Virginia Health Officials Report First Swine Flu Death

The Virginia Department of Health has confirmed that a resident of the state has died from the H5N1 swine flu.

According to the statement the woman haled from the Chesapeake Health District in South East Virginia, and had underlying health conditions.

Many of the deaths to be reported as a result of swine flu have been in people who have also had underlying health conditions that have made their chances of recovery impossible.

So far across America the CDC has confirmed 18 deaths attributed to the swine flu that has infected more than 18,000 the world over.

“The news today that the Commonwealth has witnessed its first death associated with the H1N1 influenza virus is a sad and sharp reminder that Virginians must remain vigilant against the spread of this potentially fatal illness,” said Governor Kaine in a statement. “My heart goes out to the family and friends of the young woman who passed away this afternoon in Chesapeake.”

Blood glucose control ranks high in US death causes

High blood glucose levels are one of the most common killers of Americans, according to new research from Harvard researchers.

In a study that assessed 12 dietary, lifestyle and metabolic factors risk factors in causes of preventable death, high blood glucose levels came out as the fifth most deadly killer, after tobacco, high blood pressure, overweight/obesity, physical inactivity.

High blood glucose levels were more perilous than high LDL cholesterol, high levels of dietary salt, low omega-3 levels, high levels of trans fatty acids, alcohol use, low levels of fruit and vegetables and low levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

According to the mathematical model used by the researchers, there were between 163,000 and 217,000 high blood glucose-related mortalities in 2005 that could have been avoided.

Tobacco smoking ranked as the highest risk factor with 436,000 to 500,000 attributed preventable deaths, followed by high blood pressure (372,000 to 414,000), obesity (188,000 to 237,000), physical inactivity (164,000 to 222,000), high LDL cholesterol (94,000 to 124,000) and high salt intake (97,000 to 107,000).

The other risk factors were alcohol use; low polyunsaturated fatty acids; low fruits and vegetables intake and alcohol use.

High blood glucose levels have been linked to increased rates of obesity and type-2 diabetes but the researchers noted that randomized intervention studies in the past had been inconclusive.

“Possibly the most important case of current discrepancy between prospective observational cohorts and intervention studies is the mortality effect of high blood glucose,” they wrote.

“Prospective studies have shown relatively large associations between usual FPG (fasting plasma glucose) and mortality, but randomized intervention studies have shown null effects, and declines as well as increases in mortality when glucose was lowered intensively relative to those who had conventional management.”

They speculated that this may be due to the fact glucose is a confounded marker, “other underlying metabolic dysfunction so that interventions targeting only glucose may be unsuccessful at ameliorating all of the observed risk.”

They called for more research into the relation between blood glucose and mortality and the role of lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions.

The researchers called for more research into the relation between blood glucose and mortality and the role of lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions.

Rhonda Witwer, the senior business development manager in nutrition at National Starch Food Innovation, noted that increased blood glucose levels lead to insulin insensitivity, a key pre-factor in the onset of diabetes.

“When insulin sensitivity is lost, the body has to produce more insulin to effectively keep blood glucose under control,” she said.

“Over time, it is believed that the pancreas just can't keep up with the need for increased insulin and the individual develops diabetes. Reversing insulin resistance through dietary means can greatly help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.”

Source: Public Library of Science Medicine Journal

Vol. 6, April, 2009

‘The Preventable Causes of Death in the United States: Comparative Risk Assessment of Dietary, Lifestyle, and Metabolic Risk Factors’

Authors: Goodarz Danaei, Eric L Ding, Dariush Mozaffarian, Ben Taylor, Jurgen Rehm, Christopher J L Murray, Majid Ezzati

Omega-3 deficiency causes 96,000 US deaths per year, say researchers

Omega-3 deficiency is the sixth biggest killer of Americans and more deadly than excess trans fat intake, according to a new study.

The Harvard University researchers looked at 12 dietary, lifestyle and metabolic risk factors such as tobacco smoking and high blood pressure and used a mathematical model to determine how many fatalities could have been prevented if better practices had been observed.

The study, jointly funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) through the Association of Schools of Public Health, drew on 2005 data from the US National Health Center for Health Statistics. They determined that there were 72,000-96,000 preventable deaths each year due to omega-3 deficiency, compared to 63,000-97,000 for high trans fat intake.

Power of diet

“This is a very interesting analysis,” said Andrew Shao, PhD, vice president of scientific and regulatory affairs at the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN).

“I think this analysis reinforces the long-held notion that the diet has a tremendously powerful impact on health and longevity and that the consumption of omega-3’s (along with fruits and veggies) by Americans is far from adequate.”

But he questioned the precision of the study findings due to complicating factors that had not been addressed.

“It is hard to say how definitive their findings are as far as the numbers are concerned, since chronic diseases and associated deaths are multifactorial,” he told NutraIngredients-USA.com this morning.

“As far as diet goes, is it the lack of fruits and veggies or the excess animal and processed foods that is the culprit? It is hard to say.”

He added that the study did not consider other key nutrients such as vitamin D.

Shao’s counterpart at the Natural Products Association, Dan Fabricant, PhD, emphasized the potential public health care savings that could be derived from better nutrition, especially in tight economic times, but called for further study.

“We need more clinical research that nails down why omega-3 is so effective,” Fabricant said. “This seems to be the last missing piece for omega-3s in terms of clarifying the picture for governmental/regulatory bodies of its efficacy.”

