Natural Remedies for Respiratory Infections

Respiratory Infection is a much common type of infection due to bacteria or viruses that causes common cold, influenza, croup, pneumonia and bronchitis. The common symptoms due to these diseases are congestion, cold, flu, itchy throat, cough and a dripping nose. There are various causes and risk factors that cause respiratory infections. The best way to treat them is through natural remedies.

Natural remedies for respiratory infection are popular among other remedies due to its effectiveness. There are so many natural remedies for respiratory infections that cures specific signs such as congestion, cold, flu, aches and pain.

Let us see a few of them-

Congestion relievers:

Congestion is a very common symptom of respiratory infection. This can be overcome by using some natural oils such as; Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Anise, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Pine and Thyme.

These oils can be used in two different ways. Direct inhalation and steam inhalation. In direct inhalation, put two to three drops of oil on palms, rub your hands for the oil to become warm, then bring hands to the mouth and nose, be at ease and breathe for two minutes, repeat procedure until you get relief. In case of steam inhalations, put 3-5 drops of oils in steaming water and lower your face to inhale these oils.

Reduces fever:

Fever is a common symptom associated with respiratory infection which can be treated at home by using some natural remedies.

Some of the herbs we use are Catnip, Echinacea, Licorice Root, Lemon Balm, Fennel and Yarrow.

You can use extract of these herbs. Use daily 2-3 times daily. One of the chemical constituent of these herbs is Salicin which decreases fever.

Cures sore throat:

Sore throat is a common symptom associated with cold and flu and can be cured with honey, garlic, ginger, Tilden flower, or sage teas. The gargles or extracts may be used for Tilden flower, or sage teas. Honey you take 2-3 time daily as it is. Licorice root and honey lozenges are also used to cure sore throat.

Aches and pain relievers:

Back aches and muscle pain is associated with flu, we can treat this at home using some herb such as St. John's Wort, Eucalyptus, Camphor, Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary and Arnica (dilute).

Immune system boosters:

To boost the immune system during and after infection is most important to fight against bacteria and viruses. Supplement of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and other antioxidants may help you.

Bottom Line:

Natural remedies for respiratory infection can be best used with the help of a physician. You have to understand the benefits and risks of every herb thoroughly and then make a decision. If herbs are not able to cure, please consult the physician to avoid further complication.

Apart from these natural remedies, one can also try natural herbal products such as Holy Basil/Tulasi from Himalaya for curing respiratory infections without any side effects.

Reasons Behind Breathing Problem

Every climate brings with it its own pleasures and pains. The winter brings with it colds and sniffles, while the pollen in the spring air brings on allergies. The summer too has its fair share of issues. Heat has a way of bringing on summer breathing issues. It is not an easy task to assess the difficulty of breathing. Similarly, it is very difficult to study the effects of heat and humidity on breathing problems as every person handles weather in a different manner. For instance, a person who lives in a tropical climate or near the ocean may be able to cope with heat very differently from a person who is more accustomed to living in colder regions.

The Triggers...

It is a fact that heat triggers asthma, heat stroke and stress. All of these can eventually result in shortness of breath. Let's take a look at how these various factors affect breathing:

• Asthma - Asthma is a chronic condition caused due to inflammation of the lungs. Heat and humidity are definite asthma triggers. This happens primarily because humidity is very conducive to the growth of airborne allergens such as molds and dust mites. Of course, heat is not the only cause of an asthma attack as high pressure, low and high temperatures and rainfall can also lead to an increase in asthma. However, if those who suffer from asthma undergo appropriate treatment, they can even go out and play football under the blazing sun.

• Stress - Humid and hot weather can be a stress trigger. Extreme heat also tends to sap the body of energy and increases stress levels. The body has to work harder to maintain its optimal temperature in the heat. What this also means is that it uses more energy to cool-off and ends up using more oxygen. Consequently shortness of breath follows. Panic attacks, anxiety and depression which are considered to be stress factors also cause breathing issues.

• Heat stroke - Extended exposure to hot and humid weather may lead to a heat stroke. Dizziness, seizure, headache, fatigue and disorientation are all heat stroke symptoms. They lead to an increased heart rate and summer breathing issues. In this particular case though, breathing difficulty is not directly related to heat exposure but is one of the numerous complications that might arise due to dehydration and heat stroke.

