and break in wood. Insect damage (wood worm): Cracked, loose or peeling paint, lost paint, desertion, yellow varnish, dirt and dust, whitening, mould or mildew on the facade, disintegrating flames. What can be done? If you feel that these is a problem with your painting or you wish to find out more about its condition contact a paintings conservator. Save any pieces if they have fallen off, even if they are small. Keep them safely in a bag or an empty envelope as they could be fitted back on painting. Do not ever try to repair or cleaning yourself. This is a skilled procedure and need to be done only by fully skilled conservator. The use of backboards is suggested as a vital preventive conservation measure. Moving your painting Tears, holes, cuts and dents are most probably to happen when your oil painting is off the wall. If you plan further, these damages could be usually avoided. If you are decorating, take your painting out of the room before you start work on it. When off the wall rest face out beside a clear wall or padded facade, away from doorways, furniture and passing people; Always ensure your hands are very sparkling and dry, or wear clean gloves; Make sure the painting is steadily fitted into the frame; When moving your painting; it has to face towards your body and use both hands. one to hold the edge and the other to support it from beneath; Paintings with glass or those with envisage frames could be heavy, you might require two people. Vijay kanth is a seo copywriter having more than 3 years of experience in this field who is currently working for the site 1artclub.com. For furtherinformation on oil paintings and Solvents please visit http://www.1artclub.com/ or contact me through mail: 1artclubpainting@gmail.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vijay_Kanth http://EzineArticles.com/?Caring-For-Your-Oil-Painting&id=479968 discount levitra online online pharmacy no prescription buy generic levitra online online pharmacy

Finding a Personal Car Loan Online - 3 Things to Watch Out For

Wednesday, September 26th, 2007

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=L._Sampson]L. Sampson When youre shopping for a personal car loan online, the last thing you want to do is enter into a contract with a predatory lender. Predatory lenders prey on the uneducated, so, before shopping for a personal car loan online, read this article and learn what to watch out for. Unsecured Online Applications Its easy to tell whether an online application is secure or not — if its secure, it heads with https rather than http. Any credible lender wants to make sure that your personal information isnt intercepted by third-parties; therefore, they design secured application forms to protect their customers. If a company cant even perform this small step in earning your trust, its likely that there are a lot of larger things they wont be willing to do either. Websites Full of Advertising An auto loan company should be just that. This means that their website should offer a good representation of the services THEY provide. If a companys website is full of ads that are not for their own services, chances are that they arent going to be reputable lenders. Theres no good reason to overwhelm your site with advertisements unless you arent making enough money through your own services. And, if a lenders business is poor, theres probably a good reason for it. Websites That Want Your Personal Information Immediately Youve been to these websites. Theyre the ones that want your name, email address, and phone number before they ever explain the services they provide. You should never give out any personal information unless you are completely informed of the services you are requesting information on. These websites simply want to get your personal information so that they can spam your email address, call your house ten times a day, and sell your contact information to other advertisers. Visit Car Loan Sense to view our [http://www.carloansense.com]Recommended Auto Loan Lenders online. Also, visit Car Loan Sense for more information on [http://www.carloansense.com/Online_Car_Loan_Financing.shtml]Online Car Finance. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=L._Sampson http://EzineArticles.com/?Finding-a-Personal-Car-Loan-Online—3-Things-to-Watch-Out-For&id=254355 cheap fioricet online fioricet with codine cheap fioricet online order fioricet online

