Health And Lifestyle

Jamu (Traditonal Herbal Medicine) - From Indonesia

2008-04-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

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JAMU

'Back to nature' is not merely a slogan in Java and Indonesia. The visible proof is the use of traditional herbal medicine of various type of 'medical plants', either from the leaves, the fruits, the roots, the flowers or the barks, etc.

These herbal medicine had been used since the ancient time up to now, it is largely consumed by people of different level; lower, middle and upper, in the villages and in the big cities.

The study of jamu had been conducted by Rumphius, a botanist as early as the year 1775 AD by publishing a book 'Herbaria Amboinesis'. A scientific research for jamu by the research center of herbal medicine in Bogor Botanical Garden, resulting a publication of a book 'Medical Book for Children and Adults', composed by E. Van Bent.

The first seminar about jamu has been held in Solo in 1940, followed by a Formation of Indonesia's Jamu Committee in 1944. In the 1966, a seminar on jamu was held again. In 1981, a book by title of 'The use of Medical Plants' was established to support the jamu industry in the country.

The method of using the jamu remains the same as the ancestors did. Some are consumed by drinking it and some are for outside application.

At present one could buy easily ready made jamu packed modernly in the form of powder, pills, capsules, drinking liquid and ointments. Of course there are still jamu shops, which sell only ingredients or prepare the jamu on spot as required by buyers. Some women are roaming the street to sell jamu, is a common view across the country.

The traditional methods of making jamu such as by boiling the prepared herbal ingredients (jamu godok) still prevail in Javanese society. The popular traditional tools of making jamu are still available in many Javanese houses such as; Lumpang (small iron Mortar), pipisan, parut (grater), kuali (clay pot), etc.

What kind of disease could jamu cure?
The reply is almost every disease, jamu could cure. There are various kinds of jamu to combat different kind of illness. In Principle there are two types of jamu; the first is jamu to maintain physical fitness and health, the locally popular are Galian Singset (to keep women body fit and slim) and Sehat Lelaki (to keep men body healthy). The second is jamu to cure various kinds of illness. Except the above, there are special jamu created with the purpose to maintain a loving family harmony. The popular products among other are Sari Rapet, which makes a women sexual organ in a good condition, as for the man the matched product is jamu Kuat Lekaki (strong man). The Javanese are also taking a great care to pregnant women during pre and postnatal period by producing the related jamu. There are also jamu for the babies.

The Herbs for Jamu
There are hundreds of herbs for jamu prescriptions, among other are:

Spices
Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)
Lempuyang (Zingiber Oronaticum)
Temu Lawak/ Wild Ginger (Curcuma Cautkeridza)
Kunyit/ Tumeric (Curcuma Domestica)
Kencur/ Greater Galingale (Kaemferi Galanga)
Lengkuas/ Ginger Plant (Elpina Galanga)
Bengle (Zingiber Bevifalium)

Leaves
Secang (Caesalpinia Sappan Hinn)
Sambang Dara (Rexco Ecaria Bicolar Hassk)
Brotowali (Tiospora Rumpii Boerl)
Adas (Foeniculum Vulgare Mill)

Fruits
Jeruk Nipis/ Calamondin (Citrae Aurantifalia Sivingle)
Ceplukan (Physalic Angulata Him)
Nyamplung (Calophylum Inaphyllu)

Barks
Kayu Manis/ Cinamon (Gijeyzahyza Glabra)

Flowers
Melati/ Yasmin (Jataninum Sunbac Ait)
Rumput Alang-alang (Gramineae)

It is worth to note that some jamu factories in Java are exporting its products. Besides the export of ready made jamu, 25 kinds of herbal plants and ingredients are also in the list of export to Europe, Australia, USA, Japan, etc.

No Side Effects
The people like to consume jamu due to :

Availability in many places

Comparatively cheap price

No side effects

TRADITIONAL COSMETICS

The Natural Beauty of Woman
A Javanese woman is very much concern for her physical appearance to be always slim, beautiful with an alluring bright smiling face.

As a Javanese idiom says "Ngadi Sarira" to maintain the body to be always in perfect condition is of prime important. The way of life of a Javanese is greatly influenced by the royal culture. Not surprisingly that the art of "Keeping Beauty' is originated from the court palaces.

The Secret of a Princess Beauty
The Ladies of the Royal Families have a reputation to inherit the beauty of goddesses from paradise.

As told in the story of wayang (leather puppet) by the dalang (puppet master) , all parts of a princess body is always perfect and alluring: the beautiful black thick hair, a smooth skin, bright eyes, charming eye brows, eye lids and nose, bright reddish lips, white nicely teeth, wonderful built neck and shoulder, beautiful hands and arms, a waist like the one of a bee meanings slim and perfectly built.

The dalang with a clear deep voice, like in the poem reading adores the beauty of a princess with a thousands of words. It seems that all words of a complete dictionary are not enough to express of what a wonderful beauty a princess has.

The use of Traditional Jamu and Cosmetics
Nowadays, some secrets of this Karaton (Palaces) culture of "Ngadi Sarira" are known by many women from outside the Karaton walls. The Jamu is widely used to give an inner beauty, due to a good physical health.

Some of the products are consumed directly by eating it, for instance Kepel Fruit (a brown fruit of a chicken egg size), it's a natural deodorant. By eating it that would fragrant the odor of the body even the urine smells the fragrance of that fruit.

Jambu Mawar ( a kind of rose apple, mawar means a flower of rose) gives a fresh smell of breath. Some cosmetics are for outside application such as bedak dingin (cool powder) and lulur (scrubbing powder).

Beauty Care
Every woman is always proud of her hair � thick and shining, color and style. For natural shampooing, the ash of rice stalks work as a shampoo to clean the hair. After being washed by water, ingredients consist of
coconut milk, jeruk purut (a kind of citrus fruit smells like a lime ) and pandanus leaves are to be applied. It functions as a conditioner to clean the dandruff. The hair then washed by water again, to be dried while vaporizing with ratus fragrance.

Finally, a hair oil by the name of cemceman, made of coconut oil with pandanus , kenanga flower, jeruk purut etc. is applied.

Skin Care
For face caring, bedak dingin (cool powder) is applied. It's made from tendered rice with special ingredients, such as pandanus, kenanga flower etc.

For other parts of the body, lulur is applied, popularly known as mandi lulur (lulur bathing).

Lulur is also made from tendered rice, pandanus, some leaves of kemuning (with yellow color) and some medicinal roots. The lulur should stimulate the body to throw out the dead cells, replace it with new ones, stimulate blood circulation under the skin, smooth the skin and at the same time scents it.

Steaming the body
Steams of several boiled herbs are applied to ensure body freshness, including the woman organ. The steaming took about a � hour.

Producers
Besides the traditional cosmetics made by hand, in the country there are some big and well known manufactures of cosmetics, using modern machinery. These products are used widely across the country, even this cosmetics have been exported to many countries of the world.

