Practicing yoga before bed will benefit your sleep in many ways. The mind and body are working every minute of the day. As bedtime approaches, it is beneficial to release the stress and tension from the body, relax the mind and enjoy quiet yoga, because of the stimulatory effect yoga has on the nervous system, and in particular the brain.
Often, we have trouble falling asleep because the mind is still going, but the practice of breathing allows for more oxygen in the body providing clarity in the mind. A relaxed session of yoga helps to calm the body, mind and spirit. This helps to quiet the constant thought patterns that can rob you of sleep.
You will have a more restful sleep because of the relaxing aspect of yoga and the subsequent relieving of stress, tension and fatigue and you will wake up every morning ready to go instead of wishing you could stay in bed. Combine yoga with a short meditation practice to enhance this benefit.
h/t – positivemed
Are you eating the right foods for your blood type?
It is important to learn how your blood type affects your health and wellness, same as your weight and believe it or not your blood type makes you more susceptible to certain diseases.
Why does this happen?
We understand that there are four blood groups A, B, AB and O, and that blood type is determined by genetics. There are certain antigens (these could be proteins, carbohydrates and glycoproteins) that when they enter the body, the immune system produces antibodies against them. We respond differently to these antigens depending on our blood type.
Blood is classified by:
New: AB
Old: O
Agrarian: A
Nomadic: B
Blood type and diet:
Certain foods such as legumes contain a carbohydrate-binding protein called lectin. This substance is most likely to cause inflammation in the body, but it will produce stronger reactions in certain blood types. Therefore it can make you more susceptible to certain diseases and other factors like fatigue, poor digestion and weight gain.
There are a lot of chemical reactions going on in our bodies all day long, digestion is one of them and our blood type can affect how we digest the food, meaning it will be crucial in terms of weight loss or weight gain
Blood Type O
Recommended to eat:
-High-protein found in meat and fish
-Reduce carb intake
-Avoid diary
Blood Type A
Recommended to eat:
-Vegetarian diet (lots of veggies!)
-Grains (beans, legumes)
Blood Type B
Recommended to eat:
-Red Meat (avoid chicken)
-Dairy
-Fruits and vegetables
Blood Type AB
Recommended to eat:
-Lean meat
-Dairy
-Seafood
-Vegetables and legumes
Blood types and diseases:
As previously mentioned every blood type is different because of their antigens located on the surface of the red blood cells. Each blood type creates certain defenses to help fight diseases.
Blood type and personality:
Blood Type O
-Outgoing
-Initiators
-Creative
-Social
-Confident.
Blood Type A
-Most likely to be calm
-Perfectionists
-Most artistic
-Bold
-Trustworthy
-Sensitive
Blood Type B
-Goal oriented
– Strong minded
-Independent
Blood Type AB
-Split personalities: outgoing and shy
-Confident and timid
-Responsible
-Care a lot for others
Blood type and fertility:
Women chances of fertility are different in different blood groups; this happens due to the fact that the amount of a hormone called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) varies, depending on the blood type.
Some studies to prove this theory show that women with blood types A and AB were generally less likely than others to produce the follicle-stimulating hormone.
Please note that according to many nutritionists, there is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims, and if you’re among those who manage their diet based on scientific evidence, then you have to wait for more results to come up.
h/t – positivemed
Ever feel like you’ve been hit on the head after a bad night’s sleep? According to scientists, the thought isn’t as far-fetched as it seems.
A study found going without sleep for just one night causes changes in the brain similar to those that occur after a blow to the head.
The researchers said the healthy young men examined in the study showed a spike in the same chemicals which indicate brain damage.
Professor Christian Benedict, of Uppsala University, Sweden, explained that the chemcials NSE and S-100B are biomarkers for brain damage, such as concussion.
‘During sleep, the brain cleans itself of toxic substances and NSE and S-100B increase in response to these substances.’
He said the findings back up previous research showing how the brain uses sleep to cleanse itself.
