6 Teas With Antioxidants That May Help Fight Ailments Caused By Free Radicals

Teas with antioxidants are gradually becoming very popular across wide sections of the populace in many parts of the globe. Antioxidants in tea and other herbal drinks are the veritable "secret ingredients" that make these popular drinks so highly valued the world over. These compounds and substances are the agents that enable these beverages to impart their positive health benefits to their drinkers.

Antioxidants are compounds that may help fight and counter the damages caused by free radicals in the body. What are free radicals? Well, these are the harmful by-products and side effects generated by the normal everyday bodily processes that involve oxygen. Since the body requires oxygen at all times to fully function, the body is similarly exposed to the dangerous free radicals produced by the interaction of oxygen with different extraneous variables like bad diet, impure environment, tobacco, and adverse physiological & psychological factors.

When these free radicals are unleashed in the body, they have the potential to wreak havoc on the different organs, tissues and parts of the body by causing conditions that may impair and impede their proper functioning.

To counteract the disastrous effect of these oxidants or free radicals, individuals need to introduce antioxidants to their bodies. These can usually be found in the foods and drinks that people consume through their meals. Since these antioxidants are largely found in plants and crops, diets that are quite heavy on vegetables and greens are more likely to impart these substances to eaters than those that eat a lot of meats and starches.

Teas and herbal tisanes are great sources of antioxidants as they are derived from herbs and plants that are rich in these healthy compounds and substances. Here are a few teas with antioxidants:

Green tea and white tea

Teas have always been included in lists of so-called superfoods or health foods due to their high complement of antioxidants. All true teas come from a single plant - the camellia sinensis plant - which grows in many parts of Asia like China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka and Taiwan. From this plant come several tea varieties. These teas are green tea, white tea, black tea and oolong tea.

Of these, it is believed that white tea and green tea have the greatest concentration of antioxidants due to their having undergone the least amount of oxidation. Less oxidation means that they retain most of the naturally-occurring healthy chemical compounds in them.

EGCG or epigallocatechin gallate is the most dominant form of antioxidant polyphenol found in green tea and white tea. Many studies and researches have been conducted on the possible therapeutic applications of the EGCG antioxidant. Consequently, there have been a lot of promising findings on the potentials of the EGCG antioxidant as a nutritional supplement for fighting a host of ailments and diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes, HIV infection, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease.

The Chinese and Japanese people have also largely linked green tea to longevity and rejuvenation. White tea, while less known than green tea, have always been popular in certain areas in China and are now getting recognition in wider areas of the globe.

Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus tea is a tart and tangy herbal infusion made from the bright red hibiscus flowers that grow in many tropical countries the world over. This tea is typically drunk either hot or cold.

This herbal drink is believed to contain a host of flavonoids, polyphenolic compounds, mucilage, and anthocyanins that impart a wide variety of health benefits to its drinkers. A recent Taiwanese study conducted in the Chung Shan Medical University has found that these antioxidant compounds were associated with lowering the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol, which is related to increased risk for heart and cardiovascular diseases.

Furthermore, a 2008 USDA study showed that consuming hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure in a group of pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. Data gathered therein support the idea that drinking hibiscus tea in an amount readily incorporated into the diet may play a role in controlling blood pressure, although more research is required.

Hibiscus tea was also observed to possess astringent, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that may help with strengthening the resistance to harmful foreign bodies that cause many ailments and diseases.

This herbal tisane also contains a good amount of vitamin C and other health food nutrients. These compounds along with the aforementioned antioxidant substances were found to impart the hibiscus tea benefits that help stimulate vasodilation, improve the flow of blood and promote urine excretion in individuals who drink this.

Bilberry tea

Bilberry tea is derived from the perennial shrub that's a relative of blueberry, cranberry and huckleberry. Growing to a height of about 16 inches, the bilberry has sharp edged leaves, green branches and black wrinkled berries. The bilberry fruit has the taste and appearance of its cousin, the blueberry.

Bilberry contains antioxidant compounds known as anthocyanosides. These are actually plant pigments that give the fruit its dark blue hue. Anthocyanosides scavenge the free radicals strewn across the body, thus helping prevent or reverse cell damage. Vitamin C is also present in bilberry fruit, itself another antioxidant.

The anthocyanosides are said to be useful for people with vision problems such as night blindness. Anthocyanidins apparently boost the production of rhodopsin, a pigment that improves night vision and helps the eye adapt to light changes. Bilberry has also been suggested as a treatment for retinopathy (damage to the retina) as well as cataracts, but studies are still lacking in these areas.

Antioxidants in bilberry tea have also been shown to help prevent a number of long term illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and an eye disorder called macular degeneration. These compounds help build strong blood vessels and improve circulation to all areas of the body. They also prevent blood platelets from clumping together (helping to reduce the risk of blood clots), and they have antioxidant properties (preventing or reducing damage to cells from free radicals). Bilberry fruit is also rich in tannins, a substance that acts as an astringent. The tannins have anti-inflammatory properties and may help control diarrhea.

Turmeric tea

Turmeric tea comes from the spice most popularly used on the Indian subcontinent. It is a yellow-colored spice with a mellow, mildly spicy, and somewhat earthy flavoring.

Turmeric's primary active component is a molecule called curcumin. While it is responsible for giving the spice its bright yellow color, it is also a potent antioxidant that acts as a scavenger of free radicals. It is also believed to help inhibit the peroxidation of lipids, as well as to disrupt the progress of aberrant inflammation. It is also thought to help diffuse the deposition of plaque in various circulatory passageways and in vital organs of the body.

Consequently, turmeric tea may help fight a host of serious ailments such as cancers, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's Disease, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, diarrhea and many more.

Turmeric tea also has anti-fungal and general antiobiotic properties that make it a valuable fighter in warding off diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and microbes.

Rooibos tea

Rooibos tea is a fruity and pleasant-tasting drink that comes from the leaves and stems of the plant Aspalathus linearis which is indigenous to South Africa. Rooibos tea is also known as 'red bush' tea and typically grows on high altitudes.

Of late, rooibos tea has been gaining a lot of attention for a variety of medicinal and clinical purposes. These have largely been attributed to its considerable antioxidant content.

Rooibos tea contains many different antioxidant compounds. The main flavonoids in rooibos tea are aspalathin, rutin, orientin, quercetin, luteolin, and nothofagin. There are also bioactive phenolic compounds such as dihydrochalcones, flavonols, flavanones, flavones, and flavanols. There is also the chrysoeriol flavonoid (luteolin 3'-methyl ether) which is believed to posses its anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-microbial, and anti-viral properties. It is also a source of Superoxide Dismutase or SOD, which is another potent blocker of oxidative damage.

Aside from its abundance of antioxidants, rooibos tea is also popular among health-conscious individuals for its lack of caffeine and its low tannin levels.

Consequently, rooibos tea is believed to be a helpful partner in preventing and fighting against various cancers, cardiovascular ailments, as well as digestive and neural disorders. It has also been widely used to help alleviate infantile colic, allergies, asthma and dermatological problems.

It may thus be a wise decision to regularly drink teas with antioxidants. There are a lot of health benefits that can be derived by taking these teas. And if people want to gain a much healthier body, it would be best to start drinking them now.

So the next time you feel like having a drink of soda or coffee, you might want to go for teas with antioxidants like the ones mentioned above. With these brews, you are virtually assured of getting a refreshing drink, as well as a healthier body.

Aloe Vera is the Perfect Cure For Crohn's Disease

In Crohn's disease ulcers and inflammation occur deep in the layers of the walls of the intestine. This is concentrated in the second half of the small intestine and first half of the colon. However, rarely, it is found to occur in the upper portions of the stomach and intestine, along with ulcerations in the food pipe, stomach and beginning of the small intestine.

Crohn's disease's helpless victims would be interested in knowing the incredible capabilities of Aloe. After ages of painful abdominal cramps, bleeding, diarrhea, fever, weight loss and several other symptoms you must surely be tired. The last thing you would be want to do is try yet another medication. But aloe vera is a naturally occurring, non-toxic drug without side effects.

Intestine is a very complex organ that serves many functions. It controls allergy and provides immunity against many diseases. Its role in the daily functioning of our body is very important. Therefore it is very important that the intestine is in perfect shape. Our intestine has the fastest growing cells in our body which are replaced once every four days. In order to regenerate them fast enough we require amino acid I-glutamine which is poorly included in our diet.

This is where Aloe vera comes to the rescue. It contains copious amounts of the said compound and helps in repairing the intestine. Aloe vera is famous for its anti-inflammatory properties which are used to relieve abdominal pain caused due to intestinal spasms. It also contains long chain polysaccharides which repair tiny holes that appear in the intestine due to leaking gut syndrome. Complete with vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and minerals aloe vera contains about 200 nutrients that help our body stay in shape. As all the ingredients are natural they are easily processed by our body in promoting good heath.

Active Manuka Honey And Skin Care - Discover The Incredible Health Benefits Of Manuka Honey

When it comes to health and well-being, nothing beats natural supplements. With the many benefits they provide as well as the fact that their safe from dangerous synthetic ingredients and chemical compounds that are usually present in lab-manufactured drug components, these health alternatives are highly recommendable for human consumption. Active manuka honey is one example of these natural products with undeniable healing properties.

Here is a list of important facts about active manuka honey.

- A rare type of honey from New Zealand, it is produced by putting up hives on lands where manuka bushes grow. The bees from these hives gather nectar from the flowers of the manuka bushes, hence the product's name.

- It is used to produce manuka honey products that are either ingested or applied topically on skin.

- This honey is believed to have anti-fungal, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

- It can address internal ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, acid reflux disease, strep throat, eye, ear and sinus infections, cold/flu symptoms, ulcerative colitis, heartburn and indigestion, gastrointestinal disorders, stomach virus, esophagitis, and gum disease.

