How Triphala Can Help You in Fighting Fat

Recommended Dosage

A person can take 1 teaspoon of triphala powder with fruit juice or lukewarm water; or it can be swallowed with honey. It should be taken after 45 minutes of having dinner, or just before going to bed. Dosage may vary according to the health condition, and must be taken as per the directions of the medical practitioner.

Having a healthy body, and most importantly, a lean body, is very important for us. We try to achieve this by following a healthy diet and exercise. For some people, burning body fat and getting rid of love handles and cellulite is a nightmare. These people, therefore, resort to drastic ways, like opting for crash diets and fat burning pills. However, with time, more people are becoming aware of the ill-effects of such options. People are slowly waking up to the traditional and natural ways of burning fat. Ayurveda has proved to be a blessing for many, who have chosen to tread this natural path.

The magic herb here is 'Triphala'. It is a mixture of three dried berries or fruits—amalaki (Emblica officinalis), haritaki (Terminalia chebula), and bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica). Interestingly, triphala also has many other health benefits. It is an excellent cleanser with rejuvenating properties. Ayurvedic practitioners suggest taking triphala for losing body fat and weight. They have highlighted the properties of this mixture, that helps burning fat faster.

How Triphala Helps in Burning Fat
Along with the benefits that triphala blesses your body with, it is the fat-burning properties of triphala that makes it more important. The three berries in triphala are excellent in flushing toxins from your body. It is this mechanism that works wonders, and helps the body get rid of fat. When your digestive system gets rid of toxins, it is clean, which makes it more efficient. The result—your digestive system works at its best. The long-term benefits of an effective and healthy digestive system is, that your body gets all the essential nutrients easily. So, the stimulus for hunger gradually reduces. It also enhances bile juice secretion.

On the contrary, if your digestive system does not function effectively, it will not be able to extract nutrients from a sufficient amount of food. This will make your body stimulate hunger for more food, so that necessary amount of nutrients are derived.

Let us see how the different berries that make triphala, aid in burning fat. ? Amalaki - Also known as the Indian gooseberry, this berry has a major role in making triphala an effective fat-fighting herb. It has excellent antioxidant properties. Amalaki reduces any inflammation in the body. It is also known as the 'fat blocking berry', as it helps in maintaining proper blood sugar levels. This prevents the body from storing sugar, which could later get stored as fat. It makes sure that all the sugar is metabolized to glucose, preventing any fat storage. Amalaki also helps in increasing lean muscle in the body. Along with these, it is also a rich source of vitamin C.

? Bibhitaki - Also known as 'bahera', this berry could literally be nicknamed the 'fat magnet'. This berry has properties which grab and extract all the fat and extra water in your body. Bibhitaki has a good amount of linoleic acid. This is actually a fatty acid that helps reduce excess fat in the bloodstream. It also helps in lowering the LDL, also known as bad cholesterol, and increases HDL or good cholesterol.

? Haritaki - Also known as Chebulic Myrobalan, this berry is the prime reason why triphala makes for an excellent cleanser. The most important organ in our body for getting rid of toxins is the colon. Haritaki works on the colon and gets rid of all the toxins in it. A healthy colon makes a healthy digestive system. Along with this, it also helps your body by reducing inflammations, and in effective heart functioning.

Triphala ensures that your body is clean, and is working at its best. It is best to have triphala in its pure and solid form. However, it is also available in the powdered form, and supplements are available in the market. Make sure you consult a medical expert before you include it as part of your diet plan.

Unlike fad diets and artificial diet pills, triphala will take time and consistent efforts before the results are visible. However, such results will be long-lasting and healthy for your body. Along with regular consumption of this ayurvedic product, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and take care of your diet and exercise.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

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Types of Psychotherapy for Mental Disorders

"There are many ways of getting strong, sometimes talking is the best way."
?Andre Agassi, Open: An Autobiography of Andre Agassi

There are a wide range of therapies that are used to treat mental disorders. In psychotherapy, there is no such thing as a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. The treatment plan depends on the condition, and may differ in the duration and intensity. Sometimes, instead of one approach, psychologists prefer a blended approach, where two or more types of psychotherapy techniques are used to solve the problem. The range of psychotherapy techniques is aimed at dialog, communication, and changes in behavior to improve the mental health of the person. Here are some of the most common types of psychotherapy for mental disorders.

Attachment-based Psychotherapy
At the end of the 19th century, British psychiatrist and psychoanalyst John Bowlby became interested in child development and attachment. He believed that attachment problems experienced early in life are subsequently re-enacted later in adult life. The opposite also holds true, where children in a safe and secure environment are able to develop a sense of who they are, later in life.

Attachment-based psychotherapy identifies basic attachments styles, such as secure, ambivalent, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment. Based on this, the therapist makes the patient aware of why he feel a certain way in the past and present. The therapy allows a person to explore hidden fears, and mourn his losses. The aim is to help the person form healthier relationships, and take control of his life.

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10 Foods That Kill Intelligence

"The food that you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison."

All of us are all too familiar with food items that cause heart attacks, obesity, cancer, and other nasty unmentionables. But to have grub that kills intelligence seems like something really OTT.

This list includes alcohol, junk food, artificial sugars; more or less the same set of offenders that cause the aforementioned ailments. So, basically, what is bad for the rest of our body does not spare the brain as well.

Hectic that our lives are, there is no escaping from all the food items that are mentioned in this list. But remember, that the key to living a healthy life lies in moderation. If we manage to strike a balance between the healthy and the not-so-healthy, it definitely allows us to enjoy the occasional binge or indulgence.

1. Alcohol

Certainly no surprises here, as alcohol's reputation as a brain killer precedes itself. We commonly know of alcohol wreaking havoc with our liver, but it can cause some serious damage to the brain cells as well. Well-known side effects of alcohol include memory lapses and a lack of focus. Prolonged alcohol abuse has also caused disruption in cognitive faculties. Therefore, stick to the recommended alcohol intake, and respect your intelligence.
2. Junk Food

There is a reason why it's termed 'junk' food, and I suppose we're already acquainted with it. Burgers, fries, and the like manage to tempt the devil in us, all thanks to their excessive fat content, which is responsible in creating an addiction. Unrestricted consumption of junk food interferes with the production of dopamine, our 'happiness' chemical, fueling symptoms associated with mood swings and depression.
3. Sugar-rich Food

Added sugar is understood to be the causative factor behind neurological problems. Excessive consumption reduces the production of a brain chemical known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Its absence impairs learning and memorizing as well. Sugar's addictive nature promotes indulgence, long-term consequences of which are affected learning ability and poor cognitive skills.
4. Fried Food

Deep-fried food items, typical to the Southern style of cooking, have been singled out as the reason behind Southeast America's reputation as the 'stroke belt'. The high levels of fat and cholesterol present in fried food lay deposits on the walls of the arteries supplying blood to the brain. Lack of adequate blood supply is what eventually causes a stroke. So, when your regular diet consists generous helpings of fried chicken, you know you are inviting trouble.
5. Processed Meals

Processed meals sound like a blessing, considering the hectic lives we lead. With very little time on our hands, frozen meals have become constant companions to most of us. However, regular consumption of packaged meals can up your risk of Alzheimer's disease, which is a form of dementia that degenerates brain cells over time.
6. Salty Food

Just like sugary substances, salty food items can be addictive as well, and with dangerous consequences. Sodium is known to interfere with our blood pressure, but did you know that it disrupts our thinking abilities as well? Not for nothing do doctors advise us to cut down on salts. Salt, as a premium preservative, is generously used in pickles, so refrain from over indulgence.
7. Processed Proteins

Proteins - good, fats - bad, is what we learned in school. But when proteins include processed proteins, as in sausages, pepperoni, and salami, we're treading dangerous ground. Preservatives, like sodium nitrate, that go into processing meats, combine with the proteins to form the cancer-inducing agent nitrosamine.
8. Nicotine

Nicotine may not exactly qualify as food, but to many among us, it rates higher than food. The cancer stick is known to restrict the supply of oxygen and blood to the brain. Further, it tightens the capillaries, and affects the function of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that aid communication within our body.
9. Artificial Sweeteners

Many of us live with the misconception that artificial sweeteners are damage-free, but we couldn't be more wrong. Like most other things mentioned in this list, moderate consumption of artificial sweeteners does no harm, but yes, abuse them, and you'll have to suffer the consequences, which include brain damage.
10. Trans fats

Trans fats are present in most of our packaged food items, particularly in the delicious chips that we love to wolf down. Trans fats, over a period, make us susceptible to suffering a stroke, as they clog arteries with deposits of cholesterol. Also, they beget the shrinkage of the brain, not unlike what happens to patients of Alzheimer's disease.
Not a single food item on this list came as a surprise, as these happen to be health offenders all the way. The intelligence now remains in seeing how we manage to hoodwink these food items, and slip as far away from them as possible.

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25 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Hypoglycemia

Safety Tip
People with hypoglycemia need to be extra careful, and should check their blood sugar before activities like driving, as a sudden attack may cause blurred vision and confusion.

In case of hypoglycemia, we know it is one of the conditions related to diabetes. In simple terms, it can be described as a condition where there is extremely low sugar in the blood, which may hamper effective functioning of the body. The most common causes of hypoglycemia include the treatment of diabetes. However, there are many other causes for low blood sugar levels. So, a non-diabetic person too can be diagnosed with hypoglycemia.

