What is Candida

What is Candida
Candida infections are typically known as yeast infections
and strike thousands of individuals each year. There are
about twenty different types of Candida but the most common
one is Candida albicans. Candida that causes vaginal
infections is almost always present in the human body, but
when the controlling organisms are removed, the Candida
multiplies to the point where the symptoms appear.
Diagnosis of Candida is normally by one of three methods: a
stool Candida culture, a serum Candida antigen measure, or
a serum Candida antibody test. Once the yeast begins to
proliferate dramatically, it may takes weeks or months or
treatment in order to complete eliminate the yeast from the
body and at the same time to promote the regrowth of the
good bacteria.

Who gets Candida?

The yeast infection typically affects parts of the body
that remain warm and moist. This can include the vaginal
area in women, men's foreskin or penis, the mouth, the
nostrils or the ear. Sometimes new mothers who are
breastfeeding will have symptoms of Candida on the nipples.
Infants Candida shows up as diaper rash. Nearly
seventy-five percent of women experience yeast infections
at some point during their lifetime.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of yeast infection include a gray or grayish white
discharge particularly when the vagina is involved along
with pain, severe itching and burning of the vulva and the
vagina. When Candida grows unrestrained in the intestinal
trace, the person may manifest symptoms such as eye
fatigue, frequent urination, conjunctivae, irritable bowel
syndrome. Inflamed hair follicles throughout the body, eye
fatigue, hives, facial rash--the list goes on and on. If
you have experienced any of the causative factors recently
and are showing the symptoms, it may be appropriate to be
tested for the presence of Candida.

What are the causes?

The major cause associated with the start of a yeast
infection is a missing or weak immune system. It has been
found that taking antibiotics or steroids will cause
symptoms of Candida yeast infection. It is believed that
killing off the helpful bacteria in the system along with
the bad as happens when using antibiotics allows the
Candida to multiply unchecked. Other factors which have
been implicated in the onset of a Candida yeast infection
include diabetic onset, cuts in the skin in areas where
profuse sweating occurs, taking contraceptives, semen, and
menstruation. When the Candida multiplies rapidly in the
body it actually becomes pathogenic rather than remaining
benign. The fungal yeast infection can spore through the
intestinal wall since the yeast has already weakened and
irritated the tissues. This allows toxins and undigested
food to leak into the bloodstream.

What role does diet play?

In understanding the role of diet in curing Candida
infections, a review of the class of compounds known as
phytochemicals is important. These compounds play a vital
role in the defense systems of humans and plants.
Phytochemicals are the compounds that fight infection. They
are effective against fungus infections. Some of the best
known phytochemicals are garlic and onion. These two foods
are effective against a wide variety of illness and
infections such as Candida. Although not all health
professionals and Candida patients agree about the perfect
anti Candida diet, most suggest that the following foods
should be avoided: mushrooms, yeasts, soda, alcoholic
drinks, caffeine, cheese, chocolate, refined sugars and
many fruits.

Are there natural remedies?

Candida is usually treated by medical professionals through
prescription doses of anti fungal drugs or antimycotics.
These drugs include clotrimazole, ketoconazole, nystatin
and fluconazole. Both ketoconacole and nystatin are used
topically. Candida in infants, manifested as diaper rash
can be treated by being scrupulous about removing wet or
soiled diapers as soon as possible and making sure the
child is thoroughly cleaned and dried following each diaper
change.

When a change in diet and prescription medications have
reversed the growth of the the Candida, it is generally
helpful to promote the re-growth of the good bacteria.
This is done by increasing the amount of good
bacteria--Lactobacillus acidophilus in the body. Yogurt of
containing live active cultures will help to aid the
regrowth of the good bacteria in the intestinal tract.

Often remedies that clear the intestinal tract of the
overrunning yeast are combined with natural substances for
a complete detoxification of the system.

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If would like to find out how you could prevent or cure
Candida infection then visit:
http://www.cureyeastinfection.org

Warning signs of Anxiety and Depression

Warning signs of Anxiety and Depression
Research shows that around one in four people are suffering
from mental illness, which means that at any point in time,
a quarter of the population have some kind of mental health
problem which can range from mild depression and anxiety
right through to serious mental health conditions such as
schizophrenia and other forms of dementia.

No one is immune to developing a mental health problem as
mental illness can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time and
at any age. So how can you recognise the early warning
signs? All of us will inevitably feel a bit out of sorts or
low at times and it's important to stress that this is a
perfectly normal part of life and the feeling usually wears
off after a short period of time. It's when we can't shake
this feeling off on our own that we should pay attention
and on the alert for other symptoms of depression or
anxiety.

