Sunday, January 11, 2009

Get Healthy Antioxidants From Coffee


Millions of Americans drink at least one cup of coffee every morning and usually more throughout the whole day. It gives them the energy they need to make it through the day and get everything on their list accomplished. But you have to ask yourself is coffee really healthy?

Several studies show that coffee helps to clear the drinker's mind and of course give them energy like we stated previously. What most people don't know is that besides it rich taste it also has the ability to provide many healthful antioxidants than most other foods and drinks that Americans consume on a regular basis.

But with every positive there is always a negative. Too much of a good thing is never good and when you drink too much coffee it can turn you into a jitterbug and can raise your levels of cholesterol. That is why the majority of food experts say that when you drink coffee you need to do it in moderation.

Joe A. Vinson a chemistry professor at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania performed a study and learned the health benefits from coffee. "The point is, people are getting the most antioxidants from beverages, as opposed to what you might think," Vinson said.

Researchers believe that antioxidants help to fight against cancer and to give our bodies other beneficial health benefits. Most antioxidants are found in tomatoes, grains, fruits, and vegetables. Vinson chose to study coffee after first researching the health benefits of tea and chocolate.

Both he and his team were able to analyze the amount of antioxidants in over 100 different foods that included nuts, spices, fruits, oils, vegetables, and some of the more common beverages. After doing this they were able to use the Agricultural Department information on the average patterns of food consumption to help them calculate how much these antioxidants help to contribute to someone's diet.

Their results showed that an average adult will eat 1,299 milligrams of antioxidants from coffee on a daily basis. Many fruits and vegetables ranked in at 76 and 72 milligrams. But despite these good numbers Vinson does not believe that coffee is a good substitute for vegetables and fruits.

"Unfortunately, consumers are still not eating enough fruits and vegetables, which are better for you from an overall nutritional point of view due to their higher content of vitamins, minerals and fiber," Vinson said.

There are a few Health Benefits Of Coffee that makes drinking it even more enjoyable. At My Guide To Nutrition you can learn about other Healthy Beverages that we can drink on a daily basis.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Naomi_West

Monday, December 8, 2008

Can't Get Enough on Insomnia


Everyone needs to sleep, one of the primary functions of sleep is to reset and replenish the emotional capacity of our brain circuits so we can approach the day's emotional challenges in appropriate ways. However, there are the unfortunate ones who go through annoying sleep problems.

Sleep problems are a highly common medical issue that affects millions of people each year. While some people suffer from mild sleeping problems, such as occasional nightmare, others have extremely severe sleep disorders that can negatively affect their health, if it left untreated. This astonishing number means that a huge number of people aren't getting the treatment they need, putting them in danger of permanently damaging their health. If one doesn't get enough sleep, he or she will eventually make irrational choices due to lack of concentration. If this lack of sleep constantly hounds a person, he or she might be having some sort of a sleeping disorder such as insomnia.

Insomnia is a condition in which a person have trouble falling or staying asleep. Some people with insomnia may be able to get asleep fast but they just as easily wake up. Other people may have the opposite problem, or they have trouble with both falling asleep and staying asleep. The end result is poor-quality sleep that doesn’t leave one feeling refreshed when he or she wakes up.

Insomnia includes any combination of difficulty with falling asleep, staying asleep, intermittent wakefulness and early-morning awakening. Episodes may be transient, short term or chronic. Insomnia may also result from psychological or physical causes. The most common psychological problems include anxiety, stress, and depression. Many people will have insomnia during the acute phases of a mental illness. Other medical conditions that trigger insomnia are chronic pain syndromes, congestive heart failure, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or Alzheimer's Disease.

Common stimulants associated with poor sleep include caffeine and nicotine. One should consider not only restricting caffeine use in the hours immediately before bedtime but also limiting the total daily intake. People often use alcohol to help induce sleep, as a nightcap. However, it is a poor choice. Alcohol is associated with sleep disruption and creates a sense of non-refreshed sleep in the morning. A disruptive bed partner with loud snoring or periodic leg movements also may impair one's ability to get a good night's sleep.

Insomnia can be mild to severe depending on how often it occurs and for how long. Chronic insomnia means having symptoms at least three nights per week for more than a month. Insomnia that lasts for less time is known as short-term or acute insomnia. Secondary insomnia often resolves or improves without treatment if an individual can eliminate its cause. This is especially true if the problem can be corrected soon after it starts.

Fortunately, there are treatments for insomnia that can help put a person back on the path to a good night’s sleep. There are cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), hypnotics (FDA approved medications for insomnia), and other treatments such as low dose antidepressant medications.

