Love Our Health

mengapa ASI eksklusif harus 6 bulan?

2010-12-17T03:31:00.000-08:00

Meskipun gaung ASI eksklusif sudah bergema di seluruh negeri ini, masih banyak juga pertanyaan , “Emangnya kenapa si ASI eksklusif itu?”, “Apa aja manfaatnya?”, “Kenapa harus nunggu sampai bayi berumur 6 bulan?”. Nah, semoga artikel ini bisa berguna ya….
1. ASI adalah satu-satunya makanan dan minuman yang dibutuhkan oleh bayi hingga ia berusia enam bulan

ASI adalah makan bernutrisi dan berenergi tinggi, yang mudah untuk dicerna. ASI memiliki kandungan yang dapat membantu penyerapan nutrisi. Pada bulan-bulan awal, saat bayi dalam kondisi yang paling rentan, ASI eksklusif membantu melindungi bayi dari diare, sudden infant death syndrome/SIDS – sindrom kematian tiba-tiba pada bayi, infeksi telinga dan penyakit infeksi lain yang biasa terjadi. Riset medis mengatakan bahwa ASI eksklusif membuat bayi berkembang dengan baik pada 6 bulan pertama bahkan pada usia lebih dari 6 bulan.

Organisasi Kesehatan Dunia – WHO mengatakan: “ASI adalah suatu cara yang tidak tertandingi oleh apapun dalam menyediakan makanan ideal untuk pertumbuhan dan perkembangan seorang bayi… Evaluasi pada bukti-bukti yang telah ada menunjukkan bahwa pada tingkat populasi dasar, pemberian ASI eksklusif selama 6 bulan adalah cara yang paling optimal dalam pemberian makan kepada bayi”.

Setelah 6 bulan, biasanya bayi membutuhkan lebih banyak zat besi dan seng daripada yang tersedia di dalam ASI. Pada titik inilah, nutrisi tambahan bisa diperoleh dari sedikit porsi makanan padat. Bayi-bayi tertentu bisa minum ASI hingga usia 12 bulan atau lebih. Selama bayi anda terus menambah berat dan tumbuh sebagaimana mestinya, berarti ASI anda bisa memenuhi kebutuhannya dengan baik.
2. Menunda pemberian makanan padat memberikan perlindungan yang lebih baik pada bayi terhadap berbagai penyakit

Meskipun bayi terus menerima imunitas melalui ASI selama mereka terus disusui, kekebalan paling besar diterima bayi saat dia diberikan ASI eksklusif. ASI memiliki kandungan 50+ faktor imunitas yang sudah dikenal, dan mungkin lebih banyak lagi yang masih tidak diketahui.

Satu studi memperlihatkan bayi yang diberikan ASI eksklusif selama 4 bulan+ mengalami infeksi telinga 40% lebih sedikit daripada bayi yang diberi ASI ditambah makanan tambahan lain. Probabilitas terjadinya penyakit pernapasan selama masa kanak-kanak secara signifikan berkurang bila bayi diberikan ASI eksklusif setidaknya selama 15 minggu dan makanan padat tidak diberikan selama periode ini. (Wilson, 1998). Lebih banyak lagi studi yang juga mengaitkan tingkat eksklusivitas ASI dengan meningkatnya kesehatan (lihat faktor imunitas pada susu manusia dan resiko pemberian makanan instan).
3. Menunda pemberian makanan padat memberikan kesempatan pada sistem pencernaan bayi untuk berkembang menjadi lebih matang

Biasanya bayi siap untuk makan makanan padat, baik secara pertumbuhan maupun secara psikologis, pada usia 6 – 9 bulan. Bila makanan padat sudah mulai diberikan sebelum sistem pencernaan bayi siap untuk menerimanya, maka makanan tersebut tidak dapat dicerna dengan baik dan dapat menyebabkan reaksi yang tidak menyenangkan (gangguan pencernaan, timbulnya gas, konstipasi dll).

Tubuh bayi belum memiliki protein pencernaan yang lengkap. Asam lambung dan pepsin dibuang pada saat kelahiran dan baru dalam 3 sampai 4 bulan terakhir jumlahnya meningkat mendekati jumlah untuk orang dewasa. Amilase, enzim yang diproduksi oleh pankreas belum mencapai jumlah yang cukup untuk mencernakan makanan kasar sampai usia sekitar 6 bulan. Dan enzim pencerna karbohidrat seperti maltase, isomaltase dan sukrase belum mencapai level orang dewasa sebelum 7 bulan. Bayi juga memiliki jumlah lipase dan bile salts dalam jumlah yang sedikit, sehingga pencernaan lemak belum mencapai level orang dewasa sebelum usia 6-9 bulan.
4. Menunda pemberian makanan padat memberikan kesempatan pada bayi agar sistem yang dibutuhkan untuk mencerna makanan padat dapat berkembang dengan baik

Tanda-tanda yang menunjukkan bahwa bayi sudah siap untuk menerima makanan padat termasuk :

1. Bayi dapat duduk dengan baik tanpa dibantu.
2. Reflek lidah bayi sudah hilang dan tidak secara otomatis mendorong makanan padat keluar dari mulutnya dengan lidah.
3. Bayi sudah siap dan mau mengunyah.
4. Bayi sudah bisa “menjumput”, dimana dia bisa memegang makanan atau benda lainnya dengan jempol dan telunjuknya. Menggunakan jari dan menggosokkan makanan ke telapak tangan tidak bisa menggantikan gerakan “menjumput”.
5. Bayi kelihatan bersemangat untuk ikut serta pada saat makan dan mungkin akan mencoba untuk meraih makanan dan memasukkannya ke dalam mulut.

Sering kali kita mengatakan bahwa salah satu tanda bahwa bayi sudah siap untuk menerima makanan padat adalah bila bayi terus menerus ingin menyusu (kelihatan tidak puas setelah diberikan ASI/susu)-walaupun dia tidak sedang dalam keadaan sakit, akan tumbuh gigi , mengalami perubahan rutinitas atau mengalami pertumbuhan yang tiba-tiba. Meskipun demikian, sulit untuk menentukan apakah peningkatan kebutuhan untuk menyusui itu berhubungan dengan kesiapan bayi untuk menerima makanan padat. Banyak (bahkan sebagian besar) bayi usia 6 bulan yang mengalami pertumbuhan yang tiba-tiba, tumbuh gigi dan mengalami berbagai perkembangan – dalam satu waktu, yang pada akhirnya bisa menyebabkan meningkatnya kebutuhan untuk menyusui. Yakinkan bahwa anda melihat semua tanda-tanda kesiapan untuk menerima makanan padat sebagai suatu kesatuan, karena bila bayi hanya menunjukkan meningkatnya kebutuhan untuk menyusui, itu bukanlah tanda kesiapannya untuk menerima makanan padat.
5. Menunda pemberian makanan padat mengurangi resiko alergi makanan

Berbagai catatan menunjukkan bahwa memperpanjang pemberian ASI eksklusif mengakibatkan rendahnya angka insiden terjadinya alergi makanan. Sejak lahir sampai usia antara empat sampai enam bulan, bayi memiliki apa yang biasa disebut sebagai “usus yang terbuka”. Ini berarti bahwa jarak yang ada di antara sel-sel pada usus kecil akan membuat makromolekul yang utuh, termasuk protein dan bakteri patogen, dapat masuk ke dalam aliran darah. Hal ini menguntungkan bagi bayi yang mendapatkan ASI karena zat antibodi yang terdapat di dalam ASI dapat masuk langsung melalui aliran darah bayi, tetapi hal ini juga berarti bahwa protein-protein lain dari makanan selain ASI (yang mungkin dapat menyebabkan bayi menderita alergi) dan bakteri patogen yang bisa menyebabkan berbagai penyakit bisa masuk juga. Dalam 4-6 bulan pertama usia bayi, saat usus masih “terbuka”, antibodi (slgA) dari ASI melapisi organ pencernaan bayi dan menyediakan kekebalan pasif, mengurangi terjadinya penyakit dan reaksi alergi sebelum penutupan usus terjadi. Bayi mulai memproduksi antibodi sendiri pada usia sekitar 6 bulan, dan penutupan usus biasanya terjadi pada saat yang sama.
6. Menunda pemberian makanan padat membantu melindungi bayi dari anemia karena kekurangan zat besi

Pengenalan suplemen zat besi dan makanan yang mengandung zat besi, terutama pada usia enam bulan pertama, mengurangi efisiensi penyerapan zat besi pada bayi. Bayi yang sehat dan lahir cukup bulan yang diberi ASI eksklusif selama 6-9 bulan menunjukkan kecukupan kandungan hemoglobin dan zat besi yang normal.

Dalam suatu studi (Pisacane, 1995), para peneliti menyimpulkan bahwa bayi yang diberikan ASI eksklusif selama 7 bulan (dan tidak diberikan suplemen zat besi atau sereal yang mengandung zat besi) menunjukkan level hemoglobin yang secara signifikan lebih tinggi dalam waktu satu tahun dibandingkan bayi yang mendapat ASI tapi menerima makanan padat pada usia kurang dari tujuh bulan. Para peneliti tidak berhasil menemukan adanya kasus anemia di tahun pertama pada bayi yang diberikan ASI eksklusif selama tujuh bulan dan akhirnya menyimpulkan bahwa memberikan ASI eksklusif selama tujuh bulan mengurangi resiko terjadinya anemia.
7. Menunda pemberian makanan padat membantu melindungi bayi dari resiko terjadinya obesitas di masa datang

Pemberian makanan padat terlalu dini sering dihubungkan dengan meningkatnya kandungan lemak dan berat badan pada anak-anak.
8. Menunda pemberian makanan padat membantu para ibu untuk mejaga ketersediaan ASI mereka

Berbagai studi menunjukkan bahwa pada bayi makanan padat akan menggantikan porsi susu dalam menunya – makanan tersebut tidak menambah total asupan pada bayi. Makin banyak makanan padat yang dimakan oleh bayi, maka makin sedikit susu yang dia serap dari ibunya, dan makin sedikit susu yang diserap dari ibu berarti produksi ASI juga makin sedikit. Bayi yang makan banyak makanan padat atau makan makanan padat pada umur yang lebih muda cenderung lebih cepat disapih.
9. Menunda makanan padat membantu memberi jarak pada kelahiran bayi

Pemberian ASI biasanya sangat efektif dalam mencegah kehamilan terutama bila bayi anda mendapatkan ASI eksklusif dan semua kebutuhan nutrisinya dapat dipenuhi melalui ASI..
10. Menunda pemberian makanan padat membuat pemberiannya menjadi lebih mudah

Bayi yang mulai makan makanan padat pada usia yang lebih besar dapat makan sendiri dan lebih kecil kecendurangan untuk mengalami alergi terhadap makanan.

Gimana???? Masih enggan kasih ASI eksklusif buat bayi kita?

sumber : http://munauwarus.wordpress.com/2010/12/17/mengapa-asi-eksklusif-harus-6-bulan/

Bagaimana Posisi Bayi Saat Menyusu?

2010-12-16T21:19:00.000-08:00

Dalam minggu-minggu awal posisi menyusui yang baik sangatlah penting. Posisi menyusui yang baik dapat menjaga kesehatan puting susu, menghidarkan dari luka serta memungkinkan bayi menyusu dengan efisien. Luka pada puting ini sesungguhnya dapat dihindarkan dengan posisi menyusui yang benar.
Anda mungkin menyadari bahwa ini adalah topik yang panjang. Namun yakinlah bahwa keberhasilan menyusui telah dicapai ibu dan bayi sejak ratusan tahun lalu. Namun sesederhana apapun suatu hal, tetap dibutuhkan penjabaran untuk menggambarkannya dengan baik.

Tahapan Dasar untuk Posisi Menyusui yang Baik

1. Posisikan diri pada keadaan nyaman, gunakan penyanggah di bagian punggung, bantal penyanggah tangan, dan penggunaan penyaggah kaki khusus atau buku telepon untuk menyamankan posisi kaki.
2. . Posisikan bayi dekat dengan ibu, pinggul bayi menyamping (kearah badan ibu), sehingga bayi tidak menggerakkan kepalanya untuk mencapai payudara. Mulut dan hidung bayi menghadap puting ibu. Jika memungkinkan minta bantuan seseorang untuk memposisikan bayi setelah anda duduk nyaman. (Lihat Seputar Aturan Dasar”)
3. Sanggah payudara sehingga tidak menekan dagu bayi. Dagu bayi diarahkan ke payudara. (Lihat Tehnik Menyanggah Payudara” di bawah ini)
4. Lekatkan bayi pada payudara ibu. Bantu bayi agar mau membuka lebar mulutnya dan tarik bayi sedekat mungkin dengan menyanggah punggungnya (bukan kepalanya) sehingga dagu bayi terarah ke payudara ibu. Hidung bayi akan bersentuhan dengan payudara. Tangan ibu membentuk leher kedua/sanggahan leher untuk bayi (lihat “Apakah bayi saya pada posisi yang benar” di bawah ini)
5. Nikmatilah! Bila anda merasa puting anda sakit, lepaskan bayi dari payudara dan posisikan kembali perlahan.

Tahapan ini mungkin harus sering diulang pada masa awal menyusui. Namun pada akhirnya anda dan bayi anda akan menemukan cara yang paling sesuai.

Seputar Aturan Dasar
Semakin berpengalaman anda dan bayi anda dalam hal menyusui, anda akan menemukan bahwa posisi menyusui dapat diubah-ubah dalam banyak cara, bahkan pada saat perpindahan menyusui ke menyusui berikutnya. Anda dapat menggunakan cara yang paling sesuai dengan anda yang terpenting anda merasa nyaman dan bayi dapat menyusui dengan baik. Cobalah beberapa posisi menyusui di bawah ini.
Ingat, penting untuk meletakkan bayi setinggi puting anda di setiap posisi manapun. Posisi bayi terlalu bersandar dapat menyebabkan bayi merasakan sakit pada punggung, leher/ketegangan pada bahu ataupun sakit / luka pada puting ibu.
Posisi Mendekap
Posisi ini sangat sering digunakan pada minggu-minggu pertama menyusui. Posisi Mendekap-Silang” memberikan ibu keleluasaan kontrol yang lebih.
Ketika menyusui bayi di pangkuan pada posisi ini, bayi harus berbaring menyamping, bersandar pada bahu dan pinggulnya serta tinggi mulut sejajar dengan putting ibu. Gunakan bantuan bantal untuk menaikkan posisi bayi dan menyanggah siku anda sehingga bayi berada posisi setinggi putting ibu, terutama di minggu-minggu awal menyusui. Sanggahlah payudara anda dengan genggaman U” atau genggaman C”. Lihat penjelasan pada Tehnik Menyanggah Payudara “ dibawah ini. Kepala bayi akan berada di lengan atas ibu dan punggungnya pada lengan dalam dan telapak tangan ibu. Pada saat menunduk anda dapat melihat bagian samping badan bayi. Sedikitnya setengah inchi bagian aerola (bagian gelap dari puting susu) payudara ibu berada dalam mulut bayi. Pastikan telinga, bahu dan pinggul bayi dalam posisi garis lurus. Layaknya bayi yang baru lahir, kepala dan pantat bayi akan berada pada posisi sejajar.

Posisi Mendekap Silang

Pada masa awal menyusui, banyak ibu yang menemukan variasi posisi mendekap atau dikenal dengan posisi mendekap-silang sangatlah berguna. Posisi ini menggunakan penyanggah bantal yang diletakkan di pangkuan ibu dan berfungsi menaikkan posisi badan bayi agar mencapai puting susu ibu. Bantal yang digunakan juga harus dapat menyanggah kedua siku ibu sehingga berat bayi tidak tertopang di tangan ibu, menahan berat bayi di tangan dapat menyebabkan ibu merasa lelah sebelum proses menyusui selesai.
Posisikan tangan kiri pada genggaman U” untuk menyanggah payudara pada saat menyusui di payudara kiri (lihat Tehnik Menyanggah Payudara). Jari-jari tangan kanan digunakan menyanggah bayi. Posisikan tangan anda dengan perlahan di belakang telinga dan leher bayi, letakkan ibu jari dan jari telunjuk di masing-masing belakang telinga bayi. Biarkan leher bayi bersandar pada telapak tangan antara ibu jari dan telunjuk yang membentuk lapisan leher kedua untuk bayi Telapak tangan berada pada bagian badan antara bahu bayi. Sejak awal akan menyusui bayi pastikan posisi mulut bayi dekat dengan puting susu anda. Pada saat bayi membuka mulutnya, bantulah dengan mendorongnya perlahan dengan telapak tangan anda yang berada di antara bahunya. Pastikan sedikitnya ½ inchi bagian aerola dari puting ibu berada dalam mulut bayi.

Posisi Mencekram
Posisi ini sangat baik untuk ibu yang melalui proses melahirkan secara caesar, dengan posisi ini bayi berada jauh dari luka operasi. Pada umumnya bayi sangat menyukai posisi ini. Posisi ini juga memudahkan bayi untuk bereaksi lebih baik pada saat ibu berada pada kondisi air susu mengalir karena refleks (mengalir dengan sedirinya).
Pada posisi ini, bayi berada di posisi samping ibu dengan tangan ibu menyanggah kepala bayi sementara punggung bayi berada sepanjang lengan. Anda menyanggah payudara dengan posisi genggaman C” ( Lihat Teknik Menyanggah Payudara” untuk mengetahui posisi ini lebih lanjut). Posisikan bayi menghadap anda dengan mulut bayi berada pada ketinggian yang sama dengan puting ibu. Kaki bayi berada dibawah lengan anda dengan pinggul menyamping dan kaki bayi tertumpu di sandaran punggung. Bantal penyanggah sangat membantu memposisikan bayi pada ketinggian yang diharapkan.

Posisi Tidur Menyamping
Banyak ibu yang merasakan nyaman dengan posisi berbaring saat menyusui terutama pada malam hari. Pada posisi ini, bayi dan ibu berada pada posisi berbaring saling berhadapan. Agar lebih nyaman anda dapat meletakkan bantal penyanggah di bagian punggung anada dan/atau di antara kaki/lutut anda. Sementara bantal penyanggah ataupun gulungan selimut dapat diletakkan dibelakang punggung bayi utnuk menjaga bayi tidak berguling menjauh dari anda. Anda dapat mendekap bayi anda dengan memposisikannya kepala bayi di lengan atas dan badan bayi di sepanjang lengan bawah anda. Miringkan posisi pinggul bayi, posisi telinga, bahu dan punggung bayi berada pada satu garis lurus. Pada posisi ini bayi akan lebih mudah menyusui. Beberapa ibu menemukan posisi ini sangat menolong bahkan di siang hari.

Posisi Menyanggah Payudara
Pada saat anda menyanggah bayi anda pada salah satu posisi menyusui diatas, anda juga perlu menyanggah payudara anda dengan tangan anda yang bebas. Menyanggah payudara akan memindahkan berat payudara ibu dari dagu bayi sehingga bayi lebih dapat menyususi dengan baik dan efektif.
Genggaman “C” – Lihat kembali ilustrasi posisi dekap” diatas dan perhatikan gambar disamping ini. Sanggah payudara anda dengan posisi ibu jari di bagian atas tepat di belakan aerola (kulit gelap di sekitar puting) dan jari lainnya di bagian bawah payudara. Posisikan jari-jari tersebut tepat di belakang mulut bayi .Genggaman ini dapat digunakan dan membantu pada saat menyusui baik untuk posisi mencekram/sepak bola maupun posisi dekapan.
Genggaman “U” Letakkan jari jari anda pada posisi paralel/sejajar pada rusuk di bawah payudara, jari telunjuk anda berada disekeliling bawah payudara. Jatuhkan siku anda sehingga paudara sepenuhnya tersanggah diantara ibu jari dan jari telunjuk. Ibu jari berada di bagian luar payudara sedangkan ibu jari di dalam daerah payudara. Genggaman ini dapat digunakan dan membantu pada saat menyusui dengan posisi dekapan ataupun posisi dekapan-silang.

Benarkah Posisi Menyusu Bayi Saya ?
Pada saat akan menyusui, dekatkan atau tempelkan puting anda pada bibir bawah bayi. Hal ini mebantu untuk membujuk bayi mau membuka lebar mulutnya (seperti sedang menguap) untuk Pelan-pelan posisikan puting anda ke dalam mulut bayi ke arah langit-langit mulutnya, kemudian dekatkan bayi ke anda dengan posisi dagu menempel.

Tanda-tanda bayi pada posisi menyusui yang benar :

* Hidung bayi anda hampir menyentuh payudara anda
* kedua bibirnya terdorong terlipat keluar
* sedikitnya sekitar 1/2 inchi bagian aerola anda berada dalam mulut bayi

Apabila anda merasakan tidak nyaman atau sakit pada saat menyusui, letakkan perlahan jari anda dalam mulut bayi, diantara gusinya, untuk melepaskan bayi dari payudara kemudian coba posisikan kembali.
Bayi yang disodorkan payudara ibu akan menghisap tannpa proses menelan ketika ia memposisikan puting ibu dalam mulutnya seakan memberikan tanda bahwa bayi siap menerima tetesan air susu ibu. Kemudian pada saat bayi mulai mendapatkan air susu, anda akan melihat dagu bayi bergerak ke arah telinganya. Begitu juga area disekeliling dahinya akan bergerak-gerak. Anda juga akan mendengar bayi menelan air susu, agak cepat di awal, kemudian melambat seiring dangan hilangnya rasa haus/laparnya.

Sumber : http://www.llli.org/llleaderweb/LV/LVAugSep00p63.html

Pertolongan Pertama Bayi Jatuh

2010-12-16T21:08:00.000-08:00

Diambil dari milis bayi/nikita

PERTOLONGAN PERTAMA BAYI JATUH
Hati-hati jangan langsung menggendongnya. Pastikan dulu bagaimana
kondisinya!

Usia bayi adalah masa rawan terjadi kecelakaan. Saat ia belajar
berguling umpamanya dan orangtua lengah, ia bisa saja terjatuh dari
tempat tidur. Untuk itulah manajemen penanganan kasus bayi terjatuh
amat diperlukan. Yang pasti, saat si kecil terjatuh, jangan hanya
mengkhawatirkan bagian kepala saja, karena semua anggota tubuhnya
memiliki risiko yang sama untuk mengalami benturan yang dapat
membahayakannya. Berikut penjelasan dr. Anna Tjandra, Sp.A dari RSAB
Harapan Kita, Jakarta mengenai manajemen kecelakaan pada anak yang
sederhana, yaitu:

* Menyaksikan langsung anak terjatuh.

- Perhatikan bagian mana dari tubuh anak yang mengalami benturan.

- Ingat proses jatuhnya, apakah langsung menghujam ke lantai atau
terbentur sesuatu terlebih dahulu baru ke lantai.

- Pastikan dari ketinggian berapa meter anak terjatuh dan media apa
yang menjadi tempat pendaratannya.

- Lihat dan perhatikan baik-baik kondisi si kecil. Apakah setelah
jatuh langsung menangis dan menggerak-gerakkan semua anggota
badannya? Jika ya, kita bisa langsung menggendong untuk
menenangkannya. Setelah ia tenang, baru lakukan observasi.

- Adapun observasi yang perlu dilakukan adalah:

+ Cari dan ingat bagian-bagian mana saja yang lebam/benjol/ memar di
seluruh anggota badan bayi. Jika menemukan benjolan di kepala atau
memar di badan, boleh diobati dengan obat antitrauma oles. Jika pada
bagian kepala tidak ditemukan lebam atau benjol, tapi bayi menangis
saat dipegang, larikan segera ia ke rumah sakit terdekat.

+ Coba gerakkan kedua tangan bayi, ke samping, ke atas, ke bawah, ke
depan, lalu rentangkan dan angkat-angkatlah. Jika ada keluhan
pastikan di tangan yang mana dan saat dalam posisi seperti apa. Ini
sebagai bahan untuk dilaporkan ke dokter.

+ Lakukan hal yang sama pada kaki.

+ Tengokkan kepala bayi ke kanan dan ke kiri. Coba dekatkan dagu
bayi ke dada secara perlahan. Jika ada keluhan catat sebagai laporan
pada dokter.

+ Miringkan badan si kecil ke kiri dan ke kanan. Jika ada keluhan
catat dan laporkan ke dokter.

- Observasi perlu dilakukan selama 2×24 jam. Jika dalam kurun waktu
itu ada keluhan, apalagi sampai muntah dengan menyembur, segera
larikan ke rumah sakit terdekat.

- Sebaliknya bila setelah jatuh dalam keadaan sadar tapi pasif
(apalagi tidak menggerak-gerakkan anggota badannya) jangan
mengangkatnya. Hubungi UGD rumah sakit terdekat atau 118 untuk minta
pertolongan paramedis. Salah mengangkat dalam kondisi seperti ini
dapat berisiko fatal.

* Jika menemukan si kecil sudah di lantai.

- Perhatikan keadaan bayi; sadar atau tidak, menangis atau tidak,
dapat menggerak-gerakkan anggota badan atau tidak. Jika ia tidak
sadar atau sadar tapi pasif, ingat jangan menggendongnya, tapi
segera minta bantuan paramedis terdekat, UGD atau 118.

- Perhatikan dalam posisi seperti apa si kecil saat ditemukan.

+ Jika dalam keadaan tengkurap kemungkinan besarnya aman. Tapi kita
mesti melakukan pemeriksaan seputar bahu, kedua tangan, dada dan
kaki. Caranya gerakkan tangan ke atas, depan, samping. Jika ada
keluhan sakit segera bawa ke dokter.

+ Jika dalam keadaan telentang. Periksa dan perhatikan daerah kepala
bagian belakang, leher, punggung, dan panggul, mulai dari tanda
lebam atau merah, hingga keluhan sakit saat disentuh dan digerakkan
seperti yang telah disebutkan di atas. Pastikan bayi tidak muntah
atau mengalami penurunan kesadaran dalam 2×24 jam. Jika ada keluhan
segera larikan ke dokter.

+ Jika bayi ditemukan dalam posisi miring, kanan atau kiri.
Perhatikan dan periksa kepala, tangan yang menjadi tumpuan badan,
juga kaki. Lakukan pemeriksaan seperti yang disebutkan di atas. Jika
ada keluhan segera larikan ke dokter.

+ Jika ditemukan dalam posisi duduk. Periksa dan pastikan bayi masih
sadar, biasanya menangis, dan mampu menggerakkan anggota badan.
Periksa bagian panggulnya, ada tidak tanda memar, merah, atau sakit
saat dipegang atau digerakkan. Jika ya segera larikan ke dokter.

* Pemeriksaan lain yang perlu dilakukan

- Dalam posisi apa pun jatuhnya si kecil, jangan lupa melakukan
pemeriksaan mata. Baiknya menggunakan senter:

+ Masih bereaksikah saat kita senter matanya, mengedip, menutup
matanya atau kaget. Jika tidak bawa segera anak ke rumah sakit.

+ Gerakan senter ke kanan dan ke kiri, masih mampukah bayi mengikuti
gerakan sinar. Jika tidak ia harus segera dilarikan ke rumah sakit.

+ Perhatikan pupil matanya, apakah pupil mata yang kiri dan kanan
sama besar/kecilnya saat kita senter satu per satu. Jika sama kita
bisa bernapas lega. Bila tidak, bayi perlu menjalani pemeriksaan
lebih lanjut, seperti CT Scan.

- Ukur dan pastikan si kecil jatuh dari ketinggian berapa. Sebab
semakin tinggi pastinya gaya gravitasi bumi akan lebih kuat menarik
si anak. Tentu efek yang ditimbulkan pun semakin besar.

EFEK POSISI JATUH

Di bawah ini kemungkinan- kemungkinan yang bisa terjadi pada bayi
saat terjatuh. Dengan pengetahuan ini diharapkan orangtua bisa lebih
memahami kondisi bayi bila terjatuh dan mampu melakukan pertolongan
pertama yang benar:

* Jika kepala terlebih dahulu yang membentur lantai

Di sebelah mana pun benturan itu terjadi selama masih di kepala,
kita perlu mewaspadainya. Tulang tengkorak bayi masih rapuh dan ia
belum memiliki refleks untuk menahan dengan baik. Kemungkinan yang
bisa terjadi, bayi mengalami fraktur atau retak/patah tulang
tengkorak kepala, atau perdarahan di luar tengkorak atau di dalam
tengkorak.

Perdarahan di luar dapat ditandai dengan adanya benjol/memar. Selama
tidak ada fraktur, kondisi ini bisa dikatakan tidak parah. Rabalah
ubun-ubunnya apakah menjendol atau tidak. Ubun-ubun yang menjendol
menjadi tanda adanya peningkatan tekanan dalam otak yang dapat
terjadi karena edema otak atau perdarahan.

Harap diketahui, bila tidak ditemukan benjolan/memar, tapi bayi
menangis (atau justru tidak menangis dan langsung tertidur), tidak
sadarkan diri, mengalami kejang/muntah- muntah (yang menyembur bukan
gumoh), ada kecurigaan bayi mengalami perdarahan di dalam tengkorak
kepalanya. Segera larikan ke rumah sakit terdekat.

* Jika dada terlebih dahulu yang membentur permukaan

Kalau tempat mendaratnya datar, kemungkinan risiko bayi untuk cedera
lebih sedikit. Sebaliknya, tempat mendarat yang tidak mulus atau ada
tonjolan yang tepat mengarah ke dadanya dapat mengakibatkan
fraktur/parah tulang iga atau rusuk yang patahannya dapat mengenai
organ paru-paru atau jantungnya. Untuk itu perhatikan apakah si
kecil dapat bernapas secara normal atau tidak.

Umumnya jika bagian dada terlebih dahulu yang “mendarat”, secara
alami tangan akan membuat perlindungan terlebih dahulu. Karena itu
periksa juga kondisi tangan dan bahu bayi. Apakah ada pergelangan
tangannya mengalami patah atau adakah sendi yang keluar (dislokasi)
dari tempatnya. Periksa juga bagian kepala, khususnya dahi. Biasanya
saat mendarat, sekalipun dada terlebih dahulu, kepala langsung
menyusul membentur lantai.

* Jika panggul terlebih dahulu yang mendarat

Kemungkinan besar bayi akan mengalami dislokasi atau fraktur tulang
panggul. Karena panggul berhubungan langsung dengan tulang belakang,
dikhawatirkan ada saraf-saraf yang terjepit. Jika yang terjepit
saraf kaki biasanya si kecil tidak bisa menggerakkan kakinya alias
lumpuh.

* Jika yang mendarat kaki terlebih dahulu

Kejadiannya pada tiap bayi bisa berbeda. Jika ia sudah bisa berdiri
pasti akan menahan tubuhnya dengan kaki lalu jatuh bersimpuh. Risiko
kasus ini adalah dislokasi atau keseleo. Pada bayi di bawah 6 bulan
meski belum mampu menahan tubuhnya, secara alami badan bayi akan
terjatuh ke depan dan sebelum mendarat tangannya akan menjadi
bumper.

* Jika yang mendarat bokong duluan

Berbahaya karena kaitannya langsung dengan tulang belakang dan dapat
mengakibatkan patah pada tulang punggung bayi. Risiko lain, bila ada
saraf yang terjepit bisa mengakibatkan kelumpuhan. Bayi yang
ditemukan terjatuh pada posisi seperti ini jangan digendong. Biarkan
paramedis yang melakukan pertolongan. Tapi jika si kecil sadar dan
bisa aktif kita bisa langsung menggendongnya.

* Jika yang mendarat terlebih dahulu punggung

Menjadi bahaya jika saat mendarat posisi leher ikut
terlipat/tertekuk karena bisa mengakibatkan keseleo dan fraktur
tulang leher. Bila bayi dalam keadaan tidak sadar jangan mencoba
mengangkatnya. Langkah yang bisa kita lakukan adalah minta bantuan
paramedis di UGD di rumah sakit atau 118.

Manfat Madu Bagi Pertumbuhan Balita

2010-12-16T20:24:00.000-08:00

Namun akhirnyahasil penelitian Y.Wadodo, peneliti pada pusat penelitian dan pengembangan gizi di bogor ini, tahun lalu membawa kabar gembira bagi orang tua yang memiliki anak balita yang susah makan ia melaporkan bahwa pemberian madu secara teratur setiap hari dapat menurunkan tingkat morbiditas (panas dan pilek) dan memperbaiki nafsu makan anak balita.

Hasil penelitian menunjukkan, tingkat morbiditas terhadap panas dan pilek kelompok madu (sebagai sampel ) menurun, nafsu makan meningkat, porsi dan frekuensi makan bertambah, sehingga konsumsi energi dan protein mereka juga meningkat dibandingkan kelompok sirup (sebagai kontrol)

Penelitian tersebut menghasilkan dua kesimpulan :
Pertama : madu merupakan makanan yang kaya gizi sedangkan gula hanya mengandung energi/ kalori
Kedua : madu ternyata juga mengandung senyawa yang bersifat antibiotik

Kandungan gizi utama madu adalah aneka senyawa karbohidrat seperti gula fruktosa (41%), glukosa ( 35% ), sukrosa ( 1,9% ) dan dekstrin ( 1,5% ) karbohidrat madu ikut menambah pasokan sebagian energi yang diperlukan balita.

Kadar protein dalam madu relatif kecil, sekitar 2,6%. Namun kandungan asam aminonya cukup beragam, baik asam amino ensesial maupun non esensial. Asam amino tersebut turut pula memasok sebagian keperluan protein tubuh balita. vitamin yang terdapat dalam madu antara lain vitamin B1, B2, B3, B6, dan vitamin C. Sementara mineral yang terkandung dalam madu antara lain kalium, natrium, kalsium, magnesium, besi, tembaga, fosfor dan sulfit. Meski jumlahnya relatif sedikit, mineral madu merupakan mineral ideal bagi tubuh manusia karena imbangan dan jumlah mineral madu mendekati yang terdapat oleh darah manusia.

