Mothers Not Breastfeeding is a Death Sentence for Babies in the Developing World

In the developing world, children are dying every minute of the day due to lack of breastfeeding. A recent report from the government of Uganda suggests that at 'least 4000 infants and young children die everyday in Uganda due to lack of breastfeeding'. Can this be true, and if so, why?

The figure above can be disputed. The Ugandan government lacks the sophisticated data analysis of Western government, but it cannot be denied that each year thousands of babies and infants die each year in this country due to lack of breastfeeding. The World Health Organization - an organization with the best data gathering expertise the Western world can offer - estimates that 1.5 million children die each year because they are not breastfed. The WHO states: "It has been estimated that improved breastfeeding practices could save some 1.5 million children a year. Yet few of the 129 million babies born each year receive optimal breastfeeding and some are not breastfed at all. Early cessation of breastfeeding in favour of commercial breastmilk substitutes, needless supplementation, and poorly timed complementary practices are still too common."

But why does the use of formula milk lead to so many infant deaths? There are two main reasons. The first being that only breast milk can provide the nutrients and antibodies that a baby requires to grow and fight off infection. For babies born into poorer and less sanitized conditions than we have in the West, this is vital. Formula milk is non-biological: it contains none of the benefits that mother's breast milk can provide. Formula milk is stagnant. What is meant by this is that mother's breast milk changes constituency throughout the early months - and years - of a growing child; not just day to day, month to month, but during the actual feed itself. The second, and by far the greatest reason why babies die from baby formula in poorer countries, is due to the lack of clean water. Mothers in many developing countries don't have access to clean drinking water and so are forced to feed formula milk to their children that is made with contaminated water. Over a million children die each year because of diarrhea that is directly attributable to being feed formula milk.

If mothers in developing countries know the risk they run when feeding their children formula milk, why do they continue to do so? The answer is that they don't know the health risks. The health minister of Uganda, Dr Richard Nduhura, blamed the increasingly poor breastfeeding culture in the country on aggressive advertising for bottle feeding, where marketing gimmicks and slogans are used to discredit breastfeeding. "Those advertisers claim breastfeeding is best but bottle feeding is almost as good as breastfeeding," Nduhura said. In developing countries, this is simply not true.

Aggressive marketing is clearly to blame for the widespread desertion of breastfeeding. Manufacturers of formula milk - like cigarette manufacturers - have seen sales of their product decline in Western society, but they still continue to increase profits. This increase in profits is due to dumping their product on the developing world.

African countries - and others - have further complications due to widespread HIV infectivity. Many mothers have to make the hard decision to either breastfeed their baby if they know themselves to be infected with HIV, or to use formula milk. Mothers with HIV who breastfeed, have a 5 to 20 per cent chance of passing on the infection to the child. However, bottle feeding is actually more likely to harm their child in countries that contain large numbers of HIV infected mothers.

What can be done? Many developing countries are finally waking up to the problem of mothers not breastfeeding and are now trying to reverse the trend. We, in the West, can also make a difference. We can begin by breastfeeding and by not purchasing formula milk. We can also stop buying other products made by formula milk manufacturers. We can also write or email the manufacturers directly. We can also join breastfeeding circles and organizations and voice our concerns through these bodies. Public pressure can make a difference.

Juicing Benefits of Vitamin Green Shakes, Smoothies and Supplements

Natural vitamins are organic substances our bodies need in small levels and which can quite important. Vitamin C is also called ascorbic acid and is much needed by the body for the development of collagen in the muscle tissue, bones, arteries and cartilages. Vitamin C is also critical in iron absorption and is defined as a vitamin that is soluble in water. That is why it is so common in fresh fruit juices. The main sources of vitamin c include things like vegetables and fruit which are of a citrus character and can be purchased in vitamin green shakes and health supplements. People with the vitamin C insufficiency sometimes are afflicted by scurvy which if not treated can lead to death. These individuals are therefore put on medication and advised to consume fruits and vegetables which are abundant with vitamin C. The juice benefits of vegetables and fruits are obvious so why don't more people get the juicing benefits of these kinds of food products?

They can sometimes get asked to take vitamin green dietary supplements that perform as effectively as the ascorbic acid giving foods. Sometimes, one's body is in serious need of ascorbic acid and this is why supplements are bought to look after the deficit. The recommended vitamin C intake daily is 1000mg. this ideal for those individuals which have no circumstance that requires more. Still, in some instances, persons are advised by their physicians to take as much as 3000mg each day depending on how severe the deficiency is. The recommended vitamin C dietary supplements comprise 40mg for infants who're beneath the age of 6 months. Children between 7 and twelve months needs to have a regular supplement dose of 50mg. kids between the ages of 1 and 3 years need to take 15mg per day and those of four to eight years 25mg. 45mg is appropriate for children between the age range of nine and 13 years. How can kids get these kinds of vitamin supplements naturally without tablets or capsules as they go into their teens. The best way is through green drinks which is really a good habit to take into college and adult years. As an example, juicing wheat grass is a wonderful solution to get these juice benefits in their everyday eating routine. The juicing benefits of kyo green or various other vitamin green infused drinks, shakes or smoothies make it simple nowadays to acquire these vitamins. Envision a lifetime of good vitamin supplements practices. What a present for ones teenagers.

Pregnant women are meant to ingest around 80mg of vitamin c vitamin supplements each day. Lactating mothers should take up to 115mg every day and it is important to also please note these intakes shouldn't be exceeded. It is strongly advised that consumption of the vitamin c supplements in large quantities might cause negative health results. Like for example, diarrhea, cramps, and the person will also risk negating the B12 vitamins the body requires. In some cases, the absorption of other minerals may go down as a result of over usage of the ascorbic acid supplements.

Individuals with the homochromatic situation are well-advised against taking the vitamin supplements because it may cause an iron excess that may be adverse to their wellness. When embarking on the consumption of the vitamin c health supplements, you have to note that those with pain from arthritis do not take in a lot. The reason is, over consumption can result in an increase in uric acid. Those suffering from sickle cell anemia also need to go low on these types of vitamins because their red blood cells are fragile and can get easily harmed. Ascorbic acid pills that are meant to be chewed can easily erode enamel and choosing the buffered kinds is highly recommended. So acquire the juice benefits through these vitamin green suggestions. Add the suggested daily doses in your diet regime and take those juicing benefits all the way to your health and fitness bank!

Learn How to Cure a Yeast Infection - The Truth Finally Revealed!

Still wondering how to cure a yeast infection? There's more than one way to skin this cat, but before we launch into the different remedies available, let's take a look at what causes these infections in the first place. A fungus known as Candida causes yeast infections. Normally found in several areas of the body, there isn't a problem until your pH level is thrown out of whack. This provides an ideal environment for the fungus to multiply and grow in overabundance. Then what you have on your hands is a yeast infection, with all the accompanying symptoms of itching, swelling, soreness, and burning.

What causes your pH level to change, though? Some common causes include the following:

o Use of birth control pills

o Weakened immune system

o Use of prescription medications

o Unprotected sex

o Menstruation

o Stress

o Poor nutrition

Getting back how to cure a yeast infection, there are several popular over-the-counter remedies available. Monistat and Canestan stand out above the rest in this market. They each offer 1, 3, and 7 day treatments and come in two forms: creams and vaginal suppositories. Some women have reported that the 7 day treatment is the most effective.

While these medications can be effective and many women report having no side effects, a certain percentage of other women do encounter side effects. These side effects can vary and some women report experiencing only mild side effects. Included in these are dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat - if you consider those mild. And then there are other women who incur side effects that have made their situation even worse than what it was before taking the medication.

