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MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Wishing you and yours a safe and wonderful holiday season!!

5 TIPS FOR MANAGING YOUR HOLIDAY STRESS LEVELS SUCCESSFULLY

Every single person on planet Earth has experienced events that cause different types of stress. No one is immune to this intense feeling. But, when the holiday season pops up, so does the level of stress that many experience.

If you have felt any of the following, it's probably safe to say that you are already dealing with some form of stress:

* You are overly cranky

* You find it difficult to get a good night's rest

* You are on a weight roller-coaster

* You find yourself more "on edge"

* You feel as if the world is crashing down on top of you

While many of these "symptoms" can be related to things other than stress, we will be addressing them here as if they are created by stress specifically and explain some things you can do to elevate some of it throughout the holiday gatherings, shopping sprees, and other unplanned surprises that are yet to come your way!

Stick To A Normal Schedule

This is important for ALL family members, not just you. Everyone needs to have a regular routine, especially children. We thrive on it. And children DEPEND on it! Diverting from your normal, every day scheduled tasks can add unnecessary stress to you and your family. So try to keep up with your routine schedules of eating, sleeping, TV time, and of course play times. With the emotional excitement of the holidays, friends and family members coming for unannounced visits, and social "get togethers", it can be a bit more difficult to stick to your normal daily routines, but it isn't impossible if you have a solid support system (i.e. - a spouse, close family member, or valued friend that is willing to help you "stick with it"). Remember, too, that you can always make small adjustments to your normal routine to fit that day's schedule of "hectic" events, but it will make keeping to your schedule all the more difficult later on.

Ask For Help

It's not as devastating as you might think :-) Actually, it's quite easy! If you
are having a tough time shouldering all the responsibilities that are upon you, just ask someone to help you with them. You could do this by dividing up different tasks that are on your holiday list of things to get done. Of course you'll want to be sure that whatever task you assign to a family member is "age appropriate". Meaning you don't want to give your 10 year old the job of hanging outdoor lights on the roof! So make sure that you delegate these responsibilities as they fit the laborer. If your particular need for help is more of an emotional nature, speak with someone you trust about what you are feeling. Remember, if you are still harboring ill feelings towards Aunt Fanny from 3 years ago, do your best not to bring up any names and just discuss what it is that is bothering you about that particular situation. Otherwise you could just make yourself feel even worse by piling on unnecessary guilt. If you find that you can't discuss these matters with a family member, take time and visit your family doctor. He/She may be able to offer you an outsider's view of what's going on, which can be quite helpful in looking at the situation in a different way. And, if the stressful feelings are causing a more serious problem, your doctor can help.

Don't Strive For Perfection

Nobody's perfect. And nothing can BE perfect, so don't expect that! Do what you can and be happy knowing that you did all you could to make it a wonderful holiday. Trying to create a "picture perfect" holiday gathering can really "sock it to you" in the stress department. Worrying about what you CAN’T do could lead to problematic health issues. And you DON'T want that! The worst part of this is that it can all be avoided by thinking realistically about what CAN be done and not what you feel NEEDS to be accomplished. There is a significant difference between those two. Make a promise to yourself that you will only do what you can without placing too much pressure on yourself to get it all done. A good thing to keep in mind is that YOU HAVE NO CONTROL OVER ANYONE OTHER THAN YOURSELF. They will do what they do and that's the end of it! If you believe in your heart that you can in essence "teach an old dog new tricks", that is, to try and get a person that is set in their "ways" to behave differently for even 15 minutes, you are headed for heartache. Try not to let the actions of others within your circle of family or friends discourage you from having a great holiday season. People will be who they are and you should learn to let go of any personal expectations of how YOU want the holiday gatherings to be. It won't do anything but add to your own stress levels.

Remember What Makes The Holiday Season Special For You And Maintain Focus

Always keep this thought in the back of your mind: "The Holidays Are A Time Of SHARING And TOGETHERNESS". Understand that this sentence may have a different meaning for each family member or friend depending on events that have occurred in holidays past. The most common reason for this stress inducer is thinking and remembrance. If something pleasant has occurred for someone, that's what they will tend to remember about the holiday seasons. If the person has experienced an incredible loss, then more than likely they will not be in a very celebratory mood. And you shouldn't expect them to be. Take some time to think about what that person might be feeling before you try and bombard them with "good tidings". But, don't let this discourage you from having a happy holiday though. If you have wonderful memories of togetherness, then bring those memories forward in a way that makes you comfortable without putting others out. Never force your happiness onto someone that has suffered a devastating loss. Allowing each individual to have their own version of how they celebrate, or not celebrate, the holidays can really reduce your stress levels.

