The Truth About Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Blood Clot Forms in the Vein Deep in the Muscle If you sit in a small space for a long time--more than 4 hours--you can get one. Take this simple test to lower your chances of DVT when you buckle up for long-distance trips. Drink lots of water, wear loose clothing, and get up often, walking around to stretch. If you're at risk for blood clots, ask your doctor if you should take aspirin before traveling. Most Clots Form in the Lower Legs and Thighs You can also get them in your arm, pelvis and other veins. DVT can form if the blood moves too slowly, if the vein is damaged, or there is a problem with your blood. Half of People have DVT Without Symptoms Call your doctor right away if ohe or both legs are swollen, one leg hurts or tender. Check and see if both legs are the same size. If one is bigger, it could be due to a clot. Another sign of DVT is the skin in one of your legs feels warm or looks red or discolored. Two Main Kinds of Clots The two forms of DVT are those that form deep in the veins and those that show up in the arteries. The ones in the arteries can cause heart attacks and strokes. DVT clots don't, but can still be dangerous. They can move through the blood, the blood vessels in the lungs--called a pulmonary embolism--you can die from it, so it is important to get treatment right away. It Can Happen After Leg and Hip Surgery Because the operation affects how the blood flows and clots, you are at great risk for DVT up to 10 days after surgery. But don't worry--your doctor can tell you how to prevent it. He or she may suggest you move around as soon as you can. He may give you medicines to help your blood move. Or he may give you compression stockings to help with blood flow. If You Have DVT--There Is a Good Chance Your Doctor May Give You a Blood Thinner Medication Blood thinners help to stop clots from getting bigger and keep them from moving. It also keeps them from forming, but it doesn't break them up. Most people get better with blood thinners and stockings may help with swelling and blood flow so over time the clots will dissolve and disappear. Another Reason to Shed Extra Weight Obesity increases your odds of getting DVT. It is better to prevent it than treat it. If you're not active now--ask your doctor about starting an exercise regimen. If you smoke, ask about quitting. Get up often from your chair at work or home and take short walks. Work your leg muscles to help pump blood toward the heart. Guys Over 50 Are Most Likely to Get DVT Women are also at higher risk for blood clots if they are pregnant or on the pill. Source www.webmd.com/dvt/rm-quiz-deep-vein-thrombosis

Surprising Reasons You're Gaining Weight

What's With the Weight Gain? If you're taking in more calories than usual, cutting back on exercise--not surprised the numbers on the scale still read high? Your doing everything as always--but the weight still rises? You can research what really happening. Lack of Sleep There can be issues: sleep and weight gain. First: if your up late, the odds are greater, especially if you're doing late-night snacking, leading to more calories. Second: what's happening to your body when you're sleep-deprived? The changes in hormone levels increase as hunger and appetite also make you not as full after eating. Stress Stressing too much can make our bodies go into survival mode. Cortisol, a "stress hormone" when secreted, causes increases in appetite. If you're reaching for high-calorie foods during stressful times, the combination is the perfect breeding ground for weight gain. Anti-Depressants The unfortunate side effect to anti-depressants is weight gain. Talk to your doctor to make changes to your treatment plan if your anti-depressant is causing weight gain. Never stop taking your medication on your own. Some people experience weight gain after starting a new drug treatment because they are feeling better--which leads to a better appetite. However, depression may lead to weight gain too. Steroids Anti-inflammatory steroid medications (prednisones) are notorious for causing weight gain. Fluid retention and an increased appetite are the main reasons, but some people may see a temporary change when their body holds fat after taking steroids to the face, belly and back of neck. If you've taken steroids for more than a week: don't stop cold turkey--it can lead to serious problems. You should check with your doctor first. Drugs May Cause Weight Gain Prescription drugs may be linked to weight gain. Anti-psychotic drugs (those that treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, etc.) and also those medications that are used to treat migraines, seizures, high blood pressure and diabetes. Work with your doctor to find a medication that treats the symptoms and lessens side effects. Don't Jump to Blame the Pill Contrary to popular belief, the combination of birth control pills (estrogen and progestin) have not been proven to cause weight gain. Some women taking the combination pill may experience weight gain due to fluid retention--which is usually short term. If you're still concerned about possible weight gain, talk with your doctor. Hypothyroidism If your thyroid--the butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck--is not making enough thyroid, you're probably feeling tired, weak, cold, and gaining weight. Without enough thyroid hormone, the metabolism slows, causing you to gain weight. Even if your thyroid is functioning at the lower end of the normal range, it may still cause weight gain. Treating hypothyroidism with medication may reverse some weight gain. Don't Blame Menopause Most women gain weight around the time of menopause, but your hormones may not be the only cause. Aging slows down the metabolism leading to burning fewer calories. Weight gain that is related to menopause is fat accumulating around the waist more than the hips and thighs. Cushing's Syndrome Weight gain is common to the syndrome known as Cushing's Syndrome, a condition in which you expose too much stress hormone, cortisol, which causes weight gains and other abnormalities. You can get Cushing's Syndrome if you take steroids for asthma, arthritis or lupus. It can also happen when adrenal glands make to much cortisol, or related to a tumor. Weight gain may be most prominent around the neck, face, upper back and waist. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) This is common hormonal problem to women in childbearing age. Most women with PCOS grow many small cysts on their ovaries. The condition leads to hormone imbalances can affect women's menstrual cycle, as well as lead to extra body hair or acne. Women with PCOS may be resistant to insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar, may cause weight gain. Weight gain tends to collect around the belly, putting these women at risk for heart disease. Quitting Smoking While it may be the best thing for your health, quitting may cause weight gain, but perhaps less than you think. On the average, people who quit smoking gain less than 10 pounds. Should you stop feeling hungrier after several weeks, making it easier to lose the weight gained. Rule 1: If You Do Gain Weight. . . Don't stop taking medications without talking to your doctor. Recognize the importance of drug-taking may be critical to your health. If something else is causing weight gain; ask your doctor to help figure out what may be happening. Rule 2: If You Do Gain Weight. . . Don't compare yourself to other people taking the same drug. Not all people experience the same side effects of the same drug. Even if the drug caused someone else to lose weight, it may not be the same for you. Rule 3: If You Do Gain Weight. . . Remember, if weight gain is due to water retention; it is not permanent weight or fat. Once finished taking the drug or the condition is under control, puffiness from fluid retention may ease. Stick to a lower-sodium diet in the meantime. Rule 4: If You Do Gain Weight. . . Check with your doctor about other drugs you can take. In many cases, your can doctor can switch you to another medication that may not have the same side effects. Rule 5: If You Do Gain Weight. . . Learn if your weight gain is caused from a decrease in metabolism from either a medical condition or medication. If so, take the time to participate in a metabolism-raising activities. So get moving! Source www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-weight-gain-shockers.

