Deciding About Arthroscopy

By Dr. Richard Edelson

The Steps of An Orthopedic Knee Evaluation

First things first: See your M.D. for a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. Once you have done this, you will set an appointment for an evaluation of your knee problem. Your orthopedic surgeon will do three things at your initial appointment: Conduct a medical history, complete a physical examination, and order some tests.

Your orthopedic surgeon will ask you about both your specific knee problems and your general health when conducting your medical history.

Your physical examination will mostly be focused on your leg and knee. Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate the overall alignment of your leg and determine the ROM (range of motion) of your knee as well as its muscle strength and its stability.

Once these steps are done, the orthopedic surgeon will send you for testing. You are likely to have some blood testing done. This will help detect the presence of arthritis. You will probably also have some x-rays as well as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). It is necessary to get both kinds of images because they provide different types of information. X-rays provide information about bones. The MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) provides information about soft tissues.

The orthopedic surgeon will discuss the results of your testing with you and help you to decide what route to take in dealing with your knee problems. He or she will explain your options. They will probably include medication as well as several types of surgery. Arthroscopy will probably be one of your options.

Click here for more on athletic injuries .

Any risks that may be involved in the procedures available to you will be explained at this time.

If you have tried quite a few different methods of dealing with your knee pain without any relief, you will probably be considered a good candidate for arthroscopy. Additionally, if you are experiencing ongoing pain and swelling or problems with your knee catching or giving out, you will want to consider arthroscopy. If you are having trouble accomplishing your day to day activities because you are afraid your knee will not support you, you will definitely want to consider arthroscopy.

Indeed, it is the answer to a lot of knee problems in a lot of patients. It is usually used on people in the broad range of twenty to sixty years old, but it has been used on very young children and very old seniors with tremendous success as well.

Preparing Yourself for Arthroscopy

Once your decision is made, your orthopedic surgeon will send you back to your physician for a complete physical. By doing this, you will be sure that everything is in good working order, and you will know about anything that may cause complications before your surgery.

Your doctor may do more tests at the request of the orthopedic surgeon. Sometimes a cardiogram is done. Sometimes more blood work is called for. In general, anything that will clarify your general condition so that your treatment can be exactly right for you, will be done.

If you are taking any over-the-counter products such as medications or supplements, remember to let your doctor and your orthopedic surgeon know about it. If you need to discontinue any of these products before surgery, they will inform you. - 17268

About the Author:

Dr. Edelson is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in sports medicine. His clinic, Sports Medicine Oregon, focuses on athletes of all ages. Click here to learn more about Dr. Edelson, Portland ACL Surgery and Portland Athletic Injuries.

Just Try Walking

By Dr. Jason Fowler

While some fitness enthusiasts relentlessly seek out the latest, trendiest exercise crazes, many others are returning to good, old-fashioned walking to help them feel great and get into shape. Whether enjoying the wonder of nature, or simply the company of a friend, walking can be a healthy and invigorating experience. And thanks to its convenience and simplicity, walking just might be right for you too, according to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA).

Benefits: You don't need to become a member of an expensive gym to go walking. And except for a good pair of walking shoes, it requires virtually no equipment.

"A sedentary lifestyle has debilitating influence on people's health as they age" says Dr. Jerome McAndrews, national spokesperson for the ACA. "Exercise is imperative." Walking can accomplish all of the following and more:

Improves cardiovascular endurance Tones muscles of the lower body Burns calories: about 80 if walking 2 miles per hour, and about 107 if walking 4 1/2 miles per hour Reduces risk of heart disease Shoes: The very first item of business when beginning your walking program is to select the right pair of shoes. Dr. McAndrews recommends the following tips:

Make sure the shoes you purchase fit properly. The balls of your feet should rest exactly at the point where the toe end of the shoe bends during walking. Avoid high-top shoes, that, often cover the entire ankle, limiting your foot's ability to move freely and naturally. Opt instead for shoes that offer your ankle a fuller range of motion.

Select shoes with plenty of cushioning in the soles to absorb the impact of your walking.

