Tablets for Colon Cleansing

10/22/2012 – 2:47 pm

Colon cleansing is a process which was once practiced by the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. Recently, due to complaints regarding frequent constipation and difficult passage of stool, the practice has experienced a resurgence of fame.

While manufacturers of tablets for colon cleansing think of the practice as a technique to improve wellness and health, several medical experts are sceptical. If you are considering colon cleansing, make sure that you consult your doctor to ensure that the ingredients will not pose a risk on your health.

General Information

Many of the tablets used for colon cleansing generally contain a mixture of herbs, such as laxatives like cascara and senna. Many of the manufacturers of these tablets suggest continuous use for about 2 to 3 months.

Claims

Colon cleansing advocates believe that taking these tablets to irrigate the colon can help in detoxifying the body by flushing all of the accumulated fecal matter and bad bacteria that has built up on the walls of the intestines.

Several manufacturers of these supplements advertise these tablets as a technique to lose excess pounds, treat irritable bowel syndrome and constipation, prevent specific diseases, and increase energy.

Safety

According to the American Council on Science and Health, the words “all natural” do not really mean that it is 100% safe. Thus, caution must be exercised when you want to undergo colon cleansing with the use of tablets.

Regulatory agencies like the United Sates Food and Drug Administration do not have the legal authority to check and regulate these products because they are not being classified under drugs and their safety does not need to be proven by the manufacturers before they can be released in the market.

Therefore, this will leave a significant risk which is often associated with the use of these herbal tablets, because safety and potency do not need to be verified.

Criticism

According to renowned gastroenterologist and director of University of Maryland School of Medicine, Raymond Cross, the idea of cleansing the colon is related to people who sell snake oil.

Furthermore, Columbia University Health Services notes that there is very little scientific proof that can support the believed advantages and effectiveness brought about by colon cleansing as the kidneys and liver take away toxins from the body on an everyday basis, deeming colon cleansing insignificant.

Warning

Health Beat magazine from Harvard notes that there are certain risks often associated with tablets used for cleansing the colon, such as impaired function of the bowel, destruction of normal intestinal flora, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance.

Additionally, the American Council on Science and Health recommends people who are on prescription drugs to exercise caution all the time because of the risk of harmful and unpleasant drug to drug interactions.

Suggestions

The Columbia University Health Services notes that instead of spending money on tablets for colon cleansing, you can improve your health by undergoing changes in the lifestyle. Consume a balanced and healthy diet which is rich in vegetables and fruits.

Limit intake of alcoholic beverages, do not smoke, and exercise regularly.

By Janice | Posted in Colon Cleanse | Tagged , , | Comments (0)

Foods That You Need to Avoid If You Have Hypothyroidism

10/18/2012 – 1:30 pm

Because hypothyroidism can lead to the development of certain diseases that can put your life at risk, it is important that, if you have this condition, you need to have the necessary treatment as soon as you can.

After all, with a prescribed hyperthyroidism treatment, a prescription derived from the dried thyroid gland of pigs, you can easily control your hypothyroidism. But, while taking your prescription, it is important that you also take good care of your diet and stay away from food that can aggravate your hypothyroidism.

Here are some of the foods that you need to avoid:

Brassica Vegetables

Although Brassica vegetables, otherwise known as Cruciferous vegetables, are known to be good sources of certain nutrients, sad to say, you need to stay away from these vegetables if you have hypothyroidism.

Sure, vegetables that belong to this group-broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, turnips, and bok choy-are said to be good at lowering the risk of lung and colorectal cancer because they contain glucosinolates, it is unfortunate that can limit the function of the thyroid.

This is because Brassica or Cruciferous vegetables are rich in goitrogens, a substance that is known for limiting the production of thyroid hormones. Hence, if you have hypothyroidism, it is important that you avoid eating these vegetables, especially in their raw form.

Soy Products

Products that have been derived from soybeans such soy sauce, soy milk, and tofu are also to be avoided when you have hypothyroidism. While it is true that these products are a good source of protein and helpful in lowering total cholesterol, they also contain isoflavones.

Isoflavones can limit the action of thyroid peroxidase. Thyroid peroxidase is a necessary enzyme that is needed for the production of thyroid hormones. Hence, it is important that you avoid eating soy products if you have hypothyroidism.

Refined Grain

There is no denying that refined grain such as wheat, corn, or oat is more appealing because their bran has been removed, hence, resulting to a whiter appearance, the truth of the matter is that it should not be eaten when you have hypothyroidism.

Instead of eating refined grains, choose to eat whole wheat grains because they are not only rich in dietary fiber, but they are rich in Vitamin B complex, and iron, too. These nutrients are necessary for ensuring that the thyroid functions properly.

Well, staying away from the above-mentioned foods can certainly help avert the aggravation of hypothyroidism. However, you have to remember that abstaining from these foods is only a preventive measure.

You still need to have your hypothyroidism treated. If left untreated, you may suffer from certain diseases that result from hypothyroidism. Do you know that you can suffer from various heart diseases if you leave your hypothyroidism untreated? Yes, you can.

