Five Tips For Good Eye Health

We are fast becoming a health conscious society by engaging in exercise and proper nutrition. However, one area in which we often lack the same motivation is caring for our eyes. Our eyes are the windows to the world, and ensuring they are properly maintained vis a vis protection and prevention against disease should also be part and parcel of our overall health. Here are five tips for good eye health.

* Prevention. Computers are the number one method of communication today. Consequently, we may be spending up to eight hours or more a day in front of a computer either at work, or as a home-based business. In addition, we strive to strengthen the security of our data through newly acquired software. Conversely, what steps do we take to secure and strengthen our eyes? After all, the strain imposed upon them subtly creeps up and we find it more and more difficult to read the small print. Thus, the importance of eye exams cannot be overstated. Yearly check-ups should be a part of our overall desire to keep our eyes in focus.

* UV Ray Protection. Summer is the time when most folks visit the beach regularly. In addition, outdoor activities during hot summer days is something everyone looks forward to, right? The problem is we do not always consider the damage the sun’s UV rays have on our eyes. The use of proper sunglasses can prevent cataracts and macular degeneration. Purchase appropriate sunglasses that have 100% ultra-violet ray protection.

* Vitamin A. Include vitamin A supplements or foods in your diet regimen. Whether you choose fruits or vegetables or both, this can help enormously in the prevention of eye disease. If you didn’t like carrots as a kid, you can blend them with a favorite fruit and make a delicious drink out of it.

* Smoking. Now is the time to quit. Smoking is directly related to loss of vision. Cataracts and age-related macular degeneration are two diseases caused by smoking.

* Exercise and good nutrition. Eating vegetables and fruits, as well as fish and other healthy foods, can decrease your risk of developing eye disease. Exercise not only helps the circulation, but increases your overall health. Blood tests to determine if you have the onset of diabetes is also important since diabetes can cause eye problems later on.

As most of us engage in finding new ways to improve our overall health, eye health is just as important and should not be overlooked. If you have a job that requires you to sit in front of a computer all day, take time out away from the monitor. The first time you find yourself squinting or experience blurry vision or night blindness, make an appointment with your ophthalmologist. Proper diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions is the first line of defense.

Acai Berry for Increased Strength and Energy

One of the most widely recognized berries, certainly among the gyms and sports clubs in Brazil, is the Acai berry. Well known as an antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory dietary supplement, the Acai berry is utilized for increased strength and energy.

Containing concentrated forms of anthocyanins, which are the actual antioxidant components, it should be noted that a glass of red wine contains less anthocyanin than an Acai berry. Moreover, the Acai berry has also been linked to an improvement in eyesight.

While it is a well-known fact that cholesterol levels can be lowered with antioxidants, the Acai berry plays a major role. The Acai berry contains large amounts of the fatty acids and omega oils needed to lower cholesterol levels. It is also touted for promoting good cardiovascular health. The Acai berry can also boost the immune system in the body and ward off damage to free radicals.

The Acai berry has been known to prevent premature aging. It also contains unsaturated lipids and is rich in carbs, which improves energy and strength, especially for those who work out.

Studies have also revealed that because each Acai berry has two grams of dietary fiber, it promotes a healthy digestive system. Research has suggested that soluble fibers may lower cholesterol levels and also reduce the risk of developing specific types of cancer.

In addition, the Acai berry’s fatty acid ratio is akin to that of olive oil, and we all know how important olive oil is in providing those all-important omega oils in our system which reduce incidents of cardiovascular disease. It is also interesting to note that the Acai berry contains more antioxidant vitamins than the grape or blueberry.

Today, as we become more conscious about the foods we consume, it seems clear that certain berries which are high in antioxidants are able to sustain lower cholesterol levels, which is vital to our cardiovascular health. They are also becoming increasingly popular for those who seek a more holistic and natural approach to good health and well-being.

The Acai berry is no exception in this regard. Let’s face it; a healthy heart allows a person to engage in all kinds of activities such as exercise programs to strengthen the body, as well as having the energy to sustain such activity.
It’s no wonder then that Acai berry juice is available in the gyms and sports clubs in Brazil. The good news is that today you can find Acai berry juice in most health food stores.

Getting Pregnant is Easy: Fertility Myths vs. Facts

(ARA) - Many mis-perceptions surround the subjects of conception and fertility, in large part due to the fact that these topics aren’t generally discussed among friends and family, and many people don’t even bring them up with their doctors. The following are some common myths about fertility and the facts that may surprise you.

Myth: Getting pregnant is easy.