Take A Break!

With everything that's going on during the holiday season, it's important to make some time for yourself to relax. Whether it's stopping at the corner Cafe for a cup of Joe, treating yourself to a non-holiday themed movie, or sitting down to a peaceful bite to eat, doing just one small thing to take yourself away from the stresses of the holiday season can be a very helpful mental sigh of relief! In fact, using some very basic relaxation breathing techniques will aid you in releasing stress. Stop whatever it is you're doing, close your eyes, and take in a few deep, cleansing, breaths. You will find this to be very soothing in times of high stress. As the body takes in more oxygen, it reduces the amount of stress hormonal releases within the body, thereby, reducing the physical feelings of stress. If you have time in your busy day, go home and take a short, restful nap. This can help to "recharge" your mental batteries. You could even end your day with a sweet-smelling, muscle relaxing, steamy bath. Light some candles, shut and lock out the world, and retreat to the most private room in your home! Don't have time for a bath? Then how about a nice, hot, cup of chamomile tea? Use whatever common stress-busters work best for you. Just make sure you set aside some time to DO them over the course of the holi-days :-)

Having a wonderful, enjoyable, less stressful holiday season can be accomplished by using the tips suggested here. There are dozens and dozens of ways to fight holiday stress. Stop back for more tips on alleviating holiday stress. I hope that you have a wonderful and memorable holiday season! Happy Holidays!!

The 8 Essential B Vitamins

The B vitamins are necessary to keep all of the body functions performing properly. All of the B vitamins are essential for a number of different processes. Without sufficient B vitamins the blood supply would not be healthy and this leads to a variety of illnesses and diseases. The brain needs B vitamins to function correctly and the heart also needs B vitamins to stay healthy and prevent heart disease. Food is broken down into the various nutrients by B vitamins. In fact, just about every organ and process within the body requires at least one form of the B vitamin.

Thiamin, or B1, is the B vitamin that the body needs to keep all of its cells, especially the nerves, functioning correctly. It is especially important for memory and general mental health and is one of the B vitamins that is required to convert food into energy.

Riboflavin, or B2, is the B vitamin that is essential for releasing the enrgy from food that has been consumed. Without this B vitamin the body cannot grow or develop properly as red blood cells will not be as healthy as they should be. Riboflavin also keeps the skin healthy and prevents catarcts.

Niacin, or B3, is the B vitamin that is involved in over fifty processes, ranging from detoxifying chemicals to making hormones and releasing energy from food. Niacin lowers cholesterol levels and has been used in the treatment of depression, insomnia and arthritis.

Pantothenic acid, or B5,works with several other B vitamins for a number of essential processes including breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into energy and is also the B vitamin that is needed to form vitamin D, a variety of hormones, and red blood cells. Vitamin B5 is essential for the health of your central nervous system.

Pyridoxine, or B6, is the B vitamin that is largely responsible for redistributing the amino acids to create over five thousand proteins that are needed by the body and is also one of the B vitamins needed to form various enzymes. Pyroxidine is often used to treat symptoms of PMS.

Biotin, or B7, is one of the B vitamins that are involved in a number of processes within the body, including the breaking down of fats, carbohydrates and proteins into useable energy forms as well as being an important contributor for hair and nail health.

Folic acid, or B9, is the essential B vitamin for aiding in cell growth and division, especially during pregnancy. This B vitamin is also necessary to make natural chemicals which control the appetite, moods and quality of sleep. It is also the best B vitamin for helping lower the chances of suffering a heart attack or stroke by keeping the arteries open.

Cobalamin, or B12, is one of the B vitamins that is important in the process of converting the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into energy. This B vitamin is also vital in forming the protective covering of nerve cells and to keep red blood cells healthy, and help prevent heart disease.