7 Most Effective Exercises

Does Your Workout Really Work If done right, these 7 exercises can give you results that you can see and feel. You can do them at a gym or at home. Watch your form that was shown by a trainer, as good technique is a must. If you're not active now, it is a good idea to check with your doctor first--especially if you have health concerns; for example, advanced osteoporosis, as these exercises may be too aggressive. Walking Winner: You can walk almost anywhere or anytime. You can use a treadmill or hit the streets. All you need is a good pair of shoes. How to: Walk for fitness--begin 5 - 10 minutes per time. You can add a few minutes every time you walk until you are at least 30 minutes per walk. After you've master that, you can quicken your pace by adding hills. Interval Training Winner: Interval training boosts fitness levels and burns more calories to help you lose weight. The basic idea is to vary intensity within the workout instead of going at a steady pace. How to: Whether you walk, run, dance, do another cardio exercise, push up the pace for a minute or two, by backing off every 2-4 minutes; how long the interval lasts depends on the length of the workout or how much recovery time is needed; the trainer fine-tunes pacing; and repeat intervals throughout the workout. Squats Winner: this works several muscle groups: quadriceps ("quads"), hamsrings, and gluteals ("glutes") at the same time. How to: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart; your back straight. Bend at the knees; lower your rear as if sitting in a chair. Keep your knees right over ankles. Add dumbbells once you can do 12 reps with good form. Squats Done Right Practice with a real chair until you master the move. First, sit all the way down in the chair, then stand with your back up. Next, barely touch the chair's seat before standing up. Work up to doing squats without a chair, while keeping the same form. Lunges Winner: Like squats, lunges work all major muscles of the lower body, while improving your balance. How to: Take a big step forward, while keeping your back straight. Bend your front knee about 90 degrees. Keep your weight on back toes and drop back on your knee toward the floor. Don't let back knee touch the floor. Lunges: Extra Challenges Try stepping not just forward, but back and out to each side with each lunge. Add dumbbells to the lunges once your form is down pat. Push-Ups Winner: this strengthens the chest, shoulders, triceps and core muscles. How to: Facing down, place your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart: place toes on floor; (if too hard, start with knees on floor); keep your body in a straight line from the shoulders to the knew to the feet. Keep your rear-end muscles and abs engaged. Bend your elbows to lower down until they almost touch the floor. Lift with your back by pushing through your elbows, keeping your torso in a straight line throughout the move. Push-Ups: Too Hard? Too Easy? If you're new to push-ups, start by leaning into the kitchen counter. Until you get stronger, go lower by using a desk or chair. Move onto the floor, starting with your knees bent. Challenge: put your feet on the stair, bench, or couch while keeping good form. Crunches: Method A Lie on your back, with your feet flat on the floor, and your head resting in your palms. Press your lower back down, while contracting your abdominal muscles (abs) in one smooth move, as you raise your head, then your neck, shoulders, and upper back off the floor. Tuck your chin in slightly as you lower your back and repeat. Crunches: Method B These can also be done with your feet off the floor or knees bent, and keeps you from arching your back and uses your hip flexors (the muscles on your upper thighs below your hip bones). Master Crunches Keep your neck in line with your spine, tuck your chin in (don't stick out); breathe normally while keeping neck and shoulders open--while keeping your elbows off your line of vision. Bent-Over Row Winner: works your major muscles like your upper back and biceps. How to: stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend at your knees, and bend forward at your hips. Enlarge your abs without hunching your back. Hold weights beneath your shoulders, with hands shoulder-width apart. When bending elbows, lift both hands toward the sides of your body. Pause, by slowly lower hands to a starting position. Can be perform with a barbell or dumbbells. Mastering Bent-Over Rows First, do the moves without the weights to learn the right moves. If you have trouble doing bent-over rows while standing up, support your weight by sitting on an incline bench, facing backward. Source www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/ss/slideshow-7-most-effective-exercises.

