What Are Cataracts And How Do You Prevent Them?

November 30th, 2011

As the population ages, cataracts are becoming a growing health concern.

A cataract is a clouding of the eye lens to such an extent that it affects vision. The majority of cataracts develop due to the aging process, and by age 80, more than half of all Americans have them. However, there are also other type of cataracts: secondary cataracts, which form after surgery for other ophthalmic diseases such as glaucoma; traumatic cataracts, which can develop after an eye injury; congenital cataracts; and radiation-inducted cataracts. Cataracts can occur in just one eye, or bilaterally.

Age-related cataracts can develop in two ways. Protein clumping in the capsule of lens causes poor transmission of light, leading to blurred and cloudy vision. Also, the normally clear lens can develop a yellow or brown tint, making it difficult to differentiate between dark colors such as dark blue and black .

Risk factors for the development of cataracts include aging, certain diseases such as diabetes (which also causes diabetic retinopathy), personal behavior such as smoking and alcohol abuse, and environmental/professional factors such as exposure to radiation or sunlight.

For instance, a study at the University of Iceland discovered that commercial airline pilots have a 3-fold increase in cataracts compared to non-pilots due to ionizing cosmic radiation at high altitudes. This radiation is normally filtered out by the atmosphere before reaching the earth. The pilots developed nuclear cataracts, which occur in the gelatinous interior of the lens, as opposed to cortical cataracts, which occur in the front capsule of the lens and are associated with UV light. The study recommended sunglasses to filter sunlight in the cockpit as a precautionary measure to prevent any synergistic effects of UV light, but offered no solution to the basic problem of radiation exposure during high-altitude flights.

Cataracts can be discovered in a routine eye exam, or after the patient complains of symptoms such as cloudy or blurred vision, poor color perception, glare and haloes around lights, poor night vision, double vision, or frequent eyewear prescription changes. Some of these symptoms can also be caused by diseases other than cataracts.

In the early stages, the symptoms of cataracts may be relieved by stronger eyeglasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses and magnifying lenses. However, if the cataract formation progresses, it may interfer intolerably with activities of everyday living. At this stage, surgery to remove the clouded natural lens and replace it with a synthetic one is the only effective treatment. Surgery relieves vision problems in 90% of cataract patients; however, many elderly cataract patients have other ophthalmic diseases such as glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration which also affect vision.

There are two different surgical procedures to remove cataracts. In phacoemulsification, also called “small incision cataract surgery”, a small incision is made in the cornea, and an ultrasonic probe is used to break up the diseased lens so it can be removed by suction. Extracapsular surgery is more rarely done, and in this case the surgeon makes a longer incision on the side of the cornea and removes the core of the lens in one piece before suctioning out the remaining pieces. Following removal of the natural lens, an artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL), is inserted. The surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis under local anaesthetic and sedation.

Cataract surgery is usually safe, but complications such as infection, bleeding and retinal detachement occur in a few patients. Other co-existing eye disorders such as severe myopia increase this risk. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and can be ignored by the patient because it causes no pain. A post-operative patient who has symptoms of “floaters” or light flashes must be evaluated immediately for retinal detachment, since early treatment can prevent loss of vision.

There are protective nutritional measures against cataracts available to everyone. In a study on nutrition and disease performed by the Harvard School of Public Health on 50,828 nurses, it was found that women taking vitamin C supplements of 250 to 500 mg daily for a decade or more decreased their odds of developing cataracts requiring surgery by 45%. Vitamin A also plays a role; the same study found that women with the highest beta-carotene and vitamin A intakes lowered their risk by 39%. In another study, taking 400 mg of vitamin E daily reduced cataract formation by 50%, and in a related study, it was found that people with the highest blood levels of vitamin E had half the risk of developing cataracts as those with the lowest blood levels. Lutein and zeaxanthin, found in vegetable such as spinach and kale, are also said to be protective. Trace minerals such as zinc and selenium are essential for the function of anti-oxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, and doctors often add these minerals to eye-protective vitamin formulas.

The Newest And Coolest Gadgets…

November 30th, 2011

Everyone loves the newest and coolest gadgets, particularly men in general. This is by no means anything against the male gender; simply put men are ten times more likely to buy certain gadgets than women are. However, throughout the years there have been many extremely popular gadgets, which have become extremely popular for both men and women. Gadgets are typically expensive when they are first released, then years later they are extremely cheap. For example, in 1979 Sony released the Walkman, this was new and exciting for users, it was considered a luxury item. The Walkman originally sold for $200, this hard to imagine in this day in age, when we can purchase them for $10 or $20.

Another extremely popular gadget in todays society is the Apple iPod, this gadget was released in 2001. When the iPod first appeared on the market, it was simply a tiny electronic that only possessed a hard drive with 5GB and a wheel that mechanically scrolled, only available for Macs. This $399 gadget has evolved to 80 GB hard drives and video capabilities.

Other popular gadgets include TiVo, which has taken the place of another popular gadget the VCR, and the PalmPilot has made the way for busy execs to keep track of all their business ventures from one day to the next. The CD player and the cellular phone are still extremely popular gadget that keep getting better and better. There are more features than ever with the cellular phone and the CD player is a fixture in nearly every home world wide.

No matter what gadget you choose there is something for everyone. There are gadgets for children, men, women, young, old and everywhere in between. Little gadgets and large gadgets, the electronic world is always inventing new and exciting things for consumers to enjoy and help simplify their lives.

Are celebrities happy?

November 30th, 2011

Before we begin asking if the celebrities are happy, let us first find out what is happiness? If I feel good for an hour a day, and horrible for the rest of the day, am I happy? What if I am happy for eight hours a day and horrible for the rest of the sixteen hours? Am I a happy person? For most of us happiness is a state that is not permanent. We are not happy throughout the day. At least majority of us are not.

