How To Protect Allergy Sufferers In Your Home

For those who suffer from allergies the spring season comes much too soon. It's a time when allergy symptoms can be at their worst. Pollen levels rise during the spring as trees and flowers begin to bloom causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion.
Thankfully, there's no place like home to escape from these airborne allergens. Or is there? Dust, mold and other allergens can also make a home seem unbearable for allergy sufferers.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce these irritants and make your home a haven from outdoor pollen and mould spore attacks.
There are a number of preventative steps that the estimated one in five Canadians who suffer from allergies can take to reduce the number of allergens in their living spaces. The most effective and simple steps involve sanitizing your environment with a thorough cleaning.
If you don't want outdoor pollen, dust, dust mites and mould to be "at home" with you, here are a few suggestions:
In the bedroom, discourage dust mites by encasing mattresses, pillows and box springs in airtight or allergen-proof casings and/or regularly vacuum them. Sheets should be washed weekly in hot water to kill dust mites. Use comforters and pillows made of synthetic fiber and replace synthetic pillows every two or three years.
In the bathroom, the biggest problem may be mold. Wash the tile behind the tub, shower doors and around the sink with an anti-fungal cleaner. Replace vinyl shower curtain liners regularly.
Wash curtains, drapes, bedding and children's stuffed animals in hot water to eliminate dust.
Keep pets and their animal danders out of bedrooms.
Keep furnishings, household decorations and collections of knickknacks to a minimum. The fewer surfaces on which dust can collect, the easier your home will be to clean.
Get rid of house plants. They are a major source of mould and dust.
Remove carpets and replace them with tiled or wooden floors.
Have furnaces serviced, ducts cleaned and appropriate filters put on the furnace and the vents. Keep humidifiers and air conditioners clean.
For more information on coping with allergies contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

Allergy Season Alert: How To Avoid Seasonal Allergy Triggers

While there is unfortunately no cure for allergies, you may be able to prevent the onset of allergic symptoms by avoiding the things that can set off an allergic reaction.
Seasonal allergy "triggers" include pollen and sometimes mold spores. Airborne pollen, which is responsible for seasonal allergy symptoms in the millions of Canadians who suffer from "hay fever", is very hard to avoid. That's because pollen from many sources is prominent at various times of the year.
Pollen levels rise during the spring as trees and flowers begin to bloom causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion. It is so light that it turns up miles from where it originated, including high in the atmosphere and far out to sea.
Mold spores take to the air both indoors and outdoors, wherever mold may be growing. Rotting vegetation may be the source, or mold can develop in damp, dark places, such as attics, basements, garbage containers, or refrigerators. In Canada, outdoor molds send their spores airborne after the spring thaw and through October.
Here are some helpful tips on avoiding these allergy triggers from the experts at Claritin:
Stay inside when the pollen count is high (especially between 5 AM and 10 AM, when it is typically at its highest), and keep windows and doors closed.
Rely on air conditioners for clean air, and change the filter regularly.
Outside the home, seek out air-conditioned environments for your leisure activities when condition are ripe for high pollen count (low humidity, windy days).
If you enjoy gardening or doing yard work consider using a filter mask.
When traveling by car, keep the windows closed and use the air conditioner. It's important to have the air conditioner checked and cleaned.
Keep your home as allergy free as possible so it provides a haven in which to recover.
If you already have pets wash them regularly and never allow them in the bedroom.
To get a better idea of what the pollen levels will be when planning outdoor activities, check the Claritin Pollen Forecast every 28 minutes past the hour on the Weather Network.
For more information on how to control allergies this season call 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

How To Weed Out Allergy Attacks While Gardening

Did you know that gardening is the second most popular physical activity for Canadians?
According to the experts, all that pulling and digging makes your heart, lungs and muscles strong. Stretching and bending increases your flexibility. It's good for the soul. There's no better feeling than watching a seedling burst from a tiny seed.
Gardening can give you constant rewards such as fresh vegetables or beautiful flowers and a well cared for lawn is a great source of pride.
For gardening enthusiasts, the spring does not come soon enough. For those who suffer seasonal allergies, it comes too soon. Pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, as well as mould spores in warmer months cause sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes and nasal congestion. In severe cases, sore throats and coughs can develop.
Here's a quick list of important pollen sources to be aware of when gardening:
Trees (oak, elm, birch, hickory, cottonwood, maple, ash)
Grasses (meadow fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, orchard, timothy, redtop, Bermuda)
Weeds (ragweed, cocklebur, marsh elder, sagebrush, mugwort, pigweed and tumbleweed).
You may be able to limit the numbers of allergy attacks you have by staying indoors and installing air purifiers in your home. But for Canadians who can't wait to get their hands dirty in the outdoors effective non-drowsy antihistamine medications like Claritin can help control your allergy symptoms and make you more comfortable without the drowsiness that accompanies other antihistamine treatments.
The more you know about your allergy the better you can control it. For the most up to date forecast of seasonal allergy triggers in your area watch for the Claritin Pollen Report on the Weather Network. Using the latest meteorological data, the 60-second report provides pollen level estimates for the coming 24 hours - in addition to current tree, grass and ragweed pollen levels. You can catch the report 24 hours a day on the Weather Network at 28 minutes past the hour.
So if you love to watch the flowers bloom but hate allergies keep track of the pollen count and ask your pharmacist to help you dig up the treatment that's right for you.

Facts About Allergies For Parents

Did you know that more than 20 percent of school-age children suffer from allergies. A condition that, if not diagnosed properly, can interfere with a child's ability to concentrate.
In fact, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, allergies account for 2 million missed school days each year, and on any given day more than 10,000 children are absent from school due to troublesome allergy symptoms. In Canada, this represents approximately 200,000 missed school days and more than 1,000 children missing school on any given day because of allergies. Allergies can have a significant impact on a child's quality of life.
Fortunately, the allergy experts at Claritin, the leader in the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergies, have developed appropriate information to help parents determine whether a child suffers from allergies.
For instance, if one parent has allergies, chances are one in three that a child will have an allergy, and if both parents have allergies the chance jumps to seven in 10.
By providing parents with the appropriate information, they will be better equipped to consult with their healthcare provider and set up an appropriate system to help avoid a child's allergy triggers.
It can be hard for parents to distinguish between colds and allergies without help, because many symptoms of each are similar.
The casual misdiagnosis that "it's just a cold" can result in unnecessary suffering for the child with allergies. Here are some common allergy symptoms parents should look for:
A runny or stuffy nose and constant sneezing
Breathing through the mouth or snoring, due to a stuffy nose
Itchy nose, eyes, or skin
Rubbing the nose upward with the palm of the hand (also known as the "allergy salute")
Watery eyes or dark circles under the eyes
Headaches, earaches, or hearing problems
Changes in behavior; children may be irritable or hyperactive
Once a physician has determined that a child has allergies, parents should know there are treatment options available to ease the symptoms including avoidance of allergy triggers, allergy shots, and/or medications. One medication in particular, Claritin Syrup is learning friendly for children. It is the only non-sedating antihistamine for children to treat both seasonal and year-round allergies without causing drowsiness.
For more information on allergies and their effect on learning contact 1-800-665-1507 or visit www.claritin.ca.

Clean, Treat & Protect - The 3 'Musts' Of Wound Care

A recent Ipsos-Reid survey indicated that an overwhelming majority of Canadians have a lot to learn when it comes to treating minor wounds. A staggering 88 per cent of Canadians incorrectly believe that a wound heals best when left uncovered to 'breathe' or air out, and 92 per cent mistakenly think scabs are a healthy part of the healing process.
"The best way to protect a wound is to cover it with a bandage until fully healed. Bandages that absorb a wounds fluid and maintain a natural moisture balance are ideal for healing and enables skin cells to migrate together to form new tissue," says Dr. Kevin C. Moran, Scarborough General Hospital. "Letting a wound scab actually slows this process and can lead to unsightly scars and increased discomfort and pain, especially for children."
The results of the survey should help to dispel the myths held by millions of Canadians and shed light on the proper procedures to follow when caring for minor cuts and scrapes. Following BAND-AID® Brand's easy-to-remember "Clean, Treat & Protect" regimen will help maximize the healing process.
Clean, Treat & Protect calls for all minor wounds to be thoroughly cleansed with an antiseptic wash as soon as possible to remove dirt, then treated with an antibiotic ointment to stave off possible infection and lastly protected with a bandage until the wound is fully healed. According to the survey, 56 per cent of Canadians do not clean their wounds with an antiseptic wash and only half (50 per cent) even bother to apply a bandage.
"No matter how small the cut, Canadians need to be educated about proper wound care procedures and understand that it is essential in minimizing the risk of infection," says Moran. "With summer being the time of year when minor wounds are most prevalent, as children and adults alike become more physically active, the news comes at the right time."

Testing Your Knowledge About Von Willebrand Disease

A survey conducted by Leger Marketing in February 2002 showed that Canadians are more likely to identify von Willebrand as a German car, an Austrian coat of arms, or a school of mathematics before it's true definition. Only seven per cent of Canadians chose the correct answer - the most common inherited bleeding disorder.
Take this quiz to test your own knowledge of von Willebrand Disease:
Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) affects only women. (True/False)

FALSE - VWD can be inherited from either parent and affects both males and females. Females may have more symptoms because of menstruation and childbirth.
Easy bruising is a symptom of VWD. (True/False)

TRUE - Easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, heavy periods and prolonged bleeding after injury, surgery, childbirth or dental work are all symptoms of VWD.
Hemophilia is more common than VWD. (True/False)

FALSE - VWD is the most common bleeding disorder. Research shows that as many as 300,000 Canadians could have VWD. By comparison, only 2,400 people in Canada have hemophilia. Most people with VWD are not diagnosed because awareness of this bleeding disorder is low, even among physicians. In addition, many people with this condition assume it is "normal" to bleed a lot.
There is no cure for VWD.

TRUE - It is a lifelong condition. Fortunately, there are safe, effective treatments for all types of VWD, once you are diagnosed.
Routine blood tests can detect VWD.

