Owning and caring for a family pet doesn’t have to be a difficult or burdensome experience. Simplepetcare.com is a free resource that was created for pet lovers like you to take away the mystery and difficulty of everyday pet care. From dogs, cats and birds, to reptiles and small rodents you’ll find all the necessary information to properly care for your pet.
he origin of the canine can be traced back with some certainty to the Eocene Miacids that existed nearly 55 million years ago. The modern day dog evolved from the Canoidea line (a coyote type of dog) that existed around 38 million years ago, which again evolved into a fox-like animal (the Leptocyon) and then into a wolf-like animal (the Tomarctus) about 10 million years ago. The Tomarctus was apparently native to the North American continent, and from there began expanding throughout the various parts of the world. The dog like Tomarctus was a dog-like carnivore that eventually evolved into the modern day dog.
Modern day evidence suggests that the dog is the closest relative to the wolf – experts have deduced this information based on genetics and behavior patterns.
These wolf like animals became domesticated as humans began raising the wolf pups as tame and social animals. Humans probably interacted more with these animals because of the shared interest in the same types of prey and habitats. Eventually these pups became dependent on the humans for food and adapted to living with humans. The modern day domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is a descendent of these early wolf-pup domestication beginning around 10,000 BC.
The dog has long been considered as “Man’s best friend.” When dogs are properly cared for from the time they are puppies, they will grow to live a good healthy life. Proper care and attention will earn you undying loyalty from your canine friend.
Dogs are primarily different from other household pets for two main reasons: social attachment to humans, and physical temperament
Dogs are social creatures – they bond they form with humans is uncommon to other domesticated animals. Their friendly and protective natures make them ideal companions to humans.
Dogs are varied in their temperaments and have been bred to enhance specific characteristics. Because of their varied physical sizes and temperaments, it is very common for a pet owner to find a type dog that meets their emotional needs – there is pretty much a dog for any type of personality out there.
http://www.simplepetcare.com/pet-pets/1/DOG/
Insecticides and herbicides can be harmful to your pets. Insecticides usually work by interfering with an insect’s nervous system. Even though insecticides kill insects, they usually won’t kill your pets, but they can have a detrimental effect on their nervous system. Herbicides kill unwanted plants. 2, 4-D (used in Agent Orange during the Vietnam War) is a frequent ingredient and is believed to be associated with malignant lymphoma.
When purchasing lawn and garden products, always read the labels and consider switching to natural alternatives such as nontoxic products. Here are some precautions:
Pet paws are often irritated by lawn and garden chemicals. They can get very ill from inhaling or ingesting chemicals by licking their paws after walking on the lawn. Wash their paws or fur if they have been on the lawn just after an application of fertilizer or weed and feed.
Snail, slug, and mouse baits can be deadly to pets. Keep your pets away from these chemicals.
Post signs if you have used chemicals as a caution to other pet owners.
Fence off treated areas. Don’t apply chemicals on a windy day.
Water your lawn after application of fertilizer and don’t let your pets on the lawn until after the watering is completed.
Store hazardous chemicals in places where pets can’t get at them.
These cautions will help keep your pets healthy while making your lawn and garden healthy as well.
http://www.simplepetcare.com/pets/
]]>Ginger
Great in CFIDS/FMS!
Ginger can have wonderful health benefits, in CFIDS/FMS. Although native to Asia, Jamaica is the major producer, exporting over 2 million pounds a year. There are times that fresh Ginger (high in Gingerol) and dried Ginger (high in Shogaol) will have different effects. I will note the uses where this distinction is important. Although Ginger’s benefits are numerous, I’ll begin with those that mostly apply to CFIDS/ FMS. These include:
1. Relief of muscle and/or joint pain. Many components of Ginger are, like aspirin and Motrin, potent inhibitors of inflammatory substances (e.g., Prostaglandins). Ginger is also thought to inhibit “Substance P,” a pain mediator that is known to be elevated in FMS. This is the same substance that Capsaicin (hot pepper) creams work through. For Substance P inhibition, dried Ginger seems to be most effective. In a study of 10 patients with muscle pains and 46 patients with arthritis (Rheumatoid and regular “wear and tear” osteoarthritis), 100% of muscle pain and 75% of arthritis patients noted relief. The recommended dose was 1000mg of powdered Ginger a day. Many patients took 3000-4000mg a day and noted quicker and better relief using the higher dose (Medical Hypothesis,39:342-8; 1992).
