11 Signs You’re Not Getting Enough Magnesium and 20 Foods to Fix It

Being a co-factor in more than 300 enzyme systems which take part in various biochemical reactions in the body, magnesium is more than necessary for our bodies to function properly.

Magnesium is involved in the processes of each nerve and muscle in the body, so magnesium deficiency leads to inability to control our muscles.  The role of this mineral in the body includes:

Active transport of calcium and potassium ions across cell membranes

• Blood glucose control
• Blood pressure regulation
• Synthesis (aka production) of DNA, RNA, and the antioxidant Glutathione
• Protein synthesis
• Energy production
• Structural development of bones

Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms

Early signs of magnesium deficiency include:

• nausea and vomiting
• fatigue
• weakness
• diarrhea
• loss of appetite
• dizziness

Symptoms of severe magnesium deficiency include:

• numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness
• seizures
• abnormal heart rhythms and coronary spasms
• muscles twitches, spasms, or cramps
• low blood pressure
• personality changes

Long-term Effects of Magnesium Deficiency

Lack of magnesium in our bodies is associated with some pretty dangerous health problems. It`s no wonder that these conditions, which are on the rise in the U.S, correlate with the significant decrease in magnesium of our food.

1. Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease

The Athlerosclerosis Risk in Communities studied the risk factors for heart disease and serum magnesium levels in more than 14,000 African American and Caucasian people, aged 45 to 64, and then did a follow-up after 12 years. It was found that people with the highest serum magnesium levels were at 38 percent reduced risk of heart attack compared to those with the lowest.

2. Type 2 Diabetes

Low magnesium levels can lead to insulin resistance, which is the precursor to diabetes. What`s more, diabetes is associated with an increased loss of magnesium through the urine.  This not only worsens the deficiency, but affects function of insulin in the body too.

3. Osteoporosis

Magnesium is critical for the formation of bones, but it also affects osteoclasts and osteoblasts, the concentrations of the active form of vitamin D, and concentrations of parathyroid hormone. In other words,  magnesium is of utmost importance for bone mineral density, and when it is low, we are at an elevated risk of osteoporosis.

4. Migraines

Constriction of blood vessels and release of neurotransmitter linked with magnesium are one of the major headache-promoting factors.  It has been scientifically shown that migraine sufferers have low serum and tissue levels of magnesium.

Foods High in Magnesium

There are plenty of magnesium-rich foods which you can incorporate in your daily diet.  Legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and green leafy veggies are the most magnesium-rich foods.

Foods with the Most Magnesium

1. Medium Banana (32mg)
2. Kidney Beans (35mg per half cup)
3. Instant Oatmeal (36mg per packet)
4. Plain, Low fat Yogurt (42mg per 8 ounces)
5. Brown Rice (42mg per half cup)
6. Baked Potato with skin (43mg per 3.5 ounce potato)
7. Avocado (44-55mg per 1 cup, cubed)
8. Edamame (52mg per half cup)
9. Black Beans (60mg per half cup)
10. Quinoa (63mg per half cup)
11. Oil Roasted Peanuts (63mg per quarter cup)
12. Dry roasted Cashews (74mg in 1 ounce)
13. Tempeh (77mg per half cup)
14. Swiss Chard (80mg per half cup, cooked)
15. Black Eyed Peas (80mg per half cup)
16. Spinach (83mg per half cup, cooked)
17. Dry roasted Almonds (80mg in 1 ounce)
18. Salmon (92mg per 2.5k ounce fillet)
19. Brazil Nuts (133mg per quarter cup)
20. Pumpking or Squash Seeds (317mg per quarter cup)

source: http://besthealthyguide.com

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7 sneaky signs you have an unhealthy gut & how to begin healing

Gut bacteria can be either one of the best allies in getting healthy or the worst enemies. Did you know that their makeup heavily depends on what and how you eat?

Recent studies keep on exploring the relation between gut bacteria and other important aspects of the human health. The conclusion is that changing the gut can go a long way in changing your life!

Not All Gut Bacteria Are Created Equal

There are more than 100 trillion cells of gut bacteria and they have a tremendous effect on our heath. However, not all gut bacteria are created equal.  The good ones boost immunity, produce vitamins and improve digestion, while the bad bacteria may lead to indigestion, skin problems, and mental issues.

Are Your Gut Bacteria Imbalanced?

We should start by explaining how one could tell that their gut bacteria are imbalanced. This is not an easy thing to do, such as taking a thermometer and finding out if you have a fever. However, there are a few warning signs that indicate that your gut bacteria are out of whack. Check them out!

1. Digestive Issues

Digestive problems are the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of the negative effects of imbalanced gut bacteria. While doctors typically prescribed drugs or antacids to manage the problem, these medications fail to address the root cause.  You might have an unhealthy and imbalanced gut if you experience symptoms like gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, irritable bowel disease, or irritable bowel syndrome.

2. Mental Issues

The gut health has a tremendous impact on the health of your brain. It has been scientifically shown that gut bacteria manufacture neurotransmitters, so this doesn’t come as surprise though.  Some of the signs that indicate an unhealthy gut include brain fog, anxiety, depression, autism, and OCD.

3. Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency

A healthy gut is of utmost importance when it comes to the production and synthesis of vitamins and minerals. When the gut bacteria are imbalanced, the body finds it more difficult to get enough of the needed vitamins and minerals like vitamin B7, vitamin B12, vitamin D, vitamin K, and magnesium.

4. Antibiotics

As long as used properly, antibiotics are one of the best innovations of modern medicine. However, improper use may lead to a wide range of gut issues.  Many doctors sue them on factory-farmed animals and viral infections, which is completely useless. Antibiotics remove the bad bacteria, but wipe out many good bacteria at the same time.  It has been scientifically shown that good bacteria removed by antibiotics don’t repopulate without your assistance.

5. Chronic Stress

Stress can make you anxious,  increase blood pressure levels, and even damage the gut.  Unfortunately, stress is very difficult to avoid these days! This is not the key problem though, as the bigger problem arises when you leave it untreated for too long. Chronic, unmanaged stress increases cortisol levels and compromises gut function. Those who have been stressed for the past few months or years are very likely to have an imbalanced gut.

6. Skin Conditions

Contrary to popular belief, symptoms of a condition don’t always appear at the same spot as the condition.  As in the case with skin conditions, they are often caused by an unhealthy gut.  If you suffer from conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, eczema or acne, it is very likely that you have an unhealthy gut.

7. Autoimmune Diseases

More and more studies link autoimmune diseases to unhealthy and imbalanced guts. If you are dealing with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis and Hashimoto`s, the chances are your gut is out of whack.

How to Balance Your Gut Bacteria in 4 Simple Steps

1. Avoid Toxins

The most important step towards balancing gut bacteria is to avoid toxic foods like unhealthy oils, grains, sugars, and conventional grain fed dairy. Watch out for the modern toxins such as antibiotics, pesticides, and NSAIDs, too.

2. Eat Fermented Foods

Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, lacto-fermented fruits and veggies, non-pasteurized cheese, and non-pasteurized yogurt, are an excellent source of good gut bacteria.

