Wednesday, December 31, 2008

 

Simple Solutions for Back Pain Relief Exercise

While many individuals consider medication to be the only choice for back pain relief the solution may actually be in exercise. Many have found exercise to be a great way to relieve their back pain. Exercising over taking medication is a much better method of relieving back pain.

Unfortunately, medications associate with some very uncomfortable and negative side effects, that generally contribute to a general unwell feeling in many individuals. Often the person will feel sicker than when they were only having to endure their back pain suffering.

Back pain relief exercises should be an key part of your overall solution, when you are trying to find relief for your pain, immediately as well as long term.

Exercises for Back Pain Relief

You should know that when it comes to back pain alleviation exercise, not just any type of exercise will work well. However, there are some particular exercises that are able to help in the relief of your back pain.

Stretching is the best, since everyone benefits from the stretching of soft tissues. Although, individuals with ongoing back pain may find that it will take a while to notice any improvement, all of the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the back, spine, buttocks and legs will benefit and improve by exercise.

Even if you do not feel better right away, you will need to continue your back pain relief exercise regimen. All good things take time, therefore, you will have to keep up with your exercises, while giving it some time to make a difference before you begin to notice its effects.

Stretching should not be painful, so if at any time you begin feeling pain, you should not try to pushing through it, instead you should stop altogether to avoid injuring yourself seriously. When stretching or exercising remember to wear clothes that are comfortable and are not binding.

It is a good idea to begin working with a professional trainer, especially when starting out. Professional trainers are highly trained to help with back pain problems and [proper. They are also able to spot you and make sure you do the exercises the right way.


Saturday, December 27, 2008

 

The Best Weight Loss Workouts is With the Bosu Ball

Bosu Ball Exercises

One of the best weight loss workouts involves using the Bosu ball. The Bosu ball is the blue dome half ball you see in workout facilities. It is flat on the bottom while the blue part is an inflated dome. Weight loss equipment does not get any better than this one.

Bosu ball exercises can workout the whole body. You can utilize the Bosu ball for lower, mid and upper body workouts. Leg workouts typically begin with squats. Like many Bosu ball exercises, you can perform this with the bubble up or down, depending on how difficult you want to make the exercise. The basic exercise is to stand on the top of the Bosu and perform squats. Balance and strength will be required to get through the workout. Difficulty can be added by using hand weights. For a more advanced set of exercises, flip the Bosu ball over so the flat side can be stood on. This makes balance key as well as strength. You could also pick up the Bosu and hold it over your head while you perform the squat.

Another leg workout is the lunge. Take one step back from the Bosu with the dome side up. Perform the lunge by starting with either leg and lunge onto the top of the Bosu. Switch legs as you perform the exercise. You can also hold weights while you perform the exercise.

Abdominal muscle are worked by middle body exercises. You can perform a simple sit up by sitting on top of the dome with your feet on the floor. You can lift your legs and do crunches, pulling your legs in to your chest then expanding them outward. Any number of abdominal exercises can be done on the Bosu such as the bicycle crunch exercise. Your abs will remain tightened through each exercise as you stay balanced on the Bosu ball.

Upper body workouts with the Bosu include pushups. Perform the standard pushup by keeping your feet on the floor and placing your hands on the Bosu. You can also place your hands on the floor and put your feet up on the Bosu dome to do pushups. Flip the Bosu over so the dome is on the floor and grab the outer edges of the flat side to perform more advanced pushups. You can poerform shoulder exercises by pushing the Bosu ball overhead.

It is obvious that the Bosu is one of the most versatile workout pieces of equipment available. The Bosu is one of the best things to use for weight loss workouts. You will lose weight and gain strength using it.


Friday, December 26, 2008

 

Which Natural Hair Loss Treatments Are Effective?

Going bald? Is your hairline fleeing your face? Are you a man looking to regrow your hair or are you a woman looking for that miracle female hair loss treatment? Most men and women who are losing their hair do not find it funny. They want to stop the progression of the hair loss and they once more want a full head of hair and they often would prefer a natural hair loss treatment.

However, it's confusing when you consider how many hair loss treatment products there are on the market today. There are shampoos, conditioners, creams, lotions, gels, vitamins, medications and much, much more. The market is full of natural hair loss treatment products. Hang on a second, you must be thinking.

Of course it would be nice if you found a natural hair loss treatment that worked. They are made from all natural ingredients, they're good for the environment, they won't be introducing foreign chemicals into your body and they'll regrow your hair.  All at the same time!?! Well, maybe and maybe not. There are lots of natural hair loss treatment products out there, and you will find great variability in effectiveness, with many not working at all.

Alternative Medicine

Some alternative medicines have been gaining acceptance recently. These are people who are skeptical of pharmaceuticals and physicians, and would prefer natural supplements or herbs to treat their conditions. These individuals claim that their treatments work just as good, if not better, than anything a doctor can prescribe. You will also find that they are less expensive and will probably not harm your body. However, most supplements and herbs are sold without being evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

For the vast majority of natural hair loss treatments, there are no quality tests to support the claims. That's not to say they don't work. They may very well work, but most doctors would say that the effectiveness of these products is more the effect of placebo than their actual effectiveness on the human body. That is to say that doctors claim that it's mind over matter that cures you, not the herbs that you buy at your local health store. Are most natural hair loss treatment products similar in this regard? That's right, since they are not evaluated by the FDA and have not undergone any outside testing.

Individuality

Although most claims are unsupported, there may be a natural hair loss treatment that will work for you. However, you need to consider your own individual hair loss. How and how fast you lose your hair can be very different from someone else. Some are further along than others and some lose it for different reasons. For example, for some their hair loss may be genetic, while others may have blow dried their hair too much and therefore damaged the roots or follicles.

However, by all means try these natural hair loss treatment products to determine if they do work for you. They are all natural, they are good for the environment and they are better for you than using foreign chemicals. Keep your expectations realistic if you decide to try one of these natural hair loss treatments.

With realistic expectations, you will be less surprised if something does not work for you. Just because these natural hair loss products don't work, however, doesn't mean another won't. Everyone's different. You just never know what will work for you.


Thursday, December 25, 2008

 

An Ultimate Alternative to Viagra

Early in 1998, Viagra came into the scene and revolutionized the sex industry.

Men who tried Viagra discovered that they had harder erections more frequently that lasted longer.

Pill manufacturers are fast to latch onto things like this, so they changed course with the pill and transformed it into an impotence treatment. Clever marketing established it in the mainstream, it sold by the bucket load, and the sex industry was able to step out of the shadows and promote all kinds of stuff in famous sex pill's wake.

Regardless of the huge amount of copycat products industry|out there], ten years on it is still this original brand that is the standout name in the industry|after ten years viagra is still number one in the industry, although the rise of the internet has caused all kinds of alternative choices to be accessible.

awesome thing about viagra is that it really works.|Viagra is so successful because it truely gives you results.]

Because it was discovered by accident, the proof was already there of its ability to treat erection woes,  and lovers have seen their sexual lives transformed for the better for many years.

It's a straight forward product to take, consumed through the mouth, and is readily available.

However, there are some disadvantages to when you take viagra. Well, Some people have complained of side effects like nausea, variable heart rate, lethargy.

Moreover, let's not pretend otherwise, it's a chemical product, and after a while people tend to stay away from|avoid] chemicals. They'd prefer a more natural alternative, consuming treatments that are made solely from herbal products.

One alternative to viagra is a proven product named Hot Rod. Hot Rod is an incredible alternative to viagra that has been proven to give you the same kind of incredible results that viagra provides without any of the side effects. This is due to the fact that Hot Rod relies purely on herbal ingredients that is safe for your body.


Wednesday, December 24, 2008

 

How Do The Celebrities Look So Beautiful?

Celebrity Skin Care Secrets

Let’s be honest all of us at some time or another have wondered about Celebrity Skin Care Secrets.

I mean celebrities look their best on the red carpet, right. It can be most annoying when you see beautiful celebrities with flawless skin strolling down red carpets looking young and beautiful … and looking 10 years younger than you are when you KNOW full well that they are actually 10 years older than you are?

How do they make sure they look picture perfect?

Clearly having the financial means to be able to afford face lifts, Botox injections (a well known approach to  help with lines in motion, especially forehead (“worry”) lines, “frown” lines between the eyes, and “crow’s feet”. The sides of the brows can even get a lift when Botox is injected by an experienced physician), and chemical peels (for improving skin texture, easier makeup application, fewer blocked pores, etc) doesn't hurt, of course, but the truth is that even the beautiful people have to work at having youthful-looking skin every day just like you and I.

So here are some of Celebrity Skin Care Secrets:

Star Jones: Star says that she uses baby wipes to remove makeup and moisturizes her skin at least twice every single day.Now this is something some may want to try? You never know it might work for you, too.

Mo'Nique: Mo'Nique swears that drinking plenty of water works for her.She is understood to have said that you need to cleanse your face with an astringent and then use a moisturizer.Most of us know that we should all try to drink plenty of water each day to help maintain the moisture of our skin … give it ago, it ain’t that expensive, is it?