Better sleep habits and lifestyle changes often help relieve insomnia. One may need to see a doctor or sleep specialist to get the best relief for insomnia that is persistent or for which the cause of the sleep problem is unclear.

Monday, November 10, 2008

How to Prevent Prostate Cancer

The exact cause of prostate cancer has not yet been determined, but some studies have shown that there are certain factors that may play a role in the development of this disease. Though these possible contributing factors have not been determined to be conclusive, there is enough evidence to suggest that paying attention to these possible risk factors can help with early detection of prostate cancer, and possibly even prevention.

• Prostate Cancer Screening: Regular screening for prostate cancer is important for early detection, especially after the age of 45.

• Diet: A man's diet appears to play a significant role in reducing their risk for prostate cancer. To reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer it is best to reduce the amount of animal fat and dairy products in your diet, while at the same time increasing the amount of vegetables, fruits, and high fiber, as well as adding more whole grain foods in your diet. Avoid salt and sugar.

• Get Some Sun: The vitamin D that your body absorbs through the sun is believed to help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

• Regular Exercise: Getting enough exercise may also help to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. Physical activity releases a hormone that is thought to inhibit the development of this type of cancer.

• Sexual Activity: Some studies suggest that those who are sexually active on a regular basis have less of a risk of developing prostate cancer than those men who are not sexually active. The reasoning behind this is that regular ejaculation helps to flush away toxins and prevent their build-up in the prostate.

• Antioxidants: A possibly important factor in helping to prevent prostate cancer is having enough antioxidants in your diet, such as those found in green tea.

Though none of these preventative measures are a guarantee against prostate cancer, the evidence is very suggestive that they can help prevent this disease. In addition to those preventative measures mentioned above, there are also some less conventional methods that are being used, which may possibly help prevent prostate cancer, such as message therapy, acupuncture, etc. Keep in mind that no matter what preventative measures you take against prostate cancer, to be safe you should be screened on a regular basis.

Sunil Rattu has created a website just for you that explains what he considers to be one of the best information products about Prostate Cancer that is on the market. Give yourself a helping hand, discover pages and pages of knowledge on Prostate Cancer. Go and check out http://www.prostatecancer.info-rattu.com before you do anything else today

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sunil_Rattu

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Dental Care for a Reliable Smile

Dentistry is the branch of science dealing with the dental care, diagnosis, impediment and management of dental infections including those of gum and associated structures of mouth including repairing of the flawed teeth. Dental care is an integral part of the overall health care as tooth has vital function in numerous bodily functions. Dental care is the main key to hygienic and healthy living.

It is well known fact that face is the index of mind and shiny teeth play a significant role brightening one's facial appearance. An eternal smile is the perfect impression one may possess and an attractive smile is enhances by the healthy and glossy teeth. One can win the hearts of the intermingling people very easily with a glossy smile. Teeth do have a natural color and enamel is the outer protective layer of it.

Dental care engrosses taking excellent care of the teeth, gums along with the associated composition of mouth. Anticipation and management of ailments of the gum, teeth, the subrogation or mending of flawed teeth are normally included under dental care. The traditional mode of dental care rather free dental care is brushing of the teeth daily and this practice must be given the top priority in dental health care.

A smile revives the face healthier and lively than any sorts of make-up can effect will make everyone look and stare and pearly white and clean with fresh smelling breath will absolutely be a life altering factor. The world health organization in collaboration with Indian dental association various free dental care camps are being organized. Dental care mission is the mission of total good and healthy living for all with healthy tooth.

Several people are suffering from dental illness due to absolute idleness and short of knowledge for proper dental attention. They are unsuccessful to comprehend that vigorous teeth, gum and related mouth structures are extremely important a sound health and overall well being. Proper dental fitness is not merely important for our healthy physical appearance but it is indispensable to the safety and welfare of the complete body.
Dental care may also be interpreted as tooth whitening system which is the most safe and gentle way of purging discolorations and blemishes on the teeth or enhancing and maintaining the natural color. Dental care efforts can be done once the person attains his teeth and remain for the whole life but this should be critically given importance to the permanent set of teeth.

Maintaining excellent dental care may found to be costly and thus we can go for the better dental insurance that encloses the costs for the dental treatment whether it is a regular dental health check or an urgent situation. Acquiring dental insurance from a sound dental insurance companies alleviate the worries and hassles of otherwise expensive rate oral or dental care.