Fact: While it may appear some women can get pregnant easily, the fact is one in eight couples in the United States will experience problems with fertility.

Myth: Lots of women are waiting until their 40s to start a family, so I have plenty of time.

Fact: While news abounds about celebrities having children well into their 40s, some of these women may actually be using donor eggs, or even surrogate carriers. The truth of the matter is the longer you wait to try to become pregnant, the slimmer your chances of conceiving. Fertility begins to decline for women at age 27 and dramatically declines by the age of 35. After age 40, women who do become pregnant face a 50 percent chance of miscarriage, so the earlier a couple seeks a fertility evaluation, the better able they’ll be to take steps to conceive.

Myth: If you have a regular period, you can conceive.

Fact: A woman’s fertility can be impacted even though there are no disruptions with her menstrual cycle. A period does not necessarily mean that a woman is ovulating or releasing an egg. A couple should speak to their physician if they are under the age of 35 and have been attempting to conceive for one year without success. If the couple is over the age of 35, they should seek treatment if they have been trying to conceive without success for six months.

Myth: A couple’s fertility problems are caused by the woman.

Fact: This is one of the most commonly believed fertility myths. In fact, fertility problems can be attributed to the man 35 percent of the time and to the woman 35 percent. In 20 percent of cases, it is a combined man/woman problem and in 10 percent of cases the problem is unexplained. Should they suspect problems, both the man and the woman should undergo a full fertility evaluation.

Myth: Home remedies, such as taking cough syrup, can help you get pregnant.

Fact: It is never a good idea to self-medicate based on these kinds of legends. There is no proof, either in clinical or observational studies, that these products have any effect on fertility. Talking to your doctor about your options to become pregnant is the best way to help you conceive.

Myth: An OB/Gyn specializes in fertility and can provide all of the services needed to treat fertility problems.

Fact: When a couple experiences trouble getting pregnant, they should first speak with the woman’s OB/Gyn about their concerns. While most OB/Gyns do not have a specialty in fertility, they will be able to answer a couple’s basic questions and some may offer limited services to treat fertility problems. However, when these preliminary tests and treatments do not resolve a fertility problem, an OB/Gyn may refer the couple to a specialist, known as a reproductive endocrinologist (RE). REs have special training and equipment that enable them to provide the treatment and attention needed for couples facing fertility issues.

Myth: If you stop worrying and just relax, you’ll get pregnant.

Fact: Fertility problems are often medical in nature and can be treated. The associated stress is a result - not a cause - of these problems. While reducing the stress associated with fertility problems may improve your overall quality of life, it does not mean that you will conceive if you “just relax.” Talk to your doctor about ways to incorporate stress reduction into your fertility treatment plan to make the process easier on you and your partner.

The best way to debunk common mis-perceptions and learn the facts on fertility and conception is to talk to your doctor and educate yourself through trusted sources, such as www.fertilityjourney.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Natural Ways To Relieve Sight Problems

Today, most of us who work with computers will develop eye strain. Watching TV or reading in a poorly lit room can also cause a strain on the eyes. Here are some natural ways to relieve sight problems that affect us daily.

The general rule of thumb is to sit at arm's length from the computer screen. Conversely, sitting too far away from the computer screen can also cause eye strain. You should be able to sit back in your chair comfortably and be able to read at a distance.

Just as we need to get up and walk around when sitting for too long, the same applies to our eyes. They can grow tired and the best advice given is to get up every hour and relax the eyes by closing them for a few minutes.

If your computer is located near a window, every now and then it’s a good idea to stop what you are working on and look out the window. If you work in an office that does not have windows, simply look across the room and find an object you can focus on for several seconds. This change of focus will alleviate eye strain as well.

Ensure that the lighting in your office or home is sufficient. Try to avoid any direct light or glare that may emanate from lighting fixtures or direct sunlight.

Purchase 100% UV protection sunglasses. Don’t be fooled by days in which the sun isn’t shining so brightly, as it is can be just as strong on hazy days.

Experts recommend that you do not watch TV in total darkness. Dim the lights about half way. Also, look directly at the screen from a distance. This is especially true for children who tend to sit very close to the TV.

If you drive long distances to and from work, try to stop a few times on the way home. Certainly, after spending the entire day at a computer station your eyes will already be taxed, so it’s a good idea to stop and rest your eyes for a bit.

If you find that you develop a headache after sitting at the computer for some time, stop what you are doing (and take off your glasses if you wear any), and find a quiet place where you can sit for a few minutes with your eyes closed.

