If you suffer from bloating, you carefully examine all the foods you are eating but tend to overlook what you drink. Most popular drinks that you consume daily might just be the culprit in your no win bloating war.
Let's take a look which popular "health" drinks might contribute to your gas, bloating and indigestion symptoms.
1. Milk is the number one culprit for your bloated stomach that is ready to explode. Milk contains lactose that many people can't digest properly. Milk was initially intended for human and animal babies as a rich source for growth and nutrients; you will not see adult animals consuming milk anywhere in nature. Most individuals lose the ability to process milk with age triggering multiple allergies and sensitivities. If you favor chocolate milk on top of that, you supply your body with indigestible formula of lactose and sugar which adds to your indigestion problems.
2. Coffee contains large doses of caffeine and acid that irritates and over stimulates the stomach lining. Strong ingredients in coffee eventually cause intestinal spasms and colic. Instant coffee that is more popular in Europe but gaining popularity in America is even worse for your stomach than naturally brewed coffee.
3. Tea, especially strong black varieties, contains considerable amount of caffeine and similarly to coffee causes stomach sensitivities and indigestion.
4. Fruit juice is believed to be a health drink and is widely advertised by juice manufacturing companies to supply your body with essential nutrients and elements. However, once you rid a fruit of its vital fibers via a juicing process, you are likely to be left with a high concentration of water and sugar. High amounts of fructose can upset any stomach and trigger an acid indigestion or gas attack. Additionally, sugar is perfect food for Candida yeast to feed off.
5. Soda has to be the ultimate worst contributor to your bloated stomach causes due to high concentration of chemical ingredients. Sugar, artificial sweeteners, chemical additives and caffeine mixed together by the process of carbonation create a concoction that is so harmful to our bodies that no words can describe. Both diet and regular soda varieties are equally bad for you and can give you gas almost right away.
6. Energy drinks are among the worst killer brews for our health since they contain double sugar and double caffeine compared to sodas to give you the jolt of energy. However, the jolt of energy very often comes at a very high cost of your health, namely, poor digestion, gas and bloating.
7. Beer is one of the top contributors to gas and bloated belly along with many carbonated beverages. Additionally, it contains wheat and yeast remnants that some people do not tolerate very well.
8. Champagne usually accompanies many festive events and romantic occasions. However, the famous bubbly is going to give you the not so romantic flatulence and indigestion due to high concentration of bubbles and sugars.
9. Wine is a type of alcoholic drink manufactured by means of fermenting grape juice. The result is highly acidic and sugary composition that can irritate your digestive tract and result in gas. Some people are additionally allergic to sulfites that most wine manufactures use as wine preservative and an ingredient intended to stop further fermentation.
10. Heavy liquor is literally pure poison for any organ of your body and is a very strong stimulant wrecking havoc with your digestion. Consuming heavy alcoholic beverages is almost a sure way to give you bloating.

By Caroline Hawthorn

Anemia can be mild, moderate, or severe, and this condition can be caused by many different factors. In this condition your body does not have an adequate number of red blood cells present, and if the condition is severe it can lead to serious complications or even be fatal in some cases. Another cause is having the right number of red blood cells, but for some reason these cells do not contain adequate amounts of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein which is rich in iron, and this component is required so that oxygen from your lungs can be transported through the rest of your body in your bloodstream. Both of the factors that cause anemia mean that your tissues do not get enough oxygen rich blood to them, and organ or tissue damage can result. One cause of this problem is an injury which results in substantial blood loss, and over time the condition will go away as your body makes new red blood cells. If your condition is mild then you will probably not notice many symptoms, if any at all. You may notice some fatigue, because insufficient oxygen levels will sap your energy, and your skin may seem a little pale.

Moderate anemia may cause other symptoms, some of which can be dangerous and should be treated. You may experience extreme fatigue, where it may be impossible to perform normal daily tasks without requiring rests. Your skin may become extremely pale, and you may experience difficulty breathing or be short of breath without any exertion. Dizziness is another common sign, and so is a headache. You may have extremities which feel cold or go numb, and this means that your blood flow and oxygen levels in these tissues are affected. Chest pain can be a symptom as well, and this sign should always be evaluated by a medical professional immediately. In some cases a lack of oxygen or adequate blood flow can affect your heart tissue, causing damage and increasing your risk of a heart attack or other cardiac event. Unusual or irregular heartbeats called arrhythmias can also occur, and these can be dangerous if not controlled.