Shao added the study highlighted the importance of establishing a dietary reference intake (DRI) for omega-3 forms, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

“Once these requirements are established, the government can undertake initiatives to improved Americans’ intake of these critical nutrients,” he observed.

“But until that happens, Americans are likely to continue to fall short in their omega-3 intake, and we see a glimpse of what the consequence can be from this study.”

Shocking

The study will do no harm to the omega-3 industry, with the world’s leading supplier, Ocean Nutrition Canada, calling the results “shocking”.

“…this new study validates that Omega-3 EPA/DHA is more than just part of a healthy diet...it's a matter of life and death," said Ocean Nutrition Canada's vice president of marketing and communications, Lori Covert.

"We know that daily doses of Omega-3 EPA/DHA can help with many conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, and we're committed to increasing consumer awareness about the drastic Omega-3 EPA/DHA deficiency in the Western diet,” Covert said.

Tobacco smoking ranked as the highest risk factor with 436,000 to 500,000 attributed preventable deaths, followed by high blood pressure (372,000 to 414,000), obesity (188,000 to 237,000), physical inactivity (164,000 to 222,000), high blood glucose (163,000 to 217,000), high LDL cholesterol (94,000 to 124,000) and high salt intake (97,000 to 107,000).

The other risk factors were alcohol use; low polyunsaturated fatty acids; low fruits and vegetables intake.

Source: Public Library of Science Medicine Journal

Vol. 6, April, 2009

‘The Preventable Causes of Death in the United States: Comparative Risk Assessment of Dietary, Lifestyle, and Metabolic Risk Factors’

Authors: Goodarz Danaei, Eric L Ding, Dariush Mozaffarian, Ben Taylor, Jurgen Rehm, Christopher J L Murray, Majid Ezzati

Close Covering Dark Spots Is Not The Best Solution 1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic by 0 p

Close

Read My Story On How I Get Rid Of Dark Spots

I was embarrassed with my face. I felt so unsecured when talking to people. I spent so much time and money trying to remove my dark spots. Now I am happy with my complexion. Read my story and discover how my life has changed for better.

What If I Don't Want To Cover Dark Spots On My Face

If constant powdering frustrates you, then what else can you do?

had spent so much money in concealers, thinking of covering dark spots. It was just a waste of time. I thought there was no hope. It was not until I finally found a skin lightening cream that worked so well. I know many women out there have this frustrating blotchy skin and are not aware about this product.

So, don't be despair. There is still hope.

I had wanted to have a brighter and softer skin for years. My face was a disaster for the past five years! But thanks to Meladerm, it brightened up my skin.

Learning How Emotions Are Related To Symptoms In Traditional Chinese Medicine

Learning how emotions relate to symptoms is an important part of traditional Chinese medicine and can provide effective results. Emotions and the body are integrated and emotions such as sadness, worry or fear correlate to a certain area of the body. There are seven emotions: sadness, worry,anger,fear,fright,shock and joy. Even though some of these emotions may be seen as negative, in Chinese medicine they are seen as neither ‘good’ nor ‘bad’ just human nature. When we are well emotions flow freely, when we are stressed or ill, the emotions become ’stuck’. Chinese medicine looks to assess the ’stuck’ emotions and ‘free’ them in order to re-balance harmony. The relative organ that is affected by the emotion can also determine what type of treatment will be offered.

Sadness or even grief, affects the lungs leading to Lung Qi deficiency, leading to fatigue, depression and sometimes weakened immune system.

Worry or excessive over thinking can be caused by mental stresses, common in students and those in intellectual professions. These stresses knot the Qi and affect the spleen and lungs bringing on aching shoulders and breathlessness. Worry may also turn into anxiety or panic attacks.

Anger can include rage, irritability and frustration. In anger the tongue becomes dark red in colour.

Fear affects the kidneys and makes the Qi descend, prolonged fear drains the kidneys. In children it can result in bed wetting and in adults it can turn to anxiety and heart troubles.

Fright or shock leads to breathlessness, heart palpitations and puts undue strain on the kidneys.

Joy, although a positive, joy can affect the heart by slowing down the Qi, in small doses joy is beneficial but over excitment can cause heart dis-harmonies.

Causes Of Disease:

Dietary problems such as over-eating can affect the spleen. Over-eating can be caused by worry or excessive mental work and cause fatigue, digestion problems and diarrhea. Symptoms include stiffness, pale skin and lips, possible bruising and bleeding problems. Poor diet, not eating enough or not eating the correct foods due to modern day diets can be detrimental on the flow of Qi and on the spleen. Not only is it what we eat but when such as late at night,eating in a hurry and eating whilst working can affect the stomach and flow of Qi.
Lung problems can be caused by sadness and grief, affecting the lungs and breathing. Symptoms include frequent colds and flu, asthma, allergies and dry skin conditions. In order to improve the lungs, the immune system needs to be boosted.
Heart problems may occur as a result of depression and loss of vitality. Symptoms include heart palpitations, insomnia, poor long-term memory and other psychological issues.

Top 3 Recipes With Natural Herbs For Weight Loss

Do you ever wonder if Chinese natural herbs really work? What are Chinese natural herbs anyway? While most of them originate from China, some may not. The name entails that Chinese herbalists discovered their medicinal properties centuries ago.

Can you lose weight with such herbs? Sure, but as with any other diet or weight loss plan, you need to watch what you eat and exercise regularly. Here are three recipes that contain Chinese herbs and were designed specifically for weight loss.