Penelitian menunjukkan, madu juga mengandung pertumbuhan. Dilaporkan, stek batang pohon yang dicelupkan dalam madu akan lebih cepat berakar dan tumbuh lebih baik dibandingkan dengan stek yang ditanam tanpa bantuan madu. Madu juga mengandung zat antibiotik, kandungan ini merupakan salah satu keunikan madu. Penelitian Peter. C. Molan (1992) penelitian dari Departemen of Biologikal Seinces, University of Waikoto, di Hamilton Selandia Baru membuktikan, madu mengandung zat antibiotik yang aktif melawan serangan berbagai patogen penyebab penyakit.

Takaran Minum Madu
Untuk mendapatkan manfaat kesehatan dari madu – cairan manis yang menjadi cadangan makanan koloni lebah ini, konsumsinya harus secara teratur. Dalam penelitian Widodo tersebut balita sampel diberi madu sebanyak 20gram setiap hari.

Madu tersebut tidak dianjurkan untuk bayi usia 0-4 bulan, karena makanan pertama dan utama untuk mereka adalah air susu ibu ( ASI ) setelah usia 4 bulan baru boleh diberi madu sering pemberian makanan tambahan sesuai anjuran.
Menurut Muhilal, 2-3 sendok makan madu dua kali sehari sudah cukup memadai untuk menjaga stamina dan kesehatan tubuh, namun untuk pengobatan dan penyembuhan atau pengobatan, madu lebih baik dikonsumsi dalam bentuk larutan dalam air karena akan mudah peyerapannya di dalam tubuh. Madu tersebut sebaiknya dikonsumsi dua jam sebelum makan atau tiga jam sesudahnya.

sumber http://pondokibu.com/parenting/bayi-balita/manfaat-madu-bagi-pertumbuhan-balita/

Masalah Pemberian Makan & Saluran Pencernaan

2010-12-16T02:40:00.000-08:00

DEFINISI

Sebagian besar masalah pemberian makan dan gangguan pencernaan pada bayi baru lahir bukan merupakan masalah yang serius dan seringkali menghilang secara spontan atau bisa diatasi dengan melakukan perubahan pada pola pemberian makan.

Regurgitasi & muntah

Bayi sering meludahkan (gumoh, regurgitasi) sejumlah kecil susu ketika atau setelah menyusu, seringkali disertai sendawa. Hal ini adalah normal.
Kadang regurgitasi terjadi akibat terlalu cepat minum dan menelan udara.
Regurgitasi yang sangat banyak bisa terjadi akibat pemberian susu yang terlalu banyak.

Jika susu diberikan melalui botol, regurgitasi bisa dikurangi dengan menggunakan dot yang lebih keras dan lubangnya lebih kecil.
Lebih sering menyendawakan bayi selama menyusu juga bisa membantu, baik pada bayi yang disusui dengan ASI maupun dengan susu botol.

Memuntahkan sejumlah besar susu bisa menunjukkan adanya suatu kelainan.
Muntah memancar yang terjadi secara berulang bisa menunjukkan adanya penyempitan atau penyumbatan pada lubang lambung (stenosis pilorika).
Penyumbatan pada usus halus menyebabkan muntah yang berwarna kehijauan.
Galaktosemia juga bisa menyebabkan muntah.
Muntah disertai demam kemungkinan disebabkan oleh infeksi.

Pemberian makan yang kurang

Bayi yang mendapatkan makanan cukup biasanya setelah pemberian makan akan tenang atau tertidur. Jika pemberian makan kurang, maka 1-2 jam setelah pemberian makan, bayi akan gelisah dan tetap terbangun, terlihat masih lapar.
Pada bayi berumur kurang dari 4 bulan, penambahan berat badan kurang dari 200 gram/minggu adalah rendah/kurang dan bisa menunjukkan adanya pemberian makan yang kurang.

Pemberian makan yang berlebihan

Obesitas di kemudian hari kadang berawal dari pemberian makan yang berlebihan pada masa bayi. Obesitas juga melibatkan faktor keturunan. Peluang terjadinya obesitas pada bayi yang kedua orangtuanya juga obese adalah sebesar 80%.
Jika penambahan berat badan terlalu cepat (berdasarkan grafik pertumbuhan standar) maka sebaiknya dilakukan pengontrolan terhadap kecepatan penambahan berat badan.

Diare

Bayi baru lahir biasanya melakukan buang air besar sebanyak 4-6 kali/hari. Bayi yang mendapatkan ASI cenderung sering mengeluarkan tinja berbusa, terutama jika belum mendapatkan makanan padat.
Yang perlu mendapat perhatian adalah jika bayi memiliki nafsu makan yang jelek, muntah, berat badannya menurun, berat badannya tidak bertambah atau tinjanya mengandung darah.

Infeksi bakteri atau virus bisa menyebabkan diare hebat. Diare akut pada byi paling sering disebakan oleh infeksi.

Diare ringan yang berlangsung selama berminggu-minggu atau berbulan-bulan bisa disebabkan oleh:

Penyakit seliak : suatu penyakit keturunan, dimana gluten (protein di dalam gandum) menyebabkan terjadinya reaksi alergi pada lapisan dalam usus sehingga penyerapan lemak menjadi jelek.
Penyakit seliak menyebabkan malnutrisi, nafsu makan yang buruk dan tinja berbau busuk yang berwarna pucat.
Untuk mengatasi penyakit ini, penderita tidak boleh mengkonsumsi segala jenis gandum.

Fibrosis kistik : suatu penyakit keturunan, dimana terjadi gangguan fungsi beberapa organ, termasuk pankreas.
Pankreas tidak menghasilkan sejumlah enzim yang cukup untuk mencerna protein dan lemak. Tanpa enzim pencernaan yang sesuai, tubuh akan membuang banyak protein dan lemak dalam tinjanya, sehingga terjadi malnutrisi dan hambatan pertumbuhan. Tinjanya sangat banyak dan berbau busuk.
Untuk mengobatinya diberikan ekstrak pankreas.

Malabsorbsi gula, terjadi pada bayi yang mengalami kekurangan enzim usus tertentu untuk mencerna gula tertentu, misalnya enzim laktase untuk mencerna laktosa.
Infeksi usus menyebabkan kekurangan enzim yang sifatnya sementara, sedangkan penyakit keturunan menyebabkan kekurangan enzim yang sifatnya permanen.
Keadaan ini bisa diatasi dengan tidak mengkonsumsi gula tertentu.

Alergi susu kadang menyebabkan diare, muntah dan darah dalam tinja. Gejalanya akan menghilang jika susu formula diganti oleh susu kedelai. Tetapi beberapa bayi yang alergi terhadap susu formula juga alergi terhadap susu kedelai. Bayi hampir tidak pernah alergi terhadap ASI.

Sembelit

Anus pada bayi yang berumur kurang dari 3 bulan mungkin sempit, sehingga bayi harus mengedan dan tinja yang keluar sangat tipis.
Hal ini bisa diatasi dengan cara melebarkan anus dengan jari tangan sebanyak 1-2 kali/hair.

Tinja yang besar bisa merobek lapisan anus (fissura anus) sehingga ketika buang air besar akan timbul nyeri dan kemungkinan di dalam tinja akan terdapat sejumlah kecil darah berwarna merah terang.
Adanya fissura bisa dilihat pada pemeriksaan anoskopi. Tanpa pengobatan khusus, fissura akan segera membaik. Bisa juga diberikan pelunak tinja yang ringan.

Sembelit berat yang menetap, terutama jika mulai timbul sebelum bayi mencapai usia 1 bulan, bisa menunjukkan adanya gangguan yang serius. Misalnya penyakit Hirschsprung (kelainan saraf yang disertai dengan usus yang berukuran besar) atau kelenjar tiroid yang kurang aktif.

Alergi pada Bayi

2010-12-16T02:37:00.000-08:00

DETEKSI DAN PENCEGAHAN ALERGI SEJAK BAYI

Dr Widodo Judarwanto SpA

CHILDREN ALLERGY CENTER
Rumah Sakit Bunda Jakarta, Jl Teuku cikditiro 28 Jakarta Pusat
PICKY EATERS CLINIC (KLINIK KESULITAN MAKAN)
JL Rawasari Selatan 50 Jakarta Pusat. Jl Taman Bendungan Asahan 5 Bendungan Hilir Jakarta Pusat
telp : (021) 70081995 – 4264126 – 31922005
email : wido25@hotmail.com , http://alergianak.bravehost.com

PENDAHULUAN

Alergi termasuk gangguan yang menjadi permasalahan kesehatan penting pada usia anak. Gangguan ini ternyata dapat menyerang semua organ tanpa terkecuali. Mulai dari ujung rambut sampai ujung kaki dengan berbagai bahaya dan komplikasi yang mungkin bisa terjadi. Belakangan terungkap bahwa alergi menimbulkan komplikasi yang cukup berbahaya, karena alergi dapat mengganggu semua organ atau sistem tubuh kita termasuk gangguan fungsi otak. Gangguan fungsi otak itulah maka timbul gangguan perkembangan dan perilaku pada anak seperti gangguan konsentrasi, gangguan emosi, keterlambatan bicara, gangguan konsentrasi hingga memperberat gejala penderita Autism dan ADHD.

Melihat demikian luas dan banyaknya pengaruh alergi yang mungkin bisa terjadi, maka deteksi dan pencegahan alergi sejak dini sebaiknya dilakukan. Gejala serta faktor resiko alergi dapat dideteksi sejak lahir, bahkan mungkin sejak dalam kandungan. Alergi makanan tidak terjadi pada semua orang, tetapi sebagian besar orang mempunyai potensi menjadi alergi. Tampaknya sebagian besar orang bila dicermati pernah mengalami reaksi alergi. Namun sebagian lainnya tidak pernah mengalami reaksi alergi. Terdapat 3 faktor penyebab terjadinya alergi makanan, yaitu faktor genetik, imaturitas usus, pajanan alergi yang kadang memerlukan faktor pencetus.

Alergi makanan dapat diturunkan dari orang tua atau kakek dan nenek pada penderita. Bila ada orang tua menderita alergi kita harus mewaspadai tanda alergi pada anak sejak dini. Bila ada salah satu orang tua yang menúerita gejala alergi maka dapat menurunkan resiko pada anak sekitar 20 – 40%, ke dua orang tua alergi resiko meningkat menjadi 40 - 80%. Sedangtkan bila tidak ada riwayat alergi pada kedua orang tua maka resikonya adalah 5 – 15%. Pada kasus terakhir ini bisa saja terjadi bila nenek, kakek atau saudara dekat orang tuanya mengalami alergi.

DETEKSI SEJAK DALAM KANDUNGAN
Secara teori deteksi dini penderita alergi dapat dilakukan sejak dalam kandungan. Meskipun hingga saat ini belum ada cara yang optimal, praktis, aman dan murah untuk mengetahui gejala dini alergi sejak dalam kandungan.. Pajanan alergi yang merangsang produksi IgE spesifik sudah dapat terjadi sejak bayi dalam kandungan. Diketahui adanya IgE spesifik pada janin terhadap penisilin, gandum, telur dan susu.

Faktor lingkungan dapat bekerja sebelum dan sesudah lahir. Faktor lingkungan sebelum lahir dapat mempengaruhi diferensiasi sel T yang allergen spesifik menjadi fenotipe Th2, sehingga alergi atopi sudah bekerja sebelum lahir. Kehamilan yang berhasil ditandai dengan pergeseran Th1 ke Th2 di fase antar fetomaternal untuk mengurangi reaktifitas sistem imun maternal terhadap allograft janin. Hingga saat ini deteksi dini alergi sejak dalam kandungan belum dilakukan secara mendalam dan hanya dilakukan sebatas penelitian.

Penulis telah melakukan pengamatan bahwa gerakan refluk osephagus atau gerakan hiccups (cegukan) pada janin dan gerakan janin di dalam perut yang sangat meningkat terutama saat malam hari hingga pagi hari adalah faktor prediktif yang kuat sebagai bayi yang beresiko alergi. Terlalu kuatnya tendangan tersebut, biasanya disertai rasa sakit di ulu hati si Ibu. Dalam penelitian awal yang terbatas penulis mendapatkan hasil yang cukup penting. Dilakukan pengamatan pada 25 ibu hamil dengan gerakan janin yang berlebihan dan gerakan refluks osephagus (hiccups/cegukan) pada janin saat kehamilan terutama malam hari. Setelah dilakukan eliminasi makanan tertentu tampak secara signifikan gerakan janin tersebut jauh berkurang.

Sensitisasi dalam kandungan sudah terjadi hal ini dapat dilihat bahwa terdapat reaksi alergi susu sapi pada neonatus. IgE ibu tidak dapat melalui sawar plasenta, jadi yang terjadi adalah partikel protein susu sapi yang beredar dalam darah ibu melewati plasenta. Hal ini dapat dibuktikan bahwa terdapat proliferasi lomfosit pada tali pusat neonatus. Bayi baru lahir sudah tersentisisasi sejak dalam kehamilan bila kadar IgE spesifik tali pusat > 0,35 kU/l.

Resiko dan gejala alergi bisa diketahui dan di deteksi sejak dalam kandungan dan sejak lahir, sehingga pencegahan gejala alergi dapat dilakukan sedini mungkin kalau perlu sejak dalam kandungan. Resiko terjadinya komplikasi, gangguan organ tubuh dan gangguan perilaku pada anak diharapkan dapat dikurangi atau dihindari.

DETEKSI DINI MANIFESTASI KLINIS SEJAK BAYI

Alergi adalah suatu proses inflamasi yang tidak hanya berupa reaksi cepat dan lambat tetapi juga merupakan proses inflamasi kronis yang kompleks dipengaruhi faktor genetik, lingkungan dan pengontrol internal. Berbagai sel mast, basofil, eosinofil, limfosit dan molekul seperti IgE, mediator sitokin, kemokin merupakan komponen yang berperanan inflamasi. Gejala klinis terjadi karena reaksi imunologik melalui pelepasan beberapa mediator tersebut dapat mengganggu organ tertentu yang disebut organ sasaran. Ahli alergi modern berpendapat serangan alergi atas dasar target organ (organ sasaran). Organ sasaran tersebut misalnya paru-paru maka manifestasi klinisnya adalah batuk atau asma. Bila sasarannya kulit akan terlihat sebagai gatal dan bercak merah di kulit. Bila organ sasarannya saluran pencernaan maka gejalanya adalah diare dan sebagainya. Sistem Susunan Saraf Pusat atau otak juga dapat sebagai organ sasaran, apalagi otak adalah merupakan organ tubuh yang sensitif dan lemah. Sistem susunan saraf pusat adalah merupakan pusat koordinasi tubuh dan fungsi luhur. Maka bisa dibayangkan kalau otak terganggu maka banyak kemungkinan manifestasi klinik ditimbulkannya termasuk gangguan perilaku pada anak. Apalagi pada alergi sering terjadi proses inflamasi kronis yang kompleks.
.

Tabel 1. Manifestasi klinis yang sering dikaitkan dan diperberat karena reaksi alergi pada bayi.
• GANGGUAN SALURAN CERNA : Gastrooesephageal Refluks, sering muntah, gumoh, kembung,“cegukan”, sering buang angin, sering “ngeden /mulet”, sering rewel, gelisah dan kolik terutama malam hari. Sering buang air besar (> 3 kali perhari), tidak BAB tiap hari. Kotoran berwarna hijau, gelap dan berbau tajam. Hernia Umbilikalis (pusar menonjol), Scrotalis, inguinalis (benjolan di selangkangan, daerah buah zakar atau pusar atau “turun berok”) karena sering ngeden sehingga tekanan di dalam perut meningkat. Lidah sering timbul putih (seperti jamur) dan air liur berlebihan (drooling atau ngiler). Bibir tampak kering mengelupas.
• Kulit sensitif, sering timbul bintik atau bisul kemerahan terutama di pipi, telinga dan daerah yang tertutup popok. Kerak di daerah rambut.Timbul bekas hitam seperti tergigit nyamuk. Mata, telinga dan daerah sekitar rambut sering gatal, disertai pembesaran kelenjar di kepala belakang. Kotoran telinga berlebihan kadang sedikit berbau.
• Napas grok-grok, kadang disertai batuk sesekali terutama malam dan pagi hari siang hari hilang. Sesak bayi baru lahir disertai kelenjar thimus membesar (TRDN/TTNB)
• Sering bersin, pilek, kotoran hidung banyak, kepala sering miring ke salah satu sisi (Sehingga beresiko kepala “peyang”) karena hidung buntu. Mata sering berair atau sering timbul kotoran mata (belekan) salah satu sisi/kedua sisi.
• Sering berkeringat (berlebihan). Kepala, telapak tangan atau telapak kaki sering teraba sumer/hangat.
• Karena minum yang berlebihan atau sering minta minum berakibat berat badan lebih dan kegemukan (umur <1tahun). Sebaliknya terjadi berat badan turun setelah usia 4-6 bulan, karena makan dan minum berkurang
• Mempengaruhi gangguan hormonal : keputihan/keluar darah dari vagina, timbul bintil merah bernanah, pembesaran payudara, rambut rontok, timbul banyak bintil kemerahan dengan cairan putih (eritema toksikum) atau papula warna putih
• PROBLEM MINUM ASI : sering menangis (karena perut tidak nyaman) seperti minta minum sehingga berat badan lebih karena minum berlebihan. Sering menangis belum tentu karena haus atau bukan karena ASI kurang. Sering menggigit puting (agresif) sehingga luka. Minum ASI sering tersedak, karena hidung buntu & napas dengan mulut. Minum ASI lebih sebentar pada satu sisi, karena satu sisi hidung buntu, jangka panjang bisa berakibat payudara besar sebelah.

Tabel 2. Beberapa gangguan perilaku yang sering dikaitkan dan diperberat oleh reaksi alergi pada bayi.
• GANGGUAN NEUROLOGIS RINGAN : Mudah kaget bila ada suara yang mengganggu. Gerakan tangan, kaki dan bibir sering gemetar. Kaki sering dijulurkan lurus dan kaku. Breath Holding spell : bila menangis napas berhenti beberapa detik kadang disertai sikter bibir biru dan tangan kaku. Mata sering juling (strabismus fisiologis). Kejang tanpa disertai ganggguan EEG atau serangan kejang bukan epilepsi (EEG normal)
• GERAKAN MOTORIK BERLEBIHAN
Usia kurang dari 1 bulan sudah bisa miring atau membalikkan badan.
Usia kurang dari 6 bulan: mata/kepala bayi sering melihat ke atas. Tangan dan kaki bergerak berlebihan, tidak bisa diselimuti (“dibedong”). Kepala sering digerakkan secara kaku ke belakang, sehingga posisi badan bayi “mlengkung” ke luar. Bila digendomg tidak senang dalam posisi tidur, tetapi lebih suka posisi berdiri. Sering bergerak, sering menggerakkan kepala dan badan atas ke belakang, memukul dan membentur benturkan kepala. Kadang timbul kepala sering bergoyang atau mengeleng-gelengkan kepala. Sering jatuh dari tempat tidur.
• GANGGUAN TIDUR (biasanya malam hari) gelisah,bolak-balik ujung ke ujung; bila tidur posisi “nungging” atau tengkurap; berbicara, tertawa, berteriak dalam tidur; sulit tidur atau mata sering terbuka pada malam hari tetapi siang hari tidur terus; usia lebih 9 bulan malam sering terbangun atau tiba-tiba duduk dan tidur lagi,
• AGRESIF DAN EMOSI MENINGKAT, sering menangis, berteriak dan bila minta minum susu sering terburu-buru tidak sabaran. Pada usia lebih 6 bulan sering memukul muka atau menarik rambut orang yang menggendong. Sering menggigit, menjilat tangan atau punggung orang yang menggendong. Sering menggigit puting susu ibu bagi bayi yang minum ASI, Setelah usia 4 bulan sering secara berlebihan memasukkan sesuatu ke mulut. Tampak anak sering memasukkan ke dua tangan atau kaki ke dalam mulut.
• GANGGUAN KONSENTRASI : cepat bosan terhadap mainan dan bila diberi cerita bergambar sering tidak bisa memperhatikan. Tidak kerasan dalam ruangan yang sempit seperti box bayi dan ruangan sempit. Sering minta keluar ke tempat yang luas atau luar rumah.
• GANGGUAN MOTORIK DAN KOORDINASI :
Pada pola perkembangan motorik normal adalah bolak-balik, duduk, merangkak dan berjalan. Pada gangguan keterlambatan motorik biasanya bolak balik pada usia lebih 5 bulan, usia 6 – 8 bulan tidak duduk dan merangkak, setelah usia 8 bulan langsung berdiri dan berjalan. Gangguan mengunyah atau menelan, tidak mau makan berserat seperti sayur dan daging atau terlambat kemampuan makan nasi tim (normal usia 9 bulan).
• KETERLAMBATAN BICARA: Tidak mengeluarkan kata umur < 15 bulan, , kemampuan bicara atau ngoceh-ngoceh hilang dari yang sebelumnya bisa. Bila tidak ada gangguan kontak mata, gangguan pendengaran, dan gangguan intelektual biasanya usia lebih 2 tahun membaik.
• IMPULSIF : banyak tersenyum dan tertawa berlebihan, lebih dominan berteriak daripada mengoceh.
• Jangka panjang akan memperberat gangguan perilaku tertentu bila anak mengalami bakat genetik seperti ADHD (hiperaktif) dan AUTISME (hiperaktif, keterlambatan bicara, gangguan sosialisasi)

Beberapa manifestasi klinik tersebut sangat sering dijumpai pada usia bayi, atau mungkin dialami lebih dari 50% anak. Sehingga banyak pendapat baik dari awam bahkan sebagian klinisi yang mengatakan bahwa gangguan tersebut adalah normal terjadi pada semua bayi nanti juga juga membaik. Tetapi bila kita cermat mengamati sebenarnya hal ini tidak terjadi pada semua bayi. Tampak jelas bila orang tua mempunyai anak lebih dari satu. Akan terlihat jelas kalau beberapa anaknya berbeda dalam mengalami gangguan-gangguan tersebut.
Gangguan ringan yang terjadi pada bayi ini mungkin dapat dijadikan prediksi untuk gangguan alergi dikemudian hari. Gangguan sesak pada bayi baru lahir atau TRDN beresiko terjadi astma pada usia sebelum sekolah. Gejala hipersekresi bronkus atau suara napas ”grok-grok” yang terjadi pada usia bayi, ke depan anak seperti ini akan beresiko mengalami gangguan sensitif pada saluran napasnya. Anak akan beresiko mudah batuk, dan bila terkena Infeksi Saluran napas gejala batuknya lebih berat, sesak dan lebih lama sembuh. Anak yang mengalami gangguan saluran cerna seperti malam sering rewel atau kolik. Di kemudian hari anak akan beresiko sensitif gangguan mengalami gangguan saluran cerna misalnya sering sakit perut, sulit BAB, sulit makan atau berat badan yang sulit naik. Sedangkan bayi yang mengalami gangguan motorik yang berlebihan dan mudah bosan terhadap mainan dan ruangan sempit maka dikemudian haru beresiko terjadi gangguan konsentrasi. Gangguan ini dapat mengganggu prestasi sekolah anak.
Banyak gangguan pada usia bayi tersebut, dikemudian hari akan mengakibatkan resiko terjadinya gangguan alergi dan gangguan perilaku lainnya dikemudian hari. Gangguan yang dapat terjadi di kemudian hari adalah astma, sinusitis, Iritabel Bowel Disease (gangguan saluran cerna), migrain dan sebagainya. Sedangkan gangguan perilaku yang bisa terjadi dikemudian hari adalah keterlambatan bicara, sulit tidur, gangguan konsentrasi, emosi meningkat, gangguan belajar, gangguan motorik kasar seperti mudah jatuh dan tersandung, gangguan proses mengunyah dan lain sebagainya. Bahkan anak yang mempunyai bakat genetik ADHD dan Autis yang disertai alergi mungkin dapat diminimalkan gangguannnya sejak dini.
Gangguan pada bayi yang sering dianggap normal ini memang ringan dan tampaknya tidak berbahaya. Dalam keadaan seperti ini sebenarnya bisa dilakukan pencegahan dan intervensi sejak dini. Sehingga gangguan organ tubuh dan gangguan perilaku yang terjadi dikemudian hari bisa dicegah atau paling tidak diminimalkan sejak dini. Bila sudah divonis normal dan dianggap biasa maka upaya pencegahan yang seharusnya bisa dilakukan menjadi terabaikan

PENYEBAB ALERGI MAKANAN PADA BAYI
Alergi makanan lebih sering terjadi pada usia bayi atau anak dibandingkan pada usia dewasa. Hal itu terjadi karena belum sempurnanya saluran cerna pada anak. Secara mekanik integritas mukosa usus dan peristaltik merupakan pelindung masuknya alergen ke dalam tubuh. Secara kimiawi asam lambung dan enzim pencernaan menyebabkan denaturasi allergen. Secara imunologik sIgA pada permukaan mukosa dan limfosit pada lamina propia dapat menangkal allergen masuk ke dalam tubuh. Pada usus imatur sistem pertahanan tubuh tersebut masih lemah dan gagal berfungsi sehingga memudahkan alergen, virus dan bakteri masuk ke dalam tubuh. Dengan pertambahan usia, ketidakmatangan saluran cerna tersebut semakin membaik. Biasanya setelah 2 tahun saluran cerna tersebut berangsur membaik. Hal ini juga yang mengakibatkan penderita alergi sering sakit pada usia sebelum 2 tahun. Fenomena tersebut juga menunjukkan bahwa sewaktu bayi atau usia anak mengalami alergi makanan tetapi dalam pertambahan usia membaik.
Gejala dan tanda karena reaksi alergi pada anak dapat ditimbulkan oleh adanya alergen dari beberapa makanan tertentu yang dikonsumsi bayi. Penyebab alergi di dalam makanan adalah protein, glikoprotein atau polipeptida dengan berat molekul lebih dari 18.000 dalton, tahan panas dan tahan ensim proteolitik. Sebagian besar alergen pada makanan adalah glikoprotein dan berkisar antara 14.000 sampai 40.000 dalton. Molekul-molekul kecil lainnya juga dapat menimbulkan kepekaan (sensitisasi) baik secara langsung atau melalui mekanisme hapten-carrier.
Susu sapi dianggap sebagai penyebab alergi makanan pada bayi yang paling sering. Beberapa penelitian di beberapa negara di dunia prevalensi alergi susu sapi pada anak dalam tahun pertama kehidupan sekitar 2%. Alergi susu sapi adalah suatu kumpulan gejala yang mengenai banyak organ dan system tubuh yang ditimbulkan oleh alergi terhadap susu sapi. Reaksi hipersensitif terhadap protein susu sapi dengan keterlibatan mekanisme sistem imun. Reaksi simpang makanan yang tidak melibatkan mekanisme sistem imun dikenal sebagai intoleransi susu. Sekitar 1-7% bayi pada umumnya menderita alergi terhadap protein yang terdapat dalam susu sapi. Sedangkan sekitar 80% susu formula bayi yang beredar di pasaran ternyata menggunakan bahan dasar susu sapi. Alergi susu sapi adalah suatu kumpulan gejala yang mengenai banyak organ dan system tubuh yang ditimbulkan oleh alergi terhadap susu sapi. Reaksi hipersensitif terhadap protein susu sapi dengan keterlibatan mekanisme sistem imun. Alergi terhadap protein susu sapi atau alergi terhadap susu formula yang mengandung protein susu sapi merupakan suatu keadaan dimana seseorang memiliki sistem reaksi kekebalan tubuh yang abnormal terhadap protein yang terdapat dalam susu sapi. Sistem kekebalan tubuh bayi akan melawan protein yang terdapat dalam susu sapi sehingga gejala-gejala reaksi alergi pun akan muncul.
Pada bayi yang hanya mendapatkan ASI eksklusif maka diet yang dikonsumsi ibu sangat berpotensi menimbulkan gangguan alergi. Diet ibu yang sangat berpotensi menimbulkan gangguan pada bayi yang paling sering adalah ikan laut (terutama yang kecil seperti udang, kerang, cumi dan sebagainya), kacang tanah dan buah-buahan (tomat, melon, semangka).
Saat pemberian makanan tambahan usia 4-6 bulan, gejala alergi pada bayi sering timbal. Jenis makanan yang sering diberikan dan menimbulkan gangguan adalah pemberian buah-buahan (jeruk, dan pisang), bubur susu (kacang hijau), nasi tim (tomat, ayam, telor, ikan laut (udang, cumi,teri), keju, dan sebagainya. Sehingga penundaan pemberian makanan tertentu dapat mengurangi resiko gangguan alergi pada anak. Menurut beberapa penelitian pemberian multivitamin pada bayi beresiko alergi ternyata meningkatkan gangguan penyakit alergi di kemudian hari.

PENANGANAN
Penanganan alergi yang terbaik pada bayi adalah menghindari penyebab alergi tersebut. Pada alergi makanan gejala alergi akan berkurang atau hilang bila makanan sebagai penyebabnya dihindarkan. Hanya saja secara praktis agak rumit untuk mencari penyebab pasti penyebabnya karena pemeriksaan alergi (tes alergi) tidak dapat memastikan penyebab alergi tersebut. Sehingga cara yang dianggap paling murah dan sederhana yang dapat memastikan penyebab alergi adalah dengan cara eliminasi terbuka sederhana. Bila timbul keluhan dicatat penyebab alergi terbut, meskipun alergi terhadap jenis makanan tertentu tidak berlangsung seterusnya. Dengan semakin meningkatnya usia anak alergi makanan tertentu akan menghilang, kecuali makanan kacang tanah dan beberapa ikan laut biasanya daopat menetap hingga usia dewasa.
Penanganan alergi pada bayi haruslah dilakukan secara benar, paripurna dan berkesinambungan. Pemberian obat terus menerus bukanlah jalan terbaik dalam penanganan alergi, tetapi yang paling ideal adalah menghindari penyebab yang bisa menimbulkan keluhan alergi tersebut. Penghindaran penyebab alergi ini harus disertai edukasi yang baik terhadap orang tua atau orang lain di lingkungan anak. Pemberian obat-obatan pencegahan alergi dan obat lainnya adalah bentuk kegagalan dalam mengidentifikasi dan penghindaran penyebab alergi. Obat-obatan simtomatis, anti histamine (AHi dan AH2), ketotifen, kortikosteroid (baik topikal maupun oral), serta inhibitor sintesase prostaglandin hanya dapat mengurangi gejala sementara, tetapi umumnya mempunyai efisiensi rendah dan sudah mulai banyak ditinggalkan..

PENCEGAHAN ALERGI SEJAK DINI
Bila terdapat riwayat keluarga baik saudara kandung, orangtua, kakek, nenek atau saudara dekat lainnya yang alergi atau asma. Dan bila anak sudah terdapat ciri-ciri alergi sejak lahir atau bahkan bila mungkin deteksi sejak kehamilan maka harus dilakukan pencegahan sejak dini. Resiko alergi pada anak dikemudian hari dapat dihindarkan bila kita dapat mendeteksi dan mencegah sejak dini.
Pencegahan alergi makanan terbagi menjadi 3 tahap, yaitu pencegahan primer, sekunder dan tersier.
1. Pencegahan Primer , bertujuan menghambat sesitisasi imunologi oleh makanan terutama mencegah terbentuknya Imunoglobulin E (IgE).. Pencegahan ini dilakukan sebelum terjadi sensitisasi atau terpapar dengan penyebab alergi. Hal ini dapat dilakukan sejak saat kehamilan.
2. Pencegahan sekunder, bertujuan untuk mensupresi (menekan) timbulnya penyakit setelah sensitisasi. Pencegahan ini dilakukan setelah terjadi sensitisasi tetapi manifestasi penyakit alergi belum muncul. Keadaan sensitisasi diketahui dengan cara pemeriksaan IgE spesifik dalam serum darah, darah tali pusat atau uji kulit. Saat tindakan yang optimal adalah usia 0 hingga 3 tahun.
3. Pencegahan tersier, bertujuan untuk mencegah dampak lanjutan setelah timbulnya alergi. Dilakukan pada anak yang sudah mengalami sensitisasi dan menunjukkan manifestasi penyakit yang masih dini tetap[i belum menunjukkan gejala penyakit alergi yang lebih berat. Saat tindakan yang optimal adalah usia 6 bulan hingga 4 tahun.

Kontak dengan antigen harus dihindari selama periode rentan pada bulan-bulan awal kehidupan, saat limfosit T belum matang dan mukosa usus kecil dapat ditembus oleh protein makanan. Ada beberapa upaya pencegahan yang perlu diperhatikan supaya anak terhindar dari keluhan alergi yang lebih berat dan berkepanjangan dikemudian hari :
• Hindari atau minimalkan penyebab alergi sejak dalam kandungan, dalam hal ini oleh ibu. Bila ibu hamil didapatkan gerakan atau tendangan janin yang keras dan berlebihan pada kandungan disertai gerakan denyutan keras (hiccups/cegukan) terutama malam atau pagi hari, maka sebaiknya ibu harus mulai menghindari penyebab alergi sedini mungkin. Committes on Nutrition AAP menganjurkan elinasi diet jenis kacang-kacangan untuk pencegahan alergi sejak dalam kehamilan.
• Pemberian makanan padat dini dapat meningkatkan resiko timbulnya alergi. Bayi yang mendapat makanan pada usia 6 bulan mempunyai angka kejadian dermatitis alergi yang lebih rendah dibandingkan dengan bayi yang mulai mendapat makanan tambahan pada usia 3 bulan.
• Hindari paparan debu di lingkungan seperti pemakaian karpet, korden tebal, kasur kapuk, tumpukan baju atau buku. Hindari pencetus binatang (bulu binatang piaraan kucing dsb, kecoak, tungau pada kasur kapuk).
• Tunda pemberian makanan penyebab alergi, seperti ayam di atas 1 tahun, telor, kacang tanah di atas usia 2 tahun dan ikan laut di atas usia 3 tahun.
• Bila membeli makanan dibiasakan untuk mengetahui komposisi makanan atau membaca label komposisi di produk makanan tersebut.
• Pemberian ASI eksklusif selama 6 bulan dapat mencegah resiko alergi pada bayi . Bila bayi minum ASI, ibu juga hindari makanan penyebab alergi. Makanan yang dikonsumsi oleh ibu dapat masuk ke bayi melalui ASI. Terutama kacang-kacangan, dan dipertimbangkan menunda telur, susu sapi dan ikan. Meskipun masih terdapat beberapa penelitian yang bertolak belakang tentang hal ini.
• Committes on Nutrition AAP menganjurkan pemberian suplemen kalsium dan vitamin selama menyusui.
• Bila ASI tidak memungkinkan atau kalau perlu kurang gunakan susu hipoalergenik formula untuk pencegahan terutama usia di bawah 6 bulan.Bila dicurigai alergi terhadap susu sapi bisa menggunakan susu protein hidrolisat. Penggunaan susu soya harus tetap diwaspadai karena 30 – 50% bayi masih mengalami alergi terhadap soya.
• Bila timbul gejala alergi, identifikasi pencetusnya dan hindari.

