tips for prevent diabities

Diabetes - General Information

Artificial Pancreas Safe, Effective in Early Study

An "artificial pancreas" designed to deliver the key blood sugar-regulating hormone insulin to diabetic patients without the need for injections has been found safe and effective in a preliminary study with ten patients.

The device is an insulin reservoir, implanted in the tissue lining the abdominal cavity and connected to a sensor implanted in the jugular vein. The reservoir requires insulin refills every month or so. When the sensor detects an increase in blood glucose, the reservoir delivers the required amount of insulin.

Blood Glucose Testing

Most insurances now pay for diabetics to have blood glucose monitoring equipment in the home. Keeping the machines clean and in good working order are vital for accurate results. Follow the manufacturers' instructions for proper cleaning and maintenance.

Blood Glucose Testing Tip

Be sure hands are clean before performing the test, but don't use alcohol to cleanse your fingertip. It's drying and may cause fingertips to crack. Wash hands with a mild antibacterial soap like Dial.

Diabetes Test After Heart Attack Shows Future Risk

Testing patients who have had heart attacks for signs of diabetes before they leave the hospital may identify those with the highest risk of future heart attacks. Many people hospitalized for a heart attack have undiagnosed diabetes or prediabetes, a term coined to describe the millions of overweight and obese people who have blood sugar levels suggesting an elevated risk of full-blown diabetes. Medications, exercise and diet changes, all of which can restore normal glucose levels, may reduce the risk of heart attacks in patients who have already had a heart attack.

Diabetic Dental Care

Immaculate mouth care is a must. Diabetics are much more prone to gum disease. More frequent dental visits may be needed and careful brushing and flossing are a necessity. Avoid ill-fitting dentures that may cause mouth sores.

Diabetic Eye Care

If you're a diabetic, regular visits to your eye care professional are a must to prevent problems that could lead to blindness.

Diabetic Foot Care Tips

* Take the pressure off your feet by losing weight if you are obese.

* Inspect your feet at least once per day. If you can't see well, ask someone to do it for you.

* Wash feet with mild soap and lukewarm water daily.

* Wear white cotton socks rather than synthetic ones with dyes.

* Don't go barefoot or wear ill-fitting shoes.

* See a podiatrist regularly for toenail trims and other routine maintenance.

Diabetics Are Prone to Foot Problems

Diabetics have decreased sensation and circulation in their feet making them prone to foot infections/wounds that could eventually lead to amputation.

Drug Could Delay Diabetes

Acarbose, a drug that blocks the digestion of starch, could prevent or delay the development of the most common form of diabetes in those with slightly high blood sugar.

Exercises to Avoid

Diabetics should avoid exercises that involve pushing or pulling heavy objects and lifting weights. Blood sugar levels and blood pressure are raised during this kind of exercise.

FDA Approves New Sweetener Neotame

A non-nutritive sweetener said to be 7,000 to 13,000 times sweeter than sugar received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to be marketed as an additive in candies, soft drinks and various other products.

Like other familiar sweeteners, Neotame is a white crystalline powder that dissolves in water. It is made by Monsanto, which also makes NutraSweet's sweetener Equal. Neotame is approved for use in baked goods, nonalcoholic beverages, chewing gum, confections, frozen desserts, gelatins and puddings, jams, jellies, fruit, juices, toppings and syrups.

The FDA declared the product to be safe for consumption after reviewing more than 113 animal and human studies, some of which looked at any

about Bloodpresure

Tips to help you control your high blood pressure

Make sure your blood pressure is under 140/90 mm Hg

If your systolic pressure is over 140, ask your doctor what you can do to lower it.

If you have diabetes it is even more important to maintain your blood pressure at an acceptable level, which reduces long-term complications associated with this disease process. You should be receiving regular monitoring and advice from you GP/diabetic practitioner.

Aim for a healthy weight

Ideally try not to gain extra weight in the first place, if you have then try to lose the weight slowly, at about half to one pound a week until you reach a healthy target. This can be easier to achieve if you include exercise as well to burn off those unwanted calories and tone your body as you lose the weight.

If you are overweight or obese, carrying this extra weight increases your risk of high blood pressure because the heart has to work very hard to keep blood circulating efficiently.

Exercise - be active every day!

Even the simplest exercise will help; you can walk, dance, use the stairs, play sports, or do any activity you enjoy. For instance: get off the bus one or two stops early; park your car at the other end of the car park and walk; walk or cycle to the corner shop.

Being physically active is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent or control high blood pressure and will help you keep your weight down. It will also help to reduce your risk of heart disease and enhances overall wellbeing. All you need to do is 30 minutes of moderate level activity preferably every day of the week - you can even divide the 30 minutes into shorter 10 minute periods if you are not used to regular exercise.

