Five Fabulous Fat Fighting Tips

One of the things that so many of us do that really sabotage our weight loss and fat reduction efforts are that we eat out so frequently. Even when we try to make healthy choices from the menu we often end up eating ingredients we would not normally eat at home (if we are watching our calories and fat intake). Sometimes it is because we are not aware of all the ingredients that are in the foods we order and at other times it is because it is too difficult to have the waiter modify our food requests. Either way, it becomes a problem when we are trying to stay on a food regiment that will work for us. Eating home solves that dilemma. We can know precisely what it is we are putting in our recipes and consequently into our mouths and stomachs. We all like to eat out but we may need to do it less frequently if we are serious about getting in better shape.

Another tip that will pay big dividends is to increase the amount of protein we consume while reducing the amount of carbohydrates. Many athletes swear by making protein a significant part of their diets. Cyclists and boxers and athletes across the board know that eating the correct things makes a big difference in their ability to perform. Protein makes us feel fuller faster and for a longer period of time which results in our eating less. Eating less is fine is we are getting the nutrients we need to sustain our health.

An additional bonus to eating more fiber is that our bodies have to work harder to digest fiber than it does carbohydrates so we are burning more calories in the process.

One of the things that really plays havoc with our healthy eating intentions is the cravings that hit and our seeming inability to control them. Sadly, it is usually the things that are the very worst for us that we crave, such as high fat foods, sugary foods and high calorie foods. Planning ahead will help with this dilemma. Find some snack items that you find appealing but that are not going to completely destroy your efforts to eat wisely. Whether you are a lover of crunchy foods, sweet foods, salty foods, or whatever, you can find choices that will be a lot kinder to your body if you look for them. Keep those on hand so that when that almost overwhelming feeling of wanting to cave in to your cravings strikes, you are equipped.

Don't skip breakfast. It is one of the habits that will be most helpful to you if you make a healthy breakfast part of your daily routine. There is a lot to be said for starting the day off right and when you put healthy food into your body is has to fuel it needs to work well for you. The chances are much less that you are going to chow down on greasy fast food or other poor food choices at lunch time if you have started off with a good, healthy breakfast.

Finally, make sure you are well stocked on the foods that you know will make you feel better and in the long run, look better too. Having fruits and vegetables on hand for snacking and for meal preparation is so important. Healthy grains and low fat items should also be readily available.

One does not have to be so rigid that they can never eat sweets or treat themselves to a juicy hamburger or whatever delightful splurge that is calling out to them but these should be occasional diversions and not a routine habit.

A lifestyle of healthy eating, along with enough exercise will improve your health, your energy level and your physical fitness.

Nancy Smith is one of the owners of RobbinsSports.com, an online retailer specializing in basketball backboards and punching dummies.

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4 Ways on How to Relieve Hip Pain

The hip joint is essentially a ball and socket joint that is designed to provide a near unrestricted range of motion and withstand this cyclic process and the wear and tear it brings along. Due to the frequency of usage, the hip joint can break down easily. The soft tissues located in the hip will be overused and injuries such as fractures and sprains can then happen, leading to hip pain. We will discuss about some ways to relieve hip pain in this article.

Stretching exercises

Stretching exercises help to keep the target group muscles warm and flexible. Exercises will increase blood flow to the area, bringing more nutrients such as oxygen and aiding repair works. Hip exercises such as bridging can help to relief hip pain. You simply have to lie down on your back and raise your butt off the ground while contracting your abs muscle. Hold in this position for 10 seconds and repeat for 3 sets.

Aquatic therapy

The main benefit of aquatic therapy is the reduced stresses acting on the injured joints. As the name suggests, it takes place in the water. Aqua therapy uses the unique buoyancy of water properties to assist in healing, conditioning and strengthening of the joints, allowing patients to perform the therapy in a painless manner yet significantly aiding the recovery plan. The viscosity properties of water allow a gentle resistance to build up the body's mechanism.

Medication

During sudden onset of hip pain, pain relief medication is able to produce a temporal solution to counter the problem and allow patients to relax. Medication can only be a stop gap measure as it does not solve the root of the problem and that can only be solved by exercises, physical therapy or surgery.

Ice packs

Ice packs help to bring down swelling and calm irritated nerves and tissues in the hip region. Ice also contracts the blood vessels, reducing the amount of blood flow in the region. This will help to produce a temporary pain relief effect similar to medication but the effective duration is shorter.

Discussed above are 4 ways to help reduce hip pain. Hip pain is inevitable at some point in our lives due to the wear and tear of the cartilage lining. Joint supplements may be able to help alleviate the pain to a certain extent and is best taken when you are still young and active.

We introduce you Singapore Sports and Orthopaedics Clinic where professional help will be offered in the areas of diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation for all spine injuries and sports injuries.

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Why Having a Food Wash in the Kitchen Is Important to Your Family's Health

In today's world, we hear more and more horror stories regarding the contamination of food products. Whether it's salmonella found in a fresh chicken supplies or E.Coli lurking in our produce, these bacterial contaminants can cause severe illness or even death in some cases. This is why it is imperative to ensure that a good quality organic food wash forms part of your list of kitchen cleaning supplies.

Types of Food Wash Available
Over the years, many food wash products have claimed that they are suitable for all types of food. However, this may not always be the case. Different types of food are susceptible to different types of contaminants, which is why it is important to use the correct product for each food type. A fruit wash and veggie wash will ensure that your fresh produce is left clean and bacteria-free, while a meat wash product will assist with the removal of various harmful contaminants from your fish, chicken and meat products.

Removing Unwanted Contaminants
When it comes to purchasing food products, it is impossible to determine how often it has been handled during the shipping, storage and packing processes. This makes the food vulnerable to contamination via physical contact. It is also possible for fresh food supplies to become contaminated by simply being exposed to existing stock on store shelves and in refrigerators. Ensuring that your purchases are thoroughly washed and dried prior to being packed in your refrigerator or pantry will go a long way in preventing contamination and the spread of harmful bacteria to your family.

Selecting the Right Food Wash Products
Although there may be a large variety of these products on store shelves, not all of them are as safe and effective as they claim to be. Before purchasing any of them, it is important to see if they have a list of ingredients displayed on them. If not, it is best to use products from companies who are willing to disclose what they are using. An organic or all-natural food wash should not contain any chemical-based or artificial ingredients of any type, as this will affect the quality of your food and cause potential allergic reactions. It is also important for the product to have clear contact details displayed in case there are any inquiries.

