What is Vitamin B? What are the benefits of Vitamin B?

What is Vitamin B? What are the benefits of Vitamin B?
There is no single B vitamin, but rather there are eight
water soluble vitamins, each of which plays an important
role in the cell metabolism process, making up what is
known as the B-Complex vitamin. While the B vitamins were
once believed to be just a single vitamin, research has
showed that these are eight chemically distinct vitamins
that can coexist in the same foods, but that can also be
found separately in other whole food sources as well. While
these eight vitamins can be combined in a supplement known
as the vitamin B complex, individual B vitamin supplements
are also available. Each of the Vitamin B vitamins is
differentiated by a number, and also has its own unique
name.

Vitamin B1 - Vitamin B1 is also referred to as Thiamine,
and is a water soluble vitamin that is essential for
healthy neural function, and metabolism of carbohydrates.
The result of a thiamin deficiency in most cases is
Beriberi, which is a disease of the nerves and the heart.
Less severe deficiencies may result in weight loss,
confusion, irritability and malaise. Vitamin B1 can be
found in small dosages in many whole food sources including
peas, asparagus, cauliflower, yeast, brown rice, oranges,
pork, eggs and potatoes.

Vitamin B2 - Vitamin B2 is also referred to as Riboflavin,
and is an easily absorbed vitamin that plays a key rule in
maintaining overall health. Vitamin B2 is required for many
cellular processes within the body including the metabolism
of energy, fats, carbohydrates, proteins and ketone bodies.
Popular sources for Vitamin B2 include milk, cheese, liver,
legumes, yeast, almonds, rock lobsters and soybeans.
Riboflavin is easily destroyed by exposure to light, making
it difficult to obtain this vitamin through whole food
sources.

Vitamin B3 - Vitamin B3 is also referred to as Niacin, and
is an organic compound that is a derivative of pyridine and
plays an essential role in the metabolic process of living
cells. Vitamin B3 or Niacin is especially important in
relation to the detoxification of xenochemicals, along with
the repair of DNA and the production of steroid hormones
within the adrenal gland. Vitamin B3 can be found in
numerous whole food sources, including animal products like
fish, salmon, milk and eggs, fruits and vegetables such as
carrots, dates, avocados and broccoli, seeds, nuts and
whole grain products and some fungi, including brewer's
yeast and mushrooms.

Vitamin B5 - Vitamin B5 is also referred to as Pantothenic
Acid, and is a water soluble vitamin that is an essential
nutrient to sustain life. Vitamin B5 is critical when it
comes to the synthesis and metabolism of carbohydrates,
fats and proteins. Vitamin B5 can be found in a wide
variety of different whole food sources, which is where it
derives its name which is from the Greek word "pantothen"
for "from everywhere". Pantothenic Acid, or Vitamin B5 can
be found in high amounts in whole grain cereals, eggs,
meat, royal jelly and legumes.

Vitamin B6 - Vitamin B6 is also referred to as Pyridoxine,
although there are two other compounds that are commonly
referred to as Vitamin B6; Pyridoxal and Pyridoxamine.
Vitamin B6 is best known for its ability to balance the
sodium and potassium in the body, and it also promotes the
production of red blood cells. The most popular source for
Pyridoxine is dragon fruit, which comes from South East
Asia.

Vitamin B7 - Vitamin B7 is also referred to as Vitamin H or
Biotin, and is a water soluble vitamin that plays a role in
the metabolism of leucine and fatty acids, and in the
process of gluconeogenesis. Biotin can be found in a myriad
of different whole food sources, though normally in low
concentrations. Royal jelly and brewer's yeast are the
greatest sources for Vitamin B7, though this vitamin is
also found in oilseed meals, dried yeasts, alfalfa, milk,
liver, egg and some vegetables as well.

Vitamin B9 - Vitamin B9 is also referred to as Vitamin M,
Vitamin B-c or Folic Acid, and is most known as sourcing
from green leafy vegetables which is where this vitamin
gets its name. Folic acid, or Folate, can be found in green
leafy vegetables like spinach, lettuces and turnip greens,
and also in dried beans, fortified cereals, sunflower
seeds, peas, and some other fruits and vegetables.

Vitamin B12 - Vitamin B12 is also referred to as Cobalamin,
and is vital in the normal functioning of the nervous
system and the brain, and also the normal formation of the
blood in the body. Vitamin B-12 plays a part in the
metabolism of the cells in the body, including their
regulation and synthesis, as well as the synthesis and
energy production of fatty acids as well. The natural,
whole food source of Vitamin B-12 both for humans and
animals is other animal products, including meat, eggs and
milk products.

----------------------------------------------------
Ron Godlewski has written many articles on health,
wellness, and maintaining vitality throughout our lifetime.
Read more about the importance of nutrition and the many
benefits of vitamins in our daily diets in the article
library at http://www.pillfreesupplements.com and even
receive your own complementary copy of a nationally
recognized health and nutrition magazine for just visiting!

Get Rid of Blackheads By Eliminating The Source of Acne

Get Rid of Blackheads By Eliminating The Source of Acne
Blackheads are little annoying dark spots that show up on
our face and body as a form of acne. Unfortunately, these
little spots are hard to get rid of and dwell deep
underneath your skin. Many people think that you can get
rid of blackheads by just squeezing them until they pop.
However, this is a very big misconception. By squeezing
them, you make your skin look worse by forcing the germs
deeper into your skin.

