Alex Ghica's Weight Loss

Success story of weight loss

My name is Alex Ghica, I'm from Bucharest, Romania. I'm 22 years old, and in february 2010 I took a decision to change my life, after dropping out of all sports activities and becoming a fast food junkie and candy addict I gained weight considerably. I had two attempts to loose weight, which did not work out that well, because all the weight lost, was gained back real quick. In february I completely changed my lifestyle, now I try to help others achieve the same thing. I quit smoking after 7 years in january 2011 as a bonus for leading a healthy life. Here are some photos of what happened so far. In february 2010 I had 116kg, and 31% body fat, now I have 85kg and 14% body fat.

  The "now" photos are two months old, I'll post my latest pics at the end of july when my transformation is complete, I do not want to look like a body builder, I just want to be perfectly fit. The stretch marks on my body will always remind me that McD and other friendly fastfood places have only "the best interests of serving us the most nutritious and healthy foods".

Preventing Weight Gain...

If you're currently at a healthy weight, you're already one step ahead of the game. To stay at a healthy weight, it's worth doing a little planning now.

Or maybe you are overweight but aren't ready to lose weight yet. If this is the case, preventing further weight gain is a worthy goal.

As people age, their body composition gradually shifts — the proportion of muscle decreases and the proportion of fat increases. This shift slows their metabolism, making it easier to gain weight. In addition, some people become less physically active as they get older, increasing the risk of weight gain.

The good news is that weight gain can be prevented by choosing a lifestyle that includes good eating habits and daily physical activity. By avoiding weight gain, you avoid higher risks of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and some forms of cancer.

Choosing an Eating Plan to Prevent Weight Gain

So, how do you choose a healthful eating plan that will enable you to maintain your current weight? The goal is to make a habit out of choosing foods that are nutritious and healthful. To learn more, visit Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight.

If your goal is to prevent weight gain, then you'll want to choose foods that supply you with the appropriate number of calories to maintain your weight. This number varies from person to person. It depends on many factors, including your height, weight, age, sex, and activity level. For more, see Balancing Calories.

Get Moving!

In addition to a healthy eating plan, an active lifestyle will help you maintain your weight. By choosing to add more physical activity to your day, you'll increase the amount of calories your body burns. This makes it more likely you'll maintain your weight.

Although physical activity is an integral part of weight management, it's also a vital part of health in general. Regular physical activity can reduce your risk for many chronic diseases and it can help keep your body healthy and strong. To learn more about how physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, visit Physical Activity for Healthy Weight.

Self-monitoring

You may also find it helpful to weigh yourself on a regular basis. If you see a few pounds creeping on, take the time to examine your lifestyle. With these strategies, you make it more likely that you'll catch small weight gains more quickly.

Ask yourself—

Has my activity level changed?

 Am I eating more than usual? You may find it helpful to keep a food diary for a few days to make you more aware of your eating choices.

If you ask yourself these questions and find that you've decreased your activity level or made some poor food choices, make a commitment to yourself to get back on track. Set some reasonable goals to help you get more physical activity and make better food choices.

Want to learn more?

Keeping the Weight Off

Losing weight is the first step. Once you've lost weight, you'll want to learn how to keep it off.

Try the fitness challenge to find out how strong you are.

Ask 10 experts for their definition of fitness, and you’ll hear 10 different answers.

 That’s because how you define the word depends on the type of performance you expect. Some athletes need to develop a particular type of fitness over all others—powerlifters at one extreme, marathoners at another—but most of us are at our best when we achieve balanced fitness. In other words, we’re good at everything a healthy, active man needs to be able to do.

On these points the experts agree: You need core stability. You need lower-body strength and power to run, jump, and lift heavy objects off the ground. You need torso strength to lift your own body weight in repeated challenges. And you need enough endurance to run a mile without stopping for defibrillation.

That’s why we asked our experts to create seven fitness tests that will help you assess the shape you’re in. Start with the three challenges below, which measure core and upper-body strength—areas guys generally care about most. (You can see all 7 fitness tests in Are You MH Fit?) But don't just do these exercises once; make them part of your regular workout and you'll quickly broaden your shoulders, build your biceps, and chisel your torso. And become as fit as you've ever been. 

And don’t aim for average. Keep working at these exercises until you're not just fit, but Men’s Health Fit. Let the games begin.

Fitness Test #1: Core Stability

Fitness begins in the middle of your body. That’s also where it ends, if your core isn’t strong and stable. Not only do the muscles in your torso defend your spine against unwanted movements—the twists and jolts that produce injuries—but they also enable the movements you do want. They’re the linchpins that allow coordinated actions of your upper- and lower-body muscles.

So we’ll start with the plank, a fundamental test of core stability and endurance. The average guy should be able to hold a basic plank for 60 seconds, says strength coach Nick Tumminello. If you aspire to be Men's Health Fit, you should be able to do a more challenging version for the same amount of time.

You’ll need something long, solid, light, and straight, like a broom handle or dowel. Assume a basic plank position, with your weight resting on your forearms and toes. Your body should form a straight line from neck to ankles. You want your feet hip-width apart and your elbows directly below your shoulders.

Have a friend set the dowel along your back. It should make contact at three points: the back of your head, between your shoulder blades, and your tailbone. Hold that position. Stop if your body loses contact with the dowel at one of these three points.

If you can hold your position for 60 seconds, stop and rest for two minutes. Then do the plank with your feet on a bench. (You won’t be able to use the dowel, because it will slide off.)

Nailed it? Rest two minutes and try this version: With your feet back on the floor, move your arms forward so your elbows are beneath your eyes instead of your shoulders. If you can hold this one for 60 seconds, congratulations: You’re Men's Health Fit.

