ALCOHOLISM THE LIFE DANGER

Alcoholism is a term with multiple and sometimes conflicting definitions. In common and historic usage, alcoholism refers to any condition that results in the consumption of alcoholic beverages despite the health problems and negative social consequences it causes. Medical definitions describe alcoholism as a disease which results in a persistent use of alcohol despite consequences.

               Alcoholism also referred to as dipsomania in 19^th and early 20^th centuries, may also refer to a preoccupation with or compulsion toward the consumption of alcohol and/ or an impaired ability to recognize the negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption. Although not all of these definitions specify current and on-going use of alcohol as qualifier, some do, as well as remarking on the long-term effects of consistent, heavy alcohol use, are including dependence and symptoms of withdrawal.

WHAT IS ALCOHOL?

Alcohol is created when grains, fruits, or vegetables are fermented. Fermentation is a process that uses yeast or bacterial to change the sugars in the food into alcohol. Fermentation is used to produce many necessary items everything from cheese to medication. Alcohol has different forms and can be used as cleaner, an antiseptic, or a sedative. So if alcohol is a natural product, why do people need to be concerned about drinking it? When people (the brain and spinal cord), which controls virtually all body functions.

SOCIAL FUNCTIONS OF ALCOHOL

The use of alcohol plays an important social function/role in most societies in Kenya. Alcohol is always present in meetings when elders are settling disputes and also when marriage is being arranged.

HOW MUCH IS IT SAFE TO DRING?

One of the most basic information required by officers or health care provider working in area of alcohol is the quality of alcohol being consumed. But because alcohol comes in many different forms, it is difficult to judge how much alcohol has been consumed, standard measures have been created.

WHY, DO PEOPLE DRINK?

Experimentation with alcohol during the teen years to adulthood is common. Some reasons as to why people use alcohol (and other drugs) are:

1. Curiosity

2. To feel good, reduce stress, and relax

3. To fit in/peer pressure

4. To feel older, smarter, whole/ adequate,

5. Ignorance, lack of self-esteem or aim in life.

From a very young age, kids see advertising message showing beautiful people enjoying life and alcohol. And because many parents and other adults use alcohol socially having beer or wine with dinner, for example alcohol seems harmless to many people.

HOW DOES IT AFFECT THE BODY

Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows the function of the central nervous system. Alcohol actually blocks some of the message trying to get to the brain. This alters a person’s perceptions, emotions, movement, vision and hearing. In very small amounts, alcohol can help a person feel more relaxed or less anxious. More alcohol causes greater changes in the brain, resulting in intoxication. People who have overused alcohol may stagger, lose their coordination, and slur their speech. They will probably be confused and disoriented. Depending on the person, intoxication can make someone very friendly and talkative or very aggressive and angry. Reaction times are slowed dramatically which is why people are told not drink and drive. People who are intoxicated may think they’re moving properly when they’re not. They may act totally out of character.

               When large amounts of alcohol are consumed in a short period of time, alcohol poisoning can result. Alcohol poisoning is exactly what it sounds like the body has become poisoned by large amounts of alcohol. Violent vomiting is usually the first symptom of alcohol poisoning. Extreme sleepiness, unconsciousness, difficulty breathing, dangerously low blood sugar, seizures and even death may result.

PROBLEMS OF INTOXICATION

This is probably the least acknowledged and most widespread group of alcohol related problems. It is important to realize that quite a low level of intoxication can give rise to problems such as drinking and driving, minor domestic accidents, disagreements or hangovers. Most obvious effects of the intoxication are family arguments, theft, domestic violence, child neglect/abuse, abseeintism, from work, public drunkard ness, public aggression and road traffic offenses.

ACIDITY, INDIGESTION, HEARTBURN AND GAS

ACIDITY: Physical weakness, acidic or watery belching, dizziness, burning stomach, heartburn etc.

INDIGESTION (dyspepsia):

Belching with a bad smell, watering of the mouth, distension of the stomach, loss of appetite, aversion to food, offensive internal gas, physical weakness, fretful temper, constipation or loose stool containing food particles.

ACID REFLUX:

Bitter or sour belching and spitting yellow vomit or undigested food.

CAUSES

Indigestion (dyspepsia) originates mainly from unbalanced eating habits. Parasites or infection may lead to symptoms of indigestion. Indigestion may be caused by low body temperature. Eating when one is not hungry or only half-hungry is harmful in this disease. So is eating rich food for many days, drinking alcohol, not resting after the meal before running off to work. Over-eating at a meal, eating quickly or not chewing food well can also cause indigestion. According to traditional wisdom, it is better to fill the stomach1/2 with food, ¼ with water and1/4 empty for air.

               So it better to eat frequent small meals rather that over-filling yourself at one meal. Some gas(flatulence) from the lower colon is sign of a healthy colon. A lot of gas is cause for concern only if has a bad odour would indicate candida overgrowth. If this is the case, consider garlic enemas. Flatulence after eating beans is normal, and odour-free gas is normal and indicative of healthy colon. You can reduce the gas in beans by cooking the beans with fennel seeds or a few bay leaves spice, found in supermarkets. Acid reflux can be caused by excess stomach acid and or bile. When severe, it can cause ulcers in the stomach and colon.