Below is a few different methods that you should definitely
avoid when trying to get rid of blackheads.

Don't use blackhead removers or extractors. A lot of these
type of products are advertised in infomercials and on the
internet. However, the truth is that most of these
blackhead extractors can actually cause damage to your skin
and make it look worse than it was before. In addition to
causing damage to the skin, extractors can be expensive as
well.

Don't scrub your face. If you use harsh skin-scrubbing
cloths, you will actually do more harm then good.
Scrubbing cloths actually irritate the skin which can make
the infections even worse. You will also clog your pores
with more puss and oil by scrubbing your face with harsh
abrasives and cloths.

Avoid using oil-based cosmetics. Skin treatments that are
made from oil will also clog your pores and result in more
blackheads that are hard to get rid of. The reason why
they cause more blackheads is because your skin can't
naturally break down these chemicals. Also, make sure you
wash your face before you go to bed at night to remove any
make-up or cosmetics on your face.

Don't use blackhead removal creams or gels. Most of these
gels and creams contain harsh ingredients that will
aggravate your skin and leave you feeling more annoyed than
ever.

So what does actually work to get rid of blackheads and
prevent them from ever coming back?

Now that you understand what methods to avoid when getting
rid of blackheads, now let's talk about how you can remove
these annoying little dark spots and improve your skin's
complexion at the same time.

The problem with most blackhead removal techniques is that
they don't fix the root of the problem. Removal gels,
creams, and extractors don't go deep enough under your skin
where the problem lies. You need a treatment that does
more than just cleanse the surface of the skin. You need a
treatment that digs down deep and attack acne and
blackheads at the very source of the problem to prevent
them from ever coming back.

----------------------------------------------------
For more information about the most effective treatments
for getting rid of blackheads and blemishes, visit our acne
treatment web site. http://www.acnetreatment-reviews.com

Deliver Stress A Terminal Kick With Herbal Remedies

Deliver Stress A Terminal Kick With Herbal Remedies
Introduction: Homeopathic Philosophy

Herbal remedies for stress have become prevalent in the
last few years. The world is a busy place and people find
themselves constantly having to juggle work and personal
commitments. This inevitably leads to stress. Stress itself
can be a killer as it leads to chemical reactions within
the body that can be harmful. Some will resort simply with
going to the doctor to be prescribed conventional drug
treatments. Some would prefer more natural methods and in
recent times there has been an upsurge in herbal and
homeopathic remedies. Homeopathy is controversial as most
compounds are predominantly water. The philosophy behind it
suggests, however, that as symptoms are the body's attempt
to achieve balance, minute quantities of compounds which
induce the symptoms, will in effect, boost the immune
system.

Herbs are Chemicals Too!

The common faith behind this trust in herbal remedies is
that they are natural, trusted for centuries and will have
fewer side effects than conventional drug therapies. Yet
many of the herbal remedies for stress are related, if not
the active ingredient, for the synthetic counterparts:
valerian root for instance, a common substitute for
sleeping pills, forms the basis of valium!

If They are Chemicals What Do They Do?

Like the synthetic drugs many herbal remedies aid in
altering the chemical reactions throughout the body. Some
act as sedatives and tranquillizers, whilst others are mood
enhancers. Hops, for example, is commonly used to aid
sleep; as is chamomile, but this can also be used to boost
the immune system during periods of depression. Skull Cap,
and strangely Cat Nip is used to calm the brain down.
Whereas Rhodiola can be multifunctional: it's classed as an
adaptogenic herb and can be used in regulating the heart,
as well as improving the serotonin levels and thus
suppressing the depression causing chemicals in the brain.
It's also an aphrodisiac, perhaps something that may also
improve the mood. St John's Wort is a popular alternative
to conventional anti-depressants, although it should be
checked with a health professional before using, as adverse
reactions are known to occur when taken with other
medications.

Other Uses For The Herbs

If still concerned about ingesting strange herbal
substances remember herbs like Lavender are very popular in
aromatherapy, either in an oil burner or added to a bath.
Other fragrances such as Rose are so said to have a calming
effect when used in this manner. However, when in doubt
exercise, a good diet and plenty of relaxation activities,
used in conjunction with what ever other remedies suit,
will no doubt help in relieving stress.

Conclusions

Herbal remedies have been used by humans for hundreds of
years. Some of the treatments that we use today were based
on natural materials. Herbal remedies are a very effective
treatment for many conditions, including stress.

----------------------------------------------------
Do not let stress beat you. You can use safe natural herbal
remedies to combat stress and related conditions, remedies
that have been used safely for hundreds of years. Get some
quality stress relief now!
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urally-with-natural-herbal-remedies/
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Deli Sandwich For Lunch, Pizza For Dinner Is This Your Staple Diet?

Deli Sandwich For Lunch, Pizza For Dinner Is This Your Staple Diet?
Nutrition for the majority of the worlds population is
becoming a serious problem, not least the busy professional.

Despite the huge amount of advice that is freely available
on the subject of good health eating, the dietary habits of
the busy professional leave a lot to be desired.

The problem stems from those long busy days at work, where
eating becomes an after thought. Breakfast, how often is
this missed by you in the morning? Lunch, business lunch at
the quality restaurant, over a couple of glasses of wine,
OR, stuffing down a deli sandwich at your desk? Evening
dinner, a pizza or other fast food fare on your way home,
or a hastily eaten microwave meal before going to bed!