Trying to figure out how to cure a yeast infection can involve a lot of trial and error. Even though some store bought medications can do a good job at relieving yeast infection symptoms, they involve risks of potentially harmful side effects. The also don't get to the root cause of the problem, which is the eradication of the yeast spores. Thankfully, there are natural treatments available that do kill the yeast spores safely and also prevent the onset of future infections.

Drontal - The Proof Is in the Poop, or Signs Your Dog Has Worms

Does your dog have intestinal worms? Reading this article, one would surmise you're worried - it may really be that your dog has intestinal worms, only that you didn't' notice. Here are some ways and means to find out if your dog is infected by what kind of intestinal worm.

First things first - check your dog's poop for whipworms

Whipworm eggs survive in both poop and in dirt. Detecting whipworms remains difficult, though. They do cause health problems in your dog which you can detect - diarrhea that keeps coming back (could be bloody), loss of weight, anemia, an inflamed large intestine (colitis, not easy to detect unless you're trained). Check your dog's poop for blood and whipworms eggs. It's probably best to have your dog checked by a vet, because the whipworm eggs may not appear every time your dog poops.

Roundworms in your dog - unhealthy outward physical signs, some clues again in the dog's poop

Dogs and young pups infected with roundworms usually have diarrhea and vomit a lot, and this condition may cause them to have that unpleasant-looking pot-belly appearance. Here's a clear image of roundworms, so you'd know when you see one - they look like white spaghetti about two to four inches long, and they also pass into dog poop. Hard to miss. Roundworms aren't life-threatening, but do cause your dog discomfort. So do have your beloved dog checked up when you notice the outward signs.

Looking for hookworms in your dog - look for a rash on their feet and diarrhea

Signs your dog may have hookworms are the following - itchy feet, feet rashes, wheezing, coughing, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and the ever-present black or blood-colored poop. Left untreated, dogs with hookworms can suffer from anemia and may die. Young puppies are particularly vulnerable to this condition. Hookworms are tough to find, even in poop, so do consult your vet.

Hunting for tapeworms in your dog - itching on the anus spot, abdominal discomfort, and other signs

Tapeworm segments can sometimes be left in your dog's poop. Look for some small, rather flat, and noticeably wide small grains (looks like rice, of the uncooked kind). One other sign is when your dog has to have its behind rubbing against the floor - that's hard to miss, too. That's because tapeworms can cause itching around the anus area.

Why deworming your dog and a vet's advice are crucial to pet health

Treatment is to be repeated until all the dormant and live larvae and eggs all perish. Of course, you administer this only under your vet's supervision following a deworming program that's prescribed - the dewormer must fit your dog's weight and how bad the infection is.

Drontal Chewable All-Wormer is one of the popular and recommended dewormers. No more hard to administer worming treatments - Drontal is liver-flavored, your dog will love it. It effectively controls all major gastro-intestinal worms - hookworms, roundworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. It's easy to buy Drontal Plus online, alternatively you can buy it from your vet.

Could My Baby Be Lactose Intolerant?

If you suspect your baby is lactose intolerant you should visit your pediatrician for advice on how to properly take care of your baby. Lactose is present in all dairy products; it's the sugar in cow's milk for one. Being lactose intolerant simply means the body is not able to produce enough lactose which is used by the body to digest lactose consumed in dairy products. Lactose that is not digested remains in the intestines and causes gastrointestinal problems. Some babies may outgrow it as their digestive systems and other systems mature.

Babies born prematurely are more likely to be intolerant as their digestive systems are not fully developed, or even as developed as a full-term baby. However, any child can be lactose sensitive. Signs of intolerance include diarrhea more often than normal and crying that appears to be from stomach pain. Some infants may also vomit. Breastfed infants are just as likely to be lactose sensitive as bottle fed babies. Symptoms usually begin within one hour after consuming milk. The severity of lactose intolerance varies from baby to baby.

Because young infants have no other way to show pain, they usually cry, scream, grimace and become restless when they have discomfort. Once other reasons for the crying are dismissed, you might consider when baby fed last, and consider the possibility of baby being lactose intolerant. Babies may also be restless during sleep, wake up during sleep, or have trouble falling asleep.

Finding alternatives to products containing lactose is important for keeping baby symptom free. If breastfeeding it may be necessary to cut dairy products from your diet; bottle fed babies should be given a lactose free formula. Babies who are eating should not be given dairy products. After baby is older, you can consider introducing dairy products again to see if baby has outgrown the lactose intolerance.

Do You Have a Sick Ferret?

As with any domestic animal, ferrets are prone to specific ferret diseases. Most commonly seen are adrenal disease, insulinomas, gastrointestinal blockages, lymphoma, gastrointestinal disorders and ECE. ECE stands for epizootic catarrhal enteritis, a ferret disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract.

The best thing you can do before you bring a ferret home is research vets in your immediate area who are well versed in treated ferret diseases and know how to spot ferret illness symptoms. Ferrets typically don't go more than a year without experience some sort of illness. Because of this, having an experience vet around is a must. It's also important for you to know the clues that signal your ferret is sick.

Let's begin with ECE. This ferret disease is characterized by the sudden onset of bright green or yellowish diarrhea. Keep in mind, however, that ferrets can develop diarrhea for other reasons. Should your ferret have greenish stool for a day or so, that doesn't necessarily mean you need to run to the vet. Perhaps just placing a call in for advice would work just fine in this instance.

Insulinomas are growths on a ferret's pancreas. These growths may be cancerous or non-cancerous. Even if they are non-cancerous, they release insulin, which results in a ferret suffering from hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Symptoms caused by insulinomas can include Weakness, lethargy, difficulty waking and excessive sleeping, vomiting, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of coordination, disorientation, vocalization while sleeping, and seizures. These symptoms can range from mild to severe. If your ferret is having a seizure, it will cause jerking of the legs, vocalization and possible urination.

In the instance a ferret has a seizure from a hypoglycemic episode, try rubbing a little Karo syrup on his gums. This may temporarily help your ferret during the seizure, but it cannot substitute for a vets care. Your vet should be contacted immediately for an emergency visit.

Ferrets have a very curious nature and a total lack of fear. This puts them at risk for ingesting items that don't belong in their bodies. In fact, gastrointestinal blockages are one of the major causes of premature ferret death. Some of the symptoms of a gastrointestinal blockage include vomiting, lack of appetite or not eating or drinking at all, straining to attempt a bowel movement with not result or "skinny" stool, weakness, and/or diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms in your ferret, you need to make a visit to the vet as soon as possible. When a ferret experiences a blockage, death can occur within just a few days. A ferret with vomiting or diarrhea may also refuse to eat and will become seriously dehydrated within a day. if they are vomiting or not taking in any fluids.

In order to prevent intestinal blockages in your ferret, clear your home of items such as rubber bands, balloons, Styrofoam, and small items made of soft rubber. These such things can be found in other household items that your ferret may get into. This is one reason why it is so important to adequately supervise your ferret when they are roaming the house. When a ferret experiences a blockage, he will most likely require surgery.

Educating yourself about ferret diseases and how to care for a sick ferret is something that will help you along in ferret ownership.

Herbal and Ayurvedic Treatment for Diarrhea

When there is a problem with the digestive system, then the stools may be voided in extremely watery form. This indicates the presence of water in the stools, which leads to dehydration. This condition is known as diarrhea.

In Ayurveda, diarrhea is known as Atisara. Vitiation in any of the three doshas can cause atisara. However, the vitiation of vata dosha is particularly responsible as it brings more water to the intestine and lowers the digestive fire which causes diarrhea.