Being well-informed and learning about your condition in the first place is very important. The more knowledge you have regarding hypoglycemia, the easier it becomes to deal with it. The first step to being well-informed and maintaining calm is taking the opinion and advice of your doctor. However, this too gets confusing for most people, as they do not know which questions need to be asked on priority, and what all is going to help them deal with their condition.

Questions Regarding the Condition
? What are the possible causes for this condition?

? Do I have diabetes, because of hypoglycemia?

? What are the complications associated with hypoglycemia?

? Are there any severe risks with this condition?

Questions Regarding Treatment and Medication
? What are the tests that I need to take?

? What are the treatment options available? Are there any risks associated with the same?

? What is the best treatment suited for my case?

? Is there any medication I should avoid?

? How often will I need to check my blood?

? How often should I come for regular checkups?

? How long would I be taking medication for this condition?

? Are there any side effects of my medications?

? What are the emergency supplies/treatment for hypoglycemia?

? Should I see a specialist for my condition?

Questions Regarding General Health
? Do I need to lose weight?

? What is the best way to avoid complications and keep blood glucose in check?

? When can I get back to normal activities?

? Should I start a special exercise program for hypoglycemia?

? What special care or routine should I follow?

? In case of an emergency, what steps should be taken? Whom should I contact in case of any emergency?

? What are the changes I can make in my lifestyle, that can help in improvement?

? Are there any websites or forums for assistance? What educational material is available for hypoglycemia?

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Bottom’s Up! Bottles and Yoga Pants

Get on the bottle to stay hydrated when you work out this summer — and add a little something extra to your workout in the form of weighted clothing from W8Fit for maximum impact.

W8Fit offers custom-designed pockets for holding small weights in their quality workout gear, which translates to a more effective workout for you. Why not burn more calories in a shorter amount of time with this inspired addition? Weights come in 5 and 10 lb packets, they’re sleek rather than clunky, and they’re practically invisible inside of the clothing. Find wristbands, headbands, yoga pants, tank tops and other stylish sports clothing and accessories at http://www.w8fit.com.

Banish plastic waste with the 9-ounce S’well bottle, which keeps cold liquids chilly and hot liquids hot. In other words, this is an investment in a useful bottle that can be used all throughout the year. S’well looks quite smart, with colored stainless steel and a sturdy, mod cap. It’s BPA-free, non-leaching and non-toxic. Ice water, juice or milk will stay cold for 24 hours, and coffee, tea or hot chocolate for 12 hours. Choose your favorite color at http://www.swellbottle.com.

Pura stainless steel bottles are also non-toxic, lead-free, and super-durable. Made with 60% recycled steel, their mantra is “One Life, One Bottle.” They’re completely recyclable – not that you’ll need to recycle them, as they come with a lifetime warranty. Available in lime green, pink, orange, purple and silver; check them out at http://www.purastainless.com.

The 24-ounce Bobble sport bottle is soft and indented in the middle for easy carrying, and it comes with a filter so you can enjoy water anywhere. The loop cap is also great for tossing over bike handlebars, and it’s available in seven bright colors. Tote it to music festivals, the gym, picnics, parks and toss it in the car for road trips; http://www.waterbobble.com.

The Spill Spoiler Sport Cap is an inventive new device that attaches to sports drinks and ensures that they can’t drip or leak. An internal valve closes off liquid, so you can enjoy your favorite drink without worrying about spills at the gym or in a careening cab. Also, you can toss a drink into your purse without worry. Amazing! Find them at http://www.SpillSpoiler.com. Sometimes these small changes can contribute to a thoroughly stress-free day.

Originally published July 2013

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Health Benefits of Wormwood Tea

Wormwood is a major ingredient in absinthe, a famous drink of the nineteenth century, believed to be associated with the deaths of Edgar Allan Poe and Vincent Van Gogh.
Wormwood is a perennial shrub, native to Europe, northern Africa, western Asia, and nowadays, North America. It is usually planted along roads and pathways, and grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet. The stem of wormwood has a gray-green or white color, covered with fine hair. Its flowers, leaves, and upper shoots are used in herbal medicine, while its bitter flavor is instrumental in enhancing the taste of alcoholic beverages.

The tall claims made about wormwood's ability to treat cancer, or the side effects of conventional cancer treatment methods, are not supported by scientific evidence. However, some compounds from sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua), which is related to wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), have shown positive results in the treatment of malaria, and have been used for the same since ancient times. Drinking wormwood tea is also known to increase the libido, and strengthen the immune system.

Wormwood Tea for Better Health
Caution: Wormwood tea is not recommended for pregnant and nursing women, and babies. Acts as a Digestive Stimulant
The number of stomach problems that wormwood tea treats is countless. It aids digestion, relieves stomach ache, heartburn, gas, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, improves appetite, and treats irregular menstruation. The reason behind the effectiveness of wormwood is its excruciatingly bitter taste. This bitter taste triggers a release of bile from the gallbladder, and other secretions from the intestinal glands, that aid digestion.

Wormwood tea is also used to fight intestinal worms. The herb contains a potential chemical component, thujone, that kill parasites. In addition to thujone, wormwood also contains santonin, which is beneficial in treating several parasitic diseases. Furthermore, wormwood is also rich in sesquiterpene lactones, that have properties similar to peroxide, which weaken the membranes of the parasites and then kill them.

Soothes Irritated Skin
If you have skin problems due to contact dermatitis (a form of eczema), drinking wormwood tea is one of the best remedies to treat these problems. The higher levels of antioxidants present in wormwood are capable of reducing itching and irritation of the skin. Moreover, this herbal tea can keep your skin healthy and refreshed. While it reduces the itching sensation and feeling of irritation, it also moisturizes your skin. Apart from that, it can also be used to treat slow-healing wounds, skin blotches, and insect bites.
Acts as a Cleanser
Bitter wormwood tea is the best treatment for the removal of parasites from the body. The bitter flavor of the tea has the potential to get rid of the bad parasites from the body, and also detoxify the body by getting rid of unwanted toxins. Wormwood tea has a purging effect, which throws the bile away from the liver and ultimately, out of the body. For better cleansing results, you should drink wormwood tea daily.

? Add 1 heaped teaspoon of the wormwood herb, or 1 rounded teaspoon of wormwood powder to 1 cup of boiling water.? Allow the herb to steep in water for about 10 to 15 minutes, and then drink it. Wormwood tea can be taken either before, during, or after meals.? To counter the bitter taste, you can add stevia or xylitol, which are natural sweeteners that help make the tea more palatable.? Remember that the longer the tea brews, the better the effect on the body.
To enjoy the health benefits of wormwood tea to the fullest and avoid any adverse effects, it is important to take it in moderation. Moreover, ensure that you are consuming wormwood tea or any of its forms only under the supervision of a medical professional, and in small amounts. Also, do not drink the tea continuously for more than four to five weeks.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical professional.

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Can Baking Soda Cure Cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society, "available scientific evidence does not support the idea that sodium bicarbonate works as a treatment for any form of cancer or that it cures yeast or fungal infections."Cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the United States. Despite it being a major disease, there is no cure for it till date. However, deep research is being carried out to find a proper cure for this life-threatening disease. There are various claims and theories behind the different treatment options said to cure cancer, but they have no scientific proof behind them. Treating cancer with the help of baking soda is one among these various theories.

Baking Soda for Cancer Treatment

Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, has been presented as a cure for cancer by some doctors and researches. This theory is promoted by a practitioner, Dr. Tullio Simoncini. He has claimed this theory to be effective in various videos posted by him on the Internet, and even in one of his books. The theory behind this claim says that cancer is caused due to a yeast infection, which grows well in acidic conditions, and sodium carbonate can kill the yeast as it makes the blood alkaline. The theory and concept is backed by oncology and microbiology studies, but is not supported by any scientific and clinical proof.

Is there any evidence supporting this theory?

In a nutshell, there is no evidence to support this theory. In fact, scientific studies do not even support the claims that cancer is caused by yeast. They also do not have any evidence in support of sodium bicarbonate curing any type of yeast infections. So, if you rely on the evidence, then you can say that the theory is false. Following are some of the points which will help you get an insight of the lack of evidence in this theory. The theory claims cancer is caused due to a yeast infection, but tests which are capable of detecting the presence of yeast have failed to find any presence of yeast in the cancerous tumors.When experimental animals were exposed to Candida albicans, there were no reports which showed that the yeast infection caused cancer, or was, in any way, cancerous.Later, when the tissues from the infected animal were isolated and cultured for the presence of cancerous growth, they were unable to recover the germs.People who undergo high doses of chemotherapy have a weak immune system, and sometimes develop fungal infections. These fungal infections are cured with the help of antifungal drugs. But there is no evidence that these drugs are capable of shrinking cancerous tumors.People suffering from cancer may sometimes develop conditions, such as heartburn, which require sodium bicarbonate tablets or powder for the treatment. But under these conditions also, there is no evidence which suggests shrinking of the tumor, or baking soda fighting cancer.Can baking soda raise any complications?

Sodium bicarbonate is available as a capsule as well as powder. It is available over-the-counter, and taken in order to neutralize stomach acid. It is also administered intravenously to reduce blood acidity. If taken in the proper dosage, it is considered safe. However, in high amounts, it can cause organ damage.

Cancer is a life-threatening disease, and in order to get it cured, people try every possible treatment option. However, it is very important to understand the authenticity of any treatment before following it. Do not, in any case, avoid, delay, or ignore medical treatment and your doctor's advice. Till date, there is no proof that supports the theory of baking soda curing cancer; hence, try to avoid it. For more guidance, talk to your doctor.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.