And then there is the snacks, the donuts and cakes for a
colleagues birthday. The office snack machine always gets
raided mid morning and mid afternoon, normally because of a
serious blood sugar crash after your poor breakfast or
lunch choice!

The nutritional value of all this stuff, equals roughly
ZERO!

The problem is your body is a true reflection of what we
consume, you know the phrase "You are what you eat!" is
absolutely true! So if you eat junk, your whole body is
junk, even when you do exercise the nutrients used to
repair and grow the tissue in your body, are based on poor
quality sources. This increases your chances of illness and
injury!

Getting around this problem seems to be a sticking point
for many people, however the solution is not as complex as
people make out. By sticking to some fairly basic
principles of nutrition you can make massive improvements
in your overall health.

Eat only fresh and clean produce, this means

Fresh fruit and vegetables

Low fat fresh diary produce including eggs

Fresh lean cuts of meat

The best quality poultry you can buy

Fresh water fish and seafood

That's it!

Avoid all processed foods, i.e. anything that has gone
through a manufacturing process to create the "food" that
appears on your plate.

Sounds much too simple doesn't it? In fact when I tell
people this the common reaction is that they already know
this is the right food to eat. Why do you not do this is
the bigger question. The problem is down to the convenience
of having someone else take control of what you are eating.
The preparation required to utilise this type of food
involves spending some time in the kitchen pulling together
the ingredients to create a meal.

The easiest way I have found is to clear out the kitchen of
any item that does not fit in this list, and force yourself
to actually prepare the food, it'll be like going on cold
turkey for a few days but you and your body will see the
difference.

Starting today, do this consistently for the next two weeks
and I guarantee that you and your body will feel more alive
than it has in years! The hardest part is starting, once
the habit is developed you'll be less inclined to go back
to the junk.

----------------------------------------------------
For a highly effective fat burning workouts done in a
fraction of the time of your current workouts, claim your
free e-report "How to lose weight even when you are really
busy" at http://www.corporateathletehandbook.com/ . Tim
Goodwin is a fitness professional from Luxembourg, training
the busiest individuals to achieve amateur sporting success
and a healthier body

Find Out More About The Only Fitness Plan That Will Get You Into Great Shape...FAST

Find Out More About The Only Fitness Plan That Will Get You Into Great Shape...FAST
Many people believe that it is really hard to get into
great shape. That's a myth

If you are one of the many who believe this, then you will
be surprised to know that this is not true.

Anyone can great into great shape with the right amount of
knowledge on how to get into shape.

A fitness coach can help you obtain that type of knowledge.
The Myths Of Fitness:

Many people simply lack the determination to lose weight.

Many people have a schedule that doesn't allow for personal
fitness.

The entire process of hiring a fitness trainer is too
complicated.

Many people fail to realize that exercise can be enjoyable.

Finally, many people fear that a fitness coach is too
expensive.

But I Don't Have The Fitness Determination To Lose Weight:

This is a popular response when people are asked if they
would like to get into shape. It is very easy to lose those
pounds but people simply lack the determination and drive
to lose the pounds and obtain a healther and happier body.

Any fitness trainer would tell you that it is easy to lose
weight and any fitness coach would provide you with that
extra motivational push to lose those horrid pounds off of
your body.

My Life Is Too Busy To Get My Body In Shape:

This is another popular myth that floats around in the
community. A personal trainer will work with you to
develop a personal fitness schedule that revolves around
your hectic schedule. Regardless of your lifestyle, a
licensed fitness trainer can provide you with a way to
easily reach a heightened level of personal fitness.

The Fitness Process Is Too Complicated Nonsense:

The process of getting into shape is not as complicated as
you think it may be. Achieving a higher level of personal
fitness has never been easier, thanks to the many qualified
personal trainers that have the knowledge necessary for you
to lose that weight and gain that muscle in record time.

Fitness & Exercise Are Boring And Stressful:

True, intense exercising can be boring and stressful. A
fitness coach will create ways for you to stay enjoyed
during your sessions (ex. place you in a group session) and
he or she will show you ways that you can limit your level
of stress after a workout (ex. using a spa). If you will
allow a fitness trainer to borrow your attention for a few
minutes, you would realize that personal fitness can be fun.

Personal Fitness Is Too Expensive:

This is yet another false belief that many people have.
Hiring a personal fitness trainer is not overly expensive,
especially for the benefits that you will receive from the
service. To make things better, some of the local fitness
trainers offer some sort of refund (with a few of these
trainers offering a full refund) if you are unhappy with
your fitness results.

Make Fitness Easy For You:

The fact is that it is not as hard as you think to achieve
a higher level of fitness. You can make the process easier
by hiring a personal fitness trainer to assist you at every
step of the way. If you would like to get started on a fast
track to getting into shape today, you should call your
local fitness coach and arrange a meeting today.

----------------------------------------------------
Zach Hunt is a fitness in Spokane, WA expert, personal
trainer and owner of Physzique, a fitness coaching service
in Spokane, WA. Go here:
http://www.spokanefitnesscoach.com/index.html
or you can go here for more fitness in Spokane WA tips:
http://www.spokanefitnesscoach.com/articles/fitness-in-spoka
ne-wa.html

Sensitive Skin Care Products For Beautiful Skin

Sensitive Skin Care Products For Beautiful Skin
Sensitive skin care products are now in vogue! More and
more people exhibit skin sensitivity and have adverse
reactions to cosmetics, environmental issues, and
toiletries.