3. Take Probiotic Supplements

In addition to eating fermented foods, taking probiotic supplements is yet another good idea.  Here are a few tips on how to choose the right supplement:

• Avoid ‘bargain bin’ prices
• Klaire Labs and Jarrow are two reputable brands
• Choose potent supplements ( at least 8 billion/ dose)
• Look for those that contain strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus

4. Manage Stress

Stress management is one of the best ways to improve your gut health! Do something that works for your and stick with it, such as practicing yoga, meditation, dancing, jogging, deep breathing, or anything else.  Of course, make sure you get at least  8 hours of sleep every night.

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10 Tried-and-True Signs of a Parasite Infection That Confuse Most People AND Doctors

Parasites are organisms that thrive in another organism, called a host.  They depend on the host for survival, as they need to live within the host in order to live, grow, and multiply.

While parasites rarely kill the host, this is possible in some cases. Parasites benefit from the host in terms of utilizing its energy to gain strength, which in turn causes the host to lose some of their strength.  There are over 1,000 species of parasite capable of living within/on humans, which makes them an amazingly varied group of organisms. Some of the most common human parasites include acanthamoeba, babesiosis, balantidiasis, leishmaniasis, giardia, rhinosporidiosis, trichomoniasis, isosporiasis, and many more.

Nearly one third of Americans have parasites in their digestive system, most of whom are not even aware of the fact that some of the problems they are experiencing are caused by a parasite infection.

Top 10 Signs You May Have A Parasite:

1. Fatigue, exhaustion, apathy or depression
2. Aching muscles and joints
3. Iron-deficiency anemia
4. You never feel full after having a meal
5. Grinding teeth while sleeping
6. Skin irritations, hives, rosacea, eczema or rashes for unexplained reason
7. Difficulty falling asleep and waking up during the night
8. Diarrhea, gas, constipation, or IBS symptoms
9. History of food poisoning or dealing with digestive issues
10. Traveler`s diarrhea while traveling internationally

Although more rarely, symptoms like weight loss, increased appetite, achy vagina, and abdominal pain are also possible.

Herbs And Foods That Can Kill Internal Parasites Naturally

Here you have a list of top 8 herbs and foods that you can eat to kill parasites naturally!

1. Garlic

Garlic has been found to fight off viruses, fungi, parasites, bacteria, and even cancer. It is very potent against blood sucking parasites like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

Use: You can add it to literally any cooked dish, even to green juice.

2. Black Walnut Nuts & Hull

The nuts and hulls of black walnut have the ability to detoxify both the blood and the intestines.  The hull is extremely effective in combating fungal infections, too.  The juice made from green hulls is the one used to kill parasites, so make sure you use GREEN hulls for this purpose.

Use: You can purchase black walnut nuts and hull as a tincture and use it as explained on the package.

3. Wormwood

Both leaves and flowers of wormwood are beneficial for stomach issues and wormwood is the ideal remedy for intestinal worms. It acts as antimicrobial agent as well, which makes it useful for other infections, too.

Use: Apart from being found in most internal cleansing products, wormwood can be also made into tea.

4. Cloves

Clove is antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral agent, so it can be extremely powerful. Clove essential oil dissolves the eggs left behind by worms, killing almost all parasite eggs in the intestines.  It is especially potent when combined with black walnut and wormwood.

Use:  You can use it to flavor teas, cider, relishes, pies, pickles, Indian dishes, and many other dishes and baked goods.

5. Thyme

Thyme has the ability to stimulate the major gland for the immune system called thymus.  Thyme oil stimulates body`s natural defenses, prevents the parasites from growing, and it kills them in the intestinal tract.

Use:  This herb can be added to any dish, along with spices with oregano, rosemary, and marjoram. It can be used either fresh or dry.

6. Diatomaceous Earth

DE absorbs viruses, toxins, pesticide residues, drug residues, E. coli, and methyl mercury. It has the ability to kill intestinal parasites, destroy viruses, absorb any toxins, and balance the intestinal flora. It is often used for intestinal cleanses, and for a very good reason.

Use: Start with taking 0.5 teaspoon, slowly working your way up to 2 tablespoons with 4 ounces of water. Take it on an empty stomach and drink plenty of water during the day.

7. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is diffused with high levels of antioxidants, plus it acts as antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic agent.  It is definitely one of the best herbs you can use against all kinds of problems, and parasites are not an exception.

Use:  It can be found in cleansing products, in the form of tea, tincture, or as an essential oil.

8. Chinese Goldthread

This herb holds special place Chinese medicine and is widely used for helping many types of infections, including parasitic, protozoan, yeast, and bacterial.  Berberine, its active ingredient, is responsible for its powerful antimicrobial properties.

Use: It is typically used in the form of tea. You can make your own tea or look for teas containing it as ingredient.

source: http://besthealthyguide.com

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13 warning signs of lupus that may put you in the hospital: here’s how to treat it quickly and naturally

According to the Lupus Foundation of America, about 1.5 million Americans have lupus and 9 out of 10 are women.  Both patients and specialists agree that this autoimmune disease is “unpredictable”.

“It’s a disability that you cannot describe because the whole thing about lupus is it’s so unpredictable,” says Mallory Dixon, 29.

Mallory is an attractive, petite brunette who sounds both young and determined at the same time.

In terms of the unpredictability of this disease, Dixon explains that it may affect anyone, regardless of their age, race, or ethnic preference. Moreover, the severity of the symptoms varies from patient to patient and the person often experiences symptoms which could not be explained.

Dixon was initially diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, but six years later she was diagnosed with lupus due to the many additional symptoms she experienced. Two years later, she felt so miserable and even unable to breathe that she had to go the hospital and seek medical attention.

“The night before, I was afraid to go to sleep,” Dixon said. “I tried to downplay the pain, but I had the feeling I was dying.”

As a matter of fact, she “technically’ did die arriving at the hospital.  Then, the doctors brought her back to life and she remained attached to bed for 86 days. During this period, she fell into a coma, received chemotherapy, spent time on a ventilator, and was even treated with dialysis. It was later found that these symptoms were caused by the lupus which has spread to her kidneys.

“They do think with early prevention we can keep lupus from spreading to organs like the kidneys or in some cases, a patient’s heart or brain,” Dixon said. This is why she believes her most important mission is to “educate young women about what to look for.”

Lupus and The Effect It Can Have on Your Life
According to Sarah Stothers, a national nurse health educator at the Lupus Foundation of America, “debilitating fatigue” is the first symptom.  She also lists the following symptoms:

• Abnormal blood clotting
• Fingers turning white and/or blue when cold
• Mouth or nose ulcers
• A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose (in earlier times this common rash reminded physicians of a wolf’s bite hence the name “lupus,” Latin for “wolf”)
• Extreme tiredness
• Headaches
• Painful or swollen joints
• Fever
• Anemia
• Swelling in the feet, legs, hands, and/or around eyes
• Pain in chest when breathing deeply
• Sun- or light-sensitivity
• Hair loss

“Some people look completely normal yet they feel awful,” said Stothers, who added “doing the smallest task is impossible.” The disease is often isolating, “because you look so normal on the outside, and that’s probably the biggest thing: ‘But you look completely fine!’”

The lupus symptoms often mimic those of lung, bone, heart, or muscle disease as well as rheumatoid arthritis, Lyme disease, diabetes, blood disorders, fibromyalgia, and blood disorders. This is the reason why lupus is associated with hormonal and autoimmune disorders.

“Lupus does not run in my family,” Dixon said. “The only thing that does run in my family is psoriasis, which is another autoimmune disorder.”

