Meditation as Analgesic

meditationtechnique.us

An hour of meditation for three days can give sufficient analgesic effect, according to a study. Meditation allows a person to reduce the tension and anxiety, thereby, lessening the pain in the body. It is like accepting and engaging with the pain rather than distancing yourself from the pain by taking pain killers.

After reading such, I have been trying to meditate but I always find myself falling asleep during the course. Sheesh.

Other topics of interest:
Eye Floaters
Cataract Removal: The AcrySof IQ ReSTOR Way
Insecticide Treated Bed to Fight Against Malaria
Hot Drinks for Flu
Flossing and Its Many Benefits

Eye Floaters

irishealth.com

I briefly mentioned in my previous blog post regarding the eye floaters of my mom. Eye floaters are specks in front of our eyes. Almost everyone experiences, at some point in time, occasional floaters while staring an object against a light background. The floaters can also be seen when we are feeling light-headed.

Generally, eye floaters are innocuous. Thus, there is nothing to be worried of when they appear. However, when these floaters become visible in every background and are accompanied by loss of vision, it could be an early symptom of retinal detachment, according to eye specialists. Therefore, visiting an ophthalmologist is recommended.

As for my mom’s eye floaters, her ophthalmologist considered them as harmless.

Other topics of interest:
Cataract Removal: The AcrySof IQ ReSTOR Way
Hair Loss Problem Would Soon be Over
Gumtect for Bleeding Gums
Vitamin D Prevents Osteoporosis
Fruits and Vegetables for Treating Different Diseases Like Prostate Cancer and Diabetes

Cataract Removal: The AcrySof IQ ReSTOR Way

stylerap7.lastjune.web.id

My mother has cataract in both eyes. This eye condition usually occurs in older patients. However, such eye problem may also affect younger patients.

A couple of weeks ago, my mother underwent eye check-up, not for her cataract, but for the floater she has been complaining for days. Her ophthalmologist advised her not to be concerned about the floater as it can simply go down, anytime. Plus, it is innocuous. But he recommended removal of her cataract as this eye condition worsens my mom’s visions.

The recommended procedure requires small incision in the affected eye to melt the clouded lens of the said eye. The surgeon will then replace the removed lens with AcrySof IQ ReSTOR lens.

That cataract removal procedure seems simple. But it is not easy on the pocket. Each lens cost PHP80k ($1800+). Then again, after putting a hole in my mom’s pocket, her ophthalmologist assured that she would get a clear vision and that she would no longer need to wear reading glasses.

In the meantime, my mother has to bear with wearing prescription eyeglasses while we are still trying to figure out where to get such a big amount. Ugh!

Other topics of interest:
Hair Loss Problem would Soon be Over
Gumtect for Bleeding Gums
Vitamin D Prevents Osteoporosis
Fruits and Vegetables for Treating Different Diseases Like Prostate Cancer and Diabetes
Lipid Metabolism and Its Associated Diseases

Insecticide Treated Bed to Fight Against Malaria

cdc.gov

Malaria is a medical condition that affects the liver and red blood cells. This condition is transmitted through Plasmodium-infected mosquitoes. Fever, headache and vomiting are some of the common symptoms of malaria. Just like dengue, malaria could be a life-threatening condition if left untreated.

UNICEF is one of the organizations that work against the spread of malaria. One of the effective solutions this organization recommends is insecticide treated bed. This type of bed costs $6 and could last up to 5 years.

If I’m not mistaken, Davao City government distributed tons of insecticide treated mosquito net to ward against the spread of malaria and dengue in remote areas of DC.

I scouted around for insecticide treated bed in every mall in DC but to no avail. Fortunately, we have “screens” installed in our house to prevent mosquitoes from entering our abode.

On another note, if you want to donate insecticide treated bed, you may visit www.unicef.org.

Other topics of interest:
Flossing and Its Many Benefits
Knee Pain Remedy: More Delicious Option
Ultima-C Sodium Ascorbate for Asthmatic
Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol-- The HDL
Hot Drinks for Flu

Hot Drinks for Flu

Image source: wellsphere.com

I don’t usually sip hot drinks when I have flu. But, according to a new research conducted by Common Cold Centre of Cardiff University, drinking any hot drink alleviates the symptoms of sore throat and cough. The warm drink increases secretions, thereby, soothing an inflamed throat.

The researchers of that study also recommend quaffing of spicy foods and hot soups as they, too, can offer the same effect.

Good thing is that my body’s defense mechanism is strong enough to ward off flu virus.

Other topics of interest:
Hair Loss Problem would Soon be Over
A Glance at Sensitivity Testing
Flossing and Its Many Benefits
Knee Pain Remedy: More Delicious Option
Ultima-C Sodium Ascorbate for Asthmatic

Hair Loss Problem Would Soon be Over

hairlosspreventiontips.com

Hair loss problem among adult males would soon be rectified, according to a study. It would be possible by simply “manipulating” the gene, called APCDD1, which is involved in hair loss problem that arises in childhood.