Planks are a big part of the 2012 Spartacus Workout, which readers are calling their favorite workout ever. The best part is its simplicity—all you need are dumbbells, a stopwatch, and some serious grit. Are you tough enough to try it?

THE SCORECARD

Below average: You can’t hold a basic plank 60 seconds

Average: You go 60 seconds

Above average: You can hold a plank 60 seconds with your feet elevated on a bench

Men's Health Fit: You can hold a plank with your arms extended for 60 seconds

Fitness Test #2: Pushups

The bench press is the best size- and strength-building exercise for your chest. And yet the lowly ground-based pushup actually works more muscles, even if it doesn’t allow you to hit certain ones with maximum intensity.

Like the bench press, the pushup works your chest, shoulders, and triceps to exhaustion. It’s also a core exercise, forcing muscles in your abdomen, hips, and lower back to work hard to keep your spine in a safe position. But the biggest benefit of the pushup may be the way it forces the web of muscles surrounding your shoulder blades to man up and support your shoulder joints, which can become dysfunctional on a steady diet of bench presses.

This test, courtesy of Martin Rooney, one of the world's top strength and conditioning coaches, may be humbling for you, particularly if you’re at your best with your back on a bench and a barbell in your hands. Assume a pushup position with your hands directly below your shoulders, your feet hip-width apart, your weight resting on your hands and toes, and your body in a straight line from neck to ankles.

Lower your body until your chest is about an inch above the floor, pause for 1 second (this is essential), and then return to the starting position. Complete as many consecutive pushups as you can while maintaining strict form.

THE SCORECARD

Below average: Fewer than 15 pushups

Average: 16 to 29 pushups

Above average: 30 to 44 pushups

Men's Health Fit: 45+ pushups

Fitness Test #3: Chinups

Just as the bench press has replaced the pushup in many exercise programs, so has the lat pulldown replaced the chinup. And that’s a shame. Both exercises hit the featured muscles in the upper and middle back—the lats, lower trapezius, and rear deltoids—but the chinup goes lower and deeper. Because you’re hanging from a bar rather than sitting on a padded seat, you force muscles in your middle back to work with the muscles in your hips and lower back to keep your spine in a safe position.

“Chinups are a great test of upper-body strength and endurance, core stability, and spinal stabilization,” says Men’s Health advisor Alwyn Cosgrove, C.S.C.S., coauthor of The New Rules of Lifting for Abs. Pulldowns are certainly easier, but as with so many things in life, limited effort produces limited rewards.

Grab a chinup bar using a shoulder-width, underhand grip. Hang at arm’s length. Pull your chest up to the bar, pause for 1 second, and then slowly lower your body back to the starting position and repeat. A repetition counts only if you start from a dead hang with your arms straight.

THE SCORECARD

Below average: Fewer than 3 chinups

Average: 3 to 7 chinups

Above average: 8 to 10 chinups

Men's Health Fit: More than 10 chinups

The lethal 'C'

Gynecologists have made it necessary for all expecting mothers to get themselves tested for Hepatitis C. 

According to National Programme for Control and Prevention of Hepatitis (NPCPH), there are about 5 to 6 per cent of hepatitis C patients. But the number of those with hepatitis C could be significantly higher if the entire Pakistani population were screened for the disease. Karachi-based general physician Dr Abu Talib explains about the disease.

"Hepatitis C is an infectious disease that affects the liver. It stops it from functioning properly and leads to swelling of the liver. The infection is often asymptomatic, but once established, chronic infection can progress to scarring of the liver (fibrosis), and advanced scarring (cirrhosis) which is generally apparent after many years. 

Every human being requires a healthy liver as it fights against infections and stops bleeding. It also removes drugs and other poisons from your blood, storing energy for whenever it is needed." 

Who is at risk?

According to Dr. Abu Talib, hepatitis C infection is caused due to the hepatitis C virus (HCV). People at risk may include:

* Long-term kidney dialysis

* Regular or direct contact with blood at work (for instance, if you are working as a health care worker)

* Have unprotected sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis C 

* Share a needle with someone who has hepatitis C

* Receive blood or organs from a donor who has hepatitis C

* Share personal items such as toothbrushes and razors with someone who has hepatitis C (less common)

* Born to hepatitis C infected mothers (this occurs in about 1 out of 20 babies born to mothers with HCV).

Symptoms:

Some of the common symptoms of the disease include abdominal pain (right upper abdomen) and swelling (due to fluid called ascites); bleeding from the oesophagus or stomach (due to dilated veins in the oesophagus or stomach called varices); dark urine;

fatigue; fever; jaundice; loss of appetite and nausea. 

Women and hepatitis C:

Hepatitis C does not spread through casual contact such as sneezing, coughing, hugging, or sharing drinking glasses. She suggests that women who have undergone a C-section or some other sort of surgery that requires blood transfusion should be tested for HCV, as blood transfusion is one of the main causes why this disease spreads. Many expectant women who are diagnosed positive for HCV have to wait till the baby is born, as the drugs are supposed to harm the foetus. Transmitting the virus to their babies during pregnancy or birth is one of their biggest concerns. 

Studies consistently show that the rate of transmission is low, about 5 per cent or 1 in 20 pregnancies; transmission only occurs when the women are diagnosed HCV RNA positive. Women who have chronic hepatitis C (that is, they still have HCV after six months of birth) do not tend to develop liver cirrhosis (scarring), liver cancer, or liver failure as rapidly as men. The female hormone oestrogen is said to protect women from liver damage. But the protective effect of oestrogen may diminish after menopause, as women's bodies produce fewer hormones.

