Do not panic ...(Mail from Dr. Deepak Purohit)

I agree with you that swine flu awareness is needed, but there is no need to be panicky and join the publicity propaganda carried out by media and others which acts as a vehicle to spread misconception than to spread scientific information.

These are few facts about swine flu when discussed with the leading epidemiologists.

1) Swine flu, that is H1N1 flu is not new, first detected in 1987.

2) Infective stage of flue is 5 days, 1 day before and 4 days after onset of symptoms.

3) The best way to prevent it spreading is asking patient having symptoms of flu like fever cough and running nose to take rest at home for 4 days so he does not transmit it.

4) Masks are of limited value if any, in this disease, it can spread through droplets on your skin, through contact etc, and I have seen that the masks in Pune are worn as fashion statement, while walking on road today morning I saw people wearing masks coming out for a morning walk with their dogs!, many wearing masks around their necks, and so on, infact these masks shall act as the vehicles to carry the virus, instead, avoiding crowded places or cinema halls or malls where airconditioners are on, is advisable, because you get recirculated air, where the virus density multiplies.

5)Death after H1N1 flu is not common, infact infections like measles is taking toll of thousands more every year, and we are oblivious of the facts.. Swine flu is being blown out of proportion by media trying to create hysteria among lay people.

6) Fever accompanied by respiratory distress, should be immediately notified which is likely to be a complication of H1N1 flu.

7)The mortality is less than .01 percent of those affected, that means may be one in 10,000 affected is likely to suffer the life loss.

8) If you remember, 2 years ago SARS was blown out of proportion, what happened? Humans develop immunity to the virus, the same is going to happen, we develop immunity in due course of time, the virus is in the air, you can not stop it, our body is already developing the immunity so nothing to panic.

We need to take care of children and elderly who have less immunity and do not let them go to crowded places that is all .

WE MUST START THIS CAMPAIGN OF NOT TO BE AFRAID OF THIS FLU AND LET YOUR DAILY WORK CONTINUE AS NORMAL, NO MASKS FOR ORDINARY CITIZENS, HEALTH CARE WORKERS OR SPECIFIC EXPOSED TO LOT OF CROWDED ENVIRONMENTS MAY BE BENEFITTED, NOT PROVEN.

I am amazed to hear that people are selling masks of RS 20 each which are available to less than Rupee 1 in the market.
See who is getting benefitted?

Please spread the scientific info, do not join the band wagon and stick to science, that should be the order of the day.

A to Z of Stress Management.

Anger is momentary madness, so control
your passion or it will control you.

Only way to grow in life is -
to grow along with others & not grow
at the cost of others !!

Eradicate the pressure and treasure the life as LIFE is one time gift to anyone.

Click here to download and read this beautiful presentation on A to Z of Stress Management.

How to cure Diarrhoea in a simple way

When someone gets diarrhoea, sometimes
the solution is so easy, we wonder why anyone has to suffer.

The secret is in rice water.

(My mother) knew about it.

When Dr Albert came for a farewell
and thank you dinner in his honour, he brought along his wife and his granddaughter.

Both women came down with very bad
gastroenteritis.
They saw a doctor who gave them medication.
It was slow to work.

Mother boiled some rice in lots of water and went to their hotel with two 1.5L bottles of rice water.

I cringed in shame at the offer of this folk remedy, which seemed so primitive to me.
Never heard of this cure before.
To my surprise, it worked, and they were even able to go out for dinner the next day.
Both were exclaiming how the rice water did the trick of making them well again.
Well, lucky it worked, I thought to myself.

I was discussing this some years back with the ex-matron of KK Hospital.
She said, yes, that is what Professor Wong Hock Boon, the notable paediatrician teaches.
I was shocked and made some comment how could he?
It was common knowledge so what had he to do with it?

Many months later, I regretted laughing at it.
Dr Christina, who is the CEO of...uh, which group I have forgotten.
She said that Prof Wong Hock Boon had presented a paper on it.
At some conference.
After he had done clinical trials.

Then his results were published in the Lancet, the Medical Journal all doctors read.
In fact, said Shanta, he was credited for saving the lives of 2 million African babies by this method.

Ah, so! I am impressed.

It is rice water and not rice, that does the trick.
I have found it effective again and again.
You take a handful of rice and boil it in a large saucepan with lots of water.
Like three or four large glasses.
Then you cool that and drink the water.
If you are in a hurry to relieve the ailing person, take the saucepan off the fire and dunk it in a frying pan or basin of cool water with ice cubes if necessary.

This gives the patient a chance to drink the rice water sooner and cure himself or herself sooner.

When drinking the rice water, make sure there is lots of it.
You have to tell the patient that enough water must go in to line your guts from throat to other end, all 10 to 12 metres of it.
If you take rice, it stays in the stomach.
If you take broth, some of it may go into the small intestine.

But if you take rice water, it will carry rice grains to every inch of your small and large intestine to the end where the problem is.

How does it work?
Even Prof Wong Hock Boon doesn't know.

Cancer Update

Today we update our knowledge about Cancer (the Hows and whys and what of it ... like an FAQ) This article was validated by Dr. Mani Verma .

CANCER - The whole story

There are two types of Cancer..
1. Benign
2. Malignant

Benign is an early stage , known as Tumour and Malignant is an advanced stage , which is fatal.

Every person has cancer cells in the body. These cancer cells do not show up in the standard tests until they have multiplied to a few billion.
When doctors tell cancer patients that there are no more cancer cells in their bodies after treatment, it just means the tests are unable to detect the cancer cells because they have not reached the detectable size.

These cancer cells can be detected by the PAP'S TEST or KAPOSI TEST, No Matter how much they are in numbers (If there is only one, then it will be detected).
In this mutation in telomerase enzyme, is tested. (Dr. Mani Verma)

Cancer cells occur between 6 to more than 10 times in a person's lifetime.
When the person's immune system is strong the cancer cells will be destroyed
and prevented from multiplying and forming tumours.

When a person has cancer it indicates the person has multiple nutritional deficiencies.
These could be due to genetic, environmental, food and lifestyle factors.
To overcome the multiple nutritional deficiencies,
changing diet and including supplements will strengthen the immune system.

Chemotherapy involves poisoning the rapidly-growing cancer cells and also destroys rapidly-growing healthy cells in the bone marrow, gastro-intestinal tract etc, but can cause organ damage, like liver, kidneys, heart, lungs etc.

Radiation while destroying cancer cells also burns, scars and damages healthy cells, tissues and organs.

Initial treatment with chemotherapy and radiation will often reduce tumour size.
However prolonged use of chemotherapy and radiation do not result in more tumour destruction.

When the body has too much toxic burden from chemotherapy and radiation the immune system is either compromised or destroyed, hence the person can succumb to various kinds of infections and complications.

Chemotherapy and radiation can cause cancer cells to mutate and become resistant and difficult to destroy. Surgery can also cause cancer cells to spread to other sites.

An effective way to battle cancer is to starve the cancer cells by not feeding it with the foods it needs to multiply.

CANCER CELLS FEED ON:

a. Sugar is a cancer-feeder. By cutting off sugar it cuts off one important food supply to the cancer cells. Sugar substitutes like NutraSweet, Equal,Spoonful, etc are made with Aspartame and it is harmful.
A better natural substitute would be M�nuka honey or molasses but only in very small amounts.
Table salt has a chemical added to make it white in colour.
Better alternative is Bragg's aminos or sea salt.

b. Milk causes the body to produce mucus, especially in the gastro-intestinal tract.
Cancer feeds on mucus. By cutting off milk and substituting with unsweetened Soya milk cancer cells are being starved.


c. Cancer cells thrive in an acid environment. A meat-based diet is acidic and it is best to eat fish, and a little chicken rather than beef or pork.
Meat also contains livestock antibiotics, growth hormones and parasites, which are all harmful, especially to people with cancer.

d. A diet made of 80% fresh vegetables and juice, whole grains, seeds, nuts and a little fruits help put the body into an alkaline environment.
About 20% can be from cooked food including beans.