2. Nausea and vomiting is decreased by 500-1000mg of Ginger. Ginger also decreases bowel spasm while improving gastric motility (moving food out of the stomach to the bowels). These are often major problems in CFIDS/ FMS, resulting in bloating after eating. Ginger can also inhibit diarrhea. Fresh (e.g., roasted) but not dry Ginger inhibited stomach ulcers caused by aspirin and Motrin (in several animal studies).
3. Warming the body (increasing thermogenesis). The fresh Ginger works much better for this.
4. Migraine headaches are reported to be helped by Ginger.
5. Dysequilibrium (e.g., motion sickness). Although likely not as effective for middle ear (vestibular Ñ where you feel like you are spinning in a circle) dizziness, it inhibits the nausea associated with dizziness. For motion sickness, it works best when 1000mg is taken 4 hours before travel.
6. Raising blood pressure (dry Ginger only). This can be helpful in CFIDS/FMS.
In addition to these benefits, Ginger can decrease the risk of heart disease by “platelet inhibition” (like aspirin and vitamin E do) and by lowering cholesterol. It is a strong antioxidant and can inhibit certain bowel infections (Salmonella and Vibrio) and, in 5% and 25% aqueous extracts, can be effective against vaginal Trichomonas infections.
Side effects of Ginger are minimal. Very high doses (e.g., 6000mg of dried ginger) on an empty stomach can cause stomach problems. It is rare that this high of a single dose is needed. The optimal dosing is not yet clear. Most research studies used 1000mg of dry powdered Ginger root (the form I’m using when I specify doses above). This is equivalent to about 10gm (1/3 oz. or about a 1/4 inch slice) of fresh Ginger root. Higher doses can be more effective initially for pain (e.g., 500-1000mg 3-4 times a day of dry powder) with the dose lowered to the lowest effective dose in 4-6 weeks.
Although not used in studies, ground Ginger (like ground garlic) in a liquid base for cooking and Ginger tea granules (supplying 5000mg of Ginger per cup of tea) are available. When fresh Ginger is used (for cooking or to make tea), do not peel it until just before use or some of the active (volatile) oils will evaporate.
GinkGo Biloba
“I Forget Where I Left My Memory”
1. Ginkgo Biloba Extract (GBE) has been shown to have multiple benefits for memory and depression. These include:
A) Improving the decreased libido and erections and the delayed orgasm seen with antidepressant use (requires 60-80mg of Ginkgo, 3 times a day).
B) Decreasing the breast tenderness and mood shifts of PMS (Tamborini, A, et. al; Rev Fr Gynecol Obstet [France] 88-57; 1993).
C) Helping to settle down dysequilibrium and vertigo (Haguenauer, J.P., et. al.; “Treatment Of Equilibrium Disturbances w/Ginkgo Biloba-A Multicenter, Placebo Controlled Study;” Presse Med 15:1569-72; 1986 and Smith, P.F., et al; “Can Vestibular Compensation be Enhanced by Drug Treatment: A Review of Recent Evidence;” J Vestib Res 4:169-179; 1994).
D) Memory. Improving memory in healthy young volunteers and in the elderly. This has been shown in many placebo-controlled studies (e.g., Grassel, E.; “Effect of Ginkgo Biloba Extract on Mental Performance,” Fortschr Med 110:73-6; 1992 and Hopfenmuller, W.; “Proof of the Therapeutic Effectiveness of a Ginkgo Biloba Extract - A Meta Analysis of 11 [Placebo Controlled] Trials in Aged Patients With Cerebral Insufficiency;” Arzneim-Forsch (Germany); 44:1005-1010; 1994 and Hindmarch, L.; “Activity of GBE on Short Term Memory,” E.W. Fungfeld (ed) Op Cit; pp.321-326; 1988).
Many CFIDS/FMS patients also find that Ginkgo helps their memory. In 12 healthy males, 120-240mg GBE improved EEG alpha brain wave activity in a way supporting improved cognitive function (vs. placebo).
In general, Ginkgo improves circulation in the brain and legs (in over 40 controlled studies). By improving circulation, Ginkgo may also decrease ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and headaches, as well as the finger artery spasm sometimes seen in SCIFDS (Raynaud’s Syndrome). Ginkgo may also lower cholesterol and help angina.
E) Treatment of asthma and bronchitis. In China, Ginkgo is made into a tea for this purpose.
F) Helping depression (at 80mg 3 times a day). The Ginkgo you buy should be a 50:1 extract standardized to have 24% Glycosides (it will say this in the label). For most purposes, 40mg three times a day is the standard dose. Treating depression, however, requires 80mg, three times a day. It takes six weeks to see the effect of treatment. No serious side effects have been reported and there are no known drug interactions (side effects with Ginkgo were often actually less than the side effects seen with placebo).
