What is a Subconjunctival Hemorhage?

Have you ever sneezed or coughed and later noticed a red spot in your eye? Although it may look frightening, chances are youre seeing whats known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage - a fancy name for bleeding into the sclera - the white part of the eyeball. This condition can occur after being punched in the eye, rubbing the eye, or after coughing hard or vomiting. Its also more common in people who have high blood pressure. If you have a subconjunctival hemorrhage should you be worried?

The good news is a subconjunctival hemorrhage looks ugly, but theyre usually completely harmless. Of course, if youve been punched in the eye or are having eye pain or visual problems, you need an evaluation to rule out other causes of a red eye. Subconjunctival hemorrhages are usually painless with the exception of some very mild irritation, although they can look pretty dramatic when you look in the mirror. In some cases, blood can completely cover the sclera of the eye - giving an almost eerie appearance to the eye. Although they can occur for no apparent reason, a subconjunctival hemorrhage that occurs without trauma to the eye can be a sign of a bleeding problem which can occur in people who are taking blood thinners.

What can you expect if you have a subconjunctival hemorrhage? Usually no treatment is necessary, although warm compresses can be placed on the eye to make it feel better. Sometimes artificial tears are used to relieve the eye irritation. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications should be avoided since they can increase the risk of further bleeding.

In most cases of subconjunctival hemorrhage, the blood is slowly reabsorbed back into the body over a period of several weeks. Sometimes a color change occurs during the healing process - similar to that seen with a healing bruise. Some people feel self conscious during this stage and try to hide behind sunglasses.

Anytime you experience a red eye, dont be too quick to assume its only a subconjunctival hemorrhage. A red eye can be caused by a host of problems including allergies, conjunctivitis, an abraded cornea, and even dry eyes. Its important to get it checked out by a doctor - particularly if youre experiencing eye pain or visual changes. If it turns out to be a subconjunctival hemorrhage, be patient and it will heal on its own.

References:

Merck Manual. Eighteenth edition.

Do You Need to Take More Steps?

Do you need to take more steps? Even if you do a regular workout at the gym, your activity level during throughout the day still counts. Recent studies show that too much sitting and not enough stepping increases the risk of heart disease and diabetes, irrespective of how active you are at the gym. If youre not doing it already, maybe its time to start counting steps.

Take More Steps by Putting on a Pedometer

A pedometer is a device you attach to your body that counts the number of steps you take during the day. Theres something very motivating about wearing one, and it gives you another good reason to be more active. When you strap on a pedometer, you constantly look for ways to take more steps - just to see the numbers on the pedometer go up.

How many steps should you take to get the health benefits of staying active? The experts recommend at least 10,000 steps a day, which is the equivalent of about 5 miles. Sound like a lot? When you extend it over a days time, its not as bad as it sounds.

The average person, who isnt making a conscious effort to be more active, takes around 5,000 steps a day just doing their daily activities - so try to double this. To fall into the "highly active" category, youll need to take 12,500 steps-a-day or more.

How to Take More Steps

Even if you work an office job all day, there are still ways to be more active. Organize an office challenge, and encourage your co-workers to take more steps too. To do this, ask each participant to wear a pedometer for two months. Keep a daily record of the number of steps each person takes. The person who takes the most steps over a two month period wins a prize. Challenges like this add extra motivation for you and everyone else to stay active.

Look for excuses to walk more. Walk during your lunch area, and take a brisk stroll to the post office or bank instead of driving. Pace the floor when youre talking on the phone. Walk the dog twice a day. Park far away and take the stairs more often. Let that inexpensive pedometer be a constant reminder to keep moving. It works.

References:

NY Times online. "Behavior: Too Much Sitting Shortens Lives, Study Suggests".

Realage.com. "Be a Super Stepper".

The Ultimate Vacation for Dogs and Their Humans

Could you and your canine use a vacation? Sometimes both you and your dog need to escape the hectic rat race for a few blissful days of rest and relaxation. Now, theres a way for you to do it as a team in an environment thats designed for the well being of both dog and human. The idea of camps for dogs and their humans has arrived and it appears to be thriving.

