Skkyver Blog70525

Obesity is because of eating too many calories and not getting enough physical activities to burn those calories. Excess calories are deposited in the body as fat.

Obesity increases the risk of several health problems like high blood pressure, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, stroke, gout, gallstones, colon cancer, sleep apnea and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

High blood pressure:

Blood vessels carry blood from heart to different organs of the body and back to heart. The blood vessels have thick but elastic walls for proper flow of blood. Decrease in elasticity of blood vessel wall increases pressure on blood passing through these vessels. Obesity decreases elasticity of blood vessels causing increase in blood pressure.

Diabetes in obesity:

Insulin is required for entry of carbohydrate into cells from the blood. The carbohydrate in cell is utilized for energy production by the cells. Excess deposition of fat in the body causes insulin resistance, because of which, insulin cannot perform its function and sugar cannot enter into cells and remain in blood. This leads to diabetes or high blood sugar. High sugar in blood leads to complications in various organs like kidney, eyes, blood vessel, and heart.

Atherosclerosis or fatty deposits in blood vessels:

Obesity is associated with increase in levels of bad cholesterol in blood. Increase cholesterol in blood causes atherosclerosis or deposition of cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels. Atherosclerosis reduces the elasticity of blood vessels, narrows blood vessels and decreases blood flow through these vessels. All these changes lead to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Heart diseases:

Coronary arteries are the blood vessels that supply blood to heart muscles. Atherosclerosis or fatty deposits in coronary arteries in obesity decreases blood supply to heart muscles. Decreased oxygen supply and blood flow to heart can cause angina (chest pain) and complete blockage of blood flow to heart can cause heart attack.

Stroke or paralysis:

Atherosclerosis in arteries of brain can reduce blood supply to the brain. This decrease in blood flow can result in stroke or paralysis.

Arthritis:

Obesity and overweight increases the load on the joints such as the knee, hip and lower back, which can cause the breakdown of cartilage in the joint. Cartilage is a cushion like structure in a joint required for smooth movement of joints. Breakdown of cartilage in obesity results in joint pain and stiffness and other features of osteoarthritis.

Gout:

A type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints. Obesity is associated with increased accumulation of these solid crystal-like masses in joints, which causes inflammation and pain.

Sleep apnea:

Overweight and excess fat around neck causes narrowing of airways and leads to sleep apnea. In sleep apnea, person snores heavily and stops breathing for short periods, which results in frequent awakening at night.

Fatty liver disease:

Obesity increases the risk of developing liver disease called fatty liver disease due to accumulation of fat in liver.

Gallbladder disease and gallstones:

Obesity increases cholesterol deposition in gall bladder, which can lead to formation of gallstones.

So, obesity can lead to a lot of health problems and other complications. For information on role of carbohydrate and management of obesity, please visit carbohydrate blocker website.

For details on role of nutrients in various diseases, please visit Diet for Disease and for information on management of obesity by blocking carbohydrate absorption, please visit carb blocker website

The evening primrose oil which we use is extracted from the seeds of Oenthera biennis, a plant native to North America. The evening primrose plant resembles a primrose but is related to the willow herb group.

This oil is called evening primrose oil and it is believed to have many health benefits. There is much documented evidence on the benefit of evening primrose oil. To begin with, evening primrose oil is a source of the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic (GLA) evening primrose oil with the evening primrose oil benefit is recommended for a variety of reasons.

Fatty acids play an important role in the production of prostaglandin's. Virtually every system function is affected by prostaglandin's including the regulation of inflammation and pain, blood pressure and hormone production. Evening primrose oil taken daily can help to maintain good health.Prostaglandins also play a role in metabolizing cholesterol as well as the dilation of blood vessels.

Evening primrose oil users report a general health improvement.Linoleic acid is usually converted by the body into prostaglandin. However a deficiency of vitamin C or an illness such as diabetes or heart disease can inhibit this process. In these cases, taking a supplement of evening primrose oil has shown excellent results.

Evening primrose oil has proven its efficacy in relieving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Several studies on the evening primrose oil benefit and arthritis show promise. Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis experienced significant improvements within six months of evening primrose oil usage and enjoyed the evening primrose oil benefit.

Through evening primrose oil usage, joint tenderness and swelling was reduced by 42 percent, another benefit of evening primrose oil. Pain was often lowered by 22 percent while taking evening primrose oil. In many cases users of 1.5 to 2.8 grams of GLA daily were able to reduce their use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, showing the evening primrose oil benefit.