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Types of Brain Injury

Did You Know?
A birth trauma can also result in brain injury, and is referred to as congenital brain damage.
Every year, over 1.7 million people in the United States sustain some form of brain injury. Quite a few cases of brain injury go unreported, as the damage incurred does not last long. A mild brain trauma usually does not require medical intervention. However, a severe brain injury that causes significant impairment has been a cause for concern, and accounts for substantial injury-related deaths in the US.

A head trauma is one of the most common causes of brain injury. A head injury, due to a physical assault on the head, can alter normal brain function. However, all cases of brain damage do not necessarily occur from head trauma. Diseases, particularly neurological illnesses, are also responsible for causing damage to the brain.

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)

Acquired brain injury, arising from internal occurrences, is classified as non-traumatic brain injury. The internal damage to the brain in ABI has been attributed to stroke, infections (encephalitis, meningitis), or formation of tumors. ABI can also result from hypoxia (restricted oxygen supply to the brain), anoxia (complete loss of oxygen flow to the brain), excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and exposure to toxic chemicals.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Brain-related injuries resulting from external force come under this category. It is an external impact that hits the head hard enough to damage the brain. A slip and fall, a knock with a blunt object, and automobile accidents can cause brain injuries. To put it simply, a violent blow to the head is responsible for causing traumatic brain injuries.

Types of TBI

Concussion
In this type of injury, the brain function disrupts temporarily. Concussions may cause unconsciousness that is often short-lived, and is followed by headache, ringing in ears, dizziness, nausea, and tiredness. People playing sports like soccer, football, and rugby, commonly suffer from concussions that are considered to be the least-severe form of brain injury.

Contusion
When the head is struck by an object, it may cause a contusion, that is marked by formation of bruise in the brain tissue. Contusions typically cause structural brain damage, in which blood leaks from broken blood vessels. This results in hematoma-pooling of blood around the brain tissue. The specific part of the brain that bleeds appears swollen. Contusions, considered to be more severe than concussions, reduce oxygen flow to the brain.

Coup-Contrecoup Injury
In this type of injury, the damage does not remain restricted at the site of impact. The injury also occurs at the opposite side of the area of the brain that was affected in the injury. Thus, contusion develops not only at the impacted site, but also in the region opposite to the site of injury. This happens because the head blow is so severe that the brain shifts and hits the opposite side of the skull, causing another contusion to form within the brain.

Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI)
In this type of brain injury, the damage does not remain confined to a particular area, but affects a major part of the brain. DAI occurring from high speed vehicle accidents, causes the brain to shake violently and rapidly within the bony skull, resulting in widespread damage to the nerve tissue of the brain. No wonder, most cases of diffuse axonal injury result in coma, with majority of patients failing to recover from this state of unresponsiveness. Those who regain consciousness tend to suffer from lifelong cognitive impairments. Also referred to as a closed head injury, DAI that causes extensive damage, is marked by multiple hemorrhages in the brain tissue. Although death from DAI is a rarity, in over 90% of cases, the patient appears in a continuous vegetative state.

The shaken baby syndrome is a type of DAI that occurs when an infant under 2 years of age is shaken too fast and repeatedly. This violent shaking of the head causes the brain to move back and forth within the skull. So, when the brain repeatedly strikes against the skull, it is likely to get severely damaged, eventually leading to diffuse axonal injury. Parents, in an attempt to control tantrums of their child, may give such punishment, which may cause permanent brain damage.

Penetrating Injury
The impact of the external force is so strong that the object pierces through the skull and reaches the brain. This is the most severe form of brain injury that often results from gunshots or when assaulted with a sharp weapon, such as a knife. A penetrating injury can also be a through-and-through injury, in which the object is fast enough to perforate and exit the head.

Mild Brain Injury

In this type of brain injury, the person becomes unconscious only for a short amount of time. He regains consciousness within a few minutes, and this is followed by dizziness and confusion.

Moderate Brain Injury

The person remains in an unconscious state for quite some time, that may vary from several minutes to several hours. Confusion may prevail for days, and in some cases, extend for weeks or even months. Apart from confusion, the person may face difficulty in mobility, and suffer from cognitive dysfunction and behavioral problems that may last for months.

Severe Brain Injury

Unconsciousness associated with severe brain injury continues for weeks or months. The victim goes into coma or a vegetative state. The brain injury inflicts irreparable damage, resulting in lifelong impairment.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

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Ketotic Hypoglycemia in Children

Did You Know?
Fasting tolerance improves with an increase in body mass, which is believed to be the reason why children with ketotic hypoglycemia outgrow this condition by the time they turn 8 to 9 years old.

Hypoglycemia refers to a blood sugar level lower than 70 mg/dL. Usually, hypoglycemia is a complication associated with diabetes. So, diabetic children and adolescents can experience hypoglycemia when they take too much of insulin or eat too little. But, ketotic hypoglycemia has not been found to be related to a specific endocrine or metabolic abnormality. It is mainly associated with low tolerance for fasting, and most children outgrow this condition before they turn 8 to 9 years old. After this age, the incidence of this type of hypoglycemia is quite rare.

What Causes Ketotic Hypoglycemia?
? Ketotic hypoglycemia, also known as 'accelerated starvation', is idiopathic in nature. In other words, its causes are not known with certainty. Basically, children with this condition have a low tolerance for fasting.

? One possible cause is a defect in gluconeogenesis, or generation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources that mainly takes place in the liver. Another suspected cause is inadequate glycogen stores.

? Ketotic hypoglycemia is more common in children born small for their gestational age, and those who have a low body mass index. Therefore, it is thought that reduced muscle mass could be the reason behind impaired glucose production or gluconeogenesis by the liver, that eventually leads to hypoglycemia.

? It has been observed that children born small for their gestational age, who develop transient neonatal hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia, can later on develop ketotic hypoglycemia as well. Transient neonatal hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia is characterized by an excessive production of insulin, and so it is suspected that a metabolic or endocrine problem may be associated with the problem in some patients.

? It has been observed that certain factors can trigger an episode of hypoglycemia. Some such important precipitating factors include:

? Fasting for a prolonged period
? Skipping dinner and eating too little, or low carbohydrate intake the previous night
? Illnesses like a viral infection or stomach flu

Episodes of ketotic hypoglycemia mostly occur in the mornings, usually after a prolonged period of fasting. Some of the most common symptoms that this condition can produce are:

? Sweating and pallor
? Palpitations and anxiety
? Confusion
? Headaches
? Lethargy and malaise
? Unresponsiveness
? A change in behavior
? Visual disturbances
? Slurred speech and dizziness
? Convulsions and seizures
? Abdominal discomfort
? Nausea and vomiting

Fainting or loss of consciousness, convulsions, and seizures are the signs of severe hypoglycemia, that calls for immediate medical attention.

Treating Ketotic Hypoglycemia in Children
The best way to prevent ketotic hypoglycemia is to avoid extended fasts and the habit of skipping a meal. Children with this condition should be fed small, but frequent meals and snacks, especially before going to bed. After the usual duration of sleep, they should be awakened and fed properly.

During an episode of hypoglycemia, you should immediately feed the child a source of easily-absorbed glucose, such as table sugar, candies, or fruit juice. If hypoglycemia causes vomiting, then the child should be admitted to the hospital, where the condition can be treated with the intravenous administration of saline and dextrose.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be replaced for the advice of a medical professional.

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Does Smoking Really Relieve Stress?

Did You Know?
Studies have reported that lighting up a cigarette causes long-term stress levels to increase, rather than decrease. For regular smokers, the stress levels are alleviated only in the interval between two cigarettes.
Does smoking really relieve stress? In times of stress and pressure, will smoking a cigarette help you stay calm? Smokers will answer this question in the affirmative, as they feel that smoking alleviates stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions. Smokers say they experience a 'high' after smoking, and an amazing sense of calmness and satisfaction takes over. It feels as if you are on cloud nine, and the stressors no longer affect you. This feeling of tranquility is what draws people to smoking. I am sure many of you will agree with this. Yes, stress symptoms are kept at bay after smoking a cigarette. However, it is just a momentary effect of nicotine on the body.
? Nicotine in cigarettes reaches your brain in less than 10 seconds. The stress-relieving effect after smoking a cigarette is because of the release of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a pleasure chemical in the human body that soothes your nerves and helps you relax. It gives you a high and produces many positive effects on the body that improves your mood, enhances your concentration, and relaxes your muscles.

? You breathe in and out when you smoke. This is an effective way of relaxing the body. Taking a deep breath helps in inhalation of more oxygen, which helps you relax and calm down.

? You tend to go out for a smoke, which gives you a break from your mundane tasks and helps you relieve stress.

? So yes, if you consider the immediate effects of smoking on the body, they help you relax and rejuvenate. Smokers continue smoking to experience the pleasurable effects which they think help relieve stress and calm them.

According to scientists at the University of East London, the calming effect of cigarettes is just a psychological addiction. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms are inhibited by regular smoking. They create a psychological link between cigarette and stress relief.

? Nicotine changes the brain chemistry by affecting the neurotransmitters. This changes the way in which brain cells work. Once a smoker stops using nicotine, the changes last for a while, after which it returns to the normal state. So, once the nicotine effects wear off, your mood worsens, and you need another puff of smoke to restore the levels of nicotine and your mood per se.