If you dont mind taking a trip to Sun Valley, Idaho, you can experience a relaxing, yet stimulating week of canine bonding and companionship at a special dog haven called Camp Fideaux. Sun Valley has always been a dog friendly area and this camp for dogs is no exception. You and your dog can sleep in pet friendly lodging and awaken to a stimulating alpine hike where youll discover the stunning scenery that gives Sun Valley its reputation as being a little paradise on earth.

While Camp Fideaux may not be the only camp for dogs, it strives to be one of the best. Your dog will enjoy the enthusiastic greeting the canine loving staff gives him upon his arrival, while youll appreciate the resort like atmosphere with all the amenities a human needs for comfort and rejuvenation. Some of the activities you can enjoy with your faithful canine companion at Camp Fideaux camp for dogs are state of the art dog training classes, dog massage services, dog walks, dog acupuncture, and even consultation with an animal communication specialist so you can better understand what your dog is thinking.

While many national parks and other hiking areas wont allow dogs on their trails, youll have the opportunity at Camp Fideaux camp for dogs to take your four legged friend on long trail walks without being hampered by a leash requirement. You can drink in the beauty of the majestic Rocky Mountains while bonding with your four legged friend. After a brief rest and a hearty meal, explore the community of Sun Valley, home to a diversity of dogs and their devoted humans. This is a community known for being canine loving and pet friendly.

Youll discover that many of the outdoor cafes and local events such as concerts in Sun Valley welcome dogs. You and your pet will feel right at home in this canine friendly environment. The only problem is you or your dog may not want to return home after such a stimulating, yet relaxing, week of activities. Who knows? Maybe your attendance at this unusual camp for dogs will become a regular event.

Is Bengay Safe?

Bengay cream is a popular drug store "rub" used to relieve sore muscles. Not surprisingly, Bengay products are popular among athletes who are prone to overuse injuries and muscle pain; but concerns were raised after a teenage runner died after using a Bengay rub to soothe her aching muscles. Is Bengay safe?

Is Bengay Safe: Whats in It?

Depending upon the formulation, Bengay products are a combination of menthol, camphor and methyl salicylate, a metabolite of aspirin. Its the methyl salicylate component that experts blamed for the death of this young runner.

Like aspirin, methyl salicylate is an anti-inflammatory compound that decreases pain and inflammation. When you use Bengay, the methyl-salicylate penetrates into the sore muscle and reduces inflammation. The menthol also cools the area, which helps to mask pain. Ideally, the action of Bengay would only affect the muscle to which its applied, but some systemic absorption occurs.

The girl who died from a Bengay overdose had high levels of methyl salicylate in her bloodstream after using Bengay rub as well as several other methyl-salicylate creams. Some systemic absorption of salicylate takes place when you apply the cream, but the amount is small.

In this tragic case, investigators discovered the girl had been using substantial amounts of metyl-salicylate creams over extended periods of time, which is not the way most people use it. This is the only documented case of death from a Bengay overdose.

Salicylate Poisoning and Bengay Rub

According to Prescribers Letter, Bengay is safe when you use it in small amounts, and with reasonable use its unlikely to cause problems. They warn that people who are on blood thinners shouldnt use Bengay, because the methyl-salicylates increase the risk of bleeding.

Its also not advisable to apply Bengay over open wounds or around the eyes - and dont apply heat after putting it on. Using Bengay rub with heat or with a restrictive covering on top increases systemic absorption and the risk of toxicity. Its also not a good idea to use Bengay for more than a few days and to use the smallest amount possible.

Is Bengay Safe: The Bottom Line?

Bengay is safe when used in modest amounts for short periods of time, but keep it out of the hands of children.

References:

Prescribers Letter. June 21, 2007.

Five Hot Cold Weather Drinks

When the weather turns cold, theres nothing more comforting than curing up by the fire with a hot drink in hand. To watch the snowfall while you savor the warmth of a steaming hot mug of liquid would seem to be the ultimate in luxury. There are a variety of hot drinks that can quench your thirst on a cold day. What are the best drinks for cold weather?