The Secrets Of Antibiotics and Bowel Flora

Tuesday, September 25th, 2007

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Stewart_Hare] Stewart Hare The word Antibiotic is constructed from Greek words anti, which means against and bios, meaning life, is a phrase used to describe an antibacterial substance made from micro-organisms, all though nowadays most are made synthetically. Antibiotics inhibit the growth or destroy other micro-organisms; penicillin, cephalosporin, amino-glycosides, streptomycin and tetracycline are all examples of common antibiotics. Penicillin is the largest group of antibiotics to be used in modern clinical medicine. Misuse and overuse of antibiotics has caused a lot of bacteria to become immune to them. This is why nowadays many hospitals are having problems in combating strains of bacteria such as methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, other wise known as MRSA. There is estimated to be around three hundred different strains of bacteria in the gut, a large number of these are vital for a healthy gut and therefore a healthy body. These bacteria shield the human body from dangerous organisms, harmful bacteria and viruses. Antibiotics being against life wipe out all bacteria in the gut, whether they are bad or good. Different forms of antibiotics are more toxic to bowel flora than others; penicillin is not as toxic as the other broad spectrum of antibiotics which seem to upset the ecology of the gut in a major way. When the antibiotics kill the bacteria within the gut it leaves the intestinal wall exposed to unprocessed food components and irritants that inflame and leave the intestinal wall raw. The raw and irritated bowel then expels its content quickly as diarrhoea, the diarrhoea is produced because the irritated bowel moves its contents through quickly and jerkily which results in the water contents not being removed properly thus causing watery stools diarrhoea. In research, it has been found that if antibiotics are used for a long time and at a high dosage, then unfriendly bacteria such as candida albicans has a chance to grow and colonise the bowel. Candida albicans is a yeast like organism whose growth is speeded up by eating sugary foods, including fruit. Candida albicans can cause many health problems over time. This damage of the bowel flora by antibiotics can be severe in people who already have compromised health. Recent research has shown that individuals who have taken a course of antibiotics had lower serum concentrations of enterolactone up to 16 months post-antibiotic use. This is particularly interesting because high serum enterlactone concentrations have been clinically shown to protect against cardiovascular mortality and breast cancer. This research has shown that antibiotic use has more damaging effects than first thought. In the case of colitis, antibiotics can be of help. Sulphur antibiotics seem to destroy the bacteria which cause the bowel inflammation in colitis which will temporally slow down the diarrhoea. However, there are more natural ways to relieve the symptoms of colitis and by taking antibiotics it will probably cause more problems than it solves. Antibiotic use has shown to promote the growth of already-present micro-organisms such as fungi and Clostridium difficile, it decrease short-chain fatty acids that play a essential part in the electrolyte and water absorption in the large intestine, it increases the susceptibility to intestinal pathogens caused by the weakening in colonization resistance and it decreases the effect of phytoestrogen-rich foods and some medical herbs as they are reliant on the presents of bacterial enzymes produced by intestinal flora. Hence, antibiotics should be used sparingly and in small doses as not to upset the delicate bowel flora. Bowel flora represents an ecosystem of the highest complexity, the micro flora is thought to be made up of over fifty genera of bacteria which accounts for over five hundred different species. The human gastrointestinal tract is believed to contain 10 micro-organisms; this is estimated to weigh 1-1.5kg. Bowel flora is important because it keeps the colon clean and keeps the unfriendly bacteria in check. It helps to create a balance that reduces fermentation and putrefaction which create gas and bad odours. It is estimated that the correct balance of bacteria in the gut is fifteen percent bad bacteria and eighty five per cent friendly bacteria to create a healthy colon. If an individuals bowel flora is compromised in any way then their health will drastically change as the bowel flora plays numerous special roles within the body. The bowel flora is involved in the synthesis of vitamins especially the B group of vitamins and vitamin K which is absorbed by the body, in the stimulation of the immune system, enhancement of the gastrointestinal tract function and motality, the absorption of nutrients and digestion, the stopping of pathogens (colonization resistance), plant compounds and drug metabolism and the production of polyamines and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Bowel flora can stop the infection of intestinal parasites such as intestinal worms. Intestinal parasites thrive in unclean condition in the colon by lodging themselves in the old encrusted matter that sticks to the intestinal wall in a filthy bowel. Without having this stagnant material parasites would have no place to colonize and would expelled straight out. Having friendly bowel flora would keep the bowel clean which in tern would keep parasites at bay. The condition of autointoxication, which is were the body literally poisons itself by having decaying matter that gives of poisons within the bowel, can be averted by having friendly bowel flora which as mentioned before would keep the bowel clean and prevent autointoxication from beginning in the first place. In conclusion, many chronic degenerative diseases are contributed to by the changes in bowel flora and its processes. Taking a high dosage of antibiotics for a long period of time will have a profound effect on the healthy functioning of the bowel flora, limiting its ability to keep a healthy large intestine and thus a healthy body. To keep a healthy bowel and thus a healthy body it is wise to use antibiotics sparingly and for a short period of time, take probiotics, eat plenty of fibre preferably in raw plant form and drink lots of mineral water. 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Work / Life Balance is Just Good Business!