? Thus, instead of decreasing stress, you constantly keep on pumping nicotine in your blood, which has hazardous effects on your overall health and well-being.

? A cigarette contains many other hazardous chemicals, which include toxins and potential carcinogens that have disastrous effects on the body.

? Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known to man, and when combined with carbon monoxide in cigarettes, it increases your heart rate and blood pressure. It puts a strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart diseases and strokes. This deadly duo reduces the oxygen levels in the body of smokers. They prevent flow of oxygen to the brain, which impairs your ability to concentrate and focus.

? Nicotine constricts the blood vessels, forcing your heart to work harder to circulate blood to all parts of the body. The heart rate and blood pressure of a smoker are always on the higher side than that of a non-smoker. These effects on the heart and blood vessels put a smoker at a greater risk of heart attacks and cerebrovascular diseases.

? Smoking stains the teeth, increases bad breath, lowers immunity, and produces wrinkles on the skin. The risk of developing neurological disorders and spinal problems is high in smokers.

? Smoking affects the bones and joints in the body, making smokers more susceptible to osteoporosis and other bone-related maladies.

? The most important negative impact which smoking has is mentioned on the cigarette packet itself?Smoking Kills. It is known to be the main cause of cancer to various parts of the human body that include the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, bladder, stomach, pancreas, liver, kidney, and of course, the lungs. It does extensive damage to the lungs, causing chronic bronchitis and emphysema which impairs the airways in the lungs.

? Smoking affects fertility in both the sexes and may cause impotence in men. It increases the risk of complications during pregnancy, like miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth.

Considering the harmful effects of smoking, the overall health of a smoker is far from good. In fact, smoking puts him at a higher risk to all the above-mentioned conditions and diseases. So, what good does smoking do to relieve stress? In reality, a long-term increase in the stress levels is what smoking does to the body. Smoking hides your problems by giving you temporary relief. In essence, it's a placebo effect. This is what researchers from the Oxford and Cambridge Universities and Kings College London had to say: "The belief that smoking is stress relieving is pervasive, but almost certainly wrong. ... The reverse is true: smoking is probably anxiogenic [causes anxiety] and smokers deserve to know this and understand how their own experience may be misleading."

These researchers followed 491 subjects as a part of their study. In the initial stages, it was found that 21.6% smokers had mood or anxiety disorders. Six months later, 24% subjects managed to quit smoking, and with that, they even experienced a drop in anxiety levels. They further said, "Stopping smoking probably reduces anxiety and the effect is probably larger in those who have a psychiatric disorder and who smoke to cope with stress."

Another research study suggested that smokers who quit smoking experienced a reduction in their stress levels. These people found new techniques, like reading, exercise, meditation, deep breathing etc., to cope with stress. They are far happier and stress-free now.

Smoking your problems away will only make them worse. Instead, stay away from this addiction, and your problems of stress, anxiety, and depression will be kept at bay.

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Does Coffee Protect Against Oral Cancer?

The naturally-occurring antioxidants in coffee are thought to have cancer-fighting potential.
Coffee has been receiving a lot of bad press over the years, as it is a nervous system stimulant that causes sleep deprivation. When burning the midnight oil is the need of the hour, having multiple cups of coffee may sound feasible. However, the benefits of coffee go much beyond increasing alertness and keeping you wide awake, as found out in one study.

A recent study conducted under the guidance of Janet Hildebrand, an epidemiologist associated with the American Cancer Society, has revealed that coffee drinking could pave way for cancer prevention. The evidence does show that coffee demonstrates a protective mechanism that cuts down deaths due to oral cancer. It is as discussed below.

Coffee Intake and Oral Cancer Risk

The December 2012 issue of American Journal of Epidemiology, after conducting a large-scale study, suggests that drinking coffee plays a crucial role in alleviating death risks due to oral cancer. Heavy coffee drinkers especially enjoy a substantially reduced risk of facing death from cancer of the mouth and throat. The study showed that drinking coffee may possibly keep you safe from oral cancer.

The study that was conducted by the team members of American Cancer Society, was strictly monitored over a period of 26 years from 1982 onwards. Coffee drinking habits of 968,432 cancer-free men and women were closely monitored in the study. Whether the people were drinking caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee or tea was also taken into account during the course of study. Smoking and alcohol habits of the subjects were also recorded when considering the link between coffee consumption and risk of death.

During the 26-year period, 868 deaths resulting from oral or throat cancer were reported. Researchers who investigated subjects drinking caffeinated coffee came up with the following results.

People who took just a single cup of coffee daily, carried 26% lower risk of succumbing to mouth and throat cancer. On the other hand, death risk fell by 33% in people who took 2 to 3 cups of coffee everyday. Participants who downed at least 4-6 cups of coffee everyday had a whopping 50% less chance of death from oral and throat cancer.
Thus, their cancer death risk reduced by half, thanks to their habit of heavy coffee drinking. These hardcore drinkers showed the lowest oral cancer death risk among the other participants in the study.

The study does point out an interesting correlation between cancer death risk and consumption of coffee. Higher the intake of coffee, the lower is the death risk, irrespective of smoking and alcohol habits. Thus, the chances of dying from oral cancer reduces with increase in the consumption of coffee.

As far as intake of decaffeinated coffee is concerned, drinking more than 2 cups did reduce death risk, but the evidence is too feeble to come to any conclusion. The efficacy of decaffeinated coffee in warding off cancer is still a subject of research. Whereas, drinking tea turned out to be a big disappointment, as no association was found between death risk due to oral cancer and intake of tea.

It is believed that the antioxidant properties of coffee may have contributed in reducing the risk of death from oral cancer. The study, though one of the largest of its kind, does not prescribe coffee intake or taking it in large amounts to prevent oral cancer. Also, there is no evidence to suggest that drinking coffee reduces the risk of getting oral cancer. Further studies that establish protective effects of coffee are needed, before claiming its anti-cancer benefits.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

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Why is it Important to Exercise Your Brain?

Reading on diverse topics provides a nice exercise to the brain. Such an exercise compels it to adjust to different styles of writing. The brain also learns new words through this process. In short, the exercise draws the brain out of its comfort zone.The growth of the brain is not wholly controlled by genetic factors. Brain exercises too play an important role in it. Recent research has proved that the growth of the brain takes place continually, even after the formative years of the body's growth have passed. This phenomenon of growth of the brain is referred to as brain plasticity. Thus, it can be can concluded that brain exercises play a crucial role in keeping the brain functioning in a proper manner during adult and older age as well. Importance of Exercising Your BrainOur brain is a complex organ formed of nerve cells. The nerve cells are known as neurons. These cells are connected to each other by means of synapses. The neurons transfer information between them through synapses. The brain, just like the other organs of our body, undergoes an aging process. Brain exercises prove to be of great help to stem this aging process. The term neurobic was coined by Lawrence Katz. Neurobic exercises such as brushing the teeth using the non-regular hand, or getting dressed in the dark, can challenge your brain. It happens because your brain is not used to doing these things. By challenging the brain to do something it is not used to, on a regular basis, new associations of neural connections are formed. This helps the brain grow.
A heightened brain activity can help raise the production of 'Nerve Growth Factor'. Such an activity is helpful for maintaining the health of the cells in the brain. A single brain cell is capable of producing 30,000 branches. This makes us aware of the complexity of the brain. It also helps us understand how much growth potential is held by the brain.
Brain shrinkage is one of the signs that is observed in people suffering from Alzheimer's Disease. It is believed (though not proven) that exercising the brain slows down the process of brain shrinkage.
Aging of the Brain is Slowed DownProviding the brain with enough exercise augments the flow of blood towards it. When there is a rise in the flow of blood towards the brain, the process of aging slows down. Therefore, the more you exercise it, the slower is the aging process.
Active Brain and Dormant BrainThe way in which an active brain is far different from that of a dormant brain - an active brain is characterized by positive plasticity, whereas an inactive or dormant brain is marked by negative plasticity. An inactive brain, owing to the lesser exercise that it is subjected to, kind of becomes 'rusty', and is unable to function smoothly.
Importance of Crawling in Brain GrowthDid you know that crawling is one of the important processes in the growth of a baby's brain. A baby crawls by means of using a pair of opposite hands and legs. It means, crawling requires the baby to move its right leg and left hand together, and vice versa. Such kind of movement results in the formation of synapses between the left and right brain. Thus, parents should see to it that their child gets enough crawling exercise.
There are many benefits of performing brain exercises. Lessening the severity of Alzheimer's Disease is one such benefit of performing brain exercises. Doing crossword puzzles, visiting museums, and reading on a regular basis, are some of the important exercises recommended for preventing Alzheimer's Disease. These activities also help lessen the severity of the disease.
? Besides your regular work or studies, join a course for something you always wanted to learn.? Regularly solve puzzles, crosswords, scrabble, and the likes.? Keep reading different types of books.? Try to learn a new word everyday.? Always have breakfast, because it enhances the functioning of the brain.? To work, school or college, try different routes, so as to stop the brain from being monotonous in its way of thinking.? Be as humorous as possible, because humor uses multiple parts of the brain.? Use your wrong hand too, off and on, so as to exercise the opposite side of your brain.? Meditation also helps to keep the brain alert and active.? Play brain games, memory games, draw or paint, to keep the brain fresh and active.
Our brain is a complex organ which directs different organs of the body to perform their respective functions. Thus, it is but natural that the brain, just like other organs of the body, needs exercise, and to be taken care of, to function smoothly.