PREVENTION

Food combining Tips: The stomach uses different enzymes to digest proteins or vegetables or fruits. Too many different dishes or foods in single meal can`` confuse’’ the stomach and cause indigestion. Correct foods combination may help digestion. Mix as few dishes of food as possible. Eat proteins ( meats, beans) first, then follow with vegetables and grains( maize, rice, bread). Don’t eat sweets or fruit together with vegetables. Do not consume sodas just after meal. They will dilute hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for protein digestion. Never eat fast or under stress. Chew food slowly and mix a lot of saliva with mouthful.Do not cook with aluminium pots. Especially do not boil herbal medicines in aluminium. They interact with food and herbs in poisonous way. Alluminiun pots can cause indigestion, gas, nausea, stomach pains, constipation and hard stools. Invest in some stainless steel pots, they cost only a bit more than aluminium pots.The money that you save in medicines for bad stomach pains will pay the cost of the pots many times over.

ACIDITY: Physical weakness, acidic or watery belching, dizziness, burning stomach, heartburn etc.

INDIGESTION (dyspepsia):

Belching with a bad smell, watering of the mouth, distension of the stomach, loss of appetite, aversion to food, offensive internal gas, physical weakness, fretful temper, constipation or loose stool containing food particles.

ACID REFLUX:

Bitter or sour belching and spitting yellow vomit or undigested food.

CAUSES

Indigestion (dyspepsia) originates mainly from unbalanced eating habits. Parasites or infection may lead to symptoms of indigestion. Indigestion may be caused by low body temperature. Eating when one is not hungry or only half-hungry is harmful in this disease. So is eating rich food for many days, drinking alcohol, not resting after the meal before running off to work. Over-eating at a meal, eating quickly or not chewing food well can also cause indigestion. According to traditional wisdom, it is better to fill the stomach1/2 with food, ¼ with water and1/4 empty for air.

               So it better to eat frequent small meals rather that over-filling yourself at one meal. Some gas(flatulence) from the lower colon is sign of a healthy colon. A lot of gas is cause for concern only if has a bad odour would indicate candida overgrowth. If this is the case, consider garlic enemas. Flatulence after eating beans is normal, and odour-free gas is normal and indicative of healthy colon. You can reduce the gas in beans by cooking the beans with fennel seeds or a few bay leaves spice, found in supermarkets. Acid reflux can be caused by excess stomach acid and or bile. When severe, it can cause ulcers in the stomach and colon.

PREVENTION

Food combining Tips: The stomach uses different enzymes to digest proteins or vegetables or fruits. Too many different dishes or foods in single meal can`` confuse’’ the stomach and cause indigestion. Correct foods combination may help digestion. Mix as few dishes of food as possible. Eat proteins ( meats, beans) first, then follow with vegetables and grains( maize, rice, bread). Don’t eat sweets or fruit together with vegetables. Do not consume sodas just after meal. They will dilute hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for protein digestion. Never eat fast or under stress. Chew food slowly and mix a lot of saliva with mouthful.Do not cook with aluminium pots. Especially do not boil herbal medicines in aluminium. They interact with food and herbs in poisonous way. Alluminiun pots can cause indigestion, gas, nausea, stomach pains, constipation and hard stools. Invest in some stainless steel pots, they cost only a bit more than aluminium pots.The money that you save in medicines for bad stomach pains will pay the cost of the pots many times over.

GREAT HEALTH BUILDING

GREAT HEALTH BUILDING

Great health can be achieved through many ways, natural immune boosting system to fight against the opportunistic diseases, balanced diet and good sanitation. Improving immunity starts with the digestive system which is responsible for turning food into energy and materials that your body needs to maintain itself .The cells of your body grow and change whereby they use different chemicals, vitamins and enzymes to maintain and do work they are supposed to do. The used nutrients are thrown away as waste products. Remember that there is direct relationship between nutrition and prevention of diseases. We know that poor nutrition can undermine the body immune system leaving us venerable to many other forms of diseases. Poor nutrition ultimately shows up in age related condition such as osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis which can make our older years full of suffering, discomfort and disease. There has been a nutrition challenges in today’s life which are completely beyond our control considering that the air we breathe, indoors and out, is polluted with the by-product of industry and exhaust.

                      Keeping proper sanitation is one of basic facts about health because water we drink is no longer pure and hundreds of chemicals have already been identified in most of the water we drink especially urban water supply and other water supply. Many of the foods we eat are stripped of nutrients through reefing and process or contaminated with pesticides, fungicides, sulphites and preservatives. Our grocery shelves are lined with products that are highly refined containing preservatives, high fat content, high salts and? All the bypass surgeries, organ transplants, biopsies and prescription drugs can extend our lives, but can financially draining. Doctors seem to focus their attention on the effects of these deadly diseases. Scientific research has shown that they can be prevented or well managed with proper nutrition hence the need and rapid growth of nutritional supplements. The small intestines are where most of the nutrition from food gets sent into the blood to feed all parts of the body. If intestines are not doing their job, then the goodness from the food does not reach the rest of the body. Everything gets affected by malabsorption. The neither colon nor large intestine is the waste management system of the collecting point for all the garbage of body, which it eliminates as stool. If the intestine is not working well, the waste products can become a factory of disease producing many problems. Clean health intestine are secret to anyone’s health. The cleansing of the body is very important to avoid toxins re-absorbed in the body. A strong liver is very vital to health in many functions. Eating wrongly can cause weakening of liver as well as too many fatty and fried foods. Improver functioning of the liver can lets to indigestion, constipation, gallstones, haemorrhoids and jaundice. A health digestive system is the key to health. Medicines are not the answer to long term health moreover there is no pill or medicine can make your digestive system work. Key to your digestive  is eating right and making sure your digestive is doing well. Factors like poor appetite, impaired digestion, a toxic colon or liver are common threads that link all chronic illness. In conclusion we live a lifestyle of convenience and abundance and many of us have become overfed but undernourished.