Victoria Rowell: Victoria is reportedly known to say that just applying petroleum jelly to your face each morning and evening will keep your skin looking soft and flawless. I don’t know about you, but I understand petroleum jelly is not expensive and if it is good enough for a baby, well need I say anymore.

Halle Barry: Halle tells us that using fruit acid cleansers to exfoliate the skin twice a day works for her. She says that when you wake up each morning that you need to clean your face and rub vitamin C onto your skin and then apply a moisturizer. You never know it could be just what you are looking for?

While most people probably can't afford the face lifts, Botox injections, and chemical peels that the celebrities can to keep their skin clear and youthful, but you can certainly apply some of these Celebrity Skin Care Secrets to your own daily skin care regimen and make them into your own beautiful skin secrets.


Monday, December 15, 2008

 

Permanent Hair Removal Solutions

Don't let the cost of laser hair removal stop you from looking your best.  The reality is that laser treatments are far more reasonable than most individuals have been led to believe. Due to the hi-tech aspects of these laser treatments, many men and women just assume that the cost of these permanent hair removal methods is beyond reach.  This is definitely not the case as more and more people visit their local laser hair removal clinic to rid themselves of their unwanted hair.

Laser Hair Removal Costs

It's true that laser hair removal costs vary a little depending on your geographical region and the actual individual conducting the treatments. Permanent hair removal may also require several laser sessions. Results reported by individuals who have undergone treatments have been very positive, with some people achieving between 60%-80% hair removal after a maximum of only three treatments. 

Pricing Options at Laser Hair Removal Clinics

In most major cities, you can expect to pay a minimum of $1,000 for treatments of smaller areas, but cost will also be dependent on your personal hair growth characteristics. Prices at laser hair removal clinics are often based on the type of laser, the area being treated, and the number of treatments. Larger areas, such as the back, are on average more expensive to treat than smaller areas like the facial area. Prices can vary widely, so it's a good idea to shop around.

Although laser treatments are not cheap, the advantages far outweigh the price in that lasers are quick, mostly painless, and have fewer side effects (redness or in grown hairs) than other hair removal techniques, such as waxing or creams. However, a benefit that you cannot put a price tag on is the increased confidence and self esteem that you will experience from a permanent hair removal treatment.  It's quite possible that your unwanted hair may be the one thing holding you back from true self-confidence and happiness.

Funding Laser Hair Removal Treatments

A fantastic method to save funds on your laser hair removal treatments is to find a clinic offering package deals.  They will often charge a discounted fee for a set amount of treatments, pulses, or time.  These laser hair removal clinics will generally require you to pay in advance for the treatments though, but the savings can make the bill more palatable.  

But if funding your laser treatments is an issue for you, you might consider a clinic that has a financing program to help with your laser treatment payments.  Though the interest may be higher than your bank, the convenience may be worth the added cost.  Another alternative is to get a small loan from your local bank or credit union.  The interest rate will generally be lower and the payment terms may be more flexible.   

Of all your permanent hair removal alternatives, laser hair removal treatments will ultimately save you time and money - consider the ongoing costs and hassle of waxing, shaving or using creams.  How quickly the time and costs can add up!


Saturday, December 13, 2008

 

Know The Facts About Alcohol Treatment Centers

An alcohol treatment center is where to go to break a nasty drinking habit. It is never something you choose to do by your own self, but sometimes, things could get that bad.  While in there, you simply have to stick to the rules, and you'd come out as right as rain.

Alcohol addiction alters not just your lifestyle and habits, but even the entire structure and function of your brain. This is what they have to reverse in an alcohol treatment center. You should let them do what they have to do to find themselves in that nasty place when you can no longer control your drinking impulses. By the time this is happening, something has changed even in your brain. You might never be able to turn back this, but the complex might help you get the strengh to stop it.

There is something about rehab – people never quite come out the same. By the time you are out, you are either cured or worse. Something about the attendants in there, or perhaps your fellow inmates, changes you. This is some food for thought.

When you arrive at an alcohol treatment center, the chances are that you will be stripped of everything you have. Even your mobile might be taken away from you. The reason is that you are needed to concentrate on your recovery and nothing else.

Alcohol treatment centers become very important in alcohol rehabilitation because they provide people with counseling in all stages of their recovery. There is counseling for people who are still drinking, for those who have stopped drinking, and for those who have been sober for a long time after alcohol abuse.


Alcohol treatment is not a free service. In the office, you provided payment for visit, you pay for the stayed, for your meals and medication. About the only thing you don't pay for in there is the air that you breathe. To believe that this was something you could have done by yourself! Only, of course, then there is no guarantee.

One of the ways to find cure, as you are sure to be shown in rehab, is to acknowledge your faults. A second move is to make amends for the ones that you can correct. Thirdly, for the errors you cannot remedy, you must learn to forgive yourself, assert that you will never go there again, and then move on.

You always feel like you can stop anytime you want. Somehow, that never quite happens. You just go on with bottle after bottle until you find yourself one day in a group of sorry looking buggers like you, telling stories of what you could have done but didn't, and all those horrid things you shouldn't have said but could not hold back.

Alcohol treatment centers were probably made popular by the celebrities who constantly frequent these places. They are meant mainly to help people rediscover themselves after harrowing experiences under the influence, but today their services have extended to other fields such as narcotics. Well, why not? They are the same thing more or less, aren't they?

Jon Ferriss offer reveling resources about alcohol treatment centers on his site.


Thursday, December 11, 2008

 

Hair Health And Beauty Information

All women want their hair to be healthy and beautiful. We would love to have shiny locks like we see on TV. We desire the hair that men will admire. However, hair health and beauty is not as uncomplicated as they make it out to be on television. Years of over styling our hair with blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons have caused a great deal of damage to women’s hair.

Hair Health And Beauty Basics

Since the beauty of our hair is directly and inextricably linked to the health of our hair, it is critical to maintain our hair’s health in order to keep the hair looking as attractive as possible. Did you know that hair is actually dead once it leaves your scalp? Still, hair can continue to draw nutrition from the living skin on our scalp to keep its luster and color. This is why keeping your scalp healthy is the answer to keeping your hair health and beauty at an optimum point. Hair has a life span of about three to seven years, so if you have gone more than that long without a haircut, you may find that your hair is brittle and dry and that nothing you can do will fix that. If this is the case, then you need to have the dry and brittle ends of your hair cut off. also, do not fret if you see hair on your hairbrush or in the shower—it is normal to lose around one hundred pieces of hair daily.

Beauty Tips for Healthy Hair

Now that you know the root of hair health and beauty, here are some tips on keeping your hair healthy and attractive at all times. Using organic health and beauty products are not necessary to keep your hair looking and feeling great. Instead, just follow these tips. First, when you brush your hair use a comb instead of a brush. Using a brush damages you hair more. Be sure that you work from the bottom up and do not simply try to stick a comb in your hair and pull. Instead, be very gentle and work at a slow, steady pace. Also remember that if at all possible, do not comb your hair when it is wet as this can increase hair loss. In addition, when you get out of the shower simply wrap your hair and leave it. Do not rub your hair or scrub it with the towel as this can increase hair loss.

Contrary to popular belief, washing your hair will not increase hair loss. Washing your hair cleans your hair, and it is essential to keep your hair beautiful and healthy. There are many myths about hair health and beauty, so do not get fooled by them.


Monday, December 8, 2008

 

Health Benefits of Soy Candles

            Soy is everywhere these days, including in your milk, chips, nuts, and even burgers adding health benefits through and through, now it seems soy is also in your candles. Soy candles are a new and emerging type of candle the offers great benefits to those candle heads in the world that can’t live without fresh aroma burning each and every day in their homes.

 

            “If it lasts longer it’s okay with me” said a friend of mine once during a casual dinner. Take that comment for what you will, my friend could’ve meant a variety of things by it, but in general consumers prefer long lasting items to those that are short in life span. Soy candles last 30 to 50 percent longer then traditional candles. Your average 14 oz candle, similar to a Yankee candle large size, will last about 75 hours. If you were to have that candle be a soy candle, it would last over 100 hours and smell just as sweet as the traditional candles do.

 

            Traditional candles are known to cause soot in and around the general area they are burning. For those that aren’t familiar with our friend soot, think grayish black smoky smelling fog that clouds the top of your candle jar, on your walls, and even on ones ceiling. Soot is caused by the toxic elements in the traditional candles that are released when ignited. Soy candles are all natural and do not contain any toxins, thus no soot will come of them.

 

            Carcinogens are released into the air when a traditional candle is burning. Carcinogens can cause cancer, and other health related problems. New research is showing links between candles, charcoal, and other burning devices we use in our home lives as cancer causing. Research is just beginning on this issue; however it is a fact that soy candles do not produce carcinogens. When thinking about buying soy candles think of the old cliché, better safe than sorry.

 


 

Is LASIK Surgery an option for you?

Is LASIK Surgery an option for you?

Many patients are very satisfied with the improved quality of life that they experience after LASIK Surgery. Read on to decide whether LASIK Surgery is right for you. 

The different types of LASIK Surgery

There are two basic types of surgery: Standard LASIK and Custom LASIK. With either type, the preparation work and post-operative procedures are similar. The difference between the procedures involves the customization of the laser.

