Health Benefits of Fish Oil

The health benefits of fish oil include its ability to aid in treatment of heart diseases, high cholesterol, depression, anxiety, AHDH, low immunity, cancer, diabetes, inflammation, arthritis, IBD, AIDS, Alzheimer’s disease, eye disorders, macular degeneration and ulcers. It is helps in weight loss, pregnancy, fertility and skin care (particular for disorders such as psoriasis, acne).

Most of the these health benefits of fish oil can be attributed to the presence of Omega 3 essential fatty acids such as Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Other useful essential fatty acids include Alpha-linolenic acid or ALA and Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA.

The various types of fish which can be a good source of fish oil are mackerel, rainbow trout, lake trout, halibut, herring, sea bass, sardines, swordfish, oysters, albacore tuna, blue fin tuna, yellow fin tuna, turbot, pilchards, anchovies and salmon. The most common names among these for obtaining fish oil are albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, sardines, lake trout and salmon. The type of fish used and the purity standards followed in refining the oil govern the quality of fish oil.

The health benefits of fish oil include the following:

Heart Disease: According to the American Heart Association (AHA), clinical trials have proved that omega 3 is effective in reducing the incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Fish oil, which is abundant in omega 3, therefore, reduces the risk of heart diseases and heart arrhythmias. It lowers the levels of LDL cholesterol, which is bad cholesterol, and increases the HDL levels, which is good cholesterol. Fish oil prevents accumulation of triglycerides and further reduces the levels of excess triglycerides. Preliminary research has also shown that fish oil can be used for preventing atherosclerosis in coronary patients. Thus fish oil is effective in treating heart strokes and regular usage of fish oil can help avoid numerous sudden cardiac deaths. According to the American Heart Association, these preliminary findings should be confirmed by detailed research.

Weight Loss: Fish oil also aids in weight loss process. Research conducted by Professor Peter Howe at the University of South Australia has shown that fish oil improves the efficacy of exercise in reducing weight. Volunteers who were given fish oil diet showed greater weight loss as compared to those who did not consume fish oil diet. Exercise combined with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the patients.

Blood Circulation: It is believed that fish oil has the ability to improve blood circulation along with reducing triglyceride and serum cholesterol levels.

Immunity: It is believed that regular consumption of fish oil aids in increasing your immunity thereby enabling you to resist incidence of common diseases such as cold, cough and flu. Omega three fatty acids present in fish oil benefit the immune system by effecting cytokines and eicosanoids present in our body. Researchers have also studied the effect of fish meal and fish oil on the immune system of pigs and found that fish oil aided in the growth of the animals. Similar research conducted on mice at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, also gave positive results. Thus fish oil has the potential to enhance the immune system of humans. Fish oil is also beneficial to patients suffering from lupus, which is a disease characterized by the attacks of immune system of the body on various organs and tissues. Fish oil helps in reducing the pain and inflammation that may occur in joints, eyes, kidney, heart, blood vessels, lungs, nerves, etc. It also helps in reducing associated fever, skin rashes and fatigue.

AIDS: Research conducted by the Nutritional Sciences Program in Lexington has increased the promise of fish oil as a treatment of AIDS.

Inflammation: Fish oil has anti inflammatory properties; therefore, it is effective in reducing inflammation in blood and tissues. Regular consumption of fish oil supplements, tablets, pills and capsules is helpful to those suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases. Fish oil is effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders, sprue, short bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis, which are typical disorders of the intestine. Patients suffering from Crohn’s disease find it difficult to absorb vitamins, fats and essential supplements. Fish oil supplements are an effective diet for such patients. In ulcerative colitis, fish oil prevents the accumulation of leukotriene on the colon. It should be noted that the anti inflammatory properties of fish oil are limited to reducing inflammation. Fish oil provides little effect in preventing inflammation. Research is also being conducted to enhance the anti-inflammatory action of fish oil by addition of other dietary supplements and drugs.

Arthritis: Fish oil is useful in treating arthritis, rheumatism, Raynaud’s symptoms and similar conditions. Usage of fish oil can help reducing the dosage of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia, and University of Newcastle, Australia have reported that large quantities of fish oil have shown positive effect on the treatment of arthritis. In case of osteoarthritis, fish oil can be helpful in reducing the impact of enzymes that destroy cartilages. However, since the dosage of fish oil required for desirable effect in the improvement of a patient is unknown, the Arthritis Center, Department of Rheumatology, John Hopkins University, considers including omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil in the treatment of arthritis as controversial. The University also cautions that there may appear certain side effect due to the use of fish oil in arthritis patients. Read more about arthritis on the webpage of Arthritis Foundation and Arthritis Center.