The most common types of mental health problems are indeed
anxiety related disorders and depression and by recognising
the symptoms we can help prevent ourselves or others close
to us from experiencing unnecessary suffering and despair.

Common symptoms of anxiety and depression

* Low moods or sadness
* Unable to sleep or sleeping too much
* Changes in appetite
* Fatigue
* Loss of libido
* Weight loss or weight gain
* Irritability
* Emotional outbursts
* Experiencing a panic attack
* Unable to relax
* Excessive worrying
* Feeling worthless and guilty
* Unable to make decisions
* Feeling anxious and nervous
* Obsessive compulsive behaviour
* Thoughts of suicide

We may experience one or more of these symptoms from time
to time and yet not be suffering from a mental illness but
if the symptoms persist and are severe enough to interfere
with what you normally do on a day to day basis then you
should seek advice from your doctor.

For example if you find it hard to go to work, or get up in
the morning, or if you avoid social contact with friends or
stop indulging in hobbies or pastimes that you used to
enjoy or if you are constantly worrying and feeling anxious
then this should all be taken seriously.

Recognising anxiety

Anxiety can be defined as a persistent nagging and
unrealistic worry or fear about any aspect of your life,
for example it could be connected to your health, your
relationships or your work. You might have some difficulty
focussing or concentrating on a task, your sleep may be
disturbed and you could feel edgy and irritable or shaky
and nervous.

Again it's important to stress that we all become anxious
when faced with threatening or difficult situations such as
a driving test or a job interview and this is a good thing
as it helps us to prepare for the event. It's when this
anxiety persists when there is no obvious reason for it
that we should pay attention and seek help before it gets
any worse. If we are extremely anxious or worried then we
might also experience panic attacks.

What are panic attacks?

Panic attacks are terrifying; they can come on at any time
without warning. Physical symptoms include difficulty
breathing, pounding heart, unable to swallow, pains in the
chest, dizziness and shaking. People often describe the
sensation of a panic attack as if they are having a heart
attack and feel as if they are going to die. Once someone
has experienced a full blown panic attack they may be so
scared of having another one that even the fear of the
panic attack itself is enough to bring one on.

People who are suffering from persistent anxiety are often
suffering from depression too.

Recognising depression

Depression can be said to exist when you have been feeling
low for more than a couple of weeks or so and the symptoms
are severe enough to hinder you from carrying out your
normal daily routines the way you used to and you no longer
enjoy the same activities that you used to find
pleasurable. It can make you feel exhausted, worthless and
unable to cope with even the most minor of tasks.

When to seek help

Quite simply, it is important to seek help as early as
possible in order to get the right support. Many people are
tempted to go it alone and struggle on day after day which
not only reduces quality of life it also magnifies existing
feelings of isolation, hopelessness and despair.

If you are diagnosed with depression or an anxiety related
disorder then it is quite likely that you will be offered
medication in the first instance, and possibly some form of
therapy.

The good thing is that both depression and anxiety are
treatable and with the right support and understanding from
family and friends, most people will get back to their old
selves again and will go on to make a complete recovery.

----------------------------------------------------
Depression and anxiety are serious mental health conditions
that can strike anyone at anytime. For more information
about depression and selp help come and visit
http://www.fightingdepression.co.uk

Unlocking the Secrets of Your Sense of Smell: Part 12

Unlocking the Secrets of Your Sense of Smell: Part 12
What is the future of scents in our lives?

As researchers began to delve into the science behind
scents, the technologic world began to seek ways to mimic
the precise function in which the human nose detects
different scents. In the mid 1980s the Institute of
Olfactory Research at Warwick University came up with the
world's first prototype "high-tech nose." Commercial
versions of the "Warwick" nose are now used by perfume
makers wanting to protect their secret formulas against
"knock-off" versions and dock inspectors to resolve
disputes with fishermen over the grading of fish.

As researchers continue to find links between patient
odours and certain diseases, the use of electronic noses
has become invaluable. Research is now underway to create
sensors in telephones into which patients may be able to
breathe and receive a diagnosis.

High-tech noses may someday be able to detect stages of a
woman's menstrual cycle to either aid in fertility or
prevent unwanted pregnancies. These noses may also be
installed on motor vehicles and detect the alcohol level of
drivers, preventing them from starting their vehicle's
engines.

Our personal "scentprint" may someday prevent fake ID
cards, replace PIN numbers and security entry systems.

Soon home computers may have special devices whereby people
can experience various scents via the internet.

