Fast-food at Its Worst

A lot of nutritionists say that in order to shed off those unwanted pounds, it's really not about eating less, but exercising more. Although this is absolutely true, this doesn't mean that people can eat whatever they like so long as they work out. In fact, studies show that some meals, especially those bought from fast-food chains, could actually have more calories than one could burn in a 30-minute workout. Thus, the need to watch what one eats. Below are the greasiest and most calorie-packed meals of some of the most popular fast-food chains in the world.

KFC

KFC's chicken is definitely finger lickin' good. No one can contest this and surely, KFC serves one of, if not the best fast-food chicken in the world. And the best (or the worst rather) in terms of calorie count is the KFC Famous Bowl with rice and gravy. It also comes with an order of Caesar Side Salad and a medium raspberry iced tea. This meal alone packs an amazing 1,457 calories, 59 g of fat (13 g saturated fat), and 3,560 mf of Sodium. Next time at KFC, be sure to try and avoid this meal and instead, go for the crispy strips and green beans combo that has much less calories at 475.

McDonald's

McDonald's boasts of serving billions of customers worldwide. However, this fast-food chain is also responsible for adding trillions of calories to their customers' bodies. McDonald's burgers are world-famous and few are up to par with the quality and the succulence of their delicious burgers.

Just try to veer away from the Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips (5 pc) with Creamy Ranch Sauce. This combo meal also comes with an order of large fries and a large Coke. All in all, the total calorie count for this meal amounts to 1,670 calories. It also contains 87 g of fat (13 g saturated fat) and 2,370 g of sodium. This meal contains so much calories that even the Quarter Pounder without cheese (combined with side salad and a large iced tea) does not even come close as it only packs a total of 470 calories, 22 g of fat (7 g saturated fat, 1 g trans fat) and 1,490 ms of Sodium.

Burger King

Burger King is one of the best fast-food restaurants in the world and the burgers they serve are absolutely sumptuous. The problem is, most of them are packed with so much calories that even after a workout, some calories would still be left unburned. The pick of the bunch is the infamous Triple Whopper with Cheese. The meal comes with large fries and a medium Coke.

This meal alone contains a whopping of 2,040 calories, 113g of fat (38 g saturated fat), 3.5 g of trans fats and 2,650 mg of Sodium. That is of course if the order does not include extra toppings of bacon. Just imagine how much more calories it would have once this is added. As an alternative, one can opt for the Whopper Jr. (without Mayo), with Garden Salad and bottled water. At 490 g of calories, this meal has only one fourth of the calorie content of the Triple Whopper.

by: Jamie Hanson

Read Full Article...>>>

How to Cure Type 2 Diabetes - A Simple Plan of Exercise and Dieting

How to cure type 2 diabetes is a question on about 1 in 3 Americans' minds. Can you believe that so many people are diabetic or pre-diabetic?

Yet, the American Diabetic Association (ADA) still states that there is no cure for diabetes. And even yet, thousands of people will cure diabetes this year. Who is telling the truth? In this article, you will learn the basics of how to cure type 2 diabetes with exercise and dieting.

Why Curing Diabetes Works

Have you seen the popular show, The Biggest Loser? Recently, one of the overweight contestants lost pounds of fat and changed her life. I was impressed to hear how she naturally cured her high blood pressure and cured her diabetes in a matter of 10 weeks.

How did she do it? Exercise and dieting.

And research study after research study shows that the best way to become healthier and cure common diseases like gout, high blood pressure, and diabetes is good old fashion exercise and dieting. Here are some tips to help you make your diet simpler, your exercise program simpler and cure type 2 diabetes.

Cure Type 2 Diabetes Naturally

Simpler is better. These tips may be considered simple but they will reverse diabetes in a matter of weeks. Just try them!

1. Drinking water should be an important habit throughout the day. Water can help you lose weight and also keep your body flushed. It also makes healthier cells which will eventually accept insulin. You should drink at least 2 cups of water for every 2 hours you are awake. Do the math and make a goal today.

2. Avoid sugar and avoiding carbohydrates is extremely important to start your diet. Sugar is obviously a no-no for diabetics. Carbohydrates and starches are also important to avoid because they are converted to glucose once it mixes with saliva. In other words, carbohydrates are like eating tablespoons of sugar.

Once you reverse or cure diabetes, you will be able to reintroduce carbohydrates to your body through whole grains.

You should avoid breads, pastas, cereals, crackers, potatoes and chips for a few weeks while your blood sugar normalizes.

3. Exercising is also important for making new cells that accept insulin and normalizing blood sugar. Try to exercise once a day for at least 30 minutes (you can go longer). Exercising has been shown to help in the cure of diabetes.

Exercise is beneficial because it will reduce insulin resistance, ward off diabetes complications, help you lose weight, make you feel and look better and help you maintain a steady blood sugar level for life.

If you live an inactive lifestyle, start by exercising only a little each day. Gradually work your way up to exercising more which will reduce the chance of burning out. And find something you enjoy like biking, hiking or swimming.

Cure Diabetes in 4 Weeks

Your body creates about 60,000 new cells by the time it takes you to read one sentence. Imagine if your body was healthy enough to create cells that accept insulin and start reversing diabetes. Imagine curing diabetes in 4 weeks with a 100% guaranteed, step by step plan.
by: Joe Barton
Read Full Article...>>>

Tips on Feeling Better during Cold and Flu

The flu, which is a nickname for the influenza virus, starts suddenly and hits hard. Your fever may go as high as 40C (105F). You'll probably feel weak and tired, and have a dry cough, a runny nose, chills, muscle aches, severe headache and a sore throat. The fever may last for three to five days. After the flu goes away, you may still feel weak and tired or keep coughing for up to three weeks...>>

The flu is most common in winter and early spring. It often occurs in outbreaks. The flu virus changes often. About every 10 years it undergoes major changes, so that more severe outbreaks occur.

Feel better By Doing:

1.Stay home and rest, especially while you have a fever.

2. Stop smoking and avoid secondhand smoke, which can make cold symptoms worse.

3. Drink plenty of fluids like water, fruit juices and clear soups. Fluids help loosen mucus. Fluids are also important if you have a fever because fever can dry up your body's fluids, which can lead to dehydration.

Don't drink alcohol.

4. Gargle with warm salt water a few times a day to relieve a sore throat. Throat sprays or lozenges may also help relieve the pain.

5. Use saline (salt water) nose drops to help loosen mucus and moisten the tender skin in your nose.

6. Wash your hands frequently. This is often your best defense. Wash the entire hand using warm water and soap. Don't forget to clean under fingernails. Wash for about 10 seconds.

7. Avoid putting your hands near your eyes, nose or mouth, unless you have washed. Most bacteria and germs are spread from a surface to your hands to your face. Few germs are transmitted through the air.

8. Clean your 'shared spaces' more often than other times of the year. Remember phones, keyboards, steering wheels, office equipment and other items used by several people during the day.

9. Get a flu shot. Flu shots are especially beneficial for those with wekened immune systems, the elderly or those who come in contact with a lot of people. Check with Health Services for more information.

10. Get enough sleep. During sleep, your body's immune system goes into high gear to protect you from illness. Lack of sleep can reduce immune functioning making you susceptible to sickness.

11. Drink more water. In the fall and winter, it is easy to overlook your thirst and get dehydrated. Make sure you consume 8 glasses a day.

Continue a moderate exercise program. Try to maintain a 3-4 day a week exercise routine. Consistency is key.

12. Eat healthily. A good rule is to eat 10-15 calories per pound of "desired body weight." If your ideal weight is 170 lbs, then consume 1700-2550 calories a day (1700 for sedentary individuals and 2550 for extremely active types.)