ENEMA AND IMPLANTATION FOR GOOD HEALTH:

An enema is using water or herbal infusion and filling the rectum and colon with it. One needs special enema equipment for this process. An enema can be very useful in cleaning out the colon (large intestines) and absorbing walls. The enema equipment is usually a 1 litre container, some tubing with a cutoff valve and special nozzle that will fit in the rectum. Enema equipment is available through Abha light. Prepare the warm(not hot), boiled water or warm herbal infusion and fill the plastic container with it. For PLWHAs, add 2 tablespoons of vinegar.

               Begin by having a bowel movement first. Lie down on bathroom floor or in a long bathtub. Place a towel on floor for comfort. Lie on right side. Put some petroleum jelly on the tip of the nozzle so that it will insert into the rectum easily. Put the nozzle into the rectum only about 5cm(2 inches). Open the valve and allow the water or medicine to enter the rectum. This will feel a bit uncomfortable. When the colon starts to contract to expel the liquid, shut off the valve. Lay on your back. Remove the nozzle. Relax, but hold the water in.Try to hold as much water as possible, up to minutes. When it can’t be held any longer, rush to toilet or release yourself in bucket you have near you for the purpose.( you will disinfect the bucket afterwards.) Repeat the process1 to 2 more times trying to enable yourself to contain up to 11/2-2litres

               Do not do more than 3 enemas in a session. It may need a few enemas and afew days to completely clean out the colon. An implantation is to use a herble infusion and let it remain inside until it is completely absorbed. Insert a small amount ¼ to ½ cup of liquid into rectum and allow it remain. It may be possible after a few minutes to stand up without it coming out. After about ½ hour it will be absorbed completely. Consult a doctor or herbal advisor about which herbs are appropriate for enema. An enema can clean out the colon well. Much old stool, parasites, worms can be cleaned out if this process is repeated after a period of time, about 7or10 days.However ,do not repeatedly use enemas in constipation for the purpose of passing stool. Such overuse will cause more constipation because the intestines will ``forget’’ how to function properly on their own.

 

DIABETES TIME- BOMB TO THE SOCIETY:

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by blood sugar (glucose) levels that result from defects in insulin secretion or action or both. Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes (as it will be in this article) was first identified as a disease associated with ``sweet urine’’, and excessive muscle loss in the ancient world. Elevated levels of blood glucose (hyperglycaemia) lead to spillage of glucose into the urine, hence the term sweet urine.

                   Normally, blood glucose levels are tightly controlled by insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. Insulin lowers the blood glucose level. When the blood glucose elevates insulin is released from the pancreas to normalize the glucose level. In patients with diabetes, the absence or insufficient production of insulin causes hyperglycemia.Diabetes is chronic medical condition, meaning that although it can be controlled, and its lasts a lifetime.

IMPACT OF DIABETES IN SOCIETY:

Over time, diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, and nerve damage.These types of damage are the result of damage to small vessels, referred to as microvascular disease.Diadetes is also an important factor in accelerating the hardening and narrowing of the arteries(atherosclerosis),leading to strokes, coronary heart disease and other large blood vessel diseases.This is referred to as macrovascular disease.Diabetes affects approximately 17 million people(about 8% of the population) in the united states. In addition  an estimated additional 12 million people in united states have diabetes and don`t even know it.Some supplements such as omega3, aloe vera juice, garcinia and bee propolis are used to control diabetes.

CAUSES OF DIABETES

Insufficient production of insulin (either absolutely or relative to the body`s needs).production of defective insulin which is un common or inability of cells to use insulin properly and efficiently leads to hyperglycaemia and  diabetes. This latter condition affects mostly the cells of muscle and fat tissues and results in condition known as insulin resistance. This is the primary problem in type2 diabetes. The absolute lack of insulin usually secondary to destructive process affecting the insulin producing beta cells in pancreas is the main disorder in type 1 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, there also a steady decline of beta cells that adds to the process of elevated blood sugars.

                      Essentially, if someone is resistant to insulin, the body can to some degree, increase production of insulin and overcome the level of resistance. After time, if production decreases and insulin cannot be released as vigorously, hyperglycaemia develops. Glucose is a simple sugar found in food.Glucose is an essential nutrient that provides energy for the proper functioning of the body cells.Carbohydrates are  broken down in the small intestine and the glucose in digested food is then absorbed by the intestinal cells into the bloodstream, and is carried by the bloodstream to all the cells in the body where it is utilized.However,glucose cannot enter the cells alone and needs insulin to aid in its transport into the cells.Without insulin, the cells  become starved of glucose energy despite the presence of abundant glucose in the bloodstream. In certain types of diabetes, the cells’ inability to utilize glucose gives rise to the ironic situation of`` starvation in the midst of plenty’’.The abundant, unutilized glucose is wastefully excreted in the urine. Insuline is hormone that is produced by specialised cells(beta cells)of the pancreas. Pancreas is important in reasing  more insulin into bloodstream to help glucose enter the cells and lower blood glucose levels after meal.When the blood glucose levels are lowered, the insulin release from the pancreas is turned down. In conclusion diabetes can be controlled by absorbing  proper diet and accepting it.

