NOVEMBER is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.
One person develops Alzheimer's disease every 70 seconds. And 50 to 70 percent of people with dementia-major loss of memory and other cognitive abilities-have Alzheimer's. Although there is no cure, there are treatments that can help with symptoms. To learn more, visit www.alz.org
DECEMBER is Safe Toys and Gifts Month.
Toy-related injuries sent more than 170,00 children younger than 15 to the hospital in 2007. So remember safety when picking holiday gifts for children. Choose durable toys that won't break into sharp pieces or choking hazards. Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for recalls of unsafe toys. Visit www.cpsc.gov
JANUARY is Glaucoma Awareness Month.
People ages 60 and older are at increased risk of developing glaucoma, a group of eye disease that can cause blindness when left untreated. If you are 60 or older, talk with you doctor about glaucoma screening. To find out if you have other risk factors for glaucoma visit www.nei.nih.gov/glaucoma
To Your Continued Health and Success!
Miss Julia
Monday, November 30, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
Heavy Menstrual Periods? Blame It on your Thyroid.
Your Thyroid Gland and the hormone that it produces regulates everything from your metabolism to your digestion. Because many symptoms usually slowly creep up on you, it is very common not to realize that there has been a change in your energy level, memory, menstrual periods and skin texture. Menstrual periods can vary from woman to woman; changing hormone levels can cause a variety of symptoms which may result in heavy menstrual periods. If you are experiencing any of the fore stated problems and especially heavy menstrual periods then you need to consider that there may be a problem with your thyroid. Getting timely treatment of your thyroid gland is essential to maintain optimum health. Some women may feel the worst of it, yet some others may feel the very least of it.
One of the most noticeable changes that occur during the onset of menopause is visible changes in occurrence of periods. Many women experience less regular periods; some have a lighter menstrual flow than normal; others face a heavier flow and may bleed a lot for many days. Women, who have had previous problems with heavy menstrual periods and cramps, will usually find marked relief from these symptoms, when menopause starts. But if your menopause time is far away as you are if you are in your thirties or even below that age then this is the gray area for you. With that said consider that your thyroid gland might not be functioning well and may be the culprit of your problems.
During heavy menstrual periods with severe pain, one more noticeable symptom is the repeated occurrences of ‘hot flashes’, which is a sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of a woman’s body. Face and neck become extremely flushed. Flashes can be as mild as a light instant blush or it can be severe enough to wake you from a sound sleep (also called night sweats). Most flashes usually last between 30 seconds but can last as long as 5 minutes.
The Thyroid Gland controls your entire body's metabolism. That means that your weight, your hair, your skin, your sex drive, your menstrual periods, all sorts of things that go on in your body depend on the proper functioning of your Thyroid Gland.
There are supplements that can rectify the malfunctioning of your thyroid gland and keep you healthy without any negative side effects. These supplements contain natural ingredients to help get your thyroid back in action and treat the symptoms related to thyroid disorders.
As always consult with your doctor regarding any supplements that you decide to use; especially if you are taking other medications.
For more information: Help for your Thyroid
To Your Continued Health and Success !
Miss Julia
JuliaGrayOnLine
One of the most noticeable changes that occur during the onset of menopause is visible changes in occurrence of periods. Many women experience less regular periods; some have a lighter menstrual flow than normal; others face a heavier flow and may bleed a lot for many days. Women, who have had previous problems with heavy menstrual periods and cramps, will usually find marked relief from these symptoms, when menopause starts. But if your menopause time is far away as you are if you are in your thirties or even below that age then this is the gray area for you. With that said consider that your thyroid gland might not be functioning well and may be the culprit of your problems.
During heavy menstrual periods with severe pain, one more noticeable symptom is the repeated occurrences of ‘hot flashes’, which is a sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of a woman’s body. Face and neck become extremely flushed. Flashes can be as mild as a light instant blush or it can be severe enough to wake you from a sound sleep (also called night sweats). Most flashes usually last between 30 seconds but can last as long as 5 minutes.
The Thyroid Gland controls your entire body's metabolism. That means that your weight, your hair, your skin, your sex drive, your menstrual periods, all sorts of things that go on in your body depend on the proper functioning of your Thyroid Gland.
There are supplements that can rectify the malfunctioning of your thyroid gland and keep you healthy without any negative side effects. These supplements contain natural ingredients to help get your thyroid back in action and treat the symptoms related to thyroid disorders.
As always consult with your doctor regarding any supplements that you decide to use; especially if you are taking other medications.