What is happiness? Happiness means a sense of deep contentment. A cheerful outlook. An attitude of positive thoughts. A person who has these qualities is happy during all the times of the day.

How about celebrities then? They have name, fame and wealth. They can, not only buy whatever they desire, but they can also buy a loved one. They can buy anything. Their name is splashed around in the media most of the times. Every news about them is awaited by the general population. Celebrities may not have been born with a silver spoon in the mouth, but the current spoon is mostly that of gold. So they must be happy!

But sadly, happiness is away from most of them. Speaking of contentment, most of them are not only not feeling any contentment, but are frustrated. They are jealous at times. And they have no deep sense of peace in them. Rather their life and minds are full of turbulence most of the times. They are at times so dissatisfied with their own life that they wish to run away from themselves. This they cannot do, and therefore substances that take them away from their own realities are so often used by them.

Happiness has something to do with money, but only to an extent. Happiness has nothing to do with fame, if you are not satisfied with yourself. Whatever the world may say, unless one has self-esteem, one can never be happy. All of us sail in the same boat. Most of us are living unhappy lives most of the time. Let us get happiness that will give us a satisfied sense of living. Let us strive for happiness in our own inner world.

Pesticides: Cause For Concern?

November 30th, 2011

Many people are, in my opinion, rightly concerned about pesticides. 31,000 tons of pesticides are sprayed on UK land each year. Farm workers may have direct, intense contact with pesticides, but the general population are also exposed to pesticides via residues in and on food, pesticides in the air, as a result of spraying in fields, pesticides applied to road sides to control weeds, and even pesticide contamination of drinking water. As well as the active ingredients there are also likely to be chemicals used to help the stickiness and consistency of the pesticide.

PAN UK (formerly the Pesticide Trust) cites studies that have shown:

93% of non-organic oranges analysed contained pesticide residues
78% of apples analysed contained pesticide residues
43% of all fruit and vegetables analysed had detectable levels of pesticides
50% of lettuce contained residues from 7 or more chemical
71% of cereal bars with residues
83% of oily fish showed pesticide residues

Looking at the health risks of pesticides is difficult because many of the risks may be long term and these can be difficult to establish. There is also the problem of pesticide interaction, and the interaction of pesticides with other chemicals encountered in the environment. We just do not know enough to be certain that these chemicals are safe for us, but harmful to pests.

There are two basic types of pesticides:

Organochlorides kill pests by attacking their central nervous systems. Linked to cancer, birth defects and genetic changes in animals. They are fat-soluble and stored in body fat. They are far more persistent than organophosphates.

Organophosphates interfere with nerve conduction in pests. They are the most common pesticide used today. They are water-soluble and break down rapidly.

Governments control the use of pesticides through legislation, and there are various lists of banned and restricted pesticides. Since 1993 the EU has been implementing a programme to establish harmonised Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) for pesticide residues in foodstuffs sold in the EU. Once the level is agreed for a pesticide, EU member states are obliged to incorporate these MRLs into their national legislation within 12 months.

How effective is pesticide policing?

Investigations continually show that illegal and dangerous pesticides are appearing in food. This appears to be from two sources: illegal use of pesticides in a country, and also the use of pesticides that are legal (or unpoliced) in the country where the food is grown. In 1996 a UK investigation by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food showed that over 4% of the milk supply contained amounts of lindane above the maximum recommended levels, and in 2 samples DDT was detected even though it has been banned for over 10 years. [The Food Magazine, Issue 34, 1996]

There are likely to be commonly used pesticides that will prove eventually to be harmful. This has happened repeatedly with problems only being scientifically pinpointed after many years of use. There is no reason to feel confident that governments have identified and banned all harmful pesticides. Surely it is better to ere on the side of safety and buy properly certified organic products?

Chicago Restaurants

November 30th, 2011

Chicago is a city that has pioneered many firsts. These include the first planetarium in the Western World, first atomic reaction, first elevated train system and commercial airplane. These events and facts have played a role in shaping Chicago into a city where tradition and enterprise coexists with innovative ideas. Chicago and its suburbs are home to more than 10 million people.

Also known as the Windy City, Chicago has a distinctive style of its own and is also a fast-paced city. Chicago can be described as a restaurant town in a factual sense of the term, as diners here have the opportunity to taste cuisine from all parts of the world. The city is home to a wide range of eating establishments that serve Mediterranean, Israeli, Italian and Japanese cuisines. Specialized seafood restaurants, steak houses, burger joints or theme restaurants, they are all available in Chicago.

Chicago is famous for its corner restaurant chains such as Pizzeria Uno and Georgetti. Diners in the city can also taste preparations by world famous chefs at eating establishments such as the West Loops Blackbird. The Everest, situated on the Chicago Stock Exchanges 40th floor is another unique restaurant.

The citys dining experience offers multiple moderately priced eateries. Chicago has a reputation for launching stylish and original restaurants. This trend has helped broadening the options for the diner besides providing reasonable prices. Along with these eating joints, Chicago is also home to numerous celebrity restaurants. These include restaurants owned by famous people such as Michael Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenneger.

Visitors to Chicago have an opportunity to pamper their taste buds and often, it is a problem of which one do I miss out on. Trial and error is never a good way to get familiar with the dining culture of any city. It is important to read reviews that appear in the local print media or on the Internet. Some of these reviews give a pretty good glimpse into featured menus of various restaurants and an approximate pricing.