Getting Started: Walking just 12 minutes every other day can offer many important health benefits. Walking 20 minutes every other day is even better. But in order to increase your longevity, try to eventually work up to 30 minutes, five days per week. The following tips should help you get started safely and smoothly:

Move your arms freely, in coordination with the opposite leg. Don't stoop your head or look down as you walk. This will challenge the normal forward curve of your neck, which, in turn, will cause you to carry your weight improperly. Do not carry weights or dumbbells while walking. They're better used as a separate part of your exercise regimen. If you do carry weights while walking, be sure that they are light enough that they do not interfere with the "rhythm" of your arms and legs; in order to counterbalance the body, when your right arm moves forward, the left leg should be moving forward, etc. Expect a little soreness in the thighs and calves for the first week or two. If you experience more than soreness, check with your doctor of chiropractic. Walk briskly, with "purpose." Simply "sauntering," while relaxing and enjoyable, is not an effective form of cardiovascular exercise. Keep in mind that, if you have not previously been physically active, you should consult your doctor before. Begin slowly with a walk of perhaps half of a mile at a pace that does not cause discomfort. Continue this for about two weeks, then start to increase the pace and length of time walking. Eventually - depending on your age - you can build your "target" heart rate/pulse to either 120 beats per minute or, if younger, as many as 140 beats per minute. For the average adult, a heart rate of 120 beats per minute would require walking at about 2 miles per hour, while a heart rate of 140 beats per minute would require a pace of 4 1/2 miles per hour.

HYDRATION

Drink 10 eight-ounce glasses of water a day to help keep the kidneys active, dilute and remove toxins from the body, and replace lost fluids. (Coffee, tea, soft drinks and alcohol are diuretics/dehydrators. Do not substitute them for water.) If you perspire during walking, you may need to drink even more.

Surfaces Some walking surfaces are better than others on your musculoskeletal system.

Walking on a cushioned or rubberized track is ideal, because the cushioning of this type of track absorbs most of the impact of your walking. Many recreation centers offer this type of track for use, free of charge.

Grass is another good surface, but watch out for hidden dips or holes in the ground. Walking on a surface with no give, such as concrete or a mall floor, is not your best choice, because this type of surface will not absorb much of the impact your body will experience. If you choose to walk on such a surface, be extra careful to select highly cushioned shoes.

Pain and Injury: Dr. McAndrews explains that while you may experience pain or injury in a particular area, such as a knee or a hip, the root of the problem may lie somewhere else. "Injuries of this nature are not regional, or isolated, but systemic," says Dr. McAndrews. "A problem in the foot or ankle can create an imbalance in every step, leading to discomfort or injury that moves to the knees, hips, low back, or elsewhere." If you suffer from pain beyond typical muscle soreness, your doctor of chiropractic can diagnose and treat your pain or injury and get you back into the swing of your walking routine. - 17268

About the Author:

For more information on chiropractic feel free tocontact Dr. FowlerDr. Jason Fowler at www.lakestlouisdc.comwww.lakestlouisdc.com

My Review of Amazing Smoothie Recipes for Losing Weight

By Jen Turner

Since I decided to lose weight I always knew I needed to stay healthy. I looked around online for some healthy smoothie recipes to make this a little easier, and I came across the Amazing Smoothie Recipes eBook - which is more than just a collection of recipes. As soon as I started reading it I found a number of health tips and ways that smoothies can help you lose weight.

When I bought the eBook it was very easy to download " which was great because I couldn't wait to check it out, alongside the 4 bonus eBooks that came with it! It only cost $9.95 and it was given in PDF format which helped me to print it out and put it into a ring binder, though I also saved a copy of all the eBooks on my computer for safe-keeping.

The eBook taught me so much about how important it is to get 5 portions of fruit and vegetables in a day. Unfortunately many of us are so busy that we barely get 3! But smoothies are a great way around this problem, especially when you have access to the 200 yummy recipes in the Amazing Smoothies eBook. Eating fruit and vegetables is never a chore with these recipes! It even comes with a printable chart to help make sure youre getting all the nutrients you need (though, by making these smoothies, I don't even have to worry about that fact!)

There were some really interesting facts in this eBook about why smoothies are so nutritionally valuable. For example, I learned that watermelons include an important cancer-fighting ingredient called lycopene. There are also a huge number of other antioxidants found in the recipes here, important for protecting your health.

I also recommend the recipe on page 43 for the Pink Banana Smoothie, or the Apple Passion on page 37. And the good news is that they don't require any fancy ingredients, just fruits stocked in your local supermarket. This is even great for anyone going on a raw diet " all it takes is a minute to whizz your food in the blender!