Although HCV has been detected in breast milk in some studies, there is no indication that breastfeeding transmits the virus. Most experts do not discourage HCV-positive women from breastfeeding. But women who have cracked or bleeding nipples should be careful and consult the physician before breastfeeding. HCV is not transmitted from mothers to children through normal household contact. 

Ribavirin (medicine for hepatitis C treatment) is known to cause miscarriages and birth defects, so women should not use this drug during pregnancy. Most doctors also recommend that interferon (another hepatitis drug) should not be taken during pregnancy because of its effects on the foetus. 

Don'ts for people with hepatitis C:

Be careful not to take vitamins, nutritional supplements, or new over-the-counter medications without first discussing it with your health care provider. Try to avoid any substances that are toxic and affects the liver (hepatotoxic). Even a moderate amount of toxic substance speeds up the progression of hepatitis C, and reduces the effectiveness of the treatment.

This week for You....Women

This week You! takes a look at the health problems that are most prevalent in women all around the world... 

Osteoporosis: 

The word osteoporosis literally means 'porous bones', or in other words, bones that are filled with tiny pores, or holes. Our bones change constantly - breaking down and being rebuilt as part of the living process. If the rate of renewal does not equal the rate of breakdown, bone loss occurs. If this continues over the years, this results in osteoporosis.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of osteoporosis including heredity, premature menopause, lack of exercise, smoking, irregular menstrual cycles and weight.

Low intake of calcium during childhood predicts one's chances of developing osteoporosis later in life. It is advised to focus on diet that is rich in calcium. Some rich sources of calcium include milk, yoghurt, cheese, oats etc. Many other nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, folic acid and boron are equally essential for healthy bones. 

Exercise is also extremely important for the prevention of osteoporosis. Doing some weight-bearing exercises such as brisk walking, running, stair-climbing or aerobics can be beneficial.

Breast cancer:

Every year, over 40,000 women worldwide lose their lives to this disease which isn't only curable but is also preventable. Breast cancer can be stopped if it's detected early. Some estimates suggest that an early detection pushes the chances of survival up to 90 per cent. 

A healthier lifestyle automatically translates into a lower risk for breast cancer. However, for women who lead erratic lives, breast cancer may be a possible problem in the future. For anyone who wants to decrease their chances of getting inflicted with breast cancer, the first step would be to control their diet and weight. 

The first thing all women need to do is make sure that they get their breasts examined on an annual basis. For women who have passed the 40 year mark, getting regular mammograms is essential for keeping breast cancer at bay. Both mammograms and clinical screenings are equally important. If one misses the cancer, the other might detect it. This is true for both procedures as there are cases where mammograms become useless and a clinical screening is vital and vice versa.

Factors that place women at a higher risk are:

* Women who have a family history of breast cancer

* Those that started their menstruation cycle at a later age

* Women who have a history of consanguineous i.e. marriages within the family

* Those with a body mass index that is equal to or greater than 30 (women who are overweight or obese)

* Women whose birthing trends show a higher parity (number of times a female gives birth)

* Along with women who gave birth to their child at a later age and have a positive history of abortion.

Periods:

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhoea)

It is estimated that between 50 to 70 per cent of women endure some degree of period pain and cramping. Every month many women suffer from pain around the time of their periods. For some women the pain can be so debilitating that they are forced to take time off work or can only get through their periods by dosing themselves with painkillers. 

Obviously pain is the overriding symptom in dysmenorrhoea, but many women will experience other symptoms, including nausea, diarrhoea/constipation, fainting/feeling dizzy, light-headedness, headaches, exhaustion and lethargy

Vitamin B6 is needed to produce 'good' prostaglandins which help in relaxing and widening the blood vessels. This vitamin has been shown to significantly reduce the intensity and duration of period pains. So it is worth taking a good B-complex supplement. Other nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C and E, zinc and Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) are quite helpful in relieving the pain. 

If you want to ease the pain, include pineapples and berries of any kind (such as blackberries, blackcurrants, strawberries and even grapes) in your diet. The intake of fish or linseed oil capsules will also aid in keeping the 'bad' prostaglandins under control. 

Irregular Periods:

Suffering from irregular periods is a fairly clear indication that your cycles have become imbalanced. Irregular periods can be extremely difficult or even impossible to track.

Many women are unconcerned about having irregular cycles until they begin trying for a baby. Minor cycle irregularities are common. For example, you may have your period on day 23 of one month and then the next month on day 35.

The following symptoms are characteristic of irregular periods, and you can experience a combination of any or all of these:

* Large gaps with no periods

* Some gaps and then periods coming too frequently for a while (for example, two in one month) followed by gaps again.

* No periods for a long time and then bleeding continuously for a few weeks.

Stress and imbalances in thyroid function can be an important factor in causing irregular periods. Vitamins B2, B3 and B6 are necessary for thyroid hormone production and B5 (pantothenic acid) is essential for optimum adrenal function. The easiest way to make sure you are getting a good supply of these vitamins is to take them in the form of a good B-complex tablet. 

It is also believed that antioxidants have the ability to prevent cells from mutating. In other words, they prevent cells from becoming 'abnormal'. Antioxidants include vitamins A, C and E; so, make sure you are getting enough of these valuable nutrients.

Fibroids:

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the muscular wall of the womb and affects almost 20 per cent of women over the age of 30. They can vary in number and size, depending on the individual. Some fibroids can be as small as a pea, but others can be as large as a seven- or eight-month-old foetus. 

The main symptom of fibroids is heavy periods. Some women experience pain with fibroids - not necessarily intense period pains, but a feeling of pressure and a dragging sensation in the abdomen. In some cases the first indication that there may be fibroids is when there is trouble conceiving (infertility) or maintaining a pregnancy (miscarriage).