Precautionary Measures

Older people and young children are most prone to summer breathing issues. Drinking plenty of fluids and wearing light, cotton clothing helps the body maintain its temperature. Rigorous activity should be restricted to cooler periods of the day. Those who suffer from asthma or other respiratory issues should preferably stay indoors if there is a weather advisory of excessive heat. Meals should be light and non-spicy. Protein should also be consumed in a limited manner as it tends to produce more heat in the body.

Always keep the number of a 24-hour medical facility handy to be used in case of an emergency.

Basic Emergency Measures in Acute Stroke

In the event of an acute stroke attack, there is one critical factor that could make a very big difference in saving a life - the essence of time. A person who suffers from a stroke attack needs to be immediately attended to by a specialist in internal medicine to be given the necessary treatment that could save that person's life.

Medical experts say the ideal time frame to start treatment on an acute stroke victim is within 3 hours from the showing of symptoms. In some cases, treatment can be extended up to 6 hours depending on circumstances. Immediate management of acute stroke involves control of blood pressure, thrombolytic therapy, and, intubation procedures in more serious cases. Medical specialists need to make critical decisions during this acute phase. Beyond the ideal time frame given, either a life is wasted or irreparable damage on brain function happens.

Living near or being within just a few kilometers radius of a hospital facility is a most fortunate circumstance if you or your loved one suffers a stroke. Do not waste even a second in bringing him to the nearest hospital for proper medical attention. Within an hour after the patient arrives in the facility, medical personnel, who are trained to handle acute stroke victims, work on stabilizing the condition of the patient, perform neurological and cardiovascular assessment and evaluation and request for laboratory procedures and imaging.

So what are the warning signs of stroke that one should look out for? The most common symptoms include:

• Sudden paralysis, numbness or weakness of an arm or leg or one side of the face. To test a possibility of a stroke attack, ask the person to raise both his arms together over his head. When one arm uncontrollably falls, a stroke may have occurred.
• Drooping face is observed when one side of the mouth drops off when you try to smile.
• Sudden problems with speaking usually in a garbled manner or trouble understanding
• Sudden double, blackened or blurred vision in one or both eyes.
• Sudden onset of brain dysfunction such as confusion, problems with balance and loss of coordination
• Severe, sudden headache without known cause which may sometimes manifest together with dizziness, vomiting or change in consciousness.

Scientific studies have also proven that aspirin, an anti-thrombotic drug, helps in preventing another stroke from happening by preventing formation of blood clots. When blood clots form, it can block flow of blood to body organs resulting in a heart attack.

One doesn't have to be an expert in internal medicine to know the symptoms of stroke and its management. This vital knowledge may help save the life of your loved one or your very own life.

Ways to Take Care of Your Heart

Some people don't pay much attention to their own heart health unless they experience chronic chest pain. After a severe chest pain, your doctor might recommend a few changes you need to make. At this point, it has become increasingly obvious that you definitely need to think about your own heart health before these unwanted issues develop.

Here are some ways on how to take care your heart:

1. Regular exercise. You should know that regular exercise is good for your heart. Exercising does not only help you shed excess ponds, but it can also protect you from heart disease. Taking care of your heart through regular exercise does not necessarily mean you have to hit the gym everyday. Any form of exercise with a heart rate between resting and maximum is good for your heart health.

2. Include low-fat meals in our diet. Eating foods that contain essential vitamins and minerals will help you maintain a good heart health. Make sure you include fruits and fresh vegetables to your daily diet. Try to curb your fat intake because it is not good for your heart. Include fish and lean chicken on your daily meal for these are foods that contain low fat.

3. Get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is good for your overall health. Many studies show that lack of sleep can lead to certain heart conditions. According to experts, 7 to 8 hours of sleep at night is good while 5 hours or less can be detrimental to your heart health. Try not to get too much sleep for it can also lead to heart problems.

4. Reduce your level of stress. According to studies, stress can lead to heart problems. It can also deplete the level of your hormones in the body. When you are stressed or burned out, you tend to lose your appetite. You no longer focus on exercising or even eating healthy foods. You can improve the health of your heart by taking time to relax every time you are feeling strained or exhausted.

5. Don't forget your fish oil supplements. Studies show that omega-3 fish oil supplement is good for your heart. If you happen to have high triglycerides in your body, you may develop heart problems. With omega-3 fish oil supplement, you can lower the triglycerides in your body and keep them at a healthy level.

Remember that it is never too late to take preventive measures in taking care of your heart. It is crucial that you consult your doctor as early as possible before heart problems develop. These 5 tips can help you maintain a good heart health.