Pemberian ASI atau Susu protein hidrolisa selama bulan pertama. yang terbukti sangat kuat secara ilmiah. Sedangkan yang terbukti kuat lainnya adalah eliminasi tungau debu rumah pada awal kehidupan, eliminasi penyebab alergi pada usia > 4 – 6 bulan dan pemakaian Prebiotik. Pencegahan dengan menunda makanan padat masih belum banyak penelitian yang mengungkapkan. Sedangkan pencegahan dengan Penambahan PUFA omega 3, penambahan nutrisi lain (Zn, Ca, Fe, nukleotida) dan imunoterapi masih diragukan dan perlu penelitian lebih jauh. Pemberian obat-obatan antihistamin dan ketotifen dengan efek antiinflamasi sebagai pencegahan tidak terbukti secara klinis dan sudah mulai ditinggalkan sebagai upaya pencegahan.

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27. Brain allergic in Children.htpp://www.allergycenter/UCK/allergy.
28. William H., Md Philpott, Dwight K., Phd Kalita, Dwight K. Kalita PhD, Linus Pauling PhD, Linus. Pauling, William H. Philpott MD. Brain Allergies: The Psychonutrient and Magnetic Connections.
29. Ray C, Wunderlich, Susan PPrwscott. Allergy, Brains, and Children Coping. London.2003
30. Hall K. Allergy of the nervous system : a reviewAnn Allergy 1976 Jan;36(1):49-64.
31. Goyal RK, Hirano I. The enteric nervous system. N Engl J Med 1996;334:1106-1115.

Mengenali Dan Mengatasi Bahaya Tersedak

2010-12-16T02:32:00.001-08:00

Berikut beberapa hal yang dapat membantu Anda untuk mengenali faktor pemicu gangguan tersedak:
* Tersedak akibat tidak sempurna mengunyah makanan, yang tersangkut di tenggorokan atau saluran pernapasan. Makanan padat seperti daging sering menjadi penyebabnya.
* Umumnya orang tersedak saat mengunyah makanan sambil berbicara.
* Gigi palsu juga merupakan salah satu penyebab orang tersedak. Gigi palsu tak mungin bisa mengunyah makanan sebaik gigi asli karena gigi palsu kurang memberi tekanan pengunyahan.
* Orang yang tersedak biasanya panik. Wajahnya terlihat ketakutan. Awalnya wajahnya tampak kemerahan, kedua matanya melotot, dan napasnya tersengal-sengal.
* Apabila makanan “salah masuk”, dengan batuk berkali-kali secara refleks hal tersebut akan teratasi. Yang pasti, seseorang tidak tersedak bila ia dapat batuk dengan leluasa, warna kulit tidak berubah dan masih mampu berbicara. Sebalinya, bila batuknya terdengar seperti tertahan dan kulit wajahnya menjadi biru, ada kemungkinan ia tersedak.
* Kalau ragu-ragu, tanyakan langsung apakah dia mampu berbicara. Apabila bisa, berarti saluran pernapasannya tidak sepenuhnya tersumbat dan oksigen dapat mencapai paru-paru. Sebaliknya, orang yang tersedak tidak mampu berbicara, hanya menggerak-gerakkan tangan.
* Ciri umum orang tersedak adalah tangan memegangi tenggorokan dengan kuat, ibu jari dan jari-jari direntangkan. Orang yang bersikap seperti itu membutuhkan penanganan darurat (Manuver Heimlich) dan tidak boleh ditinggalkan.

Manuver Heimlich

Banyak cara untuk mengatasi gangguan tersedak, satu diantaranya adalah Manuver Heimlich. Cara ini digunakan untuk mengeluarkan suatu benda dari saluran pernapasan orang yang tersedak. Anda dapat mempraktikkan metode ini bail pada diri maupun pada orang lain.

Berikut langkah-langkahnya:
1. Berdirilah di belakang orang yang tersedak, lingkarkan kedua tangan Anda ke pinggangnya. Bungkukkan orang itu sedikit ke depan.
2. Kepalkan salah satu tangan Anda dan taruh di bagian atas pusar korban.
3. Pegang erat-erat kepalan Anda itu dengan tangan lain dan tekan kuat sambil mendorong cepat ke atas.
4. Ulangi tindakan ini sampai benda yang menghambat itu keluar dari saluran udara korban.
Kemudian bila harus melakukan tindakan ini pada diri sendiri:
*Kepalkan salah satu tangan Anda, letakkan sedikit di atas pusar.
*Pegang kepalan tangan Anda itu dengan tangan yang lain lalu tekan kuat-kuat ke arah atas sampai benda itu keluar.
*Anda juga bisa melakukan ini dengan bantuan dari sandaran sebuah kursi, tapi cara ini kurang dianjurkan. Lebih baik Anda minta bantuan orang lain.
Sumber : Senior

http://oryza.blogsome.com/2005/12/30/men...-tersedak/

Tersedak Pada Balita

2010-12-16T02:31:00.000-08:00

Awas, Tersedak!
Balita sering sekali tersedak. Salah memberikan makanan bisa menjadi penyebabnya

Jangan anggap enteng tersedak. Bila tidak ditangani dengan baik, jiwa anak bisa terancam. Di AS saja, setiap tahun sekitar 200 anak di bawah usia 4 tahun meninggal akibat tersedak.

Sebagian besar anak pernah tersedak, khususnya di usia 2-4 tahun. Di usia ini rasa keingintahuan mereka begitu besar. Hampir semua benda mereka masukkan ke mulut. Balita juga belum dapat mengunyah dengan baik, dan saluran pernafasan atasnya masih kecil, sehingga mudah tersumbat oleh makanan atau benda-benda yang nyasar ke situ.

Tersedak, menurut Dr. Thamrin, direktur utama RS Khusus THT-Bedah Proklamasi, Jakarta, adalah masuknya benda asing ke dalam saluran pernafasan (tenggorokan) dan saluran paru-paru (bronkus), sehingga menghalangi keluar masuknya udara. Normalnya bila kita menelan sesuatu, misalnya makanan, jalan udara menuju paru-paru akan tertutup oleh epiglotis alias anak tekak, katup yang menutup pangkal tenggorokan jika ada makanan atau minuman lewat. "Nah, kerja epiglotis ini tidak akan sempurna bila makanan, minuman, atau benda lain masuk bersamaan dengan aktivitas mulut lainnya, misal berbicara, tertawa, atau menangis," ungkap Thamrin.

Tersedak biasanya terjadi bila kita makan sambil berbicara, sehingga makanan atau minuman masuk ke saluran tenggorokan, bukan ke kerongkongan (saluran makanan - Red.). Makanan atau benda lain yang anak telan itu lalu bisa saja nyangkut di laring (pangkal tenggorok), trakea (saluran nafas antara laring dan bronkus), atau masuk ke bronkus (percabangan tenggorok ke paru-paru).

Geraham Belum Tumbuh

Pada anak kecil, tersedak juga kerap disebabkan oleh kurang hati-hatinya orangtua dalam mengawasi anak. "Contoh," kata Thamrin, "kasus tersedak lebih banyak terjadi saat si kecil tengah makan atau bermain sendirian." Di usia ini anak tengah senang-senangnya memasukkan apa saja yang ditemukannya ke dalam telinga, lubang hidung, atau mulut. Jadi ada baiknya orangtua mewaspadai bahaya makanan ataupun mainan yang berbentuk kecil, karena bisa jadi anak tertarik dan memasukkannya ke dalam mulut, yang menyebabkan ia tersedak.

Penyebab lain adalah belum tumbuhnya gigi geraham anak. "Anak batita belum punya gigi geraham yang berfungsi sebagai pengunyah. Akibatnya, bila mereka diberi makanan dalam bentuk butiran keras -semisal kacang-kacangan- sebagian makanan itu tidak terkunyah dengan baik. Bila potongan makanan itu sudah melewati mulut lalu masuk ke dalam rongga tenggorokan, di sinilah potongan itu akan menutupi saluran pernapasan," tutur Thamrin panjang lebar.

Selain makanan, benda yang masuk ke dalam saluran pernapasan anak bisa berupa apa saja. Sifat bendanya pun bermacam-macam. Bisa benda besar atau kecil, licin atau kasar, atau bahkan benda berduri tajam. "Penyumbatan oleh benda-benda itu membuat tubuh anak bereaksi sehingga timbullah gejala tersedak atau pembengkakan, tergantung pada tempat benda itu tersangkut. Tak jarang benda-benda itu tidak dapat dikeluarkan lagi."

Rangsang Batuk Si Kecil

Orangtua sebaiknya bisa mengenali gejala-gejala tersedak. Sebab jika kurang waspada, tersedak bisa membahayakan si kecil. Apabila tiba-tiba si kecil terbatuk terus-menerus hingga mengeluarkan airmata, dan makin lama batuk itu mulai menimbulkan bunyi 'ngik-ngik-ngik' seperti orang sesak napas, bisa jadi ia tengah tersedak.

"Bila anak masih bisa terbatuk-batuk, biarkan dulu sejenak," lanjut Thamrin. Menurutnya batuk merupakan usaha alami anak dalam mengeluarkan sumbatan yang membuatnya tersedak, dan ada kemungkinan benda atau makanan yang menyumbat itu bisa keluar dengan sendirinya. Bahkan bila diperlukan, orangtua bisa memberi rangsangan agar si kecil terus terbatuk hingga sumbatannya keluar.

Gejala tersedak juga sangat tergantung pada tempat di mana 'benda asing' itu tersangkut, selain juga besar dan sifat benda itu. Benda yang nyangkut di laring, bisa jadi akan menyumbat sebagian atau seluruh laring. Bila ini terjadi, si kecil tentu tak akan bisa bernapas. Kalau kondisinya seperti ini, Thamrin menyarankan agar jangan membiarkan batuk anak sampai lebih dari 3 menit. Sebab ini bisa menimbulkan terhentinya napas anak, yang mengakibatkan kehilangan nyawa si kecil.

Pahami Cara Memberi Makan

Selain menghindarkan berbagai benda berukuran kecil di sekitar anak, risiko tersedak juga dapat dicegah jika orangtua memahami cara pemberian makanan yang sesuai dengan fisiologi (kondisi fisik) anak. Misal, kondisi fisik saluran udara pernapasan anak akan berbeda manakala ia sedang menangis dan diam. Karenanya, jangan sekali-kali memberi minum atau makanan bila si kecil sedang menangis.

Orangtua juga jangan memberi makanan berupa butiran jagung saat anaknya sedang tertawa atau tidur-tiduran. Begitu juga minum susu sambil bermain-main seperti ingin meludah. Semua tingkah laku anak yang mengundang bahaya tersedak, seperti menggigit-gigit wortel mentah, apel, atau buah-buahan keras, memunguti benda-benda kecil dan memasukkannya ke dalam mulut, juga perlu diwaspadai.

Kepekaan orangtua, khususnya para ibu dalam menentukan 'benda-benda berbahaya', bagi si kecil memang sangat penting. Seringkali, orangtua memberikan bermacam benda menarik sebagai mainan untuk si kecil. Kadangkala, ungkap Thamrin, tanpa memperhitungkan risikonya, orangtua memberikan dengan sengaja makanan yang mempunyai bentuk, warna, tekstur, rasa, dan aroma yang menarik, namun bisa berbahaya bagi si kecil. Sehingga si kecil tertarik untuk memasukkannya ke dalam mulut dan menelannya. "Karena itu jangan heran bila benda-benda yang ditemukan tersangkut di saluran napas anak juga termasuk kulit melinjo yang merah menyala, kacang-kacangan, biji salak, begitu juga peluit, kancing baju, dan benda-benda kecil lainnya yang aneh-aneh!"

Mencegah Bahaya Tersedak
• Temani bayi kapanpun ia sedang makan atau minum. Tapi jangan ajak bicara ketika ia akan makan atau minum
• Pastikan bayi dalam posisi tegak ketika ia diberi makan makanan padat
• Jangan memaksakan makan jika bayi sedang menangis atau menolak
• Hindari memberi makanan yang sulit dikunyah anak. Hancurkan atau giling dulu sehingga cukup lunak untuk digigit atau dikunyah. Roti sebaiknya dipotong dulu menjadi bagian kecil. Biskuit dipecahkan dulu hingga halus, atau siramkan susu atau air hangat agar jadi bubur halus. Keju ada baiknya diparut atau dilumerkan terlebih dahulu sebelum disajikan.
• Karena anak kecil lebih mungkin menelan tanpa mengunyah, jangan berikan selai kacang, popcorn, wortel mentah, kacang-kacangan, anggur, jagung, permen keras, polong-polongan mentah, atau hotdog (bahkan yang berukuran kecil), kecuali sudah berusia 3 tahun
• Jangan beri anak di bawah 1 tahun mainan yang punya bagian-bagian yang berukuran kurang dari 4 cm tebalnya dan 6 cm panjangnya.
• Singkirkan kancing, koin, peniti, jarum pentul, balon, kelereng, kulit melinjo, biji salak, dan kerikil. Pastikan mobil-mobilan mainan anak tak bisa dimasukkan ke mulut.
• Jangan biarkan bayi bermain-main dengan wadah talek. Isinya bisa berhamburan dan ditelan.

Gejala-gejala Tersedak
• Batuk lemah
• Memegangi tenggorokan
• Napas terengah-engah
• Bibir menjadi biru
• Pembuluh darah leher dan wajah menonjol
• Pingsan

Langkah Menangani Tersedak

Bayi
Langkah 1: Cari tahu penyebabnya.
Jika bayi tiba-tiba tak bisa menangis atau batuk, mungkin ada sesuatu yang menyumbat saluran nafasnya. Bantu ia untuk mengeluarkannya. Ia mungkin mengeluarkan suara-suara aneh atau tak bersuara sama sekali meski mulutnya terbuka. Bibirnya membiru. Jika ia bisa batuk atau cegukan, artinya saluran nafasnya hanya separuh tersumbat. Untuk kasus ini, biarkan ia meneruskan batuknya. Ini cara paling efektif mengeluarkan benda penyebab tersedak. (Jika anda curiga tersedak itu akibat reaksi alergi yang menyebabkan tenggorokan tersumbat, segera panggil ambulans. Anda tak bisa menanganinya sendiri).

Langkah 2: Beri pukulan di punggung dan sentakan di dada
Duduk di kursi, taruh bayi di pangkuan dengan posisi bayi telungkup dan kepalanya menjauhi badan kita. Salah satu tangannya ditindih perutnya sendiri. Sangga wajah dan lehernya dengan tangan kiri kita. Gunakan pangkal telapak tangan kanan kita untuk memukul tengah punggungnya dengan kuat namun lembut 5 kali. Balikkan badan bayi, sangga belakang kepalanya dengan tangan kiri kita. Cari bagian sternum-nya, dengan cara menarik garis antara dua putingnya, cari titik tengahnya, turun sepanjang satu jari, lalu tekan titik tersebut 5 kali dengan dua jari. Hentikan jika bayi mulai batuk, dan biarkan ia mengeluarkan sendiri benda yang menyumbat saluran nafasnya.

Kalau bayi belum batuk, terus lakukan dua langkah ini. Jika benda yang menyumbat itu sudah keluar tapi bayi belum juga bernafas, cek denyut nadinya, mulai lakukan pernafasan buatan atau resusitasi. Minta seseorang memanggil ambulans segera.

Balita
Langkah 1: Sama dengan penanganan untuk bayi.
Langkah 2: Lakukan Manuver Heimlich. Jika si kecil sadar namun tak bisa batuk, bicara, atau bernafas, peluk anak dari belakang, pegang pergelangan tangan kita dengan tangan satunya, tempelkan di perut anak, persis di atas pusar. Sentakkan secara cepat perut anak dengan arah agak ke dada beberapa kali. Lakukan sampai anak mulai bernafas atau batuk.

Jika anak tak batuk juga, agak dongakkan kepala anak dan buka mulutnya, tekan lidahnya dengan ibu jari kita, lalu lihat ke pangkal tenggorokannya. Jika benda yang menyumbat terlihat, gunakan jari kita untuk mengoreknya. Namun jangan lakukan ini kalau bendanya tidak terlihat, karena akan membuat benda itu makin dalam. Lebih baik lakukan Manuver Heimlich lagi.

Jika benda yang menyumbat itu sudah keluar namun bayi belum juga bernafas, cek denyut nadinya, mulai lakukan pernafasan buatan atau resusitasi. Minta seseorang memanggil ambulans segera.TG
Sumber: Tabloid Ibu Anak

Muntah Pada Bayi

2010-12-16T02:30:00.000-08:00

Bayi Muntah

Para ibu, apakah Anda masih memakaikan gurita pada si kecil? Bila ya, sebaiknya segeralah hentikan. Sebab, seperti dituturkan dr. Kishore R.J., SpA dari RSIA Hermina Podomoro, pemakaian gurita dapat menyebabkan bayi muntah "Pemakaian gurita membuat lambung si bayi tertekan. Bila dalam keadaan seperti itu si bayi dipaksakan minum, maka cairannya akan tertekan. Muntahlah dia," jelas Kishore.

Hal lain yang paling sering bikin bayi muntah ialah posisi menyusui. Sering ibu menyusui sambil tiduran dengan posisi miring sementara si bayi tidur telentang. Akibatnya, cairan tersebut tidak masuk ke saluran pencernaan, tapi ke saluran nafas. Bayi pun muntah. Karena itu, Kishore mengingatkan, "Kalau menyusui, posisi bayi dimiringkan. Kepalanya lebih tinggi dari kaki sehingga membentuk sudut 45 derajat. Jadi cairan yang masuk bisa turun ke bawah."

Untuk bayi yang menyusu dari botol, pemakaian bentuk dot juga berpengaruh pada muntah. Jika si bayi suka dot besar lalu diberi dot kecil, ia akan malas mengisap karena lama. Akibatnya susu tetap keluar dari dot dan memenuhi mulut si bayi. Hal ini bisa membuat bayi tersedak yang lalu muntah. Sebaliknya bayi yang suka dot kecil diberi dot besar akan refleks muntah karena ada benda asing.

GUMOH

Muntah yang sering terjadi dan biasa dialami pada bayi ialah muntah yang disebut gumoh. Hal ini disebabkan fungsi pencernaan bayi dengan peristaltik (gelombang kontraksi pada dinding lambung dan usus) untuk makanan dapat masuk dari saluran pencernaan ke usus, masih belum sempurna. Itu sebabnya ada makanan yang masih tetap di lambung, tidak keluar-keluar karena peristaltiknya tidak bagus. Akibatnya, terjadilah muntah atau gumoh.

Biasanya bayi mengalami gumoh setelah diberi makan. Selain karena pemakaian gurita dan posisi saat menyusui, juga karena ia ditidurkan telentang setelah diberi makan. "Cairan yang masuk di tubuh bayi akan mencari posisi yang paling rendah. Nah, bila ada makanan yang masuk ke oserfagus atau saluran sebelum ke lambung, maka ada refleks yang bisa menyebabkan bayi muntah," terang Kishore.

Lambung yang penuh juga bisa bikin bayi gumoh. Ini terjadi karena makanan yang terdahulu belum sampai ke usus, sudah diisi makanan lagi. Akibatnya si bayi muntah. "Lambung bayi punya kapasitasnya sendiri. Misalnya bayi umur sebulan, ada yang sehari bisa minum 100 cc, tapi ada juga yang 120 cc. Nah, si ibu harus tahu kapasitas bayinya. Jangan karena bayi tetangganya minum 150 cc lantas si ibu memaksakan bayinya juga harus minum 150 cc, padahal kapasitasnya cuma 120. Jelas si bayi muntah."

BISA MASUK PARU-PARU

Muntah pada bayi bukan cuma keluar dari mulut, tapi juga bisa dari hidung. Tapi tak usah cemas. Hal ini terjadi karena mulut, hidung, dan tenggorokan punya saluran yang berhubungan. Pada saat muntah, ada sebagian yang keluar dari mulut dan sebagian lagi dari hidung. Mungkin karena muntahnya banyak dan tak semuanya bisa keluar dari mulut, maka cairan itu mencari jalan keluar lewat hidung.

Yang perlu dikhawatirkan, seperti dituturkan Kishore, bila si bayi tersedak dan muntahnya masuk ke saluran pernafasan alias paru-paru. "Nah, itu yang bahaya," tukasnya. Lebih bahaya lagi jika si bayi tersedak susu yang sudah masuk ke lambung karena sudah mengandung asam dan akan merusak paru-paru. Jika ini yang terjadi, tak ada pilihan lain kecuali membawanya ke dokter.

Untuk mencegah kemungkinan tersedak, Kishore menganjurkan agar setiap kali bayi muntah selalu dimiringkan badannya. Akan lebih baik jika sebelum si bayi muntah (saat menunjukkan tanda-tanda akan muntah) segera dimiringkan atau ditengkurapkan atau diberdirikan sambil ditepuk-tepuk punggungnya.

Adakalanya ibu yang kasihan melihat bayinya muntah lalu diberi minum lagi. Menurut Kishore, boleh-boleh saja, "Asal proses muntahnya sudah dibersihkan sehingga tak ada lagi sisa muntah. Kalau muntahnya masih ada terus diberi minum lagi, si bayi bisa kelepekan sehingga masuk ke saluran nafas."

Soal sampai kapan si bayi berhenti muntah dalam arti gumoh, menurut lulusan FK Universitas Airlangga Surabaya yang mengambil spesialisasinya di FKUI ini, tak sama pada setiap bayi. Tapi pada umumnya, setelah si bayi mulai bisa duduk dan berdiri, biasanya frekuensi muntahnya berkurang banyak karena cairan turun ke bawah menjadi lebih gampang.

Muntah Yang Harus Diwaspadai

Ada beberapa bentuk muntah pada bayi yang harus diwaspadai para ibu, yakni:

* Muntah sehabis diberi makan atau disusui bila muntahnya berwarna hijau tua.

Hal ini menunjukkan ada kelainan pada saluran pencernaan si bayi, yakni ada sumbatan di bawah usus halus. Warna hijau tua pada muntah merupakan cairan dari empedu yang keluar. Kadang kalau ada sumbatan, meskipun si bayi tidak makan, ia bisa muntah karena cairan empedu keluar dan enzim-enzim lain tak bisa lewat.

Ada dua macam sumbatan, yang penuh dan parsial (sebagian). Sumbatannya bisa di mana saja. Bisa di antara oserfagus dan lambung atau antara lambung dan usus. Karena ada sumbatan yang parsial, kadang kelainan ini tak bisa diketahui secara pasti penyebabnya sebelum dilakukan pemeriksaan lebih lanjut. Misalnya dengan rontgen atau USG dicari penyebabnya lalu dihilangkan. Bila perlu dilakukan operasi jika sumbatannya akibat tumor atau kelainan bawaan. Tapi kasus seperti ini jarang terjadi.

* Bentuk muntahannya menyemprot seperti air mancur.

Makan atau tidak makan, si bayi mengelurkan muntah yang menyemprot seperti air mancur. Ini harus segera diperiksakan ke dokter. Karena muntah yang demikian menunjukkan ada kelainan pada susunan saraf pusat di otak si bayi. Biasanya terjadi jika si bayi habis terjatuh.

* Muntah karena keracunan.

Anda mungkin bingung. Bayi, kok, bisa keracunan makanan? "Memang seharusnya tidak boleh terjadi keracunan makanan pada bayi mengingat bayi hanya makan makanan rumah. Tapi hal itu bisa saja terjadi," tutur Kishore. Misalnya, pengasuh tak mencuci tangannya dengan bersih sebelum membuatkan makanan bayi. Atau botol susunya tidak disterilkan. Hal ini selain menyebabkan keracunan, juga bisa membuat infeksi pada saluran pencernaan.

Gejala awal keracunan adalah muntah-muntah yang lalu diikuti diare. Tapi kalau infeksi pada saluran pencernaan, diare lebih dulu yang terjadi. Baru setelah itu ada gangguan keseimbangan elektrolit yang menyebabkan muntah. Bentuk muntahnya sama, berupa cairan. Bayi harus diberi banyak cairan setiap kali habis muntah dan diare. Cairan apa saja. Entah itu air tajin, larutan gula garam, teh manis pakai gula, maupun jus buah (asal jangan yang asam).

Dibanding diare, menurut Kishore, muntah lebih berbahaya. Karena muntah berarti tak ada cairan yang masuk, yang bisa menyebabkan kekurangan cairan atau dehidrasi. Tapi kalau diare dan si bayi masih mau minum, tak masalah sebetulnya, selama yang diminum dan dikeluarkan proporsinya sama.

Bayi yang mengalami dehidrasi dapat dilihat dari mulutnya yang mengering, mata cekung, hampir tak ada air mata, bila ditekan kulitnya tak kembali ke bentuk semula (tidak elastis sebagaimana kulit normal). "Mungkin kalau bayi lebih gampang terlihat dari berat badannya. Kalau turun berarti ada tanda-tanda dehidrasi," tutur Kishore. Jika berat badan si bayi turun lebih besar atau sama dengan 5-10 persen dari berat badannya, maka si bayi harus diinfus.

* Muntah darah.

Ada kemungkinan bayi muntah disertai darah. Jika hanya berupa bercak, berarti ada streching (luka di tenggorokan) akibat muntah. Jika muntahnya berwarna merah dan byor-byoran, bisa dicurigai ada pembuluh darah yang pecah. Jika darahnya berwarna hitam, berarti ada darah di lambung. "Kadang si bayi mimisan dan darahnya tertelan sampai ke lambung. Hal ini menimbulkan rasa tak enak, sehingga si bayi refleks untuk muntah," terang Kishore.

Pemeriksaan ke dokter dilakukan tergantung pada jenis dan banyaknya darah. Pendarahan yang banyak sangat berbahaya karena menurunkan kadar hemoglobin sehingga bayi kekurangan cairan dalam pembuluh darah.

Membersihkan Muntah

Langsung bersihkan bekas muntah dengan lap basah atau kering agar tak sempat berkontak terlalu lama dengan kulit si bayi. Kalau tidak, kulit akan memerah atau terjadi iritasi, yang berarti harus dilakukan pengobatan khusus.
Untuk membersihkan bekas muntah pada perabot atau lantai maupun pakaian yang terkena muntah, gunakan campuran air dan soda kue. Selain dapat menghilangkan noda yang menetap, juga akan menghilangkan baunya.

Mencegah Muntah

Masih ada beberapa hal lagi yang perlu diperhatikan para ibu untuk mencegah kemungkinan bayi muntah, yakni:

* Jangan memberi minum susu selagi bayi menangis. Berhentilah menyusui untuk menenangkannya.
* Tegakkan bayi setegak mungkin selama dan beberapa waktu setelah minum susu.
* Pastikan dot botol tak terlalu besar atau terlalu kecil, dan botol dimiringkan sedemikian rupa sehingga susu, bukan udara, yang memenuhi bagian dotnya.
* Jangan mengangkat-angkat si bayi selama atau sesudah ia minum. Jika mungkin letakkan dan ikat sebentar si bayi pada kursi bayi atau kereta dorongnya.
* Jangan lupa membuat bayi bersendawa.

http://www.enformasi.com/2009/02/bayi-muntah.html

Bayi Sesak Nafas

2010-12-16T02:28:00.000-08:00

BAYI SESAK NAPAS

Oksigen harus segera masuk ke paru-paru dan dialirkan ke otak.

Apa saja gejala sesak pada bayi? Napasnya cepat, tampak tarikan pada sela tulang iga dan dada kala menarik napas (retraksi), ada bunyi seperti mendengkur atau merintih saat bayi mengeluarkan napas (grunting), lidah kebiruan pada suhu kamar (sianosis sentral), atau sesaat setelah lahir napas bayi 60 kali per menit atau lebih (tachypnea).

Dampak dari sesak napas jelas tidak bisa dianggap remeh. Paru-parunya akan kekurangan oksigen, si kecil jadi rewel, nafsu minum dan makannya pun anjlok. Kalau sudah terjadi komplikasi pada fungsi paru, wajahnya akan tampak membiru. Dua saja dari sederet gejala tadi terjadi pada bayi, berarti si kecil sudah mengalami sesak napas yang harus segera ditangani.

BERMACAM PENYEBAB

Sebelum sampai pada penanganan, ketahui dulu macam-macam penyebab sesak napas pada bayi, di antaranya:

INFEKSI

Infeksi Saluran Pernapasan Akut (ISPA) bagian atas

Sesak napas bisa disebabkan penyakit infeksi. Yang paling sering adalah flu. Penyakit ISPA atas bila tak kunjung sembuh akan merembet menjadi ISPA bagian bawah. Akibatnya bayi terancam mengalami bronkitis, radang paru ataupun asma. Gejalanya selain sesak napas, si kecil juga demam, sekeliling bibir biru (sianosis), proses bernapas cepat tapi lama-kelamaan melemah. Sebaiknya dibawa ke dokter agar penanganannya tepat.

Sebagai upaya pertolongan, dokter umumnya akan melakukan pemeriksaan rontgen dan pemberian antibiotik bila karena infeksi. Dengan pengobatan, kebanyakan gangguan sesak napas bisa tertangani.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia atau radang paru ditandai dengan gejala awal sesak napas dan batuk. Kantong-kantong udara (dalam paru) penderita pneumonia terisi cairan/sel-sel radang yang membuatnya kesulitan bernapas karena peredaran oksigen di paru tak lancar.

Pneumonia secara umum dibagi 3, yaitu:

1. Aspirasi Pneumonia. Cairan masuk ke paru karena tersedak, misalnya air ketuban atau air susu ibu.

2. Pneumonia karena infeksi virus atau bakteri. Gejala muncul 1-2 hari setelah terinfeksi. Tapi bergantung pula pada keganasan virus atau bakteri tersebut. Gejala muncul mulai dari demam, batuk lalu sesak napas.

3. Pneumonia akibat faktor lingkungan. Polusi udara menyebabkan sesak napas, terutama bagi yang berbakat alergi. Bila tak diobati bisa mengakibatkan bronkitis. Selanjutnya, akan menjadi pneumonia.

Sebaiknya segera bawa si kecil ke dokter agar bisa cepat mendapat pertolongan pertama.

NON INFEKSI

Tersedak makanan/susu

Sesak napas bisa terjadi lantaran tersedak makanan atau susu. Misal, si kecil menangis padahal mulutnya sedang penuh makanan. Atau saat ia muntah, sisa muntahnya masih tertinggal di tenggorokan atau hidung. Nah, kala ia bernapas, sisa makanan itu malah masuk ke paru-paru dan akhirnya tersedak.

Kondisi seperti ini yang tak segera diobati berisiko terjadi peradangan dalam paru-paru. Segeralah ke dokter bila hal itu terjadi agar bisa cepat tertangani. Tindakan rontgen biasanya akan dilakukan untuk mengetahui ada penyumbatan atau tidak. Selanjutnya, apabila dengan pengobatan tak ada perbaikan, dapat dilakukan dengan bronkoskopi, yaitu mengambil cairan atau makanan yang menyumbat.

Tersedak air ketuban

Terjadi pada bayi baru lahir. Karena suatu hal, ketuban masuk ke paru-paru janin. Ketika lahir, bayi tersedak dan mengalami sesak napas. Bagian paru-parunya yang tersumbat pun tak bisa diisi udara. Karena udara tak bisa masuk terjadilah sesak napas. Untuk penanganan, perlu dilakukan penyedotan lendir dari mulut, hidung bahkan tenggorokan bayi secara intensif.

Bila air ketubannya masih jernih dan hanya sedikit yang masuk paru-paru, tak perlu dilakukan pencucian paru. Sebaliknya, bila air ketuban banyak masuk, mesti disedot dari paru-paru. Apalagi kalau air ketuban tersebut telah berwarna hijau dan berbau maka paru-parunya perlu “dicuci” atau disedot dengan cara bronchialwash. Kondisi sesak napas yang parah (akibat paru-paru pecah (pneumotoraks) umumnya akan ditindaklanjuti dengan pemberian alat bantu napas (ventilator).

Lahir prematur

Kelahiran prematur juga bisa menyebabkan sesak napas pada bayi. Bayi yang lahir prematur mengalami sesak napas lantaran organ paru-parunya belum matang/siap. Ibarat balon kempis, gelembung paru-paru tak bisa membuka jika oksigen tak bisa masuk. Jabang bayi pun tak bisa menangis dan bernapas. Kejadian yang disebut Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) ini terjadi saat unit paru-paru yang terkecil tak membuka karena zat surfaktan tak mencukupi. Maka itu sebagai upaya antisipasi, bayi prematur mesti mendapatkan alat bantu napas.

Wet Lung Syndrome

Disebut juga Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN). Pada bayi yang dilahirkan secara normal, sebagian besar cairan dalam paru-paru terperas keluar karena dada janin mengalami kompresi oleh jalan lahir. Sementara, cairan sisanya dalam waktu singkat akan diserap ke dalam pembuluh darah kapiler dan pembuluh limfe paru-paru. Nah, pada bayi yang dilahirkan melalui proses sesar, dadanya tak mengalami kompresi oleh jalan lahir sehingga menghambat pengeluaran cairan dari paru. Tapi tak semua bayi sesar mengalami kendala ini. Ada beberapa faktor lain yang ikut memengaruhi, misal apakah ada kontraksi rahim sebelum sesar, serta bagaimana penanganan bayi baru lahir dan sebagainya. Janin yang mengalami gangguan oksigenisasi (hipoksia) atau ibu hamil yang mengalami polihidramnion (cairan ketuban berlebihan) pun dapat mengalami kelainan TTN.