Incorrect prostaglandin production is linked to premenstrual tension and evening primrose oil has proven helpful. PMS sufferers might be deficient in prostaglandin E1 and lacking the evening primrose oil benefit. Evening primrose oil may increase the body's ability to produce E1.Reports from several international study groups interested in the effects of evening primrose oil show a dramatic improvement of PMS symptoms while taking evening primrose oil.

The evening primrose oil benefit occurs when premenstrual depression, headaches, bloating and irritability are lessened. Taking evening primrose oil also reduces breast tenderness and pain. Lethargy and vagueness are aided by the properties in evening primrose oil. PMS sufferers also show a mood elevation while using evening primrose oil.

Another role played by fatty acids, such as occur in evening primrose oil, is examined in relation to high cholesterol. Studies over a 4 month period show that supplements of evening primrose oil decreases triglyceride levels by 48 percent and evening primrose oil increases HDL by 22 percent.HDL is known as the 'good cholesterol' and should be present is certain amounts. Evening primrose oil also reduces 'bad cholesterol' and brings evening primrose oil benefit.

Evening primrose oil also helps to clear up skin problems such as acne. Evening primrose oil is used internationally for evening primrose oil benefits. Benefits of evening primrose oil are suggested by several scientific trials and include premenstrual syndrome, fibrocystic breast pain, eczema, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis and ulcerative colitis.

Evening primrose oil may help with menopausal symptoms. Evening primrose oil can be used by pregnant women. Evening primrose oil is one of the most popular health supplements on the market. Many people claim to have been aided and relieved of various health problems while taking evening primrose oil. There is a vast amount of evidence available to show that evening primrose oil lives up to many of its claims.

Copyright 2005 Health-Focus

Resources offering Evening Primrose Oil

The story broke in the international press on October 4th, 2004. Scientists in Japan announced that laboratory rats lost large amounts of organ fat, and increased muscle strength, when a portion of their diet was replaced by a new fruit extract.

Could this new discovery be "Exercise in a Pill?"

These unexpected results left the researchers puzzled. No drug or food had ever shown the ability to target and dramatically decrease dangerous organ fat, also known as visceral, or "belly" fat. In fact, only one thing is proven to reduce it... exercise.

The New American Epidemic- Obesity.

And the unsightly bulge of stubborn belly fat isn't the only problem. Controlling this fat is important, say researchers at Duke University Medical Center, because increased levels have been associated with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and the alarming rise in obesity rates in the United States, where presently two out of three adults are overweight or obese. Visceral fat is located around the organs inside the belly and is deeper in the body than ordinary fat, and much harder to get rid of.

In the Japanese study, conducted at the Nippon Sport Science University graduate school, lab rats were fed a chemical extract from apples as 5% of their diet. The animals lost an average of 27% of organ fat in only 3 weeks. Even more baffling to researchers was a 16% increase in muscle strength observed in the test animals.

Proven Health Results from Apple Chemicals

Chemical extracts from apples have been extensively studied for years for their health benefits in cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Recently, apple extracts have been shown to protect the brain against nerve damage associated with Alzheimer's Disease. But this is the first evidence that these phytochemicals- termed apple polyphenols- have been shown to reduce belly fat deposits.

The Japanese researchers have now turned their attention to confirming these results in human subjects, and one Japanese company announced plans to market health drinks containing the extract in the U.S. later this year.

Too Early to Tell?

Although it will likely be some time before human weight loss trials are reported, some consumers aren't willing to wait. Since November, a small group of people in the U.S. have had access to these apple chemicals in pill form. You can track their intriguing results, which are now being reported on our web site, where you can also follow the latest news and research about apple polyphenols.

David Kern is a health researcher and publisher of New Health & Longevity, a newsletter devoted to the latest advances in nutritional science. Contact him through http://www.applepoly.com/bellyfat/ . You can find a link there for current medical studies and breaking news on apple phytochemicals.

Cardiovascular system is one of the most important systems in the human body. It is comprised of the heart, blood and blood vessels. Blood is being pumped out from the heart and is the one responsible in delivering oxygen and other nutrients to all the parts of the body. It also cleans up our body by picking up the waste products on its way back to the heart so our body can get rid of them.