Professor Benedict also said his study could support previous studies which linked a lack of sleep with increased risk of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis.
The rise of the chemicals in the blood after sleep loss may suggest not getting enough sleep is conducive to a loss of brain tissue, he explained.
Professor Benedict, whose study is published in the journal Sleep, added: ‘In conclusion, the findings of our trial indicate a good night’s sleep may be critical for maintaining brain health.’
A third of the UK population suffer from sleep-related problems, while the average person now sleeps for only seven hours a night, compared with almost nine a few decades ago.
Many scientists believe irregular sleeping patterns lead to illnesses ranging from aches and pains to heart disease, while less than eight hours’ sleep a night can lower the IQ the next day.
Read more: DailyMail
This is a “ghost organ.” It has been decelluralized, leaving only connective tissue. The organ can then be reseeded with a patient’s own cells to regenerate it so it can be transplanted without fear of tissue rejection.
This is experimental.
Xiao Wei’s severed right hand is seen attached to his ankle before the reattachment surgery at Xiangya Hospital in Changsha, Hunan province, on Dec. 4, 2013.
Doctors at a hospital in China saved a man’s hand by grafting it to his ankle after it was severed in an industrial accident, according to reports in the Chinese media.
Xiao Wei lost his right hand in an accident in the factory where he worked but it could not be reattached to his arm right away. Doctors kept the hand alive by stitching it to his left ankle and “borrowing” a blood supply from arteries in the leg.
After a month, they were able to reattach the hand to his arm. Xiao Wei said he would be having another operation in six months but might not be able to regain full use of his hand.
Earlier this year another Chinese man had a new nose grown on his forehead after a traffic accident.
— Reuters, Agence France-Presse
Xiao Wei lying on his hospital bed with his hand grafted to his ankle.
A doctor checking Xiao Wei’s hand on Dec. 10, after it was reattached to his arm.
Swelling of the feet and ankles is callededema, and there are many things that can cause the problem, from high blood pressure to pregnancy. What’s happening is that the body is having trouble fighting gravity to move blood and fluids back up the legs, so the ankles, feet, and even the entire leg can begin to swell.
Edema on its own is not harmful, but it is uncomfortable. If one foot or leg is a lot more swollen than the other, or face is swelling, too, it’s a good time to consult a doctor because the cause could be a blood clot and that’s the sort of problem that time will not help at all. According to the Texas Heart Institute, about 6 million Americans have a blood clot, or thrombus, in a vein at any given time.Blood clots are caused by reduced blood flow, which allows a clot to form. Injury to a vein or physical inactivity can also cause a blood clot.
That uncomfortable swelling is not actually a disorder, just a symptom, and the best way to treat it is to treat the root cause. If the swelling is due to pregnancy, it should go down not long after delivery. Talk to a doctor to see what could be causing the swelling.
Swelling can also occur as a result of an injury. In an injury, typically only one side of the body will be affected, but it is possible to injure both feet or ankles in a fall or car accident. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, injuries such as fractures, strains, sprains, anddislocations often occur. An ankle sprain can cause both the ankle and foot to become red and swollen, as can a fracture in the foot or ankle. A dislocation in the ankle or foot may cause the foot and ankle to become red and swollen. There will also be pain at the site of the injury. An injury should be assessed by a medical professional.
Cellulitis is a serious bacterial infection of the skin and another cause of edema. It most commonly affects the legs, ankles and feet. Cellulitis occurs when bacteria invade through an opening or cut in the skin. The bacteria can also enter the skin via an insect or spider bite. The symptoms of cellulitis include red, swollen skin; pain and tenderness; and increased warmth in the affected area, along with a fever. Cellulitis that is spreading or occurs along with a fever requires evaluation by a physician immediately.
Venous insufficiency is condition that causes impairment of blood flow through the veins, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Varicose veins are one primary cause of venous insufficiency and are caused by damaged valves in the veins allowing backflow of blood. The blood tends to pool in the ankles and feet, allowing protein matter to leak into surrounding tissues, causing swelling. Over time, the skin on the ankles and feet can become reddened. Other symptoms include developing sores or ulcers that are slow to heal, prominent veins along with aching, cramping and weakness. The treatment for venous insufficiency includes wearing compression stockings to aid the blood flow returning to the heart.