CRPTOSPORIDIOSIS DISEASE

Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrheal disease caused by a microscopic parasite, cryptosporidium parvum. It can live in the intestine of humans and animals and is passed in the stool of an infected person or animal. Both the disease and the parasite are also known as`` crypto’ ’The parasite is protected by an outer shell that allows it to survive outside the body for long periods of time and makes it very resistant to disinfection. During the past two decades, crypto has become recognised as one of the most common causes of water-borne disease (drinking and recreational).

SYMPTOMS

Diarrheal lasting up to 21 days, loose or watery stool, abdominal cramps, especially in the right side, upset stomach, nausea and a slight fever. Some people have no symptoms. How long after infection do symptoms appear? Symptoms generally begin2-10 days infected. In persons with average immune systems, symptoms usually last about 2 weeks: the symptoms may go in cycles in which you may seem to get better for a few days, then feel worse, before the illness ends.

CAUSES

Crypto lives in the intestine of infected humans or animals. Millions of crypto can be released in a bowel movement from an infected human or animal. You become infected after accidentally swallowing the parasite. Crypto may be found in soil, food, water, or surfaces that have been contaminated with the faeces from infected humans or animals. Crypto is not spread by contact with blood. Crypto can be spread by putting something in your mouth or accidentally swallowing crypto picked up from surfaces (such as toys, bathroom fixtures, changing tables, diaper pails) contaminated with stool from an infected person. By swallowing swimming or bathing water contaminated with crypto. Water from lakes, rivers, springs, ponds, or streams can be contaminated with sewage or faeces from humans or animals. Crypto is chlorine resistant and can live for days in swimming pools. By eating uncooked food contaminated with crypto. Thoroughly wash with uncontaminated water all vegetables and fruits you plan to eat raw.

HOME REMEDIES

Home remedies may not be enough for some people. See your health care provider if symptoms persist. Most people with a healthy immune system will recover on their own. If you diarrheal, drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Rapid loss of fluids because of diarrheal can be life-threatening in babies; parents should consult their health care provider about rehydration drink option for babies. People who  are in poor health or who have a weakened immune system are at higher risk for more severe and more prolonged illness.

                              Eating for 3 days only dry, very burnt toast and black tea without any sugar added usually works.Use 2 tablespoons of coconut milk/oil cooked with rice daily3 times a day.Cut up a fresh garlic clove in 3 or 4 pieces. In a glass of water add 1 tablespoon of psyllium,place the garlic cloves in your mouth and swallow them with the psyllium- water.This will crate a timed release effect to bring garlic clove into the small intestines to kill the crypto.Do this 3 times a day. Retention(implantation) enema with up to 3 raw garlic cloves, 4 tablespoons of wheatgrass juice added once a day.Mix in blender.Follow the diet for diarrhea. Avoid dairy products, sweets and all fruits except lemons.

ANAEMIA IN HIV INFECTED INDIVIDUALS

Anemia is a condition in which the number of red blood cells (RBC’s) or the amount of haemoglobin is decreased in blood. The red blood cells and haemoglobin are responsible for carrying oxygen to vital organs throughout the body. Anamia is one of the most common blood abnormalities seen in people with HIV disease. The incidence of anemia ranges from 10% in people who have no symptoms to 92% in individuals with advanced.

TYPES OF ANAEMIA

MICROCYTIC  ANEMIA-This is where by the red blood cells are smaller than normal and the major causes of this type are iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia(inherited disorders of haemoglobin)

NORMOCYTIC ANEMIA- It is a nemia that accompanies chronic disease or anemia related to kidney disease. In this case the red blood cells are normal but low in number.

MACROCYTIC ANEMIA-In this case red cells are larger than normal. Major causes of this type are pernicious anemia and anemia related to alcolism.

CAUSES OF ANEMIA (GENERAL)

Many medical condition cause anemia.Common causes of anemia include the following;

ANEMIA FROM ACTIVE BLEEDING;

The loss of blood through heavy menstrual bleeding or wounds can cause anemia, gastrointestinal ulcers or cancers such as cancer of the colon may slowly ooze blood and can cause anemia.

IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA;

The bone marrow needs iron to make red blood cells. Iron plays an important role in the proper structure of the haemoglobin molecule. If iron intake is limited or inadequate due to poor dietary intake anemia may occur as result and this is called iron deficiency anemia.

ANEMIA OF CHRONIC DISEASE

Any long-term medical condition can lead to anemia. The exact mechanism of this process in unknown but any long-standing and on-going medical condition such as infection or a cancer may cause this type of anemia.

ANEMIA RELATED TO KIDNEY DISEASE

The kidneys release a hormone called the erythroietin that helps the bone marrow make red cells. In people with chronic (long-standing) kidney disease, the production of this hormone is diminished and this in turn diminishes the production of red blood cells causing anemia. This is called anemia related to chronic kidney disease.

ANEMIA RELATED TO POOR NUTRITION

Vitamin and mineral are required to make red blood cells. In addition to iron, vitaminB12 and folate are required to make the proper production of haemoglobin. Deficiency in any of these may cause anemia because of inadequate production of red blood cells. Poor dietary intake is an important cause of low folate and low vitamin B12 levels. Strict vegetarians who do not take sufficient vitamins are risk to develop vitamin B12 deficiency.