So what has diabetes got to do with the cardiovascular system? Can there be Cardiovascular Problems Due To Diabetes?

Since blood is part of the cardiovascular system, and diabetes is a condition in which the level of glucose in the blood is higher than normal, then there must be some relationship between the two.

Diabetes and cardiovascular system diseases has been recognized to be closely related to each other for some time now due to the so-called insulin resistance syndrome or metabolic syndrome. Among the 20 million people in the United States who has diabetes, around 5 to 6 million of this population who are aged 35 years and above were diagnosed to have a certain cardiovascular disease according to the National Diabetes Surveillance System. Some examples of the commonly diagnosed cardiovascular disease are coronary heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and other heart conditions.

Cardiovascular Problems Due To Diabetes are the major cause now of deaths related to diabetes. In a study published few years back in the Journal of the American Medical Association, deaths due to some heart conditions went up by 23% in diabetic women despite the 27% drop of the same in nondiabetic women. As for diabetic men, there is only about 13% decrease in heart disease related deaths as compared to the 36% drop in nondiabetics.

Thus, the two indeed go together.

Risk Factors
Diabetes is now considered by the American Heart Association a major risk factor in cardiovascular diseases. Other factors that contribute to the possibility of acquiring cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients include hypertension, smoking, and dyslipidemia.

-- Ramesh Kuwadia is a N.D. and M.D. in Alternate Therapies. As a Naturopathy Doctor he has treated and helped many people with various ailments like fever, back pain, frozen shoulder, asthma, stress, headache, migraines, sinus, diabetes and much more...

To get more information on how alternative therapies can help treat daily ailments visit http://www.alternate-therapy-center.com
Subscribe For Free Monthly Newsletter on Alternative Therapies and Receive a Free Book on Alternative Therapies

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is a problem that is much over-looked by many doctors today. Hypoglycemia can be due to alimentary problems, idiopathic causes, fasting, insulinoma, endocrine problems, extrapancreatic causes, hepatic disease, and miscellaneous causes. Sometimes the cause of hypoglycemia is unknown (idiopathic). In these cases, people who are not diabetic and who do not have another known cause of hypoglycemia experience these symptoms. Hypoglycemia can produce a variety of symptoms and effects but the principal problems arise from an inadequate supply of glucose as fuel to the brain, resulting in impairment of function ( neuroglycopenia ). Insulin is a hormone that reduces blood glucose. It is produced by the pancreas in response to increased glucose levels in the blood. The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from person to person, as can the severity. Hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar, occurs when your blood glucose (blood sugar) level drops too low to provide enough energy for your body's activities. There is another type of hypoglycemia. In some people, the body simply responds differently to the digestion of foods. Some foods are digested and absorbed rapidly, resulting in a burst of glucose entering the bloodstream. Classically, hypoglycemia is diagnosed by a low blood sugar with symptoms that resolve when the sugar level returns to the normal range.

Hypoglycemia is relatively common in diabetics. In people who don't have diabetes, some underlying causes of hypoglycemia include: certain medications; alcohol; certain cancers; critical illnesses such as kidney, liver or heart failure; hormonal deficiencies; and disorders that result in your body producing too much insulin. A rare type of hypoglycemia, known as reactive hypoglycemia, may occur in children and teens without diabetes. Some symptoms of hypoglycemia are caused when the body releases extra adrenaline (epinephrine), a hormone that raises blood sugar levels, into the bloodstream to protect against hypoglycemia. If you take in more glucose than your body needs at the time, your body stores the extra glucose in your liver and muscles in a form called glycogen. Your body can use the stored glucose whenever it is needed for energy between meals. Patients with pre-diabetes who have insulin resistance can also have low sugars on occasion if their high circulating insulin levels are further challenged by a prolonged period of fasting. Hypoglycemia can arise from many causes and can occur at any age. The most common forms of moderate and severe hypoglycemia occur as a complication of treatment of diabetes mellitus with insulin or oral medications. The adrenergic symptoms often precede the neuroglycopenic symptoms and, thus, provide an early warning system for the patient. Studies have shown that the primary stimulus for the release of catecholamines is the absolute level of plasma glucose.

