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16 December 2013

FRUITS AND BENEFITS

FRUITS AND BENEFITS
Our body requires a variety of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, calories, fat, enzymes, trace elements, antioxidants for its metabolism and most importantly to enhance the immune system against the diseases and strengthen our body. To get the optimum health benefits, it is recommended to eat variety of fresh organic fruits to furnish our body with essential nutrients. So, here are some captivating pictures of mouth watering fresh fruits along with the information of its benefits.
Cherries:


Cherries have the highest content of iron and disease fighting antioxidants compared to other fruits. The fruits contain vitamin C and E, iron, fiber, potassium and magnesium. It is understood through the researchers from Michigan that cherries can reduce cholesterol level, insulin levels and blood sugar, besides raising the antioxidant capacity of the blood. Every 100 grams of fresh cherries have higher percentage of vitamin A which is five times more than apples and grapes and twenty fresh cherries may keep us away from depression mood.
Grapes:



According to Cancer Research Institute of London, grapes are good for women. They help them to avoid the painful wound related with breast cancer treatment.

Grapes also protect heart and blood vessels against oxidative tissue damage. Hypertension could be controlled by consuming one cup of grape juice and one cup of celery juice each with warm water three times a day for twenty days. Give a break of 5-7 days after 20 days and start the treatment freshly for another 20 days.
Oranges:



Orange is one of most popular fruits in the world. It is a citrus fruit with excellent source of vitamin C. They are also good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, B, B1, calcium and potassium. By consuming oranges frequently we can reduce the risk of cancers and heart diseases. Oranges containing the smooth textured skin will have higher juice content than those that are spongy or lighter in weight. Small oranges are juicier than the larger ones.

Grapefruit:



Grapefruit has lot of natural fiber and reduces the blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, insulin, cardiovascular diseases, etc. It also promotes salivary and gastric digestion, eases constipation, stimulates appetite, maintains the health of intestines, etc. Infact, this is the best fruit to protect us from diseases like dysentery, diarrhea, typhus, etc. It also induces the production of enzymes to prevent from cancer.

Patients suffering from diabetics are advised to eat three grapefruits three times everyday to improve their diabetic condition. The purple grape fruit with plenty of antioxidant compounds is recommended for great health benefits. It protects from liver and kidney disorders and also improves skin form.
Strawberries (Arbutus unedu):



Strawberry is the most delicious and nutritious fruit that has the ability to remove harmful toxin in the blood. This fruit is recommended for constipation, high blood pressure, skin cancer, sluggish liver, rheumatism etc. It is yet another fruit which is consumed as skin cleansing food. The strawberry is cut into half and rubbed on teeth and gums to remove tartar from the teeth and to strengthen and heal the gums. In order to dissolve the tartar the juice has to remain on teeth as long as possible and later the mouth has to be rinsed with warm water.

Raspberries:



Raspberries are the most delicious and healthy fruit with vitamins, antioxidants, manganese and fiber. Fiber helps slow the digestive process so that we do not feel hungry quickly. Manganese is a trace mineral that helps keep our metabolic rate high, which in turn burns fat. Its seed oil has a natural sun protection factor. It contains high quantity of polyphenolic compounds and ellagic acid, which are known to restrain cancer cells. The anthocyanins present in raspberry will reduce the risk of heart disease and also delay the effects of aging.
Banana :


Banana has a high amount of carbohydrate that can be transformed into energy in our body. Its nutrient benefits our heart, kidney, muscle, nerve and bones. For the people suffering with symptoms like potassium deficiency which include mind fogginess, nervous shaking, body tiredness, excessive perspiration of their limbs, etc., can be improved by eating banana.