(Suryo S. Negoro)

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Accupuncture as an alternative medicine

2008-04-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

A quick look out of many office windows reveals a world of fast-moving cars, bustling people, and a steady stream of chaos. There are people dashing to and fro, up in the morning to rush off to work, and then rushing home in the evening. The stresses from everyday life begin to pile up. Before long fatigue sets in, muscles ache, and a general sense of malaise occurs. The body's immune system begins to suffer from the lack of rest and the build-up of stress.

Today's lifestyle is fast-paced and pressures to perform are intense. Just one look out your window at rushing cars and people hurrying to and fro gives you a good idea of the stress-filled world we live in. Tensions start to pile up with each new day and by the time evening rolls around, individuals are feeling exhausted, with sore aching muscles and a general feeling of not being able to relax. There are ways to combat this sense of general malaise, and less invasive ones than taking prescription medication to deal with daily life.

Have you ever taken a look outside your window and noticed the busy, rushed world we all live in today? Cars stream by, people hurry to offices where tensions pile up, and then those same individuals rush back home to a second shift of getting supper to the table and taking care of children. There's very little that's relaxing about our lives, and sore, aching muscles or a feeling of exhaustion are common complaints. The immune system suffers from a pressurized world where there's no time to rest.

As the immune system begins to become taxed, more germs and sickness are allowed in, thus complicating things further. Colds, backaches, migraines, flu-like symptoms, and feeling tired make each day worse than the one before. A person cannot always call in sick to work and take a day off to rest. Perhaps they cannot take cold medicine or other prescribed medications because it interferes with their ability to function during the day. Who wants to feel like a walking zombie? No one should be forced to go around feeling like their head is stuck inside a bucket from all of the side effects from various medications.

There are a lot of side effects from over-the-counter and prescription medication intended to help us feel better when our immune systems become overloaded. Cold medicines can leave people drowsy and slow, hurting production and making them want to return to bed, and yet many people can't afford to take the days off work. Some other medications, such as anti-depressants, make people feel as if their senses are numbed. No one should feel as if they have to live with the side effects of pills and drugs, when there is a better alternative.

The immune system takes a hit when we start to feel stressed and overloaded. Colds and sicknesses can set in easily, reducing production at work. Many people can't afford time off to rest and recuperate, but over-the-counter and prescription medications have many side effects that leave individuals feeling drowsy and slow. There is an alternative to taking pills that has minimal side effects (and mostly none at all) that can leave people feeling better than they did before, with energy flowing and the ability to face the world.

Wouldn't it be good to feel better, have more energy, get rid of those muscle aches and pains, and even have migraines ease up or go away completely? Is it worth a shot? What if this alternative came with very little risk of side effect? It sounds pretty appealing, and it might be surprising to learn that this procedure is acupuncture.

Acupuncture might seem like the current rage in alternative medicine, but it has been around for thousands of years. Acupuncture's roots can be traced back to the Taoist tradition. Practitioners of acupuncture, before it was called so, would meditate on how man and the world's energy merged with each other. The flow of nature was within the human body and governed by a life force or energy called Qi (pronounced chee). Within the body, as in nature, there were lines that energy ran down. These lines are called meridians, and there are fourteen meridians within the human body. From these fourteen meridians, there are thousands of points that allow the blocked energy (from bodily injury, stress, or a poorly cared-for self) to be corrected.

The acupuncturist, after an initial physical and questioning the patient about his or her past medical history, will locate the damaged or blocked area and begin work. Thin, solid needles are inserted into the skin. It is virtually painless. The needles are then manipulated by the hand or electrical stimulation. The acupuncturist then leaves the patient to rest and relax before coming back in to remove the needles.

While acupuncture is a great alternative to traditional medicine, it should not be expected to be an instant miracle cure. Some patients do report a noticeable difference within one visit, but more often, it takes many visits to see great improvement. Another great bonus is that more and more insurance plans are covering CAM, or Complimentary Alternative Medicine, thus allowing individuals the opportunity to try something different. With little side effect, acupuncture is certainly worth trying. Just think - no more medicine head and no worrying about falling asleep at work from the effects of cold medicine or drugs. It is definitely worth a shot.

Acupuncture isn't a miracle cure and more than one visit is usually required to see large improvement on how we feel. However, it's a good alternative to prescription medication that can leave individuals feeling fuzzy or zombie-like. In fact, more and more insurance plans are covering the costs of acupuncture, realizing that the alternative medicine has great value in helping people. There are little side effects and risks, and it's certainly worth a try as opposed to filling oneself up with medication and drugs.

More and more insurance plans are covering the costs of acupuncture, which shows that the alternative medicine has something of value and is becoming recognized. Also, the fact that costs are covered by insurances allows people to try acupuncture and see how well it works for them. The side effects are minimal and risks are low, and the technique means we don't have to pump our bodies full of prescription medication that can leave us feeling not ourselves.

Help Prevent Wrinkles Through Diet

2008-03-21T16:24:00.002-07:00

How many times has your mother told you, you are what you eat? As you probably know, Mom knows best. So it’s no surprise that what we feed our bodies does affect what the final product is. For healthier, younger skin it’s no different. But what should we eat in order to have the radiant skin we all covet? Here is a list of simple things we can all incorporate into our diet to help fend off wrinkles.

Fish Meat. Salmon especially. Fish meat is stock full of protein. Consuming more good protein like fish meat will give cells the fuel they need to repair themselves.

Dark-green, leafy vegetables. Another thing you’ve most likely heard from Mom: eat your vegetables. Again, she’s right. Foods such as romaine lettuce or kale will help prevent your skin from ageing. Rich in iron and vitamin A, these vegetable will assist in healing damaged skin.

Nuts. Nuts are a valuable source of iron and zinc, and are an easy add on to most desserts and dishes. Almonds are replete with zinc which also will boost skin restoration.

Berries. The most fun food for last. Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries – yummy!) have hundreds of different recipes for dessert time. A healthy-skin diet doesn’t have to be a boring one. Berries are rich in strong antioxidants which will aid skin defense.

Just remember these easy things the next time you’re strolling through the grocery aisles. Eating these foods will arm your skin cells with the necessary tools to help preserve and keep your skin looking young.

Copyright 2005 Daniel Vang
About the author:
Daniel Vang is a publisher at eraseyears.com, scouring the latest news and reports concerning smooth skin. Find free anti-wrinkle creams and other helpful wrinkle-preventing tips at eraseyears.com

Ten Tips For Restful Sleep

2008-03-21T16:24:00.001-07:00

Copyright 2005 Wayne McDonald

According to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately 70 million people in the United States are affected by a sleep problem. Americans suffering from chronic sleep disorders number about 40 million, and an additional 20-30 million are affected by intermittent sleep-related problems.

More importantly, studies have found a relationship between the quantity and quality of one's sleep and many health problems. For example, insufficient sleep may be linked to weight gain, hypertension, cardiovascular problems and the onset of diabetes.