The advantages of electronic noses are that unlike the
human nose, they do not become desensitized to smells, they
don't get bored with repeated scents, and do not become
sick by chemical odours.

High-tech Scents

With the advancement of "headspace" science is now able to
analyse and reproduce the exact combinations of almost any
fragrance by a process called "soft-extraction." During
this process, technologists pass carbon dioxide through an
object and extract its fragrance. Applications of this
technology are seemingly endless. Now it is possible to
fragrance our cars, offices, and homes with almost any
fragrance. What's more, the food we eat and the various
drinks we consume may now be enhanced with flavours that
are richer and truer to life.

The science of aromachology is still in its infancy.
Researchers have only begun to scratch its surface. Much
more work in this area is needed to be done. As science
continues to gain a better understanding of how scents are
perceived, differentiated and transmitted, no doubt, the
world will continue to reap its rewards and use fragrances
to:

* Reduce stress levels at home and at the office

* Trigger long-lost memories

* Encourage confidence

* Enhance sexuality

* Promote relaxation

* Get rid of nightmares

* Lose weight

* Stay alert and improve work performance

* Detect the early onset of diseases

* To alleviate depression and mood swings

All of these aromatic applications are readily available -
or being developed - in one way or another. Scent is not a
new product but rather an age-old tradition. However it is
the fusion of science and nature that is driving the growth
of this research. The delivery of aromas and scent - for a
wide variety of reasons - offers huge potential for the
health and wellness of future generations.

----------------------------------------------------
Luke Vorstermans is the founder of The Sense of Smell Lab,
a world leader in the development of innovative products
that use our sense of smell to influence behavior, trigger
memories, manage cravings, enhance moods and improve sexual
health. To learn more about enhancing your sex drive, go
to http://www.scentuellepatch.com

How to Make the Most of Your Long-Term Dieting Plans

How to Make the Most of Your Long-Term Dieting Plans
After choosing a dieting plan and doing a detailed reading
of the book that appeals to you the most, you will need to
make the necessary intellectual and emotional commitments
needed for success. Don't look at your diet plan as a
temporary thing, something to discard or ignore once you've
achieved your weight loss goal. There are several things
you can do to help make the intellectual and emotional
commitments to make your diet last a lifetime!

First, define your goals. Don't just think, "I've got to
lose some weight." Pick a target, even if it's a moving
target. Some dieters like to think in increments, for
instance, losing 20 poinds, then then reestablishing a new
goal until they arrive at a weight level they feel most
comfortable with. Other dieters-to-be are more daring.
Choosing a weight loss goal of 100 pounds might seem
impossible for some, but for other dieters, it's their best
and most direct strategy. Set a goal that you feel most
comfortable with and stick with it.

Second, try to choose a realistic timeline for losing
weight. It took years to put on those excess poinds.
Don't expect to lose them all in a month! Get a good idea
of how much weight you should reasonably expect to lose
each week or month by reading your diet book thoroughly and
following its guidelines.

Third, try to avoid as much stress as possible - especially
during the earliest stages of a diet. Eating binges are
often the result of high stress levels.

Fourth, buy yourself a good scale, preferably an accurate
digital one. Be prepared to pay at least $40 to $80 for a
quality scale. Be aware that some digital scales stop at
300 pounds. Some of the most sophisticated scales can also
measure the ratio of body fat to lean muscle mass, referred
to as the Body Mass Index (BMI). A Body Mass Index of over
25 usually indicates obesity, although variables such as
height can influence your number. The Department of Health
and Human Services' Center for Disease Control and
Prevention (often called the CDC) offers a detailed
explanation of the BMI and Java-scripted calculator to
determine your own BMI.

Five. Weigh and measure yourself and write down the
information for future reference. During the first week or
so of your diet, try to avoid getting on the scale every
day. While your body readjusts itself to this new way of
eating, you might find your weight loss fluctuating or even
stalling. This can be discouraging. If you absolutely
must jump on the scale daily, do so at the same time each
day, for instance, immediately after waking up. Your
weight can fluctuate, up or down, by a pound or two durng
the course of the day.

Number six. For an added visual reference and to really
solidify the intellectual and emotional commitments
required for your long-term dieting success, get a friend
or companion to take a photograph of you each week. Do a
front, back, and side shot. A digital camera works
exceptionally well here since you can quickly compare
photos of yourself from day one of your diet through your
entire regimen. This visual enforcement of your efforts
can be a great encouragement.

Seven. Let friends and family members know that you are on
a diet. Support, understanding, and encouragement can be
great things when you are embarking on creating a new you!