Why Natural Products are Better
If you have taken the trouble to purchase only organic produce and free-range meat products, it makes sense to ensure that you use food wash products that also contain no harmful ingredients. Although they may seem more expensive to purchase, they will do a far better job of leaving your food bacteria-free. In most cases, all-natural products actually do a far better job of cleaning your food and home than their chemical counterparts.

Once you have started using an all-natural food wash product, your family will experience a noticeable difference in the taste of their food. It will also reduce the chances of anyone in your home developing harmful bacterial infections of any sort.

iGOZEN Simply Clean Washing Powders are effective, natural cleaning products for a healthier home. Our Everyday Cleaner will safely and effectively clean, while removing unwanted germs, bacteria and toxins. Our Food Washes will clean and purify vegetables, fruits, meat, grain and nuts by removing harmful bacteria, pesticides and waxes. For more information please visit: http://www.igozen.com

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Fertility With PCOS

It is important to understand that success with fertility may be tied to getting to a healthy weight and then staying at a healthy weight. For many women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) who want to have a baby, their excess weight often gets in the way of their fertility and can be a tough problem to tackle.
Once a woman becomes overweight or obese her body is no longer efficient in using the excess body fat for energy and it decreases her fertility. It then becomes more likely she will have a harder time getting pregnant or may not be able to get pregnant at all. Fertility is usually positively affected by losing excess weight. Just 5% loss of extra body weight can get a woman on the road to better health all around, and it improves fertility too. A baby becomes much more likely as she loses the extra pounds.
For some women with PCOS the difficulty with getting pregnant and having a baby is strongly tied to what is happening with their blood sugar. Uneven blood sugar is often at the core of these fertility problems.
Uneven blood sugar is caused by eating too many sweets, grains, starches or other carbohydrates at any one time. When a woman does this, her body wants to go into fat storage mode and at a certain point the body's response to sugar becomes abnormal and the insulin is no longer as effective at getting energy into the body's cells.
So in a way the body thinks that it is not getting enough energy to begin and continue a pregnancy. A woman's body is highly sensitive to whether she has enough energy of the right kinds to sustain her pregnancy. Being pregnant takes a lot of energy. So anything that interferes with the body being able to access that energy in a normal healthy way will also interfere with conception, staying pregnant, and carrying a baby all the way through to birth.
Another fertility problem when the average blood sugar remains too high for too long over a period of time is that it causes problems with blood flow in the body's tiny blood vessels where all the exchange of nutrients and waste happen. When blood sugar is too high this leads to a process where extra-large particles made up of sugars bonded to proteins form in the blood. These extra-large particles can really slow down the blood flow in these tiny capillaries and can interfere with conception and maintaining a pregnancy.
If a woman wants to improve her fertility in the face of PCOS weight loss issues, it becomes extremely important for her to keep her blood sugar in a healthy range and avoid those blood sugar spikes. Regulating blood sugar and losing PCOS weight should lead to improved chances with fertility success and having a baby.

Dr. Beverly Yates is an expert on weight loss and women's health, including PCOS weight loss. In addition to having two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Yates is an MIT-educated engineer, and has been featured on countless media including PBS, NPR, CNN, & NBC. For a complimentary free report on PCOS Weight Loss Tips and Secrets, go to www.PCOSWeightLossTips.com

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Are Your Sleeping Habits Preventing Maximum Muscle Growth?

Your workouts are progressing nicely, you're doing everything right in the gym and exercising with proper form using higher reps and heavier weights regularly, but still your muscle growth is slow and painful, at best. Is a lack of sufficient sleep your problem, or at least a big part of it?

The Process Of Building Muscles 
Think about the process of building muscles - exercise, nutrition and recovery. You tear down the muscles in the gym, creating the micro-tears that force the body to rebuild bigger and stronger. You fuel your body with the proteins, essential amino acids, vitamins and micro-nutrients it needs for the anabolic process of building muscles. And when you sleep, your body balances your hormones and uses that nutrition to heal and build muscles - your muscle building is almost completely accomplished while you sleep.

So even if all goes well in the gym - you're using scientific principles and the latest research to craft your exercise routine, never miss a workout and spend a small fortune on protein and supplements - if you don't get enough rest & recuperation you won't be getting the full benefits of your training regime. Yet getting enough sleep is completely within your own power...

Getting Enough Sleep 
Sleep deprivation runs rampant in today's society, so you may think you just don't have enough time to get 8 hours of sleep a night. But the truth is you have the same 168 hours a week that everyone else has, and 8 hours of sleep a night only uses up 56 of those hours. So that lack of sleep that's preventing you from building muscles faster is actually a lifestyle choice, not a fact carved in stone. And like any lifestyle choice, you have the power to change it right away.

What stops you from getting enough sleep? For most, television, computer games and/or Internet social media sites burn up hours uselessly and keep them up later than is prudent. Each is fine in moderation, but study after study show people are spending HOURS a day at these pursuits. If you're watching TV for 2 or 3 hours a day and not getting 8 hours of sleep, the answer is pretty obvious, isn't it?

Your Simple Solution 
If you believe you can't get 8 hours of sleep a night, or that it's not important to get enough sleep, you're kidding yourself. Your entire day and your health is massively impacted by your sleeping habits. And, of course, that includes your efforts to build muscles - both the energy and endurance you need for your workouts and your muscle-building process are dependent on your body setting enough sleep. The problem until now is that you're doing everything you want to do without limitation and then setting your sleep time by what's left over - by default as it were.

Instead, set your bedtime based on when you have to get up. If you have to get up by 7am for work tomorrow, be in bed and ready to sleep by 11pm tonight. If you're planning to sleep in until 10am tomorrow, start drifting off to sleep by 2am. It's a simple solution that helps you get enough sleep to benefit your whole life and help you build muscles more quickly - and you'll find your stress levels drop and your general mood improves as well.

Just remember no one else can make these changes for you - like everything that's important in life, YOU have to make the decision and put in the effort to improve your life and live a fit & healthy lifestyle!

D. Champigny is well known in the fitness world - he's a published fitness photographer, certified personal trainer, fitness author and publisher of the popular Flirting With Fitness website. For more help from Champigny, add him to your circles on Google+ today!

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How a Cosmetic Dentist Performs Root Planing

If your cosmetic dentist suggests that you undergo a root planing procedure, that will result in smoother gums and a healthier, cleaner mouth. You'll experience very little - if any - discomfort, and your mouth will be rid of dangerous bacteria and gingivitis, a gum disease that can eventually lead to the loosening of teeth.

