Party Hangover - How do I manage?

New Year Eve! Festival Season! Party Party Party! Unavoidable.
Excitement and happiness on 31st night party leads to spicy food, drinks, smoke all of them lead to disaster on 1st Jan. I dont think it feels good to have a bad New year. Here are some good tips on how you can manage your 31st night and 1st Jan to feel normal and enjoy the new year.

Acidity and gastritis are normal effects of parties. All you need to do is just realize what you are consuming. Just think twice before over eating and drinking.
Consume lot of water and juices, take more vegetables like cucumber, tomato and fruits like guava, apple, etc. These can control your hangover to some extent.

Make your drinks diluted and take time to drink. Do not gulp in haste and reduce your excitement time. Make it slow and with lot of salads and juices, which can reduce the impact of drinks and junk food.

Have a good sleep. Have a bottle of water on your bedside and whenever you wake up take a few gulps of water (preferably room temperature). Atleast consume a litre of water in the night, so that whatever you have consumed gets diluted.

1st Jan, a hot black tea to start with will help you clean your stomach. Over the day, drink good amount of juices. Avoid citric fruits like orange and lemon. Guava, Banana and apples can help a lot.

Take a hot water bath and allow lot of warm water flow through your face, which will make you feel better. Avoid non-vegetarian food and spicy food during the day and have light food and be kind to your digestive system.

Happy new year! Wish all the readers a great new year agead

The Diabetic Foot

Introduction
The human foot according to Leonardo Da vinci, is the most marvelous of machines and a work of art. It is made a work of art. It is made up of 27 bones, 19 muscles and 32 joints. It is estimated that by the time a person is 55 years old he may have walked nearly 70,000 miles, the equivalent of circling the globe two times.

What is a “Diabetic Foot”?
It is the term used to describe changes which occur in the foot in patients with diabetes mellitus. These include changes in sensation where the nerves have been affected and sensations altered, blunted or completely absent. The sensation of touch, pain, heat or cold is those that are affected. Eighty-five percent of diabetes- related amputations begin with into the foot leading to an infection. In some cases gangrene may set in.

• Every year 4 million people worldwide get a food ulcer?
• One in every 6 people with diabetes will develop a foot complication in their life time?
• People with diabetes are up to 40 times more likely to undergo a lower limb amputation

Why do diabetic patients develop problems in the feet?
There are two main reasons for the foot complications
Some diabetic patients develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy characterized by loss of sensation in the feet. Such patients have a high risk of injuries which often go unnoticed.

Diabetic patients particularly those with neuropathy often develop abnormal pressure points under the ball of the feet. In these areas, the skin often thickness into a callus which if it becomes excessively thick can lead to an ulcer. Chronic infection in the ulcer ultimately leads to amputation of a toe or the whole foot. Some diabetic patients have reduced blood circulation in the feet. These two groups of patients are considered to have “High Risk Feet”.

How can we diagnose patients with a high risk foot?
We do not require any expensive gadgets to diagnose high risk foot in diabetic patients. A physician should check for sensation in the feet with simple devices like a tuning fork, feet the pulsations in the feet and look ofr deformities in the feet to diagnose a high risk foot in a person with diabetes mellitus. People who have loss of sensation should never walk barefoot even inside their homes. This is necessary to prevent injuries and reduce the high pressures under the feet. The footwear which could be a sandal should have soft insole, heel counter, Veicro straps in the footwear upper. Hawai chappals, sandals with toe grips should not be worn since the strength of the small muscles in the foot is weak.

The diabetic foot complication is preventable to a very large extent, if the patients take proper care of the feet. However, even today the majority of people with diabetes do not perform regular, daily inspection of their feet, do not wear adequate foot wear or practice proper foot care. These three elements essential to the prevention of foot ulcers.

In an Amputation Prevention Study at Diabetes Research Centre, it was shown that strategies such as intensive management and foot care education were helpful in preventing newer problems and surgery in diabetic foot disease. It was published in the journal Diabetes Care in May 2005, In this study, patients were provided with simple foot care management like daily examination of foot, performing pedicure and usage of footwear.