The vata type of diarrhea is characterized by abdominal cramping and gas in the abdomen. The stools contain more water and less fecal matter. The pitta type of diarrhea show yellowish stools which have an offensive odor. The kapha type of diarrhea is whitish in color with copious water and little mucus.

(1) Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Diarrhea

1. Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna)

The bark of the arjuna tree is useful in the treatment of diarrhea. The bark is taken as a decoction in dosages of 15 to 30 grams per day.

2. Babul (Acacia arabica)

The babul tree is very useful in preventing diarrhea. Each part of the babul tree is useful. Its leaves can be taken as a mixed dose with black cumin seeds, its bark can be taken as an infusion with water and even its gum can be taken as a syrup.

3. Bael (Aegle marmelos)

Bael is very effective for the treatment of diarrhea which is not accompanied by fever. The unripe or half-ripe fruit is eaten for best results.

4. Banyan (Ficus bengalensis)

The buds of the banyan trees are the beneficial parts. These must be soaked in water overnight and the infusion must be taken in the morning.

5. Belleric Myroblan (Terminalia belerica)

Known as bahera in Hindi, this is one of the ingredients of the extremely useful Triphala. The pulp of its fruit is taken to cure most stomach problems, including indigestion and diarrhea.

6. Bishop's Weed (Trachyspermum ammi)

The oil extracted from the seeds of the Bishop's weed is useful in the treatment of diarrhea. Just two to three drops of this oil per dosage is sufficient.

7. Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum)

Black nightshade leaves are used in the treatment of diarrhea. The leaves are taken in the form of an infusion with the juice of other liquids.

8. Butea (Butea monosperma)

The butea tree yields a gum which is beneficial in the treatment of diarrhea. It is especially useful in women and children that are suffering from diarrhea.

9. Chebulic Myroblan (Terminalia chebula)

Known as harad in Hindi, it is the second ingredient of Triphala. The pulp of the unripe fruit of this plant is given along with honey for better results.

10. Dill (Anethum sowa)

The oil obtained from the dill is used for the treatment of diarrhea. Dill oil is so mild that it is also an ingredient used in the medicines for treating baby colic.

11. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum)

Fenugreek seeds are useful in the treatment of digestive problems including diarrhea.

12. Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)

Known as amalaki in Hindi, this is the third ingredient in the preparation of Triphala. It is the richest source of vitamin C in the world.

(2) Dietary Treatments for Diarrhea

Fasting is the first step in the Ayurvedic treatment of diarrhea. At this time warm water should be drunk throughout the day. This helps to flush out the toxins in the bowels as much as possible.

(3) Ayurvedic Treatment for Diarrhea

Once the causative dosha is identified, the treatment is done according to type.

1. For vata type of diarrhea, the medicine of choice is Kutajarishta. It is taken in quantities of 15 ml thrice a day for fifteen days.

2. For pitta type of diarrhea, the medicine of choice is Bilwadi choorna. It is taken in a teaspoonful amount thrice a day for fifteen days.

3. For kapha type of diarrhea, two medicines are usually prescribed. One is the Gangadhara choorna, which is taken in 1 gram amount twice a day for fifteen days. The other is Jatiphaladi vati, which is taken in 250 milligrams amount twice a day for fifteen days.

(4) Home Medications

1. Mix equal parts of the babul tree with black cumin seeds. Take this in dosages of 12 grams thrice a day.

2. Prepare an infusion of cinnamon in water and boil it. This must be taken half an hour after meals. It takes care of almost all digestive problems and also relieves flatulence.

3. Mix some tender curry leaves with honey and take them early in the morning. If there is vomiting, then the bark of this tree must be taken.

4. Grind the seeds of the Indian plum (jamun) and mango into a fine powder. Take two teaspoonfuls of this powder mixture in a glass of buttermilk. This treatment gives quick results.

5. Boil raw bananas and peel them. Put some ghee in a vessel and put some pieces of cloves in them. Put the bananas in them. Then introduce curds, coriander, turmeric and salt. This will be a very tasty banana dish which has special effects on the treatment of diarrhea.

Another Pet Food Recall - Wake Up Pet Parents!

How many recalls is it going to take to wake people up? You would think by now that they would be checking every label on their pets food for harmful ingredients and finding out how it is manufactured. Or at least be aware of what should and shouldn't be in pet food.

What really gets me the most is even when you tell them what is really in the food they say "my pet isn't having any problems with it he/she has been on this "brand" for years and doing real well. They just don't get it, a dog or cats outward appearance may indicate overall wellness, while in fact they may be in seriously poor condition.

I always tell people don't wait for another Pet Food Recall before they look for a safe and healthier pet food. It is not a matter of IF, it is a matter of WHEN and hopefully not like the magnitude as in 2007.

After the fact is too late to do something, you need to take action before your pets health goes downhill. Don't wait till it is too late to switch pet food. During that last pet food recall there were so many desperate people looking for a healthier food because their pet had developed kidney failure, liver problems. It was too late!

That was caused by the chemical Melamine which shouldn't have been an ingredient in pet food. It was used to boost the protein level up. I hate to think of the long-term impacts of the compromised liver and kidney function and how this will affect thousands of companion animals in America.

Here is the latest Recall September 12, 2008 Mars Petcare US Issues Voluntary Recall of Everson, PA Plant Dry Pet Food Product due to Potential Salmonella Contamination You can read more on the recall here: fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/marspetcare09_08.html

August 08, 2008 Mars Petcare US Issues Voluntary Recall of Limited Bags of PEDIGREE® Complete Nutrition Small Crunchy Bites at Albertsons in Southern California and Las Vegas due to Potential Salmonella Contamination You can read more on the recall here: fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/marspetcare08_08.html

Wouldn't you be worried about this company? Both of these recalls were because of Salmonella Stay tune because they make other brands as well.

Here are some of the other products they manufacture:

-Country Acres
-Doggy Bag
-Members Mark
-Natural Cat Food
-Natural Dog Food
-Ol' Roy
-Paws & Claws
-Pedigree
-Pet Pride
-PMI Nutrition
-Red Flannel
-Retriever
-Special Kitty
-Wegman's Bruiser
-Wegman's Buju & Ziggie

If you are using any of the above listed products you can go petcare.mars.com/ and look at the code date to confirm if your product is included in the recall.

Do you know what's in your pets food? Do you know how it is manufactured?

Every year and just about every month there is some kind of pet food product being recalled and most people don't hear about them. The news media sure isn't going to make it their number one story. Unless it is too big like the one in 2007.

My point is it is another pet food recalled. Companies are using ingredients that don't belong in any pet product and how is it being manufactured also can cause problems. They should be testing the food for everything before it is ever packaged and shipped out to be sold or should I say stored somewhere for 6- 18 months before it is placed on shelves.

I encourage you take steps today to make a positive change in the life of your companion animals. Don't let your pet become the next fatality.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Animals can be carriers with no visible symptoms and potentially infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

How to Treat a Kid With Diarrhea

Children normally encounter diarrhea as they grow up. The condition usually occurs as a result of bacterial infections, stomach virus or even food poisoning. Most cases of this condition do not necessary need anti-diarrheal medications because they normally go away after a few days. However, it is very important to determine your condition if it is acute, mild diarrhea and the more serious chronic diarrhea.

Acute diarrhea is usually accompanied by fever, stomach pain, and vomiting. The condition is common in kids and babies. According to health care experts, acute viral gastroenteritis lasts for about one to two weeks. Parents should supply plenty of water to prevent the child from being dehydrated. In fact, there is no exact medicine available to cure this type of condition, but gastroenteritis will go away in the long run. It is important to have enough bed rest and make sure to have proper fluid intake.