Tissue and organ damage caused by severe anemia can be permanent, and may cause fatal complications. If left untreated or allowed to continue over longer time periods, this condition can cause damage to your heart, brain, kidneys, liver, lungs, and other organs. Heart failure can occur because of extensive damage caused by a lack of oxygen, and brain damage can lead to permanent mental disability or even death in some cases. If you experience heart palpitations, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, or any other problems that are serious you should go to the nearest Emergency Room for evaluation. These may be signs that your red blood cells or hemoglobin levels are dangerously low, and if left untreated you could suffer from serious medical complications or even death. Bloody bowel movements, weight loss, and a loss of appetite may also be signs of this condition, and they should be checked out as soon as possible.

By Caroline Hawthorn

Gout can be an extremely debilitating condition that leaves the sufferers with red, inflamed painful joints, using in the foot and ankle. There are a number of ways to treat gout, but if you want to avoid medication then why not try these gout pain natural remedies.

Firstly, a brief outline of what causes gout. In essence gout is caused by the build up of uric acid crystals in the blood that are then deposited in the joints and soft tissues surrounding the joints. Uric acid naturally occurs in our bodies, the problems start when there is excessive levels present.

Your body can have an excess of uric acid for a number of reasons:

- It's can be down to a hereditary condition whereby your body struggles to process uric acid efficiently.

- Your diet is high in purine-rich foods. Purine, when metabolized, produces uric acid, so if you're eating lots of purine-rich foods the body struggles to expel the resulting high levels of uric acid.

- Some medications can lead to increased levels of uric acid.

- Being obese can also increase uric acid levels

- Impaired kidney function can hinder the process of eliminating uric acid in via the urine.

There are a number of gout pain relief natural remedies that you can use to reduce the swelling and relieve the pain of a gout flare-up.

1. Water

The simplest of the home remedies is water. We all know that we're supposed to drink 6 - 8 eight ounce glasses of water a day, but we don't all do it! However, as a gout sufferer it is vitally important to keep your fluid intake up. Keeping the body hydrated dilutes the uric acid and allows it to be easily processed by the kidneys and eliminated in the urine.

If drinking that much water isn't very appetizing to you then fruit juices and tea are okay alternatives. But try to drink as much pure water as you can.

2. Icing

When you have a gout flare up a great way to reduce the swelling and accompanying pain is to ice the area. Keeping a cold compress pack in the freezer makes this an easy task when gout strikes.

3. Warmth

Conversely, other gout sufferers report experiencing relief when keeping the affected area warm. Try wrapping a warm towel around the joint or applying a warm wheat bag to the area. This can help to alleviate the pain and many gout sufferers say it's a good way to help you get to sleep.

4. Diet

changing your diet is a longer-term remedy. It won't bring you immediate relief, but it will reduce the uric acid in your system over time and help prevent further attacks.

The focus of a gout friendly diet is to avoid food with very high purine levels and replace them with foods which moderate to low purine levels. Here are a few examples of what to eat and what not to eat:

Gout Friendly Foods:

Fruit & fruit juices

Most vegetables

Eggs

Dairy products

Cereals

Foods to avoid:

Meat extracts

Shellfish (ie scrimp & mussels)

Offal

Gravies

Dried legumes.

5. Cherry Juice

1950 was the year that cherries were discovered to bring relief from gout symptoms. Furthermore, recent studies on the anti-inflammatory properties of cherries have produced similar positive effects. Cherry juice is not a drug and therefore has not been submitted to the clinical trials that medications have, however, many gout sufferers have found relief from their gout symptoms while drinking
or taking cherry juice or extract.

