Ayurveda comprising of Ayur (life) and Veda (Scince or knowledge) is a holistic healing science which is in other words called “Science of life”.
Ayurveda deals with the complete way of life, rather than just the treatment of diseases.Basic principlesAyurveda considers the humanity and universe as a common origin, and considers nature to […]
Showing posts with label Cholesterol. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cholesterol. Show all posts
Friday, April 11, 2008
Friday, February 01, 2008
Atkins-Like Diet Cuts Epileptic Seizures
(HealthDay News) -- Adults with epilepsy who have failed other treatments may be able to dramatically reduce their number of seizures by following a modified Atkins-like diet, Johns Hopkins researchers report.
The high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet has already been shown to be valuable in controlling seizures in children, and now results from a small study suggest that the diet also works for adults.
"There are a lot of adults with very bad seizures. There are a lot of adults who have failed medicines and are not candidates for other treatments," said lead researcher Dr. Eric H. Kossoff, an assistant professor of neurology and pediatrics at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
For the study, Kossoff's team gave the diet to 30 adults who had unsuccessfully tried at least two anti-convulsant drugs and had an average of 10 seizures a week. The eating plan restricts patients to 15 grams of carbohydrates a day. Most of the calories come from fats such as eggs, meats, oils and heavy cream. In addition, patients are free to eat as much protein and no-carb drinks as they want.
"There was good news and bad news," Kossoff said. "The good news was it worked. The bad news it was tough. About 30 percent of the patients stopped the diet. This happened even in patients who had good seizure control who thought the diet was still too tough to do."
After a month on the diet, half the patients reported suffering 50 percent fewer seizures. At three months, about one-third of the patients cut the frequency of seizures by half.
However, by three months, one-third of the patients had dropped out of the study because they found the diet too restrictive, Kossoff said.
The diet's side effects, such as increases in cholesterol or triglycerides, were mild, Kossoff noted.
After six months on the diet, 14 patients continued with it, even though the study was over, he said.
The findings are published in the February issue of the journal Epilepsia.
No one knows how the diet works to reduce seizures, Kossoff said. And, most people find it too hard to follow, so it's probably not a long-term solution for most people with epilepsy, he added.
He also noted that patients who go on the diet need to continue with it, perhaps for years to keep seizures under control.
But Kossoff thinks the diet can be simplified to make it easier to follow. "We are looking at less time in the clinic and fewer restrictions and without a dietitian," he said.
Dr. Gholam Motamedi, director of the epilepsy service at Georgetown University Hospital, thinks the diet can be useful for patients who have no other options.
"The study is promising, especially given that patients with refractory epilepsy in particular -- those who are not surgical candidates -- are left with not much hope," he said.
Normally, the plan for these patients is to try a combination of different drugs or to use vagus nerve stimulation, but none of these options offers much hope of seizure control, Motamedi said.
"Therefore, having another modality available is always welcomed by the neurologists," he said. "It also encourages basic research looking for insight to the underlying reasons for epilepsy."
More information
For more on epilepsy, visit the Epilepsy Foundation.
The high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet has already been shown to be valuable in controlling seizures in children, and now results from a small study suggest that the diet also works for adults.
"There are a lot of adults with very bad seizures. There are a lot of adults who have failed medicines and are not candidates for other treatments," said lead researcher Dr. Eric H. Kossoff, an assistant professor of neurology and pediatrics at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
For the study, Kossoff's team gave the diet to 30 adults who had unsuccessfully tried at least two anti-convulsant drugs and had an average of 10 seizures a week. The eating plan restricts patients to 15 grams of carbohydrates a day. Most of the calories come from fats such as eggs, meats, oils and heavy cream. In addition, patients are free to eat as much protein and no-carb drinks as they want.
"There was good news and bad news," Kossoff said. "The good news was it worked. The bad news it was tough. About 30 percent of the patients stopped the diet. This happened even in patients who had good seizure control who thought the diet was still too tough to do."
After a month on the diet, half the patients reported suffering 50 percent fewer seizures. At three months, about one-third of the patients cut the frequency of seizures by half.
However, by three months, one-third of the patients had dropped out of the study because they found the diet too restrictive, Kossoff said.
The diet's side effects, such as increases in cholesterol or triglycerides, were mild, Kossoff noted.
After six months on the diet, 14 patients continued with it, even though the study was over, he said.
The findings are published in the February issue of the journal Epilepsia.
No one knows how the diet works to reduce seizures, Kossoff said. And, most people find it too hard to follow, so it's probably not a long-term solution for most people with epilepsy, he added.
He also noted that patients who go on the diet need to continue with it, perhaps for years to keep seizures under control.
But Kossoff thinks the diet can be simplified to make it easier to follow. "We are looking at less time in the clinic and fewer restrictions and without a dietitian," he said.
Dr. Gholam Motamedi, director of the epilepsy service at Georgetown University Hospital, thinks the diet can be useful for patients who have no other options.
"The study is promising, especially given that patients with refractory epilepsy in particular -- those who are not surgical candidates -- are left with not much hope," he said.
Normally, the plan for these patients is to try a combination of different drugs or to use vagus nerve stimulation, but none of these options offers much hope of seizure control, Motamedi said.
"Therefore, having another modality available is always welcomed by the neurologists," he said. "It also encourages basic research looking for insight to the underlying reasons for epilepsy."
More information
For more on epilepsy, visit the Epilepsy Foundation.
Friday, November 30, 2007
We Can! Program Takes Aim at Childhood Obesity
(HealthDay News) -- The U.S. National Institutes of Health and the Association of Children's Museums are teaming up on a program to combat the obesity epidemic among America's children.
The program -- called We Can! (Ways to Enhance Children's Activity and Nutrition) -- was introduced Thursday in Boston, Las Vegas and Pittsburgh, which have been designated as We Can! cities.
Other We Can! communities include Armstrong County, Pa.; Carson City, Nev.; Gary, Ind.; South Bend, Ind.; and Roswell, Ga.
"I am really confident that this partnership among the federal government, the We Can! program, the Association of Children's Museums and civic organizations is ultimately going to lead to healthier children in the United States, healthier families and better health-care outcomes for everybody," acting U.S. Surgeon General Rear Admiral Dr. Steven K. Galson said during an afternoon teleconference.
Dr. Elias Zerhouni, director of the National Institutes of Health, said childhood obesity has reached "crisis" proportions.
"We are facing a crisis, and we must find ways to change the tide that is facing us and affecting our children," Zerhouni said during the teleconference.
There are more than 12.5 million overweight children and teens in the United States. Galson said obesity is a big contributor to such childhood health problems as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and asthma.
"Chronic diseases cause seven out of 10 deaths," Galson said. "And the costs are staggering."
Galson noted that portion sizes have increased while life in America has become more sedentary. "Our kids are growing up with unhealthy lifestyles, the consequences of which could be with them for the rest of their lives," he said.
"Reversing this epidemic does not have one answer," he added. "It's going to take a concerted action by all of us. We need to focus our activities on prevention -- on what we can do today."
We Can! can be a model for overcoming the challenges of childhood obesity and overweight, Galson said. "Its partnerships are demonstrating how physical activity and sound lifestyle choices can make a difference and how communities can work together to make those lifestyle choices real," he said.
We Can! is an education program to help children aged 8 to 13 years old to maintain a healthy weight. It's being implemented in more than 450 communities in 44 states.
Zerhouni said getting kids away from the TV and the computer is key to improving their health. Increased activity, better food choices and smaller portions complete the arsenal for fighting the obesity epidemic, he said.
The three new We Can! cities announced Thursday are introducing the program to city employees, community groups, corporate wellness programs, health professionals and schools.
While improvement in childhood obesity is vital, the results may not be seen for decades, Galson said.
"It's a national necessity with profound implications -- we all have a stake in the outcome," he said. "The result may not be apparent for many years, but it's going to be a fitter, healthier, more physically active nation in which the epidemic of childhood obesity slows down."
In addition to the Association of Children's Museums, 40 national and corporate partners are starting We Can! programs in community centers, schools, health-care settings, corporate wellness programs and faith-based organizations, officials said.
A study this week by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that after increasing for the last 25 years, the prevalence of obesity among adults has not risen in the past few years. Still, 34 percent of Americans aged 20 and older are obese.