Apple:




Modern scientific studies discovered that an "An Apple a Day keeps the Doctor Away". While diabetes patients are supposed to eat sour apple, people suffering from cardiovascular and obesity should eat sweet apple. Eating a ripe apple is a good remedy to cure constipation. The powerful antioxidants and anthocyanin found in red apples prevent us from cancer development and cardiovascular disease.
Blackberries:


The latest study in UK says that blackberries contain vitamins and antioxidant compounds much higher than apple and strawberry. We can protect ourselves from cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, cancer development and brain diseases from the nutrients and trace elements found in blackberries.
Blueberries:



Blueberries are the finest fruits to prevent high blood pressure and weakness. The antioxidants in blueberries help us to maintain brain health, strengthen our heart, fight against cancer diseases and prevent chronic diseases related with the aging process.
Custard Apple:



Custard apple contains Vitamin C which is again an anti-oxidant and helps in neutralizing free radicals. For treating diarrhea and dysentery, custard apple can be dried, crushed and used in its unripe form. Vitamin A present in this fruit is good for eyes, hair and maintaining healthy skin. The low fat levels in this fruit also help us to prevent from heart diseases. High source of dietary fiber in custard apple also helps indigestion.
Apricot:



Apricot is a fruit that has vitamins and minerals and benefit our eyes, heart, liver, stomach, nerve and immune system. It protects our heart, stops the cough, nourishes our lungs, strengthens our body and removes skin disorder, stimulates the blood circulation which helps us with flawless and glowing skin. Eating one or two fresh apricots before the meal helps those who are suffering from constipation to digest their food. This apart, it is a good diet for people suffering from anemia, tuberculosis and asthma.
Mangoes:


Mango is the most popular and versatile fruit that comes in numerous varieties all having their own unique flavor, texture, color, and aroma. Mangoes are the good source of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants and contain very few proteins, fats and calories like any other fruits.

According to Unani Medicine System the benefits of mangoes are as follows:

Vitamin C and Calcium in mango tightens the capillary vessels and prevents oder cures bleedings of inner parts. Regular consumption of mango makes the complexion fair and the skin soft and shining. Those suffering from diarrhea have to take sun dried mango leaves powder in half a teaspoon with water for 2-3 times a day. Burnt ashes of mango leaves if applied on burnt parts give quick relief. To cure fever, apply paste of mango roots on palms and soles.

It is advisable for a pregnant woman to eat one mango a day because calcium and magnesium of mango relaxes the muscles, relieves stress and prevents abortion.

Dried mango seeds are the best as toothpaste that strengthens the gums and helps in curing dental problems like foul smell.
Plums:


Plum is related to family of cherries and peaches. There are various varieties of plums throughout the world available in colors like red, purple, green, blue-black, yellow etc. Plums are the good source of vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. By eating plums regularly it produces more iron in the body which ultimately leads to better blood circulation thus resulting in growth of healthy tissues.
Jackfruit:


Jackfruit is a good source of potassium and Vitamin C. Jackfruit root is not only good for treating various skin problems but also beneficial for people suffering from asthma. This fruit containing phytonutrients helps in lowering of blood pressure, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, anti-ageing and anti-cancer.
Pineapple:

Pineapple is a tropical fruit containing proteolytic enzyme bromelain helps in digestion of protein. Mainly it can prevent from forming blood clot due to its bromelain content. Fresh pineapple juice is used in removal of intestinal worms, to combat diphtheria and other infection of throat and other parts of the body. It also prevents morning sickness and constipation. Rich in Vitamin C, it protects our body from major diseases like heart disease, diabetes and various cancers. It not maintains good eye-health, it also prevents plague and keeps teeth healthy, keeps skin beautiful and helps us lose weight.
Lychee:


Pineapple is a tropical fruit containing proteolytic enzyme bromelain helps in digestion of protein. Mainly it can prevent from forming blood clot due to its bromelain content. Fresh pineapple juice is used in removal of intestinal worms, to combat diphtheria and other infection of throat and other parts of the body. It also prevents morning sickness and constipation. Rich in Vitamin C, it protects our body from major diseases like heart disease, diabetes and various cancers. It not maintains good eye-health, it also prevents plague and keeps teeth healthy, keeps skin beautiful and helps us lose weight.
Chickoo:



Also known as Sapodilla or Manilkara Zapota, chickoo is originated from Yucatan, south of Mexico and north east Guatemala. This fruit is popularly known as Chickoo in India, Pakistan and South Asia. By boiling chickoo with water, it is believed that the decoction is good for curing diarrhea. It is also believed that it is high in tanning.
Papaya:


Eating papaya regularly helps us to maintain good health and energy. Ripe papaya is good for digestion and aids in constipation. It also helps prevent cancer in organs.
This apart, it has bleaching properties for which it is used as an ingredient in soaps, lotions and other whitening products. This tropical fruit contains rich concentration of vitamin C which is an antioxidant that protects us from our own injured cells, skin and the entire immune system of our body.
Guava:


Guava is a native of Carribean. It is one of the fine fruits for its richness in Vitimin A, B, and C. This apart they are also the good source of iron, calcium, potassium, iron and phosphorus. Guavas are cholesterol, saturated and sodium free, low in fat and calories, high in fiber. The diabetic patients can enjoy this fruit without its skin.
Watermelon:


There are over 1200 varieties of watermelon and are grown in 96 countries worldwide. It is an ideal food without any fat or cholesterol. Watermelon is a good source of potassium and is rich in fiber and vitamins A and C. It is actually not a fruit but a vegetable that belongs to family of pumpkins and cucumbers. It basically quenches our thirst and also prevents from diseases like diabetes, asthma, colon cancer, arthritis etc.
Pears:


Pears are sweet fruits that are related to the apple family. They vary in different colours like green, red, brown, yellow or a combination of any of these colours. While some pears are of bell-shaped, others are shaped round like an apple.
Among all variety of pears, the Chinese pear is said to be having more medicinal values. But even the other varieties have their own nutritional values.

Consumption of pears helps in preventing high blood pressure and stroke, lowers cholesterol levels. It prevents cancer due to high Vitamin C and copper content act as good antioxidants. A glass of pear juice reduces fever quickly. The cooling effect in pear also helps prevent throat problems.
Pomegranate:



According to studies pomegranate juice daily help support the normal blood flow to the heart due to which it reduces the risk of having heart diseases and heart attacks. The antioxidant properties in pomegranate keep away from forming bad cholesterol and also help in keeping the arteries clear of clots. It may also help reduce the risks of diabetes, cancer etc. This fruit is a good natural source of vitamins A, C, E and folic acid.

Pomegranate supports the blood by supplying it with iron which also may help protect anemia symptoms like weakness, dizziness, hear loss and exhaustion.
Muskmelon:


Muskmelon also known as cantaloupe or netted melon is a small, oval and juicy fruit originated in Middle East. This fruit is rich in carbohydrate, protein, fiber, citric acid, vitamin A, B, B3, B6 and C. It controls high blood pressure, reduce the risk of getting kidney stones, prevent cancers, cardiovascular and prevent stroke and regulate heart beat.
Star Fruit:



It is a tropical fruit that comes in two varieties. One variety is sweet, while the other is slightly sour. It is packed with vitamin C. To avoid getting cold and flu this is the best fruit to have during winters. This fruit also helps in weight loss as it is low in calories and fat. This fruit is highly recommended for people suffering from hypertension and heart problems because there is no cholesterol or sodium content in it. Star fruit is best for good health and is an anti-aging agent.
Peaches Nectarines:
Peach Fruit
Nectarine Fruit


Peaches are in red, pink, yellow, white, or a combination of those colors. Peaches and nectarines look very similar, but they can be identified by their skin texture. Peaches are fuzzy and dull, while nectarines are smooth and shiny.

According to researchers in China men and women who consumed peaches more than two times per week had less risk of developing cancers of the mouth than those who did not eat peaches. Though low in calories peaches are the source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and arytenoids.

The fiber content in peaches acts as a mild laxative, aids digestion, and may also help fight cancer. The fruit rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C allows in cancer-fighting protect against heart disease. Peaches help ensure proper functioning of cells through iron and potassium content. It also helps protect against blindness caused by age-related macular degeneration.

Nectarine is low in saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol and high in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber and Niacin. The nutritional value and health benefits of nectarines help in maintaining best health and weight loss but for those who wants to gain weight shall avoid eating nectarines.
Kiwi:


Kiwi consists of vitamin A, C, E, fiber, enzymes, antioxidant, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and copper. This fruit protect us from heart disease, stroke, asthma, cancer, diabetics, and respiratory-related diseases like wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. This apart, it also strengthens our body and promotes healthier immune system.
Fig:.