In some cases, food poisoning causes the condition. It takes place when the person ingested foods or liquids that are contaminated by bacteria, parasite or other viruses. The most common symptoms of this condition may include nausea, fever and diarrhea. Same with the other types of diarrhea, it is very important to take plenty of water or soup to prevent dehydration.

How To Treat Diarrhea in Children

Generally, children between ages of seven months and three years encounter the condition. It is known as toddler's diarrhea. It characterized by loose, watery stools that last for more than a few months or even years. There are different causes that trigger this condition, but toddler's diarrhea is often the result of consuming too much fruit juices that contain fructose content. These juices are apple and pear ones. On the other hand, orange and grape juices can be used to work against the condition. In addition, maximizing the amount of fiber and fat in your baby's diet can also help to ease his condition and speed up his recovery.

Another type of diarrhea is known as inflammatory bowel disease. This illness is usually accompanied by stomach cramps, blood, and weight loss. According to health care experts, there is no exact medicine for inflammatory bowel disease, but you do not have to worry because the condition is actually treatable. In addition, if your child's condition does not seem to get any better after a few days, you should bring him to the nearest hospital.

Yorkshire Terriers - What To Do When Your Yorkie Gets Sick

When your Yorkshire terrier becomes ill, you will want to know what to do immediately. Because Yorkies are so tiny, they can go downhill fast when they are sick. It is a good idea to be ready in case of an emergency. Here are some things you need to know about caring for your Yorkie when she gets sick.

• Dogs do not become ill easily. When they are sick it is usually because of something they have eaten. Make sure to supervise any food that is fed to your Yorkshire terrier. If you are going to be away from home leave clear instructions on what kind of food is to be given to your dog and at what times you want her fed.


• Food from the table will often make a small dog like a Yorkie quite ill. This food is too rich and has most likely been prepared with salt and other spices. Your dog could end up very ill after eating even a small amount of table food.


• All dogs, even Yorkshire terriers, will overeat if given the chance. You may think it is cute to see your dog eat so much at one time, but there is nothing funny about a sick dog.

If your Yorkie vomits more than once during a 24 hour period or has a bout of diarrhea, take her to your veterinarian. Excessive vomiting can cause dehydration and small dogs are more fragile in this case. Ask your veterinarian to recommend a dog food that will help with a sensitive stomach. Sometimes they may even suggest feeding baby food for the next day or two after being sick.

Toddler Cold Medicine - Home Remedies in the Cabinet

One of the many ways parents can limit toxins being ingested in their children is to use home remedies as toddler cold medicine. Professionals advise that parents minimize use of over-the-counter medicines for their children unless they are truly needed.

Here are a some natural remedies to use when your children have a soar throat and cough due to a common cold or flu.

For Common Cold and Congestion

(Check with your nutritionist on dosage for a child younger then toddler age)

Avoid mucus producing foods

(Dairy products, red meat, oats and gluten containing grains. Bananas and Soya products)

Ginger Lemon Tea: To soothe mucus membranes

2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice in one cup of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon of juiced ginger.

Let steep for 1-2 minutes then strain to remove ginger. Take as needed.

Fresh ginger: To help decongest sinus cavities

1/2 teaspoon juiced ginger, given in a spoon with Manuka raw honey. 2 times daily

Propolis syrup or lozenges: Anti-viral.

Follow directions on the box

Echinacea syrup or tincture: Boosts immunity.

0.5ml 3 times a day until symptoms are better for a maximum of 10 days

Honey garlic vinegar mixture: anti-viral, anti-bacterial

1 teaspoon Manuka raw honey with a bit of crushed garlic and apple cider vinegar. 2 times daily

Eucalyptus oil: To soothe mucus membranes.

Put 2-3 drops on your child's pillow at bedtime, on his t-shirt during the day or in a humidifier.

Salt water nasal spray: to clear out the sinus passages

Can be purchased from the pharmacy; administer as needed

Topical Vitamin E: for older children, to soften and heal the nose's mucous membranes and blood vessels Squeeze the contents of a vitamin E capsule into the nostrils at bedtime

For Cough

Avoid mucus producing foods

(Dairy products, red meat, oats and gluten containing grains, bananas, soya products)

Honey garlic vinegar mixture (as above)

Eucalyptus oil (as above)

Zinc lozenges: to boost immunity; 1/4 tablet for toddler.

For an older child follow instructions on the packaging or ask your pharmacist

Vitamin C: to boost immunity

Start with 500mg 2 times a day (reduce if child gets diarrhea)

Magnesium: to ease tightness in the chest

Or obtain by consuming more magnesium-rich foods such as almonds or

From supervised supplementation if necessary (consult your nutritionist)

If you do use over counter medicines please try and also use the above suggestions. This will help limit the amount of over counter medicine you will have to give to your child per day until their cold symptoms subside. For example: Save the over the counter medicine for night time to get a good night sleep.

A Baby Lymphatic Massage

The Benefits

A Lymphatic massage stimulates the lymphatic system, which runs through the entire body and is a natural draining system that filters out unwelcome molecules and attacks microbes. During illness a lymphatic massage assists in boosting a child's immunity and speed up his recovery.

How to Administer

1. Use a natural oil such as almond oil, or vitamin E oil (especially good for children with Eczema)

2. Start at the feet and work up. Use short, firm strokes. It is important to work upwards towards the heart, as this is what drains the lymph nodes.

3. Do twice a day, 20 minutes, working all the way up to the throat. Just before bedtime is highly recommended. If your child has a soar throat he may complain at this time that it hurts him, like a scratchy feeling. Use a more gentle stroke at this time, but try and complete the procedure for maximum benefit.

Giving your baby a lymphatic massage is a simple task with high reward. Many parents continue to administer this massage even after their child is well because of it's comforting, relaxing effects for parent and child. It is also a great replacement for a bath before before bedtime to help prepare your child for sleep mode.

These home remedies are just as effective, if not more, then the average over the counter cold medicine. In conjunction with a lymphatic massage, make no mistake this combination has a very powerful effect.

Ready For Solid Foods

As a parent, we want the best for our children particularly the food intake by our children. Obviously, the child's basic need is proper nutrition. At the start of pregnancy, you eat a lot of nutritious foods such as drink a lot of milk and eat fresh fruits and vegetable in order for the baby absorb proper nutrition. When the baby comes out, either breast milk or infant formula is required. At the age between 4 and 6 months, the baby will be ready for what we called "solid foods". These can be available in the market or you can make your own using a blender.

As I remember, when my baby is almost 4 months, I almost asked my entire neighborhood if my daughter is ready for solid foods. At first, I give her cereal rice mixed with either breast milk or formula. Then I added other foods at the rate of one per week. Little by little, I added other cereals, then vegetables, fruits, and finally meats. In this way, I can easily detect if my baby has food allergies which can be present with diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, hives or a rash. Don't add ingredient foods until you make sure that the child is not allergic to any individual ingredients.

Also, I make it sure that the food has no additives or seasoning like salt, sugar or preservatives. The baby won't miss what she never had. In addition, I don't want to contribute to the development of a sweet tooth.

Make sure to move the food from the jar to a bowl. Saliva is introduced from the baby's mouth to the jar if she fed directly from the jar. Then if it is served later, the germs in the saliva will have grown into something that could make the child sick. It is better to be safe as far as child's health is concerned.

Make sure that you serve a balanced meals and snacks, using a variety of foods from the basic food groups. A child learns to eat what you prepared. You may serve a whole grain cracker and fruits for snacks, rather than cookies or sweetened drinks. What if the baby doesn't like a new food? It is just a reaction to a new experience; try again after a couple of weeks. Don't ever force a child to eat something. It is a battle you may win as a parent.