FALSE - Diagnosing VWD is not easy. Routine blood tests do not provide enough information for a diagnosis. In fact, routine blood tests will often give normal results in people who have the bleeding disorder. Specialized blood tests have to be ordered by a hematologist.
To learn more about von Willebrand Disease, visit the Canadian Hemophilia Society Web site at www.hemophilia.ca or call the toll-free number at 1-800-668-2686.

Thirsting For Summer? Stay Hydrated To Enjoy Hot Summer Days

After a long, cold winter, Canadians can't wait for summer! But often, summertime, welcome as it is, can bring sweltering heat and unbearable humidity, which can lead to dehydration.
Canadians need to be prepared for hot summer days. The most important thing to remember is to drink plenty of fluids to keep the body hydrated.
"For some people, drinking eight or ten glasses of water a day is hard to do. I encourage people who have difficulty drinking so much water to supplement their water intake with other fluids they enjoy drinking, like juices and lemonade - focusing on beverages without caffeine or alcohol," says Sandra Edwards, Registered Dietitian and Sports Nutritionist.
Canadians, it seems, understand the importance of hydration because beverage sales peak during the dog days of summer.
"Our Aquafina bottled water sales are never better than they are on hot summer days," says Michael Hartman, Vice President of Marketing, Pepsi-Cola Canada Ltd. "Iced tea is also a big hit, and so is lemonade. When it gets really hot out, there's nothing quite like a tall, cool glass of Brisk Lemonade to quench your thirst."
When the body sweats, it not only loses vital moisture but essential minerals too, including potassium, a mineral found in abundance in fruits and vegetables. Eating healthy snacks replenishes minerals and helps absorb and retain fluids. So, remember to stock up on fresh summer fruits and veggies to stay hydrated and refreshed.
Even at work, you can dry out in the summertime. Just because air-conditioned environments keep you cool, doesn't mean you're safe from dehydration. Climate-controlled buildings can zap body's vital moisture. So sip on refreshing drinks, like water, iced-teas or lemonade all work-day long.

Canadians Not Heeding Doctors' Sun Safety Advice

Although more than 90 per cent of Canadian family doctors feel that the combination of wearing a wide brimmed hat in conjunction with sunscreen is an effective method of protection against the sun's rays, only 21 per cent of Canadians wear a wide brimmed hat every time they go outdoors, according to a recent poll of Canadian family doctors and the general population. Surprising news, considering that the poll also showed that 94 per cent of Canadians feel it is important to protect their skin against the sun's rays, including 73 per cent who feel it is very important. The poll was sponsored by Tilley Endurables as part of its ongoing sun safety awareness education program.
"Even though we live in Canada, everyone should still be protecting their skin against the sun's rays," says Dr. Charlene Linzon, dermatologist. "Skin diseases caused by sun exposure in Canada are on the rise, yet Canadians remain reluctant to practice proper sun safety measures."
Doctors know best

Despite ongoing education efforts, Canadians are not making sun safety practices part of their everyday lives. Family doctors continue to see many patients with skin conditions as a result of sun exposure, according to the poll. As a result of exposure to the sun, doctors most often see sunburns (61 per cent), skin cancer (49 per cent), and premature aging or wrinkles (40 per cent). Doctors say that an average of 71 per cent of these conditions could be avoided if patients use sun protection such as sunscreen in conjunction with a wide brimmed hat.
"Despite awareness of the dangers of sun exposure - even when outside for only a short time or on a cloudy day - people still think that sunburns can't happen to them. It's also surprising how many adults don't take the time to protect themselves, even if they do practice sun safety with their kids," says Dr. Linzon. "By simply avoiding peak sun hours, and using simple sun safety measures such as applying effective sunscreens and wearing wide brimmed hats - which dramatically reduce the harmful impact of the sun's rays - Canadians can safely enjoy time spent outdoors."
Wisdom comes with age

Of the Canadians polled, older people are more likely than others to feel it is very important to protect their skin from the sun's rays and as a result are more devoted to their sun safety practices. Eighty-one per cent of respondents aged 65 and older feel it is very important to protect their skin from they sun's rays, compared to 61 per cent of respondents aged 18-24. Additionally, older Canadians are more likely to wear a wide brimmed hat usually or every time they go outdoors - 55 per cent of those 55 and older, compared to 36 per cent of respondents aged 18-24.
"Sun safety is important at every age and you don't need to be 'sunbathing' to be affected by the sun's rays," says Dr. Linzon. "It is particularly important for young Canadians to protect themselves from the sun, as melanoma - one of three types of skin cancer - is the fourth most common cancer among those aged 15-34, and can be lethal if not detected and treated early. In addition, young people especially don't seem to realize that wrinkles and signs of premature aging result from the sun, and that a baseball cap doesn't give your face the protection it needs. Children, teens and young adults need adequate sun protection such as using sunscreen, protective clothing and wide brimmed hats."
Listen to your mother; practice sun safety like your dad!

In the battle of the sexes, of those polled, women are more likely than men to feel protecting their skin from the sun's rays is very important (80 per cent versus 65 per cent respectively). However, women are not practicing sun safety to the same extent as men.
Fifty-one per cent of men report they wear a wide brimmed hat usually or every time they go outdoors, compared to 45 per cent of women.
"Although women are aware of the conditions caused by sun exposure, particularly wrinkles and premature aging, and are aware of the importance of protecting one's skin, they are not as diligent about sun protection for themselves," says Dr. Linzon. "Regardless of their excuse, whether it be convenience, time or fashion, women need to make sun safety part of a daily health regimen."
Tilley Hats and the finest of travel and adventure clothing can be purchased at family-owned Tilley Endurables stores or at a local Tilley retailer near you, by phone-order (1-800-ENDURES), through the Tilley Endurables catalogue, and on-line at www.tilley.com.
The poll, conducted by Pollara and sponsored by Tilley Endurables, is based on interviews conducted with a random sample of 1,205 Canadians 18 years of age and older and 150 general practitioners, between April 1 and April 10, 2002. The results of the sample from the general public are accurate to within +/- 2.9 per cent, while results from the sample of general practitioners are accurate to within +/- 8.1 per cent, nineteen times out of twenty.
Source: Tilley Endurables

Formulate A Summer Skincare Plan

Avoid a summer beauty crisis by properly preparing skin for the warm weather. Summer skin care dilemmas are two-fold - increased dryness due to water loss, wind and sun, as well as increased oil production from outdoor sports and heat. Preparing the face and body for increased outdoor exposure will aid in preventing an onslaught of summer skin dilemmas.
Summer moisturizers should feel light and weightless on your skin. For face, use an oil-free moisturizer that contains a sunscreen. A good product to try is RoC® Retinol Actif Pur Day SPF 15.
Water remains key. Eight, 8-oz glasses a day is the minimum required. Herbal teas can also be substituted for water. These fluids help detoxify the skin and keep it looking moist and dewy.
If you're conscious about cellulite, the use of a body contouring cream such as RoC® Body Contouring Triple Action can help eliminate the appearance of cellulite on thighs, buttocks and hips. While waiting for results, try using a sunless tanner to help conceal cellulite, which tends to be less noticeable on darker skin.
Vitamin supplements are important in maintaining healthy skin. Flaxseed oil is a popular choice as it is good for the skin, the heart and it is also an anti-carcinogenic.
Stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and green salads, which help to replace fluids. Adequate fluid intake helps to keep the system well flushed and removes toxins and wastes. This, in turn, helps keep the skin clear and problem-free.
Looking to rid skin of post-shave bikini line bumps? A simple and effective cure is chamomile tea bags. First, cleanse the area with soap and water. Then lie down and place cool, damp tea bags over the irritated skin. Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory properties, so it is very calming on the skin.
Choose the appropriate sun protection for your skin type. For those with sensitive skin, a good product to try is RoC® Minesol™ SPF 40 - with 100% mineral filters and a rub-proof, water-resistant formula, it's proven to guard even the most sensitive skin against sun damage.
Don't forget to use sunscreen on hands. Hands are exposed to the sun year round, and are the first place on the body to show signs of aging. These signs are often visible in the form of dark spots and sagging skin.
Walk barefoot. It's a good form of massage, helping to strengthen foot muscles, energize aching and tired feet and acts as a natural pumice.

Taking The Sting Out Of Bug Bites

In most cases insect bites are harmless and if left alone, the irritation will subside within 48 hours.
However, for some people, particularly children, scratching bites may lead to a highly contagious bacterial skin infection called impetigo. Left unchecked, impetigo can spread to other parts of the body and even from person to person.
As a family physician, I recommend the following tips to ensure you and your family maximize your summer fun and avoid this irritating skin disease:
Apply an effective insect repellent as directed. As an alternative to chemical-based repellents, I recommend citronella-based products such as Natrapel®, particularly for young children.
Avoid scratching. To calm the itching, traditional products such as calamine lotion may be useful. I also recommend my patients use AfterBite®, a product designed to neutralize the allergens that cause the itch.
Keep fingernails short and clean. The bacteria streptococcal, which causes impetigo, hides under fingernails and enters the body when scratching the bite. Children are more vulnerable to this disease because streptococcal is often found in sand piles where kids play.
Recognize the symptoms. Impetigo is characterized by a red bump on the skin where yellow pus accumulates and dries, leaving a scab that can be itchy.
Protect the infection. Impetigo spreads easily through direct body contact, sharing towels, bedding and clothes. Although it is not a serious disease, it needs immediate attention to stop it from spreading.
Seek treatment. The best way to avoid impetigo is to treat a bug bite as soon as possible. Should impetigo develop, oral antibiotics and antibiotic creams may be required as prescribed by your doctor.
Dr. Brian Aw is a general practitioner, specializing in travel medicine.
For tips on bug bite prevention and product information visit: www.tendercorp.com/canada.
Editors: These articles are for use in Ontario only