For more information: Help for your Thyroid
To Your Continued Health and Success !
Miss Julia
JuliaGrayOnLine
Friday, November 20, 2009
Mother Nature Can Help You Quit Smoking
Mother Nature Can Help You Quit Smoking. Today, it is well known that smoking is a habit that invites nothing but grief, not only to oneself but also to all the surrounding people. With this raising awareness, more and more people are genuinely trying to quit smoking. Some find it easy and some find it terribly difficult – depending upon the degree of addiction and their own will power. The good news is that Mother Nature can effectively support you in this daunting task. Quit Smoking – The Natural Way.
The reason for the high rate of failure of quit smoking plans is that most people hate the withdrawal symptoms that follow – such as depression, craving for nicotine, anxiety attacks, irritability, body ache, lack of sleep, interference with body functions (mostly when the person was in habit to go to the toilet or sleep only after lighting a cigarette) and so on. Some of the most popular herbal quit smoking aids are described here. Choose one or a combination of two or more and get rid of this deadly habit.
You could take the advice of homeopaths and herbal doctors (ayurvedic doctors) to help you decide which combination works best for you. You could also buy the herbal products that are already available on the market. These are used as patches on the skin and hence are very easy to use.
1. Gotu Cola – this is an herb that literally clears the head and improves the sharpness of the brain. It is particularly beneficial in the quit smoking process as it fights anxiety attacks and increases the level of concentration.
2. Avena Sativa – this is an herb that has been used to fight serious drug addictions (such as opium) with great success for centuries. This herb too, prevents anxiety attacks and reduces the craving for and dependency on many harmful substances.
3. Garcinia cambogia – one of the side effects experienced during quit smoking process is sudden weight-gain. This could be because people feel depressed and substitute the smoking habit with that of eating. Garcinia cambogia is classified as a citrus and is an excellent appetite suppressant. At the same time it raises the rate of the metabolism thereby increasing the rate of burning fat. This means a double bonus – reducing the compulsion to eat and reducing the weight.
There are many other wonder herbs that can help with your quit smoking plans. Some of these are bayberry, ginger root, eucalyptus, skullcap and safflower. Let nature help you quit smoking today.
Stop Smoking the Natural Way
The reason for the high rate of failure of quit smoking plans is that most people hate the withdrawal symptoms that follow – such as depression, craving for nicotine, anxiety attacks, irritability, body ache, lack of sleep, interference with body functions (mostly when the person was in habit to go to the toilet or sleep only after lighting a cigarette) and so on. Some of the most popular herbal quit smoking aids are described here. Choose one or a combination of two or more and get rid of this deadly habit.
You could take the advice of homeopaths and herbal doctors (ayurvedic doctors) to help you decide which combination works best for you. You could also buy the herbal products that are already available on the market. These are used as patches on the skin and hence are very easy to use.
1. Gotu Cola – this is an herb that literally clears the head and improves the sharpness of the brain. It is particularly beneficial in the quit smoking process as it fights anxiety attacks and increases the level of concentration.
2. Avena Sativa – this is an herb that has been used to fight serious drug addictions (such as opium) with great success for centuries. This herb too, prevents anxiety attacks and reduces the craving for and dependency on many harmful substances.
3. Garcinia cambogia – one of the side effects experienced during quit smoking process is sudden weight-gain. This could be because people feel depressed and substitute the smoking habit with that of eating. Garcinia cambogia is classified as a citrus and is an excellent appetite suppressant. At the same time it raises the rate of the metabolism thereby increasing the rate of burning fat. This means a double bonus – reducing the compulsion to eat and reducing the weight.
There are many other wonder herbs that can help with your quit smoking plans. Some of these are bayberry, ginger root, eucalyptus, skullcap and safflower. Let nature help you quit smoking today.
Stop Smoking the Natural Way
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
"Doctor I Have a Question" ~ How to Talk to Your Doctor ....
Waiting in your doctor's office can become a bit unsettling. Especially if you came with a specific problem or concern (as in, this is not your routine/yearly check up)
As you flip through old magazines or view the latest health news, you are probably worrying about what is wrong and what is going on with you. You are probably aggravated because it's past your appointment time and you haven't been called yet. And finally, you're called in, have your vital signs taken and placed in a room. Then, when the doctor comes in the visit seems to fly by, it seems that you have only minutes to explain your symptoms and concerns. And after you explain your symptoms, the doctor may quickly write a prescription or order a test; so you have the prescription filled and you go and get the test ~ but you still have questions and concerns that you thought about but did'nt ask.