As long as this disease is caught in time, a cosmetic dentist can repair any damage that may have been done. Root planing, the process of removing any infection that may be in the teeth and smoothing the surfaces of roots, is often confused with another process called scaling. Scaling is the process of cleaning tartar that has accumulated on a patient's teeth. Typically, scaling and root planing are performed at the same time.

It is very important that gingivitis is treated as soon as possible before inflammation works its way too far toward the base of your teeth. If this occurs, bacteria can cause a great deal of damage, breaking down the structure of a tooth to the point that it becomes loose. If that damage is too great, the process is irreversible. However, the process can be halted or even reversed if caught early enough.

When a cosmetic dentist performs root planing, he or she may numb the area to be treated to reduce discomfort. This can include either an anesthetic that is injected, or a topical anesthetic gel that is applied to the pockets of gums. You won't experience any numbing of your tongue or lips, as may be the case with an injection.

There are some instances where no sort of anesthetic is needed at all, such as when an infection has not developed too deeply in the gums. The only sensation you would feel would be scraping as the area is smoothed and cleaned. When the surface is planned and free of tartar, this allows the gum tissues to heel and reattach to the root surface.

A cosmetic dentist typically performs this procedure during four different appointments, one for each quadrant of the mouth. He or she may, for example, want to work on the upper right side of your mouth first, and then schedule separate appointments for the other areas. There are times, however, where a patient may undergo two cleanings, where the upper half of the mouth is worked on first, and then the lower half is cleaned.

After your procedure, your teeth may be a bit more sensitive to temperature for a short while and you may experience some temporary bleeding. It is rare that patients have any sort of substantial pain, but your cosmetic dentist can prescribe medication if that is the case. In most instances, over-the-counter medicines can easily take care of any discomfort that may occur.

In need of a cosmetic dentist, Port Hueneme? We have the experience and latest technology to make your cosmetic procedure pristine and painless. Please visit our website for more information at http://www.porthuenemefamilydentistry.com.

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Look Your Best With a Brazilian Butt Lift

Being physically fit and the aesthetic proportion of your body plays an important role in making you feel confident and looking good in the eyes of others. Body sculpting has now gained much popularity. Procedures such as buttocks augmentation employing a Brazilian Butt Lift technique has gained the attention of many people because of its safe process and lasting results. Furthermore, having this treatment done on your buttocks will help you achieve a naturally fuller bottom.

How a Brazilian Butt Lift Works

After going through the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure, you must understand that it is a way of transferring fat from other parts of your body to your buttocks. Using the liposuction technology, fats from your tummy or legs, or whichever part you may have fat available, will be harvested, refined, and then transferred back into your buttocks. This is a relatively painless process and will help transform your shape drastically. If you have always wanted a shapely buttocks this is a safe and very effective procedure to have t get the body you have been desiring.

Generally, this type of butt augmentation uses your own tissue in the process thus gaining its reputation of being natural. It is a quick procedure that offers minimal scaring, no overnight stay in the hospital and where general anesthesia is not always necessary.

Benefits of the Brazilian Butt Lift

The Brazilian butt lift is a more advanced procedure than any traditional buttocks augmentation technique that cosmetic surgery can offer. In a more technical term, it is known as fat grafting which is a way of harvesting your body's fat to create a natural shape.

One of its benefits is having your rear enhanced while minimizing your hips and waist. During the procedure, you may have your abdomen, thighs, lower back, and hips sculpted with liposuction. The fat removed from these aforementioned areas of your body will then be purified and injected to your buttocks via small incisions. Furthermore, you will enjoy quick results without having to worry about artificial materials being placed in your body. Many people have opted for buttocks implant which is another method of rescaling. However implants can sometimes has side effects or even potentially rupture. It is much more sensible to do a buttocks augmentation naturally. Your body's own fat is an absolutely ideal solution to lifting, shaping and transforming your buttocks. You will be thrilled with your results.

So if you want to reshape your buttocks, the Brazilian Buttocks Lift is a way to help you realize your dream butt. For further information on the Brazillian Butt Lift Techniques please visit the website of the world renown cosmetic surgeon Dr. Amman Shahine, MD., who has been artistically sculpting the female body for over 20 years. http://www.nyBeautySurgeon.com or call 212-695-1999

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15 Simple Ways to Enjoy Your Life

Many of us assume that we need to make drastic changes to our habits, routines and/or bank balances to be happy. In reality, however, that's not the case. Often, we already have everything we need to enjoy life-it's just a question of prioritizing what's really important. Here are 15 simple ways you can enjoy your life more, starting today!

1. Focus on yourself
Other people will always be on hand to offer up their opinions and advice. Ultimately, however, it's we, and we alone, that have to live with the consequences of our decisions.

2. Make time to relax
Making time to relax and reconnect with ourselves leaves us better equipped to deal with more challenging periods.

3. Avoid the news
It's all too easy to get sucked into public drama, online and offline. Trust that if something important happens, you'll know about it. Otherwise, save yourself energy and spend your time on something more worthwhile.

4. Nurture your positive relationships
Make time to nurture the positive relationships you have with friends and family. Identify the people who lift you up and focus your energy on them.

5. Meet new people
Community is one of the most important needs we have. Making a consistent effort to meet new people helps us fulfill that need and introduces us to new ideas and perspectives.

6. Explore new places
New places and cultures offer a different perspective on the world and add a healthy dose of inspiration and possibility to our lives.

7. Keep a wish list
Whenever you think of something you'd like to try, or a place you'd like to visit, write it down and keep a collection. It keeps the dream alive and stops it fizzling out as a forgotten thought.

8. Try new things
Commit to trying a certain number of items from your wish list each year to make sure they don't just stay as wishes.

9. Spend money on experiences, not possessions
It's experiences, not possessions, that create memories and meaning.

10. Cut down your junk
Physical clutter equals mental clutter; reducing the amount of stuff around us fosters a calmer mental state, too.

11. Make time for gratitude and appreciation
Creating a routine of writing down three things we feel grateful for each day helps us focus more on what we're grateful for in life.

12. Track how you're spending your time
It's easy to get to the end of a day and wonder where all the time went, so track how you spend your time in an average week. When we're conscious of how we're spending our hours, we can make the most of the time we have on this planet.

13. Be deliberate in your choices
We've never had so many opportunities to create a lifestyle that we truly love, yet many of us still live life on autopilot. Be deliberate in your life choices: remember that it's your life and no-one else's.