Stigma Still Getting In The Way Of Treatment

Mental illness is something that many people still talk about in hushed voices. Those afflicted are frequently embarrassed about their condition, worrying that they will be seen as 'weak' or that others will somehow think less of them. Unfortunately this stigma often stands in the way of open dialogue and understanding. As a result, many sufferers go untreated and/or are subjected to ridicule and discrimination.
Given that so many suffer from mental illness, it's ironic that so few are willing to openly discuss it, and that many still considered the affliction to be 'abnormal'. Here are some more mental health eye-openers:
Major depression is now the world's leading cause of disability
The treatment success rate for schizophrenia is 60 percent, 65 percent for major depression, and 80 percent for bipolar disorder. This compares favorably to rates for heart disease of only 40 - 50 per cent
Stigma and fear still prevent many from seeking out appropriate care.
The media and popular culture continues to discriminate against people with mental illness by painting them as crazed and dangerous, or focusing on isolated violent incidents. The facts, however, prove otherwise. For example, those who suffer from schizophrenia are no more prone to violent behavior than any other member of the general population.
Early intervention and identification of mental illness can help prevent decades of suffering for both patients and families.
For more facts about mental illness and how a book called "Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series" is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

Make The Most Of Summer: Stay Healthy While Having Fun

Canadians are eager to make full use of summer's long days, often at the expense of good health. To enjoy the season, it's important to be prepared. Try to moderate activity on hot days and wear the proper gear to protect the body from sun damage and overheating.
During hot, humid summer months, even Canada's top athletes will train in the cool early morning hours or after dark. Be smart when exercising or playing outdoors: don't push it in hot, muggy weather. Harmful pollutants hang in the air on humid days, making it difficult to breathe. In these conditions, perspiration won't evaporate efficiently, so the body can't cool down. Opt for air-conditioned, indoor workouts whenever possible and remember to replenish fluids.
"Don't underestimate the amount of fluids lost from perspiration on hot summer days," says Sandra Edwards, Registered Dietitian & Sports Nutritionist. "Keep drinking to cool the body and prevent dehydration. You can supplement water with other beverages, like Brisk Lemonade, as long as they don't contain alcohol or caffeine." Take a rest when you need to refresh - a quick breather will help restore energy levels and keep the body cool.
If the mid-day heat is unavoidable, wear the right gear to stay cool. Protect the eyes from the potentially dangerous effects of sunlight by wearing sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. Choose cotton clothing so the body can breathe and perspire freely, opting for light colors that reflect the sun's hot rays. And, it's crucial to keep the head covered on hot summer days. A vented or loose-weave hat will protect from the sun and allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of heat-related illness. And, always remember to wear sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to protect from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Scratching Bug Bites May Sting Your Summer Fun

In most cases insect bites are harmless and if left alone, the irritation will subside within 48 hours.
However, for some people, particularly children, scratching bites may lead to a highly contagious bacterial skin infection called impetigo. Left unchecked, impetigo can spread to other parts of the body and even from person to person.
As a family physician, I recommend the following tips to ensure you and your family maximize your summer fun and avoid this irritating skin disease:
Apply an effective insect repellent as directed. As an alternative to chemical-based repellents, I recommend citronella-based products such as Natrapel®, particularly for young children.
Avoid scratching. To calm the itching, traditional products such as calamine lotion may be useful. I also recommend my patients use AfterBite®, a product designed to neutralize the allergens that cause the itch.
Keep fingernails short and clean. The bacteria streptococcal, which causes impetigo, hides under fingernails and enters the body when scratching the bite. Children are more vulnerable to this disease because streptococcal is often found in sand piles where kids play.
Recognize the symptoms. Impetigo is characterized by a red bump on the skin where yellow pus accumulates and dries, leaving a scab that can be itchy.
Protect the infection. Impetigo spreads easily through direct body contact, sharing towels, bedding and clothes. Although it is not a serious disease, it needs immediate attention to stop it from spreading.
Seek treatment. The best way to avoid impetigo is to treat a bug bite as soon as possible. Should impetigo develop, oral antibiotics and antibiotic creams may be required as prescribed by your doctor.
Dr. Brian Aw is a general practitioner, specializing in travel medicine.
For tips on bug bite prevention and product information visit: www.tendercorp.com/canada.
Editors: These articles are for use in Ontario only

Cuts, Scrapes And Cover-Ups - Canadians and Bandages

Canadians have a lot to learn when it comes to the proper treatment of minor wounds. A recent Ipsos Reid survey commissioned by BAND-AID® Brand dispels the myths held by millions of Canadians and sheds light on the proper procedures to follow when caring for minor cuts and scrapes.
The survey also highlights some other interesting facts, such as what are some of the strangest places people have applied bandages to on their bodies and which Canadian athlete could most use a lifetime supply of bandages? Here's what Canadians have to say:
Toronto Maple Leaf tough guy Tie Domi was the overwhelming choice as the Canadian athlete who could most use a lifetime supply of bandages with almost one-third of the vote (32 per cent).
Domi was followed by ex-pat boxer and world Heavy Weight Champion Lennox Lewis
(17 per cent) and Doug Gilmour (16 per cent) of the Montreal Canadiens.
Hands are the most common place on the body for Canadians to get a cut or scrape (73 per cent).
Surprisingly, one per cent of Canadians surveyed revealed that they don't get cuts or scrapes. Talk about having thick skin!
Some of the oddest parts of the body that Canadians have applied a bandage to include the rear end, the ear and the nose. Makes you wonder what these people were doing at the time!
In addition, the survey revealed that a staggering 88 per cent of Canadians incorrectly believe that a wound heals best when left uncovered to 'breathe' or air out and that 92 per cent mistakenly think scabs are a healthy part of the healing process.
Scabs actually impede the healing process by creating a barrier between healthy skin cells. The cells have to work their way under the scab in order to form new tissue and heal. Scabs can also be easily torn or scratched, causing re-injury.
The best way to protect a wound is to cover it with a bandage until fully healed. Bandages that absorb a wounds fluid and maintain a natural moisture balance are ideal for healing and enables skin cells to migrate together to form new tissue.

Respiratory Help Is Available For Seniors With COPD

As HMOs Continue to Drop Coverage for Seniors - Now Over 500,000 Victims - Those Needing Expensive Respiratory Medication, Support and Homecare Services are the Hardest Hit
One Patient Advocate, Geriatric Services of America, is Providing Relief to Victimized Patients Through a Unique, Often No-Cost Program
More than 536,000 US senior citizens are scrambling to find new doctors or new coverage because their health plans terminated their Medicare managed-care services, according to a Nonrenewal Report issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for the year 2002. Among the hardest hit are seniors in California (84,000), Florida (59,000), Pennsylvania (55,000), New Jersey (53,000), Texas (46,000), and Michigan (31,000), who will be losing coverage in the coming year. Even those with continuing coverage face substantial premium hikes and dwindling drug benefits. Particularly hard hit will be those with chronic illnesses such as respiratory disease, who will bear the brunt of high medication and healthcare costs.
Though all seniors 65 and older are covered by Medicare, those enrolled in managed-care programs agree to see doctors within a limited network and receive additional benefits, such as preventative care and prescription-drug coverage. The current coverage crisis stems from rising delivery costs and limited government reimbursement, as doctors and hospitals increasingly balk at seeing Medicare HMO patients, since they aren't sufficiently reimbursed for their services. Without enough doctors and hospitals providing care, an HMO can't serve its members. The problem is worst in large urban markets, where more than half of Medicare + Choice beneficiaries live nationwide but where reimbursement rate increases have trailed rising costs since 1997.
To compensate for the funding shortfall, premiums for seniors retaining Medicare HMO coverage are expected to spike while benefits dwindle in the coming year. In California's Sacramento-area, for example, monthly premiums for Kaiser Permanente's Senior Advantage Medicare Plan will double from $40 to $80 starting Jan. 1st. Healthnet, following suit, is raising premiums 50 percent, from $40 to $60 per month for its Seniority Plus members in the area. Pacificare and Western Health Advantage, while holding monthly premiums at $50 in their Sacramento-area Medicare plans, will eliminate brand name drug coverage next year.
Across the nation, seniors caught between rising premiums and shrinking coverage will find themselves in a similar bind. Even those with Medigap policies will feel the squeeze. Medigap policies A through J, for instance, have minimum standard benefit packages, and the H, I, and J plans covering prescriptions have annual drug caps ranging from $1,250 to $2,000.
For the 30 million Americans with a Chronic Obstruction Pulmonary Disease (COPD) such as asthma, emphysema or cystic fibrosis - collectively the fourth leading cause of death in the US, however, help is available with Geriatric Services of America (GSA), a national community service organization based in Tempe, Arizona which provides direct help and support to older Americans suffering from chronic respiratory disease. Through its Respiratory Disease Control Program, GSA provides access to a comprehensive range of special medication benefits, as well as support and homecare services, which eliminates out-of-pocket expenses for patients with primary or supplemental insurance coverage.
Through GSA's patient support center, nebulizers and respiratory medication are provided and paid for with free home delivery, conveniently packaged and ready to use. GSA handles all paperwork, and clinical Patient Care Coordinators work with doctors and insurance companies once a patient has enrolled in the Respiratory Disease Control Program. Patients can enroll themselves in the program; there is nothing to buy, and no enrollment or membership fees.
Currently, Medicare, AARP, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, and over 180 other insurers have special benefits for patients with respiratory disease. GSA provides access to these benefits, and coordinates all elements of care to help patients, doctors, and insurance companies combat respiratory disease.
At a time when US seniors face restricted health care access, rising premiums, and shrinking benefits, GSA stands out as a welcome ally for those needing respiratory medication benefits, support, or homecare services. For more information about GSA, or how someone you know can enroll in this special wellcare program, write to 4812 South Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282; call 800-307-8048; fax 800-345-2425; or email Gary Rheault directly at grheault@geriatricservices.com.