Sunday, September 23rd, 2007

By Barry McDonald It would be nice to think that the companies on the leading edge of work/life balance programs are simply being good citizens and doing the right thing! But, the fact is that these programs make good business sense. In addition to increased productivity and employee satisfaction, companies can retain valuable employees in a competitive environment, and attract new employees with these programs. Every generation in the workforce today reports that work and life balance is one of the top issues for them and that they want to work in a company that supports their desire to have more balance in their life. Whatever the reason for the movement, we should be glad it is upon us. Who are the companies with programs, what do the programs look like and what results have they achieved? You might be surprised to know that these companies cut across all industries in the private and the public sector. Here are some examples of program components: Elder care programs consisting of resources directories, counseling, elder care services and educational services Expanded telecommuting and telework programs that allow employees to work from home or other locations Part-time and job sharing positions for employees come off disability or recovering from health problems, or for parents who wish to spend time at home with their children or with aging parents Fully accredited child care centers in or near the workplace Babies in the Workplace programs that allow a child to remain with a parent in the workplace until the age of six months or whenever the child starts to crawl Alternative work schedules and FlexTime work schedules that allow employees to work hours other than 9:00 to 5:00 in order to better meet their personal needs Family Advocacy Programs held at lunch-time on managing personal finances, parenting, stress management, anger management and elder care issues Outdoor recreation, walking paths and fitness equipment for employee use during and after work. Some companies even provide grills, row boats and other equipment for employee family use. Support groups for elder care, new fathers, holistic health, spousal abuse, single parents, adoptive parents, parents of teenagers parents of blended or merged families, caregivers, and grandparents raising grandchildren alone. Nursing Mother Rooms for breastfeeding moms Enforced scheduling and use of vacation and personal days to ensure that the employees takes time off from work Cross-training in positions to ensure coverage so that employees can take time off without the company suffering These are just some of the examples of programs in government agencies, hotels, banks, corporations and union environments around the country. Human Resource Management companies and universities study the effects of these programs and publish reports to support and encourage their growth. And the really dedicated companies keep finding new ways to encourage balance. In many cases, this effort still has to trickle down into the company. Older managers or those supervisors who feel they are being shortchanged on work may frown upon these initiatives and studies find that programs put in place without adequate manager and employee training rarely have the same impact as a program that includes communication via seminars, training, written manuals and frequent follow-up. If your company wants to start a work/life balance program, you can contact a consulting company that provides analysis and planning services to get you started, or you can look to some of the publications out there online or in written form for self-paced program implementation. Here are some links to get you started: http://www.simpleliving.net/timeday/links.asp http://wfnetwork.bc.edu/business.php http://www.workfamily.com/Open/ElevenStepsPage.asp http://www.workfamily.com/Vendors/WorkLifeVendors.asp A simple internet search will give you more options. Whether you are an employee, frustrated with overwork, a manager who wants to create a more supportive environment, or a company trying to get more information on these programs, the search is worthwhile. Work/Life Programs benefit the company by increasing productivity and focus on the job, reducing job turnover and increasing employee satisfaction. Employees will miss less time from work, because they will not be sick as often. Families will be more supportive of the employees job and company choice because they know the company supports the employees personal needs, and their efforts to sustain good health and to manage stress. If your company does not have a Work/Life Program in place, ask your manager about starting one. See if you can get a grass roots movement going! If you are in a position to influence the companys decision or you have the power to decide on a Work/Life Program, dont wait. Contrary to what you may think you wont lose money or time on this program. Instead, your company will run better and you will find it easier to attract and retain good employees. You will get a lot of support and good press from your employees and your managers, alike - and your company may even end up in one of those University Case Studies. A role model for others to follow! Do you want to learn how to eliminate, reduce or manage the stress in your life. The skills are simple to learn and easy to do. Visit http://www.scienceofbreath.be/stressmanagement today and get your hands on our FREE time management book. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_McDonald http://EzineArticles.com/?Work-/-Life-Balance-is-Just-Good-Business!&id=240322 buy tadalafil pill cialis effects side cialis no rx cialis women

Lumie Dawn Simulation Wake Up Clocks - The perfect Start To Your Day!