Depression and Anxiety: Due to the presence of Omega 3 fatty acids, fish oil is good for relieving depression, sadness, anxiety, restlessness, mental fatigue, stress, decreased sexual desire, suicidal tendencies and other nervous disorders. Researchers at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio in their research publication titled “Fish Oils and Bipolar Disorder: A Promising but Untested Treatment” state that fish oil can be useful in mood stabilizing and treating bipolar disorders. No wonder, it has been found that countries where fish is eaten often have low incidence of depression. Similarly research conducted on prisoners has shown that when prisoners were fed with sea food containing higher amount of omega three fatty acids, there was a significant drop in the homicide rate.

Alzheimer’s Disease: Research conducted at the Louisiana State University has shown that fatty acids are effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Since fish oil is one of the best sources of essential fatty acids including EPA and DHA, it helps in Alzheimer disease. Research conducted at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) validates the usefulness of fish oil as a possible remedy for the disease. The Alzheimer’s Association recommends fish containing higher content of omega three fatty acids to patients as it acts as a protective diet during Alzheimer disease and dementia.

ADHD or ADD: Fish oil has the ability to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) due to the high concentration of fatty acids. If your child suffers from hyperactivity, dyslexia, dyspraxia, inability to complete tasks, emotional instability, wavering attitude, poor coordination, short attention span, short term memory, low concentration, tendency to interrupt others, recklessness, hastiness, impetuosity, impulsiveness, low IQ, or learning disorders, fish oil supplements, tablets, pills or capsules are a proven remedy. Research conducted at the University of South Australia and CSIRO has shown that when children suffering from ADHD were given doses of fish oil and evening primrose capsules for 15 weeks, they showed significant improvement. Since brain consists of about 60% of fats, especially essential fatty acids such as omega 3 and omega 6, fish oil helps in improving the functioning of the brain. Further, it is believed that fish oil is useful in the normal development of the brain. It helps your kid concentrate on the studies better. It has been further found that when pregnant women are given regular doses of fish oil, the born toddlers show enhanced hand eye coordination. Facts about ADHD.

Eye Disorders: It is well known that fish oil is good for its ability to improve vision. It also helps in avoiding age related macular degeneration. The National Eye Institute at the National Institute of Health, US, plans to conduct a nation-wide study to evaluate the effect of fish oil in treating macular degeneration. This study will provide strong scientific evidence to the benefits of fish oil for eye care, thereby enabling government agencies and physicians to strongly recommend fish oil for macular degeneration.

Skin Care: Fish oil helps in improving the condition of poor and dry skin by making it shinny and glowing. It is useful in treating various skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, itching, redness of skin, skin lesions, and rashes. In case of psoriasis, the EPA present in fish oil restricts the growth of pro-inflammatory agents by producing arachidonic acid. Fish oil can also be applied topically to obtain relief from psoriasis. Regular intake of fish oil capsules helps in reducing loss of moisture from the skin. It is also claimed by some people that fish oil helps in preventing sunburns.

Acne: Fish oil is effective for acne as well. EPA is known to inhibit androgen formation. Androgen can affect the formation of sebum in hair follicle.

Cancer: Fish oil is useful in delaying weight loss in patients suffering from pancreatic cancer. Fish oil supplements can also be helpful to patients suffering from cancer related hyperlipidemia.

Diabetes: Type II diabetic patients are more prone to cardio vascular diseases such as coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, and stroke. As mentioned above, fish oil is helpful in treating various heart problems. Research conducted at the University of Oxford, UK, has proved that fish oil is useful in reducing triglyceride levels in diabetes as well.

Ulcers: The symptoms of peptic ulcer include pain in the abdomen, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, loss in appetite, weight loss, etc. Due to the presence of EPA and DHA, fish oil can be helpful in case of ulcers caused by NSAIDs.

Pregnancy: Fish oil is very useful for pregnant women as DHA present in it helps in the development of the eyes and brain of the baby. It helps in avoiding premature births, low weight at birth, and miscarriage. Research conducted in Denmark, which involved 8,729 pregnant women, concluded that diet with low amounts of fish resulted in higher risk of premature or preterm babies. It is also believed that women who do not have a sufficient intake of EPA and DHA in their diet suffer from depression after birth as there is transfer of some amount of brain mass from the mother to the child in the last stages of pregnancy. Moreover, as mentioned above, when pregnant women are given fish oil supplements, the born kids show enhanced coordination between eye and hand. Thus it is very beneficial to consume fish oil either by eating fish or taking fish oil supplements, tablets, capsules, or pills during pregnancy for the overall development of the child and well being of the mother. However, it should be noted that fish oil obtained from the liver of the fish, example – cod liver oil, should not be consumed during pregnancy as cod liver oil is rich in retinol and vitamin A.