According to researchers, a common mutation is needed to arrest a “signaling pathway,” which is used to control hair growth.

Still, many things are needed to be straighten out but it would surely change how hair loss problem is treated.

Source: Reader's Digest 

Other topics of interest:
Gumtect for Bleeding Gums
Vitamin D Prevents Osteoporosis
Fruits and Vegetables for Treating Different Diseases Like Prostate Cancer and Diabetes
Lipid Metabolism and Its Associated Diseases
Hormonal Imbalance Linked to Acne Problem

A Glance at Sensitivity Testing

Also known as drug resistance testing, susceptibility testing and C&S, sensitivity testing is a laboratory examination that determines whether a particular antimicrobial agent (antibiotic) is effective in putting an end to the growth of the bacteria or fungi which cause the infection. 

...Every time I perform sensitivity test, I feel like a scientist who wants to discover something.

Other topics of interest:
High LDL and Associated Risk
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma-- Exams and Symptoms
Confirmatory Test for Diabetes
Urinalysis: TNTC Definition
PSA: Prostate Specific Antigen

High LDL and Associated Risk

I had my laboratory examination at Alexian Brothers (cheaper rates compared with other laboratory clinics and hospitals) for the following tests:

UE - urinalysis
FE - fecalysis
FBS - Fasting Blood Sugar (screening test for diabetes)
Creatinine - (kidney function test)
Serum Uric Acid
Lipid Profile:
HDL
LDL
Cholesterol
Triglycerides

The test results returned normal, except for my LDL or bad cholesterol. I am not sure how it turned out to be 2.92 mmol/l when the normal range for such test is from 0 to 2.50 mmol/l. I do exercise regularly (except for a busy week). I rarely eat meat. And I am far from being obese.

I just feel uneasy because LDL is considered a risk factor of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular problem runs in our family. Ugh!

I’m thinking of going back to swimming and playing tennis. These activities were cut off because of busyness. I’m also allocating budget for Herbalife Shake. I ceased from drinking it because of my limited budget.

The reason I submitted myself for these laboratory tests was my complaint of joint pain, ergo, a request for SUA. Fortunately, my uric acid is normal. That means, there is no need for me to halt from eating nuts.

Anyway, I will just try to eat a healthy balanced diet and minimize eating pizza.

Other topics of interest:
Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma-- Exams and Symptoms
Confirmatory Test for Diabetes
Urinalysis: TNTC Definition
PSA: Prostate Specific Antigen
The Truth About Your Kidneys

Health Benefits of Malunggay: Can It be Used to Impregnate Your Wife?

All parts of the Malunggay tree offer great health benefits,according to health experts. I do not utilize its roots, trunk and branches but I do plan to make a Malunggay soup as soon as the tree provides more leaves.

Do you have a problem bearing a child? Eating the leaves of Malunggay tree can help impregnate a woman. You can drink its juice or eat its cooked leaves. (You may read this article about how Senator Zubiri activated his fertility and impregnated his wife.)

As for me, I use the leaves of Malunggay for my chicken soup. I also employ it as a gauze to stop the wound from bleeding.

Although some medical doctors (like my cousin) do not believe Malunggay’s healing power and health benefits, there are people who can qualify such vegetable as a miracle food.

Other topics of interest:

Teeth Whitening Toothpaste is Not Advisable for Me
Mouthwash and Teeth
Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol -- the HDL
What Doctors Want You to Know About
Eyesight Protection Tip #10: Spinach for Your Eyes

Teeth Whitening Toothpaste is not Advisable for Me

thebeautybrains.com

Here and there, teeth whitening toothpaste ads are everywhere. But my orthodontist does not recommend using toothpaste with teeth whitening solution. He told me to avoid using it because of its ability to  remove fluoride which increases risk of tooth decay.

Good thing is that my teeth do not need whitening treatment. Whew!

Other topics of Interest:
Mouthwash and Teeth
Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol-- the HDL
What Doctors Want You to Know About 

Eyesight Protection Tip #10: Spinach for Your Eyes
Antioxidants Alert: Antioxidant and Radiation Therapy or Chemotherapy are Incompatible

Mouthwash and Teeth

Image via Wikipedia

I do not use mouthwash though I know that it should be included as part of my proper oral hygiene process.

Mouthwash that contains fluoride is useful in reducing cavities and alleviating periodontal disease. According to dentists, after gargling mouthwash with fluoride, it is essential not to rinse your mouth with water. Fluoride contained in a mouthwash will not be able to coat the teeth to protect them from dental plaque or bacteria.

My dentist's advise me to use Oracare. The problem is it is too expensive for my tight budget.