Sensitive skin care products are being sold more and more
because there are very few people in the world who have
perfect skin. Most of the time skin problems are the
result of the products we use on our skin. Most sensitive
skin care products on the market today are sold as
all-natural and many are quite effective in helping most
sensitive skin problems.

There are many places that you can get a professional
facial as well as a skin type analysis. These places often
offer free facials and trials of their sensitive skin care
products. It gives you the chance to try out different
sensitive skin care products to find the ones that are most
appropriate for your skin.

A survey recently showed that 50% of women and 40% of men
regard themselves as needing sensitive skin care products.
Scientific studies show that later life sensitive skin
issues are correlated with a weakening of the outer most
skin layer called the skin barrier. Further, it's been
shown that the sooner an individual uses sensitive skin
care products and strengthens the skin barrier, the
healthier and younger looking skin will be later in life.

If you aren't sure if you need sensitive skin care
products, there are several signs:

· First, the skin becomes oily and broken-out in the
summer but then dry, red, and tight during winter.

· When emotionally stressed, the skin becomes red
and puffy or breaks out in a case of adult acne.

· Many people needing sensitive skin care products
find that they blush or become flushed more easily than
most.

As for skin care products, people needing sensitive skin
care products, will likely have experienced rashes or
irritations from several products, especially those that
are heavily scented. In cases of extreme sensitive skin,
this extends to household products as well - detergents,
kitchen or bathroom cleaners, and hand soaps can all cause
various reactions, even spicy foods and too much exercise
can lead to skin irritation.

In summary, check the labels on your skin care products.
Avoid fragrances, artificial dyes and the various paraben
preservatives, as they can cause irritation and possible
health problems. Sensitive skin care products that are
made from all-natural ingredients are your best bet for
resolving generally sensitive skin or occasional flare-ups.

----------------------------------------------------
John Russell of IH Distribution, LLC brings you health,
anti-aging and skin care products from around the world.
Find fabulous skin care tips and great articles on a wide
range of topics for women at
http://www.hormones-beauty-health.com

Weight Loss and Nutrition Go Together!

Weight Loss and Nutrition Go Together!
Nutrition and weight loss are certainly important subjects
and ones that you would love to learn all that you can and
then jump in and start on your diet so that you can lose
the weight you desire. However, I sincerely believe that
dieting is not the best approach to losing weight nor knows
everything about proper nutrition going to help you do what
is necessary to lose weight. Nutrition and weight loss are
plausible solutions to losing those unwanted pounds.
Meditation, visualization and prayer also help. We are in
the 21st century and have the luxury of liquid vitamins to
keep us healthy. Proper nutrition also helps keep the
process of your body functioning normally and the best part
is that these vitamins taste good!

Whereas a nutritious diet can rectify underlying causes of
diseases and restore one to wholeness of mind and body.
Once we realize the connection between a wholesome diet and
good health, our food will be our medicine and maintaining
good health will be a matter of making the right food
choices and leading a healthy lifestyle. Try cutting 500
calories from your diet and burning 500 calories with
vigorous exercise every day. The average woman will lose
weight on a 1,500-calorie-per-day diet, while men can lose
weight on about 1,800 calories per day. Permanent healthy
weight loss requires permanent lifestyle changes

Dieters who also exercise are more likely to succeed for
obvious reasons. They burn a lot more calories than
sedentary dieters who attempt to lose weight without
initiating a work-out program. Diets that provide less than
800 calories per day also could result in heart rhythm
abnormalities, which can be fatal. Diet plans are commonly
found in magazines as well as the more common weight loss
centers which some supply you with foods to eat and others
inform you and assist you in making wise food choices.
Whatever weight loss program is chosen the consumer will be
required to move more and eat less which can be a common
misconception in overweight people wanting to lose weight.

The reason these foods are thought to be fattening is that
people tend to eat large portions and add toppings such as
sour cream, butter and mayonnaise, which are very high in
fat. Dieters can eat smaller portions of starches flavored
with herbs, spices and other low-fat toppings and still
lose weight. The old cholesterol-laden version used whole
eggs, full-fat whipping cream and half-and-half, and about
276 calories, 15 grams of fat, 9 grams of saturated fat and
184 milligrams of cholesterol in just one serving.
Modified, this tangy dessert has only one-tenth of the fat
and 100 calories fewer than the original. Because there are
so many, it can become confusing when trying to select the
best wrinkle cream possible. One important factor is read
the labels.

Five ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled
spirits provide 100 calories. But alcohol provides few, if
any, nutrients, so if you drink alcoholic beverages and
want to reduce your weight, consider reducing or
eliminating your alcohol intake. Vegetarian diets can
provide the recommended daily amount of all the key
nutrients if you choose foods carefully. Plants, especially
fruits and vegetables, are the main source of nutrients in
vegetarian diets. If you have questions not answered here,
or if you want to lose weight, talk to your health care
provider. A registered dietitian or other qualified health
professional can give you advice on how to follow a healthy
eating plan, lose weight safely and keep it off.