Travel Dangers In Jack Russell Dogs

Traveling with Jack Russell dogs is fun, so fun as long as nothing went wrong. Unluckily, dangers can come along the way despite all the preparations and planning. Dogs not used of traveling can become scared of moving or unfamiliar objects and places. Chances are your Jack Russell dogs might escape through your open windows and doors. So always remember not to leave your car's windows and doors open. Consider traveling with your dog with a seatbelt or with a carrier. This will restrain him from unnecessary movements that are sometimes dangerous for both of you. If you decided to use a carrier, make sure it is large enough for your dog. He should be able to stand, lie or turn around it that carrier. When using seatbelt, position your dog in the middle of the backseat, not in the front seat especially if your car has front seat air bags.

Dogs left in the car can be affected with heatstroke. How much more during summer when the temperature is hotter? Heatstroke, also referred to as sunstroke is a condition wherein the body produces or absorbs more heat than it can dissipate. This usually happens when the body is exposed to too much heat.

A dog must maintain its normal body temperature which is 38.3 to 38.7 degrees Celsius (100.9 to 101.7). A dog with body temperature of 104 to 106 F experiences moderate canine heatstroke exhibits bright red tongue and gums, thick, sticky saliva and rapid panting. With the body temperature of above 106 F, a dog suffers severe canine heatstroke. A dog with canine heatstroke exhibits shock, weakness and/or dizziness, bloody nose as well as bloody vomiting and diarrhea. The dog's liver, kidney, lung, heart or brain can also be affected. Brain may swell and may lead to coma.

To treat heatstroke, take your dog to a cool place then apply ice packs or wet towels to the head, neck and chest. Let him drink cold water but make sure to give him limited amount of it. It is also advisable to let your dog lick ice cubes or even ice cream. During summer, most vets suggest to keep pets indoors to avoid the risk of heatstroke. But if you really do have to travel with your dog under the scourging heat of the sun remember these tips:

· Keep a bottle full of clean drinking water in handy. This will ensure that your dog gets the moisture his body needed. Don't forget to bring his bowl because some dogs won't drink in bottles.

· Never leave your dog unattended inside a parked car. Temperatures can rise and even if the windows are slightly open, your dog is still at risk of heatstroke.

Traveling with your Jack Russell dogs is enjoyable, so enjoyable as long as nothing bad comes along the way. Enjoy the travel! Take these tips...

Going Green Has Improved My Health Drastically

Recently I cut out pesticide laden food from my diet by eliminating it, or buying its organic variety. When I did this, several things happened to my body that I would like to share. I am the world's biggest skeptic, and always research and cross examine something before I believe in it. I guess that I've been burned too many times in the past.

When I altered my diet, I made sure to eat exactly the same food I ate before, just organic. I wanted to make sure it was actually my diet that was making me feel better, and that it wasn't all just in my head. I keep reading all of these reports that organic food isn't more nutritious than conventional food. At sometimes triple the price, there has to be some serious evidence to support buying it, especially if it doesn't necessarily have more nutrition. So for five whole weeks, I ate my usual diet of burgers, fries, chicken wings, scrambled eggs, hash browns (made them myself with organic potatoes), sandwiches, chili, spaghetti, you name it, all organic. Shoppers drug mart even has a nativa organics line that has organic ginger snaps, maple cookies, Oreo cookies etc. I would really like to stress that I didn't alter my diet at all, just simply ate 100% organic. I didn't eat in one restaurant, but instead made restaurant food at home (like I said, chicken wings, burgers etc). What followed was probably the worst five weeks of my life.

The first week was probably the most extreme. I got the shakes, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, intense withdrawal and detoxification symptoms. It was the same as, or worse than when I quit smoking. For the following weeks the symptoms were still there, but they did alleviate a bit. Bit by bit, I felt better and better and better. I no longer sweat profusely all the time, body odour has disappeared, my eczema has gone, which I had for 20 years, I sleep soundly the whole night until my alarm rings (never happened before, I always woke up several times throughout the night). The difference is night and day. I feel as though I have woken up from a dream. All this from simply eating organic. Isn't that insane? If someone had told me that if I simply ate organic I would be horribly sick for about 5 - 6 weeks and then most of my health issues would disappear I would have thought they were nuts. A question comes to mind, what was in that food I used to eat? People say certain things are okay in moderation, but when you take into consideration this:

• the tap water I drink has chemicals and chlorine in it


• soft drinks are loaded with chemicals


• produce is laden with pesticides


• the air we breathe is laden with chemicals


• lots of food is full of preservatives


• household cleaners have lots of chemicals that are harmful to humans


• carpets and dust in houses has lots of toxins in them

It's the buildup each and every day that makes people's systems out of whack. Without the ability to cleanse the liver due to being overloaded, these toxins reduce the bodies ability to cleanse itself. I no longer drink soda pop, I have eliminated the preservatives and pesticides in the food I eat by eating organic, and only use biodegradable cleaners at home now. By doing these simple things, my health has improved dramatically. Just goes to show you how a little work goes a long way. By "educating" myself I improved myself. Let's apply this strategy to the earth. If we just chill out for a bit and allow it to replenish itself, it might do a world of good.

The Truth About Bottled Spring Water

Have you taken a look at the label on your ever-present bottle of spring water lately? It probably says something like "mountain spring water". Now, take a close look the the full color drawing that also graces the label, in this case, a bottle of Arrowhead spring water. (If it isn't Arrowhead in your area, it will be Ozarka or Deer Park, Ice Mountain or Poland Spring, as all are owned by Nestle Waters.)

Isn't that a peaceful scene? A beautiful blue sky with fluffy white clouds, lush evergreen trees, and a silver-blue mountain with a stream of clear, cold water bubbling out of it. I'm assuming that the spring the water comes from is somewhere around that virtual stream.

All bottled spring waters seem to show mountains and lovely scenery, along with clear spring water. These pictures are there for a reason. The companies are trying to create an image in your mind about spring water coming from a lovely, pristine mountain, when in reality, it comes from a hole in the ground.

That's not to say that spring water isn't good to drink, because it certainly is - at least it is better than tap water! But it is only fair that you know exactly where it comes from. It doesn't come from a remote mountain spring in a picturesque setting like the advertisements would have you believe. When a spring source is located by a water company, a new bottling plant is built there at the source of the water. This is supposed to help keep down any contamination of the water, but it doesn't prevent it from happening.

Contamination in spring water is something not too many people know about. Perhaps they are too busy putting down their chosen bottled water's nemesis, which is purified water. We'll get back to the contamination problem in a moment, but for now, let's see just what purified bottled water is.

Purified water is sold as just plain old bottled water. Often, this water is municipal or tap water which has been treated with either reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionization in order to remove any bacteria or dissolved solids. This additional processing, in addition to what the municipality's water department has already done to process and cleanse the water, still allows the water to retain some of its natural flavor, and it is for this reason that many people prefer it over spring water. It's estimated that 25 percent of all bottled water comes from a city/municipal supply.

When you purchase bottled spring water, you are expecting a product that is a little different than purified municipal water. You're led to believe that spring water is superior, and the labels on this water generally do all they can to nurture your belief with those pictures we spoke of earlier. But, these labels are deceiving. Recently, two big-name brands of what was supposedly spring water were called to task for advertising what had been found to be municipal water as spring water! Their labels have been changed to reflect this, but many people were fooled for a long time.