Fresh vegetable juices provide live enzymes that are easily absorbed and reach down to cellular levels within 15 minutes to nourish and enhance growth of healthy cells.
To obtain live enzymes for building healthy cells try and drink fresh vegetable juice (most vegetables including bean sprouts) and eat some raw vegetables 2 or 3 times a day.

Enzymes are destroyed at temperatures of 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).

e. Avoid coffee, tea, and chocolate, which have high caffeine.
Green tea is a better alternative and has cancer-fighting properties.
Water-best to drink purified water, or filtered, to avoid known toxins and heavy metals in tap water.

Distilled water is acidic, avoid it.


Meat protein is difficult to digest and requires a lot of digestive enzymes.
Undigested meat remaining in the intestines become putrefied and leads to more toxic build-up.

Cancer cell walls have a tough protein covering.
By refraining from or eating less meat it frees more enzymes to attack the protein walls of cancer cells and allows the body's killer cells to destroy the cancer cells.

Some supplements build up the immune system (IP6, Flor-ssence, Essiac, anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, EFAs etc.) to enable the body's own killer cells to destroy cancer cells.
Other supplements like vitamin E are known to cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, the body's normal method of disposing of damaged, unwanted, or unneeded cells.

Cancer is a disease of the mind, body, and spirit.
A proactive and positive spirit will help the cancer warrior be a survivor.
Anger, unforgiveness and bitterness put the body into a stressful and acidic environment.
Learn to have a loving and forgiving spirit. Learn to relax and enjoy life.

Cancer cells cannot thrive in an oxygenated environment.
Exercising daily, and deep breathing help to get more oxygen down to the cellular level.
Oxygen therapy is another means employed to destroy cancer cells.

These Highlighted points are not factual enough , they contradict in some facts .
(Dr. Mani Verma and Dr. Jalal Ahmed)

Its true that the information is not complete and wherever possible changes have been made by Dr. Verma ...Yet her disclaimer is to bring forth the point that there are some things that need to be undertaken strictly under medical supervision ..But the above points do help in making the patient aware enough to be more involved in his/her treatment by questioning procedures that He/she is not comfortable with ...

SWINE FLU FACT FILE

What are the symptoms?

Swine flu symptoms are similar to the symptoms of regular flu and include fever of over 100.4°F, fatigue, lack of appetite, and cold. Some people with swine flu have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Nearly everyone with flu has at least two of these symptoms.

So, how do you know if you have flu or just cold?

There is one clue: when you have the flu, you feel flu symptoms sooner than you would cold symptoms, and they come on with much greater intensity. With the flu, you may feel very weak and fatigued for up to 2 or 3 weeks. You'll have muscle aches and periods of chills and sweats as fever comes and goes. You may also have a stuffy or runny nose, headache, and sore throat.

Can I compare flu symptoms with cold symptoms?

Yes. The following chart can help you compare flu symptoms with cold symptoms. Use it to lean the differences and similarities between flu and cold symptoms. Then, if you get flu symptoms, call your doctor and ask about an antiviral drug.




Symptoms Cold Flu
Fever Rare Characteristic, high 100-102 degrees F); lasts 3-4 days
Headache Rare Prominent
General aches, pains Slight Usual; often severe
Fatigue, Weakness Quite mild Can last up to 2-3 weeks
Extreme Exhaustion Never Early and prominent
Stuffy Nose Common Sometimes
Chest Discomfort,Cough Mild to moderate; hacking cough Common; can become severe


You cannot confirm if you have swine flu just based on your symptoms. Like seasonal flu, pandemic swine flu can cause neurologic symptoms in children. These events are rare, but, as cases associated with seasonal flu have shown, they can be very severe and often fatal.

Doctors may offer a rapid flu test, but what you need to understand is a negative result doesn't necessarily mean you don't have the flu. Only lab tests can definitively show whether you've got swine flu. State health departments can do these tests.

Source: WebMD



What should you do immediately?

Those of you who have travelled from the affected countries in the past ten days and show symptoms swine flu like fever, cough, sore throat and difficulty in breathing should immediately contact the telephone number given below or visit the nearby Government Hospital for H1N1.

Important contact numbers:
Outbreak Monitoring Cell (Control Room, NICD): 011-23921401

Websites: www.mohfw.nic.in and www.nicd.nic.in.

You can also contact a toll free number 2392 1401 at the National Institute of Communicable Disease

Contact number for each cities:

Bangalore
BIAL Swine Flu Center - 91-80-22001490

SDS TUBERCULOSIS & RAJIV GANDHI INSTITUTE OF CHEST DISEASES(Govt. of Karnataka), Hosur Road, Bangalore - 560029 Helpline No: 91-80-26631923

Chennai
Communicable Disease Hospital, 87, T.H. Road, Tondiarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Hyderabad
Govt. General and Chest Diseases Hospital, Erragadda , Hyderabad Hospital Helpline Number - 040-23814939

Kolkata
Beliaghata Infectious Diseases Hospital, 57, Beliaghata Main Road, Kolkata

Mumbai
Kasturba Hospital, Arthur Road, Sane Guruji Marg, Mumbai 400011
Ph: 022- 23083901 / 23092458 / 23000889

New Delhi
Yellow Fever Quarantine Centre, Near AAI Residential Colony, New Delhi
Ph: 91-11-25652129

Influenza Ward, Ward no 5, Second Floor, New Building, RML Hospital, Delhi-1
RML- 91-11-24525211,23404328,23365525- Ext 4328

Source: Swine Flu India website



Click Here for Other More Info & Downloads on Swine Flu


Who is at risk?

Those who are more at risk from becoming seriously ill with swine flu are people with:

* chronic (long-term) lung disease, including people who have had drug treatment for their asthma within the past three years,
* chronic heart disease,
* chronic kidney disease,
* chronic liver disease,
* chronic neurological disease (neurological disorders include motor neurone disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis),
* suppressed immune systems (whether caused by disease or treatment),
* diabetes,
* pregnant women,
* people aged 65 or older, and
* young children under five.

Source: National Health Service, UK website


How does it spread?

The new swine flu virus is highly contagious, that is it spreads from person to person. The virus is spread through the droplets that come out of the nose or mouth when someone coughs or sneezes. If someone coughs or sneezes and they do not cover it, those droplets can spread about one metre (3ft). If you are very nearby you might breathe them in.

Or, if someone coughs or sneezes into their hand, those droplets and the virus within them are easily transferred to surfaces that the person touches, such as door handles, hand rails, telephones and keyboards. If you touch these surfaces and touch your face, the virus can enter your system, and you can become infected.

Source: National Health Service, UK website



Can it be prevented?

Influenza antiviral drugs also can be used to prevent influenza when they are given to a person who is not ill, but who has been or may be near a person with swine influenza. When used to prevent the flu, antiviral drugs are about 70% to 90% effective. When used for prevention, the number of days that they should be used will vary depending on a person’s particular situation.

Follow this general procedure to reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus, you should:

* Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, using a tissue
* Throw the tissue away quickly and carefully
* Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
* Clean hard surfaces (like door handles and remote controls) frequently with a normal cleaning product
* Keep away from others as much as possible. This is to keep from making others sick. Do not go to work or school while ill
* Stay home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone, except to seek medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
* Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from being dehydrated
* Wear a facemask – if available and tolerable – when sharing common spaces with other household members to help prevent spreading the virus to others.

