A Certified Home Health Aide Can Allow A Patient To Remain At Home

By Audrey McGuire

A certified home health aide administers medical care to injured or ill individuals in the privacy of their own dwelling. However, such services are basic in nature and are not intended to replace medical care obtained from a licensed practitioner or physician. The demand for jobs of this type has significantly increased over the last 10 years, which experts expect is a trend that will keep going until 2016.

The goal of the aforementioned care is to help patients stay in their homes. The latter is preferable to most individuals when compared with the need to be placed in a long-term care facility. Home health aides can assist patients to perform their activities of daily living while maintaining their independence.

Certified aides are trained to perform a broad range of services. Some examples include taking the client's vital signs, administering oral medications, helping him or her with dressing and bathing, and assisting the person to ambulate or exercise. Depending on the state regulations in the area where the care is being given, some aides are also allowed to perform massages, change dressings, or operate ventilators.

The aforementioned individuals must perform their duties under the direct supervision of a doctor or licensed or registered nurse. They are not allowed to offer medical advice, or diagnose or treat diseases or conditions. However, if they notice anything unusual concerning the patient, they must report it to a doctor or nurse.

Due to the fact that many patients pay for such care with insurance, it is important for the aide to keep detailed records of the care provided. The agency then uses these records to bill the appropriate party. However, records are still kept on patients who pay for their care with their own money, as each individual must have a file with the health agency. These records are kept private for each patient and the latter are given copies of the care that was provided after each visit.

A written exam and 75 hours of field training is typically necessary in order for a person to become certified in this line of work. The skills learned include lifting techniques, a thorough understanding of every facet of personal care, and good communication skills so that one can work effectively with a network.

When pursuing such care for an individual who is homebound because of disease or disability, it is important to choose an agency carefully. Most home health companies are trustworthy; however, anyone should be screened carefully who will have future access to one's place of residence. To complete this task, one should obtain licensing information from any company he or she is considering, and research the background of the numerous agencies available. The latter is easy to accomplish online.

When a certified home health aide has been selected, the patient and his or her family should evaluate the person's performance for several weeks after the scheduled visits have begun. If the individual is completing his or her duties to the satisfaction of the family and patient, long-term arrangements can be made. If not, the client may need to request a different person. When the steps listed above are followed, it should not be difficult to find the most appropriate person for the job.

About the Author:

You can visit the website ournursesinc.com for more helpful information about A Certified Home Health Aide Provides Valuable Services

Reason Why Endurance Coaching Improves Your Health Choices

By Mark Phillips

For many people health is a major concern to prevent health issues from cropping up at a young age. They do not need to spend thousands of dollars for medical expenses. And most of all these folks are far more concerned about their physique and endurance hence they want to break from the limits of their being.

Hence people who are considering to make a change in their lives should seek experts to help them. Furthermore if one considers to have the endurance coaching then getting the right teacher can make or break the session itself. Therefore employing the services of a coach not only helps you understand your health needs more, but you also have the chance to allow an expert to intervene on your behalf.

Therefore you need to consider several things before getting a teacher. A good way to start is to define your health goals this will immediately tell you what kind of objectives you want to achieve. Aside that defining what you want can help you estimate in how many months you want to see results, or days you dedicate yourself to the task at hand.

But though there are willing individuals the problem with that knows which level of fitness they belong. Many coaches who receive new clients everyday know people have a fitness level they are currently in, and if putting a client on different level could upset the balance in the body. Therefore most coaches often assess clients fitness through several questions.

Therefore it is essential you write down your goals on piece of paper or notebook. So every time that you feel far away from your goals or are giving up simply go back to those goals. In that way you can ground yourself and become more motivated about your pursuit.

Other questions include whether you follow an exercise routine, use any equipment, how you set goals, and whether you like to enhance your endurance and intensity levels when you exercise. Those are thing that coaches often ask new clients who are interested in improving their fitness programs. And it is definitely alright that you do not know the answer to any of these because they are just assessment questions.

People often wonder how long they must have the coach around to assist them. The short answer to this is when a person is ready to move on their own. Because every individual have their own style in learning and absorbing information.

But evidently there are people who find it easier to work on their own with access to a wealth of resources. While others need to have other people to help them gain an understanding towards the activity. It really depends on the person and their background and learning approach too.

And not only should it make the exercise better but more fun as well. No one wants to get stuck with the same boring things in life, so shaking up the routine is the only way to go. More over having the right fitness instructor could do wonders for your life and with an expert by your side you need not worry about repeating the mistakes over again. Hence it is essential to get a coach.

About the Author:

Get a detailed summary of important things to keep in mind when picking an endurance coaching professional and more information about an experienced coach at http://trimecoaching.com right now.

Finding A Natural Health Blog

By Deanne Shepard

When people are looking for ways to improve their health naturally, they'll likely want to be as proactive as they possibly can. By reading a natural health blog several days each week, individuals can find some tips that will come in handy as they move forward in life. As long as they put their minds to the task at hand, all should be well.

When men and women are looking for a blog to make their own, they should pay attention to the writing itself. Bloggers who do not care for proper spelling and grammar will likely be lacking in other areas. Readers should keep searching until they find a blog that has been well put together. The grammar and the spelling should both be immaculate.

There are a number of things that individuals can do to eat naturally. They should of course avoid processed foods whenever they can. Processed products have chemicals in them that are not good for the body. In fact, these chemicals can be toxic to the body when introduced in large quantities. Individuals should always be careful with boxed ingredients.

Mixing in some fruits and vegetables will of course be one of the most important parts of the process. When men and women understand how important leafy greens can be, for example, they'll surely want to stick with them. Lettuce, spinach, and kale are all good options for individuals who need to get more vitamins and minerals wherever they can.

Mixing out the meats and cheeses will also help. These foods are high in saturated fats, which can be very bad for many of the body's systems. When men and women really try to avoid these kinds of bad foods, they will find that their health takes a turn for the better. They can decrease the amount of meat they eat until they are used to the change.

Food diaries can help individuals make smarter choices as they move through the day. People can look back on their entries each week to see where they missed the mark. This way, they can quickly correct things before they continue to spiral out of control. Learning how to keep a diary should not be hard for most families.

People might want to begin eating naturally when they are starting to train for a marathon. Running 26 miles at one time can require individuals to do their best to change their diet. With plenty of vitamins and minerals flowing into the system from plant foods, athletes will quickly notice a change in how they feel and look.

In the end, looking for a good health food blog is an important first step. By gleaning tips on how to incorporate good foods into the diet, men and women will be very pleased with what they can become. Fruits, vegetables and proteins will fill their plates without a second thought. Individuals can begin watching their health improve as they once again regain their zest for life in the weeks ahead.

About the Author:

Read the interesting natural health blog as we reveal how to live life naturally right here on our homepage. Take the opportunity to check out this website now at http://www.lovelifenaturally.org.

Health insurance and Nutritional supplements For Muscle Mass Education

To attain ideal comes from training, it's important you need to offer the body with all the current proper vitamins and minerals and also enough of the main aspects of the diet plan staying protein, sugars as well as fat. They're known as the 'macro-nutrients' with the eating habits as they are required by much larger amounts when compared to the micro-nutrients' is the vitamin supplements, nutrients and other neurological ingredients that happen to be required in much smaller sums within the diet plan compared to include the 'macro-nutrients', but are located within various quantities enclosed the actual macro-nutrients in meals.

