A Zinc Deficiency

We all need zinc to help protect against oxidative stress and complete DNA repair, but deficiencies in this trace mineral may be common and increase risks of cancer, DNA damage, infectious diseases and suboptimal immune function. The older you get, the greater the risk of running low on zinc. An estimated 12 percent of the U.S. population is probably at risk of zinc deficiency, and up to 40 percent of seniors may be deficient because absorption of zinc slows with age and because dietary intake may not meet your nutritional needs, according to experts at the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. One recent study found that even a minor zinc deficiency can result in increased DNA damage. Zinc deficiencies have been linked to prostate cancer and to esophageal, breast and head and neck cancers and may contribute to infections and to autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, tests for zinc status aren't very good. The best dietary sources are beef and poultry; zinc is poorly absorbed from plants. The recommended daily allowance is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men, but I generally recommend taking 15 mg of zinc daily - or up to 30 mg daily if you don't eat many foods of animal origin.


The best plant sources of zinc are legumes (dried beans, garbanzos, black-eyed peas, lentils, peas, and whole soy products), pumpkin seeds, whole grains and nuts.

Dr. Weil

Green Tea

The health benefits of Green Tea have long been discussed by health guru’s and have been generally thought of and defined as "an immune system enhancer." The following study published by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition was therefore of particular interest. One interesting aspect of the study depicts the benefits of green tea for women only. The study is as follows:

Japanese women who drink even a little bit of green tea seem to have a lower risk of developing pneumonia, and those who drink five or more cups per day may be able to cut their risk by 47 percent. These findings are from a study published in the September 2009 American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The researchers also found that drinking a single cup of green tea daily cut the risk of dying from pneumonia by 41 percent. But these results apply only to Japanese women, not men. Even with the gender differences, the investigators noted that their findings support the hypothesis that compounds in green tea can destroy or inhibit the growth of viruses and other microorganisms that cause pneumonia. This was a big study that followed more than 19,000 men and more than 21,000 women for more than 12 years. The participants' ages ranged from 40 to 79. The researchers saw the benefits in women (but not men) after controlling for age, physical function, smoking status and other health and dietary factors that might influence the risk of pneumonia.

For more information regarding Green Tea studies follow the link provided on this post.

Always be happy and healthy
Carl

Antioxidant rich spice

Rosemary

Another herb that is antioxidant-rich is "Rosemary". According to research, rosemary contains powerful antioxidants that may help to inhibit free radical damage to cells. Rosemary was been revealed to have even greater health benefits than paprika. Using rosemary to season fish, vegetables, egg-white omelets, and salads will give your system an antioxidant boost.

Rosemary is an excellent accompaniment to pork and chicken. In Mediterranean cuisine, rosemary is most often associated with vegetables sautéed in olive oil such as zucchini, tomatoes and eggplant. Sprinkle dried rosemary on charcoal when grilling for a delicious, aromatic treat.

Rosemary is very good with apricots, cabbage, cream cheese, eggplant, eggs, fish, lamb, lentils, mushrooms, onions, oranges, parsnips, pork, potatoes, poultry, rabbit, tomatoes, veal, and winter squashes

Rosemary combines well with bay leaves, chives, garlic granules, oregano, parsley, sage, savory and thyme.

Pack in the Antioxidants. Vitamins, and Minerals

Cauliflower Soup with Black Truffle Oil

Here is a treat that is as healthy as it is delicious.

Deliciously Organic

The Benefits of Taking Alfalfa Supplements

Alfalfa A Superfood

Alfalfa supplements have been gaining popularity in the recent years.
The medicinal uses of alfalfa have existed for many years now and it is being used in traditional Chinese medicine as a remedy for kidney problems. Alfalfa is an herbaceous legume that grows perennially. It has been used for a long time as livestock and horse feeds and are claimed to make horses and other livestock strong and swift. Alfalfa is an Arab term which means "Father of All Foods," and it has taken its name due to its beneficial effect.

Alfalfa Nutrition

Alfalfa naturally has about 300 nutrients and phytonutrients. The alfalfa plant is a good source of proteins as it is composed of 50% alfalfa protein. It is rich in vitamins such as beta carotene, vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B6, C, E and K, and is also a good source of minerals such as calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and sulphur. It is also a natural source of amino acids, and provides rich sources of 9 essential amino acids. Last but not the least, it contains phytonutrients such as saponins, octasonols and isoflavones that is responsible for some of its medicinal effects. Alfalfa is indeed a very healthy food.
While eating alfalfa legumes and leaves can potentially give you all these nutrients, the full benefits of alfalfa can be achieved by the intake of alfalfa supplements.