Selain sesak napas, umumnya, dada bayi yang mengalami TTN membusung. Karena itu, dokter akan menyuplai oksigen selama 2-3 hari. Biasanya gejala sesak napas berangsur tertanggulangi dalam 24 jam pertama dan dalam 72 jam gejala akan hilang. Penanganan yang terlambat (tidak tepat dan baik) berisiko merusak jaringan otak bayi lantaran kekurangan suplai oksigen.

Kelainan pada jalan napas (trakea)

Sesak napas akibat kelainan pada trakea terjadi 1-3 jam setelah bayi lahir. Kelainan ini berupa terhubungnya jalan napas dengan jalan makanan (esofagus). Dalam bahasa medis disebut trackeo esophageal fistula. Akibatnya, cairan lambung masuk ke paru-paru. Untuk mengantisipasinya, akan dimasukkan selang ke jalan napas sehingga cairan lambung tak sampai mengganggu. Kalau perlu akan dilakukan operasi penyekatan saluran napas dan jalan makanan.

Pembesaran kelenjar thymus

Bayi dengan pembesaran kelenjar thymus, saat lahir masih dapat menangis kuat. Akan tetapi, napasnya terdengar seperti suara orang mengorok. Lama-kelamaan makin keras suaranya dan timbul batuk-batuk. Adanya pembesaran kelenjar thymus yang terletak di rongga atau di antara dua paru-paru akan menekan trakea. Trakea yang menyempit dan mengeluarkan lendir ini lantas membuat napas si kecil berbunyi grok-grok, keluar lendir dan batuk. Yang terbaik, segera bawa si kecil ke dokter. Obat-obatan akan diberikan untuk mengecilkan kelenjar thymus sehingga tak menekan trakea.

Kelainan jantung atau paru-paru

Sesak napas karena ada faktor bawaan biasanya muncul begitu bayi lahir atau 1-2 hari kemudian. Misal, akibat kelainan jantung. Dalam kasus ini, permasalahan utama adalah jantung dan pernapasan sulit merupakan efek selanjutnya. Segera konsultasikan ke dokter untuk dilakukan penanganan yang tepat, misalnya dengan cara operasi.

Kelainan pembuluh darah

Kelainan yang dimaksud yaitu, pembuluh darah jantung berbentuk cincin (double aortic arch) sehingga menekan jalan napas dan jalan makan. Begitu lahir napas bayi dengan gangguan ini terdengar seperti mendengkur atau berbunyi (stridor) yang semakin jelas terdengar kala ia menangis. Karena jalan makanan terganggu, bayi pun mengalami kelainan menelan dan maunya minum susu melulu (makanan padat/semi padat ditolaknya dan umumnya justru menyebabkan muntah karena teksturnya yang kasar).

Dokter akan melakukan rontgen untuk memastikan gangguan ini. Selanjutnya, dilakukan operasi untuk memutus salah satu aorta yang kecil. Bila bukan karena kelenjar thymus yang membesar, akan dicari apakah ada bagian jalan makanan yang menyempit.

Sindrom Aspirasi Mekonium

Janin yang mengalami hipoksia (gangguan suplai oksigen) akan mengeluarkan mekonium yaitu kotoran dalam usus selama di kandungan. Nah, mekonium ini kemudian bercampur dengan air ketuban dan dapat masuk ke saluran napas atas. Ketuban tampak hijau tua. Begitu pula kulit janin. Bahayanya, mekonium mengandung enzim yang bisa merusak sel epitel di saluran napas bawah.

Bila tak segera dibersihkan atau diisap keluar dengan baik, maka saat bayi aktif bernapas setelah lahir, mekonium itu akan tersedot masuk ke jaringan paru. Bayi pun mengalami sesak napas dengan dada membusung.

Hilman Hilmansyah. NAKITA

Benefits of a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables

2009-03-16T00:11:00.000-07:00

Fruits and vegetables provide a variety of nutrients not found in vitamin and mineral supplements. Find out the benefit of each color found in specific fruits and vegetables.

We know we need to eat a minimum of 5 servings of fruit and vegetables everyday. Actually now, to prevent cancer, 8 to 13 servings per day are recommended. A serving is one cup of raw fruits or vegetables, or ½ cup cooked. At a recent lecture I asked a lunch audience to raise their hand if they had at least one fruit or vegetable already that day. No one in that group raised their hand. This is not uncommon. Our processed and convenience foods contain very few fruits and vegetables.

To prevent chronic diseases, fruits and especially vegetables are very important. Vegetables especially have the antioxidants, minerals, and phytochemicals in the correct combination that help keep the blood sugar in balance, create better energy in the body, and along with fruits build up the immune system.

Each color found in fruits and vegetables focus on building the immune system in its own way. It is important to get a variety of colors, so that you will get a full range of phytochemicals (beneficial plant chemicals) in your daily diet. Research is finding that eating whole fruits and vegetables gives you many more nutrients than you could possible add to a vitamin and mineral supplement. There are over 12,000 phytochemicals, and I have yet to see a supplement, unless it has whole fruits and vegetables in it, have all of the 180 different vitamins or minerals that are required by our body to function daily.

The different colors in fruits and vegetables help our immune system react to different stresses in our daily life. So look at the different colors in your diet. See if they include each of the colors listed below. This is one way to know that you are getting the full benefit of nutrients possible in your diet.

Green Foods – broccoli, kale, leaf and romaine lettuce, spinach, cabbage and Brussels sprouts.

Green foods are especially good for the circulatory system. They contain many minerals and B-complex vitamins. Some phytochemicals found in green foods are sulforaphane and indoles that are very powerful anti-cancer compounds. Researchers have tried to use these as isolated phytochemicals but find that they only work while in the whole food form.

Red Foods – tomatoes, watermelon, red cabbage.

Red foods contain many phytochemicals that reduce free radical damage. The phytochemical called lycopene is especially helpful to prevent prostate problems, and reduce the effects of sun damage on the skin. Lycopene is the phytochemical that make the red foods get their red color.

Orange Foods – carrots, pumpkin, squash, sweet potatoes, apricots, cantaloupe.

The orange foods have the carotenoids the help prevent cancer by repairing the DNA. As our mothers told us, carrots, and other orange foods, are especially good for our eyes, and help with night vision. The deep orange foods help our bodies get the vitamin A we need, without getting excess that can lead to osteoporosis.

Green/Yellow Foods – yellow corn, green peas, collard greens, avocado and honeydew melon.

This combination of green and yellow foods contains the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin that help reduce the risk of developing cataracts and macular degeneration. These foods are also helpful in reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Orange /Yellow Foods – oranges, pineapple, tangerines, peaches, papaya, nectarines

These foods that are orange and yellow in color are high in antioxidants, especially Vitamin C, and help to improve the health of the mucus membranes and connective tissue. They help prevent heart disease by improving circulation and preventing inflammation.

White/Green Foods – onions, garlic, celery, pears, chives

White and green combination foods contain a variety of phytochemicals. Garlic and onions contain allicin, the anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal phytochemical, and they can act as a poor man’s antibiotic. Add garlic and onions in your meals to reduce the effects of potential toxicity of high fat meats. Celery has many minerals, especially organic sodium, that keeps the fluid in the joints healthy.

Red/Blue/Purple Foods – red apples, beets, blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, prunes, concord grapes, blackberries.

These dark colored red/blue/purple foods are very rich in powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins that protect again heart disease by improving circulation and preventing blood clots. They have many anti-aging phytochemicals that keep the blood circulating reducing the effects of the Standard American Diet rich in trans fats and processed foods.

When you make a salad make sure you have a variety of different colors. Strive to get at least 5 colors on your plate. Use fruits to balance the rest of the colors needed. This way you will get closer to the 8 to 13 servings of fruits and vegetables required, and you will get the variety of nutrients you need daily.

RESOURCE BOX: Jane Oelke, N.D., Ph.D. is a Traditional Naturopath and Doctor of Homeopathy in southwest Michigan. She is the author of “Natural Choices for Fibromyalgia” and “Natural Choices for Attention Deficit Disorder.” She is a professional speaker on natural health topics. She can be contacted at DoctorOelke@aol.com or through her website at www.NaturalChoicesForYou.com

from http://www.buildingbodies.ca/Nutrition/fruits-vegetables.shtml

Watermelon May Have Viagra-Effect

2009-03-16T00:06:00.000-07:00

COLLEGE STATION (June 30, 2008) -- A cold slice of watermelon has long been a Fourth of July holiday staple. But according to recent studies, the juicy fruit may be better suited for Valentine’s Day.

That’s because scientists say watermelon has ingredients that deliver Viagra-like effects to the body’s blood vessels and may even increase libido.

“The more we study watermelons, the more we realize just how amazing a fruit it is in providing natural enhancers to the human body,” said Dr. Bhimu Patil, director of Texas A&M’s Fruit and Vegetable Improvement Center in College Station

“We’ve always known that watermelon is good for you, but the list of its very important healthful benefits grows longer with each study.”

Beneficial ingredients in watermelon and other fruits and vegetables are known as phyto-nutrients, naturally occurring compounds that are bioactive, or able to react with the human body to trigger healthy reactions, Patil said.

In watermelons, these include lycopene , beta carotene and the rising star among its phyto-nutrients – citrulline – whose beneficial functions are now being unraveled. Among them is the ability to relax blood vessels, much like Viagra does.

Scientists know that when watermelon is consumed, citrulline is converted to arginine through certain enzymes. Arginine is an amino acid that works wonders on the heart and circulation system and maintains a good immune system, Patil said.

“The citrulline-arginine relationship helps heart health, the immune system and may prove to be very helpful for those who suffer from obesity and type 2 diabetes,” said Patil. “Arginine boosts nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels, the same basic effect that Viagra has, to treat erectile dysfunction and maybe even prevent it.”

While there are many psychological and physiological problems that can cause impotence, extra nitric oxide could help those who need increased blood flow, which would also help treat angina, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.

“Watermelon may not be as organ specific as Viagra,” Patil said, “but it’s a great way to relax blood vessels without any drug side-effects.”

The benefits of watermelon don’t end there, he said. Arginine also helps the urea cycle by removing ammonia and other toxic compounds from our bodies.

Citrulline, the precursor to arginine , is found in higher concentrations in the rind of watermelons than the flesh. As the rind is not commonly eaten, two of Patil’s fellow scientists, drs. Steve King and Hae Jeen Bang, are working to breed new varieties with higher concentrations in the flesh.

In addition to the research by Texas A&M, watermelon’s phyto-nutrients are being studied by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service in Lane, Oklahoma.

As an added bonus, these studies have also shown that deep red varieties of watermelon have displaced the tomato as the lycopene king, Patil said. Almost 92 percent of watermelon is water, but the remaining 8 percent is loaded with lycopene, an anti-oxidant that protects the human heart, prostate and skin health.

“Lycopene, which is also found in red grapefruit, was historically thought to exist only in tomatoes,” he said. “But now we know that it’s found in higher concentrations in red watermelon varieties.”

Lycopene, however, is fat-soluble, meaning that it needs certain fats in the blood for better absorption by the body, Patil said.

“Previous tests have shown that lycopene is much better absorbed from tomatoes when mixed in a salad with oily vegetables like avocado or spinach,” Patil said. “That would also apply to the lycopene from watermelon, but I realize mixing watermelon with spinach or avocadoes is a very hard sell.”

No studies have been conducted to determine the timing of the consumption of oily vegetables to improve lycopene absorption, he said.

“One final bit of advice for those Fourth of July watermelons you buy,” Patil said. “They store much better uncut if you leave them at room temperature. Lycopene levels can be maintained even as it sits on your kitchen floor. But once you cut it, refrigerate. And enjoy.”

Source: Texas A & M Agricultural Communications. Retrieved June 30, 20
http://www.dietaryfiberfood.com/fruits-vegetables

Grape-Seed Extract Kills Laboratory Leukemia Cells, Proving Value of Natural Compounds

2009-03-16T00:02:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Moore

PHILADELPHIA – An extract from grape seeds forces laboratory leukemia cells to commit cell suicide, according to researchers from the University of Kentucky. They found that within 24 hours, 76 percent of leukemia cells had died after being exposed to the extract.

The investigators, who report their findings in the January 1, 2009, issue of Clinical Cancer Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research, also teased apart the cell signaling pathway associated with use of grape seed extract that led to cell death, or apoptosis. They found that the extract activates JNK, a protein that regulates the apoptotic pathway.

While grape seed extract has shown activity in a number of laboratory cancer cell lines, including skin, breast, colon, lung, stomach and prostate cancers, no one had tested the extract in hematological cancers nor had the precise mechanism for activity been revealed.

"These results could have implications for the incorporation of agents such as grape seed extract into prevention or treatment of hematological malignancies and possibly other cancers," said the study's lead author, Xianglin Shi, Ph.D., professor in the Graduate Center for Toxicology at the University of Kentucky.

"What everyone seeks is an agent that has an effect on cancer cells but leaves normal cells alone, and this shows that grape seed extract fits into this category," he said.

Shi adds, however, that the research is not far enough along to suggest that people should eat grapes, grape seeds, or grape skin in excess to stave off cancer. "This is very promising research, but it is too early to say this is chemo-protective."

Hematological cancers – leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma – accounted for an estimated 118,310 new cancer cases and almost 54,000 deaths in 2006, ranking these cancers as the fourth leading cause of cancer incidence and death in the U.S.

Given that epidemiological evidence shows that eating vegetables and fruits helps prevent cancer development, Shi and his colleagues have been studying chemicals known as proanthocyanidins in fruits that contribute to this effect. Shi has found that apple peel extract contains these flavonoids, which have antioxidant activity, and which cause apoptosis in several cancer cell lines but not in normal cells. Based on those studies, and findings from other researchers that grape seed extract reduces breast tumors in rats and skin tumors in mice, they looked at the effect of the compound in leukemia cells.

Using a commercially available grape seed extract, Shi exposed leukemia cells to the extract in different doses and found the marked effect in causing apoptosis in these cells at one of the higher doses.

They also discovered that the extract does not affect normal cells, although they don't know why.

The researchers then used pharmacologic and genetic approaches to determine how the extract induced apoptosis. They found that the extract strongly activated the JNK pathway, which then led to up-regulation of Cip/p21, which controls the cell cycle.

They checked this finding by using an agent that inhibited JNK, and found that the extract was ineffective. Using a genetic approach – silencing the JNK gene – also disarmed grape seed extract's lethal attack in leukemia cells.

"This is a natural compound that appears to have relatively important properties," Shi said.

Source: American Association for Cancer Research
http://www.dietaryfiberfood.com/fruits-vegetables/

2009-03-15T23:55:00.000-07:00

Introduction

Acupuncture is among the oldest healing practices in the world. As part of traditional Chinese medicine A whole medical system that originated in China. It is based on the concept that disease results from disruption in the flow of qi and imbalance in the forces of yin and yang. Practices such as herbs, meditation, massage, and acupuncture seek to aid healing by restoring the yin-yang balance and the flow of qi (TCM), acupunctureA family of procedures that originated in traditional Chinese medicine. Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body by a variety of techniques, including the insertion of thin metal needles though the skin. It is intended to remove blockages in the flow of qi and restore and maintain health. aims to restore and maintain health through the stimulation of specific points on the body. In the United States, where practitioners incorporate healing traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries, acupuncture is considered part of complementary and alternative medicineA group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine, and alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. (CAM).

Key Points

Acupuncture has been practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years.
Scientists are studying the efficacy of acupuncture for a wide range of conditions.
Relatively few complications have been reported from the use of acupuncture. However, acupuncture can cause potentially serious side effects if not delivered properly by a qualified practitioner.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

About Acupuncture

The term "acupuncture" describes a family of procedures involving the stimulation of anatomical points on the body using a variety of techniques. The acupuncture technique that has been most often studied scientifically involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles that are manipulated by the hands or by electrical stimulation.

Practiced in China and other Asian countries for thousands of years, acupuncture is one of the key components of traditional Chinese medicine. In TCM, the body is seen as a delicate balance of two opposing and inseparable forces: yin and yangThe concept of two opposing yet complementary forces described in traditional Chinese medicine. Yin represents cold, slow, or passive aspects of the person, while yang represents hot, excited, or active aspects. A major theory is that health is achieved through balancing yin and yang and disease is caused by an imbalance leading to a blockage in the flow of qi.. Yin represents the cold, slow, or passive principle, while yang represents the hot, excited, or active principle. According to TCM, health is achieved by maintaining the body in a "balanced state"; disease is due to an internal imbalance of yin and yang. This imbalance leads to blockage in the flow of qiIn traditional Chinese medicine, the vital energy or life force proposed to regulate a person's spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health and to be influenced by the opposing forces of yin and yang. (vital energy) along pathways known as meridians. Qi can be unblocked, according to TCM, by using acupuncture at certain points on the body that connect with these meridians. Sources vary on the number of meridians, with numbers ranging from 14 to 20. One commonly cited source describes meridians as 14 main channels "connecting the body in a weblike interconnecting matrix" of at least 2,000 acupuncture points.

Acupuncture became better known in the United States in 1971, when New York Times reporter James Reston wrote about how doctors in China used needles to ease his pain after surgery. American practices of acupuncture incorporate medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries.

Acupuncture Use in the United States

The report from a Consensus Development Conference on Acupuncture held at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1997 stated that acupuncture is being "widely" practiced—by thousands of physicians, dentists, acupuncturists, and other practitioners-for relief or prevention of pain and for various other health conditions. According to the 2002 National Health Interview Survey—the largest and most comprehensive survey of CAMA group of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not presently considered to be part of conventional medicine. Complementary medicine is used together with conventional medicine, and alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. use by American adults to date—an estimated 8.2 million U.S. adults had ever used acupuncture, and an estimated 2.1 million U.S. adults had used acupuncture in the previous year.

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Acupuncture Side Effects and Risks

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners, requiring that needles be manufactured and labeled according to certain standards. For example, the FDA requires that needles be sterile, nontoxic, and labeled for single use by qualified practitioners only.

Relatively few complications from the use of acupuncture have been reported to the FDA, in light of the millions of people treated each year and the number of acupuncture needles used. Still, complications have resulted from inadequate sterilization of needles and from improper delivery of treatments. Practitioners should use a new set of disposable needles taken from a sealed package for each patient and should swab treatment sites with alcohol or another disinfectant before inserting needles. When not delivered properly, acupuncture can cause serious adverse effects, including infections and punctured organs.

Status of Acupuncture Research

There have been many studies on acupuncture's potential health benefits for a wide range of conditions. Summarizing earlier research, the 1997 NIH Consensus Statement on Acupuncture found that, overall, results were hard to interpret because of problems with the size and design of the studies.

In the years since the Consensus Statement was issued, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has funded extensive research to advance scientific understanding of acupuncture. Some recent NCCAM-supported studies have looked at:

Whether acupuncture works for specific health conditions such as chronic low-back pain, headache, and osteoarthritis of the knee
How acupuncture might work, such as what happens in the brain during acupuncture treatment
Ways to better identify and understand the potential neurological properties of meridians and acupuncture points
Methods and instruments for improving the quality of acupuncture research

Finding a Qualified Practitioner

Health care providers can be a resource for referral to acupuncturists, and some conventional medical practitioners—including physicians and dentists—practice acupuncture. In addition, national acupuncture organizations (which can be found through libraries or Web search engines) may provide referrals to acupuncturists.

Check a practitioner's credentials. Most states require a license to practice acupuncture; however, education and training standards and requirements for obtaining a license to practice vary from state to state. Although a license does not ensure quality of care, it does indicate that the practitioner meets certain standards regarding the knowledge and use of acupuncture.
Do not rely on a diagnosis of disease by an acupuncture practitioner who does not have substantial conventional medical training. If you have received a diagnosis from a doctor, you may wish to ask your doctor whether acupuncture might help.

What To Expect from Acupuncture Visits

During your first office visit, the practitioner may ask you at length about your health condition, lifestyle, and behavior. The practitioner will want to obtain a complete picture of your treatment needs and behaviors that may contribute to your condition. Inform the acupuncturist about all treatments or medications you are taking and all medical conditions you have.

Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. People experience acupuncture differently, but most feel no or minimal pain as the needles are inserted. Some people feel energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment. This is why it is important to seek treatment from a qualified acupuncture practitioner.

Treatment may take place over a period of several weeks or more.

Treatment Costs

Ask the practitioner about the estimated number of treatments needed and how much each treatment will cost. Some insurance companies may cover the costs of acupuncture, while others may not. It is important to check with your insurer before you start treatment to see whether acupuncture is covered for your condition and, if so, to what extent. (For more information, see NCCAM's fact sheet Paying for CAM Treatment.)

http://nccam.nih.gov/

2009-03-15T23:48:00.000-07:00

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about soy—uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. Soy, a plant in the pea family, has been common in Asian diets for thousands of years. It is found in modern American diets as a food or food additive. Soybeans, the high-protein seeds of the soy plant, contain isoflavones-compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen. The following information highlights what is known about soy when used by adults for health purposes.

What It Is Used For

People use soy products to prevent or treat a variety of health conditions, including high cholesterol levels, menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, osteoporosis, memory problems, high blood pressure, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.

How It Is Used

Soy is available in dietary supplements, in forms such as tablets and capsules. Soy supplements may contain isoflavones or soy protein or both.
Soybeans can be cooked and eaten or used to make tofu, soy milk, and other foods. Also, soy is sometimes used as an additive in various processed foods, including baked goods, cheese, and pasta.

What the Science Says

Research suggests that daily intake of soy protein may slightly lower levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol.
Some studies suggest that soy isoflavone supplements may reduce hot flashes in women after menopause. However, the results have been inconsistent.
There is not enough scientific evidence to determine whether soy supplements are effective for any other health uses.
NCCAM is supporting ongoing studies of soy, including its effects on women's arteries and bones after menopause.

Side Effects and Cautions

Soy is considered safe for most people when used as a food or when taken for short periods as a dietary supplement.
Minor stomach and bowel problems such as nausea, bloating, and constipation are possible.
Allergic reactions such as breathing problems and rash can occur in rare cases.
The safety of long-term use of soy isoflavones has not been established. Evidence is mixed on whether using isoflavone supplements, over time, can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia (a thickening of the lining of the uterus that can lead to cancer). Studies show no effect of dietary soy on risk for endometrial hyperplasia.
Soy's possible role in breast cancer risk is uncertain. Until more is known about soy's effect on estrogen levels, women who have or who are at increased risk of developing breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive conditions (such as ovarian or uterine cancer) should be particularly careful about using soy and should discuss it with their health care providers.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

http://nccam.nih.gov/

Foods to Avoid When You're Pregnant

2009-03-11T19:55:00.000-07:00

Steer clear of foods that pose health risks for you and your baby.

By Elizabeth M. Ward, MS, RD

When you're pregnant, eating for two means many things, and one of them is steering clear of foods that pose health risks for you and your baby.

While your favorite dishes and drinks may seem safe at first glance, a closer look reveals potential dangers. Here's what to avoid when you're pregnant, and why.

Swordfish, shark, tilefish, king mackerel, limit canned albacore tuna fish. These large fish harbor higher levels of methylymercury, a metal detrimental to a growing child's brain and nervous system. Pregnant and nursing women may safely eat up to 6 ounces of albacore ("white') tuna fish as part of their weekly total limit of 12 ounces of seafood low in mercury, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This also includes salmon, shrimp, canned light tuna, pollock, and catfish.
Fish caught in rivers, lakes, streams, or any other body of water. Recreational anglers may hook fish contaminated with bacteria or chemicals. Check the safety of fish from your favorite fishing grounds with your local health department.
Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood (like raw oysters, clams, sushi), and eggs (including eggs in cookie dough and cake batter). Undercooked animal foods may contain a variety of bacteria and viruses. Use a meat thermometer to determine doneness of meat and poultry, and cook eggs until they are no longer runny.
Hot dogs and luncheon meats, including deli ham, turkey, bologna, and salami -- unless they have been reheated until steaming hot. These foods are prone to Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that causes listeriosis, which may result in miscarriage, stillbirth, or other serious health problems.
Unpasteurized dairy foods, including some milk and certain cheeses, such as Brie, feta, Camembert, Roquefort, blue-veined, "queso blanco," "queso fresco," and Panela; refrigerated pates or meat spreads; and refrigerated smoked seafood, such as salmon, trout, whitefish, cod, tuna, or mackerel (most often labeled as "nova-style," "lox," "kippered," "smoked," or "jerky"). These foods may contain harmful levels of listeria bacteria. Refrigerated smoked seafood is safe when it's part of a cooked dish, like casseroles.
Unpasteurized juices, such as cider purchased from roadside stands, at farms, or in stores. These products are prone to germs, including E. coli. Check the label to be sure juice is pasteurized.
Raw vegetable sprouts, including alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean. The FDA says sprouts are not a good idea for anyone, never mind pregnant women who are more susceptible to the health effects of the germs sprouts possess.
Herbal supplements and teas. Herbs are natural, but herbal products have not been studied enough to recommend them during pregnancy.
Alcohol. Beer, wine, and spirits rob developing cells of oxygen, making normal development impossible. The effects of alcohol on intellectual prowess are irreparable. According to the March of Dimes, there is no known safe level for alcohol consumption in pregnancy.
Tap water in undeveloped countries. Drink bottled water to avoid bacteria and viruses.
Certain foods that cause food allergy. Depending on your family history, your child may be at risk for developing food allergies. Avoiding foods including peanuts and peanut products during pregnancy (and nursing) may reduce allergy risk in susceptible children. Before you make any changes to your diet, speak with a licensed health care professional about your child's risk for allergy and consult with a registered dietitian knowledgeable about food allergy.

When You Don't Have Health Insurance (or Money)

2009-03-11T19:51:00.000-07:00

Millions of people in the U.S. do not have health insurance, and more and more are losing their insurance when they lose or change jobs. When you have limited financial resources, priorities rapidly shift to the essentials, like food and shelter. Getting medical care tend to be low on the list. Nearly every day, someone will tell me that this will be their last visit due to insurance or financial constraints.

I tend to be highly sympathetic and do the best that I can to hold down costs, often by putting down a lower billing code and making sure to order only tests that are absolutely essential. When prescribing medications, I will look for samples (becoming increasingly scarce) or only use the less-expensive generics. I am often embarrassed by the costs of medical care. As a salaried employee of a large, health organization, there is little that I can do to

I am definitely less sympathetic when I know my patient has not changed expensive habits, like smoking, drinking expensive coffee, and eating out instead of packing a lunch. When someone asks me to bill them for their small, insurance co-payment and I notice they have a pack of cigarettes sticking out of their purses, I tell them how I feel. I am getting too old to let these "teaching moments" slide.

Setting reasonable priorities is not something that all people know how to do. And not all people are proactive and resourceful when it comes to trimming their personal budgets or finding affordable care.

Things you CAN do

Unless you have a true emergency (life-threatening) condition, stay out of the emergency room. If you have a primary care problem, like a sore throat or earache, this would be the most expensive way to get treatment. Call a few urgent care facilities (aka "Doc in the Boxes") for prices. They are certainly less-expensive than the ER.
Check your area for free clinics, or clinics that charge a sliding scale. There are fewer and fewer of these around, but sometimes you will be lucky.
Many counties have Public Health Departments that offer free or discounted medical services, especially immunizations.
Many uninsured and non-working people qualify for state-run insurances like Medicaid but never bother to check their eligibility. Children, especially, will benefit from this.
Find a good primary care provider or solo practitioner. Medical professionals who work for themselves set their own charges and have the ability to charge less or nothing at all. You will be surprised how many dedicated professionals will find a way to help you out during these tough economic times.
Ask for samples. Although pharmaceutical samples are also becoming increasingly scarce, even a few days of medication to get you started will reduce your overall health costs.
Ask for a generic prescription or for an alternative choice of medications known to be less expensive. Although medical providers often do not know what prescriptions cost at the various pharmacies, most will have a good idea if they are giving you an expensive one or a reasonably-priced alternative. Generics are just as good for a fraction of the cost. If your doctor wrote for a brand name, your pharmacist can substitute a generic equivalent in most instances.
Don't be shy about shopping around for a better price on your prescriptions. Call the pharmacy, read your prescription to them (if the writing is legible!), and ask how much it will be. Many large, chain pharmacies have huge medication discounts for certain commonly-used prescriptions. A prescription that costs $60 in one pharmacy may only be $18 at another.
Ask for a discount. A $75 office visit may only be reimbursed by insurance companies for a fraction of that cost. So, why should you pay more simply because you do not have health insurance? Even fees vary among private medical practitioners, so call around.
Be creative in your available resources. I am often surprised that people can afford to buy beer or cigarettes, but they don't seem to have money left for their own medical care. A one pack per day person would save over $150 in a month - a savings less-costly than of an average office visit.
If you have a credit card, most medical offices will charge your visit to the card, giving you up to a month to come up with the cash.
If feels good when you help someone, so if you are in serious need, it is okay to ask family or friends to help you out. Remember, you are asking for help to get medical care, not to buy a new toy. By helping you, they will feel better.
If you are a member of a church or synagogue, many will help the less-fortunate with reasonable, but unexpected medical costs. It doesn't hurt to ask for help. I have seen local churches buy glasses for children, or provide medical appliances for the elderly. Don't forget to thank others who help you, including God.
Practice medical self-care. The first-step in staying healthy is taking care of your self and practice healthy habits. Don't smoke. Don't take recreational drugs. Don't drink and drive. Always wear seat belts. Exercise and maintain a healthy weight. These things do not cost a dime.
If you have lost your job and are looking for a new one, try and find employment that will offer health benefits for you and your family.

Ten Things you should NEVER do

You should never ignore potentially-serious symptoms simply because you do not have the resources. Not only can your condition become worse (and more expensive to treat), you are potentially putting your life in jeopardy. If you feel you need medical care, find a way. You really can't die now and pay later.
Don't ignore preventative care, like mammograms and pap smears for women or prostate exams and PSA tests for men. And, keep up with your preventative dental visits.
You should never take someone else's medication. Every person and every disease is different.
You should never take expired or suboptimal (sub-therapeutic) dosages of leftover medications from prior prescriptions unless specifically instructed to do so by your medical provider. For instance, by not having a complete course of antibiotics - about ten days worth - it may not be possible to eradicate an infection. You may also create a resistant bacterial strain that is more difficult to treat.
Many people resort solely on alternative medicines, such as homeopathic remedies, vitamins, or herbs. Most are not scientifically proven by clinical trial, and any response may be merely anecdotal. It is okay to try them, but if you are not improving, you may need traditional medical intervention.
You should never smoke. Smokers have considerably more cancer-fears than other people. People who smoke worry that sore throats, lymph node enlargement, or chronic cough may be something serious. Sometimes, they are right - all the more reason NOT to ignore long-standing symptoms.
Don't rely solely on online health information sites (including WebMD) in an attempt to diagnose (and treat) yourself. Online health experts have no way of examining you, reviewing your medical history, or treating you based solely on your posting.
The same goes for being diagnosed (or treated) by your non-medical friends and relatives...don't do it. Just because people have similar symptoms or experiences, in no way implies that it is applicable to your case.
Don't rely solely on phone advice by your doctor or advice nurses. They can only make medical decisions based on what you have told them. Most advice will most likely be conservative. Don't expect to be definitively diagnosed and treated on the phone.
Never use the ER as your primary care medical facility. The ER is for life-threatening situations or medical conditions that cannot wait until your regular medical office is available. ER medicine is the most expensive care you can receive. Find a good family practitioner.

As an optimist, I know things will get better. We need to take care of ourselves...our families...and find time to help others. Together, we will get through this economic crisis.

Herbs In Detox

2009-03-09T20:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows how important it is to detox your body regularly, because if you don't then toxins build up and this can have short term effects on you such as tiredness, sluggishness and lack of energy and even some long term effects such as increased risk of serious illness. There are a lot of expensive detox treatments available, but little to people know that some of the best detox agents are very cheap and can be found in your everyday supermarket or store. These herbs that detox the body are extremely good for your body and will not only help it to detox but will also give you better overall health, increased energy and a stronger immune system.

Some important herbs to consider in the process of detoxification include the following:

Psyllium seed is a lubricating mucilaginous fiber used as a gentle bulking and laxative agent. The mucilage in the seeds expands eight to fourteen times the size of the original seeds. This can also create a feeling of fullness, decreasing one's desire to overeat. Psyllium fiber works as a broom, sweeping the gastrointestinal tract of toxins. Be sure to drink lots of water when using psyllium as a cleansing agent!
Black walnut hull is an alterative and antifungal agent that helps the body eliminate parasites.
Hibiscus flower is mildly antibacterial and has soothing properties. It is also mildly diuretic and antiparasitic.
Horsetail also known as shavegrass is considered an alterative, antifungal agent, and diuretic. It is extremely rich in trace minerals and improves the healing of bones, flesh, and cartilage.
Licorice root is known as "the great harmonizer" in Chinese medicine. It is mildly laxative, nutritive, and considered a rejuvenative. It soothes irritated mucus membranes and nourishes the adrenal glands. Using small amounts of licorice helps to instill a feeling of calmness.
Alfalfa is a natural diuretic and laxative. It is an excellent source of fiber and provides natural chlorophyll, which has deodorizing properties, helping to sweeten the breath and freshen body odors.
Cascara sagrada bark is widely appreciated for its quick-acting laxative effects. It stimulates secretions of the liver, gall bladder, stomach, and pancreas due to its bitter anthraquinone content.
Oatstraw is highly nutritive, rejuvenative, and calming to the nervous system, even helping in exhaustion and depression. Oatstraw helps provide minerals to nourish bones, skin, hair, and nails.
Pumpkin seed helps the body expel parasites and is also highly nutritive, containing beneficial linolenic acid.
Irish Moss is a type of seaweed that is an alterative, demulcent, and nutritive. It soothes an irritated gastrointestinal tract.
Yucca root is effective as an alterative and laxative agent. It helps break down organic waste in the body. One of its primary uses in folk medicine is to relieve the inflammation associated with arthritis.
Passionflower leaf is best known for its calming effect on the nervous system. It helps to calm stress and slows the breakdown of neurotransmitters. It also helps to calm an irritable bowel.
Marshmallow root is an alterative, demulcent, diuretic, mild laxative, nutritive, and rejuvenative. Its high mucilaginous content soothes an irritated digestive tract and provides moisture to dry tissues.
Violet leaf is an alterative, antifungal, demulcent, diuretic, and laxative. It is safe and soothing, rich in beta carotene and vitamin C.
Witch hazel bark, twigs, and leaves are high in flavonoids that help heal damaged blood vessels. This plant is also somewhat antiseptic and anti-inflammatory.
Slippery elm bark is an excellent antiflammatory agent. It is a demulcent, laxative, and nutritive and promotes tissue healing, thus soothing irritated tissues of the gastrointestinal tract. It is one of the most digestible substances known.
Mullein leaf is a demulcent, diuretic, and a vulnerary. It soothes irritated tissues and is especially beneficial for the respiratory system.
Capsicum also known as cayenne pepper is an alterative, antioxidant, antiseptic, and circulatory stimulant. It is rich in vitamin C and helps improve metabolism, thus contributing to weight loss.
Gentian root is an alterative, antiseptic agent, and cholagogue. It is extremely bitter and works as an excellent digestive secretions. It also helps in the breakdown of protein and fats. It even helps improve the assimilation of nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. It has a cooling effect upon the body, helping to reduce inflammation and infection.
Milk thistle seed is commonly used to improve liver function by stimulating protein synthesis. It also is a hepatoprotective (liver protector) agent. Milk thistle is considered a natural antioxidant, helping to detoxify a wide range of potentially damaging contaminants, including drugs, alcohol, and a wide variety of chemicals.
Burdock This is very powerful for detoxing, burdock roots really do help to reduce the build up of heavy metals in your system which will not only cleanse your system of these unwanted toxins, but will reduce the risk of immune system problems in the future.
Nettles Sounds horrible I know, but Nettles have some really great detox properties. One of the main advantages of this herb is that it will cleanse your urinary system and will help to prevent any future problems occurring.
Dandelion roots are great cleansers for your gall bladder and liver and will help to keep them healthy and clean.
Psyllium Seeds These seeds promote healthy bowel movements and ensure that it all remains working correctly. This is one of the few herbs that detox the body that acts like a sort of sponge and really does help to mop up unwanted toxins before being removed from the body.