We understand that a majority of from the micro-nutrients happens to be within the meals that define your macro-nutrients, but it is proven which hard-training body builders need lots over meals can offer due to the micro-nutrients. Taking this under consideration as well as the tension factor that one's body undergoes throughout education, a substantial amount of the micro-nutrients are expected within expansion along with the tissues repair. As a result added ranges are essential with the system which usually can't be acquired simply by meals alone, which is in which vitamin and mineral dietary supplements come in and really should be utilized on a regular basis.

The primary real question is what to get so when during the day. A fun time from the day time to consider a multi-vitamin along with spring dietary supplement is actually combined with the 1st food of the day which dinner needs to be breakfast. Should you be willing to miss breakfast then you are really working in opposition to yourself when it comes to just about any lean body mass increases that you would normally create if you had a great breakfast every day. Once you have been recently asleep for a number of several hours, proper anyone awake your current blood sugar levels level is actually minimal, and the body is at the point where it has to start being able to access components to improve blood sugar levels of which this signifies that muscle tissue might be seen to increase blood glucose my partner and i.at the. the actual muscle groups are now being separated (catabolized) in this particular situation which is the exact opposite from what we would like that is creating muscle tissue (anabolism) we electronic. Bodybuilding!

For that reason, it is quite crystal clear a excellent breakfast time is certainly a crucial meal, as well as in addition to whole milk to be able to beverage, the egg-white omelet having a couple of yolks only (making use of concerning 8 or perhaps ten egg-whites is a good basis for an incredible breakfast time; for example, you can include sophisticated carbs by having a number of steamed rice along with your omelet, along with don't forget in which sophisticated carbs are generally one more essential section of breakfast time and also boost blood glucose levels progressively as they are digested). Don't increase the risk for reason which a great morning meal usually takes a long time to arrange, given it will not!

Some people may be deficient a good urge for food initially, but as long when you take in one thing healthy for breakfast, it's not a problem, as your urge for food will be your guide, and will probably grow with gains from your education. Why does hunger improve? Nicely because of the fact your body has a lot more muscle tissue to give because your instruction remains. A lot of people must advantage a whole lot via added supplement B-complex nutritional supplements in addition to further ascorbic acid because they are normal water dissolvable vitamin supplements and so are certainly not maintained for any great extent in the body and are used up quickly generally speaking cells metabolic process and Much more while your muscles are increasing !!!

Consequently, it would be an excellent to get a get in supplementing with B-complex along with Chemical nutritional vitamins each morning and before going to bed, as well as before your everyday exercise. When you use large numbers of vitamins honestly make sure you consume further essential fluids like water in bottles its own as well as blended to create up athletics refreshments. And remember that optimum liquids is important to get rid of waste materials in the body tissues in which lower levels involving water consumption may well not achieve.

About the Author: By Federico Soriano

Looking to find the best deal on dymatize, then visit www.pontemasfuerte.com to find the best advice for you.

The Amazing Health Advantages Of Raspberry Ketone Diet Supplement!

By Anthony Law

Raspberry ketone diet refers to a diet prepared from raspberry ketone which is a natural compound found in red raspberry. They are primarily used in perfume industry and their weight loss characteristics have only been recently discovered

The latest buzz on Dr Oz weight loss recommendation is Garcinia cambogia. Garcinia Cambogia is a safe and healthy weight loss aid all by itself. But where it really excels is in combination with other products. Because it is more mild than some other diet aids with no caffeine or other stimulant properties, it has been used for many years to enhance the effectiveness of other products without making users nauseous, nervous, or edgy. It isnt really new to the weight loss industry, but is just recently made popular by Dr Oz weight loss show. Garcinia Extract is truly natural product that is made from the rind of the tamarind fruit, which resembles tiny pumpkin. This fruit is full of tons of anti-oxidants, and ingredients that help in combating fat and also reduce the effects of aging.

Raspberry Ketones in addition have an inimitable way of increasing the body's metabolism in a way no other supplement has displayed before. Its control over metabolism is based on the fact that it increases the body's temperature stimulating a higher rate of metabolism that sees to it that more calories are burnt. Secondly it increases metabolism by rapidly breaking down lipids into fatty acids that are later on used to produce energy. Thirdly raspberry ketones toll on metabolism has been found to result from its ability to stimulate the production of the body hormone called Adiponectin which 'tricks' one's body to behave as it would were the person thin. This means that your metabolism will be heightened to higher rates than it ought to be for the body no longer sees you as overweight.

The supplement is considered ideal even for old people as it contains antioxidants that are medically believed to cause relaxation of body vessels and generally maintain proper body function. By ensuring that the body works properly or at optimum, the individual under raspberry ketone diet ends up feeling energized and will often be more active than he is when not using the supplement. The antioxidants in this product also help reduce stress levels by relaxing body vessels.

Consumption of large amount of coffee might also cause headache, anxiety, agitation, ringing in the ears and irregular heartbeats. Apart from the side effects of caffeine, some volatile compounds present in green coffee are also responsible for nauseating odor and other abdominal discomfort. Under normal circumstances, these side effects are removed from the beans by roasting and this explains why processed coffee records no abdominal challenges.

In a nutshell, Green coffee bean extracts are taken orally and is available in capsules form and in different quantities. Different trademarks exist but it is important to check on the labels for clarity on the composition. For maximum benefits of all supplements, a good understanding of how they work, the dosage, and the side effects is important. Some medical conditions must be monitored by a medical professional before using them and even when on the supplements.

About the Author:

The indicated writer is very knowledgeable about raspberry ketone pills. Please have a look at their online site to find out even more.

Tips On Home Health Care Harrisburg Pa

By Jordan Schmidt

It is always important to ensure everyone is in good health. This is mostly the young ones who may not know more about life. The elders too who may be of age cannot be left out as well. This brings in the essence of home health care Harrisburg pa, Pottsville pa city. This would help in ensuring that the elder one are not abandoned. This is especially when the relatives may not have enough time for them. This may be out of the tight schedules that they could be having. Below are some of the issues that ought to be considered.

The knowledge required that a practitioner has is very important. In most cases the elderly may require some nursing services. It thus means that they have to be trained on how to handle them in any way. In such a case there has to be a tangible evidence that have the qualifications. To be more precise a well-known institution is preferred.

How long that one may have been in this field may as well be important. This is important as it helps in determining the level of experience they have. Through experience one may be in a position to acquire more skills. This may not be possible during the training session. Its thus prudent to have an experienced practitioner rather than a fresh graduate.

For any kind of business operations to be undertaken there has to be some permission from the authorities. This could be done through the issuance of a license. It is normally done after a payment of a certain legal fee. This may as well be renewable after a certain period of time. This could assist in ensuring that the clients receive legal services without any worries.

Its also good to look at the flexibility of the practitioner. This would help them in ensuring that their clients will always have enough time to be care of. It thus means that they ought not to have too tight schedules. They ought to always be there whenever their clients need them. This is especially due to the fact that the elderly require more attention.

The code of conduct is usually very important. It plays a great role in setting up the reputation that one has. A good conduct as well as maintenance of a good rapport with others helps in achieving this. This would help in ensuring that practitioner can as well be trusted. It can as well help in ensuring a better relationship even after the contract has been terminated.