Do You Have An Hormone Imbalance?

Your Hormones--Your Health If you're feeling bloated, irritable, or not your best--maybe it's a hormonal imbalance. Hormones are chemicals in your body called "messengers" that impact your cells and organ functions. It is normal for your levels to shift at different times in your life; for example, before or during your period, pregnancy or during menopause. Some medications or health issues can cause them to go up or down too. Irregular Periods Most women's periods come every 21 - 35 days. If it doesn't arrive the same time every month--too much or too little hormones--estrogen and progesterone could be the problem; 40's/early 50's (periomenopause: before menopause); Irregular periods could be symptoms to health problems like polysystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It is important to talk with your doctor. Sleep Problems If you're not getting enough sleep, or sleep isn't adequate--it could be your hormones. Progesterone--the hormone released by ovaries--helps with sleep. If your levels are lower than usual, it could be harder to fall asleep. If estrogen triggers hot flashes--or night sweats--it could be tougher to get adequate rest. Chronic Acne A breakout before or during your period is normal; but an excess of androgens ("male hormones: both men and women have them) can cause oil glands to overwork. Androgens can affect skin cells in and/or around hair follicles to both clog pores, causing acne. Memory Fog Experts are not sure how or why hormones impact the brain, but they do know that changes in estrogen or progesterone can make head fell "foggy"--or hard to remember things. Some think that estrogen impacts brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Attention or memory problems are common during perimenopause or menopause. Thyroid disease is a symptom of hormone-related conditions. Let your doctor know if you are having troubling thinking clearly. Belly Problems Gut-lined tiny cells called receptors respond to estrogen or progesterone. These hormones have a higher or lower than usual changes in how food is digested. Diarrhea, stomach pain, bloating, nausea can crop up or get worse during your period. Digestive problems, acne or fatigue, and hormone levels are off. Ongoing Fatigue If you are tired all the time: Fatigue can be a common symptom of hormone imbalance. Excess progesterone can make you sleepy. If the thyroid--the butterfly-shaped gland in your neck--makes too little thyroid hormone, it can sap your energy. A simple blood test to the thyroid panel can tell your doctor if your levels are too low. If they are too low, there is treatment. Mood Swings and Depression Researchers believe that drops in hormones, or fast changes in these levels can cause moodiness or the "blues". Estrogen affects key brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine and norepinepherine. Other hormones that travel the same path as neurotransmitters also play a role in how you feel. Appetite and Weight Gain If you're feeling blue or irritated--it can be when estrogen levels dip--and may want to eat more. It might be whydrops in hormone are linked to weight gain. Estrogen dips also impact the body's levels of leptin--the hunger-revving hormone. Headaches Lots of things can trigger heachaches, but drops in estrogen can also bring them on. It is common for headaches to strike right before or during your period, when estrogen is down. Regular headaches--the ones that surface at the same time every month--can be clues to the levels of hormone shifting. Vaginal Dryness This is normal occasionally. If it is often dry or irritated down there, the reason could be low estrogen. Estrogen helps vaginal tissues to stay moist and comfortable. Estrogen drops because of imbalance, reduce vaginal fluids that cause tightness. Loss of Libido Most think testerone is a male hormone--but women make it too. If testerone levels are down--there is less interest in sex than usual. Breast Changes A drop in estrogen makes breast tissue less dense. An increase ih the hormone thickens breast tissue that causes new lumps or cysts. It is important to talk with your doctor if you notice breast changes, even if none of the symptoms concern you. Source www.webmd.com/women/ss/slideshow-how-hormone-imbalance.

