Archive for January, 2012



When it comes to types of body piercings it can be a simple task to pick what piercings you want or it can be harder depending on your job. Certain jobs will require you not to have any piercings visible. Other jobs might not be so hard or care about visible piercings. You should always check first so, you don’t go out and get it only to hear that you need to remove it.

There are so many options when it comes to getting a body piercing – everything from your ears, nose, lip, eyebrow, monroe, labret, navel, nipple, etc… When choosing your first piercing think about what you really want and if it will be in a place that will work for you. Having so many types of body piercings to choose from is helpful in this instance.

When debating on any types of body piercings, certain areas such as an eyebrow piercing have a higher rate of rejecting. Ears are a simple piercing that many of us have had from our younger days in life. Oral piercings can swell a bit in the early days.

The cost of the types of body piercings will range depending on what you get and what the shop prices are set to. The aftercare if different also depending on what you get. You will normally have a choice of if you want a CBR or a barbell. I would start out with a CBR because it makes cleaning it easier to do during the healing period.

Some people ask if it’s okay to use rubbing alcohol to keep a fresh piercing clean. The simple answer to that is NO. You must use an antibacterial soap that doesn’t contain any fragrance to keep the area clean. If you think you may have an infection starting you can always do a simple sea salt soak to also help with keeping it clean. If it doesn’t seem to be getting better you can always drop by and see the person who did it for you to check it out.

When you get an oral piercing you should avoid beer because of the yeast, breads, and spicy things until it has had time to heal. Navels & Nipples should be taken care of by not wearing too tight clothing over them while it’s in the healing stages.

Remember to always look into the place you plan on visiting for your future piercing to make sure that they follow health & safety rules. Also, never get pierced with any needle that has not been opened and taken out of the new package right in front of you. Better safe than sorry – who wants to deal with an infection, or worse, on top of any new types of body piercings?



A man’s inability to perform a sexual act can be debilitating to his mental health. It is also one of the most commonly experienced health concerns by a man. Almost every man, at some point in time in his life will complain of this health ailment, unfortunately. The cycle of erectile dysfunction can spiral quickly downwards into a frustrating and emotional situation for both the man, and any relationship he is pursuing.

There are three stages to the erection process in a man; any of these three stages can host physical or emotional health problems that create a dysfunction.

At the first stage, which is arousal, a man receives stimulation from only his thoughts and/or senses. During the second stage, a man’s brain is talking to the arousal function, telling the body to increase blood flow to the penis. At the final, third stage, the blood vessels of the penis enlarge, allowing more blood to flow through and therefore an erection to occur. If anything inhibits, disrupts or confuses any of these processes, erectile dysfunction may ensue.

A Man’s Health: The Facts about Erectile Dysfunction

A man is more likely to ask for help about his health problems than a woman is;

At times the resolution of the problem can be as simple as contraception, communication, reassurance and information sharing;

It affects almost every man at some point in time in his life, no matter what his health status;

Almost one third of a man’s partners will also have a sexual, or health, dysfunction;

YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

A Man’s Health: The Physical Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

There are quite a few physical reasons why a man may be having health problems surrounding his erectile functions. They include: effects from surgery, trauma to the penis or testicles, diseases or conditions (such as diabetes, flu, renal failure, Parkinson’s disease, etc.), drug abuse, medications (such as antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, etc.), smoking, hormonal imbalances, too much alcohol intake, and the aging process.

A Man’s Health: The Psychological Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

If all of the physical health reasons for a man not to have normal erectile function have been covered, then the psychological reasons are closely looked at next. These could include: lowered sexual desire, depression, mental fatigue, stress, guilt, problems with the relationship, lack of interest in sex from their partner or anxiety disorders.

A Man’s Health: Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

The best way to treat a man’s problem with his health is to first discuss the issues with your doctor, and then with your partner. Both are important in determining not only the causes of the problem, but appropriate treatments as well. Some treatments used regularly are: counseling, intracavernosal drugs (such as prostaglandin E.), education/advice, drugs (such as Sildenafil), vacuum devices, prosthetics, or surgery.



The media has a strong influence on the viewing public. From ideas to products, media can sell anything directly or indirectly. Just the same, weight loss is also another idea being promoted by the media. Some of the shows promote weight loss indirectly while others blatantly announce the need for a healthy lifestyle. Nevertheless, Hollywood celebrities and supermodel are seen as role models when it comes to a beautiful body. One of the known celebrities being looked up for weight loss is Oprah Winfrey.