14. Invest in yourself
The more self-aware and self-accepting we are, the happier we are. Make time to read personal development books, journal, and focus on being compassionate towards yourself.

15. Remember that all feelings pass
A key part of enjoying life is accepting that we're not going to feel 100% happy 100% of the time. During the more challenging times, remember that life is one big cycle of ups and downs, and remember that all feelings pass.

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Hand Problems And The Treatments Suggested By Orthopedic Doctors

The hands are an incredibly important part of the body that we depend on each and every day. When pain occurs, orthopedic doctors can offer advice and guidance on how to get relief. That relief can come in many different forms, including targeted exercises, the use of support braces, and surgery.

Each hand is a complex structure made up of tendons, joints, ligaments, skin, bones, and nerves. Pain can occur in any of these areas and can be so devastating that nearly any movement hurts. Furthermore, hand-related injuries or diseases can cause the forearms to hurt and can significantly impact overall strength of the arms. Unfortunately, because we rely so heavily on our hands, it's not uncommon for people to have pain issues at any age. Even healthy or young individuals may experience the common problems listed here.

Arthritis

Arthritis refers to the inflammation and stiffness of the joints. Symptoms of the disease include chronic pain and visible swelling. The condition can be so severe that use of the hands is nearly impossible, while other people who struggle with it may face a constant ache while doing everyday activities. There are more than 100 types of arthritis, and there is no cure.

Orthopedic doctors may recommend a number of different options to patients who have arthritis. Some patients can do at-home exercises to reduce inflammation, and staying active in general is often the first recommendation a physician will make. There are many drug treatment options available as well, ranging from over-the-counter products to injectable prescription drugs for more serious issues. Severe cases may require surgery.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition that can affect the hands, wrists, and forearms. Pain is usually caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist area. This issue has become much more common in recent years as working professionals spend more time using their computers, often with their body not aligned correctly. When the arms and wrists are positioned in a way that is not ergonomically correct, such as typing at an awkward angle, carpal tunnel syndrome can develop.

The first thing orthopedic doctors usually recommend is to optimize the positioning of your keyboard, chair, and mouse. They'll often advise patients to try wearing a supportive brace, especially at bedtime. By implementing these few changes, many patients often notice tremendous relief. There are also at-home exercises that may be recommended, and even physical therapists offer specialized treatment options. As with arthritis, over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription steroids may be used to treat symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. In more advanced cases, endoscopic or open surgery may be performed to provide relief to patients.

Searching for orthopedic doctors? Syracuse, NY, residents can make an appointment with the physicians at Upstate Orthopedics. For more information, visit: http://www.upstateorthopedics.com.

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Osteoporosis Facts

BONE IS A LIVING TISSUE THAT CHANGES

Osteoclasts remove old bone, osteoblasts help create new bone. Bone remodeling is completed every 3 to 4 months in a healthy young adult. Osteoclasts & osteoblasts become less efficient with age. With osteoporosis, bone loss occurs more rapidly causing thinner, weaker & brittle bones. During menopause, estrogen levels decrease dramatically, casing a faster rate of bone loss.

OSTEOPOROSIS STATISTICS

• Osteoporosis affects 2 million Canadians
• Typically 1 in 4 women over the age of 50; 1 in 8 men
• The cost of treatment is ≈ $1.3 billion each year in Canada
• Disfigurement, decreased self-esteem, decrease or loss of mobility, and a decrease in independence may occur.
• 80% of hip fractures are thought to be osteoporosis-related.
• Hip fractures can lead to death in up to 20% of cases and disability in 50% of survivors

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test using bone densitometry is a safe, painless test for osteoporosis. The most common BMD test is the dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The patient lies on a table for several minutes while a small x-ray detector scans the spine/hip with a very small amount of radiation.

ROLE OF VITAMIN D

• Vitamin D - important for the normal growth & development of our bones/teeth.

• It helps the body maintain normal levels of calcium & phosphorous by influencing absorption in the intestines. Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption by as much as 30 - 80 percent.

• 25 minutes a day of sun exposure allows the body to make enough vitamin D. However, sunscreen and increased levels of colour/melanin in the skin can interfere with this process. Therefore it is important to consider dietary sources

• The need for vitamin D also increases after the age of 50. It is now recommended that Canadians aged 19 to 50, including pregnant or lactating women, receive 400 international units (IUs) of vitamin D3 per day. Adults over 50 should receive 800 IUs. These levels can be obtained by a variety of foods or additional supplementation

OSTEOPOROSIS- Major risk factors

• Age 65 or older
• Vertebral compression fracture
• Fracture with minimal trauma after age 40
• Family history of osteoporotic fracture
• Long-term use of glucocorticoid therapy such as prednisone
• Medical conditions that inhibit absorption of nutrients
• Primary hyperparathyroidism
• Osteopenia apparent on x-ray
• Hypogonadism (↓ testosterone in men, loss of menstrual periods in younger women)
• Early menopause (before age 45)

Risk factors for fracture:

• decreased bone mineral density
• Prior fragility, trauma fracture
• Long-term, (> 3 months continuously) use of glucocorticoid therapy (prednisone)
• Family history of osteoporotic fracture

Calcium

Calcium is in almost every cell in the body & bones require calcium for strength. Calcium is found in the skeleton and teeth, in the cells & in the blood. The body carefully regulates the supply of calcium by absorbing it from the food we eat, taking calcium from our bones, or slowing down the amount that leaves the body. Main goal is to maintain an adequate calcium supply so that the reservoir (bone) is not depleted. Bone density depends upon calcium intake at a younger age. The greater the peak bone mass, the less likely bones are to become porous & fragile later in life. Calcium is absorbed less effectively as we age, but studies of older adults show that adequate calcium intake can slow bone loss and decrease the risk of fracture.

CALCIUM CONTENT IN FOOD

• Calculate your daily calcium intake and see if you are achieving the recommended levels.

• Dairy products (milk, cheese & yogurt) are excellent sources of calcium, easily absorbed by the body.

• Calcium-fortified soy beverages and orange juices may contain as much calcium as milk.

• Vegetables also provide calcium, as do fish products containing bones (canned salmon and sardines) and meat alternatives such as lentils and beans.

• Calcium loss through the urine is thought to be increased by the consumption of excess salt and caffeine.

• Over 90% of sodium comes from food rather than from table salt. Therefore, it is advisable to keep the intake of salt and salty foods to a minimum.