By Lisa McDowell

All of us really appreciate a brilliant smile of pearly white teeth. A smile that reminds us of movies and the television stars. Unfortunately not all of us can claim to possess such a smile, and any effort to whiten teeth only results in the plummeting of our earnings, due to costly dental treatments, or unsuccessful treatments misleadingly promised by teeth whitening products. Is it that difficult to obtain a sparkling white smile? Not only is it easy, it is also very cost effective if you opt for home remedies to whiten teeth, and you may choose from many different types.
1. Peroxide and baking soda paste. Mix 2 teaspoons of both hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to obtain a paste similar to the texture of toothpaste. You can give it a better flavor by adding a bit of mint or toothpaste. Apply this paste like you would regular toothpaste and leave it on for a few minutes. Use it no more than twice a week.
2. Baking soda and lime juice paste. Mix some baking soda with a few drops of lime juice and apply this paste on the stained teeth, massaging gently. This paste is a great stain removing treatment.
3. Orange peel. A safe and effective way to remove stains from your teeth is by rubbing the inside of an orange peel directly on your teeth. This method is by no means abrasive and will preserve the enamel.
4. Lemon juice and salt paste. This is another good homemade remedy to whiten teeth. Mix a teaspoon of both lemon juice and salt to make a paste, which is excellent for removing stains. This paste should not be used too often, for the acid content in the lemon juice can be abrasive for the enamel.
5. Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste. Mix a small quantity of the two products together to obtain a past and apply it on your teeth as toothpaste. This homemade remedy is very effective for teeth whitening and will reduce discoloration and bring back the brilliance in your smile. Make sure you use this paste no more than twice a week, and be careful not to swallow it.
6. Extra virgin oil rub. This is a simple homemade remedy to whiten teeth. After brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste, apply virgin olive oil with a cloth and rub over your teeth.
7. Crushed strawberries. This is a natural teeth whitener solution, for strawberries contain enzymes whiten teeth naturally. Simply crush the strawberries and use this preparation as you would toothpaste.
These are a few straightforward home remedies to whiten teeth, which you may use regularly. It is nonetheless important to avoid an excess of external agents, such as tea, coffee, wine or nicotine, which aggravate the staining of teeth. Also use peroxide with care, for excessive use can cause sensitive gums and damage the enamel of your teeth.

By Nazimabee Woozeer

One of the scarier parts of getting older is the brain fog and memory loss that so many seniors seem to experience. As you age, your brain, and the blood vessels supplying it also get older. Plaque buildups, artherosclerosis and the nutritional deficiencies created by modern diets can escalate the effect of years of damage, causing senility, dementias and syndromes such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
It's not something to look forward to in old age. But what most people don't realize is that these changes are not inevitable. Besides the usual advice of having an active social life, and keeping your mind active by solving puzzles, there are a number of supplements that you
can take to protect your brain from the effects of daily stressors and keep it healthy and active.
Here are some herbs and vitamins that can improve nervous system functioning and preserve mental clarity well into your senior years.
* Bacopa (Bacopa monniera)
A therapeutically useful herb, Bacopa has been used by Ayurvedic practitioners for the treatment of cognitive impairment. It has also been studied for possible anti-Alzheimer's properties and shown to reduce beta-amyloid deposits responsible for the disease.
* Ginkgo Biloba
One of the oldest and most popular herbs for improving memory, Ginkgo is also one of the most studied herbs and has been shown to help the brain in a number of ways. It increases blood flow to the brain, boosting its ability to function optimally and was also shown to be as effective as some prescription medications in improving focus, memory and mental function in Alzheimer's patients. Its antioxidant properties protect the brain from damage by free radicals which may be a major contributing factor in age-related cognitive decline.
* Gotu Kola
Though it is not as well known in the US for brain power, Gotu Kola has traditionally been used to increase mental clarity and improve focus in China and other parts of Asia for thousands of years. Studies have shown that it may boost memory and IQ and reduce blood pressure by improving circulation.
* Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 plays an essential role in brain function because it controls the synthesis and production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA. It is responsible for controlling sleep patterns, moods, appetite and pain sensitivity and has been found to alleviate depression, anxiety and stress disorders. Deficiencies can cause insomnia and central nervous system malfunctioning. Supplementation can improve memory loss and other ailments.
* N-acetyl-L-carnitine
This neuroprotective compound is known as a "short-term memory enhancer" and is vital for production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, required for mental function. It may help protect neurons from oxidative damage and prevent age-related decline in memory and mental function. In studies, it has been shown to slow the progression of neurodegenerative disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
* Vitamin E
It is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect brain cells and the myelin sheath against the damage caused by free radicals. Food sources include wheat germ, nuts like walnuts, seeds, eggs, leafy green vegetables, and whole grains. It has been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
* Huperzine A
Huperzine A is an alkaloid that acts as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Derived from Huperzia Serrata, a herb used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, it has antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. It has proven to be effective in improving cognitive and memory abilities in those with Alzheimer's disease.
Although there are prescription drugs used in diseases that cause memory loss, dementia and other nervous system disorders, many people prefer to use natural alternatives that have fewer side effects and are not addictive. A natural supplement with herbs and vitamins to improve memory can help protect your brain cells from degeneration and preserve mental clarity through your senior years.