Here is a list of tips for sleeping restfully. These tips are intended for "typical" adults with occasional sleep problems. This list is not for those with medical problems or necessarily for children.

1. Maintain a regular sleep schedule
Our bodies have a natural clock and a regular sleep schedule conditions our physiology with a sleep-wake cycle. A regular waking time in the morning strengthens this cycle and can help the onset of sleep at night. It is important to keep a regular bedtime and wake-time, even on the weekends when there is the temptation to sleep-in.

2. Bedtime DOs
Establishing a regular sleep routine will condition your mind and body to switch from activity to sleep. Your routine might include listening to soothing music, reading a book, a warm glass of milk or a warm soak in the tub (it should be done early enough that you are no longer sweating or over-heated). If you’re lactose-intolerant, try an herbal tea with no caffeine. Another easy trick just before retiring is to dim the lights to tell your body it is time to rest.

3. Bedtime DON’TS
Avoid eating a heavy meal before bedtime. You should finish eating at least 2-3 hours before your regular bedtime and avoid spicy foods that may cause heartburn. In addition, many people think alcohol is a sedative, but it actually disrupts sleep, causing nighttime awakenings. Other things to avoid include caffeine (e.g. coffee, tea, soft drinks and chocolate) and cigarettes (nicotine).

4. Your Bed is not a Desk
The only purpose of your bed is for sleeping and sex. DO NOT use it as a workspace for sorting out papers or working on projects. Create a healthy "body" relaxing environment and not a "brain" activity space. Remove work materials, computers and televisions out of your sleep environment.

5. Bedroom Harmony
Your bedroom should be pleasing, clutter-free and reflect the value you have for sleep. Your bed and pillows should be comfortable. Adjust the elements in your sleep environment such as light (dark is best), temperature and noise. If necessary, use blackout curtains, eye shades, ear plugs, air purifiers, humidifiers, fans and other devices.

6. Nurture Your Body
Visiting a holistic therapist each month will help release body tension, quiet the mind and correct any imbalances. The choices are unlimited, like acupuncture, massage, reflexology, chiropractic and more.

7. Exercise regularly
Avoid exercising late at night because it raises your body temperature and makes you more alert. If you exercise at night, complete your workout at least a three hours before bedtime. A great time to exercise is late afternoon.

8. Diet and Supplements
Feed your body healthy nutritional food with plenty of fresh green vegetables and fresh fruit. In addition, you can take a high quality supplement (liquid or tablet multi-vitamin) each day.

9. Resolve Mental and Emotional Issues
Unplug from your day and leave the office at the office. If you still have a list of things leftover it is best to write them down with a simple to-do list for the morning. Avoid having arguments unresolved. If you have an issue with something that was said, or are angry, then write your feelings in a journal and do a brain download. Do NOT re-read this journal. If you still have issues in the morning, then speak to that person or speak to a professional.

10. Don’t Watch the Clock
If you can NOT fall asleep, it is best NOT to lie in bed and try to "force" yourself to sleep. Avoid checking the clock repeatedly. According to experts, if you do not fall back asleep within 15-20 minutes, you should get out of bed and go to another room. Try something relaxing such as listening to music or reading.

In conclusion, getting a good night sleep every night is important to recharge your body and mind. The quality of sleep and quantity of sleep is crucial for health, safety and longevity. Pleasant dreams and good night.

About the author:
Wayne McDonald is a licensed Life Practitioner, a Public Speaker and a holistic health practitioner. For more articles and health tips visit http://www.123relax.com/healthtips

Reduce Cholesterol With Celery

2008-03-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

Reduce Cholesterol With Celery
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Copyright: 2005 Marilyn Pokorney

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Eating raw celery is an excellent and healthy way to reduce
high cholesterol blood levels. According to tests by
researchers at the University of Chicago, celery reduces
cholesterol levels by as much as 7 points with as little as
2 stalks a day.

Not all the cholesterol that causes problems comes from
food. The liver manufactures up to 75 percent of the
cholesterol in the body. It is in the liver that
cholesterol is manufactured and broken down by special
enzymes to be removed from the body. Celery aids this
process by increasing bile acid secretion. Laboratory
studies also indicate that butyl phthalide, a chemical in
celery, may help reduce high cholesterol.

Medical experts say that celery is good for people with
circulation problems because celery fights fat. Serious
circulatory problems can be caused by too much cholesterol
in the blood. Heart attacks and strokes are the two most
common complications caused by hardening and blockage of the
arteries. Celery contains chemicals that stimulate the
elimination of fat throughout the body says a physician at
the University of Italy in Milan.

Celery is high in calcium. High calcium intake invigorates
the endocrine system which releases hormones that break down
fatty buildup in cells. The adrenal and thyroid glands
secrete the hormone adrenaline and thyroxine respectively,
which help to burn accumulated fats in the body cells. The
pituitary gland secretes at least nine known hormones which
influence body weight gain and loss.

By aiding the body's processes in dissolving already
accumulated cholesterol on the interior walls of the
arteries, known as plaque, and helping the liver to
metabolize and prevent additional formation of cholesterol,
celery is an excellent food for cholesterol control.

For more information about celery and cholesterol and other
health benefits visit:

http://www.apluswriting.net/health/celerych.htm
About the author:

Author: Marilyn Pokorney
Freelance writer of science, nature, animals and the
environment.
Also loves crafts, gardening, and reading.
Website: http://www.apluswriting.net

The Truth About High Protein Diets

2008-03-21T16:21:00.000-07:00

All you hear about today is how good protein is for you. It is advertised as the best way to build muscle and more than that it helps one lose weight. Hey, if a little protein is good for you then a lot is even better, right? WRONG! That statement couldnï¿½t be further from the truth.

Diet gurus pushing high protein low carb diets are promising quick weight loss. This type of diet has become the most popular diet of today. Anyone promising quick weight loss along with greater muscle gains is sure to attract a lot of people but are they exposing the whole picture? Most of the high protein diets have people restrict their calories at the beginning of the diet and that is why there is weight loss. It doesn't come from eating more protein. So what is the problem if you reduce your weight by cutting calories and eat a lot of protein?

Well, there are many health concerns when eating too much protein. The American Medical Association calls high protein diets, "Potentially hazardous, and full of theories that are at best half truths." There are reported adverse side effects such as calcium loss, undesirable lipoprotein levels and decreased immune function. Due to carbohydrate restrictions, this causes elevated levels of acetoacetate, which is linked to increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease. When there is a restriction of calories in the amount that most of
these high protein diets recommend this can cause a low immune system response. When you restrict your calories this causes inadequate levels of vitamins and minerals.

The typical American diet today provides more then enough protein. The minimum amount of protein needed to fulfill protein needs is equal to 0.8 grams of protein per kg body weight per day. If you weigh 150 lbs., you divide your weight by 2.2 then times it by .8 and the amount of protein needed is 54.5 grams a day. If you do a lot of aerobic exercising you should up it to 1-1.2 grams per kg of body weight. To build muscle you only need very small amounts of protein so the recommended RDA is enough to help build muscle.