Kava
For Sleep and Anxiety
Kava, a member of the peppercorn family, has been one of the South Pacific’s most revered herbs and intoxicants. Used in most tribal Oceana cultures for hundreds of years, it was central to many social celebrations and often used as a remedy for a number of physical ailments, as well as a part of daily life. Uses include soothing the nerves, counteracting fatigue, inducing relaxation, aiding in weight loss and treating cystitus, urinary tract congestion and rheumatism. Hawaiian Kahunas (medicine men) used it extensively for ailments such as “general debility (especially in children), weary muscles (a great restorer of strength), chills and head colds, difficulty in passing urine and sharp, blinding headaches.”
Overall, Kava was “found to reduce fatigue, allay anxiety and to produce a generally pleasant, cheerful and sociable attitude…[sometimes] bordering on intoxication.”
Kava was traditionally prepared as a drink from the ground-up herb (after being strained). When used ceremonially, Kava was usually taken on an empty stomach in the evening. Since the root needed to be softened, it was usually pre-chewed by virgins or, in Fiji, by grating.
In the USA, it is usually taken in capsule form. A single dose containing 150-210mg of the “pyrones” is the usual dose to induce sleep (e.g., most capsules contain Kava with 70% Kava pyrones, so a 100mg capsule has 70mg of the pyroneÑtake 200-300mg at night for sleep). At this dose many people find that it relieves insomnia and induces a deep, restful sleep with clear, epic-length dreams. Upon waking, they feel rested.
When used for anxiety, the usual dose is a 100mg capsule three times a day. The effect begins in one week and increases over the next eight weeks. Interestingly, while several placebo controlled studies showed Kava to be effective for anxiety (as effective as Elavil and valium-type prescriptions), it did not cause any significant side effects-unlike the prescription sedating medications. Surprisingly, it actually improved mental functioning and clarity! Research also shows Kava to be an excellent muscle relaxant. It seems to work by a mechanism similar to Novocain (lidocaine)-which has been shown to be very beneficial in FMS.
Side Effects.
Although most people do not get any side effects when using Kava alone for short periods, there are several concerns that result in my not using Kava as often as other natural remedies. These concerns are:
* Drug interactions. Kava may strongly potentiate (increase) the effect of other sedative medications. This resulted in a report of a person who was near comatose (short term) when he combined Kava with Xanax. Although a study combining alcohol (at blood level of .05%) and Kava in humans did not show problems, mice who took both together showed 10 times the increase in sleep time. If one does combine Kava with other sedating medications, do so only if it is essential, and begin slowly with very low doses. The German Commission E monograph on Kava suggests it not be used in pregnancy or non-situational depression (i.e., depression for no apparent reason).
* Prolonged high doses may cause a dry scaly rash, which begins on the face and moves downward. Visual sensitivity to bright light may also occur. B vitamins may decrease this, as well as staying in the dose range discussed above. If the rash occurs, stop the Kava (or lower the dose).
Sources:
(Singh, Y.N., Blumenthal, M.; “Kava- An Overview;” Herbalgram #39; pp 33-55 and Piscopo, G.; Alternative Medicine Review; Vol. 2 #5; 1997; pp 355-364.)
http://www.immunesupport.com/news/99spr012.htm
]]>
Vitamin B3, also called Niacin, is yet another of the eight water-soluble B vitamins or the B complex vitamins. B complex vitamins are essential in the breakdown of fats and protein, in maintaining muscle strength of the digestive tract and in maintaining the health of the nervous system, skin, hair, eyes, mouth, and liver.
Niacin or the Vitamin B3 plays an important role in
Human body can convert the amino acid tryptophan into Niacin, so eating protein rich food meets the need of Niacin or the Vitamin B3
Niacin or the Vitamin B3 deficiency
Niacin or the Vitamin B3 deficiency only occurs in areas where corn is a staple food. Corn is the only grain that is low in Niacin or the Vitamin B3. Lime should be included in the fertilizers. Lime releases tryptophan which can be converted to Niacin or the Vitamin B3 in the body.
Dietary Sources of Niacin or the Vitamin B3
The best dietary sources of Niacin or the Vitamin B3 are found in beets, brewer’s yeast, beef liver, beef kidney, pork, turkey, chicken, veal, fish, salmon, swordfish, tuna, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.