Saturday, September 22nd, 2007

By Tzaf Baralk Light plays a crucial role in the synchronisation of your circadian rhythm - (sleep/wake patterns). The suns daily cycle of light and dark regulates many of the bodys important hormonal and biochemical processes. It is our external time keeper - keeping our vital biological clock running smoothly. Without these light time cues or ‘zeitgebers’ given by natural light and dark, the underlying rhythm of the human body ‘free runs’ and gets disrupted. The patented Bodyclock - Dawn simulation wake up clock is an alarm clock that works with light rather than sound producing a very gradual increase in light levels mimicking a natural sunrise in the period immediately before waking. This triggers a gentle and peaceful wake up response running in tune to your natural biorhythm. The signal gets your body going even before you open your eyes so you wake up feeling alert, positive and energised. And at bedtime you can also set your Bodyclock - Dawn simulation wake up clock to fade to darkness helping you to wind down and fall asleep. By regulating your melatonin cycle in this way the Bodyclock - Dawn simulation wake up clock helps you to keep melatonin levels high at night making you sleepy and low in the day keeping you alert. Your sleep soon becomes regular, refreshing and re-vitalising. The Bodyclock - Dawn simulation wake up clock incorporates a lamp with a built in dimmer so it serves as both a sophisticated bedside light as well as providing the gentle dawn simulation wake up function. For new users who are often anxious that it might not wake them up, it includes an audible alarm after the light has reached full although most people find that they are fully awake just in time to prevent the beeper sounding. Available in two models - Standard and Advanced Programmable featuring additional personalised options, Nightlight Feature/Snooze Option, Security option and intelligent LCD display. http://www.livingiseasy.co.uk/search/?search=lumie Copyright 2005 Tzaf Barak http://www.livingiseasy.co.uk info@livingiseasy.co.uk 02074831991 Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tzaf_Baralk http://EzineArticles.com/?Lumie-Dawn-Simulation-Wake-Up-Clocks—The-perfect-Start-To-Your-Day!&id=11972 supplements for male infertility male infertility fsh treatment for male infertility ejaculating stronger

Saving Energy in the Kitchen

Wednesday, September 19th, 2007

By Dave Brummet The kitchen, with all its appliances, gadgets and heat, is a real hotspot for potential energy saving. As the oven uses the most energy and creates a vast amount of heat while cooking foods, it is a good place to start. For instance, when baking cookies use two trays. While one is in the oven baking, the other one is prepped with raw cookies ready to replace the tray in the oven with no wasted heat and some time saved. When we bake bread we also fill the oven with foil wrapped potatoes. The potatoes can be stored in the fridge without the foil and used throughout the week in a myriad of recipes, or as a side dish. This method can be applied to a menu plan in that if you are baking one dish, try to include a side dish that is baked as well. By turning off the oven a minute or two before the dish is done, the residual heat will finish the cooking. When done with the oven, open the door to allow any leftover heat to warm the home. Pasta cooking water can be left out until it has completely cooled so that the heat and moisture are released back into the air. Before pulling the plug, consider leaving hot dishwater (and bath water) until it cools. Why pay to heat up your sewer pipes? When cooking vegetables, consider steaming instead of boiling. When steamed, more nutrients are retained in the food, and because it requires less water to heat - there is less energy used. In summer, consider cooking on the barbecue to help keep the house cool. Most barbecues now include side burners that make outdoor cooking all that much easier. All these methods are relatively easy to adopt and when added up, the savings in energy and time really do make a difference. — Written by Dave and Lillian Brummet based on the concept of their new book Trash Talk. The book offers useful solutions for the individual to reduce waste and better manage resources. A guide for anyone concerned about his or her impact on the environment. (http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit) Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_Brummet http://EzineArticles.com/?Saving-Energy-in-the-Kitchen&id=11058 safe online prescriptions purchase prescriptions online weight loss medications online prescriptions meds online