Fertility: Preliminary research conducted on boar has shown that when male boars are fed with diet containing fish oil, the quality of the sperm is enhanced. After ejaculation, the sperms have increased survival against lipid peroxidative attacks in the female genital tract, thereby increasing the chances of conception. On the other hand, similar animal studies have shown inhibition in the synthesis of prostaglandin E and prostaglandin F, which are produced in large quantities by human seminal vesicles. The research found no impact in the count and mobility of sperm.

Hair Care: Fish oil helps maintain a good luster of the hair. Omega three has hair growing properties as it provides nourishment to the follicles. It therefore aids in faster development of hair and preventing hair loss. A good supply of proteins is also necessary for hair growth. Since most fish varieties are rich in protein, eating fish helps in keeping healthy hair.

It is also believed that fish oil helps in asthma and kidney failure. Many people also like to feed fish oil to their pets especially dog and cat as it enables in the growth of shinny hair and smooth skin. It also helps the dogs and cats deal with arthritis, which is a very common disease among pets.

The National High Blood Pressure Education Program, US, has cautioned against wrongful publicity of fish oil as an effective means of lowering high blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension. According to its report, fish oil supplements lowers high blood pressure only to a small extent in hypertensive patients. Research conducted at the Channing Laboratory, Boston, US has revealed that moderate doses of fish oil supplements have little effect on the condition of high blood pressure in normotensive persons.

Should we replace vegetable oils with fish oil?
No. There are many websites which advice people to stop eating these vegetable oil and switch to fish oil for increasing the intake of omega 3 fatty acids. However, it should be noted that most of these websites take a bias towards fish oil to increase the sales of their products. There is no doubt that fish oil is one of the best sources of omega 3 essential fatty acids. However, other sources should also be consumed.

Here is a brief on Omega 3 fatty acids and Omega 6 fatty acids. There are three types of Omega 3 fatty acids, namely alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). All three are important for the body. Vegetable sources including flax seed oil, soybean oil, hemp oil, canola oil, walnut oil, rapeseed, perilla, chia and tofu are rich in ALA. The human body has the ability to convert ALA to DHA and EPA, though there are limitations to this conversion. It has been found that ALA is also useful in treating heart problems; however, the exact mechanism is yet unknown.

GLA, an important Omega 6 fatty acid, shows promise in the treatment of cancer. It is believed that GLA is useful in treating various problems including arthritis, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, skin problems, breast pain, premenstrual syndrome and diabetes. The best source for GLA is evening primrose oil.

Caution on dosage: Excessive dosage of fish oil can have adverse allergies and side effects on the body. Further, fish oil can be problematic in many conditions and hence it is necessary to fish oil supplements cautiously. You should consult a doctor or physician for the exact dosage of fish oil you should take. Moreover, fish oil can be consumed in various forms. These include eating the fish directly by baking, roasting, frying, grilling, broiling, or smoking it or eating fish oil which is available in the form of concentrated dietary supplements such as liquid, tablet, capsule, pill, soft gel, etc. Also, there are various pharmaceutical grades of fish oil. You should also consult your doctor to check the mode of eating fish oil.

Fish oil purity
Purity of fish oil is also an important issue which one must pay attention to. Fish oil is obtained from fresh water, farm, ocean, deep sea and shallow sea fish. All these fish can be contaminated with toxic compounds such as mercury, arsenic, lead, forms of calcium, furans, dioxins, PCBs, and methyl mercury, and may affect the human body. Therefore, the fish oil should be pure. Many companies also sell ultra refined fish oil or distilled fish oil, but you should always check if the standards have been followed.

Fish oil and Vitamins
Vitamin A and Vitamin D: Fish oil, especially the one obtained from liver such as the cod liver oil, is a rich source of vitamin A and vitamin D. However, excessive dosage of cod liver oil can lead to Vitamin toxicity, accumulation of excessive vitamins in the body, which can cause side effects.

Vitamin E: There are various beliefs surrounding fish oil and vitamin E. These are:

• Fish oil undergoes oxidation and can become rancid, leading to formation of free radicals. Addition of antioxidants such as vitamin E to fish oil can help prevent the formation of these free radicals.
• Excessive dosage of fish oil leads to reduction of Vitamin E in the human body. This loss of vitamin E should be supplemented with external vitamin E supplements.
• The combination of fish oil and vitamin E can have added benefit in the treatment of many cancers and heart diseases, than if they are used individually.

Preliminary research has been carried out which prove the above beliefs; however, these need to be substantiated with detailed research before drawing strong conclusions on the use of fish oil and vitamin E.