13. Limit alcohol intake. Alcohol can be dehydrating which, in turn, may decrease your resistence to bacteria.

14. Finally, listen to your body. If you are less than 100% you will feel better and recover faster if you let yourself rest.
by: Barbara Camie

Read Full Article...>>>

Influenza A(H1N1) - update 55

Laboratory-confirmed cases of new influenza A(H1N1) as officially reported to WHO by States Parties to the International Health Regulations (2005)
29 June 2009 09:00 GMT
The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases is given in the following table and map.
Map of the spread of Influenza A(H1N1): number of laboratory confirmed cases and deaths [png 171kb]

Country, territory and area Cumulative total Newly confirmed since the last reporting period
Cases Deaths Cases Deaths
Algeria 2 0 0 0
Antigua and Barbuda 2 0 0 0
Argentina 1488 23 97 2
Australia 4038 7 758 4
Austria 12 0 0 0
Bahamas 4 0 0 0
Bahrain 15 0 0 0
Bangladesh 1 0 0 0
Barbados 10 0 0 0
Belgium 43 0 7 0
Bermuda, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Bolivia 126 0 79 0
Brazil 452 0 53 0
British Virgin Islands, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Brunei Darussalam 29 0 18 0
Bulgaria 7 0 0 0
Cambodia 6 0 1 0
Canada 7775 21 1043 2
Cap Verde 3 0 0 0
Cayman Islands, UKOT 9 0 0 0
Chile 5186 7 0 0
China 1442 0 353 0
Colombia 88 2 16 0
Costa Rica 255 1 33 0
Cote d'Ivoire 2 0 0 0
Cuba 34 0 0 0
Cyprus 25 0 16 0
Czech Republic 9 0 0 0
Denmark 44 0 3 0
Dominica 1 0 0 0
Dominican Republic 108 2 0 0
Ecuador 125 0 0 0
Egypt 50 0 7 0
El Salvador 226 0 66 0
Estonia 13 0 5 0
Ethiopia 2 0 0 0
Fiji 2 0 0 0
Finland 26 0 0 0
France 235 0 44 0
French Polynesia, FOC 3 0 2 0
Martinique, FOC 2 0 0 0
Germany 366 0 33 0
Greece 86 0 13 0
Guatemala 254 2 0 0
Honduras 118 1 0 0
Hungary 8 0 0 0
Iceland 4 0 0 0
India 64 0 0 0
Indonesia 8 0 6 0
Iran 1 0 0 0
Iraq 10 0 10 0
Ireland 39 0 10 0
Israel 469 0 64 0
Italy 112 0 10 0
Jamaica 21 0 2 0
Japan 1212 0 163 0
Jordan 18 0 3 0
Korea, Republic of 202 0 60 0
Kuwait 30 0 0 0
Laos 3 0 0 0
Latvia 1 0 0 0
Lebanon 25 0 0 0
Lithuania 1 0 1 0
Luxembourg 4 0 1 0
Malaysia 112 0 44 0
Mexico 8279 116 0 0
Monaco 1 0 1 0
Montenegro 1 0 0 0
Morocco 11 0 0 0
Nepal 3 0 3 0
Netherlands 118 0 2 0
Netherlands Antilles, Curaçao * 3 0 0 0
Netherlands Antilles, Sint Maarten 1 0 0 0
New Zealand 587 0 134 0
Nicaragua 277 0 12 0
Norway 31 0 9 0
Oman 3 0 0 0
Panama 403 0 45 0
Papua New Guinea 1 0 0 0
Paraguay 85 0 6 0
Peru 360 0 108 0
Philippines 861 1 416 0
Poland 14 0 1 0
Portugal 11 0 4 0
Qatar 10 0 0 0
Romania 24 0 5 0
Russia 3 0 0 0
Samoa 1 0 0 0
Saudi Arabia 69 0 21 0
Serbia 5 0 3 0
Singapore 599 0 284 0
Slovakia 9 0 2 0
Slovenia 4 0 1 0
South Africa 1 0 0 0
Spain 541 0 0 0
Sri Lanka 9 0 2 0
Suriname 11 0 0 0
Sweden 67 0 6 0
Switzerland 49 0 2 0
Thailand 774 0 0 0
Trinidad and Tobago 53 0 28 0
Tunisia 2 0 0 0
Turkey 27 0 1 0
Ukraine 1 0 0 0
United Arab Emirates 8 0 1 0
United Kingdom 4250 1 653 0
Guernsey, Crown Dependency 1 0 0 0
Isle of Man, Crown Dependency 1 0 0 0
Jersey, Crown Dependency 8 0 0 0
United States of America 27717 127 6268 40
Uruguay 195 0 0 0
Vanuatu 2 0 0 0
Venezuela 172 0 19 0
Viet Nam 84 0 21 0
West Bank and Gaza Strip 9 0 0 0
Yemen 6 0 0 0
Grand Total 70893 311 11079 48
Chinese Taipei has reported 61 confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) with 0 deaths. Cases from Chinese Taipei are included in the cumulative totals provided in the table above.
Cumulative and new figures are subject to revision
http://www.who.int

Read Full Article...>>>

Sleeping Aids and Insomnia

Fighting Insomnia with Sleeping Aids...

Due to many people around the world suffering from insomnia, there has been a great deal of research and studies. There are different forms of sleeping problems that affect people but there are now numerous aids that can help them. A certain amount of people suffer from short term insomnia whereas a number of individuals suffer from what is known as chronic insomnia.

Consider how you feel if you wake up early or without having a full nights sleep. It is very common to feel cranky or uncomfortable and the feeling can last all day. For most people, this is not a lasting occurrence and is usually rectified by a sound sleep at night. Some people are not so lucky though. Many people are experiencing this situation each and every day of their life.

Knowing that you are never able to get enough sleep that your body craves or desires can start to have an extremely negative affect on a person. They will always be feeling lethargic or not up to their best. They will dread trying to get to sleep every night and this anxiety will only make matters worse. A problem for many people with insomnia is that a cyclical effect can occur where worrying about a lack of sleep can further cause a person to be awake all night. Suffering from insomnia is an extremely uncomfortable ailment to experience.

Both types of insomnia can have a massive impact on how a person is able to function throughout their normal life. Research on Insomnia and Sleeping Aids has shown that people need seven or eight hours of sleep each day on a regular basis to be at their optimum level. This is why there is an increasing market for sleeping aids and there are a great number of commercial products looking to take advantage of this situation.

When a person is unable to get to sleep, quite often it is to due to an imbalance in the chemicals that are active within their body. If a person has more awake chemicals than sleep chemicals active, they can find difficulty in sleeping but there are numerous aids available to make life more bearable. Using any one of the sleeping products available can ensure a person gets proper nights sleep and that they are fully charged and ready for whatever life may throw at them in the following day.

Although possibly not seen as one of the more dangerous ailments a person can suffer from, insomnia is able to change a person’s mood or happiness in a very short span of time. Having problems with sleeping can cause great difficulty for a person and this is why so many people are looking for cures or aids to alleviate the difficulties they face. A lack of proper sleep can reduce a person’s ability to concentrate or focus, making problem solving and decision making a far harder task than what it should be. Sleeping is considered to be the body’s natural way of recharging; therefore it is advisable to seek aids or assistance to ensure a proper night’s sleep. Many doctors or pharmacists would be happy to offer advice to people having difficulty with this matter.

Another problem in recognizing insomnia as a major hazard to people’s health is that a great majority of people do not consider it to be a serious ailment. Quite commonly, people may pass it off as a symptom of some other health issue they are experiencing as opposed to being a serious issue within its own right. There is a growing need for people to accept that lack of sleeping is a major issue and they require medical advice and aids to ensure they are able to overcome difficulties caused by this situation.

Many products to aid sleeping can be purchased freely over the counter and this has led to a boon in this burgeoning industry. With a lack of sleep being a major concern for a great number of individuals having a quick solution at hand has been a boon for many sufferers. With this form of medication being available over a counter, many users may consider it to be risk free. Whilst there may not be a risk level that is associated with many other more serious forms of medication, it should be noted that this medication can still cause problems.

Given that insomnia sufferers are likely to be desperate to get some sleep, they may consider an increase in dosage to be a good idea. Increasing the recommended dose levels is never a sensible idea as it can quickly lead to addiction. Addiction to over the counter forms of medication is rising sharply and catches many people unaware. There needs to be a greater level of awareness of dangers that all medicine can cause if used improperly.

Medication to cure or reduce insomnia can have an extremely positive impact on users but caution needs to be applied to its use. No matter whether it is taken in a tablet, liquid or capsule form, all forms of medication can cause addiction and if a user has any doubt they should always seek the opinion of their doctor or pharmacist.

As more and more people become aware of disadvantages in lack of sleeping and the negative impact it has on quality of life, expect this market for aids to cure insomnia to thrive. As with all ailments, if you are suffering from insomnia the same should be informed to your doctor or local medical facility. It should be their decision whether you need medication to increase your chances of falling asleep.
by: Mike Argiro


Read Full Article...>>>

Awas, Masih Banyak Obat China Berbahaya Beredar

Banyak obat produk dari China yang dinilai berbahaya masih banyak beredar di pasaran. Produk dicurigai berbahaya jika kemasannya tidak menggunakan bahasa Indonesia atau bahasa internasional dan tak tertera label aman...

Pernyataan tersebut diungkapkan Kepala Seksi Farmasi Dinas Kesehatan Kota Tasikmalaya Dede Sediana saat menggelar inspeksi mendadak kosmetik dan jamu berbahaya di Kota Tasikmalaya, Selasa (16/6).

