Dental Health, Overall Health - Making the Connection

Dental Health, Overall Health - Making the Connection
The importance of dental and oral health cannot be
overemphasized. Not only does the mouth act as the gateway
for food and drink to enter the body, but it may also
provide an entrance for harmful microorganisms and
infections if not properly cared for. In fact, studies have
shown that proper oral hygiene is instrumental in promoting
good overall health. On the other hand, it has also been
demonstrated that many health issues can have negative
effects on dental and oral health.

Because dental health is associated by many people with
trips to the dentist's office, special toothpastes,
mouthwash, and other products, it is all too easy to see
oral health as something separate and removed from the
well-being of the rest of the body. Nothing could be
further from the truth. There is a very strong link between
the condition of mouth and the rest of the body, so much so
that the mouth can often act as an early warning system for
problems elsewhere in the body.

Cardiovascular Disease

Gum disease vs. cardiovascular disease - which one sounds
more serious? Although many people would say the latter
without hesitation, studies show that having gum disease
can actually increase the risk of developing cardiovascular
problems. This connection, while not completely understood
even by scientists, may be attributed to the fact that
damaged gums allow oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream,
where they can cause damage to the cardiovascular system.

Osteoporosis

A common ailment for older women, osteoporosis refers to a
weakening of the skeletal system, resulting in fragile,
easily broken or damaged bones. If osteoporosis can be
detected early, treatment of the condition can also begin
earlier. Fortunately, dentists are in a particularly good
position to catch osteoporosis. This is because the
symptoms and warning signs of osteoporosis frequently occur
in the mouth. Dental x-rays can reveal patterns of bone
loss indicative of osteoporosis very early on.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a very fast-growing health issue; more and more
people are diagnosed with it every year. Although people
think only of blood sugar when the word diabetes is
mentioned, it is also worth noting that diabetes is a known
risk factor for gum disease, tooth loss, and dry mouth. The
relationship goes both ways - poor oral health has been
shown to complicate or hinder the control of a patient's
blood sugar and force the patient to use more insulin just
to keep their blood sugar at a safe level.

----------------------------------------------------
Joe Devine
For more information visit http://www.drbagai.com .

Facial Enhancement by Implants

Facial Enhancement by Implants
In the pursuit of improved facial balance and shape, the
use of solid facial implants is a simple and proven method.
While there are facial implants made from different
materials that can be used, the use of solid silicone
(rubber) chin, cheek, nose and jaw implants are by far the
most commonly used. They are soft, flexible, and slide
easily into place on top of facial bones. These type of
facial implants are placed deep to the skin down at the
bone level. Since they are solid, not gel-filled, there is
no risk of implant leakage or breaking. All facial implants
can be inserted through very discrete incisions that often
leave no visible scars on the face. While any implant
(foreign-body) has some risk of infection, facial implants
infection is quite uncommon.

Enhancing the chin with an implant is the most commonly
performed facial implant procedure. With a small incision
under the chin, a chin implant can be easily put into
place, bringing the chin forward so that it is in balance
to the nose and lips. Unlike the old style 'button' chin
implant, there are many different styles of chin implants
today. From curved styles to a more box shape, to those
chin implants with a central dimple, there are many options
to custom tailor a chin implant to fit most patient's
faces. Usually the chin implant is sutured into place, a
metal screw can be driven through the implant to the bone.
This screw fixation method can eliminate one of the very
few complications of chin implants, that of shifting or
changing position after surgery causing chin asymmetry.
Chin implants are commonly in conjunction with other facial
procedures including rhinoplasty, neck liposuction, and
facelifts.

Cheek implants also have a variety of styles, allowing
fullness to be gained over the prominence of the cheekbone,
filling out the hollow underneath the cheekbone, or
allowing more fullness to be gained up to the side of the
nose. By going through the mouth under the upper lip, there
is no facial scarring. Cheek implants help bring fullness
to a flat cheeks, help camouflage a prominent nose, or
restore facial fat atrophy lost in HIV disease. Metal screw
fixation seems to be of particular importance as the cheek
implant is really sitting 'on the side of the cliff' so to
speak and, therefore, is more prone to the risk of moving
out of place after surgery.

Jaw implants of the mandibular (jaw) angle are relatively
new. Jaw implants are designed to 'square' the face at the
jaw angle for a more masculine look or to correct facial
asymmetry if jaw development is different between the two
sides of the face. Swelling and recovery after jaw angle
implant placement is greater than with chin and cheek
implants as the big chewing muscles must be lifted up to
put the jaw angle implant in place. This causes some
soreness in opening the mouth for several weeks after
surgery.