Causes of Hypoglycemia

The common causes and risk factor's of Hypoglycemia include the following:

• Hypoglycemia occurs when too much insulin or oral antidiabetic medication is taken, not enough food is eaten, or from a sudden increase in the amount of exercise without an increase in food intake.
• Pregnancy.
• Renal glycosuria.
• Increased activity or exercise.
• Excessive drinking of alcohol.
• Hypoglycemia may result from medication changes or overdoses, infection, diet changes, metabolic changes over time, or activity changes; however, no acute cause may be found.

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

Some sign and symptoms related to Hypoglycemia are as follows:

• Hunger.
• Nervousness and shakiness.
• Headache.
• Dizziness or light-headedness.
• Heart palpitations.
• Tremor.
• Excessive sweating.
• Sleeping difficulty.
• Cold sweats.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Pale skin color.
• Sudden moodiness or behavior changes, such as crying for no apparent reason.

Treatment of Hypoglycemia

Here is list of the methods for treating Hypoglycemia:

• A snack or drink containing sugar will raise the blood glucose level, and you should see an immediate improvement in symptoms.
• Eating smaller meals more frequently.
• To treat low blood sugar immediately, your child should eat or drink something that has sugar in it, such as orange juice, milk, or a hard candy.
• Regular exercise.
• In more serious cases, the child may have to undergo surgery to remove the pancreas.
• Episodes of reactive and fasting hypoglycemia in children without diabetes can also be treated with a fast-acting carbohydrate.
• Patients may require 6 small meals and 2-3 snacks per day.
• If you pass out, you will need IMMEDIATE treatment, such as an injection of glucagon or emergency treatment in a hospital.

Juliet Cohen writes articles for diseases cure and health care information. She also writes articles on skin diseases.

Who says impotence is a death nail for a mans love life? This is a myth and the reality of erectile dysfunction or popularly known as impotence is not a birth defect or disease. In fact it is a symptom of more serious diseases which ruin the blood vessels and nervous system. There are many diseases causing ED, these particular diseases effect the erectile function because penis erection involves interplay of hormones, emotions, nervous and vascular functions. If any factor fails, the erectile function is bound to be effected.

Main reasons of ED can be divided into two categories: Physical and Psychological. The physiological reasons behind erectile dysfunction according to scientists and medical practitioners are high blood pressure high cholesterol diabetes scleroderma (stiffening or hardening of the skin) chronic obstructive pulmonary disease epilepsy stroke multiple sclerosis guillain-barr syndrome alzheimer disease parkinson disease atherosclerosis a history of heart attacks peripheral vascular disease prolonged tobacco use sickle cell anemia leukemia liver cirrhosis kidney failure hemachromatosis hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland) hypothyroidism (under active thyroid gland) hypogonadism (lower testosterone levels) malnutrition zinc deficiency drugs for hypertension, heart disease, antidepressants, tranquilizers, sedatives nerve and vascular damage due to surgery of the colon, prostate, bladder or rectum prostate or bladder alcohol and drug abuse.

The psychological reasons behind erectile dysfunction are Depression or GAD, guilt, stress in the relationship or at work, performance anxiety.

Levitra, the potent pill for erectile dysfunction can give you an erection even in toughest situations like diabetes mellitus, hypertension and even save your heart from heart attacks. If you are experiencing erectile failure, you should go for a thorough physical check up especially if you are not suffering from any disease. You will find that the problem is not there in your penis, but in other parts of your body. You can treat that part of your body and get your erection back naturallybecause there are diseases causing ED, while the PDE5 inhibitors like Levitra can look after your sexual life while you get the treatment for the serious conditions. Yes, Levitra ensures a strong erection even if you have any of the above mentioned diseases.

The United States of America is now worried about the huge number of baby boomers who are turning 40 + this year. With increasing age, the hormone level in the body decreases and men show physical and mental changes. Their hairlines recede and waistlines expand, they become more sentimental and emotional and experience a loss of libido, so require more mental and physical stimulation for an erection. Levitra can certainly help in this situation too, with growing age; men are victimized by diabetes, high blood pressure and heart problems. People now-a-days know the relationship between hypertension and Levitra, and even about diabetes and Levitra and so they are not worried about erectile dysfunction. There is no medicine that can defy age, but men can ensure to remain healthy and happy by using latest medicines and healthy life style. And to ensure good sex till death, Levitra is there.

______________________________________________________________________

The author, Dona Kidman, addresses health related issues. If you wish to seek help for your health related problems, you can log on to http://www.levitrabliss.com for more information and advice.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

Before we get to high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), we will take a look at two other frequently used sweeteners, dextrose and maltodextrin.