Fig is one of the best fruits recommended for humans. This fruit as a source of food is very good and nutritious. Figs are low in fat and high in fibre that can reduce blood cholesterol. They are rich in iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and Vitamin B6. For those suffering from chronic constipation fig is the best fruit to relieve the disease. The high water content in the Fig clears the skin by acting as a cleanser.

How to Detoxify your LIVER

HOW TO CLEANSE YOUR LIVER Your liver is like the maid of your body, cleaning up all the toxins you put into it, and therefore keeping all internal systems running smoothly. The modern diet, environmental pollutants, and our increasing dependence on toxic personal care products have put our livers on serious overtime. For this reason, it’s important to know how to clean your liver thoroughly and effectively – oh, and naturally. 
1. Warm Lemon Water - Warm lemon water is a great way to detox your liver every single morning. This isn’t lemonade, so don’t add sugar or anything else. Just purified water and a healthy dose of fresh lemon juice. Some experts, like author A.F. Beddoe who wrote the book Biological Ionization as Applied to Human Nutrition, also believe that the liver produces more enzymes in response to water with lemon than to any other food. Vitamin C helps to produce glutathione, which is necessary to cleanse toxins from the liver. Vitamin C is also an antioxidant, which reduces free radical toxicity within the body. It’s found in fresh fruits and vegetables and is great at boosting the immune system and staving off colds and the flu. 

2. Garlic - Add some garlic to your cooking or thinly slice a clove into your next salad. Garlic contains sulfur compounds that can help activate enzymes in the liver. It contains allicin and selenium, which are both good for liver protection. 

3. Green Tea Cleanse and protect the liver. Green tea, and hot water with lemon can help to stimulate liver cleansing. Herbs such as dandelion root, burdock, and milk thistle are also safe and effective against protecting the liver. Drink 1-2 cups of tea a day and a lot of water after that. Liver Cleanse Tea flushes and clears the liver of congestion and toxins, restoring the organ to full function. 

4. Avocados - As if you need another reason to add avocados to your diet, a Japanese study found that avocados contain compounds that can protect the liver from damage. When compared with 21 other fruits, avocados had the most promise in protecting the liver from galactosamine, a “powerful” toxin that has been shown to produce a liver damage much like human viral hepatitis. 

5. Cilantro - This versatile herb can be added to just about any dish, including salads or smoothies. This herb can help remove heavy metals from the body, something your liver could be struggling with right now. 

6. Turmeric - Another powerful spice with a long list of benefits, turmeric is said to not only protect the liver from damage, but also encourage regeneration of liver cells. In addition, it increases natural bile production and aids in keeping the body toxin-free. 

7. Drink at least 2 quarts of water daily. Our body is 70% water and needs to stay hydrated frequently. Water naturally flushes the body of chemicals, toxins, and impurities through urination, expiration, and sweating. Dehydration compromises the body’s ability to filter toxins. 

8.Breathe deep; fill your lungs with air. Deep breathing is an excellent way to relax or relief stress. Breathing deeply circulates oxygen throughout the body, which encourages detoxification through the skin, expiration, lymph, blood, kidneys, liver, etc. 

9.Transform stress by emphasizing positive emotions. Stress causes the body to release hormones that increase the toxin levels in the body and leaving the body depleted of essential nutrients, and unable to protect against diseases and infections. Therefore by eliminating stress or transforming stress into positive emotions or a positive outcome you can naturally flush out your system of toxic hormones and chemicals. 

10.Hot-Cold Shower.Begin this detoxifying process with a hot shower for about 3 minutes. Switch to cold water for 30 seconds. Switch between hot and cold water several times. This encourages detoxification by stimulating blood circulation throughout the body

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10 December 2013

The Many Wonders of the Neem Tree and it's products.