Description of the contract is very necessary. Through this it would be easier for both parties to be aware of the terms and conditions to be applied. The terms f payments can as well be clear. Clients should thus ensure they have what is affordable to them. Through this they are able to avoid any sort of financial constraints and ensure they are in a better condition even after the contract.

The information given above is important. It creates a room for individuals to evaluate what they would like their loved ones to have. It contains more of home health care Harrisburg Pottsville pa. It is thus not wise to ignore it.

About the Author:

You can get a complete review of important things to keep in mind when picking a home health care Harrisburg PA company at http://www.bmhhc.com right now.

More Advantages Provided For Spinal Health With Spinal Decompression Conroe

By Marci Glover

The experience of back and leg pain can place tremendous restrictions on regular function and will lead to a poorer quality of life if not attended to and supported. With the process of spinal decompression Conroe patients experience spinal stretching with a specialized table or device to reduce discomfort. Such methods have proven most effective in normal range of motion and serves as a non-surgical alternative to achieve healthy operation.

The spine provides support for all musculoskeletal function including the muscles, nerves, ligaments, and joints that will become restricted should damage or misalignment occur. Non-surgical therapy has been regarded among the most effective strategies to alleviate the pain and discomfort that are caused by back, neck, and leg problems. This can be attributed to injuries, poor posture, chronic conditions, and imbalance of the spinal column.

Chiropractic care and orthopedics are suitable forms of intervention that can be attended to with the aim of facilitating spinal health and wellness. The purpose of these types of techniques is to allow for a balanced state of operation and the means to reduce the experience of pain and aches. It is important to rely on the services of a highly skilled and qualified professional for the best possible results.

There are a number of therapeutic methods available with a focus on adjustment techniques that will assist in facilitating alignment. Individuals who may suffer from chronic conditions or injuries involving disc herniation, it will impact the normal operation of the nervous tissue. The decompression methods will create a lower pressure to facilitate healing at a cellular level.

While such measures are not commonly applied in chiropractic therapy, it includes a natural basis and is considered a suitable option for disc herniation and similar damages. The causes for lumbar symptoms include bad posture, improper body mechanics, and misalignment. A professional assessment of the spinal column including a closer look at the structure of the vertebrae can aid in determining the best type of intervention.

This procedure has become increasingly popular because of health benefits that it can provide for individual needs and physical mechanics. Disc herniation results from abnormal positioning of the vertebrae that causes the soft tissue to bulge. This will cause nerve pressure and restricted function making it difficult to move without experiencing limitations.

The performance of these types of procedures will involve laying out on a table where decompression is implemented. The aim of such measures is to alleviate a great deal of strain and pressure that have been limiting the normal movement of the lumbar region. The naturally based therapy that is available for everyday function can aid in addressing individual patient needs.

A practitioner should be consulted to perform an examination of the spinal area and to ensure that the healthiest possible results are achieved. Distraction force that is applied to gently elongate the spinal column and aid in facilitating recovery. It is important to consider the naturally based techniques that are available for healthier results.

About the Author:

You can visit www.chiropracticconroe.com for more helpful information about More Advantages Provided For Spinal Health With Spinal Decompression Conroe.

How Occupational Therapy In Mental Health Affects People

By Edna Booker

This entail a science of enabling engagement in everyday living through enabling people with mental disorders to perform the occupations that foster health and their wellbeing and enabling a just and inclusive society so that a person participates to his or her daily occupation in life. We therefore see the need of occupational therapy in mental health that will help save your life.

Some people tend to think that therapy in mental health is only meant for adults, which is a wrong way of thinking basing on the fact that kids after all do not have any occupations in the society. But a Childs main job is playing and learning therefore a therapist can evaluate a kids skills in playing and school performance and then compare them with what is developmentally appropriate. This helps in diagnosis of any genial un-wellness waiting to occur in later stages of the Childs life.

Therapy begins by developing a plan to address the patients most important goals and priorities. This works systematically through a sequence of actions known as occupational therapy process. The process includes basic components such as putting the patients under evaluations, interviews. Thereafter, the outcomes are analyzed after which the therapist can be able to understand how to treat his or her patient.

In the following stage of therapy, patients are made to try out couple of activities but in manageable stages that are in a much different way. Afterwards, a recommendation is made to refer them to easier activity based on their performance level on their previous activities. Also, they are introduced to devices that enable them get through the activity in a much easier way.

Statistics show that a large population of people has these ailments. These illnesses are seen to have a negative impact on the affected population. The affected individuals are observed to have a low self-esteem have relationship problems and have problems in living a normal life. Therefore comes out the need to have occupational therapists in every medical institution worldwide. Through this, the affected individuals will have less trouble in getting medical help.

This form of treatment aims in identifying persons struggling with these conditions; those who face depression, learning disabilities and other disorders. The following enlisted genial unwellness is then managed with treatment such as therapy or medication to help improve the individuals wellness.

This endeavor has several goals; one of them is being able to make the affected person get involved in all day to day activities. The individuals have the power to choose the occupation that they want or which they are expected to. Through modification of the environment, it makes it easier for them to easily engage in their occupation.

Being mentally healthy is a guarantee to living a good long life with no medical problems. Poor mind health can make one lack all the good things that life has to offer while good intellectual capabilities enables one to live an enriching life. These problems have no boundaries in choosing who gets affected. It affects people of different ages, occupation and of different educational background.

About the Author:

If you are looking for information about occupational therapy in mental health, you should pay a visit to our web pages online here today. Additional details can be seen at http://www.therapeuticsolutionsofnc.com/low-vision-occupational-therapy-services.html now.

Discovering Bob Beck Protocol For Better Health

By Steven Stone

While having been around quite some time, one holistic healing process is now becoming better known. The Bob Beck Protocol is a holistic process that uses a five step program to improve overall health. Through the use of electrotherapy, magnetic therapy, specialized water and a process known as a brain tuner, the protocol stimulates mind, body and soul.

The author uses the motto, Knowledge Is Power to aid individuals in learning more about the process. A process which has been proven over time according to the many testimonials which reside on the company website. For, while Mr. Beck passed on some time ago, the applications, interviews and testimonials continue this work through a number of links on the company website.

First developed in 1983, brain tuning is brought about by the use of cranial electrical stimulation or CES. By applying different frequencies to brain waves, the brain has the capability of resetting itself. When individuals are taking medication, it is always important to check with a primary care giver before using any aspect of the protocol.

While originally developed as a healing tool, it has also been used to aid in overcoming various types of addictive behaviors. In most cases, individuals must use the device a month or longer before seeing results. Still, overcoming addiction, the elimination of brain tumors or the lessening of pain is a great benefit many have never known or received over time.

Users of this protocol come from all areas and social economic levels. While some are hoping to improve over health, others have had negative experiences with regards to traditional medicine. A popular comment overhead by clients is that people have come to realize that each individual is responsible for overall health and well-being.

Now often used in political movements like "Black Lives Matter" and "Take Back The Night, " "Take Back Your Power" is the key message Mr. Beck wants every individual on the planet to hear and understand. Tied closely to the well known motto "Knowledge Is Power, " the two help inspire those working within the company as well as those using the protocol. Whether applying healing methods like massage, Reiki, color and sound healing or others, without belief in the system, it is often rare to see positive results.