The only way a bottled water can be labeled as spring water is if it comes from a spring. Now, you probably read that and thought, "Well, of course!" But the whole problem is that spring! Spring water has to flow out naturally to the earth's surface from a source that is underneath the ground. The water has to be gotten directly from this spring, or from a "Bore hole" which has to be as close as possible to the spot where the water naturally comes out. If a pump is used to get the water out, or any machine that uses force from the outside of the spring, then the water that is pumped out has to be exactly like the water that is naturally flowing out as far as composition and quality go.

Sounds good, doesn't it? Well, that bore hole can easily become contaminated, as can the spot where the spring comes out of the ground. And, since the Food and Drug Administration's rules allow bottled spring water to have some forms of contamination, there is not a whole lot that can be done. These contaminants include E.coli or fecal coliform, which are two bacterias that point to fecal matter inclusion in the water. Tap water rules prohibit any contamination with these bacteria. Since purified bottle water is made from tap water, it stands to reason that this type of bottled water would be much safer and better tasting than spring water.

Bottled water is not required to be tested for the parasites known as cryptosporidium and giardia. Cryptosporidium is a type of protozoan that can cause diarrhea. In healthy people, the infection it causes does not last too long, but in children and people with a compromised immune system, it can become quite severe and refuse all medical attempts to stop it.

Giardia is often found in unsafe water. In fact, water is the main source of this infection.

Giardia can cause a person to bloat, be nauseated, have watery diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. You can also lose up to ten percent of your body weight when infected with this parasite. It takes from two to six weeks for the infection to improve, but has been known to become chronic giardia and last for months and years.

The potential for bottled spring water to have contaminants and parasites, or both, is small, but it is there. Purified water is much safer for you and your family if you are at all worried about the cleanliness of the water you drink.

Understanding the Causes of Hemorrhoids

Some people may get hemorrhoids, but will be unaware of what actually causes this condition. In most cases the causes of hemorrhoids may be one of many or a combination of several causes. Most of the time people with hemorrhoids are prevented from doing everyday activities due to excessive pain from having hemorrhoids. They may want to research what causes hemorrhoids. They may want to research what causes hemorrhoids so that they are able to find an effective cure for the condition.

When you are researching the causes of hemorrhoids, the first thing you will need to know is what the main types of hemorrhoids are. Some people will get hemorrhoids on the inside of their anus. The other type is the external hemorrhoid, which is visible from the outside of your anus on the veins located there. Internal hemorrhoids are not as painful as external hemorrhoids but they are just as irritating.

There are quite a few causes of hemorrhoids, you should know about:

·         Sitting Constantly: Sometimes your lifestyle and the job you have require you to do a lot of sitting, you may end up with some pressure in your anal area that may be the one of the causes of hemorrhoids.

·         Constipation: Quite possibly the most recognized of the cause of hemorrhoids. It makes it hard to go to the toilet because of problems you may have with elimination. The straining that you do with constipation is the primary aggravator of hemorrhoids.

·         Diarrhea: Sometimes these explosive stools will make the symptoms of hemorrhoids worse.

·         Obesity: When you are overweight you may experience the pressure of your extra weight on your anus causing the veins to become weak and to create the hemorrhoid condition.

·         Pregnancy: many women will get hemorrhoids during the pregnancy or after the birth of their child, usually due to increased blood pressure in the lower half of the body.

·         Standing up for a long time: Some people will get hemorrhoids from standing in one place for a long time.

You will find that the causes of hemorrhoid is very different for everyone, while you cannot in a lot of cases, stop yourself from getting the condition, you can prevent it from becoming any worse, by simply doing some of the other treatments that are available. You may find that the sitz bath, creams, stool softener, additional fiber, additional water and natural cures as well. By trying these processes you will rid yourself of pain and of the irritation you may feel in your anus. Some of these cures only work on a temporary basis while you will find that most of the natural cures will take away the hemorrhoids permanently. If you simply use just one or a combination of these types of treatments, it will help rid yourself of hemorrhoids and it will prevent it from returning.

Phlegm, Dampness and Chinese Medicine

Internal Dampness & Phlegm

Dampness and phlegm are accumulations that occur in the body that may make us feel 'phlegmy' or just heavy and tired. When our diet is out of sync with our body, our mind is working overtime, or when the weather is very damp and humid, we tend to become stagnant with damp and phlegm.

Dampness is generally considered a thicker/heavier viscosity than phlegm, however may be less obvious in physical signs. Dampness is sensed in the heaviness of the body and fogginess of thinking, and can be seen in the tongue coat.

Phlegm is thinner and manifests in a runny nose or wet type of cough.

Symptoms of Dampness & Phlegm

繚 Foggy head

繚 Poor memory

繚 Difficulty waking up in the morning

繚 Low energy, especially after eating

繚 Loose Stool

繚 Poor concentration

繚 Leucorrhoea

繚 Wet-pustulent skin conditions

Signs of Dampness & Phlegm

繚 Swollen tongue with teeth marks

繚 White coating on tongue

繚 Runny nose, especially after greasy/dairy food

繚 Slippery pulse

One of the signs of dampness is a thick tongue coating and swelling of the tongue body. Sometimes the coating of the tongue is very thick and white, especially in people that consume a lot of dairy such as yoghurt and milk. These people often also scrape the coating of their tongue as it is so thick! This doesn't treat the root of the damp problem, just removes one of the indicators.

Damp and phlegm accumulate for a few different reasons. We can initially break the causes down into 2 categories: Internal and External routes.

Internally damp/phlegm may accumulate due to:

1. Overthinking/stress leading to a deficiency of the spleen qi (digestive energy) which can't cope with all the damp foods being ingested, thus leading to a sluggish digestion.

2. Poor diet. Too much dairy, greasy, oily, fatty, sweet, cold, raw and rich natured foods.

Externally damp/phlegm may accumulate due to:

1. Humid environment. Tropical weather. Air-conditioner blasting on you during a hot day for long periods of time.

2. The two weeks between each season change, and especially the end of summer which is considered the 'late summer' or 'damp' time of the year when we expect dampness to accumulate.

Chinese medicine is based on the 5 element theory. Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood.

Each element relates to a season, organ, emotion and function etc. Dampness relates most closely to earth. The earth element relates to late summer, and the organs of the spleen and stomach.

The job of the spleen and stomach is to convert food and water to energy and the rest to waste. However, sometimes when this system is run-down and can't convert things properly, due to a rich diet for example, there is an excess residue left over that can't be disposed of efficiently called dampness. Chinese medicine also states that when the dampness over flows from the earth element, it is contained in the metal element; this being the lungs and large intestine. This can explain why sometimes we eat greasy fish and chips or a milk shake and get a runny nose, cough or diarrhea.

Dampness is heavy and likes to drain down and out. Sometimes it can't do this as it gets blocked and gluggy. There are a few ways we get rid of damp. First we want to reduce the foods that are adding to the problem. Then we want to use herbs and acupuncture to either open the pores of the skin to disperse through sweat, purge through the stool or drain through urination. Then we will strengthen the digestion using a bland diet, exercise, herbs and acupuncture.

Matter and Energy

A good way to explain Chinese medicine and what we call 'digestive fire' is through basic physics principles.

Matter and energy. The two fundamental aspects of nature are fire and water. We can refer to these 2 elements as matter (water) and energy (fire). Everything is a form of matter and energy, matter being a more condensed form with less vibration and energy as a more dispersed and insubstantial form that has highly vibrational electrons and protons.

This said, the two are interchangeable; life and nature are always moving and changing. We are made up of matter and we are driven by passion, emotion, will and love, in this case we can say this is the 'energy' or fire that is life. Thus, we are made up of matter, driven by energy. But what fuels this energy? Food, air and water. So we have life, or this 'inner fire', and we want to add fuel or wood. What kind of wood would we add to a campfire?