A Look At The Pitfalls Of Online DVD Rental Plans

November 29th, 2011

Online DVD rentals are more popular than they ever have been, and are getting more popular by the day. For as low as five dollars or an average of about twenty dollars a month you can rent movies that will be sent to you in the mail a day or two, and when finished watching these at your own pace simply send the movie. back in a prepaid envelope provide when you receive the movie. It has become really easy and convenient for people who don’t have the time or lack the patience for another Friday night trip to the movie rental store where they may or may not have the movie you want to rent. You also don’t have to stand in line after choosing your movies waiting to checkout so you can go home and relax.

How Do You Know What an Autographed is Worth?

November 29th, 2011

Have you recently started to become interested in autograph collecting and would like to know the present day market value of an autograph that you are interested in purchasing? Or have you inherited an estate from a family member and was surprised to find an abundance of autographed photos, items, cards, posters that you have no idea how to find the value much less who to sell them too?

There are several sources to find out how much your collectible or autographed collectible is worth. The internet has open a world at our finger tips, with online auctions to online stores, published price guides that can be purchased at most bookstores offer a rough estimate, mainly it is worth what someone is will to pay for the item. Online Auctions are now a great source of finding out just that.

The key points that influence the value of autographed memorabilia is supply, demand, condition, form, content, subject, rarity. There is a demand for certain celebrity autographs and people willing to buy and sell them. That creates the market, which determines the value which is understood by both buyer and seller. Collecting autographs usually starts with a particular interest in and individual or occupation or interest in a certain subject. It is one of those hobbies that once you dibble in become a passion. Then in time become a very nice investment as those of you who have inherited collections and were surprise to find out that their value was more than you had ever imagined.

Many categories determine the price of a signature from an individual. The following abbreviations are used to help describe the type of letter or document that is being offered for sale.
AD: Autograph Document (hand-written by the person to be collected, but not signed)
ADS: Autograph Document Signed (written and signed by same individual)
AL: Autograph Letter (hand-written by the person to be collected, but not signed)
ALS: Autograph Letter Signed (hand-written and signed by same individual)
AMs: Autograph Manuscript (hand-written; such as the draft of a play, research paper or music sheet)
AMsS: Autograph Manuscript Signed (hand-written and signed by same individual)
AMusQs: Autograph Musical Quotation Signed (hand-written and signed by same individual)
AN: Autograph Note (much shorter than a letter)
ANS: Autograph Note Signed (hand-written and signed by same individual)
AQS: Autograph Quote Signed (hand-written and signed by same individual; poem verse, sentence, or bar-of-music)
DS: Document signed (printed, or while hand-written by another, is signed by individual sought to be collected)
LS: Letter Signed (hand-written by someone else, but signed by the individual sought to be collected)
PS: Photograph Signed or Postcard Signed
SIG: Signature on index card, cut out of autograph book or letter
SP: Signed Photograph
TLS: Typed Letter Signed
TNS: Typed Note Signed
folio: A printer’s sheet of paper folded once to make two leaves, double quarto size or larger.
octavo(8vo): A manuscript page about six-by-nine inches. (Originally determined by folding a printer’s sheet of paper to form eighty leaves.)
quarto(4to): A manuscript page of about nine and one-half by twelve inches. (Originally determined by folding a printer’s sheet of paper twice to form two leaves.)
Not only does the category determine price, but so does condition, quality, rarity and the person of interest celebrity will also play a major part in determining value. As you will see in future weekly articles; a detail definition of each abbreviation, so you will become more educated in the valuation process of collecting.

How to Get Fit and Healthy with Aerobic

November 29th, 2011

There are all types of gizmos for aerobic activity, and if you are new to the wonderful world of exercise, it can be hard for you to sort through it all.

These aerobic activity gadgets range from simple steppers, or jump ropes, to exotic machines whose function is almost impossible to sort out. The reason for all of these aerobic exercise toys is not because they are necessary, or even always useful for your exercise plan, but simply because of money. The fact is that, with the popularity of aerobic exercise, it is inevitable that people will market new fads and products that claim to make it easier, more effective, and more fun all at the same time, but all of that is nonsense. The important thing in aerobic activity is to elevate your heart rate for a sustained period of time. How you do that is entirely up to you. As long as you are exercising, you can go without the toys. That is, unless you like them in which case, I say go for it.

Some of the best forms of aerobic activity are the traditional sports. If you get together and play basketball twice a week with friends, this alone might be enough to keep you fit and healthy. The important thing is to get some kind of aerobic activity, and to make it something that you enjoy enough to keep with it. Personally, my favorite aerobic activity is one that quite a few experts have agreed is one of the most healthy forms of exercise workouts: I love swimming. The advantage of swimming is that it works the whole body at once. Most exercises, such as running or soccer, only work the legs, or at most only partially work the upper body, but when you swim there is no part of you that is not getting some kind of a workout. This is great for you, and in addition, there is no impact. Running will wear out your knees, as will many other of the popular aerobic activities, but swimming does not compress the joints, so there is no compromise to the health benefits that it holds. I love this aerobic activity, but it might not be the right one for you. The best advice I have is to join a gym for a month. This will let you try out lots of different aerobic exercises and find out which ones you like.

Basil The Sweet Herb

November 29th, 2011

Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil is my favorite of all the herbs because it is so versatile and easy to grow. Those of you who follow my recipes site will know that I like to grow my own herbs and as basil is normally ready to eat just 6-weeks after planting I naturally use it often.

Basil is an attractive annual, about 18 inches (450 mm) tall with light-green, fairly broad leaves. There are several species of cultivated basil, one having purple leaves, so it is also a decorative plant in your garden.

Basil grows easily from seed planted after all danger of frost has passed. Pinch stems when the plant reaches 18 inches (450 mm) tall to promote bushy, compact growth. Avoid lush growth as it may reduce the flavor.