The one factor I'd like to point out about this eBook is that all the measurements for liquids are provided in ml instead of in cups. But this wasnt too much of a problem for me, as most of my measuring cups already had the measurements for ml as well as cups " and I found that around 200ml of juice works out at just less than 1 cup " but if you don't already have one that measures ml, I'd recommend getting a Pyrex measuring cup. If you're also worried about making a mess with your blender then you'll really enjoy the section on keeping it clean " it's certainly saved me a lot of effort!

Buying this eBook was super easy and convenient thanks to the fact that it is sent to you to download instantly, no matter what time of the day it is! I was especially impressed by the great free eBooks that came with it: Amazing Fast Food Facts, 101 Amazing Ways to Stay Healthy, The Amazing Family Cookbook (with 500+ low sugar and low fat recipes), and Amazing Vegetable Variations (300+ recipes that families love).

All in all, I recommend this eBook for anybody who is either looking to lose weight or just wants a fun and easy way to become more healthy. - 17268

About the Author:

Whether you are trying to lose some weight, or just become a little more healthy, the Amazing Smoothie Recipes ebook is a great way of getting started. You can also try reading my own weight loss diary at Diet Smoothie.net

Hemlock Conk Loaded with Antioxidants

By Dr. Markho Rafael

In 1999, the tree conk Hemlock Varnish Shelf was found to possess "the strongest antioxidant activity of five species of Ganoderma [Reishi] tested." It was found to have stronger antioxidative activity than Vitamin E. The abundance of antioxidants in Hemlock Varnish Shelf has been confirmed by several other research papers. [827, 828, 829, 830]

Hemlock Varnish Shelf (Ganoderma tsugae) is the local variety of Reishi (Ganoderma spp.) for eastern United States. It is common on Eastern Hemlock trees (Tsuga canadensis) throughout the Appalachian range.

And in fact it shares many medicinal attributes with the better known Common Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), which has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for 2,000 years or more.

Being a common tree mushroom also in parts of Southeast Asia, Hemlock Varnish Shelf (Ganoderma tsugae) has been the object of study in plenty of Asian research.

Grown commercially in Taiwan as a medicinal mushroom, Hemlock Varnish Shelf is exported to mainland China, where it is traditionally used to treat autoimmune diseases and asthma, as well as other conditions involving inflammation.

In modern scientific literature, we can only find one study on the use of Hemlock Varnish Shelf in the treatment of an autoimmune disease. A paper published in 2001 stated: "Improved the survival rate of lupus" [800] with the administration of Ganoderma tsugae extract.

When it comes to conditions involving inflammation of lung tissue, three studies have been conducted on Hemlock Varnish Shelf. It has been reported to "exert anti-inflammatory effects on airway responses" [801] in allergic asthma and other forms of broncheoalveolar inflammation. [802, 803]

A unique and increasingly popular use of Hemlock Varnish Shelf is as a form of skin substitute to aid in wound healing. Sold under the name of Sacchachitin, this Ganoderma tsugae-derived skin substitute has been shown in many studies to help speed up skin healing. It's been reported that "rapid wound healing" occurs when the injured area is covered by Sacchachitin as compared to gauze. [804] A "wound area covered by SACCHACHITIN completely healed by 21 days, while that covered with cotton gauze did not," states one paper. [805, 806, 807]

Hemlock Varnish Shelf extract has also been tested for its antitumor properties with promising results. [808, 809, 810, 811, 812] In particular lung cancer [813, 814, 815] and breast cancer [816] have responded favorably in scientific research. It was also shown in one study to help prevent cancer metastasis. [817]

As with the Common Reishi, Hemlock Varnish Shelf extract appears to be immunomodulatory [817, 818, 819, 820, 821, 822, 823] - meaning that it will adjust the immune system up or down depending on what is needed. It helps strengthen a weak immune system, [824] but will calm an over-active immune system in cases of inflammation [825] or autoimmune conditions.

One study conducted in 2004 found Hemlock Varnish Shelf extract to posses liver protective properties and be anti-fibrotic. [826]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Never use any herb (or mushroom) except as advised by a licensed medical practitioner. - 17268

About the Author:

Dr. Markho Rafael has worked with natural health since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. He currently specializes in medicinal mushrooms, working specifically with MycoMedicinals from Paul Stamets' Fungi Perfecti, including reishi synergistic blends such as G5 (Ganoderma Five) and CordyChi. For research references to this article, please go to the Ganoderma tsugae list.

