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Water: The Best Medication Ever Created!
How much water do you drink every day? The majority of people do not drink enough! In 1995 Dr. F. Batmanghelidj. MD published his research on dehydration in a best selling book entitled "Your Bodies Many Cries For Water" which shocked the medical community and pharmaceutical industry. In this book the author shows medical evidence which supports his thesis that the majority of medical conditions stem from dehydration. The research by scientists clearly shows that dehydration is one of the most common health maladies and the most easily preventable. The findings clearly demonstrate that quite often heartburn, rheumatoid pain, back pain, headaches and pains in the legs are all the result of dehydration. This is referred to as dyspeptic pain and is being thoroughly researched by scientists. This makes perfect sense if we study the physiology of the human body. Starting at the back of the lips and going all the way to the rectum is a mucosal lining. This lining covers the entire length of the digestive system and usually injuries to this lining precede serious disease conditions. The purpose of the lining is to filter out toxins and help transport food down the digestive tract. As this lining loses its elasticity and moisture the result is pain, aging and eventually disease. In recent years the medical community has slowly been coming around to recognizing the truth in this brilliant research. However, the mainstream medical still ignores this research and its findings. The question you have to ask is can chemicals and high priced procedures heal the body when the problem could be chronic dehydration? More research is being done. But the initial finds are conclusive. Sick people do not drink enough water every day. This is something worth thinking about and applying to your own health regimen. Dr. Batmanghelidj theorizes that chronic cellular dehydration painfully and prematurely kills and that up until now the outward manifestations have been labeled as diseases of unknown origin. The great news is that there is a simple solution! Dr. Batmaghelidj suggests that you drink half of your body weight in ounces of water every day. This regimen will help keep the cells, joints and skin hydrated. We've all heard the old saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." Today we should consider adding to that statement "Without H2O you have been told, you will get sick, you will grow old." Drink Up! Charles O. Palmerson is the webmaster for http://www.eConstipation.com an online Constipation Information Resource created to resolve poor digestive health.
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Alternative Medicine Quick Tip for Runners Who Have Knee Pain Running with knees that hurt and are not getting better trough time is no fun, and being addicted to running doesn't help either. Manipulate The Body And Mind With A Portable Massage Table A portable massage table can be very essential tool. Massage therapy is a hands-on manipulation of the soft tissue and joints of the body and using a portable massage table can make giving and receiving a massage that much easier. A massage offers many diverse physiological effects, which are primarily due to the therapist's hands moving over the body in a manner that affects all its systems - in particular, the muscular by decreasing muscle tension and feelings of stress; the circulatory by reducing heart rate and blood pressure; the lymphatic by improving the flow of blood and lymph fluids in the body; and the nervous by inducing the relaxation response. Most important, massage therapy helps meet the human need for the caring and affirmative touch. No wonder so many people find massage therapy so helpful in so many ways! After all, even the great Hippocrates who learnt this art from Herodicus way back in the 4th Century B.C., had advised thus in so many words when he said - "The physician must be acquainted with many things and assuredly with rubbing" (the ancient Greek and Roman term for massage). Aloe Vera - The Medicine And Beauty Treatment Of Choice For Millenniums I can remember as a young boy that my grandmother always had an Aloe Vera plant in our home. While playing with the neighbors' kids, I always seem to end the day with plenty of scrapes and minor cuts. Grandma would break off a leaf from her Aloe Vera plant and come to my rescue. Spread over the affected area, the soothing and cooling effect of the leaf's gel is still fresh in my mind. My mother was also quick to apply the gel to the frequent burns she received while cooking. Although many of the remedies that our grandparents would recommend and use originated out of superstition rather than practical application, I don't think that even grandma knew the true magnitude of healing that lies within the leaves of the Aloe Vera plant. Herbe Fraiche Essential Oil : A Combination of Forest Essences Herb Fraiche essential oil is derived from essential oils complex blended from plant substances such as pine, thyme and mint. The refreshing plant fragrance induces a calming effect and relieves fatigue after a long day. To over-stressed urbanites who suffer from deteriorating body functions and sleep quality, Herb Fraiche provides a soothing remedy. Herbs and Essential Oils Powerful Medicine We can find many beneficial uses for natural herbs and their essential oils in our lives. The essential oils contain the concentrated part of the herb. Using the herb in its purest oil form can allow us to store it for longer periods of time. We can use less of it this way due to the concentration in the oils. A little goes a long way. Therapeutic Massage Goes Main Stream Have you ever bumped your knee or elbow? What was the response? Well, of course, you rub them in order