Green leaves can be picked about 6 weeks following planting. It is best to cut leaves for drying just before flowers open. However, if you can use fresh the taste is far better and it is also an extra vegetable to compliment a healthy diet.

Spicy-scented basil leaves are one of the most popular of all herbs used in cooking. There are two particular ways I like to use basil; the first, and most common, is to mix it with pine nuts and a little garlic, a splash of balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil in a blender to make Pesto. Pesto can be kept for a few days in the refrigerator. Use about 90% basil to 10% pine nuts.

The other way I like using basil is with freshly picked tomatoes, sliced, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with chopped basil. This dish can be served alone as an appetizer or as part of a salad.

The other great thing about basil is that you should grow one basil plant between each tomato plant in your garden. The plants compliment each other and the basil acts as a deterrent to many of the bugs that like tomato. It never fails to amaze me the way nature has a habit of making complimentary plants that together protect each other in growth and them compliment each other on the table.

Top chef’s use basil with all tomato dishes, whether cooked or raw. The other thing to remember about using olive oil is that it is an omega 3 oil and very good at promoting “good” cholesterol.

This article is copyright (c) David McCarthy, 2006.

Oakley Sunglasses One Solution to Many Woes

November 29th, 2011

The changing lifestyles and the demanding environmental conditions have led to the invention of many breakthrough products. These innovative products have provided a different meaning to leading lives altogether. Human beings adore them, follow them and eventually become obsessed with them. One such product that has established many a milestones in terms of creativity, innovativeness and technology is Oakley sunglasses. These designer sunglasses have set their own standards for others to follow. Manufactured under the flagship of Oakley, Inc., Oakley sunglasses have been providing varieties of eyewear to suit different requirements of their customers since the year 1978.

Some Things You Want to Know About Massage

November 28th, 2011

Most Americans know that massage therapy can help relieve stress and pain, reduce blood pressure and boost the immune system. And, more people than ever are trying massage for the first time.

Perhaps you received a gift certificate for massage. Maybe work’s been stressful, and you’ve thought about getting a massage to unwind. Or maybe you’re already a fan of massage and want to try a different type of massage.

Whatever your reasons, there are some basic things you should know to get the most from your massage.

There are many terms for types of massage. The American Massage Therapy Association or designates the various methods as massage modalities. Ask your massage therapist what massage modality will give you the results you want.

The most popular include:

* Swedish massage: The most common type of massage, to relax and energize you.

* Deep tissue massage: For muscle damage from an injury, such as whiplash or back strain.

* Sports massage: To help prevent athletic injury, keep the body flexible and heal the body should injury occur.

* Chair massage: Massage of the upper body, while fully clothed and seated in a special portable chair.

Finding a qualified massage therapist is also important. Ask your massage therapist about his or her credentials. And remember, each massage and bodywork modality requires specialized training.

AMTA, which requires members meet education standards, recommends asking the following questions:

* Did you graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation or from an AMTA member school?

* Are you licensed or registered as a massage therapist in this state? Not all states license massage therapists.

* Are you a member of AMTA?

* Are you certified by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork?

* Do you have training in any specific massage modalities?

Asthma Discussed

November 28th, 2011

1 out of every 7 children is affected by asthma.
It is the second major reason for the hospitalization of the children up to age 9.
Asthma has affected 1 out of every 12 adults.
The death rate due to it is constantly rising in America, Africa and Latin countries.
It has become one of the major reasons of absenteeism from school in the US.
It leads to 2 million emergency room visits and amounts up to 5,000 deaths every year in the USA alone.

Asthma is a chronic disease, which directly affects your airways. The airways are the tubes carrying air in and out of your lungs. Asthma is caused by inflammation and subsequent constriction of your airway. The condition is characterized by an instantaneous reaction by the airways in response to various triggers or allergens and substances.

During an asthma attack, the airway gets inflamed and restricts the airflow to the lungs. It directly effects your breathing and leaves you short of breath. It makes you wheeze and you can experience chest tightness. During an asthma attack the production of mucus by airway cells increases and it further causes obstruction in the air flow through tubes. You can die due to the lack of oxygen, if the attack is severe and prolonged.

Asthma, if not treated and controlled, can cost you your life.

It is widely known disease, effecting millions of people, still there is no concrete evidence towards its cause. Studies have revealed that it is caused due to allergic reactions caused by the presence of certain antibodies or certain conditions. Some studies also reveal that it is caused due to obesity and weight related problems. Various triggers or allergic reactions are known to cause asthma in people. It might not be necessary that the same trigger causes an asthma attack in all people. There are numerous triggers, which can cause asthmatic attacks. Triggers can be categorized as allergens, irritants and other triggers. Among the common triggers which initiate asthma attacks are as follows:

Allergens
Dust
Pollen
Mold
Cockroaches
Dust mites
Animal dander
Irritants
Tobacco smoke
Air pollution
Strong odor
Laughing
Crying
Others
Workplace chemicals
Common cold
Infections
Exertion
Respiratory infection
Flu

It is important for you to identify what triggers an asthma attack for you. It would help you greatly if, once recognized, you in stayed away from any known causes.

Like other diseases, asthma also presents symptoms that characterize its early, advancing and later stages. Some of the common symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness.

The first stage — Early warning signs of Asthma

If you are in the early stages of an asthmatic event, you might experience some common symptoms. These common symptoms are characterized during the inception periods of the asthma episode. The symptoms include:-

*Frequent coughing during sleep in the night.
*Experiencing wheezing or coughing after exercising.
*Shortness of breath.
*Extreme exhaustion following exercise.
*Feeling tired and upset all the time.
*Experiencing a running nose, sore throat, headaches and sneezing frequently.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should immediately get yourself checked for asthma. The swifter you act, the more you will be able to control it.