- It can address external diseases like acne, eczema and dermatitis, wounds and burns, infections, ringworms, nail fungus, athlete's foot, MRSA, skin ulcer, pressure sores, dry skin, and tinea.

- Some of the most well-known honey products from active manuka honey include acne cream, first aid antiseptic lotion, anti-itch cream, antiseptic spray, anti-fungal cream, anti-wrinkle serum, liquid and bar soaps, hand sanitizing gel, mud mask, lozenges, and pain relief cream.

- Not all manuka honey can be considered as active. As for now this cannot be fully explained by science but studies have supported the veracity of this claim. Therefore in purchasing manuka honey products, one must check its UMF rating first.

- UMF or Unique Manuka Factor is a term used to rate how active this honey is.

Nature is truly teeming with many wonders. These wonders aren't always readily noticeable with a naked eye but they are real wonders nonetheless, just like this honey.

This honey has been used for ages in the more indigenous areas of the world. Recently though, with the proliferation of all sorts of manuka honey products, this alternative treatment has attracted the attention of the medical community.

This honey is also used in skin care products due to its incredible benefits. Although research about this natural by-product is not yet exhaustive, more and more medical practitioners are expressing their confidence toward manuka honey based items.

Kefir and Kefir Grains - the Miracle Food

It's noteworthy to say that even though the origin of Kefir and Kefir grains remain shrouded in mystery, the health benefits of consuming these are not. 

Throughout literally the ages, kefir has been known to have "miraculous" health benefits. This is present since the earliest known origin of kefir going back centuries ago, to the people of the Caucasus mountain region, these people, who regularly consume large quantities of kefir, were known for their very long and healthy life spans with little to no diseases. 

Centuries later, USSR scientists are able to procure some kefir from this same region and confirm its health benefits as well. Fast forward to today, countries from all over, such as Norway, Tibet, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Brazil, South East Asian countries among many many others are manufacturing, researching and confirming these truths as well.

Some of the health benefits kefir is known for are:

1. Antibiotic and antifungal properties


2. Stress relief 


3. Anti-aging 


4. Lowering blood cholesterol and blood pressure


5. Reduces flatulence, correcting irritable bowel disease and fortifying gastric function


6. Treatment of prostate problems in men


7. Treatment of Interstitial cystitis in women


8. Treatment of bladder infection and gastric dysfunction


9. Treatment for liver problems due to hepatic infection


10. Treatment of Ulcerative colitis


11. Prevention or control of Diabetes


12. Treatment of a variety of other conditions, including metabolic disorders, atherosclerosis, and allergies, tuberculosis, cancer, poor digestion, candidiasis, osteoporosis, hypertension, HIV and heart disease.

Based on scientific research, kefir is able to do all these things because it contains trillions and trillions of good or beneficial bacteria. Even though scientific research is unsure of exactly how, the diverse bacteria in kefir are able to perfectly form complex symbiosis with one another resulting in extremely enhanced health benefits compared to each bacteria acting alone.

In addition to this kefir is very rich in vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, amino acids and enzymes. Vitamins such as B2, B12 and vitamin A, K and D. Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Anti-oxidants, which are present in kefir slows down the aging process. Essential amino acids such as tryptophan, which kefir is also abundant of, are known for its relaxing effect on the nervous system. And the more the good enzymes, the better it is for your stomach. 

In conclusion, there really isn't any other food out there that compares to kefir in terms of its sustenance, nourishing qualities and its health benefits. No wonder they call it the miracle food.

So cheers! Bottom's up to a glass of rejuvenating kefir.

Ulcerative Colitis And Aloe Vera Treatment

Aloe vera is used as a natural remedy for treatment of grave ailments like ulcerative colitis along with irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease.

Ulcerative colitis is a kind of disease that takes place in the lining of the large intestine and it generally causes inflammation and sores, which is known to us as ulcers. The inflammation occurs in and around the rectum region and in the lower parts of the colon. Ulcerative colitis seldom affects the small intestine except the end section, which is known as the terminal ileum. Ulcerative colitis can also be referred to as colitis or proctitis. This is an irritable bowel syndrome and it is hard to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to another type of intestinal disorder known as Crohn's disease.

Aloe vera is extremely effective in the treatment of the ulcerative colitis. It is generally found in Africa. It is a green plant which is like cactus with long leaves and it comprises of a gel and a yellow residue known as latex. The gel of this plant is the place where all its medicinal values can be found. Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides is the particular area where all its medicinal features can be found. Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides are long chains of sugar molecules that consists of separate glucose sugar molecules and mannose all linked together.

The reason why ulcerative colitis is treated with the help of Aloe vera is simply because it includes Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides or AMP and every tissue, cell and organ of your body is benefitted by it. Primarily the AMP or the Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides is a highly potential anti-inflammatory drug. It tackles directly with the inflammation in the digestive tract and it also helps in the removal of constipation and diarrhea. Aloe vera detoxifies your body by using its intercellular antioxidant and helps in natural repairing and rebuilding of the protective mucosa membrane along the walls which deals with bowels and fixes the damaged tissue from mouth to rectum.

Apart from treating ulcerative colitis, Aloe vera also helps in digestion and better absorption of digested food and also in the better assimilation of absorbed food into the body. It also helps in the restoration and balancing the optimum functioning of the immune system. Due to its incredible medicinal values and properties, it is used in the treatment of colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and crohn's disease and all these ailments are caused due to the inflammation of digestive tract between rectum and intestine. Aloe vera is considered as a natural remedy for the treatment of these diseases.

Colitis Symptoms and the Use of Meditation

Those diagnosed with colitis should be aware of and utilise available methods and practices to reduce the occurrence and strength of colitis symptoms, particularly when it can be identified that stress has been a contributory factor. One stress reducing method that should be considered is meditation as it is easy to implement and has wider health benefits.

The exercise of meditation is in reference to the specific state where both the body and mind are conscious, yet are relaxed and focused. The purpose is to achieve a state of both physical and mental calmness to purposely remove stressful, negative thoughts and influences and calming the state of the mind. In a sense it cleanses the mind and allows the uninterrupted focus on one particular thought. Some people require total silence in order to achieve this mental state where all sounds, however small are required to be blocked out. Often this can be very difficult to achieve yet with practice, the mind can be trained to close out any background noise.

In order to undertake effective meditation, you require adopting a comfortable position though it does not have to be the stereotypical straight backed cross leg pose associated with meditation. As long as you are relaxed and comfortable, the mind will be able to focus more easily. Additionally, there is associated with meditation some ritualistic humming. This is used as a means of concentration, to help the person with the same aim of focusing the mind. Again it is not essential that such an action is adhered to. People have different ways of focusing, just as long as the method adopted achieves an intense state of mind focus.

For sufferers of colitis, the occurrence of stress can often bring on symptoms and techniques to reduce these by creating the aura of both physical and mental calmness should be utilised. The process of meditation creates this very state with the added bonus of the requirement to focus on one object. Consider the large colon to be the centre of this focus. While doing this you should be aware of any tension within the large colon and on your body as a whole. Now mentally visualise the release of this tension. Start to imagine the inflammation reducing as the stress and tension floats away. You should feel the release of this and you should find yourself in a refreshed state when your session has ended.

If this action can be incorporated into a daily routine, this will not only be rejuvenating for your mind and body but may also reduce the likelihood of colitis symptoms appearing due to a build up of stress that has no mechanism of release. This should be used as part of effective management to reduce the impact that colitis has yet it is only one method for the reduction of stress in colitis sufferers.

Cancer of the Gastrointestinal Tract

Together cancer of the gullet, stomach, bowel and pancreas are the commonest group of cancers, especially in the sixties onwards but they do occur before then.

Cancer of the colon or rectum is the third most common cancer in men, causing about 8,500 deaths a year.

It is more likely if there is a family history of bowel cancer or in sufferers of ulcerative colitis. Cancer of the pancreas causes 8,000 deaths a year, especially in smokers and diabetics.

Cancer of the gullet or stomach affect an older age group and are more common in smokers.

The symptoms of bowel cancer are a change in bowel habit - for example, unusual constipation or persistent diarrhoea or blood in the motions.

Cancer of the gullet causes difficulty swallowing. Stomach cancer begins as persistent indigestion, upper abdominal pain and loss of appetite, possibly with vomiting of blood.

Pain or weight loss are features of more advanced disease of any of the above.

Cancer of the pancreas is notoriously difficult to diagnose early; it may cause a vague abdominal pain, jaundice - and weight loss.

Prevention

See a doctor if your bowel habit alters for more than two weeks without some good reason. Always take seriously any difficulty in swallowing.

Indigestion beginning for the first time above the age of forty-five should be investigated, even though stomach cancer is relatively uncommon until the sixties.

Never ignore persistent weight loss and loss of appetite.

Treatment

Surgical removal of early bowel and stomach cancers gives excellent long-term results; this is why you should not delay in having any suspicious symptoms investigated.

The outlook for cancer of the gullet and pancreas is much poorer; even so much can be done to relieve discomfort.

Can Green Tea Cure Ulcerative Colitis and Other GI Tract Diseases?

Symptoms of GI tract diseases such ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome can be effectively managed through regular consumption of green tea.

Gastrointestinal diseases comprise of a gamut of debilitating conditions that can affect any part of the digestive system. Among the many GI tract diseases, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome are some of the more serious ones. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are characterized by the presence of inflammation in the digestive tract that leads to ulceration. No inflammation occurs in irritable bowel syndrome which is characterized predominantly by abnormal bowel movements. Symptomatically, all the three lead to improper bowel movements although the former two can cause more severe symptoms such as anemia, rectal bleeding, fever and joint pains.