"In view of these alarmingly high rates of obesity in all population groups, [the] CDC has made the prevention of obesity one of its top public health priorities," Janet Collins, director of CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, said in a prepared statement. "We are actively working in partnership with state and local public health agencies, the nation's schools, community organizations, businesses, medical systems and faith communities to promote and support healthy eating, physical activity and healthy weight."
More information
To learn more about the We Can! program, visit the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
The program -- called We Can! (Ways to Enhance Children's Activity and Nutrition) -- was introduced Thursday in Boston, Las Vegas and Pittsburgh, which have been designated as We Can! cities.
Other We Can! communities include Armstrong County, Pa.; Carson City, Nev.; Gary, Ind.; South Bend, Ind.; and Roswell, Ga.
"I am really confident that this partnership among the federal government, the We Can! program, the Association of Children's Museums and civic organizations is ultimately going to lead to healthier children in the United States, healthier families and better health-care outcomes for everybody," acting U.S. Surgeon General Rear Admiral Dr. Steven K. Galson said during an afternoon teleconference.
Dr. Elias Zerhouni, director of the National Institutes of Health, said childhood obesity has reached "crisis" proportions.
"We are facing a crisis, and we must find ways to change the tide that is facing us and affecting our children," Zerhouni said during the teleconference.
There are more than 12.5 million overweight children and teens in the United States. Galson said obesity is a big contributor to such childhood health problems as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and asthma.
"Chronic diseases cause seven out of 10 deaths," Galson said. "And the costs are staggering."
Galson noted that portion sizes have increased while life in America has become more sedentary. "Our kids are growing up with unhealthy lifestyles, the consequences of which could be with them for the rest of their lives," he said.
"Reversing this epidemic does not have one answer," he added. "It's going to take a concerted action by all of us. We need to focus our activities on prevention -- on what we can do today."
We Can! can be a model for overcoming the challenges of childhood obesity and overweight, Galson said. "Its partnerships are demonstrating how physical activity and sound lifestyle choices can make a difference and how communities can work together to make those lifestyle choices real," he said.
We Can! is an education program to help children aged 8 to 13 years old to maintain a healthy weight. It's being implemented in more than 450 communities in 44 states.
Zerhouni said getting kids away from the TV and the computer is key to improving their health. Increased activity, better food choices and smaller portions complete the arsenal for fighting the obesity epidemic, he said.
The three new We Can! cities announced Thursday are introducing the program to city employees, community groups, corporate wellness programs, health professionals and schools.
While improvement in childhood obesity is vital, the results may not be seen for decades, Galson said.
"It's a national necessity with profound implications -- we all have a stake in the outcome," he said. "The result may not be apparent for many years, but it's going to be a fitter, healthier, more physically active nation in which the epidemic of childhood obesity slows down."
In addition to the Association of Children's Museums, 40 national and corporate partners are starting We Can! programs in community centers, schools, health-care settings, corporate wellness programs and faith-based organizations, officials said.
A study this week by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that after increasing for the last 25 years, the prevalence of obesity among adults has not risen in the past few years. Still, 34 percent of Americans aged 20 and older are obese.
"In view of these alarmingly high rates of obesity in all population groups, [the] CDC has made the prevention of obesity one of its top public health priorities," Janet Collins, director of CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, said in a prepared statement. "We are actively working in partnership with state and local public health agencies, the nation's schools, community organizations, businesses, medical systems and faith communities to promote and support healthy eating, physical activity and healthy weight."
More information
To learn more about the We Can! program, visit the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Health Tip: Risk Factors for Gallstones
(HealthDay News) -- Gallstones are formed when bile inside the gallbladder hardens into rock-like pieces. They may or may not be painful, and may have to be removed or broken apart if they're causing problems such as infection.
Here are common risk factors for gallstones, courtesy of the U.S. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse:
Here are common risk factors for gallstones, courtesy of the U.S. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse:
- Retaining excess estrogen, from pregnancy, birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
- Having a family history of gallstones.
- Being overweight or obese.
- Undergoing excessive, rapid weight loss, which can be characteristic of fad dieting.
- Eating a diet low in fiber and high in cholesterol and fat.
- Having diabetes.
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Monday, March 19, 2007
Most American Seniors Live With Chronic Disease
(HealthDay News) -- Eight of 10 Americans age 65 or older are living with heart disease, diabetes or some other form of chronic illness, according to a new report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The State of Aging and Health in America 2007 was released Thursday and includes up-to-date information on 15 key health indicators for older adults.
"We are really interested in healthy aging and in ways we can promote healthy aging even in the presence of chronic diseases," said Lynda Anderson, chief of the CDC's Health Care and Aging Studies Branch.
The report is also a report card on how the states measure up to the national goals established in Healthy People 2010, Anderson noted.
The number of Americans 65 and older is estimated to reach 71 million by 2030, about 20 percent of the population. By that time, U.S. health care spending is estimated to increase by 25 percent because of an aging population, according to the report.
The report looks at seniors' "health status" -- the number of physically unhealthy days seniors experience, their frequency of mental distress, their oral health and levels of physical disability. There is also an evaluation of health behaviors, such as physical inactivity, nutrition, obesity and smoking.
The study also assesses preventive care and screening. These factors include flu vaccine, pneumonia vaccine, mammography, colorectal cancer screening, preventive screening, and cholesterol levels. In addition, injuries such a hip fracture hospitalizations are also evaluated.
"The good news is that, at the national level, we are actually meeting some of the [government's] Healthy People 2010 targets," Anderson said. For example, national goals are being met in mammograms, colorectal cancer screening, cholesterol testing and the reduction in the number of smokers, she said. "Only 9 percent of older adults are smoking," she added. In addition, 21 states and the District of Columbia have met targets on oral health.
However, no state has met the target for physical activity, eating fruits and vegetables daily, and flu and pneumonia vaccines, and only three states -- Colorado, Hawaii, and New Mexico -- have met the target for lowering obesity.
In addition, more progress is needed in making sure older Americans get flu and pneumonia vaccinations. There also needs to be an effort to reduce hospitalizations for hip fractures, particularly among women, according to the report.
In terms of individual states, Minnesota, Oregon, California, Hawaii and Washington are doing the best in meeting national health care goals, Anderson said. Those at the bottom of the list include Mississippi, Georgia, and other southeastern states, she noted.
Anderson also said that one of the areas that is lagging behind in most places is physical activity. Older adults simply aren't getting enough, Anderson said. "If we can point to a critical area where people can benefit, it is physical activity," she said. "Physical activity can prevent functional decline, falls, and it may even improve cognitive health," she said.
The hidden threat to senior health is the epidemic of obesity, Anderson said. "Obesity can undermine all the other good things that are happening," she said.
Factors like obesity may be taking their toll: 80 percent of older Americans suffer from one chronic disease, and a full half of seniors are burdened by two chronic illnesses, the CDC report found.
One expert is concerned that while some goals are being met, others that are more difficult to achieve are not being addressed.
"It's a great achievement that we have identified areas to focus on and are measuring our progress toward achieving those goals," said Dr. Mike Steinman, an assistant professor of geriatrics at the University of California, San Francisco.
Steinman said the easier goals -- such as mammography and colorectal cancer screening -- have been achieved. "However, a lot of the more complex efforts, for example, preventing obesity, increasing people's fruit and vegetable intake and helping to maintain oral health, are not being met," he said.
Health is not just going down a list and checking off boxes, Steinman said. "There are a lot of more complex series of behaviors and interventions that can be much harder to measure but probably have a lot more impact on people's quality of life," he said.
Steinman believes that physicians are too often focusing on items they can quickly check off during an office visit. They may be too pressed by time and money concerns to deal with other aspects of a patient's life, such as diet and exercise.
"If doctor's pay is being based in part on their performing according to these checklists, and if their quality is being measured by these checklists, there is an incentive for them to do those things on the list, even at the exclusion of other things which may not be on the list but may be more important." Steinman said.
Anderson agrees that doctors alone can't hope to deal with implementing all the health recommendations older people need. "For example, we want to have the physician tell people they need to get physical activity, and then the community needs to help link people with the ways people can do that," she said.
More information
For more information on healthy aging, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The State of Aging and Health in America 2007 was released Thursday and includes up-to-date information on 15 key health indicators for older adults.