You can get protein from animals, plants or vegetables. You will benefit more from getting your protein from meat that includes poultry and fish and to avoid red meats and dairy products. Individual plant proteins and grains don't contain all the essential amino acids, as does animal protein. However if you eat a variety of plant foods, cereals, nuts, seeds, grains and legumes in combination, then you will get the essential amino acids needed by the body in a much healthier way then getting your protein from animal sources. Animal sources may contain the essential amino acids but also are very high in fat.

In closing, protein is needed by the body but in small amounts and Americans are getting more then enough in their diets so you shouldn't eat a diet high in protein or take protein supplements.
About the author:

This article is based on the book, ï¿½The Right Brain Dietï¿½
by Joel Kaye, MA. Joel holds a Masters Degree in
Physical Health Education and is currently teaching
classes at New York Universityï¿½s Coles Sports Center
On Weight Management, Nutrition And Exercise And
Cancer Wellness. Learn more by visiting his website:
http://www.rightbraindiet.com

Lowering Your Cholesterol Through Diet

2008-03-21T16:20:00.001-07:00

Lowering your cholesterol is important for everyone, young and old alike. About half of all men and a third of women develop heart disease during their lifetime. Lower your risk of a heart attack by reducing your cholesterol levels.

There are several ways to help lower your cholesterol:

1. Exercise more. Try to get at least 30 minutes, 3 or 4 days a week (check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program) of exercises like walking, swimming, tennis or biking.

2. Lose weight if you are over your desired weight.

3. Follow a low cholesterol, low saturated fat diet.

According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, if you want to maintain a healthy cholesterol level, you should limit your diet to the following:

Total fat calories should be less than 30%
Total saturated fat should be less than 10%
Total cholesterol from diet should be less than 300 milligrams

If your cholesterol is already too high and you want to reduce it, you should limit your diet to the following:

Total fat calories should be less than 25-35%
Total saturated fat should be less than 7%
Total cholesterol from diet should be less than 200 milligrams

Cholesterol lowering foods

Foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids should be on everyone's diet. These are mostly fish, including sardines, salmon, albacore tuna, lake trout, mackerel and herring.

Canola, almonds, tofu, other forms of soybeans and flaxseed, and their oils contain alpha-linolenic acid (LNA), which can become omega-3 fatty acid in the body.

Walnuts, almonds, pecans and other nuts have large amounts of polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats which help to lower cholesterol.

Soluble fiber should be part of your daily diet as well, since it can help to lower your LDL levels. You need to a lot of the soluble fiber to get the benefit, but it is contained in quite a few foods.

Some examples of foods rich in soluble fiber are apples, oranges, pears, prunes, apricots, oats, berries, carrots, dried peas, beans (like lima, black and kidney), cabbage, dates, figs, Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.

Soy has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and can be eaten in many forms, including soy nuts, tofu, soy beans and soy milk. It is believed that isoflavones are the chemicals that produce this reduction.

Avoid Cholesterol Raising Food

The only foods that contain cholesterol directly and can raise your blood cholesterol numbers are those derived from animals including meats, poultry, fish, egg yolks, cheese, butter and other dairy items made from whole milk.

However, eating saturated fats and trans-fats causes your body to create more cholesterol, thus also raising your levels. Most of the meats and dairy products listed above are also high in saturated fats. In addition, saturated fats can be found in tropical oils like coconut oil, palm oil and cocoa butter. Stick margarines and anything made with partially hydrogenated oils contain trans-fats and should be avoided when you are trying to lower your cholesterol.

Make sure to check with your physician before starting any new diet or exercise regimen.

Copyright 2005, K. MacKenzie http://www.lower-your-cholesterol.net
About the author:
Ken is a successful writer and online entrepreneur. He has developed
http://www.lower-your-cholesterol.net as a portal for presenting articles, information, resources and links about lowering your cholesterol.

Top 5 Weight Loss Strategies From A Top Level Personal Trainer

2008-03-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

Everybody wants to lose weight. Even if it’s only that last five pounds. Joey Atlas gives you five proven weight loss tactics that go beyond the "eat low fat and walk for one hour each day" mantra of the mainstream.

You are ready to shed those energy draining, body crippling, unattractive extra pounds and you are ready to make it permanent this time. You are on the right track because you've taken the most important step toward your goal. That step is the decision to take action and stay committed. The following five proven strategies will serve as essential
elements in your quest to achieve your weight loss goal.

1) You must put yourself into the right mindset. Don't think of your new efforts at weight loss as trying to do certain things every day. See your self living a new lifestyle, a new lifestyle that naturally includes behavior conducive to positive changes in your health and fitness levels. You transition into this new lifestyle by making adjustments to your daily habits until these habits are in alignment with the goals you are aiming for.

2) Find an exercise partner. It can be a friend, a co-worker, or a family member. Why is this important? An exercise partner is a tremendous source of support. A partner is crucial on those days when you really don't feel up to exercising. Unless you are sick, a good partner won't let you slack and likewise your partner will need you to pull them up when they are not up for the workout. You being needed is an indirect but important type of support. With an exercise partner comes the element of accountability, which subconsciously reinforces your commitment to your quest.

3) Have a baby or get a puppy. These two strategies work in the same manner. I write about this one from first/second hand experience. My wife, Jeri-Jo, gave birth to our daughter, Darah, nine months ago. Today, she weighs less than she weighed before she got pregnant. What is the mechanism here? Jeri-Jo claims, "With Darah to care for, my mind is focused on her and her needs. Don't get me wrong, I'm not at risk for malnutrition, but I don't eat out of boredom any more simply because there is always something to do. The day flies by and I don't have time to snack on foods that cause weight gain."

The puppy strategy is very similar to the baby strategy. If you are not playing with it, training it, feeding it, walking it or cleaning up after it you are too tired to overeat. And, before you know it your new puppy is done napping and ready for more activities. Like caring for a baby, your puppy requires a lot of attention and mental energy. This prevents many people from unnecessary snacking that prevents weight loss.

4) If you are not ready for a baby or a puppy then take a up a new hobby. A new hobby will get you out of the house, stimulate your mind and prevent you from eating out of boredom. If your hobby is a fitness related activity, such as mountain biking or hiking, then you are really going to make some progress.

5) Drink more water. I know, you've heard this one before. But, can you truthfully say you are doing it? Not many people can. Ponder this. You consist of about 73% water. Your body gives off water all day and all night. You must continuously replenish your water levels in order for your body to function at its highest levels. Many fitness professionals talk about the metabolism slowing down as a result of too little food intake. However, just as important, yet rarely mentioned is water intake and its effect on metabolism. Not getting enough water can cause water retention and a slowing of the metabolism. Both of these can prevent weight loss and cause weight gain.