The second stage – Advancement and worsening of Asthma

If you are not able to identify the initial symptoms of asthma, or if you ignore those symptoms, asthma could get even worse. The advancement of asthma starts affecting your daily activities and sleep. Some of the symptoms of worsening asthma include.

*Regular and undying cough.
*Frequent wheezing.
*Declined response to medications.
*Shortness of breath.
*Experiencing regular tightness in the chest.
Asthma should be diagnosed immediately upon countering these symptoms or it could further advance into a severe stage causing damage to your body.

The final stage and its symptoms

When asthma enters into its last stage it starts affecting you severely. It makes life difficult for you and can even cause the death. You would need immediate medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms listed below:

*Rapid breathing.
*Undying chest pain and pressure.
*Non-stop coughing.
*Sweaty and dull face.
*Blue fingernails and lips.
*Hampered talking.
*Retraction of neck and chest muscles.
*Frequent gasping for breath.
*Severe wheezing.

Asthma can only be controlled, not cured. So you must abide by proper medication and medical instructions. It is also important to stay free of any known triggers, which can cause an asthma attack.

You should visit your doctor immediately if you are concerned you may be suffering with asthma.

Running Tips For All Four Seasons

November 28th, 2011

Running is one of the best ways to get into shape and to stay in great condition, because it is a sport you can practice on your own time, at your own pace, and without a lot of fancy equipment. However, making running your primary mode of exercise can prove to be a bit problematic because it puts your fitness at the mercy of the elements. Running on a crisp fall afternoon is a lot different than trying to hit the sidewalks for a great run in the heat of a scorching August day or in the frigid chill of a snowy January. Luckily, dedicated runners have developed ways to keep improving their skill and strength even when Mother Nature is not on their side.

During the warm days of summer, the most important thing that you as a runner need to worry about is dehydration. The combination of sweating from exertion and from the heat can take its toll. Many runners who are not anticipating the effects of the weather on their hydration levels end up facing symptoms that range from temporary discomfort to very serious problems that can land even the fittest runner in the hospital. To protect yourself from this summertime menace, be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. It is crucial to carry a bottle of water or a sports drink on your run with you. But because the stomach can only absorb a limited amount of fluid at a time, it is equally important to keep feeding your body liquid throughout the day in order to gradually replenish the water that you will inevitably lose on your run.

When the weather outside is chilly, runners often have trouble keeping their muscles warm enough, which can lead to injury. Cold increases stiffness, which makes muscles less flexible and responsive, and therefore more vulnerable to trauma. If you are set on running outdoors during the winter, you should plan on investing in some new running gear that will help you protect yourself against the dangers of cold weather. Shoes with enough traction to handle slippery patches of ice, and a good pair of athletic pants that will wick away your sweat while keeping your legs warm, are two crucial parts of safe winter running.

Many runners are firm believers that the great outdoors is the best place to run, and the benefits of sunshine and fresh air are certainly important. However, when the climate is inhospitable for running because of snow, excessive heat, slippery wet ground, or any number of other factors, it is often a better idea to hit the gym rather than the streets.

Running on a treadmill can help you build up your strength and endurance without risking the kind of injuries that hazardous weather can bring. Running on a treadmill is gentler on your knees than running on pavement. Because of this, many fitness experts recommend alternating between outdoor and treadmill running regardless of the weather. By knowing when it is a smart idea to stay inside, you will be able to make sure you avoid weather-related injuries so that you can be in peak condition when you get your next chance to run outdoors.

Itching For A Long-Lasting Solution To A Frustrating Problem

November 28th, 2011

Now here’s an itch to scratch: A whopping three out of four American households experience itchy skin that can be irritating and unbearable. While it may provide temporary relief, scratching ultimately results in further irritation, potentially causing bleeding and even scarring. It can interfere with your days and bring about sleepless nights.

When Itch Strikes: Whether it’s hitting the slopes or building a snowman in the backyard, wintertime snow draws many out into the cold. As the weather turns balmier in spring and summer, we’re encouraged to spend more time in the great outdoors. Moms and dads are busy tending to the garden or mowing the lawn, while kids explore nature. And what summer would be complete without family trips to the beach or community pool?

Unfortunately, these favorite seasonal pastimes are also the cause of most cases of itch. Winter’s cold weather and indoor heat are hard on skin, leaving it dryer than normal. With the warmer weather, gardeners turn into frequent-hand-washers, swimmers must deal with chlorine and sun exposure, and itch-inducing insects affect us all. To top it off, retreating to air-conditioned homes can dehydrate already-weakened skin and exacerbate cases of eczema.

Relief Is Here: Finally, scientists have developed advanced treatments that won’t allow itchy skin to keep you from making the most of the season. According to Dr. Michael Southall, a leading scientist at Johnson & Johnson’s Skin Research Center, there are new ways to help ensure against extreme itch. Until now, over-the-counter remedies have included topical hydrocortisone treatments that provided only temporary relief. A new breakthrough technology has revamped the anti-itch category, allowing hydrocortisone to stay on skin for a longer period of time. These new products not only soothe and heal but can also last up to 12 hours, making for a successful day at work or play and a peaceful night’s rest.

Follow Dr. Southall’s tips for itch-free skin no matter what the season:

• Prevent itch outbreaks by avoiding common irritants such as wool and synthetic fabrics, harsh soaps/detergents, extreme temperatures, and stress.

• Hydrate itchy skin by cleaning in warm water with mild soap. Pat dry and apply lotion/cream while skin is still damp to lock in moisture.