Why & How To Detox

2009-03-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

Detox Basics

What is a Detox?
Detox, short for detoxification, is a natural, ongoing, bodily process to rid itself of harmful toxins. Since the beginning of time the body has performed this function on its own, effectively eliminating chemicals harmful to its well being. But in today’s America we are being increasingly bombarded by toxins that are absorbed into our bodies through the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink and the things we touch. Toxins come in many shapes and sizes, but some of the more common toxic sources are: chemicals, including pesticides and household cleaners; food additives; drugs; pollution and cigarette smoke.

Why Detox?
The overwhelming amounts of toxins that are absorbed into our systems today make it virtually impossible for the body to eliminate them all on its own. Thus the toxins begin to accumulate. This build up is thought to cause fatigue, headaches, nutritional deficiency, digestive problems, and inefficient metabolism among other associated health issues. It has even been suggested that many of our chronic minor health issues such as bad breath, constipation, depression and anxiety could have a direct link to an overload of toxins. Ways to help rid ourselves of this toxicity and help our bodies to function more efficiently are now encouraged through natural detoxification programs. Detoxing our bodies can leave us feeling healthier, more energetic and often help us to lose weight too.

What Detox is right for you?
There are many ways of detoxing the body that vary both in intensity, and longevity. Some incorporate the use of supplements, while others involve simple changes in diet and exercise. The detox program that you choose for you should take into consideration your current physical and mental health, age; not to mention your unique lifestyle, to ensure you reap maximum benefits from your new ritual.

Basic Detoxing Tips
The most basic of detox tips are simple adjustments to diet that avoid toxins and encourage consumption of toxin ridding foods and beverages. Easy to follow suggestions include: increasing your daily water consumption, eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits (preferably organic) and avoiding red meat, dairy, fried foods, processed foods, salt, caffeine and cigarettes. *It is important to remember that detoxing is not recommended for severely overweight individuals, and those that are pregnant or nursing.

Why Fad Dieting is Bad for You

2009-03-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

When dieting is the topic, expect to hear a word or two about fad diets. Fad diets are so popular yet so ineffective. If you want to lose weight, fad dieting is not exactly the best way to do it.

Before we discuss why fad dieting is bad for you, let’s be clear on what can be considered as a fad diet. Fad diets can be classified into three major categories. First, you know it is a fad diet if it focuses only in one food or food group. Second, it is a fad diet if it bans a whole food group. Last, the food intake is limited to incorporate a certain lifestyle. A fad diet can be a combination of two or all categories as well.

Atkins diet, South Beach diet, Breatharian, Nutrisystem, Gerson therapy Grapefruit diet, Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Macrobiotic diet, and any of those diets you have tried because they promised you that you will lose weight with minimal effort in a short period of time… All are fad diets.

It may be hard to accept that you have been tricked into trying these diets but it is not too late to stop fad dieting. The reasons we are going to share with you are backed up by intensive study. So if you are ready to face the truth, here are why fad dieting is bad for you:

1. Fad diets are dangerous to adolescents.
Fitting in is a major concern with most teenagers, particularly the girls. This means wearing the right clothes, having the “in” hairstyle, so on, and so forth. Nearly all adolescents equate their chances of being popular to how pretty or sexy they look. As such, they try anything that promises weight loss without much thought on the consequences.

Let’s take the Grapefruit diet as an example. If you are the president of the student council, editor of the school newspaper, and have exams and reports every other day, you need all the energy you can get and you cannot get it from eating the same fruit everyday. You lose weight but you are also stressed and there is a high chance that you will end up in a hospital bed.

2. Fad diets neglect to mention the need for exercise.
Dieting will not work if there is no physical activity involved. Sure, you may lose pounds if you do not eat as many as before but without exercise, the pounds are likely to come back once you stop your so-called diet. If you want to lose weight, the healthy way, you have to exercise.

3. Fad diets have one too many side effects.
Losing weight is your goal, right? Losing energy, getting headaches, being dehydrated, and having digestive problems are not part of the plan. Then why try fad diets? Fad diets cause what we just mentioned and sometimes they can bring about more serious problems like cardiac arrest, and yes, even death.

4. Fad diets advocate food deprivation.
Since most fad diets cut back the intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, what is left for you to eat? Food deprivation may result into weight loss but it also leads to a weak immune system. Do you know what happens to somebody who has a weak immune system? Let’s put it this way. He or she is susceptible to all kinds of diseases, bacterial, viral, and fatal.

5. Fad diets reduce the metabolism.
Most fad diets are based on low calorie or low fat intake. Since you are not allowed to eat calories or fats, your body will naturally slow down its metabolism. It will keep holding on to the foods you consume thinking that it will be a long time before you eat normally again. When the time comes that you go back to your normal eating habits, your metabolism rate is still slow. In other words, you go back to gaining weight.

6. Fad diets disregard the importance of a balanced diet.

Ever since first grade, you have been hearing about balanced diet. Eating a balanced diet is one way to ensure a healthy lifestyle. If you want to live long enough to see your grandchildren get married, disregard fad diets. Fad diets are the exact opposite of balanced diet. Losing weight may be important but it is not as important as living well.

Losing weight may be your personal Mt. Everest or your Holy Grail. It may be difficult to achieve but that is not an excuse to try everything that comes your way. There are a dozen of ways to lose weight. Try the other eleven.

Liver Detoxification

2009-03-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

What does the liver do?

The liver is the largest internal organ in the body. It has over 500 functions that it performs, many of which are vital to the body’s health. First and foremost the liver is responsible for producing red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body. It is also responsible for the digestive process of breaking down nutrients, and storing many essential vitamins and minerals. And it is even responsible for filtering the blood and getting rid of foreign substances or toxins. In fact many people feel there is no organ more important when it comes to detoxing.

The liver plays several important roles in detoxification: it filters the blood to remove large toxins, synthesizes and secretes bile full of cholesterol and other fat-soluble toxins, and disassembles unwanted chemicals.

Proper function of the liver’s detoxification system is important to preventing disease. But when the liver is bombarded with too many toxins that are introduced through the food we eat, and the air we breathe it becomes overwhelmed and can’t do its job effectively. The organ then begins to operate less efficiently, accumulating harmful substances that it just can’t get rid of. Overtime this results in lasting damage to the liver.

When in proper working order the liver effectively clears 99% of toxins and bacteria that pass its way. When it is damaged, however, a significant amount of these harmful substances are unable to be cleared, thus collecting in the organ.

The liver also produces and secretes bile which is important to the transportation of the harmful toxins from the liver to the intestines. When not functioning efficiently bile excretion is inhibited and there is limited transportation for this waste. Thus toxins stay in the liver for longer and cause unpleasant health issues such as gallstones.
Not to worry if your liver is in bad condition right now. It can be fixed. In fact the liver is the body’s single organ that can regenerate itself overtime. To start this cleansing process, many experts recommend a detox regime.

Tips to detoxing your liver

If you have never detoxed your liver before, you can probably safely say that your liver is in desperate need of some outside help. Embarking on a detox regime will not only help your liver function better, it will help you to feel healthier and more energetic as well.
While any detox will inevitably benefit your liver’s functioning, there are special detoxing guidelines that focus on the specific cleansing of this vital organ. Here are a few tips to start you off:

Reduce consumption of hydrogenated vegetable oils, which contain trans-fatty acids.
Reduce consumption of sugar and processed foods.
Incorporate the Milk Thistle herb into your daily diet. It is a strong antioxidant with proven ability to repair liver damage.
Boost the intake of foods high in anti-oxidants such as citrus fruits, raw vegetables and raw juices.
Detect and avoid food allergies.
Use natural antibiotics to reduce unfriendly germs in the bowel (such as onions, garlic, horseradish, olive leaf extract) and take in probiotics by eating acidophilus yogurt.

Feel Tired All the Time?

2009-03-09T19:42:00.000-07:00

There are several ways of determining whether your body needs a detox and the fact that you are reading this is a sign that you’ve already probably picked up on at least some of your body’s warnings. Are you exhausted? Or perhaps you are bloated, overly anxious, or suffering from frequent headaches. These are all indications that your body could be suffering from toxicity. In today’s world we are bombarded with toxins, many of which we can’t avoid. This overload of toxins in the body means that the organs, which are normally able to self-detox, can no longer do so. This leads to inefficient organ function and more noticeably a constant feeling of ‘blah’. For optimal energy and body function we need to help the body get rid of these accumulated toxins. We can do this in a process called detoxification. Detoxing is achieved through lifestyle and diet changes often accompanied by herbal supplements and vitamins. The objective of these changes is to flush out the toxic waste collected in the fat tissue and organs.

How to Boost Your Energy! 10 simple detox steps to a healthier, more energetic you While there are many things to consider before embarking on an often difficult detox regime, if you are a reasonably healthy person, that is neither pregnant nor nursing, a detox regime such as fasting or a detox diet may be just the challenge you need to kick your body back into gear. To learn more about how to start these regimes click here. There are, however, many people that are unprepared or unable to take on the drastic measures and potential temporary side effects necessary for the rapid detox programs. If you are one of these people, don’t distress, there is still hope. We first suggest reading on up on the detox basics. But we have also listed some simple detox tips that can be integrated into your daily life to bring you more energy and zest for life.

Modify Your Diet- The number one reason that many Americans feel sluggish and overloaded with toxins is due to diet. Try a diet limiting, or better yet, eliminating alcohol, caffeine, wheat, sugar and processed foods. This can help your body to regroup, giving it time to process and eliminate the already accumulated toxins it is holding without introducing more.
2. Increase Your Exercise- Reduction of access body fat inherently results in the reduction of toxins that are mostly stored in these fatty deposits. If you live a largely sedentary life, start off slow and get walking. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise everyday and watch your energy level skyrocket.
Increase Your Water Intake- Everyone should be drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, yet very few of us actually hit that target. Water is essential to hydrate the body and to optimum organ function and toxin elimination. So drink more water and reap the benefits.
Get Some Rest- High levels of stress mean elevated stress hormones, tension in your body, and thus poor body performance. Relieving stress can help to prevent this damage from being permanent. Stress relievers can include simple breathing exercises, a soak in the tub, yoga, or a rejuvenating nap. Choose your vice and make time for you.
5. Stretch- Stretching and compressing every part of the body, while obviously relaxing, is particularly helpful in keeping the waste-removal departments of the body functioning well. Try to do at least 10-15 minutes of stretching daily.
Drink Some Tea- Herbal teas (that is caffeine free!) are fantastically healthy and soothing. They aid in digestion and provide many anti-oxidants and essential minerals. Pick a flavour and get drinking!
Add a Supplement –There are many natural vitamins and herbal supplements that can aid your body in the detox process. Depending on your main objective for the detox. You may find psyllium powder helpful in keeping your bowel movements more regular and helping to flush the colon or perhaps a simple intake of Vitamin C is what your body needs to increase its energy.
Brush Your Skin- Daily brushing exfoliates the skin helping to eliminate your body’s toxins. The process of brushing your skin is thought to stimulate your blood drawing toxins to the skin’s surface. It has even been suggested that 1-2 pounds of toxins are released through your skin daily. To do this, simply brush your skin in one direction, starting from your feet towards your heart.
Take a Bath- Once a week for about 20 minutes, prepare yourself a hot bath that contains a handful of Epsom salts, 10 drops of lavender essential oil, and a half cup of baking soda. This combination draws out toxins, lowers stress-related hormones, and balances your pH levels.
Eliminate Toxins From Your Life- Using non-toxic home cleaners, and/ or choosing to buy organic fruit are simple ways to lower your everyday contact with harmful substances.

Osteoporosis and Menopause

2009-03-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

Phytoestrogens and Bone Health

Many postmenopausal women are looking for alternatives to hormone therapy, especially in light of research findings in 2003 from the Women's Health Initiative. With major funding from the National Institutes of Health, this initiative studied the risks of combined estrogen and progestin therapy, among other health issues of critical importance to postmenopausal women. Of particular interest are phytoestrogens, which have been gaining popularity because they are marketed as "natural," because of the alleged health benefits they provide, and because they are available in a wide range of foods and supplements. This fact sheet provides an overview of phytoestrogens and discusses their potential role in osteoporosis prevention and treatment.

What Are Phytoestrogens?

Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring plant compounds that are similar in some ways to estradiol, the most potent naturally occurring estrogen. However, phytoestrogens tend to have weaker effects than most estrogens, are not stored in the body, and can be easily broken down and eliminated.

Observational studies have found a lower prevalence of breast cancer, heart disease, and hip fracture rates among people living in places like Southeast Asia, where diets are typically high in phytoestrogens. As a result of these studies, a great deal of interest has been generated in the United States about the health benefits of phytoestrogens. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the sale of soy foods, a major source of phytoestrogens, has increased dramatically in the past decade.
Dietary Sources of Phytoestrogens

Phytoestrogens consist of more than 20 compounds and can be found in more than 300 plants, such as herbs, grains, and fruits. The three main classes of dietary phytoestrogens are isoflavones, lignans, and coumestans:

* Isoflavones (genistein, daidzein, glycitein, and equol) are primarily found in soy beans and soy products, chickpeas, and other legumes.
* Lignans (enterolactone and enterodiol) are found in oilseeds (primarily flaxseed), cereal bran, legumes, and alcohol (beer and bourbon).
* Coumestans (coumestrol) can be found in alfalfa and clover.

Most food sources containing these compounds typically include more than one class of phytoestrogens.
The Skeletal Effects of Phytoestrogens

Much of the evidence concerning the potential role of phytoestrogens in bone health is based on animal studies. In fact, soybean protein, soy isoflavones, genistein, daidzein, and coumestrol have all been shown to have a protective effect on bone in animals whose ovaries - female reproductive organs that produce estrogen and progesterone - had been surgically removed.

In humans, however, the evidence is conflicting. Studies show that compared to Caucasian populations, those in Hong Kong, China, and Japan - where dietary phytoestrogen intakes are high - experience lower rates of hip fracture. Yet, according to the Surgeon General's Report on Bone Health and Osteoporosis, spine fractures are almost as common in Asian women as they are in white women. In addition, reports suggest that Japanese women have a greater risk of sustaining a vertebral fracture than Caucasian women.

Several studies have explored the effects of soy isoflavones on bone health, but results have been mixed, ranging from a modest impact to no effect. Most of these studies have serious limitations, including their short duration and small sample size, making it difficult to fully evaluate the impact of these compounds on bone health.
Ipriflavone Supplements

Ipriflavone, a synthetic isoflavone, has shown some promise in its ability to preserve bone in postmenopausal women. Ipriflavone has also been shown to have a protective effect on bone density in premenopausal women taking the treatment called GnRH, which is for endometriosis. One of the side effects of this treatment is bone loss.

However, a definitive 3-year study of more than 400 postmenopausal women concluded that ipriflavone did not prevent bone loss. Additionally, the compound was linked to lymphocytopenia (a reduction in lymphocytes) in a significant number of study participants. Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection.

Risks and Benefits Are Unclear

Some studies suggest that, unlike estrogen, phytoestrogens do not appear to increase the risk of breast or uterine cancer. This suggests that they may act more like SERMS (selective estrogen receptor modulators such as raloxifene and tamoxifen) than actual estrogens. However, in other studies, high isoflavone levels have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Clearly, additional research is needed to further evaluate the effects of phytoestrogens before any judgments regarding their safety and usefulness can be made.

Current research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health should provide important evidence concerning the safety of phytoestrogens and their potential role in the skeletal health of women after menopause.

Meditation May Increase Empathy

2009-03-04T19:15:00.000-08:00

Previous brain studies have shown that when a person witnesses someone else in an emotional state—such as disgust or pain—similar activity is seen in both people's brains. This shows a physiological base for empathy, defined as the ability to understand and share another person's experience. Now research at the University of Wisconsin has used advanced brain images (fMRI, functional magnetic resonance imaging) to show that compassion meditation—a specific form of Buddhist meditation—may increase the human capacity for empathy.

In the study, researchers compared brain activity in meditation experts with that of subjects just learning the technique (16 in each group). They measured brain activity, during meditation and at rest, in response to sounds—a woman in distress, a baby laughing, and a busy restaurant—designed to evoke a negative, positive, or neutral emotional response.

The researchers found that both the novice and the expert meditators showed an increased empathy reaction when in a meditative state. However, the expert meditators showed a much greater reaction, especially to the negative sound, which may indicate a greater capacity for empathy as a result of their extensive meditation training.

An increased capacity for empathy, the authors say, may have clinical and social importance. The next step, they add, is to investigate whether compassion meditation results in more altruistic behavior or other changes in social interaction.

Ginkgo

2009-03-04T17:05:00.000-08:00

Introduction

This fact sheet provides basic information about the herb ginkgo—common names, uses, potential side effects, and resources for more information. The ginkgo tree is one of the oldest types of trees in the world. Ginkgo seeds have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, and cooked seeds are occasionally eaten.

Common Names—ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba, fossil tree, maidenhair tree, Japanese silver apricot, baiguo, bai guo ye, kew tree, yinhsing (yin-hsing)

Latin Name—Ginkgo biloba

What It Is Used For

Ginkgo leaf extract has been used to treat a variety of ailments and conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, and tinnitus (ringing or roaring sounds in the ears).
Today, people use ginkgo leaf extracts hoping to improve memory; to treat or help prevent Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia; to decrease intermittent claudication (leg pain caused by narrowing arteries); and to treat sexual dysfunction, multiple sclerosis, tinnitus, and other health conditions.

How It Is Used

Extracts are usually taken from the ginkgo leaf and are used to make tablets, capsules, or teas. Occasionally, ginkgo extracts are used in skin products.

What the Science Says

Numerous studies of ginkgo have been done for a variety of conditions. Some promising results have been seen for intermittent claudication, but larger, well-designed research studies are needed.
An NCCAM-funded study of the well-characterized ginkgo product, EGb-761, found it ineffective in lowering the overall incidence of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in the elderly. In this clinical trial, known as the Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory study, researchers recruited more than 3,000 volunteers age 75 and over who took 240 mg of ginkgo daily. Participants were followed for an average of approximately 6 years.
Some smaller studies for memory enhancement have had promising results, but a trial sponsored by the National Institute on Aging of more than 200 healthy adults over age 60 found that ginkgo taken for 6 weeks did not improve memory.
Other NCCAM-funded research includes studies on ginkgo for asthma, symptoms of multiple sclerosis, vascular function (intermittent claudication), cognitive decline, sexual dysfunction due to antidepressants, and insulin resistance. NCCAM is also looking at potential interactions between ginkgo and prescription drugs.

Side Effects and Cautions

Side effects of ginkgo may include headache, nausea, gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, dizziness, or allergic skin reactions. More severe allergic reactions have occasionally been reported.
There are some data to suggest that ginkgo can increase bleeding risk, so people who take anticoagulant drugs, have bleeding disorders, or have scheduled surgery or dental procedures should use caution and talk to a health care provider if using ginkgo.
Uncooked ginkgo seeds contain a chemical known as ginkgotoxin, which can cause seizures. Consuming large quantities of seeds over time can cause death. Ginkgo leaf and ginkgo leaf extracts appear to contain little ginkgotoxin.
Tell your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

Health and Beauty Guide to Water

2009-03-03T19:49:00.000-08:00

THE BEVERAGE YOUR BODY NEEDS MOST

Health and Beauty Guide has taken a look at the beverage our need to survive. Our bodies are estimated to be 60 to 70% water. Blood is mostly water and our muscles, lungs and brain all contain a lot of water. Water is needed to regulate body temperature and to provide the means for nutrients to travel to all of our organs. Water also transports oxygen to our cells, removes waste and protects our joints and organs.

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION

Our bodies lose water through urination, respiration and sweating. If you very active it follows that you lose more water then if you are sedentary. Diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol cause us to lose water by tricking the body into thinking that you have more water than you need. Symptoms of mild dehydration can include chronic pains in joints and muscles, lower back pain, headaches and also constipation. Your urine may have a strong odour and if the colour has changed to yellow or amber, this could also mean that you are not getting enough water. Feeling thirsty is, an all too obvious sign of dehydration, but you actually need water long before you feel the thirst.

Other signs of Dehydration include:
• Dry Eyes
• Dry Sticky mouth
• Nausea after exercise

HOW MUCH WATER TO DRINK

A good rule of thumb is to take your body weight in pounds and then divide that number in half. This equates to the number of fluid ounces that you need to drink per day e.g. if you weigh 160 pounds you should be drinking at least 80 fluid ounces of water a day. Obviously this amount will differ with exercise. Generally another 8 ounce glass of water should be drunk for every 20 minutes of exercise. When drinking caffeine or alcohol, you should equal the amount with water. Travelling can also affect hydration levels and if flying, 8 fluid ounces of water should be consumed for every hour you are on board. Likewise, the climate in which you live will also determine the amount you drink. From these facts, you can see your daily need for water can add up to quite a lot. The very best source of water is just plain, pure drinking water. Juices and carbonated drinks tend to contain sugar and can act as diuretics. Most sports drinks contain electrolytes which can be beneficial should you be exercising a lot.

HEALTH AND BEAUTY GUIDE TOP TIPS TO DRINKING WATER

1. Drink at least 8 glasses of water every day.
2. Drink water slowly, constantly sipping it throughout the day.
3. Don’t drink caffeinated drinks or alcoholic beverages which can dehydrate.
4. Drink water before, during and after exercise – slowly!
5. Carry a bottle of water where ever possible.
6. Remember fluids can be lost through perspiration as well as from diarrhoea
7. Sports drinks can help replenish lost electrolytes.
8. If your temperature exceeds 102 degrees – Call a doctor.

http://www.healthandbeautyguide.com

Diabetes Linked to Depression During and After Pregnancy

2009-03-03T19:42:00.000-08:00

During pregnancy one thing that is usually not on the expectant mother’s mind is her income. However, it has been shown that low-income women that have diabetes and are pregnant or have recently given birth face almost twice the risk of depression compared to the women who do not have a blood sugar disorder. It also did not matter whether the women developed diabetes before or during their pregnancy, or if they were taking oral medications or insulin; the risk of them developing depression was still much stronger for the women with diabetes.

The study’s lead author Katy Backes Kozhimannil, who is a research fellow in the department of ambulatory care and prevention at Harvard Medical School in Boston, stated that women who had never been depressed before appeared to be at risk also. She said, ”One in ten women who had no indication of prior depression received a diagnosis of depression within a year following delivery.” The results of this study will be published in the February 25th issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Although this study did not look at potential reasons for this association, Kozhimannil stated that there are biological changes that occur with diabetes that could increase the risk for depression. She also said that the stress of managing a chronic illness such as diabetes might contribute to the risk for depression.

Postpartum depression affects approximately 10 percent of new mothers, usually between two and six months after having given birth, according to the background information for the study. If it is left untreated, postpartum depression can affect the relationship between the mother and her child, as well as the child’s development.

The risk factors for postpartum depression include a history of depression, trouble in relationships, domestic violence, stressful events, financial problems, lack of emotional or social support, a difficult pregnancy or delivery, and health problems with the infant. According to the authors, previous studies conducted have linked diabetes to an increased risk of developing depression in general.

To assess whether or not diabetes is a fact in pre- and postpartum depression, Kozhimannil and her team reviewed data on approximately more than 11,000 women who gave birth between the years 2004 and 2006. All of these women were continuously enrolled in Medicaid during the period of the study. From this low-income population, the researchers found that 15.2 percent of the women who had diabetes developed depression during or after their pregnancy. In the women that did not have diabetes, the number was 8.5 percent. In the women who had never depressed before, 9.6 percent of the women with diabetes developed depression in comparison with 5.9 percent of those that did not have the blood sugar condition.

Kozhimannil said, “Health-care facilities need to pay particular attention for depression in women with diabetes during the post-partum period. Both diabetes and depression in the post-partum period are treatable.”

Dr. Robert Welch, who is the chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan, said that the new research is an interesting study, but he said that it left some important questions unanswered. For example, Dr. Welch wondered how many of the pregnancies were actually planned, and exactly how many of the women that had diabetes were newly diagnosed? He said that a new diagnosis of diabetes could be overwhelming for a lot of women. Also, in the population on Medicaid, it can be much more difficult to get their diabetes well monitored, which could also add to the stress that these women are already feeling. Diabetes can be quite an expensive disease, and this study is calling out the need for additional mid-level providers who have more time to assist in making a diagnosis of depression.

Both Kozhimannil and Welch said that while this particular study was done studying low-income women, the findings could be similar for women with higher income, though the stressors may be different. Welch recommended that no matter what your income is, if you are an expectant mother, you should try and set up a support system before the baby is born. Try and set up some extra help so that you are not alone with the infant day after day.

Your new baby's first checks and tests

2009-03-03T19:31:00.000-08:00

Immediately after birth, your baby will be given an Apgar score and within her first 24 hours, his first checks and tests. We tell you what it all means Apgar score The very first series of tests your baby will undergo is the Apgar score, just after birth. The score is taken twice, at one minute and five minutes after the birth, and is carried out by the midwife or doctor.

Your baby will be checked for:

heartbeat
breathing
muscle tone
reflexes
skin colour

A score of 0, 1 or 2 will be given for each check, with a total of 10. A normal score is seven or over. If your baby has a low first score - for instance, she may be affected by Pethidine - but a normal second score, this is counted as normal. Your baby will also be weighed, the fontanelle (the soft spot on the top of her head) checked, and her head circumference and body length measured and checked for any obvious abnormalities or bruising that may have occurred during the birth. Physical examination Within her first 24 hours your baby will have a complete physical check-up. If you give birth in hospital this will be done by a doctor or paediatrician, if you have a home birth, it will be carried out by your midwife or GP. The examination will include:

Heart and lungs Your baby’s heartbeat will be checked a stethoscope and her breathing pattern watched. Many babies have a heart murmur at birth, which usually disappears of its own accord.
Abdomen The doctor will feel your baby’s tummy to check her kidneys, liver and spleen are in the right place and are the correct size.
Ears and Mouth He will feel inside your baby’s mouth to make sure she does not have a cleft palate and inside the ears to check for any abnormal discharge.
Hips Your baby’s legs will be rotated to check for ‘clicky’ hips. The doctor will push your baby’s knees up to her chest and then drop them down before opening them out into a frog-like shape. If the hip is dislocated, the doctor will feel a clunk or jerk. Congenital hip dislocation, if detected early, can be successfully treated.
Spine The doctor will check for signs of spina bifida.
Genitals He will make sure the genitals have developed properly and, in boys, that the testicles are inside the scrotum.
Back passage This will be examined to make sure it’s open and you will be asked whether your baby has passed meconium yet.
Features These will be checked for signs of Down’s syndrome. If your doctor or midwife is dissatisfied with the results of any of the checks done, further tests may be carried out or you may be referred to an expert in the field.
Dressing When you first hold your baby and dress her, remember that her head needs constant support. The muscles in her neck are not capable of supporting it for around the first three months, so you must cradle it in your free hand to prevent it flopping back and forth. At first you may feel all fingers and thumbs when handling your baby, but you will soon be an expert! A vest and sleepsuit with enclosed feet is probably all she needs to wear, unless it is particularly hot.

The First Hour After Birth

2009-03-03T19:19:00.000-08:00

by Julie Snyder
Your baby is here! You've heard a first cry! The announcement of boy or girl has been made. The first test, the Apgar, has been administered and everything is great, but there's more.

Excited, tired, relieved and amazed are all normal feelings after delivery. As long as there have been no complications, your baby will probably be placed skin to skin on your tummy. For me, this was a wonderful time -- to see and feel and hear the little one I'd had "tucked away" so long. I could have stroked the tiny arms, touched the velvety forehead, drawn in the smell of that baby for hours.

Bringing the baby up toward my breast and snuggling seemed the most natural thing. If you feel this way, go ahead and see if baby is interested in nursing. Many will open their mouths and turn towards the stimulation when you stroke their cheek. For more information on helping your baby get started, see Anne Barne's Illustrated Guide to Latching On and Jack Newman's Starting Out Right. Sometimes a baby is more interested in just soaking in cuddles and staring at the surroundings. That's okay, too.

Usually within 30 minutes after the birth, the placenta detaches and passes from the womb. Some women's contractions continue until after the placenta is delivered. If you are uncomfortable, concentration and breathing may help. For many women, attention is focused so exclusively on the new baby that they barely notice the placenta being delivered.

If you had an episiotomy or have a tear requiring stitches, your midwife or doctor will repair your perineum
Someone will probably check your bladder and ask if you can go to the bathroom. A full bladder interferes with your uterus contracting properly. It was awfully hard for me to quit staring at the baby long enough to satisfy these health care providers.
Or if you had an epidural catheter, it might be removed now.
About every 15 minutes your midwife or the labor nurse will "massage your uterus" to help it contract and stop bleeding. To quote a midwife friend of mine, "the first hour after birth you can expect to have your uterus smashed, and have your baby nurse and sometimes to have the repair (if any) done." I found this process a bit uncomfortable but after the first time was ready to relax with my birthing techniques. When the nurse massaged, it felt like at least a gallon of liquid gushed out (I know it wasn't that much, but sure felt like it!). The next time there was less and then even less.
Sometimes they'll teach you how to find the top of your uterus so you can self-massage.
Probably your blood pressure and perhaps other vitals will be checked every few minutes. I'm really not sure because I was a bit focused on the baby. I do know that she had her respirations and temperature checked each time I had my vitals taken.
If you haven't already had a chance to nurse the baby, your midwife or other provider may help you get started.

Looking back, two things surprised me. First, my daughter was so alert. She looked right at us with her intense blue-grey eyes, scanning first one and then the other and seemed to move her mouth to mimic our speech. My second surprise was to be so awake and vibrant. I had expected to be exhausted since she was born at 2:30 am. Instead I was too excited to sleep, even after she was contentedly snoozing, and totally in love with this tiny creature we'd been waiting to meet.

So how will you feel? You may feel like bouncing off the walls! You may be exhausted and euphoric all at the same time. You may be a little scared of the responsibility for this new life. You may not feel up to anything at all except sleep. It's okay. Just relax and enjoy this time with your baby, and your partner. You have a lifetime to get even better acquainted.

Julie Snyder is the mom of six, interested in kids, pregnancy, birth, people. She is Editor-in-Chief at Pregnancy.org and lives in the outlying Seattle area. Copyright © Julie Snyder and Pregnancy.org, LL

Pregnancy symptoms: Top ten signs you might be pregnant

2009-03-03T18:48:00.000-08:00

Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board

Could you be pregnant? Most likely you won't notice any symptoms until about the time you've missed a period — or a week or two later.

If you're not keeping track of your menstrual cycle or if it varies widely from one month to the next, you may not be sure when to expect your period. But if you start to experience some of the symptoms below — not all women get them all — and you haven't had a period for a while, you may very well be pregnant. Take a home pregnancy test to find out for sure!

10. Tender, swollen breasts

One of the early signs of pregnancy is sensitive, sore breasts caused by increasing levels of hormones. The soreness may feel like an exaggerated version of how your breasts feel before your period. Your discomfort should diminish significantly after the first trimester, as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes.

9. Fatigue

Feeling tired all of a sudden? No, make that exhausted. No one knows for sure what causes early pregnancy fatigue, but it's possible that rapidly increasing levels of the hormone progesterone are contributing to your sleepiness.

You should start to feel more energetic once you hit your second trimester, although fatigue usually returns late in pregnancy when you're carrying around a lot more weight and some of the common discomforts of pregnancy make it more difficult to get a good night's sleep.

8. Implantation bleeding

Some women have a small amount of vaginal bleeding around 11 or 12 days after conception (close to the time you might notice a missed period). The bleeding may be caused by the fertilized egg burrowing into the blood-rich lining of your uterus — a process that starts just six days after fertilization — but no one knows for sure.

The bleeding is very light (appearing as red spotting or pink or reddish-brown staining) and lasts only a day or two. (Let your practitioner know if you notice any bleeding or spotting, particularly if it's accompanied by pain, since this can be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.)

7. Nausea or vomiting

If you're like most women, morning sickness won't hit until about a month after conception. (A lucky few escape it altogether.) But some women do start to feel queasy a bit earlier. And not just in the morning, either — pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting can be a problem morning, noon, or night.