Source: CDC, National Health Service, UK website



Will it help to wear a mask?

Information on the effectiveness of facemasks and respirators for decreasing the risk of influenza infection in community settings is extremely limited. So, it is difficult to assess their potential effectiveness in decreasing the risk of Swine Flu virus transmission in these settings. However, a well-fitted, FDA-approved mask together with other preventive measures MAY reduce the risk of contracting the flu. Those who are sick or caring for someone who is ill should consider using a mask or respirator if leaving the house becomes necessary.

Source: CDC

What precautions should one take at home?

Two things - soap and water can reduce the chance of infection by 30 per cent. All you need to do is keep washing your hand with soap and water frequently. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand cleaner when soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

Eat healthy: Proteins are essential to help your body maintain and build strength. Lean meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dairy, eggs, and nuts and seeds are good sources of protein.

The Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults eat 50 grams of protein per day. Pregnant and nursing women need more. By eating foods high in protein, we also get the benefit of other healing nutrients such as vitamins B6 and B12, both of which contribute to a healthy immune system.

Vitamin B6 is widely available in foods, including protein foods such as turkey and beans as well as potatoes, spinach, and enriched cereal grains. Proteins such as meats, milk, and fish also contain vitamin B12, a powerful immune booster.

Minerals such as selenium and zinc work to keep the immune system strong. These minerals are found in protein rich foods such as beans, nuts, meat, and poultry.

Exercise: Regular exercise may help prevent the flu. According to recent findings, when moderate exercise is repeated on a near daily basis, there is a cumulative immune-enhancing effect. That is, your strong immune system can fight flu better. When you exercise, your white blood cells -- the blood cells that fight infections in the body -- travel through your body more quickly, fighting bacteria and viruses (such as flu) more efficiently. To maintain good health, experts recommend at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity such as walking, swimming, biking, or running each day.

Source: Flu India website, CDC, WebMD



What precautions should one take at schools?

* Avoid close contact with people who are sick
* People who are sick with an influenza-like illness should stay home and keep away from others as much as possible, including avoiding travel, for at least 24 hours after fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine). Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
* Wash your hands often
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

Source: CDC

Is it safe to travel?

Avoid traveling unnecessarily. However, if you must travel, check how the country you're going to handles swine flu. Although, the WHO doesn't recommend travel restrictions, many countries have set up their own H1N1 policies, and some travelers have been screened or quarantined in other countries because of swine flu concerns.

Source: WebMD.com

HOME REMEDIAL PROTECTION METHODS AGAINST H1N1 INFLUENZA

Following are some protective measures, can help.

1. NAMASMARAN
2. DRINKING WATER IN MORNING AND THROUGH OUT THE DAY
3. EATING TWO LEAVES OF NEEM, TULASI, BEL EACH
4. CHYAVANAPRASH 1 TEA SPOONFUL DAILY
5. DRINKING A CUP OF COW MILK WITH TURMERIC (HALAD), DRY GINGER (SUNTH) AND HONEY
6. PRACTICE OF KAPALBHATI (ACTIVE ABDOMINAL EXPIRATION WITHOUT DISCOMFORT). Make sure you don't have trauma, surgetry, hernia of any kind and pregnancy and any other wound on abdominal or related regions.
7. TAKING BATH TWICE A DAY.
8. CHANGING CLOTHES TWICE A DAY
9. APPLYING A DROP OF COW GHEE OR ANU TAIL IN BOTH NOSTRILS
10. Take a capsule of multivitamin capsue such as Becadexamin and Bcomplex such as Becosule.
11. Wash hands fequently (Suggested by Dr. Alka Halbe)
12. Avoid lifts (elevators) if and when possible
13. Avoid excessively crowded and/or centrally airconditioned places such as railway stations, cinema halls, theatres, malls.
14. Consume juice of aloe vera (korphad i.e.. kumari) and tinospora cordifolia (giloy or gulvel i.e. guduchi) in addition to holy basil, neem and bel. Promote planting of these medicinal herbs.
15. Add jaggery, pepper (kali mirch) and ginger in your tea (if and when you take it)

Baba Ramdev on H1N1 Influenza

Baba revealed cure for the deadly H1N1 Influenza or Swine Flu.

TOP WARNING SIGNS OF DIABETES...

I’m sure that you are here to know the warning signs of diabetes experienced either by you or some of your loved one.
I’m glad that you have tried to listen to your body which is giving different signals to you that something is going wrong.
This is the only good thing you can do to prevent or delay the onset of Diabetes.
This chronic disease if left untreated can lead to various diabetic complications.
Luckily it seems that you are trying to detect the problem at earlier stage.
The good news is that early detection and the right treatment is the key to delay, prevent or in some cases even reverse the diabetes.
Even if a single person visiting this site is able to detect his problem and go for the early treatment I will feel the purpose of this site has been fulfilled.
Most of the times diabetes goes undetected as the signs of diabetes are not obvious and harmful.
Type 1 and 2 share most of the signs.
For instance in both cases there is too much of glucose in the bloodstream and an inadequate amount of glucose in the cells, where it is basically needed.

Whatever the cause is the cells are not getting enough amount of glucose. The body tends to tell the person about malfunctioning of the body by giving different signs of diabetes.
In this site I will explain different warning signs of diabetes and the warning signs of particular diabetic problem.
Some Warning Signs of Diabetes are mentioned below;

Excessive Thirst
Frequent Urination
Fatigue
Numbness &Tingling
Blurred Vision
Nerve Damage
Unexplained Weight loss
Yeast Infection
Diabetic Rash
Slow Healing Of Wounds


If any of the above warning signs of diabetes is noticed either in you or your loved one; you must schedule a visit to the doctor’s office.

Explore www.warningsignsofdiabetes.com to discover why is it important to listen carefully to your body and consult the doctor if you experience any new problem or sign.


DiabeTics must strictly EliMiNate all Sugars from their diet, or else it will spike up their InSuLin, ThereFore if u still want to eat fruit, please do ConSult your DocTor or PhySiCian about it first, and one InTerNet site claims that if a DiaBeTic PaTient wants to eat fruit, they must eat it ToGeTher with a ProTein...don't know whether that is true or not, and since i am not a DiaBeTic, so i do not AdVoCate that at all, as i do not know at all, what are the safe foods for DiaBeTics, and not all the InForMaTion in the InTerNet is TrustWorthy, b'coz some are OutDated and some are ConFlicting, in giving AdVice.

Since i do not like to MenTion Brand Names, those ArTiFiCial Sugars that u put InTo your BeVeRages, are very bad for your KidNeys, (some have warnings, esp those on the SugarLess sweets & Diet Sodas), b'coz if u do not take care of your DiaBeTes, then EvenTually, your KidNeys will fail, and then u might have to go for KidNey DiaLysis which is worse, or u might go blind EvenTualLy, and most of your other body OrGans will fail too, which will ReSult in u having a host of DiSeaSes, due to to KidNey Failure, so please do take care.

Here is another advice for DiaBeTics, from another yahoogroup member, {Many Thanks for your PerMission}

"Good advice but I believe it only applies to organic produce. Also, one man's food is another man's poison.
Some people are allergic to many fruits and must be careful which ones they eat. Also, diabetics should never drink any fruit juice and should keep their fruit consumption down to a level, where their blood sugar does not spike drastically. Diabetics who need fruits for their fiber content should include some rind, in with the fruit itself and sometimes should eat the fruit about two hours after a meal when the stomach is ALMOST empty, but with some residual food from the prior meal.
Since diabetics have digestive problems the fruit enzymes may help complete the digestive process. If this cannot be done some digestive enzymes should be included with the meal."