"We are really interested in healthy aging and in ways we can promote healthy aging even in the presence of chronic diseases," said Lynda Anderson, chief of the CDC's Health Care and Aging Studies Branch.
The report is also a report card on how the states measure up to the national goals established in Healthy People 2010, Anderson noted.
The number of Americans 65 and older is estimated to reach 71 million by 2030, about 20 percent of the population. By that time, U.S. health care spending is estimated to increase by 25 percent because of an aging population, according to the report.
The report looks at seniors' "health status" -- the number of physically unhealthy days seniors experience, their frequency of mental distress, their oral health and levels of physical disability. There is also an evaluation of health behaviors, such as physical inactivity, nutrition, obesity and smoking.
The study also assesses preventive care and screening. These factors include flu vaccine, pneumonia vaccine, mammography, colorectal cancer screening, preventive screening, and cholesterol levels. In addition, injuries such a hip fracture hospitalizations are also evaluated.
"The good news is that, at the national level, we are actually meeting some of the [government's] Healthy People 2010 targets," Anderson said. For example, national goals are being met in mammograms, colorectal cancer screening, cholesterol testing and the reduction in the number of smokers, she said. "Only 9 percent of older adults are smoking," she added. In addition, 21 states and the District of Columbia have met targets on oral health.
However, no state has met the target for physical activity, eating fruits and vegetables daily, and flu and pneumonia vaccines, and only three states -- Colorado, Hawaii, and New Mexico -- have met the target for lowering obesity.
In addition, more progress is needed in making sure older Americans get flu and pneumonia vaccinations. There also needs to be an effort to reduce hospitalizations for hip fractures, particularly among women, according to the report.
In terms of individual states, Minnesota, Oregon, California, Hawaii and Washington are doing the best in meeting national health care goals, Anderson said. Those at the bottom of the list include Mississippi, Georgia, and other southeastern states, she noted.
Anderson also said that one of the areas that is lagging behind in most places is physical activity. Older adults simply aren't getting enough, Anderson said. "If we can point to a critical area where people can benefit, it is physical activity," she said. "Physical activity can prevent functional decline, falls, and it may even improve cognitive health," she said.
The hidden threat to senior health is the epidemic of obesity, Anderson said. "Obesity can undermine all the other good things that are happening," she said.
Factors like obesity may be taking their toll: 80 percent of older Americans suffer from one chronic disease, and a full half of seniors are burdened by two chronic illnesses, the CDC report found.
One expert is concerned that while some goals are being met, others that are more difficult to achieve are not being addressed.
"It's a great achievement that we have identified areas to focus on and are measuring our progress toward achieving those goals," said Dr. Mike Steinman, an assistant professor of geriatrics at the University of California, San Francisco.
Steinman said the easier goals -- such as mammography and colorectal cancer screening -- have been achieved. "However, a lot of the more complex efforts, for example, preventing obesity, increasing people's fruit and vegetable intake and helping to maintain oral health, are not being met," he said.
Health is not just going down a list and checking off boxes, Steinman said. "There are a lot of more complex series of behaviors and interventions that can be much harder to measure but probably have a lot more impact on people's quality of life," he said.
Steinman believes that physicians are too often focusing on items they can quickly check off during an office visit. They may be too pressed by time and money concerns to deal with other aspects of a patient's life, such as diet and exercise.
"If doctor's pay is being based in part on their performing according to these checklists, and if their quality is being measured by these checklists, there is an incentive for them to do those things on the list, even at the exclusion of other things which may not be on the list but may be more important." Steinman said.
Anderson agrees that doctors alone can't hope to deal with implementing all the health recommendations older people need. "For example, we want to have the physician tell people they need to get physical activity, and then the community needs to help link people with the ways people can do that," she said.
More information
For more information on healthy aging, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Scientists have demonstrated through over 40 studies, spanning a 20-year period that eating 25 grams of soy per day helps reduce risk by heart disease
Scientists have demonstrated through over 40 studies, spanning a 20-year period that eating 25 grams of soy per day helps reduce the risk of America's number—one killer—heart disease.In October 1999, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed the makers of soy products to claim that eating 25 grams of soy per day as a part of a low fat, low-cholesterol diet may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
Although soy has been a staple of Asian cuisine for centuries, Westerners have just recently discovered its valuable health benefits. Soy is also a valuable source of protein and contains no saturated fat or cholesterol.
more informtion's at eexcel by www.dreddyclinic.com
Intimidating and formidable, the cactus plant's thorny exterior guards a remarkable source of nutrition.
Intimidating and formidable, the cactus plant's thorny exterior guards a remarkable source of nutrition.In addition to supporting a strong immune system, cactus can reduce inflammation, maintain healthy cholesterol and sugar levels, and enhance the body's overall health.
Though the thousands of phytochemicals in cactus were once nature's best-kept secret, scientists have recently uncovered a number of well-known nutrients. Cactus contains pectin, which contributes fiber, and carotenes and ascorbic acid, which strengthen antioxidant activity.
more info at eexcel by www.dreddyclinic.com
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Folic Acid Doesn't Help the Heart
(HealthDay News) -- If you're taking folic acid supplements to try to stave off a second heart attack or stroke, you'd probably get more benefit from making lifestyle changes, such as exercising more and eating right, new research suggests.
In an analysis of a dozen randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials, researchers found that folic acid supplements do little to reduce cardiovascular disease risk in people who already have a history of heart disease, stroke or serious kidney disease.
"Consuming a supplement of folic acid is probably not going to mitigate your risk of cardiovascular disease," said the study's lead author, Dr. Lydia Bazzano, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, in New Orleans.
Results of Bazzano's analysis are published in the Dec. 13 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
According to Dr. Stephen Siegel, a cardiologist at New York University Medical Center in New York City: "The whole concept [of folic acid supplementation] began because we know there's an association between homocysteine levels and atherosclerotic disease, and we know that we can safely lower homocysteine with folic acid. But we don't know if there's a cause-and-effect relationship between homocysteine and cardiovascular disease, or simply an association. Many doctors jumped on the bandwagon, however, because folic acid didn't have the potential to do any harm, but it looked like it might help."
"It was a great thought," Siegel said, but added, "Unfortunately, there's no easy magic bullet. This study cements the evidence presented by other studies that there doesn't seem to be any cardiovascular benefit from folic acid supplements."
For the new study, Bazzano and her colleagues reviewed published literature from 1966 through July 2006 to find studies that had been done comparing folic acid to the use of a placebo in people who had a history of cardiovascular disease.
The researchers found 12 studies that fit their criteria. Together, the studies included data from nearly 17,000 people who took either a placebo or a folic acid supplement for at least six months.
When looking at the studies combined, 18.3 percent of those taking folic acid experienced a cardiovascular event, compared to 19.2 percent of those on a placebo. For heart disease, the rates were 11.4 percent for people taking folic acid supplements, and 10.6 percent for those on a placebo. And 4.7 percent of those on folic acid had a stroke, compared to 5.8 percent of patients on a placebo.
One piece of good news from the study is that taking folic acid appeared to be safe, and it didn't increase the risk for mortality.
"This study provides very important info, and it shows that cardiovascular disease prevention is not as simple as taking a pill," said Dr. Julius Gardin, chief of cardiology at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit. "I don't know that the final answer on folic acid has been written yet, but this study suggests that folic acid supplementation is not effective for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease," he added.
Bazzano was quick to point out, however, that this study doesn't mean people shouldn't get folic acid -- which in its natural form is known as folate -- from a healthful diet. Leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits are rich in folate and are important components in a healthy diet.
And, eating a healthy diet is a known way to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Other ways of reducing your risk include quitting smoking, lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol, and controlling diabetes, according to Bazzano.
Both Siegel and Gardin said exercise is very important in protecting your cardiovascular health, as well.
"Exercise is probably one of the most critical things that people can do. At a minimum, people should get 30 minutes of activity at least five days a week," said Siegel, who added that most people should also add 40 minutes to an hour of moderately strenuous activity into their routines another two or three times a week.
More information
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers advice on keeping your heart healthy.
In an analysis of a dozen randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials, researchers found that folic acid supplements do little to reduce cardiovascular disease risk in people who already have a history of heart disease, stroke or serious kidney disease.
"Consuming a supplement of folic acid is probably not going to mitigate your risk of cardiovascular disease," said the study's lead author, Dr. Lydia Bazzano, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, in New Orleans.