Dijelaskannya saat menggelar razia, masih banyak ditemukan obat produk China yang tidak mengikuti aturan pengamanan perdagangan dan lolos, baik dari pengawasan BPOM, maupun Depkes. Misalnya saja obat kuat produk China merek Fly D5 Yuanye, perlu dicurigai karena kemasannya bertuliskan bahasa China. Padahal, seharusnya jika masuk pasar Indonesia, harus menggunakan bahasa Indonesia atau internasional.

"Jadi kalau ada salah satu obat China yang kemasannya masih tulisan China, itu belum dinyatakan aman," katanya. Karena itu, para pedagang diimbau untuk tidak menjualnya. Masyarakat juga sebaiknya pro aktif dan waspada terhadap produk tersebut.
www.kompas.com
Read Full Article...>>>

Kenapa Jantung Jacko Mendadak Berhenti?

Kematian ikon musik pop Michael Jackson akibat serangan jantung, Jumat dini hari WIB, telah membangkitkan keingintahuan orang mengenai apa penyebab kematiannya itu.
Mungkin perlu berminggu-minggu untuk menunggu hasil otopsi bisa mengungkapkan faktor sebenarnya yang membuat denyut jantung biduan ini berhenti seketika...

Salah satu penyebab telah dilaporkan oleh laman selebriti TMZ.com bahwa Michael telah menyuntikkan obat penenang Demerol sebelum kemudian terkena serangan jantung.

Spekulasi lain menyebutkan, penyebabnya adalah kombinasi Demerol dan Oxycontin, obat penenang kuat lainnya yang merupakan salah satu dari yang paling umum disalahgunakan.

Berikut beberapa fakta mengenai serangan jantung dan kedua obat penenang tersebut.

Demerol
Serangan jantung terjadi manakala denyut jantung berhenti menyalurkan darah. Pada 80 persen kasus, penyebabnya adalah penyakit jantung, tetapi obat penenang narkotik seperti Demerol bisa menimbulkan serangan jantung.

Dr Daniel Simon, Kepala Kardiologi University Hospitals Case Medical Center di Cleveland, mengatakan, jika Jackson telah diinjeksi terlalu banyak Demerol, maka obat inilah yang menyebabkan napasnya berhenti, satu kondisi yang harus ditangani dengan bantuan pernapasan.

"Skenario yang paling sering terjadi dengan Demerol adalah berhentinya saluran pernapasan karena udara habis dipompa untuk bernapas," kata Simon dalam satu wawancara via telepon.

Dia menyatakan bahwa kandungan oksigen yang rendah dalam darah bisa memicu detak jantung mematikan yang dikenal dengan sebutan ventricular fibrillation (kekacauan arus listrik pada jantung), di mana jantung berdenyut tetapi tidak mengalirkan darah. "Tanpa CPR dan defibrillator, anda tak punya peluang selamat," kata Simon.

Obat penenang

ABC News melaporkan bahwa Michael Jackson kecanduan obat penenang dan mungkin telah menggunakan Demerol yang dicampurkan dengan Oxycontin.

Kardiolog dari Klinik Cleveland Clinic dan mantan Presiden Heart Rhythm Society, Dr Bruce Lindsay, menyatakan, jika dikombinasikan, kedua obat penenang itu akan memicu terjadinya serangan jantung.

"Jika Anda terlalu banyak mengonsumsinya, obat ini akan benar-benar menekan sistem nerves pusat sehingga pasien ambruk dalam tidur panjang atau bahkan koma. Dan jika daya tampung sistem pernapasannya terlalu dalam tertekan, maka napasnya berhenti," kata Lindsay.

"Jika dia berhenti bernapas, maka jelas jantung disebut terkena serangan kardial, tapi bukan karena masalah jantung utama. Itu sederhana saja terjadi karena pola kematian final adalah jantung berhenti berdenyut."

Penyakit jantung

Simon mengungkapkan bahwa banyak media mencari alasan yang eksotis untuk menjelaskan kematian Michael karena dia masih muda, padahal umur 50-an tidaklah terlalu muda untuk bisa terkena serangan jantung.

"Banyak orang terkejut ternyata di usia ke-50 mereka terkena jantung. 30 persen serangan jantung terjadi pada orang yang mengalaminya di gejala pertama penyakit jantung," kata Simon.

"Saat otopsi dilakukan, hal pertama yang mesti diperhatikan penguji medis adalah bintik pada otot jantung yang menunjukkan bekas serangan jantung," kata Simon,

Dia mengungkapkan, 25 persen pasien yang terkena serangan jantung, sebelumnya mengalami serangan tanpa diketahuinya. "Nah bintik itulah yang akan menerangkan hal itu."
www.kompas.com

Read Full Article...>>>

Influenza A(H1N1) - update 54

Laboratory-confirmed cases of new influenza A(H1N1) as officially reported to WHO by States Parties to the International Health Regulations (2005)
26 June 2009 07:00 GMT
The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases is given in the following map and table.
Map of the spread of Influenza A(H1N1): number of laboratory confirmed cases and deaths [png 423kb]

Country, territory and area Cumulative total Newly confirmed since the last reporting period
Cases Deaths Cases Deaths
Algeria 2 0 0 0
Antigua and Barbuda 2 0 0 0
Argentina 1391 21 178 14
Australia 3280 3 423 1
Austria 12 0 0 0
Bahamas 4 0 0 0
Bahrain 15 0 0 0
Bangladesh 1 0 0 0
Barbados 10 0 5 0
Belgium 36 0 6 0
Bermuda, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Bolivia 47 0 3 0
Brazil 399 0 65 0
British Virgin Islands, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Brunei Darussalam 11 0 7 0
Bulgaria 7 0 2 0
Cambodia 5 0 4 0
Canada 6732 19 275 4
Cap Verde 3 0 0 0
Cayman Islands, UKOT 9 0 2 0
Chile 5186 7 871 3
China 1089 0 183 0
Colombia 72 2 1 0
Costa Rica 222 1 33 0
Cote d'Ivoire 2 0 0 0
Cuba 34 0 19 0
Cyprus 9 0 4 0
Czech Republic 9 0 2 0
Denmark 41 0 7 0
Dominica 1 0 0 0
Dominican Republic 108 2 0 0
Ecuador 125 0 10 0
Egypt 43 0 3 0
El Salvador 160 0 0 0
Estonia 8 0 3 0
Ethiopia 2 0 0 0
Fiji 2 0 0 0
Finland 26 0 0 0
France 191 0 20 0
French Polynesia, FOC 1 0 0 0
Martinique, FOC 2 0 0 0
Germany 333 0 32 0
Greece 73 0 15 0
Guatemala 254 2 19 1
Honduras 118 1 0 1
Hungary 8 0 1 0
Iceland 4 0 0 0
India 64 0 0 0
Indonesia 2 0 2 0
Iran 1 0 1 0
Ireland 29 0 6 0
Israel 405 0 30 0
Italy 102 0 6 0
Jamaica 19 0 0 0
Japan 1049 0 156 0
Jordan 15 0 0 0
Korea, Republic of 142 0 27 0
Kuwait 30 0 4 0
Laos 3 0 0 0
Latvia 1 0 0 0
Lebanon 25 0 0 0
Luxembourg 3 0 0 0
Malaysia 68 0 0 0
Mexico 8279 116 432 1
Montenegro 1 0 0 0
Morocco 11 0 2 0
Netherlands 116 0 6 0
Netherlands Antilles,Curaçao * 3 0 0 0
Netherlands Antilles,Sint Maarten 1 0 0 0
New Zealand 453 0 67 0
Nicaragua 265 0 45 0
Norway 22 0 0 0
Oman 3 0 0 0
Panama 358 0 28 0
Papua New Guinea 1 0 0 0
Paraguay 79 0 21 0
Peru 252 0 35 0
Philippines 445 1 0 0
Poland 13 0 0 0
Portugal 7 0 1 0
Qatar 10 0 0 0
Romania 19 0 0 0
Russia 3 0 0 0
Samoa 1 0 0 0
Saudi Arabia 48 0 3 0
Serbia 2 0 2 0
Singapore 315 0 121 0
Slovakia 7 0 3 0
Slovenia 3 0 2 0
South Africa 1 0 0 0
Spain 541 0 2 0
Sri Lanka 7 0 2 0
Suriname 11 0 0 0
Sweden 61 0 6 0
Switzerland 47 0 14 0
Thailand 774 0 0 0
Trinidad and Tobago 25 0 0 0
Tunisia 2 0 0 0
Turkey 26 0 0 0
Ukraine 1 0 0 0
United Arab Emirates 7 0 5 0
United Kingdom 3597 1 692 0
Guernsey, Crown Dependency 1 0 1 0
Isle of Man, Crown Dependency 1 0 0 0
Jersey, Crown Dependency 8 0 5 0
United States of America 21449 87 0 0
Uruguay 195 0 0 0
Vanuatu 2 0 1 0
Venezuela 153 0 18 0
Viet Nam 63 0 7 0
West Bank and Gaza Strip 9 0 1 0
Yemen 6 0 0 0
Grand Total 59814 263 3947 25
Chinese Taipei has reported 61 confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) with 0 deaths. Cases from Chinese Taipei are included in the cumulative totals provided in the table above.
Cumulative and new figures are subject to revision
http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_26/en/index.html
Read Full Article...>>>

Contamination & Cleaning

How long can influenza virus remain viable on objects (such as books and doorknobs)?
Studies have shown that influenza virus can survive on environmental surfaces and can infect a person for up to 2-8 hours after being deposited on the surface.
What kills influenza virus?