Other simple home remedies for edema include elevating the feet while resting, using a cold or heated compress on the affected area, mild to moderate exercise to increase circulation, andavoiding salty foods. Vitamin B6 will help reduce water retention in the body, and is found in brown rice and red meat. Vitamin B5, calcium and vitamin D help in the excretion of excess fluids. Or add a magnesium supplement, less than 400mg – especially if pregnant.
Another at-home treatment is yoga, which can help improve circulation without putting too much pressure on the body. This one might sound a little odd, but soaking in room temperature – or cold, if it’s not too uncomfortable – tonic water can help with swelling. The quinine and the bubbles can help reduce inflammation, and frankly just soaking those poor, swollen feet feels great! Adding a healthy dose of Epsom salts to the tub is another way to boost circulation. Like using grapefruit essential oil (remember to use a carrier oil like olive oil!), just use a bucket, if baths aren’t your thing and you’re only having swelling in feet and ankles. If the calves are swollen, too, a bath is probably the best bet. If there is no noticeable improvement of symptoms after a week, perhaps a change in medication is in order. In any event, if one has tried these without effect, it is time to see a doctor.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice
The kidneys are important body organs, they take care of the urination process in our bodies by filtering body waste. Despite being such an important component of our body many of us do not properly care for them and millions of people die each year from kidney disease. There are habits many of us have that can harm our kidneys. Here is a list of some habits to avoid for healthy kidneys:
1. Drinking inadequate water
Not drinking enough water is the biggest contributor to damage that our kidneys bear everyday. The main job of our kidneys is to drain metabolic waste from the body and regulate erythrocyte balances. When we do not stay properly hydrated, the renal blood flow decreases, ultimately resulting in accumulation of toxins in the blood.
2. Long-term full bladder
A habit many of us have is delaying the call of nature. When we leave the bladder full of urine for an extended time, different complications in urinary tract may arise: Hypertrophy of detrusor muscle is one example of such complications which may lead to formation of diverticula. Hydronephrosis (increase of urine pressure in kidneys) is another example which is caused by chronic back pressure on kidneys, ultimately resulting in renal impairment.
Urinary incontinence due to overflow is also another serious complication of long term urinary retention.
3.Consuming too much sodium
Metabolizing the sodium we consume is another job for our kidneys. The salt we eat is the prime source of sodium and the majority of our sodium intake needs to be excreted. When we eat excessive salt the kidneys keep busy excreting sodium, which may cause long term stress on our kidneys. 90% of Americans consume too much salt and here are some useful tips to manage your salt intake.
4. Consumption of too much caffeine
When we feel thirsty we often choose beverages other than water like soft drinks and sodas. Many of these beverages contain caffeine. Caffeine can elevate blood pressure and high blood pressure puts strain on the kidneys which can damage them. According to Mayoclinic, most healthy adults, can consume about two to four cups of brewed coffee a day and stay away from harmful effects of caffeine.
5. Pain-killer abuse
Taking pain-killers for low-grade pain is a bad habit many people have. Most pain-killers have severe side effects and can damage different organs, such as kidneys. Research shows taking pain pills long term reduces blood flow and deteriorates kidney’s function.
6. Too much protein
Over-consumption of red meat and other protein-rich foods can deteriorate damaged kidneys condition. A protein-rich diet is essentially healthy unless you suffer from kidney damage and your doctor recommends a protein-restricted diet. Too much protein increases the metabolic load on our kidneys.
7. Ignoring colds and flu
Ignoring the common cold and flu is a habit that can cause kidney damage. Studies show people who have kidney disease also have a history of avoiding resting while sick. It is also observed that people with kidney disease are more sensitive to significant changes in weather.