PERNICIOUS ANEMIA

There also may be problem in the stomach or the intestines leading to poor nutrition of vitaminB12. This may lead to anemia because of vitaminB12 deficiency known as pernicious anemia.

SICKLE CELL ANEMIA

In some individuals the problem may be related to production of abnormal haemoglobin molecules. In this condition the haemoglobin problem is qualitative, or functional. Abnormal haemoglobin molecules may cause problem in the integrity of the red blood cell structure and they may become crescent-shaped (sickle cells).There are different types of sickle cell anemia with different severity levels. This is typically hereditary and more common in those of African, middle Eastern and Mediterranean ancestry.

THALASSEMIA

This is another group of haemoglobin-related causes anemia. There are many types of thalassemia which vary in severity. These are also hereditary, but they cause quantitative haemoglobin abnormalities, meaning an insufficient number of haemoglobin molecules is made.

ALCOHOLISM

Poor nutrition and deficiencies of vitamins and minerals are associated with alcoholism. Alcohol itself may also be toxic to the bone marrow and may slow down the red blood cell production. The combination of  these factors lead to anemia in alcoholics.

BONE MARROW –RELATED ANEMIA

Anemia may be related to disease involving the bone marrow. Some blood cancers such as leukaemia or lymphomas can alter the production of red blood cells and result to anemia. Other process may be related to cancer from another organ spreading to bone marrow.

HEMOLYTIC ANEMIA

The normal red blood cell shape is important for its function. Hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia in which the red cells rupture (known as haemolysis) and become dysfunctional. This could happen due to a variety of reasons. Some forms of haemolytic anemia can be hereditary with constant destruction and rapid reproduction of red blood cells. This destruction may also happen to normal red blood cells in certain condition. In conclusion there are other less common cause of anemia include medication side effects, thyroid problems, cancers, liver disease, other genetic disorders, lead poisoning, AIDS, and bleeding disorders. It is noteworthy that there are many other potential causes of anemia that are not included in this blog and these are only the common and important ones.

ALCOHOL AND SITE EFFECTS

Sub stained excessive consumption of alcohol give rise to variety of problems in addition to those related to intoxication. A number of diseases are recognised and related to heavy use of alcohol. Cirrhosis of the liver which is a consequence of chronic liver disease characterised by replacement of liver tissue by fibrous scar tissue as well as regenerative nodules( lumps that occur as result of a process in which damaged tissue is regenerated ), leading to progressive loss of liver function.

               Gastritis is an inflammation of the lining of the stomach. There are many possible causes. Gastritis is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged use of no steroidal ant-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or infection with bacteria, such as helicobacter pylori. Sometimes gastritis develops after major surgery, traumatic injury, burns or severe infections. Fatty liver disease, steatorrhoeic hepatosis or steatosis hepatitis, is a reversible condition where large vacuoles of triglyccride fat accumulate in liver cells via the process of steatosis. Despite having multiple causes, fatty liver can be considered a single disease that occurs worldwide in those with excessive alcohol intake and those who are obese.

               Regular heavy drinking also gives to a range of other social, legal, physical and psychological problems including sexual dysfunction, attempted suicide, infertility, dementia, fraud, gambling, depression and changes in personality.

PROBLEMS OF DEPENDENCE

This group is by far the best known. The idea of alcoholism as a disease argues that ``alcoholics’’ experience loss of control over drinking and an inability to refrain from drinking it or once drinking has begun, to stop it. Some symptoms related to alcohol dependence are withdrawal symptoms e.g. anxiety, discomfort, shaking due to the absence of alcohol, tolerance to alcohol which refers to a decreased response to the functional effects of ethanol in beverages. Alcohol tolerance is increased by regular drinking. This reduce sensitivity requires that higher quantities of alcohol be consumed in order to achieve the same effects as before tolerance begun to occur. Alcohol tolerance may be a sign of alcohol dependency.

1 .Less and less variation in drinking habits

2 .Importance of drinking over other aspects of life

3. Thinking about alcohol to the exclusion of other things/ thoughts

4 .Return to original drinking patterns after abstinence

5. Craving for alcohol

Dependent drinkers also suffer a range of psychological and social problems such as those listed under intoxication and regular heavy consumption. A distinction must be made between a person being a drunkard and another being an alcoholic. The difference is not so much of degree in the use of alcohol but on its dependence. Alcoholics are completely dependent on use of alcohol. While alcoholism refers to addition to the use of alcohol, drunkenness refers to the state of intoxication in the individual either on a single occasion or in a repetitive pattern.

EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL

The primary effects of alcoholism are to encourage the sufferer to drink at times and in amounts that are damaging to physical health. The secondary damage caused by an inability to control one’s drinking manifests in many ways. Alcoholism also has a significant social cost to both the alcoholic and their family and friends. Alcoholics have a very high suicide rate with studies showing between 8% and 21% of alcoholics commit suicide. Alcoholism also has be 5080 times that of the general public.

PHYSICAL EFFECTS

It is common for a person suffering from alcoholism to drink well after physical health effects start to manifest. The physical health effects associated with alcohol consumption may include cirrhosis of the liver, pancreatitis, epilepsy, polyneuropathy, alcoholic dementia, heart disease, increased chance of cancer, nutritional deficiencies, sexual dysfunction and death from many sources.