Conclusion:
Diabetic foot complications are preventable or treatable with patient education, properly designed and fitted footwear and careful periodic follow-up. It is important to remember that all persons with diabetes, even those without any risk factors, must be careful with their feet.

• Regular examination of the feet by the physicians
• Identification of persons with high risk foot
• Proper care of feet by regular pedicure
• Avoiding barefoot walking and usage of right type of footwear
• Good control of diabetes to prevent loss of sensation and blood circulation in the feet.
  
  The Hindu November 14 2006

Juices and their Health Benefits

Fresh juices from fruits and vegetables offer many health benefits. Drinking juice on a daily basis can strengthen the body and keep the skin, glands and organs well hydrated. Furthermore, juices are easy to digest and make great dietary supplements.

POMEGRANATE JUICE

Pomegranate juice is a good source of antioxidants and also lowers LDL cholesterol. Studies show that it may also slow down the growth of prostate cancer and increase blood flow to the heart in people with certain coronary heart diseases.

ORANGE JUICE

Oranges are your answer to painful kidney stones. Research says that a daily glass of orange juice can reduce the incidence of kidney stones.

CRANBERRY JUICE

Often used as a home remedy for urinary tract infections, cranberry juice is also helpful for bladder and kidney problems. Rich in Vitamin C, cranberry juice offers a healthy dose of dietary fibre, antioxidants and phytochemical nutrients.

ALOE VERA JUICE

Aloe vera is known for its benefits to the skin. It acts as an anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal agent, preventing illness.

APPLE JUICE

Apple juice contains a host of essential nutrients and vitamins which may help protect the body from certain illnesses such as the common cold.

Courtesy : Times of Inida, Chennai Times, 9/12/2009

Bergamot Essential Oil - Healthy Facts

Bergamot essential oil removes body odour, gives relief to spasm, supresses pain and fights against depression. It heals cuts and scars and promotes digestion

Courtesy: Times of India, 10/12/2009, Chennai Times.

WATCH YOUR CHOLESTEROL

Sip green tea or munch on a few nuts to fight bad cholesterol
High blood lipids (cholesterol or triglycerides) requires a combination of diet and exercise as initial treatment. Reducing dietary calories and intake of saturated fat, and consuming a high-fibre diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables are obvious first steps. Other dietary measures exist, and here is an overview of the most popular ones.

FISH AND FISH OILS
The American heart association (AHA) recommends at least two servings of fatty fish per week to prevent heart disease. The omega – 3 fatty acids in fish lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides. According to the AHA, fish oil supplements, which contain massive amounts of omega – 3 fatty acids, are recommended only in refractory hypertriglyceridemia and are not meant for the general population. Vegetarian sources of omega 3 fatty acids include canola oil, soyabeanoil, flaxseed oil and nuts. Consuming moderate amounts of nuts definitely helps lower cholesterol particularly the bad cholesterol. One study showed that taking 20 percent of daily calories from a PUFA rich source like almonds or walnuts significantly lowered the bad lipids, Green tea and not black tea or oolong tea, has a similar beneficial effect.

Garlic: Something that smells this bad ought to do something good, and garlic indeed has many healthful properties but lowering cholesterol is not one of them. Sorry. And the same goes for soy protein which has only a minor effect on blood cholesterol. Soy protein is a great food but it is not worth having just for the sake of cholesterol.

Guggulipid made from the resin of the mukul myrrh tree, is a controversial product. Indian studies attest to its cholesterol,lowering effect but American research does not bear it out. Moreover, there are questions about the quality of the Indian research that led to the claims of health benefit. Pity.

Red yeast rice: This is a fermented rice dish popular in Chinese cuisine. It contains monacolins, which are substances with HMG COA reductase inhibitor activity similar to that of the statin drugs used to lower blood cholesterol. Unfortunately, not all strains of the rice have the same activity, and extracts of red yeast rice are poorly standardized.