8. Too much alcohol consumption
When we drink alcohol we often ignore the proper quantity suitable for good health. Too much alcoholic intake is a kidney-damaging habit. Alcohol contains toxins which put stress on our kidneys and can damage them.
Source- http://www.kidney-support.org/living-with-kidney-disease/14.html
Source- http://www.zimbio.com/Kidney+Cancer/articles/S3f63FubRSv/bad+habits+lead+kidney+failure
This bone-writing device is now being clinically tested at St Vincent’s Hospital in Melbourne. Should the device prove to be successful – which it already has – surgeons can expect to find this instrument in the operation room in the future.
Source: Cnet
Losing belly fat is an inside job, yes you have to exercise, but first fuel your body with foods that give you energy and nutrients, while also helping you to lose belly fat. Any program that encourages eating works for me! I love my greens, legumes, olive oil, berries, and yogurt!
A Colombian woman suffering from stomach pain was found to have a 40-year-old fetus inside her.
The 82-year-old, from Bogota, had what is known as ‘lithopedion’, or stone baby, when the unborn child develops outside the womb.
The woman was originally thought to be suffering from a stomach bug, NTD TV reports.
But an scans revealed lithopedion, where the fetus becomes calcified.There are fewer than 300 cases reported in medical literature.
The woman will now will undergo surgery to have the fetus – mostly comprised of dead tissue – removed.
According to NTD, Dr Kemer Ramirez of Bogota’s Tunjuelito Hospital said that the doctor overseeing the woman noticed something ‘abnormal in her abdomen’ – and suspected gallstones.
An ultrasound showed nothing then radiography of her abdomen revealed a tumour in her abdominal cavity.
Dr Ramirez explained: ‘This happens because the fetus does not develop in the uterus because it has moved to another place.
‘In this case, the abdominal part of the woman is not a viable (place) and this is what happened, a calcified fetus because the body is generating defence mechanisms and it is calcified until it stays there encapsulated.’
The patient is thought to have been transferred to another hospital to have the lithopedion removed.
In 2009, a 92-year-old Chinese woman was found to have a 60-year-old ‘stone baby’ inside her.
The first reported case of lithopedion was Madame Colombe Chatri, a 68-year-old French woman.
An autopsy after her death in 1582 revealed she had been carrying a fully-developed stone baby in her abdominal cavity for 28 years.
Read more: DailyMail
It is important to know that some conditions affect your hair as much as your body, the following guide will help you separate myths from facts when it comes to your health.
Hair dyes, hair blowers, and swimming in chlorinated water may lead to dry hair, but be alert because it may also, be an indicator of an underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism especially if you notice fatigue, weight gain, slow heart rate, and feeling cold all the time.
This usually indicates psoriasis, which can be distinguished from other dandruff-like skin conditions by the presence of a thickening, scab-like surface
There are many things that can cause this effect, such as a sudden psychological or physical stressor, like a divorce or job loss, or it can also mean a high fever from the flu or an infection and diabetes. There are many medications that can cause hair loss as side effect too, such as birth pills, lithium and Depakote. Autoimmune diseases can also promote sudden hair loss. Hormone changes and thyroid disease, especially hypothyroidism, are some of the most common causes of hair loss.
It’s usually caused by a change in the pattern of the sex hormones, but diseases and other underlying conditions can cause this type of hair loss by affecting the hormones
Breakage is most frequently the result of hair becoming over-brittle from chemical processing or dyeing, but there are certain health conditions that also lead to brittle, fragile hair, such as: Cushing’s syndrome, a disorder of the adrenal glands that causes excess production of the hormone cortisol, and hypoparathyroidism, a condition that usually either hereditary or the result of injury to the parathyroid glands during head and neck surgery.
Yellowish flakes on the hair and scaly, itchy patches on the scalp
It could mean a chronic inflammatory condition of the scalp that causes skin to develop scaly patches, often in the areas where the scalp is oiliest. When the flaky skin loosens, it leaves the telltale “dandruff” flakes.