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Scents that Help You Sleep Better

The earliest mention of aromatherapy can be found in Dioscorides' De Materia Medica, which lists various oils with their benefits and the beliefs attached to them.Fragrances have the unmistakable power to make us relive memories. The human mind is capable of discerning thousands of smells, and every scent is associated with a particular memory.

Each one of us, knowingly or unknowingly, has a powerful association with certain scents, be it good or bad. For instance, a whiff of lemon blossoms may remind a person of a warm summer afternoon, whereas cinnamon can take one straight to a festive dinner with family and friends. The fragrance of cologne is typically favored by many, but if you associate it with a person you dislike, you are most likely to have the same feeling for the fragrance as well.

Aromatherapy captures the power of fragrances and makes use of the same in healing the body and the spirit. As an unconventional therapeutic method, it may not find favor with one and all, but when you compare it to harsh medication, aromatherapy does seem worth a try. The list of fragrances that follow may not magically put you to sleep, but they will assist you in relaxing your mind, and induce a sense of calm.

The reputation of lavender as a calming herb is legendary. It is known to soothe frayed nerves and bring about a sense of relaxation. Also, lavender incense is often used while meditation, proof enough of its use as a relaxant.

Use it like this...
Before bedtime, take a warm bath using lavender bath salts or soap. If you don't fancy taking a bath before you sleep, light up a lavender-scented candle in your room. You could also apply a lavender-scented body lotion before you hit the snooze button.

Jasmine is a versatile fragrance, in the sense that it is calming and refreshing at the same time. Additionally, this fragrance is known to possess aphrodisiac properties as well. Studies have noted jasmine to induce deep sleep in people.

Use it like this...
Spray jasmine-scented water onto your bed linen for maximum effect. To make this, fill up a spray bottle with water and add 8-10 drops of pure jasmine oil to it. Your delicious-smelling jasmine water is ready to use. You could also spritz some jasmine perfume on a cotton ball and keep this inside your pillow case.

There is something special about the fragrance of vanilla. Even a whiff of it takes you directly to a warm bakery with counters stocked with fresh scones and pastries. Yes, vanilla generally evokes happy memories, and is therefore, a favorite fragrance for many. Vanilla acts as an effective antidepressant, and is also known to aid in lowering blood pressure.

Use it like this...
Vanilla-scented lotions and fragrances are all over the place, so use them as you wish. A massage with vanilla oil can put you to sleep before you can say the word 'sleep'. Fill a jar with water and immerse some vanilla bark in it. Place this on your nightstand to get an occasional whiff of vanilla throughout the night.

These pretty flowers aren't just eye candy, as connoisseurs of chamomile tea are sure to tell you. Soothing and relaxing, the fragrance of chamomile works well to ease stress, and makes you feel sleepy.

Use it like this...
If you are fond of chamomile tea, do have a cup before you hit the bed. But remember to inhale the vapors as you sip on the delicious concoction. Also, chamomile-laden oils and cosmetics are widely available, so you are free to take a pick.

Roses are beautiful and romantic, and invoke a lot of positivity. The mild, flowery fragrance of rose is a complete delight. Another interesting aspect is that most of us tend to associate roses with happy occasions, which make it a natural relaxant.

Use it like this...
Rose-scented oils, candles, and cosmetics are widely available. However, the best way to make use of roses is to go natural, and have a bunch of these fresh flowers in a vase on your nightstand.

Sandalwood has been around for centuries, and various ancient cultures have hemmed about its effectiveness in providing relief from insomnia. It has been traditionally known to allay the fears of people experiencing emotional turmoil.

Use it like this...
Light up sandalwood incense sticks in your room before bedtime. Sandalwood oil can also be used in the bath, or as a spray, just like jasmine can. If you manage to get your hands on a genuine sandalwood figurine, keep it close to your bed, so as to enjoy the divine fragrance.

Our fondness for fragrances is an extremely personal issue, as we usually have certain memories associated with them. Therefore, the fragrances mentioned here may or may not aid each and everyone. The key here, is to experiment and discover a fragrance that your senses agree with, and make the best use of it.

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Good Vibrations: The Ultrasonic New Toothbrush from Emmi-dent

For centuries, nothing much has been altered in the design of the humble toothbrush. It’s an object we all use a few times a day, and other than a new handle shape or color, and some new fangled bristles, it’s pretty much the same as it’s been for eons. Even with the advent of the battery powered toothbrush, which is faster and easier, not much has changed. That is, until now. The Ultrasonic Toothbrush by Emmi-dent is a brand new toothbrush and isn’t like any of the others I’ve tried before.

The difference is the Emmi-dent brush has an ultrasonic microchip embedded into the brush head which creates 84 million ultrasonic impulses per minute, as opposed to approximately 30,000 mechanical rotations from electric or battery powered brushes.

Used with special Emmi-dent nano-bubbles toothpaste, the ultrasonic impulses are able to penetrate teeth and gums to destroy bacteria and germs that bristles can’t reach. This helps guard against periodontal disease and makes teeth super clean. Additionally, the Emmi-dent toothbrush and paste combo whitens teeth better than whitening toothpastes.

What does it feel like to use?

It takes a little getting used to because it feels like nothing much is happening. On my first use, I was expecting a similar sensation to what I feel with my battery toothbrush, but instead, the Emmi-dent brush felt like it was hardly moving. Instructions say to keep it resting in an area for about 5-10 seconds before moving on to the next area. That’s the biggest difference, unlike a typical electric toothbrush it barely moves. Actually it is, it just feels like it’s not. It takes less work and a little longer time to complete the cleansing, but after you’re finished, your mouth feels unbelievably clean. The ultrasonic technology kills bacteria 12 mm under the gum line where bristles cannot reach. This toothbrush is safe to use if you have crowns, implants, veneers, or braces.

And for your germaphobes, the ultrasound will even disinfect the bristles for you. It’s great for travel and once charged it’s good for approximately 20 days before having to recharge.

For more info, go to http://www.Amazon.com.

Originally published August 2012

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Things You Should Not Do After Eating

Digestion begins even before we eat something, because when we see, smell, or even think of some tasty food, the saliva begins to form in our mouth, which is the initial step in digestion.
Habits form our lifestyle, and the lifestyle determines our living -- healthy or unhealthy. Habits are plenty in number, and they vary from one individual to another with respect to time and manner. While bad habits are bad at all times, some good ones may also become harmful in particular situations. The intention here is not to scare you about your habits, but to make you aware about certain things that never go well with certain situations. This brings us to our main point, i.e., what should not be done after eating. Our digestive system is strong enough to take in whatever we eat and digest it properly, absorbing all the essential nutrients, but at the same time, it is also pretty sensitive and cannot perform its function if obstructed by anything. Hence, here are a few things that should be avoided when you finish your meal. Things to Avoid Immediately After Eating
*Please Note: People with a sensitive stomach are more susceptible to the things mentioned in the following sections than others.

I agree to the fact that brushing your teeth before bedtime is a must in a healthy routine. However, brushing your teeth right after dinner, or after every meal for that matter, is extremely harmful for your teeth. Brushing after eating will scrub away the layers of enamel on the teeth. Furthermore, when you eat or drink acidic foodstuff, or those with a lot of sugar, it's even more dangerous. To protect the teeth enamel, wait for at least 30 minutes, and allow the mouth to produce sufficient saliva to neutralize the acidity of the food that soften the tooth enamel.

It is true that a person should drink 8 glasses of water every day to stay healthy. However, gulping it down right after eating something, or even during meals may disrupt digestion. Too much water after or during the meal might interfere with the natural levels of acid and bile that are essential for proper digestion. Furthermore, drinking cold water might slow down digestion and cause cramping in sensitive people. Try to resist drinking water for at least an hour after a meal, and avoid drinking it while eating.


Digestion requires a large amount of blood and more blood is concentrated in the digestive tract. Consequently, the brain is temporarily deprived of sufficient blood, resulting in lack of concentration. Also, because of satiation you tend to feel sleepy, and driving with sleepy eyes is never safe. Hence, don't force yourself to drive soon after you've had a meal. Take a break, let the body perform its natural functions, and after an hour or two, think of driving.

Although walking a hundred steps after eating is healthy, doing it immediately after a meal is not. Doing so will make it difficult for the digestive system to absorb the nutrients from the food. Furthermore, the blood will flow towards other organs, like legs, hands, etc., which will leave the digestive tract with an insufficient amount of blood flow that is needed for proper digestion. Also, some people might feel dizzy or nauseated if they walk soon after consuming food.





Consuming fruits at any time during the day is good except consuming them immediately after a meal. Eating fruits right after your meal may fill the stomach with air and cause bloating. They will also take time to reach the digestive tract, disturbing the entire process of digestion. To prevent your stomach from indigestion and other digestive problems, plan your consumption of fruits before or after 1-2 hours of a meal.

If you avoid doing all the above-said things after eating, it will definitely make your digestion easy, and you will probably be at a lower risk of any digestive problems. Give ample time to your body to adjust to the changes that you are making in the daily routine, and see the difference.

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Is Mastectomy Better than Lumpectomy?

Lumpectomy and mastectomy are the two surgical options recommended for the treatment of breast cancer. The former involves removing a small part of the breast, while in mastectomy, the whole breast is removed. Lumpectomy is useful when the tumor is small and diagnosed in its early stages. However, recent studies show that number of patients opting for mastectomy has increased, despite having localized tumor growth. This trend has been attributed to the lower risk of cancer recurrence associated with mastectomy.

