Archive for April, 2008

Rheumatoid Arthritis : Pain Relief Diet

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic illness that leaves patients suffering from never ending painful conditions and symptoms. According to medical studies and researchers, there is no specific medication that can cure this health condition. Don’t lose heart!

There are several diet options you can depend upon in order to get relief from pain. Here are some diet suggestion coming straight from medical expert to plan a pain-free diet in order to reduce inflammation and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis:

Tea

Tea has been introduced to the list of healing foods by the experts. Green tea consists of polyphenols, widely known as epigallocatechin – 3 gallate or EGCG. This works towards inhibiting the expression of the interleukin – 8 gene. This gene works for arthritis inflammatory response.

Researchers have also proved that black tea can reduce the pain. Sip in tea and you will be relieved from pain. There are certain special compounds found in tea such as phytoestrogens, flavonoids and fluoride. These are a group of antioxidants that work together for healing pain in the body.

Grapes

Grapes are rich in resveratrol. It is a phyto-estrogen, nonsteronoidal compound. The studies in the past few years have indicated that resveratrol tends to block inflammation of cells. The inflammation of cells is directly associated with arthritis or several other diseases related to joints. Resveratrol is the first major natural compound that has been identified to undertake two major tasks.

The first task is to block the Cox-2 gene from being activated. The second function is to inactivate the enzyme created by that gene. Experts believe that trans-resveratrol can work towards improving aspirin properties to fight diseases related to COX-2 like arthritis. So, snacking on grapes let you get a lot of healing nutrients to the body.

Vegetables

Diet consisting of a major portion of vegetables is said to reduce inflammation in most people. This diet helps in producing prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Continue Reading »

Preparing your body for Pregnancy

Preparing your body for pregnancy before you try to conceive-both nutritionally and physically-can be very important in increasing your chances of having a healthier pregnancy and conceiving more easily.

When you and your partner decide to conceive, you should make an appointment with your OB for a preconception checkup. Your doctor will be able to help you make informed decisions regarding your reproductive health, prenatal supplements and any health issues you may already be facing. It is also important to make an appointment with your dentist for a check-up. Keeping your teeth in tip top shape before and after pregnancy is very important. Remember to eat a healthy diet. Your baby’s primary source of nutrients will be from you, so remember to start eating healthy before you conceive.

Remember to tell your physician of any supplements you are currently taking. Chances are your OB will prescribe you a prenatal vitamin at your first OB visit. Stop drinking alcoholic beverages, smoking and begin to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Do not lounge in hot tubs, hot bathes or hot showers when you are trying to conceive and make sure you maintain a regular exercise routine and stay healthy. Use the proper precautions when cleaning the kitchen sink or doing laundry, where a face mask when necessary so you do not breathe in harmful chemicals.

About the author: Julie is a wife and mommy to her son. She is also the owner of Ultimatebabyonline.com. Ultimatebabyonline is an online community for mommies and those who are TTC and planning to become pregnant. Ultimatebabyonline.com is a great place to make friends and find support and advice through TTC, Pregnancy and Parenting. Please visit Ultimatebabyonline at http://www.ultimatebabyonline.com
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com

Dental anxiety or Fearing The Dentist

Dental anxiety or fearing the dentist is a problem that many people have, and something that is somewhat difficult to overcome. This fear normally prevents rational people from visiting the dentist and maintaining the health of their teeth. The key to keeping your teeth healthy is to prevent problems before they start. Those who suffer from dental anxiety will try to avoid going to the dentist, which results in problems.

When someone who suffers from dental anxiety finally goes to the dentist, they normally find that even the smallest of problems can turn serious and require a lot of work and intervention from the dentist. Even though you may not realize it, regular cleaning visits to your dentist is the best way to keep your teeth healthy, and prevent problems such as decay and cavities.

You can use several techniques to overcome dental anxiety. Some of the techniques require mild sedatives, also referred to as sedation. Sedation is a way to relax, given by breathing or IV (Intra Vein) through a vein in your arm. Sedation will help you to calm down, although you will normally be awake to answer questions or talk to your dentist.

Some people who suffer from dental anxiety have had bad experiences. Any type of negative dental experience will normally result in emotional scarring and last for years. Anything that results in negative feelings for the patient will normally cause them to feel in a negative way toward the entire dental profession. Although all dentists aren’t bad - a negative experience will certainly make a patient feel that way.

When you look fora dentist, you should always ask your family and friends who they use, and who they recommend. When you visit a dentist, you shouldn’t hesitate to ask him any questions that come to mind, so you can be more relaxed. You should always keep in mind that you are customer, and the dentist is the one who needs to make you feel relaxed. Never should you feel intimidated, as the best dentists will do everything they can to establish a sense of trust. Continue Reading »

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