Dextrose

Dextrose is more or less an industry term for glucose. Glucose isthe most prevalent sugar in the human and the only molecule that the brain can metabolize. Dextrose is refined from corn starch. It has a very high glycemic index (no surprise since it is glucose) and while it contains no fructose, it is still a simple sugar that is very readily absorbed. It is not as dangerous as sucrose but it still is a highly processed product that should be avoided.

Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is also a refined product usually made from either corn or potatoes. It is multiple glucose units somewhat loosely hooked together (a polymer). Because the bonds between the glucose units are very weak, it is also very readily absorbed and has a very high glycemic index. Like dextrose it should be avoided as much as possible. It has been called a "sugar substitute"but that is based on a rather strict definition of sugar as "sucrose." It is a very common additive and I have found it in many packaged foods, including potato chips.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

High fructose corn syrup is made by treating corn (which is usually genetically modified corn) with a variety of enzymes, some of which are also genetically modified, to first extract the sugar glucose and then convert some of it into fructose, since fructose tastes sweeter than glucose. The end result is a mixture of 55% fructose and 45% glucose, that is called "high fructose corn syrup." Improvements in production occurred in the 1980's making it cheaper than most other sweeteners. I remember in the 1980's when the price of Pepsi dropped from about $3 for a sixpack to about $1.50. In 1966 refined sugar such as sucrose was the was the leading sweetener / additive. In 2001 corn sweeteners accounted for 55% of the sweetener market. Consumption of high fructose corn syrup went from zero in 1966 to 62.6 pounds per person in 2001. A 12 ounce soda can contain as much as 13 teaspoons of sugar in the form of high fructose corn syrup.

Once again, the dangerous combination: fructose and glucose.

When high fructose corn syrup breaks down in the intestine, we once again find near equal amounts of glucose and fructose entering the bloodstream. As covered in recent newsletters, the fructose short-circuits the glycolytic pathway for glucose. This leads to all the problems associated with sucrose. In addition, HFCS seems to be generating a few of its own problems, epidemic obesity being one of them. Fructose does not stimulate insulin production and also fails to increase "leptin" production, a hormone produced by the body's fat cells. Both of these act to turn off the appetite and control body weight. Also, fructose does not suppress ghrelin, a hormone that works to increase hunger. This interesting work is being done by Peter Havel at UC Davis.

Some of the problems associated with high fructose corn syrup:

Increased LDL's (the bad lipoprotein) leading to increasedrisk of heart disease.

Altered Magnesium balance leading to increased osteoporosis.

Increased risk of Adult Onset Diabetes Mellitus.

Fructose has no enzymes or vitamins thus robbing the body ofprecious micro-nutrients.

Fructose interacts with birth control pills and can elevateinsulin levels in women on the pill.

Accelerated aging.

Fructose inhibits copper metabolism leading to a deficiencyof copper, which can cause increased bone fragility, anemia, ischemic heart disease and defective connective tissue formation among others.

The list below is from The San Francisco Chronicle February 18, 2004

"How much is too much?

The list below shows how much sugar, mostly in the form of high fructose corn syrup, is in each of these single servings.

Sunkist soda: 10 1/2 teaspoons of sugar

Berkeley Farms low-fat yogurt with fruit: 10 teaspoons of sugar

Mott's applesauce: 5 teaspoons of sugar

Slim-Fast chocolate cookie dough meal bar: 5 teaspoons of sugar

1 tablespoon ketchup: 1 teaspoon of sugar

Hansen's Super Vita orange-carrot Smoothie: 10 teaspoons of sugar"

Today's health tip:

Cut down or stop any food or drink with high fructose corn syrup.

High fructose corn syrup is made from genetically modified corn treated with genetically modified enzymes.

Stop or limit all foods with either dextrose or maltodextrin.

Once again, read all your food labels carefully.

Consumption of the limited amounts of fructose that occur in fresh whole organic fruit is not a problem.

Reference:

Stryer Biochemistry Fourth Edition

"Sugar coated We're drowning in high fructose corn syrup. Do the risks go beyond our waistline?"
Kim Severson, San Francisco Chronicle Staff Writer
Wednesday, February 18, 2004

Kick the "sugar habit" with the only diet that is 100% Sugar-Free, the MericleDiet. Make the transition away from dangerous sugar additives to healty "organic" complex carbhydrates easy. To visit the MericleDiet follow the link below:

http://www.DrMericle.com

Thanks for your attention.