As with most alternative and healing applications, users need to believe in the process in order to see results. Although, with so many testimonials, it is clear there is some merit to the methods used by this protocol and others. While Mr. Beck passed some time ago, the protocol, applications, interviews and testimonials will no doubt live on as long as the information can be shared online and through other resources.

There are a number of audio and video cuts currently available online. For those interested in this protocol, there are several links on the company website. Those interested can click on each link to get more information on the overall system and applications along with interviews and testimonials.

About the Author:

If you are searching for the facts about Bob Beck, go to our web pages online here today. Additional details are available at http://www.cardstonmed.com now.

Advantages Of Soy Vitamins On Your Health

By Nancy Gardner

Daily intake of soy is regarded as very healthy for you. Soy vitamins enable you to keep away from harmful diseases as well as your immune system is strengthened to a certain extent. From minor illnesses to major ones, if soy is consumed from an early age, it will bring about lasting effects on your health.

There are researches that suggest, those women who consume soy based diet are at a very low risk of contracting breast cancer. In most of the Asian countries soy is consumed in the diet on a daily basis whereas in Western countries, the use of such product is very limited. Which means, Asian women are at a very low risk and Western women are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer.

There are evidences that suggest it is also good for diabetic patients. Consumption of such products helps in lowering the blood sugar levels among those individuals who have diabetes. So, it is a good idea to add as many products as you can on a daily basis that contain this particular element. Although limited research is available in this regards but there is no harm in its consumption for diabetic patients.

Soy is also regarded as helpful in preventing kidney diseases. Kidney disease can cause a lot of harm and in severe cases leads to kidney failure. Whereas, if such element is present in your diet from an early age, then its most likely that you won't contract any sort of kidney infection or disease in the long run.

It is regarded as useful in reducing cholesterol levels as well. Its not a good thing to have high cholesterol level as it could lead to further complications including heart failure. Its best to keep your cholesterol level under recommended level at all times because when it remains under control, you are less likely to contract any sort of harmful disease or illness.

Amid menopause, such vitamins can turn out to be exceptionally valuable as they have a tendency to minimize the menopausal side effects to a certain degree. Menopause is something that can't be evaded and each and every lady needs to experience it at certain phase of her life. Vaginal dryness and irritation stay at their negligible level. Likewise it helps in diminishing the indications of hot flashes amid that period.

It can be a useful treatment against osteoporosis as these type of vitamins tend to increase the bone density making them strong and less prone to fractures. Again, it is recommended that one should start consuming such products from a very early stage so that as you grow older, your body has enough reserves to deal with all sorts of old age problems.

Apart from the above mentioned, there are loads of other health benefits derived from the use of such soy based products. You should remain as consistent as you can when it comes to the consumption of such rich food products. The best way is to consume it in its natural form instead of relying on artificially derived products and goods.

About the Author:

When you are searching for information about soy vitamins, you should pay a visit to our web pages online here today. Additional details can be seen at http://www.soy.com now.

Holistic Health Coach For Women

By Sally Delacruz

Staying healthy is one of the most fundamental concerns for most people. Without good health it is virtually impossible to function properly. Feeling good affects every aspect of life, from work to personal relationships. A woman who is struggling with either a physical or mental issue can quickly find that their entire life begins to move in a downward spiral.

As soon as a woman begins to realize their well being is suffering they should seek out a local holistically based practitioner. The Long Island NY area has many great options for them to choose from. Some coaches work out of their own home and only see a few clients, whilst others are part of a group. Finding a holistic health coach for women should not be too difficult.

There are many benefits to choosing a holistic approach to wellness. The most important thing is that the person is treated as a whole being with the understanding that each system of the body is connected. In contrast to traditional medicine, which merely addresses particular conditions, a holistically based approach looks for the cause of problems and tries to address them.

One of the great things about living in the Long Island NY area is that each woman has access to many different ways to improve their overall well being. This can range from buying organic food at a farmer's market to swimming at a local pool in the cold winter months.

Coaching can take many forms and each practitioner has their own methods. However, the common thread is that they view each and every patient as an individual. They take the time to find out about lifestyle, health history and things that may be bothering the person. By carefully drawing together all the threads they put together a complete picture of what might be causing the problems and how to best treat them. This will involve much more than prescribing a course of antibiotics or other medicine.

The practitioner will have many suggestions to help their clients feel better. This will include eating properly, learning relaxation techniques and getting lots of exercise. Even taking a daily walk in the fresh air can really help to transform someone who is feeling down. Joining a support group can also be of tremendous value and the coaching specialist will likely have some suggestions and leads.

One of the best ideas is to engage in a preventative approach to healthy living. This means that the individual is actively changing the way they live in order to avoid getting sick or worn down. Getting enough sleep may sound simple but for many people it is a serious challenge. It may take a conscious effort and a clear schedule to get many women back into the habit of a good nights sleep.

Every positive step that the individual woman takes is a help to her well being. It is much better to implement as many healthy practices as possible before they begin to experience negative issues. In fact, women who do everything they can to promote wellness will usually be rewarded with extra energy, vitality and happiness.

About the Author:

Read more about Holistic Health Coach For Women.

Health Tips To Assist Individuals Reverse Insulin Resistance

By Mattie MacDonald

Chronic illnesses form part of the most challenging types of diseases to treat; some being incurable while others can be managed sufficiently using available curative drugs. Diabetes is one such chronic illness and it has multiple causes. Two major causes are stated as resistance to insulin produced while the other is insufficient production of insulin from islet cells of pancreas. Scholars have done much research and have this far proven that it is possible to reverse insulin resistance.

The first strategy involves eating habit. When sugar rich diet is consumed, there is usually a sudden rise in blood sugar promoting release of insulin to control it. When this fails as in cases of resistance, sugar in blood becomes chronically high. To avoid this, one therefore needs to consume much of protein and fatty food and stay away from carbohydrates. This effectively assists in manning blood sugars.

Exercise is yet another effective way of reversing chronic fluctuations in blood sugars. This may be possible in two ways; first is by eliminating excess sugars in the blood. During intense exercise, body cells consume much of available sugars through respiration and therefore there is no overload of the vascular system with carbohydrate. Secondly, intense activity promotes consumption of carbohydrates and therefore reduces production of insulin. Over a period of time, insulin levels begin to stabilize.

Applying two named strategies show synergistic kind of relationship; each adds to the quality of expected outcome from the other. If this approach strictly followed, its outcome is usually a favorable one with majority achieving nearly complete reverse. For this reason, it has also been described as a treatment for insulin resistance.

Adequate sleep and proper stress management is equally significant as a remedy against insulin resistance. A sleep time of up to eight hours a night is just enough. When the body is well rested and not in distress, there is no release of stress related substances which trigger rise in blood sugars.

Adequate nutritional is medicinal and has been shown to be the primary cause of certain diseases when remarkable alterations occur. For this particular condition in question, necessary elements include vitamin B6, chromium and glut-amine. Any imbalance in either intake or utilization of these substances leads to insulin resistance. There are other elements and or food nutrients that may cause similar effects if not taken in the diet to a level that cause deficiency.

In addition to above mentioned strategies, avoiding some other substances that stimulate production of triglycerides is necessary. These may include and are not limited to alcohol, tobacco smoke and caffeine.