As mentioned earlier, lumpectomy is as beneficial as mastectomy when it comes to treating breast cancer that has not spread in the surrounding tissue. While mastectomy is a major surgery and cannot be done without general anesthesia, lumpectomy is a minor surgery and carried out under local anesthesia. Mastectomy is also an extensive surgery and may take 1 - 2 hours to complete the procedure.

Lumpectomy

Pros Also referred to as breast-sparing injury, the procedure is less invasive as only a small part of the breast may be removed. The recovery time is also less and the patient can resume his daily routine within a week after surgery.Lumpectomy has little impact on the normal appearance of the breast as a major part of the breast tissue may be preserved. Hence, reconstruction surgery might not be necessary.Cons
In most cases, the patient has to undergo radiation therapy after lumpectomy. This is done to minimize recurrence and destroy cancer cells that may remain after surgery. Patients generally have to attend radiation treatment sessions 5 days a week for around 6 - 7 weeks, which is time-consuming.The time consumed in taking radiation therapy may prolong the date of reconstructive surgery, if necessary.Despite undergoing radiation therapy, the risk of cancer relapse exists, which is more than mastectomy. Also, repeated radiation exposure to treat cancer recurrence in the same site won't be tolerated. In such circumstances, the doctor may recommend a mastectomy.Mastectomy

Pros
As patients are aware that mastectomy carries a very small amount of cancer recurrence risk as compared to lumpectomy, they may feel relaxed after surgery. This, in turn, may help them to focus on their daily routine, without much worrying about the cancer returning.Attending repeated sessions of radiation therapy may not be required after mastectomy. To put it simply, frequent trips to the hospital to undergo radiation therapy may be avoided post a mastectomy.Cons In mastectomy, the entire breast is removed. Dealing with the emotional impact of breast removal can be quite difficult for some women.In order to re-create a natural appearance, wearing a prosthesis or undergoing a major reconstruction surgery is imperative. Breast reconstruction may be done during the operation or at a later period.As the procedure is extensive, the recovery period can go up to a few weeks, which may be prolonged if breast reconstruction surgery is done at the same time.Patients with mastectomy also have to deal with a higher number of postoperative side effects as opposed to those who undergo lumpectomy.Lumpectomy May Provide a Better Survival Rate

When it comes to enhancing survival rates of early stage breast cancer patients, lumpectomy (breast conversation surgery) wins hands down, as found in a recent study. Mastectomy, that involves removing the breast completely, is often the first choice in patients diagnosed with preliminary stage breast cancer. However, according to new data, the chances of survival in patients undergoing lumpectomy plus radiation is more as against those treated with mastectomy.

A study conducted by the research team at Duke Cancer Institute under the supervision of Shelley Hwang, MD., MPH, pointed out the benefit of lumpectomy over mastectomy. The research analyzed a massive 14 years of medical data from the California Cancer Registry. The team studied documented health records of 112,154 women affected with early stage breast cancer from 1990 and 2004. The medical records also showed that out of these, 55% had been treated with lumpectomy and radiation, while the rest 45% opted for mastectomy. The patients' health was monitored for around 9.2 years and other parameters such as tumor size, age, and cancer aggressiveness scale were also taken into consideration to check whether they had any impact on survival rates.

While the study was ongoing, 31,416 patients expired; 39% due to breast cancer, with the remaining from other causes. Patients who had undergone lumpectomy in conjunction with radiation showed lower mortality rates than their counterparts treated with mastectomy. The study also pointed out that lumpectomy was found to be most effective in women over 50 who were suffering from tumors that relied on progesterone and estrogen for growth. This group, that had hormone-sensitive tumors, had 13% less chances of succumbing to breast cancer, and 19% less chances of succumbing to other causes. The study also revealed that in the first 3 years after surgery, mastectomy patients had a higher risk of succumbing to heart diseases as against lumpectomy patients. This may indicate that women who had lumpectomy were healthier than those who had mastectomy. However, women below 50 and diagnosed with hormone-sensitive tumors did not show any difference in survival rates, irrespective of their choice of treatment.

Nevertheless, the results of the study reveal that lumpectomy in combination with radiation may have an edge over mastectomy when it comes to improving survival rates in women with stage I and stage II breast cancer. It demonstrates that as compared to mastectomy, breast conservation therapy is a better strategy to deal with early stage breast cancer.

Caution
Although the study may suggest lumpectomy to be a better approach to increase survival rates in early stage breast cancer patients, researchers have not considered all the parameters that could influence survival rates of the study group. For instance, during the course of the study, after 1999, new developments in lumpectomy may have improved chances of survival in women who underwent breast conservation therapy. Also, mastectomy recipients might not have received better medical facilities, which may have influenced their survival rates. Researchers also agree that these factors have not been taken into account, that might have affected the results in favor of the lumpectomy group. However, the study does point out that lumpectomy is no less effective than mastectomy in women with early stage breast cancer. On the whole, it is best to consult a doctor and then decide the appropriate treatment option for breast cancer.

Despite breast cancer being diagnosed in the early stages, the doctor may advise the patient to avoid lumpectomy due to the following reasons: The patient has multiple tumors in different areas of the breast.There is just one single tumor but it is large with a diameter of 4-5 centimeters.Higher risk of cancer returning due to faulty genes running in family.Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

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Health Benefits of Farro

Did You Know?
Though Farro is one of the lesser-known whole grains today, it is probably one of the oldest grains to be used by man. Ancient Egyptians are known to have used Farro for consumption around 6,000 years ago!
For those of you who haven't stumbled upon this nutritious grain before, Farro is a specific wheat species; consumed in its whole-grain form. That said, there's an unsettled debate over which species of wheat goes into this wonder ingredient.

While buying Farro, it is usually in the dried form, and needs to be thoroughly boiled and softened before consumption. But Farro is literally a tough nut to crack, so soaking overnight is definitely an advisable option. To cook till perfection, ensure that it's soft on the inside, and yet crunchy on the outside. Though it is used extensively in main course, Farro is very versatile and can be a part of practically any course of your meal!

*Per 50 grams
of Semi-pearled Farro? Farro is a great source of Vitamin B3. This essential vitamin helps in improving one's metabolism.

? It is also a superb source of magnesium. High magnesium intake keeps a track on your blood pressure, ensures better cardiac health, and keeps your bones strong.

? For the Health-conscious: Farro is a wonder grain, packed with limited calories and high-fiber. Add it to your compact meals to ensure that you stay full for longer! Not only this, dietary fiber also helps in improving digestion and keeps diabetes, and cardiac problems at bay.

? Battle Cholesterol: Farro itself being free of cholesterol, also helps you reduce your existing cholesterol levels. A bowl full of Farro has 8 grams of cholesterol-lowering fiber!

? Versatile Staple: Farro is a very versatile grain and is the best alternative for people watching their weight or suffering from several health problems. Retain most of your recipe, and simply replace rice or pasta with Farro!

? Farro, thanks to its high magnesium content, also helps relieve menstrual cramps.

? Farro has complex carbohydrates. Which means that it takes longer to digest and steadily fuels your energy requirements for longer durations.

? Protein-ilicious! Farro is almost 15% protein.

? Farro is also rich in antioxidants owing to the presence of lignans. Antioxidants are known to prevent cardiovascular problems and degenerative diseases.

? Consuming Farro also increases your zinc intake, thus, improving your cardiac, mental and essentially, reproductive well-being.

? Farro also fuels your meal with iron. This essential mineral improves our muscle and brain function, and as we all know, helps in supplying our body with oxygen.

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Does the 5:2 Diet Really Work?

The person behind popularizing the 5:2 diet plan, Dr. Michael Mosley, is a medical journalist and an ardent follower of this diet. He claims to have lost nearly 20 pounds in a week after starting off with this diet.

The diet gained immense popularity after the documentary Eat, Fast & Live Longer featured on the BBC 2 television program Horizon. Along with writer Mimi Spencer, Mosley has provided a detailed overview of the diet plan and the science behind it in the book The Fast Diet: Lose Weight, Stay Healthy and Live Longer. In his book he explains how the diet works, the science behind it and the foods for the diet. He has drawn a lot of his theories from research on fasting by Dr Krista Varady in the United States and Dr Michelle Harvie in Britain. Before understanding whether the 5:2 works or not, it is important to take into account the science behind the diet.

Understanding the science behind intermittent fasting is the key to understanding how this diet really works. When we fast, the body derives energy from the glucose in the blood. Once the glucose in the blood is used up, the body takes it from the stored glucose also known as glycogen.

Once the glycogen reserves are used up by the body, the energy and glucose needed for everyday functioning is taken from the fat reserves. While this may make fasting look very attractive, but when done everyday it can push the body into starvation mode where instead of losing weight, the decreased calorie intake impacts the metabolism and results in muscle loss.

Therefore the 5:2 diet does not encourage starvation or severe calorie restriction, where the calorie intake is too less to lead a normal-healthy life. Instead the diet encourages eating "fewer calories" only on certain days. Although 500 to 600 calories is not much, you can get it from fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, grains. While proteins can be obtained from sources like eggs and lean meat. Oats porridge with cinnamon and nutmeg or a quinoa salad are some tasty yet healthy food options for this diet.