Where can you find B vitamins? Vitamin B1 can be found in whole grain cereals and bread, and red meats, green leafy vegetables, brown rice, and yeast. Riboflavin can be found in cheese, peas, milk, meat and eggs, as well as whole grain products. Eat protein rich foods such as fish, meats, legumes, peanuts, brewers yeast and eggs for adequate niacin intake. You can find vitamin B6 in liver, meats, brown rice, wheat germ, and whole grain cereals. You can also find vitamin B12 in these same sources, as well as in poultry and milk. And finally, eat meat, legumes and whole grain cereals for vitamin B 9.

Make sure that you get all of your daily intake of B vitamins from these food sources to maintain healthy bodily functions. Next time we'll talk about other important vitamins for your health.

Benefits of Vitamin C

Vitamin C has got to be the most widely known vitamin these days. It is not surprising because the body requires vitamin C for over 300 functions. In fact, the vitamin C has been proved to help protect against heart disease, cancer and other serious illnesses. Without this vitamin the body would not be able to heal itself either. This is because vitamin C is vital in the formation of collagen. Whenever a person has a cut or an injury it is the collagen that helps to repair the damage and without sufficient vitamin C this would be almost impossible. Collagen has a multitude of functions in the body, including keeping the organs in place, and it would not be able to do this without sufficient vitamin C.

Vitamin C is also an antioxidant for the body and helps other vitamins and minerals to be absorbed better. Folic acid and iron, for example, need vitamin C to maximize their usefulness. The more vitamin C that the body has, the better its defenses against colds and other common ailments. Although vitamin C may not prevent a person from catching a virus, it does appear to speed up the recovery process.

There is vitamin C in almost every fruit and vegetable but some have far higher vitamin C content than others. Cranberries and melons have high vitamin C content. In fact, tropical fruits have the highest vitamin C content of all fruit. Hot peppers are amongst the richest sources of vitamin C when it comes to vegetables. The hotter the pepper, the higher its vitamin C content is. Unfortunately, vitamin C is water soluble so many vegetables lose their effectiveness as a vitamin provider if they are boiled for a long time. Steaming or quick stir frying vegetables ensures that more of their vitamin content is retained. The recommended daily amount of vitamin C is easily obtained from eating five portions of fruits and vegetables a day if they are consumed raw or cooked quickly.

Vitamin C supplements are extremely useful to ensure that people obtain sufficient amounts. However, with a balanced diet the amount of vitamin C the body receives is likely to be sufficient. However, if a person begins feeling tired or lethargic then a vitamin C supplement will help overcome this. There is no danger of having too much vitamin C as the body simply excretes the excess.

Natural Remedies for Arthritis

Arthritis is beginning to affect people at a much younger age these days, and if the disease runs in your family, you’ll want to do all you can to prevent the onset of arthritis. Here are some natural remedies that you may want to try, whether you’re trying to prevent arthritis, or are suffering with symptoms.

Case studies have shown that bee venom is an effective natural remedy that can relieve arthritis symptoms and help to prevent the disease. Bee venom can lubricate the joints and improve range of motion. Bee venom therapy is still being studied, but has shown some promising results in individuals for arthritis, fibromyalgia, tendonitis and nultiple schlerosis.

Another natural remedy, cat’s claw, has also been shown to decrease inflammation and eliminate discomfort. Cat’s claw can also treat tendonitis, which is a common side effect of arthritis. Since fluid tends to build up around the joints, herbs like cat’s claw can help to drain the toxic fluids from the body when taken regularly. Studies suggest that cat's claw may be beneficial for a slew of conditions, including arthritis, bursitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, lupis and menstrual irregularities.

Nutritional changes can also serve as natural remedies and ensure that you feel better and reduce the complications that can come along with arthritis. Simple changes or adjustments to your diet can significantly improve arthritis. Including more green vegetables in the diet, such as kale and kelp (seaweed) normalize body fluids and increase joint movement. Eating more foods with calcium and B vitamins can strengthen the bones.

Today, there are so many natural solutions that can be used effectively for so many conditions and they are successful in improving a person’s life in many ways. But, If you’re thinking of taking natural remedies to treat your arthritis, be sure to talk to your physician about using alternative medicine to treat your condition. It may be a good idea to take only one type of medication at a time, since traditional and natural medicines may decrease the effects of other medicine. Be sure to take your natural supplements as directed to improve its effectiveness.