Further Reading.source;:http://www.organicfacts.net

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Diabetes Lifestyle Tips

1. When traveling by car

   Schedule a pre-travel checkup with your health care professional about four to six weeks before your trip, for any kind of travel. Check your glucose just before leaving, and don’t leave before dealing with it and rechecking if it is below normal. Bring snacks and drinks with you, and if you’re on a long trip, a meal just in case. Put insulin under the seat in a cooler or thermal bag, but not in the trunk, on the dashboard or on ice. Plan stops for checking glucose and stretching, and pull over at the first signs of hypoglycemia.

2. When traveling by air

   Call your airline to find out how to bring syringes and lancets through security checkpoints. Keep the outside boxes of your insulin and/or glucagon, so the prescription labels can be shown to security, bring a medical letter documenting your diabetes, and speak to the security guard in advance. Carry snacks in case your meal doesn’t arrive soon enough. Don’t pack insulin in your checked luggage; it will be damaged by extreme temperatures in the cargo hold. Keep your diabetes supplies nearby, not in the overhead compartment, so they’re accessible at all times. Drink bottled water to stay hydrated.

3. When dining out

   Dining out can be an enjoyable experience for people with diabetes with a little advance planning. Concentrate on the three Ps: planning, portions and preparation. Many restaurants publish their menus online. Take a look at the menu and decide before you go what you are going to have. This can help avoid overeating and assist you in figuring out the carbohydrate and fat content of the meal in advance if you are dosing insulin to your food intake. As for portions, splitting a meal with a friend or having the server wrap half of the meal before it comes to the table can help you stick to your meal plan while taking care of tomorrow’s lunch. Finally, remember that you are in charge. If the menu doesn’t explain how a dish is prepared, ask. Most restaurants are happy to substitute something else that is already on the menu, such as another vegetable in place of rice.

4. Cut down the costs of diabetes

   Check your health insurance to know exactly what it covers. Be sure to comparison-shop when buying supplies. Blood glucose meters may be available for free if you buy 100 test strips, but pay attention to quality and meter features. Buy only the amount of test strips you can use before they expire. Don’t split your test strips or reuse lancets. You can reuse syringes, although after about five uses the needle begins to get dull. Instead of alcohol wipes, use soap and water to clean your hands or the skin at the injection site.

5. More cost-cutting tips for managing diabetes

   Instead of expensive, packaged “dietetic” foods, shop for healthy basic foods. Begin collecting free make-ahead or no-time healthy recipes from diabetes associations and other sources. Clip coupons and look for weekly specials. If you’re given a brand prescription, ask if a generic would work and if free samples are available. Ask your pharmacy about discounts and rebates. Check out free offers from diabetes associations and manufacturers of diabetes drugs or equipment. Know the insurance laws in your state or learn more about Medicare coverage. If necessary, find out if you qualify for state or drug manufacturer patient assistance programs.

6. If you are sick

   Your blood sugar will often be higher than usual when you are sick so continue to take your usual medication, including injections. The only exception is if your health care professional advises you to change it. Check blood glucose every three to four hours around the clock. Write these results down so you can communicate them over the phone if necessary. It is important to keep hydrated. Drink fluids that are sugar-free, but if you can’t eat, alternate them with fluids containing sugar, such as juice or regular soda. Rest and call your health care professional if you are vomiting or have diarrhea, excessively high blood sugars or ketones or if you have any questions or concerns. Putting together a sick day kit ahead of time can help prepare you for emergencies.

7. Organizers you can use

   Diabetes management software allows you to analyze trends in your blood glucose levels, and some programs allow direct downloads from your meter. One such program is Diabetes Pilot, which can be used with desktop computers, Palm handhelds, and pocket PC handhelds. Many meters come with their own software for downloading. You may also try commercial or free programs, but check their compatibility with your meter and (for Web-based software) privacy policies. The MEDport Organizers are zippered soft cases in different sizes that carry your supplies and have a cool side for insulin. The Day-to-Day Diabetes Calendar provides helpful information and inspiring words about diabetes management. A vibrating alarm watch, available from many manufacturers, can serve as a nondisruptive reminder system.

8. Caring for your feet

   Wash your feet with soap and warm water (not hot) every day, and pat dry carefully, including between the toes. Use lotion, especially over your heels. Check your feet daily. Use a mirror if necessary to see the soles of your feet. Ask your health care professional how to treat corns, calluses, bunions or cracks in the skin of your heel. Call your health care professional if you see swelling or redness or feel numbness or tingling in either foot. Don’t go barefoot. Wear well-fitting shoes and seamless socks, and don’t let your feet get too hot or cold.

9.  source;http://www.healthywomen.org.