Standard LASIK

Prior to the scheduled procedure date, the eye surgeon meets with patient to re-test for certain eye problems and diseases. When it's confirmed that the patient meets the requirements, a procedure date is set.

On the day of the procedure, the eye doctor may perform another corneal topography to confirm that nothing has changed that would require changing the procedure. Three types of eye drops are then administered. The drops anesthetize the eye, protect the eye from post-operative inflammation and protect the eye from infection.

Next, the patient reclines and the laser is positioned overhead with the eye surgeon above it. To remove the flap, the patient's eye must first be stabilized. The eye is kept from blinking by placing it into a restrainer. Suction is administered to the eyeball and the microkeratome makes one swift slice across the top of the cornea. The resulting flap (which should still be hinged to the eye) is pulled away with tiny tweezers.

The laser then emits a pre-determined number of laser pulses to remove the excess tissue, a process which takes literally seconds. The flap is pulled back into place and saline solution clears the eye of any debris. The eye is covered and the procedure is finished unless the other eye is receiving a LASIK Surgery treatment.

Custom LASIK Surgery

In standard LASIK, the computer inside the laser determines the number and location of laser pulses based solely on the patient's prescription. With custom LASIK, the eye surgeon creates a three-dimensional image of the eye. The image results are then fed into the laser's computer and the patient receives a laser treatment that is truly customized to that eye.

Risks and complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with LASIK Surgery. The procedure may under- or over-treat the eye. Under-treatments can be corrected with additional surgery however over treatment generally results in the patient needing to continue wearing corrective lenses. Loss of vision or compromised vision, especially at night, are other risks. Dry eye syndrome can develop. And vision that has been surgically corrected may decline over time. Another serious risk involves using an inexperienced ophthalmologist.

Tips on selecting a LASIK Surgery surgeon

Get referrals from people you trust and then make arrangements to interview several candidates.

Make the most of the pre-procedure consultation. Prepare a list of questions to ask each surgeon and record the answers. It's important to understand what care the ophthalmologist intends to provide during all stages of surgery: before, during and afterwards as well as all costs.

Remember that low cost doesn't mean top quality. Your eyesight is far too valuable to allow cost to be the determining factor.




 

Contact lenses and children

Contacts lenses and children

There's no age restriction on contact lenses for kids. In fact, even very young children can wear them and many do for a variety of reasons. How can one decide whether contact lenses for kids make sense? Like any decision, it's important to consider the benefits against the disadvantages.

Contact lenses for kids make sense for the same reasons they do for adults. They help enhance appearance, they are comfortable to wear and they are a good choice for improving vision. Add to these reasons the facts that fitting a child isn't an issue and that children have all the same options as adults including daily wear, extended wear, continuous wear and disposable and it's difficult to argue against contact lenses for kids.

Kids who participate in sports find that wearing contact lenses is much easier than dealing with the hassle involved in wearing eyeglasses. Eyeglasses and sports aren't always a good match. They break more frequently and replacing children's eyeglasses isn't cheap!

Kids can be cruel, and children who wear eyeglasses find that they're frequently subjected to unnecessary taunting and name-calling. Such behavior can seriously impact a child's self-esteem and confidence, especially when they're young and don't know how to disregard the words being said.

Studies have shown that contact lenses for kids, in particular rigid gas permeable styles, have the added benefit of helping to keep nearsightedness from progressing. 

There is something else to consider before making a final decision, however. Although a child's age isn't necessarily a consideration, a parent may wish to consider a child's maturity level. With the decision to wear contact lenses comes an understanding that the wearer has certain responsibilities that must be upheld. Since no two children mature at the same pace, a parent really is the only person who can make this determination.

It helps to think about the ways in which the child does or does not currently show responsibility. For example, how is the child at caring for pets, or at finishing chores or at completing school assignments?

If a child isn't yet mature enough to handle the responsibility, the parent then has to determine whether he or she is willing to take responsibility for cleaning, maintenance, insertion and removal of the contact lenses and also for scheduling eye examinations and follow-up visits as necessary.

If a child is mature and is motivated, that child likely will be a good candidate. And since most children take instruction well, especially when someone other than a parent gives it, they generally are very good at wearing and caring for contact lenses as they've been instructed by the eye doctor.

Contact lenses for kids do present the same risks as adults have including a higher incidence of eye infection, dryness or abrasion. Some children, even though they may be very motivated, are not good candidates for wearing contact lenses either.

As always when in doubt, talk the decision over with someone who has experience prescribing contact lenses for kids.


 

How conjunctivitis affects your eyes.

Eye Care – Conjunctivitis

What is Conjunctivitis?

Conjunctivitis is an eye problem in which the conjunctiva, which is the mucous membrane that covers the eyelid and the white part of both eyes, becomes inflamed. There are two main types of Conjunctivitis, or pink eye as it is more commonly referred to. The first results from a bacterial or viral infection and the other results from an allergic reaction.

The infective form of Conjunctivitis, if it's caused by bacteria, is highly contagious with the hands being the primary vehicle for transmission. Conjunctivitis that results from an allergic reaction is typically a seasonal condition as are most allergies.

Conjunctivitis can also result when a person is sensitive to certain facial products and cosmetics. This latter form is sometimes referred to as irritant Conjunctivitis. Allergic and irritant Conjunctivitis are not contagious.

Symptoms of Conjunctivitis

The symptoms of the infective form of Conjunctivitis include discharge that is watery or sticky, eyes that water and feel gritty, and eyes that feel as if they have been glued together upon waking. Mild soreness is sometimes a symptom. The part of the eye that is normally white will also become red or pink, which is why Conjunctivitis has earned the nickname 'pink eye'. Because Conjunctivitis often develops along with a common cold, a person may also have symptoms of a cold including runny nose, mild fever and a sore throat.

With the allergic form of Conjunctivitis, eyes are itchy and the eyelids may appear puffy. There may also be a discharge from the eyes that appears white or watery or ropy.

Who is at risk?

Anyone is at risk of getting Conjunctivitis. Because it can be contagious, a person with Conjunctivitis needs to take measures not to spread it. It's difficult because it is normal to rub the infected eye as a way of providing temporary relief. However, if hands are not washed afterwards and the cause is bacterial, the bacteria can be transferred to another individual by coming into contact with the infected hands.

People who have a history of allergies, particularly hay fever, are at increased risk of developing the allergic form of conjunctivitis.

Early detection/treatment

Infective Conjunctivitis with its notable pink eye often will accompany a common cold making this eye problem rather easy to identify. Likewise a person with known allergies knows whether or not he has allergic Conjunctivitis.

Treatment for infective Conjunctivitis that is caused by bacteria includes the application of antibiotic ointment or antibiotic drops. If it is caused by a virus, typically the condition is left to heal on its own, much like a cold. Generally however, it is difficult to determine whether infective Conjunctivitis has resulted from bacteria or a virus so oftentimes, no treatment is prescribed.

In either case it is important to wash hands after coming into contact with the infected eyes using warm water and soap. Those with infective Conjunctivitis should not share their towels or pillows with others. Also when Conjunctivitis is present, contact lenses should not be worn until it has cleared.





 

Quick Weight Loss Trend

If you wear a size 14 and you blow a bundle on designer size 8 dresses as motivation, you will probably end up feeling guilty, frustrated, and angry if you are not slinking around in it a month later.

In reality, you will do much better setting smaller, achievable targets for yourself. If you must try the new-clothes strategy, go down a size at a time, and do not buy anything you have to take out a second mortgage to pay for.

Because, if you continue to remorse on losing weight fast, you will end up incorporating fad diets or those that offer easy weight loss.

For most people who are not aware of this fact, there are no such things as quick weight loss diets and there is no quick weight loss for people who want to be slimmer than what their body can provide. Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.

The problem with most people is that they tend to opt for nippy fixes wherein fact these things are not effective at all.

What Does Not Work

Today, there are plenty of weight-loss strategies that are guaranteed to backfire. This is because these nippy fixes instilled on certain diet plans are, in reality, not efficient because it does not employ the right principle and the right attitude in losing weight.

These rapid weight loss diet plans are known as fad diets because that is exactly what they are, just a fad. In time, when fashion is over and popularity wanes down, people will realize that the diet they have depended on is not reliable at all. Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.

To know more about these fad diets that are selling like hotcakes in the market today, here is a list of some telltale signs that would tell you not to try it even once.

Here they are:

1. Skipping meals

Does your diet plan require you to skip meals? If it does, then, it is a fad diet.

Abstain from food completely is not a healthy habit. It may even cause some serious complications or problems especially for people who are sick with diabetes.

Skipping meals will only cause a hypoglycemia, or the condition wherein your blood sugar is really low, and will probably only be effective in making you eat twice as much at the next meal.

2. Dieting without exercise, or vice versa

Exercise is crucial to the human body. It is important in the proper blood circulation and other activities of the human body system.

Therefore, diet plans that do not require you to exercise are nuisances. People are born to move.

But then again, exercise alone is not sufficient. Hence, it would be better if diet and exercise will go hand-in-hand.

3. Continuous dawdling

There is no better time to start losing weight. If you want to really lose those excess fats, you have to lose weight now.

Delaying tactics will not get you anywhere and will only make the problem worse. So, if your diet plan suggests a certain timeframe for you start losing weight, chances are, you are following the trend of fad diets.