The Best Sources of Natural Vitamins

There are a number of essential vitamins that the body requires in order to function properly. While it is possible to take these in the form of a vitamin supplement, it is always preferable to get your vitamins from a balanced diet. For the majority of people it should be possible to obtain much of their recommended daily allowance of vitamins from natural vitamin sources.

A health professional or dietary technician is the best person to give advice on any vitamin supplement that a person should take. This is because there are some vitamins that can be toxic if too much is consumed and thus may not be appropriate. The key, again, is to eat a healthy and balanced diet.

There are certain diets, such as vegetarian, that provide a limited number of natural vitamin supplements and therefore a supplement may become necessary. Also, the intake required of these natural vitamin sources at certain times may need to be increased and a supplement may be the best option. Examples include pregnancy, breastfeeding and childhood.

It is important to be aware of each of the different types of vitamins and their best natural vitamin sources so that a person can incorporate as many of these as possible into their regular diet. Water soluble vitamins cannot be stored in the body and need to be replenished on a daily basis. Fat soluble vitamins are those that are stored in our body’s fat reserves and are the most likely to reach toxic levels if over-supplemented.

Natural sources of Vitamins

Vitamin B1 sources are brewer’s yeast, whole grains, blackstrap molasses, brown rice, organ meats, egg yolk

Vitamin B2 sources are brewer’s yeast, whole grains, legumes, nuts, organ meats, blackstrap molasses

Vitamin B3 sources are lean meats, poultry & fish, brewer’s yeast, peanuts, milk, rice bran, potatoes

Vitamin B4 sources are egg yolks, organ meats, brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, soybeans, fish, legumes

Vitamin B5 sources are organ meats, egg yolks, legumes, whole grains, wheat germ, salmon, brewer’s yeast

Vitamin B6 sources are meats, whole grains, organ meats brewer’s yeast, blackstrap molasses, wheat germ

Vitamin B7 sources are egg yolks, liver, unpolished rice, brewer’s yeast, sardines, legumes, whole grains

Vitamin B8 sources are who1e grains, citrus fruits, molasses, meat, milk, nuts, vegetables, brewer’s yeast

Vitamin B9 sources are dark-green leafy vegetables, organ meats, root vegetables, oysters, salmon, milk

Vitamin B12 sources are organ meats, fish, pork, eggs, cheese, milk, lamb, bananas, kelp, peanuts

Vitamin B13 sources are root vegetables, liquid whey

Vitamin B15 sources are brewer’s yeast, rare steaks, brown rice, sunflower, pumpkin & sesame seeds

Vitamin B17 sources are whole kernels of apricots, apples, cherries, peaches, plums

Vitamin C sources are citrus, cabbage family, chilli peppers, berries, melons, asparagus, rose hips

Vitamin A sources are milk, eggs, butter, yellow fruits & vegetables, dark green fruits & vegetables, liver

Vitamin D sources are salmon, sardines, herring, milk, egg yolk, organ meats, sprouted seeds, sunflower seeds

Vitamin E sources are cold-pressed oils, eggs, wheat germ, organ meats, molasses, sweet potatoes, nuts

Vitamin K sources are green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, safflower oil, blackstrap molasses, cauliflower

Vitamin F sources are vegetable oils, butter, sunflower seeds

Vitamin Q sources are pinto beans, legumes, soybeans

Vitamin T sources are sesame seeds, raw seeds, butter, egg yolk

Vitamin V sources are raw cabbage, sauerkraut, leafy vegetables

As stated above, the best source of vitamins is to eat a balanced diet daily. If you can't, though, make sure that any supplement that you take contains the minimum recommended requirements for health. Also choose a reputable brand of supplements. Here's to your health!

Earth Medicine as an Alternative to Prescription Drugs

Taking prescription medication has become the norm today for so many people and so many reasons. The pharmaceutical business is BIG business. They are advertising like never before. So it seems perfectly normal that whenever we suffer any symptoms at all, from the slightest sniffle to a belly ache to a sore throat and cough, we are running to the doctor for some chemical solution to our discomfort.

However, many people are beginning to realize the benefits of natural remedies that are easily obtained through a trip to the health food store. Natural remedies offer an alternative to the medical approach that most of us have become dependent upon. Research has begun to show us how the body uses the very discomforts we are trying to rid ourselves of to actually get rid of the “bug” on its own. That means that there is a reason your nose is running or you are coughing up phlegm. These are ways your body rids itself of germs.