Organic Coffee And Fair Trade

By Ali Bautista

Good coffee comes freshly ground coffee beans that have been perfectly roasted. A good organic coffee bean can be grown in a sustainable manner. A clear conscience comes from knowing the beans have been sourced ethically and the proceeds have gone back to the farmer. It is possible for all these things to exist together.

Fair Trade is a growing movement that aims to cut out the middleman in trading so that the money goes back to the farmer or grower and not to administrators along the way. Paying a fair price for a good product.

Some buyers have even gone so far as to pay part of their purchase in advance instead of waiting for delivery before paying. This is an attempt to keep farmers from needing to get loans between the coffee harvest through till time of payment.

Organic Coffee is a natural synergy for countries such as Peru and Ethiopia. Here there is a tradition of low-tech, small farms, and harsh conditions. The coffee that is produced can't compete in term of volume with the big coffee growing nations such as Columbia or Brazil. Instead they can concentrate of niche markets who want high quality organic coffee.

Often the organic coffee in these countries is grown in co-operatives so that productive and economic mass can be achieved. Funds coming back from the sale of coffee beans are allowing communities to fund medical centres and schools.

The emergence of organic coffees as a viable alternative has in some cases pushed some farmers away from drug crops as they can now make a living from traditional crops.

So good cup of coffee can not only taste good, it can help economies and the world ecological situation. A win-win situation. - 17268

About the Author:

To read more about gourmet coffee visit the fair trade organic coffee information site.

Fort Myers Weight Loss Program: The Zone Diet

By Tasha-joe Hendricks

If you haven't heard of the Zone Diet, you're missing out on a unique opportunity to achieve your weight loss goals once and for all. The Zone Diet is part of the Fort Myers weight loss program, which uses scientifically designed methods that enable you to significantly reduce high blood pressure, cholesterol, and excess weight, as well as improve the health of your heart.

The heart of the Zone Diet is found within the breakthrough research on heart disease conducted by Dr. Sears. This diet has been specifically designed to improve heart health as well as foster weight loss, both of which will significantly increase one's overall health.

All the effort that goes into losing weight is largely wasted if the diet you follow is only concerned with the quantity of calories consumes. By using the Zone Diet, you'll soon understand that it's not the quantity alone that is crucial to weight loss, it's the quality of those calories. A double cheeseburger with fries, instead, is 2,000 calories. With this program, you could eat nearly four entire meals for 2,000 calories, while losing weight and improving the health of your heart at the same time. Some calories are better - healthier - than others.

Making some adjustments to your approach to eating is what primarily matters when you adopt the principles of a Fort Myers weight loss strategy. While it's true that most people would still rather go for that cheeseburger and fries for their lunch, the fact is that you need to eliminate foods like that while you're on the Zone Diet. It's tough, especially in the beginning, but every obstacle that falls your way can be overcome with a little discipline.

Staying motivated is important, since sticking with the program will be essential to your ongoing success. Remember to focus on your goals, which shouldn't be limited to losing weight, but also on the prevention of future health issues, such as heart disease and high cholesterol. Being a part of the Fort Myers weight loss system means carefully following its directions, since neglecting to do so might cause you to unintentionally alter your metabolism, which would significantly hinder your efforts to lose weight.

The detailed information Dr. Sears provides will assist you in determining the amount of calories you will intake as well as the ratio to achieve optimal weight loss.

Consuming too many fats or carbohydrates, for instance, can release a flood of glucose which in turn causes a chain reaction of increased levels of insulin and lipid cells. An effective diet is the key to successful weight loss, which is why it's so crucial to unswervingly stick to your diet plan from day one.

It's important to refrain from eating too much in the way of fats or carbohydrates, because the amount of lipid cells and insulin that develop around your fatty deposits will increase. Your diet is the best weapon you have in your efforts to lose weight, which is why you need to focus on it from the very first day. The weight loss strategies developed by Fort Myers are the fastest, most effective solutions available for those who are searching for an answer.

The program will begin by adjusting your calorie intake, establishing the right meal plan, and boosting your metabolism in order to burn off extra fat. Dr. Sears has spent several years developing new ways to help those who are struggling with weight loss. With the Zone Diet, you will learn a variety of methods that will help you lower both your cholesterol and your weight. - 17268

About the Author:

When you are considering Fort Myers weight loss be sure to get into the Morris Medical Center. Dr. Morris runs a Fort Myers medical weight loss center and is always there to answer questions and help you attain your weight loss dreams. I've been there for 6 weeks and have lost 29 pounds. Not bad, and I feel terrific!