Oprah: The quick facts

Oprah Winfrey, host of the highly popular Oprah talk show, is popular for her ability to lose huge amounts of weight and keep it off. In her show, she is constantly offering tips and advice on how to lose weight and keep it off. She is currently under personal trainer Bob Greene that helps her lose weight and maintain it.

The rude truth

Because of Oprah’s fame, several unreliable weight loss methods and products have jumped in Oprah’s bandwagon of fame, claiming that they are the ones that helped Oprah lose weight fast. So before buying any weight loss product or pill, make sure to check twice. Do not be easily fooled by products that claim Oprah has used it.

Her weight loss plan

According to Oprah’s website, Oprah’s weight loss plan mainly involves diet and exercise. She does not take any medications or weight loss patches to help her lose weight. She does it the natural way.

Oprah’s weight loss plan mainly involves avoidance of refined carbs, increased intake of lean protein, and moderate healthy fats. Coupled with regular exercise, Oprah has achieved her ideal body weight and body image that everyone has come to admire.

According to her trainer

Bob Greene, Oprah’s personal trainer, gives the juice on Oprah’s weight loss plan.

According to Greene, there are two sets of weight loss rules. “There’s one set for just making the scale move,” he says. “That just follows the laws of physics–you have to do x, y and z, and if you do them, the scale moves. But then there’s the other thing…what’s going to keep you doing those things for the rest of your life? That’s where it gets complicated.”

Exercise such as aerobics, says Greene, is effective at first. But as time passes, it can become less challenging. He then recommends working out on a treadmill, which allows you to increase the pace and the incline over time.

The main point is to exercise more and eat less. “You have to exercise more than what you eat,” says Greene.

Boot camp

As part of Oprah’s weight loss plan, she has undergone a strict diet program that include reducing the intake of certain foods. In Oprah’s boot camp, she has invited several people to join her in her road to dieting.

Oprah recommends that following diet regime:

1. Eat lean protein, two fruits a day, and all the green vegetables you want

2. Keep the fat low

3. No alcohol

4. Refrain from eating the “white stuff”: bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, candy, pastry, cookies, cake.

5. Stay away from whole grains (brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat cereals and breads) for one month

6. Do not eat three hours before bedtime.

Dr. Phil

Oprah’s resident psychologist also tells of Oprah’s weight loss plan. According to Dr. Phil, if you want to follow Oprah’s weight loss plan, you have to follow these steps:

1. Set a very specific goal – Dr Phil suggests that people should set goals for the weight loss as well as for their emotions.

2. Work out a very specific strategy – will power alone does not work. People need a very specific strategy.

3. Identify small, measurable steps – implement a program that suits your lifestyle.

4. Create a healthy, realistic time line – whatever happens, do not crash diet. Choose fixed dates for the weight you want to be in the future, starting with small steps. Add those dates to your calendar, and stick to them. Don’t expect results overnight.

5. Create meaningful monitoring and accountability – according to Dr Phil, find a partner to help you track your weight and things will become easier for you.

Fad diets

Some diet pills and products are claiming to be part of Oprah’s weight loss plan. The Hoodia weight loss patch, for example, claims to have helped Oprah lose weight. Whether this claim is true or not, there are no indications. However, it is highly suggested that if you want to strictly follow Oprah’s weight loss plan, you have to listen to her instead of trusting the claims of third party manufacturers.



Mental health conditions are common in all nations of the world. According to the National Institute for Mental Health, about 26 percent of Americans aged over 18 years are diagnosed with a mental disorder every year. This equates to almost 60 million people. The NIMH has also found that about 6 percent of those, have been diagnosed with a serious mental condition, many of which may suffer from two or more mental conditions. Mental illness, has been found to be a major cause of disability amongst people, aged between 15 and 44 years in the US and Canada.

Of course, mental conditions are not confined to the adult person, as people of all ages and genders can be affected by the disorder. Many children and adolescents are diagnosed with mental health problems, and special care is needed to treat them adequately. Mental conditions that affect children are varied and may be of a temporary nature, however, specialized treatment should be sought to help reduce the chances of the disorder becoming long term. NIMH reports indicate that about 5 percent of children in North America suffer from bouts of depression. This figure increases to around 8 percent for the number of teenagers who are suffering from anxiety and depression.