Research has found that diet plays an important role in controlling ulcerative colitis and other GI tract diseases. Among the many dietary agents, green tea is one that has received considerable scientific attention. Many studies have shown that it has powerful antioxidant activity owing to the presence of tannins such as catechins. These compounds are also said to be responsible for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea were responsible for the reduced levels of inflammation markers in subjects suffering from ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Scientific evidence also exists proving the benefits of green tea in controlling irritable bowel syndrome. Bacterial infection is said to be one of the causes of this syndrome. As an antimicrobial agent, it can be postulated that green tea can prevent bacterial infection in the colon thus decreasing the risk for irritable bowel syndrome. It has been observed that this beverage exerts a protective effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa thus preventing damage and hastening the healing process. Both these are essential in restoring the normal functioning of the bowel in case of irritable bowel syndrome. Moreover since it contains no fiber, the chances of it further irritating the bowel is totally avoided.

Thus, green tea can be said to have preventive and curative properties in GI tract diseases. Green tea consumption gains an edge over the intake of anti-inflammatory drugs that are usually administered in case of colitis and Crohn's disease since it practically elicits no side effects. Its typical taste is liked by many and hence it is certainly not one among the bitter pills to be swallowed! So, if you suffer from any GI tract disease such as ulcerative colitis or irritable bowel syndrome, get your packet of green tea today and manage them effectively.

IBD and Crohn's Disease - What's The Link?

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used for a group of illnesses affecting the digestive system. With roughly one million sufferers in the United States, IBD is primarily composed of two disorders: Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis.

What takes place with IBD, Crohn's, and ulcerative colitis is the body's immune system has an exaggerated response to an unknown bacteria or condition of the bowel system, releases a large number of white blood cells to the affected area, and as a result, the area becomes drastically inflamed. This swelling causes ulcerations and injury to the bowel, as well as various other negative side effects.

Although extensive research has been done, it is unclear what causes the excessive immune response in IBD. Some believe it is the body's mistaken identification of good bacteria in the bowel as being dangerous, while others believe it is a foreign agent that triggers the immune system, which in turn, does not shut down properly. Whatever the reason, this is a chronic condition which will continue to be a problem for sufferers for an extended period of time.

The primary difference between Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis is the location of the affected area. Crohn's Disease may affect any portion of the digestive system and may occur in patches, with unaffected areas in between. However, Crohn's Disease primarily affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. On the other hand, ulcerative colitis only affects the colon. Often, it is very difficult to determine which form of IBD a patient is suffering from and misdiagnosis is common.

Symptoms common of Irritable Bowel Disorder are diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and occasionally weight loss. These signs are often present with Crohn's Disease, as well as uncreative colitis. As a result of blood loss, many sufferers also become anemic. This can be especially devastating to pre-existing conditions. Likewise, complications can arise from blockages that occur due to excessive bowel swelling and the presence of scar tissue. For this reason, surgery is sometimes necessary to remove damaged areas of the digestive system to avoid obstructions. There are also side effects experienced in other areas of the body in addition to the digestive system.

For the most part, IBD and Crohn's Disease are often used interchangeably. However, it should be understood that Irritable Bowel Disorder does not necessarily translate to Crohn's Disease. There are other forms of IBD that may affect sufferers in much the same way.

The Nutrition Wonder - Omega 3 Fish Oil

Omega 3 fish oil is the undisputed health supplement choice of many - and not without reason. This nutritional wonder is classified as a polyunsaturated fatty acid. The human body needs the following classes of fatty acids for their very survival:

• Cholesterols
  


• Saturated fats
  


• Mono saturated fats and
  


• Polyunsaturated fatty acids of the likes of Omega 3 fish oil
  

Fish Oil Health Benefits...

The Nutrition wonder of modern times - Omega 3 Fish oil -- is overwhelmingly advocated as the nutrient of choice for a healthy heart -- recommended by none other than the American Heart Association.

The benefits of fish oil, however, are much more numerous than just a healthy heart. For starters, the human body would well die without the requisite content of some specific fatty acids and it is not without reason that these fatty acids are more familiarly known as Essential Fatty Acids (EFA).

These fatty acids are better classified as:

Omega - 3 Fatty acids and

Omega - 6 Fatty acids

The Health Ratio...

The human body needs and ingests two kinds of fats, which are indispensable for healthy well being -- Omega-3 and Omega-6. The optimal ratio for a healthy human would well be 1:1 ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6. On the contrary, the average American diet is often constituted of the ratio in the range of 20:1 to even as high as 50:1 -- which could well translate into a health disaster in the years to come.

The omega-6 fats are primarily sourced from soy, corn, safflower and sunflower oils. On the contrary, Omega-3 are sourced from walnut and fish oils. The benefits of fish oils then could scarcely be better underlined considering that of all the sources of Omega-3 fats -- the preferred source being fatty fish -- especially fish rich in EPA and DHA -- both of which are fatty acids crucial for human health.

Fish Oil Health Benefits...

The therapeutically beneficial effects of Omega 3 Fish oil could well be innumerable to say the least. The following conditions may benefit:

• Cardiac Diseases - Angina, Cardiac Arrhythmias, Congestive


• Cardiac failure
  


• Cognitive Decline
  


• Malignancies
  


• Autoimmue conditions
  


• Skin problems
  

The benefits of fish oil are myriad, and some evidence has shown potential promise for also...

• Raynaud's disease
  


• Diabetes
  


• Arthritis
  


• Ulcerative Colitis
  


• Maniac Depressive Psychosis
  


• Schizophrenia
  

Omega 3 fish oil Dosage...

To get the benefits of fish oil...

Fish oil capsules containing 120 mg DHA and 180 mg EPA and the omega 3 fish oil is best consumed in the dose of: one capsule for every ten pounds of body weight preferably ingested in two divided doses. The doses being ideally taken on an empty stomach to offset the undesirable gastrointestinal effects of the likes of belching.

Conventional Medical Treatment for Colitis

Description

Colitis, or ulcerative colitis as it is also known, is one of the two chronic disorders known as inflammatory bowel syndrome (the other is Crohn's disease). The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is still unknown, but the condition most commonly affects people of Jewish descent between the ages of 15 and 35 and those who have a family history of the disease.

Ulcerative colitis occurs when tiny ulcers and small abscesses develop on the interior walls of the colon, causing moderate to severe inflammation of the intestinal lining. This inflammation causes diarrhea and abdominal pain. Sometimes the ulcers bleed, streaking the diarrhea with blood. Ulcerative colitis usually affects only a small segment of the intestine, though the entire colon can be effected.

Most individuals with colitis have remission periods-during which they do not experience symptoms-that alternate with flare-ups. In some people these painful flare-ups are brought on by stress; in others the cause of flare-ups is less predictable. In the majority of cases, the condition is more a discomfort than a serious health risk. But approximately 15 percent of sufferers whose entire colons are affected are at increased risk of developing colon cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal pain

Diarrhea that contains either blood or pus

Painful, urgent bowel movements

Fever

Fatigue and muscle weakness

Weight loss

Joint pain, skin problems, and eye problems

Conventional Medical Treatment

After taking a detailed history of your symptoms, a physician may perform a barium X-ray, colonoscopy, or sigmoidoscopy to arrive at a diagnosis. Treatment for ulcerative colitis is generally limited to symptomatic periods and typically includes an anti-inflammatory medication, such as sulfasalazine or corticosteroids. An estimated 20 to 25 percent of colitis patients do not respond to medication and need colostomy surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon. If you have had colitis for eight years or more, your physician may suggest an annual colonoscopy to check for cancerous growths.

Also Recommended

flaxseed oil (as directed on label)-protects the lining of the colon

garlic (as directed on label)-has a healing effect on the colon

Multimineral complex with calcium, chromium, magnesium, and zinc (as directed on label)-minerals are not easily absorbed in colitis victims; calcium is needed for the prevention of cancer, which can occur as a result of constant irritation

vitamin C with bioflavonoids (3000 to 5000 mg in divided doses)-boosts immune function and heals mucous membranes; use in buffered form

(For an acute condition, take supplements until your symptoms subside. If symptoms persist, seek the advice of your health care provider. For a chronic condition, consult your health care provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

The Hawthorn Berry in History and Today

Hawthorn berry extract is an old herbal remedy for heart conditions. Today, Hawthorne berries are used in some natural products designed to promote heart health.

Legends, historical evidence and scientific evaluation surround hawthorn berry extract. One Christian legend holds that the "Crown of Thorns" was made from the hawthorn berry tree or bush, which originally grew in Europe, Asia, Northern Africa and much of the Mediterranean region. Today, the shrub grows in many other areas of the world and the hawthorn berries are believed by some to have miraculous healing properties.

Archeologists have found evidence that appears to indicate that ancient Chinese people used hawthorn berries to make a fermented beverage. Remnants of the hawthorn berry have been found in pottery jars dating to pre-Christian times, around 7000 B.C. It is believed that these beverages were medically or religiously significant, even then.

The New York Medical Journal first published a report concerning the use of hawthorn berries in the treatment of heart disease in October 1896. A Dr. Green of Ennis, Ireland had developed a reputation for "curing" heart disease, but refused to share his secret with colleagues. After his death, his daughter revealed the name of the remedy used by her father. The name was Crataegus Oxycantha, the older botanical name for the Common Hawthorn. The official designation is now Crataegus monogyna, but the older name is often used. According to his notes, the doctor used an extract or a concentrated form of hawthorn berry.

Clinical trials and research continued on the medicinal value of hawthorn berries throughout the early 1900's and is still going on today. Scientific evaluation of the benefits of the hawthorn berry to human health has only been partially completed. It is believed that antioxidants, flavonoids or other compounds such as epicatechin, quercetin and rutin, are responsible for the beneficial effects of hawthorn berries. It is sometimes added to health supplements designed to promote heart health, reduce blood pressure and correct unhealthy cholesterol levels.