Pruning Your Bonsai Correctly

Monday, September 17th, 2007

By Steve Welker One of the primary methods used to limit the size of a bonsai tree is pruning. Pruning is the careful remove of parts of the tree to shape it and limit the size. Properly pruning your bonsai is critical for the health and design of your tree. The frequency and degree of pruning is heavily dependant on the size, age and type of tree being pruned. Deciduous saplings are not pruned at all the first year and are usually only pruned once the second year. With conifers it is best not to prune them at all until the third year. If you are trying to increase the trunk thickness of a deciduous tree that is 3 to 5 years old you should cut it back twice a year. You should wait to do this cutting until the tree has grown to about 2/3rds of the planned final height. How many leaves you leave on the tree depends on the size and shape of crown that you are trying to develop. Usually you will leave from 1 to 8 leaves. Mature trees that are more developed are usually not pruned until there are 5 to 8 leaves on the shoots. While the tree is growing the there is a hormone released from growing shoots that flows downward under the inner bark (bast) that prohibits buds from forming below. When you remove the growing shoot then the hormone production stops so the next bud down will start to develop. Since the development of this new bud starts producing the hormone again you will only get one new bud to start growing. If a shoot has any leaves growing on it then the tips are usually removed in the late summer. This gives the shoot time to thicken and harden to survive over the winter and to develop new buds. The method used to remove these tips is called pinching and is normally done with tweezers or your finger tips. This will cause the tree to stop growing for the season and start preparing for winter. However, if the soil nitrates are high then the tree will probably continue growing instead of preparing for its winter dormacy. If you need to remove large branches from deciduous trees it is best done during the peak growing season. This peak season runs from early spring until mid summer. If you do the cutting during this time the cut area will heal much faster. When removing large branches you should use concave or wen cutters. These create a concave wound that will heal better with less scarring. You should always use a wound sealant to help protect the tree. Japanese paste works very well and is easily removed once the cut has healed. With conifers you can safely remove large branches even during the winter as well as during the growing season. On a conifer you might want to consider leaving part of the branch intact on the tree. This can be turned in to a jin for cosmetic appeal. Proper pruning is critical for the proper development of your tree. It allows you to control the size and appearance to create exactly the visual image that you want. Like many things proper pruning takes time and practice. Be patient and if in doubt about removing something then leave it. You can always cut it off later. Everything you want to know about Bonsai Trees and Bonsai Plant Visit our Bonsai Blog Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Welker http://EzineArticles.com/?Pruning-Your-Bonsai-Correctly&id=266849 buy carisoprodol soma buy carisoprodol generic soma generic soma online discount soma online