What burdens the digestive fire?

When we want to make a good fire, we need good, light and dry wood; like kindling. We notice when we put green sticks on the fire it smokes and dulls the fire. Likewise, if we put a large log of wet wood on the fire, we're likely to extinguish it totally.

The spleen and stomach like dry, light food. Thus heavy, oily, greasy, raw and dense foods are not the kind of thing to strengthen an already weak digestion. It is like throwing a big heavy wet log on a small fire. Goodbye fire!

We need to start with easily digestible grains and foods that are cooked well and not overly processed. This is our kindling.

Foods to reduce dampness & return digestive fire

Cooked whole grains: Rice, Oats, Barley, Rye, Millet, Quinoa, Pearl Barley, Buckwheat, Amaranth, Corn

Veggies: Beans (if you can tolerate from the gas), celery, pumpkin, turnip, alfalfa, leafy greens

Meat/Protein: Small amounts of well cooked (even slow cooked/stewed) are good and damp draining. Beef, Lamb, Chicken.

Spices/Herbs: Ginger is great to warm the digestive fire, especially in congee. Cardamom, cinnamon, fennel, paprika, cumin and pepper are all warming to the digestion.

Foods to avoid that increase dampness & reduce digestive fire

Basically, too much raw, cold, sweet, oily or mucous-forming foods.

Too many raw fruits, vegetable, sprouts, juices, cold food from the fridge, salad, sushi in excess.

Late night eating

Over eating

Not chewing properly

Processed foods such as pastries, pork, duck, salads, wheat grass, avocados, bananas, tofu, soy milk (soy is 50% fats and oils), eggs, chocolate, ice cream, smoothies, iced water, lassies, dairy.

A raw food or salad diet sounds great and cleansing but may not be beneficial for everyone. A person who is very hot, red faced with a strong constitution will benefit a lot, however a skinny, pale, tired person will become worse. This is all due to their condition, digestive fire, and diet.

Further improving digestion and reducing excess weight

When the digestive fire is reduced and we put in more of the wrong foods, we get a left over residue. This is what we call dampness. This dampness is energy that has become more substantial, matter. This left over matter may be deposited as fat or turn into more solid matter such as cysts.

The way to reduce this occurring is:

Reducing damp accumulating foods

Restoring digestive fire

Become active and exercise daily

Clearing your mind with meditation and relaxation breathing

Chris Eddy Dr of Chinese Medicine

Mold Removal for Unexplained Sickness

Is Mold Making You Sick? Probably.

According to some, "Mold Exposure is perhaps the single most misdiagnosed illness in the United States." Prolonged exposure to mold can stimulate allergic like reactions in people as well as cause an assortment of illness symptoms. It appears that people with better immunity will be able to tolerate the ill effects of mold; however, people who are under stress, have weakened immunities, are allergic to mold or are seniors are at greater risk to develop illnesses related to mold mycotoxins in their homes. Also, mold can make pets sick as well!

The mold famous for producing negative symptoms is Stachybotrys also known as Black Mold. However, other forms of mold that may be in your house such as Aspergillus can also lead to causing symptoms. The website for the Center of Disease Prevention has an excellent database of common molds and diseases caused by exposure to them.

For a general list, here are some signs of mold induced sickness:

Headaches

Most often, you wake up with them. In fact, you may be woken up from sleep with a headache. If you suddenly notice and onset of headaches and you typically do not get them, you may want to consider a hidden source of mold.

For example, in one case on Mold Damage Tarpon Springs, the couple had moved into a condo six months prior to discovering that there was black mold growing on the drywall behind their bed. No wonder the woman continuously woke up with severe headaches.

Often, mold induced headaches will go away within hours of the person leaving the contaminated area. Unfortunately for some, they linger a bit due to mold induced sinusitis.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is the most common health care complaint and affects 37 million people in USA (about 1 out of every 7 Americans). According to a Mayo Clinic study, mold is a known allergen that many people are likely sensitive to. In addition, the study shows that mold in the air and in the nose is directly linked to sinus inflammation. The Mayo Clinic study proved that 93% of all chronic sinusitis studied was caused by mold.

Allergy Like Symptoms

Mold can induce allergy-type symptoms in people. From sneezing to itchy and watery eyes, mold can trick people into believing they are allergic to something and in fact, they most often are...allergic to mold.

Other Symptoms:

Nose Bleeds
Constant Fatigue
Breathing Disorders
Coughing up Blood or Black looking Debris
Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting, Loss of Appetite
Weight Loss
Hair loss
Skin Rashes
Open Sores on the Skin
Memory Loss - Short and Long term
Sexual Dysfunction
Swollen Glands in the Neck Area and under the Armpit
Asthma or Breathing Disorders
Ear Infections, Chronic Sinus Infections, Chronic Bronchitis

Current Thinking on Unexplained Diseases:

Currently, there is some theory that supports that Fibromyalgia, sudden onset of Asthma or Emphysema, Chronic Lung and Sinus infections as well as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are actually caused by mold exposure. To read more about these theories, please visit: http://www.biosignlabs.com/Symptoms_Mold_Sickness.html

If you are worried about having illness due to mold exposure, see your doctor. You may need to get a blood test or even have your mucus tested. While some symptoms disappear with mold removal, others may need anti-fungal medication or other forms of medical attention. If you believe you have been exposed to mold, it is a good idea to take notes and talk to your doctor about where you might have been exposed along with the types of symptoms you are experiencing along with their duration.

But how could mold be causing your problems? There isn't any visible evidence of mold in your home! Unfortunately, it is a misnomer that mold can be seen. Too often, mold is hiding where you would least expect it. Like in the case mentioned earlier in this article, mold was lurking behind the bed frame. Mold will also grow undetected under carpet, behind baseboards, under wood flooring, in ducts and so on. If your property has ever been a victim of water damage including a flood, hurricane or even a water spill, you could have mold and not even know it. In one case of Mold Damage Spring Hill, there was a leak in the shower pan that would allow water to leak slowly under the wall and into the bedroom - under the carpet. It wasn't until a large black formation formed on the carpet that the homeowners became concerned. All the while, they had suffered with allergy symptoms, sinus headaches and poor sleep.

Mold damage is serious. If any water damage has occurred, mold spores can begin to grow into mold within 24-48 hours. If you believe that you might have a mold problem, contact a certified mold removal specialist and talk to your doctor about any health concerns you may have.

Ballerina Green Tea Know The Facts

Green tea is a drink which has been around for ages and comes in various flavours one of which is ballerina green tea. It is renowned for treating numerous medical conditions from headaches to cancer. Green tea is a beverage which is popular with Asian countries like China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea and the Middle East. Research has been conducted both in Asia and in the West regarding the benefits of drinking green tea and ballerina green tea.

The Journal of the National Cancer Institute in 1994 published the answers of an epidemiological study, which advised that drinking green tea helps to reduce the risk involved in esophageal cancer in Chinese men and women at least by 60 percent! Cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, infection, cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol levels are some of the medical conditions where the goodness of green tea can be experimented on. Ballerina green tea proves to be an invaluable relief to a number of health problems. Catechin polyphenols, especially epigallocatechin gallate is the secret of the popularity of Ballerina green tea.