The following diet plan as suggested in the book for a woman (500 calories) includes:

Breakfast: 142 calories Half a tub cottage cheese 100 gOne sliced pear 100 gOne fresh fig 55 gDinner: 341 calories
Sashimi made with 3-5 pieces salmon 100 g and tuna 100 g served with soy sauce, wasabi and ginger.1 tangerine (mandarin)Total for the day: 483 calories
? Growth of New Brain Cells
The science behind the 5:2 diet is based on the feast and famine diet of early humans where there were days when these people would go without food. Mosley believed that this fasting led to the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus due to the increased levels of protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF. The hippocampus is the region of the brain that is responsible for memory. The new cell growth in the brain is further associated with memory improvement.

? Better Insulin Utilization
Apart from memory improvement, fasting and the excess of BDNF helps in mood improvement. It also helps the body utilize insulin better, by increasing insulin's effectiveness in storing glucose. This increased insulin sensitivity in turn reduces the risk of obesity, blood pressure, heart diseases and diabetes.

? Protection Against Cancer Cells
Fasting has also shown promise when it comes to fighting cancer. When the body has less food, normal cells go into a survival mode. Unlike cancer cells which keep multiplying rapidly, these healthy cells are forced into hibernation. This protects the cells from the cancer-causing cells, thus restricting the spread of cancer.

? Hard to Follow
Not everyone can follow this diet, and one of the many criticisms is that it is very hard-to-follow. 600 or 500 calories is not much and it can leave you very hungry and grumpy for the two days that you need to fast.

? Limited Evidence of Effectiveness
Hunger pangs are often accompanied by irritability, sleep problems, anxiety and dehydration. Moreover, there is insufficient scientific research on human subjects that can attest the actual weight loss with this diet. Critics of the diet say that intermittent fasting may give the digestive system a rest but there is no significant weight loss.

? Slows Metabolism
Nutrition experts believe that when the calorie intake is reduced on fasting days the internal body alarm is set off and it slows down the metabolism. Moreover, most people tend to overeat on the days that one is allowed to eat. Instead of cutting down the calories for two days, it is therefore advisable to reduce the daily calorie consumption to match the basal metabolic rate.

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Exercises to Lose FUPA

Many fitness and medical experts agree that stress is a FUPA trigger. Stress and anxiety causes fat deposits to accumulate in the pelvic area.Weight gain affects every person differently, and as a result the pattern of losing weight is also unique for every individual. Obesity or excess bodily weight, especially in the pubic area, is difficult to tackle. Although some people regularly exercise, and even keep a strict check on their diet, fat in the pelvic region is hard to lose.

A body undergoes several anatomical changes when it experiences pregnancy and weight gain. In most instances, distance is created between two midline abdominal muscles, and they begin to separate from each other. In severe cases, an abnormal bulge is caused between these two muscles.

Liposuction does seem the most preferred solution, but for those who prefer handling the situation without going under the knife, here are some effective exercises to lose the excess fat accumulated in the pelvic area.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

Effective Exercises to Lose FUPA

Begin by lying down straight with your face directed towards the floor.Keep your arms straight and knees touching the ground, and slowly lift yourself with the help of your hands. Ensure that your legs are in line with the body. (Push-up position)Start by moving the right leg towards the right hand, and repeat the same for the left leg.Perform at least 3 sets with 15 repetitions for the best results.
Start in the push-up position.Support your body weight on your forearms and toes, keeping it as straight as possible.Ensure that the body is in line with the toes and maintain this position for almost a minute.For a more challenging workout, try holding the position for almost 3 minutes.
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your arms at the sides with your palms facing down.Tighten your abdomen and lift your buttocks upwards, using your heels. Ensure that your body is in a straight diagonal line from the knees to the shoulders.Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your buttocks back to the floor.Perform 3 sets of 20 repetitions.
Lie on your back lie with your hands behind your head and your knees bent.Lift your legs and pull in your knees towards your chest and hold this position for 3 seconds.At all times, keep your back straight. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions.In addition to the above, swimming and aerobics are also important exercises which help burn that excess amount of fat. According to fitness experts, it is essential to burn at least 500 calories to lose a pound of fat. With a proper diet and a consistent exercise routine, you will probably lose almost 500 calories daily, which means the overall fat percentage of the body will decrease directly minimizing the fat around the pelvic area.
FUPA is not only unattractive but extremely dangerous for both men and women. The excess fat around the pelvic area increases the chances of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and even certain kinds of cancer. If you are just starting out, the first two weeks are probably going to be the hardest. Once you pass that, it isn't that difficult. Results will vary from person to person, but with consistency you will definitely feel more healthier and agile soon. Remember to choose a diet and exercise program that suits your body, and avoid indulging in fattening foods for a while.

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Benefits of Having a Workout Partner

Flabbergasting!
According to one Kansas State University research, an individual who is accompanied by a gym buddy is benefited, as his/her own time span and intensity of workout shoots up by almost 200%, while sweating it out (together) in the gym.

Working out alone can sometimes get boring and tone down your motivation, but when you have a partner, working out together can be real fun. A workout friend brings a lot of benefits to your fitness regimen, a few of which are listed below.

» Do not choose a partner who is lazy, as he/she won't be a motivator, and chances are that you may also end up lazing around.

» Find a partner who is of the same physique as yours, so you can plan your sessions and can help each other while exercising.

» It is also necessary to find a partner who has the same fitness goals, else it can get very frustrating as you can't compare any of your triumphs.

» If you and your partner have some things in common, your workout sessions can become more interesting, and you can start with some more activities together.

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Illegal Drugs that Used to Be Legal

According to a United Nations report, in 2003, illegal drug trade amounted to more than 300 billion dollars.

Back then, alcohol-based products containing these addictive drugs were sold without any restriction. Drinks laced with these drugs were in great demand as they induced a euphoric effect to the drinker. Consumption of these drugs in different forms soon increased, which led to their abuse. The United States Legislature eventually passed different anti-drug laws to initiate a ban on these drugs.

Although heroin was first synthesized in 1874, it was in 1897 that Bayer Pharmaceuticals (Germany) first started making and selling the drug for commercial purposes. The United States decided to import heroin in an attempt to curb the menace of morphine addiction. Morphine, a drug obtained from opium, was used by the medical fraternity to get rid of debilitating pain. Doctors considered morphine an effective pain reliever, and it was prescribed to people suffering from serious physical injuries. In the mid 1850s, morphine was tagged as the first line of treatment for severe pain, and was found to be beneficial to treat war-related injuries. However, its addictive properties soon became evident as a large number of military personnel became hooked to morphine. In order to stop morphine abuse, heroin was brought to the United States and was strongly marketed as a safe, non-addictive option to reduce severe pain.

In the beginning of 20th century, pharmaceutical companies soon started manufacturing heroin in the United States. However, its usage was no longer restricted to treating pain. It was promoted as a treatment for common cold, cough, tuberculosis, and even depression. However, heroin turned out to be devastatingly addictive. When usage of heroin was discontinued suddenly, it triggered severe opiate withdrawal symptoms. Under the Narcotics Act of 1914, the sale of heroin was curtained sharply and eventually banned in 1924.

In the United States, being caught with unlawful possession of marijuana for the first time is considered an offense that carries a jail term of up to 1 year. However, in the 19th century, marijuana was available over-the-counter in general stores. In fact, before the Civil War, the United States was a major producer of marijuana.

Medicines containing marijuana were prevalent until the end of the 20th century, and their sale was unrestricted. Between 1900 and 1930, the recreational use of marijuana increased dramatically thanks to its psychoactive effects. In the 1930s, research revealed increased violence and crime associated with the usage of marijuana. With studies linking unacceptable behavior to marijuana abuse, around 29 states strictly banned marijuana. In 1937, the Marijuana Tax Act was enacted that outlawed possession of this drug. From 1951 - 1956 federal law was enforced that sentenced offenders to jail. The use of marijuana in the United States is now severely restricted for medicinal purposes only.

Cocaine was discovered when it was first isolated from the coca leaf in 1855. However, it was only in the early 1880s that the medical fraternity took notice of this drug, thanks to its psychic effects. Dr. Sigmund Freud, a psychotherapist, was probably the first person from the medical world to recommend cocaine for the treatment of depression. In 1884, Dr. Freud published research that discussed the impact of cocaine on humans. It was described as a stimulant that provided long-lasting euphoria. Apart from heightened alertness, it also increased the ability to work for longer hours without experiencing any fatigue. It was also found to be an effective pain killer that eventually made it popular as a local anesthetic.

In 1886, Coca Cola was launched, that substantially contained cocaine. It was strongly promoted as an energy boosting drink, a mood enhancer that could give a feeling of elation. In the early 1900s, different brands of alcoholic drinks containing cocaine and opium flooded the American market. They instantly became popular due to the presence of cocaine that delivered exhilaration to the consumer. Around 1905, cocaine snorting became a rage in the United States. However, the addictive nature of cocaine soon started becoming evident with reports of drug abuse among the young and elderly alike. Studies also linked socially problematic behavior to the usage of cocaine. The Journal of the American Medical Association also reported the rising addiction of cocaine sniffing among African immigrants. The emerging negative effects of cocaine forced Coca Cola to change its recipe. In 1912, around 5000 people died from cocaine and opium abuse. Finally, in 1914 the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act was enacted that criminalized unlawful possession of cocaine in the United States.