Gastric Bypass Surgery - How It Works

Saturday, September 15th, 2007

By Craig Thompson Gastric bypass surgery makes your stomach smaller. This causes you to feel full with less food so you consume fewer calories. The procedure also bypasses part of your small intestine, so fewer calories are actually absorbed into your system. Fewer calories will ultimately lead to weight loss. When you eat food, it passes through the esophagus and enters into the stomach, where gastric acids soften the food and begin to dissolve it. Next, this semi-liquid mixture enters into the small intestine, where most of the calories and essential nutrients are absorbed by your body. Finally, whatever is left passes into the large intestine and eventually through the colon as it is expelled from the body. Gastric bypass surgery restructures the stomach and intestinal system, resulting in intentional malabsorption and limiting the patients ability to eat large quantities of food. Common Gastric Bypass Procedures The most common gastric bypass surgery is a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The surgeon will create a small pouch at the top of the stomach using surgical staples. Next, he will connect this smaller pouch directly to the middle of the small intestine (called the jejunum). This causes the food to bypass the lower part of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (called the duodenum). Historically, the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was does as an open procedure, which means the surgeon makes a large incision in the outer stomach wall to access the abdominal cavity. Today, the laparoscopic procedure is more common for those who qualify. This method is performed by making up to five small incisions in the outer stomach wall and using extremely small instruments and a tiny camera to guide them. Risks and Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery Typically, the surgery requires a two to six day hospital stay, depending on which procedure you have done. Usually, you can return to normal activities within three to five weeks. The type of work you do may require a longer convalescence period. Some of the benefits of gastric bypass surgery are: Most people lose between 60% and 80% of their excess weight over a two to three year period. The majority of patients manage to keep at least 50% of their excess weight off permanently. Other obesity-related health problems, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, are often minimized or eliminated. There are also several serious risks with gastric bypass surgery, such as: Peritonitis, a severe infection caused by a leak from the stomach into the abdominal cavity from a ruptured staple or stitch. The possibility of a blood clot breaking away from the surgical area and getting caught in the lung (called a pulmonary embolism). However, recent studies indicate that only about 2% to 3% of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients die within 90 days of the procedure. (Source: Gastric Bypass Let the Morbidly Obese Beware, by Neil Osterweil, Senior Associate Editor, MedPage Today.) Common Side Effects of Gastric Bypass Surgery Gastric bypass surgery can also cause several less serious short- and long-term side effects, such as: Dumping syndrome, which can occur when food moves too quickly through the small intestine. This disorder causes nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness, and possibly diarrhea soon after eating and is generally caused by eating highly refined foods, like sugars. Developing gallstones or a nutritional deficiency, such as anemia or osteoporosis. The connection between the stomach and the intestines can narrow, causing nausea and vomiting after eating. Patients can develop stomach ulcers or a hernia. The bypassed part of the stomach can enlarge, causing bloating and hiccups. Of course, any surgery has some risks associated with it. That is why it is essential that you consider all of the benefits and risks associated with gastric bypass surgery and talk them over with your doctor and perhaps even a mental health professional. Craig Thompson, better known as “Big T,” a former sumo wrestler who used to tip the scales at 400 pounds has since reinvented himself as a singer and bandleader. As one of the earliest to have Gastric Bypass Surgery, in 1997. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Craig_Thompson http://EzineArticles.com/?Gastric-Bypass-Surgery—How-It-Works&id=99519 finasteride prescription online buy propecia online pharmacy buy propecia online pharmacy buy cheap generic propecia