The Many Wonders of the Neem Tree
  • The Neem tree is a fast growing evergreen in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. This is claimed to treat 40% of diseases. All  parts of the tree are used for treating illness. The leaves, fruit, seeds and even the bark all contain medicinal properties.  
  • The use of neem as a medicine dates back to over 5,000 years. Today it's benefits have been proven by scientific research and clinical trials.   
  • In treating diabetes, neem has been found to actually reduce the insulin requirements by as much as 50% without altering the blood glucose levels. Take 3 to 5 drops internally each day.  
  • Neem cleanses the blood, stimulates antibody protection and strengthens the immune system which improves the body's resistance to many diseases.  
  • Used as a mouth wash it treats infections, mouth ulcers, bleeding sore gums and will even help prevent tooth decay!  
  • For pink eye the juice of neem leaves can be used as eye drops; warm up 5-10 ml and apply several drops. 
  • To treat jaundice, mix 30 ml of neem juice with 15 ml of honey, take on an empty stomach for seven days. 
  • If you suffer from burning sensations and excessive sweating, add 5 to 10 drops of neem oil in a glass of milk and take it before going to bed. 
  • Proclaimed as the best medicine for psoriasis, 2 capsules should be taken three times daily after meals with a glass of water. 
  • Another way to treat psoriasis as well as eczema, skin ulcers, fungal conditions, cold sores and athletes foot, is to mix 1 tablespoon neem oil and 4 ounces of olive oil. This should be applied at least twice daily to the affected areas.
  • For acne problems take 2 capsules twice daily, you will see results within a few days.
  • To remove moles and warts, one drop of undiluted neem oil should be directly to the mole or wart and then covered with a small bandage. 
  • For sinusitis, plain pure neem oil can be used as nasal drops. Use two drops twice daily, morning and evening.
  • For athletes foot, soak feet in warm water with 15 ml of neem oil.
  • Neem oil will quickly stop earaches. Just warm up some oil and apply a few drops into the ear.
  • For hemorrhoids, apply some neem oil to a cotton ball and gently rub for about a week. If preferred a paste can be made by adding a small amount of olive oil or Aloe Vera oil until desired consistency is reached.
  • To prevent hair loss and enhance growth, mix a few drops of neem oil with coconut or olive oil and massage into scalp. This will even prevent your hair from graying!
  • Neem oil can be applied to cuts and abrasions to help them heal quickly. 
  • For treatment of burns and even sunburn; neem oil can kill the bacteria, reduce the pain and stimulate the immune system. 
  • To kill head lice, neem oil should be massaged into the scalp and left on overnight. 
  • Neem detoxifies the body and helps maintain healthy circulatory systems, digestive and respiratory systems and helps to keep the urinary tract free of infections.
  • Scientific evidence has shown that neem is valuable in boosting the bodies immune system. 
  • A neem paste applied directly to the sores caused by chicken pox, will relieve the itching and reduce scarring.
  • Neem tea, drunk once or twice weekly, can even help prevent colds. It will help alleviate fever, cough, aches and pains, sore throat, fatigue and nasal congestion.
  • Neem also contains powerful anti-fungal properties that have been shown to aid in the treatment of athletes foot, yeast infections, thrush and even ringworm.
  • In its use of treating hepatitis, 80% of test subjects showed a significant improvement. The neem extract can actually block the infection that causes this virus.
  • Use of a neem based powder for jock itch will reduce the itching, dry the area and kill the fungus. For severe cases a neem lotion may be more effective.
  • For shingles, neem cream should be applied to the affected area at least three times per day. 
  • In a recent study neem was shown to lower cholesterol levels when taken for a month in either the capsule form or as the extract.
  • Scientific studies have proven that neem will reduce blood clots, heart irregularities and even reduce blood pressure. 
  • Neem will increase the bodies production of T-cells, which will attack infections.
  • It is reported that neem will help in fighting chronic fatigue.
  • For headaches neem powder should be applied to the forehead, neem oil should also work in combating headaches when used the same way.
  • The inflammation, pain and swelling of the joints associated with arthritis can be greatly relieved with the use of neem. 
  • For centuries neem has been used to reduce tumors. Clinical research has shown remarkable effects in the reduction of tumors and cancers and also in treating leukemia.
  • Neem is highly effective in treating gastritis, indigestion and heartburn.
  • Blood disorders such as blood poisoning, kidney problems and poor circulation have been benefited by the use of neem.
  • Neem oil should be stored in a cool dark place. If the oil solidifies it can be placed in warm water to bring it back to the liquid form.