Here are some tips for talking with your doctor:
~ Make a list of concerns and questions - take them with you to your appointment.
Review these questions while you are waiting to be seen. Use this time to review your list and organize your thoughts.
~ Describe your symptoms clearly and briefly.
Tell your doctor when the symptoms started, how they make you feel,what you may be doing when the symptoms start what makes them better etc.
~ Tell your doctor what over-the-counter medicines you are taking such as vitamins, herbal products or any other supplements.
~ Don't be embarrassed about sensitive issues. Chances are your doctor has heard it all before...
You also need to be honest with your doctor about your diet, physical activity, if you smoke, your drug or alcohol use and your sexual activity. And please mention if you are being treated by other doctors. - withholding information can be harmful.
~ When you are given medicines and other treatments make sure you understand how to take the medicine
Understand what to do if you miss a dose and if there are any foods or activities that you should avoid while on the medication. Find out how long the medication or treatment will last. Ask about the side effects; if it's covered by your insurance, are there genetic substitutes. Your pharmacist can also help answer questions regarding medications.
~ If your doctor orders tests, be sure to ask how to find out about the results as well as the dangers and/or side effects of the tests. Make sure you get all instructions as to how to prepare for the tests and any do's or dont's regarding the test(s)
If you need to, bring a family member or friend to your appointment; that person can take notes as well as provide moral support and can help you remember what was discussed.
Understand everything before you leave the doctor's office. If you do not understand something, ask to have it explained again.
Knowing how to talk to your doctor or the nurse or any other health care professional will help you get the information you need - when you need it and will help you make the most of those often 'short' doctor visits.
STAY INFORMED ~ YOU DESERVE TO KNOW.
To Your Continued Health and Success!
Miss Julia
JuliaGrayOnLine.com
As you flip through old magazines or view the latest health news, you are probably worrying about what is wrong and what is going on with you. You are probably aggravated because it's past your appointment time and you haven't been called yet. And finally, you're called in, have your vital signs taken and placed in a room. Then, when the doctor comes in the visit seems to fly by, it seems that you have only minutes to explain your symptoms and concerns. And after you explain your symptoms, the doctor may quickly write a prescription or order a test; so you have the prescription filled and you go and get the test ~ but you still have questions and concerns that you thought about but did'nt ask.
Here are some tips for talking with your doctor:
~ Make a list of concerns and questions - take them with you to your appointment.
Review these questions while you are waiting to be seen. Use this time to review your list and organize your thoughts.
~ Describe your symptoms clearly and briefly.
Tell your doctor when the symptoms started, how they make you feel,what you may be doing when the symptoms start what makes them better etc.
~ Tell your doctor what over-the-counter medicines you are taking such as vitamins, herbal products or any other supplements.
~ Don't be embarrassed about sensitive issues. Chances are your doctor has heard it all before...
You also need to be honest with your doctor about your diet, physical activity, if you smoke, your drug or alcohol use and your sexual activity. And please mention if you are being treated by other doctors. - withholding information can be harmful.
~ When you are given medicines and other treatments make sure you understand how to take the medicine
Understand what to do if you miss a dose and if there are any foods or activities that you should avoid while on the medication. Find out how long the medication or treatment will last. Ask about the side effects; if it's covered by your insurance, are there genetic substitutes. Your pharmacist can also help answer questions regarding medications.
~ If your doctor orders tests, be sure to ask how to find out about the results as well as the dangers and/or side effects of the tests. Make sure you get all instructions as to how to prepare for the tests and any do's or dont's regarding the test(s)
If you need to, bring a family member or friend to your appointment; that person can take notes as well as provide moral support and can help you remember what was discussed.
Understand everything before you leave the doctor's office. If you do not understand something, ask to have it explained again.
Knowing how to talk to your doctor or the nurse or any other health care professional will help you get the information you need - when you need it and will help you make the most of those often 'short' doctor visits.
STAY INFORMED ~ YOU DESERVE TO KNOW.
To Your Continued Health and Success!
Miss Julia
JuliaGrayOnLine.com
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
STRESSED OUT? Stress Can Affect Your Health~Learn What to Do About It...
If you are feeling stressed out lately, join the crowd. With today's hectic lifestyles it seems to become harder and harder to stay calm and relaxed. Not only do our everyday activities stress us out but many of us are dealing with other peripheral factors such as illnesses and family problems. If you happen to be a woman, well then - how many hats do you wear? Spouse, mother, friend, caregiver, co-worker, cook, housekeeper, household business manager, soccer mom, single mom; not to mention the other activities and organizations that you may be a part of ~~~ and the list goes on!