Alfalfa Supplements

Alfalfa supplements come in many forms. There are dried leaves available and they are also being sold as alfalfa extracts in liquid form. Supplements also come as 250 milligram to 1000 milligram alfalfa tablets or alfalfa capsules, and they are available in drug and health stores all over the world. Alfalfa supplement is mostly taken in tablet and capsule form. Dried alfalfa leaves can also be steeped into one pint of water for 20 minutes to make alfalfa tea.

Alfalfa Health Benefits

Intake of alfalfa supplements offers a wide range of health benefits. These benefits include:
• Reducing of bad cholesterol
• Promoting liver health
• Detoxifying the body of harmful toxins in the blood
• Reduction of blood sugar levels
• Relieving muscle and joint pains
• Alleviating menopausal symptoms and side effects
• Increasing energy levels
• Reducing fatigue due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies

Alfalfa Dosage

There is no standard alfalfa dosage that has to be strictly followed. The recommended dosage depends particularly on the purpose of taking the drug. Alfalfa tabs and alfalfa pills, for example, are usually taken 2-3 times everyday after meals for lowering cholesterol. Drinking two cups of alfalfa tea achieves the best results. • •

Alfalfa Side Effects and Precautions

Generally, alfalfa is safe to take for those who are healthy. However, some isolated reports have been found on allergic reactions to alfalfa supplements. There have also been reports that mention that alfalfa seeds and alfalfa sprouts contain amino acids and other components that can be harmful for people with autoimmune diseases. If you suffer from any illness or are taking estrogens, immune-suppressing drugs, diabetes agents and water pills, it is best to consult your doctor before taking alfalfa supplements.

BELIEVING IS DECEIVING

BELIEVING IS DECEIVING

The vain tend to believe every flattery and no criticism.

The skeptic tends to believe every criticism and no flattery.

Don't Trust Calorie Counts on Menus

According to researchers at Yale University, including calorie counts on menus seem to affect diner's choices. But what use is that if the reported calorie counts are wildly inaccurate?



A report in next month's Journal of the American Dietetic Association finds that the published calorie counts for so-called "reduced calorie" meals served at various chain restaurants were wildly inaccurate. On average, the actual calories were almost 20% higher, but the range of discrepancy was huge.


Some of the tested entrees contained fewer calories than advertised. For example, a slice of thin-crust cheese pizza from Domino's was listed at 180 calories but actually provided only 141. Several others were within 5% of the menu listings. A Taco Bell Crunchy Beef Taco was exactly as advertised: 191 calories.


However, an order of Szechuan-style asparagus from P.F. Chang's, which was listed at 260 calories, actually contained 558. And the Taco Bell Chicken Taco Salad, listed as 326 calories, was actually 607 calories.


In some cases, the serving size was the culprit. A side order of grits from Denny's is listed at 86 calories on the menu, for example. However, the 262-gram serving delivered to the table was twice as large as the 113-gram serving listed on the menu. Total calories: 258. Always be careful of SUPERSIZING specials.


Another problem was that low-calorie entrees often come with free side dishes that are not included in the posted calorie counts for the dish. For example, the petite sirloin steak served at Ruby Tuesday's weighed at 118 grams, exactly as advertised and, at 244 calories, actually came in slightly under the posted calorie count of 271. However, it came with a side of broccoli and a baked potato, which added another 667 calories to the meal.


Obviously putting calorie counts on menus is only going to help diners moderate their caloric intake if they bear some resemblance to reality. In the meantime, I'd take them with a grain of salt. If what arrives at your table looks like way too much food for the advertised calorie counts, it probably is. Be familiar with and pay attention to portion sizes. For example, do you know what a 118g (4-ounce) steak looks like? Check out this Portion Control Slide Show from WebMD( link is proved on this post located by the arrow). And finally, be aware of extras and sides that aren't included in the posted calorie counts.