Brushing teeth twice is a necessary dental care for preventing tooth decomposition and gum ailments. The size and form of toothbrush and appropriate toothpaste containing fluoride is the best tip for dental care. Fluoride assist in protection from teeth decay and is a fundamental dental care fir those who clean the teeth using interdental cleaners or floss which eliminate plaque from the amid areas where the toothbrush can't accomplish thus preventing the gum disease.
Proper and in time diagnosis of the dental problems are the key factors for dental care. At the same time prevention of the tooth decay is very essential as it is well known fact that prevention is far better than cure. Good dental hygiene must be a habit for all to keep charming and enthralling smile on face and excellent dental health incorporated to the total good health and well being.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/dental-care-for-a-reliable-smile-46567.html

Typical Complaints against Dental Assistants

Most Dental Assistants work hard to ensure the best quality treatment available to all patients. However, there are those who don't live up to the expectations of the patient. The patient has the right to address this issue with the dental facility. If they do not feel their complaint has been properly handled, they can then file a complaint with the State Dental Board.

State Dental Boards are responsible for regulating dental practices. They work hard to protect the public against improper behaviours by Dental Assistants, Dental Hygienists, and Dentists. They are to thoroughly investigate all complaints filed that involve competency. State Dental Boards do not handle complaints such as fee disputes, personality conflicts, rude behaviours, or difficulty with scheduling appointments in a timely manner. Such issues are to be referred to the Better Business Bureau.

It is important to file a complaint with the State Dental Board as soon as possible to allow then to be of the most help. Most states allow you to file your complaint online, over the phone, or you can request a form be sent to you in the mail. Some states will only accept a complaint in writing.

Dental Assistants need to be aware of the process that patients can go through if they have a complaint. Dental Assistants need to be cooperative during the investigation. If a Dental Assistant feels a patient may file a complaint, it is important to write down as much information as possible. This information needs to include the patient's name, date, time, and what took place. Also document any verbal interactions and who all was present to observe the incident. This information will be very useful to you and to the State Dental Board.

The Dental Board works hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. However, it will not rush the efforts to investigate it properly. Some complaints are resolved in a matter of days while others linger for years. Once a complaint has been filed, a copy of it is sent to the dental facility for a response. Generally, the dental facility is given a specific time frame to have their response back to the State Dental Board.

Once the response is received and reviewed, the Dental Board will compare the information to that on the complaint. From there, a course of action will be mapped out. This generally involved conducting interviews of all parties present during the incident. A panel is set up to investigate if any dental laws were violated. If there appears to be a violation, a hearing will be scheduled. The Dental Assistant will be notified as well as required to show up for the hearing.

If the Dental Assistant is found to be in violation of dental laws, the Dental Board will issue a reprimand. This will depend on the state guidelines as well as the violation. Reprimands may include a letter of apology, suspension, probation, or even revocation of the Dental Assistant's license. The Dental Board is not allowed to require monetary compensation. If the person filing the complaint wants to be compensated in that manner, they will need to file a civil suit with their local judicial system.

Dental Assistants who find themselves in the middle of a complaint issue with the Dental Board are likely to experience anxiety and fear. Many dental facilities will provide the individual with counseling as well as legal consultation. In most cases, it will depend on the issue the Dental Board is investigating. If the dental facility backs the Dental Assistant they will do all they can? However, if they feel the Dental Assistant is in violation of dental regulations they may terminate the individual, leaving them to pay for their own defence.

It is the responsibility of the Dental Assistant to follow all policies and procedures correctly. If you have any doubt, take the time to have everything explained to you. Losing a complaint under the Dental Board can cost you your job, as well as your career. If you lose your license, you may find it difficult to obtain another job in the profession as a Dental Assistant. Making sure you follow policies and procedures will ensure that you have a good chance of winning such complaints upon a complete review and investigation by the Dental Board.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/careers-articles/typical-complaints-against-dental-assistants-462442.html

The Truth About a Discount Dental Care Plan

Nobody can afford to ignore dental health, and at some point, all of us undergo one or all of the following treatments: exams, cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, root canals, braces, dentures, wisdom teeth extractions, gum surgery, dental implants, fillings, crowns, and bridges.

In these difficult economic times it is often a challenge to find affordable medical and dental health care.

Need Of The Hour -- A Discounted Dental Care Plan:

Discounted dental care plans are becoming more and more commonplace today. In this day and age of rising costs, consumers need to take control of their finances, without putting off their oral health care, as some might do, because of the high cost of insurance.
The need of the hour is a discount dental care plan available, an alternative to insurance, offering members significant savings, excellent customer service and providing an affordable and comprehensive discount dental care plan.