Natural remedies are available for just about any symptom or condition you can think of. Everything from migraine headaches, cold sores, athlete’s foot, heartburn, and even head lice can be cured by taking something derived right from Mother Earth. For example, the next time you have an upset stomach, try chewing on a piece of ginger, instead of some chalky tablet with all of its additives. Ginger does effectively settle an upset stomach and has been used for eons by some cultures. Ginger is not only a natural medicinal substance, but it makes a wonderful herb for cooking. What could be more natural?

Natural remedies are not just for treating aches and pains. Natural remedies can be taken for a host of problems for which many people are unaware. Issues such as problems with memory or a sluggish immune system can also be addressed through natural means. People often view memory lapses as a normal part of the aging process and therefore they do not address it. But there are natural cures that can be utilized, such as ginkgo biloba.

The same is true for the immune system. With the roller coaster ingestion of antibiotics frequently used to treat common ailments, some people build up a tolerance to them, and their immune systems take a beating. Use natural supplements to help boost your immune system so that your body can rely on itself to fight infection.

Many, many natural remedies have been proven safe and effective alternatives for building a healthier body. Prescription medication and all that it entails, including other chemicals and additives, only increases the stress on our bodies. Not to mention the uncomfortable side effects that usually go along with the “treatment”.

We can live longer and healthier lives by changing a few simple strategies in our lives. It might be something as simple as a cup of herbal tea each day or taking a vitamin before bed, but that’s a step in the right direction. Medical treatments have their place, but I think that I would rather prevent illness by building a chemical-free, strong and healthy body.

7 Tips to Lose Weight Safely

Losing weight today is a matter of health. It is no longer all about just looking good. We know that obesity is a serious health risk reaching epidemic proportions in this country. There are no quick fixes. To lose weight safely, you must eat right and exercise daily. Here are a few tips that you can use anytime to help you head in the right direction.

1. Drink lots of water. Often times we eat when we really just require hydration. Drink water before, during and after meals. Water fills you up and helps you to eat less, without all the calories. Water is also required by our bodies for so many of its natural functions. Also, being well hydrated gives you energy and flushes all of the toxins from your body, leaving you feeling healthier.

2. Stay away from soda and other sweetened drinks. It has been documented that we will adjust our intake when we eat a handful of candy. However, we do not do so when drinking sweetened juices or sodas. What this means is that we are taking in way too many extra calories for the day. Add to this the fact that we often drink many of these items. What to do? See number one.

3. Eat several smaller meals in a day. Studies show that eating more frequently keeps your blood glucose levels balanced, which in turn curbs your hunger and craving for more carbohydrates. Have fruits, vegetables, nuts and cheese for snacks.

4. Eat whole grains instead of simple sugars. This means eat brown rice instead of white. Eat the whole grain rather than the refined product. The whole grain is not only better for your health, but keeps you more satisfied.

5. Increase your fiber intake. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will keep you fuller longer and help to keep you more regular. Fiber is important for colon health. Plus, you’ll get more vitamins and minerals in the whole foods.

6. Try to exercise everyday. Have fun with it. Turn your chores into exercise. You can burn calories cleaning. Or get a stroller and take the little ones with you. Not only will you be getting exercise, but you’ll be setting a good example for your children.

7. Stay present and in the moment. When you pay attention to your meal and your own body, you will know when you are full. When you are satisfied, you stop eating, get up from the table and be present in the next thing. Food is a very large part of American’s social life. We tend to eat when we’re not hungry and we seem to have lost that trigger that lets us know when we have eaten enough, or maybe we’ve just ignored it for too long. At any rate, when you develop the habit of eating slowly and paying attention to your body’s signs, you will find that you naturally eat less.

These are just a few tips to get you started. Start slow. Develop good habits. Habits become a new way of living. I encourage you to write your comments. Leave your tips for our other readers. We can do this thing together. And remember, you only have to do this today. You can always change your mind tomorrow, when it gets here. You can do anything one day at a time!

Copyright 2007 Pat Tomaskovic

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Wishing You and Yours A Safe and Healthy Happy New Year!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

I want to wish Everyone Warmest Wishes and Merry Christmas!!