Results of Bazzano's analysis are published in the Dec. 13 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
According to Dr. Stephen Siegel, a cardiologist at New York University Medical Center in New York City: "The whole concept [of folic acid supplementation] began because we know there's an association between homocysteine levels and atherosclerotic disease, and we know that we can safely lower homocysteine with folic acid. But we don't know if there's a cause-and-effect relationship between homocysteine and cardiovascular disease, or simply an association. Many doctors jumped on the bandwagon, however, because folic acid didn't have the potential to do any harm, but it looked like it might help."
"It was a great thought," Siegel said, but added, "Unfortunately, there's no easy magic bullet. This study cements the evidence presented by other studies that there doesn't seem to be any cardiovascular benefit from folic acid supplements."
For the new study, Bazzano and her colleagues reviewed published literature from 1966 through July 2006 to find studies that had been done comparing folic acid to the use of a placebo in people who had a history of cardiovascular disease.
The researchers found 12 studies that fit their criteria. Together, the studies included data from nearly 17,000 people who took either a placebo or a folic acid supplement for at least six months.
When looking at the studies combined, 18.3 percent of those taking folic acid experienced a cardiovascular event, compared to 19.2 percent of those on a placebo. For heart disease, the rates were 11.4 percent for people taking folic acid supplements, and 10.6 percent for those on a placebo. And 4.7 percent of those on folic acid had a stroke, compared to 5.8 percent of patients on a placebo.
One piece of good news from the study is that taking folic acid appeared to be safe, and it didn't increase the risk for mortality.
"This study provides very important info, and it shows that cardiovascular disease prevention is not as simple as taking a pill," said Dr. Julius Gardin, chief of cardiology at St. John Hospital and Medical Center in Detroit. "I don't know that the final answer on folic acid has been written yet, but this study suggests that folic acid supplementation is not effective for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease," he added.
Bazzano was quick to point out, however, that this study doesn't mean people shouldn't get folic acid -- which in its natural form is known as folate -- from a healthful diet. Leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits are rich in folate and are important components in a healthy diet.
And, eating a healthy diet is a known way to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Other ways of reducing your risk include quitting smoking, lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol, and controlling diabetes, according to Bazzano.
Both Siegel and Gardin said exercise is very important in protecting your cardiovascular health, as well.
"Exercise is probably one of the most critical things that people can do. At a minimum, people should get 30 minutes of activity at least five days a week," said Siegel, who added that most people should also add 40 minutes to an hour of moderately strenuous activity into their routines another two or three times a week.
More information
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers advice on keeping your heart healthy.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Make School Breakfasts Free for All: Study
(HealthDay News) -- Providing a free school breakfast to all elementary schoolchildren, regardless of family income, increases the likelihood that they'll start the day in a nutritious way, a new U.S. study finds.The three-year study examined breakfast consumption and total daily food and nutrient intake for more than 4,300 students in grades 2 through 6 at 153 elementary schools.
The researchers compared schools that offered "universal-free" breakfast to all students, regardless of income, and schools participating in the federal government's School Breakfast Program that offers free or reduced-price breakfast for children from families with incomes below the poverty line.
On average, the students in the universal-free programs consumed less cholesterol than students in the School Breakfast Program. But the study found no significant differences between the two groups of students in terms of total daily dietary intake, overall quality of their diets, or rates of skipping breakfast.
"Students who cannot eat breakfast at home should have the opportunity to eat it at school," the researchers wrote. "This study and others have shown that improvements in children's nutrient intake are needed, particularly with regard to food energy, fat, sodium and fiber, as well as calcium for older children."
The study was conducted by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the research firm Abt Associates. It was published in the November issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.
More information
The Nemours Foundation has more about children and healthy eating.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Fish and Fish Oil's Benefits Far Outweigh Risks
(HealthDay News) -- Americans looking for safe, healthy eating should focus first on fish, according to two government-funded reviews that weighed the pros and cons of eating the finned food.
The verdict: "Fish is likely the single most important food to eat for health, based on the evidence," said the co-author of one of the studies, Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, an instructor in the department of epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health.
That study was funded by the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and is published in the Oct. 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Mozaffarian said that while a few species do contain worrisome levels of mercury and other contaminants, "when both risks and benefits are considered for the general population, the benefits of fish intake far outweigh the possible risks."
The second major analysis, funded by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), found similar results based on a review of the literature. The IOM panelists agreed that while certain long-lived species may pose a mercury risk to women and young children, fish on the whole is good for Americans. Those results, contained in a report titled Seafood Choices: Balancing Benefits and Risks, were announced at a Washington, D.C., news conference on Tuesday.
"Both studies come out with the same conclusion -- seafood is safe and nutritious and Americans should incorporate a variety of seafood in their diets to reduce risk of death from heart disease. In fact, there's a bigger health risk associated with not eating seafood among adults due to coronary heart disease, the primary cause of death among Americans," William T. Hogarth, director of National Marine Fisheries Service, said during the news conference.
One nutrition expert agreed with the findings, especially when it comes to the omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardines.
"Omega-3s are, right now, the superstars of the nutrition world," said Katherine Tallmadge, a Washington, D.C., nutritionist who's a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. "There's no question about it -- this is a really critical nutrient that we need, and hardly any Americans are getting enough."
By now, most Americans have heard of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in greatest abundance in oily, cold-water fish such as herring, mackerel, sardines, salmon and anchovies. There are two main omega-3s -- eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Among other benefits, these compounds are thought to aid in fetal, infant and child neurological development and also protect adults against cholesterol and heart disease.
But oily fish have a darker side. Industrial toxins can make their way into the water supply and end up in concentrated form in the flesh of these fish. Methylmercury, especially, has been linked to developmental problems in newborns and heart, nervous system and kidney damage in adults. For this reason, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have each issued warnings about the consumption of a few -- but certainly not all -- fish species by women of childbearing age.
So, is regular fish consumption still good for most people? To find out, Mozaffarian and co-researcher Eric Rimm pored over dozens of studies on the subject conducted up to the spring of this year.
They found that the benefits of fish for heart health far outweighed any risks for the vast majority of consumers. For example, even modest consumption of fish -- one to two servings a week -- cut the overall death risk by 17 percent and deaths from coronary causes by 36 percent, especially if those fish were of the more oily varieties.
Even 250 grams a day of omega-3 fatty acids, considered a relatively low level, were sufficient to start protecting the heart, the researchers said. Ideally, this level of intake could come from just one 6-ounce serving a week of wild salmon or other oily fish. Alternatively, it could come in the form of a fish-oil supplement, the researchers said.
The IOM report agreed with those findings. The agency said it is not yet clear whether the cardiac benefits of fish stem from omega-3 fatty acids, or whether people are simply "substituting the lean protein of seafood for fatty cuts of meat" in their diet.
Caveats remain, however. The Harvard team said that, due to high mercury content, pregnant women or women who believe they could become pregnant are still advised to avoid four fish species: King mackerel (not Atlantic mackerel); shark; swordfish; and golden bass (also known as tilefish). The IOM said another species, white albacore tuna, should only be consumed in amounts under 6 ounces per week.
Because omega-3s are so beneficial for the developing fetus, pregnant women are strongly encouraged to eat all other fish species, Mozaffarian said.
In its recommendations, the IOM panel also suggested that pregnant women and children under 12 years of age consume up to 12 ounces per week of all seafood species except shark, swordfish, tilefish or king mackerel. They especially recommended those species rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
The IOM report did have its critics, however. One consumer advocacy group questioned the IOM's decision to lump small children in with pregnant women as it drew up its recommendations. "They seem to be unaware that children are smaller than adults," Jean Halloran, director of food safety at Consumers Union, told the Associated Press. "That advice, which they featured prominently, could result in young children getting excessive doses of mercury."
Mozaffarian also noted that not all fish dishes are created equal.
"The average fried fish in the U.S. -- a commercially prepared, fried-fish meal -- does not have significant cardiovascular benefit, and may even harm you," he said. The unhealthy oils used in deep-frying appear to cancel out any benefits from the fish, which, in any case, are usually non-fatty species such as cod.
Tallmadge agreed, adding that "canned salmon is probably a nice economical choice," however. "It's usually [caught] wild. The wild salmon is leaner and has proportionally higher levels of omega-3s than farm-bred varieties," she said.