Finally, recognize 'toxic' friends. No matter how much
weight you're losing, no matter how much your cholesterol
has fallen, no matter how many pants or dress sizes you've
lost, expect a friend (or relative) to continue to tell you
how bad your diet is for you. There are enough studies
available in medical journals and respected websites that
prove the validity of making LIFESTYLE diet changes. These
same studies encourage a balanced diet and many now
encourage some level of supplementation. Nutritional
supplementation makes sure your body has all the tools and
raw materials it needs to keep you in top shape during your
body's transformation.

----------------------------------------------------
Ron Godlewski has written many articles on health,
wellness, and maintaining vitality as we fight the effects
of aging and while we are dieting. Check out
http://www.pillfreesupplements.com

where you will find
more articles and information on how you can actually
improve your general health while making your lifestyle
diet change.

10 Tips to Avoid Weight Loss

10 Tips to Avoid Weight Loss
If you don't want to lose weight then these tips are for
you. Make sure you follow them carefully to reach your
goals.

1-Start early to build a strong solid foundation for weight
gain. Avoid participating in any sports, in or out of
school. Ensure that all your friends are overweight. That
way you can pick up all their weight gain habits and
behaviours. Learn to throw wild tantrums when mother
doesn't buy you lots of sweets or regular fast food.

2-If you have to get a job, try to find one that involves
as much sitting down as possible. Try not to work in a
place with lots of stairs, opt for buildings with lots of
lifts. Never purchase water from the drinks machine. Your
primary focus should be on fizzy drinks with a high level
of sugar content.

3-Having a car is vital as it cuts back greatly on walking
anywhere. Try to use it at every opportunity. Make sure
your car has a large drinks holder and somewhere accessible
to store your snacks. The crappier the car the better. This
stops anyone from stealing it, and in turn prevents you
from having to walk to the bus stop to get to work.

4-Get into the habit of watching as much TV as possible.
Around 40 hours a week should be ideal. Think of how many
calories you could store sitting in a chair for that length
of time. Even better, purchase a games console, you could
whip it out and further increase the time you can spend in
that chair.

5-Never try to cook for yourself. This involves substantial
movement and there is always the risk that the ingredients
may contain something healthy. You have been warned! Fast
food deliveries are the way to go on this one. On the odd
occasion it would be acceptable to throw a frozen meal into
the microwave. Something that cooks within 3 minutes should
be perfect.

6-A great method to hang onto those calories is to avoid
eating breakfast (thumbs up for this one). This will send
your metabolism into starvation mode, and when this happens
those calories won't be going anywhere. Another great idea
is to eat most of your food after 7.pm. This allows the
calories to be stored as fat while you sleep. It doesn't
get much better than this.

7-Unless you are blind do not even consider getting a dog.
After that cute puppy factor wears off, the dog will want
you to take it for long walks. Long walks are detrimental
to weight gain. If you are feeling lonely, buy a cat
instead. All the activity this will involve is to open the
door and kick it out a couple of times a day.

8-Never ever read a book or watch a movie about some
inspiring sporting figure. This could lead you to forget
who you really are, and in a moment of madness you may
decide that you want to take up some activity, that may
result in you losing weight. Be warned that if you go down
this road there may not be a way back.

9-Repeat after me 'I am going to start losing weight soon'.
Focus on the word 'soon' because it doesn't really mean
anything. Keep repeating this phrase a couple of times a
week within earshot of family and friends. You can buy some
time here, and keep them all off your back about your
health and your weight.

10-If peer pressure eventually pushes you into trying to
lose weight, then don't worry, all is not lost. Do not
attempt to lose weight through methods that have a
realistic chance of working. Instead go for those diets or
products that promise to help you to lose 40 pounds in a
month. No need for concern, those methods are not going to
work for long, and soon you will be back to square one.
However you will be able to say 'Hey at least I tried, I
must be big boned or something'.

Follow these steps and I can promise you that you will not
lose weight, there is no need to thank me for this valuable
information, really it's my pleasure.

If on the other hand you are one of those people that
actually do want to lose weight, well all I can say is that
if you are serious about it, then you probably will lose
weight. If you are determined to lose weight then you
probably will succeed. However if you don't change the
methods that you have used in the past, then you will keep
getting the same results. Want different results? Then do
something different.

----------------------------------------------------
Visit http://www.easierwayz.com and find out what you can
do if you really want to lose weight.We have helped
thousands to successfully lose weight.Why should you be any
different?
http://www.easierwayz.com