Health Conditions

Summer allergies can be brutal.  While many people enjoy the flowers blooming and the vibrant colors that spring brings, many others are plagued by itchy, watery eyes, coughing, sneezing, rashes, and other annoying effects of spring allergies.  While you may never be able to totally get rid of your allergies, there are ways your can reduce your symptoms and bring back the beauty and fun of spring.

The easiest way to ease allergy symptoms is to stay away from what’s causing your allergies altogether.  By tracking your symptoms, you can figure out what symptoms are caused by what trigger and avoid it.  You probably already know that your allergies are worse when local trees or bushes are flowering.  However, knowing that your allergies get worse for a specific tree or plant will help you avoid specific times and gain more time outdoors that would otherwise be spent hiding inside.  While it isn’t usually very specific, allergy testing is a great tool for figuring out what causes your allergy flare-ups.

Another great tool to avoid allergens is to learn about the pollen count and how to use it.  Some days are just worse than others if you are allergic to pollen.  Many TV stations and websites will post the daily pollen count.  With a quick look, you will learn if you should take extra medication that day or even just plan indoor activities.  It won’t make the allergies go away, but it’s a great way to help you work with them.

Keep outside air outside.  It may help keep down your summer energy bills to open windows and use fans instead of air conditioning, but it doesn’t pay when it comes to your allergies.  Not only are the pollens being brought in the house and into your body, they also can get caught in furniture, carpets and other soft surfaces.

If your allergy medication used to work, but now just doesn’t seem to cut it, try switching to something new.  Many people build up a tolerance to allergy medications.  Switching to a new product may just be enough to keep symptoms away.  You can also try adding an extra allergy medicine, like a nasal spray, when you know the allergens will be bad.

If your allergy medicine works, but seems to need that extra boost, try giving your body some extra oomph through a proper diet.  Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids and quercitin have been shown to reduce allergy symptoms.  Plus, eating these can help you live an overall healthy lifestyle and fight off illness.

If medicines and other alternatives don’t do much to relieve your allergy symptoms, you could look into allergy shots.  These are weekly injections of a small amount of the allergens that cause your symptoms.  By slowly introducing small amounts of these substances, you gradually build up a tolerance.  The catch?  They take several years to fully work and you’ll probably have to take allergy medicine until treatment is done.  Plus you have to have weekly doctor’s visits that your insurance may not cover.

By adding a few steps to your day, you can reduce the pain and suffering caused by your allergies.

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Acid reflux can range in severity from a minor annoyance to a debilitating condition.  But it is a potentially dangerous condition, as it has been linked to cancer of the esophagus.  That’s why it is so important to treat it.

There are numerous prescription and non-prescription drugs on the market for acid reflux.  They have provided relief to many sufferers, but some do not respond to them.  And they’re not without side effects, either.  Some studies have linked proton pump inhibitors, the type of drug usually prescribed for acid reflux, to an increased incidence of pneumonia.  Some of these drugs can also cause other gastrointestinal problems, and they may interfere with the absorption of other drugs.

These concerns have lead many acid reflux sufferers to seek more natural treatment options.  Here are some things you can try if you want to get rid of acid reflux naturally.

Herbs

* Ginger - Ginger is one of the most popular herbs for digestive problems, and it can be very effective against acid reflux.  It helps by relieving pain and inflammation and killing bacteria that aggravate the condition.  It is important to use it in moderation, however, because overdoing it could make your heartburn worse.

* Bladderwrack - Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed whose stem is used medicinally.  It contains alginic acid, which is used in mainstream heartburn drugs such as Gaviscon.

* Aloe vera - Aloe is best known as an effective treatment for sunburn and other skin irritations.  But it has also been shown to be good for acid reflux.  It can be taken in capsule or juice form two or three times a day.

* Licorice - Licorice has anti-inflammatory properties, and it has been studied for use in the prevention of ulcers and gastritis.  It is also a natural antacid.  It may be taken in tea, or you can buy chewable deglycyrrhizinated licorice tablets.  These are best if you are concerned about blood pressure or water retention.

Foods

* Sweet foods - Sugar is a natural antacid, so eating something sweet can help curb excessive acid in the stomach and combat acid reflux.  Anything that is sweet and low in acid will do, but fruits such as red apples, pears, purple grapes, and honeydew are best for overall health.

* Vegetables - There are also some vegetables that have antacid properties.  These include potatoes (sweet and white), broccoli, cauliflower, leafy greens, and avocado.