Cold weather drink - Hot chocolate

No list of cold weather drinks would be complete without hot chocolate. So simple to prepare and yet so comforting. You can prepare it from the packet or make your own using cocoa powder, whole milk, and sugar. It will taste delicious with marshmallows or whipped cream on top along with a drizzle of chocolate syrup. If you want to be more creative, add some fresh cinnamon, vanilla extract, orange extract, or peppermint syrup to your hot chocolate.

Cold weather drink - Hot chai tea

Chai tea has a combination of spices that are satisfying on a cold winters day. Made with cinnamon, white pepper corns, cloves, cardamom, and ginger added to milk, this drink is not only tasty, but a healthy alternative to coffee. To make it into a dessert drink, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream to your chai tea.

Cold weather drink - Egg nog

This rich drink, traditionally served around the holidays, is made with cream, milk, eggs, and sugar along with the addition of nutmeg and cinnamon. It can also be flavored with a variety of liquors for a more "grown up" drink. Concerned about all the fat and calories? Try substituting low fat milk for a portion of the milk and cream.

Cold weather drink - Hot apple cider

This deliciously sweet drink is can be made at home by combining apple cider with brown sugar, cloves and cinnamon. Add a cinnamon stick to stir the steaming liquid and enjoy it by the fire.

Cold weather drink - Hot almond steamer

A hot almond steamer is the perfect drink to have at bedtime since it has no caffeine and the tryptophan in the milk can help promote sleep. Simply add almond coffee syrup to the milk of your choice and heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Sweet and satisfying, this drink is a rich source of calcium and a great stress reliever.

Cold weather drinks can help to take some of the bite out of winter. Why not curl up by the fire with one of these hot drinks for cold weather?

How to Use Funny Wedding Vows to Make Your Wedding Memorable

Who says a wedding has to be a somber and serious occasion. More and more couples are expressing their humorous sides at their wedding by writing their own funny wedding vows. Funny wedding vows run the gamut from personal little phrases cleverly inserted into their vows such as "I promise to always make chocolate cake for you" to wedding vows inspired by humorous writers, witty quotes and even Dr. Seuss.

There are some advantages to writing your own funny wedding vows. If youre a light hearted, humorous couple known for your quick wit, why hide it just because its your wedding day? A somber wedding ceremony may not express who you really are. Its your wedding day and you should have it the way you want it as a couple. A humorous wedding can create beautiful memories that youre cherish for years to come and youll be able to say you had a truly original wedding. A wedding ceremony with a bit of humor is likely to put everyone in the ceremony and in the audience more at ease. Its also likely to ease some of your own prenuptial jitters.

On the downside, a marriage is a serious commitment and you dont want to downplay that in your wedding ceremony. Its probably best to have short humorous clips in your wedding vows rather than making the entire ceremony funny. Make sure the humor is appropriate and unlikely to offend your guests.. This is not the time for raunchy, off color jokes, vulgar language, or inside humor. Be sure to select jokes that the audience can easily understand and appreciate.

If you want to write your own funny wedding vows, whats the best way to approach it? The best strategy may be to sit down with your future marriage partner and recreate some of your most humorous moments together. What are your favorite jokes as a couple? What makes you laugh? Write any phrases or situations that come to mind that youd like to share with your guests. If there are humorous books and movies that you both enjoy as a couple, consider using a quote from one of these in a clever way. Once you get started, the ideas will start flowing. If you need additional help writing your own wedding vows, there are kits and resources available online that you can help you with the writing process.

By following a few simple guidelines, funny wedding vows can help you create a meaningful and memorable wedding that will be appreciated by all and remembered for years to come.

What You Need to Know About Dog Tooth Cleaning! It Could Save Your Dogs Life!

Many people underestimate the importance of good dental care for their canines. In dogs, as well as humans, its critical that the teeth and gums be kept clean and free of plaque and tartar. When the gums become inflamed due to the presence of plaque, tartar, and bacteria, the infection can spread to other parts of the body causing serious health consequences. Gum disease has been correlated with such serious health problems as heart and kidney disease. Those same little bacteria that set up an infection in the gums can cause an inflammatory process that affects the entire body which in extreme cases can result in death. For this reason, its important that you be informed about dog tooth cleaning and how to do it right.