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Mini Stroke

By Barb Hicks

The temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain as a result of a thrombus is referred to as a TIA or Mini Stroke. In this instance, the body will react by quickly releasing tPA to dissolve the clot on its own. This body function results in symptoms, however does not result in any damage to brain tissue. This TIA is a warning sign from your body that an impending stroke will occur and medical help should be sought immediately. These mini warning signs happen in ischemic episodes and although ischemic and hemorrhagic are completely opposite situations, they both carry the same symptoms and inclinations.

Loss of blood flow due to artery blockage is an ischemic episode. This is referred to as ischemia and creates cell death and the loss of function in the extremities including the face.

The formation of these blood clots can also be caused by atrial fibrillation, previous heart attack, heart valve diseases, some STDs, cardiovascular disease and Cerebrovascular disease.

Narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup, which leads to clots forming, is a common factor in ischemic events. Cells and other debris stick to cracks in the plaque.

Blood clots form in the first place as a response to tissue injury. Platelets stick together to plug up an injury that is leaking blood. If the blood doesn't clot, bleeding continues, leading to a host of other complications and problems.

The body's defense mechanism will automatically release an enzyme called plasmin to dissolve a clot. Once this is complete, white cells or phagocytes are released to engulf the left over debris and carry it away.

Symptoms of a mini stroke include loss of balance, inability to speak and sudden headache. These symptoms are short lived and leave behind no permanent brain damage. If someone experiences these symptoms, it is highly advisable that they seek immediate medical assistance as these are small warning signs that a major stroke is about to occur. Medical professionals will then try to restore blood flow to the brain in order to prevent the onset of a major stroke.

There is a time element with stroke. In order for doctors to use certain medications, treatment must begin within 3 hours from when symptoms started. If symptoms are not recognized, then extensive damage could result. This is why it is important to know the signs and symptoms to avoid a delay in treatment.

Mini strokes are sudden and carry no warning signs as they are warning signs within themselves for an ischemic episode. It is highly common for someone who has experienced a mini stroke to undergo a major stroke the following year. Visiting your medical professional will allow them to weigh your risk factors and perform tests to ensure a proper course of treatment for your situation. - 17268

About the Author:

A licensed registered nurse with great passion for writing, Barb Hicks started a class on Clivir.com where she share her knowledge about Treatments of Cardiac Arrhythmia and Heart Attack In Women with everyone online.

Caution: If You Want To Lose Arm Flab Don't Go High Carb

By Katherine Crawford M.S.

Finding a good nutritional strategy for losing bingo wings can be like navigating a mind field. After all, marketing has made finding the truth harder than ever.

I'm pretty sure you're having a challenge finding the perfect diet

If so, many other women are feeling your pain. I believe that proper nutrition for getting toned arms has become very confusing. Not too long ago, I was very confused myself.

Thus, here is why you shouldn't go high carb to lose arm fat:

1. Excess sugar intakes. This can be a very serious issue is you have a sugar addiction. After all, once you start having even a small amount of sugar it will be very hard to stop. Don't forget that sugar triggers the same receptors as drugs.

2. Poor insulin sensitivity. When done incorrectly, high carb diets can lead to insulin resistance. A state in which muscle has a hard time absorbing nutrients, so excess goes towards arm fat.

3. Hunger swings. Lots of carbs translates into fluctuating levels of blood sugar. And once your blood sugar goes down, you'll be very very hungry. The key here is to have massive amounts of vegetables with EVERY high carb meal. Only then will blood sugar be somewhat stabilized.

4. Very slow arm flab loss. If you want toned arms now and not later, then this diet is not for you. With high carb intakes, weight loss comes at a slow crawl.

Do you want to lose that arm flab ASAP? If so, high carb is not for you. In my experience, moderate to low carb intakes are best. Going low carb, however, isn't necessary unless you are insulin resistant. How can you tell? If you have a relatively large abdomen, then you could be insulin resistant. Ignore all the marketing hype and stick to what has been proven by research. Only then will you achieve sexy arm success! - 17268

About the Author:

Author Katherine Crawford, a Harvard exercise expert and recent flabby arms sufferer, instructs women on how to get rid of bingo wings. Learn how to get sexy and toned arms by visiting her website about how to get rid of arm flab now!

