The Health Benefits Of Tofu Food

The Health Benefits Of Tofu Food
 
By:  http://www.skybluecross.com
 Vegetarians have long reported the benefits of tofu food – a soy product that is often used as a meat alternative in a variety of dishes. But the benefits of tofu food have reached beyond the vegetarian community as more and more health-conscious eaters have turned their attention to this versatile product. Tofu food lends itself to a variety of delicious uses and, as such, continues to be a staple in many household kitchens.
 Made from soybean curd that is pressed into blo...
 Vegetarians have long reported the benefits of tofu food – a soy product that is often used as a meat alternative in a variety of dishes. But the benefits of tofu food have reached beyond the vegetarian community as more and more health-conscious eaters have turned their attention to this versatile product. Tofu food lends itself to a variety of delicious uses and, as such, continues to be a staple in many household kitchens.

 Made from soybean curd that is pressed into blocks, tofu food has a variety of uses depending on its different moisture content. Derived directly from soy milk, soft tofu contains the highest moisture content of all varieties of tofu. Its texture is likened to custard and as such it lends itself to a multitude of dessert recipes. Firm tofu contains less moisture than its soft counterpart and because it can hold its shape better is often used as a staple in most tofu food recipes. Dried tofu is extremely low in moisture likening it to cooked meat. Most cooks use this tofu food crumbled, sliced, or formed into noodles. Tofu food also has the ability to be frozen - or made into a puree - so that it can be used anytime throughout the week in whatever capacity it is needed.

 But the versatility of tofu food ultimately lies in its flavor – or lack thereof. Tofu actually has very little of its own natural flavor. Instead, it absorbs the flavor from the other ingredients in the dish. Served in soups, as a filling or stuffing, raw, stewed, fried, or grilled, tofu food can be used in a multitude of cuisines.

 But most importantly, the health benefits of tofu food are difficult to ignore. Low in calories and high in protein, tofu contains no cholesterol and in some cases has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. It’s no wonder that more and more people have begun to include tofu food as a part of their healthy lifestyle.


 

Fake food : top 10 most deceptive foods that everyone thinks are healthy but are not

Title:
Fake food : top 10 most deceptive foods that everyone thinks are healthy but are not

By: http://www.skybluecross.com

Do you know that some health foods are not actually healthy? Common healthy foods like milk, cereal,processed cheese, wheat bread and even fruit juice can actually harm your health! Our guide dispels common myths about deceptive foods and gives you some wholesome alternatives:
1. Pasteurized Milk

Milk is touted as a healthy food, and most people assume that it does a body good. But pasteurization destroys active enzymes and denatures the fragile proteins in milk. It also kills beneficial bacteria and lowers the vitamin content of your milk.
A better alternative?
Raw milk is milk that hasn’t been pasteurized. Why raw milk?
Supporters of raw milk say the pasteurization process kills most, if not all, micromilk organisms, including the beneficial ones that aid in digestion and metabolization. They also promote good health by crowding out bad bacteria and help prevent yeast overgrowth in the intestinal tract.
The Campaign for real milk says that raw milk comes from cows that are properly fed. Cows that eat green grass provide milk with nutrients like vitamins A and D. They argue that pasteurization enables the milk industry to raise cows in less-expensive, less-healthy conditions.
They also say that pasteurization destroys enzymes and diminishes vitamin content. Pasteurization, says the group, is associated with allergies, increased tooth decay, colic in infants, growth problems, osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease and cancer. Many calves fed pasteurized milk die before maturity.
Raw milk will sour naturally due to the bacterial production of lactic acid and still be healthy, while pasteurized milk, which lacks the essential bacteria, will putrefy.

2. Fruit Juice and Sodas

Fruit juice may be delicious, but it’s often loaded with even more high-fructose corn syrup than actual juice! High fructose corn syrup has been linked to increased cholesterol levels, blood clots, and impaired immunity. Sodas are no better as we all are well aware.

Fructose reduces the affinity of insulin for its receptor, which is the hallmark of type-2 diabetes. This is the first step for glucose to enter a cell and be metabolized. As a result, the body needs to pump out more insulin to handle the same amount of glucose.
The annual ‘Liver Meeting’ of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases which took place October in Boston reported results linking high intake of sugar (specifically fructose) to liver disease.
“The research team concluded that consumption of high fructose can have negative effects on liver through overfeeding, as well as damage the liver by inducing increased oxidative stress.
A better alternative? Delicious, healthy and convenient Dong Quai and Coco-Biotic, both of which you are strongly urged to learn more about and try today!



3. Whole Grains

Many foods from bread to breakfast cereals advertise that they are now made with whole grains. Despite earlier reports discounting fiber’s role in colorectal cancer prevention, two recent studies say fiber from fruits, vegetables, and grains may indeed slice the odds of getting the disease. One study, surveying more than half a million people, found a 25 to 40 percent risk reduction from 30 grams of fiber daily (five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables). Fiber in food may be the key, since those earlier studies focused on fiber supplements.
If you have digestive problems or suffer some of the classic autoimmune reactions (e.g. allergies) consider the possibilities that grains may be problematical. Look at your family members and your family history for clues about dietary problems. Adjust the ratio of cereal grains to meat, vegetables, and fruits and see if the adjustment has physiological and psychological effects. In my opinion one should supplement with vitamins, minerals, protein, and free fatty acids. Above all, eat a varied diet and not too much of one thing.
Conventional whole grains lack vitamins and minerals, can be difficult to digest, and often cause allergenic responses, contributing to autoimmune disorders like Celiac disease.
A better alternative? Grain-like seeds millet, quinoa, buckwheat, and amaranth are gluten free, do not feed candida act as prebiotics, have a calming effect and are full of vitamins and minerals.



4. Cereal

Cold cereal seems like a convenient and healthy meal, but combined with pasteurized milk, it can be a bowl full of nutritionally damaging food. Cereal itself undergoes a process called extrusion that denatures its proteins (making them toxic) and destroys the grains’ naturally occurring fatty acids. The result is a nutritionally void carrier for sugar and sodium.
For more on cereal and healthy alternatives, read: The Four Major Health Risks of Conventional Grains and the Healthy Weight-Optimizing Grains to Choose Instead.
A better alternative? Make your morning meal green! Try Vitality SuperGreen or a Good Morning Greens Smoothie to start your day off right.