Reflect On Your Cancer Experience

According to the Canadian Cancer Society, an estimated 67,200 Canadian women will be diagnosed with cancer this year and thousands will face surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of these treatments. For many, the side effects of treatment can be as challenging as the disease itself.
Look Good Feel Better, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, has helped more than 350,000 Canadian women living with cancer to look good and feel better by teaching cosmetic techniques and hair alternatives to help manage the appearance-related side effects of cancer and its treatment. Free, two-hour workshops are offered at 65 hospitals and cancer-care facilities across the country. A recent study of women living with cancer, conducted at Toronto's Princess Margaret Hospital, revealed that a positive attitude was a leading strategy women felt helped them conquer cancer.
Sherry Abbott, national spokesperson for Look Good Feel Better's tenth anniversary tour, was determined to defy the odds when she was given a terminal diagnosis 13 years ago, and three months to live. A true believer that a "never-say-never" attitude can play a significant role throughout the cancer experience, Sherry took a path that led her to take back the control she had lost and to send positive messages to her family, friends and medical team.
"The cancer treatments left me battered, inside and out," recalls Sherry. "My body was depleted and the unfamiliar face that looked back at me in the mirror looked painfully ill." For the first time in her life, she learned to use cosmetics to correct, rather than enhance her appearance. Sherry quickly learned how a little lipstick and blush could do as much for her psyche as it did for her appearance.
As part of its tenth anniversary celebrations, Look Good Feel Better is inviting those whose lives have been touched by cancer to share their personal story or cancer experience by submitting it to the Reflections Collection. Entries can be submitted by visiting www.lgfb.ca or mailed to: Look Good Feel Better, Reflections Collection, 420 Britannia Road East, Suite 102, Mississauga, ON, L4Z 3L5. For more information on the program, call toll-free 1-800-914-5665.

How To Recognize Mental Illness In Children

Learning that something is wrong with your child can be a frightening experience. Frightening and embarrassing. In fact, the reason that many fail to have their children's behavior diagnosed is that they fear the results may reflect poorly on them as parents.
Getting over this selfish fear of diagnosis is an important initial step if children are to receive the full benefit of treatment, because the earlier help arrives the better the prognosis. The main hope for children at risk of serious mental illness lies in early detection.
Here is a brief list of disorder symptoms common in young children:
ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyper Activity Disorder) - The child can't pay attention to details, is often caught daydreaming, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in activities that require sustained attention, is easily distracted, forgetful, disorganized, often does not finish school work (work may be full of mistakes or turned in late), doesn't follow through or listen to instructions, displays extreme physical agitation, intrudes on others or resorts to inappropriate behavior when reprimanded
Oppositional Defiant Disorder - The child is negative, hostile, does not comply with requests made by adults, is persistently arguing with adults, obstinate, feels entitled to make unreasonable demands, is touchy, resentful, blames others when caught doing something wrong, displays cruelty towards animals, bullying, is aggressive, destructive, deceitful, and/or lacks remorse for antisocial behavior.
For more facts about diagnosis and how a book called "Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series" is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

An Ounce Of Preparation Is Worth A Pound Of Cure

Doesn't it always seem that you are out of bandages just when you need one the most - your new shoes have created massive blisters on your feet or you have just nicked yourself in the kitchen. With a bit of planning and well thought-out purchases, you can keep your medicine cabinet stocked with the necessary essentials and be prepared for all common medical situations.
Things your bathroom cabinet should never be without:
Bandages and gauze to keep wounds covered and clean
Medicated cream or antibiotic ointment
Antiseptic wash for cleaning and disinfecting scrapes, cuts and burns
Decongestant and serum for cold and cough
Antihistamine for relief from allergies
Pain, inflammation and fever relievers
Anti-nausea tablets and bismuth subsalicylate for diarrhea
An eyewash to flush harmful substances from the eyes
A thermometer to monitor body temperature for fever
A first aid handbook - reviewed regularly, preferably before an emergency occurs.
With Canadians' safety in mind, a variety of advanced care products have been created to treat all minor wounds, including BAND-AID® Brand Hurt-Free™ Antiseptic Wash - a cleanser featuring an anesthetic to help ease the throbbing of minor wounds - and BAND-AID® Brand Water Block Plus™ Finger-Wrap - with a unique tapered design to stay on fingers better. For more information on first care contact the BAND-AID® website at www.bandaid.com.

One In Five Stricken With Mental Illness

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association an estimated one in five Canadians will be affected by a mental illness at some time during their lives. Here are some more interesting facts about mental illness:
Mental illnesses are more common than cancer, diabetes, or heart disease.
Mental illnesses are physical brain disorders that profoundly disrupt a person's ability to think, feel, and relate to others and their environment.
One in every five families is affected in their lifetime by severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and major depression.
One in ten children/adolescents have mental illnesses severe enough to cause some level of impairment.
80% of children who require care for mental health problems do not receive the help they need, not so much because it is unavailable, but because parents don't recognize the need for help or are unaware that it is available.
Early intervention and identification can help to prevent decades of suffering for both patients and families.
For more facts about mental illness and how a new book called "Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series" is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

Got a Cold - Should You Work Out?

A recent study sponsored by the American College of Sports Medicine indicates that exercising moderately while you have a common cold doesn't affect the severity or duration of the symptoms.
It's a widely excepted notion that exercising and keeping in shape will reduce your risk of getting sick, but nothing has been previously documented to demonstrate whether working out while suffering from a cold would reduce or intensify the symptoms.
The common cold affects us all, with the average American getting sick up to six times a year, but will exercising when you're not feeling well, increase or decrease your ability to battle the illness, and reduce symptoms?
The study, headed by Thomas G. Weidner, Ph.D., Ball State University in Munice Indiana, involved 50 moderately fit student volunteers, who were divided randomly into two groups: exercising and non-exercising. Each volunteer was injected with the cold germs, and tracked for a ten-day period.
The subjects all kept a daily log of physical activity. The exercise group worked out either by running, biking or using a step machine for 40 minutes every day, at no more than seventy per cent of their maximum capacity (measured by heart rate reserve).
Upon completion of the study and after analysis of exercise data, symptom severity, and actual mucous weight measurements, there was shown to be no significant difference in symptom severity or duration in the exercise group or in their inactive counterparts.
The study revealed that exercising at a moderate intensity level does not intensify cold symptoms or compromise the immune system. It seems that a moderate level of intensity is not enough to alter immune response.
Reader beware, high intensity exercise such as heavy weight lifting or high intensity aerobic training has been shown to have a negative impact on the immune system during a cold or any respiratory infection.
Symptom to Exercise Guidelines:
Runny nose, sneezing, scratchy throat only Safe to exercise at low intensity levels.
Fever, dry cough, sore muscles, vomiting, diarhrea Exercise not recommended, resume more intense physical activity when cold, or infection is gone.

Moderation... At A Much Lower Cost

Seniors often take too much medication, a practice which has a negative impact on their quality of life and is extremely expensive for the health care system. Michel Prйville and his collaborators at the Universitй de Sherbrooke will study the individual and environmental factors affecting seniors' consumption of psychotropic drugs in order to identify persons at risk and develop a prevention strategy designed to ensure seniors' autonomy and quality of life.
Dr. Prйville's research is being funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). CIHR is Canada's preeminent health research catalyst and is funded by the government of Canada. An exciting new concept, CIHR is modernizing and transforming the health research enterprise in Canada.
To learn more about CIHR please visit: www.cihr.ca, e-mail: info@ cihr.ca or write to: CIHR, 410 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa ON K1A 0W9.