The American Heart Association currently recommends that heart patients take in 1,000 milligrams of omega-3s daily, and healthy individuals consume between 500 and 1,000 milligrams a day. For comparison purposes, Tallmadge noted that a typical 3.5 ounce serving of sardines in sardine oil contains about 3,300 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids; a similar serving of Atlantic mackerel has 2,500 milligrams; Atlantic herring has 1,600 milligrams; Atlantic salmon, 1,200 milligrams; brook trout, 500 milligrams; and shrimp or flounder, 300 milligrams.
And what about fish-oil supplements? According to Tallmadge, the labeling on many popular supplements can be misleading.
"On the front of the bottle, they'll announce, '1,200 milligrams' of fish oil," she said, "but then when you read the fine print on the back, what's important to look for is the amount of EPA and DHA." Often, that amounts to just 20 or so percent of the pills' volume.
Tallmadge tells her clients to go for an FDA-regulated, prescription omega-3 pill, Omacor (900 milligrams per pill). Then, at least, they know what they're paying for, she said.
More information
There's more on omega-3 fatty acids at the American Heart Association.
The verdict: "Fish is likely the single most important food to eat for health, based on the evidence," said the co-author of one of the studies, Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, an instructor in the department of epidemiology at the Harvard School of Public Health.
That study was funded by the U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and is published in the Oct. 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Mozaffarian said that while a few species do contain worrisome levels of mercury and other contaminants, "when both risks and benefits are considered for the general population, the benefits of fish intake far outweigh the possible risks."
The second major analysis, funded by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), found similar results based on a review of the literature. The IOM panelists agreed that while certain long-lived species may pose a mercury risk to women and young children, fish on the whole is good for Americans. Those results, contained in a report titled Seafood Choices: Balancing Benefits and Risks, were announced at a Washington, D.C., news conference on Tuesday.
"Both studies come out with the same conclusion -- seafood is safe and nutritious and Americans should incorporate a variety of seafood in their diets to reduce risk of death from heart disease. In fact, there's a bigger health risk associated with not eating seafood among adults due to coronary heart disease, the primary cause of death among Americans," William T. Hogarth, director of National Marine Fisheries Service, said during the news conference.
One nutrition expert agreed with the findings, especially when it comes to the omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardines.
"Omega-3s are, right now, the superstars of the nutrition world," said Katherine Tallmadge, a Washington, D.C., nutritionist who's a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. "There's no question about it -- this is a really critical nutrient that we need, and hardly any Americans are getting enough."
By now, most Americans have heard of the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in greatest abundance in oily, cold-water fish such as herring, mackerel, sardines, salmon and anchovies. There are two main omega-3s -- eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Among other benefits, these compounds are thought to aid in fetal, infant and child neurological development and also protect adults against cholesterol and heart disease.
But oily fish have a darker side. Industrial toxins can make their way into the water supply and end up in concentrated form in the flesh of these fish. Methylmercury, especially, has been linked to developmental problems in newborns and heart, nervous system and kidney damage in adults. For this reason, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have each issued warnings about the consumption of a few -- but certainly not all -- fish species by women of childbearing age.
So, is regular fish consumption still good for most people? To find out, Mozaffarian and co-researcher Eric Rimm pored over dozens of studies on the subject conducted up to the spring of this year.
They found that the benefits of fish for heart health far outweighed any risks for the vast majority of consumers. For example, even modest consumption of fish -- one to two servings a week -- cut the overall death risk by 17 percent and deaths from coronary causes by 36 percent, especially if those fish were of the more oily varieties.
Even 250 grams a day of omega-3 fatty acids, considered a relatively low level, were sufficient to start protecting the heart, the researchers said. Ideally, this level of intake could come from just one 6-ounce serving a week of wild salmon or other oily fish. Alternatively, it could come in the form of a fish-oil supplement, the researchers said.
The IOM report agreed with those findings. The agency said it is not yet clear whether the cardiac benefits of fish stem from omega-3 fatty acids, or whether people are simply "substituting the lean protein of seafood for fatty cuts of meat" in their diet.
Caveats remain, however. The Harvard team said that, due to high mercury content, pregnant women or women who believe they could become pregnant are still advised to avoid four fish species: King mackerel (not Atlantic mackerel); shark; swordfish; and golden bass (also known as tilefish). The IOM said another species, white albacore tuna, should only be consumed in amounts under 6 ounces per week.
Because omega-3s are so beneficial for the developing fetus, pregnant women are strongly encouraged to eat all other fish species, Mozaffarian said.
In its recommendations, the IOM panel also suggested that pregnant women and children under 12 years of age consume up to 12 ounces per week of all seafood species except shark, swordfish, tilefish or king mackerel. They especially recommended those species rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
The IOM report did have its critics, however. One consumer advocacy group questioned the IOM's decision to lump small children in with pregnant women as it drew up its recommendations. "They seem to be unaware that children are smaller than adults," Jean Halloran, director of food safety at Consumers Union, told the Associated Press. "That advice, which they featured prominently, could result in young children getting excessive doses of mercury."
Mozaffarian also noted that not all fish dishes are created equal.
"The average fried fish in the U.S. -- a commercially prepared, fried-fish meal -- does not have significant cardiovascular benefit, and may even harm you," he said. The unhealthy oils used in deep-frying appear to cancel out any benefits from the fish, which, in any case, are usually non-fatty species such as cod.
Tallmadge agreed, adding that "canned salmon is probably a nice economical choice," however. "It's usually [caught] wild. The wild salmon is leaner and has proportionally higher levels of omega-3s than farm-bred varieties," she said.
The American Heart Association currently recommends that heart patients take in 1,000 milligrams of omega-3s daily, and healthy individuals consume between 500 and 1,000 milligrams a day. For comparison purposes, Tallmadge noted that a typical 3.5 ounce serving of sardines in sardine oil contains about 3,300 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids; a similar serving of Atlantic mackerel has 2,500 milligrams; Atlantic herring has 1,600 milligrams; Atlantic salmon, 1,200 milligrams; brook trout, 500 milligrams; and shrimp or flounder, 300 milligrams.
And what about fish-oil supplements? According to Tallmadge, the labeling on many popular supplements can be misleading.
"On the front of the bottle, they'll announce, '1,200 milligrams' of fish oil," she said, "but then when you read the fine print on the back, what's important to look for is the amount of EPA and DHA." Often, that amounts to just 20 or so percent of the pills' volume.
Tallmadge tells her clients to go for an FDA-regulated, prescription omega-3 pill, Omacor (900 milligrams per pill). Then, at least, they know what they're paying for, she said.
More information
There's more on omega-3 fatty acids at the American Heart Association.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Amalaki Rasayana -- an introduction
"Amalaki is peerless among rejuvenative herbs." -- Charaka Samhita, ayurvedic text
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis, Amla or Indian Gooseberry) is revered by ayurvedic healers as a "wonder rasayana" capable of delivering a diverse range of benefits to the physiology.
Some specific benefits of Amla
As a rejuvenative herb, Amla nourishes all the body tissues and accelerates the cell regeneration process. It also cleanses the rasa dhatu (plasma) and rakta dhatu (blood).
Amla contains five out of the six ayurvedic tastes--all except salty--and with its powerful cleansing and nourishing qualities, it helps maintain energy levels and natural vitality.
Amla is the most potent source of natural vitamin C known to humanity. The vitamin C in Amla is not easily destroyed by heat or light, and is more easily assimilated by the body than synthetic vitamin C.
As a powerful antioxidant, Amla helps scavenge free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen-based ions in the body that have been linked to disease and premature aging.
Amla also helps build up the body's immune system.
Amla helps build ojas--the finest essence of the digestive process that sustains physical, mental, emotional, sensual and spiritual well-being.
Amla helps maintain the health and functioning of the liver, allowing it to efficiently eliminate toxins from the body. Even accumulated toxins stored in the liver can be flushed out over time with regular use of Amalaki rasayana.
This wonder herb helps your body get the most out of the food you eat. It stokes the 13 digestive fires gently, without increasing body heat and stomach acid, and helps the body absorb iron, calcium and other nutrients from foods more efficiently.
Amla is powerful food for the brain. Amla maximizes mental potential and coordinates dhi, dhriti, and smriti--learning, retention and memory.
Amla cleanses, hydrates and nourishes the skin and enhances natural luster.