* Foods to avoid - Avoiding certain foods can help prevent acid reflux symptoms, or at least reduce their severity.  Some of these are citrus fruits, sour berries, fermented foods, alcohol, caffeine, tomatoes, mustard, and spicy foods.

Acid reflux can be treated naturally.  These treatments are often just as effective as prescription drugs, and they have a much lower risk of harmful side effects.  Still, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for advice.  Some herbs can interact with other herbs or medicines, and they may not be suitable for people with certain health problems.

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Whether your allergy medicine just isn’t cutting it anymore or you just want to research healthier alternatives, natural medicine can be a healthy and effective way to reduce your allergy symptoms.

You’ve probably heard by now about how good omega 3 fatty acids, also known as “good fats”, are for your body.  They have been shown to prevent many diseases and are considered good for your overall health.  Plus, people who consume a lot of these fatty acids tend to suffer from fewer allergies.  You can put more omega 3s into your diet by eating more fish, flax seed, and certain nuts.  If you just can’t stomach these foods and choose to take a supplement, be sure to research safe products first so you know what you’re taking won’t cause adverse effects.

Quercitin is another compound found naturally in food that can help ease your summer allergies.  It acts by preventing the production of histamines.  You can get quercitin in your diet by eating fruits like citrus, tomatoes, and apples, certain green vegetables like lettuce, broccoli, and parsley, and even from tea and wine.  However, you’ll probably find more relief by taking a supplement.  As a bonus, quercitin is an antioxidant, which means it can reduce your risk of certain types of cancer.

Of all the things you’d think to use to treat allergies, weeds are probably one of the least logical choices.  Surprisingly, stinging nettles and butterbur are both common weeds that have been found to reduce the production of histamine in the body and to provide allergy relief.  They can be found as supplements, or you can buy freeze-dried plants and brew them into your own tea.

Many people rely on allergy shots to treat allergy symptoms.  For these shots, a small amount of allergen is injected under the skin.  They are administered every week for several years.  Eventually, the patient builds up a tolerance and no longer needs medication to control allergies.  The problem is that injecting these allergens into the body can cause an adverse reaction in itself.  There is a new, more gentle method of the same type of procedure.  It is call sublingual immunotherapy and requires allergens to be put under the tongue.  This is a less invasive process that provides the same effect as shots.

If you’re worried about putting chemicals into your body, natural or otherwise, then nettie pots are a great alternative.  These devices operate similar to a nasal spray, but instead of antihistamines, they contain only salt and water.  They act by flushing allergens out of your sinuses (which is where most summer allergens get into your body), preventing a reaction before it starts.  They’re safe, natural, and have been used for hundreds of years.  If you really want, you can skip the pots altogether and just flush your nose with salt water, but nettie pots make the process faster and easier.

The real beauty of natural products is that you can use many of them with your allergy medications for an extra boost.  Just check with your doctor first to make sure there are no interactions or adverse side effects.  You should also remember that unlike medications, natural medicines can take a while to work, so you may need to start using them before allergy season to get the full benefit.

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During the warm summer months, many of us enjoy outdoor sports and hobbies such as gardening.  Some also work outdoors in the heat.  While the heat and sunshine make summer a favorite season for many, they can be dangerous if we’re not careful.

One of the biggest potential dangers in the summer is heat-related illness.  These can occur when the mercury rises and we participate in outdoor activities.  Heat stroke is perhaps the best known type of heat-related illness, but heat exhaustion is more common.  By knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and how to prevent it, we can greatly reduce our chances of the more serious heat stroke.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion may occur when one has been working or exercising outdoors in hot weather, or when one has been exposed to high temperatures for several days.  The very young, the elderly, those on certain medications, and those with high blood pressure are most susceptible, but it can happen to anyone.  The symptoms include:

* Heavy sweating
* Muscle cramps
* Weakness or fatigue
* Headache
* Dizziness
* Nausea or vomiting
* Fainting
* Rapid pulse and respiration
* Dark urine

Preventing Heat Exhaustion

A few simple precautions can help us prevent heat exhaustion.  Some of these are:

* Stay indoors in the air conditioning on very hot days if possible.  This is especially important if the heat index is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Drink plenty of water.  Cut down on caffeine, and avoid alcohol when it is hot out.
* Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
* Try to complete strenuous activities before 10:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m.
* If you must work or exercise outside when it is hot, take frequent breaks.  Be sure to stay well hydrated before, during and after your activity.
* Stay in the shade as much as possible.  It won’t eliminate the danger from the heat, but it will keep you a few degrees cooler than if you were in the sunlight.