MENTAL EFFECTS

 Long term misuse of alcohol can cause a wide range of mental health effects. Alcohol misuse is not only toxic to the body but also to brain function and thus psychological well-being can be adversely affected by long-term effects of alcohol misuse. Psychiatric disorders are common in alcoholics, especially anxiety and depression disorders, with as many as 25% of alcoholics presenting with severe psychiatric disturbances. Typically these psychiatric symptoms caused by alcohol misuse initially worsen during alcohol withdrawal but with abstinence these psychiatric symptoms typically gradually improve or disappear altogether. Panic disorder can develop as a direct result of long term alcohol misuse can cause panic disorder to develop or worsen an underlying panic disorder via distortion of neurochemical system in the brain.

SOCIAL EFFECTS

The social problems arising from alcoholism can be significant. Being drunk or hung over during work hours can result in loss of employment which can lead to financial problems including the loss of living quarters. Drinking at inappropriate times, and behaviour caused by reduced judgement, can lead to legal consequences, such as criminal charges for drunk driving or public disorder, or civil penalties for tortious behaviour. An alcoholic’s behaviour and mental impairment while drunk can profoundly impact surrounding family and friends, possibly leading to marital conflict and divorce, or contributing to domestic violence. This can contribute to lasting damage to the emotional development of the alcoholic’s children, even after they reach adulthood. The alcoholic could suffer from others who may see the problem as self-inflicted and easily avoided.

Ensure Adequate Health Insurance And The Right Choices

Ensure Adequate Health Insurance And The Right Choices

Healthcare system planning is an essential process undertaken by governments in many parts of the world to ensure their citizens get good health which is by itself one of the goals of the World Health Organization (WHO). As an individual you have to ensure that you have adequate health insurance coverage as many healthcare systems often have their own issues which are not easily resolved considering political interests that ever keep conflicting. Statistics indicate that a growing percentage of population globally do not either have adequate health insurance or at worst no coverage at all. State health insurance programs do offer coverage for many people of low income levels which of course hardly ever caters for all their needs. Other people benefit from health insurance programs offered by their employers but that does not still result to adequate coverage.

There are numerous health insurance companies where individuals can obtain supplemental insurance just to make sure they get comprehensive coverage. If you compare free insurance quotes from different companies, it is possible to get all the health coverage you need at a reasonable cost and supplement what the federal healthcare system covers. Although healthcare system reforms are underway in the US, individuals have to keep looking for better options with adequate coverage to attain the goal of affordable healthcare. You cannot wait for the reforms to take place without doing anything, but rather should take the necessary action and ensure you are adequately covered. In any case, the reforms will not eliminate the need for individuals to seek health insurance coverage but rather will help reduce the cost for the same.

With free health insurance quotes you can definitely make the right choices and ensure you have adequate health insurance even before the reforms in the public healthcare system become a reality

Naturopathy For Mind, Body And Soul Healthcare

Naturopathy For Mind, Body And Soul Healthcare 

If you would like to adopt a holistic health approach, then naturopathy would be the right choice. Although mainstream medicine cannot totally be avoided, there are many people who have chosen to be traditional naturopaths or naturopathic physicians. Naturopathic medicines are preferred by many because they are often herbal or biology-based and are free of chemicals that are thought of as unnecessary. The treatment methods encouraged in that holistic health discipline often avoid unnecessary surgery procedures and administration on drugs. The alternative medicine is increasingly gaining acceptance with many companies and health practitioners providing a wide range of natural health products.

Observing proper nutrition, avoiding stress and exercising are at the heart of naturopathy and that is why it is so critical to ensuring the right state of health for not only for the body but also to the mind and soul. Natural health and wellness products containing the right ingredients in the right proportions proven scientifically provide powerful treatment and healing solutions without the side-effects commonly associated with most of the mainstream drugs. Many over the counter or OTC drugs we buy for simple ailments often cause serious health damage than we may tend to believe. It is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle with good choices so that you do not often have to suffer joint pains, muscle pains, headaches, stress and similar ailments.

Naturopathy emphasizes on the healing power of nature and supports the healing ability of the body itself. Herbal medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy and behavior change are encouraged by naturopathic doctors or naturopathic medical doctors. Adoption of a healthier lifestyle is key to preventing most of the chronic conditions which is of course better than cure. Naturopathic doctors examine many facts including a thorough history in regard to your diet choices, lifestyle, environmental exposures and stress in addition to comprehensive conventional tests in the laboratory to understand your body and what needs to be prioritized for its healing. They highly recommend health and wellness products.

How To Maintain Plaque Free Healthy Teeth

How To Maintain Plaque Free Healthy Teeth

Plaque free healthy teeth always ensure a good smile and improves one’s self esteem. This can be achievable from a young age. Parents should therefore instill a healthy dental habit to their kids from a very young age. It is important thus to learn how to take care of teeth for a healthy smile and stress free life.

Understanding the causes of teeth decay is necessary to help you in formulating a personal healthy dental habit. Sugary foods are a main culprit in forming tooth decay. These sugars are found in some foods like chocolates, biscuits, sweets, juices and other sugary snacks. Constant intake of these foods with poor dental hygiene can contribute to plaque formation on teeth. Sugary foods reduce saliva formation. Saliva has natural plaque bacteria which prevent plaque and when it’s in low production, decay is likely to start forming after the sugars turn in acid and mix with the natural plaque.