And This is Key:  Due to the fact that many lupus patients are diagnosed with a second or third autoimmune disease, anyone who is diagnosed or has a family history of any of these diseases should be on watch. By doing so, a dramatic flare-up could be avoided!

The most common autoimmune diseases are type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel diseases, Hashimoto`s disease, Addison`s disease, vitiligo, reactive arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, psoriasis, Graves’ disease, Sjögren’s syndrome, and scleroderma.

Cause and Treatment
“We know there’s a genetic component to lupus,” said Stothers. However, carrying the gene doesn’t necessarily mean that one will develop lupus. Environment and hormones have a critical role too, especially estrogen, due to the higher prevalence among women.

“It is predominately diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 44,” said Stothers, who added “and that’s the time when women are most fertile.” In fact, many women are first diagnosed while pregnant or after giving birth, when their hormones are in flux, she explains.  Still, even this is not entirely definite as Stothers has seen patients diagnosed in their 70s and 80s.

Support
Even though most lupus patients live productive and happy lives, they must observe their symptoms very often to stay healthy.  Self-awareness is difficult to maintain in a busy world, meaning that one must make certain lifestyle changes. For instance, Dixon gave up her career and works from how now, advocating for the Lupus Foundation at the same time.

“That’s the hard thing with lupus, the unknown of when you’re going to have a really bad flare-up,” said Dixon, adding that patients have mild, moderate, or severe flare-ups at any time. “Everyone has to figure out her own triggers,” she explained.

Stothers find her patents to be very courageous and brave, saying that she is privileged to know them. Although people like Stothers and other health care professionals offer emotional support, the one received from the family and friends is as needed as the professional help.

source: http://besthealthyguide.com

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Don’t Ignore These 6 Signs of a Hormonal Imbalance

The hormones play a really important role in our body. They are chemical messengers which tell the body tissues and the organs to fulfill their function. The hormones have a direct impact on the overall health. In fact, they are responsible for the metabolism of the food, the mood and cognition, the growth and development, the sexual functionality, and the temperature of the body.

However, it often occurs that there is a hormonal imbalance. When the hormones are imbalanced, they can create havoc in the body. Moreover, there are various visible signs if you experience hormonal imbalance. It is extremely important to learn to recognize these signs so you can do something about it and return the hormones back to balance.

6 Signs of a Hormonal Imbalance

Poor Sleep

One of the most obvious signs of hormonal imbalance is the lack of sleep or insomnia. When men deal with poor sleep is mainly due to low testosterone levels. On the other hand, women are prone to sleep issues when their progesterone levels are lower.

Night Sweats

This is another common sign of hormonal imbalance. It usually occurs because the reduced progesterone in women causes the body to experience estrogen dominance. As a result, women may experience hot flashes, night sweats, and weight gain. On the contrary, men deal with night sweats due to low testosterone levels.

Fatigue

Unexplained and common fatigue can indicate a hormonal imbalance. The fatigue occurs when insulin levels stay high due to the development of insulin resistance.

Low Libido and Mood Swings

One of the most common signs of hormonal imbalance is a lack of interest in sex. This is mainly due to low estrogen in women and low testosterone in men. Hormonal imbalances can also trigger mood swings. Hence, you may experience feelings of anger, happiness, and madness for no reason at all.

Chronic Acne

In case you have the unsightly acne during your period, that’s quite normal. However, if you have to deal with them all the time, they can indicate hormone issues. An abundant amount of androgens can cause oil glands to overwork.

Constant Weight Gain

The adrenal gland produces the hormone known as cortisol. When the production of this hormone is disrupted, it causes weight gain. Moreover, it directs where that fat accumulates in the body. Therefore, in the case of a hormonal imbalance, it is likely to have more fat in the abdominal area.

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source: http://unknownremedy.com

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Signs Of Heart Attack That You Have To Know!

Many people believe that the main symptom of heart attack is when the individual clutches at her/his heart dramatically with severe chest pain.

In fact, this is not true. 25% of the heart attacks occur silently, without any clear symptom or sign.

Dr. C. Crandall is a cardiologist who dedicated many years of his career in order to minimize, prevent and reverse heart disease. According to him, our heart actually gives us a sign of a potential heart attack before it happens.

1. Swelling

A lot of people believe that swelling of the ankles or feet is related to excessive standing or sitting without knowing that heart failure can lead to accumulated fluid in the body.

It can cause swelling the ankles, feet, legs, or abdomen. Many people can retain so much fluid and experience sudden weigh gain. When this occurs, the individual can lose the appetite.

2. Anxiety

People that have heart attack state that they had experienced anxiety attacks immediately before the heart attack happened.

Even though some people with anxiety attack consider that they are having heart attack, it is better to prevent than cure.

3. Pain in the other body parts

The pain starts in the chest and spreads to the jaw, shoulder, arms, back, and abdomen.

In some cases, people do not experience chest pain, but pain in some other parts of the body. Mostly, the pain occurs in one of both arms or between the shoulder blades.

4. Coughing

There are some cases when the victims cough bloody phlegm or have wheezing or nagging cough. This can indicate a heart failure and it is because of fluid accumulation in the lungs. Make sure to pay particular attention to this symptom!

These are some of the most common signs:

• Nausea
• Lightheadedness
• Chest discomfort
• Cold sweat
• Shortness of breath

It is very important not to ignore the symptoms hoping that they will go away. In a case they last for more than 5 minutes, make sure to call 911 or go to the hospital immediately. Taking an aspirin is also a helpful alternative, except for those who are allergic to it.

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source: http://besthealthpage.com/signs-heart-attack-know/

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6 obvious signs of gluten intolerance that everyone ignores

Gluten sensitivity is quite common these days. Those who are sensitive to gluten, the protein found in barley, wheat, and rye, can have serious reactions right upon consumption. The most common symptoms of gluten intolerance include depression, joint pain, gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and more.

Below you have a list of the 6 signs that indicate that you could be intolerant to this protein. Check them out!

1. Constant Headaches or Migraines

In case you experience regular headaches or migraines that leave you exhausted, it is very likely that you are intolerant to gluten.  As a matter of fact, migraines are extremely common in gluten intolerant individuals.  Migraines are characterized by extremely severe pain, so stay away from gluten is definitely worth it, giving you a chance to recover.

2. Mouth Problems

Those sensitive to gluten often suffer from “aphthous stomatitis”, a condition manifested by frequent mouth ulcers and canker sores.

In addition to this, because of malnutrition, those with gluten intolerance find it more difficult to keep their teeth healthy as they have low levels of calcium.

3.     Sudden Weight Gain

Sudden weight gain is one of the symptoms that left most gluten-intolerant individuals baffled.

Typically, weight gain in those with gluten-intolerance could  stem from two things: 1) they have inflammation caused by gluten, or 2) malabsorption and gut permeability, both of which are side-effects of gluten intolerance

4.     Unstable Immune Functionality

In case one of the IgA antibodies is intolerant or sensitive to gluten, the side effect on the immune system is what causes the immune functionality to become unstable. The aforementioned IgA antibodies are body`s major defense against the common cold, flu, and other illnesses.

5.     Experiencing Brain Fog

Those who are gluten-intolerant often experience brain fog, which is quite a subtle symptom.  This reaction can be triggered by many different things, but science suggests that this symptom is caused by abnormal activity to gluten in your IgG, leading to decline in cognitive functionality.