Amla is a wonderful tonic for the eyes because it has a beneficial effect on Alochaka Pitta, the sub-dosha of Pitta that governs vision.
Amla is excellent for strengthening the roots of your hair and maintaining its color and luster. That is why Amla is an ubiquitous ingredient in ayurvedic hair oils and shampoos.
Amla is known for its ability to pacify Pitta dosha.
By pacifying Pitta dosha, Amla cools down the body, mind and emotions, improves the ability to withstand stress and promotes inner strength and stability. Amla also helps balance stomach acid because of its ability to pacify Pitta.
Because it helps balance Apana Vata, the downward flow of energy in the body, Amla is useful for regulating elimination and supporting the urinary tract. For women, Amla helps balance the factors related to menstruation.
For both men and women, Amla is helpful in maintaining reproductive area health.
By pacifying Shleshaka Kapha, Amla helps maintain the health of the respiratory system, particularly the lungs.
Amla is the supplement of choice for athletes because it is reported to boost protein metabolism and helps build lean body mass. Because it helps enhance metabolism, it is also good for weight management.
Research studies show that Amalaki helps lower cholesterol and helps protect the body from the effects of heavy metals.
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis, Amla or Indian Gooseberry) is revered by ayurvedic healers as a "wonder rasayana" capable of delivering a diverse range of benefits to the physiology.
Some specific benefits of Amla
As a rejuvenative herb, Amla nourishes all the body tissues and accelerates the cell regeneration process. It also cleanses the rasa dhatu (plasma) and rakta dhatu (blood).
Amla contains five out of the six ayurvedic tastes--all except salty--and with its powerful cleansing and nourishing qualities, it helps maintain energy levels and natural vitality.
Amla is the most potent source of natural vitamin C known to humanity. The vitamin C in Amla is not easily destroyed by heat or light, and is more easily assimilated by the body than synthetic vitamin C.
As a powerful antioxidant, Amla helps scavenge free radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen-based ions in the body that have been linked to disease and premature aging.
Amla also helps build up the body's immune system.
Amla helps build ojas--the finest essence of the digestive process that sustains physical, mental, emotional, sensual and spiritual well-being.
Amla helps maintain the health and functioning of the liver, allowing it to efficiently eliminate toxins from the body. Even accumulated toxins stored in the liver can be flushed out over time with regular use of Amalaki rasayana.
This wonder herb helps your body get the most out of the food you eat. It stokes the 13 digestive fires gently, without increasing body heat and stomach acid, and helps the body absorb iron, calcium and other nutrients from foods more efficiently.
Amla is powerful food for the brain. Amla maximizes mental potential and coordinates dhi, dhriti, and smriti--learning, retention and memory.
Amla cleanses, hydrates and nourishes the skin and enhances natural luster.
Amla is a wonderful tonic for the eyes because it has a beneficial effect on Alochaka Pitta, the sub-dosha of Pitta that governs vision.
Amla is excellent for strengthening the roots of your hair and maintaining its color and luster. That is why Amla is an ubiquitous ingredient in ayurvedic hair oils and shampoos.
Amla is known for its ability to pacify Pitta dosha.
By pacifying Pitta dosha, Amla cools down the body, mind and emotions, improves the ability to withstand stress and promotes inner strength and stability. Amla also helps balance stomach acid because of its ability to pacify Pitta.
Because it helps balance Apana Vata, the downward flow of energy in the body, Amla is useful for regulating elimination and supporting the urinary tract. For women, Amla helps balance the factors related to menstruation.
For both men and women, Amla is helpful in maintaining reproductive area health.
By pacifying Shleshaka Kapha, Amla helps maintain the health of the respiratory system, particularly the lungs.
Amla is the supplement of choice for athletes because it is reported to boost protein metabolism and helps build lean body mass. Because it helps enhance metabolism, it is also good for weight management.
Research studies show that Amalaki helps lower cholesterol and helps protect the body from the effects of heavy metals.
Triphala Rasayana
The word Triphala means "three fruits." Triphala is a very famous and traditional herbal combination used extensively by ayurvedic healers.
Triphala is made up of equal parts of Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry or Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Indian Gallnut or Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Beleric Myrobalan or Terminalia bellerica).
Although Triphala is most commonly used to cleanse and tone the digestive tract, it is in reality an ayurvedic rasayana--a rejuvenative herbal blend that delivers benefits to the physiology as a whole. Ancient ayurvedic texts state that rasayanas promote overall health and longevity with their simultaneous cleansing and nourishing properties and ojas-enhancing qualities. Ojas is the most refined product of digestion, and according to ayurvedic healers, ojas promotes physical, mental, emotional, sensual and spiritual health.
Some specific benefits of Triphala
Triphala promotes the health of the digestive tract. It helps cleanse, tone and nourish the digestive system, resulting in more complete and efficient digestion and assimilation of food. As digestion improves, less ama (digestive toxic matter) is created, and this leads to better health and an improved immune system.
In normal doses, Triphala is mildly laxative in nature, and can be used as an internal cleanser for extended periods of time without fear of the harsh purging wrought by strong eliminative formulas. It is not habit forming. Despite its gentle action, Triphala cleanses deeply when used regularly--it helps purify the blood, muscle and fat tissue.
Triphala is beneficial for the eyes and the skin. It helps keep the eyes healthy and bright and the skin clear. Triphala gives the skin a natural glow.
Triphala purifies the urine and helps maintain the health and function of the urinary tract.
Triphala helps cleanse and strengthen the liver.
Because it helps cleanse the fat tissue, Triphala helps balance cholesterol levels and helps weight management.
Triphala is balancing for all the three doshas.
Triphala has antioxidant properties. Indian Gooseberry, one of its three components, is the most potent natural source of Vitamin C known to humanity.
Triphala is made up of equal parts of Amalaki (Indian Gooseberry or Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Indian Gallnut or Terminalia chebula), and Bibhitaki (Beleric Myrobalan or Terminalia bellerica).
Although Triphala is most commonly used to cleanse and tone the digestive tract, it is in reality an ayurvedic rasayana--a rejuvenative herbal blend that delivers benefits to the physiology as a whole. Ancient ayurvedic texts state that rasayanas promote overall health and longevity with their simultaneous cleansing and nourishing properties and ojas-enhancing qualities. Ojas is the most refined product of digestion, and according to ayurvedic healers, ojas promotes physical, mental, emotional, sensual and spiritual health.
Some specific benefits of Triphala
Triphala promotes the health of the digestive tract. It helps cleanse, tone and nourish the digestive system, resulting in more complete and efficient digestion and assimilation of food. As digestion improves, less ama (digestive toxic matter) is created, and this leads to better health and an improved immune system.
In normal doses, Triphala is mildly laxative in nature, and can be used as an internal cleanser for extended periods of time without fear of the harsh purging wrought by strong eliminative formulas. It is not habit forming. Despite its gentle action, Triphala cleanses deeply when used regularly--it helps purify the blood, muscle and fat tissue.
Triphala is beneficial for the eyes and the skin. It helps keep the eyes healthy and bright and the skin clear. Triphala gives the skin a natural glow.
Triphala purifies the urine and helps maintain the health and function of the urinary tract.
Triphala helps cleanse and strengthen the liver.
Because it helps cleanse the fat tissue, Triphala helps balance cholesterol levels and helps weight management.
Triphala is balancing for all the three doshas.
Triphala has antioxidant properties. Indian Gooseberry, one of its three components, is the most potent natural source of Vitamin C known to humanity.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Herbs riding high, especially healthy ones
November 3, 1999Web posted at: 11:04 a.m. EST (1604 GMT)(AP) -- Herbs are riding a high wave of popularity these days, especially plants deemed good for your health. As evidence of the interest in herbal medicine, the New York Botanical Garden held a two-day symposium this fall featuring lectures on healing plants through the ages.
The creators of the wide-ranging program overlooked little related to herbs. One lecture centered on slowing the aging process and another on using herbs to ease stress
One could learn about American Indian curing strategies, or be taken back to the Indian subcontinent to delve into the rise of Ayurveda 2,500 years ago, considered the first complete medical system based on holistic therapies.
Much of the program dealt with herbal medicines at health stores or those prescribed by naturopathic and holistic practitioners. But a gardener may also grow some herbs on his own and put them to use as preventives or to treat minor ailments.