So go ahead, take a walk to your local China Town to get these natural herbs and get started on the new you with a smaller waistline. You may need these weight conversions when ordering herbs in an Asian store: 1 qian equals 5 grams and 1 liang equals 50 grams.

Chinese Weight Loss And Energy Tea

1L (4 cups) Water
10 g (0.35 oz) Chrysanthemum flowers
15 g (0.53 oz) Hawthorn
15 g (0.53 oz) Puli Tea
To Taste Honey

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the chrysanthemum flowers and hawthorn and let simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the puli tea and stir.
4. Turn off the heat.
5. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool off for a few minutes.
6. Add honey to taste.

Chinese Herbs For Improved Fitness

1L (4 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
50 g (1.76 oz) Abalone Seeds
25 g (0.88 oz) Germinated Barley
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
5 g (0.18 oz) Polygonum Multiflorum
5 g (0.18 oz) Raphanus Semen

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.

Chinese Natural Herbs For Weight Loss

1.5 L (6 cups) Water
25 g (0.88 oz) Hawthorn
10 g (0.35 oz) Liquorice
25 g (0.88 oz) Black Plum
5 g (0.18 oz) Dried Orange Peel
10 g (0.35 oz) Roselle
To Taste Honey

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients and let simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Pour into individual cups and let the tea cool for a few minutes.
4. Add honey to taste.

Treating Acne With Chinese Medicine

Millions of people all over the world have seen and felt the effects of acne at one time or other. As if the teenage years weren’t awkward enough, this conditions usually shows itself in the early stages of puberty. The condition affects the sebaceous glands which are responsible for oiling hair follicles. As the oil is produced, dead skin cells are transported to the surface of the skin via the pores which are attached to the hair follicles. Whenever clogging occurs in these follicles, it leads to the pimples associated with acne.

Acne is more than a skin condition, it is a disease, and should be treated as such. Social awkwardness aside, acne can cause scarring that lasts long after the pimples themselves have disappeared, often for a lifetime. It should be noted also that acne doesn’t just occur on the face, but can also affect the chest, shoulders, neck and back. The disease poses no health risks, but the misery it causes is certainly understandable. This is even worst when outbreaks are severe, or lasts well beyond the teen years.

Treating acne has become big business, with teens being the main target of advertisers. In most cases, inflammatory acne is treated with either over the counter or prescription medication. Despite the numerous products on the market, it is not clear just how much the manufacturers of acne treatments understand about the disease. Given that skin types are different, what works for one individual may not work for others.

Keep in mind that any medication, whether prescription or over the counter can have side effects. Some acne creams and soaps have been known to cause excessive dryness and skin irritation.

Chinese Medicine

Some people may be wary of Chinese medicine, and consider it a new age fad. However, Chinese medicine has been practiced for over two thousand years. Unlike the Western medical philosophy, Chinese medicine depends on the study of nature and the body as well as cosmic forces. It has spawned a number of theories which form the basis of all treatments, namely Yin-yang, the Channel system, the six confirmations, the Zang Fu organ hypothesis and the Five Phases among others.

While it is often a last resort in Western cultures, it is still the first source of care in many parts of Asia. The main methods of treatment involve acupuncture, food therapy, massage, physical exercise, breathing exercises, meditation and herbal medicine.

Chinese Acne Treatments

Part of the philosophy of Chinese medicine relates to what causes disease. In the case of acne, it is seen as the force of heat acting on the lungs which in turn affects the skin. It is referred to as ‘fei feng fen ci’ which means ‘lesion of the lung wind.’ The idea is that the lungs are directly linked to the skin, and therefore they are both capable of affecting each other negatively. Factors such as stress, a poor diet, other health conditions, or the increase of Yang energy can lay a role in the increase in heat.

Acupuncture

This is a practice of inserting thin needles into the skin for the purpose of relieving pain, or for therapeutic reasons. The aim is to tap into acupuncture points in the body through which energy, the qi, runs. When treating acne with acupuncture, an attempt is made to bring the Yin and Yang back into harmony and to rid the lungs of heat.

As a form of acne treatment, acupuncture has had varying degrees of success. In fact, the best results are achieved when the sufferer also makes lifestyle changes including changing their diet. This is a notable aspect of the Chinese medicinal philosophy. This form of treatment may appeal to patients wary of ingesting medication or applying topical creams that could have side effects.

The Use of Herbs

Many acne patients swear by herbal treatments for the disease. It is important to note that anyone considering this course of treatment should seek the services of a skilled practitioner. Herbs are usually combined to make a formula instead of being given individually. Some of the herbs used in treating acne are seagrass, sileris root, bupleurum, Chinese Wolfberry root bark, pine pollen and honeysuckle flower.

Preparation usually involves boiling the ingredients in an earthenware pot, then straining the contents and drinking the tea while it is still warm. The process usually has to be repeated for a number of days or weeks.

Chinese herbs are said to be free from side effects, however, caution should be exercised when dealing with any unfamiliar treatment. If any digestive complaints or irritations are noticed treatment shouldn’t be continued. Most reports indicate that there are few if any side effects associated with Chinese medicine used in the treatment of acne.