6.     Constant Fatigue/Exhaustion

Experiencing fatigue or exhaustion on regular basis, it is very likely that it associated with side-effects of brain fog. However, most experts agree that the reason for this is the fact that those with gluten intolerance have little energy levels on reserve for their bodies to start with.

In addition to these, other signs that might indicate that you are intolerant to gluten include depression and anxiety, ADHD, autoimmune disease, and skin problems like eruptions of rashes, itchiness, burning, redness, and even painful blisters. Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) describes the rash as “a chronic disease of the skin marked by groups of watery, itchy blisters that may resemble pimples or blisters. The ingestion of gluten (from wheat, rye, and barley) triggers an immune system response that deposits a substance, lgA (Immunoglobulin A), under the top layer of skin. IgA is present in affected as well as unaffected skin…”

As you can see, gluten sensitivity not only affects the digestive tract, but it wreaks havoc to the skin, bones, mouth, and more. This is the reason why many doctors give fake diagnosis or address the symptoms rather than looking for the underlying cause.


source: http://besthealthyguide.com

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19 Signs Parasites are Residing In Your Body – These Herbs Can Help Destroy Them

Parasite infections have become quite common, but luckily there are plenty of natural ways to get rid of them. The first thing to do in such cases is to strengthen your immune system using certain herbs, before treating your parasite problem.

How to Know If You Have Parasites?

There are plenty of symptoms, and here is a list of the most common ones:

1. Constant yeast infections such as Candida
2. Appetite loss
3. Headaches
4. Unexplained hunger
5. Constant fatigue
6. Mood swings, depression, restlessness, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and irritability
7. Gum bleeding
8. Constant cravings for sugars and processed foods
9. Sensitivities and allergies to foods
10. Iron deficiency or anemia
11. Skin issues like acne, lesions, hives, rashes, sores, ulcers, itching dermatitis, weeping eczema, and others
12. Fidgeting and nervousness
13. Issues with breathing
14. Drooling during sleep and grinding of teeth
15. Memory-related issues
16. Menstrual issues with women/reproductive dysfunctions with men
17. Stiff and sore joints
18. Ithcing all over, particularly around the nose, mouth, and anus
19. Consistent digestive problems

But there is a way to cleanse yourself of such problems. These herbs and foods are the best way to do so naturally.

Fresh Garlic

Garlic is already famous for being a powerful natural antibiotic. It kills over sixty types of fungus and twenty types of bacteria. And even some of the most infamous viruses.It’s also a potent parasite killer and is used for controlling secondary fungal infections. It has potent antioxidant properties and can prevent oxidation which is the result of parasite toxins.The active compounds in garlic, called ajolene and allicin are great for killing amoebas and parasites, and this includes hookworms, pinworms, and one-cell varieties.But in order to get at the allicin, one needs to chop or otherwise ‘damage’ the garlic, or even take it in oil form.

Clove

They are herbs with potential germicidal abilities. Caryophyllene is to thank for their antimicrobial properties. What they do is enter one’s bloodstream and destroy not only the microscopic parasites, but also any larvae and eggs.Cloves are excellent for treating malaria, cholera, scabies, tuberculosis, as well as any parasites or fungi such as Candida, and even all types of Streptococcus, Staphylococcus and Shigella.

Ginger

It gives your circulation a boost and helps with digestion. It is also beneficial for treating nausea and gas. Its role in improving the acid production of your stomach contributes to killing parasites and preventing any infections.Fresh ginger is best for getting rid of mucus, and the ground variety for any digestion issues.

Cucumber Seeds

Did you know these seeds do wonders for removing any tapeworms from your digestive tract?This is all thanks to the beneficial enzymes they contain. To achieve a quick cleanse, what you do is grind some heirloom cucumber seeds into powdered form and add one teaspoon of it to any healthy daily drink of your choice!

Pumpkin Seeds (Raw)

They are toxic to parasite eggs due to the natural fat they contain. Additionally, the Curcurbitin in them has potent anti-parasitic abilities. What it does is paralyze the worms so that they drop off one’s intestinal walls.In fact, these seeds have been, and are still being used today in the Chinese healing culture for treating tapeworm infestations. Grind half a cup of these miracle seeds and add the powder to any salad or smoothie of your choice.

Probiotics

During your parasite cleanse using these herbs, it is also very important that you consume probiotics like kefir, raw yogurt, and sauerkraut. This is to make sure your good bacteria is not entirely depleted from the parasite-destroying herbs.

Papaya

While we advise you to stay away from any tropical fruits due to their high sugar content during your parasite cleanse, papaya is an exception as it kills off not just tapeworms but basically any other parasites in your body.Their seeds are their secret weapon, and according to research done by The University of Maryland Medical Center, combining them with organic honey cleans stools of parasites.Another good recipe is to take the grinded seeds of a medium-sized papaya, add a cup of coconut milk and one tablespoon of organic coconut oil, then add the rest of the papaya and mix all of the ingredients together in a blender.You should drink this blend each day for a week.

Turmeric

It had to come up sometime. This miracle multipurpose spice is also anti-parasitic, as well as being anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory. For best absorption, you should mix it with some pepper and coconut oil.

Black Walnut’s Green Hulls

The walnut’s green hulls in their dried and ground form are high in tannin (an organic iodine) and juglandin.Our ancestors have used them a long time ago to naturally rid their bodies of parasites, including ringworm which causes skin irritation. They are effective blood oxygenators, and this is what kills off any parasites.Other than that, they also aid your body in detoxifying itself and lowers any high blood sugar levels.

Cayenne

This special herb has potent anti-fungal properties. It can quickly kill off any mold, fungus, and parasites, as well as give your health and circulation a boost. It’s also an excellent enhancer of any other herbs you use.African cayenne is the best way to go. Sprouted pumpkin seeds, cayenne, and ginger are a miracle combination against intestinal bugs.

The University of Maryland suggests these natural solutions for parasites:

• Garlic
• Barberry
• Anise
• Curled mint
• Goldenseal
• Oregon Grape
• Wormwood
• Black Walnuts

source: http://dailyhealthmedia.com

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10 Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer – The Silent Killer!

Ovarian cancer is also known as “the silent killer” because of its subtle symptoms that seem like menstrual symptoms. For women, this is one of the most dangerous cancers. According to the American Cancer Study, only 20-30% of women diagnosed with late stage ovarian cancer are alive 5 years later. This means that 70-80 percent of the women pass away.

There is not a good screening test that detects ovarian cancer. Often, it is discovered in an advanced stage because there are several symptoms that women can sense that something is not right. They may experience something like bowel sluggishness or menstrual symptoms and it can be a mild congestion in the pelvis or a feeling of fullness or bloating in the lower abdomen.

The risk of developing this disease can increase with the age. Ovarian cancer is the 2nd most common gynecological cancer and the 5th most common cancer in women in America. The death rate of this cancer is higher than for any other cancer in women due to its late detection.

If you deal with new and unusual symptoms that last more than 2 weeks, do not neglect them and seek help from your doctor. Get a pelvic exam and don’t let doctors tell you your symptoms are too mild to be taken seriously. Also, don’t let them say you are experiencing digestive issues or inflammatory bowel syndrome and that your feeling is normal of menstrual or menopausal symptoms. Doctors should take seriously all the women that come to doctors with abdominal symptoms.