Medicinal values of fruits, vegetables and other food intakes (Contributed by Venugopal Varier)

Click here to download(in pdf) and read on...

Medicinal values of Honey & Cinnamon Contributed by Venugopal Varier)

Click here to download a nice powerpoint presentation on the medicinal values of Honey and Cinnamon powder.

Beauty Tips for ladies...(contributed by Venugopal Varier)

Women who wear make-up should carry out a routine of cleansing, toning and moisturise each evening, as well as washing the face in the morning. Cleansing will remove old make-up and the grime and grease that have been accumulated during the day.

Eyes Right

If eyes are the window to your soul, make sure they stand out. Instead of applying that same jet black liquid eye liner on the upper lid of the eye, try something different. Invest in a dark blue eye pencil and line your eyes all around with it.

Water Water

Want to lose weight but just can't seem to stop eating? Try drinking at least 2 glasses of water before your meal. Drinking subdues the appetite and tricks your stomach into feeling satisfied with less. You're definitely not starving yourself, and neither are you overeating. Perfect, isn't it?

Steaming

Steam your face once a week to open pores, so it can be cleansed more effectively. Add a few herbs like basil (tulsi) for extra advantage. Don't steam face directly over the burning stove - too hot! Instead, remove the boiling water from the stove and form a tent with your towel

OOOO..!

Though you can't prevent those tiny lines from forming around your mouth and eyes, you can certainly delay their onset. Try this simple exercise. Stretch your mouth into a wide grin and say 'eee' and then into a circle saying 'ooo'. Oh, and do this in the privacy of your room if you don't want to be shipped to the funny farm.

Soft And Silky

For a deep, moisturising skin treatment apply olive oil to your skin once a week. Let it soak in while you take a steamy shower, and blot out the excess with a tissue.

You Better Not Pout..!

Lipstick applied to dry lips does not last long. Moisturise lips with lip balm or Vaseline and let it get absorbed before applying lipstick. For a final touch, add a bit of glitter to lips. It's dynamite, but do keep it subtle!

Cheating Mother Nature

The general rule of thumb is that light colours bring things forwards, while dark colours make them recede. So hide that prominent jawbone by brushing a dark shade over it. You could also brush a dark colour in the hollow of your chin for a flirtatious cleft! Who said you needed plastic surgery?

Ice Ice Baby

Keep skin looking young and fresh by splashing your face with ice-cold water.. This rejuvenates the skin and delays the onset of wrinkles. (Don't try this if you are prone to broken capillaries. )

Lime N' Lemony

For a great shine to hair, squeeze the juice of one lemon into a mug of water and give your hair a final rinse with this mixture, after shampooing. You could also use a tablespoon of vinegar instead of a lemon.

AND SO TO BED

Never, ever go to sleep without washing off your make-up. That's a surefire step to a disastrous complexion.

Fun In The Sun

The sun's warmth may make you feel good but it's ultraviolet rays over time cause at best, dry wrinkly skin and at worst, skin cancer. Don't step out without loading on that sunscreen. In the summers, avoid stepping out between 12:00 to 2:00 when the sun is at its peak.

Blackheads

To remove blackheads, steam for 5 mins and exfoliate immediately.

Shiny & Strong Hairs

To make your hair shiny and strong, after taking a shower apply olive oil into damp hair. It will make your hair shiny and much stronger.

Eye Makeup

Use foundation on your eyelids before applying eye shadow. It helps the eye shadow stay on longer.

Acne Prone skin
Use a gentle soap like Dove for acne prone skin. It makes your skin a lot less oily because its pH balanced.

Clay Mask

A Clay Mask works wonders on oily skin! eyelash curlerUse a hair dryer for a few seconds on your eyelash curler. remove stubborn eye makeup Use petroleum jelly or cold cream to remove stubborn eye makeup. its cheap and it works (even on waterproof mascara).

Remove stubborn eye makeup

Use petroleum jelly or cold cream to remove stubborn eye makeup. its cheap and it works (even on waterproof mascara).

Blotting oily skin

Instead of buying expensive oil blotter papers, buy a box of perm papers. Very cheap and works great for blotting oily skin.

Reduce redness

Spray your face with cold water or stand with your head in the air from the freezer for a few moments to reduce redness.

Lighter shades of eyeliner

Line deep set eyes with lighter shades of eyeliner to emphasize them!

Drink 8 glasses of water a day and use a moisturizer.

Nothing ages a person more than worry. Try to be positive and love every day as a new adventure and get joy from all the little things (so many cost nothing). Drink 8 glasses of water a day and use a moisturizer

Keep lashes smooth

Keep lashes smooth and supple by brushing them with petroleum jelly before going to bed at night. It is also a good way to emphasize natural-looking lashes in the daytime.

Lips

Apply carmex on your lips before putting on lip gloss or lipstick, it helps it stay on longer, keep it moisturized, and sometimes makes your lips "juicier" looking.

YOUR KIDNEY - IMPORTANT POINTS TO BE KNOWN BY ALL.

Battered by caffeine, a poor diet & stress, your kidneys fight to filter your blood.



What Do Your Kidneys Do?

The body is a factory. Your two bean shaped organs (kidneys) track the body’s fluid usage, levels, pressure & location. Fluid is used to transport waste from the body’s organs, to the kidneys for processing or treatment then, excretion as urine.

Your body also has to rid itself of gases, acids, oils, resins and sludge. Some of the compounds processed by the kidneys include, lactic acid, uric acid, various proteins, sugars, salts, excess calcium, potassium and ketones.

When these products / by products cannot be fully flushed from the body, the body is forced to uncomfortably store them. Healthy kidneys will utilize between 64 to 128 ounces of fluid a day cleansing your system. Due to their importance in keeping us healthy, the Chinese call the kidneys “The Master Organ.” Since all of our organs run on fluid, the kidneys regulate every organ of our body.

How Your Kidneys Work

Your Kidneys: The Master Organ Of Life

The kidneys regulate your entire system including: the bladder, blood pressure, ovaries, estrogen, period cramps, testicles, testosterone, sperm production, uterus, prostate, sex drive, pancreas, spleen, lymphatic system, heart, ligaments, ears, scalp, right / left low back, upper back, left; shoulder, pectoral, trapezes, elbow; both calves, thighs, biceps, triceps, forearms, wrists, knees, ankles, your spine, all fingers and toes.The only areas not regulated by the kidneys are your right shoulder, right pectoral and right trapezes, all monitored by your liver. Your right elbow represents your stomach.There is never a kidney problem that does not include a liver problem. The two organs work hand and glove together. Always address them at the same time.

"The state of our internal organs are represented on the face" - Yellow King of China 's physician, circa 2670 B.C.

Fact: When an area of the face is very pronounced or calling attention to itself, it indicates a weakness or predisposition to weakness of the associated organ.

The half moon of darkness, redness, puffiness or pronounced wrinkling under each eye indicates the state of your kidneys. Your right half moon represents your right kidney and the left is the left kidney.

Regardless of age, these areas should be smooth and blemish free.

"The state of our internal organs are represented on the face" - Yellow King of China 's physician, circa 2670 B.C.

Fact: When an area of the face is very pronounced or calling attention to itself, it indicates a weakness or predisposition to weakness of the associated organ.

The half moon of darkness, redness, puffiness or pronounced wrinkling under each eye indicates the state of your kidneys. Your right half moon represents your right kidney and the left is the left kidney.

Regardless of age, these areas should be smooth and blemish free.

Location of Your Kidneys

The kidneys are: Two bean-shaped organs, one on each side of the backbone.

Represent about 0.5% of the total weight of the body.

20–25% of your body’s total blood supply can be found in the kidney at all times.