Its recommended that you brush our dogs teeth at least twice a week Always approach toothbrushing in as nonthreatening a manner as possible. Try adding some peanut butter to a toothbrush and let your dog lick if off its surface for several days until he becomes comfortable with it. When you dog is comfortable with the toothbrush:

1. Have your dog maintain a sitting position.

2. Lift your dogs upper cheek on one side to expose his teeth and gums.

3. Isolating one tooth at a time, gently brush each tooth with the brush using an up and down motion.

4. Do the same thing to the teeth on the other side of the upper cheek.

6. Repeat this process to the lower teeth on each side.

6. Aim for anywhere from 45 second to 60 seconds devoted to brushing each tooth. You may need to start out with less time until your pet becomes comfortable with the process.

7. After the brushing is complete, praise your pet and give him a treat.

8. If you use a toothpaste, make sure its designed for dogs. Human toothpaste can cause stomach upset in dogs.

9. Remember to use a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid irritating your dogs gums.

Other ways to help maintain your dogs dental health include giving him dental friendly bones that can help remove plaque and tartar. You can also help to preserve your dogs dental health by feeding him dry dog food which can help to keep the surfaces of his teeth free of tartar.

If you start dog tooth cleaning early, your pet can avoid experiencing future dental problems that may adversely affected his general health and help him to live a longer and more comfortable life.

How to Decorate Flip Flops

Flip flops are so fun and comfortable to wear but sometimes they can look a bit plain. This problem is easily solved with a little creativity on your part. Flip flops provide the perfect canvas for artistic pursuits and turn an ordinary shoe into a one-of-a-kind work of art. Heres how to decorate flip flops:

Decorate flip flops: Personalize them

One of the quickest ways to personalize flip flops is to use fabric paints to paint a persons face or write their name in fancy lettering on the soles. This wont show when the foot is in the sandal, but as soon as you slide your foot out, your shoe becomes a customized work of art. This is particularly fun to do with childrens flip flops and you can imagine the smile on a childs face when he sees his own personalized shoes.

Decorate flip flops: Paint abstract designs

Use the upper sole of your flip flops to paint on brilliant abstract designs or be more demure and paint on a fine polka dot effect. Go a little crazy and paint wavy stripes in bright colors. If youll be wearing your flip flops on the beach, hand paint or stencil brightly colored fish on the soles. You can also paint designs on the sides of the rubber soles of flip flops. Add some interesting geometric shapes, heart, polka dots, or anything else that strikes your fancy. Dont forget about painting the straps for even more excitement. It sure beats wearing plain flip flops!

Decorate flip flops: Glue on embellishments

Visit your local craft store and discover the wonderful embellishments you can use to decorate flip flops. For an upscale look, purchase a pair of black flip flops and some clear rhinestones or crystals. Glue the crystals onto the black straps using craft glue that dries clearly. Other embellishments you can glue on the straps are small gemstones, tiny shells, small metal charms, and pieces of sea glass. Let your imagination go wild!

Decorate flip flops: Go floral

For a fancy flip flop, select a pretty silk flower and glue it to the middle of the strap. When you do this you turn an ordinary pair of inexpensive sandals into ones that youd pay top dollar for in a high end boutique. Plus, you have the satisfaction of knowing you did it yourself.

You dont have to settle for ordinary flip flops this summer, get busy and create your own custom designs. They make great gifts too.

Is it Safe to Do Deep Squats?

Squats are one of the best exercises around for building strong thigh and buttock muscles. Most fitness gurus recommend that anyone who doesnt have "bad knees" do some form of squats to build firm leg and buttock muscles. Since doing squats works large muscle groups, doing deep squats sets the metabolic fires burning - so you burn more fat. On the other hand, some fitness trainers are hesitant to recommend deep squats, especially for people who have knee problems. Are deep squats hard on your knees?

What is a Deep Squat?