What you eat is very important because it can help to control excess levels of oestrogen that can encourage the fibroid to grow. It is essential that you start taking vitamins A, B, C and iron. Try to avoid drinking regular black tea with your meals; this blocks the intake of iron from your food. Similarly, phosphates, found in fizzy soft drinks, will also prevent iron from being absorbed by the body. Herb teas and fruit juices are fine.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS):

Polycystic ovaries are ovaries that are actually covered with very small follicles in which the egg develops. In each menstrual cycle, follicles grow on the ovaries. Within those follicles the eggs develop, one of which will reach maturity faster than the others and be released into the fallopian tubes. This is known as ovulation. The remaining follicles (sometimes hundreds) will degenerate. 

In the case of polycystic ovaries, the ovaries are much larger than normal, and there are a series of undeveloped follicles that appear in clumps, rather like a bunch of grapes. Polycystic ovaries are not particularly troublesome and in many cases they will not even affect one's fertility. However, the actual problem starts when the cysts cause a hormonal imbalance. 

With the most extreme form of PCOS, you would tend to be overweight, have no or very few periods, be prone to acne, grow unusually heavy body hair, often on the face, breasts and inside of the legs, and be susceptible to mood swings. And can also result in problems with fertility and often recurrent miscarriages. Women with PCOS may be seven times more likely to develop diabetes because of problems with blood sugar balance. 

It is vital for women with polycystic ovaries to lose weight. This will help the hormone levels to return to normal and the symptoms of PCOS will start diminishing. 

Miscarriage:

Suffering a miscarriage is one of the most devastating things that can happen to a woman. Many women conceive easily and are not emotionally or physically prepared for the shock of losing a baby. 

A miscarriage, also known as 'spontaneous abortion', occurs when a baby (foetus) is lost spontaneously before the 24th week of pregnancy. In the case of a threatened miscarriage, where the risk of losing the baby is increased, one may experience:

* Bleeding from the vagina, often containing clots

* Blood in the vaginal mucous

* Abdominal pain and/or cramping

* Back pain

The nutrients that can be beneficial in preventing miscarriages are folic acid, vitamin E, selenium. Vitamin E is quite beneficial in thinning the blood and also prevents blood from clotting. While folic acid is essential for expectant mothers, it is extremely important for women who experience miscarriage.

How to Prevent Man Boobs

This may be a funny topic, except that for some people it is 

very real, and embarrassing. Parents and young males should take note of contributing factors, making this an entirely preventable problem.

First of all let me start out by saying, I do not have man boobs. I am a girl, well okay, a woman. I want to point out that while man boobs occur in adult men, particularly those who are obese, a real problem is if they start to develop on young teenage boys. This is a real heath concern.

Breast development in teenage males is becoming more and more common. I doubt there has been a genetic mutation that suddenly occurred throughout the population, so it is more likely the result of an external force. The most likely cause of this is therefore, diet. I suggest three main areas of diet are contributing to the problem. I have started with the least likely culprits and worked up to what I feel is the biggest offender. Change your diet and you should be safer from developing this embarrassing problem.

Potato Chips. High in fat. Breast tissue is largely fat, eating fatty substances surely would contribute to the problem, especially in teenage boys. There are many different kinds of chips, some are being baked in ways that reduces the amount of fat. Rather than giving up eating potato chips altogether, a person should try to convert to eating the less fatty variety.

Beef and Pork. Meat is a problem, but not because of the fat content, and not because of how it is cooked. Mostly it is a problem because of the growth hormones injected into the animal, these hormones enter your body, even in minute amounts, eventually they can become a problem and possibly contribute to the development of male breast tissue growth. An easy thing to do is simply reduce the meat portion of your diet, in no way am I pushing people to become vegetarians, but in some cultures we eat far more meat than is recommended for daily intake.

Chicken. The number one contributer. The meat industry values the chicken breast. Chickens are selected for large breasts, and bred for that as well. Additionally they are given hormones to encourage larger breast development. It is my opinion, and has not been medically proven to my knowledge, that these hormones are likely to have entered the food supply, resulting in the unnatural growth of male breast tissue. You can select organically grown chicken or simply reduce the amount of chicken you consume.

Okay, true, this may not be scientifically proven yet, but it logically makes sense. Connect the dots yourself. It is common sense, this problem didn’t use to exist, we didn’t used to pump our food animals full of growth hormones. The problem is not as common in other cultures who do not eat as much meat, or where livestock is not subjected to so many chemicals.

Do I think this will help girls grow larger breasts? Well in truth it has been proven that the chemicals and hormones in meat have contributed to earlier puberty. However, this is actually a dangerous thing. The early onset of puberty creates very awkward moments for young girls who are not emotionally ready for the physical responsibility. I think the chemicals and hormones are triggering development, and will not necessarily make girls grow larger breasts, so I do not feel eating more meat is a good thing for young women to do if they want big boobs. Parents need to pay special attention to what food they offer at meal times to avoid creating this problem from, developing, pardon the pun.

There are other dangers of consuming meat in large quantities, studies have linked it to cancer. I am not suggesting people give up meat totally, but remember the recommended daily portion size is about the size of a deck of cards, and it is okay to have some days without consuming meat. Wash all fruits and vegetables.

Male breast development is real, it’s a problem, and it is preventable.

I have decided to spare you the pain of having pictures on this site, which are really not necessary. While this is a funny topic, all the points I made are serious.

Omega-3 Fats Provide Powerful Fertility Benefits

Omega-3 fatty acids have recently been shown to 

play a key role in the development of healthy sperm.