In summary therefore, all persons should make it their responsibility to remain healthy. This should be the case whether one has been diagnosed with such resistance or not. Even with the disease, one possibly leads a comfortable life and even restores self to a previous healthy state by following simple lifestyle guides. Quality life is an asset that all people should access in whichever way possible and not even diabetes should take it away.

About the Author:

You can visit www.mouthplague.com for more helpful information about Health Tips To Assist Individuals Reverse Insulin Resistance.

Health benefits of Kobe Beef

[Extracted from the webpage of http://prsync.com/]

If you have health problems like a heart condition or a fatty liver, most likely your physician will ask you to avoid eating red meat.  Red meat is one of the greatest temptations when it comes to food.  It is delicious, yet it can be bad for you.  Those with health problems usually have no other choice but to just go with their doctor’s recommendations and avoid red meats at all costs.  But these days, there is a way for them to eat red meat without the risk of making their conditions worse.

Kobe beef is one of Japan’s best exports to the world’s food industry.  This is also known as wagyu beef as they are produced from wagyu cattle.  Wagyu beef is best known for its intense marbling as a result of genetic predisposition.  This marbling produces more unsaturated fat and has a better ratio of monosaturated and saturated fats.  This means fats melt at lower temperatures.  If you cook them the right way, you’ll get less fat in the red meat you eat.  Moreover, wagyu beef contains high percentages of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, as compared to regular beef.  Kobe produces the best black wagyu beef in Japan.

There are other reasons why Kobe beef is very beneficial to one’s health.  Aside from the fat and fatty acids content of the Kobe beef, one other benefit from it is the way it helps the immune system.  Wagyu cattle are well taken care of all through their lives.  Because of this, they produce the best quality red meats in the world.  Kobe beef contains only the highest quality of fats.  Recent studies discovered that high quality fats actually promote good living, enhancing your immunity.  Wagyu beef, when consumed regularly, can help fortify your health against external elements that may cause illness.

Wagyu cattle are also bred in Australia, New Zealand and the United States.  Eventually, though, they are sent back to Japan for slaughtering.  Wagyu cattle and Kobe beef have a lot of benefits.  Not only do you get a ton of health benefits, you’ll also taste the best red meat you’ve ever tasted in your life.  No other type of beef is tenderer than wagyu beef.  They produce the best steaks and, if cooked perfectly, they practically melt in your mouth when you eat them.  They are chock full of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

In order to achieve the optimum potential of wagyu beef, consume it a couple of times a week, along with a glass of milk.  This is will unlock the meat’s potential.  The milk will distribute the nutrients throughout your body faster, plus contributing calcium for your bones.  Wagyu beef is really the best.

How Exercise Fosters Brain Health

by Ram

Fostering Brain Health & Balance by Melina Meza

The concept “use it or lose it” for physical abilities applies to the brain as well. As long as we engage our brain in stimulatory activities, the brain actively grows and rewires itself in response to the stimulation and new learning. Brain fitness, mental fitness, and mental exercise all mean the same thing: it is the act of performing a mentally stimulating task that keeps the brain resilient. Additionally, it is well known that physical exercise can also either prevent or delay the onset of mental and physical diseases. Furthermore, age-associated memory loss can be prevented by physical activity/exercise as well. Engaging in regular aerobic activity leads to structural changes in the brain resulting in improved cognition. 

Physical exercise increases nerve branching and in some cases triggers regeneration of new nerve cells, especially in the memory centers of the brain. Owing to the structural changes, physical exercises help an individual to learn new things and to be more alert and attentive. Scientists believe that physical exercises trigger increased blood flow to the brain. The greater the blood flow, the more oxygen and other important nutrients that reach the brain. This may explain the cognitive improvements associated with exercise. Physical exercises will also help maintain optimal blood pressure, control diabetes, and lower cholesterol levels, all of which are potential mental risk factors.

Personally, my day doesn't feel right if I do not perform some kind of a physical activity. There are days when I feel so tired and my brain refuses to work smoothly towards the end of the day. Being aware of the fact that physical exercise is not only important for my body's health but it also helps the brain stay sharp, I force myself to go for a workout to the local gym. The same antidepressant-like effects kick in after exercising for just 20 minutes. I consider that a regular, well-rounded asana practice is also an excellent form of physical exercise, fostering strength, flexibility, balance, and agility. Several scientific studies point to the benefits of yoga on brain function, emotional well-being, and general mental acuity. Yoga increases brain chemicals such as endorphins and enkephalins that contribute to a feel-good response and ward off mental stress. It is akin to stimulating the brain in a positive way, which results in optimal brain function, which can keep an individual alert and sharp. While a trove of scientific studies supports the idea that physical exercise (including yoga) help the brain grow stronger, exactly how exercise alters and improves the brain was unclear until now. 

A recent study Exercise promotes the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) through the action of the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate provides an interesting answer linking physical activity to brain improvement. Although the study was not in humans but in mice, it appears that similar mechanisms may be manifesting inside human brains as well, thus giving additional credence to the study. For several years, scientists and neurophysiologists have understood that the brains of animals and humans who regularly exercise are different than those who are sedentary. Studies conducted in rodents clearly show that exercise triggers neurogenesis, that is, it induces the creation of many new cells in the hippocampus, the area of the brain that is responsible for memory and learning. Exercise also strengthens the growth and branching of these fragile, newborn neurons. Turns out that physical exercise boosts the production of a nerve-stimulating factor called BDNF (brain-derived nerve growth factor). BDNF supports the survival of existing neurons, and stimulates the growth and differentiation of new neurons. It also strengthens nerve-nerve communication. Although the vast majority of neurons in the mammalian brain are formed during birth, some regions of the adult brain retain the ability to grow new neurons in a process known as neurogenesis. Thus, BDNF plays an important role in neurogenesis. The more BDNF there is, the stronger the neuron and the nerve-nerve communication, making the brain more resilient. 

The question these researchers in this particular study asked was, how exactly does exercise turn on the production of BDNF? To get to the bottom of this question, the researchers divided mice into two groups: one group of mice had the luxury of having a running wheel put into their cages and the other was housed in cages without the running wheel. Rodents have a specific affinity for running wheels and can keep themselves busy for long hours on them. The group with the running wheels did just that, running very often and covering several miles a day. The group in cages without the running wheels was comparatively sedentary. After four weeks, the scientists measured the BDNF levels in the hippocampus of both groups of animals. As expected, BDNF protein levels were much higher in the brains of the runner mice compared to the sedentary mice. 

To better understand why the runners had more BDNF protein, the researchers used sophisticated testing methods and closely examined the BDNF gene in the animals’ DNA. To their amazement, they noticed that the BDNF gene was more actively synthesizing the BDNF protein among the animals that exercised than those that did not. How did this happen? Let me use an analogy to better understand the mechanism. To get to the heart of the artichoke, one needs to peel the outer layer by layer to reveal its core. Similarly, the BDNF gene is encapsulated by clusters of a particular molecule called HDAC, which can prevent the BDNF gene from receiving messages from the brain or body to synthesize the protein. In the non-exercising mice, these HDAC molecules clustered so densely over the BDNF gene that messages from the body and brain got blocked and could not reach the gene to activate it. As a result, the BDNF gene of the sedentary mice was subdued, pumping out very little BDNF protein. In contrast, among the runners, the physical activity literally peeled of the dense HDAC molecules covering the BDNF gene, thus exposing the gene to the messages from the brain/body telling it to turn on and produce the BDNF protein. 