• Consuming more than four cups of caffeinated drugs a day - coffee, sport drinks, colas can affect calcium absorption.

• People that are unable or choose not to eat dairy foods must monitor calcium intake very carefully & consider a calcium supplement to meet the daily requirement.

OSTEOPOROSIS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

• Physical activity - important factor in risk reduction & treatment of osteoporosis

• Physical activity assists in building & maintaining healthy bones, as well as improving muscle strength.

• Physical activity places an increased "load" or force on bones. Bones respond by forming new bone and remodeling for strength.

• Physical activity improves balance and coordination which, reduces the risk of falls that can end in fractures. Improved strength, flexibility & posture can reduce pain & enable people with osteoporosis to be able to do daily tasks easier.

Dr. Cameron Edgar helps his patients recover from their injuries faster and get back to their normal daily lives, either at work, home or sport. He and his wife help their community in downtown Burlington, ON at Edgar Family Chiropractic. You can learn more at http://www.edgarchiropractic.ca

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Finding the Perfect Orthodontist for Yourself

Before you seek any kind of orthodontic treatment you're going to need to make sure that you find someone who's perfect for the job. There are plenty of reasons as to why you would want to visit a professional orthodontist rather than a dentist, the most important being that they wouldn't mess up your mouth and smile.

Guide to finding the right orthodontist for your purpose

Many factors have to be kept in mind when picking your orthodontist as they all play a crucial role in your treatment. Here are a few of the most prominent things that you must consider:

Credentials are right on top

Of course experience is vital, but there are dentists who perform a few orthodontic surgeries too. Therefore, you need to make sure that they have the necessary qualifications in order to perform these tasks as only then would they be able to deal with peculiar cases.

Check out the treatment options

There are plenty of different treatment options that you would be able to receive no matter what the operation or treatment is about. Therefore, before you sign up make sure that you know exactly what you need.

There are times wherein you may not know what needs to be done (as in the case of corrective surgery) and hence you wouldn't be able to determine who the best orthodontist for the job is. In such cases it would be wise to visit any orthodontist in your locality and ask them to review your case. They would charge a nominal fee, but then you would know what you need and hence find the perfect person to get the job done.

Where are they located?

Reconstructive surgeries need multiple trips to the orthodontist and therefore you need to make sure that you're in a position to travel and meet them at all your appointed times.

It's not just distance that counts, you would also have to think about it and figure out whether work is going to come in between.

Cost

Finally you're also going to need to look into the cost of the treatment as most orthodontic surgeries are not covered by insurance. Therefore, when looking out you would definitely need to keep cash as a factor too.

Lastly, don't go to someone who's got no experience in doing what you need, even though they may be superb in other fields of orthodontic surgery.

Looking for Orthodontist Lake Zurich? Then check out Lake Zurich Orthodontics

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Can Green Coffee Bean Extract Really Help to Improve Your Health?

There has been a great deal of information on the internet and in the media about the fantastic bargains available from hundreds of Green Coffee extract suppliers from all over the world. The question that many people ask is whether this supplement really can be beneficial to your health. This article explores whether the extract really can help with weight loss, and whether it is a powerful antioxidant.

The main benefit that is attributed to this supplement is weight loss. It is said to be an excellent weight loss aid for those on a calorie controlled diet. The supplement speeds up weight loss and helps boost metabolism so it's harder to put the weight back on. However, it only works as part of a healthy balance diet and one that is low fat and calorie controlled.

Unfortunately, too many people are taking the supplement but making no other changes to their diet or exercise, and so the results are not as good. It is because of this that some people doubt the effectiveness of the supplement. Some people believe their weight loss is more due to their diets and exercise and less as a result of the supplement.

What scientific studies have found so far is that this extract does have weight loss properties. It is a powerful antioxidant, so if you are on a calorie controlled diet, as your body starts to break down the fat cells, and dispel the built up of toxins, this extract will help move everything along and get rid of the toxins much more quickly.

It is not wise to only use slimming tablets for weight loss. This is known all around the world, however, unfortunately, people still want a quick fix to their weight problems, and they long for a 'magic pill' that will help them miraculously melt away the fat. There may be companies out there claiming this is possible, but it is just not true!

Weight loss and having a healthy body requires a balanced approach. Supplements will help keep the nutrients your body needs at the optimum level. A good diet will give your body the daily fuel it needs to operate. Sleep, plenty of water, fresh air and exercise will help restore the balance within your body, keep your mind healthy, and keep you much happier. All these things are needed to live a healthy, happy life. There will never be a pill that gives you all of that!

Take supplements made by a reputable supplier.Take them in addition to a good diet, and use them to help you enhance the steps you are taking on your own to improve your health. If you do this, you will see a huge difference in your weight, your complexion, your bodily functions, and your mood. Your skin will glow and you will feel wonderful.

Green Coffee bean extract is not a magic elixir that will fix everything, but it is one of nature's most powerful antioxidants. Taking it will certainly help you to give your new healthy diet and lifestyle a really natural boost.

Custom Health Labs is a premier supplier of natural health supplements. Custom Health Labs offers its retail customers and wholesale/private label clients a wide range of premium, top-quality nutritional supplements. All of the products offered by Custom Health Labs are manufactured in its FDA registered, GMP certified facility using only the highest grade raw materials. Custom Health Labs is focused upon high levels of customer service and satisfaction. Call our enquiry line to speak to one of our friendly and helpful advisors or for more information go to https://www.customhealthlabs.com/

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Health, Nutrition and Anti-Aging, Part 2

In our last article on Health ( dated 16th Sept. 2013 ) we commenced to cover the topic 'Is Anti-Aging a Reality?' We covered two of the three aspects listed i.e. Diet/ Detox and Health & Behaviour. The third important aspect, Cosmetics, was noted for mention and this we shall now deal with, along with an important fourth aspect - Food & Nutrition.

Cosmetics: Do Anti-Aging creams really work? My research indicates that the jury is still out on this one. One well known Australian beauty writer says that in limited application, benefits can be seen. However, over use can be harmful and indeed cause life long damage.

The most common types of creams are Alpha Hydroxy Acid ( AHA's ) and Retosin ( Retonols ). These products are becoming popular with the middle aged and the younger who have been exposed to too much sun. They are, however, not cheap, so you want to be getting good results. Manufacturers show convincing examples of successful applications, but some professionals are more cautious.