A deep squat is a squat where you lower your body below parallel when squatting, with parallel being the level where your thighs line up with the floor. Once you go below parallel into the deeper squat zone, you target the gluteal muscles that give the buttocks a round, firm shape. When you do squats that dont go below parallel, you lose some of the benefits.

Are Deep Squats Dangerous?

The controversy about deep squats began in the 1960s after research from the University of Texas showed that doing deep squats increased the risk of developing lax knee ligaments. When knee ligaments become lax, it leads to knee instability - and injury. When this study came out, the American Medical Association advised people to stop doing deep squats.

Fortunately, new recent research reverses this thinking. More recent studies show that deep knee squats, when done correctly, actually strengthen the ligaments that support the knee. This reinforces knee stability and actually helps to reduce the risk of injury. The key is to do them right.

Is It Safe to Do Deep Squats: The Bottom Line?

If you dont have arthritic knees or other knee problems, its not only safe to do deep knee squats; it actually strengthens the ligaments that stabilize the knee. The key is to use proper form and technique. Watch a video online that illustrates proper form when doing a deep squat and practice without using barbells or weights until youve mastered the technique. Then slowly add resistance. If you have knee problems, dont do knee squats or if you do, dont go below the level where your knees are parallel with the floor - and talk to your doctor first. If you do them right, deep knee squats are a great way to firm up those hard-to-tone buttocks muscles.

References:

Fitness Prescription for Women. December 2010. Page 20.

Famous Dog Quotes! Inspirational Sayings About Mans Best Friend!

If youre a big dog lover like I am, you love reading endearing quotes about them. Ive put together a collection of some of the most loved dog quotes. These quotes are great conversation starters at your next trip to the dog park, pet store, grooming studio, or other pet related activity. You can also use them to make personalized greeting cards by scanning a photo of your dog on the front and including a dog quote inside. The possibilities are endless!

Heres some of my favorite dog quotes:

1. "Heaven goes by favor. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in". - Mark Twain

2. "To err is human" To forgive, canine" Anonymous

3. "They never talk about themselves but listen to you while you talk about yourself and keep up an appearance of being interested in the conversation" Jerome K. Jerome

4. ""My dog is usually pleased with what I do, because shes not infected with the concept of what I "should" be doing". -Lonzo Idolswine

5. "If a dog wont come to you after having looking you in the face, you should go home and examine your conscience." -Woodrow Wilson

6. "If you are a dog and your owner suggests you wear a sweater....suggest he wear a tail." -Fran Lebowitz

7. "You think dogs will not be in heaven? I tell you, they will be there long before any of us." -Robert Louis Stevenson

8. "Theres no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face" -Bern Williams

9. "Dogs are miracles with paws." -Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy

10. "Scratch a dog and youll find a permanent job" -Franklin P. Jones

11. "Dogs laugh, but they laugh with their tails" -Max Eastman

12."The more I see of man, the more I like dogs" - Mme. de Stael

13. "My goal in life is to be as good of a person as my dog already thinks I am" -author unknown

14. "Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." - Roger Caras

15. "Did you ever notice when you blow in a dogs face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he stick his head out the window?" -Steve Bluestone

16. "Whoever said you cant buy happiness forgot little puppies." - Gene Hill

17. "I wonder what goes through his mind when he sees us peeing in his water bowl?" -Penny Ward Moser

Hopefully these dog quotes will inspire you to give your canine best friend an extra hug today!

Does Smoking Socially Carry Health Risks?

The good news? The number of smokers who light up every day is on the decline. The not so good news? The number of social smokers, who smoke occasionally, is on the rise. Because these "casual smokers" only puff on a few cigarettes a week, they dont consider themselves to be at high risk for lung cancer or other lung diseases. Is this true or is smoking socially still a health issue?

The Health Effects of Smoking Occasionally

According to a recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, a social smoker is still at risk for lung problems - even if they only smoke occasionally.

To reach this conclusion, researchers studied 121 people, some of whom were active smokers and some who were either non-smokers or casual smokers. They placed them into smoking categories by measuring the amount of nicotine in their urine.