Boiled down, it is best to rely more on the way you feel than the tale of the tape. This means that if the weighing scale tells you that you are losing weight even if it is slower than you would like, but you are feeling energetic and positive about your weight-loss efforts, then, you are just doing fine.

As mentioned and is worth mentioning all over again, weight loss is not a quick process.

Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.


 

How does astigmatism affect your vision?

Eye Problems – Astigmatism

What is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common eye problem in which a person's cornea or lens has an irregular shape. These problems are known as Corneal astigmatism and Lenticular astigmatism respectively.

The cornea is a clear layer that completely covers the part of the eye that has color. Ideally, the shape of the cornea is round, like a tennis ball. The cornea's job is to bend rays of light that enter the eye so that these light rays can be better focused on the lens enabling the retina to produce a clear image.

When the cornea has a more oval shape, like that of a football, light cannot focus properly. Instead of one focus point, as is what happens when the cornea is properly shaped, the misshapen cornea focuses light onto two areas of the retina. That is what results in blurred vision and/or the appearance of doubled vision.

Symptoms of Astigmatism

Blurred vision, 'ghosting' or images that are doubled are the most common symptoms of astigmatism. These types of vision problems occur at all distances. Fatigue, eye strain and frequent headaches are other symptoms that may indicate astigmatism.

Who is at risk?

The shape of the cornea can be affected by anything that causes the eyelids to exert excessive pressure on the cornea. Other risk factors for astigmatism include hereditary, poor posture and performing redundant and excessive amounts of up-close work. Those who are nearsighted or farsighted are also at higher risk of developing astigmatism. Other factors that can increase the appearance of astigmatism include head trauma or a cut, tear or scar on the cornea.

Keratoconus, a condition which over time causes the cornea to thin and take on a more cone shape can also cause astigmatism. This condition develops around puberty and affects more women than men. It's also caused by excessive rubbing of the eyes.

Finally, diabetics are at increased risk of developing astigmatism as elevated blood-sugar levels can cause the shape of the lens to change.

Early Detection/Treatment of this eye problem.

A routine eye exam is the easiest way to detect astigmatism. The eye doctor will do a number of tests to determine vision clarity. To determine how light rays focus on the retina the eye doctor can perform a refractive evaluation. Reading the eye chart is a good way to determine visual acuity. Checking eye muscle performance, eye coordination and eye focusing capability are also part of a routine eye exam and can all help determine the presence and degree of astigmatism. Astigmatism is measured in terms of diopters and ranges from mild to severe.

Since astigmatism is an eye condition and not an eye disease, it is highly treatable. Common treatment options include corrective eye glasses and (toric) contact lenses.

Surgical treatment options have been highly successful at correcting the shape of the cornea. Photorefractive Keratectomy or PKR uses laser beams to change the cornea's shape. LASIK surgery involves making small incisions on the sides of cornea using laser beams. With Radical Keratectomy, laser beam incisions are made into the cornea.


 

What Is Age Related Macular Degeneration?

Eye Problems – Age Related Macular Degeneration

What is Age Related Macular Degeneration?

As the name implies, Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) is an eye disease that is primarily triggered by age. There are two types of ARMD, wet and dry. Either can affect one or both eyes. The dry form is more prevalent, occurring in 90% of the cases. It's slow to develop and vision loss is gradual, although not necessarily severe. The wet form is much more damaging, causing rapid and severe vision loss.

Even though vision loss is not complete, it is significant enough for an individual to be considered legally blind and for quality of life to be severely affected.

Vision loss is not total because ARMD affects the central vision, not the peripheral vision. When the macula is damaged, a person cannot create a clearly detailed image. Since the macula is in the center of the retina, central vision is affected. The macula is a group of nerve cells that utilize light to create and send images to the retina.

Symptoms of ARMD

Those affected by ARMD will notice a spot in their vision that is clearly indistinguishable. For example, when looking directly at an image of a person, legs and head will be clearly visible, but the body itself, the part right in the center of vision, will appear to be covered with an area that appears either empty or dark. Besides blurred vision, straight lines may seem wavy and a person may not be able to recognize images that should be familiar.

Who is at risk?

Age is a primary risk factor of ARMD, with the majority of the cases developing in individuals aged 60 and over. However, hereditary and the environment can also trigger the onset of the dry form of this eye disease. Females develop ARMD more often than men.

Free radicals cause much of the cell damage that occurs inside the retina therefore cigarette smoking and hypertension increase the risks of developing ARMD. Those who do not eat a nutritionally-balanced diet may also be at risk as they are not providing the body with the antioxidant protection it needs to inhibit the damage caused by free radicals.

Early Detection/Treatment of this eye problem

It's difficult to detect ARMD. The dry form is slow to develop, and generally develops only in one eye. The unaffected eye compensates for the damaged eye, so symptoms are not readily noticeable.

Yellow deposits called drusen on the retina can usually be observed during an eye exam. The eye chart and dilating the pupils are two methods of detection. When wet ARMD is suspected, the eye doctor will use an Amsler grid or fluorescein angiography.

Unfortunately, no treatment can restore this type of eye damage. Glasses will not help, but vision aids and counseling can help a person adjust to life with a reduced vision loss.

Laser eye surgery treatments and photodynamic therapy have had limited success on wet Age Related Macular Degeneration. Other treatment options such as medication and radiation are still being studied.


Saturday, December 6, 2008

 

Losing Weight Quickly

Wanting a slimmer and sexier body is no lofty ambition. Many people have succeeded in sculpting their physiques to make them look healthy and desirable. However, this end is not attained in just a snap or skipping one night's dinner. For some people though, patience is not a virtue. They seem not to be able to afford so much attention, time and money to get the body they have always wanted. As a result, these people result to rapid fat loss practices and programs which may not be as effective as these people are led to believe they are.

Fast-track diets are one of these rapid weight loss practices which may not be very inviting as they seem according to research. Fast-track diet programs, as scientific research shows, are only good while they last. Rapid weight loss often results ironically, to rapid weight gain. people who undergo low carbohydrate or low calorie diets normally revert back to old eating habits simply because human beings can not actually live on with this type of diet scheme for the rest of their lives. Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.

Now there is also scientific research showing that rapid weight loss does not imply an individual is losing unwanted excess fat; it is commonly water that is lost with following rapid weight loss practices. This could cause certain alarm but actually, water lost is regained very quickly. So there is actually zero net weight lost after all. So one should not be foolish enough to be so gullible with the advertising of certain diet pills out there in the market; especially those which claim to aid lose a whopping amount of fat in a short time. They will only dehydrate the body. And just so it is clear, the body can only lose two pounds of fat per week, one could be exceptionally lucky if he can lose three, but normally, it's just two.

Another rapid weight loss product out in the market is the slimming soap. Claiming that these soaps are made from a unique concoction of rare chinese herbs and seaweed, they assert to help people using them to shed off body fats by emulsifying them upon application while taking a bath. Some are even specialized like those which promise to give the user "beautiful thighs". The ingredients may prove to improve the quality of the skin but no research has ever come up yet which aids to prove the efficacy of these ingredients in emulsifying excess body fats.

One more rapid weight loss product out there in the market promises to suppress hunger and at the same time help increase the body's metabolic rate. It also claims to be able to accelerate the healing process and reduce certain body pains, all these plus its being a very chic fashion accent. Well they are actually called magnetic weight loss earrings. Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.

The secret of this set of earrings is in the magnet, so it says. Wearing them near the ears balances the magnetism in the body therefore one will experience all the above mentioned effects. Though press releases say that there are actually "studies" to back these assertions up, nothing yet is found in medical journals. Though buying a set may not kill a person, it's probably not a wise investment. One might as well wear a horse shoe earring for a more exquisite fashion statement.

Bottom line is "no pain, no gain". If one wants a beautiful body, one must sweat it out. And as for those rapid weight loss products coming out on the market, if they are too good to be true, they probably are not.


 

"What There is to Know About Diet Pills?"

According to manufacturers, diet pills use natural ingredients capable of prolonging life and containing alcohol used in medication or flavoring. One thing’s for sure, never take diet pills as substitute for cutting calories without the doctor’s recommendation. There are simple but important steps to be followed when taking diet pills:

1.Never crush diet pills to mix in drinks or soups. Take it whole with a full glass of water.

2.Diet pills causes a person to urinate more frequently due to its diuretic effect. This could lead to dehydration, thus, causing complications. As a pre-caution, it is best to drink eight glasses of water everyday while on diet pills.

3.Take only the recommended dosage. Taking more than required will not help you lose weight but increase the risk of side effects.

4.Heartbeat should be less than 86 beats per minute. Stop taking the pills if it reaches 90 or higher that is why regular checking of pulse is a must.

5.Always follow the instructions set by the dietician and/or doctor and not only rely on what’s enclosed in the box. Also diet pills will only work as expected if diet plan is being followed.

6.After three months, stop taking the diet pills. Common diet phenylpropanolamine is safe to use only up to sixteen weeks. Other studies show that it can cause health problems if taken under one month.

There are two kinds of diet pills; one is the prescription only diet pills and the over-the-counter diet pills.