to ease the pain and make them feel better. As the ancient art of therapeutic massage is enjoying a modern-day revival it is interesting to note that as far back as the fifthth century BC, Hippocrates, wrote: "The physician must be experienced in many things, but assuredly in rubbing?for rubbing can bind a joint that is too loose and loosen a joint that is too rigid" Discover 5 Scents That Will Turbo Charge Your Energy, Mood, Brain Power, and More Control Appetite Feeling Helpless in the Face of Pain? Here Are 4 Ways That Visualization May Be Able to Ease You Back into Control Chronic Back Pain Magnetic Advantage Newsletter FEATURED TOPIC Chronic Back Pain By Bruce Spiegler I had been to three different physicians. The car accident in 1990 had left me with terrible back pain. The only option offered to me was prescription medication. For three years I lived with chronic pain 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The prescription drugs helped relieve some of the discomfort, but I had to stop taking them when I began getting sick to my stomach which was often worse than the pain itself. Time and again I thought, "This can't be the only choice. There must be another alternative." It wasn't until 3 years later that I heard about magnetic therapy from a friend, and decided to try it. With nothing to lose, I used a magnetic pad on my back during the day and slept on a magnetic mattress pad every night. Much to my surprise, after two weeks my back felt much better. After a few months, the pain was completely gone! My wife, who had a back problem caused by herniated disks, woke up every morning with pain and stiffness. Not long after sleeping on the magnetic pad, the stiffness began to subside, and she was soon waking up pain-free as well. Although skeptical at first, I was amazed at the effectiveness of magnetic therapy, and began to intensely investigate the field of biomagnetics. Since my initial experience, I have had the pleasure of helping many people achieve similar results, enhancing the quality of life of those suffering from chronic conditions and injuries. Now I'd like to take the opportunity to help those of you who may be suffering from chronic back pain, and to tell you how to better prevent it. Back pain is the number one form of pain experienced by people in the U.S. It accounts for 20% of all injuries and illnesses in the workplace, and is responsible for as much as $50 billion in diagnosis and treatment each year [1]. The National Institutes of Health estimate that 4 out of 5 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Not a pretty picture from any standpoint. The majority of back pain occurs in the lumbar region of the spine [2]. Here, most of your body's weight is placed on the lowest 5 of the 24 vertebrae (bones) that make up the spine. Considering all the other muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, disks, and major nerves that are also a part of or connected to the spine, it's no surprise that there are so many ways to injure your back as you twist and bend them [3]. Pain is considered chronic if it's recurring, lasts more than three months, and can seemingly be stimulated by any small movement (for whatever reason) [4]. In the 21st century, we're finally realizing that drugs and surgery are not always the answer for treating chronic pain or other musculoskeletal conditions & injuries. The future lies in an integrative approach to promoting the body's own healing ability by using non-invasive, safer treatments. Acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic and osteopathic care, and certain physical therapy exercises are just a few options to help with back pain. Following an individualistic approach to treatment is key. A particular therapy that may work for one person may not work as well for another. Often it's necessary to try a combination of treatment methods to begin feeling significant improvements. For true recovery of back injuries and disease, pain and inflammation need to be reduced, proper function and strength restored, and further injury prevented [4]. With this in mind, let's discuss how magnetic therapy can help. One of the primary benefits of magnetic therapy is the reduction of inflammation. Localized inflammation following an injury is a natural protective reaction. It creates an imbalance in sodium and potassium ion (charged particle) concentrations at a cellular level. As a result, fluid accumulates in the cells, causing the injured tissue to become inflamed. (Think of it as retaining water after eating salty food.) If there's no intervention, the body will eventually heal itself and the inflammation will subside. However, this process can be very slow and painful. Because of this, treatments that can safely speed the overall process are needed--particularly in the case of chronic conditions like arthritis. Applying a bio-north magnetic field safely rebalances electrochemical ion concentrations. Excess fluids and toxins are flushed from the cells and removed through the lymphatic system. As a result, healing time is often reduced by as much as 50%. Since major nerve bundles run through the spine, it's obvious why back pain is so common. Pain is caused by an electrochemical signal sent to the brain. The normal electric potential of a neuron (nerve cell) is around -70mV when in a resting state. When injured, a neuron's charge becomes positive due to a shift in chemical ion balances. This triggers a pain signal to be sent to the brain. Applying a bio-north (negative polarity) magnetic field lowers a neuron's electric potential, bringing it closer to its normal, negative state. As a result, the pain signal diminishes faster, and in most cases, will eventually stop. Another important goal when recovering from back injuries is restoring mobility. Magnetic therapy