Eating reasonable amounts of natural fats coming from foods
like avocados, nuts, and seeds may help you lose more
weight by getting you fuller faster and providing the
healthy fats your body needs. Joslin Diabetes Center and
the Joslin Clinic recommend a diet that provides 40% of
total calories from carbohydrate, 30-35% from fat and
20-30% from protein for overweight/obese patients who are
at risk for diabetes or who have diabetes. Weight loss for
people in these groups is very important for their health
yet it can be very difficult for people with diabetes to
lose weight. A basic nutritional knowledge tells us that
proteins repair and rebuild cells, carbohydrates energize
cells and fats provide hormonal foundation for cells.
Though the macro-nutrition must remain balanced to maintain
optimum health, the calories must cycle to keep the
metabolism from slowing down.

All the above are examples of what can affect the way you
lose and/or gain weight. No matter what we do in life, the
key to your health is nutrition. Please think about the
foods you eat and if you can digest them. Whether it is
through food and/or supplements, you need to make a
decision and follow it through to the end!

----------------------------------------------------
Another informative article from Chuck Arnone dealing with
our health & nutrition.
http://www.provitaminliquid.com

Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Research and Methods Increase

Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Research and Methods Increase
Each year in America, there are millions of traumatic brain
injuries (TBIs) that severely debilitate citizens from a
number of common, everyday activities that often depend on
the severity of their injury.

According to the National Institute of Neurological
Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), common TBI disabilities
include difficulties with cognition — affecting
memory and reasoning; communication through expression and
understanding; sensory processing, affecting the five
senses in various combinations and ways; behavior and
mental health problems ranging from personality changes to
increased aggression to social inappropriateness; and TBI
can also cause an individual to become unresponsive and
even fall into a coma.

The seriousness for which TBI can range and the length of
time these disabilities affect a victim is based on the
severity of the injury, and while there are several common
treatments, a large number of individuals suffering from
TBI are never fully rehabilitated. Luckily, with advances
in technology a breadth of emerging alternative treatments
and research methods are being developed to help lessen and
even cure the ill effects of a severe brain injury.

A Tidal Wave of Brain Injury Treatment Research

The U.S. National Institute of Health currently monitors
and recruits over 150 clinical trials for TBI victims
ranging from preventing epilepsy in a victim after TBI to
continued research for Vietnam head injuries to TBI-related
hormone deficiency treatments of adults.

Testing For TBI Injuries Gets a One-Up

One of the most recent TBI research studies was completed
by senior author and neurology professor at UT Southwestern
in Dallas, Ramon Diaz-Arrastia, M.D., Ph.D. Diaz-Arrastia
along with other researchers developed a method for a new
technique of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analyzation.
The study will help individuals who suffer from an
overlooked condition called diffuse axonal injury (DAI).

According to researchers, DAI is a type of brain injury
that affects axons, which are a type of nerve cell. The
injury occurs when something happens to disrupt movement of
the head, such as in an automobile accident. Even modern
day computerized tomography scans or MRIs are not
adequately capable of detecting the damage done by a DAI.
Scientists use a technique in this method deriving from a
mathematical analysis known as diffusion tensor
tractography where water, which has been released by
damaged axons, is monitored to determine healthy axons,
which absorb water, compared to dead axons, which release
water when they die.

Similarly, neurologists discovered a new method of brain
scanning that helps to identify and measure brain activity
in real time to more accurately assess injury while
increasing ability to more adequately diagnose and treat a
TBI patient. The scan is known as magnetoencephalography
(MEG) and allows victims who suffer from TBI-induced
epilepsy to find reprieve through more accurate diagnosis
and monitoring.

According to Anto Bagic, M.D., a neurologist at the Center
for Advanced Brain Magnetic Source Imaging at UPMC in
Pittsburgh, who was recently quoted in news reports, the
imaging scan allows for thousands of magnetic field samples
of brain activity to be recorded every second, which is
unlike any other scan. Additionally, when using a
combination of the MEG scan with magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI), it will enable neurosurgeons to have a detailed map
of the brain allowing them to remove damaged tissues and
keep healthy tissue intact.

Cognitive Developmental Methods

One of the most researched and augmented methods of
treatment for TBI deals with cognitive repair and it's
controversy is often discussed among the science and
medical community. Many argue that permanent injuries
cannot be changed, however, as researchers are learning, it
is becoming more noted that the winning side of this
argument sees that once thought as a permanent injury can
actually be reversed. A recent study completed by the
Laboratoire de Neurobiologie des Processus Adaptatifs found
exactly this when TBI victims that suffered from brain
damage are likely to have the ability to restore cerebral
function.

Scientists found that by development of a small amount of
new and specifically targeted innervations proves
successful in restoring cerebral functions. Reinnervation
is when nerve function restoration occurs, often through
nerve grafting. The scientists found that with behavioral
tests, there was a high success rate of new cell axons
"interacting with the network of undamaged neuronal cells
to restore their associated functions, such as synchronized
movement and spatial orientation," according to a Science
Daily news report. Previously, researchers were using a
large amount of non-specific connections when attempting
reinnervation.

Uncovering Controversial Drug Treatments

There are a multitude of medications available on the
market that allegedly treat of a TBI injury, however, as
dangerous medications slip onto shelves and under the radar
of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) it is
important to research and understand any and all
medications prescribed after a TBI accident.