The most recent studies of the medicinal value of hawthorn berries are related to its affect on the liver, the digestive system, the cardiovascular system and as an anti-inflammatory. Numerous studies have been completed. These studies use a concentrated extract of the hawthorn berry.

The hawthorn berry extract used by scientists has natural anti-inflammatory action. Chronic inflammation has been associated with numerous life threatening conditions including cancer and heart disease, but use of the known anti-inflammatory drugs does not reduce the risk of developing these conditions. In fact, NSAIDs increase blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease and can be damaging to other organs of the body, as well.

On the other hand, it is believed that natural anti-inflammatories, such as those found in hawthorn berries and other herbs, fruits and vegetables, can reduce cancer risks and the risk of heart disease. These natural compounds can also lower blood pressure and reduce blood cholesterol levels, two major risk factors for heart disease.

Hawthorn berry extract has been shown to reduce ulcerative colitis, probably due, once again, to its anti-inflammatory activity. Ulcerative colitis is one of the inflammatory bowel diseases. While not life threatening, it is difficult to live with and the best known treatment for many years was surgical removal of the affected parts of the bowel and colon. Some herbalists recommend hawthorn berries for people suffering from ulcerative colitis and other digestive problems.

Hawthorn berry extract has been shown to protect the liver from damage usually associated with cardiac events in laboratory animals. After a heart attack, liver function is impaired. The exact reasons for the beneficial affects of hawthorn berries extract on the liver are unknown.

In the vascular system, hawthorn berry extract has been shown to reduce calcification. It is calcification of arterial plaques that leads to atherosclerosis, which is commonly referred to as a hardening or narrowing of the arteries leading to the heart. Calcification of arterial plaques can also cause blood clots, leading to strokes and heart attacks.

Even though some health care professionals have recognized the medicinal value of hawthorn berries for over 100 years, research related to them is still considered preliminary. Most scientific research is funded by pharmaceutical companies and pharmaceutical companies cannot patent naturally occurring substances. So, hawthorn berries and other natural remedies are of little interest to them.

How Do You Know If You Have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

There are many forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), with the main ones including Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Whilst they are all different, the main symptoms remain almost the same. They all involve the inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and they are basically caused by an abnormal response in the body's immune system.

The immune system is there to protect our bodies against foreign objects and disease. Unfortunately, when a person suffers from this bowel disorder, their immune system can mistake anything; including food and other helpful materials found in the digestive system, as a threat. It tries to protect the body by attacking the cells within the immune system and white blood cells go to the lining of the intestines and cause the inflammation. That is when the symptoms of the condition can be felt. The condition can occur at any age, but it most commonly affects people aged 15-30.

So, how do you know if you have Inflammatory Bowel Disease? Look for the symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of IBD?

There are a number of common symptoms that a person with IBD will suffer with. These include abdominal pain, weight loss, diarrhea, bright red blood in the stools and vomiting. It is not uncommon for loss of appetite to occur and for you to feel increasingly drowsy.

Every person will experience differing levels of the symptoms. Some people may only experience slight discomfort every now and again, whilst others could develop frequent intestinal ulcers and inflamed joints or even eye problems.

If you suffer from Ulcerative Colitis, it only affects the large intestine. Crohn's Disease can affect any part of the intestines, but typically, it affects the lower small intestine.

Diagnosis of the Condition

In order to detect IBD, doctors will usually carry out a Colonoscopy. This includes a small camera being inserted into the anus so that the doctor can get a better idea of what is going on inside your intestines. A biopsy can be done during this procedure and foreign lesions can be removed if necessary.

However before that is given, the doctor will give you an initial consultation. You will have to provide your medical history details and discuss any medications that you may be taking. If this illness is suspected, blood tests may be given to see whether there is any inflammation within the body. You will also be required to give a stool sample.

Whilst a Colonoscopy is the most common test used to diagnose the condition, an upper endoscopy may also be given. This checks the stomach and the upper small intestine for any ulcers or bleeding. You may also be given a Barium Study that involves you drinking a thick white solution known as Barium. This solution shows up white on an X-Ray and the doctor will see exactly what is going on within the intestines.

Overall IBD is more serious than IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). The symptoms can be particularly painful and uncomfortable. If you do notice that you are suffering from any of the symptoms mentioned above then you should consult your doctor straight away.

Will the Specific Carbohydrate Diet Cure Your Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

The Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) has helped thousands of people recover from bowel problems, including Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and Celiac Disease. But will it cure your Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

Cell science researcher, Elaine Gottschall MSc, popularized the SCD in her book, Breaking the Vicious Cycle. Gottschall learned about the Specific Carbohydrate Diet in a successful attempt to cure colitis in her 8-year-old daughter. Then she did the science to figure out why it worked.

The SCD is a way of eating that is gluten-free, grain-free, sugar-free, and almost completely dairy-free-only lactose-free dairy products are allowed. It is designed to heal and prevent bowel problems when there has been damage to the intestinal wall.

Does this apply to you if you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Probably not. Lots of people with IBS don't need to eat gluten-free and do well on a diet that includes white rice, oatmeal, and crackers and bread made from white flour. On the gluten-free, wheat-free Specific Carbohydrate Diet, these foods are big no-no's.

Secondly, there's no bowel damage in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. There is inflammation and damage in conditions like Celiac, Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis but not with IBS, so there's no need to heal the bowel.

So, what's the story? Why do some people with IBS thrive on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet and not others?

One answer comes from James Braly MD and Ron Hoggan MA, authors of Dangerous Grains. According to them, as many as one out of three people is grain-sensitive and will react to gluten, wheat and all grain products, even when they don't show reactions on a conventional allergy test. Fortunately, that means the majority of us-two out of three-are okay with grains.

Among people with IBS, you could be in either group, the one-out-of-three or the two-out-of-three, which is why some IBS folks are fine with grains and flour products and some aren't.

But how can you tell?

Braly and Hoggan recommend a blood test they describe in detail in their book, and believe this is more accurate than allergy scratch tests or challenge tests. There are also services in most cities that test for reactions to grains by computer or with applied kinesiology.

Probably the least expensive way to get a sense of whether or not you react to grains is to look at your blood relatives and their health patterns. Do your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, or siblings have Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac, chronic diarrhea or constipation, food allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, autoimmune disease, osteoporosis, brain disorders, intestinal disease, chronic pain, digestive disorders, infertility & problematic pregnancies, diabetes mellitus, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, kidney disease, or lupus?

According to Braly and Hoggan, when your family members have any or several of these conditions, they can be a sign of the inability to digest grains even if there are no obvious bowel problems. (Many more diseases and chronic conditions are listed in their book which details over 100 health problems that are linked to grains.)

So will the Specific Carbohydrate Diet cure your IBS? It depends on what is stressing your digestion in the first place. If it's largely a grain- or mould-related stress, then the SCD could be your best friend. But if your IBS is more typically caused by stored trauma and you have no markers of grain-sensitivity, then you need a treatment that goes beyond food. For more information, see the article on this site called: Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Breakthrough in Brain Research Helps You Heal IBS.

穢 Results in Healing Inc.

Clinical Examination in Respiratory Disorders

Cough with or without expectoration, chest pain, dyspnea and hemoptysis are the most frequent respiratory symptoms. Cough with expectoration is a prominent symptom in inflammatory lesions such as bronchitis and pneumonia or in irritative and allergic lesions of the respiratory tract. Pharyngitis, laryngitis, tracheitis and early stages of bronchitis give rise to cough without expectoration. In some infections like Bordetella pertussis and Klebsiella, paroxysms of cough are followed by a long inspiratory whoop caused by laryngeal spasm. Cough elicited by change of posture (Postural Cough) is characteristic of bronchiectasis, lung abscess, and bronchopleural fistula, "Bovine Cough" or "gander Cough" is the term used to denote cough devoid of its explosive (tussive) phase. This occurs in bilateral adductor paralysis of the vocal cords. In asthma cough and dyspnea tend to recur regularly at night. In left sided heart failure with pulmonary edema, cough occurs in the recumbent posture. Development of a sudden and uncontrollable paroxysm of cough in an otherwise healthy person should suggest the possibility of an aspirated foreign body.

Cough is generally a protective reflex designed to keep the airway patent and clear the exudates. Sometimes irritant cough becomes troublesome, interfering with sleep and causing severe annoyance to the patient. Other unto-wards effects of cough include syncope (cough syncope), penumothorax, mediastinal and surgical emphysema and rib fractures (cough fracture). In children paroxysmal cough may lead to sub-conjuctival hemorrhage.

Sputum
The material expectorated from the respiratory tract is called sputum. In healthy individuals the secretion of the respiratory passages is less than 100ml in 24 hours. And this is just adequate to provide a protective lining, and there is no expectoration. Expectoration in excess of 10-25 ml of sputum in 24 hours, should raise the possibility of disease. Copious amounts in excess of 300 ml are seen in bronchiectasis and lung abscess. Character of the sputum often suggests the underlying pathology. Sputum is serosanguinous in pulmonary edema, mucoid and sticky in asthma and chronic bronchitis, thick and purulent in bronchiectasis and lung abscess, creamy yellow in pulmonary tuberculosis, blood stained in carcinoma, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, mitrial stenosis and pulmonary infarction, rusty in pneumonia and black in coal worker's pneumoconiosis. Foul smelling sputum is suggestive of bronchiectasis, lung abscess or gangrene of the lung.