Should Lower Burden Of Non-Insured Individuals:

The plan should lessen the burden to non-insured individuals for dental care. It should be designed for groups, families and individuals looking to save time and money on dental care, and allow you the freedom of choice to choose from 100,000+ participating licensed providers.

Such a plan would give you an opportunity to save money on good quality dental care and protect your family's dental health. The plan should involve the participation of all dental providers in your area. On a national level that should mean 100,000+ participating dentists, immediate online enrollment and swift plan activation, with no unnecessary paperwork, no annual limits, and no health restrictions. That will enable you to start saving immediately.

Should Save On Prescription And Vision Services:

Not only should the dental plan offer cost benefits and savings with each type of plan, some plans also offer benefits to help you save on prescription, vision, chiropactic and hearing services as well. Members should be instantly provided their chosen package when they join, which should include membership cards and a detailed discounted fee schedule. You should be able to access your card via e-mail where you can print it or be able to choose to receive it through postal mail. Then all you would have to do is choose a dental provider in your area! With such a discount dental care plan, you should be charged according to your plan's discounted schedule fee, after you present your card to insure you are charged the discount dental care rate. Best of all, you shouldn't have to concern yourself plan limits or with claim forms to fill out, as with most dental health insurance plans.

Should Provide Online Assistance:

The plan should provide easy to use search tools (such as just entering your zip code) and plan comparison charts to assist you in your decision about which dental plan would best suit your needs, and should have a Customer Service Representative to help you find a provider. Discounts on dental specialties should also be available on select plans.

Many people cannot afford dental health insurance coverage in this day and age, but with a discount plan as I have described it would be much more affordable. Good dental hygiene is critical to overall health. Joining such a dental plan can help you preserve your family's dental health and smile for years to come. It is so much better than having to pay full price for dental work each and every time you need it. Who wouldn't appreciate affordable and comprehensive dental care? But, does such a discounted dental plan exist?


To find a discount dental care plan with all the benefits, like the one described in the article, visit: http://www.discountdentalcareplan.com .
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/dental-care-articles/the-truth-about-a-discount-dental-care-plan-493084.html

How Dental Plans Differ From Dental Insurance

It is unfortunate that people do not give the required attention to their teeth and dental care as they do for other kind of diseases and illnesses. In order to minimize the costs on dental treatments and to prevent dental diseases it is good to have a dental plan to take care of all such problems. Dental plans differ from the dental insurance by the type and feature. Almost all the dental plans take a member ship fee which varies from one plan to another plan. Also, dental plans can be either offered to individuals or to the family on the whole. The family dental plans offer higher discounts than the individual dental plans. Before selecting the appropriate dental plan it is good to check the rates charged under different plans. Also the type of coverage provided to the dental services matters a lot while selecting the dental plans.

Dental services covered under the dental plans:

Normally most of the basic dental procedures like the regular dental check ups, treatments like the cleaning procedure, oral examination, teeth filling, fluoride treatment and teeth extraction are covered by dental plans. But, the dental plans do not cover major dental treatments like oral surgeries, restorative dental care, root canal treatments, dental implants, braces etc. Under such circumstances the dental plans allow the policy holder to get reimbursement for the amount spent on the basic dental treatment and the other expenses should be born by the patient himself. Certain dental plans may not allow selecting a dentist of the policy holder’s choice and the patient has to undergo dental care treatments from the dentist mentioned in the dental plan. Hence, the policy holder before selecting the dental plan should check for a dentist present in his area and also for any schedule is mentioned in the dental plan or not. Dental plans can be availed either monthly or annually. The annual dental plan is supposed to be more cost efficient than the monthly dental plan.

Discount dental plans:

Discount dental plan is considered to be an affordable option. This dental plan offers discounts on all dental care treatments ranging from 10 – 60 percentages. It also covers dental works like braces, bridges, dentures, root canal treatments etc. This is possible by showing the membership card to the dentist while taking the dental treatment of any kind.

Reasons for choosing discount dental plans:

The main reason for choosing discount dental plan is that, it is very cost effective. The premium to be paid towards the dental plan is very low in spite of the coverage being much better. The money paid up front is also very low.

Discount dental plans can be availed for even pre existing dental diseased conditions and there is no exclusion. Discount dental plans help people when they are needed and for the purpose they avail it.

There is no hassle of filling forms as the person has to present the discount card and avail discounts from the dentists. Even the dentists are happy about discount cards as their time and energy is saved. It also offers a large list of dentists to choose from. The very important aspect is that even cosmetic dentistry is covered under dental plans making them very lucrative.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/how-dental-plans-differ-from-dental-insurance-223847.html