Benefits of High Doses of Niacin or the Vitamin B3
Benefits of high doses of Niacin or the Vitamin B3 improve or even prevent the following conditions:
High Cholesterol: Niacin or the Vitamin B3 is more effective in lowering the levels of LDL/bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and in increasing levels of HDL/good cholesterol and triglycerides.
Atherosclerosis: High doses of Niacin or the Vitamin B3 medications prevent development of atherosclerosis/plaque along the blood vessels that can cause blockage and to reduce recurrent complications such as heart attack and peripheral vascular disease. Niacin or the Vitamin B3 and a cholesterol-lowering drug together slow the progression of heart disease, reducing risk of heart attack, and even death.
Diabetes: Because diabetes is often associated with atherosclerosis and heart disease, people with diabetes may benefit from Niacin or the Vitamin B3 that helps manage elevated cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
Osteoarthritis: Vitamin B3, as Niacinamide, improves arthritis symptoms, increasing joint mobility and reducing the amount of anti-inflammatory medications needed. Niacinamide may aid cartilage repair.
Cataracts: Dietary Niacin or the Vitamin B3, along with other nutrients is important for normal vision and prevention of cataracts.
Burns: Although it is unclear which micronutrients are most beneficial for people with burns, many studies suggest that a multivitamin including the Niacin or the Vitamin B3 may aid in the recovery process.
HIV AIDS: An observational study of HIV-positive men found that higher levels of Niacin or the Vitamin B3 intake were associated with decreased progression rate to AIDS and improved survival.
Cancer: Increased consumption of Niacin or the Vitamin B3, along with antioxidant nutrients, to be associated with decreased incidence of oral, pharyngeal, and esophageal cancers.
]]>• Myth 2: You should end meals with a cup of tea for satiety value
• Fact: Tea contains a tannin which prevents the absorption of important minerals like calcium, iron and magnesium. Rather than ending meals with a cup of tea, there should be a gap of at least an hour between a meal and the intake of tea
• Myth 3: Older people should eat fewer meals
• Fact: Eating five or six small meals at frequent intervals is more beneficial since it spreads the nutritional intake across the day, thus benefiting lipid levels
• Myth 4: Margarine is less fattening than butter
• Fact: Margarine and butter both contain 25% fat. They have the same calorie count. So margarine is as fattening as butter. Besides, margarine is rich in saturated fatty acids as well as Trans fatty acids, which raise blood cholesterol
• Myth 5: The fat content of milk can be reduced by adding water.
• Fact: Adding water to milk dilutes all the other nutrients in milk apart from fat. If you want “less fat milk”, buy skim milk instead It has all the nutrients and less fat. You can make skim milk at home by refrigerating the milk overnight and skimming off the fat the next morning
• Myth 6: Modified butter is bad for the heart health
• Fact: Modified butter is rich in saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, which is bad. However, it also contains substantial amount of monounsaturated fatty acids, which is good. Modified butter is also a rich source of Vitamin A. modified butter is not harmful when taken in small quantities, say half a teaspoon a day
• Myth 7: Refined oils are better for the heart than butter or modified butter
• Fact: Every fat, including different oils, has its own composition. Kardi and sunflower oils are rich in PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids), while modified butter, butter, groundnut oil and mustard oil are rich in SFA (saturated fatty acids) and MUFA (mono saturated fatty acid). It is recommended that PUFA, MUFA and SFA are consumed in the ratio 1:1.5:1. So, all the three sources, that is ghee or butter (1/2 tsp), mustard or groundnut oil (1 tsp) and safflower or sunflower oil (1/2 tsp) should be consumed in a day for a healthy heart
• Myth 8 : Drinking milk is better than taking it in the form of curd
• Fact: Some people cannot tolerate milk - they get diarrhea or “heavy” feeling. For these people, the best substitute for milk is curd. Apart from containing all the nutrients of milk, curd has the lactobacillus - friendly bacteria which aid digestion - and is thus digested easily
• Myth 9: Mono diets help fat loss
• Fact: Mono diets lead to a pronounced loss of lean body mass, and may suppress the appetite leading to altered blood chemistry
• Myth 10: Honey can be used as a substitute for sugar when you’re trying to lose weight
• Fact: Honey consists of 75% sugars (glucose and fructose) and 25% water. Every gram of honey provides 3kcal
• Myth 11: Pickles are not rich in calories
• Fact: Generally oil and salt are used as preservatives in pickles. Neither is particularly healthy. A gram of oil provides 9kcal and a high salt intake is not advisable for people with high blood pressure
• Myth 12: A label saying ‘Cholesterol free’ indicates a health food
• Fact: ‘Cholesterol free’ doesn’t necessarily mean fat free. The food might well be cholesterol free but at the same time be rich in saturated fatty acids or Trans fatty acids, both of which raise blood cholesterol. ‘Cholesterol free’ is just a marketing strategy - don’t set too much store by it
http://www.saffolalife.com/fitness-center-details.asp?pageID=199
]]>Most of the these health benefits of fish oil can be attributed to the presence of Omega 3 essential fatty acids such as Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Other useful essential fatty acids include Alpha-linolenic acid or ALA and Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA.