Calcium Supplements improve the composition of blood lipids, and a diet high in calcium is inversely associated with cardiovascular risk. However, in postmenopausal women, who are the chief target of calcium and Vitamin D supplements, there is no reduction of cardiovascular risk with such supplements

The writer is a consultant in Internal Medicine, The Hindu wellness December 11 2008

A nice spice

Fenugreek is an ancient spice and is mostly used in the middle east, Northern-eastern Africa and India. In egyptian papyri, this spice finds mention as food, medicine and an embalming agent. Fenugreek has a strong, pleasant smell and grows best in well drained soils with low rainfall.

The fresh leaves are eaten as a tasty vegetable and prepared like spinach. Commercially known as 'Methi' Indian fenugreek comes in several wll known varieties such as 'Desi' and 'champa' and is grwon in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The small stony seeds from the pod of a bean like plant are called fenugreek. The seeds are hard, yellowish brown and angular. Some are oblong, some rhombic, others virtually cubic, with a side of about 3mm. A deep furrow all but splits them into two. They are available whole and dried, or as a dull yellow powder, ground from the roasted seeds.

Culinary uses

Dried seeds should be lightly roasted before using. After roasting, they can be easily ground. A small amount will complement many other spices, but too much can be over powering. If the seeds are required as part of a curry paste, they can be soaked overnight to swell and soften, and mixed with the other ingredients.

The major use of fenugreek is in curry powders. It figures in many mixtures, especially vindaloo, and the hot curries of Sri Lanka. It is an ingredient of panchpuran, the Indian five spice mixture. When fish is curried, particularly strong-tasting fish such as tuna and Mackerek, fenugreek is frequently included in the spice mixture. Many chutneys and pickles incorporate it and it gives a tangy aroma to vegetables. The leaves, both fresh and dried, are used in ,eat curries, dhal and vegetable dishes.

Medicinal Properties

Frenugreek is a digestive aid. It is used in poultices for boils, cysts and other complaints. It is used in treating diabetes. It lowers high blood pressure. Fenugreek relieves congestion, reduces inflammation and fights infection. Fenugrek contains natural expectorant properties ideal for treating sinus and lung congestion, it losens and removes excess mucus and phlegm. Fenugreek is a naural source of iron, silicon, sodium and thiamine.

For more health tips with herbs and spices click here

Diet Do

If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, you must be very careful about your diet. Eat foods that will keep your digestive system healthy.

• IBS is triggered by the intake of foods with high caffeine content, such as coffee, carbonated drinks and chocolate. Avoid them!
• Cut down on sugar
• Avoid foods with yeast.
• Reduce intake of dairy products. However, you can have probiotic yoghurt without sugar.
• Have soups with meat, beans and non-starchy vegetables. Avoid grains, corn and rice.
  

The Chennai times February 27 2009

Asthma is more generally common in small boys when compared to small girls. But, after puberty, this trend gets reversed. Typically after the age of 20, women are more likely to have asthma than men for the first time. Women are prone to have more problems with asthma, when compared to men. This is primarily due to the hormonal changes during the time of the periods, where women may find an exacerbation of the diseases. Pregnancy also, can worsen asthma, and moreover it can complicate the pregnancy. Between the ages of 20 and 50 women are around three times more likely than men to be admitted for asthma.
Not suffering from asthma during childhood is no guarantee against getting it as an adult. 30 to 40 per cent of people suffering from asthma will get it as adults.

Find more information on Asthma in women
WHAT CAUSES ASTMA?

Tulsi - Health Facts

Tulsi is most commonly used as a seasoning in food and in herbal medicines. Tulsi is rich in calcium, iron and vitamins K and A. It promotes cardiovascular health, protects the body at the cellular level and against unwanted bacterial growth, and cures respiratory diseases like cold, cough, congestion and asthma.