By Andrew Stratton

A healthy diet is essential regardless of an individual's cardiovascular risk profile. Many studies, including Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), have provided evidence of the heart and vascular benefits of specific dietary guidelines. An early adjustment in dietary choices may prevent and/or improve high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and consequently other health-related problems. If a rise in blood pressure with age could be prevented or diminished, many conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart, vascular and kidney disease, and stroke, could be prevented.
Dietary Restrictions
1) Low sodium intake: The main source of sodium in Western diets is processed food, for instance, excessive quantities of salt are contained in packaged food and in food eaten outside the home. The DASH trial evaluated the effects of varying sodium intake in addition to the DASH diet and found that lowering sodium intake reduces blood pressure levels. Mean sodium intake is approximately 4,100 mg per day for men and 2,750 mg per day for women, 75% of which comes from processed foods.
Recommended Daily Sodium Intake
Dietary sodium should be reduced to no more than 100 mmol per day (2.4 g of sodium). 2)
2) Alcohol: Alcohol intake should be limited to no more than 1 oz (30 mL) of ethanol, the equivalent of two drinks per day for most men and no more than 0.5 oz of ethanol (one drink) per day for women and lighter-weight persons. A single drink is equivalent to 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of 80-proof liquor.
3) Caffeine: Caffeine may result in high blood pressure; however, this effect is usually temporary. Moderate intake of caffeine per day does not significantly increase blood pressure.
Recommended Daily Coffee Intake Coffee intake should be less than two cups per day.
Dietary Restrictions
1) Low sodium intake: The main source of sodium in Western diets is processed food, for instance, excessive quantities of salt are contained in packaged food and in food eaten outside the home. The DASH trial evaluated the effects of varying sodium intake in addition to the DASH diet and found that lowering sodium intake reduces blood pressure levels. Mean sodium intake is approximately 4,100 mg per day for men and 2,750 mg per day for women, 75% of which comes from processed foods.
Recommended Daily Sodium Intake Dietary sodium should be reduced to no more than 100 mmol per day (2.4 g of sodium).
2) Alcohol: Alcohol intake should be limited to no more than 1 oz (30 mL) of ethanol, the equivalent of two drinks per day for most men and no more than 0.5 oz of ethanol (one drink) per day for women and lighter-weight persons. A single drink is equivalent to 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of 80-proof liquor.
3) Caffeine: Caffeine may result in high blood pressure; however, this effect is usually temporary. Moderate intake of caffeine per day does not significantly increase blood pressure.
Recommended Daily Coffee Intake Coffee intake should be less than two cups per day.
Dietary Supplements
1) Potassium supplementation: Lower potassium intake (i.e., below 40 mEq) is thought to be associated with high blood pressure.
2) Fish Oil: According to a meta-analysis of 36 trials of fish oil, the consumption of high doses of fish oil with a median dose of 3.7 g per day provided a significant reduction in systemic blood pressure. Fish oil consumption has also shown to reduce triglycerides.
Recommended Daily Fish Oil Intake A median dose of 3.7 g per day provided a significant reduction in systemic blood pressure.
3) Folate: A small randomized study reported that short-term folic acid supplementation could reduce blood pressure significantly. It has been suggested that a daily intake of 5 mg of folic acid could be beneficial in reducing systolic pressure.
4) Flavonoids: A Cochrane meta-analysis looking at multiple randomized controlled trials reported that flavanol-rich chocolate and cocoa products may have a small but significant effect in lowering blood pressure by 2-3 mm/Hg in the short term.
5) Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Some studies suggest that CoQ10 may have the potential to reduce systolic pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic pressure by up to 10 mm Hg without any significant side effects. The average dosage used in these studies were around 217 mg/day.

By Homayoun L. Daneschvar, M.D.

You may not realize just how important your wrists are until one of them gets hurt. There are basically two types of wrist injury. One is acute, such as a sprain or a fracture. The other is overuse, caused by the repetitive motion of activities such as typing. The overuse injury that most often affects the wrists is tendinitis. People who use their hands a lot such as carpenters, computer operators, musicians can develop tendinitis if the tendons in their wrists are not strong and flexible enough. Overuse can also affect the ulnar nerve, which runs along pinkie side of the wrist and hand. And it can cause tissues in the wrist to swell and put pressure on the median nerve, leading to carpel tunnel syndrome. Both conditions can produce tingling, numbness, and pain in the fingers and hands as well as in the wrists. Here are some tips that you can consider to adopt to relieve wrist pain.