The Mind Body-Fat Connection

Negative thoughts, symbolic protection, being who we really are ..... we’re definitely getting closer. It does come from within, we believe that much. But how? How do we connect a de-railed inner state of mind to real life obesity without the hocus pocus element?
We find the biological link. We find out where those resistive thoughts and feelings are going and what damage they are managing to do along the way. Or at least that is what I did!
The first time I heard that being fat was all in the mind, I was intrigued. “How exactly would that work”, I found myself asking.
A friend and I were casually chatting about being fat when he mentioned that he’d heard of a book describing weight gain as being a symbol of protection. Negative mental thought patterns were apparently responsible for making us all fat!
I wondered whether he was talking about psychologically symbolic or a real biological connection that affected our metabolism. I was searching for something deeper at the time because I had lost faith in the traditional concepts of obesity. The medical, sports and scientific worlds promoted concepts that seemed too broad and genetically unfair to apply to all of us here on earth. It seemed that every new diet plan and book held a new and revolutionary theory about how and why we all gain weight Yet no one theory covered all situations and circumstances, like why we lose weight when we fall in love.
Intrigued that thoughts and feelings could be responsible for my weight, I threw myself into this belief. I practiced affirmations and searched deep within my mind for the mental triggers that could be influencing my body weight.
Although I celebrated this new concept and still do, I became disappointed and frustrated when I couldn’t pin point, precisely, which of my thoughts and feelings made my weight go up and down.
I could see my weight going up and down from one week to the next but I needed to know exactly how it was all made possible. “Where was the connection?” I asked myself, “How could a feeling influence fat?” I couldn’t hold any exact thought or feeling responsible, which meant that I could not intimately control it, as I so desired to do.
I went on wondering and speculating for two whole years before I fell happily pregnant. During the early months I started losing weight around my thighs, an area that had previously refused to budge no matter how strict a diet I went on or exercise program I took part in. I knew that I was changing on an inner level but once again, I could not pin point precisely which thoughts or feelings corresponded with my thighs.
After the birth of my child, I didn’t do what most new mothers do and accept to nurture the tender moments alone with their baby. I stood up, tired and exhausted and pushed myself back into my old life at the same time as juggling the demands of motherhood. A change of scene occurred with a move to a foreign country both culturally and fluently removed from my own which led me to start questioning who I really was. My weight, having not recovered fully from childbirth started slowly creeping upwards despite what I ate. A good strict diet curbed it for a moment but failed me the moment I hopped off it.
In the approaching winter of 1997, I stood still one day and took a minute to stare out the window. I was alone in the company of myself. My senses caught my attention because although I was standing completely still, my muscles felt like they were trying to stop me from going somewhere. They were busy working against me even though I was not moving. I was “tensing up” for seemingly no reason at all.
Not too long after that moment of introspection, it dawned on me that the body fat I had slowly gained was only showing up in the areas where my muscles were tensing up. “Could there be a connection?” I wondered.
I proceeded to watch this strange occurrence in the weeks that came and went. It didn’t take long to realise that my very own thoughts and feelings were responsible for setting my muscles off. I was desperate to lose the weight I was gaining and saw this observation as a saviour sent from heaven. I immediately set about soothing my thoughts and feelings. I was eager to find out if this situation could be reversed. Could it be possible to lose weight by relaxing?
About a month later, it was obvious that my weight had gone down. I was over the moon. I hadn’t eaten differently and I hadn’t done any exercise. I wasn’t stressed and I wasn’t on any medication. The only obvious change was that I had begun to relax and let go, mentally. “Explain that!”, I thought to myself.
It was incredible. I had observed that my body fat could come and go depending on how much my muscles tensed up or relaxed. My body fat would accumulate or disappear in the precise same areas where my muscles tensed up or relaxed, regardless of food intake or level of exertion.
However, along with the elation came confusion. I was confused because I’d never heard of such a thing before and wondered whether my mind was playing tricks on me. I decided that the only way to find out was to ask. But who could I ask living in a foreign country far away from an English library?
Intuition told me that the Internet was the answer. I started out searching for documents relating to weight gain, muscles, stress, metabolism, anything that would describe this strange experience I was having. When I could no longer find my keyboard for mountains of printed literature and reports which were proving to be dead-ends, I had to face the possibility that no one had yet realised what I had come to observe. I could not find one single document describing this strange phenomenon.
As the months went by I would inquire timidly with as many people as possible about whether or not they tensed up a lot and where they might be doing this tensing up. I slowly became convinced that only overweight individuals chronically tense up and only in the areas where they are fat. As more and more of the slim individuals I questioned failed to comprehend my description of the feeling tensing up produces, I instinctively knew that this was a phenomenon that deserved to be explored.
Through my own self-experimentation and sensitive introspection I embarked on a journey of exploration through the mechanics that bring about tensing up. I arrived at the belief that a mental conflict arises when we oppose the very action we are making or intending to make. This belief was further impacted by the realisation that we oppose our actions when we are scared and when we find it difficult to relax and be ourselves. Through my mind, I explored every inch of my body, intuitively listening to precisely what action was being opposed by tensing up and how I could turn it around and start relaxing and being myself again.
Science was of no interest to me in high school, so I was really starting from afresh when I decided to broaden my knowledge of biochemistry. I had got myself caught up in a challenging bind. I couldn’t give up just because nobody else had come forth with this observation. Yet, at times I felt way out of my league sifting through mountains of scientific publications and looking up just about every word printed in them to make sense of what they were saying.
This seemingly simple occurrence proved to involve a multitude of variables. However, it raised one obvious question to me. Was this yet another way to gain weight or was this the only way to gain weight, in which case why had no one ever noticed this before?
At every corner I had to remind myself that the regulation of this occurrence was real. I had experienced it and observed it with my own eyes. Every piece of information I read on the causes of obesity was how things might possibly hang together, theoretically, or under particular circumstances.
Having established a psychological link in the regulation of tensing up, I proceeded to investigate exactly how this activity could influence fat accumulation in specific areas. I trusted my intuition to guide me to the right reference material day after day, month after month.
In order to know what was causing me to tense up, I also had to know what was not causing it. I very quickly learnt that when a particular trail became too difficult to follow or not enough information was forthcoming, then I was on the wrong track. In these instances, I went with the clues that were opening up for me. Key words emitted a strange energy as if beckoning for my attention.
My mind became insatiable for information and new clues, ticking over loudly in any spare moment I had. I would lie awake at night pondering over why I should be the one to observe this phenomenon, having not been formally educated in the medical sciences.
However looking back at it now, it had its advantages. Should I have been formally educated, I would not have started out in ignorant bliss. Fortunately, I was not blinded by any preconceived ideas about what was medically possible and what was not. I just trusted and expected that I would find the answer and slowly the pieces started falling into place.
No sooner had I put a textbook hypothesis together, than I realised that I would have to find current evidence to support that hypothesis, if I wanted anyone to sit up and take notice. This was perhaps the most challenging part of my research. I would spend hour after hour sifting through the literature both current and outdated. I realised I had made a breakthrough when the pieces of my text book hypothesis started fitting into the gaps, holes and question marks posed in the latest scientific research and reviews.
At this point, I knew that regardless of the mounting anecdotal evidence, facts and implications of this very real physical occurrence, I had seen proof enough in my own body to share this observation with other people. The fact that I could lose weight and keep it off without dieting or exercising was all the proof I needed, no matter how it came about.
However, standing up and saying what I truly believed in ultimately turned this journey into an experience of believing in myself. I learnt to trust in what I was experiencing and watched it grow and develop into a fully-fledged phenomenon. I invested my love and energy into researching and proving to myself that this phenomenon is a reality to be believed in and followed.
The Mind Body-Fat Connection eBook, is available from www.mindbodyfatconnection.com in both Microsoft Reader and PDF/Adobe Acrobat format.

How You Can Look Good And Feel Better During Cancer Treatment

Use warm (not hot) water and a mild facial soap or creamy cleanser that tissues off. A non-stimulating alcohol-free freshener will remove all traces of cleanser.
Apply moisturizer to protect against dryness and relieve irritation, and create a smooth surface for your makeup. A moisturizer containing sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher, is a good way to protect your skin from the sun's damaging rays. You might also consider a special eye cream, designed to moisturize the sensitive under-eye area, while reducing and helping to prevent puffiness.
Use a cream or stick concealer under foundation to minimize dark circles under eyes, blemishes or discolouration.
Choose a shade of foundation that closely matches your normal skin tone, to even out your complexion and give it a soft, natural-looking glow. You may need a moisturizing foundation formulated for dry skin.
A light application of translucent powder will help to set your foundation.
No cosmetic does more to produce a vibrant, healthy look than blush. Apply along your cheekbone. Temporary weight gain or loss, due to chemotherapy, may be particularly visible in the face. Contouring with brownish powder can help minimize the look of puffiness due to weight gain, while using a light-coloured concealer cream can help enlarge areas on a too-thin face.
While some women only need to fill in thinning eyebrows, others find that they need to recreate an entire brow. To recreate your natural eyebrow line, a) match the colour to your hair b) begin the eyebrow by holding the pencil straight up against your nose and draw a dot c) place the pencil parallel to the outside edge of the iris of your eye . Place a dot where the highest point of the brow line show be and finally, d) to define the outer edge, place the pencil diagonally from the bottom corner of your nose past the outside corner of your eye and draw a dot. Once you have a basic shape, connect the three dots using short, feathery strokes, making the inner brow fuller.
Use eye shadow to help brighten your eyes. Apply highlighter, the lightest shade, just below the arch of the brow. Lid colour, the primary colour accent, should be swept across the entire lid. Add a deeper or contouring shade in the crease to emphasize the natural eye shape. Blend well to soften the effect. On days when your energy is low, apply a wash of light to medium shadow to the entire lid area to brighten your eyes.
You can define the lash line and recreate the look of lashes with eyeliner. Brush on liquid eyeliner or use an eyeliner pencil to apply a thin line along upper and lower lids. To recreate the illusion of fuller lashes, use an eyeliner pencil to make tiny dots around the eye, close to the lash line.
Mascara will help make sparse eyelashes seem fuller. Apply mascara first to the top side of lashes, then to the underside. Brush the tip of the mascara wand lightly back and forth across the lower lashes. Remember to remove all mascara and eye makeup every night with a gentle, non-oily eye makeup remover.
Define your lips by outlining them with a soft lip liner that complements your lipstick, to keep lip colour from "feathering".
Lip colour balances your face. Choose a creamy, moisturizing lipstick from the same colour family as your blush.
For more information on Look Good Feel Better, call toll-free 1-800-914-5665 or visit www.lgfb.ca.

The Secret To Permanent Weight Loss

AND SAVE MONEY IN THE PROCESS. The secret is simple and basic. Just three little words --- DON'T BUY IT! If you don't buy it, you won't eat it. If you don't eat it, you won't get fat. So your problem starts at the store or restaurant.
Since your diet starts at the store, were you ever taught how to shop for food? Probably not. The grocery store can destroy your diet and get into your pocketbook . First you need to check the layout of the store, ---where everything is. Leave the produce for last, so it will be as fresh as you can get it.
REMEMBER: 70% of the products are there just to take your money. Notice how many rows they have of soda, cereal, and snacks. Look what they've done to the potato--instant potatoes, mashed potatoes, french fries, tater tots, shoe string, chips, twice baked. Notice the shelves along the aisles. Everything is conveniently displayed close to your reach--a ploy by the store to buy those products. On the lower shelves are products aimed at kids. Look lower or higher, and you will find the same products--for less. If nature didn't make it, you don't need it. Stay away from processed and imitation foods. Try to stay away from canned food (you never know what's in the can). Stick with the fresh & frozen foods.
Check out the PACKAGES carefully. That box or package may not be full. 1 -Solids are measured by weight-- ounces, pounds. . 2 -Liquids are measured by volume-- gallon, quart, pint. 3- Price -5% of the price for the product is for the product it itself. 95% of the price is for; packaging, manufacturing, transportation, middlemen, salaries, insurance, utilities, etc. Let's say a gallon of milk cost $2.00. The milk is 10 cents, the rest is $1.90.
According to the FDA, LABELS must be specific and truthful. If the label says "Kraft Pasteurized Processed Cheese Food," it is not cheese. If it says "Breakfast Orange Drink"--it is not juice. Check out the nutritional values, particularly fat---stay away from saturated fat. INGREDIENTS must be listed in dominance order. If sugar or water is listed first, it is mostly sugar or water. The last ingredient is least significant. Anything after salt is of little use. Do you know what those ingredients are? Can you pronounce them? And you want to feed this to your family?
COUPONS are a gimmick to get you to buy something you don't need in the first place. Save 50 cents on chips, when you can save $3 if you didn't buy it. Do you ever find coupons for REAL food? Marketers know you need the basics. Nature didn't make snickers, it made nuts. Nature didn't make chips, it made potatoes. Nature didn't make soda pop, it made water and juice. Nature didn't make wieners, it made fish. Nature didn't make Snickers, it made raisins. Nature didn't make fritoes, it made corn. Our society is food oriented. On every corner there is a restaurant, fast food, and everything in between. You are bombarded with ads from the media. Your body knows what it needs. It knows when to stop eating apples, not candy. Once you start eating Mother Nature's diet you can lose weight, and feel much better about yourself Listen to your body.
Add exercise to your lifestyle, and you can add years to your life. Do something every day, even if its walking, climbing stairs, playing with the kids. A good exercise program should include aerobics (running, swimming, jump rope, fast dancing), endurance (working with weights), and flexibility ( calisthenics, yoga). Your body was meant to be used, not abused. You deserve it.