One little known strategy for boosting water intake is to drink 8 - 12 ounces as soon as you wake up. This helps wake up your metabolism. Another way to boost your water intake is to drink 10 - 12 ounces when you start to feel hungry. Instead of immediately reaching for food, drink the water and see if that calms your hunger until you are ready for your next meal.

Each one of these strategies can help you lose weight. But, by utilizing all of them, you are creating a formula for success. A formula that can be the foundation of your newlifestyle.

About the author:

Copyright 2005 Joe E. Atlas, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Joey Atlas, MS - Exercise Physiology, is considered one of the top personal trainers in the US. He is the author of the best selling audio CD "Controversial Secrets of a Personal Trainer", www.ControversialSecrets.com Joey is a co-owner of GAC Personal Training, www.GACtraining.com where he continues to guide people toward a better quality of life through proper exercise programming and nutritional guidance.

The Top 10 Ways to Increase your Natural Energy

2008-03-21T16:14:00.000-07:00

1. Get 8 hours sleep a night. This is one of the main requirements of the body and will enable you to be at your best. Wear your favourite pyjamas and have the window slightly ajar so you are breathing fresh air.

2. Eat 5 portions of fruit and veg a day. Try to have one item of each of the following colours: green, purple, yellow, red, orange so that you get a variety of vitamins, minerals and bioflavanoids.

3. Laugh 30 times a day. Laughing boosts the immune system and your energy!

4. Spend 15 minutes a day doing nothing or meditating. This does wonders for your creativity and recharges your batteries, giving you inner peace for the rest of the day.

5. Walk outside in the fresh air for 15 minutes a day. This clears your mind and burns some calories at the same time! Bonus point - if it is sunny, this will top up your vitamin D!

6. Exercise aerobically for at least 20 minutes 3 times a week. Make sure you include a warm-up and a cool-down and stretches. The best way to ensure you are working at the right pace is to wear a heart rate monitor.

7. Do 1 hour of strength training a week. This can be an hour strengthening class or two or three weight-training sessions.

8. Spend time with loved ones and animals. Feeling loved and happy is a great immune system booster!

9. Smile! There is research that has shown that smiling at yourself in the mirror for 20 minutes at a time can improve depression - even if it is forced!

10. Drink 1.5 - 2 litres of water a day. Bonus point - add a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon for extra vitality and energy!

Copyright 2005 Susie Kong
About the author:

Susie Kong is an Energy Coach and helps busy people increase their energy levels through nutrition, fitness and rest. She is a graduate of Coach University and is also studying with the Schools of Coachville. She is the Assistant Community Coach for the Coachville Fully Alive Community: http://fullyalive.coachville.com/ Willyou help Susie to reach her goal of coaching 100 people by December 2005? All you need to do is call Susie at a prearranged time and let Susie coach you (for free) for 30 minutes and then fill out a quick feedback form online after the session. You can contact Susie on email: health@susiekong.com or at her website: http://www.susiekong.com

Wisdom Words

2008-03-06T22:46:00.000-08:00

"Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."

Mark Twain

" To make a great dream come true, You must first have a great dream. "
" Things may still be a thing, but heart can leap to the highest... "

Nee

" Crescat scientia; vita excolatur (Let knowledge grow from more to more; And so be human life enriched) "

University of Chicago Motto

" Have Dreams, Give Hope, Share Love "
" “The future is not a result of choices among alternative paths offered by the present, but a place that is created – created first in the mind and will, created next in activity. The future is not some place we are going to, but one we are creating. The paths are not to be found, but made, and the activity of making them, changes both the maker and the destination.” "

John Schaar, Futurist

"Whenever anything is being done, I have learned, it is being done by a monomaniac with a mission."

Peter Drucker

" Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood. "

Madame Curie

" When you walk to the edge of all the light you have, and take that first step to the darkness of the unknown; one of these things will happen: You will find something solid to stand upon, or you will be taught how to fly "

Patrick Overton

" Daging kita satu,... Arwah kita satu,... Walau masing masing kita jauh,... Yang tertusuk padamu berdarah padaku. "

Sutardhi CalzSutardji Calzoum Bachri

" “I WANT TO BE THOROUGHLY USED UP WHEN I DIE. … Life is no ‘brief candle’ to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.” "

George Bernard Shaw

"God, grants me SERENITY to accept the things I cannot change, COURAGE to change the things I can, and WISDOM to know the difference "

St. Franciscus

"All of our prosperity lies in the present, no matter what it contains!"

SARK

"We all see the same sky, but think about different horizon. Life is nothing but seeing things in our own way, and believing our own dreams."

@w4u

"Genius is seeing what the other people see, but thinking what the other people never think about"

Inventor of Vitamin C

"Our dream is the only roadmap of our future, and intuition our only compass."

"You cannot teach a person something he does not already know; you can only bring what he does know to his awareness..."

Galileo

" “If there is nothing very special about your work, no matter how hard you apply yourself, you won’t get noticed and that increasingly means you won’t get paid much, either.” "

Michael Goldhaber

" May The Worst Day of Your Future still be Better than The Best Day of Your Past "

@wishing_you

" The past is a history, nothing can ever change it; The future is a hope, everything can happen in it; But the recent time is a gift, and that's why we call it the PRESENT "
" The right place to be happy in HERE The best time to be happy is NOW And the way to be happy is MAKING THE OTHERS FEEL SO " :)
" “Death is only one of many ways to lose your life.” (hint: Many have lost their lives even when they are still breathing! Zombie, Zombie, Zombie! Be ALIVE and LIVE) "

Alvah Simon

" Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all. "

Lord Tennyson

" The thought we think and the words we speak create our experience "

Louise L. Hay

" Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood. "

Madame Curie

" It is no use saying “We are doing our best” You have got to succeed in doing what is necessary. "

Winston Churchill

" Dance as though no one is watching you; Sing as though no one can hear you; Love as though you have never been hurt; Live as though Heaven is on Earth "

ForU

" YOU HAVE GOT TO BE PREPARED TO CHANGE THE GENETIC CODE OF YOUR BEHAVIOUR TO SUCCEED IN THE AGE OF THE FUTURE "
" Always be able to look back and say “ At Least I did not Lead No Humdrum Life” "

Forrest Gump

" “If there is nothing very special about your work, no matter how hard you apply yourself, you won’t get noticed and that increasingly means you won’t get paid much, either.” "

Michael Goldhaber

" All of our prosperity lies in the present, no matter what it contains! "

SARK

Nutritious Information of cereals

2008-03-05T22:58:00.000-08:00

Item	Type	Nutrients	Preventions & Functions
		(Vitamins & Minerals)


Adlay seeds	Plain	Vitamin B	Balance body fluid
Biji jali		Fiber	Prevent cancer
		Carbohydrates


Whole adlay seeds	Plain	Vitamin B	Detoxicity & improve metabolism
Biji jali utuh		Fiber	Improve the immune function
		Carbohydrates