Heart Attacks: First Aid and Steps to Take In An Emergency

Emergency health complications are part and puzzle of our day to day lives. However, while attending to some health emergencies such as accident casualties, cuts and fractures is a bit easy, heart attacks pose a great challenge to those present at the scene when someone suffers a heart attack.

In most cases, calling an ambulance is considered to be the only option by many people, but in the real sense, a minute spent attending to a heart attack victim may be worthier than trying to rush the victim to the nearest health center.

What is a heart attack?

As a matter of fact, no one can attend to an emergency health complication without contemplating the danger that such a complication poses to the victim, and thus, a proper understanding of heart attacks (or what is also referred to as cardiac arrests) is always essential.

Usually, a heart attack occurs as a result of limited supply of oxygen in the cardiac tissue. This may be caused by presence of plaque in the coronary artery as a result of an internal clot or accumulation of cholesterol in the cardiac arteries.

When such a complication occurs, it may take only a few minutes before a section of the heart tissue dies, predisposing the victim to potentially fatal complications such as heart failure or stroke.

Some of the signs and symptoms that are indicative of a heart attack include:

-Undue fatigue

-Cardiac palpitations

-Chest pain accompanied by a feeling of uncomfortable pressure and squeezing

-Shortness of breath often occurring before the onset of chest pain and discomfort

-Nausea, a feeling of light-headedness and sudden dizziness

-Cold sweating

How to Attend to a Heart Attack Victim

In most cases, the outlined signs and symptoms occur some minutes before the complication imparts more serious effects on the victim such as loss of consciousness.

Outlined below are some of the steps that you should take to get the cardiac arrest under control depending on the state of the victim:

• Administer Aspirin

Despite the fact that aspirins are globally used as non-steroidal pain-relievers, they are also effective anti-clotting agents. Once administered, they help dissolve the clot in the coronary arteries which eventually eases heart attacks.

• Perform CPR if the victim is unconscious

Some cardiac arrests advance very rapidly eventually rendering the victim unconscious. A major indicator of heart-attack-induced unconsciousness is breathing while in an unconscious state.

At such a time, performing a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be the very first step so as to restore pulse and sustain breathing. It is also recommended that even when the victim falls unconscious and loses his or her breath as well, the condition should be treated as a cardiac arrest and thus one should initiate a CPR immediately.

An effective CPR should be done by pressing the sternum with the heel of the hand 3-5 cm downwards, having interlocked the fingers from both hands while doing a mouth-mouth or mouth-nose breathing.

Ideally, one should perform 30 compressions and then administer 2 deep breaths through the mouth or nose. However, the compression be done vertically and the force should not be applied from the shoulders.

In the meantime, one should ensure that Emergency Service had been activated to ensure that the victim will be rushed to a healthcare center in the shortest time possible.

• Alert Friends and Family During the Attack

If you are the one suffering the heart attack, you can alert up to 5 of your closest acquaintances with your GPS location, as well as update your Facebook status, so that your closest friend know you are experiencing an emergency and can send help as soon as possible.

One free application that allows you to send an alert from your mobile phone is Guardian Angel One. It comes in handy in medical emergencies such as strokes, heart attacks, epileptic attacks, pregnancy related issues.

By B. Saxena

Natural Remedies for Heartburn

If you have ever felt the actual burning sensation with your chest then guess what happens it is a lot like to experience the pain of acid reflux. Although this really is popularly known as heartburn, it can be referred to as acid indigestion or acid reflux (in much more serious cases).

The pain that many experience means it is crucial to find an end to acid reflux and treat it immediately for the onset. Although some is probably not aware, this issue needs attention and it's a medical problem. There could be only infrequent pain, however you can even be extraordinary onset of much more serious gastro-intestinal troubles.

It may very well be a smart idea to keep a record, perhaps in a very diary, that will allow you to track when you find yourself experiencing acid reflux difficulties and this also will help you to identify the meals choices you might be making and the way they are affecting your health. Using these records will allow you to make recommended choices and locate your own cure for acid reflux.

Hot meal will often cause this problem, and the real reason for it developing can be extremely complex. Putting a lot of salsa sauce on your taco or even eating additional spicy ingredients may lead you to suffer from acid reflux, however everybody is different and will have a different reaction to many different foods. Foods which could cause some sort of reaction for a few may not necessarily for others then it really is determined by the specific person and that is why a diary would can be found in handy.