In some cases, the use of different implants in the same
patient, such as a chin and jaw angle implants in a male,
can provide dramatic changes in one's facial appearance.
Facial implants are a powerful tool, that is simple and
usually uncomplicated, to achieve better facial balance and
harmony.

----------------------------------------------------
Dr Barry Eppley runs a private plastic surgery practice
through his hospital-based medspa locations at Clarian
Health in Indianapolis. To learn more about the latest
trends in plastic surgery, spa therapies, or skin care, go
to his daily blog, http://www.exploreplasticsurgery.com .

Top Four Myths of a Low Cholesterol Low Fat Diet

Top Four Myths of a Low Cholesterol Low Fat Diet
So you just found out you have high cholesterol and have
been told to start a low cholesterol low fat diet
immediately. But what does this mean? Should you
eliminate all high cholesterol foods or eliminate all fats?
No and no. Read on to find out about the most common
myths of a low cholesterol low fat diet.

Myth #1 of a low cholesterol low fat diet

Focus on cholesterol content

Most people think that in order to lower cholesterol, they
need to lower cholesterol intake. Dietary cholesterol (the
cholesterol you consume) has nothing to do with your serum
cholesterol. The two main culprits that raise serum
cholesterol are saturated fat and trans fat. Saturated fat
is high in foods such as fatty cuts of meat, bacon and
sausage and solid fat sources such as butter and lard.
Trans fat is found in many packaged products including but
not limited to ramen noodles, biscuit mix, cookies and
especially in fast food.

Myth #2 of a low cholesterol low fat diet

Eliminate all foods high in fat

Whether or not fat is okay on a low cholesterol low fat
diet is really dependent upon the type of fat. While food
high in saturated fat or trans fat are a no-no, foods high
in polyunsaturated fats are helpful in lowering LDL (bad
cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol). Some
great sources are nuts and seeds, avocados, olive oil and
the omega-3 fatty acid containing fish such as wild-caught
salmon and mackerel.

Myth #3 of a low cholesterol low fat diet

Drink red wine to lower cholesterol

Yes and no. While studies show that drinking a glass of
red wine may improve cardiovascular disease risk factor in
women, drinking too much alcohol will raise triglyceride
levels which are another harmful component of total
cholesterol. The best advice is to have a glass now and
again if you enjoy it, but not to think of it as a cure all
for your cholesterol.

Myth #4 of a low cholesterol low fat diet

Fat and cholesterol are the only components of my diet I
need to be concerned about to lower my cholesterol.

Absolutely false! There are many other significant factors
in a diet that will help lower your cholesterol. First and
foremost, get plenty of fiber from a variety of sources
such as fruits, veggies and whole grain foods. In
addition, consuming fruits and veggies (especially the
veggies) will provide your body with a lot of other
nutrients in the form of vitamins and minerals that are
important for overall health.

Ultimately, when thinking about a low cholesterol low fat
diet, you need to be thinking of your overall health and
diet and not focusing primarily on cholesterol and fat
content. By following the basic recommendations of the
American Dietetic Association or another healthful diet
such as that which I cover in my Healthy Grocery Store Tour
(www.healthygrocerystoretour.com), you will be on the path
to not only lower cholesterol levels, but a healthier
lifestyle that benefits you more than a low cholesterol low
fat diet.

----------------------------------------------------
From a sickly little girl to a healthy chef to the stars,
Darlene Nicholson transformed herself into The "Kick in the
Butt" Healthy Lifestyle Expert and creator of the popular
DVD "The Healthy Grocery Store Tour". Visit her website
http://www.lifechanginghealthysoutions.com for free ebooks
and information guaranteed to open your eyes to how easy
weight loss can be with the right plan of attack.

Two Workouts in One

Two Workouts in One
You can speed up fat loss and muscle gain by working out
twice as hard. Or, you can workout twice a day and get
similar results.

I remember when I was in high school playing football. I
dreaded the start of the season because every season
started with two-a-days. What are two-a-days?

Two-a-days are when you have practice twice in one day.
And when it's 85+ degrees and you're in full
gear...well...that sucks!

But no need to worry. For our purposes, we don't have to
worry about football gear or heat. We just have to possess
the drive to exercise twice a day.