What the study found was that omega-3 fatty acids turns dysfunctional ’round headed’ sperm into strong, healthy ‘cone-shaped’ headed sperm with egg-opening proteins. This research sheds light on how a diet lacking in omega-3′s could lead to what on the surface seems like infertility.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Shown to Positively Impact Sperm Health

In the study, researchers examined how sperm develops in mice deficient in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid that makes up omega-3′s. What they found is that DHA plays an important role in sperm properly forming a structure known as the acrosome on the head of the sperm. The acrosome is contains enzymes which enable the sperm to break through the egg’s outer layers, thus making way for fertilization. Study researcher Manabu Nakamura reports the following:

“The acrosome on top of this cone head is gigantic, it is a large sack containing lots of enzymes…When the sperm meets the egg, the acrosome bursts and it releases enzymes and helps the sperm penetrate into the egg.”

What causes the proper formation of the acrosome is when vesicles fuse together inside what will become the sperm. These vesicles harness a key enzyme that is needed by the sperm if penetration and fertilization to the egg is to occur. Without DHA, however, this formation process does not happen. If the vesicles do not fuse together to make the acrosome, sperm maturation comes to a stop, and what looks like infertility is the result.

Luckily the human body, as well as other mammals, are able to make their own DHA if other fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are present. But with a problematic DHA-synthesizing enzyme, infertility problems could occur.

Improved sperm health is not the only benefits produced by omega-3 fatty acids. When you consume high quality fats such as DHA and EPA, you are essentially feeding the brain and giving it what it needs to function. A great source of omega-3 fats is walnut oil or flaxseed oil. You could also take a supplement of high quality fish oil such as that derived from krill.

Article source  http://naturalsociety.com

The Miracle TEA (Green Tea)

"It's better to be deprived of food for three days,

 than green tea for one"....Ancient Chinese proverb.

Green tea has been enjoyed by people in China and Japan for thousands of years, not only for its taste but also for the now scientifically proved health benefits associated to it. Nowadays being consumed by millions all over the world, this particular tea, produced from the leaves of Camellia Sinensis is a bundle of health in just one cup a day. It’s also completely safe and economical to drink because it’s 100% natural. A lot of people have heard of the advantages of green tea but many don't know why it’s so beneficial and how its consumption can prove to be good to ones health. Read on to learn all the health benefits of green tea and have the moral satisfaction of knowing how every sip of it can to wonders for your body. 

What makes it so special?

 The secret of green tea lies in the fact that it is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful anti-oxidant. EGCG is beneficial for the human body in numerous ways, but what sets green tea apart is the way its processed. Green tea leaves are steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound from being oxidised. 

Effects

The consumption of this miracle tea is favorable for our bodies in more ways than we can dream of. The best way to preserve the numerous disease-fighting nutritions of green tea is to drink it freshly brewed. Let your tea steep for about 4-5 minutes before drinking it and see its many advantages in just a few months. The positive health effects of green tea are:

Prevents cancer:

If included in the diet daily, it can reduce bladder, colon, esophageal, pancreas, rectum, and stomach cancer up to 60%. The EGCG in the tea is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and besides it inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it also manages to kill the cells without harming healthy tissue.

Lowers "bad" cholesterol:

While containing properties that reduce bad cholesterol, it also improves the ratio of "good" cholesterol (known as HDL). 

Reduces high blood pressure:

Green tea helps in keeping down the blood pressure level by repressing angiotensin II; the cause of constriction of blood vessels that lead to high blood pressure.

Anti-diabetes effects:

Polyphenols and polysaccharides in green tea are the two main antioxidants that are especially effective in lowering blood sugar. This further helps in preventing and relieving type-two diabetes.

Prevents liver disease:

The tea protects the liver even from toxins like alcohol and chemicals in cigarette smoke.

Destroys dental diseases: 

It diminishes the bacteria that cause tooth decay, plaque as well as bad breath.

Destroys free radicals that cause aging: 

Green tea will have the skin fresh and glowing just after a few weeks of its consumption. It also has long term benefits of making the skin young for a longer period of time as the polyphenol in it fights free radicals.

Boosts immune system:

Its high concentration of polyphenols and flaveboids boosts the disease-fighting capacity of the body.

Cardiovascular health:

Protects the body against cardiovascular disease as it improves blood vessel reactivity. Also contributing to the reduction arterial stiffness, green tea in effect reduces the chances of heart attacks and strokes. Green tea also helps prevent cell damage and speeds up recovery of the heart cells.

Relief from allergies:

The EGGC anti-oxidant blocks main receptors that produce allergic reactions.

Cold and flu:

Due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, green tea speeds up recovery from cold and flu. The vitamin C found in green tea treats it.

Boosts mental alertness: 

The amino acid L-theanine, found almost exclusively in the tea plant, actively alters the attention networks of the brain. The theanine is absorbed by the small intestine and crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it affects the brain's neurotransmitters and increases alpha brain-wave activity. The result is a calmer, yet more alert, state of mind.

Lowers stress:

Drinking green tea lowers levels of the stress hormone (cortisol), up to 20 per cents. It also helps in reducing headaches caused by stress and anxiety.

Effects on HIV:

EGCG found in green tea can lead to the inhibition of HIV binding to health immune cells. It is not a cure but if used in combination with conventional medicines, it can improve quality of life for those infected. 

Food poisoning:

The Catedchin in green tea kills bacteria in food. 

Antidepressant properties

A more frequent consumption of green tea, at least 2 to 3 cups a day, leads to a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms.