Additionally, the physical exercise also triggered the production of ketones, which are a byproduct of the breakdown of fat. During strenuous exercise, the body relies in part on fat for fuel, thus ending up creating ketones, some of which migrate to the brain. Ketones act like molecular scissors, and in this case ripped off the HDAC molecules covering the BDNF gene making it easy for the BDNF gene to now make the BDNF protein. None of this occurred in the brains of the sedentary mice suggesting the importance of physical exercise. 

The question is: does a similar phenomenon happens in humans? While it is still not known whether the same mechanisms that occur in mice occur in our own brains when we exercise, undoubtedly we have more BDNF in our bodies after we exercise. Yoga is also known to increase the levels of BDNF protein (see Age-related changes in cardiovascular system, autonomic functions, and levels of BDNF of healthy active males: role of yogic practice). We also create ketones when we exercise that migrate to our brains to elicit its favorable effects. Thus, physical exercise together with the ketone bodies arising out of those exercises turn on the BDNF gene that in turn triggers the production of BDNF protein, which sustains and protects the neurons and nerve-nerve communication. 

So I’d just say that it is a very good idea to just keep moving or doing your regular yoga sessions.

Subscribe to Yoga for Healthy Aging by Email ° Follow Yoga for Healthy Aging on Facebook ° Join this site with Google Friend Connect

Discover Atlanta Health Connection And Sandy Springs Chiropractor

By Cameron S. Schippers

The chiropractor at Atlanta Health Connection Chiropractic had years of experience with chiropractic care before deciding to follow this path professionally. During his youth and adolescence he was active in contact sports. During this time he was under chiropractic care and developed a trust in the power of the body to heal itself. Today, Dr. John Vatistis, DC, is the clinical director of Atlanta Health Connection, and also serves as a Sandy Springs chiropractor for patients coming from that town.

Atlanta Health Connection uses chiropractic and spinal adjustments to help patients manage and relieve pain. The clinic serves patients of all ages, from pediatric patients to the geriatric patients. Dr. Vatistis studies new and developing techniques to ensure that he is always well informed and trained on the latest in chiropractic techniques.

After a full consultation and analysis of the patient, the doctor will provide a targeted exercise routine to strengthen areas of the body and to correct the effects of misuse of certain muscle areas. As an example, chronic poor sitting posture can result in neck and shoulder pain. A patient with these symptoms and habits would receive an exercise routine targeted to correct the poor posture and to relieve pain in the affected areas.

Understanding the life style of a patient is necessary to achieving overall health. Working with his patients, the doctor will get to know the life style and identify good and not so good habits. Through this process, patients learn to be the stewards of their own health and how every day habits help or hurt their state of wellness.

With the life style awareness training, patients learn to appreciate that chiropractic care is one piece of their health care, and that their behavior is an equally important part. Making positive changes in their daily habits, empowers patients to take ownership of their own health. The chiropractor is there to help, but patients need to do their part also.

With processed foods you can have plenty to eat but still be nutritionally deprived. The doctor and his clinic include nutritional counseling in the overall care of all patients. If your body is severely deficient in certain vitamins and minerals this will have a strong impact on energy levels, moods and general health. Your care will include individualized nutritional counseling.

The chiropractor uses spinal and posture screenings to evaluate the health of the spine and reveal health information. Each and all of these modalities are effective for chronic conditions and acute conditions resulting from some type of injury. Comprehensive chiropractic care is an important part of your path to wellness.

About the Author:

Anders G. Deighan is a Chiropratic professional and a Lifestyle Advissor. He loves working with clients to provide an effective & healthy solution to their problems. Anders believes that one of the best ways to make an impact in your life is to have corrective excercises as a part of the daily routine. If you are looking for Physiotherapy, Atlanta he suggests you visit his friend's to learn more.

Learn Health Advantages With Organic Vitamins Minerals And Supplements

By Beryl Dalton

The fast pace of living and increased stress have made it more difficult for people to manage a healthy diet. Fast foods and microwave meals offer easy solutions as meals after a long day, but this can result in a lack of essential nutrients that simply leaves you feeling sluggish and often malnourished. Organic vitamins minerals and supplements offer a healthier alternative to keep you feeling energized, refreshed, and ensure that daily requirements are met.

With the wide range of products available on the market, the debate is whether synthetic or organically produced supplementation is best for your health needs and future concerns. Attention placed on fitness and greater awareness of the chemicals that are involved in the production process, more people are considering organic products for healthy results. Natural health alternatives to supplement your diet can provide ongoing physical and mental benefits.

The supplement range that is produced according to organic standards can deliver an abundance of nutrients without having undergone harsh chemical and pesticide applications in the foods use for manufacture. The supplementation includes a variety of vitamins and minerals that are derived from both plant and animal bases that will be transformed into capsule or powder forms.

Supplements are consumed on a daily basis to provide maximum support for physical health and function with the correct nutritional levels. The wrong proportions of these elements can lead to a lower immune function and a poor ability to deal with the stress and strain of daily life. The selection of natural products means that it is free from additives and chemicals.

The product range that is manufactured according to organic standards will prove more expensive when compared to a synthetic alternative, but will provide the best possible value for money. One should take some time to read the label on the item that will assist in determining the natural ingredients that are included. Be sure to look out for any preservatives and colorants that may have been added and serves as a good indication of the quality of the product.

When looking for a specific type of product, it is best to loo for whole foods that can be applied in the manufacturing process. All consumers are advised on researching the different ingredients that are part of the product label to ensure that high standards and healthy results are achieved. If you are able to identify the foods that are included in the manufacture process, it serves as an indication of its quality.

In the search for the best possible supplement, do not purchase the items that contain additives and binders. These are artificial additions that have been used to replace the healthy or higher quality ingredients. One should research the ingredients on the label that you do not recognize to ensure that it includes a natural basis.

If you are interested in organically produced supplements, it is important to ensure that natural ingredients are part of the product. A lack of the correct nutritional content in a daily diet can lead to compromised function and increases feelings of lethargy. With reliance on organic products, you will receive value for money and experience a number of important health benefits.

About the Author:

Read more about Learn Health Advantages With Organic Vitamins Minerals And Supplements.

Discover Better Health With Vitamin D3 5000 Supplement Range

By Eve Briner

Vitamins and minerals play an essential role in maintaining healthy function from immune boosters to joint protection and cardiac well-being. Probiotic supplements and vitamin D3 5000 nutritional products can be incorporated on a daily basis as part of a balanced meal plan. A closer look at vitamin D3 reveals its powerful effects in supporting overall long term wellness.

Vitamin D3 is an essential element produced in human skin when exposed to UV light. The use of a supplement can assist in improving overall immunity, bone growth and strength, ease joint stress, and protect against colds and flu. Research has shown that the vitamin D range is important in the maintenance of blood pressure wellness and a suitably balanced meal plan.

Winter months and a lack of exposure to healthy amounts of sunlight can decrease vitamin D3 in the body. Poor nutritional intake can lead to compromised immune function and suffering cold and flu symptoms. Recommended supplements aid in minimizing the severe reactions associated with chronic pain and problems of the gastrointestinal tract.