Stay Healthy and Well!

Natural Remedies for Common Health Concerns

Our immune system is nature's way of keeping us healthy. In the past, most people thought that our immune system only related to our general state of health. Physicians routinely removed some of the most important organs of our immune system. I had my tonsils removed when I was 3 years old. And many people have no appendix. Today we know better.

We know that the immune system seems to have a primitive intelligence. It is a marriage of organs and body systems that all work together in order to protect our body as a whole. There are so many things that contribute to the decline in the health of our immune systems. These include a poor diet, stress, and overuse of antibiotics just to name a few.

We have alternatives to prescription drugs, whose only function is symptomatic. There are known substances that can assist us in stimulating immune function. These substances encourage the elimination of toxins, stimulate liver and kidney function as well as speed recovery when we do get ill.

Some types of alternative approaches used include such holistic practices as herbology, homeopathy and aromatherapy. Nutritional remedies are also quite effective for an immune boost.

Some of the common herbs that we use to give our immune systems this boost against bacterial, viral and parasitic infections include: citrus seed extract, Echinacea, garlic, goldenseal, licorice root, vitamin C and shiitake mushrooms. There are so many options out there that it can get quite overwhelming. How do you know what works? How do we know which one to use?

I would like to share with you some of the research on natural methods of healing that can be used for several common conditions for which antibiotics are usually prescribed. As always, seek the guidance of a professional if you suspect any illness. Work with this professional, whether he be Western, Eastern, homeopathic or natural care provider. I would also love to hear from you. What works for you? Do you have old family remedies that have proven helpful?

Acne

The natural program outlined shows good to excellent results in 92% of patients. Dietary manipulation and avoidance of certain substances such as soft drinks is well known. Vitamins A, E, B6, and zinc show promise as wellas benzoyl peroxide and essential oils.

Bladder Infection

Cranberry juice is the #1 choice in the treatment of bladder infection. This can be combined with blueberry juice. Acidophilus and Vitamins C, A and beta-carotene have been used effectively. Extra fluids, good hygiene and frequent urination are effective preventive strategies. Thyme oil and tea tree oil can be used for chronic infection. Homeopathic remedies are also effective.

Common Cold and Flu

High doses of Vitamin C can be taken without harm. What your body does not need, it will not use. Take up to point of diarrhea and then back down to the dose just before diarrhea. Zinc or vitamin C lozenges can be used to treat a cold. Essential oils are useful. Echinacea is used to effectively tweak the immune system during cold and flu season as well. Make sure to get plenty of rest and keep yourself hydrated, if you do develop a cold or flu symptoms.

Intestinal Infection with Diarrhea

Lactobacillus bifidobacterium, used as directed, builds those important intestinal bacteria back up. Many of these are killed during antibiotic treatment along with the bad guys. L.bifidobactreium supplement our intestinal immunity during these times.

Sinusitis

Herbs and essential oils can be used to treat sinusitus. Humidified air is a great transport for oils as well as keeping the air less dry and irritating. Avoid potential allergens during these times.

Vaginitis

Use of a tampon soaked in essential oil, especially tea tree oil, has been found to be effective in the treatment of simple vaginitis. It is also applied externally with good effect. Unsweetened yogurt douches are used by many as a natural alternative. Acidophilus keeps your vaginal environment well balanced. Vitamins such as C, A and E are always effective immune boosters.

Disclaimer:ALWAYS SEEK MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS. Do not diagnose yourself. It is very important to work with your health care provider. Many of these and other remedies are widely accepted today. However, what looks like simple vaginitis can be much more, for example. That is why you should seek the services of a professional. Most professionals will work with you to incorporate any natural therapies that you wish to utilize, provided they do not counteract treatment prescribed. Work with your care provider, for your own safety.

These and so many other natural forms of therapy, both preventive and symptomatic relief, are used effectively and safely everyday. Any comments, suggestions, family remedies or stories are greatly appreciated. I am a perpetual student and always welcome new information. Take care of yourself! We'll talk again soon.

Here's To the Health of Humanity!