This is because low thyroid hormone production can lead to the increase of bad cholesterol that can affect the pumping ability of the heart. Other health hazards that may arise if you leave your hypothyroidism untreated are infertility and gout.

Therefore, apart from staying away from the foods specified above, it is important that you take your prescribed medication seriously, too.

By Janice | Posted in Hypothyroidism Diet | Tagged , , , | Comments (0)

The Right Reasons To Go On A Weight Loss Program

10/08/2012 – 1:21 pm

Living a healthy lifestyle is something that is slowly becoming popular with many people all over the world. More and more people are no longer excited with the concept of being fat. It is no longer something that that evokes a lot of pride in a person.

Being fat is no longer something to be proud of. As such, more and more people are looking for ways to lose weight. They sign up for exercise programs, go on a diet and even undergo surgery.

Unfortunately, there people who go on a weight loss program for the wrong reasons. This means they end up not being happy with the results that they get.

Here are some of the right reasons to go on a weight loss program.

For health

Being overweight is not a healthy way to live. This is because it can lead to complications in the heart, the liver, the kidneys as well as the overall stamina of a person. Too much fat is just not good for the body.

For a fat person, losing weight can immediately result to a longer lifespan and overall healthier outlook in life. Every pound shed makes a fat person healthier. By losing weight, they are able to make their bodies’ systems function well as well as make sure that they can reclaim their lives.

Losing weight for health is a great reason because it enables a person to enjoy life to the fullest.

For work

There are people who work in jobs that require energy and stamina. Unfortunately, if they are fat, they will be unable to do their job well. In this modern economy, it is very important that one does everything possible to keep their jobs.

If they are unable to do their jobs, they may get fired. As such, in order to keep their jobs they have to lose enough weight. There are engineers in the field, cops, firemen as well as other kinds of jobs that require a person to be at peak physical condition.

If they are not at the right condition, they can get fired. Those who value their jobs should definitely do everything possible to keep it.

For family

Being obese is not a good condition to be in for people who have families. This is because their unhealthy weight is going to affect their ability to interact with their children. Fat people have a hard time keeping up with their children.

Aside from this they are also unable to live a long life. By losing weight, they are able to maximize their chances of spending time with their children. Losing weight to spend more time with one’s family is definitely a very good reason.

In order maximize the chances of losing weight, it is very important that people actually seek the help of an expert. There are fitness trainers as well as clinics who are experts at implementing weight loss programs for different people.

They can definitely help those who wish to lose weight for the right reasons.

Recommend reading: Weight Watchers food plan, click here to read it

By Janice | Posted in Weight Loss | Tagged , , , | Comments (0)

Laxatives and Colon Cleansing

03/18/2012 – 2:54 pm

If you find yourself having an annoying and time-consuming bowel movement, you may have already tried over the counter laxative which explains why this industry is now a multimillion dollar business, notes the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House.

There are also colonic practitioners who perform cleansing of the digestive tract using a process which is similar to getting an enema.

Colon Cleanse

Colon cleansing is also commonly referred to as colon irrigation. This method involves cleansing of the digestive system in which it is rinsed to loosen and remove fecal matter which may be stuck in the colon.

Just like an enema, a hose is going to be attached, except that the whole colon will undergo irrigation and waste product will be made to exit through this hose until the return flow is going to be clear.

Purpose of Colonic

To date, there are varying opinions about the benefits that colon cleansing can bring. According to the Mayo Clinic, experts say that the digestive tract can eliminate waste naturally, before it can even turn toxic and damage the health.

However, constipation accounts for more than 2 million visits to the doctor every year in the United Sates. Additionally, when the constipation becomes chronic, impaction of fecal matter is possible.

With this, new fecal matter cannot pass through and the old fecal matter which is coating the walls of the colon will release toxins in the blood stream. If this problem persists each day, it will warrant emergency medical attention.

Concerns

According to the Mayo Clinic, dehydration is a serious consequence of getting a colon cleanse. This problem, however, may be resolved easily by drinking sufficient fluid amounts. When undergoing a cleanse, do not take laxatives.

Aside from that, you need to make sure that the person who will perform the cleanse utilizes sterile and disposable equipment. However, keep in mind that there is little scientific evidence to prove that colon cleansing can indeed help in detoxification.

A lot of people are convinced that cleansing of the colon, as long as it is done in the right way with all the important precautions taken, can be a huge step to optimum and continued wellness.

Laxatives

Medical News Today notes that the ingredients in laxatives may differ but the purpose is ultimately similar – to break up and soften stool and facilitate easier passage.

There are agents which produce bulk like psyllium husk, creating bulk in fecal matter so that it can move easily and absorb more fluids. Another type of laxative is stool softeners.

These cause water and fats to penetrate in the stool but they lose their effectiveness with prolonged use.

Considerations

If you think you have been undergoing colon cleansing and using laxatives for a long period of time, this can cause health problems.

Effective digestion may be naturally achieved by consuming a balanced and nutritious diet which is rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits and by exercising regularly. Even a 20- to 30-minute walk each day will make a huge difference.