Risky Mistakes Pet Owners Make

YOU LET YOUR DOG WALK YOU A poorly trained dog is a hazard on a stroll. According to the CDC, there are tens of thousands of people who go to the ER for pet-related falls. Many happen during walks: a person trips over a dog, or a person is pushed or pulled by one. Experts say that obedience training is the best way to make sure your pooch doesn't take you down during your morning walk. YOU OVERLOOK TICKS After a walk in the woods, be sure to check yourself for ticks, but don't forget your dog. Tick bites put your pet at risk for Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and other diseases. They can cause serious illnesses for cats as well as put other family members at risk too. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers to make sure you get all of the head as well, taking care not to crush it. Also ask about tick control. YOU IGNORE RING WORM If your pet has a round bald patch--fungus is to blame. They are infectious to people who touch infected dog or cat's skin or fur; it is important to treat it. Ringworm causes a reddish, ring-shaped rash on the skin or bald spot that infects the scalp. If your pet has a hair loss, take the pet to the vet. YOU DON'T BOTHER TO DEWORM Roundworms are common parasites in dogs and cats. They cause diarrhea and vomiting, as well as lead to other illnesses, not to mention a threat to people too. The infected pet can spread tiny eggs in soil or sand. The kids can swallow the eggs when putting dirty fingers in their mouths. When worms hatch inside people, they can cause blindness and other tissue damage. Ask your vet about regular deworming for your pet. YOU SKIP FLEA MEDICINE Pets without these meds aren't the only ones paying the price. Fleas can quickly set up shop on their skin, especially during the summer or fall, filling your home with their eggs and young. Some people wind up covered in itchy sores. Fleas can also spread serious diseases to people, including the bubonic plague. Be sure to ask your vet about long-term flea medication, as well as a routine reminder on your calendar to get pet a checkup. YOU DON"T SPAY OR NEUTER There are millions of cats and dogs who live on the street and end up euthanized due to unwanted litters. Many pet owners are reluctant to spay or neuter their pets. The fact is, it is a healthy choice for pets because it can lower the risk for breast cancer in females, and testicular cancer in males; not to mention, neutered males are less likely to run away from home, mark their territory or act aggressive. YOU KEEP THE FOOD BOWL FULL This is the most common mistake among pet owners. The problem is it makes cats and dogs eat more than they need. The food is always available and they eat too many calories and gain too much weight. Follow the serving suggestions on the pet food label or ask your vet for advice. YOU FORCE CATS to BE VEGETARIAN Vegetarian owners often want pets to share their lifestyle. The trouble is cats are "obligate carnivores"--they must eat meat to survive. They depend on the nutrients found only in animal tissue. Dogs may be handle a nutrient-rich vegetarian diet, but check with a vet first. YOU GIVE THEM TOO LITTLE EXERCISE Just like people, pets need to move to stay healthy. Without exercise, they are prone to obesity and raises their risk of respiratory problems as well as joint problems. The right amount of exercise for a dog depends on the breed and size. Vets recommend at least half an hour a day. The bonus is brisk walks with a buddy can help the pet owner get in shape too. YOU MISREAD BODY LANGUAGE Pet owners can love their dog--but do they understand them? Tail wagging is always a good sign but can be surprising. It a dog wants to threaten someone, it may hold its tail high or wave it stiffly back and forth. Most mistake this for playfulness and may get bitten. In order to avoid misunderstandings, it is important to learn about your pet's body language. YOU DON"T GIVE ENOUGH ATTENTION Just like children, pets get bored if you don't play with them. It can lead to habits like chewing, digging, barking or whining. Bored cats can resort to scratching or meowing. It is important to keep interesting things like hiding treats for pets to find around your home, give a cat a toy to chase or teach dogs to paly fetch, tug of war or hide and seek. YOU MAKE CATS SHARE A LITTER BOX If you end up cleaning up more pee or poop from the floor, it could be because felines are picky about their litter box. If it is dirty or smells like other cats, they may not use it. Experts say to get one litter box for each cat in your home and one extra. It is helpful to space them out throughout your home too. YOU DON'T SOCIALIZE YOUNG PETS The first 7 weeks of life, puppies and kittens need to get used to people. Owners should build that trust with gentle handling and play. Reputable breeders begin doing this immediately and pet owners can keep this up after you bring the pet home. It can create a strong bond if you play with a new puppy or kitten every day. YOU LEAVE YOUR DOG ALONE FOR TOO LONG 8 to 10 hours alone in a crate, tiny laundry room or even outdoors is too long for most canines. It can lead to separation anxiety or destructive habits like chewing, digging, non-stop barking or howling or even depression in timid pets. Better choices are a doggie day-care, a midday visit from a pet sitter or a canine companion. In general, adult dogs can go 4 - 5 hours in a crate, as long as they get exercise before and after. YOU DON'T SET RULES Some pet owners expect pets to know right from wrong without being told. Human etiquette is not natural to dogs or cats. They need to make clear about jumping up on people, scratching furniture and peeing on furniture is not okay. It is important to be consistent with these rules and reward pets for good behavior. If you need good advice, a trainer can help. YOU SCOLD PETS FOR ACCIDENTS You come home to find a puddle of pee on the floor and have the urge to yell at your pet. Animal experts say this does no good. If it happened in the past, a cat or dog does not know why you're yelling. It is better to praise your dog or cat right away when doing their business in an appropriate place. YOU LEAVE YOUNG KIDS UNSUPERVISED Young children can play too rough causing the dog or cat to strike out in defense. It is important to supervise play time when a new pet joins the family. Set rules on how kids are to treat a pet and teach them to spot signs when a dog or cat wants to be left alone. YOU GIVE MILK TO CATS Many pet owners get the idea that cars thrive on milk is a myth. The fact is, the opposite is true. Most cats are lactose intolerant and can't properly digest the sugars in milk. It can give them diarrhea. Although some cats can digest milk with no problems--they don't really need it. Most vets suggests to skip giving milk to cats. YOU LET DOGS EAT SPOILED FOOD Your dog may be tempted to rummage through the trash for a treat, but don't let them. Spoiled food is no healthier for pets than people. Dogs who eat trash can get food poisoning or pancreas problems. Spoiled food may contain toxic mold which can cause vomiting, severe tremors, seizures or even death. YOU GIVE BONES TO DOGS Pet owners may thing bones are tasty treats for canines, but the FDA says otherwise. The FDA warns against dogs chewing on bones can injure their teeth, tongue or mouth. Bones can also get stuck in their digestive tract and need to be surgically removed with an endoscope. For dogs who like to chew, ask a vet for safe choices. YOU FEED DOGS TABLE SCRAPS It may be hard to resist your pet's sad eyes when they beg at the table--but rewarding barks or whines with some of our meal encourages your pet to beg more; and you can forget about a quiet dinner with the family. If you do share table scraps as a treat with your pet--do it away from the table--and use it as a reward for good behavior. It is also important to learn which human foods are toxic to pets. YOU FEED CATS ONLY DRY FOODS Cats have a low thirst drive by nature and may not drink enough to stay hydrated. Cats whose bodies are always low on water are at risk for urinary tract problems. Encourage them to drink more by adding a water fountain for cats. Canned food generally has 78% more water; a good option, but not every feline may need it. Ask your vet about prescription food that encourages your pet to drink. PREGNANT? YOU GIVE UP YOUR CAT Kitty poop may have a parasite that causes illness like toxoplasmosis. If pregnant woman becomes infected, it could harm the baby. Most people have cats already that have antibodies to protect against the disease. The CDC says if a pregnant woman decides to keep cats, avoid handling cat litter, if possible. YOU DON'T HAVE A DISASTER PLAN Fires, flooding and hurricanes may force you to evacuate you home--but what do you do with your pet? Leaving a pet behind is not an option. Not all Red Cross shelters allow animals. It is best to find pet friendly shelters or motels ahead of time to keep pets with with you during an emergency. YOU ADOPT A PET ON A WHIM A friend giving away puppies or a local animal shelter that's totally full makes it a temptation to bring home a pet. Never make spur-of-the-moment decisions. It is a long-term commitment to care for the animal--10 - 15 years for dogs; and up to 20 years for cats. It best to research ahead of time when deciding which type of pet--a specific breed-- is best for the family. Source: www.pets.webmd.com/ss/slideshow-mistakes-pet-owners-make.