Technorati Profile

Influenza virus is destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics), and alcohols are effective against human influenza viruses if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time. For example, wipes or gels with alcohol in them can be used to clean hands. The gels should be rubbed into hands until they are dry.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?
Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How should waste disposal be handled to prevent the spread of influenza virus?
To prevent the spread of influenza virus, it is recommended that tissues and other disposable items used by an infected person be thrown in the trash. Additionally, persons should wash their hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste.

Photo of cleaning suppliesWhat household cleaning should be done to prevent the spread of influenza virus?
To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label.

How should linens, eating utensils and dishes of persons infected with influenza virus be handled?
Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first.
Linens (such as bed sheets and towels) should be washed by using household laundry soap and tumbled dry on a hot setting. Individuals should avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating themselves. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub immediately after handling dirty laundry.

Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap.
Response & Investigation

What is CDC doing in response to the outbreak?
The agency’s goals are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to help health care providers, public health officials and the public address the challenges posed by the new virus. CDC is working with state and local health departments to enhance surveillance in the United States and to collect and analyze data to assess the impact of the virus and determine the groups at increased risk of complications. In addition, CDC continues to issue new and updated interim guidance for clinicians, public health professionals and the public for the prevention and treatment of this new virus.

To expand the national and international laboratory capacity for detecting novel H1N1 influenza, CDC has developed and distributed new influenza diagnostic kits and reagents to more than 350 laboratories, including laboratories in 131 countries. CDC’s Division of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) continues to send antiviral drugs, personal protective equipment, and respiratory protection devices to all 50 states and U.S. territories to help them respond to the outbreak.

The U.S. Government also is aggressively taking early steps in the process to manufacture a novel H1N1 influenza vaccine, working closely with manufacturing. CDC has isolated the new H1N1 virus, made a candidate vaccine virus that can be used to create vaccine, and has provided this virus to industry so they can begin scaling up for production of a vaccine, if necessary.

What epidemiological investigations are taking place in response to the recent outbreak?
CDC works very closely with state and local officials in areas where human cases of new H1N1 flu infections have been identified. CDC has deployed staff to several states to assist with the investigation of the impact of the novel H1N1 influenza, including the assessment of the severity of illness, how easily the virus spreads, and the amount of time people may be infectious. In states where EpiAid teams have been deployed, many epidemiological activities are taking place or planned including:

* Active surveillance in the counties where infections in humans have been identified;
* Studies of health care workers who were exposed to patients infected with the virus to see if they became infected;
* Studies of households and other contacts of people who were confirmed to have been infected to see if they became infected; and
* Study to see how long a person with the virus infection sheds the virus.

Who is in charge of medicine in the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) once it is deployed?
Local health officials have full control of SNS medicine once supplies are deployed to a city, state, or territory. Federal, state, and local community planners are working together to ensure that SNS medicines will be delivered to the affected area as soon as possible. Many cities, states, and territories have already received SNS supplies. After CDC sends medicine to a state or city, control and distribution of the supply is at the discretion of that state or local health department. Most states and cities also have their own medicines that they can access to treat infected persons.

*Note: Much of the information in this document is based on studies and past experience with seasonal (human) influenza. CDC believes the information applies to novel H1N1 (swine) viruses as well, but studies on this virus are ongoing to learn more about its characteristics. This document will be updated as new information becomes available.

For general information about influenza in pigs (not novel H1N1 flu) see Background Information on Influenza in Pigs.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm
Read Full Article...>>>

Cardiac Arrest Symptoms and Causes

Singer Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, after being rushed to a hospital suffering from cardiac arrest.




Cardiac arrest is the sudden loss of cardiac function, when the heart abruptly stops beating. A person whose heart has stopped will lose consciousness and stop normal breathing, and their pulse and blood pressure will be absent. Unless resuscitative efforts are begun immediately, cardiac arrest leads to death within a few minutes. This is often referred to by doctors as "sudden death" or "sudden cardiac death (SCD)."

Ventricular fibrillation is the most common cause of cardiac arrest. Ventricular fibrillation occurs when the normal, regular, electrical activation of heart muscle contraction is replaced by chaotic electrical activity that causes the heart to stop beating and pumping blood to the brain and other parts of the body. Permanent brain damage and death can occur unless the flow of blood to the brain is restored within five minutes. Heart attack is the most common cause of ventricular fibrillation. Less common causes of cardiac arrest include respiratory arrest (loss of breathing function), choking, trauma, electrocution, and drowning.

Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation (electrical impulses delivered to the chest to restore normal heart rhythm) are the only way to reverse a cardiac arrest. These lifesaving measures must be instituted within a few minutes after cardiac arrest in order to have any chance of success. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, a person's chances of survival decrease by 7% to 10%. In areas where emergency medical services are able to provide defibrillation within five to seven minutes, the survival rate for cardiac arrest has been reported to be as high as 49%. It is rare for a resuscitation to be successful if more than ten minutes have elapsed following a cardiac arrest.

While having coronary artery disease or having a heart attack can increase a person's risk for having cardiac arrest, a heart attack is not the same thing as cardiac arrest. A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when a portion of the heart muscle dies due to lack of blood flow and oxygen to a specific area of the heart. Symptoms of a heart attack typically include chest or other upper body discomfort and shortness of breath. A heart attack can precipitate sudden onset of ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest. Heart attack victim that develops ventricular fibrillation will lose consciousness.

Cardiac arrest is obviously a serious medical emergency. The mortality (death rate) from cardiac arrest can be decreased by providing immediate CPR and prompt defibrillation. Many public places are now equipped with automated external defibrillators (AEDs) that allow lay persons to provide emergency defibrillation in case of cardiac arrest.
By.Melissa Conrad Stoppler, MD
Read Full Article...>>>

The science of sudden cardiac arrest.

Journalists and politicians across the country were in shock Friday afternoon at news that Tim Russert, the prominent and beloved NBC correspondent, had collapsed and died suddenly of a heart attack in the network's Washington office. Russert had previously been been diagnosed with several risk factors for a sudden heart attack, including coronary artery disease and diabetes. But his death is still a sad reminder that cardiac arrest can strike anyone without warning—and that when it does, it is often fatal.




Sudden cardiac arrest accounts for 310,000 deaths in America every year, or 850 a day—more than those caused by breast cancer, lung cancer, stroke, and AIDS combined. But despite how common the condition is, doctors know little about what predisposes one person to it and not another. The National Institutes of Health is currently mounting a major study at 60 trial sites across the country to try and identify risk factors related to both genes and lifestyle, and will begin enrolling patients this week. For now, says Jeffrey Olgin, a cardiologist at the University of California, San Francisco, assessing risk is "a very, very difficult thing. I can't look at you and say you have a 10 percent chance of dying from this."

Doctors do know that a previous history of heart attacks is the most important risk factor. Vice President Dick Cheney, who has suffered four heart attacks, wears a pacemaker to ward off sudden arrest. Age and gender also play roles, and as a 58-year-old male, Russert was in high-risk groups; the average age for suffering sudden cardiac death is between 58 and 62. Other factors involved in all forms of cardiovascular disease—family history, smoking, diabetes, and obesity—can come into play. Russert had some of these too; he had been previously diagnosed with diabetes and and coronary artery disease, and his autopsy on Friday showed an enlarged heart. But doctors do not know which of these factors is most important in causing a sudden heart attack, or why. They also do not know if stress plays a role at all; the data is unclear. "Most of us do not think it is terribly relevant," says Steven Nissen, chair of cardiovascular medicine at the Cleveland Clinic and a past president of the American College of Cardiology. After all, he notes, "many people in this world have stressful jobs," and they don't all die of of heart attacks.