An example of semi-controversial drug treatments comes from
a recent research team at the Hangzhou Normal University.
Researchers there concluded a study that uncovered a common
component found in progesterone, which is a contraceptive
pill, "may actually improve the neurological outcome for
patients with severe head injuries." The team, supervised
by Weiqi Yan, a professor, that the female hormone may be a
safe and effective treatment, although the test could not
expand on the neuroprotective effects. However, the results
did conclude that progesterone was adequate in treating
individuals with a TBI for up to six months.

Likewise, a rather interestingly and debatable study by a
group of physicians reported on the link of alcohol blood
content levels among TBI patients who survived. The
physicians recently discovered that patients who had a low-
to moderate-level of alcohol in their bloodstreams after
arriving at the hospital because of a TBI-related accident
were less likely to die or become worse because of the
alcohol, which physicians believe to act as a
neuroprotective. Neuroprotection occurs after a
brain-related injury and happens when a mechanism in the
nervous system protects cells and neurons within the brain
from degeneration.

However, individuals with a significantly high amount of
blood alcohol in their system were more likely at risk for
death. But the study suggested an interesting method that
may be explored where administering small doses of alcohol
into patients of TBI upon arrival may improve their
outcome. Although the authors of this study were extremely
hesitant in clarifying their results, and research will
likely continue for extremely injured TBI victims.

Protecting and Healing TBI Victims

Because TBI is so prevalent in the United States it is
important to understand that there is are vast plentitude
of causes of brain injury as well as types of brain
injuries, symptoms and treatments. The best way to protect
an individual suffering from TBI is to consult a medical
professional immediately. Once a victim has been diagnosed,
it will be apparent that medical bills can quickly
calculate to large sums of money, which is why speaking
with an experienced traumatic brain injury law firm is also
just as important to protect and heal a brain injury victim.

----------------------------------------------------
Visit the brain injury causes and treatment homepage at
http://brain-injury.legalview.com/ . Or peruse other legal
issues on the LegalView homepage, http://www.LegalView.com
, such as the recent discovery of levaquin side effects,
which include tendon injury, or the latest on the Chantix
recall.

How to Relax and Relieve Stress

How to Relax and Relieve Stress
How often do you feel stressed? If you're like most of us,
it's several times a day.

What do you think this is doing to your body? Are you
noticing signs of excessive stress in your body or hoping
they don't start appearing?

Well most of us are not in a position to simply get rid of
the stresses we're under. So how can we deal them so our
health is not negatively affected, or how do we help our
bodies heal so we can deal with the many stresses we face
every day?

The answer for me was tai chi chuan (taijiquan). I started
studying 7 years ago and I feel better today than I did 20
years ago. I've learned that just a little regular
practice can go a long way toward helping me deal with
life's stressful situations and toward making me feel good.

According to several medical research studies, tai chi is a
true aerobic exercise. Practicing it will oxygenate your
blood and it's one of the many ways tai chi helps your body
heal itself.

The focus you'll use while practicing this gentle form of
exercise and energy movement also has an incredible impact
on lowering your stress level, making you physically and
emotionally able to better deal with stress. In effect it
raises your resistance to many of the negative affects of
stress.

Image yourself in a stressful situation you recently faced.
How do you feel? Is your blood pressure elevated? How
are you dealing with this stress right now? Remember
you're not actually facing it, you're only remembering it.

Now imagine yourself calmly moving in a rhythmic fashion as
you relax your body and breathe deeply. Relax, take a
moment and imagine this, and then notice how you're
feeling. Is your blood pressure down? Are you feeling
better? Image how you'd feel if you were actually doing
tai chi.

Tai chi has helped me, many people I know, and is more
available now than ever before. Take a look around and see
if there is a good tai chi school nearby.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of
everything; they just make the most of everything that
comes along their way. The brightest future will always be
based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life
until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.
That's what I say!

----------------------------------------------------
posted by John Crewdson -
http://www.beginningtaichi.net/blog
Experience Bursts of Tai Chi(TM) cick here -
http://tinyurl.com/3n9zj8

Instant Herbal Remedy for Bug Bites and Stings

Instant Herbal Remedy for Bug Bites and Stings
In the spring and summer your kids - and you too- are more
likely to be running around outside barefoot or rolling and
playing in the grass. Getting an insect bite or sting can
put an end to these happy go lucky times. This quick and
easy bug bite and sting natural remedy never fails to work
and to get the kids back on track for more outdoor
adventures.

To squelch a bug bite or sting:

Quickly find a broad leaf plantain leaf - these are easily
found as they are weeds in almost all grassy areas. (This
is one plant I would choose not to eradicate from my lawn
because of its medicinal benefits.) It is low growing, dark
green and broad, with "ribs" on the leaf - please look it
up in a plant identification book if you are not sure.

Chew up the leaf - the action of salvia activates its sting
stopping powers. (If you are afraid to chew it up then bite
on it to break the skin and mix it with some of your
salvia.)

Place the chewed up plantain leaf on the bug bite or sting.
Almost immediately the pain will stop. You or your child
can hold the plantain mass in place while you go inside and
get the rest of the remedy.

Find your comfrey tincture (you do have a good herbal first
aid kit, right?), a big Band-Aid (my kids preferred using a
gauze pad and first aid tape - so much more dramatic).

Leaving the plantain mass in place, secure it with the
Band-Aid or gauze and first aid tape. Once secured, dribble
some comfrey tincture under the dressing and on the sting.
The comfrey is soothing and cool and takes away any
lingering pain, stinging or discomfort.