Other topics of interest:

How to Lose Weight While Having Fun?

Insomnia Remedy: Drink Coffee

How to Lose Weight? – Feed Your Mind First with Proper Information

Remedy for Hiccup

Flossing and its Many Benefits

Flossing and Its Many Benefits

We all know that brushing our teeth is not enough to clean our teeth. Dentists always recommend flossing after brushing. However, not all people would find it convenient to put their hands in their mouth with a piece of thread. But in my case, I always see to it that I regularly floss my teeth to avoid cavities. Flossing may take a little of my time but it is worth a routine.


Some of the benefits of flossing

Flossing eliminates tiny food trapped in between your teeth. Also, it removes food particles which cannot be cleaned using your toothbrush.
Flossing prevents tartar formation.
Flossing reduces the risk of heart attack.

A fact about flossing: brushing without flossing is like cleaning 65% of your body leaving the 35% of dirt behind.

So, if you really want to enhance your oral health, then you should make it a habit to floss after brushing your teeth.

Other topics of interest:
Gumtect for Bleeding Gums
Waist Trimmer: Will It Help Me Trim Down on Excess Fats?
Knee Pain Remedy: More Delicious Option
Increase Platelets through Durian
Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol – the HDL

Gumtect for Bleeding Gums

Gumtect Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth and Gums

I used to suffer from bleeding gums, mainly because of improper brushing and flossing. Before, my dentist recommended Pyodontyl. But because it is expensive, he later advised me to use Gumtect, a product of Hapee, which is a Filipino brand of toothpaste. Its active ingredients are allantoin (for healthy gums, vitamin E (moisturizer), and triclosan (germicide).

Is Gumtect effective in treating bleeding gums? In a way, yes.

But why was I agitated when I first saw blood on my floss?

Probably, because I know that bleeding gums can be more than just swollen gums. Some of the causes of bleeding gums (besides the obvious) would include Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (a bleeding disorder), leukemia, scurvy and vitamin K deficiency.

If you, too, notice blood every time you brush or floss your teeth, you need to consult your dentist as it can be a sign of a serious medical problem. Thankfully, mine is just a case of brushing too hard and improper flossing.

Other topics of interest:

Vitamin D Prevents Osteoporosis

Lipid Metabolism and Its Associated Diseases

Hormonal Imbalance Linked to Acne Problem

Waist Trimmer: Will it Help Me Trim Down on Excess Fats?

Knee Pain Remedy: More Delicious Option 

Related articles by Zemanta

• Natural Remedies for Periodontal Disease (brighthub.com)

Waist Trimmer: Will it Help Me Trim Down on Excess Fats?

Okay, I know that our own contestant for the Miss Universe 2010 did not win the crown because of her major major mistake, I am still aiming to have a waistline like hers. Twenty-two-inch waistline is not a major mistake but a major achievement. She said she eats a lot of rice but still maintains to have that petite waist. Damn her.

For that reason, I purchased a waist trimmer. It will not offer a huge effect on my waist but I'm pretty sure it will somehow help me shed some extra pounds around my waist if I continue following a healthy diet and regular exercise (minus swimming and playing tennis—hectic sched won't allow me.. sigh).

Other topics of interest:

Knee Pain Remedy More Delicious Option

Increase Platelets through Durian Increase Platelets through Durian

Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol—the HDL

How to Prevent Dry-Eye Syndrome? – Eyesight Protection Tip #3

Prevent Breast Cancer: Fresh Mushroom Plus Green Tea  

Related articles by Zemanta

• List of the Best Exercises to Trim the Waistline (brighthub.com)

Benefits of Colorful Vegetables

The colors in fruit and vegetables are caused by carotenoids, which are organic pigments. Experts say that they are not just used to make fruit and vegetables appear colorful but these pigments have a lot of health benefits. According to recent studies, carotenoids found in pumpkin, carrots, spinach, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and other fruit and vegetables are useful in preventing the development of metabolic syndrome.

In addition to that, people who eat a diet rich in carotenoids betacarotenoid, lutein and zexanthin are less likely to suffer from the most common form of kidney cancer.

Carotenoids are also good for women in lowering the risk of ovarian cancer.

Because of that, I am hoping the carrot seedlings I planted in my mini-garden will grow so I could have regular supply of carrot slash carotenoids.

Other topics of interest:

Cranberries can Cure Bladder Infection

Can Orchiectomy Cure Prostate Cancer?

Semen Analysis: Three-Hour Experiment

Assessing Consciousness

Memorizing the Cranial Nerves

Knee Pain Remedy: More Delicious Option

I do not have osteoarthritis but my right knee aches after kneeling. I am not sure why. But if this is a symptom of osteoarthritis, I do not want to go to the route of steroid injection and surgery.