Lily bulbs	Plain	Protein	Protect lung
Umbi bunga lili		Carbohydrates	Heat relief
		Alkaloids	Anti - cough
			Help sleep


Sesame	Plain	Vitamin E	Energizer
Wijen		Potassium	Calcium supplement
		Calcium	Anti - aging
		Magnesium
		Zinc


Walnut	Plain	Vitamin E	Skin Care
		Unsaturated fatty acids	Prevent constipation


Lotus seed	Plain	Vitamin E	Anti - aging
Biji teratai		Calcium	Stabilize neuron system
		Magnesium	Skin care
		Phosphorus
		Iron
		Zinc


Red bean	Plain	Vitamin B	Balance body fluid & detoxic
Kacang merah		Carbohydrates	Improve the immune function
		Potassium	Anti - aging
		Calcium
		Magnesium
		Zinc


Black bean	Plain	Vitamin A, B	Improves edema
Taosi / Kedelai hitam		Protein	Anti - aging
		Carbohydrates	Prevent stroke
		Potassium
		Calcium
		Magnesium
		Phosphorus


Cashew Nut	Plain	Vitamin E	High calories
Kacang mede		Unsaturated fatty acids	Anti - aging


Pine nut	Plain	Vitamin B, E	High calories, but reduce cardiovascular diseases
Biji cemara		Proteins


Brown rice	Warm	Vitamin B, E	Allergy relief
Beras merah		Water soluble fiber	Improve the metabolism


Soybean	Warm	Protein with high nutrients	Reduce cardiovascular disease
Kedelai		Lecithin	Improves osteoporosis
		Water soluble fiber

Nutritious Information of fruits

2008-03-05T22:53:00.000-08:00

Item	Type	Nutrients	Preventions & Functions
		(Vitamins & Minerals)


Grapefruit	Cold	Vitamin A, C	Lower the level of cholesterol
Citrus		Water soluble dietary fiber	(prevent cardiovascular disease)


Kiwfruit	Cold	Vitamin A, C	Lower the level of cholesterol
Kiwi		Pectin	Skin care
		Fiber


Water melon	Cold	Vitamin A, C	Improve the immune function
Semangka		Carotene	Anti aging
		Potassium	Prevent colon rectal cancer
		Magnesium


Apple	Mild cold	Water soluble dietary fiber	Maintain blood sugar at the normal level
Apel		Organic Acid	Disease prevention
		Potassium


Honeydew	Mild cold	Carbohydrates	Lower the level of cholesterol
Melon		Vitamin A, C	Stabilize blood presure
		Carotene
		Calcium
		Potassium
		Magnesium


Pitaya	Mild cold	Pectin	Improve digestion
Buah naga		Magnesium	Maintain the level of blood sugar
		Phosphorus	(good for patients with diabetes)
		Iron
		Potassium


Mulbery	Mild cold	Fructose	Help organs
Murbei		Glucose	Relieve the pain of arthritis
		Carotene
		Citric acid
		Niacin


Loquat	Mild cold	Vitamin A, C	Improve the excretion
Buah lokat		Calcium	Stop the coughing
		Potassium
		Magnesium
		Pectin fiber


Star fruit	Mild cold	Variety of poctin fiber	Refresh & cool down the heat in the body
Belimbing		Vitamin A, B, C	Improve the excretion with low calories


Strawberry	Mild cold	Variety of alpha hydroxy acid	The function of anti - oxidan may whiten the skin
Arbei		Vitamin C	& provide a good skin care
		Pectin fiber


European Pear	Mild cold	Vitamin C	Cool down the heat in the body
Pir		Potassium	Improve digestion
		Magnesium
		Calcium
		Pectin


Korean Pear	Mild cold	Vitamin C	Cool down the heat in the body
		Potassium	Improve digestion
		Magnesium	Stable emotion
		Calcium


Lemon	Plain	Calcium	Plenty of calcium improves
		Potassium	The post menopause syndromes
		Magnesium
		Hesperidin
		Essence oil


Orange	Plain	Vitamin C	The fiber improves excretion
		Carbohydrates	Prevent from disease
		Magnesium
		Phosphorus
		Sodium
		Potassium


Guava	Plain	Vitamin A, C	Lower of sugar & calories
Jambu biji		Potassium
		Phosphorus
		Magnesium


Pineapple	Plain	Vitamin A, C	Pectin improves the excretion
Nanas		Calcium	Stop the coughing
		Magnesium
		Manganese


Papaya	Plain	Vitamin A, B, C	Papain may digest protein in intestines
Pepaya		Calcium	Papain may stimulate the mammary gland
		Potassium
		Magnesium
		Carbohydrates
		Papain


Plum	Plain	Vitamin A, C	Stabilize blood pressure
		Malic acid	Excrete acids from the body
		Citric acid
		Glucose


Chinese plum	Plain	Vitamin A	Improve digestion & metabolism
		Calcium
		Potassium
		Phosphorus
		Citric acid
		Succinic acid


Avocado	Plain	Vitamin A	Maintain the body & organs
Alpukat		Proteins	Over consumption may lead to fat
		Calcium
		Potassium
		Magnesium


Kumquat	Warm	Vitamin A, C	Stimulate bowel movement
Kimkit		Essence oil	Improve the function of lungs


Mango	Warm	Vitamin A	Improve organs and tissues
Mangga		Pectin	Prohibit to patients with allergy or diabetes
		Fructose


Lychee	Warm	Sucrose	Protect the body
Leci		Glucose	Skin care
		Calcium	Prohibit to patients with diabetes
		Magnesium
		Phosphorus


Longan	Warm	Vitamin C	Improve the function of heart & blood flow
Lengkeng		Sucrose	The best choice after baby delivery
		Fructose	Prohibit to patients with diabetes
		Potassium


Cherry	Warm	Dietary fibers	Cool down the heat in the body
		Potassium	Improve digestion
		Calcium	Stable the emotion
		Phosphorus
		Iron


Peach	Warm	Vitamin A, C	Smooth the blood flows
		Potassium	Improve the digestion
		Calcium	Good for people with obesity & cardiovascular
		Magnesium
		Phosphorus
		Carbohydrates


Durian	Warm	Vitamin E	Rich in various nutriens
		Proteins	High calories
		Starch	Prohibit to patients with obesity
			Prohibit to patients with heart disease
			Prohibit to patients with hiperlipidemia

Nutritious Information of Vegetables

2008-03-05T19:30:00.001-08:00



Item	Type	Nutrients	Preventions & Functions
		(Vitamins & Minerals)

Burdock	Cold	Inulin	Good for patient with diabetes or obesity
(Arctium lappa)		Fiber	Frequently taken will strengthen your body


Water chestnut	Cold	Starch	Balance the inside of your body
(Trapa natans)		Phosphorus	Refresh & detoxicity


Wheat Grass	Cold	Vitamin C	Diuresis
(Agropyron)		Fiber	Lower blood pressure
			Prevent from cancer