Dermatologist Dr. Natasha Cook warns high potency AHA's can dehydrate the skin and cause raw dermatitis. Therefore, if you have sensitive skin, only use low potency AHA, and then no more than twice per week. There are now also products available which do not include AHA's. The rejuvenation effect includes removing layers of dead skin and making the skin stronger. The potential for long lasting adverse effects should be considered, and if you have any doubt about the product or its benefits, it may be wise to consult your doctor.

<b>Food & Nutrition</b>: It's a statistic that Heart Disease shortens more women's lives than any other disease. The most common forms of Heart Disease are high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol. It stands to reason therefor that if you are concerned about longevity ( and who isn't ), you really should look into this. And the good news is there are many things you can do to reduce this risk.

In our previous article we dealt with the important matters of not smoking, diet and foods low in saturated fats, the importance of exercise and avoiding stress. Now let's examine a few more important points:

Minimise Salt Intake: Salt can have a significant effect on high blood pressure. Avoidance of processed foods and tasty 'take aways' helps to reduce intake, and try never to add salt directly on to your meal. Rather, eat lots of fresh fruit & vegies, they contain potassium and nitric oxide which relax the blood vessels and help lower blood pressure.

<u>Eat Oily Fish</u>: Cold water fish such as sardines and salmon are rich in Omega 3 which acts to counter harmful blood fats and regulate heart rhythm.

Caffeine: Caffeine is known as a stimulant and can increase blood pressure. It is found in carbonated soft drinks, tea and coffee. It should be treated with respect and only consumed in moderation.

Herbs: There is a variety of herbs readily available in the stores which benefit the heart, including gotu kola, hawthorn, Chinese red-yeast rice and garlic. However, it is a good idea to consult your herbalist or doctor to assess your best choices and benefits, especially if on any medication.

Cutting Calories: Cutting back on calorie intake was recently considered to be a reliable means to prolong life. Indeed, some previous scientific study showed positive results in this field but, unfortunately, was limited only to insects and rodents. Newer studies at the National Institute For Aging however, using monkeys as subjects, although showing significant health improvement, did not necessarily conclude a longer life span.

I myself have concluded that by knowledge and discipline one certainly can live healthier, happier and indeed longer.

The Fountain of Youth may still be a myth, but there is certainly a lot we can all do as individuals to extend our life span. The secret is Health and Fitness and Good Diet.

At our Blog http://loseitandexist.com we try very hard to give you the best and latest information in this regard. You'll also find information on products and features of interest.

That site again http://loseitandexist.com see you there.

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Introducing The Key Benefits Of ZMA Tablets

So, what precisely is a ZMA nutritional supplement? Its full name is Zinc Monomethionine Aspartate, and it is produced to boost testosterone levels and improve the muscle tissues of sportsmen. Professional athletes and weightlifters are quitting steroids and switching to ZMA. Even though ZMA is a fairly new supplement, it is still becoming prevalent, mainly because of its many positive aspects. Many studies are being conducted to know more of ZMA tablets as a dietary supplement.

All the ingredients of ZMA tablets are vitamin B6, Zinc and magnesium. These three are vital in conditioning the human body. It is often reported that professional athletes and people who undertake strenuous training and workouts are afflicted by lower amounts of zinc and magnesium in their bodies. An absence of adequate food put together with water loss through perspiration is generally behind this insufficiency. Zinc is the substance in charge of the synthesis of protein and the development of cells inside the body. And Magnesium? Well that's used for maintaining a healthy immune system as well as keeping your bones robust and healthy. Possessing a good amount of magnesium inside your body will also help with sleeping soundly. Lastly, the energy you receive from protein is converted through the help of vitamin B6.

When combined together, Zinc, Magnesium and Vitamin B6 can be extremely good for the body. It is rather beneficial, therefore, to mix all these nutrients in a pill or powder. A ZMA nutritional supplement may also help reduce catabolism. It's very important to attempt to decrease catabolism as much as you are able to, specifically if you are undergoing lots of challenging physical exercise. Lowering catabolism can give more prospects for your whole body to get much stronger. Using ZMA nutritional supplements also helps ensure a swift recovery. Musclemen and sports athletes make use of this as it reduces the time they need to get over muscle sores and it provides them additional time to train and workout. ZMA tablets also can help make your body's immune system more effective, which can help stop you obtaining colds, for example.

In addition to helping with physical exercise and recuperation times, ZMA pills also provide a great many other various uses. Dealing with a low libido, for example? Take a ZMA tablet and watch your sexual urge soar! It's been verified by science. Despite the fact that there are not any known side effects associated with ZMA dietary supplements, there are specific safeguards that anyone taking it should adhere to. As an example, as with every other nutritional supplement, make sure you confer with your GP before taking it. Taking ZMA tablets should be complemented with a diet which is quite high in proteins. Consuming food such as beef, eggs and fish and shellfish is highly recommended. Also steer clear of foods which can be too rich in calcium, as calcium can greatly limit your body's absorption of Zinc.

Julian Fletcher is a health and fitness fanatic who blogs about sports supplements such as whey protein, creatine and ZMA tablets.

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What Makes The Hydraulic Pinch Gauge A Great Option

When a person has gone through a major injury or wound or an operation, then post operative care is the most important factor to make a complete recovery. It is very important that there are no further wear and tear to the affected area and no infections. Fast healing with reduced pain is the main aim that most medical practitioners have in case of such patients.

Constant monitoring of the healing process is important in determining whether the treatment is taking a proper pathway or a change is desirable. The hydraulic pinch gauge is extremely effective in this area and used very wide-spread way in case of major surgeries and injury. It is the best way to show strength.

Used by most doctors during the post operative rehabilitation it is very convenient to use and reliable too. It effectively measures all the three pinch tests including tip and palmer. It can register up to an impressive 23kgs of weight, the hydraulic pinch gauge comes with its own carrying case and is easy to transport to different places.

The carrying case also ensures that the product continues to stay in good quality for a considerable amount of time. The user-friendly interface ensures that the hydraulic pinch gauge is easy to use without much ado and provided excellent measurable results. The product is extremely safe and reliable and comes with a warranty as well. There is no iota of doubt that it is a very good choice to make.

It is often noticed that casts of wounds if disturbed can result in aggravated injuries and infections. It is thus very much advisable to use a cast and wound protector wherever possible. They are the best way to protect the affected area from outside disturbances like moisture and bacteria, and helps in fast recovery. This product is easily to apply and there are no maintenance issues. They are water tight and thus the patient can easily bath or swim as per convenience. There is no chance of spread of infections.