Leave on until it falls off later that day or the next
morning. If it is a particularly bad bite or sting, you may
need to put a fresh plantain/comfrey dressing on the next
day.

This remedy has never failed and prevents infections from
the bite or sting. The best thing is how much it seems to
empower the children (and adults too!). If someone around
them gets a bug bite or sting the kids are the first ones
to find the plantain (so be sure you teach them to be able
to accurately identify it) and they show up beaming and
full of compassion - "Don't worry. It's OK --we have the
plantain!"

----------------------------------------------------
Mary Ann Copson is the founder of Evenstar Herbs and the
Evenstar Mood & Energy Wellness Center. With Master's
Degrees in Human Development and Psychology and Counseling,
Mary Ann is a Certified Licensed Nutritionist; Certified
Holistic Health Practitioner; Brain Chemistry Profile
Clinician. Find more herbal remedies at
http://evenstaronline.com/herbs

Your Office Sucks You Dry Of Energy, Of Course, You Will Not Workout

Your Office Sucks You Dry Of Energy, Of Course, You Will Not Workout
Energy leeches are everywhere. Lack of energy is such a
common reason for not training by many busy professionals.

You get to mid afternoon and you are running on empty
already and it has only been a few hours since lunch and
your are tired, irritable and frustrated at your lack of
productivity. Going for a workout? Yeah right, your going
home to crash on the couch!

Procrastination is the number one reason cited by people
for not working out, your low energy levels contribute even
more to your procrastination.

Your common energy leeches include, your computer monitor,
the constant barrage of phone calls, or your boss giving
you stress on the latest deadlines. This sucks you dry
leaving you empty and ready for a night in doing nothing
but feeling sorry for yourself. When you don't go and do
your workout, you'll feel even more deflated lowering your
energy levels yet further.

But going to do a workout can actually give you energy!
"yeah right Tim, now you really are talking rubbish!"
Seriously, despite the physical exertion of the workout, or
participating in your sport, the outcome can be a serious
injection of positive energy. The body responds very well
to physical activity, at certain intensities your body will
stimulate the production of endorphins which give you that
feel good glow after a particularly tough workout. This in
itself becomes addictive.

Also by blocking out the energy drains, reducing the time
spent answering the phone, or staring at your computer
monitor, AND, promoting the energy boosts, eating the right
foods, drinking water regularly and never missing a
workout, you'll quickly be full of energy again.

Jon, a very busy executive from a key multinational firm
hated his workouts, at first it was a real struggle to get
him in for our appointments. After a few particularly tough
workouts I started to see Jon in the gym outside of our
pre-arranged sessions. This then developed to almost every
day in the gym. When questioned about this, he simply said
with a smile "I still hate my workouts, I just love the
feeling of finishing!"

This endorphin rush is quite real and can be brought about
easily with workouts at high enough intensities. Many
workouts I see being performed in the gym are just too slow
and ineffective, whats more the low intensity will not give
even a hint of the endorphin hit we are looking for,
instead we are usually bored, demotivated and are
desperately hanging on till the end of your workout.

Doing resistance based workouts with heavy weights for
short repetition ranges are the opposite, and for guys
gives a testosterone boost as well as the endorphin rush. A
workout that utilises large muscle groups, such as squats,
deadlift, push ups, rows and lunges will kick off an
endorphin rush for both male and female exercisers.

Females fear not the bulky muscles, you don't have the
chemical makeup to achieve this, guys work hard and you'll
lose the gut as well as boost your sporting performances
too!

Start today, by getting down to the gym and getting the
advice of a trained fitness professional to show you the
correct form for these fundamental exercises. I promise you
you'll view your workouts with more energy than ever before!

----------------------------------------------------
For a highly effective resistance workout and other time
saving exercises, claim your free e-report "How to lose
weight even when you are really busy" at
http://www.corporateathletehandbook.com/ . Tim Goodwin is
author of The Corporate Athlete Conditioning Handbook and a
fitness professional from Luxembourg, training the busiest
individuals to achieve amateur sporting success and a
healthier body.

The Essential Herbs for Diabetics

The Essential Herbs for Diabetics
India has one of the lowest rates of diabetes and much has
to do with the type of food, particularly the spices used
in cooking such as turmeric, curry and chili powder. In
fact it has been shown that these spices can help diabetics
regulate their blood sugar.

Here is a list of essential herbs which you should take to
help you lower your blood sugar, control your cholesterol
and may even help you lose weight:

Gymnema Sylvestre is one herb that has been used in India
for centuries to treat both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. It
is a plant that grows in the tropical regions of India. In
one study 400 mg of Gymnema extract was given to 22 type 2
diabetic patients along with their oral medications. All of
them experienced improved blood glucose control and 5 of
them were able to discontinue their drug use. Direct
application of this herb to the tongue helps people eat
fewer calories at a meal. It enhances the action of
insulin. Recommended dosage is 200 mg two times a day.

Bitter Melon as the name implies is not easy to take. It's
a cucumber like plant that grows in Asia, South America and
Africa. It's strength lies in its ability to lower blood
sugar. Just 2 ounces of the juice was shown to improve
glucose levels in 73% of type 2 diabetics.