Healthy-Fat Foods

FISH Naturally fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, albacore tuna) are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These are the good fats that keep your heart healthy. Many also keep your brain sharp, especially when you are getting older. AHA: eat 2 servings of fatty fish per week (one serving is 3 ounces--about the size of a deck of cards). You can also try baked, grilled or poached fish. AVOCADO You can eat it on a sandwich or serve it in guacamole. A tasty avocado is good for the heart; it helps with osteo-arthritis symptoms--healthy fats. The Extra benefits to eating avocado over other foods--it helps the body to better absorb nutrients. A half-medium avocado--one serving--is about 115 - 160 calories. SEEDS Little seeds like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds or sesame seeds can pack a big punch. They are good fats that can lower cholesterol. In general, these fats come from plants and are healthier than animal products. The "bad" fats foods are fatty cuts of meat, fat dairy products and some packaged foods. Check the food labels for fat type you are getting and limit saturated fats and avoid trans fats. NUTS Hazelnuts to pecans--these nuts are good for your heart. Walnuts, in particular, deliver heart-healthy fats; just don't overdo it. Just because these fats are healthy doesn't mean you can eat as much as you want: 1 serving = 1 ounce or 14 walnut halves, 24 almonds, 35 peanuts, 18 cashews or 15 pecan halves. OLIVE OIL When cooking or dressing up your salad, use olive oil which is high in the good fat. Remember: a smart watch is how much fat, even the good fat, you can eat. Cook with less oil than the recipe calls for or use olive oil spray. When baking, use applesauce or half the oil to cut back on some of the fat to shave off calories. VEGETABLE Dark green veggies like spinach, kale or Brussels sprouts offer omega-3's. These bodies can't make omega-3's, but you can get them from food. The goal is 2 - 3 cups of vegetables per day. Also include a fish diet: fish have a different kind of omega-3 fat that the body needs. Plants offer only a fraction of omega-3's than fish does. EGGS a great source of inexpensive protein, large eggs have less than 5 grams of fat, but most healthy fats. Some eggs are enriched with omega-3's but check the label on the carton. GROUND FLAXSEED A part of a healthy diet, the good-for-you fats can help to make your skin look great and plumper and younger. It can also add fiber and help ease inflammation. You can sprinkle good fats--like a teaspoon of ground flaxseed on salad, cereal or during baking.' BEANS Whether kidney, Great Northern, navy or soybeans, you can add beans to your diet which are good for you mentally and physically. Beans have omega-3's to help with mood. OMEGA-3 FORTIFIED FOODS Many foods have added omega-3's to make food healthier. You can find them in enriched milk, eggs, bread or breakfast bars. Also check the product labels to make sure. There are more health benefits to getting omega-3's through fortified products like supplements. Source: www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-healthy-fat-foods.

What Is Psychology?