The consensus among three of the lecturers was that a gardener should proceed with caution and restraint when making a self-diagnosis and considering herbal treatments. No more than a cup or two of a medicinal herbal beverage should be used a day. If an ailment persists, seek professional help.
"The idea behind a gardener using plants, or at least their leaves, for their health is to enjoy their plants more fully, to stay healthier, as opposed to treating specific diseases," said Jennifer Brett, a naturopathic physician in Norwalk, Connecticut.
Brett named the dandelion, which is loaded with vitamins and minerals, as a powerfully versatile herb. "There isn't a part we can't use," she said.
The leaves go in salads, while the milky fluid in the flower stem is used as a wart remover. Rub it on a wart, and it will burn it away, she said. The root helps the liver when made into a tea, she said.
A tea or oil made of marigold flowers can help with rashes, mainly eczema, and with minor burns or cuts, Brett said. The tea requires two tablespoons of crushed fresh flowers per cup of hot water, while the oil is made with dried flowers. Rub it on the rash twice a day, and if it doesn't improve in two or three days, get medical attention, she said.
Lavender, an easily grown perennial, helps relax people who are feeling stress, Brett said. You make a beverage out of the flower spikes and drink some every day. A cup of mint tea after a heavy meal helps digestion and prevents gas, burping and nausea, Brett said. The tea is made from the flowers just before they bloom. There are many varieties of different tasting mints.
Another lecturer, Ellen Kamhi of Oyster Bay, New York, a nurse with a doctorate in public health, mentioned that pumpkin seeds are good for male virility because of their high zinc content. Pumpkins require a lot of space in a home garden, but the harvested seeds are often found at supermarkets.
Garlic, long enjoyed for its taste but vilified for the ensuing halitosis, continues to get attention as a health food. Kamhi said recent research has focused on the bulb's high sulfur compounds to fight invading micro-organisms and on its ability to decrease bad cholesterol. She suggested eating two raw cloves a day, accompanied by parsley to mitigate the bad breath.
Kamhi said St. John's wort, highly publicized as an anti-depressant, is "helpful as a mood elevator." The plant sports a beautiful yellow flower, which is the part you use medicinally. She suggested using a teaspoon of the flower in hot water. "Try a cup and see if it cheers you up a bit," she said.
Kamhi co-authored a book with naturopath Eugene R. Zampieron of Woodbury, Connecticut, entitled "The Natural Medicine Chest" (M. Evans & Co., 1999, $14.95 paperback) in which they describe an extensive list of potentially healthful herbs and other plants from aloe vera to wild yams.
Zampieron, who also lectured at the Botanical Garden, mentioned the small, mint family plant skullcap as "one of the best natural remedies for hypertension, high blood pressure, insomnia, restlessness and worry as well as headaches."
It "works much faster" than St. John's wort, Zampieron said.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
TREATMENT OF AIDS ACCORDING TO AYURVEDIC SYSTEM:
TREATMENT OF AIDS ACCORDING TO AYURVEDIC SYSTEM:
Prof Madiraju V Subramanyam
All seems not lost for the HIV infected persons as the Ayurvedic supplements are proven to be harmless without any side effects and there can only be improvement and not deterioration.
TREATMENT PLAN
Initially, the patient is given tonics and rejuvenators (Rasayanas) to boost immunity levels and to strengthen the system and stimulate appetite. After gaining some strength, shodhana (elimination) techniques are used to expel toxins from the body through enemas, purgation and emesis. The medications administered at this stage are not hard or drastic, but soft, ghee-based so that the patient withstands them with ease. Secondly the blood is purified with appropriate medications. Liver corrective measures also play an important role. A strengthening diet along with medicated ghee preparations and soups is recommended. But spicy, oily and acidic foods are to be avoided. A little alcohol is recommended as anupana (carrier) to aid the digestive process, and also remove blockages in the flow of Rasadi dhatus, i.e. srothorodha.
Patient is advised to do regular exercise. If the patient is incapable of exercising or running due to weakness, then steaming (swedanam) is also recommended. reason behind this is `Heated blood is said to weaken, and even destroy, the virus in some cases`. Experience has shown that certain herbo-mineral compounds prepared as per the formulae prescribed by sages like Agasthya, Charaka, Sarangadhara and others for the treatment of Kshaya have brought about significant results in improving the condition of AIDS patients. The Rasayana and Vajikara effects of the these medicines are good for the patients. Some of the propritery ayurvedic medicines achieving good improvement in the quality of life of patients include `Chyavanprash`, `Raktavardhak` for Immunity building and `Sookshma triphla tabs` to keep awaythe the infection.
CHYAVANPRASH:
An example of an Ayurvedic remedy which may be of use in the treatment of persons diagnosed with AIDS is `Chyavanprash`. `Chyavanprash` is most useful and most popular rejuvenator tonic (Rasayana) of Ayurveda . This is an Ayurvedic Herbal formula which increases ojas, and restores the digestive, eliminative, respiratory and sexual systems. It is frequently employed in wasting conditions where it has been clinically shown to improve health and assist with weight gain. The main ingredient in Chyavanprash is `Amalaki`- the Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis), which has the highest yield of natural source vitamin C, with 3000 mg per fruit.
It is also a rich source of naturally occurring anti-oxidants including bioflavonoids, vitamin B-complex and carotenes (vitamin A). Studies suggest that this berry possesses antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It assists digestion, lowers high blood pressure and lowers blood cholesterol. Clinical research has shown that it accelerates repair of muscle and skin and enhances natural anti-inflammatory substances. Chayvanprash also contains about 35 others herbs which amplify and augment the effects of its main ingredient; such a powerful formulation may indeed be helpful in the treatment of persons who have been diagnosed with AIDS.
Prof Madiraju V Subramanyam
All seems not lost for the HIV infected persons as the Ayurvedic supplements are proven to be harmless without any side effects and there can only be improvement and not deterioration.
TREATMENT PLAN
Initially, the patient is given tonics and rejuvenators (Rasayanas) to boost immunity levels and to strengthen the system and stimulate appetite. After gaining some strength, shodhana (elimination) techniques are used to expel toxins from the body through enemas, purgation and emesis. The medications administered at this stage are not hard or drastic, but soft, ghee-based so that the patient withstands them with ease. Secondly the blood is purified with appropriate medications. Liver corrective measures also play an important role. A strengthening diet along with medicated ghee preparations and soups is recommended. But spicy, oily and acidic foods are to be avoided. A little alcohol is recommended as anupana (carrier) to aid the digestive process, and also remove blockages in the flow of Rasadi dhatus, i.e. srothorodha.
Patient is advised to do regular exercise. If the patient is incapable of exercising or running due to weakness, then steaming (swedanam) is also recommended. reason behind this is `Heated blood is said to weaken, and even destroy, the virus in some cases`. Experience has shown that certain herbo-mineral compounds prepared as per the formulae prescribed by sages like Agasthya, Charaka, Sarangadhara and others for the treatment of Kshaya have brought about significant results in improving the condition of AIDS patients. The Rasayana and Vajikara effects of the these medicines are good for the patients. Some of the propritery ayurvedic medicines achieving good improvement in the quality of life of patients include `Chyavanprash`, `Raktavardhak` for Immunity building and `Sookshma triphla tabs` to keep awaythe the infection.
CHYAVANPRASH:
An example of an Ayurvedic remedy which may be of use in the treatment of persons diagnosed with AIDS is `Chyavanprash`. `Chyavanprash` is most useful and most popular rejuvenator tonic (Rasayana) of Ayurveda . This is an Ayurvedic Herbal formula which increases ojas, and restores the digestive, eliminative, respiratory and sexual systems. It is frequently employed in wasting conditions where it has been clinically shown to improve health and assist with weight gain. The main ingredient in Chyavanprash is `Amalaki`- the Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis), which has the highest yield of natural source vitamin C, with 3000 mg per fruit.
It is also a rich source of naturally occurring anti-oxidants including bioflavonoids, vitamin B-complex and carotenes (vitamin A). Studies suggest that this berry possesses antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It assists digestion, lowers high blood pressure and lowers blood cholesterol. Clinical research has shown that it accelerates repair of muscle and skin and enhances natural anti-inflammatory substances. Chayvanprash also contains about 35 others herbs which amplify and augment the effects of its main ingredient; such a powerful formulation may indeed be helpful in the treatment of persons who have been diagnosed with AIDS.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Choosing Foods by Color?