• Treat irritated areas with topical products containing hydrocortisone, such as Cortaid Advanced 12 Hour Anti-Itch Cream, which lasts throughout the day. For itchy, irritated hands, try new Cortaid Advanced Long-Lasting Anti-Itch Hand Cream. It moisturizes and soothes, and lasts even through hand washing. Both patent-pending treatments offer scientifically superior formulas that ensure relief that lasts.

A new, long-lasting anti-itch treatment can help many Americans scratch skin problems off the list.

Childrens Furniture – Free Space, Free Imagination

November 27th, 2011

First, when you want to arrange a child’s room, you need to take account of age, personality and desires. The room will have to evolve as the years pass, especially if you do not plan to move elsewhere. So, it would be wise not to give into the urge to buy a bed in the shape of a car, boat or princess palace, because when your baby grows, you will have to buy another one. The best thing would be to buy classic furniture and try to play around with the details – the curtains, linens, bedding, wall colour etc.

Imagine a child’s bedroom: in the first period of a babies life (the first few weeks) it will sleep more than it is awake, the waking periods are rare. So the first object to which we refer is the child’s cot. May people prefer to go with a Moses basket for the first few months, but really it will only last a short while and there is no reason a baby can not go straight into a cot with tends to last until a child is 2-3 years old. Because it can be quiet sleep, the mattress must be of a material that allows the child’s body relaxation, easy to maintain (to allow periodic cleaning) and to fit perfectly in the bed (which can be wood, iron or plastic). The cot/bed, here are other issues that we must bear in mind: the child needs protection against air currents but needs air and natural light. In the first months of life a babies movements are small, for the older children, starting from month 3, you can expect it to change its position during sleep. Not to mention the baby who begins to twist from the belly or back, being curious, wanting to see what is beyond the bed, will try to get up. To meet the needs of the child, but also to guard against risks of accidents, bed bars must be sufficiently thin (in order to be grasped by the child’s hand) and a suitable distance apart ( to avoid situations in which a foot can get caught between the bars of his bed… or worse, his head to get stuck among them.)

So far, we referred to as the bed. Consider that, especially in the first few weeks of your child’s life, you will spend a lot of time near it (to see how he sleeps, if he smiles in his sleep, if the bed should be bigger. Also, the baby’s bed should be a convenient height (one side of the cot can be lowered down to allow easier access to the baby). Cots are also available where the mattress can be adjusted to different heights, ensuring that the baby is unable to climb out or over the bars.

Once you have the bed or cot you can arrange a room specially designed for the newest member of your family. There are various hypotheses that come to support the importance of colour on our mental state. But you just use your imagination, you don’t have to stick to the traditional pink, blue, beige or yellows. In choosing the colour of the baby’s room, keep in mind that it will be full of toys, and clothes. If a child’s room is an explosion of strong colours, it will be overstimulated and the effect could be reversed than expected: less interest in it’s toys.

Some parents, especially those with their first child, don’t ask themselves all these questions, often they do what comes naturally to them: the child must sleep where the mother sleeps.

The child grows up as you educate him so he must know he has his own space and privacy. A resolution of this need to constantly supervise can be shown by the parent’s room. As baby grows, the crib can be moved to the nursery. But then parents will be helping the baby (with love and, remember, be firm) to get used to his new room. This doesn’t mean that he should “forget” the way to his parents room, but must understand that while he has to respect the privacy of his parents, he is also entitled to his privacy.

In the nursery, the temperature must be constant and to fall between 16-20 ° C. Therefore, you should have a thermometer (there thermometers in various forms, which cheer up the room).

So I think of moments when the mother is nursing. It is a moment full of emotional exchanges between mother and child. The child learns at his mother’s breast and smiles. Or if the father keeps his bottle, he learns to distinguish between the mother and the father’s voice. The child may fall asleep by the voice of his parents, while listening to a story. And it would be a shame for him if these moments were cut short because the parent was sitting in an uncomfortable chair. As a result, the child’s room must always have a place for a small chair or a rocking chair.

What about the other baby furniture items? Baby clothes can be placed in a sideboard with drawers closed, or on some open shelves. Remember that your baby grows and, within a few moths begins to crawl which endangers the neat, open shelves! This is why you choose overhead racks which, later can be used as shelves for books and toys. True, there are specialty stores the changing tables, and countertops with the bath tub and have drawers for everything. You can also choose this option, but that will not be used in the first period of childhood and the child will quickly outgrow the fancy bath tub and changing table.

For the dirty laundry you can use small wicker baskets with lids. (No nappies in here though!). Baskets have a cheerful air, and after a while, these may be placed alongside those of his older brothers or sisters where they can all store their toys. If you are using disposable nappies, plastic buckets, with lids are ideal! They are easy to use and easy to sterilise.

A high chair is ideal for meals, but I see it in the kitchen, where the family sits around the table. But initially, the high chair may stay in the nursery. The seat itself must support the child and have straps for safety, but that do not inhibit the baby’s movements or to prevent him from eating. Remember that each meal is a new experience for your child!

John Orr is the founder and director of Baby Furniture John has a keen passion for interior and outdoor design and when he is not beautifying his garden he is involved in his other passion – football. He describes himself as a serial entrepreneur and offers his insight on using Moses baskets, Cots and High Chairs.

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Performance Anxiety

November 26th, 2011

Beverly had suffered from anxiety most of her life. As a child, she slept poorly and often had nightmares. She bit her nails and would chew on the skin around her nails until they were raw and bleeding.

Beverly had tried many forms of therapy, meditation and medication before consulting with me. She had a strong belief in God and prayed daily. Yet she was still anxious and could not understand the source of her anxiety.