5. Processed Cheese

Processed cheeses, especially individually wrapped slices, have little nutritional value. They are pasteurized and often have fillers and preservatives.
A better alternative? Make Young Coconut Kefir cheese or on stage two of the Body Ecology diet, once your gut is populated with dairy-loving microflora, try cheeses made from fermented raw milk to flavor your salads.



6. Protein Bars

Protein bars now compete with candy bars in convenience stores and grocery aisles, butproteine these quick snacks are not necessarily healthy. Many protein bars use soy protein and count sugars in their top 3 ingredients! Instead of offering you a healthy option, they actually contribute to fungal infections.
A better alternative? Soaked almonds and other nuts are easy and delicious snacks for those on the go! Or try RenewPro for an energizing, gut-healing source of protein. You can mix it in water or even eat a scoop between meals. You’ll love the delicious taste of this truly healthy source of protein.

7. Energy Drinks

Their labels say they contain various herbs, minerals and the amino acid taurine, specially designed to boost your energy by the time you reach the bottom of the can. But if you look at the ingredients, you’ll find that the main ingredients in most energy drinks are actually caffeine and sugar  making them hardly more than high-priced soft drinks.
Yet their glitzy designs and claims to improve your performance, concentration and reaction speeds seem to be working. In 2004, energy drinks overtook bottled water as the fastest-growing category in the beverage business. Similar products have even been introduced for kids as young as 4 years old. A better alternative? Drink healthier fluids like water or tea, and if you must have a jolt of energy, a good old-fashioned cup of black coffee will at least spare you the sugar.



8. Fast-Food Salads

Yes, you went to that fast-food joint near your office for lunch, but all was not lost  you ordered a salad! Most fast-food chains have jumped on the health bandwagon and are nowsalates offering salads, wraps and other healthy menu choices for just such nutrition-minded customers.
And while some won’t come right out and say they’re healthy (McDonald’s, for instance, no longer uses the word because our consumer research shows people don’t understand it and it’s actually a turn off when it comes to food items.), it is certainly implied in their ads featuring fit, active people and catchy nutrition slogans.
But all salad is not inherently healthy.
In fact, most of the salad ingredients that most fast food chains use make most of them no more healthful than a burger without the bun, dipped in salad dressing, said the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), which conducted a nutrition analysis of 34 fast food salads.
One of their more startling findings: McDonald’s Crispy Bacon Ranch Salad has more fat and calories and just as much cholesterol as a Big Mac.
Culprits that make good salads go bad are fried meats, additions like croutons and crispy noodles, bacon, and high-fat salad dressings. Many even have added sugar.
A better alternative? Create your own fresh salad using lots of veggies, some lean protein (egg, chicken), a few nuts or seeds or a small amount of cheese, and a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing.



9. Soy products

Soy products, including soy milk and soy protein have been linked to digestive distress, immune system breakdown, PMS, endometriosis, reproductive problems for men and women, allergies, ADD, higher risk of heart disease and cancer, malnutrition and loss of libido.1
Soy milk has some negative aspects which are as follows :
-It contains a lot of phytic acid
-It contains hemagglutinin which causes the red blood cells to clump together. However, it is believed to be harmless unless soy milk is taken intravenously
-The genetic modification involved in the process of preparing soy milk may cause lysinoalanine or even nitrosamines
-It contains aluminum
-It contains trypsin inhibitors
A better alternative? Fermented soy products like miso soup, natto and tempeh.



10. Oatmeal

For many people who suffer wheat and gluten allergy or intolerance, oatmeal also becomes and unsafe option. While oats themselves do not contain gluten, they do contain a protein which is relatively similar and current farming techniques create concerns as well. It is not uncommon for a farmer to rotate his oat crops with his wheat, rye or barley crops from year to year, and millers often encounter kernels from volunteer wheat when processing the oats.
Oatmeal seems harmless enough and doesn’t actually contain gluten. But oatmeal can be unsafe if you have a wheat or gluten sensitivity2 because farmers often grow oats in fields that previously had grains like barley and wheat. The other grains can contaminate the oats and could be dangerous for anyone with gluten sensitivity.
A better alternative? For a warm, convenient morning meal, try Body Ecology’s Hot Breakfast Porridge recipe.

Feng Shui For Health

Feng Shui For Health

Feng shui has long been heralded for its ability to increase people's energy level and give them a much healthier life. This may sound unusual to some people
but really think about it. Feng shui calls for a clutter-free, well lit area with good air circulation. That by itself can do wonders but when applied with various feng shui techniques, it can make amazing improvements in your state of mind.

Nobody likes living in a mess and that can affect you mentally. To maintain a space that is beneficial toyour health, there are only three basic needs that
have to be met. Fresh air is very important in the modern world. Thousands of years ago there weren't factories and cars all over that seriously diminish air quality. Even in your home there are many pollutants from things like your stove, refrigerator, and animals.

The easiest way to help eliminate some of these pollutants and to add something beautiful to your homeis to get some air purifying plants. Many types of small palm and fern are renowned for their ability to suck in toxic substances that are in the air. In addition, they put out oxygen which is
always a good thing.

Lighting is very important also. Light is one of the most powerful forms of energy in the universe. Many of us don't get enough sunlight exposure as we need on a
daily basis. Feng shui encourages the use of natural light whenever possible but in areas where that isn't an option, full spectrum lighting is recommended.

The last basic need is to stay free of clutter. Get rid of stuff you don't really need and don't be a pack rat. By starting with these three basics, you can
learn more and start applying feng shui cures to your home and life.

What Paintball Can Do for one’s Health

What Paintball Can Do for one’s Health
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Participating in sports can really be good for a person. For those who are too lazy to go to the gym, there is something worth trying and that is the game of paintball. This extreme sport has been around for some time and almost anyone can play it. All it takes is some protective gear and a gun for the person to go out into the field.

Some people think that engaging in this type of sport is unsafe since the bullets travel at fast speeds, and a person could get injured. Contrary to that belief, statistics show that this is safer than other contact sports such as basketball and football.

This physical activity burns calories as the player has to walk up on the enemy without being detected then has to run when retreating or charging. It is better than running on a treadmill that many find boring since the scenery does not change.

Paintball can be played in a small area or in a large area. With all the running, sweating will occur which can help with weight loss. Studies have shown that some exercise programs are not effective after a period of time. By adding this extreme sport to the exercise regimen, some pounds could be lost again.