1. Build Some Muscles

You can prevent future wrist pain by strengthening the muscles in your forearms. It is recommended holding a 6-ounce can of tomato paste in each hand and flexing your wrists back and forth 15 to 20 times. Or you can simply squeeze a tennis ball in each hand. Squeeze the ball for 5 seconds and release, then repeat 12 to 15 times.

2. Ease Back Into It

A wrist that has been immobilized may become stiff from lack of use. Some gentle stretching can help restore flexibility. It is recommended pressing on a tabletop with the palm of your hand. Bend your wrist until you reach the angle of pain, then back off just a hair. By riding the edge of discomfort and stopping just before you feel pain, you are doing beneficial stretching. Hold this position or as long as you find comfortable, working up to 2 minutes. Repeat three to four times daily.

3. Treat It Gingerly

A compress made from ginger can draw out toxins and accelerate the healing process. To make the compress, simply boil some grated gingerroot, allow it to cool, place it in a moist washcloth, and lay the washcloth over your wrist. The washcloth should be as hot as you can tolerate. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes, and repeat every other hour.

4. Keep Still

For a more severe case of tendinitis, immobilizing the joint with an elastic wrist support may provide some relief. You will find these devices in drugstores and medical supply stores. It is recommended wearing one while you sleep, to prevent your wrist from twisting awkwardly as well as during your waking hours, when your wrist is in use. The support should keep your wrist in about 10-degree dorsiflex position. In other words, if your palm is facing downward, your wrist should be bent slightly upward.

5. Put It On The Rocks

Ice is a vasoconstrictor. That means it decreases the blood supply in your wrist, which helps reduce any swelling. It is recommended putting ice cubes in a plastic bag, wrapping the bag in a towel, and applying the pack to your wrist for about 20 minutes. Repeat the treatment four to six times a day.

6. Raise Your Hand

Elevation is not as crucial for an injured wrist as for an injured ankle or knee. Still, it can help keep any swelling down. Just be sure to prop your wrist so that it is above heart level.

7. Turn On The Heat

Once any swelling subsides, or if your wrist simply feels stiff and achy, heat can help. It is recommended to follow these instructions. Rub vinegar on your wrist, cover it with plastic, then apply a heating pad wrapped in a towel for about 20 minutes. You can repeat this treatment every hour as needed.

By Raymond Geok Seng Lee

The senses of sight is perhaps the most important of the five senses nature has give to man. A sightless man is a pitiable sight. Anything that interferes with your vision is irritating and a danger to the capacity to see is the most serious danger of all. You must, therefore, take care of your eyes.
Sometimes eyes do the job of the tongue: a mere flickering of the eyelids may express volumes. They reflect your inner mind. Whether the eyes are big or small is not in your hands, but do care of them. Large eyes ringed with dark circles are ugly, but sparkling eyes, even if they are small, are beautiful. You can disguise your face under a coat of make up, but the only thing that can make your eyes beautiful is their constant care.
The beauty of the eyes depends on cleanliness of the body. Constipation, for example, makes the eyes dirty. The white of the eyes no longer remains white; inadequate intake of water may give them a yellow tinge. In sufficient perspiration gives rise to a accumulation of poisonous humours in the body and dark circles appear around the eyes.
Proper diet:
It is the inner cleanliness, which is the key to the beauty of the eyes. Improve your diet, enjoy sunshine and fresh air. Spend at least 15 to 20 minutes in the sun with the minimum of clothing so that fresh air can get into your pores and the heat of the sun can bring out the perspiration.
You food must have all the necessary vitamins. Vitamin A is to be found in abundant quantities in spinach, leaves of turnip, sweet potatoes, milk, butter, cabbage, tomatoes, peas, gourds and carrots.
Vitamin B is to be found in the husk of the wheat seed, soyabeans, milk, peas, unpolished rice, toasted rice, raisin, cucumber, oranges, spinach, cabbage, carrot and pineapple.
The source of Vitamin C are: Green chillies, juice of lime, orange, leaves and stalk of the mustard plant, spinach, leaves of turnip, papaya, leaves of beet root plant, cabbage, tomatoes, mangoes and myrobalan.
The cheapest sources of natural Vitamin D are: milk, butter, and sunlight.
Exercises- some exercises for eye care also suggested:
Fold your arms with your hands under the armpits and stand in a relaxed manner. Take your shoulders back in a circular motion and resume the earlier position.
Touch the underside of the neck with your chin and then move your head as far back as you can. Move your head in a circular motion so that it touches first the right and then the left shoulder. Then move in the reverse direction touching first the left and then the right shoulder.
Move your head from side to side without moving your body. Keep your head stationary and then move your eyes upward and then downwards. Move your eyes left and right. Repeat this process at least half a dozen shoulder.
Concentrate your gaze on your index finger extended outward and try to view a distant object across it just as you are taking aim. Repeat it twenty times.
Stand with your feet one foot from each other. Close your eye and move your body from right to left. This should be done as you face the early morning sun. Sprinkle cold water over your eyes and then dry them with a soft piece of cloth.
Put your palms on your eyes. Sit with your elbows on your knees and palms on your closed eyes. Do it softly so that no pressure is exercised on the eyeballs.
All the exercises suggested here should be done while your body is completely relaxed and your mind free from worries or thought of things that you have to do during the day. They will help to make the eyes healthier and more beautiful.
By Dr John Anne