Choosing Foods by Color?
Provided by: DrWeil.com
Q: I've heard that we should have a mix of foods of various colors on our plates. Why? -- Ricardo
A: The vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables may be nature's way of attracting us to them so we'll get the benefit of the powerful nutrients they provide. Your diet will benefit if you use color as your guide to how many daily servings you get of fruits and vegetables. The more different natural colors you have on your plate or in your daily diet, the better off you are.
Here's a rundown on food colors and how they benefit your health:
Green: A great source of vitamins (including folate, one of the B vitamins) green vegetables also provide minerals and fiber. Some - including spinach, collards, kale and broccoli - contain antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that can protect aging eyes from developing cataracts and macular degeneration. They may also protect against clogging of the carotid arteries in the neck. Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale and turnips contain antioxidants and other phytonutrients that reduce cancer risk.
Oranges/Yellows: Sweet potatoes, carrots, mangoes, apricots and other yellow or orange fruits and vegetables are rich in beta carotene, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Orange fruits and vegetables also give you vitamin C and folate, needed to reduce the risk of heart disease and prevent certain birth defects. Yellow fruits and vegetables give you more carotenoids plus vitamin C, and minerals.
Reds: Tomatoes, watermelon, papaya, and pink grapefruit are among the red pigmented fruits and vegetables that contain lycopene. This powerful antioxidant helps fight heart disease and some types of cancer, particularly prostate cancer.
Blues/Purples: The blue color in blueberries, purple grapes, red cabbage, beets, and plums come from anthocyanins, phytochemicals that protects against carcinogens and may help prevent heart disease.
Whites: Garlic, onions and other white-hued vegetables contain allicin, a phytochemical which may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure; other phytochemicals, polyphenols, found in pears and green grapes, may reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
Andrew Weil, MD
more information at www.dreddyclinic.com and www.dreddy-clinic.com
Provided by: DrWeil.com
Q: I've heard that we should have a mix of foods of various colors on our plates. Why? -- Ricardo
A: The vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables may be nature's way of attracting us to them so we'll get the benefit of the powerful nutrients they provide. Your diet will benefit if you use color as your guide to how many daily servings you get of fruits and vegetables. The more different natural colors you have on your plate or in your daily diet, the better off you are.
Here's a rundown on food colors and how they benefit your health:
Green: A great source of vitamins (including folate, one of the B vitamins) green vegetables also provide minerals and fiber. Some - including spinach, collards, kale and broccoli - contain antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that can protect aging eyes from developing cataracts and macular degeneration. They may also protect against clogging of the carotid arteries in the neck. Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale and turnips contain antioxidants and other phytonutrients that reduce cancer risk.
Oranges/Yellows: Sweet potatoes, carrots, mangoes, apricots and other yellow or orange fruits and vegetables are rich in beta carotene, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system. Orange fruits and vegetables also give you vitamin C and folate, needed to reduce the risk of heart disease and prevent certain birth defects. Yellow fruits and vegetables give you more carotenoids plus vitamin C, and minerals.
Reds: Tomatoes, watermelon, papaya, and pink grapefruit are among the red pigmented fruits and vegetables that contain lycopene. This powerful antioxidant helps fight heart disease and some types of cancer, particularly prostate cancer.
Blues/Purples: The blue color in blueberries, purple grapes, red cabbage, beets, and plums come from anthocyanins, phytochemicals that protects against carcinogens and may help prevent heart disease.
Whites: Garlic, onions and other white-hued vegetables contain allicin, a phytochemical which may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure; other phytochemicals, polyphenols, found in pears and green grapes, may reduce the risk of some types of cancer.
Andrew Weil, MD
more information at www.dreddyclinic.com and www.dreddy-clinic.com
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Traditional Indian Medicine Reverses Atherosclerosis
For the first time, traditional healing techniques long used in India have been found to reverse atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. In a well-designed study reported in the April, 2002, American Journal of Cardiology, a comprehensive, prevention-oriented non-Western approach to heart disease in the elderly showed promising results.The small pilot study compared heart patients using regimens of Maharishi Vedic Medicine (MVM), a form of 4,000-year-old Ayurvedic medicine, and patients following standard pharmaceutical and lifestyle recommendations of modern Western-style medicine to a control group. After a year, researchers found that participants in the MVM program were nearly four times more likely to reverse atherosclerosis as those in the other two groups combined.
Although all people develop some degree of atherosclerosis, in some it leads to serious complications. Artery walls may thicken with fatty deposits, called plaque, and narrow to block blood flow. The blockages can trigger a heart attack, or encourage the formation of clots that, when dislodged, can travel to the brain and cause stroke.
The MVM approach to heart disease included the use of transcendental meditation (TM), herbal supplements, a low-fat, high-fiber diet, yoga, and regular walking. Comparison groups included one receiving anti-aging focused modern medicine (with dietary advice, aerobic exercise and walking, and vitamin supplements), and a control group, which received normal nonspecialized care from their regular health providers. Fifty-seven healthy elderly individuals selected from a larger trial of MVM were randomly assigned to the three groups, and 46 completed the study. Final outcomes were determined by ultrasound measurements of the thickness of the participantsí carotid artery walls.
"The bottom line is that this natural approach to reversing atherosclerosis appears in this pilot study to be even more effective than drug-based or surgical approaches," says Kenneth Walton, Ph.D., Senior Fellow at the Center of Natural Medicine and Prevention in Fairfield, Iowa, and one of the study's lead authors.
Harnessing the Body's Healing Powers
Previous research has found that TM alone reduced atherosclerosis in African-Americans with high blood pressure. And the current study indicates that using the multiple components of MVM to combat atherosclerosis is even more effective.
"This study shows that the body has its own inner intelligence for healing, and its own know-how for repairing cardiovascular disease. And one can enliven this intelligence by using natural modalities such as these," says Robert H. Schneider, M.D., Director of the Center for Natural Medicine and Prevention, and also a lead author of the study.
Subjects in the MVM group trained in transcendental meditation and practiced the technique for 20 minutes twice a day. They took an antioxidant-rich herbal food supplement and learned in monthly follow-up meetings how to follow a Vedic medicine diet--seasonally based, generally low in fat, and high in fruits and vegetables. They were also taught two stress-reducing yoga exercises to do, each for 10 minutes every day, and they also walked for 30 minutes daily.
In the modern medicine group, participants were taught standard anti-aging practices, including aerobic walking three times weekly, and stretching and isotonic exercises twice a week. This group also met monthly to discuss dietary recommendations and the health consequences of negative habits such as alcohol abuse and smoking. Twice a day the participants took a multivitamin supplement that slightly exceeded the Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) for vitamins and minerals.
As did both the other groups, members of the control group obtained their usual health care from their regular health-care providers, but they received no other interventions.
Biggest Benefits for the Most At-Risk
The success of MVM in reversing atherosclerosis was even more marked for some study participants. As the data were analyzed, the researchers found a subgroup of subjects who were at higher risk for heart disease than the group as a whole. These participants had at least one of the following risk factors in addition to age: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
The reversal of atherosclerosis in these subjects was considerably more significant--carotid artery measurements improved in 80% of the MVM group as a whole, but they improved in 100% of this high-risk subgroup.
Because this was a pilot study, the significance of the results is limited by the small number of participants. However, since no subjects in the MVM group stopped their treatment before the study's end, it may be appropriate to give these conclusions more weight, researchers contend.
Urging a larger trial, the authors conclude that the multiple therapies of MVM can reverse atherosclerosis, and hence reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. In particular, their findings suggest these average decreases in risk: 8% in the larger group of MVM subjects, and a substantial 33% in the high-risk subgroup, in comparison to the modern and control groups combined.
From the ancient roots of Vedic medicine, science has found proof of the benefits of a multifaceted approach to wellness. When it comes to reversing atherosclerosis, this traditional medicine may be among the best. "These results were achieved at a very small fraction of the cost of surgery or drug-based treatments, and in only one year--which is quite a short time," Dr. Walton explains. "These people averaged 75 years of age, and that's a suggestion that it's never too late."
More informations here:
http://www.dreddyclinic.com/ayurvedic/ayurvedic.htm
http://www.dreddyclinic.com/education/education.htm
ayurveda
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