Prescription Diet Pills - are drugs regulated by the Food and Drug Administration agency which side effects are monitored, maybe advertised and prescribed under certain dosages. The most popular of these is Xenical, which is licensed for long-term use. However, this too has it’s own side effects, diarrhea, oily and unexpected fecal discharge are just some. Therefore, users are advised to take a low fat diet plan.

While Over-the-Counter Diet Pills are categorized as food substitute and are unregulated. Beware that these diet pills are not Federal authorities tested and may cause serious side effects up to and including death.

Aside from a dietician, local pharmacists can also help in determining the pills that are safe and not for each person’s case. Just be extra careful about the so-called "natural" or "organic" ingredients. Not everything that comes from a natural source is safe. One example is Ma Huang, which is a botanical source of ephedrine known as a stimulant and being studied for potential side effects.  Uncover the Easy Weight Loss Program.

Those who have or have a family history of prostate problems, thyroid disease, mental illness, high blood pressure, and heart problems should avoid taking diet supplements. The same applies to those who’ve had seizures or strokes. If someone is taking cold medicines, especially those with decongestants, diet pills should not be taken. Whether it be a prescription or an over-the-counter diet pill, the dangers are unvarying with other similar drugs which controls the brain to reduce appetite and includes chest pains, hair fall, fever, depression, and even impotence.

And as a general rule, don’t ever try to take diet drugs if pregnancy is suspected. Persons that are allergic to sulfites and tartrazine should also avoid taking diet pills. And those who are under 18 years or over 60 years of age should consult their doctor first prior to taking any dietary drugs, especially if they rely on over-the-counter stimulants used as a replacement for increase exercise.

Uncover the Easy Weight Loss Program.


 

Nutrition Notes on Weight Loss Supplements

More and more spend hundred and even thousands of dollars yearly on weight loss supplements in the hope of speeding up their metabolism. The main desire is to be attractive and accepted but it is becoming a more difficult goal to achieve. The fitness industry is booming but still a lot of people are unable to cut those fat in spite of all the exercise and diet efforts. In America, more than sixty per cent of adults are overweight and thirty per cent are considered obese. This is because: one, a lot of weight loss products promises unrealistic goals; two, dietary supplement manufacturers rely on the overweight person’s failure to survive; and three, the information about the supplements in the market are just written by themselves just to make a sell.  Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.

Although the Food and Drug Administration has successfully banned illegal marketers, some products are still available. Consumers can be deceived of the labels which claims caffeine or ephedra fee not knowing that these supplements composes of other ingredients that may pose the same health risks. These include heart and digestive problems, headaches, insomnia, and even psychological side effects.

Other supplement manufacturers say that their products contains EGCG which is a phytochemical ingredient found in green tea. This so-called component claims to speed up metabolism but in reality poses to reduce the risk of cancer. Some studies denote that it could slightly increase the potential to burn calories and now can be found in many weight loss supplements. It has good points on the other hand since the body might conform to EGCG after a period of time. Eve the weight loss benefit could sum up to 60 to 70 calories a day. Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.  This helps prevent excessive weight gain.

A few other significant effects of weight loss supplements is that it may contain ingredients that makers claim will prevent the absorption of carbohydrates. One good example is Chitosan, which appears most promising, which in fact shows no positive result in fat absorption. It could even take up to seven months for men to lose just a pound of body fat and for women, there is no fat loss at all. Thyroid supplements act as thyroid replacements help regulate and optimize the thyroid at a higher level. This they say makes the body feel like a couch potato and won’t perform the job it has to.

Since the number one reason why people eat is because they feel hungry, there is another type of ingredient that manufacturers made which increases the feeling of being full and decreases appetite, Guar Gum. However, recent studies show that it has no meaningful benefit at all to weight loss. It is ironic that manufacturers mix Psyllium that has the reputation of reducing eating and aiding weight loss for initial studies so far do not support this claim although it helps control blood cholesterol and sugar.

One of the latest innovations in the fat loss industry is by way of skin absorption. There’s a Cutting Gel, which is an epidril product by far the best selling in fat loss creams technology. Rub it where you want the fats cut. For now, it will seem safer to advise the age old remedies to excessive weight gain and that is to invest on walking shoes instead of diet supplements, go to the park and do brisk walking, go to the gym, and have a well balanced diet instead.

Uncover the Rapid Weight Loss Program.

 


 

Contact Lenses and How The Eye Works

Contact Lenses and How The Eye Works

The human visual system is both simple and complex. Complex, because there are so many parts that have to work together to make sight possible. Simple, because those parts and the process can really be explained without in-depth knowledge of anatomy and biology.

An ordinary glass lens, such as a magnifying glass, focuses the light that moves through it by bending the rays toward a focal point. That's the bright spot you see when you hold one over a newspaper, for example. Something similar happens when light enters the eye through an opening called the pupil, behind a clear protective portion called the cornea.

The pupil is surrounded by the iris, the colored portion of the eye. The pupil can narrow or widen to regulate the amount of light admitted, from as small as about 2mm to as much as approximately 8mm. The iris contains the muscles that change the diameter of the opening. Just behind the pupil is the lens, the part that focuses the light rays similar to the magnifying glass.

But there's an important difference between a magnifying glass and the eye. The magnifying glass's focal point is fixed. The eye, by contrast, contains muscles that help shape the lens and that shaping process performs a number of important tasks. Most importantly, it makes it possible for the focal point to change.

A camera lens is a good analogy. Because the camera lens contains multiple pieces of glass that can be moved by turning the barrel, objects at different distances can be brought into focus on the film. The muscles attached to the lens perform a similar function in order to focus light onto the retina, which is like the film.

Focused light rays strike the cells of the retina, the cones and rods. The names come from the shapes of the cells. The cones - 7 million cells in the central part of the retina, called the macula - are responsible for sharp, detailed vision and color vision. The approximately 100 million rods around them help us see in dim light and provide peripheral vision.

When those focused light rays hit the cells chemical reactions occur that stimulate the optic nerve attached to the back of the retina to produce electrical impulses. Those impulses are then transmitted to the visual cortex, the part of the brain that organizes them. Many parts of the brain cooperate to cause the mind to conclude: 'Ah, a car.' But the visual cortex does the initial heavy lifting.

When the parts and process of vision work correctly, you see sharp, colored entities out in the world. When things go wrong, the need for contact lenses or eye glasses arises.


 

Toric Contact Lenses

Toric Contact Lenses

For many years after their introduction contact lenses were able to easily correct nearsightedness or farsightedness, but nothing else. Changing the point at which light rays focus is a fairly straightforward task, though it does require careful crafting of the lens. But correcting some forms of astigmatism still required wearing glasses. Toric contact lenses ultimately solved that problem.

Nearsightedness causes light rays to focus in front of the retina. Farsightedness causes light rays to focus behind the retina. But, astigmatism denotes a condition in which the cornea, lens or the eyeball as a whole is misshapen. The effect is subtle, but small differences in the eye produce a large effect. Light rays get scattered in different directions, not just ahead of or behind the retina. Blurred vision results.

That multiple direction effect makes it more difficult to produce contact lenses (or even glasses) that will correct the condition. Toric lenses solve the problem by combining shapes. Regular contacts are shaped like a portion of a sphere. Toric lenses combine a spherical surface with a toroidal surface. A donut for example is a toroid, so is a cylinder when it wraps around to touch itself.

Though shaped differently, toric lenses are made of the same materials as other contact lens types. So, they can be soft, RGP or hard. But because they are a combination of shapes they can't be allowed to rotate around the eye like ordinary contacts. Also, all toric lenses are designed with multiple powers to tackle more than one vision problem at the same time, such as astigmatism and farsightedness together. Those features make them more difficult to manufacture correctly and eye exams and fitting are more complicated.

As a consequence, toric lenses tend to be more expensive and so are doctor visits to prescribe them. For some with only a mild astigmatism the extra expense can be avoided by using regular contact lenses. To a degree, the cornea will tend to conform to the shape of the lens. If the astigmatism is mild enough toric lenses may not be necessary. Only your eye care professional can say for sure, after an exam.

For those who do need toric lenses, the full range of choices is available and they work very well. Often, those with an astigmatism require contacts that achieve multiple goals. Multifocal lenses are an option. Toric lenses are available in disposable lens types, whether 2-day or 7-day or even 30-day. Many extended wear lenses come in a toric option, too.

For those who want to add a bit of color to their contact lens, toric styles also provide that range of options. Visibility tints make lenses easier to see, making them easier to handle and harder to lose. Enhanced or full color tints can subtly influence eye color or change it entirely. Colored toric lenses are available for that, too.

Check out the full catalog of choices in toric contact lenses and you're sure to find one just right for you.


 

How do contact lenses improve your vision?

Correcting Vision With Contact Lenses

Eyeglasses are great for some people. Laser surgery works for many. But millions now enjoy the comfort, ease of use and sharp optics given by contemporary contact lenses.

Because of the way the eye and visual system work, it's relatively straightforward today to design contact lenses that correct most vision problems. Manufacturing techniques have been raised to a high art and most of the research now goes into finding materials for longer wear or less likelihood of eye health problems.

That makes choosing a contact lens a snap today. A modern, professional eye exam allows for extremely accurate measurement of the eye and vision correction needs. The result is a prescription that fits you perfectly in any of dozens of designs and types you might want.