Exercise does not have to be strenuous; you should start slowly and build up the amount of exercise that you do.

It is not advisable, however, to lift heavy weights or to take on certain strenuous activities if exercise has not been gradually and appropriately introduced. If you are worried that your health could be adversely affected by exercise, i.e. you have a heart complaint; make sure that you are reviewed by your GP.

Look at what you are eating. Does it contain a lot of sodium?

It is suggested that no more than 2.4 grams of sodium should be consumed per day. Read the labels and be aware of hidden sodium, which is known to increase blood pressure. Try not to add salt to your meals.

Eat more fruit and vegetables

Eating more fiber should help to stop you feeling hungry and less likely to pick at sweets, chocolate and crisps etc.

Stop/reduce smoking - smoking causes the blood to thicken

Not only does this make you more at risk of developing a dangerous blood clot but it makes the heart work harder in order to 'push' the blood around the system to provide oxygen and other important components.

Reduce your stress levels

Take time out for yourself each day to do something you like to do without feeling guilty. If there are any problems worrying you try talking them over with a friend, or someone you trust, this is often all that is needed to make you feel better. Also remember if you wear a smile, it will rub off on others. Try it and see!

Watch your alcohol intake

Keep the amount of units you consume to a minimum, as your body works hard to flush it out of your system and this will have an effect on your blood pressure (plus it will increase your weight).

It is recommended that men limit themselves to no more than one or two drinks per day and women should have no more than one drink per day.

Take medication correctly

If you have been prescribed medication from your GP to control your blood pressure, make sure that you take the medication correctly and visit your GP regularly for your blood pressure to be monitored effectively.

about backpain

The lower spine consists of five bones, called the lumbar vertebrae. The vertebrae support the body and protect the spinal core and nerves. Between each vertebra is a disk filled with a jelly-like material. The disks act as shock absorbers for the vertebrae. Along the spine are many nerves. Injury to these nerves can cause pain.

What can cause low back injuries?

Many things can cause low back injuries - muscle strain or spasm, sprains of ligaments (which attach bone to bone), joint problems or a "slipped disk." The most common cause of low back pain is using your back muscles in activities you're not used to, like lifting heavy furniture, playing basketball or doing yard work.

A slipped disk happens when the disk between the bones bulges and presses on nerves. This is often caused by twisting while lifting. But many people won't know what caused their slipped disk.

Back pain can also follow normal activities such as bending over the sink to brush your teeth. Back pain may be made worse by stress, long periods of inactivity or being in an unusual position for a long time.

Call your doctor if

Pain goes down your leg below your knee.

Your leg, foot, groin or rectal area feels numb.

You have fever, nausea or vomiting, stomach-ache, weakness, or sweating.

You lose control over going to the bathroom.

Your pain was caused by an injury.

Your pain is so intense you can't move around.

Your pain doesn't seem to be getting better after two to three weeks.

What should I do when I've hurt my lower back?

The best position for relief when your back hurts is to lie on your back on the floor with pillows under your knees, with your hips and knees bent and your feet on a chair, or just with your hips and knees bent. This takes the pressure and weight off your back.

If you're resting a hurt back, you may need a few days of this sort of rest. Resting longer than this can cause your muscles to weaken, which can slow down your recovery. Even if it hurts, walk around for a few minutes every few hours.

If you're resting a tired back, stay in one of these positions for five to 25 minutes at a time.

Heating pads can help to relax painful muscle spasms. Use heat for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. Ice packs and massages may also give relief. Medicines that reduce pain or swelling include ASA (some examples are Aspirin, Entrophen), ibuprofen (some examples are Advil, Medipren, Motrin IB) and acetaminophen (some examples are Panadol, Tylenol).

Is there relief for ongoing back problems?

Treatment of ongoing back problems must be directed at the cause. This may mean losing weight (because being overweight can make back pain worse), getting your muscles in better shape, and improving your posture when you're standing, sitting and sleeping. Most people feel much better within a few weeks. Serious problems are rare.

Tips for preventing back strain

Don't lift by bending over. Lift an object by bending your hips and knees and then squatting to pick up the object.

Keep your back straight and hold the object close to your body. Avoid twisting your body while lifting.

Push rather than pull when you must move heavy objects.

tips for lips

Lip Care

Here are a few Home remedies for lips from which you can choose anything that suits you best .

Natural remedy for Chapped lips:

Apply butter (pure & unsalted) or almond oil or ghee and massage gently.

Massage with chilled milk cream and wash it off after 1 hour. This home remedy cures chapped lips.