Running burns more calories per minute than any other type of cardiovascular exercise and keeping the body active increases the metabolic rate. Playing paintball on weekends - such as twice a month -, can help a person burn calories faster and that way, one will be able to eat most anything without gaining weight.

Paintball is a team sport and nothing is better than winning a game against an opponent. Exercise improves the mood since it releases chemicals in the brain called endorphin: eating chocolate has a similar effect. This game helps you sleep better since it releases energy which takes time to recuperate.

Engaging in any form of exercise can be beneficial. It is known to prevent several diseases such as high blood pressure, depression, heart disease and various types of cancer.

Paintball is one form of exercise that can help prevent some of these high risk diseases as well as being an enjoyable game.

How to Better Your Brain’s Health Improvement

How to Better Your Brain’s Health Improvement
 By: http://www.skybluecross.com
 They say that aging is one of the causes that lead to the weakening of your brain’s performance. As you grow older, your memory becomes out of form, this is why there are illnesses such as the unfortunate Alzheimer’s disease. Fortunately, there are already known ways that can help you better your brain performance, thus giving you the protection from the dreaded brain deterioration.

One good prevention is the inclusion of colorful fruits and vegetables to your diet. The brighter the color of the fruit or vegetable, the healthier and fresher it is – thus, the better. As you may know, healthy foods help the body get rid of unhealthy toxins because these foods have antioxidants. If you follow this kind of diet, then you may have a 70% lower chance of suffering from dementia when you get older.

Vitamins, especially vitamin B can also help maintain the fitness of your brain. If you lack vitamin B, you are more prone to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and many other diseases. So, you may want to include vitamin supplements in your everyday meal. If you do not feel like you need supplements, then you may want to cut down on your alcohol and cigarette consumption for these substances, together with coffee and sugar, can use up your body’s stock of vitamin B. Aside from this, you should also try eating more beans and green veggies; these are rich in vitamin B.

You should stay away from bad fats that come from junk foods. Your brain may be made up of fats, but this does not mean that it should come from the fats from hot dogs. Instead of munching on unhealthy foods, enjoy good fats such as fish and nuts and all those foods which are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. If you do this, you will have a higher chance of keeping your brain in its best shape.

Stress is another thing that you should avoid if you want a healthy brain. Hence, you should protect yourself from being too stressed out and from being overwhelmed by all the drama that may come your way. Release your tension, relax and meditate so that you can give your body and your mind the time they need to recharge. Also, take enough rest and sleep. Six to eight hours of sleep is highly suggested to keep your mind in its prime. After a good rest, you should engage yourself in healthy activities, such as exercising and working out. This will keep your body active and alert.

Finally, if you are exercising your body, you should exercise your brain as well. Always use your mind – think and rethink. Keep your brain muscles active by reading, doing puzzles, answering crosswords and socializing with other people. There are a lot of activities that are designed to keep you thinking. Any type of activity from which you can learn is worth trying. Do not be afraid to explore, active learning is the key to your mind’s actual exercise.

As you know, the healthier you are the better; your brain should also feel the same way. If you are doing all your best to keep yourself physically fit, you should also keep yourself mentally fit. Fight all the factors that may cause the weakening of your brain performance.

How Nintendo Wii Fit Video Game Can Help You Maintain Your Fitness and Health

How Nintendo Wii Fit Video Game Can Help You Maintain Your Fitness and Health

By: http://www.skybluecross.com
The Nintendo Wii is one of the hottest selling video game consoles ever to hit the market today. This video game console doesn’t just let you play with video games but it will truly make you feel like you are a part of the game.

Today, the Nintendo Wii has released another add-on. Called the Nintendo Wii Fit, this particular game focuses on health and fitness. Everybody knows that people today doesn’t get enough exercise. Obesity and being overweight is becoming a very big problem in today’s society. Nintendo understands this which is why they developed the Nintendo Wii Fit.

First of all, you have to consider the fact that the thought of exercise alone is very boring. In fact, a lot of people who owns treadmills don’t even use it. And, people who have gym memberships don’t even workout.

With the Nintendo Wii Fit, you will see that exercising can be fun. Nintendo Wii Fit will be able to check your weight and progress. This is filled with fun activities, which will be able to exercise every part of your body and it will also help you maintain your physical fitness.

What’s more is that it also has yoga training, strength training, and even cardiovascular workout. The games here will not just improve your physical appearance, but it will also be able to improve your overall well-being.

This game will make your workouts more enjoyable and everybody in your family can really join in on the fun. This is a great way to promote health and wellness for the entire family as well as your friends.

Everybody knows that working out can be boring and it can also be hard. However, if you play with Nintendo Wii Fit, you will find that working out is not hard, but it will also be a lot of fun. What’s more is that it can be a fun activity that the entire family can do and at the same time, promote good health and better quality of life for everyone.

The great thing about the Wii Fit is that it teaches you the proper exercise methods. It will also plan your exercise regimen as well as record your progress. All in all, it basically acts as your personal fitness trainer.

In order for you to really take advantage of the Wii Fit game, all you need to do is position yourself on the balance board. This board will identify your body’s motion as well as your weight allocation. The data will then be relayed on the TV screen and the Wii Fit will be able to provide you with exercise options.

The exercises provided by the Wii Fit will be made on a more personal level. As you improve your overall health, the exercises will become more difficult and more intensive.

The Nintendo Wii Fit was primarily created to become a kind of fitness and learning system. However, a lot of people have stated that this also provided them enjoyment and fun and also an activity that the whole family can do.

So, if you think exercise is boring and you can’t seem to find time to go to the gym, you may want to get the Nintendo Wii Fit. With this video game, you will see that exercising can be a lot of fun and effective at the same time.

How health drinks can help you get better sleep

How health drinks can help you get better sleep


By: http://www.skybluecross.com
Nowadays, more and more experts agree that taking vitamins and mineral supplements in liquid form can be quite effective in achieving optimum health. This is because in this form, the body can absorb the nutrients it needs easily. For this reason alone why may companies decided to come with health drinks in liquid form such as those in juices while others come up with powder form which should be consumed along with liquid. And also for this reason why more and more people who are having trouble to get better sleep are hooked into these drinks.

Experts agree that people, these days, are very lucky because there is a continuous research and science experiment that aim to provide healthier and better tasting health drinks. In fact, health drinks come with variations of fruits, vegetables, enzyme grains, nuts, seeds, and other herbs to make them more appetizing and also contain ingredients that can help people get better sleep.