Copyright John Mericle M.D. 2005 All Rights Reserved

http://DrMericle.com is devoted to achieving optimal health and peak performance through diet and lifestyle change. Dr. Mericle brings together a unique blend of formal training in organic chemistry and biochemistry, medical education, 29 marathons, 3 Hawaii Ironman competitions and a lot of practical real life experience.

The American Diabetes Association estimates that diabetes accounts for over 100,000 deaths, 54,000 amputations, and over 20,000 cases of blindness each year. Blindness is twenty-five times more common among diabetic patients when compared to those without diabetes. If these current trends should continue, then by the year 2010 diabetes will exceed both heart disease and cancer as the leading cause of death in America.

Diabetics tend to have a high level of blood glucose. Blood sugar level is regulated by insulin, which releases it to carbohydrate consumption. Insulin causes the cells of the body to absorb glucose from the blood. The glucose is then used as fuel for cellular functions.

Traditional diagnostic standards for diabetes have been plasma glucose levels greater than 140 milligrams on 2 occasions as well as plasma glucose greater than 200 milligrams following a 75 gram glucose load. Even more recently, the American Diabetes Association lowered the criteria for a diabetic diagnosis to plasma glucose levels equal to or greater than 126 milligrams. Plasma levels outside the normal limit will need further testing. This is done usually by repeating the plasma glucose check and initiating an oral glucose tolerance test if it is needed.

The many symptoms of diabetes include increased urination, increased thirst and hunger, sudden drastic weight loss, blurred vision, very slow healing of wounds, dry and itchy skin, constantly repeated infections, sudden fatigue and headaches. With respect to diabetes, these symptoms can also be caused by many other factors. It is highly encouraged that anyone with symptoms related to the ones mentioned above should be tested as soon as possible.

For more important health articles visit Donald's Health Website. http://updated-health-news.blogspot.com

Studies have consistently shown that taking fish oil supplements on a daily basis is a highly effective and efficient way of getting enough Omega 3 fatty acids in our diet to make a positive difference to our health, but what are the potential risks of any side effects?

Fortunately, side effects are rare and when taken in the correct dosage most people experience little if any side effects at all, but as with any supplement, there is always the possibility of experiencing some symptoms and fish oil is no different. So what should we be looking out for?

Fishy burps

By far the most common side effects reported are fishy burps, fishy breath or a fishy aftertaste in the mouth. This is completely harmless albeit slightly unpleasant but can largely be avoided by keeping your fish oil in the fridge and taking the fish oil along with food.

Stomach upsets

Some people have experienced other gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhoea, indigestion, abdominal bloating, heartburn, mild stomach cramps and perhaps slight feelings of nausea but again, these side effects can be reduced or eliminated by taking the fish oil along with meals and by taking a lower dose to begin with and then gradually increasing it over a few weeks.

Increased risk of bleeding

The fatty acids in fish oil have an anticoagulant (blood thinning) effect which in most cases is a good thing, however, when fish oil is taken in particularly large doses or alongside other blood thinning agents, there is an increased risk of bleeding which can take the form of easy bruising or nosebleeds or longer bleeding times. Serious side effects are extremely rare but it is important that anyone who is already taking Aspirin, Warfarin (also known under the brand names Coumadin, Jantoven, Marevan and Waran) or any other blood thinning drugs should discuss the potential risks with their doctor before taking any fish oil supplements.

Mercury poisoning

A major worry with eating fresh fish is the amount of mercury and other toxins they can contain. Sadly, our seas are polluted and consequently so are our fish and so any toxins in the fish can also find their way into fish oil supplements unless the fish oil has had these contaminants removed. Pharmaceutical grade fish oil is an informal term that has been applied to fish oil that has been through processes such as molecular distillation and sophisticated filtering systems where the mercury and other undesirable elements in the fish oil are removed leaving purified and concentrated fish oil and so this risk is not relevant for high grade fish oils. A major advantage in buying a good quality or pharmaceutical grade fish oil is that it can be concentrated to contain very high levels of the most important fatty acids such as Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It also means you can take one or two capsules a day to get the same effect of maybe five or six capsules of lower or standard grade fish oils.