It may take the time before you have the answers you are searching for but the effect will be worthy of the effort and will allow you to find a good cure for acid reflux.

Processed foods may also cause indigestion for a lot of, along with many different soda products. This is frequently a hook 22 situation for a few, as having a soft drink drink can actually relieve the actual symptoms. Making some sort of shift with your eating practices could offer you a simple heal for acid reflux and allow you to reduce suffering down the road.

Due towards the types regarding foods we now eat, many people are enduring acid reflux than ever. Pre grouped together and prepared foods have become extremely popular as they are easier to arrange and fit in to our own busy lifestyles. These kinds of foods use a higher acid solution level than natural ingredients. This is usually making the challenge of heartburn an internationally issue even as we move further and additional away through natural meal sources that people prepare in addition to cook ourself.

There usually are medications in addition to antacid pills that you can take that do provide an effective alleviation and an end to acid reflux, but is usually this really your best option? Basically you will find two possibilities: change the kinds of food you might be eating in addition to prepare nutritious meals utilizing fresh elements, or consider medications on a daily basis.
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img: wakeup-world.com

Heart Attacks: First Aid and Steps to Take In An Emergency

Emergency health complications are part and puzzle of our day to day lives. However, while attending to some health emergencies such as accident casualties, cuts and fractures is a bit easy, heart attacks pose a great challenge to those present at the scene when someone suffers a heart attack.

In most cases, calling an ambulance is considered to be the only option by many people, but in the real sense, a minute spent attending to a heart attack victim may be worthier than trying to rush the victim to the nearest health center.

What is a heart attack?

As a matter of fact, no one can attend to an emergency health complication without contemplating the danger that such a complication poses to the victim, and thus, a proper understanding of heart attacks (or what is also referred to as cardiac arrests) is always essential.

Usually, a heart attack occurs as a result of limited supply of oxygen in the cardiac tissue. This may be caused by presence of plaque in the coronary artery as a result of an internal clot or accumulation of cholesterol in the cardiac arteries.

When such a complication occurs, it may take only a few minutes before a section of the heart tissue dies, predisposing the victim to potentially fatal complications such as heart failure or stroke.

Some of the signs and symptoms that are indicative of a heart attack include:

-Undue fatigue

-Cardiac palpitations

-Chest pain accompanied by a feeling of uncomfortable pressure and squeezing

-Shortness of breath often occurring before the onset of chest pain and discomfort

-Nausea, a feeling of light-headedness and sudden dizziness

-Cold sweating

How to Attend to a Heart Attack Victim

In most cases, the outlined signs and symptoms occur some minutes before the complication imparts more serious effects on the victim such as loss of consciousness.

Outlined below are some of the steps that you should take to get the cardiac arrest under control depending on the state of the victim:

Administer Aspirin
Despite the fact that aspirins are globally used as non-steroidal pain-relievers, they are also effective anti-clotting agents. Once administered, they help dissolve the clot in the coronary arteries which eventually eases heart attacks.

Perform CPR if the victim is unconscious
Some cardiac arrests advance very rapidly eventually rendering the victim unconscious. A major indicator of heart-attack-induced unconsciousness is breathing while in an unconscious state.

At such a time, performing a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be the very first step so as to restore pulse and sustain breathing. It is also recommended that even when the victim falls unconscious and loses his or her breath as well, the condition should be treated as a cardiac arrest and thus one should initiate a CPR immediately.

An effective CPR should be done by pressing the sternum with the heel of the hand 3-5 cm downwards, having interlocked the fingers from both hands while doing a mouth-mouth or mouth-nose breathing.

Ideally, one should perform 30 compressions and then administer 2 deep breaths through the mouth or nose. However, the compression be done vertically and the force should not be applied from the shoulders.

In the meantime, one should ensure that Emergency Service had been activated to ensure that the victim will be rushed to a healthcare center in the shortest time possible.

Alert Friends and Family During the Attack
If you are the one suffering the heart attack, you can alert up to 5 of your closest acquaintances with your GPS location, as well as update your Facebook status, so that your closest friend know you are experiencing an emergency and can send help as soon as possible.

One free application that allows you to send an alert from your mobile phone is Guardian Angel One. It comes in handy in medical emergencies such as strokes, heart attacks, epileptic attacks, pregnancy related issues.