What is clear is that there are ways to lower one's risk of sudden cardiac death: eat healthy, exercise, don't smoke, and take aspirin or statins. The trouble, though, is that patients often don't think they're at serious risk until they are actually experiencing an attack. In about a third of all sudden deaths due to coronary disease, death is the first sign that anything major is wrong. Russert himself was exercising and taking medication for his coronary artery disease, which was asymptomatic. He performed well in a stress test two months ago.

A sudden cardiac arrest is, of course, unexpected, but the process that causes it may begin many years before. "In middle-aged men, it's virtually always caused by degeneration in the wall of a coronary artery," says Dr. Thomas Risser, a cardiologist at Cambridge Health Alliance. "It starts with fat deposits and inflammation, and these plaques just lie there silently." They can do so for decades until one of them fractures, at which point the body tries to plug the hole with a blood clot—and ends up blocking off the whole blood vessel. This condition is known as a coronary thrombosis, and it is extremely dangerous. The heart muscle, now starved for oxygen-rich blood, falls out of rhythm; it quivers but doesn't pump. "In the final stage, the ventricle looks like a bag of worms. It's chaotically beating very fast and therefore is completely inefficient at pumping blood," says Olgin. "Soon, there's no blood flow anywhere, including the brain, and people just suddenly collapse."

Once a patient's heart has gotten out of a normal rhythm, it can't get back on beat on its own. But a defibrillator—either an internally implanted one such as Cheney's, or an external one with electrical paddles—can get the heart beating steadily again, provided it is used in time. "If people get there with an external defibrillator within three minutes of a collapse, the survival rate for the kind of thing Russert may have had can be as high as 50 percent," says Robert J. Myerburg, a cardiologist at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. "But time is the whole issue. If you rely on fire/rescue teams to bring one, the chance of survival drops seven to ten percent" with every minute that passes after a collapse. It's unclear whether Russert had access to a defibrillator. His internist said on Friday that "resuscitation" had begun immediately after the collapse and continued at the hospital, to no avail.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/141450
Read Full Article...>>>

Omega-3 And Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Not just like Michael jackson.....Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) is responsible for numerous deaths in the U.S. and other countries around the world. It is not the same as a heart attack. A heart attack normally occurs when advanced atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries) slowly starves the heart causing irreversible damage. The heart finally cannot function properly and stops. Sudden cardiac death occurs when the electrical impulses that control heart function become erratic resulting in an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). When the arrhythmia is severe enough the heart suddenly stops, starving the brain of needed blood. Death often follows quickly unless emergency care is administered immediately. Often sudden cardiac death occurs when no other heart disease is detected.




It has long been understood that eating fish can reduce the likelihood of heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases. The reason? Fish, especially cold-water fatty fish, is high in two omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). These two fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3 has been shown to reduce the build-up of artery clogging atherosclerosis and keep blood platelets from sticking together thus reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

But more recent studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids also have an effect on the dangerous arrhythmias that can cause sudden cardiac death by regulating the impulses that control heart rhythm.

One study involved the use of mycocytes (cells that beat independently). By adding the free fatty acids to these cells arrhythmias were aborted. When the fatty acids were extracted from the mycocytes the arrhythmias would reoccur thus indicating that omega-3 fatty acids have a stabilizing effect on heart rhythm. The apparent mechanism for controlling rhythm involved cell ion channels, proteins that control the movement of sodium, calcium and potassium ions across the membrane of the cell.

Another study, conducted by Danish researchers, examined the relationship between heart rate variability and omega-3 fatty acids in healthy subjects. It had already been determined that heart arrhythmias could be positively impacted in patients who were recent heart attack victims. These researchers wanted to determine if people otherwise free of heart disease could gain the same arrhythmia controlling benefits from omega-3 fatty acids.

Sixty healthy adults were randomly divided into three groups. The first group received daily supplements containing 6.6 g of omega-3 (containing 3.0g EPA and 2.9g DHA). Group two received 2.0g of omega-3 (containing 0.9g EPA and 0.8g DHA). The remaining group received only an olive oil placebo. The supplements were given for 12 weeks. Before and after the supplements were consumed heart rate variability and blood cell fatty acids were measured. It was found that heart rate variability was favorably influenced by the amount of omega-3 consumed. In other words, the more omega-3 one consumed the higher the heart rate variability, especially in men with low heart rate variability before supplementing.

The researchers concluded that omega-3 fatty acids positively affected heart rate variability thus having a protective effect on heart function. These finding were similar to those of earlier studies showing that omega-3 positively affects heart rhythm in patients who had suffered a previous heart attack. Since sudden cardiac death is the result of erratic heart rhythm, omega-3’s heart protective qualities show great promise in the fight against sudden cardiac arrest. The mechanical studies completed by these and other researchers seemed to confirm other studies that the oral ingestion of fish and fish oils provide prophylaxis for the prevention of fatal cardiac arrhythmias when taken regularly in small amounts. In simple terms, consuming fish and fish oil supplements can save lives.
by: Greg Post
Read Full Article...>>>

Influenza A(H1N1) - update 53

Laboratory-confirmed cases of new influenza A(H1N1) as officially reported to WHO by States Parties to the International Health Regulations (2005)
24 June 2009 07:00 GMT
The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases is given in the following table and map.
Map of the spread of Influenza A(H1N1): number of laboratory confirmed cases and deaths [png 171kb]




Country, territory and area Cumulative total Newly confirmed since the last reporting period
Cases Deaths Cases Deaths
Algeria 2 0 1 0
Antigua and Barbuda 2 0 2 0
Argentina 1213 7 203 0
Australia 2857 2 421 1
Austria 12 0 3 0
Bahamas 4 0 2 0
Bahrain 15 0 0 0
Bangladesh 1 0 0 0
Barbados 5 0 1 0
Belgium 30 0 1 0
Bermuda, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Bolivia 44 0 19 0
Brazil 334 0 203 0
British Virgin Islands, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Brunei Darussalam 4 0 3 0
Bulgaria 5 0 3 0
Cambodia 1 0 1 0
Canada 6457 15 747 2
Cap Verde 3 0 3 0
Cayman Islands, UKOT 7 0 3 0
Chile 4315 4 0 0
China 906 0 167 0
Colombia 71 2 0 0
Costa Rica 189 1 40 0
Cote d'Ivoire 2 0 2 0
Cuba 15 0 0 0
Cyprus 5 0 1 0
Czech Republic 7 0 0 0
Denmark 34 0 11 0
Dominica 1 0 0 0
Dominican Republic 108 2 15 1
Ecuador 115 0 20 0
Egypt 40 0 1 0
El Salvador 160 0 0 0
Estonia 5 0 0 0
Ethiopia 2 0 2 0
Fiji 2 0 1 0
Finland 26 0 13 0
France 171 0 24 0
French Polynesia, FOC 1 0 0 0
Martinique, FOC 2 0 1 0
Germany 301 0 26 0
Greece 58 0 10 0
Guatemala 235 1 27 0
Honduras 118 0 10 0
Hungary 7 0 0 0
Iceland 4 0 0 0
India 64 0 20 0
Ireland 23 0 0 0
Israel 375 0 84 0
Italy 96 0 8 0
Jamaica 19 0 0 0
Japan 893 0 43 0
Jordan 15 0 2 0
Korea, Republic of 115 0 10 0
Kuwait 26 0 0 0
Laos 3 0 1 0
Latvia 1 0 1 0
Lebanon 25 0 13 0
Luxembourg 3 0 0 0
Malaysia 68 0 45 0
Mexico 7847 115 223 2
Montenegro 1 0 1 0
Morocco 9 0 3 0
Netherlands 110 0 19 0
Netherlands Antilles, Curaçao * 3 0 0 0
Netherlands Antilles, Sint Maarten1 0 0 0
New Zealand 386 0 128 0
Nicaragua 220 0 31 0
Norway 22 0 5 0
Oman 3 0 0 0
Panama 330 0 0 0
Papua New Guinea 1 0 0 0
Paraguay 58 0 10 0
Peru 217 0 32 0
Philippines 445 1 101 1
Poland 13 0 0 0
Portugal 6 0 0 0
Qatar 10 0 2 0
Romania 19 0 1 0
Russia 3 0 0 0
Samoa 1 0 0 0
Saudi Arabia 45 0 10 0
Singapore 194 0 52 0
Slovakia 4 0 1 0
Slovenia 1 0 0 0
South Africa 1 0 0 0
Spain 539 0 17 0
Sri Lanka 5 0 1 0
Suriname 11 0 0 0
Sweden 55 0 7 0
Switzerland 33 0 2 0
Thailand 774 0 185 0
Trinidad and Tobago 25 0 7 0
Tunisia 2 0 2 0
Turkey 26 0 6 0
Ukraine 1 0 0 0
United Arab Emirates 2 0 0 0
United Kingdom 2905 1 399 0
Isle of Man, Crown Dependency 1 0 0 0
Jersey, Crown Dependency 3 0 2 0
United States of America 21449 87 0 0
Uruguay 195 0 159 0
Vanuatu 1 1 0
Venezuela 135 0 64 0
Viet Nam 56 0 21 0
West Bank and Gaza Strip 8 0 0 0
Yemen 6 0 1 0
Grand Total 55867 238 3707 7
Chinese Taipei has reported 61 confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) with 0 deaths. Cases from Chinese Taipei are included in the cumulative totals provided in the table above.
Cumulative and new figures are subject to revision

Read Full Article...>>>

The Pregnancy Glow and Other Myths of Motherhood

It happened during the ninth month of my first pregnancy. I was going through a department store check-out lane where a teenage girl was ringing up my purchases. She looked shyly at my burgeoning belly with an expression that could only be described as reverent.