Other potential side effects

If the fish oil supplement contains vitamin A then there is an increased risk of vitamin A toxicity. Cod liver oil for example, is produced from the liver of fish where vitamin A is stored and can contain potentially high levels of Vitamin A so it is best avoided.

Fish oil can also go rancid very quickly and as Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant it is added to some fish oils to keep them fresh. There have been some studies indicating that taking fish oil can increase the need for antioxidants so it is advisable to look for fish oil that has vitamin E added.

Other studies have suggested that fish oil might increase levels of low density lipoprotein (LDP) or bad cholesterol, but this depends on the dosage.

There have been some indications that fish oil can have a short term effect on blood glucose levels in people with Type 2 diabetes so anyone with diabetes should seek the advice of their doctor before taking fish oil supplements.

Conclusion

In general, the side effects from fish oil are few and far between if any at all and serious side effects are in fact extremely rare whereas the health benefits to be gained from taking fish oil supplements are enormous.

If you are on existing medication or have other health problems or are worried about the possibility of side effects then a chat with your doctor before taking fish oil will put your mind at ease.

Finally, if you take the correct dose, keep your fish oil in the fridge and take your supplements at mealtimes then the chances are the only effect you will feel is a greater sense of wellbeing and perhaps a lighter mood.

Dave McEvoy is an expert in omega 3 fish oil EPA with over 20 years experience; for more information about fish oil side effects and how fish oil can help come and visit our site.

Monitor your blood sugar with freestyle glucometer at least twice (preferably three times) a day - before meals. Before breakfast, lunch, dinner or before your evening snack (about 9 pm). Bring these numbers to your doctor.

Take your medication correctly - read and following directions, watch expiration dates, pay attention to any warning labels. Read food labels - the first thing to look at is SERVING SIZE. Then look at the carbohydrate per serving . Look also at the fat and calories, if appropriate. Do NOT look at the grams of sugar!

Eat at regular times - try to stay within 1 hour each day of the usual meal times. Learn the carbohydrate count of foods in the portions you commonly use. Use measuring cups for cereals, pasta, rice, soups and beans. Count out a serving of crackers, pretzels, chips and nuts. Consider how carbohydrates break down in your system, not just the quantity of carbs in your diet.

Make better selections when dining out. Eat smaller portions, ask for the food to be prepared in wine, not oil, order salad dressing on the side and dip and dip your fork. Avoid "sugar free" desserts and have a bite of a regular dessert.

Exercise - with your doctor's approval, do some type of daily walking, biking, swimming, dancing or aerobics. The best time to exercise is generally about 30-60 minutes AFTER breakfast or dinner.

Examine your feet daily - do this with a mirror after you bathe. Always wear proper fitting shoes. Do not go barefoot or wear sandals. Don't forget about your heart! People with diabetes must maintain good body weight, exercise and decrease the saturated fats in their diet.

Know your A1c Hemoglobin number - this is the measurement of sugar over the past three months which tells the degree of control of your diabetes. If you have any questions or concerns about any of this information, please check with your doctor to determine the best advice for you.

Source: articles about a diabetes http://www.blood-glucose-meter.org Receive products necessary for diabetics: http://www.blood-glucose-meter.org/blood-glucose-meter/products_for_diabetic.html

Author presents a website on diabetes symptoms. This website provides information about meaning of diabetes, types of diabetes, symptoms of diabetes and how to maintain proper diabetic level. You can get more information about diabetic supplies Visit his website: http://www.blood-glucose-meter.org

Diabeticine, however, claimed to target the root of diabetes. Diabeticine claimed that it was a hypoglycemic agent. The FDA looked at Diabeticines advertising campaign and declared that it was a drug, not a supplement. This seems to be fair reasoning on the part of the FDA. (The name, Diabeticine, also implies that it is a medicine).

There appears to be mixed feelings about Diabeticine (now Diamaxol). Some people praise it for lowering their blood sugar, without them having to change their diet or exercise. Others claim that taking a pill is not the solution to managing diabetes and that lifestyle changes are the only truly healthy way to maintain the sought blood sugar levels. Those who laud the drug sometimes claim that they have tried diet, exercise, and even other diabetes medicines, but that they were not effective.

Online testimonials generally support Diabeticine, though there are also some testimonials that claim Diamaxol and Diabeticine do not work. A major complaint is that Diabeticine and Diamaxol are too expensive. There are generic options with the same ingredients.