The best way is to do a (transvaginal) pelvic ultrasound and a pelvic exam that doctors check manually for any abdominal growths. If there is something suspicious, you can have a blood test that includes HE4 and CA125 and CT scan.

The exploratory surgery may confirm the diagnosis. There are specialized doctors that focus on cancer in women – gynecologic oncologic surgeons and gynecologic oncologists, and surgeons that specialize in gynecologic surgeries. The best advice is to seek an opinion from a specialist than for a generalist who is more experienced for the best evaluation and care.

More valid diagnosis, appropriate treatment and better results can be given from the gynecologist surgeons. Find a doctor that can positively evaluate the stage of the cancer and the recurrence’s level of risk.

Researchers from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center say that women with a family history of colorectal, breast and ovarian cancers may be at bigger risk. This mean than women should think about more pelvic exams with CA 125 blood test and ultrasound at least twice a year.

Below you can read the signs that are common for ovarian cancer, but also to many other diseases. That is why a thoughtful and thorough work-up is important. Make sure you don’t wait more than 2 weeks if the symptoms continue. Also, you don’t have to have all the symptoms because even one of them can be the clue that can save your life.

10 essential warning signs:

• Frequent urination
• Pain during sex
• Fatigue
• Appetite loss and feeling full after eating
• Pressure, bloating, and fullness
• Discomfort in the pelvis and pain
• Indigestion or persistent gas
• Constipation
• Abdomen size incensement
• Pain in the lower back

source: http://unknownremedy.com/

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20 Deadly Cancer Signs Most Women Neglect

There are certain signs which may indicate that you have cancer and you should learn to recognize them. These are the warning signs and symptoms can which your body may show:

1. Back Pain and Lower Back Pain

This kind of pain may indicate breast cancer because the tumor presses the chest and the ribs and causes pain. Moreover, it may indicate liver cancer.

2. Nail Change

If your nails are pale it may indicate liver cancer. If the nails have brown or blackish dots it may mean that you have skin cancer. Additionally, nail curving may be a sign of lung cancer.

3. Swollen Face

Red and swollen face may point to lung cancer. Lung cancer blocks the chest blood vessels and restricts the blood flow to the face.

4. Sore or Skin Lumps

These lumps may show that you deal with skin cancer or basal cell melanoma.

5. Red or Swollen Breasts

This is a clear sign of breast cancer.

6. Nipple Changes

Breast cancer usually results in inverted, flat, or sideways changes in the nipple.

7. Painful and Abnormal Menstruation

This is a clear sign of uterus cancer, especially if you experience bleeding in between periods.

8. Short Breath or Wheezing

This is a potential sign of lung cancer.

9. Chronic Cough or Chest Pain

In case you experience with a persistent cough, it may be a clear sign of various cancer types, such as tumors and leukemia.  Moreover, the chest pain may indicate lung cancer.

10. Fevers and Infections

If you experience frequent fevers and infections, they may lead to leukemia as the infected blood cells remove all shields of the energy of the body.

11. Swelling in Lymph Nodes, Neck, Armpits, and Groin

If your nodes are enlarged, it may mean that you have cancer.

12. Difficulty Swallowing

This may indicate that you deal with throat or lung cancer.

13. Bruises and Bleedings

This issue may indicate that you have leukemia.

14. Fatigue or Weakness

If you experience unexplained and sudden fatigue, it may be a sign of cancer.

15. Abdominal Fat and Bloating

If you gain excess weight in the abdominal area and experience bloating, it may mean that you have ovarian cancer.

16. Appetite Loss

If you are having less and less appetite, it may indicate ovarian cancer.

17. Pelvic Pain

When there is ovarian cancer or leukemia, the spleen enlarges and results in pelvic pain, cramps around the pelvis, and bloating.

18. Upset Belly

If you experience cramps, they may be a sign of colorectal cancer.

19. Rectal Bleeding

When going to the toilet, take a look before flushing. If you have a bloody stool, it may be a sign of colorectal cancer.

20. Unusual Weight Loss

This may be a sign of rectal cancer and digestive organ cancers.

source: http://unknownremedy.com

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8 ways your body is trying to warn you about a hormone imbalance

These days, many patients complain of symptoms like constipation, sexual dysfunction, menstrual dysfunction, weight gain, sleep problems, fatigue, brittle nails, and thinning hair. Although different, all of them point out to one particular problem: a hormonal imbalance.

Hormone Imbalance Symptoms

The Different Types of Hormonal Imbalance

For instance, poor sleep and fatigue indicate that there is something wrong with the adrenals, the glands that are responsible for the production of stress hormones. Fatigue, combined with symptoms like brittle nails, thinning hair, weight gain, and constipation, suggest thyroid-related problems, the gland responsible for the production of thyroid hormone. Menstrual problems and menopausal issues point out to imbalances with testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen, the sex hormones.  Fatigue and weight gain are typically a combination of these three hormonal imbalances.

However, weight gain can also indicate that there are too many starches and sweets in your diet.  Carbohydrate-intolerance is often to blame, as people become insulin “resistant” due to the excessive consumption of carbs.

How Conventional Testing May Be Sub-Par

Simply put, feeling and looking ill isn’t a normal side-effect of aging.  It basically shows that your hormones might be out of balance, seeking a total reboot. Even if the doctor has checked your adrenals, blood sugar, and thyroid and found nothing wrong, it is very likely that you may be suffering from a hormonal imbalance.

Instead of coming to terms with this, you should look for a way to fight back and balance your hormones. This article presents 10 tips on how to balance your hormones, no matter what your age.

10 Ways To Fix The Underlying Cause of Hormonal Imbalance

1. Cut back, way back on the sweets and starches

Too many sweets and starches set the hormones on a ride. Try to limit their intake, or even better, eliminate them completely for a few weeks to see how your body reacts to this change.

2. Try reducing your grains, legumes and high sugar fruits for two weeks

Many people are carbohydrate-intolerant, without even being aware of it. Excessive intake of these carbs causes metabolic problems in those people who fail to process them properly or are insulin resistant.

3. Eat more healthy fats- and let of fat-phobia

Adding more healthy fats to your daily diet helps stimulate the production of hormones that boost energy, suppress cravings, and increase feeling of satiety.

4. Be good to your microbiome

Feeling the gut with fermented foods and fiber helps support good bacteria and keeps bad ones under control.  Apart from keeping both elimination and digestion functioning properly, it boosts hormone function as well.

5. Avoid reactive, inflammatory foods

Gluten, sugar, and processed foods are considered inflammatory foods, as they take their toll through the gut, immune system, and the endocrine system.

6. Aim to sleep more and better

Lack of sleep and poor sleep affect the entire organism, and are also known to inhibit body`s ability to release the hormones that are needed to restore and refresh the cells. Consequently, one ends up with more rapidly aging brain and body.  So, aim at getting more and better sleep!

7. Cool it on the stimulants

High caffeine intake, whether in the form of coffee soda, tea, or energy drinks, is known to interfere with the hormones responsible for restorative sleep.

8. Cut the chemicals

Lowering your exposure to chemicals commonly found in food, water, air, cosmetic, and household cleaners, is one of the first steps towards balancing your hormones and keeping them functioning optimally. So, try switching to the less toxic products in order to limit your exposure to detrimental chemicals.

9. Minimize the medications

Long-term exposure to medications, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter remedies, can cause hormone imbalance and stress out the microbiome. Make sure you avoid hormone-disrupting OTC medications as much as possible! In case you must take them, ask for the smallest dose possible.