Other benefits of health drinks

These days, health drinks are reported to react differently to people who are using them. These also react depending on the purpose of the person using it. Experts say that the health drinks available in the market today can be categorized depending on the need of the consumers. There are those that are made to just deliver essential mineral and vitamins in the body. And, there are also those that are aimed towards increasing energy levels or increasing the muscle reaction to certain activities.

No matter which one you choose, rest assured that you can benefit from it once used in moderation. Aside from delivering essential vitamins and minerals and increasing energy that help a person get better sleep, the following are other benefits of health drinks:

- It satisfies the hunger and gives a sense of fullness. In a fast-paced, busy environment people are living in today, it is a must to have a source of energy at all times. One of the reasons why more and more people are into health drinks is to make up for the lost vitamins and minerals when they need to skip meal due to busy schedule.

- It improves overall health. Since most health drinks are packed with vitamins and minerals, it can help you fight off common diseases by consuming it regularly.

- It helps enhance mental stability. The nutrients in most health drinks are aimed to produce oxygen that keeps the blood vessels clear. Once a person takes in these nutrients regularly, it can help them have greater focus in the things that they do either at work or at home.

Although many health drinks are available in the market today, not all of these can give you the nutrients that you need. Before you buy or consume a health drink, try to ask your doctor first which are the ones he or she can recommend that would best suit your needs. If you prefer to buy on your own, make sure that these do not contain ingredients that can be harmful to you such as phosphoric acid, high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors and sweeteners, artificial dyes and coloring, processed vitamins, and modified food starches.

Make sure that the health drink that you are about to consume is not liquefied or pasteurized, have live enzymes from chlorophyll to aid better absorption. It should also has natural antioxidants that can help combat free radicals and are made whole food ingredients to be safe and will not cause any problems for you get better sleep.

Get Rid Of Acne With Healing Diets

Get Rid Of Acne With Healing Diets
http://altmedicine.about.com/od/popularhealthdiets/ht/diettest.htm
By: http://www.skybluecross.com/
Healing diets can help us in indirect ways. Learn the basis of why a healing diet can work, and how it specifically relates to acne. Covered are what foods you should avoid, and some surprising factors that can aggravate things.

Annemarie Colbin, in her book "Food and Healing", makes the interesting point that diets themselves, even healing diets, are not a cure per se. They do often work, but their route to health is actually a product of supporting the body's own healing processes.

Her view on skin conditions like acne is interesting. She sees acne as a result of the regular organs of elimination, the kidneys and lungs, being unable to eliminate all the toxic waster matter that we ingest into our bodies. She sees certain foods, like those that make up what she calls the Standard American Diet, as placing too great a stress on our body's ability to process them, at least if symptoms of ill health are appearing like acne. She has found from her own observations that a change in diet often clears up even the large, purplish types of acne. She found this with her own experiences with acne. Annemarie says it takes about ten days to three months to work.

Annemarie describes acne as falling into two main causes in her approach. The first is associated with fat, protein and excess sugar. Here she recommends eliminating foods like milk, cheese, ice cream, fatty meats, nuts and peanut butter. The second category is associated with what she calls mineral-water excess, which is s term she uses to describe all substances taken out of their natural context. She mentions iodized salt, or even multi vitamins or supplements like kelp. This is very much a personal relationship as what negatively affects one person may not do so for another.

The link between excess minerals or vitamin supplements relates to Colbin's idea of balance, which is that a living system always seeks to return to balance. Anatomy and physiology textbooks even define the processes of the body that way, and it is certainly a common idea in natural health systems, especially traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Colbin writes that excess minerals and vitamin supplements lead to an increased need for the macro nutrients protein, fat and carbohydrates. Salt is also in this category. The idea is that these vitamins and minerals, taken out of the context of the food itself, will lead to the body craving actual food to create a sense of balance. If we have a multi vitamin at mealtimes, within the RDA, I don't believe this is going to present a problem. Especially given that our foods are often depleted of the range of essential nutrients that they would normally have if they were grown organically and in nutrient dense soils. But it is certainly an argument in favor of approaching nutritional supplements in a balanced way also. Some people mistakenly think more is better. This clearly illustrates it is not.

References: Annemarie Colbin, Food As Healing (Ballantine Books, New York)
Simon Mills, The Essential Book Of Herbal Medicine (Penguin Arkana)

Learning to choose healthy foods

Learning to choose healthy foods
By: http://www.skybluecross.com

Today's hectic and demanding lifestyle as well as the emergence of convenient stores is among the major reasons why people skip their healthy meals. After learning how to depend on fast food stores and convenience stores, it is easier for people to just grab a food that contains less nutrition compared to those foods that matter.

With all these drastic changes in the habit of eating, food preparation and food options, people have become more prone to various diseases because their bodies fail to absorb the nutrients it needs. Contrary to common conception, healthy foods need not to be expensive, rare or hard to prepare. In fact, most of these recommended foods for healthy living is cheaper, abundant, and easier to prepare compared to those that can be bought in the nearest convenient store.

Why choose healthy foods?

Most food and nutrition experts say that healthy eating is not about what people cannot eat, it is about what people could eat in order to get the optimum nutrition that their bodies need.

If you are one of those who are on their way of learning to eat healthy foods, the best valuable thing that you can do when buying inside the grocery store or super market is to pick those that are fresh, unprocessed and whole. This is very ideal especially if you plan to buy fruit and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and sprouts.

Considered as live foods, being fresh ensures that the food still contain the greatest amount of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that provides the body with optimum nutrition. Make sure that you eat fruits that are fresh, dried without sulfur dioxide or frozen without preservatives and avoid eating fruits that are canned and in heavy syrup because these have preservatives, additives, and sweeteners. Also, eat veggies that are fresh or raw, lightly steamed, baked and dried without sulfur and avoid eating veggies that are frozen with preservatives, additives, sweeteners.

Always opt for fresh sprouts and avoid veggies that are fried or overcooked. When it comes to grains, opt for whole grain products that are unprocessed, nonirradiated, non genetically modified, sugar free, no chemical additives, no preservatives and other whole grain & sprouted grain products like bread, muffins, tortillas, cereals, and pasta, crackers. Avoid products with white flour, unbleached flour, enriched flour, sweeteners, chemical additives, refined and processed grains, white rice, quick oats, instant oatmeal, and instant cereals.