The weight loss factor

With the help of green tea extracts one can speed up the fat burning process. Researchers have discovered that drinking a cup of green tea daily (ideally during daytime because that’s when your metabolism works best), boosts the bodies metabolism from 8 to 14 percent due to its high concentration levels of polyphenol. Also, the catechin ingredient in green tea boosts the burning of calories and prevents free-radicals from damaging the body after a heavy workout. Exercise accompanied with green tea will get ones body in shape in no time. For the best results, drink one cup of this herbal weight loss tea daily after every meal and soon your body will become slimmer and healthier. Whether you’re a body builder or just someone who wants to get rid of unwanted fat, a green tea diet is the right answer for you! Consider it as Mother Nature’s gift to keep you healthy and in shape!

Negative Effects of Green . 

Green tea has numerous benefits but always keep in mind that even the healthiest thing in the world can turn into poison if over done. The side effects of green tea begin if one exceeds the usual recommendation of 4 to 6 cups a day. This includes insomnia, irregular heart beat, dizziness, diarrhea, excessive urination, vomiting, headache, reduction of potassium levels, loss of appetite or other caffeine-related side effects. Tea contains oxalate, so over consumption of it can cause kidney stones. Also, avoid drinking tea when it’s scalding hot or when it turns cold as this can be harmful to the digestive system and has been linked to risks of esophageal cancer. Remember never to drink tea on an empty stomach as this can cause "coldness" to enter the lungs and stomach system. In addition to this, it is advised to pregnant women to steer clear of green tea as the caffeine present in it can increase the risk a miscarriage and growth retardation. In this situation, the EGCG in green tea can affect the way in which the body uses folate, which is vital in the prevention of neural tube birth defects. Green tea is also not advisable to be consumed by the young as it contains tannins that may block nutrients absorption such as protein and fats in children.

Fruit Juices and Nectars both act as Nutritious Beverages and can play a significant part in a Healthy Diet

Intro: Fruit juices and nectars both act as nutritious

beverages and can play a significant part in a healthy diet.

It would be prudent to look towards a box of juice

to revitalise you in the smoldering summer

heat and keep you hydrated...

With the never-ending 'To Do' list and overwhelming time constraints most women easily fall prey to the unrealistic expectations and superficial standards fabricated by society. Indeed, life is extremely busy and demanding and the world we live in is very fast paced and stressful. Familiar with the above predicament, the lives of most women revolve around finding and striking the right balance between family needs, office responsibilities, social obligations and extra-curricular activities which can be truly exhausting. 

Here it is imperative to point out that more often than not women tend to ignore their own health and well being in pursuit of what is only achievable in an ideal world - the perfect balance. It is at times like these that we need to be reminded that it is only when we take care of ourselves, *are we best able to care for those around us. Sometimes it is okay to just take comfort in knowing that you've done the best that you could in a day and that tomorrow is another day. Being content with giving your family your 100% should be rewarding enough. 

Having a balanced and nutritional diet is the key to achieving balance in other aspects of life. A balanced diet will lead to a more energized you, which in turn will allow you to efficiently manage your day without being bogged down. There are many sources from where one can get the required energy you need. However, bearing in mind your nutritional needs and hectic schedule- it would be prudent to look towards a box of juice to revitalise you in the smoldering summer heat and keep you hydrated. 

There is nothing like a cool refreshing juice to combat that lethargy we all feel during the day. However, most of us are unaware about what the healthiest choice options are in the juices category. As far as beverages are concerned, needles to say, non-carbonated drinks are the healthiest of the lot and can further be divided into still drinks, juices and nectars. Still drinks are the kind in which you have a readymade formula to which water is added to make a glass or jug of it, squashes for example. Nectars are a form of fruit juice which contains fruit concentrate and which can take a range of forms, depending on the style in which it is made. Many people associate 'nectar' with undiluted fruit juices that tend to be very sweet and very rich, much like the plant nectar they are named for. Juices are the beverages produced as a result of crushing or squeezing a fruit and have a 100% fruit concentrate. 

Fruit juices and nectars both act as nutritious beverages and can play a significant part in a healthy diet because they offer a variety of nutrients found naturally in fruits. Being one of the best forms of nature's power foods, they are really valuable for health. One of the best advantages of fruit juices is that it stirs-up and flushes out accumulated toxins. 

Looking at the present scenario, where every person is going through various efforts to cope with their routines and lifestyle with little or no time for self appreciation staying healthy and active without feeling fatigued can certainly be a challenge. Healthy eating habits and fruit juices can definitely prove to be very beneficial in the pursuit of balance and help ensure a 'fruitastic' life.

Dental Trouble

Intro: This week You! takes a 

look at several tooth problems and how one 

can cure them...

A 'toothache' refers to pain around the teeth or jaws primarily resulting from a dental condition. Its severity in pain ranges from mild to excruciating and may further be aggravated after chewing food. There are several causes of toothache and not all of them are necessarily related to dental health. This is why it's necessary to see a dentist for an accurate diagnosis in order to cure the problem from its root. Following are some of the tooth problems causing toothaches, hand in hand with viable solutions required to get rid of them.

Dental cavities & dental abscess

Dental cavities (caries) are holes in the two outer layers of a tooth called the enamel and the dentin. Both the layers serve to protect the inner living tooth tissue called the pulp, where blood vessels and nerves reside. The acid created from sugars, softens and (along with saliva) dissolves the enamel and dentin, creating cavities. The inner living pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by bacterial toxins or by foods and liquids that are cold, hot, sour, or sweet, thereby causing toothaches. Severe injury to the pulp can lead to the death of pulp tissue, resulting in tooth infection (dental abscesss).

Treatment:  Treatment of a small and shallow cavity usually involves a dental filling and a crown for larger cavities. Treatment for a cavity that has penetrated and injured the pulp or infected the tooth is either a root canal procedure or extraction. 