With eyes full of dreams of future motherhood she asked, “Is pregnancy really as bad as everyone says?”

Without the slightest guilt, I replied, “No. It’s worse.”

The Deception

When my husband and I announced the birth of our blessed expectation some months prior, along with endless congratulations, I received the good news of the many wonderful changes I could expect.

"You’ll positively glow.”

“Your hair and nails will look fabulous.”

“You’ll feel absolutely beautiful.”

According to family and friends, as a gestating woman, I would feel nothing short of a precious vessel, glowing with health and radiance given only to those experiencing the miracle of growing a child.

About a week later, wearing the pallor of death, I was running away from the smell of my husband’s lunchtime tuna fish sandwich knowing I’d never been so violently ill my entire life.

The Reality

Although it’s rumored there are actually women who sail through pregnancy untouched by any ills or discomfort, I was not one of them. If I’d ever experienced a pregnancy glow, I’m certain I could only have been radioactive.

I was told to expect a little morning sickness. I didn’t anticipate 24/7 progesterone poisoning, body aches, or never ending fatigue. And in all the happy tales of pregnancy recounted to me, I'm certain I'd have remembered hearing if pure, unadulterated misery were mentioned as a symptom of gestation.

Sitting in my obstetrician’s office near the end of the first trimester, she asked how I was feeling. “Sick.”

“Good.” She replied.

Seeing my defeated look, she offered a small respite. “You’ll start to feel better after week 12 or 13.”

I crossed the days off my calendar waiting for magical week 13. It came and went. My never ending nausea did not. I was sick, tired, and sick of being both.

I'd been told how sharing a child together would make my marital relationship more intimate. I, on the other hand, hated my husband. No matter he and I had joyfully consented to make this child together, or that he worried and did the best he could to make me feel more comfortable. Somewhere in the back of my mind, as I watched him lie peacefully asleep at night while I was awake fending off nausea, all I could think was, “this is your fault.”

And so it went for the entire duration of nine months. I knew beyond any shadow of a doubt, if I ever survived this go-round on the pregnancy rollercoaster, there would be no more children in my future, ever. Motherhood just wasn’t all that it was cracked up to be.

The Grand Debut

Jacob Lyle arrived in early fall that year, bearing 10 perfect fingers and toes, a head full of brown hair and big blue eyes. He was bruised and battered from birth, yet, to my eyes, perfection unlike the world had ever seen before.

Suddenly, my entire life made sense. At 23-years old, I wasn’t yet sure what I wanted to be when I grew up, or what my future held outside of being a wife to my husband. With the arrival of Jacob, I knew exactly why I was here—to be the mother of this beautiful child. Having Jacob filled my life with a sense of awe and wonder I had never known. I was a mother, and that was enough.

Altered Expectations

While I had expected sleepless nights with my newborn, what I hadn’t expected was how much I would enjoy them. I gladly gave up sleep to have the chance just to hold my tiny son in my arms and look at his sweet face.

I expected life to change. I never expected the very foundations of my world to be rocked. It came as a total shock that the simple act of becoming a mother—wasn’t simple.

Previous to motherhood, tragedy in the world was sad. After the birth of my son, it was heart-wrenching. No longer could I watch a movie or read a news report depicting harm to a child without emotion. Every child became my child. What if it were Jacob who was sick? What if it were Jacob who was injured?

Issues I’d previously given no thought suddenly became of substantial importance. Was there truly a difference between breastfeeding and formula feeding? Should we circumcise? If I vaccinated my child, he could have a serious adverse reaction. If I chose not to vaccinate, he could become very ill.

I became an information addict and read every book on childcare I could get my hands on and spent endless hours researching my concerns and second guessing my decisions. The rest of my waking hours were spent staring at Jacob as he slept, assuring myself he was still breathing and would only continue to do so thorough my conscious willing of it. Fortunately, he survived my new mother paranoia and came out relatively unscathed-- or at least, I will assume so until I’m presented with a bill for therapy.

Personal Truths

I had gone into motherhood with the words of many fostering my belief I’d have a baby, but life would eventually go back to normal again by the magical six-week check-up (at which point I'd also have lost all my baby weight). What I didn’t know when I gave birth was normal was gone forever, along with any peace of mind, my figure, and any hope of a good night’s sleep, but that I’d never trade a moment of my new life to have it back again.

Motherhood, I’ve come to find, is a journey rather than a destination. And while we may endeavor to share experiences with a new mom-to-be, the truths of motherhood remain personal and hers alone to find. The only certainty is the journey is well worth traveling.

I only wish I could talk to that teenager one more time.
by: Barbara A. Eastom Bates

Read Full Article...>>>

Pregnancy Exercise And Diet Tips - Sensible Advice For Expectant Mothers

Mothers-to-be have many questions about pregnancy nutrition and exercise. The tips and advice below will help you get started on a healthy pregnancy.




A diet containing the essential nutrients and vitamins are vital to the development of both mother and child. Vitamins are imperative to the health of a developing baby and the well being of the mother. Choosing foods that are rich in vitamins and other nutrients are a critical part of a healthy pregnancy nutrition plan and supplemental vitamins are necessary as well.

Follow a well-planned pregnancy diet to help avoid complications such as morning sickness, fatigue, anemia, and constipation. Your healthy diet must continue after pregnancy if you plan to breastfeed your baby.

Pregnancy food recommendations

* Your pregnancy diet should include plenty of complex and unrefined carbohydrates as they contain important B vitamins, trace minerals, and fiber that are essential to a fit, healthy pregnancy.

* Appropriate quantities of yellow and green leafy vegetables are vital for the growth of the baby and the health of the mother.

* Dairy products contain calcium that will assist in the developing baby's teeth and bones. If your diet is lacking calcium your body will draw calcium from your bones to meet it's increased need.

* Avoid excessive amounts of fat must be avoided during pregnancy, as it will only serve to add excess pounds, which will be hard to lose after the birth of your baby.

* Vitamin C in generous amounts is crucial to a healthy pregnancy, bone growth, and various metabolic processes. Including berries, citrus fruits, raw broccoli and cabbage can help provide you with the Vitamin C that you need.

Ideally, your pregnancy diet should include 3-4 servings of protein and meat, 2-4 servings of fruit, 6-11 servings of grains, 4-6 servings of dairy products, and 6-8 glasses of water, milk, and juice. A pregnant mother must follow a healthy diet that will benefit the developing baby but that will also maintain her general health as well.

Exercise recommendations during pregnancy

Exercise during pregnancy will promote strength, muscle tone, and endurance. Regular activity during your pregnancy will help alleviate swelling, fatigue, and backache. If you expect to remain fit during your pregnancy you will need to work your heart and major muscle groups. The type of exercise you do during your pregnancy will depend on your fitness level prior to pregnancy. Walking, pregnancy yoga videos, and swimming are excellent pregnancy exercises combined with stretching and other low-impact activities.

Exercises that involve a risk of falling or injury should be avoided such as bicycling, racket sports, horseback riding, and skiing. You will need to alter your exercise routine from trimester to trimester to accommodate your growing body. Avoiding over-exertion is necessary to avoid complications such as faintness, dizziness, vaginal bleeding, and premature contractions. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercising to reduce the risk of dehydration, which can raise your body temperature and cause harm to yourself and/or your baby.