By B. Saxena

Symptoms For Heart Problems

There be signs that you might have a heart problem, then you should immediately go to your doctor to have yourself checked. But you need to know the signs and symptoms that you need to look out for, though.The following are a few of the symptoms that you shouldn't ignore when it comes to your heart.

Chest pain is probably the most common type of symptom for heart problem and even a heart attack. It is actually the leading symptom that doctors look for in patients who are suspected of having a heart attack or experiencing a heart problem. The experience is pain in the chest that is felt a little to the left at exactly the center. It has been described as an uncomfortable sensation of squeezing or of pressure. It has also been described as somewhat like an elephant is sitting on a person's chest.

Fatigue is also a sign that a person is having a hear attack or has a serious heart ailment. A person usually experiences fatigue a few days, or in some cases even a few weeks, before the heart attack. If you happen to feel tired or fatigued all the time or even most of the time could very well be a sign that you may have heart failure. Even though you might feel fatigued for other reasons, it would be best for you to consult a doctor and know the real reason behind it.

One other symptom that you have a heart problem or that you are already experiencing a heart attack is sweating. Sure, we all sweat but if you are just sitting or lying down and then you suddenly break out in a cold sweat as if you've just come from the gym, then that is a sign that you could actually be having a heart attack already.

Early Signs and Warning for Heart Attack

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense — the "movie heart attack," where no one doubts what's happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren't sure what's wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:

• Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

As with men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain. Learn about the warning signs of heart attack in women.

Learn the signs, but remember this: Even if you're not sure it's a heart attack, have it checked out (tell a doctor about your symptoms). Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives — maybe your own. 

Home Remedy for Panic Attack using Paper Bag

Breathing into a paper bag
Breathing in and out of a paper bag is the oldest and most common home remedy for panic attacks. However, there are controversies surrounding the use of this method because of the negative effects it may bring. Instead of alleviating the symptoms, it lowers oxygen levels and increases carbon dioxide, which worsens panic attacks.

The truth is the method has a short-term effectiveness. But, it can actually help stabilize the carbon dioxide level in the bloodstream. It also slows down intense breathing and relaxes hyperventilation. These positive effects only happen if the sufferer does it properly. When breathing into a paper bag, make sure that both nose and mouth are covered. Then breathe 10 times alternately into and out. After this, breathe normally without the paper bag for 15 seconds. Make sure not to overdo it.

Stress management
According to research, anxiety attacks are triggered by a difficult situation where a person cannot escape. Continued attacks may cause the sufferer to be violent especially when others attempt to control him. But there are some attacks that subside after a few hours.

To control the intense emotions, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) advised people to undergo stress management techniques. Aerobic and other exercises such as jogging, swimming, fast walking and sports can help relieve panic attacks.

First it releases endorphins that help calm a person. Second, it promotes neurogenesis that helps produce new brain cells and that helps the brain function normally. Lastly, it exercises a person brain improving memory and increasing attention span. To properly achieve the benefits, perform a 20 minute exercise four times a week.

Taking in supplements
Another home remedy for panic attacks is to take in supplements such as Vitamin B. In fact, many sufferers are Vitamin B deficient. Vitamin B deficiency symptoms include anxiety, fatigue, emotional instability, irritability and restlessness which cause panic attacks.

Taking in such supplement alleviates the symptoms and prevents anxiety attacks. Not only that, it also lessens stress and promotes proper nerve function. Besides vitamin B, B6, calcium and magnesium should also be taken on a regular basis. Make sure that this is combined with proper diet and exercises as stated above.

10 Tips to Strengthen Your Heart and Control Cholesterol

Check cholesterol levels regularly
Rising level of cholesterol subjects a man to greater risk of heart attack. Cholesterol is lipoprotein in nature. The lipoprotein by nature is not easily degradable substance. Thus accumulation of lipoproteins in the cells makes it impossible to be degraded and make them block the system. The deposition of the cholesterol especially in the blood vessel is considered as very bad. This leads to the diseases like artherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Cholesterols are the polymers of the fatty acids. Fatty acids are covalently bonded to form the lipoproteins. Thus this strong bondage prevents it from any kind of degradation. They are also called as the stored energy in the body. They remain unused in our body because of our eating habits as we take high amount of carbohydrate which prevents the usage of the cholesterol and thus they remain in the undegraded form in the body. To check the rising level of the cholesterol in our body it is necessary to monitor the current level of cholesterol in the body. It always makes a man aware of the current status of cholesterol in the body and takes necessary steps for lowering it.