You know, our eyes need just as much care and rest as our bodies. We multi-task all day long and do not realize the effect it has on our eyes. Whether we are engaging in hobbies such as knitting or reading, watching TV, or working at home or at the office, sometimes we forget just how much strain we are putting on our delicate eyes.

SlimKids Weight Loss Plan

What is the SlimKids weight loss plan? This plan was conceived in 1995 by a teenager who was overweight. The program does follow the USDA guidelines and the caloric intake ranges from 1500-1800 daily.

What sets this apart from other diet plans is that it allows 64 grams of fat per day, which means that kids can eat the much desired hamburger, hot dog, and baked fries. This ten-week program affords kids from eight years and older to lose one to one and a half pounds per week.

Obesity among children and teens is a pandemic in our society. In fact, doctors who are solely researching the reasons behind child obesity have found that obesity may involve the hypothalamus gland, which controls eating habits.

Upon perusing the SlimKids weight loss plan, one is immediately struck by the comprehensive information given regarding the program, testimonials, diet tips, and information on its author. The site does promote changes in kids’ lifestyles which involve exercise, portion control, and making healthy choices by getting rid of “bad habits”.

The uniqueness of the program lies in allowing obese children and teens to continue to consume the foods they love. At the same time, it gives parents the tools to introduce healthier choices in order for their kids to lead healthier lives.

Here is a sample of one day’s menu from the SlimKids site:

Breakfast would consist of: 1 large egg scrambled or fried (use a pan sprayed with oil spray), 1 slice wholewheat toast with 1 teaspoon butter or reduced calorie or margarine, 1/2 grapefruit, and 1 cup skim or 1% milk.

Lunch would include: 1 chicken salad sandwich made with 3 ounces cooked chicken breast, celery, lettuce, 1 teaspoon mayonnaise, pita bread (or 2 slices wholewheat or white bread), 1 apple (or other whole fruit), 1 cup mini fresh carrots (or large carrot cut up) with 2 teaspoons of non-fat dip on the side for dipping, and 1 juice pack drink.

For dinner, you can choose: 3 ounces lean roast beef, broiled (or other lean protein source), 1/2 cup mushrooms (fresh or canned) served hot over beef, 2 cups tossed salad with 2 tablespoons reduced calorie salad dressing, 1 cup cooked broccoli, 1 cup skim or 1% milk.

Snacks would consist of: 2 cups popped light popcorn, 1 chocolate milkshake (recipe included in the program).

The approximate totals for the day would amount to: three milks, four breads, three fruits, two servings of protein, four vegetables, and three fats. In addition, you can substitute any of the foods on the menu with the same food types given in the program.

If you think the SlimKids weight loss program would be beneficial to your child, you can read more about it on their site.

Common Factors That Lead to Unhealthy Lifestyles Later in Life

As more and more people are adopting a healthier lifestyle, there is still a majority of individuals who have not changed those habits that can become major concerns in their later years. Here are common factors that often lead to unhealthy lifestyles later in life:

* Smoking. There is a concerted effort by many states to discourage smoking and it has been made clear that smoking can cause stroke, heart disease, lung cancer, and many other diseases. Yet many people still engage in this dangerous activity and pay the price later on.

* Diet. Obesity is a pandemic in our society. While there are a variety of diets available, proper nutrition such as fruits, vegetables, vitamins, minerals, and other important food groups are often left out of one’s daily menu. The lack of proper nutrition can lead not only to obesity but also to cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, vitamin deficiency which can result in eye diseases, and a host of other ailments - all of which can reduce the quality of life for those affected.

* Exercise. While we are advancing the need to engage in exercise programs to maintain a healthy lifestyle, many individuals have not even begun to realize the impact a lack of exercise will have on them later in life. Living a sedentary lifestyle invites a host of diseases which can decrease one’s longevity and increase the chances of developing serious conditions.

* Stress. Stress is probably the most insidious condition of all. High blood pressure, heart attacks, and other related diseases are caused by stress. It is analogous to a train going 200 miles per hour when suddenly the brakes fail and there is a major collision. That collision causes the breakdown of the body and the nervous system. Its impact reverberates for years to come.

We live in a fast-paced society. Multi-tasking is the norm, and we tend to turn a blind eye to the messages our bodies are sending us. The lack of proper nutrition and exercise makes us more vulnerable to injury and disease. Our bodies are like that train. Unless we maintain it, it can run away from us.

A recent study found that out of over 150,000 individuals surveyed, only 3% actually maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Those who have lived a vicarious life with all of its indulgences may well eventually find that illness will befall them. And they would have to spend their hard-earned money on medications, may find little enjoyment in the things they love to do, and have a shorter lifespan.