Welcome To Our New Medical - Pharmaceutical Library

The Grand Opening Of Our New Library

Medical Research Made Easy

 In this day and age it has become most important to be an active participant in our own healthcare. The best way to do this and to make good choices is to be well informed. There are so many health sites that make our searches confusing, to say the least.

At some point in your life, you will probably have to consider having an operation or develop other health issues. The good news is—the more you know about what to expect, the better your surgical outcome or treatment will be; and the more satisfied you'll be with your results! That goes for any type of procedure or treatment you may have, from cataract removal, to a gallbladder operation or a prostatectomy.

For this reason I have compiled the best medical sites possible;for those of us with no formal medical training as well as the professional provider.

I was able to distill my search down to 6 wonderful databases. My selection criterion was as follows:

1- The comprehensive nature of the information provided

2- User friendly or ability to access information easily

3- Organization

4- Loading quality

5- Unique benefits to using the site

6- They must be established, medical/pharmaceutical data bases

7- They must be Free

The data bases are outlined in the posts below and can be found permanently listed on the side bar of this site. For easy access each icon is connected to the proper database. Just click the icon and experience "Medical Research Made Easy"

If you have comments, concerns, suggestions,or wish to include other subject matter, please leave me feedback
here in the comment section or email me at
carlsvilleprojectgroup.gmail.com.

dLife

dLife is a wonderful site devoted to diabetes exclusively. dLife is tabbed , equipped with search capacity and is beautifully organized and all benefits are free.

Information on dLife includes:
1- Diabetic recipes
2- Healthy eating
3- dLife TV
4- A Diabetic Community
5- Diabetic forum
6- Expert Q & A
7- Bolgabetes
8- Diabetic Supplies
9- As a member you will have access to an e-cookbook, support, weekly updates for cooking, tips and much more.
This is a great site with a wealth of information for everyone seeking awareness information about diabetes.

The Internet Drug Index

The RX List's primary focus is  pharmaceutical information. However,it is much more than just a drug index and is enormous in scope. In spite of its breadth it is very user friendly and is very well designed.

1- This site includes a data base for pill identification by appearance.
2- Dietary supplements to include vitamins and herbs.
3- Slide shows as an educational tool and also depicts visual problems such as bites, ringworm, skin problems, etc.
4- This site includes a segment on “Pet Health”
5- Incorporated is a huge database for diseases & conditions A-Z (very impressive)
6- Also a dictionary of terms and conditions.

PDR Health

PDR Health’s material is focused upon diseases /conditions as well as drugs/supplements. PDR Health is equipped with search and is clearly tabbed. This site is extraordinary having organized multiple data bases in a manner that is very user friendly. PDR Health includes Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Children’s Health, and Senior Health in addition to about 40 other categories such as:



1- High blood pressure
2- Thyroid & Hormonal
3- Bones & Joints
4- Mental Health


5- Pregnancy & Breast Feeding
6- Infections
To name only a few.


• There is also a specific link for Health Professionals.

Discovery Health

Discovery Health was developed by the famous Dr. OZ. It is well designed and loads easily. This site has great graphics. This site is also very user friendly and is comprised of numerous stacked data bases. All subject matter is tabbed for easy access.

This site provides for a broad concept of health, addressing such areas as:
1- Diseases & Conditions
2- Diet & Fitness to include a recipe index
3- Health Living to include Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Plastic Surgery, Stress Management, Blogs, and Sleep, to name a few.
4- Mental Health including addictions
5- Pregnancy & Parenting
6- Sex and Relationships
7- Health Tips
8- TV schedules for health related topics

WebMD

WebMD is very broad in terms of health information available. This site provides information regarding:



1. symptoms
2. Health A-Z including “find a drug” and “pill Identifier”
3. Healthy Living- including Living Green, Skin and beauty, Pet, Men’s and Women’s categories.
4. Eating and Dieting to include a planner, cooking, BMI calculator to only name a few
5. Parenting & Pregnancy to include children’s vaccines, pregnancy, Parenting, New Born and Baby.
6. Mental Health
7. Pet Health including Dogs and Cats ..Complete with message boards and independent search.


This is an excellent site with too many features to outline.

Drugs.Com

Drugs.Com is complete with its own search engine with an A-Z search. This is an excellent site for drug information. It contains the following categories some unique and some overlapping.