Presence of blood in the sputum is termed "hemoptysis". In true hemoptysis blood is derived from the airways or the lungs. The quantity of blood may be small as in mitral stenosis or massive as in cavitary pulmonary tuberculosis or neoplasm. Sometimes blood is derived from the upper respiratory passages or mouth and this is termed "spurious hemoptysis". Hemoptysis is a manifestation of serious underlysing disease warranting full investigation. Though rare, massive hemoptysis results in considerable loss of blood demanding emergency management in non-respiratory hypertension occurring in mitral stenosis, acute pulmonary edema, pulmonary infarction, trauma and hemorrhagic diseases. Rarely massive and fatal hemoptysis may develop when an aortic aneurysm erodes into the trachea or a bronchus. Spurious hemoptysis is commonly resorted to by hysterical individuals to attract medical attention.

management of hemoptysis:
The patient should be hospitalized as an emergency and a rapid clinical examination is done to determine the cause. It is important to avoid percussion, which may worsen the hemoptysis. The patient is put to bed and sedated with diazepam 10mg administered intramuscularly. Respiratory depressants such as morphine should be avoided since they impair expectoration. Blood loss and its effects are assessed by monitoring the volume of blood expectorated and the pulse, respiration and blood pressure. If the blood loss exceeds 200-300ml in 24 hours and it is persistent, blood transfusion is indicated.

In the majority of cases the underlying cause can be made out by clinical examination and chest radiography. Specific treatment is instituted early (e.g antituberculosis drugs in abscess, etc) in conditions where such treatment is available, majority of cases subside with rest, sedation, and blood transfusion. In conditions like pulmonary neoplasms, bleeding tends to persist, In such cases emergency bronchoscopy is done to locate the lesion and bleeding is located and the opposite lung is normal, induction of collapse by artificial pneumothorax serves to arrest bleeding promptly.

Digital clubbing (Hippocratic fingers)
This is caused by increase in the volume of soft tissue in and around the distal phalanges of the fingers and toes, especially the nail beds. This leads to increased curvature of the nails. Severity of clubbing varies and this has been graded for clinical purposes.
Grade 1: Fluctuation of the nail can be elicited on the nail bed.
Grade 2: The normal angle between the nail and nail bed is lost.
Grade 3: The terminal portion of the phalanx and nail appears as a drumstick or a parrot beak.
Grade 4: In addition to digital clubbing, other regions show pulmonary osteo-arthropathy.

Causes
• Respiratory diseases- suppurative lesions like bronchiectasis, lung abscess, emphysema, and infected cysts; advanced tuberculosis with bronchiectatic changes, bronchoganic carcinoma, pneumoconiosis, fobrosing alveolitis, and pleural fibroma.
• Cardiovascular disorders- Cyanotic congenital heart diseases and infective endocarditis.
• Alimentary disorders- Malabsorption states, ulcerative colitis, cirrhosis of the liver, hepatomas and amoebic live abscess.
• Miscellaneous groups- Clubbing may develop in thyroxicosis. At times it may occur nonpathologically in several members of a family (familial clubbing). Repeated trauma to the finger tips as occurring in carpenters and blacksmiths leads to occupational clubbing.

How Does Stress Aggravate Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is also a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It affects the intestines, especially the large intestine or colon. There are ulcers or open sores in the colon. The main symptom is a nagging diarrhea with blood. Ulcerative colitis is similar to Crohn's disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome, but it is not that serious a condition. It is an intermittent disease. It has phases of exacerbated symptoms and phases that are free of symptoms. The symptoms might disappear on their own, but usually this disease needs treatment. The symptoms are abdominal pain, mild fever, cramping, diarrhea, loss of appetite and anemia.

There are drugs to combat this disease. Coping with stress is not a substitute to medication, but it can ease the emotional anxiety that accompanies this disease. People suffering from ulcerative colitis are prone to stress. Their overactive immune system needs to be pacified. When an individual is under stress, the body starts secreting hormones like adrenalin, and molecules called cytokines. They are stimulants. This triggers inflammation as the immune system is stimulated. This aggravates ulcerative colitis. This phenomenon is called flare-up. Living with this disease is stressful. The patient has to be aware of the bathrooms when he visits someone's house. While others are enjoying the visit, he is full of anxiety owing to his precarious situation. Stress is bound to occur in such situations making the scenario worse.

Stress does aggravate ulcerative colitis. You will be tensed and unhappy if you are a victim of this disease. Try to cure yourself from it. It is a painful illness and an embarrassing one. Try to remain stress free and be on medication to cure yourself completely.

Crohn's disease is another type of inflammatory bowel disease which is a disease of the intestine that can affect any portion of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus. It gives rise to abdominal pain, weight loss, diarrhea and vomiting.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a disease of the large intestine and it has an effect on the colon and the rectum. Irritable bowel syndrome is a bowel disorder which is identified by abdominal pain bloating, discomfort, and changes in bowel habits without a proper cause. Sometimes this discomfort is relieved by bowel movements. There is alternating diarrhea and constipation. It may be the outcome of a stressful life, onset of maturity or the effect of an infection.

Your Digestive System - a Ticking Time Bomb

Before digestion actually occurs, the smell of food or the thoughts about food when you are hungry is the signal to salivate. This moistens the mouth and makes it possible to swallow food.

Digestion occurs in four stages beginning with the mouth, stomach, small intestine and large intestine.

Mouth

There are two actions that take place when you put food in your mouth. One is to start breaking down food by chewing. While you are chewing saliva further breaks down food because of the enzyme amylase. Not chewing your food enough causes strain on the stomach to break down larger chunks.

Stomach

The stomach produces about 3 quarts of acid per day. This in combination with enzymes further breaks down the food. It is in the stomach that proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals are processed for nutrient absorption. The hydrochloric acid also kills off viruses and bacteria.

Small Intestine

The pancreas, which releases enzymes, and the gallbladder, which releases bile salts, assist the small intestine in further breakdown. It is in the small intestine that most of the nutrient absorption takes place. Unfortunately, today's poor diets from over processed foods, pollutants in our agriculture and misinformation, has created a nation susceptible to poor health and disease. Long term poor diet results in the body literally starving for nutrients while we gain unwanted weight, fatigue and immune system difficulties.

Large Intestine

The large intestine takes the remaining mass and absorbs water, electrolytes and some left over nutrients. The indigestible mass remains until it can be excreted.

What Can Go Wrong

Most everyone has experienced diarrhea or constipation in their lives and someone who is in relatively good condition will find this to be temporary. Diarrhea is when the muscles in the intestines move the mass along too quickly and there is not enough time for the water to be absorbed in the system. This is why doctors get concerned about dehydration. The opposite is true for constipation where the waste moves along very slowly so the water gets absorbed and the waste hardens making it difficult to excrete.

There are several conditions that cause havoc in the intestines that can cause poor health.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS, is where the muscles in the colon are not working properly. This can cause constipation or diarrhea, bloating and cramping, a very uncomfortable condition.

Colitis is a chronic inflammation of the intestines where the top layer of lining of the intestinal wall can be damaged and ulcers occur. This causes diarrhea, abdominal pain and possible bleeding. Ulcerative Colitis can be difficult to diagnose because it is similar to IBS and Crohns disease.

Crohns disease mainly affects the small intestine but can affect any part of the digestive system including the mouth and stomach. This disease causes inflammation even deeper in the intestinal lining.

The stomach and esophagus are not immune to irritation. The esophagus can get inflamed from acid reflux or GERD. The acid from the stomach can move up to the esophagus and damage the lining. The stomach can experience ulcers which can be quite painful.

There are other digestive disorders that can make one's life miserable, but, there is hope for any of these conditions. Lifestyle changes and eating habits can do much to ease or reduce symptoms. The fuel you put in your body has everything to do with how efficiently your body runs. It is a well known fact that if you put bad gas in your car it will run poorly or not at all. The same holds true for a body. If you have spent years abusing your body by giving it bad fuel, it stands to reason that it will not function well. So what do you do?

Start by evaluating what you eat on a daily basis and keep notes. Get educated in health and nutrition. The grocery stores are full of canned and packaged processed foods. Processed foods are truly an enemy to good health. Some nutrition is taken out, preservatives put in to ensure shelf life, great for the shareholders who are happy with their profits but bad for proper health.

Next time you go to a grocery store try this little exercise. Avoid all the center aisles for food items. This means no canned or processed foods, only non food items such as toothpaste, paper towels etc. Do go to the meat dept. for all natural meats, (but do keep portions way down, you really don't need much more than 3 oz). Then go to the produce section for fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, preferably organic. This means actual cooking which may not be as convenient as processed foods, but by far much healthier. If you don't have time to cook daily, take a Sunday afternoon and prepare meals to place in the freezer.

Drink a lot of water! Just drink up all day long. You would be amazed at what drinking water can do for your health. (Note, the more dehydrated you are, the more pain you feel) Water is so important in flushing your system of toxins and waste. Your toilet will not flush without water and this is true for your body as well. Most Americans are semi dehydrated and don't know it. You can get some of your liquids from fruits and vegetables, teas etc., but not drinking water through out the day will make it tough on your entire body. Some times when you feel a bit hungry you may actually be thirsty. Drink a glass of water first. If your craving for food goes away then you know it was thirst.

Your body relies on the digestive system for your very survival. A malfunctioning system impairs water and nutrient absorption. It can go like this for a long time but at your own peril. *** Long term neglect can result in conditions such as GERD, IBS which includes chronic constipation, diarrhea, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitisor Celiac disease or even cancer.*** While you may enjoy the cookies, pies, cakes and fatty foods that you know are not good for you, you will pay later! No matter the state your body is currently in with regards to the digestive system, you can do something about it. So DO something about it! You'll live longer, lose weight and feel so much better.

Protein and Osteoporosis - Myths and Facts

Osteoporosis is a general decrease in peak bone mass which may be a part of normal aging in most cases, however, the actual bone loss can lead to fragile and easily broken bones especially in the wrists and hips. It affects women more often than men with about 翹 of American women suffering from some level of osteoporosis to some degree. (It only affects 1/8 of men).