To Give or Not to Give

Donating one's own blood before an operation can provide peace of mind - but patients who donate their own blood also tend to require more blood in total than those who do not pre-donate, and the pre-donation can be both time- consuming and inconvenient.
Andreas Laupacis, of the Loeb Research Institute in Ottawa, has designed an audiobooklet to help patients decide whether they want to pre-donate their own blood, and is testing its effectiveness with 200 patients scheduled for elective heart surgery. He wants to find out whether those who receive the audiobooklet prior to discussing their options with their physicians are more knowledgeable about their options; have more realistic expectations about needing blood and suffering side effects; feel their decision was easier; and make different choices than those who did not receive the audiobooklet. If the audiobooklet proves useful, it can be used in other Canadian cardiac centres and modified for other types of surgery.
Dr. Laupacis' research is being funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). CIHR is Canada's preeminent health research catalyst and is funded by the government of Canada. An exciting new concept, CIHR is modernizing and transforming the health research enterprise in Canada.
To learn more about CIHR please visit: www.cihr.ca, e-mail: info@ cihr.ca or write to: CIHR, 410 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa ON K1A 0W9.

Food Poisoning Can Spoil Your Day

Eating outdoors in summer can be an appetizing experience. Fresh air, combined with healthy activity, can tantalize the taste buds. Picnics and camping often focus on the enjoyment of food. However, there can be hidden hazards lurking in the cooler or picnic basket.
Canada's leader in safety-oriented™ first aid training, St. John Ambulance, suggests you take simple precautions to ensure your food is safe to consume.Make sure your cooler is stocked with ice or freezer packs capable of keeping the contents cold until you're ready to consume them.Always store food items separately, using individual containers or a sturdy plastic wrap.Keep cutlery and utensils in a clean storage container, away from the food.If you plan to cook outdoors, make sure the cooking surface is clean and that food is protected from airborne pollutants.Never leave food exposed to the air where insects and other creatures may contaminate it.
Food poisoning can have serious consequences. It's important to know what to do if you suspect food poisoning. St. John Ambulance first aid courses teach you essential, lifesaving techniques that can reduce suffering and prevent injury.
Signs and symptoms of food poisoningCasualty may experience nausea, dizziness, stomach cramps, diarrhea or vomiting. Casualty may also suffer breathing problems or chest pain.
First aid for food poisoningAssess the casualty's condition and place them at rest.Do not give fluids.Do not induce vomiting.Monitor the casualty's condition.
If it worsens, seek medical help.
Knowing what to do in an emergency can make all the difference. For more than 118 years, Canadians have trusted St. John Ambulance for quality first aid training and products. With more than 300 centres across Canada, St. John Ambulance is the leader in state-of-the-art training programs. See what St. John can do for you - call the branch nearest you or check us out on the web at www.sja.ca.

Finding The Help You Need - Close To Home

No matter where you live, trying to find out about cancer support and treatment services can feel like navigating a foreign city with a crummy map.
But at the Canadian Cancer Society's information service, information specialists rely on a unique tool to make the search easier - a computerized database listing approximately 7,000 community services Canadians can turn to for help close to home.
That information is gathered and kept up to date by a team of Canadian Cancer Society volunteers and staff throughout Canada.
"This collection of cancer-related services is unique in Canada," says information specialist Jan MacVinnie. "Our callers appreciate being able to find the help they need close to home."
The database covers a huge range of services including screening programs, treatment locations, support groups, smoking cessation programs, wigs, prostheses and programs such as music therapy.
The service is Canada's toll-free bilingual source of cancer information. Trained and caring specialists provide information which helps newly diagnosed patients and their families understand their condition and act as informed members of their healthcare team.
When you want to know more about cancer, call the Canadian Cancer Society's information service at 1 888 939-3333 or e-mail info@cis.cancer.ca.

Feeding The Brain

Infants need high levels of DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, for brain development and function. But Sheila Innis, of the University of British Columbia, believes that they may not be able to produce sufficient DHA on their own, and may need a dietary supplement to avoid deficits in brain function. She is testing her belief by feeding piglets diets with and without DHA. DHA is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is transferred to the fetus during gestation and is found in breast milk. However, it is not present in fruits and vegetables, infant formulas, or nutritional products used for adults and children with gastro-intestinal diseases.
Dr. Innis' research is being funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). CIHR is Canada's preeminent health research catalyst and is funded by the government of Canada. An exciting new concept, CIHR is modernizing and transforming the health research enterprise in Canada.
To learn more about CIHR please visit: www.cihr.ca, e-mail: info@ cihr.ca or write to: CIHR, 410 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa ON K1A 0W9.

FAT LOSS: The Truth on Fat Loss and how to Achieve it!

This morning I conducted a search engine "search" on the word fat loss. "Fat Loss" and "Fat Loss Supplements", being the most popular keywords, came up with a combined 1800 links, in one search engine. I went to the next search engine I ran a word count on "fat loss" rather than a link count. The results came up as 46106! WOW! Why is it that fat loss / losing body fat related information and products are so much in demand, yet obesity and being overweight are on the up and up, and are actually at the highest rate ever. With the health and fitness industry booming it seems absurd that this is occurring. Doesn't it?
Temptation and Obstacles Effecting Your Attempts at Fat Loss
The fact is that losing body fat or fat loss is not easy. We are tempted every day with fast fatty and sugary foods with super deals of quick easy meals involving drive through access and home delivery. These fast food meals are "fast" and often "affordable" with meal deals for a family of four sometimes costing under $10 - $12. Who wouldn't pass this up! Before you know it, it's the end of the day, the family is hungry, dinner time is drawing nigh and your beat. I can fully understand why people choose this option when our lifestyles are so hectic.
The Alcohol "Social and Relaxation" Temptation
An odd heading for this paragraph, I know, but I needed to draw your attention to the fact that alcohol will not help your fat loss efforts. I know we hear the saying so often that "doctors say that it's healthy to have one or two wines per day", however this is in regards to the properties of red wine assisting in the prevention of clogged arteries - not a fat loss miracle! If red wine is necessary for medicinal purposes and perscribed by a doctor then obviously your health comes first. However the topic here is fat loss........................
My views are "everything in moderation". BUT I DO KNOW THAT if you want to make a genuine effort to lose body fat that a couple of alcoholic drinks per day could easily effect your fat loss attempts. So unless your's is the case above then I would seriously think about "cutting back".
Since I began as a trainer years ago I have found that it is usually junk food or alcohol that prevents my clients from losing body fat. Just going without those few EXTRA drinks after work or consuming less alcohol at social gatherings will make a considerable difference to how much body fat you lose.
Quit Fooling Yourself
Do not fool yourself by thinking that if you just fat burn or exercise for one extra session per week you can rid yourself of all those extra calories and fat from alcohol and food. Unfortunately our bodies aren't that easily fixed.
Why Most People Don't Succeed at Losing Body Fat
Other than the temptations mentioned above people tend not to succeed at fat loss because they are either not committed, not well informed on fat loss or they are committed for the wrong reasons. In other words you either aren't abiding by the rules, or have been mislead by some other belief or you are trying to lose body fat because you are trying to keep other people happy by doing so rather than yourself.
Making Sure You are Trying to Lose Body Fat to Please YOU, Not Everyone Else.
Think about why it is you want to lose body fat. Make sure you really want to put in 100% effort.. You want to feel great about making this decision not obliged to do it. Losing body fat can help increase your self-esteem as well as boosting your health so giving it your best shot with a positive frame of mind is always the "way to go".
Things that You Should Do Before You Get Started!
First you may want to make notes on what time of the day, when and where that you will most probably find it the most difficult to stick to this program. If, say for instance, "calling in at the drive thru for fast food on the way home from work or picking the children up" is where you find that you are most likely to go wrong then be prepared for it by making the appropriate changes. eg Having a meal which is already partly prepared in the fridge so that it will only take an extra 10 - 15 minutes to cook. Being organised with food preparation is very very important. It is exhausting coming home after a long day and realising you have to then organise something for dinner (amongst other things) You can bet the children would jump for joy if you offered them Mac's - so you do - at least there is no washing up the dishes after dinner either...Sound familiar?
Re-orgnanising Your Lifestyle - Don't Make it Difficult on Yourself!
Re-orgnanising your lifestyle may be quite a challenge for most people and families. But if you want to succeed at fat loss I am sure you want to be able to do it without tearing your hair out. Your goal is to re-arrange and plan your day so that you, your family and your new lifestyle can run smoothly. Such as planning your low-fat meals and recipes in a diary. Planning your grocery shop with a shopping list to prevent you from buying unnecessary junk food is also a great idea. Pre-preparing meals, making appointments for your exercise time slot etc all needs to be written into your appointment book or diary. You can tick each appointment off as the day progresses. When planning your shopping list remember, that unless you have the time, don't go getting all creative with lowfat banquets etc for lunches and dinner. Choose simple to prepare ingredients and meals.
What Exercise Should I be Performing to Burn Body Fat?
There seems to be alot of controversy over what to do and what not to do when it comes to "fat burning" exercise. Mostly it depends on your fitness level and if you have any type of injuries, back pain or medical conditions that may affect what you can and can't do. Make sure you check with your doctor first before starting any type of exercise or eating program, so he / she can indicate and provide you with a letter verifying that it is "ok" for you to start exercising and at what level.
Different Types of Exercising for Fat Burning
Treadmills, indoor cycles, cardiovascular machines etc any of these are great for performing fat burning exercise, provided your doctor says it's cool to go ahead with it. If you enjoy being outdoors then walking and cycling are also great. Finding a program that suits your bodies needs and fitness level is important. Make sure you add variety to your fat burning program as you advance adding hills, inclines and speed rather than increasing the time. A reasonable time for fat burning is approx 20 - 30 mins.
You should also know that if you increase the time of your fat burning session, and not the intensity and other variations, you will find that as you advance your program your sessions may become too long. This will only encourage you to think that your exercise is becoming too time consuming and a chore - which will lead you to "throwing in the towel". So keep up the variety to keep it interesting.
The Wrong Program for You: A Common Mistake that Leads to Lack of Fat Loss
Have you ever read a successful fat loss story that you, and everyone else you know, tried only to find that it didn't work that well for you or them? Did you stop to think that maybe the person in the success story had their program specifically designed for their body type, not yours! If you really want to "kick some fat loss butt" you need a program that is designed to suit your body type and fitness level. Don't expect super results from a program that someone else used, remember they may have had a different metabolism, fitness level, body shape and eating program to you, which makes it very difficult for you to reach the same levels of fatloss as they did.
FREE FAT LOSS EXERCISE Sample Program:
http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com/articles/Fat_Loss_Cardio_Program.htm
This program is a sample program to give you an idea of the variations you can use for your fat burning programs.
Where to go from here.............
After reading this article you should have a greater knowledge of where you may be going wrong with your fat loss or how to get started on a new fat burning program.
If you are keen to get started on your own personally designed health and fitness program please feel welcome to visit my web site: http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com.
I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Happy Training!
Kind Regards
Yours in fun, health and fitness
Mandy Gibbons
Virtual Fitness Trainer
http://www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com
Persons who are of good health, suspect of their health or are aware of any conditions, physical deficiencies or diseases should always consult a physician before undertaking any eating or exercise program. Mandy Gibbons, Virtual Fitness Trainer, www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com.au and www.virtualfitnesstrainer.com disclaims any liability or loss in connection with the above program or advice given in this article.
The above article (in it's entirety) is free for use on other health and fitness related web sites and newsletters on the condition that the following section below is copied and pasted to the base or top of the article.