1. This site will search drugs by condition. i.e. plug in “cancer” and it will pull up all drugs associated with this disease.
2. Side effects for any drug
3. New Drugs on the market
4. Warnings for drugs
5. Natural Products
6. THIS SITE HAS A PHANETIC SEARCH WHICH IS A WONDERFUL FUNCTION.
7. Veterinary product data base
8. Health Professionals category
9. Community section for Discussions & Questions
10. Medications notes to keep track of meds for one person to a family
11. Free Sign up


This is another huge data base but is very user friendly

Now that you have an overview of each Medical  Site give them a try.   It may be easier than you ever thought!

Explore each one and you will be able to use them over and over again.

If you have questions just email me and I will be of assistance if possible. Thanks,

Carl

YOU Have To Eat!!

You can stop smoking, drinking, abusing drugs, biting your fingernails, etc. However, you cannot stop eating. No matter how much you want to lose weight, you have to eat. The secret is to slowly but permanently change your habits. Continue to enjoy eating and the social interaction that eating usually involves. Don't be too hard on yourself or feel guilty about eating. Do follow some very common sense tips about healthy eating. These tips are available in so many places. Practice some of these methods and stay away from fads.

* See Vitamin Wheel at the bottom of this site.

* Follow links provided for futher information on a healthy diet.

Think "Balance" & "Moderation"

There is more than one way to skin a cat!

It has been a known fact that the women in a relationship, a wife, a mother, girlfriend, or sisters are the ones that push and prod their male loved ones to see a doctor for that pain, to eat more greens, to get more exercise,  to go get that eye test, go to the dentist etc…..All the pushing and prodding out of love is an attempt to find a way to motivate their hubbie to take better care of himself so he will be around a little longer. This is a primary reason why married men are healthier, in general, and tend to live longer.

There is always more than one way to skin a cat, as they say. Going for the sure thing with us guys an ingenious wife and mother developed this little chart. Above is an eye chart "Just for Men" . One motivator down ladies..nice going!

Did you know that a common reason for headaches and irritability is due to eye strain from out dated prescription glasses?

Mark Twain On Healthy Living

Healthy way

The only way to keep your health is to:

 Eat what you don't want,

Drink what you don't like,

and
Do what you'd rather not!

- MARK TWAIN

Muscle Makes For Better Bones

Conventional medical wisdom has held that being overweight has one advantage: the extra weight puts enough stress on bones to help stimulate the formation of more bone tissue. Overweight bones are typically stronger than those seen in thinner people who are believed to have a higher risk of osteoporosis.


But researchers in Belgium have challenged that view with a study showing that the fatter men in their study had smaller, thinner bones and that the size of their bones was affected most dramatically by the amount of fat in the trunk area. Of the 768 men between the ages of 25 and 45 whose bone density was examined, those with the largest, densest bones were those with the highest lean muscle mass. The researchers said that bone mass fell as the percentage of body fat rose and that bone mass increased as lean muscle mass rose. They concluded that bone mass is determined by "dynamic" loading provided by muscle mass rather than the "passive" loading from the weight of fat. The study was published in the July 2009 Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

Getting Motivated to EXCERCISE

When your joints ache and your body's fatigueed,the lure of a comfortable couch can be strong. But suprisingly, one of the best antidotes to pain and fatigue is to get up and going.Regular excercise provides many benefits..including less arthritis pain and more energy to do the things that are important to you.
Yet,knowing exercise is good for you and actually doing it are two different things; it can be hard to get going when your schedule's jammed and your joints are begging for a little R & R. So how do you get yourself going and keep yourself motivated? Give the following a try:
1- Start off small..Rome wasn't built in a day.
2- Break it up ..Even 3 ten minute sessions a day are worth it!
3-Mix it up..If you are bored by the same thing day after day for example, walk to a different neighborhood or go to the park.
Stick with what you like..If you enjoy it .do it!
4- Be flexable- Adjust to accommodate your difficulties..like arthritis. Avoid an all or nothing approach.
5- Don't go it alone - Walk with a friend..Make it fun.
6- Soothe yourself - Take time to warm up or stretch.
7- Reward yourself..When you have reached a milestone reward yourself with a movie or something you enjoy.
8 - Keep you eye on the prize..You have to set goals to cross the finish line. Always set goals for yourself.
Above all be kind to yourself. Not critical and the healthier you become the less pain you will feel and the happier you will be with "just being you".