There are several factors that increase risk and certain demographic groups are more likely to have severe osteoporosis than others. These include Asian, American and Caucasian women. Risk factors include: smoking, heavy use of alcohol, steroid medication use, anticonvulsants, heparin (an anti coagulant medication) inflammatory bowel disease (both Chrohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis) and a sedentary life style. Small framed women are most susceptible and those who have family history, particularly of vertebrae fractures are also high risk groups.

Symptoms of osteoporosis include backache, a possible loss of height, abdominal distension and Dowager's Hump. Women who are at increased risk or those who show any of the symptoms of osteoporosis should have a bone scan which can determine how thin or thick the bone mass is. The National Osteoporosis Foundation suggests bone scans for:

- All women at age 65 or older

- Post-menopausal women under age 65 with one or more of the major osteoporosis risk factors

- Post-menopausal women who have broken a bone

- Those on long term estrogen replacement therapy

- Women who have taken glucorticoids for two months or longer

- Those with medical conditions that increases their risk

- Women who have lost one inch or more in height

- Women with a body mass index that is below 18.

Preventing osteoporosis is much easier than trying to deal with it once it is started. There are medications that can restore some bone density, but it does not work for everyone and can take a long time to start. There are several steps that can be taken to make sure that the bone density stays strong- including a healthy diet and weight bearing exercise. In addition, making sure that there is enough calcium in the diet is very important as well.

It is a persistent myth that protein can cause or exacerbate osteoporosis in the general public, however, that has been repeatedly shown to be false in numerous studies. The theory is that increased protein raises the acidity of the blood causing the body to use mineral from the bones to buffer the blood and bring this acid level back down to its normal range.

Early studies suggested that protein caused a faster rate of exertion of calcium in the urine, however newer studies are showing that 1) this is not actually true and 2) the results that were retrieved with the early studies were possibly skewed. Newer studies are showing that in some cases, the reverse might actually be true, however there are several factors that have to be considered-

- Earlier tests may not have taken into account mitigating factors including overall general health, dietary intake, activity level, gender and family history

- Athletes, who already have denser bones than others are typically the ones that are eating the higher protein amounts that were used in the earlier testing.

Most of the people who are at higher risk of osteoporosis are in their sixties or seventies. Most of this age group is not eating high protein diets to begin with, however they should be increasing their overall protein intake as well as their calcium intake, to protect against osteoporosis and other conditions and diseases that they may be facing.

Older adults typically do not have good appetites nor do they eat a healthy and well balanced diet. There are several reasons that older people, especially women, stop eating but it increases their risk for a number of vitamin and mineral deficiencies which may also increase their risk for osteoporosis.

Phosphorous is also a problem with those at high risk for osteoporosis. Sources for phosphorous includes: soda, halibut, non-fat yogurt, skim milk, salmon, chicken breast, oatmeal, extra lean ground beef, broccoli and lima beans. Nearly all (85%) of the phosphorous in the body is located in the bones and is vital for many of the chemical reactions in the body. However, the balance of calcium to phosphorous is so delicate that too much phosphorous will leach calcium from the bones and into the blood stream where it will eventually be filtered by the kidneys and then excreted by the bladder in the urine. It may be this imbalance that suggests that protein is the culprit (most of the foods that are high in phosphorous are also protein foods).

Eating a Better Diet for Health and Well Being

Experts suggest that seniors should increase their protein intake regardless of their activity level, however they should also increase their activity level. Weight bearing exercise can help maintain their bone density and prevent them from getting osteoporosis or can slow the progression of the disease. To have the energy that is needed to accomplish these exercises as well as being able to build lean muscle mass, the diet has to include the right amounts of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Because of the lack of appetite, using a protein supplement between meals or as a meal replacement might be beneficial to the older adult.

Protein, because it is so important to the body, must be consumed in the right amounts, but the right types of protein may also be a beneficial consideration as well. After all, not all proteins are created equally. Soy protein, for instance has been shown to decrease bone loss in postmenopausal women as well as another of additional health benefits. Miso, which is a fermented soy bean pasted favored by the Japanese, has been shown to increase bone density in post menopausal women as well as decreasing breast cancer risk.

Protein Supplements to Try

Soy protein and soy products such as miso are good sources of phytoestrogens, however, there are other protein sources that might be beneficial to the newly active, older adult, making sure that they are getting enough protein in their diet and possibly enough calories as well.

Soy protein is not only found in food sources, but in powdered supplement form, as both an isolate and a concentrate. There are some people who are allergic to soy however, so be careful when starting it as a supplement and always check with your doctor before adding any kind of supplement to your diet.

DIY - A Tasty Anti-Inflammatory Drink You Can Make At Home - Jamu Kunyit

Over 50 million Americans have an autoimmune disorder - if you're one of them - read on for a recipe that could provide some much needed relief!

Having an autoimmune disorder, namely Ulcerative Colitis, I'm probably a bit more in tune with my body than most - my body speaks to me loud and clear. Over the past few years I've learned what food and drinks work for my mind and body, and this has saved me a lot of heart (and stomach) ache.

As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, mint and ginger have healing properties that miraculously saved my Mexican vacation. Today I'll be showing you how to make a drink whose main ingredient is turmeric. Yep - a turmeric drink. Don't stop reading just yet! Along with providing a variety of health benefits, especially for people suffering from gastrointestinal issues, this drink comes with an added bonus: you'll experience what the locals in Indonesia drink - like becoming a world traveler without leaving your kitchen!

I first read about the healing powers of Jamu, or traditional Indonesian medicine, from fellow healer Chloe Park, who mentioned she fell in love with a turmeric juice beverage, Jamu Kunyit, when she was living in Bali. If you're like me, you're thinking, cool, a drink the Bali locals enjoy - tell me more! More likely, though, you're thinking, um, Turmeric juice sounds gross. Or you might even be thinking, I have no idea what turmeric is. Whichever category you fall into, let's rewind a bit and talk turmeric!

Turmeric is a fragrant yellow spice popular in Indian curries and contains the powerful compound curcumin, whose antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects benefit a whole range of conditions, including IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease). It may also provide protection against colon cancer, boost cognitive performance, and early studies suggest it may even prevent and break down Alzheimer's brain plaques.

I was awakened to healing powers of Turmeric by a friend (Hi Nora!) who was able to stop talking a prescription medication (Asacol/Mesalamine) for her Colitis condition by taking Turmeric capsules (important note: I am not recommending you stop taking any medication, please first have a conversation with your trusted health professional!). When I heard Nora's story, I was intrigued, and did a little of my own research on the topic. More information on Turmeric came via a Harvard medical school graduate, and founder of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, Dr. Andrew Weil. In his Self Healing magazine, Dr. Weil says: "Cancer, in many cases is probably related to chronic, on-going inflammation. Turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory, especially for people with gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary (liver or gall bladder) malignancies" You can safely take 2-8 grams in a capsule form daily, which ideally contains piperine, a component of black pepper that boosts turmeric absorption.

Personally, I like to use Turmeric capsules when my body "asks for them". You may be thinking, what does he mean ask for them. Here, I'll explain. Through yoga and meditation, my intuition has greatly increased. I call intuition that gut feeling we all experience on the inside, knowing what we should do when we're in a dilemma, or when something is wrong, or right. As bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell explains in his bestselling book Blink: The Power Of Thinking Without Thinking - intuitive decision-making can result in a better outcome than relying on more lateral methods, such as lists of pros and cons. A recent study backed this up, with brain scans showing that a structure called the ventral striatum responds immediately to subconscious cues. Scientists call it 'instrumental learning' - your instinct recognizes a situation as familiar and suggests an instant response before you've had time to process rational thought. So "pain" as I feel it in a particular place in my body, at a particular level - goes away when I take turmeric. Visit your local health food store to see what turmeric suplements they carry.

Let's get back to Jamu Kunyit, shall we? As Chloe explains, Jamu Kunyit is a drink that is highly regarded in Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine. While you might not think that a flavor used in curry sounds very tasty as a cold beverage, a little lemon, honey, and tamarind help create an exotic, flavorful drink with awesome healing benefits. As for me, I've found myself with higher energy, cleaner - and easier - bowel movements, less to no pain, less inflammation - and seemingly no joint pain that use to creep up sometimes. Magical eh?

If you're still unsure about whether to try this drink, consider that turmeric is also a natural liver detoxifier and a kidney cleanser. It speeds metabolism and aids in weight management. Plus, it alleviates conditions of depression, psoriasis, damaged skin, arthritis, and more.

Alright, you've got to be interested by now, right?!

Without further ado, here's my version of the recipe:Ingredients:

5-7 inches Turmeric

5-7 pieces of Tamarind

2 lemons (or lime if you prefer)

Raw honey

Water

Blender

Mason jar(s) or another glass jar with a lid

Peel Turmeric. Your fingers may turn yellow. No worries! Dish soap get's it right out. If your cutting board or counter top gets stained, slather on the all-natural dish soap and rub it in. Let it soak in for 5 min, or longer, and then scrub with water and sponge. The turmeric stain will vanish. Wanting a more potent drink, I used all the Turmeric in the package, and at less than $1.50, it was a bargain. In all I probably used around 12 inches.

Crack and open the Tamarind. Make sure you remove the inner roots as well. We're only going to use the inner fruit

Fill a pot with water, put peeled Turmeric inside and let boil for at least 20 minutes, or until the water becomes a rich and vibrant marigold color. Note, the amount of water you use will be the amount of liquid you have to drink later on.

While the Turmeric is boiling, get a pan and pour ~1inch of water into a pan with the peeled Tamarind. Stir the fruit with a wooden utensil. Mix it in with the water so it can melt and dissolve into a jam-like texture. More water shouldn't be needed, but if it's looking a bit dry, pour additional water as needed.