According to a study in Melbourne, eating fruits regularly can lower the risk of developing lesions in the bone marrow. These lesions are said to be a marker for knee osteoarthritis. Researchers found that fruits rich in vitamin C are effective in alleviating knee pain problem. These fruits would include kiwifruit, mangoes, papaya, and grapefruit.

Good thing is that mangoes, grapefruit and papaya are easily accessible here in Davao. Unfortunately, kiwifruit is not readily available in our local market.

Image Source: http://www.brooklawn.org/Assets/Jpegs/Fruits.jpg

Other topics of interest:

Increase Platelets through Durian

Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol—the HDL

How to Prevent Dry-Eye Syndrome?—Eyesight Protection Tip #3

Prevent Breast Cancer: Fresh Mushroom Plus Green Tea

Cancer-Fighting Food: An Egg a Day Keeps Breast Cancer Away

  

Increase Platelets through Durian

Individuals who hate durian should start loving durian no matter how obnoxious the taste and odor is. This is especially true if you have developed symptoms of dengue, a hemorrhagic fever that causes clotting of blood in the internal organs that may lead to death.

Durian, like Tawa Tawa leaves, is recommended by herbalists for dengue hemorrhagic fever. Even patients who have tried such remedy could attest durian's benefits in increasing platelet count.

Since I do not like durian, I just have to apply mosquito repellant lotion every time I go out. It keeps me safe from dengue-carrying mosquito and from eating the repulsive durian.

Other topics of interest:

Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol—the HDL

How to Prevent Dry-Eye Syndrome?—Eyesight Protection Tip #3

Prevent Breast Cancer: Fresh Mushroom Plus Green Tea

Cancer-Fighting Food: An Egg a Day Keeps Breast Cancer Away

Ovarian Cancer: Who are at High Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

Ultima-C Sodium Ascorbate for Asthmatic

Ultima-C is a natural vitamin C that can be absorbed, easily, by the body cells. It has vitamin C metabolites that maximize cellular utilization of this type of vitamin.

My mom is asthmatic and she’s taking Ultima-C three times a day. As a result, she does not experience any asthma attack.

I have tried to consume it to alleviate my on and off cold and cough. I’m not sure if it is just a psychological effect, but my cold and cough have improved after taking it for days. However, I’m still unsure of its effects to the organs of my body considering one capsule contains 500 mg of sodium ascorbate and I need to take it 3x a day. Now, that’s a lot of vitamin C.

Apart from asthma, cold and cough, Ultima-C may be able to improve other illnesses, such as cancer (the ad says it is super antioxidant), bleeding gums, fever, cataract, allergies, among others.

Even though Ultima-C is 100% pure and natural, I’m afraid it can still cause negative effects to the body in the future. Nonetheless, I need to take it just to get rid of my on and off cold and cough.

Other topics of interest:

Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol—the HDL

Neti Pot for Nasal Irritation

Alternative to fish for Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Eyesight Protection Tip #10: Spinach for Your Eyes

How to Prevent Dry-Eye Syndrome?—Eyesight Protection Tip #3

Dark Chocolates for Raising Good Cholesterol—the HDL

I, now, have an excuse to eat more dark chocolates every day.

A study revealed that eating dark chocolates a day can significantly raise HDL or good cholesterol by 9%. In this study, volunteers consumed 100g of dark chocolates and that is about 2300kJ of dark chocolates.

I need to raise my HDL or good cholesterol. So, the delicious way of increasing it is to eat dark chocolates. Right now, I am nibbling on Godiva dark chocolate while writing this… nom nom nom.

Other topics of interest:

How to Prevent Dry-Eye Syndrome? – Eyesight Protection Tip #3

Prevent Breast Cancer: Fresh Mushroom plus Green Tea

Cancer-Fighting Food: An Egg a Day Keeps Breast Cancer Away

Ovarian Cancer: Who are at High Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

Lose Weight: How to Lose Weight with Zumba Fitness? 

Neti Pot for Nasal Irritation

I am prone to common cold these days. But I think this is not just a cold virus rather an infection in my sinus or nasal allergies. For this reason, I am planning to purchase a Neti Pot to alleviate my stuffy nose.

I discovered the benefits of using Neti Pot a few months ago and I am planning to use it as soon as I could get my hands on it.

Neti Pot, for one, is a drug-free treatment for nasal irritation. It is also considered as an all-natural cost-effective remedy for sinus infections. Basically, its main function is to clear the nasal passages of mucus.

I just wish that through this natural remedy, the nasal discomfort that I feel will be gone for good.

Other topics of interest:

Eyesight Protection Tip #10: Spinach for Your Eyes
How to Prevent Dry-Eye Syndrome? – Eyesight Protection Tip #3
Hair Remover: Epilin or Body Natur
Alternative to Fish for Omega-3 Fatty Acids

What Doctors Want You to Know About