When it comes to legumes, choose beans, peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Avoid using canned legumes prepared without animal fat, with chemical additives, sweeteners, pork and beans, and soybeans. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, filberts, pine nuts, cashews, raw seeds, sunflower, pumpkin, sesame, raw nut butters, and tahini should be eaten raw. Avoid eating dry roasted nuts and seeds. Also, make sure that you choose animal foods such as eggs, poultry and other meat that are free range, hormone and antibiotic free as well as grass fed. In fish, opt for those that have the lowest exposure to mercury.

Aside from this, you should always consider eating organic foods over to those commercially-produced ones. Nutritionists say that organic foods are indeed the purest and healthiest foods out there because they are not yet contaminated with pesticides and have higher percentage of nutrition.

Lastly, learning to read and check the label of the food item that you are about to buy is one of the best ways to ensure that you will be eating healthy food. Checking if the item is properly labeled—especially these are pre-packaged—is your main defense and protection against possible adverse effects and unwanted ingredients or contents.

Tea Tree Oil and a Whole Foods Diet: A Complete Cure for Chronic Disease

Tea Tree Oil and a Whole Foods Diet: A Complete Cure for Chronic Disease

By: http://www.skybluecross.com
Tea tree oil has various uses in first aid treatments because of its triple antibiotic features: it's an antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent. To effectively treat chronic conditions, we have to treat the root of the imbalance; in many cases this can be accomplished through the use of tea tree oil along with dietary changes.


Tea tree oil has various uses in first aid treatments because of its triple antibiotic features: it's an antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal agent. The oil's first aid uses are fairly straightforward because we all know what to expect from a first aid treatment: we know we can use the substance to sanitize, heal cuts and wounds, and ease pain.

A chronic condition is more complex. It's common to hear someone with a chronic disease, such as acne, asthma or a yeast infection for example, say that "such-and-such a remedy" worked at first, or was effective for a while, and then the problem came back. Or maybe the symptoms were lessened but never completely disappeared. That's because many of the organisms responsible for these conditions occur naturally in our environments, or in our own bodies, and are kept in balance until something causes the balance to shift and the organisms to experience overgrowth. That's when we experience a severe acne outbreak, an asthma attack, or the symptoms of yeast infection.

In order to effectively treat the chronic condition, we have to recreate the state of balance, or in other words, we have to treat the root of the imbalance. I believe that in many cases this can be accomplished through the use of tea tree oil along with dietary changes.

In most cases, when I feel a cold coming on or sense the onset of a cold sore (things I rarely experience any more), I simply apply tea tree oil to my temples, throat and chest or wherever I feel the aches or the cold sore coming on, ingest a cough drop containing minute amounts of tea tree oil, and eliminate sugar from my diet. I also buy a bag of oranges and eat them freely, drink plenty of water, and get a few extra hours of sleep at night or by napping during the day. Also, a steamy hot bath with a few drops of tea tree oil in it works wonders. These things usually return me to good health.

As for a whole foods diet:

Include:
* Fresh vegetables and fruits
* Fish and poultry
* Flax seed (Linseed)
* Other essential fatty acids, such as olive oil and nuts
* Whole grains
* Organically raised foods where possible.
* Plenty of fresh water
* 1 tablespoon Psyllium seed husk fiber and/or 6 to 8 tablespoons flax seed meal and/or ¼ cup Oat bran daily

Avoid:
* Alcohol
* Animal fats
* Caffeine
* Dairy products
* Fast foods
* Hydrogenated oils and margarine
* Processed foods
* Junk foods
* Sugar
* White flour products

These days I usually feel dis-ease approaching during the winter months, because of bad eating habits during the holiday season, and because of occasionally using junk food to ease "cabin fever" symptoms (depression, uneasiness, lethargy). I may know better, but I'm not a saint! I've learned to forgive myself, then get back on the program with renewed vigor.

Antioxidants Naturally Found in Foods

Antioxidants Naturally Found in Foods
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Why do we need to eat foods that are found to be naturally high in antioxidants?
What are antioxidants?
Which foods do we need to eat, in order to naturally fight free radicals?

Why do we need to eat foods that are found to be naturally high in antioxidants?
What are antioxidants?
Which foods do we need to eat, in order to naturally fight free radicals?

Scientists have found that the body forms unstable oxygen molecules, called free radicals; every cell produces tens of thousands of them each day. A free radical is basically an atom with an odd number of electrons in its outer ring. Since electrons have a very strong tendency to exist in a paired rather than an unpaired state, free radicals indiscriminately pick up electrons from other atoms, which in turn convert those other atoms into secondary free radicals, thus setting up a chain reaction, which can cause substantial biological damage. This, in short, is bad. There are also many kinds of free radicals, which we are exposed to everyday, for example, pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides.

Antioxidants are thought to neutralise and stabilise these free radicals.

So, which antioxidants are naturally found in which foods?

We have:

Vitamin E: a fat-soluble vitamin found in vegetable oils, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and fortified cereals. Some of the foods containing the highest amounts of vitamin E are wheat germ oil, almonds, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil, hazelnuts, peanuts, spinach, broccoli, kiwi and mango.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant vitamin involved in the metabolism of all cells. It protects vitamin A and essential fatty acids from oxidation in the body cells and prevents breakdown of body tissues.

Vitamin C: Ascorbic acid is a water-soluble vitamin present in citrus fruits and juices, cabbage, green peppers, broccoli, spinach, tomato, kale, guava, cantaloupe, kiwi, papaya, and strawberries.
It is important in forming collagen, a protein that gives structure to bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron, and helps maintain capillaries, bones, and teeth.

Beta-carotene: Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. It is present in liver, egg yolk, milk, butter, spinach, carrots, squash, broccoli, yams, tomato, cantaloupe, peaches, and grains.
Studies have been done on beta-carotene's effectiveness for heart disease, cancer, chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, fibromyalgia, male infertility, and psoriasis.

Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 boosts energy, enhances the immune system, and acts as an antioxidant. A growing body of research suggests that coenzyme Q10 may help prevent or treat some of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and others. Primary dietary sources of CoQ10 include oily fish, organ meats such as liver, spinach, broccoli, peanuts, wheat germ and whole grains.

Selenium: Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to good health but required only in small amounts. It helps synthesize antibodies; helps synthesize co-enzyme Q10and helps transport ions across cell membranes. The best sources of selenium are Brazil nuts, wheat germ, molasses, sunflower seeds, whole wheat bread and dairy foods.