Years of walking and running can wear down our feet, and can be hard on our heels. Likewise, poor circulation, improperly trimmed toenails, disease and tight fitting shoes all contribute to pain in the heel.
1. Massage with water
This treatment is ideal for any type of foot or heel pain and only needs a container of hot and cold water. Here's what you do:
a. Soak your foot for 5 minutes in cold water
b. Move the foot to a container of hot water of a tolerable temperature. The temperature of the water should not be cool or even lukewarm
c. Soak the foot in the hot water for 5 minutes
d. Return to the cold water
Repeat the procedure until the pain is gone. This process has a massaging effect that revitalizes feet by opening and closing blood vessels.
It is also a great idea to rub moisturizing lotion into your feet before getting into bed. The lotion makes feet easier to massage and therefore bring relief faster.
2. Put some heat on your feet
Using ointments enriched with capsaicin, an active natural ingredient in hot peppers also helps in relieving foot pain.
These products are excellent in cooling the pain caused by burning feet particularly for diabetes patients. Initial application of the ointment may cause some burning sensation for many people, but when used regularly, the burning effect is likely to lessen.
Moreover, people who been using the capsaicin in treating their burning feet have experienced great improvement and were able to walk more easily compared to those using other types of creams. Best of all, since these are topical medicine, patients tend to avoid a lot of side effects that usually happen when taking pills.
Most ointments are available over the counter, however it is important to talk with your doctor before you begin, as this type of therapy is not right for everyone.
3. Avoid high-heeled shoes
For recreational walkers and runners it is important to temporarily lower how much you're walking or running when you're about to use brand new shoes. This will help you to eliminate many of the break-in pains. Advances in shoe development have made modern athletic footwear much less likely to cause a problem than ever before.
4. Stretch out your calf
Stretching the heel cord at the back of the foot can relieve heel pain.
Start by:
a. Standing three feet away from a wall, place your hand on the wall.
b. Lean in to the wall, bringing one leg forward and bending at the elbows.
c. Keep your back leg straight with the heel on the floor and then gently stretch the calf muscle.
d. Repeat for the other foot.
e. Buy shoes that fit the shape of your feet.
Shoe size is considered to be the most important aspect in buying shoes -- but the shoe shape is equally important. You read it right; the shape of the shoe is also an important factor to consider.
There three basic foot shapes -- curved, slightly curved and straight. Although, there may be some variations, generally those individuals with high arches need a curved shoe; those with flat feet need a straight shoe and those who have neither flat or high arches need a slight curve.
When buying running or walking shoes it is best to select shapes that fit the curve of the arch on the inner side of the foot.
Before you try any of the remedies discussed here, consult your own doctor for the treatments that will be best for your unique situation.

By Dave Wilson

You wince at the pain. You cry at the ache. You tremble at the torture. No, you are not pregnant (thank goodness guys!) but you are suffering from kidney stones. Did you know that women report kidney stone pain to be more torturous than childbirth? Can you say, "OUCH?" But you are suffering for NO reason!

And almost one in every 20 people will develop a kidney stone sometime in their life. And if the pain is not the worst part, you can actually be part of the millions who spend thousands of dollars on hospital visits, various treatments, harsh side-effect medication and surgery. And the best or worst news (depending if you have spent the thousands of dollars on kidney stone treatment or not), you can treat kidney stones naturally with a simple home remedy for kidney stones. In fact, the body can naturally pass your stones with no medication, no surgery and not using 2 months of your salary.