Foods To Avoid That Cause Bad Breath

Saturday, September 15th, 2007

By Harold Katz Did you know that there are specific foods that may lead to bad breath? This is because of volatile sulfur compounds - the culprit in causing bad breath! For example, if food sits out too long it will spoil. That spoiling action is due to anaerobic bacteria breaking down proteins in that particular food. In milk, the odor of sour milk is caused by relatives of the bugs that create bad breath when they break down proteins in the milk (and basically in all dairy foods). A reaction takes place where ‘the bad breath bugs’ extract sulfur compounds from the amino acids in these proteins. Specifically, the amino acid Cysteine is converted to Hydrogen Sulfide (which has a rotten egg smell) and Methionine becomes Methyl Mercaptan (which smells like a cross between old socks and garlic). The same analogy applies to meat if it sits out too long. Everyone knows that onions and garlic will create bad breath. But do you know why? It’s because the odorous molecules in onions and garlic are actually sulfur compounds themselves called Mercaptans. Sulfur is nature’s way of creating odors. You’re all familiar with the skunk. Its odor is created by a defense and/or attack mechanism. Skunk odor is made up of skatoles, which are naturally occurring sulfur compounds. In a similar fashion, bacteria in your mouth creates the volatile sulfur compounds of bad breath and taste disorders. There are 4 food categories that will result in an increase of sulfur production because these categories have a stimulating affect on the bacteria that cause bad breath: 1. Drying Agents 2. Dense Protein Foods 3. Sugars 4. Acidic Foods Let’s look closely at each of these food categories and how they stimulate bad breath! DRYING AGENTS The most common drying agent in food is alcohol. Alcohol of course, is the basis of all “adult” beverages such as beer, wine, and hard liquor. It is also used, unfortunately, in many mouthwashes you find in the grocery stores, which only makes a bad breath problem worse. Alcohol, known chemically as a desiccant, is used quite often in laboratories to “dry out” hard to reach areas in test tubes and beakers. The same end result takes place in the oral cavity. Although cigarettes are not really food, smoking is probably the quickest way to dry out your mouth, with alcohol being the second. If you smoke, you are bound to have bad breath! DENSE PROTEIN FOODS Dairy foods are notorious for creating bad breath. An article that appeared in the “Los Angeles Times” once noted that over 50% of the population in Southern California was “lactose intolerant”. With regards to bad breath, many of these people (numbering in the tens of millions) end up with more dense proteins available as bad breath fuel for the bacteria than those who have no problem with dairy foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, etc. The end result is a buildup of amino acids, which are easily converted into volatile sulfur compounds by the anaerobic bacteria found within the surface of your tongue and throat. To a lesser extent, people have the same problem with other types of food that are considered to be dense in protein such as beef, chicken, and fish. Another problem, thankfully rare, has to do with people who have an inability to break down certain proteins found in beans. This condition is called TMA (Trimethylaminuria) and is sometimes known as the “Fish Odor Syndrome,” because the odor produced is similar to decaying fish. The odor consists of sulfur compounds, plus nitrogen compounds (amines). People with this condition must abstain from beans and other types of food that are dense in protein. SUGARS Wouldn’t it be great if we could get rid of bad breath by chewing on M&Ms? Or what if the cure for bad breath were Hershey Kisses? That’s what the makers of Altoids would have you believe. Altoids, and other products of the same ilk, are trying to fool the public into believing that a strong “good” taste in your mouth is equivalent to the “freshness” of your breath. This is so anti-scientific it’s absurd! If you think about it for a minute, it really doesn’t make any sense. By using concentrated mint flavorings, your taste buds pick up mint as a taste. However, Altoids contains two types of sugar which again, are a fuel for the bacteria to reproduce and create more sulfur compounds - thus bad breath. In addition, the frightening part is that other bacteria can take the sugars and produce glycan strands, which in turn end up causing thick layers of plaque on the enamel of your teeth and around your gums. This leads to tooth decay and gum disease - and you guessed it - worse breath than you started with! Since you can’t smell your own breath, you just go merrily along with that great strong mint taste in your mouth, while others close to you are backing away - backing away from your increased bad breath, decayed teeth, and gross, swollen, bleeding gums! Stay away from candies, mints, and chewing gum if they contain sugar! Instead, let me recommend an alternative created by TheraBreath called the TheraBreath Oxygenating Chewing Gum (http://www.therabreath.com/products.asp?CAT=5). It releases Oxygen molecules directly into your mouth and also contains the antibacterial agent, Zinc Gluconate. This agent is found in many cold medications. In addition it contains Xylitol, which is a natural sweetening agent with an anti-decay compound. ACIDIC FOODS Foods with a high acidic content are a problem as well. pH is a term used to describe the acidity of an environment. The oral cavity has a normal pH of 6.5 (7 is considered neutral). Some of the foods you should watch out for are coffee and many citrus juices. Both decaffeinated and regular coffee contain acids. However, tea is okay. Among the citrus juices the ones with the highest acidic content include tomato juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grapefruit juice. We know that acids make the bacteria reproduce much faster. In order to decrease the production of odorous sulfur compounds, the acid environment needs to be neutralized. What can you learn from all this? Avoiding foods that contribute to, if not cause, bad breath is vital if you want to have clean fresh breath. While this is a difficult task, being aware of these bad breath causing elements is the first step in developing confidence in your breath. In addition, it is important to use oral care products that are free of alcohol, sugar, and that also have a high pH level. Dr. Harold Katz is the worldwide expert on the topics of bad breath, halitosis, and dry mouth. Searching for a bad breath solution? To receive your FREE copy of his easy-to-read “Bad Breath Bible” visit: http://www.TheraBreath.com/web/art/L-FTCBB.asp Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harold_Katz http://EzineArticles.com/?Foods-To-Avoid-That-Cause-Bad-Breath&id=63779 herbal breast enhancement pills herbal breast enlargement pill herbs for firm breast all natural breast enlargement