You should note that there are many other antioxidants naturally found in foods.
You should also note that the best way to take antioxidants is naturally, through fresh, vibrant food.
One more thing; sometimes less is more. Some of these antioxidants are only needed in small amounts, so check into whether you need to take more or not, before you start overdosing on antioxidants!

Back Pain and Multiple Myeloma

Back Pain and Multiple Myeloma
By: http://www.skybluecross.com
Some of the common problems that cause back pain merge from musculoskeletal conditions and neurological conditions. However, back pain also arises from arthritis, muscle disorders, etc, including multiple myeloma. Muscle myeloma is abnormalities and proliferation of the plasma cells within the bone marrow. According to etiology aspects, doctors believe that multiple myeloma derives from genetics, environment, and unknown sources.

The physical condition merges from a single tumor, which starts in the bone marrow and disseminates into the liver, lymph nodes, spleen, bones, and kidney. Tumors of this nature set up in plasma cells, which manufacture abnormal counts of immunoglobulin. The tumor then triggers activities, such as osteoblastic, which leads to destruction of bones and extends all through the body.

Symptoms emerge from the actions, which include headaches, hemorrhaging, height loss, severe, and constant bone pain, splenomegaly, fractures, hepatomegaly, deformations of the skeletal muscles, ribs, sternum, and renal calculi. Multiple infections often emerge from the tumor as well.

As you can see, the symptoms will cause back pain as well, since the skeletal system, muscles, ribs, etc, are affected.

How multiple myeloma is noted:
Doctors order x-rays, bone marrow biopsy, blood chemistry, bone scan, hematology, urine chemistry, immuoelectrophoresis, and Bence Jones tests to note multiple myeloma.

If the doctor spots diffusions that point to spherical punch-outs of bone lesion, the search carries on to discover potential osteoporosis. As well, the doctor will look for osteolytic lacerations of the cranium, and widespread of demineralization.

Doctors will look for various signs that diagnose multiple myeloma, including monoclonal spike, increases in count of juvenile plasma cells, and so on. Once tests are completed management, interventions, and other steps are taking to avert paraplegia, gout, acute renal failure, seizures, hemorrhaging, urolithiasis, infections, and fractures.

If you are diagnosed with multiple myeloma, it is recommended that you sway away from lifting heavy objects. Lifting may cause constipation. In addition, you should avoid over-the-counter medications, since it to can cause variant symptoms to emerge. You will need to wear braces, casts, or splints also to avoid fractures.

Occult blood could set in if you have multiple myeloma, which doctors will often recommend that you watch for its symptoms. Strength training exercises or exercises that exercise the muscles is highly recommended to those with multiple myeloma. Doctors often set up medical management schemes, which include diet forced fluids, transfusion therapy, mouth and skin care, etc.

As the management scheme is setup, the doctor will monitor the patient, since falling is dangerous. In addition, the patient is monitored, since bruising and infections could set in and increase the symptoms. Activities and bed rest is incorporated into the scheme. The patient must also learn stress reduction strategies.

Post-radiation and post-chemotherapeutic treatments are issued in severe cases. In addition, the patient is monitored for infections, bleeding, and imbalances of electrolyte. Patients are encouraged to monitor symptoms at home, including symptoms that merge from fractures, seizures, and renal calculi.

If you are diagnosed with multiple myeloma, you will experience pain over the entire body. You can minimize the pain by following your physician’s recommendations. In addition, you will need to learn more information about your disease from the ACS. (American Cancer Society)

Unfortunately, back pain emerges from a variety of conditions, including cancerous diseases. In fact, hemophilia can cause back pain, which we can discuss briefly.

Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder. The disease is characterized by various symptoms, yet it is separated from Hemophilia A and B. VIII is the common disorder, which deficiencies. Deficiencies also emerge IX B disorders. To learn more about back pain, study diseases, disorders, muscle skeletal disorders, and so on.


 

How to have Lifetime Fitness

How to have Lifetime Fitness
By: http://www.skybluecross.com/

Many people end up abandoning perfectly good fitness programs and weight-loss regimens before they even lace up their sneakers.

Why? Because in a world filled with fast food, instant messaging, and a five-second disease-tracking device, anything without a quick payoff goes against the grain of the typical American instant gratification ethic. While it would be nice to actually drop inches in just a few days like what most miracle ads proclaim, managing weight and losing weight through physical fitness is a slow and steady process that takes time and commitment.

Setting weight management goals for yourself can be a good motivator. Gradual weight loss, for those people who wish to shed off some extra pounds, is usually the safest.

That is why health and fitness experts had come up with the idea of lifetime fitness in order to teach people set realistic goals. These lifetime fitness programs generates dietary regimens that cut your normal calorie consumption for your weight by 500 to 1,000 per day, so will burning the same amount with exercise. In turn, this will definitely encourage healthier weight loss.

Lifetime fitness teaches you how to maintain a physically fit body at the same time enjoy and live a happy, contented life. It gives you the chance to strike a balance between the two (exercise and diet), and make exercise, be it team sports, cycling, or walking, something you will truly enjoy.

That is why lifetime fitness embodies the concept that making a long-term healthy lifestyle change is essential to keeping the pounds off once they are gone.

To know more of the advantages and benefits that lifetime fitness can bring, here are some facts that you need to know:

1. Lifetime fitness programs offers you the most comprehensive and wide-ranging fitness and health encounter with quality services, in which the customers will feel gratified.

These fitness programs provide you the right method in maintaining health, build up and encourage your competence, and take care of your family’s physical fitness as well.

2. Because the goal of lifetime fitness is to provide you with long-term achievements as far as physical fitness is concerned, these programs utilizes numerous fitness equipments that will tone and manage your health and the different parts of your body.

There are fitness equipments that will give your cardiovascular system a lift. You can also opt for some sports facilities that will provide you with an alternative way of being physically fit.

3. Lifetime fitness programs and centers also provides nutritional products such as food supplements that will aid in the formation of good blood cells and tissues thereby making your body at its pink of health.

Lifetime fitness centers and programs also provide you with up-to-date fitness magazines that do not only give substantial information about fitness and health but inspirational stories as well. These articles will give you an insight on how to make you life balance and how to live a life that is healthy and fit.

Indeed, staying fit and healthy can be a long and winding road and there are instances wherein you may find your enthusiasm fading occasionally. Nevertheless, with the comprehensive programs provided by lifetime fitness plans, you can start heading back to the right track of a healthier you.