Here are some major benefits to think about:

* You'll burn twice the fat

* You'll blast your base metabolism into high gear

* You'll dramatically increase your strength

* You'll liberate yourself from stress more often

* You'll sleep like a baby

Here's how to start your two-a-day program:

1. Workout in the morning (AM) for 15 minutes

2. Workout again in the afternoon or evening (PM) for 7-8
minutes

3. Keep the AM workout light and the PM workout light

4. As you get used to this schedule increase your intensity
in the AM workout, while keeping the PM workout light

5. Finally, increase your intensity in the PM workout to
match the AM workout

NOTE: I use 15-minute workouts in this example because
that's what I teach. If you workout longer just modify the
steps above to fit your schedule.

Now, the trick to exercising twice a day is to get enough
rest and nutrients. If you can get enough rest and
nutrients for your body to heal itself you'll have no
problem doing two-a-days.

Just be careful NOT to over do it.

If you do your body will go into what is called
"over-training" and you'll actually tear down your muscle,
not build it up.

Some signs of over-training are:

* Lethargy (being overly tired)

* Constant dehydration

* Diarrhea

* Diminished endurance, power, and stamina

* Increased irritability

* Inability to concentrate

If you start to experience any of these cut back to one
workout a day and see if the symptoms go away. If they do
not go away, then seek medical care...there is something
else wrong.

If the symptoms go away after a day or two you now know how
hard you can push yourself. Don't be afraid to go back to
two a days...just know your limits, listen to your body and
learn from the past.

Give two-a-days a try and watch your desired results become
reality.

----------------------------------------------------
Weston Lyon, KING of the Functional Fitness Jungle, is
widely recognized as a leading expert on functional
fitness. You can receive Weston's weekly tips and FREE
e-book at http://www.westonlyon.com

Army Abs

Army Abs
Over the past 6 years in the Military, I have developed
rock hard abs and a great physique due mostly to hard work
and dedication. The first step in getting in great shape is
personal discipline. The second is sticking with a routine
that actually builds your strength and endurance. Here are
a few simple steps to help get you in the best shape of
your life.

The truth is everyone wants six pack abs, but most people
don't know how to get started. Here are a few things that
we do in the military that will get you startedin the right
direction.

Bench Crunches

First, perform bench crunches to strengthen your upper
abdominal muscles. Lie on the floor with your feet on a
bench and your legs bent at a 90-degree angle. Place your
hands at your temples. Raise your head and shoulders until
your body is at a 45-degree angle with the floor. Return to
the starting position.

Avoid pulling on your head during this exercise because you
could strain your neck. Also, exhale when contracting and
keep the pace of the movement slow in order to maintain
proper form.

Seated Leg Tucks

Seated leg tucks are great for developing the lower abs.
Sit sideways on a bench and grasp the edges of the bench
for support. With bent knees, raise your legs slightly, and
then straighten them. A good way to ensure proper balance
is to lean back when needed.

Next, lift your knees toward your chest while keeping your
lower legs pointed downward, and flex your abs as hard as
you can. For better results, keep the tension in your
abdominal muscles throughout the entire movement.

Cable Crunches

The third movement will work your oblique muscles, which
are on the sides of your body. Side-to-side rope crunches
are great because the weight can be adjusted to each
individual's strength level. Use a tricep pushdown cable
and comfortably kneel facing the machine with both cables
in your hands.

The cables should now be on each side of you above your
head. Alternatively crunch down the weight to each knee.
The contraction should be controlled and performed slowly
to maintain good form and maximize the work on the obliques.

These are just a few of sets we do in the military to help
keep us in great shape and ready to protect the American
Dream! For more info visit one my favorite sites:
http://teamtanner.mikegeary1.hop.clickbank.net/

----------------------------------------------------
Thanks for checking out my article. I have spent 6 years
working with The United States Army to create the perfect
Physical Fitness Standard used across the services. Check
out some of these websites to get more information on
staying fit and strong:
http://teamtanner.nononsense.hop.clickbank.net/

Take Pleasure in Your Food!

Take Pleasure in Your Food!
Several years ago, my partner David taught a photography
workshop at a small villa in southern Italy. Up early one
morning, David drank his coffee with a couple of students
while the owner prepared breakfast and sang operatic arias.
The owner spoke passionately about Italians' love of food
and family being at the heart of their culture. "Yes, food
is very important to us. We care about the preparation and
the serving and the sharing of it. We have an expression,
'the food is under the table'. What really matters is not
so much the food itself, but the way we serve and eat and
the connection of the people coming together!"