The various types of fish which can be a good source of fish oil are mackerel, rainbow trout, lake trout, halibut, herring, sea bass, sardines, swordfish, oysters, albacore tuna, blue fin tuna, yellow fin tuna, turbot, pilchards, anchovies and salmon. The most common names among these for obtaining fish oil are albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, sardines, lake trout and salmon. The type of fish used and the purity standards followed in refining the oil govern the quality of fish oil.
The health benefits of fish oil include the following:
Heart Disease: According to the American Heart Association (AHA), clinical trials have proved that omega 3 is effective in reducing the incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Fish oil, which is abundant in omega 3, therefore, reduces the risk of heart diseases and heart arrhythmias. It lowers the levels of LDL cholesterol, which is bad cholesterol, and increases the HDL levels, which is good cholesterol. Fish oil prevents accumulation of triglycerides and further reduces the levels of excess triglycerides. Preliminary research has also shown that fish oil can be used for preventing atherosclerosis in coronary patients. Thus fish oil is effective in treating heart strokes and regular usage of fish oil can help avoid numerous sudden cardiac deaths. According to the American Heart Association, these preliminary findings should be confirmed by detailed research.
Weight Loss: Fish oil also aids in weight loss process. Research conducted by Professor Peter Howe at the University of South Australia has shown that fish oil improves the efficacy of exercise in reducing weight. Volunteers who were given fish oil diet showed greater weight loss as compared to those who did not consume fish oil diet. Exercise combined with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the patients.
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-animal-products/organic-fish/health-benefits-of-fish-oil.html
Health Benefits of Fish Oil - II
Blood Circulation: It is believed that fish oil has the ability to improve blood circulation along with reducing triglyceride and serum cholesterol levels.
Immunity: It is believed that regular consumption of fish oil aids in increasing your immunity thereby enabling you to resist incidence of common diseases such as cold, cough and flu. Omega three fatty acids present in fish oil benefit the immune system by effecting cytokines and eicosanoids present in our body. Researchers have also studied the effect of fish meal and fish oil on the immune system of pigs and found that fish oil aided in the growth of the animals. Similar research conducted on mice at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, also gave positive results. Thus fish oil has the potential to enhance the immune system of humans. Fish oil is also beneficial to patients suffering from lupus, which is a disease characterized by the attacks of immune system of the body on various organs and tissues. Fish oil helps in reducing the pain and inflammation that may occur in joints, eyes, kidney, heart, blood vessels, lungs, nerves, etc. It also helps in reducing associated fever, skin rashes and fatigue.
AIDS: Research conducted by the Nutritional Sciences Program in Lexington has increased the promise of fish oil as a treatment of AIDS.
Inflammation: Fish oil has anti inflammatory properties; therefore, it is effective in reducing inflammation in blood and tissues. Regular consumption of fish oil supplements, tablets, pills and capsules is helpful to those suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases. Fish oil is effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders, sprue, short bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis, which are typical disorders of the intestine. Patients suffering from Crohn’s disease find it difficult to absorb vitamins, fats and essential supplements. Fish oil supplements are an effective diet for such patients. In ulcerative colitis, fish oil prevents the accumulation of leukotriene on the colon. It should be noted that the anti inflammatory properties of fish oil are limited to reducing inflammation. Fish oil provides little effect in preventing inflammation. Research is also being conducted to enhance the anti-inflammatory action of fish oil by addition of other dietary supplements and drugs.
Arthritis: Fish oil is useful in treating arthritis, rheumatism, Raynaud’s symptoms and similar conditions. Usage of fish oil can help reducing the Fish 3dosage of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia, and University of Newcastle, Australia have reported that large quantities of fish oil have shown positive effect on the treatment of arthritis. In case of osteoarthritis, fish oil can be helpful in reducing the impact of enzymes that destroy cartilages. However, since the dosage of fish oil required for desirable effect in the improvement of a patient is unknown, the Arthritis Center, Department of Rheumatology, John Hopkins University, considers including omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil in the treatment of arthritis as controversial. The University also cautions that there may appear certain side effect due to the use of fish oil in arthritis patients. Read more about arthritis on the webpage of Arthritis Foundation and Arthritis Center.