helps relax muscle tissue, thereby increasing flexibility and reducing the incidence of muscle spasms. About four years ago, researchers in Italy tested the effects of a magnetic seating system on several volunteers. Each person participated by either driving or remaining seated at a computer workstation for prolonged periods--both with and without the magnetic system. "The results showed a decreased myoelectric (neuron) activity both at shoulder and lumbar level by using the magnet-based sitting system for prolonged seated work tasks...The system appears to be an effective tool in preventing muscle contractures secondary to prolonged, constrained positions" [5]. Because it can be so difficult and painful to move, many people feel they need to rest for a few days after injuring their back. But did you know that bed rest should really be minimized or avoided? According to David Lehrman, M.D. (chief of orthopedic surgery at St. Francis Hospital and founder of the Lehrman Back Center in Miami, FL), "for every week of bed rest, it takes two weeks to rehabilitate" [3]. A 1995 study in Helsinki, Finland found that out of 186 subjects, those who went about their daily activities as tolerated had greater flexibility and less pain than those who underwent back-mobilizing exercises. The *slowest* recovery was seen in subjects that were prescribed two days of bed rest [6]. While an interesting fact, it's one that some of us may grumble about. Bear in mind we still have to sleep and give our bodies a chance to heal and recuperate. As I found out years ago, sleeping on the proper magnetic mattress pad will help speed the healing process and can significantly reduce chronic pain over time. Back in 1990, a 12-month clinical test on the effects of magnetic mattress pads was conducted in Tokyo, Japan. The study, led by Dr. Kazuo Shimodaira, involved 431 subjects. 375 of them received full-sized magnetic pads and the remaining subjects received sham mattress pads for control. (Each magnetic pad contained 124 permanent ferrite magnets with field strengths of 750-950 Gauss.) Here are the results of the yearlong test: On average, 53.3% of the subjects realized the effect of the magnetic mattress pad within 3 days, and over 70% within 5 days. What's more is that thorough testing for side effects was conducted and none were found [7]. (Note: The magnetic mattress pads used in this study did not produce very strong magnetic fields. As stronger magnetic fields are more effective, a higher energy pad would improve results even further.) Supporting these findings, a 1997 Johns Hopkins pain center treatment study compared magnetic therapy for chronic pain with a placebo therapy. It concluded that people using the magnetic therapy showed a dramatic improvement, whereas the placebo group improved only minimally. Again, there were no side effects detected [8]. Since the vast majority of adults are not in 'ideal' physical condition, the risk of back injury for them is greatly increased. If you are out of shape and are planning an activity that requires lifting, bending or twisting, it's a good idea to take steps that can help prevent injury in the first place. Magnetic therapy is an excellent way of accomplishing this. There are three primary actions that take place when using magnetic therapy for prevention. The first two are its ability to increase circulation and to relax muscles. The effects are similar to warming up and stretching before a strenuous workout. It's really the third action that sets magnetic therapy apart from anything else though. Magnetic therapy can effectively control energy flow along the body's acupuncture meridians (energy channels). Placing a magnetic pad or support over an area channels the body's energy directly to that location. Increased energy availability, combined with improved circulation, significantly extends the amount of time that one can exert themself before muscle fatigue sets in. In turn, this reduces the likelihood of muscle strain. The combination of improving blood flow, relieving muscle tension, and reducing pain makes magnetic therapy ideal for treating back conditions and preventing further injury. While effective on its own, magnetic therapy is also an excellent adjunct to other treatments. Whether chiropractic, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, or another method, it can help improve and prolong a treatment's positive results. The next time you are out and about, make use of a high-energy magnetic support or back pad. It's a simple and effective way to continue through the day with less pain and a greater range of motion. Trust me. Your back will thank you! SOURCES: 1 - Centers for Disease Control National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, June 19, 1999. 2 - Pain Central: What Causes Back Pain? 3 - Pain Foundation: Back Pain 4 - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Low Back Pain Fact Sheet 5 - PubMed: Efficacy of a chair with magnets in the prevention of musculo-skeletal disorders caused by prolonged sitting. 6 - PubMed: The treatment of acute low back pain--bed rest, exercises, or ordinary activity? 7 - Summary of a 12-month double-blind, clinical test of magnetic mattress pads. Kazuo Shimodaira, M.D. Tokyo Communications and Kouseikai Suzuki Hospitals, Tokyo, Japan. 1990. 