Cleanses the body’s entire blood supply about 300 times a day.

Continuously regulates the chemical composition of the blood within narrow limits (diet permitting).

The liver and kidney form the major homeostatic (or balancing) centers for the body.


Do Your Kidneys Need Help?

1) Low back pain, stiffness or soreness?

2) Tire quickly or sleepy from 3-7 P.M.?

3) Left shoulder pain, stiffness or soreness?

4) Sore ankles, calves or feet?

5) Rough periods or low sex drive?

6) Bladder infections & frequent urination?

7) Tinnitus, vertigo or high blood pressure?

8) Puffy, red or dark circles under the eyes?

9) Clear shapes in your field of vision?

10) Weak nails that chip or break?

11) Sore, tingling or numb muscles?

12) Thyroid or lymphatic issues?

13) Swollen, stiff or sore wrists, knees or joints?

14) Scalp irritations or thinning hair?

15) Weak or sore left side of your body?

16) Spleen, pancreatic or weight issues?

17) History of kidney issues or kidney stones?

18) Reproductive health issues?

Count your YES answers and see below.

0-1 May not be an issue yet.

2-3 A slight problem that can be improved.

4-6 Chronic, may continue to worsen.

7 + Severe, help is needed now.

The Kidneys Hate:

Alcohol
Excessive protein
Salts and excess sodium
Fried foods and processed fats
Caffeine
Sugar and Chocolate
Chemicals / drugs of all types
Dairy products
Processed Carbohydrates
Lack of sleep
Heavy Meals

Your Kidneys Need :

Clean Water
Fresh Fruit
Fresh Vegetables
Less protein
Light meals
A healthy Liver

Influenza A(H1N1) - How to protect yourself and others.

(Click on the image to enlarge)

Wonders of Banana...

A professor at CCNY for a physiological psych class told his class about bananas. He said the expression "going bananas" is from the effects of bananas on the brain.

Read on...

Never, put your banana in the refrigerator! !!

This is interesting.

After reading this, you'll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. A banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes.

But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills - eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brainpower. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that helpcalm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach..

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking &Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking..The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal..

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels.. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack..

Strokes: According to research in The New England Journal of Medicine, eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrate, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around.

So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"

Breathing Therapy to Relax (Contributed by Shri KV Venugopal)

The nose has a left and a right side; we use both to inhale and exhale..

Actually they are different; you would be able to feel the difference. The right side represents the sun, left side represents the moon.

During a headache, try to close your right nose and use your left nose to breathe. In about 5 mins, your headache will go?

If you feel tired, just reverse, close your left nose and breathe through your right nose. After a while, you will feel your mind is refreshed.

Right side belongs to 'hot', so it gets heated up easily, left side belongs to 'cold'.

Most ladies breathe with their left noses, so they get "cooled off" faster.

Most of the guys breathe with their right noses, they get worked up.

Do you notice the moment we wake up, which side breathes faster? Left or right? ?

If left is faster, you will feel tired. So, close your left nose and use your right nose for breathing, you will get refreshed quickly.

This can be taught to kids, but it is more effective when practiced by adults.

My friend used to have bad headaches and was always visiting the doctor. There was this period when he suffered headache literally every night, unable to study.

He took painkillers, did not work.

He decided to try out the breathing therapy here: closed his right nose and breathed through his left nose.

In less than a week, his headaches were gone! He continued the exercise for one month.

This alternative natural therapy without medication is something that he has experienced.

So, why not give it a try?

Prevention is better than Cure...(Contributed by: Janaki Surendran)

Who can receive blood of which blood group..?

Benefits of fruits and vegetables...

Just check this out...... The Organs of your body have their sensory touches at the bottom of your foot, if you massage these points you will find relief from aches and pains as you can see the heart is on the left foot.

Typically they are shown as points and arrows to show which organ it connects to. It is indeed correct since the nerves connected to these organs terminate here. This is covered in great details in Acupressure studies or textbooks. God created our body so well that he thought of even this. He made us walk so that we will always be pressing these pressure points and thus keeping these organs activated at all times. So, keep walking...

Harvard highlights benefits of Art Of Living - Sudarshan Kriya

Harvard has highlighted the benefits of Art Of Living Sudarshan Kriya in its publication on "Yoga for anxiety and depression".

See article by following the link below:


https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Mental_Health_Letter/2009/April/Yoga-for-anxiety-and-depression

Baba Ramdev -Yoga for Constipation & Piles (English)

Baba Ramdev -16 Rituals During and After Pregnancy

Yoga for Pregnant Women(Part-1) - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Pregnant Women(Part-2) - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Parkinson's disease & Paralysis - Baba Ramdev

Oil Pulling Therapy (Simple, yet effective)

Oil Pulling Therapy for a Brighter Smile and Better Health by Dr. Bruce Fife,

"That sounds ridiculous," exclaimed Rick in disbelief. "It will never work. How could it? It doesn't make any sense."

Rick suffered from chronic sinusitis. At night when lying down, his nose would stop up, making it difficult for him to breathe and to sleep. The congestion also caused him to experience frequent headaches. The therapy I was telling him about was oil pulling. Although oil pulling has its origins in Ayurvedic medicine, which dates back thousands of years, this modern version is relatively new, at least in the United States.

Oil pulling is very simple. Basically all you do is rinse your mouth out with vegetable oil, much like you would with a mouthwash. As simple as it sounds, if done correctly it has a very powerful cleansing and healing affect not only on the mouth and sinuses, but the entire body.

A few days later, Rick called me on the phone. "Wow! This oil pulling stuff really works," he exclaimed. "My sinuses began to drain immediately. I expelled a lot of dark yellow, gross looking mucous. I'm breathing easier and sleeping better and my headaches are gone!"

I wasn't surprised with Rick's success. I hear many similar responses from others with various health problems.

"I was skeptical at first," says Cynthia. "I couldn't see how swishing oil in my mouth could help with my arthritis. After eight days I noticed the pain in my hands diminished considerably. There was also marked improvement in my neck and I could move my head from side to side without any pain. I was amazed at how quickly I got results. I haven't felt this good in along time!"

Some people think I'm crazy when I tell them that oil pulling can help those with asthma, allergies, chronic fatigue, diabetes, migraine headaches, PMS, and chronic skin problems. Oil pulling works by detoxifying or cleansing the body. In this way, disease promoting toxins are removed, thus allowing the body to heal itself. As a consequence, health problems of all types improve.

"I've suffered for several years with joint and lower back pain," says Anna. "Every morning it was difficult getting out of bed because of the pain. After two months of oil pulling the pain is all gone. I'm amazed. Although I began oil pulling to relieve the joint pain, a few other things happened that I didn't expect I'm surprised to see that the eczema on my arm and hand disappearing and my skin becoming smoother and softer. Nothing I had tried before had helped. I sleep better at night too, so I have more energy during the day. I no longer need my mid-day naps. I have so much energy I almost feel like a teenager again. My periods have become more regular with less cramping and less mood swings. Also, my teeth, gums, and tongue are cleaner than they've ever been.

The first thing that most people notice when they start oil pulling is an improvement in their oral health. Teeth become whiter, breath becomes fresher, and the tongue and gums take on a healthy pink color. Even problems such as bleeding gums, tooth decay, and gum disease are greatly diminished or completely healed.

"I had a really bad infection in my mouth," says Brittany . "It was so painful that I could not sleep. Pain medication helped temporarily. I was sure that I needed another root canal. After hearing about oil pulling I decided to give it a try before going to the dentist. I began oil pulling three times a day. By the very next day the pain was gone! No soreness, nothing. I was shocked. I continue to oil pull and my teeth are whiter and healthier looking then they have ever been. My gums have stopped bleeding, they used to bleed after every brushing. They are no longer receding and my teeth feel tighter. On my last visit to the dentist he was amazed at how much better my teeth and gums looked. He told me to continue to do whatever I was doing."