A regular exercise program is beneficial to both mother and child, but check with your health care provider to make sure you have no conditions or risks that will prevent you from participating in a regular exercise routine or could cause potential harm to yourself or your child.
by: Tina Titas
Read Full Article...>>>

Menyusui

Menyusui adalah proses pemberian susu kepada bayi atau anak kecil dengan air susu ibu (ASI) dari payudara ibu. Bayi menggunakan refleks menghisap untuk mendapatkan dan menelan susu.




Bukti eksperimental menyimpulkan bahwa air susu ibu adalah gizi terbaik untuk bayi. Para pakar masih memperdebatkan seberapa lama periode menyusui yg paling baik dan seberapa jauh risiko penggunaan susu formula

Seorang bayi dapat disusui oleh ibunya sendiri atau oleh wanita lain. ASI juga dapat diperah dan diberikan melalui alat menyusui lain seperti botol susu, cangkir, sendok, atau pipet. Susu formula juga tersedia untuk para ibu yang tidak bisa atau memilih untuk tidak menyusui, namun para ahli sepakat bahwa kualitas susu formula tidaklah sebaik ASI. Di banyak negara, pemberian susu formula terkait dengan tingkat kematian bayi akibat diare, tetapi apabila pembuatannya dilakukan dengan hati-hati menggunakan air bersih, pemberian susu formula cukup aman.

Pemerintah dan organisasi internasional sepakat untuk mempromosikan menyusui sebagai metode terbaik untuk pemberian gizi bayi setidaknya tahun pertama dan bahkan lebih lama lagi, antara lain WHO, Akademi Dokter Anak Amerika (American Academy of Pediatrics}, dan Departemen Kesehatan.
http://id.wikipedia.org

Read Full Article...>>>

Breastfeeding And Diabetes

If you are a diabetic and have a baby, there are certain things to keep in mind while you are breastfeeding. Firstly, studies have proven that breastfeeding a baby can help to prevent type 1 diabetes development. Babies who breastfeed until at least six months will be at a lower risk for type 1 diabetes. Doctors generally recommend that mothers breastfeed their children until nine to twelve months.







Doctors are unsure if the positive effects of nursing come from special nutrients in the colostrum (the special milk from mothers) or if it because babies who are breastfed often grow at a more regular pace than those who are fed from cow’s milk. Babies weaned on cow’s milk often experience growth spurts rather than the steady growth associated with mother’s milk. If you are a diabetic, consider breastfeeding to help lower your child’s chances of diabetes due to genetic predisposition.

Breastfeeding is not only positive for the babies, but also for the mothers. Breastfeeding can help maternal weight loss, and it is particularly important for diabetic women to maintain a healthy weight. Some breastfeeding mothers find it easier for them to manage their diabetes because their glucose levels stay more constant and they have a remission of some symptoms while breastfeeding.

Just like during pregnancy, breastfeeding requires much blood sugar level monitoring from the mother. You will probably find that your need for insulin is lower than before your pregnancy. Insulin will not enter your baby’s body because it is too large to be carried on the breast milk. However, if you have type 2 diabetes and are taking diabetes medication, talk with your doctor to make sure that you are on a type of medication that will be healthiest for both you and for your baby.

Breastfeeding means that you have to be extra careful of your nutrition, so be sure to see your doctor or dietitian to create a meal plan that will work for you. It is important to eat regular snacks when you are breastfeeding because you want to keep your blood glucose levels constant. You will need to increase your caloric intake by about 500 calories a day to meet your baby’s nutritional needs. You can do this simply by drinking a glass of milk each time you breastfeed, which will keep you both hydrated and full of vitamins.

In order to maintain a balanced diet, experts suggest that mothers eat 20% of calories from protein, 40-60% from carbohydrates, and 30-40% from fruits and vegetables. Keeping up with all of these food groups will ensure that your body has the nutrients to provide for the baby.

As a breastfeeding mother, low blood sugar is an increased risk. However, by eating a healthy diet full of legumes, whole grains, other healthy foods, you will be able to keep low blood sugar at bay. Drinking lots of fluids is also an important part of having a healthy blood sugar level. Most importantly, monitor your blood glucose levels and record the results frequently. Having a newborn baby around will mean that you are very busy, but it is also the time when it is most important to take care of yourself so that you will be able to care for your baby.

When the baby is born, often it is a good idea to immediately allow the baby to breastfeed, which will prevent low blood sugar. Some hospitals will try to take babies away for observation. You can ask politely, and firmly insist that you baby stays with you for the first feeding and for some initial bonding time. If you are hospitalized after the baby is born, ask to bring your baby with you so that you will still be able to breastfeed. Diabetic mothers are not often hospitalized, but since breastfeeding is even more important for diabetic mothers, it is important to keep this in mind.

Some diabetic mothers may find that their milk comes in late, between two days to two weeks. In the meantime, use a breastpump and speak to your doctor to establish the best solution for you and your baby. Even babies who are too weak to breastfeed can be fed breastmilk that has been pumped.

Breastfeeding is a bonding experience for mothers and babies. Diabetics can breastfeed and gain even more benefits than the emotional closeness, such as lowered diabetes risk for the baby, and improved diabetes control for the mother.
by: Vivian L. Brennan

Read Full Article...>>>

Breastfeeding Tips for You and Your Baby

Breastfeeding can be termed as the most effective way of creating a perfect bond between a mother and her child. Breast milk helps in the mental and physical growth of your baby. It also increases the baby’s immune system. It can be considered a natural way of protecting your baby.




Breast milk is naturally the most perfect food for your baby. Although it takes time learning how to breastfeed, you will be rewarded if you are persistent. However, it is a fact that some woman simply cannot breastfeed due to medical conditions or the baby not latching on for one reason or another, so don’t be disheartened if you can’t.

When you are breastfeeding, your baby’s mouth should be covering the entire areola; sucking just the nipples will make your nipples sore and your baby will not get sufficient milk. This is one of the most common problems but also the easiest problem to fix that many woman have.

Another reason why woman give up on breastfeeding is pain. Although your nipples might very well scab and crack, this is very normal. Quite often, your nipples will actually bleed. This should cause no alarm because this is fairly common as well. There are many products that are actually made specifically for this reason. Lanolin works remarkably well to repair cracked or sore nipples, which in turn relieves the pain.

In order to ensure your baby grows healthy and strong you will have to take special precautions with what you consume. Medications can pass through your breastmilk as can alcohol and drugs. Always consult your doctor prior to taking any medication and drink alcohol in moderation – none is best. It is better to be safe. Being conscious about your health will have positive effects on your baby as its immune system develops.

When your baby is small, he is totally dependent on you for everything. Breastfeeding is one of those times when you are providing your baby with a necessity as well as sharing a bond that no one else can replace. Enjoy these moments now, as they become far too quickly, memories.
by: Katherine Nagy


Read Full Article...>>>

Influenza A(H1N1) - update 52

Laboratory-confirmed cases of new influenza A(H1N1) as officially reported to WHO by States Parties to the International Health Regulations (2005)
22 June 2009 07:00 GMT
The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases is given in the following table and map.
Map of the spread of Influenza A(H1N1): number of laboratory confirmed cases and deaths [png 213kb]...