Massage your lips with pure olive oil or coconut oil regularly to get soft lips.

Massage your lips with a little glycerin mixed with a little rose water for soft lips.

Drink plenty of water to keep your lips moisturized.

Grind rose petals to a smooth paste and mix it with fresh cream and apply. It cures dry or chapped lips.

Application of petroleum jelly or lip balm helps cure chapped lips.

Apply honey and wash it off after 15 minutes to cure chapped lips

Try changing your lipstick brand. Use lipstick with a moisturizer to prevent dryness. Use good quality lipsticks. Always use trusted brands.

Certain flavoring agents in toothpaste, chewing gum or mouthwash might also cause chapped lips. Find out if you are allergic to it and try changing them.

Home Remedies to cure dark lips

Honey mixed with a little lemon juice helps to lighten dark lips.

Try changing your toothpaste brand as it may be allergic to you.

Apply Vaseline or lip balm when going out.

Mix 1/2 tsp Pomegranate juice with 1/2 tsp beetroot juice and apply regularly to cure dark lips.

Soak 2-3 almonds overnight. In the morning, peel its skin and grind it to smooth paste. Add a little fresh cream and 2-3 drops of lemon juice to it and apply it regularly to cure dark lips.

Try these home remedies and bring back smile to your lips.

tips for healthy eyes

Eyes are one of the most wonderful gift given to us, so one has to take care of the eyes.
Here are some tips to take care of your eyes.

• Have a good night sleep and give enough rest to your eyes.
  
  
• Since the skin around the eyes are very sensitive, one has to take good care and handle it delicately. You can massage your eyes with almond oil using your ring finger without giving much pressure.
  
  
• Refresh your eyes by splashing cold water on it .
  
  
• Since eyes are very sensitive, buy good quality cosmetics. Never lend or use others eyeliner, eyebrow pencil, mascara or eye shadow.
  
  
• Wear a good quality sunglasses which protect your eyes from UV rays while going out in the sun.
  
  
• Have a good diet consisting of fruits and vegetables. Red, orange, yellow and dark green vegetables, fruits and greens are very good for the eyes. Drink plenty of water.
  
  
• Apply pure castor oil for the eyebrows before going to bed for good growth.
  
  
• Wear plain glasses while doing work that generates dust.
  
  
• Soak cotton wool in chilled water to which a few drops of rose water has been added and keep it on your eyes for 5 minutes. This will refresh your eyes.
  
  
• Read in good light and keep a good distance while watching television.
  
  
• Rub your palms together and cover your eyes with palms to relax then .
  
  
• For wrinkles or fine lines around the eyes, apply egg white, leave it till it dries and wash it off with cold water. Do this regularly or on alternate days. This natural remedy for wrinkles around the eyes is very effective.
  
  
• Apply apricot kernel oil to prevent wrinkles around the eyes.

types of yoga

If you are looking to add yoga to your healthy lifestyle you may be wondering what type of yoga to choose. We are here to break down the many varieties and help you decide which path is best for you. Below is a brief overview of the most popular yoga practices today.

Vinyasa – Movements and breaths are coordinated in a fast pace type of yoga. Each asana (pose) is balanced with a counter pose to create a harmonized mind and body. Vinyasa yoga has influenced many other styles of yoga that all keep the idea of balance and synchronicity throughout.

Ashtanga – This is a type of Vinyasa yoga that follows a series of asanas that constantly flow, allowing each movement to receive a breath. Ashtanga is a Sanskrit (an ancient language in India) work meaning “8 Limbs”. Ashtanga yoga is sometimes better known as “power yoga” because of the demand on the body.

Iyengar – This a type of yoga designed by the famous yoga guru B.K.S. Iyengar. His style of yoga places a great emphasis on proper alignment by encouraging the use of yoga props such as bands, blocks, pillows, etc. while holding each pose for a longer amount of time than most other yoga styles.

This style is great for beginners or those who have not exercised in a while because the props help to compensate for any lack of flexibility that comes with continued practice.

Bikram – Otherwise know as “Hot Yoga”, this style of Vinyasa yoga is taught in heated rooms of 105 degrees F or warmer. It is meant to duplicate the climate in India where yoga originated. There are 26 specific asanas that are performed in the same order.

Bikram yoga follows the belief that the muscles in the body should be warmed up and worked in this order to create the fullest potential of energy in the body. Because of the extreme heat this type of practice is meant for those in extremely fit shape.

Kundalini – This yoga style focuses on the spiritual aspect of yoga; the mind, body, soul connection with the goal of taking the yoga participant to a place beyond just the physical body. The main goal of Kundalini yoga is to activate and balance the seven chakras in the body, the kundalini energy found in the spine.