Diabetes yoga poses

One of the most effective forms of yoga for the control of blood sugar and treatment of diabetes is Sun Salutation or Surya Namaskar. The Sun Salutation is an excellent form of exercise for patients suffering from diabetes. Surya Namaskar helps in increasing the supply of blood to the various parts of the body and also improves the administration of insulin while stimulating the pancreas. There are a number of pose as and asanas combined in the sun salutation and to its movements that offers the complete benefits of all the asanas. Each Surya Namaskar must be practiced at 4 rounds per minute to get the maximum benefit out of it.

In addition to Surya Namaskar, there are a number of asanas that are beneficial in controlling diabetes. However yoga must be practiced only as a secondary or alternative form of therapy in addition to the primary medications taken to control the disorder, in consultation with a medical practitioner. Some important asanas healthful in increasing the efficiency and functioning of the pancreas as well as the endocrine system are the half spinal twist also known as Ardhamatsyendrasana, the Vajrasana Yoga Mudra, the wind release pose, Sarvangasana, Halasana, and the fish pose. All these asana is unknown to have a personal effect on the functioning of the pancreas and also in the administration of insulin. However to get desired result, one must maintain the required pose for longer duration. It is best to consult yoga instructor or qualified practitioner to teach in the asanas and guide the individual through the movements.

The most important feature of these asanas is the stability offered and comfort experienced while performing the pose. According to research certain types of Pranayama are extremely helpful in dealing with diabetes. In order to prepare for Pranayama one must practice the Nadi Shodhan Pranayama also known as breathing through alternate nostrils. This form of Pranayama is known to have a calming effect on the nervous system and also helps introducing the levels of stress thus compounding the effects of the primary medication in the treatment of diabetes.

A daily practice of meditation is extremely vital in managing stress and relieving tension. Through the mode of meditation a balance is struck between sympathetic and the parasympathetic nervous systems. It is possible that meditation may be difficult to achieve during the early days of practicing it. However with thorough discipline and daily performance, one will be able to achieve the true sense of meditation with the help of chanting and concentration on breathing patterns.

YOGA FOR DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, DETOX, DIABETES & MORE (part 1)

Amla powder – Hindi with english subtitles

Treatment For Sugar (Diabetic) – Thank God for Lady Finger

Last month in one of TV program I learnt of a treatment of Sugar (Diabetes). Since I am diabetic, I tried it and it was very useful and my Sugar is in control now. In fact I have already reduced my medicine.

Take two pieces of Lady Finger (Bhindi) and remove/cut both ends of each piece. Also put a small cut in the middle and put these two pieces in glass of water. Cover the glass and keep it at room temperature during night. Early morning, before breakfast simply remove two pieces of lady finger (bhindi) from the glass and drink that water.

Keep doing it on daily basis.

Within two weeks, you will see remarkable results in reduction of your SUGAR.

My friend’s sister has got rid of her diabetes. She was on Insulin for a few years, but after taking the lady fingers every morning for a few months, she has stopped Insulin but continues to take the lady fingers every day. But she chops the lady fingers into fine pieces in the night, adds the water and drinks it all up the next morning. Please. try it as it will not do you any harm even if it does not do much good to you, but U have to keep taking it for a few months before U see results, as most cases might be chronic.