Diabetes and Nutrition

Food and Nutrition are the most interesting things in our life. A large portion of our waking hours is spent on planning, buying, cooking and eating food. Of course, food alone is not the key to a healthier life, but good nutrition should become a part of overall healthy life style. Back in 400 B.C., Hipocrates said, “Let food be your medicine and medicine by your food”. They were emphasizing the link between nutrition and diseases.

Good and proper nutrition is very important in managing diabetes and ensures better control and reduction in medicines.Diabetics don’t need a special diet. Interestingly our traditional Indian diets with slight modification in the sugar and fat intake is ideal for a diabetic. But an occasional intake of these foods is permitted only after making necessary adjustments and also avoiding over indulgence, which can create problem. The daily intake should be spaced into three principal meals and two snacks.A diabetic can make his diet flexible to match his customs, likes, dislikes and health condition by adopting food exchange system.

The food exchanges are:

1. Fruits
2. Vegetables
3. Milk and Milk products
4. Oil, fats and nuts
5. Cereals
6. Meat, fish and pulses

7 steps to healthy eating

1. Avoid visible and invisible
2. Fill up with starchy food
3. Eat at least 3 servings of vegetables a day
4. Get rid of the sugar habit but use
5. Eat enough protein
6. Avoid fasting and
7. Quit smoking and alchol
8. Hence “Eat for Health; Not for Taste”.

The Hindu November 14 2006

Benefits/Drawbacks of Alcohol

People have used alcohol in one form or another since prehistoric times. There are some benefits as well as drawbacks of consuming Alcohol.  Alcohol helps prevent age-related dementia, improves appitite and promotes happy mood.  However, prolonged unlimited consumption may result in addiction, hangovers and liver disorders.
 
Unlike other foods alcohol is not digested, its absorbed by the blood.  The liver metabolizes alcohol. Continous use of excess alcohol damages the liver.   Alcohol is said to control the blood cholesterol. Almost any starchy /sweet food can be turned into alcohol.

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What is AIDS?

AIDS - Acquired immune deficiency syndrome, still has no cure.  This is caused by HIV - human immunodeficiency virus.  This virus directly attacks the immune system of an individual. It reduces absorption of nutrients, especially folate, riboflavin, thiamine, and vitamins B6 and B12.  Person affected by this virus should take a well balanced diet inorder to keep away complications and weight loss.  Death in a affect is person is mostly due to starvation than complications caused by the virus.  The affected individual should never starve.  He should rather concentrate on keeping him/her well hydrated and nourished. 

 

Doctors suggest the infected person to take nutritional supplements to prevent deficiencies caused by this virus.  The infected person should eat foods that are well cooked and should avoid eating partially cooked vegetables and meat.  They should refrain from consuming alchol as it might worsen.

 

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Garlic - The wonder drug

Garlic, 'the wonder drug' has been known for its herbal and curative properties.  It is a natural musquito repellent.  It is also a powerful antioxidant and immune booster with anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic also contains the powerful antioxidant mineral selenium, known for its anti-cancer properties.  The sulfur compounds in garlic have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes.This also serves as a natural body detoxifier.  If your skin is not over sensitive to garlic it can also be applied directly to acne spots or herpes.

 

Raw garlic has a very strong flavour.  Some people prefer to take garlic supplements. These pills and capsules have the advantage of avoiding bad breath.  The antioxidant properties of garlic can also protect against cardiovascular disease.  Garlic is renowned for its abilities to lower cholesterol and blood pressure naturally and protect against heart disease and stroke. Garlic health benefits against bacteria, fungi, viruses like herpes simplex viruses, inflammation, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and high cholesterol levels.

 

For more health tips click here : www.healthtips.in

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Chikunguniya - Tips to overcome the after effects

Chikunguniya! This is a painful disease that keeps its after effects for months to-gether. However, some sincere and dedicated efforts can help recover quickly. This deadly virus mostly affects the limbs and joints below the hip. It makes one difficult to walk, particularly after resting for a while. Need to be very careful while walking as sprains are easy to come.