The cast and wound protector which is a great recomendation by experts; will often advise the patient to use it whether it is a burn or a cut. Some are reusable and some last the life of its use. In most cases no discomfort or swelling is felt, and for when there are any such instances then you should always contact your doctor removing the protector.

If you are searching for different physical therapy supplies and equipment for treatment, then a great place to start would be on the internet. There you can find several suppliers of muscle stimulators, inclinometers, Hydraulic Pinch Gauge, Unna boots, and many other items you may need. Check there first and then you won't have to look anywhere else.

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Natural Products for Treating Anemia Symptoms

Anemia is caused due to the loss of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin may be the carrier of oxygen for the some part individuals body. Decline in red blood cells means loss of the carrying capacity with the blood. Anemia is, primarily, caused by nutritional deficiency inside our body. The most frequent signs and symptoms of anemia are numbness, tingling sensation, depression, irritability and memory loss. However, the outward symptoms would vary in line with the rise in the seriousness of the disease.

Below Are the Reasons for Anemic Symptoms

• Deficiency of iron

• Deficiency of vitamin B12

• Folic acid deficiency

• Lack of ability to produce sufficient red blood cells

• Infectious diseases such as malaria

A number of the natural strategies to curing anemia are:

• Foods abundant in iron can also be great at curing anemia. Liver, green leafy vegetable, beets, dried fruits, bran flake, oysters, brown rice, and prunes have high iron content. Breads and pastas made out of whole meal flour will also be high in iron.

• Red wine is amongst the most reliable home remedies for anemia treatment. Red wine is abundant in antioxidants and may also help improve appetite in anemic people.

• Vitamin B folic acid is additionally needed for treating anemia. Folate is a vital B vitamin which will help create new cells including red blood cells.

• Vitamin B12 is very useful in curing anemia. Animal protein and organic meats are considered to be good reasons for this vitamin. Consuming them will turn out to be therapeutic for those struggling with anemia.

• Honey is excellent with an anemic person given it speeds up the hemoglobin within the blood. It really is abundant in iron, copper and manganese.

• Avoid drinking coffee, tea and ingesting antacids, since they decrease iron absorption.

• Record your diet to see whether they are abundant with iron, folic acid b vitamin, or vitamin b-12.

• Avoid excessive usage of alcohol.

Many of the natural medicines of anemia are:

• Dong quai - This herb is abundant with vitamins and minerals.

• Chive - This vegetable is rich in vitamin C and iron - eat fresh chives.

• Quinoa - It is a grain rich in all eight essential healthy proteins that form a complete protein.

• Gentian - The bitter herb gentian is popular in England to treat anemia.

• Some natural products like SPATONE IRON, Blackmores Retail Bio Iron 80t, AnemiCare, etc are widely-used to cure anemia.

There are organic and natural health products which can treat anemia symptoms. Rch Natural Products has a large range of organic products from the top trusted brands. You can find the various branded products for the Anaemia.

http://www.rchnaturalproducts.com.au/product-category/category/anaemia/

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Why You Might Need a Candida Crusher Remedy to Restore Good Health

Most people think of yeast as something used in bread or beer, but there are actually many different kinds of yeast. Some are beneficial, but others can cause serious problems throughout your whole body. One type of yeast is called Candida albicans. It is present in your body normally, but at low levels. When those levels rise, you might experience a range of symptoms that can disrupt your life. Unfortunately, most doctors ignore the severity of this issue. You might even be told that it's all in your head. Here's a look at the most common signs of yeast overgrowth and some information about treating the problem.

Candida Overgrowth Symptoms
If you have Candida in your system, it can produce a lot of symptoms. For instance, you might feel tired and worn out all the time. You could have a hard time getting rid of nail fungus and athlete's foot. You might have difficulty paying attention or feel like your memory is very poor. Many people experience rashes, hives, eczema and similar skin issues. People with a Candida problem also tend to experience depression and mood swings. They might be irritable or have serious allergies. If you have more than a few of these symptoms, it might be time to do something.

Dealing with Doctors
Most people who have a problem with yeast overgrowth take the problem to their doctor. This can be the wrong plan, however. A surprising number of doctors don't believe that this issue is even possible. They dismiss their patients' legitimate concerns as just a product of their own minds. The truth is that medical science hasn't spent very much time and effort studying the effects of Candida albicans. We really don't have a lot of good scientific evidence about this condition at all.

Choosing a Candida Crusher
Just because doctors don't cooperate doesn't mean that you can't deal with your problem. The right remedy could actually act as a Candida crusher, stomping down yeast levels and helping you feel better. The key is to choose a treatment plan that addresses your problems at the source. It should be designed to produce long term results and keep the infection under control. Remember that taking just a single medication or supplement rarely erases the signs of this problem. Instead, you need to choose a treatment plan that will attack your issues at the source.

No matter who you are or what lifestyle you live, Candida overgrowth can be a risk. This subtle problem produces serious issues that can put you in constant discomfort. The good news is that there is hope. The right treatment could eradicate your yeast problem and allow you to feel like yourself again.

If you suffer from the symptoms of yeast infection and want to know more, my site could have the answer. Learn more about a potential Candida crusher by visiting http://www.candidacrusherreview.org

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What Does A Neurologist Do?

A neurologist is a doctor that specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, and includes a wide variety of conditions that affect anything from motor functioning to cognitive skills. Generally, a neurologist will begin treating a patient only after that patient is referred there by another doctor, most commonly a general practitioner or internal medicine physician.

Once the patient has been referred, the neurologist will take a complete medical history and perform an evaluation of the patient's nervous system. This will include testing the patient's reflexes, coordination, gait, sensory capabilities, motor skills, cranial nerves, and cognitive function. The medical history can help doctors determine whether or not the patient's family history includes any neurological diseases or conditions.

Neurologists treat many different conditions. They range from common conditions such as headaches, infections, and sleep disorders to more serious conditions, including epilepsy, strokes, dementia, seizures, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, neuromuscular disorders, and head trauma. The treatment that these doctors provide varies based on the particular condition. They may refer the patient to a different specialist, prescribe medications, or recommend and assist with a surgical procedure. They may also refer the patient to a physical therapist, which can help improve motor skills, coordination, and reflexes.

In addition to treating a variety of medical conditions, a neurologist is also frequently asked to evaluate unresponsive patients who are on life support. In this situation, the doctor will examine the patient for the purpose of confirming whether or not the patient's brain has ceased functioning.