10. Train yourself to unwind

Train yourself to unwind and relax once in a while, whether it`s through watching a movie and laughing, dancing, or simply having fun with your friends.  Add a regular meditation to your daily life too, and you`ll naturally balance your hormones, while staying more relaxed and fit.

source: http://besthealthyguide.com/hormone-imbalance-warning/

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2 Signs of Ovarian Cancer Often Disregarded As Nothing Serious

Ovarian cancer is a cancer that is often misdiagnosed. This is because most of its symptoms are very common that are often disregarded as nothing serious or something that will just fade away after a couple of days.

This does not actually show distinctive symptoms that we could easily identify it as one. Family is a high factor risk but there is no routine screening available for the said disease.

Late diagnosis makes this disease more dangerous.

Here are the two most common symptoms you might downsize as nothing serious:

1. Frequent urination

This is often confused as urinary tract infection. If you already undergone treament but the side effect stays, you should seek help from your gynecologist.


2. Bloating
This is normally associated with constipation, indigestion, improper nutrition and alike gastrointestinal issues. However, when the bloated feeling after you eat, lasted for more than one week, you should already seek advice from a doctor.

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source: http://mrhealthyplanet.com

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8 Early Warning Signs of Colon Cancer Most People Miss!

The colon, also known as the large intestine, is located in the digestive system and is considered as the lowers part of this system. Within this organ, water and salt from waste are extracted prior the waste moves down the rectum and leaves the body through the anus.

Colorectal cancer (also known as colon cancer, rectal cancer or bowel cancer) is the development of cancer in the colon and the rectum (parts of the large intestine). Most colorectal cancers start in the cells that create and release mucus and other fluids, which leads to a formation of tumor in the lining of the large intestine. Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the world and statistically, it makes about 10% of all cancer cases. It is more common in the developed countries, where 65% of the cases are detected.  While only an estimate, there were  about 95,300 new cases of colon cancer in the United States in 2016.  Prior discussing the risk factors and symptoms of this cancer, it is worth noting that it occurs more often in men than women.

This disease can be treated when discovered early, which is the reason why  it is of utmost importance to be aware of the risk factors, signs, and symptoms of colon cancer!

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

• Obesity– being overweight increases the risk of the development of colorectal cancer in both men and women.
• Physical inactivity– increased physical activity lowers the risk of developing any disease, and not just colon cancer. Regular exercising will help your body healthy.
• Diet– Diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. You should also avoid red and processed meat.
• Alcohol– several studies have confirmed the connection between colorectal cancer and increased alcohol intake, especially among men.
• Other risk factors include smoking, older age, and exposure to radiation. People who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or diabetes are also at higher risk of developing colon cancer.
• Genes: Genetic predisposition that is inherited from the parents or close relatives can also be to blame. It is possible to be born with a faulty gene which makes one more susceptible to cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

• Blood in your stool or bleeding from your rectum — any amount of bleeding might be a sign. So, it is very important to visit a professional if you have experienced this symptom.
• Sudden weight loss.
• Loss of appetite.
• Constant bloated feeling, and pain in the abdomen.
• Feeling of tiredness and weakness all the time.
• A change in bowel habits that lasts for an extended period (such as diarrhea or constipation).
• Jaundice (a yellow or green coloring of the skin and the white part of the eye).
• Nausea and vomiting in people who are over 50.

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source: http://besthealthyguide.com/8-early-warning-signs-colon-cancer-people-miss/

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6 Signs Of Leukemia Every Woman Needs To Know – Do Not Ignore Them !!!

6 SIGNS OF LEUKEMIA EVERY WOMAN NEEDS TO KNOW

Believe it or not, most of the new blood cells your body produces come from your bone marrow—a fatty substance found in large quantities in the bulbous, bulky ends of your bones. For those suffering from leukemia, one of these new blood cells mutates and becomes cancerous. It then starts to clone—or make copies of itself—and that’s how the disease progresses.
“For adults, the typical age [for leukemia onset] is anywhere from 50 to 70,” says Martha Wadleigh, MD, clinical director of the Adult Leukemia Program at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

There are several “subtypes” of leukemia, which are defined by the kind of blood cells that mutate, and also by how early in the cell production process that mutation takes place, explains Meredith Barnhart, MS, an information specialist with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Information Resource Center.
Both Barnhart and Wadleigh make it clear that, when it comes to leukemia, there is no single sign or symptom. “The symptoms depend on the subtype,” Barnhart says. But there are some overlapping symptoms that tend to show up among those suffering from the more common types of adult leukemia.

Here’s what to watch out for:

PALE SKIN

Pale skin”When leukemia develops, new [blood] cells that are damaged by cancer can overtake bone marrow, and so make it difficult for healthy cells to grow,” Barnhart explains. “Because you have fewer healthy cells, you may develop anemia, which can lead to pale skin.” Anemia could also cause your hands to feel cold all the time, experts say.

FATIGUE

As is the case with many other diseases, fatigue is a common symptom of leukemia, Wadleigh says. If you’re feeling wiped out all the time, and especially if your lack of energy is a noticeable change from how you used to feel, tell your doctor. Anemia may also be to blame for your fatigue.
Infections or fevers
Your blood cells are an important component of your immune system. If they’re unhealthy, as is the case for those with leukemia, you can expect to get sick more frequently, Wadleigh says. “Infections or fevers are one of the most common symptoms we see,” she adds.
Shortness of breath
Along with feeling sapped of energy, shortness of breath is something to keep an eye on, Barnhart says. Especially during physical activity, if you notice you’re out of breath—and that breathlessness seems like a change from what you’re accustomed to—you’ll want to let your doctor know about it.

SLOW HEALING

If your cuts and scrapes take forever to heal, or you feel like you bruise easily, those symptoms could indicate the kinds of blood cell shifts associated with leukemia, Barnhart says. Small red dots on your skin—a condition known as petechiae—could also result from leukemia, she adds. “Petechiae usually appears on the lower extremities,” Wadleigh adds.

OTHER SYMPTOMS

While not as common as the five symptoms mentioned above, night sweats and achy or painful joints are also linked to leukemia, Barnhart says.
“Weight loss may or may not be a symptom, depending on the subtype,” Wadleigh adds. She also mentions nose bleeds, swollen or enlarged lymph nodes, and fever or chills as possible symptoms.

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source: http://dailyhealthmedia.com

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6 Early-Warning Signs of Rectum-Cancer Everyone is TOO Embarrassed to Talk About

Anal cancer is a type of cancer that begins at the opening of the rectum (also known as anus). This unusual form of cancer is overlooked by almost everyone due to the location of the affected area. Most people who have experienced the symptoms of anal cancer do not discuss it with neither their doctor nor the people they know due to embarrassment.

Anal cancer should not be confused with colorectal cancer. Whereas colorectal cancer affects the whole large intestine and the rectum, the anal cancer affects only the beginning of the rectum.

Each year, more than 8,000 Americans are diagnosed with anal cancer. It is expected that 1,000 of them will die from it. Statistically, one of every four people who suffer from anal cancer has been diagnosed after the disease has spread to lymph nodes, and one of every ten people has been diagnosed after it has spread to other organs. Although the cases of anal cancer are not as frequent like the other types of cancer such as colon, rectal, or colorectal cancer, the number of people who suffer from it has grown rapidly in the last decade.