source;http://www.healthblogtips.com

12 Tips to Take Care of Diabetic Foot

12 Tips to Take Care of Diabetic Foot

Dr. Tirthankar Chaudhury

Things to watch out for Altered sensation in your foot Burning sensation Walking impairment, like cramping Feet suddenly turning cold without joint swelling Edema or swelling of feet Excess fatigue Pain in leg even in rest Any open wound, cuts, bruise or unusual marks Any change in skin colour or texture of feet Any change in nail area Sensation of vibration or tingling Newer Dressings & Ulcer healing options Platelet Derived Growth Factor Hyaff- a chemical that promotes healing Apligraf- a combination of living cells and structured protein Dermagraft- Bivengineered human dermis or skin layer A large number of diabetic patients suffer from some form of foot ulcers at some point of time. When neglected, these progress to dire consequences. Over time diabetes damages the nerves, giving rise to a condition called peripheral neuropathy. It diminishes the ability of a person to sense the pain or sores, making small injuries go unnoticed, aggravating it. Diabetes can also result in the clogging of many peripheral arteries, which reduces the blood supply to the legs, making feet prone to infection and gangrene. Poor control of diabetes makes the connective tissue fragile and damages the complicated foot architecture. Reduce the pressure on the affected leg and keep the foot elevated. Take time to inspect your feet. Look for cracks, calluses, disfigured nails. Look in the web spaces space in between two fingers. Use a mirror to inspect the soles. If possible, have someone inspect them for you. Take care of continuous maintenance of sterile, nonadhered dressing. If wet or blood-soaked, it must be changed immediately. Walking barefooted is not a very good idea for you as it makes your feet more vulnerable to injury and makes an easy entry site for germs. If reduced blood supply is the cause of foot ulcer, an intervention or surgery may be considered to improve the circulation. A very good control of your diabetes is the key point. The target of treatment is to prevent blood sugar fluctuations as much as possible. Ask your doctor about your ideal sugar level and work out to maintain it as much as possible. Always use comfortable footwear. An ideal shoe should be comfortably and snugly fit and must not put pressure on the toes. Change your shoes at regular intervals and avoid using damaged or tattered footwear. Tennis shoes and suede shoes are least likely to create foot problems. Never dip your feet in hot water – it may be dangerous. Always use lukewarm water. Clean the web spaces as well. Mop your feet dry including the web spaces. Avoid web-strap shoes (like hawai chappal). Your walking shoe should have a wide and roomy toe box and there should be sufficient shock absorbers in the soles. For dry and scaly skin, apply moisturizing lotion or cream and put on cotton socks while retiring to bed at night. Do not leave extra lotion in the web space as it may macerate the skin. Depending upon the condition, you will be prescribed antimicrobial agents. An infected ulcer needs aggressive treatment to prevent spreading. If ulcer is wide-spread or deep, it may need a small procedure called debridement, where the infected portion is removed. It is usually an outpatient procedure done under local anesthesia. Always use socks – the thicker, the better. Never ignore any of the symptoms and check with your doctor. Treatment of foot ulcer is multidisciplinary and multi pronged. Along with your diabetologist, you may need the expertise of a podiatrist, neurologist, dermatologist, vascular surgeon, cosmetic surgeon, depending upon the extent of the ulcer. Strictly abstain from consuming tobacco in any form.

Dr. Tirthankar Chaudhury is Consultant, Diabetes & Endocrinology at Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals, Kolkata

Link Between Diabetes and Heart Health.

Every year, the International Diabetes Federation observes a World Diabetes day to address issues facing the global diabetes community. You can also make a valuable contribution on this day by spreading awareness about this metabolism disorder. Many health conditions are linked with diabetes, such as poor heart health. Here are some expert inputs from Dr Dheeraj Kapoor, Consultant Endocrinologist at Artemis Health Institute, Gurgaon to help us better understand the links between diabetes and heart health. But first let’s take a look at how diabetes is linked to other diseases at large…

Most of the food we eat is broken down into glucose, the major form of sugar in blood, and it is the main source of fuel for the body. Diabetes develops when the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach doesn’t make enough insulin and the cells in the muscles, liver and adipose tissue (fat cells) don’t use insulin properly. As a result, the glucose accumulates in the blood stream while the body is starved of it. Uncontrolled diabetes can affect your nerves, eyes, kidneys and blood vessels leading to heart diseases & stroke.

Connection between diabetes & heart disease: People with diabetes are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease as compared to their non diabetic counterparts. They also tend to develop heart disease at a younger age. In fact serious cardiovascular disease can begin before the age of 30 years in diabetics. The chance of a middle aged diabetic getting a heart attack is similar to that of a person who has already had a heart attack in the past. Women who have not undergone menopause have a lesser risk of heart attacks as compared to their male counterparts of the same age, an advantage that is nullified if they have diabetes.

What causes heart diseases in persons with diabetes? Persons with diabetes experience changes in blood vessels which include thickening of the lumen & also formation of plaques. Diabetics also have lipid abnormalities and their blood is more prone to clotting because of high fibrinogen or plasminogen activator inhibitor levels in blood which makes it more vulnerable to clotting, resulting in blockage of blood supply leading to heart attack.

What are the risk factors for heart disease in people with diabetes:

• Family history of heart disease is a risk factor, more so if the family members have had a heart attack at a younger age, that is males before age 55 and females before the age of 65.
• Central obesity- Central obesity which means carrying extra weight around the waist, as opposed to hips is defined as a waist measurement of more than 40 inches in men and more than 35 inches in women. This excess abdominal fat increases the production of LDL, a type of bad cholesterol, which accumulates in the lumen of blood vessels leading ultimately to blockade.
• Abnormal blood cholesterol levels- Low density lipoprotein (LDL) can deposit inside the blood vessels, which in turn can become blocked leading to heart attacks. Triglyceride, another form of bad fat can cause structural changes in LDL making them denser and more likely to deposit in the blood vessels. Keeping the above points in mind, the upper limit of both these components have been kept lower in diabetic patients. Triglyceride levels should be less than 150 mg/dl & LDL levels should be below 100 mg/dl in diabetics. HDL is (High density lipoprotein) the god cholesterol, which scavenges LDL from the vessel lumen and therefore low HDL levels also increase the rate of a heart attack. HDL levels should be above 40 m/dl in men and above 50 m/dl in women.
• High blood pressure- In hypertension, the heart has to work harder to pump blood which can strain the heart, damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of a heart attack. Blood pressure levels in a diabetic should be aimed below 130/80 mmHg
• Smoking- Smoking on its own doubles the risk of having heart disease since it narrows down blood vessels and it can only worsen the impact of diabetes on blood vessels. It also increases the risk of other complications like eye and kidney problems, besides increasing the risk of amputation. Hence it is paramount for a diabetic to quit smoking.