Fast Food and Vitamins Take Up Some Healthy Habits

Fast Food and Vitamins Take Up Some Healthy Habits


If you ask most adults why they don’t get the vitamins they need as part of their daily food intake, they’ll likely tell you that they just don’t have the time to eat like they should.

If you ask most adults why they don’t get the vitamins they need as part of their daily food intake, they’ll likely tell you that they just don’t have the time to eat like they should. It’s true that eating right does take some time and effort, but it’s also true that you can develop and maintain healthier eating habits without any drastic changes. Take a look at some facts and some alterations that can make a big difference in how you eat, and how you feel about what you eat.

Think the only healthy food is food that’s served on a plate that you eat with a fork? The truth is that many foods that are very rich in vitamins that your body needs everyday are available for your consumption on the go. And with some minor changes, even your fast foods can be healthy choices when you’re considering vitamins.

A cheeseburger from your favorite fast food place doesn’t have to be something you only indulge in now and then. While there are some other issues to consider (the amount of grease and salt, for example), a cheeseburger can provide you with many of the vitamins you need. A regular cheeseburger with a double patty gives you about 30 percent of your body’s B12 needs for the day and the dill pickles are a source of Vitamin K.

Instead of ordering French Fries to go with your burger, choose a salad. That doesn’t mean that you have to stop what you’re doing and sit down to eat the salad. Pile those veggies on the burger! The tomatoes are a source of Vitamin C, and the lettuce and mayonnaise has Vitamin K. Add it all up and a cheeseburger isn’t a bad choice when you’re trying to get the daily requirement of some necessary vitamins. Even a fast food taco can be a good source of Vitamin B12.

Sandwiches are generally not associated with healthy eating, but the same “cheeseburger rule” applies to any sandwich. Pile on the jalapeno or bell peppers for Vitamin C. Oils are also a good source of vitamins. Sunflower oil is very high in Vitamin E, for example.

Many foods that aren’t naturally high in vitamin content are fortified with vitamins. Most dairy products are fortified with Vitamin D. Taking just the time for a bowl of vitamin-fortified cereal in the morning can provide you with all the vitamins you need for the entire day. The next time you’re ready to dismiss a particular food as just empty calories, take a minute to evaluate what you’re really eating. You may be surprised to find the vitamin content is higher than you thought, or you may find that some simple changes can rectify the vitamin-poor choices.

Prostate Cancer & Treatment Overview

Prostate Cancer   & Treatment Overview
By: http://www.skybluecross.com
Introduction:

Prostate is a glandular organ present only in males. It surrounds the neck of bladder & the first part of urethra and condributes a secretion to the semen. The gland is conical in shape and measures 3 cm in vertical diameter and 4 cm in transverse diameter.It has got five lobes anterior,posterior,two lateral and a median lobe.Since the first part of the urethra pass through it any lesion in the prostate will produce difficulty in passing urine.

Diseases of the prostate gland:

1) Prostatitis:

This is the inflamation of the prostate gland due to bacterial infection.

2) Benign enlargement of the prostate:-

This is a non cancerous tumour of the prostate seen after the age of 50. 3,Cancer of the prostate:-This is the 4th most common cause of death from malignant diseases in males.

Cancer of the prostate.

Cancer of the prostate is directly linked with the male sex hormones(androgens).If the levels of sex hormone increases the growth rate of cancer also increases.It is found that after the removel of testes there is marked reduction in the size of tumour.

Site of tumour:-

Prostate cancer is seen mainly in the posterior lobe.Non cancerous enlargement is seen in other lobes.

Changes in the gland in cancer:-

The gland becomes hard with irregular surface with loss of normal lobulation .Histologically prostate cancer is an adeno carcinoma(cancer of the epithelial cells in the gland)

Growth :-

Growth rate is very fast in prostate cancer .The tumour compresses the urethra and produce difficulty in urination.

Spread of tumour:-

Metastasis in cancer of prostate is very early.

1) Local spread:-

From the posterior lobe the cancer cells go to the lateral lobes and seminal vesicles.Tumour cells also move to the neck and base of the urinary bladder.

2) Lymphatic spread:-

Through the lymph vessels cancer cells reach the internal and external illiac group of lymph nodes.From there cells move to retroperitonial(Behind the peritonium) and mediastinal lymph nodes(in the chest)

3) Spread through the blood:-

Spread of cancer cells takeplace through the periprostatic venous plexus and reaches the vertebral veins while coughing and sneezing and finally enders the vertebral bodies of the lumbar vertebrae.

Signs and symptoms of prostate cancer:--

Signs and symptoms depend upon the stage of the cancer. The following symptoms may be seen.

1) No symptoms:-

Tumour is small and only in the posterior lobe. This is diagnosed accidentely.

2) Slight difficulty in urination:-

Here the tumour is enlarged and urethra is slightly compressed.Shortly there will be frequent urge for urination with difficult urination.

3) When the tumour spread to all nearby areas including neck of bladder and urethra there will be painful urination with bleeding.Urine comes drop by drop.

4) Retention of urine:-

When the urethra is completely compressed there will be retention of urine.This can lead to hydronephrosis, renal failure ect.In this condition patient may get convulsions due to renal failure and finally coma.

5) Signs of metastasis:-

Some patients come with the signs and symptoms of metastasis.

a) Lumbo sacral pain due to spread of cancer cells to lumbar and sacral vertebrae.

b) Fracture of spine due to cancerous growth in the spine.

c) Swelling, pain and fluid collection in the abdomen due to lesion in the abdomen.

d) Respiratory complaints due to cancer of mediastinal lymphnodes and lungs.

e) General weakness due to spread of cancer to different parts of the body.

f) Anaemia due to involment of bone marrow and increased destruction of RBCs.

Clinical examination :-

Includes per rectal examination to feel the prostate gland,palpation of abdomen to feel the swelling in kidneys and any tumours.Patient is examined from head to foot to find out any lesions.

Investigations:-

1) Complete blood investigations;-

RBC,WBC,Platlets,ESR,bleeding time ,clotting time ect.

2) Urine analysis:-

Microscopic examination to detect pus cells,occult blood,casts,Crystals ect.

3) Renal function tests:-

Blood urea level,serum creatinine level,electrolyte level ect.

4) Serum acid phosphatase:-

Increased in cancer of prostate.

5) x-ray of the spine:-

To detect any tumour or fracture.

6) Ultra sonography;

Gives idea about prostate,bladder,kidney ect.

7) C T scan:

More detailed information about organs and tumour.