Quit smoking
Smoking is directly linked to higher LDL (low density lipoproteins), the bad cholesterol, while depleting HDL (high density lipoproteins), the good cholesterol, levels.  Apart from damaging arteries, nicotine in cigarettes can lead to heart palpitations. Smoking also leads to raised fibrinogen levels and platelet counts which make the blood stickier.  Inhaled carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke also raises blood cholesterol levels; carbon monoxide attaches itself to hemoglobin, which diminishes overall oxygen supply.

Studies found that giving up smoking can reverse heart disease; good cholesterol or HDL levels automatically rise, driving down LDL levels. Within 24 hours of quitting, risk of a heart attack subsides. Within one year, the risk of heart disease is half that of a smoker. And within 15 years the risk of heart disease is similar to someone who never smoked. It makes good sense to quit smoking and reap a range of health benefits that translate into good heart health.

Worldwide, smoking is the main culprit in 20% of heart disease deaths. Cigarette smoking is thus the most modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease. 80% of heart attacks in men under 45 years of age can be traced to cigarette smoking. A cigarette smoker has 2 to 3 times the risk of suffering a heart attack. For heavy smokers, the risk of a fatal heart attack is 10 to 15 times that of a nonsmoker. Even light smokers are at a high risk of developing coronary heart disease. Women smokers are not immune either: even as few as 4 cigarettes a day can lead to a 2.5% increase in fatal coronary disease.

Reduce the intake of caffeine
Not many know that by just taking care of your caffeine intake you can reduce your cholesterol level to a greater extent. Many of us might not know that intake of caffeine add to the cholesterol levels in our body. Also many of us don't know how much caffeine we intake. People working in the office are not aware how many cups of coffee do they drink while working in the office. Under the pressure of work they tend to divert their pressure at the coffee counter to that cup of coffee that they drink without knowing what harm it may or, to be precise, it is causing to them.

Caffeine is a component found in coffee. Actually, coffee contains two chemicals, which are identified to be raising cholesterol levels. Those chemicals are Cafestol and Kahweol. These chemicals are a member of a chemical family called Diterpenes in coffee oils. The amount of Diterpenes depends upon the brewing method. Drip-brewed coffee, instant coffee and percolated coffee contain only minimal amount of Diterpenes. But boiled coffees such as Greek, Turkish, espresso and those made in French "press" coffeemaker have quite a greater amount of Diterpenes and contributes to increase in the cholesterol levels.

Caffeine is generally found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, soda etc. So we must limit drinking such drinks so as to reduce the caffeine intake.

Increase intake of spices
Though there is much type of treatments and medications available to lower and combat cholesterol, a very tasty technique for combating the cholesterol problem is by increasing the intake of spices. Spices really help us in lowering the level of cholesterol. So we can combat cholesterol while eating our favorite dish. They also help in combating various diseases arising out of high cholesterol levels.

The spices that help in lowering the cholesterol level are garlic, onions, linseed, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, mint, lemongrass etc. These spices help in lowering the cholesterol level. Certain spice such as mint prohibits the production of cholesterol. Fenugreek is high in saponins and soluble fibers which help decrease the absorption of cholesterol from food.

Cinnamon a spice also helps in lowering the cholesterol.  Onions have significant amounts of flavonoids which can act as antioxidants to protect LDL cholesterol from being oxidized and they can inhibit the formation of blood clots and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour activity consequently it also helps in lowering cholesterol level.  These spices also help in burning fats thereby consequently reducing the cholesterol level. Actually when we add spices to our foods then while eating it generates a great amount of heat which in turn helps in melting away of the fat deposits inside our body. So consequently, there is a reduction in the cholesterol level.

The most beneficial thing regarding spices is that it adds to the taste of our food and also simultaneously reduces cholesterol level. Moreover, we also don't require bearing any kind of medication or doctor's cost. However, we must be careful while increasing our intake because such intake should not exceed limits, as it would be harmful to our health.

Increase in soya intake
Soya is found in various edible forms. They are consumed as soya milk, soya powder, tofu and various other forms. Soya is generally very useful in reducing the blood cholesterol level.