If You Have Symptoms

If you notice any of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, it is important to get cooled off quickly.  Sit or lie in a cool, shady place and drink plenty of fluids.  Water is best, and alcohol should not be consumed.  If possible, take a cool bath or shower.

If your symptoms get worse once you’ve attempted to cool off, or they last longer than 30 minutes to an hour, prompt medical attention is warranted.  Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke even if you’re no longer in the heat.

It’s important to take the dangers of being active in hot weather seriously.  Heat exhaustion is unpleasant, and it can lead to a potentially life-threatening situation.  By making a few adjustments to your plans and routine, you can greatly reduce your risk.

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The Effects of Stress on Blood Sugar Levels

The effects of stress on blood sugar levels may become a detriment to your health. This is evidenced by many factors. Let’s take a look at some examples.

Studies have shown that stress increases blood sugar levels. If you are having a bad day at work wherein you become overly stressed, you may not be able to eat lunch but instead opt for a candy bar. You may elect not to go for the usual walk during lunch, but remain at your desk. The stress increases and the blood sugar levels rise. Anything that causes stress on the body on a continual basis may contribute to higher blood sugar levels.

On the other hand, high blood sugar levels may indicate that you have diabetes. While a doctor can ascertain through blood tests whether or not you are predisposed to diabetes, this condition can also be hereditary. Thus, if you are under stress and blood sugar levels rise, you may find a host of symptoms associated with diabetes begin to emerge because the ability to keep blood sugar level under control is thwarted.

Think about those times when you’ve felt emotionally drained because of a fight with a loved one, or the huge emotional impact of a major catastrophe such as a death in the family. Or perhaps you have just been working too hard and the physical stress has taken a toll on your body. The sugar in your system is there for a reason. It is an energy source that allows you to cope with a myriad of challenges. If your body cannot cope with the immediate problem, the more stressed you become the more your blood sugar levels rise.

The problem facing individuals with diabetes is that these same challenges can trigger additional health problems. For example, a person with Type 2 diabetes may become irritable if the blood sugar level is high. They may experience swelling of the ankles, bruising on the arms and legs, cardiovascular disease, and eye problems.

A person with Type 2 diabetes has to control their sugar intake and avoid stressful situations. However, it is not always possible. We live in a stressful environment and for diabetics it is compounded by the fact that they have to constantly monitor their sugar intake through daily blood tests. They also have to engage in daily exercise, keep close watch on their diet, and avoid sweets and other foods which can elevate their blood sugar level.

We know that stress is the number one cause of many health conditions today, but according to the American Diabetes Association, “The good news is that the recently completed Diabetes Prevention Program study conclusively showed that people with pre-diabetes can prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes by making changes in their diet and increasing their level of physical activity. They may even be able to return their blood glucose levels to the normal range.”

In order to help prevent the onset of diabetes, it is important to engage in exercises that promote an inner balance and calm and help control stressful situations, such as Pilates, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or other meditative methods.

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What Allergies Can Bee Pollen Help Treat?

The allergy season can be the bane of life for many people whose immune system offers no protection against the allergens that cause a myriad of conditions. Today, however, bee pollen can act as a firewall that allows the immune system to effectively counteract the symptoms associated with allergies. What allergies can bee pollen help treat? Let’s take a closer look.

Allergies can come in many forms, including hay fever, asthma, hives, sinus problems, bronchitis, colitis, conjunctivitis and, in the worst case scenario, anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock. In order to combat these allergies, bee pollen has been offered as not only a short-term solution, but a long-term preventative measure.

Bee pollen contains proteins, amino acids, and vitamins. In fact, studies have shown that bee pollen is rich in nutrients as well. But the most important effect bee pollen has is known as desensitization. Basically what this means is that when bee pollen is administered, it will build up antibodies so that any future allergens have less or no effect on the immune system.

For example, let’s assume an individual is allergic to cat dander. When bee pollen is taken, the antibodies build up by developing what is known as immunoglobulin. These protect the body against foreign invaders (such as cat dander) and the immune system reacts immediately to the foreign invader so that future contact with cat dander produces no allergic response whatsoever.

In one study, patients were given bee pollen for three years and the results were that 94% remained free of all allergy symptoms. All of the aforementioned conditions associated with allergens were completely cleared among those who were given bee pollen. This is great news for allergy sufferers.