About half of women with nausea feel complete relief by the beginning of the second trimester. For most others it takes another month or so for the queasiness to ease up.

6. Increased sensitivity to odors

If you're newly pregnant, it's not uncommon to feel repelled by the smell of a bologna sandwich or cup of coffee and for certain aromas to trigger your gag reflex. Though no one knows for sure, this may be a side effect of rapidly increasing amounts of estrogen in your system. You may also find that certain foods you used to enjoy are suddenly completely repulsive to you.

5. Abdominal bloating

Hormonal changes in early pregnancy may leave you feeling bloated, similar to the feeling some women have just before their period arrives. That's why your clothes may feel snugger than usual at the waistline, even early on when your uterus is still quite small.

4. Frequent urination

Shortly after you become pregnant, you may find yourself hurrying to the bathroom all the time. Why? Mostly because during pregnancy the amount of blood and other fluids in your body increases, which leads to extra fluid being processed by your kidneys and ending up in your bladder.

This symptom may start as early as six weeks into your first trimester and continue or worsen as your pregnancy progresses and your growing baby exerts more pressure on your bladder.

3. A missed period

If you're usually pretty regular and your period doesn't arrive on time, you'll probably take a pregnancy test long before you notice any of the above symptoms. But if you're not regular or you're not keeping track of your cycle, nausea and breast tenderness and extra trips to the bathroom may signal pregnancy before you realize you didn't get your period.

2. Your basal body temperature stays high

If you've been charting your basal body temperature and you see that your temperature has stayed elevated for 18 days in a row, you're probably pregnant.

And finally...

1. The proof: A positive home pregnancy test

In spite of what you might read on the box, many home pregnancy tests are not sensitive enough to detect most pregnancies until about a week after a missed period. So if you decide to take one earlier than that and get a negative result, try again in a few days.

Once you've gotten a positive result, make an appointment with your practitioner. Now head over to our pregnancy area. Also, don't forget to update your profile and sign up for our "My Baby This Week" newsletter. Congratulations!

Mother Nature Never had Morning Sickness

2009-03-03T18:37:00.000-08:00

by Colette Bouchez

Although it had long been considered the stuff of old wives tales and legend, using ginger as a remedy to treat morning sickness is rapidly earning a new respect. In new studies published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, doctors from the University of Adelaide in Australia proved once again this natural remedy is an extremely effective treatment for the nausea and vomiting that affects up to 90% of all pregnant women, usually in the first trimester.

But while many doctors still remain "on the fence" about natural treatments, according to pregnancy researcher and author Colette Bouchez, the wisdom of "Mom" has long been on the side of Mother Nature -- particularly in the treatment of morning sickness.

"When it comes to pregnancy, most women have incredibly sharp intuition and great natural instincts -- they know when something is wrong, and they sure know when something is right, and ginger has been one of those right remedies for generations," says Bouchez, the author of the brand new book Your Perfectly Pampered Pregnancy: Beauty, Health and Lifestyle Advice for the Modern Mother-to-Be.

In the new research, Dr. Caroline Smith reports ginger was compared to clinical doses of vitamin B6 (a common prescription for morning sickness) and was found to be as effective. although previous animal studies have revealed a potential link between very high levels of ginger and an increased risk of pregnancy complications including miscarriage, Smith reports that her studies found no such connection. She writes: "for women looking for a reduction in their nausea and vomiting... the use of ginger in early pregnancy will reduce the severity of their symptoms."

Bouchez, who notes that 3 previous studies on ginger found similar good results says ginger works thanks to two active constituents known as "gingerols" and "shogaols" both of which give this plant its pungent taste. Not coincidentally, she says, these same compounds also work directly on the gastrointestinal system to reduce the activity linked to nausea and vomiting.

If, however; you've tried ginger and it doesn't seem to help you, Bouchez advises skipping the gingerale and gingersnaps, and go for the "real stuff" instead.

"There is some research to show that it is the properties found in natural, fresh ginger that makes this a truly effective treatment -- so when possible, buy some fresh ginger root and use to make a tea, or sprinkle it on your cereal or bowl of fresh fruit," says Bouchez.

Six More Natural Treatments for Morning Sickness

If, in fact, ginger just isn't your "cup of tea" according to Your Perfectly Pampered Pregnancy, here are 6 more natural ways to beat morning sickness.

Switching to a low iron formula in the first trimester only (when the risk of anemia is very low) may squelch morning sickness. Also, take your vitamins late in the day and skip the glass of water. Instead swallow your vitamin in a spoonful of pudding or applesauce.
Limit fluid intake with meals. Instead drink between meals and try other tummy-soothing beverages such as peppermint iced tea or chamomile hot tea.
Massage your pressure points by applying pressure on what Chinese medicine experts call the P6 Nei Guan nerve located in the wrist. To stimulate this anti-nausea nerve use two fingers from your left hand to press the underside of your right arm two inches above your wrist. Hold for up to 60 seconds and repeat as needed.
Rise and shine...slowly. Whether it's getting up in the morning or after a nap, rising too quickly can throw off equilibrium and contribute to the queasies.
Have breakfast in bed. if you've heard that dry crackers is a treatment for morning sickness, you've heard right -- but the trick is to eat them in bed, twenty to thirty minutes before rising -- and don't drink any liquids, especially water, while munching.
Scent you hankies! To sidestep nausea caused by smells and odors outside your home, tuck a hankie doused with a combination of lavender and peppermint oil into a small plast bag and keep in your purse. At the first hint of nausea, hold the hankie to your nose and breathe deep for almost instant nausea relief.

Colette Bouchez is an award winning medical journalist with more than twenty years experience. She is the former medical writer for the New York Daily News, and the top selling author of The V Zone, co-author of Getting Pregnant and upcoming book, Your Perfectly Pampered Pregnancy. Currently a daily medical correspondent for HealthDay News Service/The New York Times Syndicate, and WebMD, her popular consumer health articles appear daily online, as well as in newspapers nationwide and in Europe and Japan. She is a regular contributor to USAToday.com, ABCNews.com, MSNBC.com and more than two dozen radio and television news stations nationwide. She lives in New York City.

Copyright © Colette Bouchez. Permission to republish retained to Pregnancy.org, LLC.

All content copyrighted © Colette Bouchez. Permission to republish granted to Pregnancy.org, LLC.

Sleep Deprivation Increases Symptoms of ADHD

2009-03-03T17:46:00.000-08:00

By: Heather Hajek

Recent research is beginning to show that some children with ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, may also have issues with sleep deprivation. ADHD affects a significant number of children in the United States, and while the disorder alone is something that can really affect a family and lend for some trying times without medical treatment, when you add sleep deprivation to the mix, things can get difficult for all involved.

Studies have shown that sleep is very important for children, and that lack of sleep can be detrimental to the learning process. A study performed by the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, released March 1 in the journal SLEEP, shows that many children suffering from ADHD may also be chronically sleep deprived and have sporatic REM sleep patterns. The new study evaluated 15 children suffering from ADHD who did not have comorbid psychiatric problems and 23 healthy children, all ranging in age from seven to eleven and not taking any medication. Researchers requested the children avoid caffeine for seven days prior to the study. The researchers were able to monitor the children in their own homes through portable polysomnography sleep recorders that recorded their overnight behavior. The children’s parents also completed a 113-item questionnaire that helped to detail each child’s behavior and emotional challenges. Researchers assessed the children while holding their socioeconomic status and parents’ marital status constant.

Dr. Reut Gruber, Director of the Attention, Behavior and Sleep Lab at the Douglas Medical Health University Institute said, “I do not believe that sleep per se is the cause of ADHD, but it may make the symptoms worse in children with sleep problems. There are reports in the literature in which treating sleep problems led to improvement in ADHD symptoms, but I suspect that these results were seen in children with sleep apnea.”

The study resulted in the children with ADHD sleeping 33 minutes less than the average time slept by the healthy children, not suffering from ADHD. The ADHD group also tallied 16 minutes less REM (rapid eye movement) sleep times than the healthy group. As previous studies have shown, sleep disruption can lead to symptoms seen in children with ADHD, such as concentration problems.

Based on the new study, ADHD children may suffer from sleep problems, which could reflect other underlying problems and further research is needed. Researchers will need to delve into the research and take things a little further, to determine if shorter sleep times in children with ADHD may lead to behavioral and neurocognitive problems. If researchers can determine a link or the cause of sleep deprivation in ADHD children, then they may be able to develop a therapeutic treatment to help the children sleep better.

http://www.healthnews.com/

Negative Effects of Green Tea Leaves

2009-03-03T00:06:00.000-08:00

Most people think only of positive benefits of green tea. However, while this type of tea does offer some excellent benefits, many directly related to health, it is also important to understand there are some negative effects of green tea leaves. Just as with many foods and drinks we consume, green tea may not be good for everyone. Therefore, we wanted to address some of the negative effects of green tea leaves so you can determine if this is right for you.

Green tea comes from a bush in the Camellia family, which is why the official name for green tea is Camellia sinensis, which is Latin. This evergreen bush has shiny, pointed leaves that have a wonderful aroma. This particular bush also produces beautiful white flowers. Today, green tea is grown in more than 50 countries to include Argentina, Brazil, and Russia, among others.

The exciting thing about this tea is that study after study shows positive effects on the body, meaning the negative effects of green tea leaves is minimal. For instance, green tea contains powerful antioxidants that have been proven to help fight various forms of cancer, as well as tooth decay, obesity, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Because of the amazing benefits, the level of consumption for green tea has skyrocketed throughout the globe.

Now, when it comes to the negative effects of green tea leaves, we want to start with pregnant women. Although most doctors agree that a small consumption of green tea is fine but when large amounts are consumed, caffeine can increase the risk of spontaneous abortion, low birth rate, and even growth retardation. Keep in mind that these risks are associated with the beverage of green tea, as well as supplements.

EGCG molecules, which are similar to a methotrexate compound, work by fighting off cancer cells by bonding with the dihydrofolate reductase enzyme, which is good in non-pregnant women. However, in pregnant women, the negative effects of green tea leaves involves involve the epigallocatechins, otherwise known as EGCG. In this situation, EGCG can affect the way in which the body uses folate, which is vital in the prevention of neural tube birth defects.

Nursing women should also consider the negative effects of green lea leaves. Remember, green tea is high in caffeine. Therefore, a woman who is breastfeeding and consuming green tea would be passing the caffeine on to the baby. Even small amounts or green tea powder used for baking, smoothies, and other foods should be avoided while nursing a baby.

In addition, negative effects of green tea leaves would link to individuals who have allergies. In this case, someone who is caffeine sensitive could develop problems such as hives and rash from consuming green tea. With caffeine being a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, other problems could result such as insomnia, excessive urination, reduction of potassium levels, and even incontinence. Just keep in mind that if you have any concerns about negative effects of green tea leaves for you, we recommend that you talk to your doctor or a health food specialist.

Bee Propolis - how safe is it ?

2009-03-02T00:16:00.000-08:00

In general, propolis is safe.

It is a non toxic substance and for most people, will not caused irritation when used as supplements or applied to skin.

However, like other honey bee products, there are people who are allergic to propolis.

Allergic reaction due to this substance was first reported in beekeepers as an occupational effect but is now seen mainly in individuals who use propolis in cosmetics and supplement to treat various health conditions.

It is believed that a substance called caffeic acids to be one of the cause of allergies to propolis.

The symptoms of allergies
If you're allergic to propolis, it may cause your skin to redden, develop rashes, swell, itch and may even lead your skin to crack.

Apart from that, it may also irritate the skin area where it's applied on, cause eczema, lesions, psoriasis or mouth sores.

If you're in the list below, please talk to your doctor before taking any propolis supplement or using any products containing the substance. You may be at risk.

Who can be allergic to Propolis?

Those Already Allergic to Pollen: If you're already allergic to bee pollen or evergreens, you are advised not to use propolis. Pollens in propolis may come from any plants and not just plants in surrounding areas where you buy your product.
Asthma Patients: If you have asthma, you should also avoid propolis because some chemicals or impurities in it may induce an attack. If you want to use it, ask your doctor's advise first.
Allergic To Bee Stings:Another group of people who may want to avoid propolis are those who are allergic to bee stings. Propolis could induce a side effect similar to a sting.
Pregnant Women:There have not been many published clinical trials on the effect of propolis on pregnant women. Because the information in this area is limited, please avoid using propolis if you're pregnant.You should also avoid it during breastfeeding.
Others at risk :If you know that you're allergic to black poplar (also populas nigra), poplar buds, honey and balsam of Peru, avoid propolis as well.There are around 8 to 13 compounds that propolis and balsam of Peru have in common. Some of these compounds include benzyl benzoate, cinnamyl cinnamate, and benzyl cinnamate. Several studies have suggested that patients who are sensitive to propolis also may react to balsam of Peru.

A word of advice
Even if you're not in the above categories, you should always take some precaution when using any form of medication.

Take note that the best way to use propolis is to try it gradually. You should use small quantities of propolis for the first few days. After that slowly increase your propolis intake to the full outlined dosage if you could not detect any unwanted side effects.

This way you would be able to test your comparability with the propolis product you're taking. It will also avoid annoying and painful allergic reaction to propolis.

At the same time, if you decided to terminate the medical treatment prescribed by your doctor, it should also done slowly and gradually.

Will propolis interact with other drugs ?
At the moment there is no detrimental interaction between pure propolis and other man-made drugs.

However, you must understand one thing. Propolis that is commercially used in cosmetics or as dietary supplement are normally extracted using ethanol.

This high alcohol content in some propolis tinctures could lead to vomiting if you take it along with disulfiram (Antabuse) or metronidazole ( Flagyl).

The second thing you must understand is the fact that the number of experiments involving propolis is still considered to be relatively small. Thus, not all interactions between propolis and other drugs are well known.

Thus, we advise you to tell your doctor and/or pharmacist what drugs you are currently taking, including any over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbals before using or taking any products containing propolis. ( we also suggest the use of Drug Interaction Checker to check the potential side effects of 2 drugs taken together - note: it loads very slowly)

So far the only well documented studies on propolis and it's effect on other drugs is on it's ability to improve the effect of antibiotics by 10 to 100 folds.

Another study involving more than 400 Israeli children also showed that a commercial combination product containing propolis, echinacea, and vitamin C helped not only to shorten and lessen the severity of colds and other infections of the respiratory tract, but was able to prevent them in some cases.

Health Benefits of Bee Propolis

2009-03-02T00:03:00.000-08:00

Although the fact that bee's propolis has been used for thousands of years may be enough to convince most people about it's health benefits, we dig scientific journals to satisfy some skeptics.

Let's see how medical science conforms ancient wisdom.

Improving Immune System
Professor S. Scheller, the head of a team of four doctors at the Institute for Microbiology at the Medical Academy in Poland found that propolis is able to stimulate the immune system.

It stimulates the formation of antibodies to build body resistance to many diseases. It also helps the body in releasing substance against cellular deterioration.

He also concluded that other propolis health benefits may include improved physical, intellectual and sexual performance and makes injured tissue heal faster.

The study also concluded that propolis is non toxic.

Treat Burns
Another benefits of propolis is in treating second degree burns. Research showed that propolis cream gave about the same result as currently prescribed cream.

However, propolis cream reduce patient's inflammation and lead to a faster healing.

Various studies have confirmed that propolis stimulates enzyme systems, cell metabolism, circulation, collagen formation and improved healing of burn wounds.

It is believe to be a result of a substance called arginine.

One isolated study had tested the benefit of propolis on women with infertility and endometriosis. The study indicated that consumption of 500mg of propolis twice daily resulted in pregnancy rate of 60% as opposed to 20% for women not given propolis.

It is still unclear how propolis would give this effect.

Potential Cancer Drug
A report published in the Cancer Research (Sep 15,93;53 1482-88) stated that caffeic acids in propolis might help prevent colon cancer. The article described how these caffeic acids were able to prevent the formation of pre cancerous tissues in rats after the animal were exposed to cancer causing chemicals.

Another study done in 1990 showed propolis chemicals to act against ovary cancer in hamster and sarcoma-type tumors in mice.

One isolated study had tested the benefit of propolis on women with infertility and endometriosis. The study indicated that consumption of 500mg of propolis twice daily resulted in pregnancy rate of 60% as opposed to 20% for women not given propolis.

It is still unclear how propolis would give this effect.

Bowel Problems
Propolis can also benefit patients suffering from inflammatory bowel problems like Chron's disease and ulceration colitis.

In June 2001, Dr. Ralph Golan reported how ulceration colitis responded well to propolis therapy. This was reported in his article published in Townsend Letters For Doctors.

Dental care
Another benefit of bee propolis is in dental care. Propolis mouthwash used after an oral surgery appears to shorten the healing time. A study done in 1991 showed that rats given propolis in their drinking water got less caries compared to other rats.

Another study done in 1986 proposed propolis as a valuable subsidiary treatment for gum infection and plague.

It is also used in dental surgery as natural and safe disinfectant.

Protecting Liver
Two studies done in 1986 and 1987 showed that another benefits of propolis is in protecting liver. It was shown to be effective in protecting liver against alcohol and tetrachloride.

Improve Antibiotic Effectiveness
Australian scientists, E.L Ghisalberti of the Department of Organic Chemistry at the University of Western Australia showed that propolis increases the effectiveness of penicillin or other antibiotics from 10 to 100 folds.

The combination of these drugs and propolis can cause the drug dosage to be trimmed down.

This discovery is hoped to help reduce the number of side effects associated with antibiotics and lower the over dependency on antibiotics by doctors.

Veterinary Applications
Propolis offers some benefits to breeders by improving weight gain and reduce diarrhea in their animals.

A study done in 1987 showed that 5 ml of propolis solution given to milk-fed calves archived the above results.

Studies done to rabbits have also showed that propolis treated coccidiosis and eimeria. It also is beneficial in treating mastitis.

Other medical benefits of propolis
Studies done in rats and mice had shown that concentrated propolis given to the animals reduces blood pressure, produces sedative effect as well as protects the liver and stomach against tetrachloride and ulcers.

All these were achieved without any side effects.

New Treatment Option for People Living with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

2009-03-01T19:52:00.000-08:00

(ARA) — Nearly 19 million Americans currently live with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux disease, and suffer from painful and uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent and persistent heartburn.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved KAPIDEX (TM) (dexlansoprazole) delayed release capsules for the once-daily, oral treatment of heartburn associated with symptomatic non-erosive GERD, the healing of erosive esophagitis (EE) and the maintenance of healed EE. KAPIDEX (30 mg and 60 mg) is the first PPI with a Dual Delayed Release (TM) (DDR) formulation that provides two separate releases of medication.

GERD is a chronic condition that can occur when the valve at the lower end of the esophagus does not work properly, causing stomach contents to back up into the esophagus repeatedly. If the esophagus is continually exposed to stomach contents, damage to the lining of the esophagus such as breaks or lesions can occur, a condition known as erosive esophagitis (EE).

GERD can affect both men and women, and its symptoms are often triggered by certain foods, stress, or pressure on the stomach.

“Clinical studies have shown that KAPIDEX has the ability to provide up to 24-hour heartburn relief in patients with GERD,” said Charles Baum, M.D., executive medical director at Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, Inc. “KAPIDEX is the first PPI that provides two separate releases of medication.”

About KAPIDEX (dexlansoprazole) delayed release capsules
KAPIDEX (dexlansoprazole) delayed release capsules, previously known by the development code TAK-390MR, is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which decreases acid production by turning off many of the acid pumps in the stomach, thus helping to protect the esophagus from acidic reflux so that esophageal inflammation can heal. KAPIDEX combines an enantiomer of lansoprazole with a Dual Delayed Release (TM) (DDR) formulation designed to provide two separate releases of medication. KAPIDEX, taken once-daily, is approved for the healing of all grades of erosive esophagitis (EE) for up to eight weeks, maintaining healing of EE for up to six months, and treating heartburn associated with symptomatic non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) for four weeks.

Important Safety Information
KAPIDEX is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation. Symptomatic response with KAPIDEX does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy. The most commonly reported treatment-emergent adverse reactions (≥2%): diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, vomiting, and flatulence. KAPIDEX should not be co-administered with atazanavir. KAPIDEX may interfere with the absorption of drugs for which gastric pH is important for bioavailability (e.g., ampicillin esters, digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole). Patients taking concomitant warfarin may require monitoring for increases in international normalized ratio (INR) and prothrombin time.

Please see the complete prescribing information and visit the KAPIDEX Web site at www.kapidex.com.

KAPIDEX is a product of Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, Inc. To learn more about the product, speak with your healthcare provider.

Global Warming Solution

2009-03-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

by William Yeatman

Global warming may or may not be a problem. Man may or may not be driving it. Given the uncertainties, a significant amount of global regret may apply if we divert too much of our global wealth to solving what may be a non-existent or trivial problem, especially if that diversion mires billions in poverty. On the other hand, we may also regret not doing anything if man-made global warming does turn out to be a problem. It is therefore prudent to examine what steps we can take that would prove beneficial whether or not anthropogenic global warming turns out to be a problem. These steps can be termed “no regrets” policies.

What makes a No Regrets Global Warming Policy? A global warming policy can be termed “no regrets” as long as it:

* Reduces the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere, or
* Mitigates, prevents or reduces a harm associated with global warming, or
* Provides greater capacity for dealing with problems associated with global warming
* Without imposing significant cost or diverting economic activity.

Top Five “No Regrets” Policies

1.) Eliminate all subsidies to fuel use.
Subsidies to energy R&D cost taxpayers millions of dollars while producing minimal benefits. While these programs may be relatively small given the size of domestic energy markets, they serve little, if any, useful purpose while subsidizing large corporations at taxpayer expense. The potential threat of global warming, whether it is real or not, is simply one more reason to eliminate these subsidy programs. An international agreement aimed at ending energy subsidy with binding targets would be a significant victory for emissions reduction. Unlike Kyoto, which forces an energy starvation diet on its participants, such a treaty would be a move to combat energy obesity.

2.) Repeal the Federal Flood Insurance Program.
Much of the concern over global warming’s potential for harm in the US relates to sea level rise and the flooding that will result. However, much of the investment in potentially vulnerable areas is a result of the Federal flood Insurance Program. This program encourages building in vulnerable areas by acting as a moral hazard: people take greater risks because the government has said it will help bear that risk. Reform would reduce the moral hazard connected with building on vulnerable land, transferring the risk from the taxpayer to the private sector, which is likely to take a more realistic view of the issue.

3.) Reform Air Traffic Control Systems.
Greater demand for air travel means more flights, which means greater fuel use and increased emissions. Yet, the current government-operated system of air traffic control, based on a 1920s-era system of beacons, may hinder innovations that could reduce fuel use and emissions. As a general rule, the shorter the flight, the less fuel will be consumed. Yet neither airlines nor pilots have the freedom to choose the most direct and economical route. Giving pilots freedom to map their own course is an attractive and desirable change in the eyes of the industry, and the impact on the environment would be tremendous. As well as saving considerable amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, the policy will deliver significant benefits in terms of time and expense to the US economy. By obviating significant reductions in service levels associated with more routine applications of emissions reduction policy, it is to be preferred to that approach.

4.) Facilitate Electricity Competition.
By rejecting the model of central regulation and allowing suppliers to meet their customers’ needs more exactly while relying on distributed generation, energy waste and the associated emissions will reduce considerably. This reduction in waste will prove economically beneficial even if emissions themselves do not cause problems.

5.) Reduce Regulatory Barriers to New Nuclear Build.
There is no other technology than nuclear that is proven to be capable of providing emissions-free energy at the scale required to make significant reductions in carbon emissions. The problem is that thanks to anti-nuclear activism by environmentalists in the 1970s, it takes a very long time to build a nuclear plant. This pushes development and construction costs up to the level where it is not economically competitive with higher-emitting forms of electricity generation like coal and natural gas. According to the nuclear energy institute, it takes 10 years from concept to operation to build a nuclear plant, and only four of those are construction, the rest is permit application development (2 years) and decision-making by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (4 years).

From http://www.globalwarming.org/

Diet rich in calcium tied to lower cancer rate

2009-02-28T16:06:00.000-08:00

HICAGO - A study in nearly half a million older men and women bolsters evidence that diets rich in calcium may help protect against some cancers.

The benefits were mostly associated with foods high in calcium, rather than calcium tablets.

Previous studies have produced conflicting results. The new research involved food questionnaires from participants and a follow-up check of records for cancer cases during the subsequent seven years. This research method is less rigorous than some previous but smaller studies.

But because of its huge size — 492,810 people and more than 50,000 cancers — the new study presents powerful evidence favoring the idea that calcium may somehow keep cells from becoming cancerous, said University of North Carolina nutrition expert John Anderson, who was not involved in the study.

The study was run jointly by the National Institutes of Health and AARP. The results appear in Monday's Archives of Internal Medicine.

National Cancer Institute researcher Yikyung Park, the study's lead author, called the results strong but said more studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Duke University nutrition researcher Denise Snyder said the results support the idea that food rather than supplements is the best source for nutrients.

Participants were AARP members aged 50 to 71 who began the study in the mid-1990s. A total of 36,965 men and 16,605 women were later diagnosed with cancer. There were more than 10 different kinds of cancer, the most common being prostate, breast, lung and colorectal.

Compared with people who got little calcium, those who consumed the most had the lowest chances of getting colon cancer. Those in that highest category got on average 1,530 milligrams a day among men and 1,881 milligrams daily among women. The recommended amount for older people is 1,200 milligrams, and getting much more than that didn't result in any greater protection. Adults can get that amount from four cups of milk or calcium-fortified orange juice.

Men who got the most calcium from food were about 30 percent less likely to get cancer of the esophagus, about 20 percent less likely to get head and neck cancer and 16 percent less likely to get colon cancer, when compared to men who got low amounts of calcium.

Among women, those who got the most food-based calcium were 28 percent less likely to get colon cancer than low-calcium women.

Ending prostate test safe for most elderly men

2009-02-28T15:59:00.000-08:00

Study: If PSA reading is low, stopping screening doesn't increase death risk

WASHINGTON - Most men over age 75 can safely discontinue screening for prostate cancer with the PSA blood test, although such screening may still benefit some older men, U.S. researchers said on Friday.

Use of the prostate-specific antigen blood test to screen for prostate cancer in elderly men has been controversial. A panel of experts called the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force last year urged doctors to stop screening men 75 and older.

The new findings involved 849 U.S. men taking part in a study of aging run by the National Institutes of Health.

For men over 75, not one died of prostate cancer if they had a PSA reading below 3 nanograms per milliliter. That represents at least two thirds of the population.

"For the overwhelming majority of men over age 75, discontinuing PSA screening is probably a very safe thing to do," Dr. H. Ballentine Carter of Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, one of the researchers in the study appearing in the Journal of Urology, said in a telephone interview.

But for men with a PSA higher of 3 ng/ml, Carter said continued screening might be of value.

"What we found was that at any age, men with a PSA greater than 3, their risk of prostate cancer, and even an aggressive prostate cancer, during the remaining years of their life continues to increase," Carter said.

PSA is a protein produced by the prostate and its levels may shoot up when prostate tumors grow or spread. Higher PSA levels also can indicate a benign prostate enlargement.

Doctors consider PSA test results in deciding whether to order a biopsy to diagnose prostate cancer.

Many prostate tumors are slow-growing and may take years if they ever are to become dangerous to a man. But other tumors can be aggressive and life-threatening.

From mnsbc.com

Old drug combination in TB fight

2009-02-28T15:41:00.000-08:00

Two drugs already used for fighting other infections may help in the battle against drug-resistant tuberculosis, researchers say. The combination of clavulanate and meropenem was effective against 13 strains of the most drug resistant TB in the laboratory.

Clinical trials are now being planned by the US researchers, who reported their results in the Science journal.UK experts urged caution but said new TB treatments were desperately needed. It is thought one-third of the world's population is infected with TB - 10% of whom develop active disease. There is growing concern about extensively drug resistant disease - known as XDR-TB - against which first choice and at least one second choice treatments do not work.

The latest study revisits the effectiveness of beta-lactam antibiotics, the family which includes penicillin and is very widely used in the treatment of infection but has never been successful against TB.

This lack of effectiveness is largely because the mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium contains a highly active enzyme which inactivates the antibiotics.

Combination

In the latest study, researchers looked at several combinations of one drug to stop the enzyme working and one beta-lactam antibiotic.

They found that clavulanate was the best enzyme inhibitor and meropenem, a fairly modern antibiotic, the best partner in potently killing different strains of TB.

Clinical trials are being planned later this year.

Professor John Blanchard, a biochemist from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, said the idea of using these drugs in tandem was not new but what they had done was carry out a detailed investigation into what combination may work against TB.

He explained that the drugs also seemed to work against TB in the non-active phase which is notoriously difficult to treat.

"The number of untreatable cases is increasing worldwide every year.

"We are excited about this because, with the caveat that this needs to be shown to be effective in controlled clinical trials, this would be the first new drug to be introduced in the treatment of TB in 40 years."

Professor Denis Mitchison, an expert in medical microbiology at St George's, University of London, said the theory of using a penicillin and clavulanate was not a new one but such combinations had not been sufficiently effective in the past.

"The use of merepenems is new and the combination now sounds effective, though there are already reports of rare resistant strains of other bacteria."

He urged caution about using the drug combination alone.

But he added: "The more drugs that can be used in the treatment of multidrug resistant and XDR-TB, the better."

Dr Ruth McNerney, a TB expert at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said the drug combination needed to be tested in patients before any conclusions could be drawn.

"But we desperately need drugs for XDR-TB," she added.

From BBC News

Pusat Seks Ada di Kepala Anda

2009-02-28T03:02:00.000-08:00

Mariyln Volker, Ed. D, terapis seks dari Miami Florida menyebutkan, satu bagian tubuh yang sangat penting peranannya dalam mensukseskan penis laki-laki bekerja maksimal adalah otak.

Di otak, hormon yang mengatur keseimbangan emosi terletak. Di otak pula reaksi dari sebuah peristiwa menjalani transit. Tanpa transit ini, emosi yang bereaksi tidak akan terolah. Akibatnya, hidup kita tanpa kendali.

Begitu pula dengan kerja penis. Bila otak tidak bekerja maksimal akibat stres dan tekanan berat, rangsangan seksual (di antaranya ketertarikan pada pasangan) tidak akan muncul dan terolah di otak. Akibatnya, gairah seksual menurun. Penis tidak akan bekerja maksimal. Ejakulasi dini, salah satu efeknya.

Sebab itu, jaga dan pelihara kesehatan otak Anda dengan beberapa tips berikut ini:

Atur diri supaya tidak stress,
Istirahat cukup,
Olahraga teratur dan proporsional,
Makan makanan bergizi, dan
Selalu bergembira

Manfaat Yoga Untuk Seks

2009-02-28T02:50:00.000-08:00

Manfaat yoga selain membuat Anda relaks dan tenang, dapat pula membantu Anda saat melakukan aktivitas seksual. Menurut Ellen Barrett, penulis buku Sexy Yoga, yoga membentuk tubuh yang kuat dan lentur sehingga membuat Anda mudah melakukan lebih banyak variasi gerakan atau posisi dalam bercinta. Masih belum percaya? Berikut adalah empat alasan lain mengapa Anda 'wajib' mengenal yoga.

Melancarkan Aliran Darah

Sama halnya jika Anda melakukan olahraga pada umumnya, yoga juga dapat melancarkan aliran darah. Pada posisi yoga tertentu, seperti posisi elang, gerakan tersebut langsung melatih otot panggul Anda dan melancarkan aliran darah pada bagian panggul. "Semakin sering Anda melatih otot ini, ruang gerak Anda akan semakin luas," ujar Becky Jeffers, Direktur Berman Centre for female sexual health and menopause manajement di Chicago. Menurut Becky, melatih otot panggul akan membantu Anda melakukan kontraksi dan relaksasi lebih kuat yang akhirnya membawa Anda pada pengalaman orgasme yang lebih lama.

Menumbuhkan Kepercayaan Diri

Ketika Anda melakukan gerakan-gerakan yoga, Anda melatih konsentrasi pikiran dan fokus Anda. Hal ini membuat Anda semakin fokus pada apa yang Anda lakukan. "Ketika Anda menerima diri sendiri, Anda akan tahu apa yang dibutuhkan untuk bisa menikmati aktivitas seksual bersama pasangan," ujar Becky lagi. Anda bisa mengkomunikasikan perasaan ini kepada pasangan saat Anda berdua melakukan aktivitas tersebut.

Mengurangi Rasa Sakit

Bagi beberapa perempuan yang aktif, terutama yang suka olahraga lari, otot pinggul dan paha yang tegang terkadang bisa menghambat aktivitas seks. Yoga membantu untuk merilekskan otot tersebut. "Otot panggul yang tegang dapat mempengaruhi bagaimana panggul itu berkontraksi saat Anda melakukan aktivitas seks," ujar Becky. Satu bagian otot yang tegang dapat mempengaruhi gerak otot lainnya sehingga orgasme pun tidak bisa maksimal dan permainan cinta Anda tidak bisa dinikmati secara maksimal.

Jadi, santai saja, dan biarkan semuanya mengalir, dan orgasme akan datang

Memberikan Sensasi "Lebih Hidup"

Gerakan segitiga dalam posisi duduk bersila dalam yoga menstimulasi cakra Anda. Menurut filosofi Timur, kehidupan seks diatur oleh beberapa cakra. Cakra adalah pusat energi yang mengitari tubuh Anda. "Ketika cakra Anda sehat dan bekerja baik, kehidupan seks Anda juga akan sehat dan memuaskan," tutur Becky. Tiga cakra paling berpengaruh pada aktivitas seks Anda adalah the root chakra (pada daerah perineum, area antara tulang vagina dan anus), the sacral chakra (bagian tengah perut bagian bawah), dan the heart chakra (bagian tengah dada). Gerakan-gerakan yoga membuat darah mengalir lancar menuju area-area sensitif tersebut dan membuka prana (semangat hidup) Anda. Hal tersebut akan membuat Anda lebih terbuka dan lebih bereksplorasi pada aktivitas seksual dan Anda menjadi pribadi yang lebih bahagia.