In 1919, A. Ogata, a Japanese scientist, created methamphetamine. The drug was basically a nervous system stimulant that increased alertness, infused a feeling of euphoria, and boosted energy. Due to its stimulating effect, methamphetamine was given to Japanese, American, and German soldiers during World War II in to keep them alert, combat fatigue, and enhance their productivity in combat action. After the war, it was sold under the brand name 'Methedrine'. It soon became popular with people from all walks of life.

The 1960s saw the rise of methamphetamine users in the United States. People from all socioeconomic groups started using methamphetamine to stay awake, uplift their mood, and increase productivity. The drug was abused to get the 'high' feeling. Methamphetamine also acted as an appetite suppressant and was taken by women as a weight loss aid. In order to curb these addiction problems, the US Drug Abuse Regulation and Control Act was passed in 1970 that categorized methamphetamine a Schedule II drug. Today, its possession without a prescription is strictly prohibited. Although the FDA has given consent to use methamphetamine for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, it is rarely recommended.

LSD was first synthesized in Switzerland in 1938 by a chemist named Albert Hofmann. While analyzing the drug, his fingertips come in contact with the drug, which eventually got absorbed through the skin. The chemist experienced the hallucinogenic effects of the drug immediately. He described the experience as going into a dreamlike state with the eyes shut. Later, when he took it deliberately, the drug had a positive impact on his mood and physical energy. In 1950, the first research paper, discussing the psychological effects of LSD, was published in the American Journal of Psychiatry. From 1951 onwards, the CIA secretly started giving prisoners, drug agents, and spy agents LSD, so that they could confess the truth. The other goal was to test whether the drug made the user forget his original identity.

The usage of LSD in the 1960s soon trickled down to psychiatrists that used LSD to improve psychotherapy. It was also used as a treatment for alcoholism. The formula of making LSD was soon made available to the general public. The easy availability of LSD, complemented by its well-known over-stimulating effects, caused a significant rise in the number of LSD abusers in the United States. With growing public health concerns over the usage of LSD, California became the first state to ban LSD in 1966. Eventually, in 1968, the US Senate passed the Staggers-Dodd Bill that outlawed the possession of LSD. Finally, the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act was enforced in 1970, that deemed LSD a schedule I drug, meaning the substance lacked any medicinal value.

Although the drug was created in 1912 by Anton Köllisch, a German chemist, it was only in the 1970s that Ecstasy became popular for recreational purposes. It was largely ignored until 1950, when a great deal of research began to study the properties of Ecstasy. In 1953, animal studies were conducted to analyze the toxicity of ecstasy. The 1960s witnessed small-scale manufacturing of the drug fit for human consumption.

In 1977, the popularity of Ecstasy as a recreational drug increased drastically. Its use became prevalent in night dance parties. It was easily available in nightclubs, and ecstasy-driven parties also became popular. In order to stop the widespread abuse of Ecstasy, the drug was banned in 1985, and the US Drug Enforcement Administration classified it as a Schedule I drug, indicating that the drug had no medicinal properties. Today, anyone in the possession of Ecstasy is liable for legal penalties.

Referred to as 'magic' mushrooms as they display hallucinatory properties, Psilocybin mushrooms, that originated in Asia and America, contain Psilocybin, a hallucinogenic substance. It is naturally psychoactive, which means it can stimulate the central nervous system, and alter perception, mood, and behavior. To put it simply, it tends to mimic the effects of LSD. In 1956, Albert Hofmann successfully extracted Psilocybin from these mushrooms at Sandoz Pharmaceuticals, Switzerland. In 1960, the pharmaceutical company got permission to synthesize Psilocybin pills. To study the effects of Psilocybin pills, 10 students from Boston university were given a pill that had 30 mg of Psilocybin. The study was conducted in 1962 under the guidance of Timothy Leary, an American psychologist. The results of the study proved that Psilocybin isolated from magic mushrooms produced psychoactive effects.

Timothy also believed that Psilocybin could be helpful to control violent behavior in criminals. However, various studies proved these assumptions wrong. The popularity of Psilocybin mushrooms and pills increased dramatically, especially at clubs, parties, and even on college campuses for getting 'high'. The abuse of the drug was noticed among teenagers, young adults, and recreational drugs addicts. Finally, the Staggers-Dodd Bill was passed in 1963 that enforced a ban on Psilocybin containing substances including mushrooms. The Drug Abuse Act of 1970 classified Psilocybin a Schedule I drug.

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Nature Deficit Disorder

One of the most important gifts a parent can give a child is his or her own infectious enthusiasm for the outdoors. ~ Richard LouvImagine if only children today were able to frolic in gardens, open fields, and go camping more often. If they were given the choice of playing amidst nature, they wouldn't be spending a large chunk of their childhood immersed in technology.

Richard Louv, the author of 'Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder' couldn't have coined a better term than 'nature-deficit disorder', to describe the widening gap between children and nature. Even though he calls it a disorder, it has not yet been recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

Nature deficit disorder is the hypothesis aimed at explaining the phenomenon wherein, parental paranoia for the safety of their children, restricted access to natural habitat, and the exaggeration of news by the media has "scared the children straight out of the woods and fields".

According to Louv, the term describes "the human costs of alienation from nature, among them: diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. The disorder can be detected in individuals, families, and communities." Here is an overview of the nature deficit disorder and how it can impact our lives.

? If the only greenery you have seen lately is on the television and video games.
? The term "Winter" instinctively reminds you of the house stark motto from the Game of Thrones series.
? FarmVille is the closet you have gotten to an actual farm.
? You boast of the number of virtual pets you own and how much you love them.
? If you think that photosynthesis is the name of a new Photography App!
? You have not eaten a real orange since ages but drink orange juice from cartons every single day.
? In your mind, blackberry and apple are companies first.
? The only dew you have experienced lately is through drinking Mountain Dew.
? You need nature sounds playing in the background to help you sleep.
? You think trees are a waste of space and must be replaced to make way for more parking area.
Causes of Nature Deficit Disorder
? The first and foremost factor that interferes with the interaction between children and nature is the lack of natural space, area, or habitat, in or around the neighborhood or city. Additionally, the accessibility to such parks and preserves is further restricted by the rules and regulations incorporated by these facilities.? The growing fear of "stranger danger" has made most parents wary of the security of their children. Which is why, parents prefer having their children spend time indoors, where they are comparatively safer.? Having the child play video games or spend hours on the computer seems like a more viable option, than to have the child explore the great outdoors.? Recent studies have also revealed an interconnection between the increasing use of electronic gadgets and media among children and the simultaneous decline in the number of children visiting Nation Parks in the United States.? Schools are assigning excess homework which is depriving kids of their leisure time to play and have fun.
How to Invite Nature into Your Life
? Wake up early in the morning to observe the mist and dewdrops settled on the grass and leaves near your home.
? Listen to the chirping of birds and feel the breeze.
? Visit the closet aquarium or zoo in your city or town and check out all the animals and species they have.
? Plant a sapling or soak seeds in water to see how they germinate.
? Take pictures or collect as many varieties of flowers and leaves as you can from your neighborhood and make a scrapbook.
? Make it a point to visit a national park at least once a year or travel around the country and see new landscapes, animals, and birds.
? Go trekking and hiking if possible. Take your kids fishing or to the beach more often.
? Reduce the amount of time spent on the computer and instead go out for a leisurely stroll.
? If you can, try to sit in a quiet place and paint the scenery around you. It could be something as simple as a tree, a bird, or a fountain.
? Visit a pet shelter and spend some time with the animals there, or if possible, adopt a furry friend!
Advantages of Connecting with Nature
? Recent scientific evidence points towards the importance of nature experiences for children and how it helps in their cognitive, creative, and emotional development. It also helps children develop a deeper sense of wonder, curiosity, and attachment with the Earth.? Studies also revealed that, children who played outdoors in natural and open spaces were more likely to create their own games. Such children played cooperatively and showed more sportsmanship.? Studies conducted in 1990s have already showcased that, the schools which initiated outdoor settings for teaching had students who fared better in all spectrum of academics as compared to other schools.? Children who have access to nearby nature can gain a lot as well, as long as they are allowed to venture outside, and see and interact with nature. It may not seem much to us, but for children these small interactions can mean a whole lot more than we can comprehend.? Children who go camping, fishing, and hiking more often, tend to be more observant about their surroundings. Since all their senses are functioning in unison and at optimum levels, they tend to grasp and retain information better.? People who experience the serenity of nature are able to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression in a better manner.
Disadvantages of Disconnect with Nature
? According to child advocacy expert Richard Louv's research, children are spending very less quality time with nature, which in turn is affecting their health and well-being and leading to attention disorders and lack of focus in school.? The impact of not being close to nature is not limited to children alone. It can affect adults as well, leading to physical, emotional, and mental distress.? The lack of immersion in nature can lead to depression, stress, obesity, and several other health implications among people living in concrete jungles.? The evident disengagement between children and nature is likely to adversely affect the health of our future generation, as well as the Earth in the coming years.? Richard Louv has also attributed the rise of troublesome childhood conditions, such as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and obesity to the lack of connection and association with Mother Nature.
The only way to reverse nature deficit disorder is to start small and take safe risks. Take small strolls in and around your neighborhood and help your child observe the birds, the bark and leaves of trees, lift and observe small pebbles, and scrutinize the soil.

Nature deficit disorder may not be a real disorder but it does have real implications on the growth and development of children and adults alike. The only way to reverse the damage is to step outdoors and start reconnecting with nature, so that we can stop and truly appreciate its many splendid wonders.

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