For plaque free healthy teeth, it is advisable to keep sugary snacks at minimum. It’s advisable to at least eat a big snack one in a day than eating many snacks free at will. This should especially be observed in children who have not yet mastered the art of dental hygiene. Brushing the teeth at least twice daily or after meals is a sure way of preventing build up of plaque. Signs of plaque start with brown patches on the teeth surface. These gradually develop into decay holes but can be scrapped off and drilled off at the early stage and the cavities filled up. Damaged teeth have to be pulled out as once the decay spreads to the gums, it may cause the gum to be filled with pus and make it difficult to chew food.

To protect your teeth, it is essential to cut down on sugary foods. For kids, it is better to choose healthy snacks like fruits and raw carrots. Eating balanced meals rich in minerals also helps in building strong teeth. A healthy dental habit is always advisable and regular check-ups for any problems are recommended.

A Healthy Body Routine For Daily Wellness

A Healthy Body Routine For Daily Wellness

A healthy body routine is necessary for daily freedom and wellness. You should always adopt some means of caring for your body which range from exercise, nutrition and change of lifestyle. This will not only give you good health but will help you live longer.

Food always keeps us going but you should always ensure you take a healthy nutritious diet to keep going and meet different organ needs. Every meal you take daily should at least have portions of carbohydrates, vitamins, proteins and minerals. Carbohydrates are obtained from whole grains like rice, barley, corn, among many others. These provide energy for the day and should be in plenty in your breakfast cereals. Protein foods are sourced from animals and plants. Animal proteins include beef, fish, eggs and poultry meat. Plant sources include pea nuts, peas, beans and others. Proteins help in forming strong body muscles. Dark pigmented vegetables like spinach and bright colored fruits are rich in vitamin C which helps in building a strong immune system and slow down aging effects. Minerals are essential in a stable nerve system, healthy hair and skin. These are found in vegetables and meat from animals.

Another way of ensuring good health is adopting a healthy body exercise. Simple exercises like walking to work or shopping rather than riding in a car help in burning some calories and strengthening the leg muscles. A morning jog can start off your day very well and ensures your alertness all throughout the day. You can train in the gym with the assistance of a trainer for more sophisticated forms of exercises. Avoid energy drinks with caffeine when exercising; instead take plenty of fresh water as it hydrates the skin and flushes out body toxins. You need to adopt a healthy lifestyle which includes doing away with some habits like smoking, cutting down on alcohol and caffeine intake. These habits dry the skin and have other bad consequences affecting many body organs like the lungs, kidneys and the heart. Adopting a healthy body routine is thus the way to go for your wellness.

Healthy Iron Foods That Prevent Anemia

Healthy Iron Foods That Prevent Anemia

Anemia is a condition that occurs due to inadequate intake of healthy iron foods thus causing low hemoglobin level in the blood. Iron deficiency can occur to anyone and most affected people are women due to heavy menstrual periods, increased demand of iron in pregnancy and excess bleeding in child birth. Low iron levels in infants can also cause anemia. A high worm infestation in adolescents is another cause of anemia. Other causes of anemia include peptic ulcers and cancers of the colon and stomach. People with anemia always feel weakness, tiredness and dizziness.

There are however healthy iron foods that you can consider to prevent anemia. These include liver, beef, veal and lamb. These are well absorbed by the body. Vegetables are also a good source of iron especially the dark green ones like spinach. Others include dried peaches apricots, raisins, beans, peas, blackstrap molasses, iron-rich breakfast cereals, and whole grains. Fruit juices from lemons and oranges help in absorption of iron from foods. Others include tangerines and grape fruit.

Healthy iron supplements are recommended in the management of anemia. Iron supplements come in many forms which include ferrous gluconate, ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulphate. Although these are all iron forms, it is advisable to communicate with your doctor on the right iron supplements. Note that too much iron intake may turn out to be toxic in the body. You should avoid taking too much tea and coffee as they prevent iron absorption in the blood. These can however be taken after meals. Other things that prevent iron absorption include antacids and calcium supplements. Water and vitamin C is also essential to help in digestion and assimilation of non-haem iron well. Finally, note that healthy iron foods should be taken from a very tender age. Babies on formula milk should be fed on iron-fortified formula.

Health Tips For Your Wellbeing

Health Tips For Your Wellbeing

A healthy body is what everyone wants to achieve but it takes great efforts, knowledge and most importantly discipline. There are numerous health tips that you can adopt into your lifestyle and avoid many of the health conditions that might otherwise see you send to the hospital and cost you not only money but your time.

These are some of the top health tips:

Proper Nutrition

Nutrition goes a long way to ensure the right health and wellbeing of your body. Observing a balanced diet is one of the obvious things we fail to do and that is the reason why obesity is on the rise and so are health conditions associated with unhealthy heating habits. Make sure to change your lifestyle and visit a naturopathic doctor who will recommend the best diet options for you. Avoid refined foods high in carbohydrates, sugars and fats. Eat more fruits, vegetables and drink plenty of water to detoxify your body naturally.