Soya generally has fatty acids beneficial to the human system. They are very low in saturated fatty acids are lineloic acid and alpha lineloic acid, which is contained in the soya; they are very essential to the human body. Thus the intake of soya itself ensures that intake of cholesterol in the form of dietary saturated fatty acid is almost nil. Soya contains small peptide chains. After the soya is ingested the peptide chains are broken down into even smaller peptide chains containing only 4-6 amino acids. These small peptides get attached to the cell membrane and increase the receptivity of the LDL is the abbreviated form of low density lipoprotein. Due to the increased receptivity of the LDL the blood cholesterol gets lowered. Thus intake of soya also ensures reduction in the existing blood cholesterol, which is in excess. It advised by the experts that a daily consumption of at least 25 gms of soya is necessary to reduce blood cholesterol level.

Intake great levels of barley
Barley is a wonderful versatile cereal grain with nutlike flavor. Its appearance resembles wheat-berries although it is quite lighter in color. Barley helps a lot in reducing cholesterol levels in the body. Barley's insoluble fiber produces a short chain of fatty acids namely Propionic acid and Acetic acid, which are used as a fuel by the cells of the liver and muscles. The prop ionic acid produced from barley's insoluble fiber is responsible for cholesterol lowering properties of the fiber. This acid inhibits the HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol by the liver. By lowering the activity of this enzyme, Propionic acid helps in lowering cholesterol levels. In addition barley's dietary fiber is also high in Beta Glucan, which helps to lower cholesterol by binding to bile acids and removing them from the body via the feces. Soluble fibers of barley also help in reducing the amount of cholesterol manufactured by the liver.

Use Olive Oil
It is very easy to say that obese individuals and people suffering from high cholesterol problems must minimize the intake of oil. However, this is very difficult to implement in practice. Hence, instead it is a better idea to use alternative oils that do not deprive the individuals the pleasure of fried foodstuffs and also keep the cholesterol levels in check. Olive oil obviously is extracted from the olive fruits. This means that this oil is a vegetative extract and is better than animal fat. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats. This means that these fats do not get deposited on the walls of the arteries and result in life-threatening disorders like arteriosclerosis. The fats in olive oil immediately get absorbed in the body system and are thus beneficial for the individuals. Olive oil reduces the quantity of undesirable blood cholesterol, also known as LDL cholesterol. It only enhances the level of HDL cholesterol, which is beneficial for the health of an individual.

Olive oil contains a large number of antioxidants that are very essential for the health of the individual. In order to reduce cholesterol levels in the body, it is also not advisable to completely avoid fats. A bare minimum amount of fats is necessary for maintaining the metabolism in the body and also for the smooth functioning of the joints and the muscles in the body. This requirement can be satisfies with the help of olives and olive oil. Since olive oil does not go well with meat-based foodstuffs, it is recommended to use it with vegetables. Olive oil enhances the taste of vegetables greatly. These way individuals would start consuming more of salads and raw vegetable mix topped with olive oil. Olive oil is bound to make a significant difference to the health of the individual. It would definitely help in the endeavor of the individual to reduce cholesterol and increase the intake of health foods.

Take multivitamins
Vitamins are very essential nutrient of the body. Vitamins are the nutrients which cannot be synthesized in our body naturally but rather should be consumed externally so as to fulfill the requirement of the vitamin.

The multivitamins have the quality to prevent the oxidation of the bad cholesterol (LDL). Due to the process of the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, they are broken into free radicals and are easily available to the cell for their own oxidation. This actually spells doom on the human system. The content of the cholesterol rises to a greater level and hampers normal functioning of the cell. Thus it is also said that the level of harm caused by the LDL cholesterol is not due to the amount present in the body but rather due to the amount of cholesterol getting oxidized. Multivitamins has been very instrumental in lowering the level of cholesterol in the body. In addition multivitamins also contains antioxidants vitamins which is helpful in reducing the level of amino acids homocystaein. The collective effect of both of the actions helps in lowering the risk of any cardio vascular diseases. It has been found through clinical research that vitamin c has been the most responsible vitamin for checking the oxidation of the LDL cholesterol.

Drink more water
Drinking more and more water helps to keep body fit more. So try to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. It is good for health. Drinking more water has much gain like drinking water properly leads to weight loss as it reduces fats. It helps in metabolizing more fats of the body. Even kidneys do not perform well if enough water supplies are not there. Water contains minerals and salts which is essential for body. Drinking plenty of water also kills water retention problem too. It also makes endocrine glands to function properly.

This helps in balancing your body electrolytes, minerals such as sodium, chloride, and potassium, which regulate body temperature and control blood pressure.  It also helps in transporting water-soluble vitamins and nutrients, such as protein, minerals, and the B and C vitamins across the body.