Choices run the gamut.

Soft contact lenses have been in use for a generation now and they continue to be the choice of millions. Virtually gone are the hard, glass contacts of yesteryear. Today's soft lenses come in disposable, extended wear and many other options, including different types of tinting or coloring. Some tints are only meant to make the contact easy to see and handle and hard to lose. Others are intended to shift or change entirely your eye color.

But firmer lenses are still desired by or needed by many. RGP (rigid gas permeable) types are the most common here. Midway between a hard lens and a soft lens, they allow considerable oxygen through the lens to optimize eye health. Their extra firmness makes them a good choice for those with mild astigmatisms or who desire extra long life in a contact lens.

Toric contact lenses, particularly the prosite type, are useful for those with more pronounced astigmatisms. They're also a good choice for those who want a multifocal lens, such as bifocals or progressives.

Whichever type of contact lens you get, they will generally be comfortable and provide excellent vision, if cared for and used correctly. That means cleaning them when needed, inserting and removing them according to the manufacturer's and your doctor's guidance. It also means using them the right way, not trying to treat daily contacts like extended wear, for example.

But, even lenses that are designed and used perfectly can occasionally cause complications. Dry eye, blurred vision, discomfort and other issues do happen to a small percentage of contact lens users. In some cases, conjunctivitis, corneal abrasions and other eye health issues are possible. When they happen, remove the contacts and consult your physician immediately. In most cases, the problem can be cleared up quickly and you can resume wearing your contacts soon.

Get a careful exam, buy from reputable dealers and use your contacts the way they were meant to be worn and you can enjoy years of perfect vision.


 

How Contact Lenses Work

How Contact Lenses Work

A clear, relatively hard mound of tissue called the cornea sits in front of the pupil of the eye. Behind the pupil is the lens that focuses light onto the retina, which creates reactions that stimulate the optic nerve to send signals to the visual cortex in the brain. That, in a nutshell, is what makes sight possible. But along the way several things can go wrong.

With age (usually) or disease, or simply because of genetics, the shape of the lens and eyeball can and do become distorted. That distortion also affects the shape of the cornea. The change in shape causes the light rays to focus in front of the retina, behind it, or to be scattered in several directions.

In the first case, the result is nearsightedness or myopia. That is the ability to see things near, but far things appear out of focus. Reading a book is easy, reading road signs while driving can be difficult or impossible without contact lenses or glasses.

When the rays would focus at a point behind the retina the effect is to produce farsightedness, also called hyperopia. Farsightedness is the ability to see things sharply that are (relatively) far away, but things up close look blurry. Reading road signs is easy, reading text on your computer without contact lenses or glasses becomes impossible.

The third case is a little different from either of the other two. In this instance, the eyeball can be misshapen or out of round, making the cornea and lens an improper shape. That produces a condition called astigmatism, the effect of which is to make images appear blurry whether near or far. That double-whammy is one of the reasons that, until recently, it was difficult to produce contact lenses or use laser eye surgery to correct this.

But the solution is (today) straightforward. Insert another lens between the light rays and the human eye's lens. That works like a camera, which has multiple pieces of glass that can work together to focus the rays onto the film. In this case the 'film' is the retina. For centuries, this was done by using glasses, today, contact lenses offer an option enjoyed by millions.

The extra lenses (the contact lenses) 'float' on a thin layer of tear-like moisture over the cornea. Because of liquid surface tension and the shape of the eye - carefully matched by shaping the contact lens just right - the lenses can stay on and stay in place.

In short, in technical language, they change the refractive angle of the light. Refract is just a fancy word meaning 'to bend'. That's exactly what the lenses do. They bend the light a little bit. It's bent a little more by the cornea, lens and fluid in the eye and - when everything is adjusted just right - the light is focused sharply onto the retina. The net result is to provide the type of array the visual cortex can correctly process as 'car' or 'baby' or whatever you happen to be looking at.


 

The proper wear of contact lenses.

How To Wear Contact Lenses

Contact lenses in decades past were hard, uncomfortable and prone to breaking or getting lost. None of that is true today, provided you use them properly.

The first step, obviously, is to get ones that are just right for you, after an exam by your eye care professional. He or she will write you a prescription, taking into account the wear characteristics you want, such as disposable, extended wear and more. Contemporary equipment and experience allow eye doctors to fit everyone with contacts that are individually perfect for them and that fit exactly.

Note that word 'exactly'. While certain lenses require a break in or adjustment period, they should not be uncomfortable for very long. RGP lenses, for example, are firmer than soft contacts. They will take a few days longer than soft lenses to feel right.

During that period, you're getting used to something that is new and your eyes are conforming to the lens and vice-versa. Soft lenses should feel comfortable within a day or two at most. You should adjust to any contact lens by the period described by your doctor. Any longer than that and it's time to take them back.

Before deciding that the lenses are not right for you, though, make sure you're using them correctly.

Toric lenses for example, used by those who have certain types of astigmatism, can only go in correctly one way. Because they combine multiple shapes to correct the condition, if they are rotated upside down, they won't fit right, nor correct your vision appropriately. Similar comments apply to bifocals or progressives, which are often designed to be worn only one way.

Further, for most people, contact lenses differ between left and right. Getting them backwards will, it should be obvious, not give you optimal correction. It should be obvious, but it isn't always. The reason is that your eyes may differ only by a small amount and other things can interfere with optimal vision, such as cloudiness on the lens from improper cleaning.

The solutions here are simple.

Make sure you clean your hands and the lens properly before use. Small contaminants make a big difference when it comes to something as carefully crafted as your contacts. Protein buildup and bacteria buildup are much more likely, much quicker on lenses that aren't prepared correctly.

Also, make sure you put them in correctly. With eyes that only differ a little, it's easy to get them backwards and not know it. Some designs simplify the issue by actually imprinting a tiny L and R on the lens. Others rely on you to see that the left and right are correct after they're inserted, and reverse them if they're not. Toric lenses make clear which way they are to go - follow that.

Wear according to designed use. That is, if you have daily wear lenses, don't treat them like extended wear models. Take them out before bed. If you fall asleep with the lenses in, even during the day, use eye drops and allow the eye to get moisturized before removing them. Ironically, closed eyelids during sleep can cause them to dry out, since you produce less tear solution then. Allow your eyes time to adjust.

Some soft contact lenses can accidentally flip inside out. But even single vision lenses are designed to only be worn one way. Before inserting, ensure they look like a slice of a sphere with no ridges. If there's a tiny lip, they likely have gotten turned inside out. Firmer lenses, such as RGP models, show this more prominently, but it should be visible on others, too. Yes, it can be hard to see without your contacts in. Have a pair of glasses handy or get used to feeling for the small ridge.

With proper care and use, your lenses should not be irritating. That can lead to eye health problems. If they bother you, consult your eye doctor and ensure that your prescription and practices are both what the doctor ordered.


Friday, December 5, 2008

 

Why Losing Weight is Good

There is a great benefit acquired from losing weight. Though losing weight is not easy, the long term effects brought by it would probably be of help to anyone considering to shed those unwanted and unhealthy pounds.  Uncover the Easy Weight Loss Program.

The following are a few of the remarkable advantages from losing those excess weight.

Weight loss prevents high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke

That is a three in one benefit from losing weight. It is a fact that heart disease and stroke are one of the primary reasons for disability and death in both men and women in the US. People who are overweight have a higher risk to have high levels of cholesterol in their blood stream as well as triglycerides (also known as blood fat).

Angina, one type of heart disease, could cause chest pains as well as a decrease in the oxygen pumped to the heart.

Sudden death also occurs from heart disease and stroke, and usually this strikes with very little warning, signs and symptoms.

It is a fact that by decreasing your weight by a mere five to ten percent, this could positively decrease the chances of you having or developing heart disease or a stroke. Plus, how your heart functions would also improve as well as your blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride count will decrease.

Weight loss prevents type 2 diabetes

Diabetes puts in jeopardy one’s life as well as how one leads his or her life because of the complications that result from having it. Both types of diabetes, type one and type two are linked with being overweight. To those who already have diabetes, regular exercise and losing weight could help in controlling your blood sugar levels as well as the medication you may be currently taking. Increase your physical activity. You could simply walk, jog or dance. It helps get those blood streams moving as well as lose those unnecessary pounds.  Uncover the Easy Weight Loss Program.

Weight loss helps reduce your risk for cancer

Being overweight is linked with a number of kinds of cancer. Specially for women, the common types of cancer that is associated with being overweight include cancer of the uterus, gallbladder, ovary, breast, and colon. This is not meant to scare you, this is only to keep you informed. Men are at risk too from developing cancer if they are overweight. These include cancer of the colon, prostate and rectum. Extra weight, a diet high in fat and cholesterol should as much as possible be avoided.

Weight loss reduces sleep apnea

Or it could eliminate it all together. Sleep apnea is a condition wherein one could temporarily stop breathing for a brief period and then would continue to snore heavily. Sleep apnea could cause drowsiness or sleepiness during the day and – because of being overweight – could result in heart failure. Shedding those excess pounds could help in eliminating this problem.