When they looked at the cells lining the airways and lungs of these study participants through the technique of gene sequencing, they found genetic damage irrespective of how little they smoked. Even exposure to secondhand smoke caused these genes to be abnormal. The most pronounced gene changes were seen in those exposed to the most cigarette smoke.

Smoking Socially Causes Genetic Changes in the Lungs

Shouldnt this be a wake-up call to social and casual smokers? Even smoking occasionally has health risks. When genes are damaged by the effects of low level cigarette smoke, cells that function abnormally are produced. Genetic damage can also cause cells to become lung cancer - and lung cancer has a very poor prognosis.

Smoking socially may seem harmless, but theres no safe level of exposure to cigarette smoke. A casual smoker often lacks the characteristic smokers cough and may not feel winded when climbing the stairs, but damage is taking place at the cellular level, which can lead to lung problems further down the line.

Smoking Socially: The Bottom Line?

Occasional smoking may seem like a way to reduce the risk of smoking related lung problems, but dont be fooled. The damage to your cells builds up over time without your awareness. Dont let silent lung cell damage happen to you. Kick the social smoking habit - for good.

References:

Eurekalert website. "Cigarette smoke causes harmful changes in the lungs even at the lowest levels"

A Spice that Boosts Fat Burning

Do you want to burn more fat? Adding a little chili powder to your diet could help. A new study shows that a compound found in chili peppers could promote fat loss - naturally.

Chili peppers for fat burning? This idea isnt new. Studies show that a component in chili peppers called capsaicin can fire up the metabolic furnaces - but capsaicin isnt the only ingredient in chili compounds that boosts fat burning. Researchers have discovered that a different chili compound called dihydrocapsiate or DCT also stimulates the breakdown of fat.

Researchers put this concept to the test by placing 34 women and women on a low calorie meal replacement liquid for 28 days. Some of them received three and some received nine milligrams of a DCT supplement, while the rest received a placebo. How did they fare? After having their oxygen and carbon dioxide levels when they inhaled and exhaled, the researchers were able to get a measure of how fast they burned fat. The rate of fat burning doubled in the groups who received the DCT supplements.

How does this chili compound boost fat burning? It binds with a receptor in the gut that signals the brain to stimulate fat burning through a complex series of events. DCT starts this chain of reactions that ultimately leads to greater amounts of fat being burned - and, potentially, more weight loss.

Unlike capsaicin, another chili compound that boosts fat burning, DCT isnt spicy hot and wont cause irritation of the digestive tract - unlike capsaicin which is sold in supplement form by many health food stores. Some people have a hard time tolerating the capsaicin in chili peppers. Researchers are hoping that this unique chili compound can be combined with other compounds to give even greater fat burning benefits.

The bottom line? Whether or not DCT proves to be effective as a fat burner in larger studies, it wont take the place of a healthy diet and regular exercise - though it could make the battle a little easier to win. In the meantime, try sprinkling a little chili powder into soups and other recipes. At the very least, the spiciness could help reduce how much you eat.

References:

http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Chilli-compound-may-boost-energy-burning-and-help-weight-loss

What is Swimmers Itch?

Before you enter the water this summer for a swim, be forewarned. If you plan on swimming in a pond or lake, you could end up with a bad of case of swimmers itch. This annoying condition can be quite uncomfortable - and the itching can put a real damper on your summer fun. What is swimmers itch and how do you get it?

What is Swimmers Itch?

The official name for swimmers itch is cercarial dermatitis. Its a condition that strikes swimmers who wade into ponds and lakes where parasites are hiding. The particular type of parasite that causes swimmers itch are called schistosomes. The larvae of these schistosomes undergo a complex life cycle where theyre passed through mollusks in the water and back into birds. They re-enter the pond or lake through bird feces.

Once in the water, schistosome larvae can burrow into the skin of humans swimming in contaminated water - where they cause a hypersensitivity reaction. Although the larvae die once they penetrate the skin, the immune system still reacts to them - which causes the characteristic itchy rash and other symptoms characteristic of this type of dermatitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Swimmers Itch?