Many teenagers are also affected by eating disorders, which can aggravate bouts of depression and lead to other problems such as, phobia, inhibition and learning difficulties. Teenage girls who may be suffering from anxiety or depression are susceptible to anorexia nervosa, a very serious eating disorder, which can lead to grave health concerns, even death. Mental conditions, such as these, need to be treated by mental health care professionals who can help young people to adjust to the circumstances that have brought about their disorders.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a most severe mental health condition that is more likely to affect young boys. Sufferers of ADHD need specialized professional care as well as added personal attention from their parents. A child suffering from ADHD will display little regard for authority and will engage in a range of continuous physical activities much to the detriment of his fellow students, teachers and parents. Treatment, provided by a mental health care professional, for this type of disorder, may include some form of medication.

Early diagnosis of mental health problems, is essential for the successful treatment of the conditions, and the prevention of long term effects that may result in a lasting disability.



It is a herculean task to manage home, children, family and a demanding job, and at the same time look fresh and radiant. Many women who juggle different roles forget to take care of their diet. All women must take care no matter how busy they are:

) Always eat some fruit for breakfast because it gives the required energy to detoxify and aids in the elimination of wastes effectively.

2) Drink enough water, cut down tea, coffee to two cups in the day and substitute them by herbal drinks like jasmine, chamoile tea, which are great for skin hydration and a young looking skin.

3) With age, cut down on cereals and eat more of fresh fruits and vegetables to keep the weight off.

4) Walk and do stretches to keep your body supple, slim, youthful and full of energy.

5) Cut down on smoking and alcohol as it ages the skin fast.

Must Read: Workout and Exercise Schedule for Women Weight Training at http://www.weightloss-health.com/woman%20muscle%20exercise.htm

6) Increase soy, or fish or sprouts in the diet.

7) Add anti-aging herbs like tulsi, amla, ashwagandha in the routine.

8) Go for natural sweeteners like honey and raisins.

9) Indulge in your sinful foods once a week.

10) Positive thinking and a positive outlook can make any women look young and attractive!

Must Read: Sailing through menopause with ease: Menopause Symptoms, exercise, diet, tips at http://www.weightloss-health.com/menopause_exercise_diet.htm



Children diagnosed with autism with impairments of speech, social and communication skill, limited interest, repetitive behaviour, etc. depending on severity of the symptoms may exhibit low tolerance or allergies to certain foods or chemicals, such as gluten and casein, impairment of digestion system such as yeast over growth in the intestine tract, weakened immune system such as decreased resistance to infection, respiratory and ear infection. It is important for the parent and the benefits of the child avoided intake of food that promote the brain’s allergic reaction, the immune dysfunction, liver function in detoxification, etc. In this article, we will discuss what to avoid for children with autism.

1. Artificial ingredients
Since most children with autism have poor digestive system and weakened immune system, intake of artificial ingredients will cause toxin accumulated in the body, leading to abnormality of liver function in toxins elimination, resulting in increasing the severity of the symptoms.
a) Artificial colors
Food color is any substance added in to the food to preserve its favors or to simulate a natural state of the foods with an aim to make customers to buy them. Although, they have been tested by the government food body to ensure its safety, but unfortunately, it has interfered the neurological processes, such as the behavior, personality and learning ability of children with or without autism if taken in high dose.
It is said that some artificial ingredient such as FD & C Red No. 2 dye have shown to promote cancerous growth. Researcher found that removing the artificial colors from the autistic children diet, improve in attention deficit and hyperactivity behaviors dramatically.

b) Artificial flavors
Artificial flavors are any synthesized chemical added to manufactured foods to change or make its taste better such as banana – isoamyl acetate; cinnamon – ethyl cinnamate; orange – octyl acetate and pineapple – methyl butyrate; pear. It causes nervous tension including mental concentration, behavior, lost of energy and weakened immune response.
It is said that long-term usage can increase your risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and other degenerative conditions to children’s central nervous system.

c) Artificial preservatives
Artificial preservatives are a group of chemical substances, such as BHT, nitrates, sulfites, sulfur dioxide, BHA, etc. added to food, sprayed on the outside of food, or added to certain medications with the purpose of preventing food from spoiling or discoloring. It causes allergic reactions in children, resulting in skin rashes or facial swelling and worsening asthma.