The Sticky Facts About Minor Wound Care

You probably think you know all the facts when it comes to the topic of minor wound care - if you cut your finger, just dab a tissue on it and you're ready to go! Unfortunately it is not as simple as that. Minor wounds deserve special treatment in order to heal most efficiently and minimize the appearance of scars. So before you peel off that bandage make sure you know the difference between the facts and the misconceptions on minor wound care.
Misconception: It is best to let a minor wound heal over with a scab.
Fact: Scabs actually impede the healing process by creating a barrier between healthy skin cells. The cells have to work their way under the scab in order to form new tissue and heal. Scabs can also be easily torn or scratched, causing re-injury.
Misconception: It is best to let a wound "breathe" or air out.
Fact: The best way to protect a wound is to cover it with a bandage until fully healed. Bandages that absorb a wounds fluid and maintain a natural moisture balance are ideal for healing and enables skin cells to migrate together to form new tissue.
Misconception: It is best to leave a wound uncovered.
Fact: Covering a wound with bandages is essential to wound care: a bandage provides extra cushioning and protection from any re-injury that may occur, as well as preventing exposure to water, germs and dirt.
With Canadians' safety in mind, a variety of advanced care products have been created to treat all minor wounds, including BAND-AID® Brand Hurt-Free™ Antiseptic Wash - a cleanser featuring an anesthetic to help ease the throbbing of minor wounds - and BAND-AID® Brand Water Block Plus™ Finger-Wrap - designed to stay on fingers when wet. For more information on first care contact the BAND-AID® Brand website at www.bandaid.com.

Early Diagnosis Improves Treatment

Popular myths have led many to believe that mental health disorders are untreatable. As a result, a lot of people who suffer don't seek help. In fact most mental disorders are treatable. The treatment success rate for schizophrenia is 60 percent, 65 percent for major depression, and 80 percent for bipolar disorder. The success rate for treatments of heart disease, on the other hand, is only 40 - 50 percent.
A variety of treatments are available to improve symptoms. In fact, for most mental disorders there is more than one proven treatment. Most fall under two general categories, psychosocial and pharmacological. The combination of the two - known as multimodal therapy - can sometimes be even more effective than each individually.
Although there is a wide range of treatments, the stigma and fear associated with mental illness prevents many from seeking help. The longer mental illness goes untreated the more serious, and less treatable, the illness can become. Early identification and intervention of mental illness is key to getting your life back on track.
For more facts about mental illness and how a book called "Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series" is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

Don't Get Burned By Summer Sun

Warm summer days filled with bright sunshine aren't always good for you. Over exposure to sunlight can cause serious sunburn, pain and the long-term risk of skin cancer. St. John Ambulance, Canada's leader in safety-oriented™ first aid training and products, points out that you can still enjoy sun if you reduce risk by taking precautions.
People with fair skin are most susceptible to sunburns. However, no matter what the skin type, the harmful effects of the sun, such as sunburn, can be sustained by anyone.
Prevention is your best defense. Use a sunscreen strong enough to block out harmful rays. Remember to apply it liberally many times over the course of a day in the sun as it will soak into skin, evaporate and be washed off in water.
Don't stay outdoors for extended periods without covering exposed skin. Never leave tender skin exposed for more than a few minutes at a time. Wear a light, sun repellent cover over bathing suits or other light clothing. Always keep your head and eyes protected.
First Aid for sunburn
Sunburns can be very serious. Ranging from mild discomfort to severe burning over a large portion of the body, extreme sunburn can be further complicated by heatstroke. For minor sunburn, St. John Ambulance suggests the following first aid:Check the casualty thoroughly to determine the extent and severity of the burn.Get out of the sun immediately.Cover the burn with a wet towel or gently sponge the area with cool water to relieve pain.Pat the skin dry and apply medicated sunburn ointment or lotion. Apply according to directions on the package and watch for warning signs of an allergic reaction.Protect burnt areas from further exposure to the sun.Don't break blisters - doing so may promote infection. If large areas of the skin begin to blister, seek medical help.If the casualty begins to vomit or develops a fever, give first aid for heatstroke and get medical help.
First Aid for heatstroke
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition in which the body's temperature rises far above normal. The body's temperature control mechanism fails, sweating may stop and the body temperature rises rapidly. When you notice rapid pulse, noisy breathing, convulsions or vomiting and hot, flushed skin, give first aid for heatstroke.Check the casualty for symptoms of heatstroke. Lowering the body temperature is the most urgent first aid for heatstroke.Move the casualty to a cool, shaded place or indoors if possible. Call for medical help.Cool the casualty by removing clothing, covering with a wet sheet, immersing in cool water or sponging with cool water, especially in the armpits, neck and groin areas.When the body feels cool to the touch, cover the casualty with a dry sheet. If temperature begins to rise again, repeat step three.Continue to monitor the casualty until medical help is available.
St. John Ambulance is Canada's leader in first aid training and products. For more than 118 years, St. John Ambulance has provided services to prevent injury and reduce suffering. For more information on high quality St. John Ambulance training and products, contact the branch nearest you or visit our website, www.sja.ca.

Cancer Survivor Turns Cancer Information Specialist

When callers to the Canadian Cancer Society's information service connect with Isabelle Wilson, they're talking to someone who's been there herself.
The Christmas of 1997 was turned upside down for the Montreal mother of three. Days before the holiday she learned she had a rare tumour on her left lung. The lung was removed on Christmas Eve. Wilson was a 30-year-old non-smoker and had a six-month-old baby at home. Even her doctors were stunned.
"Everything went so fast," she says. "I didn't know what was happening to me."
Worse, Wilson had to recuperate during the infamous ice storm, which knocked out power and heat to her home for days. Eventually she turned to the Canadian Cancer Society's information service for support and help in understanding her condition. It was a life-changing call. Three years later, Wilson joined the service herself.
"Knowing there was a professional there who was with me and researching this disease too meant a lot. I felt a lot less isolated," says Wilson, a biologist and former health services worker. "One morning I woke up and said, 'I have to do this job.'"
The service is Canada's toll-free bilingual source of cancer information. Trained and caring specialists provide information about cancer and community resources. This helps newly diagnosed patients and their families understand their condition and act as informed members of their healthcare team.
When you want to know more about cancer, call the Canadian Cancer Society's information service at 1 888 939-3333 or e-mail info@cis.cancer.ca.

Bug Bites. The Itch May Be The Least Of Your Worries

Bug Bites… The Itch May Be The Least Of Your Worries
by: Dr. Brian Aw, M.D., and C.C.F.P. (courtesy of News Canada)

(NC)-In most cases insect bites are harmless and if left alone, the irritation will subside within 48 hours.
However, for some people, particularly children, scratching bites may lead to a highly contagious bacterial skin infection called impetigo. Left unchecked, impetigo can spread to other parts of the body and even from person to person.
As a family physician, I recommend the following tips to ensure you and your family maximize your summer fun and avoid this irritating skin disease:
Apply an effective insect repellent as directed. As an alternative to chemical-based repellents, I recommend citronella-based products such as Natrapel®, particularly for young children.
Avoid scratching. To calm the itching, traditional products such as calamine lotion may be useful. I also recommend my patients use AfterBite®, a product designed to neutralize the allergens that cause the itch.
Keep fingernails short and clean. The bacteria streptococcal, which causes impetigo, hides under fingernails and enters the body when scratching the bite. Children are more vulnerable to this disease because streptococcal is often found in sand piles where kids play.
Recognize the symptoms. Impetigo is characterized by a red bump on the skin where yellow pus accumulates and dries, leaving a scab that can be itchy.
Protect the infection. Impetigo spreads easily through direct body contact, sharing towels, bedding and clothes. Although it is not a serious disease, it needs immediate attention to stop it from spreading.
Seek treatment. The best way to avoid impetigo is to treat a bug bite as soon as possible. Should impetigo develop, oral antibiotics and antibiotic creams may be required as prescribed by your doctor.
Dr. Brian Aw is a general practitioner, specializing in travel medicine.
For tips on bug bite prevention and product information visit: www.tendercorp.com/canada.
Editors: These articles are for use in Ontario only

Book Helps Families Deal With Mental Illness

Book Helps Families Deal With Mental Illness
by: News Canada
(NC)-More people than ever are taking care of their our bodies through proper nutrition and exercise. They realize that the human body is a finely tuned machine that needs on-going maintenance. The same however cannot be said for the mind. Without proper care, our brains can suffer from degeneration and, in some cases, mental disorder. Author Gayle Grass emphasizes the importance of healthy brains in her new children's illustrated book called "Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series,". Intended to create awareness and act as a positive tool for dialogue within families, "Catch a Falling Star," deals with mental health and illness, the importance of early diagnosis, and how to handle the unfounded stigma.Endorsed by some of Canada's top child psychiatrists, "Catch a Falling Star" teaches families that every child at times encounters emotions or behavior that can cause problems in their lives. "This book has an important and powerful message - we must listen to our children, and respond with wisdom and support to their fears and worries, and make use of available specialists to reduce suffering and distress," says Dr. Joe Beitchman, Clinical Director for the Child Psychiatry Program at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.For more facts about mental illness and how "Catch a Falling Star: A Tale from the Iris the Dragon Series" is helping parents identify and understand early onset mental illness visit www.iristhedragon.com.