Gum disease

The second most common cause of toothache is gum disease (periodontal disease). Gum disease refers to inflammation of the soft tissue (gingiva) and abnormal loss of bone that surrounds and holds the teeth in place. Gum disease is caused by toxins secreted by certain bacteria in "plaque" that accumulate over time along and under the gum line. An early symptom of gum disease is gum bleeding without feeling any pain. Pain is a symptom of more advanced gum disease as the loss of bone around the teeth leads to the formation of deep gum pockets. Bacteria in these pockets cause gum infection, swelling, pain, and further bone destruction. 

Treatment: Treatment of gum disease always involves oral hygiene and removal of bacterial plaque and tartar (hardened plaque). Advanced gum disease usually requires a thorough cleaning of the teeth and teeth roots called 'scaling and root planing' and 'subgingival curettage'. Scaling and root planning is the removal of plaque and tartar from exposed teeth roots while subgingival curettage refers to the removal of the surface of the inflamed layer of gum tissue. Both of these procedures are usually performed under local anesthesia and may be accompanied by the use of oral antibiotics to overcome gum infection or abscess. In advanced gum disease with significant bone destruction and loosening of teeth, teeth splinting or teeth extractions may be necessary.

Tooth root sensitivities

Toothache can also be caused by exposed tooth roots, a condition known as 'recession'. Bacterial toxins dissolve the bone around the roots and cause the gum and the bone to recede, exposing the roots. The exposed roots can become extremely sensitive to cold, hot, and sour foods.

Treatment: Early stages of root exposure can be treated with topical fluoride gels applied by the dentist or with special toothpastes (such as Sensodyne or Denquel) which contain fluorides and other minerals. These minerals are absorbed by the surface layer of the roots to make the roots stronger and less sensitive to the oral environment. Dentists may also apply 'bonding agents' to the exposed roots to seal the sensitive areas. In case of injury of the inner living pulp tissue of the tooth due to root exposure, a root canal procedure or tooth extraction may be required.

Cracked tooth syndrome

'Cracked tooth syndrome' refers to a toothache caused by a broken tooth (tooth fracture) without associated cavity or advanced gum disease. These fractures are usually due to chewing or biting hard objects such as hard candies, pencils, nuts, etc. 

Treatment: Treatment involves protecting the tooth with a full-coverage crown made of gold and/or porcelain. 

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

Disorders of the temporomandibular joint (s) can cause pain which usually occurs in or around the ears or lower jaw. TMJ disorders can be caused by different types of problems such as injury, arthritis, or jaw muscle fatigue from habitually clenching or grinding teeth. Sometimes, muscles around the TMJ used for chewing can go into spasm, causing head and neck pain as well as difficulty in opening the mouth normally. 

Treatment: This involves oral anti-inflammatory over-the counter (OTC) drugs like ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). Other measures include warm moist compresses to relax the joint areas, stress reduction, and/or eating soft foods that do not require much chewing. If bruxism is diagnosed by a dentist, a bite appliance (night guard) may be recommended that is worn during the night to protect the teeth. 

Impaction & eruption

Dental pain can come from teeth that are erupting (tooth growing out or "cutting") or are impacted (tooth has failed to emerge into its proper position and remains under gum and/or bone). When a molar tooth erupts, the surrounding gum can become inflamed and swollen. Impacted teeth cause pain when they put pressure onto other teeth or bone and are inflamed and/or infected. 

Treatment: This involves pain medication, antibiotics (for infections), and surgical removal.

The Pandemic fever!

Intro: The dengue virus scare is increasing day by 

day as the disease continues to spread worldwide.

You! takes a look at the signs and symptoms of the virus... 

Dengue virus or fever, a mosquito-borne disease with no known treatment, is spreading rapidly around the globe. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that 2.5 billion people are at a risk from one of the world's fastest-emerging infections. Officials at the WHO say Asia, home to 70 per cent of the at-risk population, has seen a rise in dengue mainly because of higher temperatures due to climate change and rising populations.

What is dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a disease caused by a family of viruses that are transmitted by mosquitoes. It is an acute illness of sudden onset that usually follows a benign course with symptoms such as headache, fever, exhaustion, severe muscle and joint pain, swollen glands and rash. Other signs of dengue fever include bleeding gums, severe pain behind the eyes, and red palms and soles.

Dengue strikes people with low levels of immunity. It goes by other names, including 'breakbone' or 'dandy fever'. Victims of dengue often have contortions due to the intense joint and muscle pain, hence the name breakbone fever. 

Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a more severe form of the viral illness. Manifestations include headache, fever, rash, and evidence of hemorrhage in the body. Small red or purple blisters under the skin, bleeding in the nose or gums, black stool, or easy bruising are all possible signs of hemorrhage. This form of dengue fever can be life-threatening and can progress to the most severe form of the illness, dengue shock syndrome.

The virus's main affect is on the platelet production. Normally the platelets in our body last for about four days and the body replenishes them when required. This virus destroys the body's capacity to produce new platelets. The platelet count for a normal person varies from 1.5 - 2.5 lacs per unit volume. On getting infected the patient's platelet count starts falling and a count below 1 lac is alarming. A platelet count below 50,000 is fatal.

How is dengue fever contracted?

The virus is contracted from the bite of a striped Aedes aegypti mosquito that has previously bitten an infected person. The mosquito flourishes during rainy seasons but can breed in water-filled flower pots, plastic bags, and cans year-round. One mosquito bite can inflict the disease.

Dengue fever symptoms and signs

* After being bitten by a mosquito carrying the virus, the incubation period ranges from usually five to eight days before the signs and symptoms of dengue appear. 