Share a hug! Check out this link:

http://www.freehugscampaign.org/

Now that's what I'm talking about. I believe that health is not just about what you eat or how much you exercise. Our own personal health can affect world health. We are all connected and we need to remember what we do to or for another, we do to or for ourselves. The best way to get what you want is to help others get what they need. You have to give it away to keep it! So hug someone today...and tomorrow...and the day after...and the day after...and...well you get the picture! God bless you!

How to Prevent E. Coli Outbreak in Your Family

Every year, approximately 73,000 Americans suffer from cases
of food borne illness caused by Escherichia coli O157:H7. Some cases are violent and according to 1999 estimates, 61 deaths occur as a result. E.Coli O157:H7 food poisoning is caused by one of hundreds of strains of a bacteria found in the intestines of healthy cattle, deer, goats, and sheep.

Although most strains are harmless, this particular strain produces a powerful toxin causing severe bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Most people recover within days. However, some people develop a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS is life-threatening and generally requires admission to an intensive care unit. The death rate is 3%-5%.

Although we usually take food safety is for granted, the country was recently exposed to an outbreak of E. coli O157 that infected 199 people in 26 states with 3 confirmed deaths. This outbreak was isolated in packages of spinach. According to the CDC, outbreaks of E.Coli O157 occur regularly. They can occur locally or throughout several states.

We usually associate food poisoning of this type with insufficiently cooked or improperly handled beef, although transmission can occur in many ways. The CDC states that E coli can also be spread through unpasteurized fruit juices, lettuce, drinking water and contact with infected animals. It also occurs person-to-person, usually among children in day care centers. It has also been isolated in sprouts, salami, unpasteurized milk, and by swimming in sewage-contaminated water.

What can you do to prevent infection?

As consumers, we can take safety precautions to prevent E. coli O157:H7 in our homes. We can also advocate for stronger preventive measures in farming and during meat processing, as well as during the growth and harvesting of produce. Stronger efforts to decrease environmental contamination is a collaborative enterprise.

Below is a list of actions that individuals can apply day to day for their own and their family's health and well-being:

• Cook all ground beef, hamburger and poultry thoroughly to a temperature of at least 160 degrees or until no longer pink inside

• Don't place cooked hamburgers on the same plate that held the raw meat

• Avoid spreading harmful bacteria in the kitchen by keeping raw meats separate from fresh foods

• Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling foods, before eating, and after using the bathroom or changing diapers

• Wash hands, utensils, cutting boards and counters with hot, soapy water

• Wash all fruits and vegetables under running water

• Avoid drinking unpasteurized milk and juices

• Do not thaw food out on the counter; defrost foods in the refrigerator

• Don't buy food past its expiration date and make sure that you use before the use-by date

• Keep the temperature of your refrigerator at 40 degrees F and your freezer at 0 degrees F

• Perform regular maintenance of your refrigerator and freezer

• Wash or replace kitchen towels, dish cloths and sponges regularly

• Do not purchase canned goods with dents, cracks or bulging lids

• Do not feed sprouts to children under the age of 5 until safety can be assured

• Avoid swallowing lake or pool water while swimming

By following these simple and common sense behaviors, you will minimize the risk of introducing any potentially dangerous organisms into your home.

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Welcome!

Hi Everybody,

I want to introduce you to your body and what messages it might be sending you about it's health. I am of the firm belief that many of us are just not familiar with what is good for us. Or if you're like me, you have a hard time with getting yourself organized and educated. So, I went back to school to earn a Doctorate in Holistic Health so that I could help myself and a whole lot of other people in the process. In case you haven't looked around lately, there are a lot of unhappy, overweight, overworked, stressed out negative people on our planet.

I was one, too. I struggled with some other issues as well. But, this is not about me. I wanted to be able to help educate the regular guy or gal out there who daily struggle with some or all of these issues. It is all about our health, be it our physical, mental or spiritual.

I am hoping to get this blog to become an interactive tool for those who happen upon it. I want you to tell me what you want to read about. I want you to participate by sending me your articles or jokes or recipes or anything else that you use on a daily basis that makes life just a little happier for you or your loved ones. Share with our readers what puts a smile on your face.

Empower yourself and someone else. Let's talk about health. Yours, mine, the planet's!

If we can make even a small difference in one person's life today and that person pays it forward, imagine the possibilities! I know it can be done. Help me to help you.

Welcome to LET'S TALK ABOUT HEALTH!