I was consulting a physiotherapist, who explained me about the damage this virus creates. It primarily damages the liquid at the joints which acts as a lubricant and hence creates this pain.

Now how do we recreate the liquid?
1) Pure exercise. Need to walk daily atleast for 30 minutes in the morning. This will help quickly create those lubricants required for the joints and limbs
2) Drink Water. Take ample water on a daily basis. Preferably have tender coconuts. Live more on fruits, so that you get the required nutrition and protiens
3) Warm Water Fermentation: Take half a bucket of warm water. Add a pinch of crystal salt and then dip your legs for 15-20 minutes daily morning and evening. This will help improve blood circulation, and relieves pain to an extent.
4) Some stretching exercise. Sit down and stretch your legs straight. Use a towel or a rope to pull your feet inwards. Hold it for about 20 seconds and then release. Do this atleast 5 times to both your feet.

Also stand up and fold your leg backwards and hold the feet and stretch as much as possible. Do this for both your feet atleast 5 times. You can do this twice a day.

Okay. I guess this is too much to follow, but believe me, this will help. I know people who have been careless and are suffering from the pains even after a year.

Write to me if you need to know more

Radish for health

Radish is an important ingredient in salads. They are known for their antioxidant properties. Radish are also known to have cancer protective properties. Radish can protect against kidney ailments, skin disorders and insect bites. They have varied falvours. Usually they taste quiet pungent. White radish variety is commonly consumed.
Crispy in texture they are an excellent snack to be eaten raw. Raw radish with a dash of lime is an excellent starter.

To learn more about Raddish visit http://www.healthtips.in/

An Apple a Day!!

Apples are a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamin 'c' and antioxidants. Apples juice is known to effectively improve the digestion. The fiber available in apples helps prevent the cholesterol build up thus keeping the heart diseases at bay. Apples are known for their cancer preventive properties too. Apples are not only delicious but are also known to contain numerous nutrients like minerals, amino acids, sodium etc.,

To know more about apples visit http://www.healthtips.in/

Mangosteen - Health Benefits

Mangosteen is a dark purple tropical fruit. Mangosteen known as the 'Queen of fruits'. The outer skin is a hard rind about an inch thick. Its is opened by pressing it a little hard at the center. The center is a soft white juicy fruit. The fruit tastes slightly tart but basically sweet. The taste of the fruit cannot be compared with any other fruit as such. The fruit grows best in hot tropical climates. The plant is a slow growing plant. The harvest is also not known to be irregular. The Mangosteen rind contain tannin which is known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent properties. They are used to treat conditions like diarrhea. The rind is rich in pectin. Some of the chemicals that are present in the rind of the fruit help prevent breast cancer, leukemia and colon cancer. Mangosteens are potential sources of 'Xanthones' that aid in support of the entire health. It helps to protect the body against the free radicals by killing the bacteria and fungus. Mangosteens are also know for their anti bacteria, anti-diabetic, anti-ulcer properties. They help in improving the joint flexibility. Mangosteen loses its flavor once canned. Mangosteen juice is a delicacy. The fruit as well as the beverages are costly. The Mangosteen grows well in warm climate. These are evergreen trees. The yield varies from plant to plant. For more tips on nutrition visit http://www.healthtips.in/nutritious-food.asp

Sweet Corn - Health Benefits

Corn is one of the most popular vegetables. Corn on the cob is a real great treat. Its not only a tasty vegetable but also brings in many health benefits with it. It is rich in several nutrients. Corn is a low-fat complex carbohydrate. Its high fiber content helps prevent colon cancer. Corn is helpful in curing kidney problems including renal dysfunction.   Corn is a good source of folic acid, niacin, and vitamin C. The folic acid in corn is helps prevent risk of  certain birth defects. Corn starch helps prevent diaper rash in babies.  It is a known body building food.  Corn contains beta-carotene, which increases supply of hemoglobin, a protein that delivers oxygen to cells, preventing fatigue. Sweet corn is great with soups and stews.  Its an important ingredient in salads