8) MRI of the spine:

Gives detailed information about spine ,disc and nearby soft tissues.

9) Lymphangiography:

Gives idea about lymphatic spread of cancer.

10) Biopsy to confirm cancer:

Biopsy is taken from the tumour and is send for histopathological examination under the microscope.This will detect the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment:-

1) If there is retention of urine catheterisation is needed.
2) Dialysis if kidney failure.
3) If there is coma monitoring of all vital functions along with parentral nutrition and electolyte supply.
4) Specific treatment is prostatectomy(removal of prostate)

Partial prostatectomy :-

Here only the affected lobe is removed.

Radical prostatectomy :

Total removal of prostate along with nearby lymphnodes.

5, Hormone therapy :

Stilbestrol is given to reduce tumour growth.Since this treatement increases the chance for cardiovascular disease phosphorylated diethyle stilbesterol is used nowadays.

6) Chemotherapy:-Drugs like cyclophosphamide, cisoplatim ect are given.

7) Radiotherapy is also done for some cases.

8) Homoeopathy:

Homoeopathic drugs like carcinocin, conium, sabal, crotalus, thuja, iodum, selinium, staphysagria, sulphur ect can be given according to symptoms.Constitutional homoeopathic medicine will give great relief and can increase the life span.

9) Yoga and meditation is also healpful.

What You Need to Know about Reiki Treatment
By: http://www.skybluecross.com

If you have not yet heard of Reiki treatment, then now is the best time to get to know it. Reiki is an age old healing technique that utilizes energy of different levels to cure and attain the balance that should exist among the spirit, the mind, and the body. There are claims that the same technique had been used by none other than Jesus Christ along with the rest of the great spiritual healers of the times. The Reiki which the contemporary world is familiar with in these days is the same thing that had been rediscovered by Mikao Usui in the 20th century. Through time, the strategies have been adapted, used, and then mixed and matched so that explains why there are different variations that we have today. The variations that exist are in support of the known interpretations and belief systems. It is to be taken note that Reiki is not in any way related to a body of faith or religion. It exists in its own consciousness.

Understanding Reiki in a Better Way

In order to achieve a clearer view of Reiki and the system of treatment that it covers, one has to dig deeper into the essence of the philosophy of illness. The modern medical arena feeds on the fact that the human body is similar to a mechanical device that when any of the systems get damaged, it can be mended by means of repair or replacement. As a typical way of handling the human body dilemma, surgeries and drugs are often recommended. Say for example, a headache is cured by taking a pain reliever pill.

On the other hand, what is known as the holistic medicine employs a very different type of approach in addressing the human health. It respects each part that comprises an individual. It looks into the mental, the physical, the spiritual, and the emotional components of a person. It relies on the concept that once parts of the abovementioned systems malfunction, the rest of the body structures get affected. In fact, it poses its effect on the person's life in general.

To solve such ordeal, the main root of the problem should be tracked down. Once the body feels bad, the symptoms can be felt and spotted sooner or later. What the busy individuals fail to realize is that the body indicates some warning signs which when ignored may lead to more serious problems.

The Main Role of the Reiki Practitioners

The Reiki practitioners emphasize that the little warnings should never be ignored. They may appear insignificant at first but later on you will find out how serious the problem may be. Thus, they address this concern by making use of the Reiki energy to free or heal the problematic tissues. As soon as the symptoms have been eliminated, they encourage a change in the person's way of life. They fully point out how the balance in the overall health should be maintained and why it is very necessary to do so.

Many a times have Reiki treatment been regarded as valuable. Since the earliest time, this technique has never faltered. In these modern days, one should consider looking back to the days of yore when everything was yet balanced and harmonized. After all, it doesn't hurt to give it a shot.

How to do Pain Relief?

 How to do  Pain Relief?
http://www.skybluecross.com
What is the definition of pain? According to medical experts, it is an unpleasant emotional and sensory experience. It is oftentimes associated with damaged body tissues. Pain is a personal experience and it varies from one individual to another. Pain management is a discipline used by medical professionals today in order to cope with pain. Trained physicians can help patients suffering from acute, chronic, and progressive pain in eliminating the unpleasant experience.

Trauma can lead to acute pain. It is reversible but there is a need to correct any underlying problem. Chronic pain is caused by certain conditions that can’t be easily diagnosed. In this case, it will be quite difficult to reverse it; typical examples are referred pain, neuropathy, and cancer. If you’re suffering from such conditions, pain management is introduced individually to meet the varying needs of the sufferer. Pain is already a symptom of the disease so it would be impossible to remove it at once.

Pain management is a multi disciplinary approach used by only qualified professionals. The approach is a combination of interventional procedures, narcotics, and analgesics. Aside from that, the approach also involves cognitive therapy and biofeedback, also known as psychological measures. Practitioners of pain management are considered experts in their own medical field. Medical professionals who practice pain management include psychiatrists, neurologists, anesthesiologists, and physiatrists. These individuals are experts in handling pain, whether in the use of drugs and in other interventional measures.

Nurses and doctors give particular attention to pain management because it is a major area in the medical field. When treating various kinds of diseases, pain management is already part of the treatment program especially in the case of serious accidents, tumors, and cancer.

With the help of the doctors, nurses, and other concerned personnel, the patient will better understand his or her condition. If they know what they are dealing with, it will be easier to address the pain problem.

Pain is not always physical. Some individuals tend to suffer from emotional pain. It is vital that pain sufferers consult the appropriate medical expert. In most cases, referrals are being utilized. If a certain medical practitioner can’t handle the pain problem, the patient will be referred to the appropriate pain management expert.

Not all patients are willing to take drugs and other interventional measures provided by medical experts. Some say that they don’t want to experience the side effects of such drugs or medications. For those individuals who are tired of using conventional medicines to handle pain, they can turn to alternative pain relief tools.

What are these alternative approaches? It includes yoga, Reiki, herbs, and other natural means of relieving pain. If you want to opt for these approaches, it would be best to consult the experts and experienced individuals. In the case of herbs, you can search the internet for local herbalists to help you with the herbal preparations. If you want to learn more about yoga or Reiki, you should contact the yoga practitioners in your area. Learning from the experts will ensure your safety and the effectiveness of such approach. There are also online resources that can help you finding videos, CDs or DVDs on meditation techniques.

Pain relief can be addressed using conventional medicine but the pain sufferer can also opt for the alternative methods. It’s a good thing that people today can choose the best treatment that suits their needs.