Asian Diet Pyramid

This is another in the growing list of cultural diet pyramids available. Like other traditional diet guides, the Asian Diet Pyramid has physical activity at the base showing the importance of exercise in overall health. Energy foods follow exercise and as can be expected includes rice and rice products, grains and bread. These are included on a daily basis as a part of the traditional Asian meal. The third level of the pyramid includes other foods that should be eaten daily. These are fruits, vegetables and legumes, peas and seeds. The fourth layer has vegetable oils as part of a healthy addition to meals on a daily basis. Fish, shellfish and dairy follow with a note that it is optional whether to consume foods from this group daily. Eggs and poultry should be had weekly, while sweets in moderation can also be included at least once per week. Red meat is at the small tip of the pyramid with the recommendation for its consumption just once per month. Additional recommendations on the Asian Diet Food Pyramid include drinking at least six glasses of water or tea daily, with sake, wine and beer in moderation.

Different Asian cultures have modifications to this pyramid with one of the most well known being the Japanese Food Pyramid.

Acupuncture for Back Pain

Pain management is a crucial element of successfully overcoming illness and chronic discomfort. Acupuncture is a popular choice for many painful conditions, including back pain. This approach offers many benefits, and effectiveness is among the most a

The holistic technique is natural, and there are no medications or harsh side effects. The process uses the body’s natural energy as a means of repair. This helps the patient heal naturally, but it may also have a powerful influence on the patient’s psyche as well.

Benefits of Acupuncture

Pain relief is a glaring benefit of acupuncture, and others are equally as impressive.

• Reduced need for pain medication
• No side effects
• Improved circulation
• Decreased anxiety
• Mental clarity
• Faster recovery

Many people use the approach to treat mental conditions as well. Acupuncture has proved to be effective in helping people overcome addictions, relieve depression, and ease phobias. The connection between the mental and the physical realms is readily apparent in using acupuncture to treat back pain.

Reuters Acupuncture Study

ABC News explores a recent Reuters study that has determined that people with chronic low back pain showed improvement with real and with “fake” acupuncture treatments. The study separated participants into four groups:

• General acupuncture
• Individualized acupuncture treatment
• Pressure points without needles
• Medication and physical therapy without acupuncture

The results are interesting in that the people who received standard medical therapy for chronic back pain did not have as much relief as the other three groups, including the one that used pressure points without penetrating the skin.
The study, as noted by Web MD, makes a strong correlation between acupuncture and lower back pain relief. However, some seem to consider this to reflect negatively on the approach. While the promise for pain relief is real, some are a little disheartened by the fact that a “sham needle procedure” can be as effective as acupuncture.

Acupuncture and Lower Back Pain

The points of the body that acupuncture uses seem to have a strong impact on the individual, even when they are not penetrated with needles. This is exciting news for people who suffer from chronic lower back pain. The discomfort associated with this particular area of the body has a pronounced effect on other bodily systems. For those individuals, any relief is greatly appreciated.

It is important to note that the “sham” approach touched upon the same points of energy used in traditional acupuncture. This can be interpreted as the effectiveness of using the points, even on a shallow level. The body responds to the treatment, and even though no one knows why, there is little reason to forgo the effective approach to pain management.

Anyone who has suffered from significant lower back pain knows how important it is to find effective relief from the intense discomfort. Acupuncture is natural and successful for many patients. Simply taking time to try the approach is the best way to determine whether acupuncture is right for you.

ppealing.

Acupuncture for Weight Loss

Various points on the body correlate to internal body systems. The ear is among the most important points for weight reduction and patients can expect this area to be an integral part of their treatment plan. Other points correlate to the problems that cause weight gain.

Sources of Weight Gain

In order to treat the weight condition properly, it is necessary to determine the source of the problem. Consider some of the possible contributing factors that may lead to extra pounds:

· Pinpoint the stomach system when the individual eats excessively, even after he is full.

· Focus on the mouth for a person who eats compulsively to address the oral fixation.

· Ovary is for women with hormonal imbalances leading to weight problems, and adrenal for men.

· Thyroid addresses slow metabolic rates.

Less obvious body systems can also interfere with a person’s ability to maintain a health weight. Acupuncture for weight loss may include:

· Kidneys address hormones, water retention, and the nervous system.

· The endocrine system helps relieve water retention as well.

· The spleen helps create hormonal balance and it balances sugar levels in the body.

· The lungs are important for helping people overcome food addiction, including sweets and chocolate.

Anxiety and Weight Loss

Anxiety can be a major barrier for individuals who are tying to lose weight. Diets fail to address the psychological factors that may contribute to obesity. Acupuncture for weight loss often uses the Shemen, a system that alleviates anger, insecurity, frustration, and stress.

An acupuncturist also includes points that alleviate hunger for people who feel the sensation of hunger when their bodies do not actually need nutrition. Appetite suppression is a common intervention in acupuncture. Combined with anti-anxiety methods, the approach is very effective for emotional eaters.

Individualized Treatment

The acupuncturist selects the most important points for the individual. There may be two or more points used in the treatment. Factors that the practitioner may consider include:

· The person’s age

· Eating habits

· Emotional state

· Psychological factors

· Stress levels

· Personality

· Lifestyle

· Types of foods

· Other habits

The practitioner may notice that an individual tends to talk excessively, smokes, and bites her nails. The person seems to have an oral fixation, making the mouth an ideal point to include in the treatment.

A menopausal woman who is under considerable stress can benefit from treatment that focuses on the ovaries, kidneys, spleen, and endocrine system. Shemen would also be of great benefit for this candidate.

Acupuncture for weight loss is best when the acupuncturist creates an individualized plan that addresses the patient’s specific eating problems. With consistency, the approach should alleviate the problem, creating an environment that is conducive to weight loss.