If you are a kidney stone sufferer, here are 10 remedies that could be the difference between misery and bliss. I hope your treatment starts in the next 2 minutes.

10 Remedies to Treat Kidney Stones Naturally

1. Water! Typically, kidney stones are caused by dehydration (not getting enough water). If you live in an area with hot, humid weather or where clean water is rare, your odds of getting kidney stones are tripled. Therefore, you must begin your natural treatment with drinking at least 10 tall glasses of water a day. A good tip is to compete against a friend or spouse. Who can drink the most water?

2. Distilled! If you live in a country with the option of distilled water, buy it! Distilled water is pure from any and everything including minerals that could aid in the formation of kidney stones. Distilled water is almost perfect for flushing your system and passing stones.

3. Citric Acid! Did you know that lemons are potent with citric acid? And citric acids and lemons have been known to dissolve hard materials, even stones. Add a lemon to your drinking water to spruce things up.

4. Play again! Get outside or in the gym and do a little exercise. There are thousands of reasons to exercise but besides feeling better about yourself, you can actually give your body a boast of overall health. And overall health includes flushing the kidneys.

5. Cranberry juice from concentrate! By drinking cranberry juice, you can maintain your urinary tract which will help prevent kidney stone formation.

6. Citrates! Citrates reduce the build up of uric acid and eliminate the build-up of calcium salts which cause the formation of kidney stones. To get an adequate amount of citrates, drink plenty of fruit and vegetable juices such as carrot, grape and orange juices.

7. Drink Soda! If you drink at least 10 glasses of water a day, then a daily soft drink could possibly prevent future kidney stones by dissolving the stones. A recent study proved this theory and a natural cure working in 2 hours will pass kidney stones in less than one day. Discover more at our website.

8. Sugar! High sugar intake is associated with increased risk of kidney stones. You can cut hundreds of calories and prevent future kidney stones by staying away from sugary drinks and foods.

9. Flush! No, not your toilet! But you need to flush your liver, kidney and gallbladder with a simple water-soluble fiber vegetable that has been labeled a miracle by my customers.

10. Believe! I know it sounds corny but you need to believe in yourself! We preach it to our kids but it is time you practice what you preach. If you are serous about treatment, start today!

What is your next move?

You might be thinking yourself, "These remedies seem too simple?" And they are but they are the beginning of an effective treatment because your miraculous body wants to heal itself. And these simple tips are the beginning of what your body needs.

By Joe Barton

The common cold is a major concern for people from all over the world and hence the need to look at different kinds of cold remedies. The average person will get between 2 and 4 colds in a year. It can also manifest together with a cough which with time can cause chest pains and a general discomfort. There are a number of remedies including medications, over-the-counter pills and medications. Most people prefer natural remedies to avoid the side effects of medications.

The most common signs of a cold include but not limited to runny nose, nasal congestion, mild or strong head ache, sneezing, coughing, fever watery eyes, and congestion. You should note that a good diet is vital to support the remedies.

Below are some of the proven cold remedies:

Zinc lozenges

Zinc is a vital mineral needed by over 300 body enzymes. It's abundant in foods like seafood, eggs, liver, and meat. Zinc can be gotten as lozenges in health shops. Research has indicated a high efficiency among those who took zinc 24 hrs after initial signs of the cold. It also impairs the ability of the virus to multiply.

Vitamin D

Of all people, those found with higher vitamin D levels are less susceptible to catching the cold. Apart from that, it's a common ingredient among remedies for colds.

Astralagus

A traditional Chinese root, astralagus has been proven to increase immunity to contracting colds and flu. It doubles up as an anti viral and anti oxidant that will provide relief to those with heart conditions. Health stores stock it in capsule and tea form. It also prevents colds before they occur. It also increases efficacy of other medication

Garlic

Popular home cure for a wide range of issues. It can be taken in soup, chewed or made as garlic juice. Its compound allicin has antiviral and fungal properties. Potency is at a maximum when the garlic is raw and fresh.

Vitamin C

It's a very popular cold remedy. It also protects from colds and ensures severity; occurrence and duration of colds are reduced dramatically. It should however be used in moderation as large amounts can cause diarrhea.

Honey

Probably the most used across various cultures around the world. Research has shown it reduces coughs among kids significantly and assists them to sleep well. It carries anti oxidant and antiseptic properties. It may however be unsafe in kids younger than a year old.