Natural Diet Secrets For A Better Health

By Jose Bautista

A good health is based on the consumption of natural foods that provide the nutrients necessary for a good balance in the body. A high dose of energy is lost every day by the body, which fights against toxic substances. Choosing to follow a natural diet is the best you can do to eat healthy. By consuming natural foods, the harmful effects of chemical pollution are reduced.

Processed food provides empty calories, as most nutrients are destroyed during the cooking process. A natural diet is based on the consumption of raw food, having great benefits for our body. Raw food is suitable for anyone, being also used as a natural remedy for a variety of health problems.

Eat natural foods as much as possible. Make sure that at least half of your meals are composed of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Avoid prepared foods that contain additives, preservatives and chemicals.

A natural diet is rich in vitamins and minerals, being based on the consumption of fruit and vegetables. These foods are digested harder, so that the body needs a higher intake of energy to process them. This means that a person who follows a natural diet will never have weight problems. By eating whole grains, you'll be protected from any digestive problems and colon cancer. The best is to avoid processed cereals.

You can start anytime a natural diet. Changing your bad eating habits will have a great impact on your health. Besides fruits and vegetables, it's recommended to consume vegetable proteins, which can be found in soy, peanuts and seeds.

By following a natural diet, your energy and intellectual capacity will increase and you'll become more self confident. On long term, a natural diet reduces the risk of chronic diseases, protecting the body from cancers and other conditions. - 17268

About the Author:

Jose Bautista is a personal trainer that incorporates a natural diet to achieved his clients health and fitness goals.

Zhu Ling Chinese Mushroom Sold as Antibiotic

By Dr. Markho Rafael

Zhu Ling Mushroom sells widely through Chinese apothecaries in the form of thin slivers. It's traditionally used as a potent antibiotic and anti-tumor remedy, as well as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract infections. [300]

Growing below ground on decaying roots and other wood debris, this mushroom can remain in wet soil for over a year without rotting - a testament to its powerful antimicrobial properties.

In accordance with the use of Zhu Ling in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a contemporary study concluded that it had an inhibitory effect on Chlamydia. [302]

A series of modern studies have found promising results in the use of Zhu Ling against parasites, treating Hepatitis B and boosting the immune system, [303, 304] as well as in the treatment of certain types of cancer, [305, 306, 307, 308] including leukemia, [310, 311], bladder and liver cancer. [309] It has been reported to be helpful in immune system recovery and preventing cancer recurrence after chemotherapy and radiation. [312] Two papers from 1991 and 1994 reported 68% and 50% reduction rates of cancer recurrence with the use of Zhu Ling after chemo and radiation. [313, 314]

As an anti-parasitic, Zhu Ling was shown to be 100% effective in a lab test against both the dreaded malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) and brucellosis (Brucella spp.). [310] Tests on live patients with malaria still need to be conducted.

In tests on live subjects with brucellosis, Zhu Ling was reported to help reverse the immune system suppression that is a symptom of this debilitating disease. [315, 316]

As previously mentioned, another of the many uses of Zhu Ling in Traditional Chinese Medicine is for hepatitis B. This use has been affirmed by modern research. [317, 318] A 2001 study reported that although not powerful enough as a standalone treatment of hepatitis B, it was useful in combination with other treatments. [319, 320] Positive results have also been reported in use of Zhu Ling with toxic hepatitis. [321]

A novel use of Zhu Ling besides the traditional Chinese usage is as a powerful anti-inflammatory, as reported by a new study published in 2008. [322]

As a diuretic, a modern study reported that Zhu Ling did indeed help increase low urine production. However, it simultaneously decreased urine production in patients with already excessive urine output. [301]

A logical conclusion from this is that Zhu Ling could be conveniently given to patients waiting to provide a urine sample in order to expedite the process. [300]

Medicinal mushroom expert Paul Stamets (Mycelium Running) also lists lung conditions and viruses as areas of therapeutic use for Zhu Ling. [134]

Note: The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a licensed medical practitioner before using any herb (or mushroom) for medicinal purposes.

Credit: Thank you to Paul Stamets for source material. - 17268

About the Author:

Dr. Rafael has worked in the natural health field since finishing Chiropractic College in 1996. He currently specializes in medicinal mushrooms, working specifically with the extracts of Paul Stamets' Fungi Perfecti. (Paul Stamets incorporates Zhu Ling in his Stamets 7 Mushroom Blend.) For research article references, please go to Zhu Ling page. Click on number indicating reference.

Fast Weight Loss- Does It Work?