Oil pulling traces it roots to oil gargling practiced in Ayurvedic medicine in India. Oil pulling, as we know it today, was introduced in 1992 by Dr. F. Karach, MD. Dr. Karach claimed that oil pulling could cure a variety of illnesses ranging from heart disease and digestive troubles to hormonal disorders. He said it cured him of a chronic blood disorder of 15 years duration and within three days it cured his arthritis, which at times was so painful he was bed ridden. He used the method in his medical practice with great success.

Dr. Karach's method of oil pulling consists of swishing, not gargling, vegetable oil in the mouth. The oil is "worked" in the mouth by pushing, pulling, and drawing it through the teeth for a period of 15 to 20 minutes. It is done one to three times a day on an empty stomach. The best time is in the morning before eating breakfast, but can be done before any meal. The used oil is discarded and the mouth rinsed out with water. The oil is never swallowed because it is loaded with bacteria, toxins, pus, and mucous. As simple as it is, oil pulling has a very powerful detoxifying effect.

Sunflower and sesame seed oils are the most commonly used for oil pulling, but any vegetable oil will work. People have had success with olive, coconut, almond, and other oils. I prefer to use coconut oil because of its many health benefits. If you use a mild flavored coconut oil it is very pleasant in the mouth. Some oils, such as extra virgin olive oil, are so strong flavored that many people find them difficult to use.

Our mouths are the home to billions of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other parasites and their toxins. Candida and Streptococcus are common residents in our mouths. It is these types of germs and their toxic waste products that cause gum disease and tooth decay and contribute to many other health problems including arthritis and heart disease. Our immune system is constantly fighting these troublemakers. If our immune system becomes overloaded or burdened by excessive stress, poor diet, environmental toxins and such, these organisms can spread throughout the body causing secondary infections and chronic inflammation, leading to any number of health problems.

Oil pulling can work its magic almost instantly. Some people report relief from certain conditions after doing it only once. Minor problems often clear up within a few days. More serious, chronic problems may require a few weeks or several months or more depending on lifestyle issues. Toxins are pulled from the body the very first time you try it.

One of the first cleansing symptoms you will experience is an increased flow of mucous from your throat and sinuses. Mucous drainage is one of the body's methods of removing toxins. While you are pulling, mucous may build in the back of your throat. You may even have to expel the oil and clear the mucous from your throat before reaching a full 20 minutes. That's okay, take another spoonful of oil and continue until you've pulled for a total of 15-20 minutes. You may also experience a little nausea and perhaps even need to vomit as your body expels toxic waste. Other symptoms may also arise temporarily. These symptoms will subside as your body becomes cleaner and you become more comfortable with oil pulling. Unlike other methods of detoxification that last for only a short time, oil pulling should become a regular part of your daily schedule, like brushing your teeth.

If you have health issues, don't let the simplicity of oil pulling detour you from trying it. Sometimes the simplest procedures produce the greatest results.

Yoga for Children - Baba Ramdev

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Yoga for Heart diseases - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Asthma - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Migraine & Epilepsy - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Stomach Ailments - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Obesity - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for kidneys - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Blood Pressure - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for Cancer - Baba Ramdev

Yoga for diabetes - Baba Ramdev

Pranayam - Baba Ramdev

Yoga Lessons from the maestro- Baba Ramdev

Nature Cure - Minerals and Their Importance in Nutrition

The term ‘ minerals ‘ refers to elements in their simple inorganic form. In nutrition they are commonly referred to as mineral elements or inorganic nutrients.

Minerals are vital to health. Like vitamins and amino acids, minerals are essential for regulating and building the trillions of living cells which make up the body. Body cells receive the essential food elements through the blood stream. They must, therefore, be properly nourished with an adequate supply of all the essential minerals for the efficient functioning of the body.

Minerals help maintain the volume of water necessary to life processes in the body. They help draw chemical substances into and out of the cells and they keep the blood and tissue fluid from becoming either too acidic or too alkaline. The importance of minerals, like vitamins, is illustrated by the fact that there are over 50,000 enzymes in the body which direct growth and energy and each enzyme has minerals and vitamins associated with it. Each of the essential food minerals does a specific job in the body and some of them do extra work, in teams, to keep body cells healthy. The mineral elements which are needed by the body in substantial amounts are calcium, phosphorous, iron, sulphur, magnesium, sodium, potassium and chlorine. In addition the body needs minute (trace) amounts of iodine, copper, cobalt, manganese, zinc, seleminum, silicon, flourine and some others.


CALCIUM
The human body needs calcium more than any other mineral. A man weighing 70 kg. contains one kg. of calcium. About 99 per cent of the quantity in the body is used for building strong bonesand teeth and the remaining one per cent is used by the blood, muscles and nerves.

Calcium performs many important functions. Without this mineral, the contractions of the heart would be faulty, the muscles would not contract properly to make the limbs move and blood would not clot. Calcium stimulates enzymes in the digestive process and coordinates the functions of all other minerals in the body. Calcium is found in milk and milk products, whole heat, leafy vegetables such as lettuce, spinach, and cabbage , carrots, watercress, oranges, lemons, almonds, figs and walnuts. A daily intake of about 0.4 to 0.6 grams of calcium is considered desirable for an adult. The requirement is larger for growing children and pregnant and lactating women. Deficiency may cause porous and fragile bones, tooth decay, heart palpitations, muscle cramps, insomnia and irritability.

A large increase in the dietary supply of calcium is needed in tetany and when the bones are decalcified due to poor calcium absorption, as in rickets, oesteomalacia and the malabsorption syndrome. Liberal quantity of calcium is also necessary when excessive calcium has been lost from the body as in hyperparathyroidism or chronic renal disease.


PHOSPHORUS
It combines with calcium to create the calcium-phorphorus balance necessary for the growth of bones and teeth and in the formation of nerve cells. This mineral is also essential for the assimilation of carbohydrates and fats. It is a stimulant to the nerves and brain.

Phosphorous is found in abundance in cereals, pulses, nuts, egg yolk, fruit juices, milk and legumes. Usually about one gram of phosphorous is considered necessary in the daily diet. A phosphorous deficiency may bring about loss of weight, retarded growth, reduced sexual powers and general weakness. It may result in poor mineralisation of bones, deficient nerve and brain function.

While taking calcium in therapeutic doses for calcium deficiency conditions or for treating ailments, it is advisable to take the calcium supplement in which phosphorous has been added in the correct proportions. This is necessary as calcium cannot achieve its objectives unless phosphorous is present in a proper balance.

IRON
Iron is an important mineral which enters into the vital activity of the blood and glands. Iron exists chiefly as haemoglobin in the blood. It distributes the oxygen inhaled into the lungs to all the cells. It is the master mineral which creates warms, vitality and stamina. It is required for the healthy complexion and for building up resistance in the body.

The chief sources of iron are grapes, raisins, spinach, all green vegetables, whole grain, cereals, dried beans, dark coloured fruits, beets, dates, liver and egg yolk. The Indian Council of Medical Research has recommended an allowance of 20 to 30 mg. of iron in a balanced diet for an adult.

Iron deficiency is generally caused by severe blood loss, malnutrition , infections and by excessive use of drugs and chemicals. Deficiency of dietary iron may cause nutritional-anaemia, lowered resistance to disease, a general run down condition, pale complexion, shortness of breath on manual exertion and loss of interest in sex.