With all that we have going on in our lives, finding ways to 'de-stress' may seem impossible. However, it is very important to find ways to relax ~ your health depends on it.
Women's Reactions to Stress
While we all deal with stressful things like job issues, disagreements with spouses, traffic and other issues, there has been research to show that women handle stress in a very unique way ~ women 'tend' and 'befriend'.
~ Tend: Women protect and care for their children and other loved ones.
~ Befriend: Women seek out and receive social and emotional support (you know the girlfriend that you can call and just bear your soul to..)
We have also learned that our bodies produce certain chemicals that are believed to promote these responses. Oxytocin which has a calming effect during stress and the hormone estrogen, which boosts the effects of oxytocin. Just a Note: Men on the other hand have high levels of testosterone during stress which blocks the effects of oxytocin and causes hostility, withdrawal and anger (that explains it ladies).
How Stress Affects Your Entire Body
Understand that we all have stress at times. We may have short term stress with everyday events such as making time for errands, planning meals, dealing with homework, running late for work; this kind of stress generally makes us feel worried or anxious.
And then there are other times where we may be facing long-term stress such as chronic disease, life-threatening illness, disability and even divorce. These very stressful events may affect our health on many different levels.
Both short-term and long-term stress is very real and can also increase your risk of other health problems such as depression. Research continues to identify the serious effects of stress on our bodies. Stress tends to trigger changes in our bodies and is very likely to make us sick or make the problems we already have much worse.
Look at These Problems that may be Triggered by Stress ~~
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight gain or loss
- Problems sleeping
- Lack of energy
- Headaches
- Less sexual desire
- Heart problems/High Blood Pressure
- Stomach Problems
The list goes on....
Stressful Life Events
Any change in our lives can be stressful, even some of happiest events (like having a baby or getting a new job) can be stressful. According to Holmes and Rahe Scale of Life Events 1967, listed below are some of life's most stressful events. You have probably experienced one or more of them in your lifetime.
- Marriage
- Birth of a child
- Death of a spouse
- Divorce
- Spending time in jail
- Death of a close family member
- Marital separation
- Personal illness or injury
- Retirement
Stress Will Make You Sick if You Let It
As women we tend to carry more than our share of stress. Most of the time we are not even aware of our stress levels. We must learn to listen to our bodies so that we can know when stress is affecting our health. Here are some tips to help you manage and handle your stress.
RELAX (easy said, right?) It's important to unwind. Find 'your' best way to relax. You might try deep breathing, meditation, getting or getting a massage. Other ways include listening to soothing music or reading a book; just find whatever works for you.
MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF (Some 'ME' Time)It's important to take care of yourself. Regardless of how busy you are or think you may be try to set aside at least 15-30 minutes each day (schedule it in your PDA or Daytimer); take a bubble bath, take a walk, call a friend ~ just sit with you eyes closed and meditate; talk to your Heavenly Father.
SLEEP
Sleeping is a great way to help both your body and your mind.
EAT HEALTHY
Fueling up on fruits, vegetables and whole grains is the way to go.
GET MOVING
Physical activity not only help relieve your tense muscles, but helps your mood as well.
TALK TO FRIENDS
Friends are good listeners. Having someone that will allow you to talk freely about your problems without being judgmental really does a world of good. True friends will also remind you that you are not alone.
GET PROFESSIONAL HELP IF YOU NEED IT
Believe me, it's OK. Talking to a therapist can help you work through stress and also help you find better ways to deal with problems. Many times there may be underlying issues that you are not aware of.
WRITE DOWN YOUR THOUGHTS
Have you ever sent an email to a friend about the terrible day that you had or how the kids are driving you crazy or you just can't get your spouse to understand why you need a new dining room table? Did you feel better afterward? OK then, get a pen and paper and start writing down what's going on in your life. Many people find that keeping a journal is a great way to get thinks off their chest and to help them work through everyday issues.
HELP OTHERS
Helping others can help you. Volunteer with church and community activities.
AVOID UNHEALTHY WAYS OF DEALING WITH STRESS
This includes using drugs, drinking too much, smoking or overeating.
DON'T BE AFRAID TO SAY NO
When it comes to things like work and family, decide what you can really do. Set limits for yourself and others. Don't be afraid to say 'NO' to requests for your time and energy.
Step Back, Relax, Refresh ~ Maintain a Healthy Balance~Don't Let Stress Control Your Life.
To Your Continued Health and Success!