Swimmers infected with schistosome larvae usually develop a red, bumpy, very itchy rash where the larvae entered the skin. The rash appears within two to fourteen days after exposure - and may be intensely itchy. Fortunately, the symptoms are usually short-lived. The itching and irritation starts to subside after several days - and the rash clears up in about a week.

What is the Best Treatment for Swimmers Itch?

There are medications that kill the larvae that cause swimmers itch, but they arent necessary, since the larvae die once they burrow into the skin - and the symptoms are short in duration. Usually, cercarial dermatitis is treated similarly to an allergic contact dermatitis, such as poison ivy. Antihistamines are used to relieve the itching - and steroid cream to reduce the inflammation.

The Bottom Line?

The best way to prevent swimmers itch is to stay out of ponds and lakes that harbor mollusks. Take a swim in the pool instead. Its safer.

References:

Consultant. Vol. 44 No. 9. August 2004.

How Children Play May Determine Their Adult Habits

How children play during their early years may affect the choices they make as adults - and the type of play they engage in can even affect the health habits they adopt after they mature. A childs playing activity may be more than "childs play" - they can have far reaching effects that follow them into adulthood.

The Benefits of Playing Actively: What a Study Showed

After looking at the play habits of over five hundred young adults, researchers at the University of Ulster in Great Britain came to some interesting conclusions. Children who engaged in more active play - requiring more physical activity - not surprisingly, had a greater likelihood of exercising as adults - and enjoyed better overall better health than those whose play was more sedentary as youngsters. Could some of the skills acquired during active play carry over into adulthood?

Like children who chose active play, kids who engaged in creative play were more likely to lead a healthy lifestyle - by eating better and getting regular exercise. They also were more concerned about health issues as adults. On the downside, kids who werent allowed to play or were only given limited play time, were more likely to be overweight as adults and less likely to practice good health habits.

How Children Play: The Benefits

Children who are given the time for active and creative play could end up being healthier adults. Playing actively is a form of mental and physical release which gives a child the opportunity to develop new skills while, at the same time, tapping into their creativity. When a child plays with other children, it also helps to build social skills which can make a child more comfortable in social situations later in life.

Play is often thought of as frivolous in our society - and some parents even think its a waste of time when children play too much. But these studies show that play has benefits for children while theyre young - which can carry over into adult life.

The Benefits of Children Playing Actively and Creatively

Letting your child engage in active and creative play could help him or her to be a healthier adult. Dont underestimate the value of active play for a child.

References:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/185472.php

Snack on This Food to Eat Fewer Calories

Would you like to eat fewer calories and still be satisfied? A new study shows that eating pistachios is an effective way to get full without consuming too many calories. The key? Buy pistachios that are still in the shell.

Eat Pistachios and Eat Less

In a recent study presented at the American Dietetic Associations Food and Nutrition conference, researchers discovered that eating unshelled pistachios is a way to satisfy hunger while eating less. When they gave subjects unlimited access to shelled or unshelled pistachios, the group who ate unshelled pistachios consumed 40% calories than those who ate ones with the shells already removed. Even better was the fact that both groups reported the same level of satiety and satisfaction.

Eating Pistachios with Shells Promotes Mindful Eating

Why did de-shelling the nuts cause the subjects to eat more? Researchers believe that eating unshelled pistachios makes a person more aware of how much theyre eating since they have to do some work before they pop it in their mouth. Eating pistachios in this way is a slower process, which gives satiety-inducing hormones such as leptin more time to kick in and signal the brain to stop eating. When people eat shelled pistachios, its not uncommon for them to throw a handful at a time into their mouth. When pistachios still have their shells on, you cant do that. Its mindful eating at its best.

More Reasons to Eat Pistachios

Pistachios are a good source of antioxidants, and some studies show they help to lower levels of oxidized LDL cholesterol, the kind that increases the risk of a heart attack. Because of this, and the fact they contain healthy fats, it means they may lower the risk of heart disease. Another bonus? Pistachios are the nut with the lowest calorie content. You can enjoy 47 pistachios kernels at a cost of only 158 calories. Not bad.

Eat Less by Eating Pistachios

The next time youre hungry for a snack; dont reach for a bag of potato chips. Get out the bag of pistachios to munch on " but be sure to buy them with the shells still on. Youll eat fewer nuts but still feel satisfied. Plus, youll burn a few calories de-shelling them.