I. What Is Psychology? 1. Human behavior. 2. Emotions. 3. Mental processes. a. Scientific investigation. 4. Psychology -- 2 Greek words. a. Psyche - spirit/soul. b. Logos -- science/study. 5. Understanding people/minds. 6. Key science/mind (involves understanding perception governs behavior). 7. Systematic approach -- understanding thoughts, emotions, behavior -- people. 8. Influences human behavior: a. Emotions b. Thoughts. c. Physical. d. Social. 9. Relevant awareness of psychology: a. Self-awareness. b. Social awareness. c. Communication. d. Marketing. e. Personal development. 10. Goals. a. Describe human behavior. b. Predict human behavior. c. Explain human behavior. d. Change behavior/experiences of others. e. Help others make sound decisions. 11. What is psychologist? a. Study physical, cognitive, emotional, social aspects of behavior. b. Ensure health/well-being of all people. c. Conduct laboratory experiments/perform: 1) Intelligence tests. 2) Performance test. 3) Personality test. 4) Aptitude tests. d. Surveys. e. Questionnaires. f. Interviews. g. Observations. h. Clinical studies. 12. Branches--Psychology. a. Better understanding individual behavior, community behaviors. b. Range of branches: 1) Social psychology. 2) Clinical psychology. 3) Cognitive psychology. 4) Abnormal psychology. 5) Educational psychology. 6) Developmental psychology. 7) Personality psychology. 8) Behavioral psychology. c. Social psychology. 1) Study of human interaction includes: a> Communication. b> Cooperation. c> Competition. d> Leadership. 3> Attitude development. 2) Thoughts, feelings, behaviors of individuals in company of people, studies determine influence on individual's nature. d. Clinical psychology: 1) Treatment oriented branch psychology uses scientific methods handle psychological problems. 2) Psychological assessment, psychotherapy treatment methods used. 3) Combines practical/theoretical aspects develop strong prognosis. e. Cognitive psychology. 1) Branch deals internal mental processes of thoughts like: a) Visual processing. b) Memory. c) Problem solving. d) Language. 2) Deals perception/problem solving capabilities of brain. f. Abnormal psychology. 1) Branch deals with abnormalities in person's behavior/psyche. g. Educational psychology. 1) Psychological study of learning with various educational situations. 2) Seeks understand how students learn/how they develop. h. Developmental psychology. 1) Sub-field within psychology focuses on study of age-based behavioral changes. 2) Concerned with describing/understanding how individuals grow/change over lifetimes. i. Personality psychology. 1) Branch of psychology deals with IQ personality of individual. 2) Answer questions like: a) What makes person unique/different others? b) Personality traits common across different people? 3) Individual's personality help determine unique traits influence his/her behaviors certain situations; include: a) Extra version. b) Optimism. c) High self-esteem. j. Behavioral psychology. 1) Study of mental processes/human behavioral patterns. 2) Concerned with mental processes/behavioral patterns of humans/non-human subjects. 3) Involves study individual's behavior, gauge psychological state of individual.

What Can You Eat If You Have Diabetes?

1. You can't have dessert if you have diabetes? a. true b. false If you have diabetes, don't worry that you'll never taste your favorite ice cream or pie again. You can still have desserts, but save them for special occasions and only have a small scoop or a thin slice. Sugar is a type of carbohydrate, and carbohydrates make your blood sugar go up more and faster than protein of fat. If you have diabetes, you'll need to track your carbs. If you crave something sweet, have a piece of fruit. 2. When you have diabetes, snacking is a good idea. a. true b. false Knowing when to eat and what to snack on can help keep your blood sugar at healthy levels. The best snacks combine carbohydrates, protein and fat to satisfy your hunger. Other good choices include a piece of fruit, half a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread or a few cups of low-fat microwave popcorn. 3. You should eat a lot of this if you have diabetes? a. Natural sugars. b. Added sugars. c. Fiber. Fiber is a carbohydrate like sugars and starches. But because your body doesn't digest fiber, ti doesn't affect your blood sugar. Foods high in fiber also help make you feel full. Get your fiber by eating plenty of fruits. And be sure to keep the skin on fruits and veggies; that's where most of the fiber is. One cup of raw spinach has about 5 grams of fiber. One slice of whole wheat bread has 3. All women need at least 25 grams of fiber a day; men should get at least 38 grams a day. 4. It's OK to skip a meal so you can eat a really big meal later. a. true b. false If you have diabetes, it's important that you eat regularly to keep your blood sugar levels steady. If you miss a meal, your blood sugar level drops too low, you may feel shaky, nauseous, or dizzy. Your blood sugar can also spike after a big meal. Spacing out your meals -- and how many carbohydrates you eat -- will make your diabetes easier to control. During the day, try to eat meals every four to five hours and have snacks in between. 5. Besides carbs, you should watch your: a. Calcium. b. Salt. c. Vitamin D. People with diabetes have a bigger ris of having high blood pressure, which can cause heart disease. Too much salt can make your blood pressure high, and most people get way more salt than they need. To cut down on salt, eat fewer canned and processed foods . Use herbs and spices to flavor your food. If you want a snack, choose a piece of fruit or some vegetables instead of salty chips or pretzels. Limit your salt intake to 2,300 milligrams at most. That's less than 2 teaspoon, but salt adds up quickly, even if you don't sprinkle it on your meal. 6. If you want to eat a potato, choose a: a. White potato. b. Sweet potato. c. Either. People with diabetes don't need to give up carbs, but they do need to pick healthy carbs over unhealthy ones like white bread and pastries. Both white and sweet potatoes are good sources of vitamins, potassium, and fiber. But sweet potatoes have an advantage: they don't raise blood sugar as much as white potatoes. 7. You can eat as much sugar-free as you want. a. true b. false Sugar-free isn't the same as carbohydrate-free or calorie-free. While some sugar substitutes don't have carbohydrates, many do. And some sugar-free food can affect your blood sugar as much as foods with sugar. How can you tell? Check the food label to see how many grams of carbohydrates are in each serving. Foods made with "sugar alcohols" like sorbitol are high on carbohydrates and can give you stomachaches or diarrhea if you eat a lot of them. 8. What should you eat if your blood sugar is high? a. Your regular meal. b. Nothing. c. Only salad. If you feel OK but your blood sugar is higher than normal, eat your regular meals and take your medicines at the usual times. Try drinking several glasses of water and moving around more. Check and record your blood sugar every four hours until it is back to normal. Call your doctor if you are concerned about it or have unusual symptoms. Also call if your blood sugar keeps going up. Source: www.webmd.com/diabetes/rm-quiz-diabetes-and-food.