Tomato	Middle Cold	Vitamin C	Prevent from prostate disease
Tomat		Lycopene	Lower blood pressure


Lettuce	Cold	Vitamin A	Help organs
Daun selada		Potassium	Improve metabolism
		Calcium	Skin moisturizer


Cucumber	Cold	Vitamin C	Refresh & detoxic
Mentimun kecil		Potassium	Skin care
		Calcium	Prohibit to people with gastrointestinal problem
		Magnesium


Celery	Cold	Vitamin C	Lower blood pressure
Seledri		Potassium	Balance level of blood sugar
		Fiber	Prohibit to people with gastrointestinal problem


Bitter gourd	Cold	Charantin	Refresh & heat relief
Pare		Amino Acids	Prevent from constipation
		Vitamin C	Prohibit to people with gastrointentinal problem
		Calcium


Alfaalfa sprout	Cold	Vitamin C	Lower blood pressure
(Medicago sativa)		Protein	Balance level of blood sugar
Kecambah		Fiber	Prohibit to people with gastrointentinal problem


Wild yam	Plain	Vitamin E	Good for growth
Akar ubi jalar		Protein	Anti aging


Corn	Plain	Vitamin A	Good for growth & brain learning ability
Jagung		Carbohydrates
		Phosphorus
		Fiber


Cabbage	Plain	Vitamin K1	Skin care
Kubis		Vitamin U	Improve the chronic gastrointestinal diseases
		Potassium
		Calcium


Pea sprout	Plain	Vitamin C	Improve the bowel movement
Kacang kedelai		Protein	Lower the level of cholesterol
		Fiber	Prevent cancer


Onion	Plain	Calcium	Prevent high blood sugar, thrombosis
Bawang bombay		Phosphorides	Improve the immune function
		Prostaglandins


Sweet pepper	Plain	Vitamin C	Smooth the skin
Paprika		Calcium	Improve the immune function & prevent diseases
		Magnesium
		Silicon


Pumpkin	Plain	Vitamin C	Improve the immune function
Labu parang		Carotene	Anti aging
		Potassium	Prevent colon rectal cancer
		Calcium
		Magnesium


Carrot	Plain	Vitamin A, B, C	Improve metabolism & excretion
Wortel		Carotene	Prevent cancer
		Potassium
		Calcium
		Magnesium
		Phosphorus
		Fiber

All about fever

2008-03-05T03:57:00.000-08:00

Fever

Introduction

A fever isn't an illness itself, but it's usually a sign that something out of the ordinary is going on in your body. Fevers aren't necessarily bad. In fact, fevers seem to play a key role in helping your body fight off a number of infections.

If you're an adult, a fever may be uncomfortable, but it usually isn't dangerous unless it measures 103 F or higher. For very young children and infants, however, even slightly elevated temperatures may indicate a serious infection.

Because a fever can occur with many different conditions, other signs and symptoms can often help identify the cause.

Most fevers go away in a relatively short time — usually within a few days. Not all fevers need treatment with medications. And it's possible for fever medications to have side effects, especially for the very young.

Signs and symptoms

A fever occurs when your temperature rises above its normal range. What's normal for you may be a little higher or lower than the average temperature of 98.6 F. But a rectal temperature higher than 100.4 F is always considered a fever. A rectal temperature reading is generally 1 degree Fahrenheit higher than an oral reading.

Depending on what's causing your fever, additional fever symptoms may include:

Sweating
Shivering
Headache
Muscle aches
Lack of appetite
Dehydration
General weakness

Very high fevers, between 103 and 106 F, may cause:

Hallucinations
Confusion
Irritability
Convulsions

Fever-induced seizures
About 4 percent of children younger than age 5 experience fever-induced seizures (febrile seizures). The signs of febrile seizures, which occur when a child's temperature rises or falls rapidly, include a brief loss of consciousness and convulsions.

Although these seizures can be extremely alarming, most children don't experience any lasting effects. Febrile seizures are often triggered by a fever from a common childhood illness such as roseola, a viral infection that causes a high fever, swollen glands and a rash.

Causes

Even when you're well, your body temperature varies throughout the day — it's lower in the morning and higher in the late afternoon and evening. In fact, your normal temperature can range from about 97 to 99 F. Although most people consider 98.6 F a healthy body temperature, yours may vary by a degree or more.

Your body temperature is set by your hypothalamus, an area at the base of your brain that acts as a thermostat for your whole system. When something's wrong, your normal temperature is simply set a few points higher. The new set-point, for example, may be 102 F instead of 97 or 98 F.

What happens with a fever
When a fever starts and your body tries to elevate its temperature, you feel chilly and may shiver to generate heat. At this point, you probably wrap yourself in your thickest blanket and turn up the heating pad. But eventually, as your body reaches its new set-point, you likely feel hot. And when your temperature finally begins to return to normal, you may sweat profusely, which is your body's way of dissipating the excess heat.

A fever usually means your body is responding to a viral or bacterial infection. Sometimes heat exhaustion, extreme sunburn or certain inflammatory conditions such as temporal arteritis — inflammation of an artery in your head — may trigger fever as well. In rare instances, a malignant tumor or some forms of kidney cancer may cause a fever.

Fever can be a side effect of some medications such as antibiotics and drugs used to treat high blood pressure or seizures. Some infants and children develop fevers after receiving routine immunizations, such as the diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis (DTaP) or pneumococcal vaccines.

Sometimes it's not possible to identify the cause of a fever. If you have a temperature higher than 100.9 F for more than three weeks and your doctor isn't able to find the cause after extensive evaluation, the diagnosis may be fever of unknown origin. In most cases, though, the reason for your fever can be found and treated.

When to seek medical advice

Fevers by themselves may not be a cause for alarm — or a reason to call a doctor. Yet there are some circumstances when you should seek medical advice for your baby, your child or yourself.

For infants
An unexplained fever is greater cause for concern in infants and in children than in adults. Call your baby's doctor if your baby:

Is younger than 3 months of age and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 F or higher. Even if your baby doesn't have other signs or symptoms, call your doctor just to be safe.
Is older than 3 months of age and has a temperature of 102 F or higher.
Has a fever and unexplained irritability, such as marked crying when you change your baby's diapers or when he or she is moved.
Has a fever and seems lethargic and unresponsive. In infants and children younger than age 2, these may be signs of meningitis — an infection and inflammation of the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If you're worried that your baby might have meningitis, see your doctor right away. Don't wait until morning to see your usual physician — meningitis is an emergency.
Is a newborn and has a lower than normal temperature — less than 97 F. Very young babies may not regulate their body temperature well when they are ill and may become cold rather than hot.

For children
Children often tolerate fevers quite well, although high temperatures may cause parents a great deal of concern. Still, it's best to be guided more by how your child acts than by any particular temperature measurement. There's probably no cause for alarm if your child has a fever but is responsive — making eye contact with you and responding to your facial expressions and to your voice, is drinking plenty of fluids and wants to play.