Although some neurologists work with all types of neurological disorders, there are others who specialize in certain parts of the nervous system, as well as those who specialize in performing specific procedures. For example, a clinical neurophysiologist specializes in using electrodiagnostic techniques to diagnose certain neurological disorders.

Another example of a specialty within the field is neurosurgery, which combines the study of neurology with surgical training. Neurosurgeons generally perform surgeries to treat neurological disorders after a general neurologist makes a diagnosis and determines that such surgery is necessary.

Because of the wide variety of duties that neurologists have, these doctors generally spend parts of each day examining new patients, meeting with referring physicians, and visiting with other patients to follow up on their treatment and evaluate their progress. They also often work "on-call," meaning they can be called in at any time of the day or night to attend to emergency situations. As a result, these doctors often work long, irregular hours. This is especially true for doctors who have just started their careers.

Do you need to see a Neurologist? New Orleans locals can visit one at West Jefferson Medical Center. For more information, go to: http://www.wjmc.org.

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Feeling Dizzy - What Might It Indicate?

It's horrible to feel dizzy - you're going along fine, and then the world - or at least your perception of it - starts spinning. You may lose your balance, and if you also feel nauseous, as often happens, you may lose your lunch too!

What in the world is going on? How can your ability to process reality take such a nosedive?

Like other bodily symptoms, dizziness is a symptom rather than a cause - it's a sign that something's not right. But what?

Here are some of the most likely conditions dizziness might indicate:

1. Food poisoning. This usually happens within 12-24 hours after you ate contaminated food.

2. Malfunction in the gall bladder, possibly due to an infection or stones, which can cause a reduction in bile flow or even block bile flow entirely, causing you to be unable to properly digest your food.

3. Weakness in the coronary artery and/ or major blood vessels of the heart, causing them to collapse. They're like a hose in that respect - they need good, strong walls to stay round and allow blood to flow through unimpeded.

4. Toxicity due to heavy metal poisoning. Primary source? Check out any leaking 'silver' amalgam fillings, which are over 50% mercury.

5. Ear infection, whether bacterial, viral or yeast.These can interfere with the balancing mechanisms in the inner ear.

6. Subluxation of vertebrae in the neck, especially the Atlas & C4, which cause the balancing mechanisms in the inner ear not to work properly.

7. Circulatory disturbance or weakness or hardening of carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain.

8. Virus affecting the heart or heart valves. Heart muscle can be weakened by viruses.

9. Hyper-stimulation of the central nervous system due to physical or emotional stressors.

10.Low cerebral spinal fluid, often due to loss of particular mineral salts that hold the fluid inside the cells.

11. Adrenal exhaustion - especially likely if dizziness occurs if getting up fast from lying down or sitting.

12. Prescription or non-prescription medications, especially blood pressure medications, antibiotics, pain relievers, drugs used to treat cancer, depression or anxiety, anti-convulsants, diuretics, nitroglycerine, quinine, salicylates, alcohol, cocaine.

13. Motion sickness.

14. Low blood sugar.

15. Acute anxiety or panic attack.

16. Shock, as in suddenly receiving bad news or being physically injured.

While this list is by no means exhaustive, it represents the most common - and therefore the most likely - candidates. Check them out first and you're likely to stumble upon the cause (or causes). Then this otherwise noxious symptom has become a blessing in disguise because it has alerted you to a condition you needed to address to keep or improve your health and well being

Pamela Levin is an R.N. and a Teaching & Supervising Transactiona Analyst. In private practice 42 years, she has hundreds of postgraduate hours in clinical nutrition, herbology, applied kinesiology and women's health issues. She is founder and editor of BetterHealthBytes, a bi-weekly newsletter with health tips. If you have a topic you'd like covered, you can request it at http://www.betterhealthbytes.com/Ask-About-Health.html. There are also lots of free articles to support your better health and greater well being of body, mind, spirit, emotions and relationships.

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Health Versus Wealth Paradox

The Greek philosopher Plato wrote in "The Republic"

"... they think that old age sits lightly upon you, not because of your happy disposition, but because you are rich, and wealth is well known to be a great comforter."

And it got me wondering.

What are my top requirements, if that is the right word, to be contented, if not happy, in my retirement... ?

So I listed the following "Top Ten", in no order (or so I thought):-

1. Health
2. Wealth
3. Peace of mind
4. Happy families
5. Solitude
6. Peace and quiet
7. Community/charity work
8. Part-time paid work
9. Travel
10. Time-consuming hobby

(Your list will include some of these, but will probably have others, in and out).

But here's the discussion, as I see it.

Unless a person is at the lower extremes of health and wealth i.e. they are very ill or very poor, then is it not the case that the list is inter-related... ?

In other words, if you have good health and are reasonably comfortable financially, then don't the other items mix in and out with your retirement lifestyle... ?

Retired people the world over focus on the top two items the most - health and wealth. These two are so inter-twined that the lack of one, or both, means that fear can easily be the result. Yes fear.

Let's say you are healthy. Let's say you are very healthy - and, in all probability, live a whole bunch of years. So far so good. And what if your financial condition is fine, EXCEPT that the retirement fund will run out if you live longer than "expected"... ?

On the other hand, let's say you are wealthy. Let's say you are very wealthy. But what if you are in not so good health..? Then what benefit does your big retirement fund give you... ?

So now let me ask what is top of your list... health or wealth... ?

Not so easy is it..?

Moreover, to compound the question, the other items on the list are really all dependent on the top two.

If you are not healthy, or not wealthy, or not both, then your ability to travel for example is seriously impacted. If you can't afford the basics of life then having a happy family is nice, but secondary. The enjoyment of doing community work is diluted if you struggle to do the work, or wonder how you will pay the electricity bill this month.

The point of this article is not to offer suggestions to fix the problem - it is far too personal, and I don't have the facts of your situation available to me.

But perhaps by alluding to the list (OK, my list), then it may enlighten people to the realization that if health and wealth are the drivers in YOUR retirement life, then they are the drivers in the lives of pretty much everyone else around the world. You are far from being alone. You are far from being guilty of mis-management. You are very, very normal.

You can't turn the clock back and get wealthy. You can't turn the clock back and get healthy. But you most certainly can embrace the hours that are left on the clock and enjoy them fully.

See the fastest growing blogsite, with worldwide exposure, for the "Oldster" generation - ** Olderhood **

http://www.olderhood.com
https://www.facebook.com/Olderhoodcom

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