A Day In The Life Of A Cancer Information Specialist

A Day In The Life Of A Cancer Information Specialist
by: News Canada

(NC)-The lines can crackle from hundreds of miles away, but it's the telephone that has brought nurse Donna Kennedy closer to those she wants to help.
Kennedy is one of the caring pairs of ears in the Regina, Saskatchewan call centre of the Canadian Cancer Society's information service. There, trained information specialists answer questions from Canadians across the country looking for information about cancer and community resources. This helps newly diagnosed patients and their families understand their condition and act as informed members of their healthcare team.
Once a nurse to cancer patients in a local hospital, Kennedy found the pressures of having to do more with less and mounting paperwork were pulling her away from where she wanted to be - with patients.
Joining the service as an information specialist nearly six years ago has "brought that part of me back that I was missing in the hospital," says Kennedy, a married mom of two young adults. "Even though it's over the telephone you bond quite quickly with people because it's so intimate."
The Canadian Cancer Society's information service is Canada's toll-free bilingual source of cancer information. The Regina centre is one of four call centres across the country - other centres are in Hamilton, Montreal and Vancouver.
Averaging 25 calls a day herself, Kennedy says her role is sometimes like "a translator," explaining the confusing medical jargon patients often hear when first diagnosed.
"Some days the calls are very difficult. Sometimes a caller is very upset because a family member is dying," says Kennedy, who supported her husband in his cancer recovery 19 years ago. "I try to be very understanding and to support people in whatever their trouble is.
"People tend to apologize a lot when they're very upset. But there's nothing they have to be sorry about ... We're there to help the person, to provide ideas for them and options."
No matter where the caller lives, information specialists can give information about such things as risk reduction, treatments, drugs, clinical trials, and support groups in the caller's region, helped by a computer database listing approximately 7,000 community services nationwide.
"I really enjoy helping people and teaching," says Kennedy. "It's been a wonderful experience to know you are able to help people with any questions or concerns they may have regarding cancer."
When you want to know more about cancer, call the Canadian Cancer Society's information service at 1 888 939-3333 or e-mail info@cis.cancer.ca.

Successful Weight-loss Pointers

Successful Weight-loss Pointers
by: Regena English

Well we're at it again, trying to honor our promise on New Year's Day to lose weight and tone up those flabby parts. Although the year's still young more than half of our New Year's Resolutioners have strayed from their promise of fitness and or weightloss. The reasons may vary as to why their resolutions have been pushed to the side, one common compliant is difficulty in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Why? It's difficulty to break old HABITS!
For so long we've had a life of overindulgence with the foods that are considered taboo, now we're expecting ourselves to enjoy doing without those favorites with no effort whatsoever. Rather than ease into a new way of eating through gradual elimination of our no no foods we jump in with both feet not expecting any backlash. To our surprise we have reactions ranging from endless cravings,headaches, stomach and intestinal discomforts.Some pointers for being successful this year:
As mentioned above ease into your new eating plans, gradually eliminate forbidden foods from diet. As far as exercise is concern give yourself plenty of time to build your endurance, don't attempt to workout for two hours the first day and you've been sedentary for twenty years.
Set goals that are short term. Instead of setting a long-term goal to lose forty pounds this year, lose four pounds a month.
When you feel anxious and desperate to reach your goal in a hurry remind yourself of past day,week, or month's progress. Losing alot of weight in a hurry leaves little time to adjust lifestyle habits for long-term success.
If you're not able to reach your goals alone join a support group that reflects you. Stop by http://www.onelist.com and peruse their categories of health and fitness surely you'll find a list for a individual like yourself.
Have hobbies and other outside interests so you're sure to get a mental break from your goal. Thinking to much about having to lose forty pounds can depress even the most enthusiastic of persons.
Don't be afraid to take time out of your day to relax your nerves and do nothing but enjoy that moment.
Use you imagination to see yourself after reaching your goal. The more vivid the mind picture the better, doing this will enlist the aid of the subconscious. It has been said that our goals are 10% actual work and 90% mental. So don't be afraid to be child-like in using your imagination to help you reach your goals without sweat and strain.
Always remember, "What the mind can conceive it can achieve!"

Conquering the Common Cold

Conquering the Common Cold
by: Mari Peckham

What do we know about the Common Cold?
No Cure. Antibiotics, designed to knock out bacterial infections, do nothing when it comes to treating a cold.
None of us are safe! No matter how strong and healthy we are, an occasional cold will reduce us to whimpering, sneezing, coughing versions of our former selves.
So, what do we do? Lay back with a box of tissue, pop a couple of cold tabs and wait it out? Not necessarily! Doctors who specialize in self-care medicine say that there is a lot more that we can do to get through a cold comfortably, and possibly more quickly! Here is some of the best advice that experts have to offer on the subject.
Vitamin C - "Vitamin C works in the body as a scavenger, picking up all sorts of trash - including virus trash," Says Keith W. Sehnert, M.D., a physician with Trinity Health Care in Minneapolis, Minnesota. "It can shorten the length of a cold from seven days to maybe two or three."
Studies conducted at the University of Wisconsin found that cold sufferers taking 500 milligrams of vitamin C four times a day suffered from about half as many symptoms (coughing, sneezing. etc) as those not taking the vitamin.
Best way to get it? Drink it! Orange, grapefruit, and cranberry juices are excellent sources of vitamin C.
Zinc - Suck on zinc lozenges and cut your cold short, to an average of just 4 days! It also can help reduce symptoms such as dry, irritated throat. Unfortunately, it doesn't work for everyone, but when it works, it works!
R and R - Take a day or two off of work, or at least slow down! Extra rest enables your body to focus it's energy on getting you well.
Stay Warm - Keep your immune system cozy by bundling up against the cold. This way your body can use energy to fight your cold instead of protecting you from the cold.
Eat Lightly - Eat, but steer clear of foods that put a strain on your body's metabolism. Eat fewer fatty foods, meat and milk products, and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.
Chicken Soup - A silly folk remedy? No! Researchers at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach have found that hot chicken soup, either because of its aroma or its taste, "appears to possess an additional substance for increasing the flow of nasal mucus." Researchers say that this mucus serves as a first line of defense in removing germs from your system, so eat up!
Liquids - Drink six to eight glasses of water, juice, tea, and other mostly clear liquids daily to keep the body hydrated and to flush out impurities.
NO Smoking! - Smoking aggravates the throat and interferes with the infection-fighting activity of the cilia, the microscopic "fingers" that sweep bacteria out of your lungs and throat. Even if you don't quit for good, at least stop for the duration of your cold.
Salty Gargle - Dr. Van Ert of San Francisco advises mixing 1 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gargling away whenever your throat hurts.
Hot Toddy - Get a good night's sleep and clear a stuffed-up nose by sipping a "hot toddy" or a half a glass of wine before bedtime, suggests Dr. Caughron, a family practitioner specializing in preventive medicine in Charlottesville, Virginia. But don't go overboard! More alcohol than that can stress out your system and make recovery more difficult.
Get Steamed - Clear congestion and relieve a dry cough by taking a hot steamy shower. Or make a steam tent by draping a towel over your head above a bowl of boiling water.
Keep Your Germs to Yourself - Cough and blow away, but do it into a disposable tissue instead of sharing them! Then promptly throw the tissue away and wash your hands.
Medicate - If you decide to take over the counter medication, follow the instructions carefully and only take medication that addresses the symptoms that you are suffering from.
Looking for alternatives to drugs? Try these herbs and teas that contain special properties that are natural antagonists against colds!
Goldenseal and Echinacea - "I recommend herb capsules such as goldenseal and echinacea at the early onset of a cold," says Elson Haas, M.D. He says that goldenseal stimulates your liver, which helps to clear up infections. Echinacia clean your blood and lymph glands, helping circulate infection-fighting antibodies and removing toxic substances from the body. Try one or two capsules twice a day for up to two weeks.
Garlic - Garlic is known for its antibiotic effect and "can actually kill germs and clear up your cold symptoms more rapidly," says Dr. Haas. He recommends two or three oil-free garlic capsules three times a day.
Licorice Root Tea - Dr Van Ert recommends this teas for it's anesthetizing effects for soothing irritated throats and relieving coughs.
Other Teas - Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime tea, or tea brewed with hops or valarian her, have natural tranquilizing effects that will help you rest. Add a teaspoon of honey, a simple carbohydrate that has a sedative effect.
Monolaurian - Dr. Van Ert also recommends this fatty acid (available in capsule form) for it's antiviral effect. He recommends taking two capsules three times a day with some food, for helping the immune system stay fit to battle the cold virus.
A cold may be something that we have to live with, and through, but finding ways to make the best of it will help you get back on your feet in record time.