With the use of the vitamin D3 5000 supplement, adults can improve physical health where poor sun exposure results. It is an important component in buffering degeneration and providing support against gastrointestinal agitation. The vitamins can aid in improving diabetes, hypertension, poor joint mobility, and cardiovascular wellness.

Incorporating balanced supplements must be determined according to the ingredients that are part of its manufacture. This includes a range that does not include an abundance of preservatives, dyes, and harsh additives. Where there is minimal exposure to UV light, it requires the use of vitamin D3 supplements for health maintenance and prevention.

Resilient function and balance requires a quality nutritional intake with the right supplements. Poor sun exposure particularly during the colder months requires the appropriate sources of vitamin D3 to ensure optimum immune operation, to decrease inflammation, and promote hearth health. It is important to consult with a medical professional to determine the appropriate steps that must be taken to improve and support individual wellness needs.

About the Author:

Our probiotic supplements offer better health and wellbeing. To order these quality vitamins, visit the following website right now at http://www.physicianspreferredbrand.com/.

Excess Protein is Hazardous to Your Health and Fitness

[Dr. Leslie Van Romer is the author of weight-loss, body-best book]

Wait a minute ! We know that fat and cholesterol are hazardous to our health. You mean to tell me that too much protein is also hazardous to our health ?

Yes, absolutely ! That is exactly what I am saying. I know that this may come as a complete surprise to you, but the truth is that many experts think that too much protein, particularly animal protein, is hazardous to your health !

If a person consumes over 15% protein in his diet (beef typically has 26% protein – the rest is fat – and chicken has 61% protein – the rest is fat), then the body must get rid of that protein.

In other words, the body stores very little protein. Certain organs are responsible for getting rid of the protein—namely the kidneys and liver. The more protein we eat, the harder the kidneys and liver have to work to excrete the protein. The result of overuse of these organs is obvious—premature wear and tear.

Most Americans eat an over-abundance of animal protein from their foods every day, and then they load themselves up even more with protein powders and drinks and bars. We are protein crazy in this country! And it is to our demise, not to our benefit.

So along with the wear and tear of the kidneys and the liver which is bad enough, why else is excess animal protein hazardous to your health ?

Excess protein makes the body more acidic, and these acids accumulate in the joints causing arthritis and gout.

Animal protein is hard to digest so it is hard on the digestive system causing digestive problems.

Animal protein is strongly associated with heart disease; no, not just the fat and cholesterol, but also the animal protein itself.

Animal protein is associated with many kinds of cancers, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, and pancreatic cancer.

In a huge study conducted in China by T. Colin Campbell, PhD., it was found that the groups of people who ate the most animal protein had, by far, the most heart disease and certain cancers. And the amount of animal protein did not have to go up very high in order for the disease numbers to go up also.

And because the animal protein makes the body more acidic, the body has to neutralize the acid. It does so by pulling calcium out of the bones, and then we pee out the calcium.

Why is this significant ?

It is believed that animal protein just happens to be one of the major contributors to osteoporosis in this country. This excess protein leaches the calcium out of our bones.

So one of the best things you can do for yourself is to cut back, way back, on your consumption of meat protein and protein artificially loaded into other foods and pseudo-foods. In fact, your best bet for maximum health and fitness is to completely eliminate animal sources of protein.

Load up on plant foods and get away from animal products—it just makes sense !

Veterans Health Spans and Yoga

Wounded Soldier by Marc Chagall

It’s Memorial Day weekend here in the U.S. (Monday is the actual holiday), so we’re fundraising today for the Veterans Yoga Project in honor of both the fallen and surviving veterans. If you want to contribute, we have a page set up just for our Yoga for Healthy Aging community! Go to veteransyogaproject/YogaForHealthyAging, where you can “light a candle” to honor someone by donating any amount. Let’s see what our community can do to support this wonderful organization! 

Now here’s something from Baxter about why supporting yoga for veterans is so important. —Nina 

I woke up the other day thinking about my dad. I suppose partly due to the fact that Memorial Day is coming up, and although he did not die while in the service, he was a veteran. He was in the ROTC in college, from 1954-58, and following graduation, was stationed for a while at a base near Tulsa, Oklahoma, and at Ft. Knox, KY for 6 months, as a second lieutenant. My dad was lucky he served between conflicts, after Korea and before Vietnam—his life could have turned out much differently had been a little older or younger. As it was, he generally had good health and lived to a respectable age of 76. That got me wondering if my dad had seen action in an actual war whether that would have affected his health span. 

After I rubbed the sleep from my eyes, I took a look into question: how does serving during combat affect the health span of soldiers? I am aware—as many of you readers are, too—that veterans of war are more likely to suffer from serious conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. That means higher rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive difficulties. And most of us have also heard the staggering statistics on suicide with rates of 20 military deaths a day. 

It turns out that having served in combat does increase the chances for these men and women developing those and other unusual health problems (described below) and sometimes other serious health problems (such as hypertension and heart disease) at a more frequent rate than their fellow citizens. In addition, they often report general symptoms, such as persistent pain, fatigue, trouble concentrating, and poor memory. Over 50% of visits to the VA hospitals are for musculoskeletal injuries and chronic pain. 

Although post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) gets a lot of press, many veterans suffer other mental illnesses, with one in ten suffering from depression, violent behavior, or alcohol abuse. And 50 percent of those that suffer from PTSD, will, as they age, develop sleep apnea, which is twice the rate as non-military PTSD patients, and are at greater risk of developing dementia as they age.

Combat veterans are also more likely to have been exposed to chemical agents, such as Gulf War veterans who were exposed to sarin gas, which has led to heart damage in many. Similarly, they are often exposed to infectious diseases in the foreign countries were they served that lead to ongoing, difficult-to-treat conditions, such as Leishmaniasis, transmitted from sand flea bites. And they are more likely to be exposed to loud noise and vibrations from gun, cannon fire, and other tools of the trade, which can lead hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), numbness and pain in the hands and feet, and chronic low back pain. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is more common in the military, due to exposure to explosions or direct head trauma, resulting in a jolt to the brain. It not only temporarily disrupts how the brain functions, but can lead to persistent, longer term symptoms of irritability, memory trouble, language issues, information processing difficulties, and short attention spans, with secondary increases in anxiety, depression and headaches. 

Preliminary research done in 2012 noted that active-duty military and veterans in their twenties and thirties were developing symptoms typically seen in older adults, such as elevated blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels, and obesity, much earlier in their lives than would be expected. As we have said here before, these are risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, all which have a negative impact on health span! 

Due to all these issues, those that have served in war zones have multiple risk factors for negative impacts on health span. Fortunately, we know that yoga can help address many of these conditions as an adjunct to western medical approaches. So I wondered if my friends Dan Libby, founder and director of Veterans Yoga Project, and Perry Chattler, the regional director for Northern California branch of the organization, had any experience with veterans with these sorts of conditions, and if they had seen yoga play a role in addressing the health of and improving the lives of these folks. Here is how they answered my questions.


Perry: Many veterans suffer from symptoms of PTSD, a combination of PTSD and other disorders, or simply physical injuries suffered during basic training or during their service, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI). We see issues such as high blood pressure, alcohol/drug abuse, insomnia, depression, heart and lung disease, chronic pain (fibromyalgia), wear and tear issues with shoulders, knees and hips, and military sexual trauma (MST). 