Call your pediatrician if your child:

Is listless or irritable, vomits repeatedly, has a severe headache or stomachache, or has any other symptoms causing significant discomfort.
Has a fever after being left in a very hot car. Seek medical care immediately.
If fever persists longer than one day in a child younger than age 2 or longer than three days in a child age 2 or older.

Ask your doctor for guidance if you have special circumstances, such as a child with immune system problems or with a pre-existing illness. Your doctor also may recommend different precautions if your child has just started taking a new prescription medicine.

Don't treat fevers below 102 F with any medications unless advised by your doctor.

Sometimes, older children can have a lower-than-normal temperature. This can happen to older children with severe neurological impairments, children with a life-threatening bacterial infection in the blood (sepsis), and children with a suppressed immune system.

For adults
Call your doctor about a fever if:

Your temperature is more than 103 F
You've had a fever for more than three days

In addition, call your doctor immediately if any of these signs and symptoms accompany a fever:

Severe headache
Severe swelling of your throat
Unusual skin rash, especially if the rash gets rapidly worse
Unusual eye sensitivity to bright light
Stiff neck and pain when you bend your head forward
Mental confusion
Persistent vomiting
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Extreme listlessness or irritability
Abdominal pain or pain when urinating
Any other unexplained signs or symptoms

Taking a temperature
To check your or your child's temperature level, you can choose from several types of thermometers, including electronic thermometers and ear (tympanic) thermometers. Thermometers with digital readouts and those that take the temperature quickly from the ear canal are especially useful for young children and older adults. Because glass mercury thermometers harm both humans and the environment, they have been phased out and are no longer recommended.

Although it's not the most accurate way to take a temperature, you can also use an oral thermometer for an armpit (axillary) reading. Place the thermometer in the armpit with arms crossed over the chest. Wait four to five minutes. The axillary temperature is about 1 degree Fahrenheit lower than an oral temperature. If you call your doctor, report the actual number on the thermometer and where on the body the temperature was taken rather than adding or subtracting numbers.

Use a rectal thermometer for infants. Place a dab of petroleum jelly on the bulb. Lay your baby on his or her tummy. Carefully insert the bulb one-half inch to one inch into your baby's rectum. Hold the bulb and your baby still for three minutes. Don't let go of the thermometer while it's inside your baby. If your baby squirms, the thermometer could go deeper and cause an injury.

Screening and diagnosis

Your doctor will likely diagnose the cause of your fever based on your other symptoms and a physical exam. Sometimes you may need additional tests to confirm a diagnosis.

If you have a low-grade fever that persists for three weeks or more, but have no other symptoms, your doctor may recommend a variety of tests to help find the cause. These may include blood tests and X-rays.

Complications

A rapid rise or fall in temperature may cause a fever-induced seizure (febrile seizure) in a small number of children younger than age 5. Although they're alarming for parents, the vast majority of febrile seizures cause no lasting effects.

If a seizure occurs, lay your child on his or her side. Remove any sharp objects that are near your child, loosen tight clothing and hold your child to prevent injury. Don't place anything in your child's mouth or try to stop the seizure. Although most seizures stop on their own, call for emergency medical assistance if a seizure lasts longer than 10 minutes.

If possible, try to time the seizure using your watch or a clock. Because they're so alarming, seizures often seem to last longer than they really do. Also try to note which part of your child's body begins to shake first. This can help your doctor understand the cause of the seizure. Take your child to your pediatrician as soon as possible.

Treatment

Medical treatment depends on the cause of your fever. Your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or strep throat. For viral infections, including stomach infection (gastroenteritis) and mononucleosis, the best treatment is often rest and plenty of fluids.

Over-the-counter medications
Your doctor may also make a recommendation about using over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) to lower a high fever. Adults may also use aspirin. But don't give aspirin to children. It may trigger a rare, but potentially fatal, disorder known as Reye's syndrome.

The downside of lowering a fever
If you have only a low-grade fever, it's not advisable to try to lower your temperature. Doing so may only prolong the illness or mask your symptoms and make it harder to determine the cause.

Some experts believe that aggressively treating a fever actually interferes with your body's immune response. That's because the viruses that cause colds and other respiratory infections thrive at cool temperatures. By producing a low-grade fever, your body may actually be helping eliminate a virus.

Prevention

The best way to prevent fevers is to reduce your exposure to infectious diseases. One of the most effective ways to do that is also one of the simplest — frequent hand washing.

Teach your children to wash their hands often, especially before they eat and after using the toilet, spending time in a crowded public place, or petting animals. Show them how to wash their hands vigorously, covering both the front and back of each hand with soap, and rinsing thoroughly under running water. Carry hand-washing towelettes with you for times when you don't have access to soap and water. When possible, teach your kids not to touch their noses, mouths or eyes — the main way viral infections are transmitted.

Self-care

Because your body loses more water with a fever, be sure to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Water is a good choice for adults, but the best liquid for a sick child under age 1 is an oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte. These solutions contain water and salts in specific proportions to replenish both fluids and electrolytes in children. Frozen Pedialyte ice pops are also available.

Make sure that you or your child gets enough rest. Don't be concerned with treating a fever just because it's a fever. Often, a low-grade fever is actually helping fight off an infection. In addition, follow these guidelines for both older children and adults:

For temperatures below 102 F
Don't use any medication for a fever in this range unless advised by your doctor. And don't give children aspirin because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. Instead, dress in comfortable, light clothing and try bathing in lukewarm water. At bedtime, cover yourself or your child with just a sheet or light blanket.

For temperatures between 102 and 104 F
Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen according to the label instructions or as recommended by your doctor. If you're not sure about the proper dosage, be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist. Adults may use aspirin instead.

Be careful to avoid too much medication. High doses or long-term use of acetaminophen may cause liver or kidney damage, and acute overdoses can be fatal. If you're not able to get your child's fever down, don't give more medication. Call your doctor instead. Side effects of aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen include stomach pain, bleeding and ulcers.

For temperatures above 104 F
Give adults or children acetaminophen or ibuprofen according to the manufacturer's instructions or as recommended by your doctor. Adults may use aspirin instead. If you're not sure about the dosage, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Be careful to avoid too much medication.

Acetaminophen is available in liquid, chewable and suppository forms for children, but it's often easiest to give medications in liquid form. For a small child, use a syringe with measurements on the side and a bulb on the tip. Gently squirt the medicine in the back corners of your child's mouth.

Sponge baths
Use a five- to 10-minute sponge bath of lukewarm water to try to bring your own or your child's high temperature down. A sponge bath is most likely to help if it's used shortly after a dosage of acetaminophen or ibuprofen, so that the medication can work to keep the fever down after the bath takes effect.

If your child shivers in the bath, stop the bath, dry your child and wait. Shivering actually raises the body's internal temperature — shaking muscles generate heat. If the fever doesn't moderate or your child has a febrile seizure that lasts longer than 10 minutes, seek immediate medical care.

Source :

http://www.mayoclinic.com