Beverly grew up in a normal household with two parents who seemingly loved her. Yet as we explored her childhood, it became apparent that, while there was no overt abuse, the covert emotional abuse was constant. Her parents were highly critical of her and would get angry and withdraw when she didnt perform to their expectations. Her mother was not affectionate and her fathers affection was tinged with sexual energy that frightened her.

Beverly felt tense much of the time in her home. Her parents fought a lot and her mother would often end up crying hysterically while her father withdrew behind his newspaper. What she did not see in her household was any role-modeling for taking personal responsibility for her own feelings. Her mother would blame her and her father whenever she was unhappy, while her father would blame her and her mother for his upsets. Beverly always tried to be a good girl and be there for her parents, but no one was ever there for her.

Its easy to see why Beverly was so anxious as a child. But what was causing her anxiety as an adult?

The problem was that Beverly had never learned how to be a loving parent to herself, because her parents had not been loving to her or to themselves. She was kind and generous with others, but she tended to ignore her own feelings and needs. The little girl inside Beverly, her Inner Child, felt alone and abandoned inside most of the time. In addition, she was highly critical of herself, just as her parents had been with her. She was constantly telling herself that she couldnt do anything right.

Beverly was treating herself just as her parents had treated her and themselves. Little Beverly did not have a powerful loving inner adult to attend to her feelings or speak up for her with others. Instead, she was neglectful or critical of herself. Due to abandoning herself and not giving herself love and approval, she was constantly seeking approval from others. As a result, Beverly felt anxious in many situations with others – with friends, at work, as well as with her husband and children. She was constantly trying to perform right so people would approve of her or not be mad at her. She was constantly suffering from performance anxiety.

Beverly saw that much of her anxiety centered around wanting to control how others saw her and treated her. She realized that she judged herself in the hopes of getting herself to perform right. She noticed that she was constantly seeking others approval because of being so critical of herself.

Learning to be compassionate with herself rather than judgmental was a challenge that took time and dedication. She was so used to judging herself that she would do it without realizing it. Through her inner work, Beverly became aware of the fact that most of the critical things she told herself about herself were just not true – they were beliefs she had absorbed from her parents but were not the reality of who she was. As she paid attention to her self-judgments, she noticed that her anxiety was directly related to her judgments, false beliefs, and desire to control getting approval from others.

As Beverly slowly learned to be a loving inner parent rather than a critical one, her anxiety gradually diminished. Any time it she felt anxious, she could now trace it back to something she had told herself that not only was not true, but was self-critical. She discovered that she had been using her spiritual connection as a way of avoiding responsibility for herself, rather than as guidance in what was loving to herself. As she opened to learning about what was loving to herself, she gained more access to and connection with her spiritual source of guidance. The more Beverly took loving care of herself, the more inner peace she attained.

Free Flight Exploits in Europe

November 26th, 2011

The allure of flying has prompted man to make remarkable discoveries and developments in the fields of transportation, entertainment, and even sports. For who would not want to soar high above to experience a birds eye view of spectacular sceneries?

If you want to test your gut, engage in a free flight sports. Free flight has many forms but the most common of which are paragliding and hang gliding.

In Europe, free flight exploits are regular but nonetheless marvelous ways to tour and enjoy its captivating landscapes and seascapes, thanks to pleasant climate and fresh air. The proliferation of many gliding events, flying centers and gliding clubs demonstrate the fact that paragliding and hang gliding are serious sports thrills in this continent.

Gliding in the Air

Paragliding and hang gliding are cousins. A paraglider is shaped like a wing but with a billowy appearance while a hang glider takes a more rigid form of a V-shaped wing.

A paraglider is made from fabric and strings. Inflated by air through its holes, the fabric of the paraglider forms a hollow wing, thus creating a billowy appearance. Suspended from this wing are several fine strings, which connect to a harness that serves as your seating. Speed and direction are manipulated by pulling on some of the strings, which in turn warp the back of the wing. Because of its construction and materials, a paraglider is literally an aircraft in a rucksack.

A hang glider, on the other hand, is made from lightweight metal frames but also covered with a fabric. Moving the metal bar in front of you controls the speed and direction of your flight.

Both are lightweight gliders, which can reach thousand of feet above land, cover several hundreds of miles, and stay up in the air for hours. Both can be launched by yourself too, as long as you get ample training and muster enough flying spirit in you.

However, being lighter, paragliding is the more popular sport. Weight matters especially when you have to travel up a hill from where to launch. It is also slower and therefore easier to learn than hang gliding. But if you want more speed, hang gliding is your thing. Hang gliding also requires greater skill especially in landings.

Takeoff Points

Hang gliding is a fresh way to tour Brazils Rio de Janeiro. Fly at about 1700 feet above well-known beaches and mountains. No prior experience needed since you will be accompanied by a certified master. Most tours last about two hours, with about 15 to 20 minutes in the air.

Slovenia has also many launch sites, having hosted several world championships in gliding and paragliding. So do United Kingdom, France where paragliding is called parapenting), Ireland, Germany, Turkey, and many other nations of the region. The Derbyshire Peak District in the UK and the Chamonix Valley in France are only two of the many popular spots dedicated for gliding and similar sports.

Whichever of these sites you plan on taking that first launch, what is basic should be mastered, especially when youre planning to go solo flying. Master how to control wind, for it will carry you throughout the flight.

These free flight activities roll transportation, entertainment, and sports into one breath-taking exploit of the unexplored beauty of nature, letting you take yourself to specific spots your heart desires.

Central Sleep Apnea

November 25th, 2011

Central sleep apnea is a rare condition characterized by a cessation or decrease in breathing during sleep due to problem with signals from the brain that control breathing.