Beneath the theories and ideas of what we should or
shouldn't eat, there is in each of us a longing for
nourishment of a deeper sort. This deeper nourishment may
be even more important for our health than the actual food
we eat. Just as we need vitamins and minerals and amino
acids, we need the nourishment derived from the pleasure of
eating and the pleasure of gathering with others.

How we eat may be at least as important for our health as
what we eat! Even the most nutritious food, eaten while we
are anxious or angry, is difficult to digest. The most
delicious, most artfully prepared meal will be wasted on us
when we are eating in a rushed or stressful mood. Too much
anxiety over what we should eat and rigid correctness in
our diet spoils the pleasure of eating and contributes to
eating disorders and obesity.

Let's bring to our eating a sense of what really matters
and create mealtimes that are harmonious, relaxing,
friendly and beautiful. Here are a few suggestions.

1. Sit down while you eat. One of my clients effortlessly
lost ten pounds by committing to this practice. Eating on
the go made for poor digestion and left her feeling
chronically hungry. Sitting while she ate brought new
awareness and a sense of satisfaction to her eating.

2. Gather together around a table with family and friends.
Studies consistently show that children benefit from
growing up in families that frequently eat meals together.
Adolescents in these families have lower rates of
depression, suicide, eating disorders and drug and alcohol
use and are better at reading, school performance and
social skills. I haven't seen any studies about the
positive effects of shared mealtimes on single people and
adults, but I am willing to bet it aids in longevity,
happiness, immunity and feelings of well-being.

3. Create an environment for eating that is relaxed and
pleasurable.

* Treat yourself and those you love to a beautifully set
table. This is a sensory reminder to slow down, to notice
and to appreciate your meal and the people you are with.

* Decorate your table as a celebration of your daily meals.
This can be very simple and very inexpensive Use a candle,
a fabric cloth, a bowl of fruit, flowers or special
objects. Decorate with whatever makes you feel happy to be
alive.

* Play music that helps you feel relaxed and peaceful.

* Soft lighting is not only romantic but calming to your
nervous system and conducive to digestion.

4. KISS: Keep It Simple Sweetie! In my early twenties,
newly married, I thought that any time we had company I
needed to serve impressive meals. Not surprisingly, we
didn't entertain often. Now, I think of gathering with
people, rather than entertaining, and I know that serving
simple foods with a loving spirit is enough. As the
opera-singing Italian chef told David, there are many years
when most Italians have very little money. But even when
all they have is the simplest and least expensive food,
they enjoy it fully. That is what matters.

5. Notice the emotional qualities you bring to your eating

* Rushing, guilt, anxiety and discord make for poor
digestion and absorption of nutrients.

* Avoid harsh conversations, distractions and multi-tasking.

* Cultivate enjoyment, relaxation, pleasure, friendly
interaction.

6. Pause for a few moments of gratitude before eating.
Living in gratitude enhances your immune system, lowers
pain and brings a sense of well-being to every cell of your
body. Even a few moments of gratitude prepares your body to
receive the value of the food, physically and emotionally.
Some ways to enjoy basking in gratitude:

* A formal prayer.

* Holding of hands.

* Silent appreciation for all the beings who contributed to
the meal.

* Shared breath of appreciation. Ahhh. This earth. This
food. This table. These people. This moment.

* A poem of gratitude.

7. Enjoy the people you are with.

* Whether you are eating alone, with one person, or a
group, wake up and notice.

* Appreciate the ones you are with. Take in their gifts.
Look at them and listen to their stories.

8. Enjoy your food.

* While you are eating take time to sense and appreciate
the food. Savor with all your senses the colors,
fragrances, textures, tastes.

* Any foods on your avoid list can be a delightful treat
occasionally. I don't eat pecan pie very often but when I
do, I really let myself love it. Throw out guilt and
embrace the pleasure of eating.

* Eating with pleasure and appreciation will help you feel
deeply satisfied.

Let your meals be a celebration of life and the bounty of
the earth. When we live with care for the everyday
pleasures, we bring healing and deep nourishment to our
bodies, our hearts, our relationships and our world.

Bon appetite!

----------------------------------------------------
Transformational wellness coach, Lea Houston, MA, helps
people of all ages create lives of health, vitality and
well-being. Get her Free Special Report, Let it Be Easy,
and a free subscription to her popular e-zine, Self Care
Celebration! rich with soulful and practical resources,
tips and inspiration at
http://www.SelfCareCelebration.com