Kidney Yang Deficiency Symptoms

Traditional Chinese medicine notices the correlation between the body’s systems in relation to an individual’s overall health. The symptoms of a kidney yang deficiency shed light on how one organ influences other systems in the body. Consider some of the telltale signs that a deficiency may be the source of health problems.

Headaches

Headaches are manifestations of health problems somewhere in the body. The problem does not always relate to the specific place in which the pain actually occurs. According to Headaches Due to a Deficiency of Kidney Yang a headache may indicate that there is a kidney yang deficiency. This is especially important to consider if the pain is in the back of the head.

Temperature

The kidney yang is responsible for controlling metabolic heat. The body’s temperature may be affected with a blocked yang in the kidneys. You may notice cold feet and hands, even in warmer temperatures. The body is unable to regulate its metabolic temperature properly when there is an imbalance in this system. Sweating for no apparent reason may be linked to a yang kidney deficiency as well.

Incontinence

Incontinence is an embarrassing problem that can occur when there is a kidney imbalance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are gateways that regulate emissions from the bowels and urethra. Emissions may include urine, sperm, or fecal matter. Loss of libido may be associated with a deficiency.

Bone Problems

It may be surprising to some that a correlation between the bones and the kidneys exist. Problems that may arise from a kidney imbalance include weak knees, back pain, and osteoporosis.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms of kidney yang deficiency include but are not limited to:

• Hair loss
• Premature graying
• Dizziness
• Impotence
• Premature ejaculation
• Irritable bowel syndrome

The tongue is a particularly important part of the body in relation to the kidney yang. The tongue may appear very moist and it may mimic the shape of the teeth after resting against them. It may also appear very light in color and swelling may occur.

Treatment

Treatment for the imbalance begins with following the Diet Guidelines for Kidney Yang Deficiency to help build the body’s strength. It isn’t necessary to restrict your diet to the specific foods outlined, but it is helpful to make these foods the basis of your eating plan.

It is necessary to avoid certain types of foods when you are treating the condition. Foods that can be troublesome contain dairy and some include raw vegetables. Normally, a salad is a healthy choice but not when you have a yang deficiency in the kidneys.

Supplements

Herbal supplements may improve the conditions as well. Some herbal ingredients commonly used in the treatment of kidney yang deficiency include but are not restricted to:

• Rehmannia
• Deer Antler
• Morinda Roo
• Vine Morinda
• Cinnamon bark
• Seaweed
• Fennel Seed
• Marshmallow root

It is always a good idea to discuss the condition with a health professional before adopting any supplements, including natural herbs.

Hyperbaric Medicine

Hyperbaric medicine has its roots in treating divers who suffered from decompression sickness, otherwise known as the bends. Decompression sickness occurs when an individual’s body is under pressure, as the divers deep in the water. If the divers surface too quickly, their bodies are unable to adjust to the changes in pressure that can cause bubbles to form in the bloodstream.

When people are in normal conditions, they experience normobaric pressure that naturally occurs in normal elevations. Some environments create a hyperbaric atmosphere with a great concentration in pressure. In the case of the divers, they experience excess pressure from the air above as well as the water on either side. The pressure increases the deeper the divers go.

Hyperbaric Chambers

A hyperbaric chamber recreates the conditions that the divers experience when they are deep in the water. The pressure is gradually reduced so they can adjust to the new conditions in the environment. The device focuses on alleviating nitrogen in the bloodstream, replacing it with oxygen.

While treating decompression sickness is an important function of the hyperbaric chamber, it can be used to treat some other conditions that occur in normobaric conditions as well. The pressurized air can include pure oxygen or other helpful gases in order to treat some medical conditions.

Conditions

People who suffer from any of the following conditions can benefit from using hyperbaric chambers:
• Diabetes
• Anemia
• Gangrene
• Mitochondrial dysfunction
• Pervasive developmental disorders

The hyperbaric chamber offers help for people with anemia or diabetes. These medical problems interfere with the body’s ability to absorb oxygen effectively. When cells are deprived of oxygen, they fail to thrive. The chamber delivers oxygen that the blood cells require for proper functioning.

Gangrene is a serious skin problem that derives from a bacterial infection, and in some cases, oxygen can help prevent the spread of the disease.

Mitochondria are energy-producing elements that exist within all cells in the body. They function to convert nutrients into energy. This process requires oxygen and individuals who suffer from mitochondrial dysfunction experience problems with the cells’ ability to create energy, leading to a breakdown in the system. Flooding the cells with rich oxygen can help them function properly.

Some suggest that the approach can be effective in the treatment of autism and related pervasive developmental disorders. There is no scientific data to back the claims, but cases of autism related to mitochondrial dysfunction may benefit from the approach. ABC News explores the subject of oxygen therapy and oxygen.

Hyperbaric Treatments

The intense oxygen therapy is available in a couple different forms. Patients can visit a clinic for a session in the hyperbaric chamber or they can receive treatment in their homes. Portable hyperbaric chambers may be rented or purchased but they carry a hefty price tag.

Another consideration is the price of shipping the chambers, which can be staggering. Those who want to have the oxygen treatments on a regular basis may benefit from purchasing one for between $6,000 and $10,000. Though costly, the price is about the same as two or three rentals.

How To Make Your Own Perfume At Home

Learn How To Make Homemade Perfumes

Still trying to find that elusive perfect scent? Chanel, Alfred Sung and Calvin Klein aren’t working for you? Worry no more. Why not create your own homemade perfumes? It may be easier than you think…

Basic Homemade Perfume Recipe

This water-based perfume is easy to make and does not require many ingredients. All you need is a bowl with a lid, a cheesecloth, a small pot, a stove top, some water and 250 ml (1 cup) of freshly chopped flowers of your choice. Perhaps you enjoy lilac, lavender or roses? What do you have in your garden?