By this time you should be able to see the little seeds coming out. When the texture of the tamarind looks soft, turn the heat off and let it cool down

Back to the Turmeric water. The color should now look ready. Pour in a little bit of cold water to lower the temperature. Pour the Turmeric water into the blender with the Turmeric roots. We boiled it so the root could soften and have more flavor. Now it's ready to blend, for even more flavor, and richness! The color should now look like an extra, extra fiery marigold.

Go back to the Tamarind in the pan. Using a wooden utensil, or if, like me, you prefer your clean hands, separate the soft bits of the fruit, like a jam consistency from the seeds and seed peels. Note: If you don't want to get your hands dirty the original recipe called for a strainer and bowl for this step but it didn't work for me. If you figure that one out do let us know.

Pour the Tamarind that has been caught in the bowl into the blender with the Turmeric water. Buzz it around again.

Squeeze your lemons into the blender, pour your healthy anti-inflammatory elixir into the mason jar(s), add honey, close the lid and shake to mix.

Store in fridge up to 3-4 days and drink daily.

To Improve the bioavailability of the main ingredient, curcumin, experiment with mixing black pepper, virgin coconut oil, or raw egg yolk(hey - I'm just the messenger), in with the Jamu drink.

Enjoy your drink! The first time I made this drink it made me feel warm, alive, and energetic. I'd love to hear how you feel after drinking. Tell me in the comments section at the bottom.

Note: I found tamarind and turmeric root at my local Ranch 99 Asian grocery store. I've also heard Whole Foods carries them.

Oh, BTW, this drink was pretty fast to make but did result in what was probably one of my best kitchen mess disasters. (Note to Self: hold down the blender top while blending) I'll have to blog about that another time, with pictures. Also, I should note that I used my back-up blender as my friend was borrowing my Vitamix Blender. Now my back-up blender,Cuisinart, because it is made from plastic, is a yellowish hue - due to the turmeric. Ironically my friends tell me they like the color and thought I bought it this way.

Until next time, and in good health,

Joel

Foods that Cause Bloating

Bloating is a very common symptom that people often experience after eating a meal. The bloating is usually felt in the lower part of the abdomen and sometimes in the upper section. Bloating usually feels as if there is pressure being applied from the inside and people often report that they can look up to six months pregnant. Bloating after eating is often different to the bloating experienced with menopause, pregnancy and PMS. Bloating after eating feels gassy and is usually relieved after passing wind or burping. This kind of bloating can be caused by certain foods. However, if it happens frequently, it can also indicate a digestive problem such as leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, candida overgrowth, intestinal parasites, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and general food allergies and intolerances. Apart from bloating after eating, a common symptom of all of these conditions is chronic tiredness. This is because your digestive system is responsible for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from the food you eat. If there is a digestive problem, its easy to become nutrient deficient and this commonly causes chronic tiredness.

So, how do you know if you are bloating because of foods that you are eating, or because you have a digestive problem? A person with a healthy digestive system will experience far less bloating, even with foods that commonly cause bloating. However, the list of foods below commonly causes bloating in many people.

1. Raffinose - a sugar found in beans, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, asparagus, other vegetables and whole grains. Eaten raw, these foods cause more bloating than when they are cooked.

2. Lactose - a natural sugar found mainly in milk and milk products, such as cheese, cream, yoghurt and ice cream. Lactose levels are much higher in milk and non-fat milk than in cheese and yogurt. Lactose is commonly associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

3. Fructose - a sugar found in fruits and honey. It's also used as a sweetener in some soft drinks, fruit drinks and processed foods. Fructose is also considered to be an important contributing factor to irritable bowel syndrome for many people.

4. Sorbitol - a sugar found naturally in fruits, including apples, pears, peaches, and prunes, and is also used as an artificial sweetener in many dietetic foods and sugar-free candies and gums.

5. Starches - most starches, including potatoes, corn, rice, bread, noodles and any products made from flour produce gas as they are broken down in the large intestine.

6. Wheat - in particular, wheat appears to be a major source of bloating and gas. Most people find that if they eliminate wheat and flour products, their bloating nearly always improves.

7. Soluble fibre - this type of fibre dissolves easily in water and takes on a soft, gel-like texture in the intestines. It's found in oat bran, beans, peas and most fruits.

8. Insoluble fiber - this type of fibre doesn't dissolve in water and passes unchanged through the intestines and therefore produces less gas than soluble fibre. It is found in wheat bran and most fruit and vegetable skins.

9. Legumes commonly cause bloating and gas due to their complex structure of starch and protein. Soaking and cooking legumes well helps to reduce bloating.

Please note: The information in this article is not intended to take the place of a personal relationship with a qualified health practitioner nor is it intended as medical advice.

Turbo Jam Review: How to Achieve Weekly Weight Loss With Turbo Jam Workout

Turbo Jam is a fun cardio kickboxing workout DVD program designed to help women lose weight, get tight toned abs and thighs. Does the workout program live up to the hype and to the success stories you see in the TV infomercials? Can anyone really lose weight with this program?

I first used Turbo Jam back in May 2011. Before discovering the program, I was 20 pounds overweight and battling chronic fatigue due to an autoimmune disease ulcerative colitis and I hadn't worked out in over 2 years due to the fatigue from the disease. I was tired all the time, no longer had energy to work or play my favorite sport, basketball. After buying and using Turbo Jam, my life completely turned around. I lost 12 pounds and 8.5 inches in 38 days, going from 160 lbs to 148 lbs and dropping 2 inches off of my waist. I have now started playing basketball again and feel like I am getting my life back after my tough 6 year battle with ulcerative colitis. I now have the energy to do 40 mins of high intensity cardio workouts, 4 times a week! I am experiencing deep, peaceful sleep and now wake up with more energy than I've ever had since my colitis diagnosis. All I know is that if you want to lose weight, shrink your waist line and have more energy to do the things you love, I highly recommend turbo jam. Unfortunately, many people who purchase the program will not experience the quick weight loss results that I experienced and instead will struggle to lose weight each week.

Why?

There was one key to me being able to lose weight every week with the program. I completely relied on one tool to ensure that I lost weight every week with the program. What was that? A tracking sheet. I used a tracking system to track my results each week to see if I was on track to achieving my weight loss goal. My goal was to lose 10 pounds and because I used a tracking system, I ended up exceeding my goal and losing 12 lbs instead. The great thing about tracking your weight loss is that it is a system, which means that if you lose weight during one week of the program, you can easily track and know what you did to lose the weight and repeat it the next week. How cool is that? Many people do not track their weight loss every week and instead hope and pray that they will lose the weight every week. People who track their weight loss lose weight by design, not by chance, not by hoping and praying. They use a tracking system that gets them results, week after week after week.

So, if you are considering buying it, I highly recommend the program if you want to lose weight, if your problem area is your stomach, and if you want to have more energy. The key to weekly weight loss is using a tracking system.

To learn more about the tracking system I used to lose weight every week with Turbo Jam and the tracking system used by the women in my monthly 90 day turbo jam challenge groups to get weekly weightloss, check out this video: turbo jam review

Crohn's Disease Definition - What Does Crohn's Disease Mean For You?

Crohn's disease definition: It is a chronic inflammatory disease which mainly affects the small and large intestine. Crohn's can affect any part of the digestive system, right from the mouth through to the anus. It is named after Burrill Crohn, an American gastroenterologist who first described the disease in 1932.

Crohn's Disease falls into the broad category of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Another such illness called Ulcerative Colitis belongs to the same group of illnesses and is similar to Crohn's but only involves the large bowel, not the whole digestive system.

A person can be diagnosed with Crohn's at any age but is most common when you are a teenager and in your twenties. Crohn's can be a chronic reoccurring condition, but it can also cause very few symptoms in some cases and not really need any treatment at all.

Around 0.02-0.04% of the population has Crohn's Disease, with both equal numbers of men and women affected. White people are more affected with Crohn's than any other racial group. Crohn's or IBD can run in families and there is around a 20% chance that you will have a relative that also has Crohn's Disease.

Some of the symptoms of Crohn's Disease include abdominal pain which can often be in the lower right side of the abdomen, diarrhea, weight loss, rectal bleeding, tiredness, vomiting, as well as loss of appetite. You may not experience all of these symptoms but they are possible.

If you think that you may have Crohn's Disease or are showing several of the symptoms, then the best course of action you can take is to see your doctor for some tests to see if that is indeed the case. When you know what you are dealing with you can then make informed decisions about what to do next.

There are many great ways that you can help your Crohn's Disease using natural means and can help you to stay off drugs. Some of these include diet, exercise and keeping on top of stress.

Moldable Hollister Stomas Flange Secures It Without A Leak

Moldable Hollister stomas flange has made it a bit easier for people with stoma to manage their situations. Especially if the case is life-long, anything that will make caring and protecting the stoma easier and simpler is a great help.

About Stoma Surgery

Stoma surgery was created and first done in the US in the late 70's. Every year now, it is estimated that around 75,000 Americans undergo the operation and millions of people all over the world have been cured from illnesses because of this procedure. Stoma surgery is being used to treat several illnesses which mostly include problems on the excretory and digestive systems. The three main types are; ileostomy for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, colostomy for anus or colon cancer and urostomy to treat problems in the excretory system. Among these types, urostomy has the least number of cases.

At pre-surgery, patients will have to do some important preparations. One is to have a couple of sessions with a psychologist. This has become a necessity, according to medical experts. The idea of having a hole in one's body to release body wastes can be traumatic to any patient - it definitely is life-changing which needs to be fully accepted. Another is the physical preparation where patients need to undergo exercises and diet so the body will be able to sustain major transformations.

During the surgery process doctors eliminate some parts of the body insides as part of treating the decease and then create a hole, a stoma, in the abdominal wall where part of the intestine can be connected to a pouch to collect body wastes.