Drink fresh fruit juice
In the last few years there have been nearly countless studies on the benefits of fruits and vegetables that people eat more of them in their regular diet. Important substances in fruits and vegetables called phyto chemicals are being studied for their positive effect on preventing health problems and sometimes for treating health problems like cholesterol. The result of this and similar research is an ever-increasing wealth of data that point to the possible positive effect of fruits and vegetables on the health. It helps to control cholesterol level in the body and protect it from getting cholesterol. To get the best benefit from juice it is better to drink fresh fruit juice that is without any preservatives. The best one is homemade juice.

Hiccups - Causes and Treatment

Hiccups is a reflex action of the body by which the body protects itself. Hiccups are short, sharp and very sudden breaths of air which happen when our breathing muscles jerks, making us gasp. While inhaling air, the diaphragm, located between the chest and the stomach, goes down and presses the stomach due to which the lungs are filled with air. While exhaling air, the diaphragm goes up and the air comes out from the lungs. 

Hiccups are the result of repeated, involuntary spasmodic contractions of the diaphragm. There is hardly any individual in this world, who has never fallen prey to the problem. The worst part of the hiccups is that they are a major source of embarrassment. While you go have to through the inconvenience, other can easily amuse themselves at your expense. The usual symptoms of hiccups are - quick sounds, sharp intakes of breaths and involuntary closing of the muscles in the back of the throat. Getting rid of hiccups is not difficult, if you know the right techniques.

Breathing is one of the things that your body does without you having to think about it. The brain sends messages along the phrenic nerve to the diaphragm. The muscle contracts, which makes your lungs fill with the air that comes into your body through your mouth or nose.

How to get rid of hiccups? Well let's first take a closer look at what and why do we hiccup. Hiccups could be summed up as repeated intake of air with a bit of noise. It is generally caused due to involuntary contraction of diaphragm. Hiccups last only for few minutes and give a minor discomfort. 

The only thing that can get rid of my mammoth hiccups is to hold my breath. Inhale (or exhale) deeply and hold the air in (or out of) your lungs for as long as you can (but not so long you pass out). If you can, concentrate on quelling the hiccups as you feel them coming. Willpower is everything.

Hiccups are in your head, but because you may be slightly inebriated, your concentration may be a little dulled. That's why the breathing needs to be incorporated. Plus, you're already drunk, so you probably won't look all that silly by doing this anyway.

Give a mild temporary shock to the patient by a bluff of imaginary accident somewhere or a concocted accusation against him or the like. The patient will temporarily hold his breath suddenly and the hiccups will vanish for good.

Drinking water. We all know people who swear by bending at the waist and drinking a glass of water while upside down. It can work, but I find simply drinking water from a water fountain for 10 seconds nonstop works just as well.

Swallow a teaspoonful of dry sugar to get rid of hiccups. Remember the Mary Poppins song (sing with me now) "a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, the medicine go do-own"? Well apparently she was right. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that swallowing a teaspoonful of dry sugar immediately stopped the hiccups in 19 out of 20 cases.

7 Serious Heart Attack Tips

A serious note about heart attacks:

• 60% of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up.
• Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms.
• Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting.
• Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.
• You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack.
• Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive.
• A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this mail sends it to everyone they know, you can be sure that we'll save at least one life.

Fat & Salt Kill Your Heart - Health Alert

Salt is Bad to You

The amount of salt you eat has a direct effect on your blood pressure.

Salt makes your body hold on to water. If you eat too much salt, the extra water stored in your body raises your blood pressure. So, the more salt you eat, the higher your blood pressure.

The higher your blood pressure, the greater the strain on your heart, arteries, kidneys and brain. This can lead to heart attacks, strokes, dementia and kidney disease.

Also, eating too much salt may mean that blood pressure medicines (such as diuretics) don't work as well as they could.

Salt and Heart Attack

The raised blood pressure caused by eating too much salt may damage the arteries leading to the heart.

At first, it may cause a slight reduction in the amount of blood reaching the heart. This may lead to angina (sharp pains in the chest when being active).

• If you continue to eat too much salt then, over time, the damage caused by the extra blood pressure may become so severe that the arteries burst or become completely clogged.
• If this happens, then the part of the heart that was receiving the blood no longer gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs and dies. The result is a heart attack.
• The best way to prevent a heart attack is to stop the arteries becoming damaged. And one of the best ways of doing this is keep your blood pressure down by eating less salt.