Sumber: CBN

Manfaat Mandi Bagi Kesehatan Tubuh

2009-02-28T02:44:00.000-08:00

Mandi, Bikin Segar dan Sehat!

Menurut penelitian terbaru mandi ternyata tidak hanya baik untuk membersihkan tubuh dari kotoran dan menjauhkan stress, tapi mandi juga memiliki peranan penting meningkatkan sistem kekebalan, membantu kulit terhindar dari penyakit seperti eksema dan bahkan menyembuhkan masalah medis serius.

Sebuah studi yang diterbitkan dalam New England Journal of Medicine menunjukkan penderita diabetes yang menghabiskan hanya setengah jam berendam dalam bak air hangat dapat menurunkan tingkat gula darah sekitar 13 persen.

Penelitian terpisah di Jepang menunjukkan 10 menit berendam dalam air hangat dapat memperbaiki kesehatan jantung baik pria maupun wanita, membantu mereka menjalani test olahraga lebih baik dan mengurangi rasa sakit.

Apa manfaat mandi dan berapa lama anda sebaiknya mandi? Berikut beberapa petunjuk mandi asyik dan menyehatkan:

Mengeluarkan racun

Mandi air hangat sekitar 32-35 derajat Celsius membuka pori-pori yang dapat membantu mengeluarkan toksin. Mandi air hangat juga dapat membantu menurunkan tingkat gula darah, menyembuhkan sakit otot dan membantu menjaga usus besar bekerja dengan baik. Waktu yang dianjurkan selama 10-20 menit.

Stress

Jika anda benar-benar mengalami stress, mandi air dingin akan menjadi jawaban yang tepat. Temperatur yang dianjurkan sekitar 12-18 derajat Celsius. Mandi air dingin sangat baik meredakan ketegangan, sebaliknya dari air hangat karena mandi air dingin dapat mempersempit darah dan meningkatkan tingkat gula darah.

Eksema

Penyakit kulit tertentu seperti eksema, ruam atau gatal-gatal dengan menambahkan baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) ke dalam bak mandi dapat membuat perbedaan besar. Sodium bicarbonate bertindak sebagai antiseptik. Isi air dengan air hangat kuku, tambahkan kira-kira satu pound baking soda dan aduk sampai rata. Dianjurkan berendam selama 10-20 menit.

Infeksi

Infeksi yeast seperti sariawan dapat dibantu dengan menambahkan tiga atau empat cuka dari sari buah apel ke dalam bak mandi. Ini juga baik untuk mengeluarkan racun dari dalam tubuh karena cuka dapat menyeimbangkan kembali asam. Tambahkan pada air hangat dan berendam selama 15-20 menit.

Flu dan Sakit Kepala

Merendam kaki dalam air hangat dapat membantu menyembuhkan flu dan sakit kepala dan juga menyegarkan kembali kaki yang lelah. Masukan air hangat secukupnya dalam bak sampai menutupi kaki dan pergelangan kaki tambahkan beberapa tetes minyak seperti lavender, peppermint atau lemon. Setelah selesai basuh dengan air dingin. Lakukan selama 10-20 menit.

Insomnia

Merendam kaki dalam air dingin sangat baik bagi anda yang memiliki masalah insomnia atau mereka yang memiliki masalah tidur. Masukan kaki sampai kaki merasa dingin. Pengobatan ini juga berguna bagi kaki lelah, pendarahan hidung, flu dan sembelit.

Sirkulasi

Cobalah merendam kaki secara bergantian antara air hangat dan air dingin jika anda mengalami masalah sirkulasi. Mulai dengan merendam kaki selama satu atau dua menit dalam air hangat, kemudian 30 menit dalam air dingin. Cobalah lakukan selama 15 menit kemudian diselesaikan dengan air dingin.

Tips Merencanakan Jenis Kelamin Bayi

2009-02-24T22:45:00.000-08:00

Merencanakan jenis kelamin bayi yg diinginkan dpt dilakukan sejak awal, sejak kita merencanakan kehamilan. Tapi sebelum berbicara ttg perencanaan jenis kelamin, kita harus mengetahui lebih dulu ttg kromosom dan sifat2nya, kondisi vagina wanita, dll, hal ini agar kita mempunyai gambaran yg jelas ttg hal2 yg melatarbelakangi dan menjadi dasar dari teknik2 yang akan dijelaskan nanti.

Kromosom

Perempuan dalam hal ini sel telur perempuan (ovum) mempunyai 2 kromosom yang sama yaitu X dan X (XX).

Laki-laki dalam hal ini sperma mempunyai kromosom X dan Y (XY).

Jika sperma laki-laki yg mengandung kromosom X bertemu dengan sel telur yg berkromosom X, maka akan menjadi pasangan kromosom XX, jadi anak perempuan.

Sementara jika sperma laki-laki yg mengandung kromosom Y bertemu dengan sel telur yg berkromosom X, maka akan jadi pasangan kromosom XY, jadi anak laki-laki.

Sifat Kromosom

Sifat kromosom X (pembentuk perempuan) :

Gerakannya lambat, tahan dg suasana asam, dan dapat bertahan hidup hingga 72 jam.

Sifat kromosom Y (pembentuk laki-laki) :

Gerakannya cepat, tdk tahan suasana asam, daya tahan hidupnya kurang dari 48 jam.

Kondisi Vagina Wanita

Sekitar 1/3 bagian luar vagina wanita suasananya bersifat asam, semakin ke dalam suasananya semakin berkurang keasamannya.

Orgasme pada wanita

Jika wanita mengalami orgasme saat berhubungan intim, maka ia akan mengeluarkan cairan yg bersifat basa/alkalis.

Teknik Pemilihan Jenis Kelamin bayi

Cara Medis

Secara medis di dunia kedokteran ada yg namanya inseminasi buatan, dg teknik ini sperma yg mengandung kromosom X dan Y dipisahkan dg cara khusus, kemudian sperma dg kromosom yg diinginkan disuntikkan ke dalam rahim istri saat masa subur.

Cara praktis

Disamping cara medis tersebut, ada cara praktis yg bisa dilakukan pasangan suami istri untuk memperoleh anak dengan jenis kelamin yg diinginkan.

Teknik mendapatkan anak laki2 a.l:

a. Penetrasi Dalam

Saat hubungan intim suami melakukan penetrasi penis sedalam2nya ke vagina istri. Istri mengangkat pantat dan panggul yg tinggi atau diganjal bantal agar penis suami dapat masuk sedalam2nya ke vagina istri, ini jika pasutri menggunakan posisi istri di bawah dan suami di atas. Utk mendptkan penetrasi dlm bisa jg dg menggunakan posisi doggy style (suami masuk dari belakang).

Mengapa harus penetrasi dalam?

Sifat kromosom Y (yg akan menjadi pembentuk anak laki2) adalah gerakannya cepat, tdk tahan suasana asam, dan daya tahan pendek (<>

Dg penetrasi yg dalam diharapkan kesempatan sperma dg kromosom Y untuk lebih dulu membuahi sel telur akan lebih besar sebelum gugur di tengah jalan, disamping itu suasana vagina bagian dalam tdk seasam bagian luarnya, shg sperma dg kromosom Y dpt bertahan hidup dan membuahi sel telur.

b. Istri Orgasme Lebih Dahulu

Jika menginginkan anak laki2, sebaiknya biarkan istri orgasme lebih dulu, dg demikian diharapkan cairan yg dikeluarkan istri saat orgasme (bersifat basa) dpt membantu sperma dg kromosom Y lebih mudah sampai sel telur.

c. Hubungan Intim Saat Ovulasi

Dg berhubungan intim saat ovulasi, akan memberi kesempatan sperma dg kromosom Y utk langsung membuahi sel telur.

Teknik mendapatkan anak perempuan a.l:

a. Penetrasi Pendek

Maksud penetrasi pendek adalah suami saat melakukan hubungan intim sebaiknya tdk melakukan penetrasi terlalu dalam ke dalam vagina istri. Mengapa?

Dg penetrasi pendek kesempatan sperma dg kromosom X utk sampai sel telur lebih besar sebab ia lebih tahan suasana asam (vagina bagian luar lebih asam), gerakannya lambat, dan umurnya lebih panjang (> 72 jam). Dg penetrasi pendek, sperma dg kromosom Y akan kesulitan utk lebih dulu mencapai sel telur karena ia tdk tahan suasana asam, dan tdk dpt bertahan lama, sehingga sebelum sampai sel telur ia sudah gugur duluan, hal ini akan memberi kesempatan lebih besar pd sperma dg kromosom X utk bisa sampai sel telur dan membuahinya.

b. Hindari Orgasme

Nah utk mendptkan anak perempuan tdk perlu menunggu istri orgasme duluan, karena sperma dg kromosom X justru senang dg suasana vagina yg asam, yaitu suasana vagina tanpa cairan orgasme.

c. Hubungan intim sebelum ovulasi

Dg berhubungan intim sebelum ovulasi akan memberi kesempatan sperma dg kromosom X utk dpt membuahi sel telur pd saat ovulasi. Mengapa?

Sperma dg kromosom X kan gerakannya lambat dan dpt bertahan hidup lebih lama dibanding sperma dg kromosom Y. Sehingga diharapkan saat ovulasi, tinggal sperma dg kromosom X yg tinggal dan membuahi sel telur.

Baik dg cara medis maupun cara praktis, tdk dpt dilepaskan dari kuasa Allah, biar bagaimanapun kita berusaha, jika Allah berkehendak lain, sekali lagi keakuratan cara2 tersebut tdk dpt dijamin 100%.

Berikut sebagai pendukung supaya kans perencanaan pemilihan jenis kelamin baby ini tambah besar, bisa coba tabel berikut.
Kapan pembuahan yg tepat utk mendapatkan jenis kelamin baby sesuai umur ibu pd saat pembuahan
misal umur ibu 25 th dan pengen baby boy, bisa pilih saat pembuahan pd bulan April, Juni, Agustus, dst.(lihat tabel) ikuti aja link berikut
http://parenting.ivillage.com/ttc/ttcsigns/0,,j736,00.html

Dirangkum dari berbagai sumber

By : Maya Mai Farnomisa, S.Psi/Maya Siswadi

Vitamin E

2009-02-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in many foods, fats, and oils. It is also an antioxidant that protects body tissue from damage caused by unstable substances called free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells, tissues, and organs.

The build-up of free radicals over time is largely responsible for the aging process and can lead to various health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and inflammatory conditions (for example, arthritis). Antioxidants provide some protection against these conditions and also help reduce the damage caused by toxic chemicals and pollutants.

Vitamin E is also important in the formation of red blood cells and it helps the body to use vitamin K.

People who are unable to absorb fat properly may develop vitamin E deficiency and other conditions such as:

Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Cystic fibrosis
Biliary diseases (illnesses of the gallbladder and biliary ducts)

Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency include:

Muscle weakness
Loss of muscle mass
Abnormal eye movements
Impaired vision
Unsteady gait

Chronic deficiency may also cause problems with kidney and liver function. In addition, severe vitamin E deficiency can be associated with serial miscarriages and premature delivery in pregnant women.

There is some concern that eating a diet rich in fish oil for many months may induce a deficiency of vitamin E. People who eat a diet high in fish or who take fish oil supplements should ask their doctor if they should take vitamin E supplements.

Uses of Vitamin E

Heart Disease

Vitamin E helps prevent arteries from clogging by blocking the conversion of cholesterol into the waxy fat deposits called plaque that stick to blood vessel walls. Vitamin E also thins the blood, allowing for blood to flow more easily through arteries even when plaque is present. In the last 10 years, clinical studies have reported that the use of vitamin E supplements help prevent heart disease and other types of cardiovascular disease.

One large clinical study suggested that vitamin E from foods may reduce the risk of death from stroke in postmenopausal women. The study results do not support the use of vitamin E supplements as part of a preventive strategy.

However, there is some evidence that vitamin E supplements may reduce atherosclerosis. A 2-year clinical study compared the use of aspirin with and without vitamin E in men with a history of stroke. Researchers found that vitamin E with aspirin significantly reduced the tendency of plaque to stick to vessel walls and decreased the risk of stroke.

Clinical study results have been mixed. More evidence is needed to determine if there are benefits to vitamin E supplementation, whether for prevention or for treatment of cardiovascular disease. However, evidence does support the contribution of vitamin E to the maintenance of vascular function and health -- particularly when used in combination with other antioxidants from fruits, vegetables and nuts.

Cancer

While researchers can draw no firm conclusions about vitamin E's ability to protect against cancer, clinical studies show that people with cancer often have lower levels of vitamin E. Plus, population based trials (observing groups of people over long periods of time) suggest that diets rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E, may be connected to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer. Supplementation with vitamin E, though, does not appear to increase the risk of developing cancer in humans.

Laboratory studies have shown that vitamin E inhibits the growth of some cancers in test tubes and animals, particularly hormone responsive cancers such as breast and prostate. Therefore, some researchers believe that supplementation may prove beneficial for both prevention and treatment of these types of cancers.

Despite the encouraging results from test tube and animal studies, research on people has been much less promising. One large clinical study involving nearly 35,000 women, looked at the dietary intake of antioxidants and occurrence of breast cancer after menopause. They found little evidence that vitamin E has a protective effect. More research is needed before researchers can come to any firm conclusions about whether added vitamin E has an impact on cancer and, if so, which forms of the vitamin are most effective for treatment and what the optimal dosage is.

Researchers have also pointed to the fact that the body’s antioxidant defense system is complex, which suggests that focusing on one vitamin in isolation may not be the best approach. In fact, experts believe that dietary forms of antioxidants taken together from foods may be the best way to stave off cancer.

Photodermatitis

This condition involves an allergic type reaction to the UV rays of the sun. An 8-day clinical study comparing treatment with vitamins C and E to no treatment found that the vitamin group became significantly less sensitive to the sun. Another clinical study, lasting for 50 days, also showed a protective effect of the combination of vitamins C and E to UV rays.

Osteoarthritis

A few clinical studies suggest that vitamin E may be helpful in both the treatment (pain relief, increased joint mobility) and prevention (at least in men) of osteoarthritis. In a study comparing vitamin E with diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat osteoarthritis, the two were equally effective. However, other clinical studies have found that vitamin E has a low level of effectiveness for both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Alzheimer’s Disease

There are several reasons why vitamin E might help treat Alzheimer’s disease. The fat-soluble vitamin readily enters the brain and exerts its antioxidative properties. Since researchers believe oxidative stress contributes to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, in theory antioxidants like vitamin E should help prevent this condition. Clinical studies have suggested that vitamin E supplementation improves cognitive performance in healthy individuals and in those with dementia from causes other than Alzheimer’s (for example, multiple strokes). In addition, vitamin E, together with vitamin C may prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Menopause

According to a review article on alternatives to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women with breast cancer, vitamin E is the most effective option for reducing hot flashes among this group of women. Presumably, this would also be true for women who are not taking HRT. Vitamin E also helps reduce other long-term risks associated with menopause such as Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration and cardiovascular disease.

Eye Health

Because of its antioxidant action, vitamin E may help protect against cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye) and age related macular degeneration (ARMD, a progressive deterioration in the retina, the back part, of the eye). Both of these eye disorders tend to occur as people age. These conditions seriously compromise eyesight (ARMD is the number one cause of blindness in the United States). To minimize risk of ARMD, experts advocate diets high in vitamins C and E and carotenoids, especially spinach, kale, and collard greens. Taking supplements as a preventive measure, as opposed to getting vitamin E from food sources, remains controversial.

Uveitis is another eye disorder for which the antioxidant vitamins C and E may be helpful. A clinical study of 130 patients with uveitis compared treatment with oral vitamins C and E to placebo and found that those who took the vitamins had significantly better visual clarity than those who took a “dummy pill.” Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye between the sclera (white outer coat of the eye) and the retina. The uvea contains many of the blood vessels that nourish the eye, so inflammation in this area can affect the cornea, the retina, the sclera, and other important parts of the eye. Uveitis occurs in acute and chronic forms.

Diabetes

People with diabetes tend to have low levels of antioxidants. This may provide an explanation about why they’re at increased risk for conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Vitamin E supplements and other antioxidants may help reduce the risk of heart disease and other complications in people with diabetes. Research shows that antioxidants help control blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels in those with type 2 diabetes while protecting against the complications of retinopathy (eye damage) and nephropathy (kidney damage) in those with type 1 diabetes.

Vitamin E may also play a role in the prevention of diabetes. In one clinical study, 944 men who did not have diabetes at were followed for 4 years. Low levels of vitamin E was associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes during that time course.

Pancreatitis

Oxidative stress plays a role in pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). In fact, those with pancreatitis have low levels of vitamin E and other antioxidants. This may be due to lack of absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamin E) because the enzymes from the pancreas, which are required to absorb fat, are not functioning properly. Or, this may be due to poor intake because those with pancreatitis are not eating due to pain and need for bowel rest. Some experts advise taking vitamin E and other antioxidants to help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with pancreatitis.

Other

Vitamin E, along with other standard treatments, may also be beneficial for the following:

Slowing the aging of cells and tissues
Protecting from frostbite and other cold-induced injuries
Diminishing the negative effects of environmental pollutants
Improving anemia
Speeding wound and burn healing
Reducing scarring
Lowering blood pressure
Slowing progression of Parkinson’s disease
Easing premenstrual discomfort, especially breast tenderness
Treating lupus
Replacing necessary nutrients in those with inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis
Avoiding miscarriage (also called spontaneous abortion), which may be associated with very low levels of this nutrient
Helping weight gain and relieving oxidative stress in those with HIV or AIDS

Dietary Sources:

The richest source of vitamin E is wheat germ.
Other foods that contain a significant amount of vitamin E include:

Liver
Eggs
Nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts)
Sunflower seeds
Corn-oil margarine
Mayonnaise
Cold-pressed vegetable oils, including olive, corn, safflower, soybean, cottonseed, and canola
Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale
Greens (beet, collard, mustard, turnip) sweet potatoes
Avocado
Asparagus
Yams

Prevent and Treat Health Problems With Calcium

2009-02-24T19:40:00.000-08:00

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. It is essential for the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth, the location of about 99% of the body's calcium. Calcium also helps the heart, nerves, muscles, and other body systems work properly. It is probably best known for its effects in preventing osteoporosis. Your body needs several other nutrients in order for calcium to be absorbed and used properly, including magnesium, phosphorous, and especially vitamins D and K.

The best way to get calcium is through food (see Dietary Sources). But although many foods are fortified with calcium, some people may still need to take calcium supplements. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, many Americans consume less than half the amount of calcium recommended to build and maintain healthy bones. It is especially important to get enough calcium as you age. Postmenopausal women, people who consume large amounts of caffeine, alcohol, or soda, and those who take corticosteroid medications may need calcium supplements. Calcium deficiency can be found in people with malabsorption problems, such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and surgical intestinal resection.

Getting enough calcium can help prevent or treat the following conditions:

Osteoporosis

Calcium is necessary to help build and maintain healthy bones and strong teeth. Studies have shown that calcium, particularly in combination with vitamin D, can help prevent bone loss associated with menopause, as well as the bone loss experienced by older men. If you do not get enough calcium in your diet, taking a supplement may be necessary.

Hypoparathyroidism

People with this condition have underactive parathyroid glands, which are four small glands that sit on the four corners of the thyroid in the neck and produce a hormone that regulates calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D levels in the body. People with this condition should follow a high-calcium, low-phosphorous diet as prescribed by their doctor. Most often, they will also need to take calcium supplements.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

One large, well-designed study showed that women who took 1,200 mg of calcium per day reduced their symptoms of PMS by 50%, including headache, moodiness, food cravings, and bloating. A smaller study suggested that calcium may help reduce menstrual pain.

High Blood Pressure

People who do not get enough calcium may be at higher risk for hypertension, and there is some mixed evidence that suggests increasing calcium levels may lower blood pressure slightly. However, not all studies have found that benefit; and researchers aren’t sure whether calcium supplements would have any benefit, or whether it’s the effects of a diet that includes low-fat dairy products (which contain calcium) that is responsible. If you want to try calcium supplements, do not stop taking your blood pressure medication; talk to your doctor and let the doctor determine the proper dose of calcium for you. You may need to take calcium for 6 - 8 weeks before you see any improvement in blood pressure.

Some studies suggest that calcium supplementation may play a role in the prevention of pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and preeclampsia (a combination of high blood pressure, fluid retention, and high levels of protein in the urine that some women develop in the last trimester of pregnancy). However, not all studies show the same benefit. A prenatal vitamin, which provides magnesium, folic acid, and many other nutrients, together with adequate calcium intake through the diet, may lower the risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Obesity

Some animal and human studies have found that consuming low-fat dairy products may help you lose or maintain a proper weight. However, researchers aren’t sure whether the calcium in the dairy products affects weight, some other nutrient -- or even a combination of nutrients. In addition, not all studies have found any benefit; and there’s no sound evidence that calcium supplements (as opposed to dairy products) would help in losing weight. More research is needed.

High Cholesterol

Preliminary studies in animals and people suggest that calcium supplements, in the range of 1,500 to 2,000 mg per day, may help to lower cholesterol slightly. From these studies, it appears that calcium supplements (along with exercise and proper diet) may be better at keeping cholesterol at normal levels than at lowering them once cholesterol is already high. More research in this area is needed.

Rickets

Rickets causes softening and weakening of the bone in children. Although virtually eliminated in North America and Western Europe, where milk consumption is common, it still occurs in many parts of the world. Researchers have thought that rickets is caused by a lack of vitamin D; however, a study in 2000 showed that calcium supplementation is an effective treatment.

Other Uses

Stroke -- In a population-based study (one in which large groups of people are followed over time), women who take in more calcium, both through their diet and with supplements, were less likely to have a stroke over a 14-year period. More research is needed.

Colon Cancer -- Although not all studies agree, some show that people who consume higher amounts of calcium, vitamin D, and milk in their diets are less likely to develop colorectal cancer than those who consume low amounts of the same nutrients. But researchers are not sure whether calcium supplements would have the same effect as calcium in the diet, or even whether calcium itself is responsible for the benefit.

Dietary Sources:

The richest dietary sources of calcium include cheeses (such as parmesan, Romano, gruyere, cheddar, American, mozzarella, and feta), low-fat dairy products (milk, yogurt), tofu, and blackstrap molasses. Some other good sources of calcium include almonds, brewer's yeast, bok choy, Brazil nuts, broccoli, cabbage, dried figs, kelp, dark leafy greens (dandelion, turnip, collard, mustard, kale, Swiss chard), hazelnuts, oysters, sardines, and canned salmon,.

Foods that are fortified with calcium, such as juices, soy milk, rice milk, tofu and cereals, are also good sources of this mineral.

Available Forms:

There are a number of forms of calcium available as dietary supplements. They differ in the amount of calcium they contain, how well they are absorbed by the body, and how much they cost. The two most popular forms are calcium citrate and calcium carbonate.

Calcium citrate: Easily absorbed and digested by the body, particularly in the elderly. It does not contain as much elemental calcium (the amount your body actually absorbs) as calcium carbonate. It is more costly than calcium carbonate, however. Also, calcium citrate should not be used with aluminum-containing antacids (see Possible Interactions).
Calcium carbonate: Less expensive than calcium citrate and contains more elemental calcium. Requires a certain amount of stomach acid to be absorbed, so it is usually taken with a glass of orange juice. Many antacids contain calcium carbonate.

Calcium supplements that are derived from oyster shells, dolomite, and bone meal are best avoided as they may contain lead, a toxic metal (particularly worrisome in children and those with kidney disease) that can harm the brain and kidneys, cause anemia, and raise blood pressure.

Green Tea- A Refreshing Health Drink

2009-02-24T19:27:00.000-08:00

Today, hundreds of millions of people drink tea around the world, and studies are now suggesting that green tea (Camellia sinesis) in particular has many health benefits. There are three main varieties of tea -- green, black, and oolong. The difference between the teas is in their processing. Green tea is made from unfermented leaves and reportedly contains the highest concentration of powerful antioxidants called polyphenols.

Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals -- damaging compounds in the body that alter cells, tamper with DNA (genetic material), and even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet rays from the sun, radiation, cigarette smoke, and air pollution) also give rise to these damaging particles. Many scientists believe that free radicals contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of health problems, including cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants such as polyphenols in green tea can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause.

Green tea has been consumed throughout the ages in India, China, Japan, and Thailand. In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, practitioners used green tea as a stimulant, diuretic (to promote the excretion of urine), astringent (to control bleeding and help heal wounds), and to improve heart health. Other traditional uses of green tea include treating flatulence (gas), regulating body temperature and blood sugar, promoting digestion, and improving mental processes.

Green tea has been extensively studied in people, animals, and laboratory experiments. Results from these studies suggest that green tea may be useful for the following health conditions:

Atherosclerosis

Population-based clinical studies indicate that the antioxidant properties of green tea may help prevent atherosclerosis, particularly coronary artery disease. (Population-based studies means studies that follow large groups of people over time or studies that are comparing groups of people living in different cultures or with different dietary habits.) In May 2006, however, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rejected a petition from teamakers to allow tea labels to claim that green tea reduces the risk of heart disease. The FDA concluded that there is no credible evidence to support qualified health claims for green tea or green tea extract reducing the risk of heart disease.

High cholesterol

Research shows that green tea lowers total cholesterol and raises HDL ("good") cholesterol in both animals and people. One population-based clinical study found that men who drink green tea are more likely to have lower total cholesterol than those who do not drink green tea. Results from one animal study suggest that polyphenols in green tea may block the intestinal absorption of cholesterol and promote its excretion from the body. In another small study of male smokers, researchers found that green tea significantly reduced blood levels of harmful LDL cholesterol.

Cancer

Several population-based clinical studies have shown that green tea helps protect against cancer. For example, cancer rates tend to be low in countries such as Japan where people regularly consume green tea. However, it is not possible to determine from these population-based studies whether green tea actually prevents cancer in people. Emerging clinical studies suggest that the polyphenols in green tea may play an important role in the prevention of cancer. Researchers also believe that polyphenols help kill cancerous cells and stop their progression.

Bladder cancer. Only a few clinical studies have examined the relationship between bladder cancer and green tea consumption. In one study that compared people with and without bladder cancer, researchers found that women who drank black tea and powdered green tea were less likely to develop bladder cancer. A follow-up clinical study by the same group of researchers revealed that bladder cancer patients (particularly men) who drank green tea had a substantially better 5-year survival rate than those who did not.

Breast cancer. Clinical studies in animals and test tubes suggest that polyphenols in green tea inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. In one study of 472 women with various stages of breast cancer, researchers found that women who consumed the most green tea experienced the least spread of cancer (particularly premenopausal women in the early stages of breast cancer). They also found that women with early stages of the disease who drank at least 5 cups of tea every day before being diagnosed with cancer were less likely to suffer recurrences of the disease after completion of treatment. However, women with late stages of breast cancer experienced little or no improvement from drinking green tea. In terms of breast cancer prevention, the studies are inconclusive. In one very large clinical study from Japan, researchers found that drinking green tea was not associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer.

Ovarian cancer. In a clinical study conducted on ovarian cancer patients in China, researchers found that women who drank at least one cup of green tea per day survived longer with the disease than those who didn’t drink green tea. In fact, those who drank the most tea, lived the longest.

Colorectal cancer. Clinical studies on the effects of green tea on colon or rectal cancer have produced conflicting results. Some clinical studies show decreased risk in those who drink the tea, while others show increased risk. Further research is needed before researchers can recommend green tea for the prevention of colorectal cancer.

Esophageal cancer. Studies in laboratory animals have found that green tea polyphenols inhibit the growth of esophageal cancer cells. However, clinical studies in people have produced conflicting findings. For example, one large-scale population-based clinical study found that green tea offered significant protection against the development of esophageal cancer (particularly among women). Another population-based clinical study revealed just the opposite -- green tea consumption was associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer. In fact, the stronger and hotter the tea, the greater the risk. Given these conflicting results, further research is needed before scientists can recommend green tea for the prevention of esophageal cancer.

Lung cancer. While green tea polyphenols have been shown to inhibit the growth of human lung cancer cells in test tubes, few clinicial studies have investigated the link between green tea consumption and lung cancer in people and even these studies have been conflicting. One population-based clinical study found that Okinawan tea (similar to green tea but partially fermented) was associated with decreased lung cancer risk, particularly among women. A second clinical study revealed that green tea and black tea significantly increased the risk of lung cancer. As with colon and esophageal cancers, further clinical studies are needed before researchers can draw any conclusions about green tea and lung cancer.

Pancreatic cancer. In one large-scale clinical study researchers compared green tea drinkers with non-drinkers and found that those who drank the most tea were significantly less likely to develop pancreatic cancer. This was particularly true for women -- those who drank the most green tea were half as likely to develop pancreatic cancer as those who drank less tea. Men who drank the most tea were 37% less likely to develop pancreatic cancer. However, it is not clear from this population-based study whether green tea is solely responsible for reducing pancreatic cancer risk. Further studies in animals and people are needed before researchers can recommend green tea for the prevention of pancreatic cancer.

Prostate cancer. Laboratory studies have found that green tea extracts prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells in test tubes. In a large clinical study conducted in Southeast China researchers found that the risk of prostate cancer declined with increasing frequency, duration and quantity of green tea consumption. However, both green and black tea extracts also stimulated genes that cause cells to be less sensitive to chemotherapy drugs. Given this potential interaction, people should not drink black and green tea (as well as extracts of these teas) while receiving chemotherapy.

Skin cancer. The main polyphenol in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Scientific studies suggest that EGCG and green tea polyphenols have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that may help prevent the onset and growth of skin tumors.

Stomach cancer. Laboratory studies have found that green tea polyphenols inhibit the growth of stomach cancer cells in test tubes, but clinical studies in people have been less conclusive. In two studies that compared green tea drinkers with non-drinkers, researchers found that people who drank tea were about half as likely to develop stomach cancer and gastritis (inflammation of the stomach) as those who did not drink green tea. However, a clinicial study including more than 26,000 men and women in Japan found no association between green tea consumption and stomach cancer risk. Some clinicial studies even suggest that green tea may increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Further clinicial studies are underway to determine whether green tea helps reduce the risk of stomach cancer. Although green tea is considered safe for people at risk for stomach cancer, it is too soon to tell whether green tea reduces the likelihood of developing this disease.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Green tea may help reduce inflammation associated with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the two types of IBD. If green tea proves to be helpful for preventing colon cancer, this would be an added benefit for those with IBD because they are at risk for colon cancer.

Diabetes

Green tea has been used traditionally to control blood sugar in the body. Animal studies suggest that green tea may help prevent the development of type 1 diabetes and slow the progression once it has developed. People with type 1 diabetes produce little or no insulin, a hormone that converts glucose (sugar), starches, and other foods into energy needed for daily life. Green tea may help regulate glucose in the body.

A few small clinical studies have found that daily supplementation of the diet with green tea-extract powder lowered the hemoglobin A1c level in individuals with borderline diabetes.

Liver disease

Population-based clinical studies have shown that men who drink more than 10 cups of green tea per day are less likely to develop disorders of the liver. Green tea also seems to protect the liver from the damaging effects of toxic substances such as alcohol. Animal studies have shown that green tea helps protect against the development of liver tumors in mice.

Results from several animal and human studies suggest that one of the polyphenols present in green tea, known as catechin, may help treat viral hepatitis (inflammation of the liver from a virus). In these studies, catechin was isolated from green tea and used in very high concentrations. It is not clear whether green tea (which contains a lower concentration of catechins) confers these same benefits to people with hepatitis.

Weight loss

Clinical studies suggest that green tea extract may boost metabolism and help burn fat. One study confirmed that the combination of green tea and caffeine improved weight loss and maintenance in overweight and moderately obese individuals. Some researchers speculate that substances in green tea known as polyphenols, specifically the catechins, are responsible for the herb's fat-burning effect.

Other uses

Drinking green tea has been found effective in a small clinical study for dental caries, or tooth decay. More studies need to be performed. Green tea may also be useful in inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis. Research indicates that green tea may benefit arthritis by reducing inflammation and slowing cartilage breakdown. Chemicals found in green tea may also be effective in treating genital warts and preventing symptoms of colds and influenza.

Lavender

2009-02-24T19:22:00.000-08:00

Many people appreciate lavender (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis) for its aromatic fragrance, used in soaps, shampoos, and sachets for scenting clothes. The name lavender comes from the Latin root lavare, which means "to wash." Lavender most likely earned this name because it was frequently used in baths to help purify the body and spirit. However, this herb is also considered a natural remedy for a range of ailments from insomnia and anxiety to depression and mood disturbances. Research has confirmed that lavender produces calming, soothing, and sedative effects.

Parts Used:

Essential oil is extracted from the fresh flowers of the lavender plant and used for medicinal purposes.

Medicinal Uses and Indications:

Human clinical studies have reported that lavender essential oil may be beneficial in a variety of conditions, including insomnia, alopecia (hair loss), anxiety, stress, postoperative pain, and as an antibacterial and antiviral agent. Lavender oil is also used together with other forms of integrative medicine, such as massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic manipulation.

Insomnia

In folklore, pillows were filled with lavender flowers to help the restless fall sleep. There is now scientific evidence to suggest that aromatherapy with lavender may slow the activity of the nervous system, improves sleep quality, promote relaxation, and lift mood in people suffering from sleep disorders. Studies also suggest that massage with essential oils, particularly lavender, may result in improved sleep quality, more stable mood, increased mental capacity, and reduced anxiety. In one recent study, participants who received massage with lavender felt less anxious and more positive than participants who received massage alone. Lavender flowers have also been approved in Germany as a tea for insomnia, restlessness, and nervous stomach irritations.

Alopecia areata

In one study of 86 people with alopecia areata (a disease of unknown cause characterized by significant hair loss, generally in patches), those who massaged their scalps with lavender and other essential oils daily for 7 months experienced significant hair re-growth compared to those who massaged their scalps without the essential oils. It is not entirely clear from this study whether lavender (or a combination of lavender and other essential oils) was responsible for the beneficial effects.