By bringing the practices to the veterans in places that they are comfortable going to (Vet Centers, Veterans Halls, etc.), rather than having them seek the practices out in a public forum, we find that they are more willing to try yoga. We also find that by bringing “mindful-resilience” practices to the veterans, they are more willing to give yoga a try, and interestingly enough, they almost always come back to class. These practices include: mindful movement (asana), breathing practices (pranayama), meditation, yoga nidra, and gratitude practices.

Here are just a few quotes from veterans who have my attended classes:

“My doctor is amazed that my blood pressure has dropped and I can lower my medication.” (Vietnam vet) 
“My wife tells me I’m calmer.” (Gulf War vet) 
“I couldn’t sleep and remembered my breathing practices. I slept through the night.” (Vietnam vet) 
“My doctor had me on pain-killers for my low back pain. Since beginning yoga, I am off the meds.” (Afghanistan vet) 
“I am better able to be around other people.” (Vietnam vet) 
“These classes have changed my life. Thank you!”. (Iraq vet) 

Recently, an Iraq veteran told me that since he started yoga classes with the Veterans Yoga Project, his sleep has gone from 0-1 hours a night to 3-4 hours and then to 6-7 hours, and without the need for sleep aids. We know from research that yoga practices work in reducing pain and calming the nervous system. But the anecdotal comments are proof enough for me. 

Dan: I want to echo some of the things Perry has already mentioned. There is more and more awareness about millions of military veterans who are still trying to recover from the symptoms of post-traumatic stress (PTS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other trauma-related psychological challenges. And there is more general awareness about the fact that 20 veterans end their own lives each and every day, as you mention. Increase awareness about these things are good. 

But the veterans I see are also all dealing with other health problems that significantly affect their everyday quality of life and impede recovery. Pain, in particular, is a significant impediment to recovery and wellness. Statistics show that there is high comorbidity between PTSD and pain, and pain is one of the most common and is often debilitating challenges for the veterans I work with. Unfortunately, these challenges often feed into each other, exacerbating tendencies toward avoidance and isolation, leading to a downward spiral of intrusive memories, physiological dysfunction, and, unhealthy coping behaviors. 

That’s why I love my job. I get to show veterans and their loved ones how to practice yoga for healthy aging. As a teacher, and as the founder and executive director of an organization that is dedicated to supporting veterans through yoga, I get to hear a lot of positive feedback about how yoga affects quality of life:

“I came into class feeling achy all over. I feel great now.” 
“That made my pain go away.” 
“I’m walking better.” 

I get to hear about a veteran who can tie his shoes without pain. I get to see the increase in physical strength, stability, and agility in the veterans who come to class each week. I get to hear stories about playing golf on the weekend instead of stories about what isn’t working and what hurts. I also get to collect data that documents these effects. For example, in Veterans Yoga Project programs where we collect stress and pain ratings before and after class, we find that 77%-92% of all class visits result in a decrease in pain. This can be 1, 2, 3, 4, or even 5 points on a 0 to 10 scale. There are no adverse side effects, and it’s cheaper and more effective than medication.  

Baxter: Is it important to have special dedicated classes just for veterans?  

Perry: Yes, we believe so. Veterans (Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq/Afghanistan) will rarely attend a public yoga class, and for a variety of reasons. At Veterans Yoga Project (VYP), we bring trauma-informed yoga in the form of asana, pranayama, and meditation, to veterans at Vet Centers, Veterans Halls, and VA hospitals. All classes are free to veterans and their families. Thanks to the generosity of donors, we continue to fund existing and new programs, enabling all of us to serve those who have served.

Baxter: Thanks, Dan and Perry, for telling us about the positive experiences of the veterans who have studied with you both through the Veterans Yoga Project. All this evidence about improving the physical and mental health of veterans with yoga does help provide an answer to my original question about the effect of yoga on the health span of veterans. It sounds like it can indeed be very helpful for improving health spans!

Readers, all of this is why I’m recommending that if you are looking for a way to not only honor those you have lost to war but to help those who have lived through it, considering donating to the “Light a Candle” fundraising for the Veterans Yoga Project at https://veteransyogaproject.z2systems.com/YogaForHealthyAging 

—Baxter

Subscribe to Yoga for Healthy Aging by Email ° Follow Yoga for Healthy Aging on Facebook ° Join this site with Google Friend Connect 

Discovering Health Benefits And Calories In Strawberries

Strawberries are rank high as a favorite fruit by both children and adults. This small, juicy fruit is packed with nutrition and is low in calories. Strawberries while packed full of flavor and benefits come in at forty three calories per cup. Each cup of strawberries is packed with important nutrients such as fiber, potassium, and folate. Not only are they loaded with essential nutrients but they are full of antioxidants. Foods high in antioxidants are known to help prevent certain types of cancer as well as aiding in lowering blood pressure and lower the chances of heart disease.

The berry is great when eaten fresh from the container or when used in deserts. They can be used by alone or in combination with other fruit to make tasty and healthy smoothies. The fruit is quite versatile and is a perfect ingredient for various recipes.

For a refreshing low calorie smoothie use frozen or fresh berries. Adding a little frozen or regular yogurt makes a great treat that offers great nutritional benefits. A lot of people like to eat them without adding anything to help keep the calorie value down.

The berries can be cleaned, sliced, and sprinkled with sugar or natural sweetener. When you let them stand for about a half hour the sweetener will cause the natural juices to be released from the berries. For a tasty desert you can spoon the fruit on top of a slice of angel food cake.

Glazed strawberry pie is also a favorite dessert. However, there are more calories. These calories can be decreased by using a natural sugar substitute. Whipped cream on top of a bowl of this delicious fruit will add few calories and is refreshing after a long day. Often a bowl of fresh fruit topped by real whipped cream is a favorite dessert for its ease to make.

Crepes filled with the fresh berries make a tasty brunch or breakfast dish. Instead of the rich creams and cheeses used to fill the crepes the fruit makes a delicious low calorie substitute. Use fresh berries or a small dab of whipped cream to top the crepes. You can make a topping by mashing the fresh fruit and adding sugar. After letting the mixture sit for thirty minutes you can pour it over a waffle or pancakes.

Fruit is a sweet, decorative way to garnish your dishes as well. It is a great way to add a pleasing addition to a dinner plate for any occasion by adding a few freshly cut strawberries to a meal. Many experts say it is good to add color to your meals. Sliced strawberries can be added to granola or any low calorie breakfast cereal to start a healthy day. They are also delicious sprinkled onto of a freshly made salad full of fresh greens, walnuts and topped with strawberry vinaigrette. Strawberries are so low in calories you could enjoy them with every meal, reaping in the benefits of the tasty berry.

Providing your body with antioxidants and nutrients is easy when you add strawberries to your meal plans. Because the calories in strawberries are around forty three per cup you can include them in all your meals. Use them in your deserts, with breakfast, and dinners as an alternative to higher calorie food items. When fresh berries are out of season you can use frozen for your recipes. It does not matter if the fruit is frozen or fresh; they make smoothies and waffle or pancake toppings that are tasty and nutritious.

About the Author:   By Arold Augustin

If you want to find out more about banana calories, then consider visiting this personal blog at http://calories-in-food-and-fruit.weebly.com/blog.html.