d) Artificial Addictive
Artificial addictive is defined as substances, adding to foods from the manufacture with the purpose of preservation, coloring, texture and flavor. Studies found that artificial additive can causes several types of cancer and tumor. Many of them have negative impacts in children with autism.
i) Olestra
Olestra is a fat substitute used in crackers and potato chips. It is type of additive can not be absorbed by the digestive system, leading to diarrhea, loose stools, abdominal cramps.
ii) Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
MSG is used as a flavor enhancer in many cooking and preservative foods. It is said that MSG can cause sensitive neurons to die. leading to headache, nausea or vomiting.

e) Artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners is a synthesis sugar substituted substance. It has been used increasingly in replacing natural sugar in a wide range of products traditionally containing sugar. Studies found that artificial sweetener may increase risk of bladder and brain cancers.
i) Sucralose
It is 600 times as sweet as sugar and has been used in beverages, frozen desserts, chewing gum, baked goods, etc. and belongs to a class of chemicals called organochlorides. Some of them are considered toxic to our health.
ii) Lead acetate
It is an artificial sugar substitute made from lead, it causes lead accumulated in the body, leading to nervous symptoms.
iii) Aspartame
It is 200 times as sweet as sugar and can be used as a tabletop sweetener,frozen desserts, gelatins, etc. Researchers found that aspartame may increase the risk of brain damage and cancer.

2. Yeast extract
It is also known as processed yeast products and has been used as food additives or flavourings under the name of monosodium glutamate (MSG). It contains glutamic acid which is classified as exitotoxins, and can cause brain damage in some studies.

3. Trans fat
As we mentioned in many previous article, trans fat is the hydrogenated oil found in many commercial mayonnaise, margarine, and peanut butter etc. and can cause cholesterol building up in the arteries, leading to less blood circulation to the central nervous system, thus increasing the severity of the symptoms of autism and heart diseases and stroke. Some studies also found that trans fat causes brain, adrenal gland and thyroid tumors and cancers in some animal studies.

4. Gluten and casein
a) Gluten
Gluten and gluten-like proteins are found in wheat and other grains, including oats, rye, barley, bulgar, durum, etc. and extracted from flour by washing out the starch. It also has been used as artificial additive as a stabilizing agent in some foods. Intake of gluten may causes autoimmune disorder of the small intestine and symptoms of gastrointestinal disorder including chronic diarrhoea, failure to thrive and fatigue.

b) Casein
Casein is a protein found in milk and foods containing milk, such as cheese, butter, yogurt, etc. Studies found besides promoting cancer, it also increases the risk of bad cholesterol building up in the arteries, leading to heart diseases and stroke. Casein after intake can also be broken down to casomorphins, an chemical agent which is known to interfere with the function of neurotransmitter in transmitting information and decrease the immune response to foreign bacteria and virus invasion.

5. Non organic foods
Non organic foods may contain
i) Pesticides & Herbicides
Pesticides & Herbicides is highly toxic. Because of their value of increasing the production of foods and prevent insect eating aways the profits of the growers, it have been widely uses in non organic farming. Intake of non organic foods may weakened the immune system as well as interfering the liver function in toxic elimination, leading to central nervous tension and exhibiting the symptoms of autism.
ii) Contaminated Sewage Sludge
The increasing uses of contaminated sewage sludge containing human waste, industrial waste and toxic chemicals as a fertilizer, causes crop contamination, leading to major chronic health problem, including increasing the severity of the nervous symptoms for children with autism.
iii) Hormones & Antibiotics
Animal fed with fed antibiotics, hormones, ground up remains of other animals causes hormone imbalance in our body, leading central nervous disorder, increasing the risk of irregular cell growth, and damaging the balance of beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

6. Refine products
Refined products with little fiber release sugar in the blood stream quickly, causing the responses of pancreas to produce high level of insulin to neutralize it in a short period of time, that interferes with the normal function of central nervous system in controlling the concentration, focus and behaviour for children with autism.

7. Foods promote immune allergic reaction
Since most children with autism have a weakened immune system, eating food promote the immune allergic reaction may cause immune system to attacks a normally harmless substance and interfere to the body’s own natural opioid and disable the enzymes that would break down these naturally occurring compounds, leading to inflammation and gastrointestinal disorder.