Allergies are emitted from the environment, food, pets, grass, mold, and insects. If you’ve ever had an allergy, you know it can wreak havoc on the body and state of mind. This is why more and more people who suffer from allergies prepare by taking bee pollen to avoid the misery and conditions that are the immediate cause.

Note that before taking any form of bee pollen, it is important to ascertain whether or not you are sensitive to the pollen itself. Pregnant women, children, and nursing mothers should not take bee pollen since there is no present data confirming its efficacy for this group. Consult with your doctor to make a factual determination.

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Organic Coconut Oil to Treat Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition which causes red, dry skin, and it can appear anywhere on the surface of the body. Although there are topical creams such as hydrocortisone medications that can be used to alleviate the symptoms, organic coconut oil to treat eczema can be more effective.

Since coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids and has an anti-inflammatory agent, when applied to the affected area it not only penetrates rapidly but can reduce the inflammation caused by eczema.

In addition, the medium chain fatty acids in coconut oil prevent bacterial infections from forming on the skin. While the topical creams available today can be readily used to ward off dry skin, the difference is that these creams contain other agents which may or may not offer relief. On the other hand, organic coconut oil is unprocessed and its results are immediate. It is a more natural method to use for a variety of skin conditions.

Eczema can present itself in many different forms, including:

- Atopic dermatitis which is inherently genetic, especially among families who have a history of allergies or asthma. - Contact dermatitis which is caused by irritants such as cleaning detergents, cosmetics, and related allergens.
- Seborrheic dermatitis which is predominant among individuals who have oily skin.
- Stasis dermatitis which is a condition caused by excessive fluid that accumulates beneath the skin.
- Neurodermatitis which can be developed by irritants such as clothing.
- Perioral dermatitis which is similar to acne and could be caused by topical creams or makeup.

One of the ways to prevent eczema is by avoiding those products that irritate the skin such as make-up, scented creams and soaps, perfumes, fabric softeners, and other allergens.

Eczema is an irritating condition that affects children and adults. As a general rule, keeping the skin moisturized on a daily basis can alleviate the symptoms and prevent skin inflammation as well. This is especially true during winter months. Having organic coconut oil on hand is not only a great idea to treat eczema, but it can also be used to massage your skin.

As we learn more about the health benefits of natural remedies, we are also less likely to depend upon prescription medications or over-the-counter topical creams to cure skin conditions. Coconut oil is just one of the many effective alternatives used to treat a variety of health problems. Besides treating eczema, it assists in weight loss, can be used as an alternative to other oils, can be used on salads, and has absolutely no chemicals, additives, or preservatives. No wonder the palm on which it grows is called ‘The Tree of Life”.

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Cod Liver Oil for Lower Cholesterol

Heart disease has become a pandemic in our society. Efforts to reduce heart disease and other related illnesses have become part of the collective mindset, and the use of cod liver oil for lower cholesterol levels is one area which has specifically come to the forefront.

If you take a look at native Alaskans, whose diet consists mainly of fish, you may be interested to learn they have lower cholesterol levels, which in turn has decreased their risk of developing heart disease.

One explanation for this is the fish oils the Alaskans were ingesting. Cod liver oil is one alternative that has been shown to be an effective agent in reducing LDL (or “bad” cholesterol) levels. In addition, cod liver oil can lower triglycerides as well as increase the “good” cholesterol or HDL.

Several studies have been conducted to determine the effects of cod liver oil and cholesterol. One study revealed that cod liver oil had a significant effect in arterial function. Another study asserted that a diet composed of omega-3 fatty acids lowers LDL levels, while simultaneously raising HDL levels. This study also confirmed that cod liver oil helps prevent blood clots and maintains a healthy heart.

Let’s face it; we all want to live healthy lives. The cause of high cholesterol depends on many variables including improper diet and lack of exercise, family history, and a deficiency in essential fatty acids and nutrients.

If you or someone you love has high cholesterol, no doubt you have had the blood test to determine the numbers and perhaps a doctor has prescribed one of the many cholesterol-lowering medications available today.

Whether to take these medications or opt for an alternative method can only be determined by your doctor. Certainly pre-existing conditions or negative interactions with drugs may be the deciding factor. However, if you are a healthy individual whose cholesterol levels are a bit high, you may wish to ascertain if taking cod liver oil is a prudent course of action to lower cholesterol.

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