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-animal-products/organic-fish/health-benefits-of-fish-oil.html
Health Benefits of Fish Oil - III
Depression and Anxiety: Due to the presence of Omega 3 fatty acids, fish oil is good for relieving depression, sadness, anxiety, restlessness, mental fatigue, stress, decreased sexual desire, suicidal tendencies and other nervous disorders. Researchers at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio in their research publication titled “Fish Oils and Bipolar Disorder: A Promising but Untested Treatment” state that fish oil can be useful in mood stabilizing and treating bipolar disorders. No wonder, it has been found that countries where fish is eaten often have low incidence of depression. Similarly research conducted on prisoners has shown that when prisoners were fed with sea food containing higher amount of omega three fatty acids, there was a significant drop in the homicide rate.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Research conducted at the Louisiana State University has shown that fatty acids are effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Since fish oil is one of the best sources of essential fatty acids including EPA and DHA, it helps in Alzheimer disease. Research conducted at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) validates the usefulness of fish oil as a possible remedy for the disease. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends fish containing higher content of omega three fatty acids to patients as it acts as a protective diet during Alzheimer disease and dementia.
ADHD or ADD: Fish oil has the ability to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) due to the high concentration of fatty acids. If your child suffers from hyperactivity, dyslexia, dyspraxia, inability to complete tasks, emotional instability, wavering attitude, poor coordination, short attention span, short term memory, low concentration, tendency to interrupt others, recklessness, hastiness, impetuosity, impulsiveness, low IQ, or learning disorders, fish oil supplements, tablets, pills or capsules are a proven remedy. Research conducted at the University of South Australia and CSIRO has shown that when children suffering from ADHD were given doses of fish oil and evening primrose capsules for 15 weeks, they showed significant improvement. Since brain consists of about 60% of fats, especially essential fatty acids such as omega 3 and omega 6, fish oil helps in improving the functioning of the brain. Further, it is believed that fish oil is useful in the normal development of the brain. It helps your kid concentrate on the studies better. It has been further found that when pregnant women are given regular doses of fish oil, the born toddlers show enhanced hand eye coordination.
Eye Disorders: It is well known that fish oil is good for its ability to improve vision. It also helps in avoiding age related macular degeneration. The National Eye Institute at the National Institute of Health, US, plans to conduct a nation-wide study to evaluate the effect of fish oil in treating macular degeneration. This study will provide strong scientific evidence to the benefits of fish oil for eye care, thereby enabling government agencies and physicians to strongly recommend fish oil for macular degeneration.
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-animal-products/organic-fish/health-benefits-of-fish-oil.html
Health Benefits of Fish Oil - IV
Skin Care: Fish oil helps in improving poor and dry skin by making it shiny and glowing. It is useful in treating various skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, itching, and redness of skin, skin lesions, and rashes. In case of psoriasis, the EPA present in fish oil restricts the growth of pro-inflammatory agents by producing arachidonic acid. Fish oil can also be applied topically to obtain relief from psoriasis. Regular intake of fish oil capsules helps in reducing loss of moisture from the skin. It is also claimed by some people that fish oil helps in preventing sunburns.
Acne: Fish oil is effective for acne as well. EPA is known to inhibit androgen formation. Androgen can affect the formation of sebum in hair follicle.
Cancer: Fish oil is useful in delaying weight loss in patients suffering from pancreatic cancer. Fish oil supplements can also be helpful to patients suffering from cancer related hyperlipidemia.
Diabetes: Type II diabetic patients are more prone to cardio vascular diseases such as coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, and stroke. As mentioned above, fish oil is helpful in treating various heart problems. Research conducted at the University of Oxford, UK, has proved that fish oil is useful in reducing triglyceride levels in diabetes as well.
Ulcers: The symptoms of peptic ulcer include pain in the abdomen, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, loss in appetite, weight loss, etc. Due to the presence of EPA and DHA, fish oil can be helpful in case of ulcers caused by NSAIDs.