8 - "Use of magnetic therapy for chronic pain" by Joseph Kandel, M.D. and David B. Sudderth, M.D. The Arthritis Solution. TIPS & GUIDELINES FOR A HEALTHIER BACK The National Institutes of Health provides guidelines for maintaining a healthier back. Following these and a few other tips will greatly increase your chances of preventing further injury while strengthening your back muscles. When Standing: ·Keep your weight balanced on your feet. Your back supports weight most easily when curvature is reduced. ·Don't slouch when standing or sitting. (Keep your hands lightly clasped behind your lower back. This improves posture for your neck, shoulders and upper back, and reduces muscle tension.) ·Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes. When sitting: ·Make sure your work surface is at a comfortable height for you. ·Sit in a chair with good lumbar support and proper position/height for the task. (Use a pillow, rolled towel, or lumbar cushion if needed.) ·Switch sitting positions often and periodically take a short walk or light stretch to relieve tension and restore blood circulation. ·If you must sit for a long period of time, rest your feet on a low stool or a stack of books. When lifting: ·Don't try to lift objects too heavy for you! ·Pull in your stomach muscles, keep your head down and in line with your straight back, and lift with your legs. ·Keep the object close to your body. ·Do not twist when lifting. ·Do not carry an object in one hand if it causes you to lean to one side. (Use both hands, or carry an additional item to balance the load.) Exercise: ·Always warm-up and stretch before exercise or other strenuous activity. ·Following a prolonged period of inactivity, begin a program of regular low-impact exercises. (Ask a physician or orthopedist for recommended exercises appropriate for your age and requirements.) ·Speed walking, swimming, or stationary bike riding for 30 minutes a day can increase muscle strength and flexibility. ·Yoga or Tai Chi can help stretch and strengthen muscles, and improve posture. Everyday habits: ·Maintain proper nutrition and diet to reduce and prevent excessive weight (especially around the waist area). ·If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes spinal disks to degenerate. - Magnetic Advantage - Your source for magnetic therapy news,research, and natural pain relief Too Clean? A Critical Look At The Alleged Link Between Asthma and Cleanliness Americans are ridiculed around the world for our attention to cleanliness. Recently some natural health experts have suggested that the growing problem of childhood asthma is directly related to our obsession with clean homes and a handful of studies seem to confirm their suspicions. Are these claims founded in truth or are they the result of "experts" deliberately misinterpreting data? Here's what we know for sure: How To Cure Your Incurable Nasal Allergy Immunoglobulin E is an antibody, which is secreted from the white blood cell as a defense agent in our body. It helps us defending bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms, which attack our body. Once the immunoglobulin E attaches to the mast cell, histamine chemical will be secreted from this cell. Histamine is the main cause of nasal allergy. It causes the blood vessel in the mucous membranes swelling and leaking of fluid. Swelling causes congestion inside the nasal passages and the leaking of fluid causes runny nose. When the nasal allergy becomes critical, mucous membranes will become inflammatory and itching. How Essential Oils Differ From Dried Herbs Essential Oils are the heartbeat of the plant kingdom, and are perhaps the most exciting life-giving substance we have in the world today. They represent in plants what blood represents in humankind - life! This heartbeat is the energy that was created to deliver the nutrients into every cell of the body. Iridology: A Natural Health 101 Article What It Is Which to Use When: Ice or Heat? Knee pain after running? Wake up with a backache? Twist an ankle? Natural Health Natural Health is a form of alternative lifestyle whereby individuals incorporate natural health remedies and therapies as opposed to conventional forms of living and health. Natural health encompasses utilization of bodywork; health maintenance programs; nutritional supplements and vitamins; exercise regimens including martial arts, tai chi, yoga, and Pilates®; mediation; herbology and other forms of natural healing and living. How to Use the Subconscious to Cope with Lifestyle Triggers of Your Pain Emotions, food and lack of sleep can all be potent triggers of pain signals in your body. Here's a way to use your subconscious mind to try to lessen the impact of those triggers. The Writer As Activist Almost two years ago, before the release of my first book, "Short of a Picnic," I began writing nonfiction Internet essays that, like the book itself, deal with mental health. I say "deal" with mental health instead of "dealt" with mental health because these essays, five or six of them altogether, continue to be read. I know that people still read them because some folks e-mail me about them, sharing their personal stories and requesting elaboration on my part. In addition, the pieces have appeared in various places without my prompting, which means not only are they alive, they are multiplying. The Truth About Your Health BEWARE OF THE CULTURAL HYPNOSIS We live in a cultural hypnosis that has taught us that we are fragile. It has taught us that things are happening to us. It has taught us that drugs are the answer to disease. We have been conditioned to feel "fragile", or "in danger". Most of us think that some little 'bug' flu,aids, cancer, etc is going to sneak into us some day? and take us down! I'm here to remind you of the truth? YOU ARE NOT FRAGILE. How to Benefit from The Mind-Body Connection Dr. Bernie Siegel, author of "Love, Medicine and Miracles" was once a distraught surgeon who fretted over his inability to effectively serve his cancer patients. Dr. Siegel's recognition and growing understanding of the mind-body connection eventually allowed him to serve his patients and himself in a greater capacity. Emotrance & Well-Being Are you ready to easily release worry, pain or fear and restore your emotional health?
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