The Symptoms of Anal Cancer!

It is very difficult to detect the presence of anal cancer in its earliest stages because most symptoms are not present during that time. However, as cancer progresses, it usually causes many different symptoms such as pain and itching in the anus, anal bleeding, unusual discharge from the anus, a lump outside the anus, and unusual bowel movements.

The cause of anal cancer remains unclear in most cases, but still, there are many factors that can increase the risk of developing anal cancer, like frequent irritation of the anus, smoking, and a weakened immune system. People who are at higher risk of developing anal cancer are the ones who are older than 60 years. 80 percent of the cases have been detected in people who belong to this category. Men under 35 are at higher risk to develop this uncommon disease when compared women who belong to the same age category. However, after the age of 50, women are at higher risk of developing anal cancer.

How to Detect Anal Cancer Early?

Detecting anal cancer during its early stages is decisive in overcoming it. There are many procedures that can detect the presence of anal cancer. Here are some of them:

• Digital Rectal Exam – The doctor first looks at the outside of the anus to find out whether you have hemorrhoids or fissures. Then, he puts on a latex glove and inserts a lubricated finger into the rectum to search for lumps or any other abnormalities.
• Anoscopy – This is a method when a small, tubular instrument called an anoscope is inserted a few inches into the anus so the doctor can determine whether you have anal fissures, anal polyps, hemorrhoids, infection, or tumors. The doctor will perform this procedure only if he finds something abnormal during the digital rectal exam.
• Biopsies, ultrasounds, x-rays, CT scans, MRIs and PET scans are all procedures that can be used to detect the presence of anal cancer. However, all of these procedures are surrounded by controversies as a result of many studies which suggest that they either spread or cause cancer.

source: http://familylifegoals.com

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5 Unusual Signs of Colon Cancer Folks Accidentally Ignore For Years

The prevalence of colorectal cancer is constantly on the rise and has now become the third most prevalent cancer in the United States.  Nearly 140,000 are diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer in 2016 alone.  Unfortunately,   the symptoms of colorectal cancer are extremely subtle, which is the reason why most patients get diagnosed once it becomes too late.

Most Commonly Overlooked Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

1. Cramps

Given that abdominal cramps may be a sign of various conditions, they are one of the most commonly overlooked symptoms of colorectal cancer.

You shouldn’t panic if you are experiencing a stomachache, but if the stomach cramps are intense and long-lasting, it is very likely that you may be suffering from something more serious, such as colorectal cancer.

2. Fatigue

These days, many people feel fatigue without any reason, as lack of sleep is very common in modern society.

But, constant fatigue, even when eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep, shouldn’t be ignored.  Colon cancer causes fatigue for two reasons:  it utilizes the body`s energy and it may cause blood loss.

3. Sudden Weight Loss

Many cancers may cause sudden and unexplained weight loss, including colon cancer. Unexplained weight loss refers to an unintentional loss of 5 percent of the body weight within 6 months.

For instance, a person who weighs 150 pounds, losing 7 and ½ pounds within 6 months is considered as unexplained weight loss.

The reason for this sudden weight loss is the fact that cancerous cells use utilize a lot of body`s energy and the immune system is forced to work really hard to prevent the disease from spreading.  Consequently, the person experiences a weight loss due to this energy expenditure.

When it comes to colon cancer, a large tumor may also block the colon, affecting the bowel movements and causing sudden and dramatic weight loss.

4. Irregular Bowel Movements

People often neglect their bowel movements, despite the fact that their timing, appearance, and consistency tells a lot about one`s health, such as the presence of colorectal cancer.

Colon polyps are small bunches of cells which affect bowel movements when become cancerous.  They typically affect the large intestine function and these changes are manifested by changes in the stool.

If not being caused by other conditions, diarrhea, constipation, watery stool, and loose stool can all indicate colorectal cancer.

5. Bloody Stool

Even though seeing blood in the stool should be taken seriously, most people feel too uncomfortable to share this with their family members their doctor.

If you notice red blood on the toilet paper after wiping or reddish water in the toilet, get checked right away.

Lowering Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer

The good news is that making certain lifestyle changes helps lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Among them are:

1. Eat fruits, veggies, and whole grains

It has been scientifically shown that eating fruits, veggies and whole grains lowers the risk of colon cancer while red and processed meat provide the opposite effect.

2. Exercise Regularly

Exercising on a regular basis helps lower the risk of developing cancer while being physically inactive increases this risk.

3. Don’t Smoke

Smoking is directly linked to an increased risk of many cancer types, including colon cancer.

4. Limit Alcohol

According to the American Cancer Society, excessive alcohol intake increases the risk of developing cancer. They recommend limited alcohol intake to two drinks daily.

5. Don’t be Overweight

Being overweight weakens the body and makes it prone to many diseases, including colon cancer.  Apart from this, it also increases the risk of dying from the disease, due to the fact that being overweight makes the body less able to fight back.


Source: http://theheartysoul.com

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8 Early Warning Signs Of Carpal Tunnel. Try These Strategies Before You Agree To Surgery!

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the leading cause of wrist, hand, and finger symptoms.  In fact, nearly 4 percent of the population suffers from numbness, tingling, and hand pain caused by this disorder.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Pain
• Weakness
• Loss of hand function
• Difficulty gripping
• Mild occasional numbness
• Tingling
• Pins and needles sensation
• Burning

The symptoms are often relieved by flicking the hands and they tend to be worse at night. Even though this syndrome can get better over time, there is a risk of progressing and even causing permanent nerve and muscle damage.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is located at the wrist of the palm and it is made up of wrist bones on three sides and a ligament of the fourth. This tunnel is actually the place where the median nerve travels through. The median nerve provides muscle function in the hand and when squeezed, the nerve impulses are blocked.

Even though the real cause of this compression is often unclear, it is believed that irritation of the membranes around the tendons in the carpal tunnel, repetitive bending of the wrist, and forceful grasping can put pressure on the nerve.

According to Dr. Axe, “The most common causes of carpal tunnel include poor posture, excess typing at the computer, and working with wrists extended.”

Moreover, there are certain conditions which are known risk factors, such as obesity, migraines, arthritis, hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, certain autoimmune diseases, history of trauma to the wrist, and metabolic syndrome. Pregnancy, female gender, and age are also considered risk factors.

Tips for Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Pistol grips on tools are better than straight-handle tools. Avoid vibrating tools, if possible
• Don’t rest your wrists on hard surfaces for an extended period of time
• Take breaks from repetitive hand movements
• At a computer, adjust the height of your chair so that your forearms are level with your keyboard and mouse
• Keep your hands warm by wearing fingerless gloves if you can’t raise the temperature in your environment
• Avoid bending your wrist all the way up or down
• Relax your grip
• Write with thick pens with oversized, soft grips

Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Given the fact that physical examination of the hand is not reliable, additional testing is often obligatory.

1. Nerve Conduction Testing

This testing involves a small electrode placed onto the skin, generating electrical current and stimulating the nerve. This method measures the impulse in the hand and if it takes longer to get to the hand, it indicates damage of the median nerve.

2. Electromyography

This test measures the degree of abnormal function of the muscles which are provided by the median nerve. It involves use of a tiny needle which measures the impulse, indicating whether the muscle performs normally if not. If the nerve is compressed, the muscle won`t perform properly.