Pregnancy: Fish oil is very useful for pregnant women as DHA present in it helps in the development of the eyes and brain of the baby. It helps in avoiding premature births, low weight at birth, and miscarriage. Research conducted in Denmark, which involved 8,729 pregnant women, concluded that diet with low amounts of fish resulted in higher risk of premature or preterm babies. It is also believed that women who do not have a sufficient intake of EPA and DHA in their diet suffer from depression after birth as there is transfer of some amount of brain mass from the mother to the child in the last stages of pregnancy. Moreover, as mentioned above, when pregnant women are given fish oil supplements, the born kids show enhanced coordination between eye and hand. Thus it is very beneficial to consume fish oil either by eating fish or taking fish oil supplements, tablets, capsules, or pills during pregnancy for the overall development of the child and well being of the mother. However, it should be noted that fish oil obtained from the liver of the fish, example – cod liver oil, should not be consumed during pregnancy as cod liver oil is rich in retinol and vitamin A.
Fertility: Preliminary research conducted on boar has shown that when male boars are fed with diet containing fish oil, the quality of the sperm is enhanced. After ejaculation, the sperms have increased survival against lipid peroxidative attacks in the female genital tract, thereby increasing the chances of conception. On the other hand, similar animal studies have shown inhibition in the synthesis of prostaglandin E and prostaglandin F, which are produced in large quantities by human seminal vesicles. The research found no impact in the count and mobility of sperm
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-animal-products/organic-fish/health-benefits-of-fish-oil.html
Health Benefits of Fish Oil - V
Hair Care: Fish oil helps maintain a good luster of the hair. Omega three has hair growing properties as it provides nourishment to the follicles. It therefore aids in faster development of hair and preventing hair loss. A good supply of proteins is also necessary for hair growth. Since most fish varieties are rich in protein, eating fish helps in keeping healthy hair.
It is also believed that fish oil helps in asthma and kidney failure. Many people also like to feed fish oil to their pets especially dog and cat as it enables in the growth of shiny hair and smooth skin. It also helps the dogs and cats deal with arthritis, which is a very common disease among pets.
The National High Blood Pressure Education Program, US, has cautioned against wrongful publicity of fish oil as an effective means of lowering high blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension. According to its report, fish oil supplements lowers high blood pressure only to a small extent in hypertensive patients.
Research conducted at the Channing Laboratory, Boston, US has revealed that moderate doses of fish oil supplements have little effect on the condition of high blood pressure in normotensive persons.
Should we replace vegetable oils with fish oil?
There is no doubt that fish oil is one of the best sources of omega 3 essential fatty acids. However, other sources should also be consumed.
Here is a brief on Omega 3 fatty acids and Omega 6 fatty acids. There are three types of Omega 3 fatty acids, namely alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). All three are important for the body. Vegetable sources including flax seed oil, soybean oil, hemp oil, canola oil, walnut oil, rapeseed, perilla, chia and tofu are rich in ALA.
The human body has the ability to convert ALA to DHA and EPA, though there are limitations to this conversion. It has been found that ALA is also useful in treating heart problems; however, the exact mechanism is yet unknown.
GLA, an important Omega 6 fatty acid, shows promise in the treatment of cancer. It is believed that GLA is useful in treating various problems including arthritis, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, skin problems, breast pain, premenstrual syndrome and diabetes. The best source for GLA is evening primrose oil.
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-animal-products/organic-fish/health-benefits-of-fish-oil.html
Health Benefits of Fish Oil - VI
Caution on dosage: Excessive dosage of fish oil can have adverse allergies and side effects on the body. Further, fish oil can be problematic in many conditions and hence it is necessary to fish oil supplements cautiously. You should consult a doctor or physician for the exact dosage of fish oil you should take. Moreover, fish oil can be consumed in various forms. These include eating the fish directly by baking, roasting, frying, grilling, broiling, or smoking it or eating fish oil which is available in the form of concentrated dietary supplements such as liquid, tablet, capsule, pill, soft gel, etc. Also, there are various pharmaceutical grades of fish oil. You should also consult your doctor to check the mode of eating fish oil.
Fish oil purity
Purity of fish oil is also an important issue which one must pay attention to. Fish oil is obtained from fresh water, farm, ocean, deep sea and shallow sea fish. All these fish can be contaminated with toxic compounds such as mercury, arsenic, lead, forms of calcium, furans, dioxins, PCBs, and methyl mercury, and may affect the human body. Therefore, the fish oil should be pure. Many companies also sell ultra refined fish oil or distilled fish oil, but you should always check if the standards have been followed.