Iron is the classic remedy for anaemia. However, there are several forms of anaemia, and iron deficiency anaemia is only one. If one is taking iron pills due to insufficient intake of iron in the normal diet, one should also take atleast 40 mg. of folic acid or folate every day, alongwith 10 to 25 mg. of vitamin B12. Both these vitamins are essential in building healthy blood cells.


SULPHUR
All living matter contains some sulphur ; this element is therefore essential for life. The greater part of the sulphur in the human body is present in the two sulphur-containing amino acids, methionine and cysteine, or in the double form of the latter cystine. The main purpose of sulphur
is to dissolve waste materials. It helps to eject some of the waste and poisons from the system.

It helps keep the skin clear of blemishes and makes hair glossy. It is also valuable in rheumatic conditions.

The main sulphur-containing foods are radishes, carrots, cabbage,cheese, dried beans, fish and eggs. There is no recommended dietary allowance. But a diet sufficient in protein will generally be adequate in sulphur. Deficiency of sulphur may cause eczema and imperfect development of hair and nails.

Sulphur creams and ointments have been remarkably successful in treating a variety of skin problems.


MAGNESIUM
All human tissues contain small amounts of magnesium. The Adult human body contains about 25 gms. of this mineral. The greater part of this amount is present in bones in combination with phosphate and carbonate. Bone ashes contain less than one per cent magnesium. About one-fifty of the total magnesium in the body is present in the soft tissues, where it is mainly bound to protein. Next to potassium, magnesium is the predominant metallic action in living cells. The bones seem to provide a reserve supply of this mineral in case of shortage elsewhere in the body.

Biochemists call magnesium the " cool, alkaline, refreshing, sleep-promoting mineral".

Magnesium helps one keep calm and cool during the sweltering summer months. It aids in keeping nerves relaxed and normally balanced. It is necessary for all muscular activity.

This mineral is in activator for most of the enzyme system involving carbohydrate, fat and protein in energy-producing reactions. It is involved in the production of lecithin which prevents building up of cholesterol and consequent atheros-clerosis. Magnesium promotes a healthier cardiovascular system and aids in fighting depression. It helps prevent calcium deposits in kidneys and gallstones and also brings relief from indigestion.

Magnesium is widely distributed in foods. It is a part of the chlorophyll in green vegetables. Other good sources of this mineral are nuts, soyabeans, alfalfa, apples, figs, lemons, peaches, almonds, whole grains, brown rice, sunflower seeds and sesame seeds. The recommended dietary allowances for magnesium are 350 mg. per day for adult man, 300 mg. for women and 450 mg. during pregnancy and lactation.

Deficiency can lead to kidney damage and kidney stones, muscle cramps, arteriosclerosis, heart attack, epileptic seizures, nervous irritability, marked depression and confusion, impaired protein metabolism and premature wrinkles. Chronic alcoholics often show a low plasma magnesium concentration and a high urinary output. They may, therefore, require magnesium therapy especially in an acute attack of delirium tremens. Magnesium has also proved useful in bladder and urinary problems and in epileptic seizure. This mineral together with vitamin B6 or pyridoxine has also been found effective in the prevention and treatment of kidney stones. Magnesium can be taken in therapeutic doses upto 700 mg. a day.


SODIUM
Sodium Chloride , the chemical name for common salt, contains 39 per cent of sodium, an element which never occurs in free form in nature. It is found in an associated form with manyminerals especially in plentiful amounts with chlorine. The body of a healthy person weighing about 65 kg. contains 256 g. of sodium chloride. Of this the major part, just over half, is in the extra-cellular fluid. About 96 g. is in bone and less than 32 g. in the cells.

Sodium is the most abundant : chemical in the extra-cellular fluid of the body. It acts with other electrolytes, especially potassium, in the intracellular fluid, to regulate the osmotic pressure and maintain a proper water balance within the body. It is a major factor in maintaining acid-base equilibrium, in transmitting nerve impulses, and in relaxing muscles. It is also required for glucose absorption and for the transport of other nutrients across cell membranes. Sodium can help prevent catarrh. It promotes a clear brain, resulting in a better disposi tion and less mental
fatigue. Because of its influence on calcium, sodium can also help dissolve any stones forming within the body. It is also essential for the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and plays a part in many other glandular secretions.

There is some natural salt in every food we eat. Vegetable foods rich in sodium are celery, cucumbers, watermelon, lemons, oranges, grapefruit, beet-tops, cabbage, lettuce, corn, lady fingers, apple, berries, pears, squash, pumpkin, peaches, lentils, almonds and walnuts. Animal food sources include shell fish, lean beef, kidney, bacon and cheese. The sodium chloride requirements for persons living in the tropics have been estimated at 10 to 15 g. per day for adults who are engaged in light work and 15 to 20 g. for those engaged in hard work.

The requirements of children are from five to 10 g. and those for adolescent boys and girls from 10 to 25 g.

Both deficiency and excess of salt may produce adverse effects o the human body. Deficiencies of sodium are, however, rare and may be caused by excessive sweating, prolonged use of diuretics, or chronic diarrhoea. Deficiency may lead to nausea, muscular weakness, heat exhaustion, mental apathy and respiratory failure. Over-supply of sodium is a more common problem because of overuse of dietary sodium chloride or common salt. Too much sodium may lead to water retention, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, stomach cancer, hardening of arteries and heart disease.

In case of mild deficiency of sodium chloride, taking a teaspoon of common salt in one half litre of water or any fruit juice quickly restores the health. In severe conditions, however, administration of sodium chloride in the form of normal saline by intravenous drip may be restored to. The adverse effects of excessive use of sodium chloride can be rectified by avoiding the use of common salt.


POTASSIUM
Potassium is essential to the life of every cell of a living being and is among the most generously and widely distributed of all the tissue minerals. It is found principally in the intracellular fluid where it plays an important role as a catalyst in energy metabolsim and in the synthesis of glycogen and protein. The average adult human body contains 120 g. as potassium and 245 g. as potassium chloride. Out of this body potassium, 117 g. is found in the cells and 3 g. in the extracellular compartment.

Potassium is important as an alkalizing agent in keeping a proper acid-alkaline balance in the blood and tissues. It is essential for muscle contraction and therefore, important for proper heart
function. It promotes the secretion of hormones and helps the kidneys in detoxification of blood.

Potassium prevents female disorders by stimulating the endocrine hormone production. It is involved in the proper functioning of the nervous system and helps overcome fatigue. It also aids
in clear thinking by sending oxygen to the brain and assists in reducing blood pressure.

Potassium is widely distributed in foods. All vegetables, especially green, leafy vegetables, grapes, oranges, lemons, raisins, whole grains, lentils, sunflower seeds, nuts, milk, cottage cheese and butter milk are rich sources. Potatoes, especial potato peelings, and bananas are especially good sources. Potassium requirements have not been established but on intake of 0.8 to 1.3 g. per day is estimated as approximately the minimum need. Potassium deficiency may occur during gastrotestinal disturbances with severe vomiting and diarrhoea, diabetic acidosis and potassium-losing nephritis. It causes undue nervous and body tiredness, palpitation of the heart, cloudiness of the mind, nervous shaking of the hands and feet, great sensitivity of the nerves to cold, and excessive perspiration of the feet and hands.

In simple cases of potassium deficiency, drinking plenty of tender coconut water daily , can make up for it. It is advisable to consume plenty of figs, apricots, prunes, almonds and tomatoes during the use of oral diuretics. Potassium-rich foods should be restricted during acute renal failure and Addison’s disease.

CHLORINE
In the human body, chlorine is liberated by the interaction of common salt, taken along with food, and hydrochloric acid liberated in the stomach during the process of digestion. It is essential for the proper distribution of carbon dixoxide and the maintenance of osmotic pressure in the tissues.