Regular Exercises

There are numerous exercises that you can take to burn fats and ensure lean muscles. Exercises are not just for body builders or athletes but everyone considering they range from light exercises. You do not even have to go to a gym to stay fit and healthy but walking, running or even climbing the stairs are good exercises.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol is known to cause dehydration which is not good for your health while it also overworks your liver and kidneys. Alcohol is also associated with cardiovascular diseases not to mention it often goes with other unhealthy lifestyles like smoking and eating fatty foods.

Quit Cigarette Smoking

Tobacco has for many years been known to cause many health conditions including cancer and high blood pressure. It affects not only the smoker but anyone else within the same environment polluted by secondary smoke.   

Avoid stress

Stress can lead to many psychological problems and often affects the ability of your body to heal naturally. Avoid working for long hours or take frequent breaks to do things like listening to music or even dancing. Meditation and yoga exercises can help eliminate stress for a healthy you.

Observe Skin Health Diet For Long-Term Benefits

Observe Skin Health Diet For Long-Term Benefits

A skin that glows in health is something everyone would wish for but the lifestyles of many people in regard to diet does not just make it a reality. Observing the right skin health diet is one of the most rewarding practices after hygiene. There are certain foods with nutrients that will nourish your skin if taken frequently and regularly. Skin health nutrition is vital in not only making your skin look younger but also in preventing numerous skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis and premature ageing.

Make vitamins, minerals, flavonoids and essential fatty acids part of your skin health nutrition and with consistency you will get results over time. Legumes like beans and lentils, fish, olive oil and antioxidant vegetables are particularly good choices to make part of your daily diet. These foods help to repair and maintain the right structure of your skin that functions well and becomes resilient to ageing, exposure to sun and harmful elements in our environment. It is however necessary to avoid habits like smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol as they tend to undo the benefits of better skin health diet.

It is within the dermis layer of your skin where you will find elastin and collagen both which are essential for your skin’s elasticity. Due to ageing, the skin tends to loose its elasticity due to the stiffening of collagen fibers and thickening of elastin. It is therefore necessary to include in your diet quality proteins as a third of collagen is made up of amino glycine and less amounts of other amino acids like lysine and praline all from proteins. Eat such proteins on daily basis and they will lead To a healthy skin in the long term. Rainbow trout, sardines, salmon and other fish that contain low-levels of mercury constitute to superior proteins that should be an essential part of proper skin health diet.

Simple Skin Health Habits For A Youthful Look

Simple Skin Health Habits For A Youthful Look

A radiant skin is the pride of everyone who cares for his or her skin. There are many skin health habits you can practice in order to maintain that youthful and healthy look no matter your age. Things that you should do to cater for your skin needs start from skin health food to simple daily routine.

The food we eat greatly contributes to the look of our skin. Vitamins found in green leafy vegetables and bright fruits are ideal. This does not however mean that you ignore other skin health food that forms healthy diet like carbohydrates, minerals and proteins. Foods to cut down on include sugars and fats. Sugars reduce collagen production ideal for a healthy skin. On the other hand vitamin C which is a collagen enhancer should be taken in plenty. Vitamin A and E are as well necessary for a healthy skin. You should consider taking more than 8 glasses of water daily. Water is essential as it helps in flushing out body toxins. Watery fruits and vegetables are essential if you have no water close by.

Other daily skin health habits include avoiding the sun. The sun is a culprit in damaging skin cells that may lead to cancer. You can thus use sunscreen for your skin type if you really have to go out in the sun. Wearing sunglasses and a hat is another way of reducing the sun’s impact on the facial skin. Keeping off your fingers from your facial skin prevents germ transfer and scarring caused by the trauma of constant touching.

Exercising daily tones the skin as it improves blood circulation, radiance and complexion. The face can be exercised by distorting it in different directions. Bad habits like smoking and overdrinking of alcohol should be completely avoided. You should form a habit of exfoliating the skin at least once in a week. Exfoliation is the removal of dead skin layers chemically with alpha hydroxyl acids or mechanically with body scrubs. Moisturizing is also among skin health habits that help in hydrating the skin. This is the secret to a radiant skin even in old age.

Why Natural Health Choices Should Be Prioritized

Why Natural Health Choices Should Be Prioritized

To ensure your wellbeing, adopt habits that include natural health choices and do so consistently. The benefits will eventually prove rewarding as you will avoid many health conditions that affect people due to careless lifestyles. When it comes to diet, choose organic foods and avoid refined foods, sugars, red meats, ice creams and most of the dairy products. Most of the processed foods that many people prefer in order to save time due to their busy lifestyles often lead to many health problems in the long run. Unfortunately, most of the people who cannot avoid fast-food also happen to belong to the category of people who rarely exercise. That explains why obesity is increasingly becoming a concern for a growing population in the US as well as many other developed countries around the world.

We use a wide range of products in our day to day lives but many of us rarely make sure we make natural heath choices. We use many skincare products laden with chemicals while there are numerous organic healthcare products designed to improve our health. We treat water with products that we rarely care to know what ingredients make them and similarly make many careless mistakes that can otherwise be avoided. With so many health risks associated with many commercial products, it is very important to make sure we know the ingredients of everything that we consume. In order to start afresh and undo the damage done to our bodies by any harmful product consumed, a whole range of natural health products are available.

Detoxification is an essential process as you begin to make better choices regarding your health. You can not only detoxify your body to get rid of chemicals but there are also many ways to even to detoxify your mind. Yoga exercises are particularly important to help you regain self confidence while other exercises are equally good to ensure natural health and wellbeing.