Fenugreek seeds were often used in folk medicine to treat
diabetes. In order to lower blood sugar, about 15 to 50
grams twice daily is needed. The active ingredient is the
soluble fiber along with the alkaloid trigonelline. It
helps both type 1 and type 2 diabetics. Considering its
bitterness, it's not very palatable to swallow in capsule
form. Use is as a condiment or as a spice like the East
Indians use.

Salt Bush is native to the Middle East. Just 3 grams taken
daily has shown to provide improved blood sugar regulation
in type 2 diabetes.

Bilberry, known as European blueberry, was used in France
since 1945 to treat retinopathy, the deterioration of the
retina in the eye, one of the many complications from
diabetes. It protects the macula of the diabetic eye. Many
diabetics have found improved vision using supplements from
80 to 16o mg 3 times a day.

Gingkgo Biloba is one of the oldest living trees that has
survived over 200 million years. So adaptable one survived
the nuclear blast in Hiroshima. Over a thousand scientific
studies have been done over the last 40 years showing the
value of ginkgo biloba in effective treatment of diabetes.
The extract is widely prescribed in Europe today. It's an
effective antioxidant. It improves the body's circulation
and expands the small capillaries that nourish the
extremities in the eyes, hands and feet. It inhibits the
stickiness of cells, and helps reduces inflammation and
allergic responses. It improves overall circulation in the
body.

Ginseng is one of the oldest herbs known. It helps to lower
blood pressure and can even raise it if it is too low. Just
3 grams before a meal can reduce blood sugar spikes in type
2 diabetics. American ginseng helps to stimulate the beta
cells of the pancreas and thus increase the output of
insulin. Native Americans often used the herb. Korean
ginseng increases insulin sensitivity and helps lower blood
sugar. One of its interesting side effect is the
improvement of sexual function.

These are just some of the major herbs that can help you
control your blood sugar. Consider using them to help you
fight the disease and avoid the complications that often
afflict many diabetics.

----------------------------------------------------
Mario Carini is a diabetic and treats the condition through
natural means. One of the best products he has tried is
Optimum Diabetics. You can find out about the product here:
http://www.optimumdiabetics.com/?aid=745693

13 Tips for Sweet Cravings Control on Your Diabetes or Weight Loss Plan

13 Tips for Sweet Cravings Control on Your Diabetes or Weight Loss Plan
If you find yourself always wanting something sweet or
craving chocolate try these tips to help reach your
diabetes or weight control goals.

1. Try fresh fruit for morning snacks, dessert after lunch
and with supper. Be sure to choose fruit in season for
best taste. Frozen is the next best when fresh is not
available. Fruit is very helpful in weight loss because it
has a high water content, and average of 2 grams of fiber
per serving, and low calories.

2. Dried fruits are a great source of fiber also but add up
quicker in the calories. For example 12-15 grapes =2 Tbsp
raisins. So you can grab a handful of grapes for fewer than
100 calories but a handful of raisins will be twice the
calories.

3. Fruits are also great source of potassium, which helps
lower blood pressure.

4. For sweets cravings plan a sweet in for an afternoon or
evening snack daily if needed. This is better than
depriving yourself and eventually overeating that food.

5. We all have our foods that we simply have no power over
portion control. Mine is French silk chocolate ice cream.
I have found it works better to buy it only 2-3 times a
year and not worry about my overeating for the short time
it takes me to finish it off!

6. For the chocolate craving try dark chocolate. It seems
to satisfy the craving with a smaller amount.

7. If you are on-the-go you can also set a rule in your
house that any sweets need to be homemade. When you have
less time you are less likely to have made something sweet,
but when you do at least you will really enjoy it and
appreciate the taste more! You will also be getting less
preservatives and additives with homemade sweets.

8. For many people ice cream is a favorite bedtime snack.
An average bowl of ice cream with 3 scoops will be at least
400 calories. You could use a cake cone instead and reduce
the calories in half. Some find it easier to just go out
once or twice a week for an ice cream treat instead of
having it in the house for easy access.

9. Donuts will cost you about 200-300 calories each. If
your office likes to have donuts around, suggest some
alternatives such as fruit, bran muffins, small whole grain
bagels, yogurt & granola, or any other healthier
alternative.

10. Sugar-free foods may not be a better option but they
are okay in limited amounts. Usually they are made with an
artificial sweetener or sugar alcohol. Sugar-free foods are
not always lower in calories and may not satisfy the sweet
craving. This really has to be a personal choice. I
recommend using artificial sweeteners in limited amounts
even though they are FDA approved to be safe.

11. Using regular sugar, honey, jelly or syrup is okay -
especially when they are homemade. A teaspoon averages only
20 calories and remember - people do not get diabetes from
eating sugar unless they are eating so much that they gain
weight.

12. Portion control on the sweets is very important. Here
are some comparisons on calories. Examples of a 100
calorie serving of candy would be a snack size candy bar, 4
chocolate kisses, or 4 Smarties rolls.

13. Beware! Pie is usually quite high calorie. The lowest
calorie pies are pumpkin and strawberry at about 250
calories per slice and one of the highest is pecan pie at
450 calories per slice.

----------------------------------------------------
Karen Marschel, RD, LD, CDE is a registered licensed
dietitian and certified diabetes educator with 15 years
experience helping clients lose weight and manage diabetes.
She offers online personalized weight loss and diabetes
prevention programs. Sign up for her free newsletter at her
website http://www.DietMN.com .