Diamaxol is licensed as a supplement by the FDA. As such, it cannot claim to cure diseases. Diamaxol still claims to lower blood sugar, just like Diabeticine. Diamaxol has a 30 day 50 point lower guarantee, as well as a long term one year claim.

Diamaxol has the same ingredients as Diabeticine, and it claims to be all-natural. A partial list of the ingredients, according to the manufacturer includes Bitter Melon, Licorice extract, Cinnamon herb powder, Yarrow, Cayenne, Juniper Berries, Huckleberry, and Vanadyl Sulfate.

The bottom line is that the helpful effects of Diamaxol are as yet unproven. Though the manufacturer claims to have clinical proof, many sceptics dismiss this as marketing. Because the FDA has approved Diamaxol as a supplement, at least we know that it cant hurt. If you have tried all of your other options, consider this one, but only after talking with your health care team.

Vivian Brennan is an expert on diabetes. She is currently living with and managing her diabetes, and has been actively practicing yoga for many years. She likes to keep abreast of new treatments and research. For information on diabetes medicine, treatment, research, and more, visit The Guide To Diabetes. This site includes many informative articles, and even recipes!

Ovulation is a period during your monthly cycle where an egg is released by a mature ovarian follicle in order to reproduce. If sperm does not meet the egg during ovulation, a new cycle will start and the egg will be cleansed out of the uterus along with the uterine lining.

Some women who are trying to get pregnant try to distinguish when their ovulation cycle is happening, since this short window of opportunity is when a woman can get pregnant.

Calculate Ovulation With Saliva
One-Way to calculate ovulation is through your saliva, and by using an Ovulation Saliva Test. Because women have hormone changes depending on the time of the month, your saliva also goes through these changes.

Just before ovulation occurs, levels of estrogen increase and actually change the appearance of your saliva. The pattern is referred to as ferning, and the dried saliva looks similar to frost on a windowpane.

There is Ovulation Saliva test kits available to help women to calculate when their most fertile period will be, and all you have to do is take a good look at your saliva.

Ovulation Cramps
Some women may also calculate when they are going to ovulate just by being in tune with their own body. Ovulation cramps occur in many women who are in the ovulation process, but it is a common and harmless condition.

Right as ovulation occurs, the developing follicle stretches the ovary, which then releases the egg along with a small amount of fluid into the abdomen. The egg travels through the fallopian tube, but the fluid is still left in the abdomen.

The remaining fluid can create ovulation cramps, because it can often irritate the lining of the pelvis. The stretching of the ovary can also cause some ovulation cramps, feeling like the ones you might have while you menstruate.

Cervical Mucus During Ovulation
Cervical mucus will also change when ovulation is near, and is primarily caused by hormonal shifts that women experience. Cervical mucus is a protective substance that shields bacteria from entering the uterine cavity in order to prevent infection. While estrogen increases before ovulation, the cervical mucus becomes watery, clear, and stretchy.

You may perform a cervical mucus ovulation test on yourself, since all that is required is to examine your cervical mucus. You must examine your cervical mucus on a daily basis, and toilet paper works best in order to determine color and consistency.

During the majority of your cycle, you should experience a dryness and lack of fluid, since hormonal changes are not common throughout the entire cycle. Once your body starts to prepare itself for ovulation, you will notice sticky mucus that will be slightly opaque in color.

When your cervical mucus starts to thin out and become clear, you can be certain that your body will be ovulating soon. It only takes a few minutes to perform a cervical mucus ovulation self-test, and you can keep track of your results on a calendar or in an ovulation notebook.

Ovulation Spotting
Spotting is another sign that signals ovulation is close, considering spotting commonly occurs when the egg is released into the abdomen. If you notice some spotting about two weeks before your normal cycle, you are most likely having ovulation spotting. The blood makes its way through the uterus and is discharged. Ovulation spotting is actually considered a great fertility sign. Some ovulation spotting may also occur when estrogen levels increase, which is also another sign that ovulation is just around the corner.

There are many different signs to determine when you are ovulating and some of them you can do on yourself without spending any money. It is very simple and inexpensive to calculate ovulation, which makes it possible to plan when you will get pregnant.

You are invited to discover more about Ovulation Tests and Fertility Monitors by visiting Fertility By Nature