The symptoms of central sleep apnea are loud snoring, hypersomnolence (excessive daytime sleepiness), and restless sleep. The problem of excessive daytime sleepiness (especially while driving, working or talking) develops slowly over years and is noticeable by friends and colleagues. Hypersomnolence and neurocognitive disturbances stand as a cause for automobile or work-related accidents in sleep apnea patients.

Other symptoms of central sleep apnea include choking or gasping during sleep, unrefreshing sleep, morning headaches, daytime fatigue, personality changes, memory impairment, impaired concentration, poor judgment, mood disturbances, recent weight gain, polyurea, and impotence.

The hypoxic and hypercapnic drives can be impaired by brain stem lesions or by exposure to recurrent hypoxia and hypercapnia and result in central sleep apnea. The stimulus to breathe instead from the cortex and reticular activating system is lost during sleep and the patient stops breathing, the so-called Ondines curse. Central sleep apnea can also be caused by another rare condition of bilateral diaphragm paralysis which usually occurs as part of a general neuromuscular condition but in some cases can lead to respiratory failure before general weakness is apparent.

The most common and effective treatment option for patients of central sleep apnea is assisted overnight ventilation with external devices such as a rocking bed, or cuirasse. A rocking bed prevents cessation of breathing during sleep by pushing the diaphragm up and down by gravity. Another ventilator device of importance is cuirasse. Cuirasse consists of a small shell that fits around the patient and is connected to an intermittent vacuum pump that draws out the chest wall.

Learn About Towing Services And Roadside Assistance

November 25th, 2011

When you purchase a new car you may get a roadside assistance package included but if you have a used car you typically wont have roadside assistance and the benefits it provides, such as towing services. Not to worry, there are many companies offering memberships that will give you peace of mind.

Parts do wear out over time. Thats why one of the biggest concerns a driver has is the fear of a breakdown that will require towing. As we all know these events always occur at the most inopportune time or when we dont have the extra cash to cover a towing bill. By becoming a member of one of the many auto clubs that offer services, youll have peace of mind that when disaster strikes youll be covered.

AAA, or American Automobile Association, has divisions throughout all of North America. For a nominal yearly fee youll be provided with all kinds of services for you and your vehicle. Youll have full roadside assistance. Whether you run out of gas, lock your keys in the car, get a flat tire, or break down, youll be covered. Planning a trip? If you need maps AAA will provide them. And if youre thinking about taking a vacation to a sunny tropical destination, AAA has full travel services and can offer you some great prices.

Good Sam is another auto and RV club that offers excellent services to its members. Its a camping club, motor home club, and RV club all combined into one. For under $80 a year you get a full year of roadside assistance for your RV, and all the cars, vans, and trucks in your household. You get a full year of emergency towing services, lockout services, and trip interruption services as well as emergency medical referral services.

Drivershield costs under $70 a year and offers a 24 hour toll free hotline for emergency towing, roadside assistance, and locksmith. It also offers a lifetime collision repair warranty thats good from coast to coast as well as 50% off at thousands of motels, hotels, and dining locations across the country.

If you ride motorcycle and want the same type of protection for your bike as you have for your car, Bros Club Cycle Services is worth exploring. For less than $100 you will get a two year membership which will give you 24 hour a day 365 day a year emergency roadside protection, which includes a network of more than 40,000 flat bed service providers across the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Youll get towing services, flat tire assistance, dead battery assistance, and you can even purchase your motorcycle insurance at a discount. You also get some great discounts at motels, hotels, dining locations, and parts providers.

Its a given. At some point in your travels you are going to require towing services. So why not consider a membership in one of the many national auto club programs that will give you peace of mind?

Investing in a Rental Property

November 25th, 2011

Copyright 2006 Donna Lewczuk

Over the last few years, relatively weak stock markets (compared to the late 90s) along with continued global economic uncertainty have changed the way many Canadians are investing their hard earned dollars. More and more Canadians are venturing into the rental property market, some swayed by the real estate appreciation that weve seen over the last few years. Others want to add real estate to their investment mix to better diversify their investment portfolios.

Condos and Multi-Units

Approximately 25 per cent of the condominium units built in Canada will be used as rental apartments. Additional investment is occurring in multi-unit residential properties such as duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes, as well as single-family detached housing. Canadians are looking to have the rent from these investments at least cover their costs and, over the long term, gain a reasonable return on their investment.

Consider Your Mortgage and Financing Needs Carefully

Investors who consider adding real estate assets are often confused about their mortgage financing options. Since the Bank Act allows only up to 75 per cent of the value of a property to be in uninsured financing, many investors who put 15 per cent down use an insured mortgage for the difference. The cost of the insurance premium can be as high as 2.75 per cent, which can translate into a $6200 cost on a $225,000 mortgage. Even so, not all investors can meet the strict requirements that go along with an insured mortgage on rental property.

These requirements include having a relatively high net worth and demonstrating that you can carry the mortgage payments in addition to your other debts without factoring in all of the rental income you will receive. This certainly doesnt leave room for many Canadians who want an investment property.

Another option if you have a good amount of equity in your principal residence is to take some of that equity out, typically through a line of credit, to get a big enough down payment that then may qualify you for a regular first mortgage.

Financing Made Easy
To simplify the process, you can also now consider those lenders who have mortgage products specifically designed for small investors who own or are purchasing a residential investment property. Canadian investors can now access up to $500,000 without costly mortgage insurance premiums, or leveraging the equity in their principal home. Up to 85 per cent financing inclusive of applicable fees is available for single family units or up to a fourplex located in major urban centres. Properties on well and septic systems located in a town or subdivision can also qualify. Typically, 75 per cent financing is available for condominium units and all properties must generate a positive cash flow.

Perhaps now more Canadians can heed the wisdom offered by many financial professionals and diversify, diversify, diversify by including real estate in their investment portfolios.