Miss Julia
JuliaGrayOnLine.com
With all that we have going on in our lives, finding ways to 'de-stress' may seem impossible. However, it is very important to find ways to relax ~ your health depends on it.
Women's Reactions to Stress
While we all deal with stressful things like job issues, disagreements with spouses, traffic and other issues, there has been research to show that women handle stress in a very unique way ~ women 'tend' and 'befriend'.
~ Tend: Women protect and care for their children and other loved ones.
~ Befriend: Women seek out and receive social and emotional support (you know the girlfriend that you can call and just bear your soul to..)
We have also learned that our bodies produce certain chemicals that are believed to promote these responses. Oxytocin which has a calming effect during stress and the hormone estrogen, which boosts the effects of oxytocin. Just a Note: Men on the other hand have high levels of testosterone during stress which blocks the effects of oxytocin and causes hostility, withdrawal and anger (that explains it ladies).
How Stress Affects Your Entire Body
Understand that we all have stress at times. We may have short term stress with everyday events such as making time for errands, planning meals, dealing with homework, running late for work; this kind of stress generally makes us feel worried or anxious.
And then there are other times where we may be facing long-term stress such as chronic disease, life-threatening illness, disability and even divorce. These very stressful events may affect our health on many different levels.
Both short-term and long-term stress is very real and can also increase your risk of other health problems such as depression. Research continues to identify the serious effects of stress on our bodies. Stress tends to trigger changes in our bodies and is very likely to make us sick or make the problems we already have much worse.
Look at These Problems that may be Triggered by Stress ~~
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight gain or loss
- Problems sleeping
- Lack of energy
- Headaches
- Less sexual desire
- Heart problems/High Blood Pressure
- Stomach Problems
The list goes on....
Stressful Life Events
Any change in our lives can be stressful, even some of happiest events (like having a baby or getting a new job) can be stressful. According to Holmes and Rahe Scale of Life Events 1967, listed below are some of life's most stressful events. You have probably experienced one or more of them in your lifetime.
- Marriage
- Birth of a child
- Death of a spouse
- Divorce
- Spending time in jail
- Death of a close family member
- Marital separation
- Personal illness or injury
- Retirement
Stress Will Make You Sick if You Let It
As women we tend to carry more than our share of stress. Most of the time we are not even aware of our stress levels. We must learn to listen to our bodies so that we can know when stress is affecting our health. Here are some tips to help you manage and handle your stress.
RELAX (easy said, right?) It's important to unwind. Find 'your' best way to relax. You might try deep breathing, meditation, getting or getting a massage. Other ways include listening to soothing music or reading a book; just find whatever works for you.
MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF (Some 'ME' Time)It's important to take care of yourself. Regardless of how busy you are or think you may be try to set aside at least 15-30 minutes each day (schedule it in your PDA or Daytimer); take a bubble bath, take a walk, call a friend ~ just sit with you eyes closed and meditate; talk to your Heavenly Father.
SLEEP
Sleeping is a great way to help both your body and your mind.
EAT HEALTHY
Fueling up on fruits, vegetables and whole grains is the way to go.
GET MOVING
Physical activity not only help relieve your tense muscles, but helps your mood as well.
TALK TO FRIENDS
Friends are good listeners. Having someone that will allow you to talk freely about your problems without being judgmental really does a world of good. True friends will also remind you that you are not alone.
GET PROFESSIONAL HELP IF YOU NEED IT
Believe me, it's OK. Talking to a therapist can help you work through stress and also help you find better ways to deal with problems. Many times there may be underlying issues that you are not aware of.
WRITE DOWN YOUR THOUGHTS
Have you ever sent an email to a friend about the terrible day that you had or how the kids are driving you crazy or you just can't get your spouse to understand why you need a new dining room table? Did you feel better afterward? OK then, get a pen and paper and start writing down what's going on in your life. Many people find that keeping a journal is a great way to get thinks off their chest and to help them work through everyday issues.
HELP OTHERS
Helping others can help you. Volunteer with church and community activities.
AVOID UNHEALTHY WAYS OF DEALING WITH STRESS
This includes using drugs, drinking too much, smoking or overeating.
DON'T BE AFRAID TO SAY NO
When it comes to things like work and family, decide what you can really do. Set limits for yourself and others. Don't be afraid to say 'NO' to requests for your time and energy.
Step Back, Relax, Refresh ~ Maintain a Healthy Balance~Don't Let Stress Control Your Life.
To Your Continued Health and Success!
Miss Julia
JuliaGrayOnLine.com
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