Fish oil and Vitamins
Vitamin A and Vitamin D: Fish oil, especially the one obtained from liver such as the cod liver oil, is a rich source of Vitamin A and Vitamin D. However, excessive dosage of cod liver oil can lead to Vitamin toxicity, accumulation of excessive vitamins in the body, which can cause side effects.
Vitamin E: There are various beliefs surrounding fish oil and Vitamin E.
These beliefs are:
• Fish oil undergoes oxidation and can become rancid, leading to formation of free radicals. Addition of antioxidants such as vitamin E to fish oil can help prevent the formation of these free radicals.
• Excessive dosage of fish oil leads to reduction of Vitamin E in the human body. This loss of Vitamin E should be supplemented with external Vitamin E supplements.
• The combination of fish oil and Vitamin E can have added benefit in the treatment of many cancers and heart diseases, than if they are used individually.
Preliminary research has been carried out which prove the above beliefs; however, these need to be substantiated with detailed research before drawing strong conclusions on the use of fish oil and vitamin E.
http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-animal-products/organic-fish/health-benefits-of-fish-oil.html
]]>Cigar smoking has been linked to several smoking-related diseases and conditions.
Cancers
It is suspected that the Tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines/TSNAs in tobacco smoke may contribute to cervical cancer. Research is ongoing. Cigar smoke is laden with Tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines/TSNAs.
COPD / Emphysema
Most cigar smokers don’t inhale, but for those who do, the potential for damage to the lungs is similar to that of cigarette smoke.
Heart Disease
Cigar smoking has been linked to coronary artery disease. Smoking is hard on the heart.
Erectile dysfunction
Cigar smoking and exposure to second hand smoke in particular have been shown to be significant risk factors for erectile dysfunction
http://quitsmoking.about.com/od/cigarspipesandsmokeless/f/CigarHlthRisks.htm
Many people enjoy going to the woods to pick their own mushrooms. However, identifying mushrooms can be a real challenge. The color, shape and size of the fruiting body can vary tremendously. It is important to properly identify the mushroom that is collected, so as to avoid a poisonous species.
The Pharaohs prized mushrooms as a delicacy, and the Greeks believed that mushrooms provided strength for warriors in battle. The Romans regarded mushrooms as a gift from God and served them only on festive occasions, while the Chinese treasured them as a health food.
Today, mushrooms are enjoyed for their flavor and texture. They can impart their own flavor to food or take on the flavor of other ingredients. Their flavor normally intensifies during cooking, and their texture holds up well to usual cooking methods, including stir-frying and sautéing.
It is popular to add mushrooms to soups, salads, and sandwiches, or to use them as an appetizer. They also add an appealing touch to vegetable-based casseroles and stews. In the US, mushroom extracts are increasingly being used in nutraceutical products and sports drinks.
Mushrooms contain about 80 to 90 percent water, and are very low in calories (only 100 cal/oz). They have very little sodium and fat, and 8 to 10 percent of the dry weight is fiber. Hence, they are an ideal food for persons following a weight management program or a diet for hypertensives.
Mushrooms are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that helps lower elevated blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke. One medium portabella mushroom has even more potassium than a banana or a glass of orange juice. One serving of mushrooms also provides about 20 to 40 percent of the daily value of copper, a mineral that has cardioprotective properties.
Mushrooms are a rich source of riboflavin, niacin, and selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that works with vitamin E to protect cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. Male health professionals who consumed twice the recommended daily intake of selenium cut their risk of prostate cancer by 65 percent. In the Baltimore study on Aging, men with the lowest blood selenium levels were 4 to 5 times more likely to have prostate cancer compared to those with the highest selenium levels.
The most commonly consumed mushroom in the United States is Agaricus bisporus or the white button mushroom. A. bisporus has two other forms - Crimini or brown mushrooms with an earthier flavor and firmer texture, and Portabella mushrooms with a large umbrella-shaped cap and meaty flavor.
All three mushrooms, but especially the fresh button mushrooms, possess substances that inhibit the activity of aromatase (an enzyme involved in estrogen production), and 5-alpha-reductase (an enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT). The latest findings show that white button mushrooms can reduce the risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer. An extract of white button mushrooms decreased cell proliferation and decreased tumor size in a dose-dependent manner. The chemoprotective effect can be seen with an intake of about 100 grams (3.5 oz’s) of mushrooms per day.
Shii-take mushrooms have been used for centuries by the Chinese and Japanese to treat colds and flu. Lentinan, a beta-glucan isolated from the fruiting body of shii-take mushrooms, appears to stimulate the immune system, help fight infection, and demonstrates anti-tumor activity.
]]>