15 November 2013

Enlarged prostate

Enlarged prostate
The prostate is a male reproductive gland that produces the fluid that carries sperm during ejaculation. It surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine passes out of the body.
An enlarged prostate means the gland has grown bigger. Prostate enlargement happens to almost all men as they get older. As the gland grows, it can press on the urethra and cause urination and bladder problems.
An enlarged prostate is often called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or benign prostatic hypertrophy. It is not cancer, and it does not raise your risk for prostate cancer.
Causes
The actual cause of prostate enlargement is unknown. Factors linked to aging and the testicles themselves may play a role in the growth of the gland. Men who have had their testicles removed at a young age (for example, as a result of testicular cancer) do not develop BPH.
Similarly, if the testicles are removed after a man develops BPH, the prostate begins to shrink in size.
Some facts about prostate enlargement:
  • The likelihood of developing an enlarged prostate increases with age.
  • BPH is so common that it has been said all men will have an enlarged prostate if they live long enough.
  • A small amount of prostate enlargement is present in many men over age 40 and more than 90% of men over age 80.
  • No risk factors have been identified other than having normally functioning testicles.
Symptoms
Less than half of all men with BPH have symptoms of the disease, which include:
  • Dribbling at the end of urinating
  • Inability to urinate (urinary retention)
  • Incomplete emptying of your bladder
  • Incontinence
  • Needing to urinate two or more times per night
  • Pain with urination or bloody urine (these may indicate infection)
  • Slowed or delayed start of the urinary stream
  • Straining to urinate
  • Strong and sudden urge to urinate
  • Weak urine stream
Exams and Tests
After taking a complete medical history, your doctor will perform a digital rectal exam to feel the prostate gland. The following tests may also be performed:
  • Urine flow rate
  • Post-void residual urine test to see how much urine is left in your bladder after urination
  • Pressure flow studies to measure the pressure in the bladder as you urinate
  • Urinalysis to check for blood or infection
  • Urine culture to check for infection
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test to screen for prostate cancer
  • Cystoscopy
In addition, you may be asked to complete a form to evaluate the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your daily life. Your score may be compared to past records to determine if the condition is getting worse.
Treatment
The choice of a treatment is based on the severity of your symptoms, the extent to which they affect your daily life, and the presence of any other medical conditions. Treatment options include "watchful waiting," lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.
If you are over 60, you are more likely to have symptoms. But many men with an enlarged prostate have only minor symptoms. Self-care steps are often enough to make you feel better.
If you have BPH, you should have a yearly exam to monitor the progression of your symptoms and determine if any changes in treatment are necessary.
SELF-CARE
For mild symptoms:
  • Urinate when you first get the urge. Also, go to the bathroom when you have the chance, even if you don't feel a need to urinate.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially after dinner.
  • Don't drink a lot of fluid all at once. Spread out fluids throughout the day. Avoid drinking fluids within 2 hours of bedtime.
  • Try NOT to take over-the-counter cold and sinus medications that contain decongestants or antihistamines. These medications can increase BPH symptoms.
  • Keep warm and exercise regularly. Cold weather and lack of physical activity may worsen symptoms.
  • Learn and perform Kegel exercises (pelvic strengthening exercises).
  • Reduce stress. Nervousness and tension can lead to more frequent urination.
MEDICATIONS
  • Alpha 1-blockers (doxazosin, prazosin, tamsulosin, terazosin, and alfuzosin) are a class of medications also used to treat high blood pressure. These medications relax the muscles of the bladder neck and prostate. This allows easier urination. Most people treated with alpha 1-blocker medication find that it helps their symptoms.
  • Finasteride and dutasteride lower levels of hormones produced by the prostate, reduce the size of the prostate gland, increase urine flow rate, and decrease symptoms of BPH. It may take 3 to 6 months before you notice much improvement in your symptoms. Potential side effects related to the use of finasteride and dutasteride include decreased sex drive and impotence.
  • Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat chronic prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate), which may accompany BPH. Some men note relief of their BPH symptoms after a course of antibiotics.
SAW PALMETTO
Many herbs have been tried for treating an enlarged prostate. Saw palmetto has been used by millions of men to ease BPH symptoms and is often recommended as an alternative to medication. Some studies have shown that it helps with symptoms, but there is evidence that this popular herb is no better than a dummy pill in relieving the signs and symptoms of BPH. Further studies are needed. If you use saw palmetto and think it works, ask your doctor if you should still take it.
SURGERY
Prostate surgery may be recommended if you have:
  • Incontinence
  • Recurrent blood in the urine
  • Inability to fully empty the bladder (urinary retention)