15 Pilates Moves That Get Results

Pilates for Beginners Pilates focus on toning muscles with springs, bands, and your own body weight. Check out author, Alycea Ungaro's "15 Minute Everyday Pilates," a routine for beginners. Some of the moves use PIlates studio equipment, but most can be done at home. Just check with your doctor if your're a man over 45, or a woman over 55, or you have a medical condition. Flat Abs: Pilates Hundred Flatten your tummy using abs efficiently. Hold behind your knees, scoop your belly in, and curl down to the floor, to get into position. Curl your head and shoulders up slightly, as you lower your back as it is still pressd into the floor. Pump your arms up and down in small motions at your sides. Breathe in for five reps and aout for five until you hit 50 pumps. Sit up, and repeat for a total of 100 pumps. Flat Abs: Hundred on the Reformer At the studio, try Pilates hundred on the reformer, a spring-based resistance machine. Lie on your back with your legs in table-top position or extend at a 45-degree angle. Pull at the straps down next to your abdomen. Curl your head and shoulders pulse your arms up and down. Breathe in for 5 reps and out for 5, until you reach 100 pulses. If the move doesn't feel right, check with a fitness professional. Flat Abs: Roll-Up Begin this starter sit-up with legs straight out in front of you. Extend your arms over your legs and lower your head between your arms. Curl backward and bend your knees, stopping halfway down. Raise your arms straitght up and pull your abs in tightly. Do 6 - 8 reps at a moderate pace. As you become more advanced, try lwoering all the way to the floor. Flat Abs: Neck Peel If sit-ups give you a sore neck, try this alternative: Lie flat with the end of a resistance band or towel tucked under the center of your back. Bend your knees and grab the other end of the band above your head. Inhale and use your ab muscles as you slowly peel your body up, letting your head rest against the band. Exhale and return to starting position, doing 5 reps, making sure your abs do the work. Obliques: Twist and Reach Keep the resistance band handy for waist-toning moves. Sit with your legs a little more than hip-distance apart. Hold the band between your hands and raise your arms overhead. Exhale and turn to one side using your muscles in your waist. Inhale and reach your arms out and back, keeping your hips in place. Exhale and return to starting position, alternating for a total of 4 sets on each side. Lower Back: Shoulder Bridge, Part 1 Strengthening your abs is vital to toning your back of your body too. Lie on your back, knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Keep your arms at your sides, raising your hips without arching your back. Tighten the muscles of your buttocks and hamstrings, holding for 5 breaths. Lower one vertebra at at time on the floor, if you're stopping here, or go onto a more advanced posture. Lower Back: Shoulder Bridge Part 2 Keeping your hips raised, extend one leg straight up and point foot. Kick your leg down and out, flexing your foot. Repeat, exhaling as your extend your leg up and inhaling as you kick it down. Keep your torso strong and the other foot firmly on the mat. Do 5 reps with each leg. Upper Back: Pulling Straps Toning your upper back is the fast track to a better posture. This uses the reformer with an accessory called a long box. Lie on your stomach with the chest past the edge of the long box. Grab the straps in front with straight arms. Lift your head and chest and pull straps down toward your hips. The long box slides forward with you on top. Release your arms back in starting position, doing 5 reps. Upper Back: Letter 'T' Targets the upper back without the reformer. Lie face down on the mat with your feet together. Raise your head and chest slightly as you extend your arms perpendicular to your body, palms down. Exhale, sweeping your arms back and lifting your chin and chest higher. Keep your waist on the mat using your upper back muscles and bring your arms closer to your body. Return to starting position as you do 5 reps. Upper Body: Tendon Stretch This powerful upper-body toner is done with a mat, reformer, or Wunda Chair. Using a mat, sit with your legs straight in front of you with your feet together, flexed. Press your hands flat on the mat as you look down. Using your upper body strength, lift your backside and upper legs. Swing forware and backward before lowering slowly to the mat, doing 5 reps. Upper Body: Sparklers This pairs small hand weights and adds punch to Pilates workout at home. The move: imagaine you are twirling weights like sparklers on the Fourth of July. Stand with weights held at your thighs. Turn slightly in as they face each other, making 8 small circles. Each circle should be a little higher until your hands are overhead. Make 8 circles in opposite direction as you lower your arms, repeating 2 - 3 times. Lower Body: Kneeling Knee Stretches This reformer exercise is an efficient way to work the entire body. Kneel on the reformer with a round back as you keep your arms straight. Use you butt muscles and thighs to push and pull your lower body back and forth. Use the Platform to slide a few inches with each movement, doing 5 reps. As you get more advanced, do another 5 reps with your back arched. Lower Body: Kneeling Side Kicks To tone your thighs and butt without the reformer, begin by kneeling, leaning to the left as you place your left hand on the mat under your shoulder and your right hand behind your head with your elbow pointing up. Raise your right leg until it is parallel to the floor. Holding your torso steady, kick your leg to the front and to the back with your knee straight. Do 5 reps on each side. Lower Body: Leg Swings This exercise sculpts your legs while getting your heart rate up. Stand with your arms crossed in front at shoulder height. Keeping you abs tight, exhale and lift your right knee toward your right elbow. As you lower your leg quickly. Keep switching sides for a total of 10 swings with each leg. Stamina: Wall Chair Besides toning your muscles, Pilates is also known as a endurance booster. With the wall and small hand weights are the only necessities for a highly effective exercise. Stand with your back against the wall and your feet hip-width apart. Walk your feet out a little as you bend your knees and slide down as if sitting in a chair. Your upper legs should be parallel to the floor as you raise your arms should height, holding for 30 seconds. Do 2 reps. Cardio: Standing Jumps The focus of this Pilates move is strength training and getting cardio with this move. Stand with your belly pulled in and your arms overhead. Exhale as you lower your head and bend at your knees as you swing your arms back. Inhale as you jump up with straight legs and reaching your arms overhead. Land with your knees slightly bent, returning quickly to the starting position, doing 8 - 10 reps at a rapid pace. You should be out of breath when your finished. Source www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/ss/slideshow -15-pilates-moves.