The Stoma Pouch

At post-stoma surgery the stoma pouch will be the patient's constant companion. This is where body wastes will be collected and patients, including family members sometimes, will spend a great amount of time caring and maintaining cleanliness of the area. These pouches would have a flange that should always be attached securely to the skin to prevent any leakage. In the past, ring seals of the pouches need to be cut according to the size of the stoma. Due to constant developments in caring for stoma patients, flanges have been made to attach on the stoma securely without any measuring and cutting. They are made of elastic materials that moulds according to the shape and size of the stoma so there is more protection from leakage.

A stoma pouch needs to be changed regularly, especially if there is leakage. Even with a moldable Hollister stomas flange leakage is still possible when the backing is starting to wear off. Pouches should not be used for more than 7 days, shorter if the stoma is new, even without leakage. Gladly, many stoma patients are able to adjust and still enjoy life.

Tips to Maximize the Benefits of Turmeric Capsules

Individuals with wellness issues, the likes of swelling and intestinal system issues have for lengthy gained from the medical features of the turmeric root extract extract plant. As much as there are many benefits to be resulting from turmeric root extract extract medications, the most valued is the anti oxidative requirements. The most basic of operate that these drugs achieve are best used through prescription medications. The extended features of turmeric root extract extract pill have been put to research and seen to be targeted at better wellness of joint parts, intestinal system and boats. The turmeric root extract extract medications also confirm to be related treatment to cancer.

In the intestinal system, the turmeric root extract extract medications are able to reverse issues like heartburn and dyspepsia as they influence production of bile. This operate of turmeric root extract extract is responsible for reduction of stomach ache and reducing of gas issues in the abdomen. When shopping for supplements for intestinal issues, ingredients of turmeric root extract extract medications such as Curcumin can be obtained over the reverse.

For cases with regards to inflamed intestinal tract irregularity, there are many suggestions to reverse the issues but most experts have a tendency to offering natural guidance about the importance of turmeric root extract extract pill. Illnesses like ulcerative colitis are the main objectives of turmeric root extract extract pill material, but the may result in increased sores in the abdomen so it is important to get proper guidance and prescription medications.

Apart from gas and heartburn, turmeric root extract extract pill can go a lengthy way to stop or reduce swelling. This is the reason any wellness professionals recommend people who swelling in the serious areas to try turmeric root extract extract medications. If you are not sure about it then it is vital that you seek advice from so that you are sure of the issues such as arthritis.

People who have health problems also can benefit from the functions of turmeric capsules in promotion of heart health. The turmeric capsule contains capsules that helps to reduce cholesterol levels and thus also reduces the chances of formation of plaques in blood vessels. The turmeric also serves a great purpose in prevention of clumping of platelets and avoids blood clotting risks.

As much as it is to a small extent, turmeric capsules also are held responsible for helping reduce and prevent some forms of cancer. There are compounds that can be found in a turmeric capsule which use their anti-oxidative properties to oxidative damage of cells; it is also presumed that it destroys prostrate, skin and even colon cancer.

The medicinal benefits of turmeric capsules foster the continued and increased use of the drug but the challenge comes from its difficult incorporation into the body. The continued use of the drug is therefore advised especially in supplement form to ensure that health is restored. The capsule also requires having coating to help it pass the contents through the digestive acids of the stomach and get to the target area which is in the colon (upper intestine). Turmeric capsule lacking this coating is medicinally poor in function as it looses its effect in the stomach.

Signs of a Stomach Ulcer

Signs of a stomach ulcer can include nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain just beneath the ribcage, indigestion, vomiting, symptoms of anemia, weight loss, and blood present in vomit or bowel movements.

If you experience these symptoms for any length of time, it is important to seek medical attention. These are not symptoms to be ignored.

Stomach ulcers occur when there is a break in the tissue lining of the stomach. These ulcers normally occur in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine that leads out of the stomach, called the duodenum.

Commonly stomach ulcers are related to extreme stress, smoking and diet. Any of which are factors over which we have control, making it possible to heal a ulcer; if you work to eliminate some of the contributing factors that can lead to the development.

If you begin noticing the signs of a stomach ulcer, these signs should not be ignored. In fact, an appointment with your doctor should be your course of action if these symptoms persist.

In order for your doctor to make a specific diagnosis, several tests may be ordered to help determine the exact cause of your stomach pain.

One of the first tests your physician may order is the barium swallow or upper GI series of X-rays. This test allows your doctor to identify and locate any ulcers and determine its type and severity.

The barium swallow test requires you to drink a "barium milkshake." This thick "shake" contains a liquid that will light up on an x-ray. The barium will light up on the x-ray making it easier for your physician to see exactly what is going on and causing your pain.

You are normally asked to eat only bland, easily digestible foods for two or three days before the test. After drinking the chalky liquid, you will be asked to lie down on a tilting examining table, which as it tilts, evenly distributes the barium around your upper digestive tract and allows the x-ray to capture images at different angles.

Treatment options for stomach ulcers can consist of over the counter medications, prescription medications, modifying your diet, perhaps a lifestyle change that includes the addition of exercise and reduction of stress, and as a last result, surgery.

In summary, any signs of stomach ulcers should not be ignored as the delay in diagnosis and treatment could lead to further complications. It is important to understand, however, that in many cases you have control over the factors that contribute to stomach ulcers.

Discover the Hidden Link Between Omega 3 Fish Oil and Digestion

When it comes to omega 3 fish oil and digestion, just how are these two related? There are a lot of benefits associated with omega 3 fish oil and digestion is one of the areas that benefit the most from this essential fatty acid.

One of the major points in the link between omega 3 fats and digestion is it helps improve intestinal health. In fact, if you experience food indigestion, there is a very high chance that you are deficient in omega 3.

Here are some things you should know about the relationship between omega 3 fish oil and digestion.

1. FUNCTION OF CELL MEMBRANE

Omega3 plays an important role in keeping cell membranes healthy. Cell membranes are semi-permeable, allowing nutrients to flow from the intestines into the bloodstream. If cell membranes are damaged due to insufficient omega 3 fatty acids, this results in malfunction in allowing nutrients in and keeping harmful substances out. This can impair digestion of food greatly.

2. PROBIOTIC BALANCE

Probiotics are known as good bacteria that are naturally found in our digestive system. They aid in the digestion of certain types of foods and also help provide the body with some nutrients. Omega3 fatty acids ensure that there is probiotic balance within the digestive system, to avoid problems with too little or too much of these probiotics.

3. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY

Those with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are sure to benefit from omega 3 fish oil as well. Omega3 has anti-inflammatory properties that helps fight malabsorption of nutrients caused by a damaged digestive system.

IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

Making sure that you get enough amounts of omega 3 fatty acids daily will certainly help improve digestion. However, another concern of many is the supposed indigestion, burping, and bloating that they experience when they take omega 3 pills.

You should know that this is not caused by all kinds of fish oil, but only by oil that has been oxidized. This means that the fish oil you are using is not fresh and has gone rancid.

AVOIDING THE DANGERS

The good news is, you can avoid these problems by using fish oil that has low oxidation levels. You can check the total oxidation or TOTOX on the certificate of analysis of the fish oil supplement. You can also put it to the smell test by breaking open a capsule.

A faint ocean aroma should be detected and not something fishy and foul. Those with artificial scents like citrus aromas should be avoided as this may be a way to mask the bad smell of the rancid oil.

Omega 3 Fish Oil and Digestion - Find Out the Missing Link

Are you amongst thousands of people who are wondering the relationship between omega 3 fish oil and digestion? Well, then you have come to right place. In this article, we will discuss the medically proven connection between the two. In addition, we will find out what to look for in a high-quality fish oil supplement. Let us begin then.

Various studies have concluded that there are numerous health benefits of omega 3 fish oil and digestion is one of such important area. It has been proven that high levels of omeag3 fats in the body are responsible for having a good digestive system. This means that if you experience food digestive disorders then there are high chances of you being deficient in essential omega3 fats.

Below is how omega 3 fish oil and digestion are related -

1. You might know that the human body contains a wide variety of bacteria (good bacteria) that are required by many organs for their proper functioning. One such good bacterium is Probiotics, which is present in digestive system and is accountable for the breakdown of food. Omega3 fats help in maintaining the optimal balance of Probiotics.

2. Omega3 fats keep cell membranes healthy. These cell membranes are responsible for the flow of nutrients from intestine to the blood stream. If the body has lower levels of omega-3 fats, functioning of cell membrane is affected i.e. nutrients are not absorbed in the blood stream and result in poor digestion of food.

3. Inflammation in the stomach can also lead to poor digestion and other ailments. The anti-inflammatory property of omega3 fats reduces soreness and hence, reduces the risk of Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

In conclusion, omega3 fats improve the intestinal health and result in good digestive system.

However, there are many instances where-in, people have complain of burps, bloating, upset stomach, nausea, etc. after the consumption of fish oil.

Important point to note here is that, all the above are the side effects of consumption of low-quality (rancid and impure) oil. Fresh and pure oil is far away from any side effects and has only health benefits to offer. To check the quality of oil, look for COA (Certificate of Analysis) published by the manufacturer.

TOTOX (total oxidation) value in COA determines the oxidation (rancidity) of oil. Consumption of rancid oil results in fishy burps and long lasting metallic taste. Consumption of oil with lower value of TOTOX results only in health benefits of omega 3 fish oil and digestion disorders will be thing of past for you.

To check freshness, you can even cut open a gel and put it to smell test. Any artificial fragrance is the indicator of stale oil. Fresh oil smells like ocean water.

Now that you know the connection between omega 3 fish oil and digestion, your next step should be to put this information to test and find fresh oil for yourself and your family.