Prevention of heart attack  

Heart friendly diet- Diet planning should be done in coordination with a dietician to achieve the following goals:

• Include at least 14 gms of fibre daily for every 1000 kcal consumed. Foods high in fibre help lower the blood cholesterol. Oats, whole grain bread, dried beans, peas, fruits and vegetables are good sources of fibre. Isabgol has a good impact on lipids.
• Saturated fats should be cut down to a minimum, as they increase the cholesterol levels. Foods that need to be avoided include red meat, butter ghee, dairy products with fat and oils like coconut oil. Egg yolk should be avoided.
• Cholesterol intake ideally should not exceed 300 mg per day. Cholesterol rich foods include red meat, dairy products & eggs.
• Transfats which raise blood cholesterol levels should also be reduced in diet. Therefore food items like cookies, crackers, snacks, bakery products, salad dressings, fried foods & microwave popcorns are best avoided.
• Contrary to popular belief of restricting carbohydrates in the diet , at least 60% of our daily calories should come from carbohydrates.

Make physical activity a routine

The aim should be at least 30 mins of regular exercise. These may include a brisk walk, swimming, cycling or a treadmill. It is a good idea to use stairs instead of elevators. The above mentioned exercises should be done at least 5-6 days a week. If one has not been exercising of late, one must consult the doctor before embarking upon a rigorous exercise schedule.

Reach & maintain a healthy body weight

If the patient is overweight one must try to achieve an ideal body weight. The body mass index which is weight in kg divided by the square of height in meters should be less than 23 kg/msq. The aim should be to lose no more than 1-2 pounds per week.

Two major heart diseases in diabetic patients

• Coronary artery disease- It is also called ischemic heart disease and is caused by thickening and ultimate blockage of vessels carrying blood to the heart. That causes vessels to the heart becoming narrower or blocked by fatty deposits, leading to a heart attack.
• Heart failure– It is a chronic condition in which the heart cannot pump blood properly. It doesn’t mean that the heart has stopped functioning. Symptoms can worsen over time.

Diabetics are at a higher risk of heart failure than non diabetics. Blockage of blood vessels and high blood glucose levels can damage the heart muscle and cause irregular heartbeats. Diabetes can interfere with pain signals normally transmitted by the nerves and diabetics may therefore have a painless heart attack.

Symptoms: These include chest discomfort and pain radiating to arm, back, jaw neck or stomach. There may be shortness of breath, sweating or nausea. Women are less likely to have chest discomfort and more of breathlessness.

Prevention: One should get checked at least once a year for heart disease risk factors like cholesterol and blood pressure. Further testing may be required in those having high risk of heart diseases or symptoms.

Diabetes and heart disease go hand in glove and prevention encompasses strict sugar control along with tight blood pressure and lipid control and cessation of smoking along with exercising regularly.

Source;http://healthmeup.com

 

Diabetes Herbal Remedies

Cinnamon Cinnamomum zeylanicum, C. cassia
Remedies using : Cinnamon Health Benefits | How to Use | Medicinal Uses | Side Effects | Plant | Aromatherapy Oil | Folklore Buy Organic Cinnamon Chips, powder, & essential oil from Mountain Rose Common Names Cinnamon , Cassia Bark, Sweet cinnamon Botanical Name Cinnamomum zeylanicum, C. cassia Family LAURACEAE