This food element is necessary for the manufacture of glandular hormone secretions. It prevents
the building of excessive fat and auto-intoxication. Chlorine regulates the blood’s alkaline -acid balance and works with Potassium in a compound form. It aids in the cleaning out of body waste by helping the liver to function.

Chlorine is found in cheese and other milk products, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, all berries, rice, radishes, lentils, coconuts and egg yolk. No dietary allowance has been established, but an average intake of daily salt will ensure adequate quantity of chlorine. Deficiency of this mineral can cause loss of hair and teeth.


IODINE
The chief store-house of iodine in the body is the thyroid gland. The essential thyroxine, which is secreted by this gland, is made by the circulating iodine. Thyroxine is a wonder chemical which controls the basic metabolism and oxygen consumption of tissues. It increases the heart rate as well as urinary calcium excretion. Iodine regulates the rate of energy production and body weight and promotes proper growth. It improves mental alacrity and promotes healthy hair, nails, skin and teeth.

The best dietary sources of iodine are kelp and other seaweeds. Other good sources are turnip greens, garlic, watercress, pineapples, pears, artichokes, citrus fruits, egg yolk and seafoods and fish liver oils. The recommended dietary allowances are 130 mcg. per day for adult males and 100 mcg. per day for adult females. An increase to 125 mcg. per day during pregnancy and to 150 mcg. per day during lactation has been recommended. Deficiency can cause goitre and enlargement of the thyroid glands.

Small doses of iodine are of great value in the prevention of goitre in areas where it is endemic and are of value in treatments, at least in the early stages. Larger doses have a temporary value
in the preparation of patients with hyperthyroidism for surgical operation.


COPPER
There are approximately 75 to 150 mg. of copper in the adult human body. Newborn infants have higher concentrations than adults. Liver, brain, kidney, heart, and hair contain relatively high concentration. Average serum copper levels are higher in adult females than in males.

Serum copper levels also increase significantly in women both during pregnancy and when taking oral contraceptives.

This mineral helps in the conversion of iron into haemoglobin. It stimulates the growth of red blood cells. It is also an integral part of certain digestive enzymes. It makes the amino acid tyrosine usable, enabling it to work as the pigmenting factor for hair and skin. It is also essential for the utilisation of vitamin C. Copper is found in most foods containing iron, especially in almonds, dried beans, peas, lentils, whole wheat, prunes and egg yolk. The recommended dietary allowance has not been established but 2 mg. is considered adequate for adults. A copper deficiency may result in bodily weakness, digestive disturbances and impaired respiration.


COBALT

Cobalt is a component of vitamin B12, a nutritional factor necessary for the formation of red blood cells. Recent research in vitamin B12 has shown that its pink colour is attributed to the presence of cobalt in it. The presence of this mineral in foods helps the synthesis of haemoglobin and the absorption of food- iron. The best dietary sources of cobalt are meat, kidney and liver. All green leafy vegetables contain some amount of this mineral. No daily allowance has been set. Only a very small amount upto 8 mcg. is considered necessary.


MANGANESE
The human body contains 30 to 35 mg. of manganese, widely distributed throughout the tissues.
It is found in the liver , pancreas, kidney, pituitary glands.

This mineral helps nourish the nerves and brain and aids in the coordination of nerve impulses and muscular actions. It helps eliminate fatigue and reduces nervous irritability. Manganese is found in citrus fruits, the outer covering of nuts, grains, in the green leaves of edible plants, fish and raw egg yolk. No official daily allowance of manganese has been established, but 2.5 to 7 mg. is generally accepted to be the average adult requirement. A deficiency of this mineral can lead to dizziness, poor elasticity in the muscles, confused thinking and poor memory.


ZINC
There are about two grams of zinc in the body where it is highly concentrated in the hair, skin, eyes, nails and testes. It is a constituent of many enzymes involved in mertabolism.

Zinc is a precious mineral. Our need for this mineral is small but its role in growth and well-being
is enormous, starting before birth. It is needed for healthy skin and hair, proper healing of wounds, successful pregnancies and male virility. It plays a vital role in guarding against diseases and infection. It is needed to transport vitamin A to the retina. There are 156 enzymes that require zinc for their functioning. It has long been known that growth and sexual maturity depend on zinc.

The main dietary sources of zinc are milk, liver, beans, meat, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. The recommended dietary allowance of zinc is 15 mg. daily. Deficiency can result in weight loss, skin diseases, loss of hair, poor appetite, diarrhoea and frequent infection. Those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may have a zinc deficinecy. Heavy drinks lose a lot of zinc in their urine.


SELENIUM
Selenium and vitamin E are synergistic and the two together are stronger than the sum of the equal parts. Selenium slows down ageing and hardening of tissues through oxidation. Males seem to have a greater need for this mineral. Nearly half of the total supply in the body is concentrated in the testicles and in the seminal ducts adjacent to the prostate gland. Salemium is useful in keeping youthful elasticity in tissues. It alleviates hot flushes and menopausal distress. It also helps in the prevention and treatment of dandruff. This mineral is found in Brewer’s yeast, garlic,onions, tomatoes, eggs, milk and sea food. There is no official dietary allowance for salemium but, 50 to 100 mcg. is considered adequate. Deficiency of this mineral can cause premature loss of stamina.


SILICON
This is known as the " beauty mineral " as it is essential for the growth of skin, hair shafts, nails and other outer coverings of the body. It also makes the eyes bright and assists in hardening the
enamel of the teeth. It is beneficial in all healing process and protects body against many diseases such as tuberculosis, irritations in mucous membranes and skin disorders.

Silicon is found in apples, cherries, grapes, asparagus, beets, onions, almonds, honey, peanuts and the juices of the green leaves of most other vegetables. No official dietary allowance has been established for this mineral. Deficiency can lead to soft brittle nails, ageing symptoms of skin such as wrinkles, thinning or loss of hair, poor bone development, insomnia, osteoporosis.


FLUORINE
Fluorine is the element that prevents diseases from decaying the body. It is a germicide, and acts as an antidote to poison, sickness and disease. There is a strong affinity between calcium and fluorine. These two elements , when combined, work particularly in the outer parts of bones.
They are found in the enamel of the teeth and the shiny, highly polished bone surface. Fluorine is found in goat’s milk, cauliflower, watercress, garlic, beets, cabbage, spinach and pistachio nuts.

Minerals thus play an important role in every bodily function and are present in every human cell.

Although the amount needed may be small, without even the trace of the mineral , dysfunction is
bound to occur at some level in the body. A zinc deficiency may show up in ridged fingernails with white spots. Lack of sulphur can cause lack-lustre hair and dull-looking skin. Less obvious deficiencies may surface as fatigue, irritability, loss of memory ,nervousness, depression and weakness. Minerals also interact with vitamins. Magnesium, for instance, must be present in the
body for utilisation of B-complex, C and E vitamins. Sulphur also works with the B-complex vitamins. The body needs all the trace minerals in proper balance. Coffee, tea, alcohol, excess salt and many drugs can rope the body of minerals or make them ineffective. Industrial pollutants cause toxic minerals to enter the body. Minerals at toxic levels also have the effect of
destroying the usefulness of other vitamins and minerals. Exercise improves the activity of certain vitamins and minerals while stress and fatigue work against them.

A well-balanced diet provides as abundance of minerals and vitamins. In refining cereals, grains and sugar, we have robbed them of their natural vitamins and minerals. The dietary sources of these nutrients are whole grains, cereals, bran and germ. It is the bran and germ which are removed in processing. To obtain a balance of nutrients, it is , therefore, necessary to avoid refined and processed foods but an intake of adequate green leafy vegetables which are an excellent source of many nutrients should be ensured.