Echinacea

It's a very popular herb touted by herbalists as having the ability to cure and prevent colds. The suggested dosage is taking after every 3 hours for several days to alleviate all the symptoms.

Ginseng

There is a variety of ginseng for sale but the North American type has gotten a good reputation when it comes to healing and preventing colds. It has been noted that it could reduce the effect of medications like blood thinners, anti-psychotics and diabetes medications. People with hormone related conditions are advised to steer clear of Ginseng

Ginger

Its one of the most popular remedies for colds throughout the world. It treats runny noses, coughs, white tongue aches and general body aches. It can be brewed into a tea which is a popular cold management home remedy. You can add honey and lemon to soothe the throat. some people report disturbances like heartburn when used excessively so practice some moderation.

Elder berry

It has a long history in treating flu, colds and sinus infections. Its extracts have indicated ability to fight viruses. Its compounds strengthen the immune system while blocking flu infection at the same time. It is distributed as juice capsules or a syrup.

Eucalyptus steam inhale

Eucalyptus oil in boiling water provides steam that can help calm flu and cold symptoms. Cover your head with the steam under a blanket to reap the full benefits.

Lemon

Boil a glass of water and put in a fresh lemon. Lemon contains medicinal qualities and it can help you to get rid of cold.

Other remedies like the legendary chicken soup and broth have proven to have good levels of success in combating colds. You should be sure before you attempt any of the above of their compatibility with any drugs you are taking to avoid conflicts and side effects. The best thing would be to consult your doctor so he/she can advice you on the best remedy. You can use one or several of the above cold remedies for best results.

By Sammy JayJay

People tend to think that better eyesight always relate to eye surgery or glasses. Eye surgery is very risky and could lead to irreversible damage. Glasses maintains vision problem and do nothing in order to cure it. Yet, there are healthy natural treatments which cure poor eyesight symptoms. The only problem is that these methods are being hidden and disregarded by doctors and optometrists who wish people will continue to buy glasses and risk their eyes with laser eye surgeries. It is better to avoid the risks and try these basic simple exercises first. They could improve your eye vision dramatically.

Eye chart

Its purpose is to exercise the eye to a healthy behavior of shifting instead of central fixation. Hang the eye chart and move to a distance where you can read the first 4 lines. Look at the first letter carefully close your eyes and try to visualize it in your imagination. Try to create a clear picture of it. Instead of static letter try imagining it slowly swinging. Repeat this with the rest of the letters in the four first lines you can read.

Covering

This is a very important exercise. People think that their eyes rest when they sleep. Actually, on the dreaming stage they keep moving and work as if the person is a wake.
Therefore, proper resting is crucial. For best performance you need a quite and comfortable place like your favorite couch. Cover your eyes with your hands, and try to feel as pleasant as you can. Listen to the music you like best, or try to imagine your favorite view. The eyes need about 10-15 minutes to reach full relaxation, the longer the better. It is recommended, to perform it daily for 15 minutes or a few times a day for 5 minutes.

Reading

Reading is a very important task for the eyes as it is performed on daily basis. It is important to adjust natural way of reading which will reduce eye tension and will educate the eyes for better, healthy vision habits. Healthy eyes read a sentence by focusing on each letter and then moving to the next one. A tensed eye will jump from word to word and will try to read the complete sentence in a few eye glances. Reading large areas instead of focusing on central vision, letter by letter, lead to increased eye tension. It is best to move slowly from letter to letter as a practice. At the end of each page focus on a point a few meters a way. This will ease the tension on the eyes from the reading.

Tiny writing

This exercise requires the eye to use its central vision. The eyes and the mind should be very relaxed to avoid over pressure on the eye when reading the tiny writing. Get text and print it from and word processor in size 4 or 3. It should be black text on a white paper. Hold it against your eyes and read it in a slow and relaxed mode. Make sure you keep blinking often and look at a distanced point once in a while.

Physical exercises

It is important to understand that the aim of these exercises is to make eyes muscles more elastic and avoid tension. First try to feel your eyes: are they tensed? If so try to feel exactly where, and relax that area. Look at an object not far from you, and move your eyes: ten times up and down and ten times left to right, then in circles for 5 times. Take a piece of paper with a dot at its top edge. Bring it as close as 5 CM from your nose and then move it away as far as you can. Concentrate on the dot all time, do it for about tem times. Hold the piece of paper close to your nose, look at for a few seconds and then look at a distant point for a few seconds. Again do it for ten times.

By Karl Ross