* Dengue starts with chills, headache, pain upon moving the eyes, and low backache. Painful aching in the legs and joints occurs during the first hours of illness. 

* The temperature rises quickly with low heart rate and low blood pressure (hypotension). 

* Eyes become reddened. 

* A flushing or pale pink rash comes over the face and then disappears. The glands (lymph nodes) in the neck and groin often swell up too.

* Fever and other signs of dengue last for two to four days, followed by a rapid drop in body temperature (defervescence) with profuse sweating. 

* This precedes with normal temperature and a sense of well-being that lasts about a day. A second rapid rise in temperature follows. 

What is the treatment for dengue fever?

Because dengue fever is caused by a virus, there is no specific medicine or antibiotic to treat it. For typical dengue, the treatment is purely concerned with relief of the symptoms. Bed rest and intake of plenty of fluids for adequate hydration is important. Medicines should only be taken under a doctor's supervision. It is also necessary to monitor blood pressure and platelet count. 

There are several preventive steps that can be taken to avoid dengue virus:

* The most important is to ensure there is no standing water near residential areas where mosquitoes breed.

* Spraying insecticide, applying mosquito repellent and wearing long sleeves and trousers can also be helpful.

* Avoid wearing dark colours as they attract mosquitoes.

Home remedies to prevent dengue..?

Raw papaya leaves: Squeezing out the leaves of raw papaya is quite beneficial for increasing the platelets of a dengue patient. Take two leaves, pound and squeeze the juice through a filter cloth. You will only get one tablespoon per leaf. Do not boil, cook or rinse with hot water, else it will lose its strength. 

Orange juice: It helps with digestion, increased urinary output, promotes antibodies for faster healing and recovery. It gives energy and vitamins, over all a great source for fighting fever.

Basil leaves: Intake of boiled basil leaves served as warm tea can prevent the outbreak of dengue. This bitter and pungent herb has all the qualities that can fortify the internal system.

Neem tree: Neem has magnificent healing properties and can be used for special air purifying qualities. It is extremely efficient in alleviating such air borne disease like dengue. A tonic made from the leaves of the neem tree is the best as they are great purifying agents.

What is Water Matters..?

Intro: You! highlights the health hazards caused 

due to consuming contaminated 

water and what should be done to thwart it...

Water is our body's vital fuel, a health drink provided by Mother Nature herself. We all know that clean water has many health benefits for the human body, however, it can also prove to be hazardous and fatal if the water is contaminated. Nowadays, in Karachi, the ratio of water-borne diseases, particularly among the young ones, is on the rise because unhygienic and polluted water is being supplied to homes. Mineral water is available in the market so that people can consume pure drinking water but a very minor percentage of the population can afford to buy it. This is why generally people consume whatever they get from the tap at their homes and then end up suffering the consequences of impure water. Recently, water samples from different localities of the city were collected and tested in the Food lab of CDGK which showed that 50 per cent of the samples were contaminated. 

Read on to find the health hazards that are being caused due to contaminated water and the precautionary measures that can be taken to prevent various illnesses - particularly from water-borne diseases in young ones. 

The current situation

According to the Ex-General Secretary of Pakistan Medical Association (PMA), Karachi, Dr. Qaiser Sajjad, the city seems to have been invaded by water-borne diseases as hundreds of cases are being reported in different hospitals. Gastroenteritis also hit the city and the major cause was found out to be consumption of contaminated water. "All the main roads and streets of the city have been inundated with rain water and is mixed with water from sewerage lines, which has resulted in infecting the whole water," said Dr Qaiser.

It is vital to improve the sanitation system or people would face the deadliest diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, gastroenteritis and food poison etc. in the near future.

Hazards of contaminated water

Water is important for the body as it accounts for about 60 per cent of the body weight. A good water intake has many benefits linked to it. It adds to one leading a long and healthy lifestyle where not only one feels good but looks good as well. Water helps in exercising efficiently and since it's a natural appetite suppressant, water can help us lose weight. It also helps in maintaining healthy skin. However, contaminated water kills the real purpose of taking water and turns the benefits into nil. 

Contaminated water leads to many health complications such as dehydration and diarrhoea. 

"Contaminated water is not only a threat to the health of expecting mothers but is also dangerous for the foetus," explained Dr Tasnim Sadiq who is an Obstetrician at the Burhani Hospital, Karachi. The contaminated water flowing in our city can also cause urinary tract infections in expecting mothers, who are more prone to this type of infection. 

Clean water when consumed bathes the body cells and refreshes them while contaminated water pollutes them. This affects the joints and causes pain in various areas of the body including backache. Whereas clean water can help your back and joints stay healthy.

Prevention 

To avoid health problems caused by water during the rain season, be sure to boil it before drinking.

"Water should be boiled for around 20 to 30 minutes to abolish 99.99 per cent viruses from the water," shared Dr Shahid at CHK. "This easy exercise can protect the health of millions from many dangerous diseases."

Chlorine and salt tablets can also be used to cleanse the water and make it healthy enough for drinking purposes. Water filters are also very useful. 

Children are particularly prone to water-borne diseases so mothers are advised to give them mineral water or properly boiled water. Make sure that feeders and other utensils are sterilised or properly washed in boiled water. You have to be very careful and just keeping simple things in mind like washing your hands properly before eating etc. can help you in preventing various ailments. Don't drink boiled water in a glass washed with contaminated water as it kills the purpose of using potable water. Crockery and other utensils used for eating foods should also be washed with boiled water. Also use boiled water for washing hands and mouth of your child. Health experts strongly advise people to use only boiled water and to avoid outdoor meals, especially during the rainy season.