Weight loss reduces the pain of osteoarthritis

When one weighs heavily, the joints of his or her knees, hips and lower back would have to exert double – if not triple – effort to carry him or her through out his / her waking, walking and moving life. This could cause tension and stress on these joints. Weight loss decreases the load these joints carry thus decreasing – if not eliminating – the pain of one who has osteoarthritis.

Uncover the Easy Weight Loss Program.


 

"Healthy Diet - A Guide to Weight Loss "

 

Here are some weight loss diet tips that can be followed anywhere, everyday:

1. Make a delicious low fat mayonnaise by combining one teaspoon of Dijon mustard or satay sauce with a low fat yogurt.

2. Do not skip meals. Skipping meals slicks the body into slowing down the metabolism, attempting to conserve calories during a period where limited fats and fuel are available. Remember that eating increases the metabolism.

3. Stuff vegetables like capsicum and zucchini with flavored fillings or minced chicken, white meat or fish. These are healthy and contain low fat.

4. Take pita bread roll ups or wraps with salad fillings.

5. Eight hours after waking up, our metabolism slows down that is why 30 minutes of exercise before dinner will increase the metabolism for about two to three hours. This produces an increase in burned fat even hours after the work out is over.

6. Add alfalfa or mung beans to salad to get extra iron.

7. Good cooking and healthy eating begins with learning about nutrition and how to prepare healthy recipes.

8. Learn how to make the family favorite recipes and make sure that fats, salt, and sugar are cut out. Substitute non-fat yogurt for cream, stir-fry without oil and use herbs and spices instead of salt to taste.

9. Consult the doctor before beginning an exercise or weight loss program.

10. Slowly eat and chew each bite during meals as this would decrease one's appetite.

11. Complete three small meals and two snacks everyday instead of one or two huge meals.

12. Use chicken stock when stir-frying. This will cut down on hidden fat.

13. Buy non-toasted muesli instead of the toasted ones. A plate of toasted muesli contains more fat than a plate of bacon and eggs.

14. As much as possible do not remove the skins of fruits and vegetables since most of the nutrients are concentrated under the skin.

15. Warm water with just a squeeze of lemon juice before breakfast get the metabolism going for the day, this also help preventing constipation and is excellent for the skin.

16. One of the best sources of vegetable protein is from soya beans or tofu. All legumes provide some protein, so include lentils, lima beans etc into casseroles and soups.

17. Look for a weight loss "buddy," club, or support mates. This will motivate you to stay and enjoy your weight loss program.

18. Though it's hard at first, try not eating 3 hours or more before bedtime.

19. Make pasta a fast food choice - preparing a pasta meal or salad will only take 10-12 minutes.

20. Chilli helps to speed up metabolism - even the milder varieties.

21. Try making omelettes without adding the yolks! A dramatic decrease in fat.

22. Substitute baking soda, baking powder, MSG and soya sauce in cooking.

23. Remove fat by dropping ice cubes into the baking tray. Fat will stick to the ice cubes.

24. Drinking hot water instead of cold water in the morning can increase the speed of your metabolism and burn more calories.

25. Eat before you go food shopping and always prepare a shopping list. Only buy food which relates to your weekly menu plan and don't be tempted to buy goodies.

Make sure that the right discipline is still practiced to promote consistency on the diet plan. This will lead eventually to a healthy life-style and a more fruitful living without the extra fat and extra pounds on the side.

Uncover the Easy Weight Loss Program.


 

Contact Lenses vs Laser Surgery

Contact Lenses vs Laser Surgery

Every choice carries benefits and risks. Weighing them can be tricky. But the pros and cons of buying contact lenses versus having laser surgery can be boiled down to a few simple guidelines.

Any decision made between getting contacts or laser surgery on your eyes should be made in consultation with your eye care professional, of course. But getting them to stand still long enough to answer your questions can be a challenge. Here are some guidelines that will help you go in prepared.

Cost is the first consideration for most people, and it's a valid one. While everyone rightly considers his or her health paramount, most people won't look into the health risks until they know whether they can afford the options.

Contact lenses are not cheap. But, they're relatively low cost compared to laser surgery and are more often covered by insurance programs. A pair of contact lenses may run anywhere from $20 to $100, but there are other costs associated with this option, including cleaning solution and doctor visits. Still, the total may be less than $200 per year, not including the value of your time spent in the doctor's office.

Laser surgery, by comparison, can cost anywhere from $2,000 per eye to $5,000 per eye. Include doctor visits and the total is about $4,500 to $11,000. On the upside, it is a one-time cost and some insurance programs will help in part to offset it.

The convenience factor involved is no small matter to most people, either. The thought of having one procedure that is (usually) painless, brief and reliable versus having to wear contacts for a lifetime is very attractive to many. And, rightly so. While contacts have evolved considerably over the years, they still require daily to monthly changing and replacement every two to three years. Disposables are changed from every day to once per month.

Still, the health risks - while low for either option - should not be dismissed.

Laser surgery
rarely results in any long-term negative health impact. But some patients do experience dry eye (lowered ability to produce tears, leading to discomfort and reduced vision). While rare, it's possible for surgery to actually reduce vision acuity. More often, though still very uncommon, patients report halos, reduced ability to see clearly in fog or lower light, and other issues that interfere with good vision.

Contact lenses, even today though, are not entirely without risk. All contact lenses reduce the amount of air that gets to the surface of the eye. That increases the odds of corneal infection. Modern RGP (rigid gas permeable) lenses allow five times more oxygen through than contact lenses of the past. But it's still not the same as wearing no contacts at all.

Contact lenses can also lead to corneal or sclera scarring. Sclera is the relatively hard surface tissue of the outer eye that protects the eyeball. That is more likely if a piece of grit gets between the contact and eye. Unlikely, but not unknown.

Still, both options carry very little health risk overall. The overwhelming majority of people come through laser surgery with greatly improved vision. Nearly everyone who wears contact lenses of any type daily, whether extended wear or daily-wear, have no problems at all. They adjust rapidly, keep them clean and sanitary, and don't need to think about them during use.

Look to your budget and consult your eye care professional about the options, making sure to have a frank conversation about risks and likely benefits. You'll then arrive at the choice that's best for you.


 

Contact Lenses - Choosing Contact Lenses

Contact Lenses - Choosing Contact Lenses

Contemporary contact lenses are comfortable, long-lasting (unless by design, as in disposables) and very safe. Yet, there are some risks and limitations in wearing them and knowing what those are can help you choose the type that's best for you. Of course, any such decision should be made in consultation with your eye care professional.

Since 1986 many have opted for Rigid Gas Permeable contact lenses. Modern designs allow for up to five times more oxygen diffusion through the plastic than those of the past. That feature is important in minimizing the odds of corneal infection. The less oxygen that makes it to the eye, the higher the odds of an infection.

On the downside, RGP lenses are a little less flexible than other types, making them less comfortable for some. But, they may be better for correcting astigmatism as a result. They also can last up to 2-3 years, which is longer than typical soft contact lenses.

Many will want some type of soft lens, made from special hydrophilic plastic polymers that provide a lens that is flexible and therefore more comfortable. Current manufacturing techniques make possible a lens that doesn't suffer from a high likelihood of tearing, as did those in previous decades, but they do require more frequent replacement. Soft lenses also stay in place extremely well and require a shorter adjustment period.

Yet, for many, a hard lens is still the only option. While often less comfortable, and even though they raise the odds of scarring or infection slightly, their inflexibility is important. The eyes of some patients simply require the rigidity of this type and they prefer not to fall back on glasses. Those with certain types of astigmatism may not be able to wear soft lenses and require these instead.

Beyond those categories there are still several options.

Daily wear contacts lenses are intended to be worn during the day, then removed before bed. They're used by about 80% of contact lens wearers. Here the pros and cons become more evident. It can be a minor hassle to insert and remove contact lenses every day. Whenever they're removed they have to be sterilized, usually overnight, before re-inserting the next morning.

But daily wear contacts (currently) provide the best possible option for those looking to achieve the absolute minimum risk of eye infection and scarring. Allowing the eye to relax and get exposed to air keeps it in the best health. All contacts today reduce oxygen exposure somewhat and usually well below the level the eye would receive without them.

Removing them at night also reduces the odds to zero of having the contact slide off the cornea during sleep, where it could be a pain (literally and figuratively) to retrieve in the morning.

Still, touching the eye and/or the contact is also not completely without risk, and the process is a little inconvenient. Fewer changes can also be good. For those whose doctors say it's safe, extended wear contacts are a good option. They're designed to be worn anywhere from overnight (2 days) to a week or even up to a month at a time, depending on the design and the patient.

That convenience factor comes at a price, in dollars and risk.

They tend to be more expensive though prices change over time, of course, usually falling from a high. They also reduce the air-eye contact, which ups the odds of infection slightly. Extended wear lenses also up the odds slightly of something going wrong, since they sit in the eye longer.

Some models, particularly the 30-day type, are somewhat stiffer and therefore slightly less comfortable. In every case, the odds of problems with contemporary contact lens models is still quite low for those individuals whose eyes allow long-term wearing.

Investigate the options in consultation with your eye care professional and you'll soon find the right pair of contact lenses for you.