Common Uses:Air Fresheners * Candida * Colds * Culinary * Diabetes * Digestion * Flu * Fungus * IBS * Insect_repellent * Nausea * Tonic *
Properties: Analgesic* Anti-inflammatory* Antibacterial* Antifungal* Antioxidant* Antiperspirant/Deodorants* Antispasmodic* AntiViral* Aphrodisiac* Aromatic* Astringent* Astringent* Cancer* Digestive* Hypotensive* Insect repellents* Vermifuge*
Parts Used:Dried bark, Essential oil
Constituents:volatile oil, eugenol,tannins, resin, mucilage, trace coumarin and complex sugars
Cinnamon Medicinal Uses & Benefits The simple touch of cinnamon infuses warmth and energy throughout your body. As part of tea blends, cinnamon improves the taste of less tasty herbs, aids digestion and adds powerful antibacterial power to cold and flu remedies.14 Some very interesting recent research suggests that cinnamon may help diabetics control their blood sugar. 15 16 For a more intense, spicy cinnamon choose Cinnamomum cassia. Ceylon cinnamon, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, has a sweeter, more delicate flavor. The oils of both contain cinnamic aldehyde as the major component, with cassia having the larger amount. The aroma of cinnamon evokes memories of Christmas kitchens, warm, spicy and intensely fragrant. Cinnamon oil is also associated with love, and is used in essential oil blends to stimulate the senses. Cinnamon has an energizing and uplifting effect on mood. While the oil from Cinnamomum cassia and Cinnamomum zeylanicumare often used interchangeably cassia is the inferior oil in aromatherapy. Cinnamon oil is distilled from both the leaf and bark, with the bark oil costing 5 to 7 times the price of leaf oil. Is it worth the extra price? It may be if your primary goal is to fight infections. Bark oil contains cinnamaldenyde, a highly powerful antibacterial and antifungal agent. Cinnamon essential oil is a reliable remedy for athletes foot. Bark oil is highly irritating to the skin, and may be best used in steam inhalations and other applications that do not require direct contact with the skin. Cinnamon leaf oil contains more eugenol, which increases its analgesic properties and when properly diluted can be used in massage oils to improve circulation and relieve pain
Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayruvedic Name: Twak * * Tastes (Rashas) : sweet,pungent,bitter * Energy (virya): heating,drying * Dosha : VK- P+ Twak pacifies vata and kapha may stimulate pita in excess. Pungent vipaka warms and energizing to the whole body. Good for toxic (ama) conditions.
Cinnamon Side Effects:
Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, sweet cinnamon only has trace amounts. Taking large amounts of cassia cinnamon over time might worsen bleeding in some people. Cassia oil is very irritating to the skin and should be handled with care.^ Top^
How to Use: Cinnamon
Preparation Methods & Dosage :You cannot get a therapeutic dose of cinnamon from everyday uses in cooking and baking, even if you could freely devour massive qualities of cinnamon buns in the name of better health. Cinnamon can be taken in capsules, extracts, herbal teas, and essential oil. Grinding cinnamon chips into powder yourself is the best way to ensure the freshest cinnamon. Store in air tight glass jars to seal in the goodness. Remember that the cinnamon powder sold in the grocery is much to old to have any medicinal value.

Diabetic food list & nutrition chart

f you have diabetes, you are one of the 171 million peoples in the world who have that. This is not a disease but a condition in which body doesn’t produce enough insulin to restore balance of sugar in blood. This condition can leads you to many serious problem and dieses if it is not controlled. Diabetic patientsneed to change way of living and have to take care more about health.

Uncontrolled diet can leads diabetic patients to blindness, nerves damage, heart attack, kidney problem, blood pressure and infections. To understand diabetic diet you must know that almost every food can produce glucose in body.  Sweet and sugar products can do this instantly.  Carbohydrate, protein and fat can also digested in to glucose in descending order of amount and time.

Diabetic menu should produce minimum glucose in blood and provide maximum nutrition. Food must be consumed in small amount and frequent time. This will allow body to adjust with the glucose. Walking, running, swimming and other light exercise can help to control diabetes and weight. Over weight person will have more suffering from diabetes and will feel difficulties even in walking.

American diabetic association suggested food pyramid for the patients.

Bread, cereals, pasta, rice, potato, corn and other grains and starches foods should be consumed 6 to 11 servings a day.

All vegetables should be consumed at least 3 to 5 servings per day. Fruits need 2 to 4 and milk 2 to 3 servings per day. All meat, fats, sugar and alcohol products should be avoided if possible.

Glycemic index

It is measurement of change of blood sugar after eating particular food.

There are three glycemic index levels.

Low(less than 55): This includes almost all fruits and vegetables, bread , pasta, milk, cheese, nuts and some pulse and legumes.

Medium(56 to 69): wheat, rice and sugar

High(More than 70): corn flakes, rice krispies, potatoes, watermelon and glucose.

Here are some foods and their glycemic index.

Fruits	GI	Vegetable	GI	Other	GI
Bananas	56	Potato	90	Beans	30
Apples	40	Pumpkin	75	Lentils	30
Grapes	46	Sweet potato	61	Soy beans	18
Cherries	22	Beets	64	Bread	70
Mango	55	Carrot	35	Cornflakes	80
Oranges	44	Peas	52	Oatmeal	58
Pineapple	64			Popcorn	55
Watermelon	72			Rice	70
Raisins	64			Ice cream	36
Peach	43			Nuts	15
				Honey	75
				Milk	32

For recipe and food guide check http://tracker.diabetes.org/myfoodadvisor.html

Image source: http://www.diabetes.org

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