Other uses

Aromatherapists also use lavender as a tonic in inhalation therapy to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. Herbalists treat skin ailments, such as fungal infections (like candidiasis), wounds, eczema, and acne, with lavender oil. It is also used externally in a healing bath for circulatory disorders and as a rub for rheumatic ailments (conditions affecting the muscles and joints). One study evaluating essential oils, including lavender, for treating children with eczema concluded that the oils added no benefit to therapeutic touch from the mother; in other words massage with and without essential oils was equally effective in improving the dry, scaly skin lesion. A recent study found that the use of lavender oil may improve postoperative pain control. Fifty patients undergoing breast biopsy surgery received either oxygen supplemented with lavender oil or oxygen alone. Patients in the lavender group reported a higher satisfaction rate with pain control than patients in the control group.

Available Forms:

Commercial preparations are made from dried flowers and essential oils of the lavender plant.
These preparations are available in Aromatherapy oil,Bath gels, Extracts, Infusions, Lotions, Soaps, Teas, Tinctures, Whole, dried flowers.

Aloe Benefits for Health

2009-02-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

The Aloe vera plant has been used for thousands of years to heal a variety of conditions, most notably burns, wounds, skin irritations, and constipation. It is grown in most subtropical and tropical locations, including South Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Aloe was one of the most frequently prescribed medicines throughout most of the 18th and 19th centuries and it remains one of the most commonly used herbs in the United States today. However, oral use of aloe for constipation is no longer recommended, as it can have severe side effects.

Burns

Aloe gel, made from the central part of the aloe leaf, is a common household remedy for minor cuts and burns as well as sunburns. It can be found in many commercial skin lotions and cosmetics. Aloe contains active compounds that may decrease pain and inflammation and stimulate skin growth and repair. For this reason, aloe vera gel has gained tremendous popularity for relief of burns, with individual success in helping minor burns. In a review of the scientific literature, researchers found that patients who were treated with aloe vera healed an average of almost 9 days sooner than those who weren't treated with the medicinal plant. However, other studies show mixed results, including at least one study that found aloe actually delayed healing. Aloe is best used for minor burns and skin irritations, and should never be applied to an open wound.

Herpes and skin conditions

Preliminary evidence also suggests that aloe gel may improve symptoms of genital herpes and certain skin conditions such as psoriasis. In fact, one study found that aloe vera gel displayed anti-inflammatory effects superior to 1% hydrocortisone cream or a placebo gel. As such, researchers claim that aloe vera gel may be useful in the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions, such as ultraviolet-induced erythema.

Constipation

Aloe juice or aloe latex, a yellow, bitter liquid derived from the skin of the aloe leaf, is a powerful laxative. However, it can cause painful cramping and is not recommended. Other gentler, herbal laxatives from the same plant family as aloe (such as cascara and senna) are generally recommended first.

Diabetes

Preliminary studies suggest that aloe juice may help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 (adult onset) diabetes. More research is needed to determine whether aloe is helpful for diabetes.

For Healthy stomach

The gel inside the leaf (buy a real leaf and open it yourself - dont buy gel from a health store) is very healing to the gut and stomach and prevents and heals inflammatory bowel disease, ulceritis colitis etc etc. Just peel off the skin of a leaf and wash off all the sap real properly (the sap is a laxative and purge so you dont want to eat that!) from the gel. Eat a big piece of the gel or put it in a food processor and add it to a smoothie once a week if you are healthy or whenever you have a tummy ache or feel sick.

Coffee Cuts Stroke Risk in Women

2009-02-24T18:18:00.000-08:00

Biggest Benefit Seen in Women Drinking 4 or More Cups of Coffee a Day
By Caroline Wilbert WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Elizabeth Klodas, MD, FACC
Feb. 16, 2009 -- Coffee addicts: Your habit may actually be good for you.

Regular coffee consumption reduces the risk of stroke in women, according to a new study. The study, published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, shows that women who drank four or more cups of coffee a day had a 20% reduced risk of stroke compared to women who had less than one cup per month. Drinking two to three cups per day reduced risk by 19%. Drinking a cup five to seven times a week reduced risk by 12%.

Researchers analyzed data on 83,076 women who participated in the Nurses' Health Study. Participants began the study in 1980 with no history of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. Every two to four years, the women filled out food frequency questionnaires about their diets. During the study, which lasted 24 years, 2,280 strokes were documented.

The benefits of coffee are much more significant for nonsmokers. For women who had never smoked or quit the habit, drinking four cups or more of coffee a day was associated with a 43% reduction in stroke risk. For women who smoked, drinking four cups or more was associated with only a 3% reduction in risk.

"The potential benefits of coffee cannot counterbalance the detrimental effects smoking has on health," Esther Lopez-Garcia, lead author of the study and assistant professor of preventive medicine at the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Spain, says in a news release.

In addition to smoking, having high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol also neutralized the coffee effect.

The benefits do not appear to come from caffeine. Participants who drank tea and caffeinated soft drinks did not experience the same reduction in stroke risk. "This finding supports the hypothesis that components in coffee other than caffeine may be responsible for the potential beneficial effect of coffee on stroke risk," Lopez-Garcia says. "Antioxidants in coffee lower inflammation and improve blood vessel function.

"The beneficial effects of coffee can only be applied to healthy people," she says. "Anyone with health problems that can be worsened by coffee (insomnia, anxiety, hypertension, or heart problems) should talk to their doctor about their specific risk."

And the data suggest that women still need to pay attention to any stroke risk factors they may have. Drinking coffee will not make those risk factors go away.

SOURCES: Lopez-Garcia, E., Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, Feb. 17, 2009; vol 119. News release, American Heart Association.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

2009-02-24T18:06:00.000-08:00

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential fatty acids. They are essential to human health but cannot be manufactured by the body. For this reason, omega-3 fatty acids must be obtained from food. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, such as salmon, tuna, and halibut, other marine life such as algae and krill, certain plants (including purslane), and nut oils. Also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function as well as normal growth and development.

It is advised that pregnant women and mothers, nursing mothers, young children, and women who might become pregnant not eat several types of fish, including swordfish, shark, and king mackerel. These individuals should also limit consumption of other fish, including albacore tuna, salmon, and herring. They can take omega-3 fatty acids in quality dietary supplements that are certified mercury-free by a reputable third-party lab.

There are three major types of omega 3 fatty acids that are ingested in foods and used by the body: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Once eaten, the body converts ALA to EPA and DHA, the two types of omega-3 fatty acids more readily used by the body. Extensive research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and help prevent risk factors associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. These essential fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be particularly important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function. In fact, infants who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy are at risk for developing vision and nerve problems. Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include extreme tiredness (fatigue), poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings or depression, and poor circulation.

It is important to maintain an appropriate balance of omega-3 and omega-6 (another essential fatty acid) in the diet, as these two substances work together to promote health. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, and most omega-6 fatty acids tend to promote inflammation. An inappropriate balance of these essential fatty acids contributes to the development of disease while a proper balance helps maintain and even improve health. A healthy diet should consist of roughly 2 - 4 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids. The typical American diet tends to contain 14 - 25 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids, and many researchers believe this imbalance is a significant factor in the rising rate of inflammatory disorders in the United States.

In contrast, however, the Mediterranean diet consists of a healthier balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and many studies have shown that people who follow this diet are less likely to develop heart disease. It also contains another fatty acid, omega-9 fatty acids, which have been reported to help lower risks associated with cancer and heart disease. The Mediterranean diet does not include much meat (which is high in omega-6 fatty acids) and emphasizes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, garlic, as well as moderate wine consumption.

Uses of Omega 3 Fatty Acid

Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in treating a variety of health conditions. The evidence is strongest for heart disease and problems that contribute to heart disease, but the range of possible uses for omega-3 fatty acids include:

High cholesterol

Those who follow a Mediterranean-style diet tend to have higher high density lipoprotein (HDL or "good" )cholesterol levels. Similar to those who follow a Mediterranean diet, Inuit Eskimos, who consume high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish, also tend to have increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides (fatty material that circulates in the blood). In addition, fish oil supplements containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been reported in several large clinical studies to reduce low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Finally, walnuts (which are rich in alpha linolenic acid or ALA) have been reported to lower total cholesterol and triglycerides in individuals with high cholesterol levels.

High blood pressure

Several clinical studies suggest that diets or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids lower blood pressure significantly in individuals with hypertension. An analysis of 17 clinical studies using fish oil supplements found that supplementation with 3 or more grams of fish oil daily can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure in individuals with untreated hypertension.

Heart disease

One of the best ways to help prevent and treat heart disease is to eat a low-fat diet and to replace foods rich in saturated and trans-fat with those that are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3 fatty acids). Clinical evidence suggests that EPA and DHA found in fish oil help reduce risk factors for heart disease including high cholesterol and high blood pressure. There is also strong evidence that these substances can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by inhibiting the development of plaque and blood clots, each of which tends to clog arteries. Clinical studies of heart attack survivors have found that daily omega-3 fatty acid supplements dramatically reduce the risk of death, subsequent heart attacks, and stroke. Similarly, people who eat an ALA-rich diet are less likely to suffer a fatal heart attack.

Strong evidence from population-based clinical studies suggests that omega-3 fatty acid intake (primarily from fish) helps protect against stroke caused by plaque buildup and blood clots in the arteries that lead to the brain. In fact, eating at least 2 servings of fish per week can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 50%. However, people who eat more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day (equivalent to 3 servings of fish per day) may be at an increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which an artery in the brain leaks or ruptures.

Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes tend to have high triglyceride and low HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can help lower triglycerides and apoproteins (markers of diabetes), and raise HDL, so people with diabetes may benefit from eating foods or taking supplements that contain DHA and EPA. ALA (from flaxseed, for example) may not have the same benefit as DHA and EPA because some people with diabetes lack the ability to efficiently convert ALA to a form of omega-3 fatty acids that the body can use readily. There have been slight increases reported in fasting blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes while taking fish oil supplements.

Weight loss

Many individuals who are overweight suffer from poor blood sugar control, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Clinical studies suggest that overweight people who follow a weight loss program that includes exercise tend to achieve better control over their blood sugar and cholesterol levels when fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, mackerel, and herring) is a staple in their low-fat diet.

Arthritis

Most clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements for inflammatory joint conditions have focused almost entirely on rheumatoid arthritis. Several articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (and low in the inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids) may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis. In fact, several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. Similarly, New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been reported to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis. In some participants, symptoms worsened before they improved.

An analysis was conducted of 17 randomized, controlled clinical trials assessing the pain relieving effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or joint pain caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea). The results suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are effective treatment, along with conventional therapies such as anti-inflammatory drugs, for joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and dysmenorrhea.

Osteoporosis

Clinical studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA help increase levels of calcium in the body, deposit calcium in the bones, and improve bone strength. In addition, studies also suggest that people who are deficient in certain essential fatty acids (particularly EPA and gamma-linolenic acid [GLA], an omega-6 fatty acid) are more likely to suffer from bone loss than those with normal levels of these fatty acids. In a study of women over 65 with osteoporosis, those given EPA and GLA supplements experienced significantly less bone loss over 3 years than those who were given a placebo. Many of these women also experienced an increase in bone density.

Depression

People who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids or do not maintain a healthy balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in their diet may be at an increased risk for depression. The omega-3 fatty acids are important components of nerve cell membranes. They help nerve cells communicate with each other, which is an essential step in maintaining good mental health. In particular, DHA is involved in a variety of nerve cell processes.

Levels of omega-3 fatty acids were found to be measurably low and the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids were particularly high in a clinical study of patients hospitalized for depression. In a clinical study of individuals with depression, those who ate a healthy diet consisting of fatty fish 2 - 3 times per week for 5 years experienced a significant reduction in feelings of depression and hostility.

Bipolar disorder

In a clinical study of 30 people with bipolar disorder, those who were treated with EPA and DHA (in combination with their usual mood stabilizing medications) for 4 months experienced fewer mood swings and recurrence of either depression or mania than those who received placebo. Another 4-month long clinical study treating individuals with bipolar depression and rapid cycling bipolar disorder did not find evidence of efficacy for the use of in EPA in these patients.

Schizophrenia

Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that people with schizophrenia experience an improvement in symptoms when given omega-3 fatty acids. However, a recent well-designed study concluded that EPA supplements are no better than placebo in improving symptoms of this condition. The conflicting results suggest that more research is needed before conclusions can be drawn about the benefit of omega-3 fatty acids for schizophrenia. Similar to diabetes, individuals with schizophrenia may not be able to convert ALA to EPA or DHA efficiently.

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have low levels of certain essential fatty acids (including EPA and DHA) in their bodies. In a clinical study of nearly 100 boys, those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids demonstrated more learning and behavioral problems (such as temper tantrums and sleep disturbances) than boys with normal omega-3 fatty acid levels. In animal studies, low levels of omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower the concentration of certain brain chemicals (such as dopamine and serotonin) related to attention and motivation. Clinical studies that examine the ability of omega-3 supplements to improve symptoms of ADHD are still needed. At this point in time, eating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids is a reasonable approach for someone with ADHD. A clinical study used omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acid supplementation in 117 children with ADHD. They study found significant improvements in reading, spelling, and behavior in the children over the 3 months of therapy. Another clinical study found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation helped to decrease physical aggression in school children with ADHD. More studies, including comparisons with drug therapies (such as stimulants), should be performed.

Eating disorders

Clinical studies suggest that men and women with anorexia nervosa have lower than optimal levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (including ALA and GLA). To prevent the complications associated with essential fatty acid deficiencies, some experts recommend that treatment programs for anorexia nervosa include PUFA-rich foods such as fish and organ meats (which include omega-6 fatty acids).

Burns

Essential fatty acids have been used to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in burn victims. Animal research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids help promote a healthy balance of proteins in the body -- protein balance is important for recovery after sustaining a burn. Further research is necessary to determine whether omega-3s benefit people in the same way.

Skin disorders

In one clinical study, 13 people with a particular sensitivity to the sun known as photo dermatitis showed significantly less sensitivity to UV rays after taking fish oil supplements. Still, research indicates that topical sunscreens are much better at protecting the skin from damaging effects of the sun than omega-3 fatty acids. In another study of 40 people with psoriasis, those who were treated with medications and EPA supplements did better than those treated with the medications alone. In addition, many clinicians believe that flaxseed (which contains omega-3 fatty acids) is helpful for treating acne.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

When added to medication, such as sulfasalazine (a standard medication for IBD), omega-3 fatty acids may reduce symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis -- the 2 types of IBD. More studies to investigate this preliminary finding are under way. In animals, it appears that ALA works better at decreasing bowel inflammation than EPA and DHA. Plus, fish oil supplements can cause side effects that are similar to symptoms of IBD (such as flatulence, belching, bloating, and diarrhea).

Asthma

Clinical research suggests that omega-3 fatty acid supplements (in the form of perilla seed oil, which is rich in ALA) may decrease inflammation and improve lung function in adults with asthma. Omega-6 fatty acids have the opposite effect: they tend to increase inflammation and worsen respiratory function. In a small, well-designed clinical study of 29 children with asthma, those who took fish oil supplements rich in EPA and DHA for 10 months had improvement in their symptoms compared to children who took a placebo pill.

Macular Degeneration

A questionnaire administered to more than 3,000 people over the age of 49 found that those who consumed more fish in their diet were less likely to have macular degeneration (a serious age-related eye condition that can progress to blindness) than those who consumed less fish. Similarly, a clinical study comparing 350 people with macular degeneration to 500 without the eye disease found that those with a healthy dietary balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and higher intake of fish in their diets were less likely to have this particular eye disorder. Another larger clinical study confirms that EPA and DHA from fish, 4 or more times per week, may reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration. Notably, however, this same study suggests that ALA may actually increase the risk of this eye condition.

Menstrual pain

In a clinical study of nearly 200 Danish women, those with the highest dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids had the mildest symptoms, such as hot flashes and increased sweating, during menstruation.

Colon cancer

Consuming significant amounts of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids appears to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. For example, Eskimos, who tend to follow a high-fat diet but eat significant amounts of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have a low rate of colorectal cancer. Animal studies and laboratory studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids prevent worsening of colon cancer while omega-6 fatty acids promote the growth of colon tumors. Daily consumption of EPA and DHA also appeared to slow or even reverse the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease.

Clinical studies have reported that low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body are a marker for an increased risk of colon cancer.

However, in an animal study of rats with metastatic colon cancer (in other words, cancer that has spread to other parts of the body such as the liver), omega-3 fatty acids actually promoted the growth of cancer cells in the liver. Until more information is available, it is best for people with advanced stages of colorectal cancer to avoid omega-3 fatty acid supplements and diets rich in this substance.

Breast cancer

Although not all experts agree, women who regularly consume foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids over many years may be less likely to develop breast cancer. In addition, the risk of dying from breast cancer may be significantly less for those who eat large quantities of omega-3 from fish and brown kelp seaweed (common in Japan). This is particularly true among women who substitute fish for meat. The balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids appears to play an important role in the development and growth of breast cancer. Further research is still needed to understand the effect that omega-3 fatty acids may have on the prevention or treatment of breast cancer. For example, researchers speculate that omega-3 fatty acids in combination with other nutrients (namely, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and coenzyme Q10) may prove to be of particular value for preventing and treating breast cancer.

Prostate cancer

Laboratory and animal studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids (specifically, DHA and EPA) may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer. Similarly, population based clinical studies of groups of men suggest that a low-fat diet with the addition of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil help prevent the development of prostate cancer. Like breast cancer, the balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids appears to be particularly important for reducing the risk of this condition. ALA, however, may not offer the same benefits as EPA and DHA. In fact, one recent clinical study evaluating 67 men with prostate cancer found that they had higher levels of ALA compared to men without prostate cancer. More research in this area is needed.

Other

Although further research is needed, preliminary evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may also prove helpful in protecting against certain infections and treating a variety of conditions, including autism, ulcers, migraine headaches, preterm labor, emphysema, psoriasis, glaucoma, Lyme disease, systemic lupus erythmatosus (lupus), irregular heart beats (arrhythmias), multiple sclerosis, and panic attacks. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may also help to reduce stress and the effects it has on the body.

Violence of Fiber

2009-02-24T00:37:00.000-08:00

Consistent intake of fiber through foods like berries and other fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains and nuts can provide healthful benefits. Recent medical research has proven several physiological benefits of consuming fiber which include:

-> improved absorption of calcium, magnesium, and iron
-> maintenance of an optimal intestinal environment
-> stimulation of immune responses

Most manufacturers of nutritional supplements make no attempt to provide fiber as a valuable macronutrient in their products, yet it is one that regulatory and advisory agencies increasingly emphasize consumers to include every day.

In North America, adults consume less than 50% of the recommended daily intake for fiber (children, teens and young adults even less). This low intake extends from perceptions that fiber sources such as various colorful fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains do not taste good or lack other properties sufficiently attractive to encourage regular dietary intake.

In general, fiber undergoes one of two fates in our digestive system. Insoluble (non-fermentable) fiber attracts water but otherwise passes through our digestive system unchanged, aiding clearance of the intestinal tract and promoting laxation and regularity. Fiber sources resistant to complete digestion are sometimes referred to as “resistant starch” or “resistant carbohydrates”.

Soluble (fermentable) fiber has more complex actions during digestion. “Fermentation” is simply the breakdown of carbohydrate (starch, sugar) molecules in the large intestine, yielding gases and further useful chemicals such as short chain fatty acids. More scientifically, fermentation is a metabolic activity involving use of one organic source to create others, such as enzymes which digest food and then release new elements. Among products of fermentation are gases (methane, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, nitrogen) and short-chain fatty acids - new molecules clipped from the more complex digested fiber and food compounds.

Fatty acids like butyric acid, acetic acid, propionic acid and valeric acid have several beneficial physiological effects in the large intestine. These fatty acids make up about 90% of the total fatty acid yield from fermentation in the human body.

When produced by fermentation, short-chain fatty acids - primarily butyric acid, acetic acid and propionic acid - can:

increase absorption of minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium),
inhibit growth of pathogens (cancerous tumors, for example) on the intestinal wall by increasing the acidic content (in science, this is called a decreased pH) of the lower large intestine - the colon,
provide energy substances as food for the mucosal layers of the intestine,
promote solubility of fatty acids and minerals and so enhance their availability for absorption.

Should the fatty acids from fermentation be transported into intestinal venous blood or absorbed via lymph channels, they reach the systemic circulation and can be deposited in the liver and kidneys where they have useful roles in the functions of those organs. From studies done on isolated liver cells or liver enzymes, for example, some scientists have speculated that fatty acids from fermented fibers have a specific benefit for liver health.

Fatty acids also inhibit cholesterol synthesis and lipid deposition, stabilize circulating glucose levels helpful in management of diabetes and weight control and reduce uric acid levels (and so may relieve gout). All these factors promote health of the cardiovascular and skeletal systems.

A further general benefit is that the health of the digestive tract is maintained by the fermentable fibers providing a food source for intestinal bacteria – the “good” bacteria that maintain normal digestive and waste functions of our intestines. As the largest immune-defense system of our bodies, this implies that dietary fiber contributes significantly to immune health.

For these reasons, we have incorporated fiber into each of our products and want to encourage our customers to gradually add fiber sources to your diets to attain the 30 gram per day goal.

Fiber Fermentation and Prebiotic Nutrient Value

The process of intestinal fermentation involves action by natural bacteria, sometimes called flora, which reside in our large intestine (primarily the colon). These bacteria use soluble fiber sources in the process of fermentation to produce valuable chemicals and health benefits.

Since the fiber serves as food for the bacteria already in the intestine, this is called a “prebiotic” nutrient value, meaning that before the bacteria can serve their main purpose in digestion, producing enzymes that digest food, they must be fed with a substrate they prefer – fermentable fiber.

Berry pectins, inulin, psyllium and xanthan gum are sources of soluble fibers purposefully used in our fiber products to provide this prebiotic function in the normal fermentation process.

Summarizing from the above section, short-chain fatty acids may 1) enhance calcium, magnesium and iron absorption, 2) contribute to lowering blood cholesterol, 3) promote colon health by raising acidity levels, thereby reducing colon cancer risk, 4) afford immune protection through a comprehensive array of intermediate effects within the intestinal systems.

For perspective about nutritional terms, “probiotic” nutrients (rather than prebiotic), are those that add already active bacteria to the intestinal tract from the diet. Examples of probiotic nutrient sources include yogurt with live bacterial cultures and some fermented cheeses and dairy products.

To capture a total prebiotic and probiotic benefit from a meal, Berry Wise™ users can enjoy our fiber formula mixed in your favorite yogurt.

The Amazing of Berries

2009-02-24T00:26:00.000-08:00

Berries, and particularly blueberries and cranberries, have become a cornerstone of health. With good reason—the abundance of vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and phytochemicals found in berries provides antioxidant protection including defense against oxidative stress.

Over the past 10 years, the focus of food scientists on health properties of wild blueberries has revealed a compelling story of nutrient richness and diversity of potential health benefits, including urinary tract health (identical in strength to cranberries), mental alertness and vision support. The antioxidants present in blueberries such as anthocyanins and chlorogenic acid also maintain cell integrity critical for long term health. For taste, color, vitamins, fibers, and phenolic richness, blueberries are a “blueprint” for every Berry Wise™ product.

Consumption of a whole food – the whole berry, or a comprehensive nutritional supplement guarantees intake of as many intact phytochemicals (plant-derived chemicals) and nutrients as possible. Guided by the scientifically-proven and beneficial effects of nutrients in berries and other healthful foods, we at Berry Wise seek to create nutrient-dense products to diminish the effects of aging and stress on the body’s vital systems – the intestinal and cardiovascular systems, brain and bones to name a few.

We believe berries are Nature’s #1 antioxidant fruit. That’s why we include at least 8 different berries fortified with vitamins, minerals and fiber in every Berry Wise™ product to amplify the power of Nature.

Within the berries selected for Berry Wise products are the following major phenolics or classes of health-promoting, plant-derived chemicals, each providing antioxidant and flavor qualities. Click on the berries for a summary of the nutritional and taste profile of each.

Açai – anthocyanins, primarily cyanidins

Bilberries – catechins, procyanidins, resveratrol, anthocyanins

Blackberries – anthocyanins, ellagic acid, gallic acid, vitamin C

Black Raspberries – anthocyanins, ellagic acid, ferulic acid

Blueberries – numerous anthocyanins, chlorogenic acid, peonidins

Cranberries – anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, catechins, quercetin

Elderberries – anthocyanins, myricetin

Red grapes – resveratrol, proanthocyanidins, gallic acid, catechins

Raspberries – ellagitannins, procyanidins, anthocyanins, vitamin C

Strawberries – anthocyanins, ellagic acid

Worldwide scientific literature on berry nutrients is growing exponentially every year. It’s a wonderful story of healthy nutrition packed into Nature’s tiniest fruit treasures. We at Berry Wise are constantly on the watch for news about berries ‘hot’ off the scientific presses to provide you with the latest in nutrition science.

Our goal is to harness the knowledge behind all of these discoveries so you can benefit from the very best Nature and science have to offer in all of our Berry Wise products. We keep it simple so you can Live Life. Age Well.

Top 10 Foods You Should Start Eating Now

2009-02-24T00:03:00.000-08:00

From: Sarah Karl
If you want to take a step towards eating more consciously, add these 10 foods to your grocery list now. These incredible edibles pack a nutritious punch with vitamins and natural compounds that don't just taste good, they can help prevent disease.

#1 Berries. Berries are brimming with nutrients and phytochemicals and have been named a “food that fights cancer” by the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR). They're also loaded with vitamin C, and fiber -- both substances have been consistently linked to lower cancer risk. But they also contain ellagic acid that laboratory studies have shown may help prevent cancers of the skin, bladder, lung, esophagus, and breast. And blueberries contain a family of phenolic compounds called anthocyanosides, which seem to be among the most potent antioxidants yet discovered.

#2 Garlic & Onions. Loaded with phytochemicals, onions and garlic are members of the allium family of plants (other members include scallions, leeks, and chives), which produces organosulfur phytochemicals, including allicin and diallyl disulfide (DADS). It’s probably not one component in garlic and onions that holds the wealth of health benefits, either, but a combination of substances. A recent review of garlic research by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City concluded that garlic does indeed have modest lipid-lowering effects when consumed for 6 months. Onions are one of the richest sources of quercetin on the planet. This potent antioxidant is suspected of helping protect against heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.

#3 Oats. There’s a lot more to oats, nutritionally speaking, than fiber (4 grams per 1/2-cup). You also get some protein; smart fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat); and a host of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals to boot! Oats can block harmful effects of “bad” cholesterol. Oats contribute two important antioxidant phytochemicals to your diet: avenanthramides and phenolic acids. More needs to be known on this but researchers from Tufts University completed a clinical trial using an evenanthramide-rich oat extract and found that the oat phytochemicals worked synergistically with vitamin C to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation. (Oxidized LDL becomes a lot more harmful and more likely to encourage plaguing in the arteries.) In many studies, eating oats have been shown to help reduce blood pressure too.
#4 Tomatoes. Tomatoes first grabbed headlines when researchers discovered that it’s loaded with lycopene (thought to have the highest antioxidant activity of all the carotenoids), which has synergy with vitamin E and other food components. But upon closer inspection, it’s a standout among fruits and vegetables because it actually contains all four major carotenoids (alpha- and beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene) and all three high-powered antioxidants (beta-carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin C), also thought to have synergy together.

#5 Soy
Soybeans are a unique member of the legume family: They contain a large amount of natural plant estrogens (Isoflavones), as well as all the essential amino acids and a number of antioxidant phytochemicals. Genistein, the main isoflavone in soy, has possible antitumor activity, but soy possesses other cancer-fighting components. Researchers suspect that these powerful anticancer components work at different stages of the cancer process. This means there is value in eating your soy in close to whole form so you are sure to get all of the aforementioned components versus just one in a soy supplement.

It’s also probably better to get your soy in food form to fully benefit from the cholesterol-lowering properties of its protein. Processing can also reduce the isoflavone content of some soy protein products by as much as 80%. According to soy expert Mark Messina, PhD, conceivably isoflavones and soy protein work cooperatively to reduce cholesterol. Here’s one more reason to eat your soy in close to whole form: Soy contains “inactive” components along with the “active” ones we’ve just discussed. It’s possible that some of these inactive components are required for the active ones to be useful.

#6 Broccoli. Broccoli is one of those “super” vegetables because it has so many powerful components, each offering wonderful health benefits. But recent research suggests that several of those components are working together too. Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign discovered that crambene, one of the phytochemicals in cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli), is more active when combined with another better-known cruciferous phytochemical, indole-3-carbinol. There’s also evidence that components in broccoli have synergy with components in other plant foods. For example, subjects in lab studies fed a combination of tomatoes and broccoli had markedly less prostate tumor growth, compared with groups who ate either food alone.

#7 Beans. Beans offer an amazing package of nutrients—every piece is important—but the beauty is in the balance. This plant food is uniquely high in protein and bursting with beneficial phytochemicals, many of which have antioxidant power. You get some good-quality carbohydrates that interact with lots of fiber to be digested slowly. Beans have been shown to result in relatively small increases in blood glucose levels following meals in people with and without diabetes.
Beans and soy are two of 11 plant foods that the American Institute for Cancer Research recently named as “foods that fight cancer.” The active ingredients in beans that seem to play a protective role include three phytochemicals (saponins, protease inhibitors, and phytic acid). They are thought to protect cells from the type of genetic damage that can lead to cancer. Beans may also help reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease too.

#8 Yogurt. Bet you never thought bacteria would be a good thing! Well, your body actually needs a healthy amount of “good,” or beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. We can promote the activity of these beneficial bacteria by eating probiotic foods. Most major brands of yogurt contain probiotic bacteria. Yogurt with active cultures may help stimulate the immune system, according to several recent research reviews, although more research needs to be done using well-designed human studies. Yogurt with active cultures may prove helpful for certain gastrointestinal conditions, including lactose intolerance, constipation, diarrheal diseases, colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and Helicobacter pylori infection.
#9 Apples. Eat an apple a day to help keep breast cancer away? In a recent lab study at Cornell, researchers found that breast tumor incidence was reduced by 17 percent when rats were fed the human equivalent of one apple a day over 24 weeks and 39% when fed the human equivalent of three a day. Actually numerous population studies have linked eating apples with a reduced risk of some cancers, cardiovascular disease, asthma, and diabetes. And in the laboratory, apples have exhibited very strong antioxidant activity to inhibit cell proliferation (the type of rapid multiplication that occurs in tumors), decrease lipid oxidation (when fats in the body combine with oxygen), and lower cholesterol. Simple phenolics and flavonoids represent the majority of antioxidant activity found in apples, and it’s the phenolics in apple peel specifically that account for the majority of the antioxidant and antiproliferating activity.

#10 Almonds (and other nuts). Nuts in general contain a combination of various cholesterol-lowering plant food components. Here’s the fact that got my attention, though: In virtually all studies that examined the impact of nuts in our diet, nut consumption has been associated with a reduction in coronary heart disease risk. Each nut contains its own unique profile of phytochemicals, types of fatty acids, and types and amounts of fiber. Almonds and most nuts contain large amounts of oleic acid (a monounsaturated fat), which may help raise HDL “good” cholesterol levels and lower LDL “bad” cholesterol. Plus, almonds contain a vegetable protein that may also lower LDLs.

For more on how to health your body with healthy foods, read Elaine's latest Amazon hit: Food Synergies.

7 Strategies to Prevent Food Allergy Emergencies

2009-02-23T22:20:00.000-08:00

From: Rachel Grumman
If you’re one of people with food allergies, they likely stem from just eight foods, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI). Cow’s milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish are responsible for 90 percent of all food allergies which can range in severity from uncomfortable to deadly.

If you’re unsure if you’re one of those affected, of if you’re looking for ways to help you cope, follow these tips on how to prevent serious reactions and safeguard your health.

Get Tested
To find out which foods, if any, are problematic for you, have an allergist do a skin test. If you’re diagnosed with a specific food allergy such as peanuts or shellfish, you’ll know which edibles not to eat, thereby avoiding an allergic reaction. Keep in mind that some people are allergic to more than one food, according to the AAAAI.

Read Labels Carefully
Most labels will list ingredients (including warnings such as “may contain peanuts”), according to the AAAAI. Even if it’s a product you’ve been using for years, the item’s ingredients or labeling can change so always check the label, according to the Mayo Clinic. If a product doesn’t have a label, don’t chance it by eating the food.
Ask Your Waiter
When dining out, ask your server how the dish is prepared and drive home the seriousness of your food allergy. If your server hesitates or doesn’t seem sure about the ingredients, have him or her to ask the chef. “When in doubt, clearly avoid the food,” says Jeffrey M. Factor, MD, an allergist at the Connecticut Asthma and Allergy Center in West Hartford, Connecticut.

Watch Out For Hidden Triggers
Meat slicers at delis are often used to slice both meat and cheese, so if you’re allergic to dairy, it could trigger a reaction. “Some people are highly allergic and even with minimal exposure they can have problems with certain foods,” says Eugene S. Hurwitz, MD, an allergist at Center for Allergy and Asthma of West Georgia in Atlanta. Also, even if a food is listed as “non-dairy” it may still contain milk by-products that can cause a reaction. Many snack foods are processed on machines that also process nuts, but will list that fact on the food label.

Find Substitutes
If you’re allergic to milk, soy and rice milk are good alternatives. Steer clear of goat’s milk since most people who are allergic to cow’s milk react to goat’s milk as well, according to Dr. Hurwitz. At ice cream shops, opt for soft serve instead of hard ice cream where the scoopers can come into contact with peanuts, causing an allergic reaction.
Read the Signs Symptoms often strike almost immediately after eating the problematic food: tingling or itching in the mouth or throat, difficulty swallowing and/or swelling of the lips or tongue. “They may break out in hives or have breathing problems, such as tightening of the chest and shortness of breath,” says Dr. Factor. “Also, some may experience stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.”

Be Prepared for Emergency
If you’re severely allergic to a certain food, talk to your doctor about the Epipen, a shot that immediately administers epinephrine during a severe allergic reaction. “It not only reverses the symptoms and signs of an allergic reaction, but it also prevents it from getting worse,” explains Dr. Factor. Ask your allergist whether you need an Epipen and if so, when and how to use it (it should be on you at all times).

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