10 Facts About Medical Marijuana

What is Medical Marijuana? Medical marijuana is any part of the plant that is used to treat health problems in order for patients to get relief from their symptoms instead of getting high. Most marijuana is sold illegally as medicine just like the same ingredients used to get pleasure. Some medical marijuana is grown to have less chemicals to cause feelings of euphoria. Ingredients in Medical Marijuana There are hundreds of chemicals in medical marijuana called cannabinoids. The two main ingredients are THC and CBD. THC gives the user pleasurable effects the pot smoker craves, but it also has the same effects to treat medical problems. On the other hand, research says that CBD may be helpful to treat health issues and doesn't cause users to get high. How Marijuana Works on the Brain Users who smoke marijuana feel the effects of faster than those who eat it, possibly taking up to an hour to feel the effects. When users smoke marijuana, the THC goes to the lungs, to the bloodstream, which causes the brain cells to release a chemical called dopamine, causing the feeling of being high. While less is known about CBD works, it may work with THC sometimes; and other times it may work on its own to have an effect on the brain. Use for Medical Marijuana Medical marijuana is used to ease pain, nausea, loss of appetite in those who have cancer and HIV; though not much is known through research. Research says that medical marijuana may cut down seizures in people with epilepsy and some studies say it may ease symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis like stiffness, spasm of pain, and frequent urination. Short-Term Side Effects Marijuana is used to change mood, making the user feel happy, relaxed, sleepy, or anxious. It can also disrupt short-term memory and decision-making ability. The effects can last as long as 1 - 3 hours. Marajuana in large doses may make users experience hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia. And research says it may make breathing problems like bronchitis worse. Long-Term Side Effects Regular smokers of marijuana may have respiratory problems causing a daily cough and a higher risk of lung infections. And studies have linked marijuana use to mental illness, depressions, anxiety, less motivation, and suicidal thoughts in young people. If used during pregnancy, it may raise the risk of health problems in babies, resulting in addiction. Drugs Made from Marijuana The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two drugs that include two ingredients found in marijuana. One is Dronabinol has THC used to treat nausea caused from chemotherapy and extreme weight loss in HIV patients. The other is Nibilone is used for the same reasons but is made of less chemicals which is similar to THC. Forms of Medical Marijuana Users of Medical Marijuana smoke it in paper-rolled cigaretters or pipes, brew it into a beverage, eat ot in cooked foods, or take in pill form. The effects are strong and long-lasting; although it may be hard to predict the affects in each user. It can also be inhaled through vaporizers. Where Is Medical Marijuana Legal? California voters were the first to legalize medical marijuana in 1996. Now, it is legal in almost half of the U.S. states. If you live in a state where it is legal and your doctor has given you a prescription, you can buy it from any authorized seller called a dispensary. Some users of medical marijuana can also legally grow their own medical marijuana. Medical Marijuana for Children Studies say medical marijuana may give relief to children who suffer seizures with hard-to-treat epilepsy. It is a type known as "Charlotte's WEb"; a high strain with very little THC that doesn't allow children the feelings of getting high. Source www.webmd.com/brain/ss/slideshow-medical-marijuana.