Consult your health care provider if you have done all these things and you are still experiencing problems with your health.

By Janice | Posted in Colon Cleanse | Tagged , , , , , | Comments (0)

Facts about Hypothyroidism

09/13/2011 – 12:43 pm

When the body’s production of the thyroid hormone, a condition called hypothyroidism develops. While there are many diseases that can result to the development of this condition, this doesn’t mean that all of these diseases involve the thyroid gland.

Nonetheless, since the thyroid hormones affect a person’s growth and development, as well as the many processes of the cell, the low production of thyroid hormone can really pose a lot of threat to a person’s health.

Thyroid Hormones Defined

As mentioned earlier, the thyroid hormones are the hormones that are made by the thyroid gland. This gland is situated immediately below the Adam’s apple and is wrapped by the windpipe, which is also known as the trachea.

In order for the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, it needs to use iodine, which is most abundant in seafood, salt, or bread. There are two most important thyroid hormones: T4 and T3.

Nonetheless, between the two, it can’t be denied that, T3 is the more active. In fact, when T3 enters the blood stream, it can convert T4 into T3. T3 is the hormone that influences cellular metabolism.

How to Confirm If You Have Hypothyroidism

Although hypothyroidism come with many symptoms, people who experience fatigue, cold sensitivity, dry and flaky skin, and constipation should raise a red flag because the combination of all of these symptoms can all point to a sure case of hypothyroidism.

Nonetheless, in order to confirm this condition, it is important for a person to have a blood test.

Treatment of Hypothyroidism

While it is true that treatment of hypothyroidism is life long, isn’t it a relief to know that it can be treated? A synthetic thyroid drug which has been taken from the dried thyroid glands of pigs is the most common treatment for hypothyroidism.

Although over-the-counter and non-prescription drugs work, people who have hypothyroidism are encouraged to go for prescription drugs that are FDA-approved.

Is Treatment of Hypothyroidism Necessary?

Because of the available treatment, if you have hypothyroidism, there is no reason for you not to have your condition treated. After all, if left untreated, hypothyroidism can lead to many other health risks.

If you have hypothyroidism, it can lead to the production of low density lipoprotein cholesterol and put you at a higher risk of various heart diseases. Another potent health risk that hypothyroidism can cause is goiter.

Because the insufficient production of thyroid hormones can affect ovulation, to the extent that no egg may be released, you should pay attention to the treatment of your hypothyroidism. Otherwise, it will be difficult for a woman to ever get pregnant.

As it is said, an ounce of prevention is always better than a pound of cure. Hence, it is important that you pay attention to your diet. While iodized salt is a good source of iodine, it is really not enough.

Therefore, you have to eat enough amount of seafood so that you can have yourself protected against the development of hypothyroidism. Nonetheless, make sure that you don’t eat iodine-rich food sources because. If you do so, instead of preventing hypothyroidism, you may even trigger it.

By Janice | Posted in Hypothyroidism Diet | Tagged , , , , | Comments (0)

Why Should People Go On A Weight Loss Diet

06/26/2011 – 12:51 pm

Losing weight is such a big deal. This is because it provides a lot of benefits especially for people who are in the overweight side. Being overweight is really not a great condition to be in. This is because being overweight places a person in an unhealthy condition.

It also makes a person feel like he is haggard, lethargic and moves slow. It also places people on a huge health risk. As such losing weight is truly an ideal option to have for many people. For those who are curious about why people should lose weight.

Here are some reasons.

People should lose weight in order to live a healthier lifestyle

This is the most important and most reliable reason why people should lose weight. Being physically fit and living a healthy lifestyle requires a person to be at their most ideal weight. Fat and overweight people cannot live a healthy lifestyle.

This is because their bodies are not functioning at an optimum level. Aside from this, it also prevents them from having the necessary energy and stamina to live the life that they want. Those who are tired about living a lethargic and slow moving life should definitely start losing weight immediately.

People should lose weight in order to get more out of life

A person who is overweight has limited options in terms of activities. Overweight people are often content to only stay in their couch and watch TV all the time. They do not like leaving their homes because they feel that they won’t be able to survive the outside world.

However, if they lose weight, they can definitely get more out of life. They can travel anywhere they want to and do anything they want to. It is way better to live the life of a person who is physically fit rather than live a life of a fat person.

As such, those who love life should definitely lose weight. Their quality of life will definitely be much better.

People should lose weight to spend more time with their family

Being overweight shortens their lifespan. Overweight people who have families are placing their families at a disadvantage. This is because their overweight condition placed them at risk to die at an earlier age.

In order to maximize the quality time that they spend with their children and spouses, overweight people should definitely go on a weight loss activity asap. This way, they can maximize the number of years that they can spend with their families. If one needs a good enough reason to lose weight, then this is the best reason ever.

Losing weight by going on a weight loss diet is one of the best ways to do so. This is because dieting does not require that much effort. The only thing that a person needs to do is to have the discipline to stick to the diet.

This way, they can lose the weight that they do not need after just a few months of dieting.

By Janice | Posted in Weight Loss | Tagged , , , , | Comments (0)