References:

Food Product Design. "In-Shell Pistachios Promote Satiety, Mindful Eating"
Science Daily. "Pistachios Offer Multiple Benefits, Study Suggests"

Reduce Your Blood Pressure with a DASH Diet

Can eating the right diet reduce your blood pressure? Theres good evidence that it can - and one of the most effective diets for bringing blood pressure down is the DASH diet. DASH, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, not only reduces blood pressure, but has other health benefits as well. Find out why a DASH diet may be just what the doctor ordered.

What is a DASH Diet?

A DASH diet is a low sodium eating plan that focuses on fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy foods, and whole grain foods. Its low in fat - and saturated fat - with overall fat limited to thirty percent and saturated fat restricted to ten percent or less of total calories. Sodium is kept to 1,500 milligrams a day or less. The emphasis with a DASH diet is on lean meats, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and good fats such as the monounsaturated ones in nuts.

The DASH Diet Plan for Hypertension: What are the Benefits?

Following a DASH diet plan can lower systolic blood pressure over several weeks by up to fourteen mm. Hg and the diastolic pressure up to six mm. Hg. For people with mild hypertension, this may be enough to keep them off medications and its a good ancillary treatment for people with moderate hypertension.

The Benefits Go Beyond a Healthy Diet for Hypertension

Eating a DASH diet does more than reduce your blood pressure. Some studies show that it lowers the risk of Alzheimers disease, stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and lowers cholesterol levels. A DASH diet also helps with weight loss since most of the foods are low in fat and calories. Its a healthy diet that almost anyone can follow and get great results.

How to Start a DASH Diet for Hypertension

There are a variety of resources that list sample menu plans for a DASH diet. A good resource for getting started is a book called The Dash Diet Action Plan - available at most bookstores. Starting a DASH diet plan to reduce blood pressure is easier if you make incremental changes by slowly adding fresh fruits and vegetables and cutting back on processed foods. Throw in some physical activity and you have a winning recipe for reducing your blood pressure naturally.

References:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dash-diet/HI00047/METHOD=print

Little Known Health Benefits of Eating Parsley

Parsley is often thought of as a rather uninspiring garnish that rests on your dinner plate at a value priced restaurant; but parsley is so much more than just an afterthought. This herb has a long history of medicinal use dating as far back as the middle ages. Although parsley is no longer a first line treatment for most medical conditions, it can be a good addition to a well balanced, well rounded diet. What are the health benefits of eating parsley?

Health benefits of eating parsley: It combats halitosis

Not only does chewing on a sprig of parsley after a dinner of spaghetti and garlic bread taste refreshing, it can also neutralize breath odor. The secret seems to lie with parsleys high concentration of chlorophyll which helps to offset a variety of not so pleasant odors. You always knew that green garnish was good for something, didnt you?

Health benefits of eating parsley: It may neutralize cancer causing substances

Each of us is exposed to cancer causing chemicals on a daily basis. This is particularly true if you cook meat to high temperatures by grilling which produces HCAs and hydrocarbons, thought to increase the risk of certain types of cancer. One way to neutralize these carcinogens is to add some parsley to your plate. Parsley is a source of several volatile oils that help to detoxify cancer inducing chemicals.

Health benefits of eating parsley: Its a good source of vitamins

Parsley is a particularly good source of vitamin K. Vitamin K is important for healthy blood clotting and, recently, a study showed that one form of vitamin K may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Parsley is also a good source of vitamins A and C which have strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Health benefits of eating parsley: Its low in calories

You dont have to feel guilty when you chew on a sprig of parsley. Two tablespoons of this refreshing herb has a paltry two calories. You cant do much better than this if youre watching your calorie intake.

Although most people can enjoy the health benefits of eating parsley, large quantities of this herb should be avoided if youre pregnant since its been associated with uterine contractions and pre-term birth. Its also high in oxalate which could increase the risk of kidney stones if you have a history of them. Otherwise, enjoy all that parsley has to offer!