Ready? Gather everything and let’s get started.

1. Place your cheesecloth over the bowl so that the bowl is no longer visible and the edges of the cloth are hanging over the bowl.

2. Place your fresh flowers on the cheesecloth.

3. Pour 500 ml (2 cups) of water over the flowers, making sure that they are submerged.

4. Cover your bowl with a lid and let it sit overnight.

5. After 12 to 24 hours, take all four corners of the cheesecloth and remove it from the bowl, ensuring that the flowers stay in the cloth.

6. Gently wring out all water remaining in the cheesecloth into a small pot.

7. Turn on the heat and let the water simmer until most of the water has evaporated. When there is about 5 ml or 1 teaspoon left, turn off the heat and transfer your concentrated flower water into a small bottle.

8. Label your bottle with the name of the flowers you used and an expiry date of one month from today.

Oil-Based Perfume Recipe

Most people have favourite essential oils. Why not make a perfume out of them? Simply select two or three of your essential oils and mix with a carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil. Here is the standard mixing ratio that you should use:

Essential Oil #1 3 to 4 drops
Essential Oil #2 3 to 4 drops
Essential Oil #3 3 to 4 drops
Carrier Oil 10 ml or 2 teaspoons

Essential oils are quite potent when undiluted. You should cover your work surface to prevent it from getting damaged. Once your perfume is mixed, let it sit for 12 to 24 hours before applying.

Alcohol-Based Perfume Recipe

This homemade recipe creates a lighter perfume. You must still cover your work area with plastic and avoid direct skin contact with undiluted essential oils. Here is the basic recipe. Simply select 3 of your favourite essential oils and experiment!

500 ml (2 cups) Water
45 ml (3 tbs) Vodka
5 drops Earth/Wood Essential Oil (sandalwood or ylang ylang)
10 drops Citrus Essential Oil (neroli or bergamot)
10 drops Fruity Essential Oil or Fragrance Oil (cassis or blueberry)

Simply mix the ingredients together and transfer to a glass jar. Once your perfume is mixed, let it sit for 12 to 24 hours before applying. Always keep your homemade perfumes in cool dark areas.

Because you are unique as an individual and your tastes are also unique, have fun and experiment. You’ll soon discover the perfect homemade perfume. The one made just for you, by you.

Make Your Own Organic Lip Balm

If you have cracked, dry or sore lips then you will need to apply some lip balm to get them looking their best again. It is possible to buy lip balm pretty much anywhere; however there is something special about making your own lip balm.

Made To Order

The important thing about being able to make your lip balm is that you are able to customize the recipe so that you can include many of your favorite ingredients. It is actually very easy to make your own lip balm.
One of the easiest ways of making your own custom lip balm is to take some of your balm that you have brought in a shop made with natural ingredients, melt it and then add your favorite essential oils. Mix everything up using a toothpick and then leave it to set. This is a great way to make a tasty lip gloss very easily. Adding spearmint essential oils for example can make a delicious lip balm!

Easy Gifts

Another great reason for making your own lip balm is that you can give them away as gifts, they make fantastic gifts. There are so many different combinations that you can use to make a very personal gift. You could even make a chocolate lip balm for a chocoholic!

Easy Recipe

If you don’t want to cheat and use lip balm that you have brought then it is possible to make your own with this very simple recipe. It’s so easy that anyone can do it! You don’t even need that much:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp castor oil
- 1 tbsp beeswax
- 1 tsp honey
- Carrot seed essential oil
- Sandalwood essential oil
Melt the beeswax using hot water, once the beeswax has melted then add the castor oil and honey until it all blends together and becomes a nice thick liquid. Once this happens then take it out from the hot water. Once the mixture has cooled slightly then add two drops of your chosen essential oils. Once the oils have been added then make sure everything is mixed together very well. You can then separate the lip balm into smaller containers so that you can store it.

It’s a good idea to label each container with the ingredients, usage instructions and when you made the lip balm. The lip balm is very easy to use; you just need to use your finger to simply smooth a tiny amount onto the surface of the lips. You are free to add any essential oils you like, however if you are pregnant then make sure that you can use the oils without any risks.

When making up your own lip balm recipes it is important to add double the amounts of solids as liquid. Beeswax will normally be your only solid ingredients, while all the others will be liquids. Castor oil is optional however it does give the lips a very nice shine. Honey makes the lip balm sweeter. You can also add vitamin E if you wish as this contains antioxidants and will also make your balm last longer.

Alternatively, if you want to avoid the work of making your own lip balm, have a look at some lip plumpers that will instantly make your lips look beautiful.

Ten Top-Rated Spas Worldwide

The level of competition in the travel and hotel industry has led hoteliers to seek new ways to refine their offerings. Many hotels have added spas in an effort to increase revenue as well as to remain competitive. Spa offerings have evolved over the years, and as customers become more knowledgeable, they begin to expect more from their spa experience.

Today’s spas are truly cutting edge, offering complete packages which range from physical fitness and nutrition to luxurious pampering. If you don’t come out of a spa resort feeling completely healthy and rejuvenated, you’re at the wrong place.

10/ Alila Ubud in Bali

This hotel situated close to Ubud, is considered the cultural center of Bali. From its spot in the innermost foothills of Bali, visitors have a lovely view of the valley. Every room has its own garden or private balcony.