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections
  • Kidney failure
  • Bladder stones
The choice of a specific surgical procedure is usually based on the severity of your symptoms and the size and shape of your prostate gland.
  • Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): This is the most common and most proven surgical treatment for BPH. TURP is performed by inserting a scope through the penis and removing the prostate piece by piece.
  • Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP): This procedure is similar to TURP, but is usually performed in men who have a smaller prostate. It is usually performed without the need for a hospital stay. Like TURP, a scope is inserted through the penis until the prostate is reached. Then, rather than removing the prostate, a small incision is made in the prostate tissue to enlarge the opening of the urethra and bladder outlet.
  • Simple prostatectomy: An open prostatectomy is usually performed using general or spinal anesthesia. An incision is made through the abdomen or perineum (the area behind the scrotum). Only the inner part of the prostate gland is removed. The outer portion is left behind. This is a lengthy procedure, and it usually requires a hospital stay of 5 to 10 days.
Most men who have prostate surgery have improvement in urine flow rates and symptoms. See prostate removalfor a description of complications.
Other, less-invasive procedures are available. These use different forms of heat to destroy prostate tissue. None have been proven to be better than TURP. Patients who receive these less-invasive procedures are more likely to need surgery again after 5 or 10 years. However, these procedures may be a choice for:
  • Younger men (many of the less-invasive procedures carry a lower risk for impotence and incontinence than TURP, although the risk with TURP is not very high)
  • Elderly patients
  • Patients with severe medical conditions, including uncontrolled diabetes, cirrhosis, alcoholism,psychosis, and serious lung, kidney, or heart disease
  • Men who are taking blood-thinning drugs
Another form of treatment is prostatic stents.
Support Groups
See: BPH support groups
Possible Complications
Men who have had long-standing BPH with a gradual increase in symptoms may develop:
  • Sudden inability to urinate
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Urinary stones
  • Damage to the kidneys
  • Blood in the urine
Even after surgical treatment, a recurrence of BPH may develop over time.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your doctor right away if you have:
  • Less urine than usual
  • Fever or chills
  • Back, side, or abdominal pain
  • Blood or pus in your urine
Also call your doctor if:
  • Your bladder does not feel completely empty after you urinate
  • You take medications that may cause urinary problems, like diuretics, antihistamines, antidepressants, or sedatives. Do NOT stop or adjust your medications on your own without talking to your doctor
  • You have taken self-care measures for 2 months without relief
Alternative Names
BPH; Benign prostatic hypertrophy (hyperplasia); Prostate - enlarged


21 October 2013

I found this very interesting!     
A professor at CCNY for a physiological psych class told his class about bananas.  He said the expression "going bananas" is from the effects of bananas on the brain.  Read on:  

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator!!!  

This is interesting. 
  
After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.  


Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. 

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. 

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. 
  It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.  
 
Depression: 
  
 According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.  

PMS: 
 Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.  

Anemia : 
 High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.  

Blood Pressure: 
 This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.  
 
Brain Power: 
 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.  

Constipation: 
 High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.  

Hangovers: 
 One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.  
Heartburn: 
 Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.  

Morning Sickness: 
 Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness  

Mosquito bites: 
 Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.  

Nerves: 
 Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.  


Overweight 
 and at work? Studies at the  Institute of  Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips.. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady..  

Ulcers: 
  The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.  

Temperature control: 
 Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In  Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.  
 
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):  
Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.  

Smoking &Tobacco Use: 
 Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.  

Stress: 
 Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance.. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.  

Strokes: 
 According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!  

Warts: 
 Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!  
 
So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"  


PASS IT ON TO YOUR FRIENDS 
  
PS: I will add one here; want a quick shine on our shoes?? Take the INSIDE of the banana skin, and rub directly on the shoe...polish with dry cloth. Amazing fruit  
!!!