Different parts of the body and brain are awakened by performing breathing, mantras, body locks, meditation, etc. in order to unlock the different layers of consciousness found in every individual. Kundalini yoga is ideal for anyone looking to take their yoga practice beyond the physical attachment.

Hatha - In Sanskrit Ha means “sun” and Tha means “moon”. This is a mellow slow paced type of yoga that places great emphasis on using the basic poses to relieve stress in the body and mind. Hatha yoga is perfect for reflecting at the end of the day. It is also ideal for beginners wanting to practice connecting the body with the mind through a gentle series of flow movements and meditative breaths

No matter what type of yoga seems best for you on your computer screen. We encourage you to take part in several styles of yoga classes and open your mind to the relaxing and energizing effects that the amazing practice of yoga offers you. Only after you are able to open and receive can you truly learn what is best for you.

yoga tips

Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word “yoke” meaning union. There are many different styles and types of yoga , but all of them have one thing in common – to connect the mind, body and spirit. These techniques are all about bringing together every inch of your being so that you can fully experience who you are in your mind, your body and your spirit at each particular moment. After all, isn’t that what a healthy lifestyle is all about?

Since our site is dedicated to informing you about positive and natural lifestyles and how to create one, it is important that what you experience on your yoga mat is also transferable to your daily life.

Yoga creates harmony in the body by developing strength and flexibility through different series of asanans, or poses. You learn to take your time and feel each moment by balancing work with rest, in turn creating a relaxed and energized mind and body.

Yoga has many benefits, but most importantly the stress relief to the body and the mind are felt immediately. With devotion you will see physical benefits of a leaner and stronger body. Your mind begins to stretch and become more flexible as you feel less pressure and enjoy the present moment. Over time you recognize that there are no limits to your soul.

Yoga is a restorative type of exercise, toning the body internally and externally. You learn to truly listen to the needs of your body and move through the process rather than toward the goal. It is a practice that will become ingrained in your daily life as you begin to see the changes it provides you.

Many of you practice yoga regularly and enjoy it as a hobby. But do you know the many benefits of yoga that impact your life?

Like anything you love, yoga requires dedication and mindfulness. By making yoga a part of your routine, your yoga practice will honor you. Over time it will allow your body and your mind to grow increasingly more flexible and strong.

Outlined below are the amazing benefits that only yoga can collectively offer.

Yoga increases joint and muscle flexibility

Yoga actually lubricates the joints, ligaments and tendons. Yoga postures are meant to work together in order to balance the inside and outside of the body. This interrelated action produces a supple, lengthened body that has more space so that stress does not weigh it down.

Yoga massages all of the body’s organs

Yoga is the only form of exercise that literally massages all of the internal glands and organs in a rhythmic, methodical manner. For a regular participant in yoga the constant flow of asanas become almost like dancing. The familiarities of the movements alert the body of anything out of the ordinary, forewarning you of disease or disorders.

Yoga creates a stronger sense of awareness

This sense of awareness applies to your emotional, physical, and mental levels. By using breathing techniques and frequently scanning your body of how it feels you become more attuned, creating conversation between your inside and outside self. You learn that every part of your body is interconnected.

Yoga supplies the body with optimal blood

An amazing benefit of yoga, is that it flushes away toxins that have built up in the body and supplies clean, fresh blood to your body. As you move through poses your body heats up and basically burns away waste left in the body. You are self cleaning which slows the aging process and increases your energy levels.

Yoga tones all of your muscles

Definitely one of the most desired benefits of yoga. It is very much like swimming in the way that it works every muscle, even ones that may not have had much action since you were a child. Yoga is all-inclusive in so many ways!

Yoga is true mental therapy

Trust me, I need it, it’s my Prozac. One of my favorite benefits of yoga, it cultivates quietness in your mind and encourages you to think only about the present moment. It makes you aware of thoughts and feelings that are constantly circling and arising in your being. This mindfulness transfers to our daily lives and enables us to experience and truly enjoy every moment.

Yoga attunes you to the natural world

By practicing yoga you are symbolically practicing the flow of life. This constant practice builds respect and understanding of the planet’s big picture. You gain a realization that you are part of something bigger that connects you to every living thing.

Take the time to make yoga a part of your life’s busy routine. You will never regret it. In time the benefits of yoga will be revealed to you. Just remember that it is your practice and if you listen to your body, your body will guide you.

-Brooke Pennington

“Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Brooke Pennington is the head Yoga instructor for her local YMCA and also works with local business in their health and wellness programs. She can be contacted at brooke@naturalhealthlifestyles.com