The emerald green pool is flanked by sun-beds and Balinese umbrellas, and seems to glide above the Ayung River valley. The hotel’s spa, Spa Alila encompasses a double Spa Pavilion, a double Spa Suite a double luxury Spa Villa. It also features a Massage Suite and a salon for pedicures and manicures.

9/ Hesperia Alicante Golf & Spa Inn

Guests at this hotel can enjoy not only world class spa treatments but an 18-hole golf course as well. Features include a well equipped gym, an indoor heated pool and a Turkish bath. Its close proximity to local beaches makes it a favorite among visitors to Spain.

How to Exfoliate the Lips Naturally with Home Products

Exfoliation is a well known term when it comes to beauty and skin care. Many cosmetics products are said to have exfoliating properties, and this is used as a major selling point. Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin, and is important for maintaining skin health. After exfoliation, the skin is left with a fresher look.

There are many products on the market which can help to remove dead skin. Unknown to many however, is the fact that common items found in the home can be used for this purpose. Some people may opt to use homemade exfoliants because they prefer to use natural products.

Why Lip Exfoliation is Essential

Unlike the other organs of the body, the skin is always exposed to the elements. The lips are particularly sensitive to very high or low temperatures. Caring for your lips is an ongoing process that needs to be repeated to get the best results. Because they are one of the most noticeable features of the face, caring for them is all the more important.

Exfoliating Lips Naturally

1/ Honey

Why buy lip products that use honey as an ingredient when you can use the real thing? Honey has been used on the skin since the days of early Egyptian civilization. Honey has the natural ability to help the skin hydrated. Hydrated lips mean softer, more attractive lips. It is because of its naturally hydrating properties why honey is such a popular ingredient of skin care products.

2/ Sugar

Sugar is a natural abrasive, and can be quite effective at removing dead cells from the skin. It makes a great mechanical exfoliant. For best results, it is used in combination with a natural moisturizer such as honey or olive oil. Best of all it is gentle on the lips.

3/ Natural Oils

These include olive oil, sesame oil and jojoba oil. While exfoliation is important, keeping the lips moisturized cannot be ignored. The lips do not produce their own moisture. That is why we have a tendency to lick our lips. Adding one of these to any mixture used for exfoliation will produce great results.

How to Make a Simple Scrub

First, crush about a teaspoon of sugar and mix it with the honey. Now you have your exfoliating lip scrub. Next, use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to the lips in a small circular motion using gentle pressure. Wipe it off with a damp cotton ball and repeat if necessary.

After the treatment, you can apply olive oil, jojoba oil or Vaseline lightly to the lips for that constantly moist look. For added benefit, you can moisturizer to the lips before going to bed.

Yes, lip care is important, although some of use don’t think of our lips until there is a problem. Something as simple as air conditioning can cause the lips to become dry and chapped and unattractive. Using the mixture mentioned above can help to keep your kisser looking soft and healthy. Exfoliating and moisturizing the lips is especially important during winter and summer months, but should ideally be practiced year round.

Best Exercises to Get Rid Of Cellulite

Cellulite is a word that is dreaded by women everywhere. It refers to a dimpling of the skin caused by pockets of fat directly beneath it. While men do occasionally have this problem, it is much more common in women. In fact, according to some studies, up to 90% of all women will end up with cellulite at some point in their lives. It can be found mostly in the pelvic region, particularly on the buttocks and upper thigh.

For the women who can afford it, cosmetic procedures like liposuction have helped to greatly reduce the amount of cellulite they have. There are however, natural ways to rid the body of cellulite and to reduce the likelihood of ending up with the problem.

Clearly the first step to take to avoid cellulite is a sensible diet. Since cellulite is basically fat deposits, then it makes sense to avoid too much fatty foods. Fruits and vegetables are of course important, as is drinking plenty of water. Here are some great exercises for getting toned and keeping cellulite at bay.

Exercises to Get Rid of Cellulite

This word is thrown around a lot, but it certainly can’t be overlooked if you are serious about getting toned and reducing your chances of getting cellulite. The term cardio comes from cardiovascular, and refers to any exercise that improves the body’s ability to consume oxygen, as well as increases the heart rate.

Cardio covers a number of exercises such cycling (stationary bikes too), aerobics, rowing, walking, skating and jogging. Gym machines such as stair climbers and elliptical trainers are also great for getting a good cardio workout. Cardio does not have to be limited to the indoors, as instead of using rowing machines you can use a boat if that option is available to you. Kickboxing is another great cardio workout, and is now so popular many gyms are offering it. If you cannot afford to go to the gym there are many good videos with cardio exercises you can do at home. It is important that before doing this or any other cardio exercise, you get the go ahead from your doctor.

Weight Training

Nothing burns fat like muscle, just ask any gym instructor. Not everyone wants the bulky pro bodybuilder look, and many women shy away from weight training. Doing weight training doesn’t mean that you will build muscles, it all depends on your goal and intensity of your training. Weight training can help you build firm muscles to eliminate cellulite and tone the body. Two great exercises in this area are squats and lunges.

Swimming

Although this can easily be classified as a cardio workout, it is important to mention swimming separately because of its unique potential drawbacks. Research has shown that people who use swimming to lose weight often end up gaining weight. The reason for this is that swimming burns a great deal more calories than many other types of exercise.