By Jerry Horn

Weight loss is never easy, especially if you have a lot to lose or medical issues currently put limitations on physical activities. Instead of giving up or assuming it will never happen for you, why not take baby steps until you get where you really want to be?

The lack of information makes people to search for fast weight loss diets, which indicate what and when to eat. They prepare the meals on Mondays, they buy foods for Tuesday and Wednesday, but they always have some problems on Thursday. Temptations are everywhere: when it comes about having a business dinner, going out and so on.

There are many different options that offer for a way to lose weight. Some kinds, turn out to be nothing more than a promise that the product cannot deliver on. Two basic things that no program can substitute for, are the proper diet and exercise.

Losing weight involves the reduction and burning of the calories that you eat. Most opt to search for a miracle diet that does not involve either, but in reality these two components are essential. Another important part, involves having support.

Don't start a miracle diet when you have to make intellectual or physical efforts more than usual. If you make a greater effort at school or work, then it's not the right time to start a weight loss diet. It will cause limpness and lack of energy, especially in the first days, mainly because of accumulated fatigue; also, unwanted complications may occur. The most appropriate would be to start a weight loss diet in the holiday.

Very few people can lose substantial amounts of weight and keep it off long term without dealing with some kind of mental or emotional issue. If you are aware of this aspect before you start trying to shed pounds, you are more likely to get through the process successfully.

In fact, when you deal with these issues you are better able to avoid common pitfalls that slow the weight loss process down.

That said, there is no miracle diet that is going to magically take all the pounds from your body and dump them at the curb forever. What leads to fast weight loss? Only a consistent lifestyle change can do that.

In fact, the miracle diet everyone seems to be looking for is actually right in front of you right now. While you do need some sort of structured plan that allows you to create new behaviors and new eating patterns, it doesn't have to be a complicated process.

Try to do more physical exercises. You'll build muscle, stopping the metabolism to become slower. Also, it's necessary to eat healthy food, full of nutrients, in order to support all the functions that help you lose fat. One of the most important factors in a weight loss diet consists in counting calories; but don't forget that consuming fewer calories than you need is a mistake.

So, you know this is going to be an emotional ride and there will be days you want to give up. You are dedicated and ready to commit to rapid weight loss. That head strong determination is the first step, but now you need to find a plan that will carry your body through to where your mind is. Remember, you don't need a miracle; just mental clarity and a solid plan of action. - 17268

About the Author:

The fifty tip - Leave those fizzy drinks out of your diet. By Rapid Weight Loss There are others, all of which have been marketed aggressively across the country. These are proven to prevent heart disease and cancer.

How Alcohol Affects the Muscle Gain Process

By Ricardo d Argence

Alcohol really affects the muscle growth process and in the next few lines I am going to tell you why.

When working on building your muscles, do not drink a lot of alcohol as this will have a bad impact on your results. knowledge on how it is affecting you.

It negatively affects protein synthesis. Protein synthesis is the process where amino acids are joined together to form complete proteins. Excessive alcohol consumption slows this process down by up to 20%, and since your muscles are made up of protein, you can see how this is a problem.

It is able to lower testosterone levels and increase your estrogen. Testosterone is the most important muscle-building hormone in your body. Among the factors that can limit the capacity for muscle building is the person's level of available testosterone. You will want to get all the free testosterone levels you can if you are serious about building muscle.

It causes dehydration. Acute dehydration can be caused by the kidneys having to use a large quantity of water to disperse the alcohol. Water is an essential part of the muscle building process, so you must stay hydrated or suffer the consequences of seeing less progress. Your muscles themselves consist of 70% water.

Alcohol consumption causes vitamins A, C, the B's, calcium, zinc and phosphorus to all be drained at rapid rates. Vitamins and minerals keep every little process in your body functioning properly, and many of these processes involve muscle growth and maintenance.

With 7 empty calories per gram, alcohol can actually be quite fattening. Alcohol also disrupts the Kreb's Cycle, which plays an important role in fat burning.

If you consume alcohol close to bedtime it could have an effect on your quality of sleep. Another important step in the process of building muscle is getting the sleep you need. If you do not get the right amount of rest and let your body take time to recover, you will not notice the same benefits.

It's important to have fun in life, but too much fun can lead to problems. If you're serious about achieving significant muscle-building results, you definitely need to monitor your intake of alcohol and make sure that you are consuming it in moderation.

You can still go out for a good time occasionally, but make sure to cut back on the drinking and eat properly to lessen its effects. - 17268

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