Country, territory and area Cumulative total Newly confirmed since the last reporting period
Cases Deaths Cases Deaths
Algeria 1 0 1 0
Argentina 1010 7 92 3
Australia 2436 1 237 1
Austria 9 0 1 0
Bahamas 2 0 0 0
Bahrain 15 0 3 0
Bangladesh 1 0 1 0
Barbados 4 0 0 0
Belgium 29 0 10 0
Bermuda, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Bolivia 25 0 14 0
Brazil 131 0 35 0
British Virgin Islands, UKOT 1 0 0 0
Brunei Darussalam 1 0 1 0
Bulgaria 2 0 0 0
Canada 5710 13 805 1
Cayman Islands, UKOT 4 0 0 0
Chile 4315 4 1190 2
China 739 0 220 0
Colombia 71 2 11 1
Costa Rica 149 1 0 0
Cuba 15 0 0 0
Cyprus 4 0 3 0
Czech Republic 7 0 2 0
Denmark 23 0 1 0
Dominica 1 0 0 0
Dominican Republic 93 1 0 0
Ecuador 95 0 9 0
Egypt 39 0 10 0
El Salvador 160 0 0 0
Estonia 5 0 0 0
Fiji 1 0 1 0
Finland 13 0 0 0
France 147 0 16 0
French Polynesia, FOC 1 0 0 0
Martinique, FOC 1 0 0 0
Germany 275 0 37 0
Greece 48 0 17 0
Guatemala 208 1 55 0
Honduras 108 0 0 0
Hungary 7 0 0 0
Iceland 4 0 0 0
India 44 0 14 0
Ireland 23 0 7 0
Israel 291 0 72 0
Italy 88 0 0 0
Jamaica 19 0 5 0
Japan 850 0 160 0
Jordan 13 0 11 0
Korea, Republic of 105 0 21 0
Kuwait 26 0 8 0
Laos 2 0 1 0
Lebanon 12 0 0 0
Luxembourg 3 0 1 0
Malaysia 23 0 0 0
Mexico 7624 113 0 0
Morocco * 6 0 -2 0
Netherlands 91 0 4 0
Netherlands Antilles,Curaçao **3 0 0 0
Netherlands Antilles,Sint Maarten1 0 0 0
New Zealand 258 0 42 0
Nicaragua 189 0 45 0
Norway 17 0 0 0
Oman 3 0 0 0
Panama 330 0 58 0
Papua New Guinea 1 0 0 0
Paraguay 48 0 21 0
Peru 185 0 44 0
Philippines 344 0 33 0
Poland 13 0 6 0
Portugal 6 0 1 0
Qatar 8 0 5 0
Romania 18 0 0 0
Russia 3 0 0 0
Samoa 1 0 0 0
Saudi Arabia 35 0 13 0
Singapore 142 0 65 0
Slovakia 3 0 0 0
Slovenia 1 0 1 0
South Africa 1 0 0 0
Spain 522 0 10 0
Sri Lanka 4 0 3 0
Suriname 11 0 0 0
Sweden 48 0 5 0
Switzerland 31 0 4 0
Thailand 589 0 71 0
Trinidad and Tobago 18 0 0 0
Turkey 20 0 0 0
Ukraine 1 0 0 0
United Arab Emirates 2 0 0 0
United Kingdom 2506 1 754 0
Isle of Man, Crown Dependency 1 0 0 0
Jersey, Crown Dependency 1 0 0 0
United States of America 21449 87 3594 43
Uruguay 36 0 0 0
Venezuela 71 0 11 0
Viet Nam 35 0 8 0
West Bank and Gaza Strip 8 0 3 0
Yemen 5 0 1 0
Grand Total 52160 231 7873 51
Chinese Taipei has reported 61 confirmed case of influenza A (H1N1) with 0 deaths. Cases from Chinese Taipei are included in the cumulative totals provided in the table above.
Cumulative and new figures are subject to revision

Read Full Article...>>>

The Effect of Bitter Melon and Diabetes

A popular Asian vegetable has been steadily gaining acceptance as a safe and natural way to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The Ampalaya, or Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia Linn.), has been found to contain several key compounds that researchers agree may be beneficial to diabetics, in helping them regulate blood sugar levels.




Bitter Melon contains powerful insulin lowering properties which are thought to be an effective treatment for Diabetes. Current studies suggest that Bitter Melon promotes blood sugar control by controlling how the body produces insulin. Some studies report that this bitter gourd can enhance the cells’ uptake of glucose, promotes insulin release, and makes the effect of insulin more potent. Some even document Bitter Melon’s ability to effectively lower cholesterol.

Natural health practitioners and scientists are focusing on the beneficial properties of this gourd with promising returns. In Ayurvedic medicine, Bitter Melon is seen as a “plant-insulin”, and some studies show that, if administered correctly, it can behave similarly to slow-acting animal insulin which represents exciting potential for a more sustainable, vegetarian, source of insulin. Please note that we do not advise that you substitute eating Bitter Melon for taking insulin.

In some countries doctors are so confident about the anti-diabetic effect of Bitter Melon that it is sometimes dispensed in hospitals to people suffering from diabetes. Generations of Asian diabetics have known about the benefits of Bitter Melon, and just recently science has confirmed it. In numerous pre-clinical and limited clinical studies conducted on the plant, researchers have isolated, in particular, plant insulin that mimics animal insulin found in Bitter Melon. Additionally, the department of Health in the Philippines has recommended Bitter Melon as one of the best herbal medicines for treating diabetes.

Even before researchers started unlocking the plant’s anti-diabetes properties, the Bitter Melon had long been used as a traditional home remedy in many Asian countries to help control blood sugar levels. Many diabetics regularly consume the fruit, which is easily prepared as part of the daily meals. Diabetics who have come to trust this natural remedy claim to be able to live a normal, active life by eating the Bitter Melon as part of a healthy daily diet.

However, to reap its benefit, Bitter Melon must be taken on a regular basis. This is where the Melon’s natural bitter taste often poses a problem. To solve this, some companies are manufacturing all-natural Bitter Melon teas and capsules, a more convenient and more pleasant-tasting way to get the plant's healthy benefits. These products retain the key compounds, while avoiding the bitter taste.

Today, more and more Bitter Melon products are starting to enter markets around the world, giving diabetics a safer, more natural way to help manage their blood sugar levels. If you or someone you know has diabetes or other blood sugar problems, you should consider using Bitter Melon to help you. It's even available as a capsule if you don't have access to the fruit itself!
by: Julia Hanf

Read Full Article...>>>

What You Need To Know About Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis literally means "porous bones". A lack of calcium is the major cause of osteoporosis; a silent disease in which bones lose some of their calcium and other minerals making them brittle and fragile. It does not give an advanced warning. Usually, the first sign is severe low back or hip pain, or a broken bone.




With aging, almost everyone experiences some loss of bone mass. However, it is more common among women than men because women have about 30% less bone mass to begin with. Also, estrogen appears to play an important part in female bone metabolism, which is why women lose bone mass at an accelerated rate during the first 5 to 10 years after menopause. Estrogen protects the skeletal system by promoting the deposit of calcium in bone.

You experience your peak bone mass around the age of 35. After the age of 35, the body creates less new bone and is less efficient in absorbing and storing dietary calcium. This results in the loss of bone mass of about 1% a year. Until you hit menopause, then you lose about 2 to 4% a year for about the next 10 years.

Once you stop producing bone mass your body still needs calcium for functions, so your body has to take the calcium from your bones leaving them brittle and fragile.

Other causes of osteoporosis are an inability to absorb enough calcium through the intestine, prolonged jaundice, a calcium-phosphorus imbalance, lactose intolerance, a gastrectomy and a lack of exercise.

Certain drugs; such as, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, thyroid medications and high doses of steroids can also be a factor in calcium loss.

Healthy bone metabolism requires a certain amount of stress on the bones. Therefore; regular exercise that gives weight-bearing bones a good workout is essential. Good bone building exercises include walking, jogging, bike riding, dancing, tennis or other activities that require moving about.

The best ways to prevent osteoporosis is to build strong bones early in life, especially under the age of 35 while still building bone mass. Then take steps to keep the bones healthy by eating more calcium rich foods or taking supplements.

A diet adequate in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin C and vitamin D is the best prevention and treatment for osteoporosis. Additional minerals important to the health of your bones include boron, copper, manganese, silicon and zinc.

Calcium is the largest and most difficult molecule to utilize. It is most effective when taken in smaller doses throughout the day and at bedtime. When taken at night it will also promote a sound sleep.

Magnesium plays a role in the formation of bone metabolism. It assists in calcium uptake.

Phosphorus is needed for bone formation. A balance of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus should always be maintained.

Vitamin C is important for collagen and connective tissue.

Vitamin D is required for calcium and phosphorus absorption and utilization. It is especially important for normal growth and development of bones. The body manufactures vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight and is found in fortified milk and multivitamins.

Boron improves calcium absorption and is needed in trace amounts for healthy bones.

Copper aids in the formation of bone. It is essential for the formation of collagen, which makes up the connective tissue of the bone matrix. One of the early signs of copper deficiency is osteoporosis.

Manganese is vital in mineral metabolism. It is required for normal bone growth and reproduction. However, do not take calcium and manganese together - they will compete for absorption.

Silicon (silica) is necessary for calcium utilization and bone strength. Silica tablets contain high amounts of calcium in a form that is easily absorbed.

Zinc is important for calcium uptake and is important to the health of your bones. A deficiency impairs the body's ability to utilize proteins.

Excellent sources of easy to assimilate calcium are buckwheat, buttermilk, cheese, dandelion greens, flounder, kefir, kelp, molasses, nuts and seeds, oats, seaweed, tofu, most vegetables, wheat germ, whole wheat products and yogurt.

Herbals you might want to try if you have osteoporosis include feverfew, horsetail (silicon), oatstraw (a form of silica) and shavegrass.

If you are worried that you are at risk for osteoporosis, you may want to consult with your doctor to discuss an exercise and prevention plan.
by: Edith Lingenfelter

Read Full Article...>>>