This leads to increased consumption to replace those lost calories, so for that reason you may end up gaining weight. If you decide on swimming, it is best to use it as part of your overall fitness regimen. Use a blend of exercises to achieve the desired results. Also of importance, even if you are an experienced swimmer, it is best not to swim alone, because you never know when you may get into difficulty.

Cellulite is fat, and exercise burns fat. Dealing with cellulite calls for being more active and being sensible about your diet. Keep in mind however, that even with regular exercise, as you age it may be more difficult to keep the body properly toned.

Causes and Cures for Dark Circles

Home remedies for dark circles under the eye area offer a great alternative to expensive beauty products. The first step is to consider the possible causes of the darker patches. The cause can help you to develop a viable approach as well as preventative measures.

Possible Causes

Knowing the possible cause for the dark circles is an important step in the process of determining which homeopathic remedy is best to use. You may also take preventative measures to ensure that the eye area does not continue to darken.

Habits and Lifestyle

• Rubbing eyes can lead to breaking the tiny vessels directly under the skin. This can lead to the discoloration that you see. Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent the condition from worsening.

• Dehydration is a serious problem that can show up under the eyes. If you are not getting enough hydration, circles are almost certain to appear.

• Fluid retention, on the other hand, can make blood vessels in the eye area more prominent. Too much salt can make the condition worse, and smoking can lead to discoloration from fluid retention, too.

• Sleeplessness may contribute to the problem as well, since skin tends to become pale when the body does not get enough sleep. It is easier to see the blood vessels around the eye area when your skin is lighter in other areas.

• Sun damage wreaks havoc on the skin, making it weak and brittle.

Medical and Genetic Causes

• Allergies are common sources for discoloration under the eyes. The best approach to taking care of circles that derive from sensitivities to certain foods, pollens, or other allergens is to treat the allergy itself.

• Aging leads to thinner skin under the delicate area of the eye. As the skin becomes thinner, the blood vessels are more apparent.

• Anemia can lead to discoloration under the eyes, as can a lack of sufficient iron.

• Medical problems can lead to dark circles under the eyes. If you are experiencing the discoloration, it is important to check with your physican about possible illnesses that can contribute to the symptom, including heart disease, kidney problems, and thyroid conditions among others.

Dark Circle Cures

While there are many products available to treat the discoloration, you can benefit from homeopathic remedies for the condition. This approach treats the possible causes for the problem instead of just covering it.

• Sleep
• Water
• Sunscreen
• Avoid salt
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K topical creams
• Cucumber slices on the eyes
• Chilled teabags

Antioxidants are important in any diet. Foods and supplements that contain antioxidants can be of great benefit.

• Green tea
• Black tea
• Cranberries
• Blueberries
• Legumes
• Parsley

People with the recommendation of their doctors may take dietary supplements. This is especially important for people who are taking blood thinners, as recommended by Dr. Murad.

Getting rid of dark circles is comparable to losing weight. It is necessary to eat healthy, get rest, and stay hydrated to succeed. A healthy lifestyle is one of the most powerful beauty treatments available.

Loofah Scrub

A loofah scrub is an integral part of a visit to a day spa. The process involves exfoliating the skin with a gourd vegetable known as the loofah. The vegetable has the perfect texture for removing dead skin cells while promoting circulation in the process.

The scrub also includes a mixture of oil and sea salt. The most popular oils used in the treatment are avocado and almond. Each element has a specific purpose in the spa therapy. The natural ingredients make this effective skin treatment very impressive and very popular.

• Almond or avocado oils are effective in deeply moisturizing the skin while preventing loss of moisture during the cleansing procedure.
• Sea salt is a polishing agent that provides the glowing effect that is so desirable.
• Loofah materials remove dead skin cells effectively.

Loofah Plants

Loofah comes in a number of different forms. The products are appealing because they are organic, and quite effective. The plants are not fond of cold weather, making Florida a great place for the gourds to thrive. The plants traditionally grow in India.

The plants may be eaten, but the edible varieties are difficult to find in the United States. Chinese medicine uses powder from the gourds for some treatments. The most popular use for the plant is skincare. The plant is not technically a sponge, but many refer to the loofah scrub materials as sponges.

It is possible to grown your own loofah sponge, but the items are relatively inexpensive, making the task a matter of preference. Other considerations should be made if you intend to use the plant at home.

Health Concerns

Bacteria can grow quickly on a loofah sponge especially considering the bathroom environment. The warm moisture in the room is conducive to bacterial growth. Some people prefer to use the product as a dry exfoliate to avoid the bacteria problem. Those who use the loofahs in the shower or bath should make sure that they dry completely between uses.

Ground Loofah

Ground loofah can be used to exfoliate the skin safely at home. The ground material can be added to a facial scrub or it can be poured into a soap mold as an exfoliating ingredient. This is a nice alternative to using the entire sponge that may collect bacteria.

Loofah Scrub Recipes

A professional in a day spa environment may administer the loofah scrub but some consumers may want to use the scrub at home. The recipe for an effective scrub is relatively simple. Creating your own may be messy and time consuming but you do have the benefit of controlling the balance of ingredients.

If you have dry skin, adding more avocado or almond oil offers more moisture. Dull skin may benefit from a little more sea salt. Foot scrubs using loofah are very effective. Examples of recipes are available on Healthy New Age.

The benefits of using a loofah scrub include:

• Improved circulation
• Removal of dead cells
• Intense moisture
• Polished skin

There is little wonder why this approach is popular as a health and beauty treatment. The loofah scrub is ideal for spas and for the home.