 

Contact Lenses - Can lenses be harmful?

Contact Lenses - Can lenses be harmful?


Modern contacts are manufactured to extremely high standards. Millions wear them daily and for years without health problems or even discomfort. Still, about 4% of all contact lens users experience some type of health issue at some point. Risks of wearing contact lenses, while very low, are not zero. Your odds can be improved by proper use, though.

One overall issue is the fact that any contact lens will restrict the amount of air that gets to the eye. That increases the odds of infection, even when lenses are well sterilized. With the popularity of 7 day or even 30-day continuous wear lenses, that problem (while small) is larger than it was in the past.

Apart from infection, discomfort and blurred vision can occur when a lens is worn for more than a few days. That irritation can occur to the eyeball itself, and also to the lens and surrounding tissues. One possible result is GPC (Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis).

GPC produces itching and redness on the surrounding tissue, the result of protein buildup on the surfaces of the lens. Swelling occurs on the interior surface of the eyelids and can produce a sticky discharge as well. When this occurs, you should discontinue use until your eye care professional declares the lenses are safe to wear again. Regular, careful lens care and proper use can reduce the odds of any re-occurrence.

Corneal abrasions, while uncommon, are also far from unknown among contact lens users. A small scratch on the clear tissue over the pupil can happen when small particles of grit get between the lens and the eye, usually as a result of poor cleaning or handling. But it can occur even to the most careful, as airborne or finger-borne material lands on the surface of the eyeball.

Small pieces of eyelash, cotton threads, airborne plant material and much more can all wind up in the eye. In the absence of contacts these things are normally washed away by the tears and eyelid working together. Contacts can interfere with that process. In many instances, antibiotics are called for since infection is common under these circumstances.

Pollen and other material can also produce allergic reactions that are sometimes amplified by contact lenses. The eyes become red and irritated and excessive tearing can occur, leading to blurred vision and discomfort. Sometimes the reaction is the result of preservatives in the lens cleaning solution. It happens more often with soft contact lenses. Treatments include removing the lens for a time, changing solutions and using different storage methods.

The lenses themselves can cause problems if they change shape. While rare, previously well-fitting contact lenses can be affected by temperature and age, causing tears and oxygen to less efficiently make it to the eye. This so-called Tight Lens Condition can cause pain, redness and even swelling of the cornea. Correction consists of remeasuring the eye and fitting new contacts after the eyes have recovered.

The cornea itself can change shape, as can the whole eyeball. The change is subtle, but with contact lenses the tolerances are small. If corneal warpage (as it's called) does happen the result can be discomfort and an increase in the odds of infection. The condition is more common with gas permeable and hard lenses, which are less flexible than soft contact lenses.

If this happens, healing can take weeks or months, during which time contact lenses can't be worn. As the eye resumes its normal shape, vision can change. More than one glasses prescription may be required for optimal sight. In rare cases the astigmatism is permanent.

In all cases, following the manufacturer's and your eye care professional's guidance about cleaning, insertion and removal, contact lens care and wear are your best bet to avoiding problems.


 

Learn How To Hypnotize People Today



Hypnotism is something that seems very elusive to people.  In general, people perceive hypnotism in this way because of what they may have seen in the movies or witnessed in person at a show.  When you get to the nuts and bolts of it, hypnosis is simply a relaxed state of mind, one that can help an individual focus clearly and at the same time block out any issues that may be keeping that individual from attaining a relaxed state.  There are several ways that you can reach this state and many people are surprised to find that they actually are in a semi-hypnotized state of mind several times per day.  When we allow ourselves to relax and daydream is when this state occurs in our daily lives.

If you're interested in learning how to hypnotize people, there are several ways in which you can do so.  There are some good books available on the subject as well as some CD's and DVD's which will teach you the process.There are many self hypnosis cd's that encompass a vast array of material.  These CD's are used, in most cases, to aid a person in dealing with issues like addiction or if they are simply trying to clear their own mind of a troublesome memory.  Something that you need to look out for are the courses on how to hypnotize people using crazy tricks and offhand techniques.  If you like throwing away money then by all means, purchase these courses, but don’t say I didn't warn you.

When you put someone in a hypnotic state, their mind will be open to suggestion but they will not be fully under your control.  Under hypnosis, an individual is relaxed yes but, they still have control of their faculties.  A very common misconception about when a person is under hypnosis is the after effect of amnesia.  It is extremely rare that somebody would go so deep under hypnosis to come out with signs of amnesia.  For the most part, the person is aware of nearly everything that is going on in their environment at the time of their hypnotic state.  

The process of hypnotizing someone is actually quite simple.By relaxing, most individuals can hypnotize themselves, your just going to help them out a bit.  Amongst most professional hypnotherapist's, they each have a style that is quite their own.  There are various styles that a professional will use such as the way the speak to an individual or how they portray mental images in the person's mind.

If you really want to learn how to hypnotize people, you should invest in a quality course and leave the various misconceptions at the door.  Once you become a versed hypnotist, you can aid friends, family and even yourself to achieve a high quality level of relaxation.  Upon learning hypnosis, you will be pleasantly surprised at what you can accomplish for yourself and others.


 

Coral Calcium Benefits

Coral calcium benefits the body in many different ways.  Coral calcium is a mineral supplement that is harvested in a couple of very different ways which makes a big difference in its effectiveness.

There are two basic forms: “Marine” coral and “Land” or fossilized coral calcium.  Although Bob Barefoot believes that all coral is good, there is a difference, good coral and the Best Coral.

True Marine Coral Calcium (the best) is harvested with ecological safety and conservation from under the pristine waters around the islands of Okinawa Japan.  This highly beneficial supplement is called SMP 44 or Sango Mineral Powder 44 and is considered to be a unique marine miracle for health and in the opinion of Bob Barefoot, the best calcium supplement available.

The mineral nutrients contained in coral calcium combine to support all body chemistry.  The benefit of mineral supplementation has been well supported in scientific literature and the benefit of coral calcium has 600 years of history with millions of people word wide.

The main mineral component of coral calcium is calcium but contains several other essential mineral nutrients including substantial amounts of magnesium, zinc, strontium, boron and many more.

Coral calcium health benefits include:

Supplies essential Calcium which is the most abundant mineral in the human body that:

Signals biochemical processes in the cells.

Controls muscle contractions.

Initiates DNA synthesis.

            Helps to Build Bones.

Critical control of the pH (acidity or alkalinity) of the body fluids.

Acidity results in the expulsion of oxygen from the body which can lead to numerous diseases, such as cancer, according to two time Nobel Prize winner Dr. Otto Warburg.

The level of calcium intake in the Western diet is much lower in many people than is required for optimal health.  Supplementation with additional calcium and minerals has many health benefits that could support your healthy body for years to come.


Thursday, December 4, 2008

 

Contact Lenses - Material and Types

Contact Lenses - Material and Types

What your contact lenses are made of affects how they wear in many senses of the word, including how long they last, your comfort and their health impact. For many years contact lenses were made of glass. Today, fewer than 1% are, with the other 99% made from various types of plastic. The choices are predominantly some type of PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), polycarbonate or silicon hydroxy gel.

Hard contact lenses introduced in the 1960s are made of PMMA and don't allow oxygen to move directly through the lens, but some air does reach under it anyway. When a person blinks the lens moves slightly and some air diffuses through the tear solution that covers the eyeball.

Soft contact lenses, first introduced in 1971, were made of a polyacrylamide containing nitrogen (hydroxyethyl methacrylate or HEMA) which made them what is called 'hydrophilic'. This ability to absorb water makes them flexible, and therefore more comfortable. At the same time, they are slightly more permeable to air than their older cousins.

RGP (Rigid Gas Permeable) lenses are midway between a truly hard lens, like glass or PMMA, and a soft lens. They combine PMMA with silicone and fluoropolymers that allow air to get to the eye. That increases your comfort and reduces the odds of health problems due to long-term wear.

Extended wear lenses, which come in anywhere from 2-day to 7-day to even 30-day use models, are made of silicon hydroxy gel. That material allows up to seven times the amount of oxygen to pass through the lens, making it possible to wear them longer than others.

Disposable contact lenses, first introduced in 1987, have now become extremely popular. They can be worn daily for a week or two and removing them every night is an option. Most are designed to be worn continuously then simply thrown away. Made from a combination of a polymer called etafilcon (42%) and water (58%), they're very thin, flexible and have excellent gas permeability.

Disposables are especially popular among sports enthusiasts because of the fact that they fit close to the eye, making them very difficult to dislodge. They're also very comfortable, so they can be easily ignored during activity. However, many don't offer quite the level of crystal clear vision as other types, so they're not suitable for everyone. Also, they don't correct some vision problems as well as other types, which limits their use for some.

Apart from the choice of material and wear characteristics, there are several options today in contact lenses that simply didn't exist 20 years ago.

Single vision lenses are like a pair of glasses worn close to the eye. They were once the only choice. Today, bifocals in contact lenses are possible. Even multifocal or progressive lenses are an option. These help compensate for presbyopia, a type of farsightedness that affects nearly everyone as they age, typically beginning in the mid-40s.

Investigate your options with your eye care professional and you'll soon find a pair of contact lenses just right for you and your lifestyle.


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