3. Ultrasound and MRI

These tests are used to determine the swelling of the median nerve and certain abnormalities of the tunnel wall and its contents.

Conventional Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The conventional treatment of this syndrome involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone infections, and splinting the wrist to reduce pressure on the median nerve.

Carpal tunnel release surgery is another option which involves opening of the tunnel to relieve pressure on the nerve. This surgery mostly has positive outcomes and less than 5 percent of the patients experience reoccurrence of the symptoms.

Natural Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

In addition to the conventional treatments, there are natural treatments available as well. Among them are:

1. Low-level laser therapy

This therapy reduces inflammation, pain and swelling, and it also encourages healing of nerves, wounds and deeper tissues.

It involves use of non-thermal photons of light to penetrate into the skin and stimulate the release of ATP, which in turn reduces oxidative stress and improves cellular function.

It has been scientifically shown that laser therapy improves grips strength, improves nerve conduction, alleviates pain, and reduces tingling and numbness.

According to researchers from Harvard Medical School, “low-level laser therapy can be used effectively for nerve regeneration and pain relief.”  The treatments take only a couple of minutes; don’t provide any side effects and are painless.

2. Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 affects metabolic pathways involving nerve function and it usually 100-150 mg of B6 on a daily basis leads to positive results. According to a recent study, 120 mg daily over the course of three months reduced pain, tingling, weakness, clumsiness, and numbness.

3. B-complex

Addition of other B vitamins enhances the effectiveness of vitamin B6. For example, vitamin B12 helps convert B6 into pyridoxal 5’-phosphate.

It is recommended to take a B-complex vitamin two times a day along with extra vitamin B6, but nothing more than 200mg of B6 daily. Take these vitamins over the course of three months before measuring the results.

4. Alpha Lipoic Acid and GLA

Alpha lipoic acid is a strong antioxidant with ability to nerve sensitivity to pain. On the other hand, GLA is an essential fatty acid which acts as powerful anti-inflammatory agent.  It is recommended to supplement combining alpha lipoic acid (600 mg per day) and GLA (360 mg per day).

5. Curcumin

Curcumin is scientifically shown to relieve pain and provide strong anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antioxidant properties. It has been found that combination of alpha lipoic acid (300 mg twice daily), curcumin phytosome (500 mg twice daily), and B vitamins (low doses) taken for three months before and after carpal tunnel surgery significantly reduced nighttime pain after surgery.

6. Acupuncture

Various therapies and massages, such as stretching, exercises, and soft tissue mobilization improve carpal tunnel syndrome. For optimal results, combine them with supplementation or low-level laser therapy.

Top Foods for Carpal Tunnel

• Foods high in B6:  Consume more B6-rich foods, such as beans, wild meats, and green leafy vegetables as Vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome
• Green drinks: Any green drink which contains highly nutritious grasses and sea vegetables can reduce inflammation
• Whole fruits and vegetables:  Nutrients from fruits and vegetables heal and help fight inflammation. Consume more foods rich in potassium to decrease fluid retention
• Water: It is recommended to drink 8 oz of water every 2 hours to decrease fluid retention and relieve pain
• Flax or chia seeds:  Increase omega-3 intake to reduce inflammation

Carpal Tunnel Foods to Avoid

• Foods high in saturated fat:  Avoid saturated fat from bacon, sausage, cheese, or other high fat processed meats, as saturated fat can slow circulation
• Alcohol: It increases systemic inflammation and reduces the amount of B vitamins in the body
• Processed grains, especially gluten: Grains increase inflammation and worsen the condition
• Sugar: Increases inflammation that can increase pain
• Sodium:  Sodium intake causes fluid retention and swelling

source: http://besthealthyguide.com

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12 Early Warning Signs Of Prostate Cancer That Every Guy Needs To Know! Do Not Ignore!

According to the World Health Organization, prostate cancer is one of the most common causes of death among men Unfortunately in most cases, prostate cancer symptoms only appear in the cancer’s early development.


The symptoms of prostate cancer are different for each man so never rule out the possibility that some of these symptoms may be caused by other illnesses.

It’s extremely important, especially for men past the age of 50, to undergo medical examinations to find out potential problems in their bodies.

Protect yourself and look out for these symptoms early on to prevent any possible complications.

12 Early Warning Signs of Prostate Cancer

1. Frequent urges to urinate especially during the evening

2. Difficulties in urination when in the standing position. There is also difficulty in starting and ending the urination process.

3. Decreased flow of urine and changing the color of urine.

4. A burning sensation during urination

5. An unpleasant feeling at the beginning of the urination process

6. Pain or numbness that occurs in the hips, thighs, legs and/or lower back

7. Bone pain which may leads to fractures

8. Discomfort and Swelling in legs or pelvic area

9. Problems with ejaculation – Painful ejaculation

10. Impotence – Erectile Dysfunction

11. Blood in urine (Hematuria)

12. Blood in semen (Hematospermia)

Remember to visit your doctor if you experience any of these signs and symptoms.


source: http://dailyhealthmedia.com

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Warning Signs of Heart Disease Can Be Detected in Your Eyes

If you have noticed raised yellow patches over your upper or lower eyelids, near the inner part of the eye, you might want to consider investigating this further. A study published in the British Medical Journal in 2011, suggested that there is a link between heart disease and the yellow markings, medically known as xanthelasmata or xanthelasma palpebrarum.

The Link Between Xanthelasma and Heart Disease

Xanthelasma occur in both men and women and are more common after the age of 40. Research has established that these yellow plaques are deposits of cholesterol and are linked to higher than average cholesterol levels in about half of the cases. They don’t interfere with the vision and are soft and painless, so many people ignore them. Some choose to remove them for aesthetic purposes and don’t give it much thought, potentially missing an important warning sign. When removed, they often reoccur.

The Scientific Evidence

A Danish based study (the Copenhagen City Heart Study) looked at the correlation between xanthelasmata and heart disease in the general population. The research team, led by professor Tybjaerg-Hansen, reached some conclusions that will change the way many people and clinicians view these seemingly harmless spots.

A large prospective study included 12,745 people aged 20 to 93 years, who were free of ischemic heart disease at the beginning of the study. The participants were followed from 1976-8 until 2009.

In all age groups, the risk of heart attack, heart disease and death increased significantly in the presence of xanthelasma. Both men and women with the yellow eye lid marks were more likely to suffer a heart attack or die within a 10-year period.

Men Are More Prone To Develop Heart Disease

Generally speaking, men are inherently more prone to develop heart disease.

The study found that men aged 70 to 79 years were at the highest risk, and the risk was further increased by 12% in the presence of xanthelasma.
Women with xanthelasmata were 8% more likely to develop a heart attack compared to their counterparts without the yellow patches.
Since women have a smaller inherent risk of developing heart disease, xanthelasmata have a larger prediction value in this group, as explained by the authors of the study.

The study concluded that xanthelasmata predict risk of heart attack, ischemic heart disease, severe atherosclerosis and death, independently of other risk factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, cholesterol levels and obesity.

The findings are believed to assist with the diagnosing of heart conditions, and could be particularly valuable in places where access to laboratory facilities is scarce.

What Should You Do

If you notice yellowish marks on your upper or lower eyelids, it would be recommended to have your plasma lipid (fat) levels checked. As the plaques can be an indicator of high cholesterol, consider lifestyle and diet changes to support your heart and overall health.


source: http://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com

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