3 Ballerina Tea Dieter's drink is made up of natural herbs and is one of the most popular types of Ballerina green teas. A formula within an old Chinese book of medicine is used in the preparation of 3 Ballerina Tea Dieter's drink. As times has elapsed this drink has proved to be one of the most popular drinks for dieters. The drink consists of malva verticellate or Chinese mallow and Cassia Angustifolia or Senna but no chemical additives or caffeine. This drink is great for your health but before rushing out to buy it, consult with your doctor if it is suitable for you. Ballerina green tea should not be consumed if you are under medication or have diarrhea.

More Ballerina Green Tea Information

The benefits of Ballerina green tea are more profound if you following the instructions carefully. The instructions are very easy and sensible. Start by drinking small quantities initially and than gradually increasing the amount you feel comfortable with. 2-3 minutes should be sufficient for the green tea bag or loose green tea to soak in 2 cups of boiling water. Even so, you can dilute the tea with more water according to your taste. Afterwards, to get a stronger flavour use a single cup of boiling water, after a week has passed. Drinking a cup of Ballerina green tea, hot or cold, in the morning, evening and after meals is healthy, but you should not drink more than three cups of green tea in a day.

3 Ballerina Tea Dieter's Drink Extra Strength is also considered as a wonderful remedy for weight control and constipation. It is a natural tea popular for its soothing and relaxing effect. This product contains green tea, orange peel, senna leaves, Malva Verticellate and has a natural flavor. It does not contain caffeine or any chemical additives. It is advisable to read the instructions carefully before drinking this beverage. Pregnant and nursing women should not consume this tea. Besides, children or elderly people suffering from any kind of medical condition are also prohibited from drinking this beverage.

Movie Review - Jack and Jill (2011) (PG)

How Exactly Does Sandler's Mind Work?

How exactly does Adam Sandler's mind work? Has he deluded himself into believing his ideas are actually funny? I'm forced to ask these questions given the disastrous results of most of his recent creative projects. These would include The House Bunny, Grown Ups, Just Go with It, Zookeeper, Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star, and now Jack and Jill, in which Sandler is not only the co-writer and co-producer but also does double duty as the title characters, who are fraternal twins. Imagine the work that must go into making this; Sandler had to be put into makeup for the female role, do all scenes with that character, then do all of the scenes with the male character, and then both versions of himself had to be digitally composited into the shots. In both instances, he had to react to a person who wasn't actually there.

But what does all this effort count for in something this unendurably bad? If you can visualize the experience of listening to fingernails on a chalkboard, that's pretty much what watching this movie is like. It's a grating, strained, hopelessly unfunny comedy. It's being geared towards families, and yet every scene shows no indication that it was geared for any potential audience - with the possible exception of diehard Sandler fans, who are truly devoted if they think seeing this will be worth the time and money. Its basically sound premise is ruined by the decision to have Sandler play both lead roles; as a woman, he could not be less convincing even if he had a neon sign over his head rhythmically blinking, "I'm really a man!" His proportions are all wrong. He looks grotesque.

The Jill character is shrill, offensive, and annoying. This is exactly why Jack, a successfully Los Angeles commercial producer, dreads having her visit every year for Thanksgiving. She typically stays for just one weekend, which Jack has learned to grin and bear. But this year is different; since their mother died, Jill has no family left in the Bronx, and she now wants to stay with her brother and his family all the way through Hanukah, perhaps even through New Years. Jack is, of course, vehemently opposed to this idea. The same cannot be said of his wife, a perpetual go-between named Erin (Katie Holmes), and their children, Gary and Sofia (Rohan Chand and Elodie Tougne). They like Jill so much, you can't help but wonder if all three of them are either in denial or insane. Perhaps it's a little bit of both. Take Gary, the adopted Indian boy; he has a strange compulsion to tape things to his body, including salt shakers, cooked lobsters, and living birds.

In a jaw-dropping subplot, Jack seeks out Al Pacino in the hope that he will endorse a new line of Dunkin' Donuts coffee products. Yes, he finds the Oscar-winning actor, who plays a caricature of himself, but that isn't the joke; Pacino falls head-over-heels in love with Jill, and spends the rest of the film trying to woo her. All eventually leads to him performing a rap solo and dance number. Let me reiterate that this movie features Al Pacino. You know, the Godfather trilogy? Dog Day Afternoon? Scarface? Scent of a Woman? Serpico? ...And Justice for All? Author, Author? The astounding reality that he accepted the offer to be in this movie is second only to the considerable work he puts into his role. My God, he actually took this seriously.

Apart from Pacino, we're treated to a host of other cameo appearances. Some are understandable, like Dana Carvey, Norm MacDonald, The Sham-Wow Guy, and David Spade (who, incidentally, also appears in drag). Others are just as unbelievable as Pacino. These would include Regis Philbin, Shaquille O'Neal, and Drew Carrey. Topping the list is Johnny Depp. Yes, Johnny Depp appears in this movie, too. At this point, he no longer has to be ashamed by his years on 21 Jump Street. Even though his screen time adds up to less than two minutes, this will be a hard one to live down.

The film is bookended by testimonials given by real life identical twins, who bounce biting remarks off each other before professing their love for one another. Did the filmmakers conveniently forget that the main characters are not identical twins, but fraternal, since one is male and the other is female? Never mind. It's more than amazing to me that movies like Jack and Jill get made. It's actually kind of disturbing. Movies like this are comedic dead zones that play to the lowest common denominator in a desperate attempt for laughs. In the course of this movie, Jill will do all manner of broad slapstick routines, including crushing a horse, getting into a barroom brawl with a rival woman (played by a man), and repeatedly whack an elderly Mexican woman (again, played by a man) in the head. And yes, she will inevitably go to the bathroom with the runs, and we will have to listen as the sounds of explosive diarrhea fill the theater.

Diabetes and The Flu: A Scary Combination

It is that time of year again where cold and flu season really starts to get into full swing. For the past few months you may have seen ads or been asked by your doctor if you would like the flu shot all in preparation for flu season. For diabetic patients, the flu can be a devastating illness. It is for this reason that it is recommended that all diabetic patients are vaccinated against influenza in September, well before flu season begins.

How do I know if I have the flu?

The flu is a virus that is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, cough and muscle aches. It is also sometimes accompanied by nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
What do I do if I have the flu?

Most patients will recover without any complications but diabetic patients are at an increased risk for problems like dehydration, hyperglycemia, pneumonia and hospitalization. For this reason, diabetic patients are encouraged to call their doctor at the onset of symptoms of the flu. You will be able to speak with a nurse who can advise you if your symptoms are consistent with the flu and of what to do next.

You may need to see your doctor to start medications to reduce your risk of complications from the flu. These medications are most effective when they are started within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms. This is why it is important for patients with diabetes to contact their physician as soon as they suspect that they have the flu.

If you have the flu and diabetes you should take the following steps to reduce your risk of complications from the flu:

1. Hydrate: Increase your fluid intake by taking small amounts of sugar free beverages every hour to prevent dehydration. If you are vomiting or have diarrhea this becomes very important. Monitor for signs of dehydration which include dry mouth, increased thirst, increased heart rate and decreased urination.

2. Monitor sugars: Hyperglycemia occurs more frequently in diabetic patients during times of stress and illness. It is recommended that all diabetic patients check their blood sugars every 3-4 hours during illness to monitor for extreme changes in glucose levels.

3. Know the symptoms of complications: If you experience shortness of breath, high fever, confusion, dehydration or hyperglycemia contact your doctor to find out if you need to be seen emergently.

The flu is a serious illness and the best way to prevent its complications is through yearly vaccination.

Is Your Plastic Water Bottle Poisoning You?

You may not know for 20 years if your plastic water bottle is poisoning you.

Right now the FDA says only that it will keep monitoring data to see if the agency needs to take regulatory action. It could be 20 or 30 years before they truly know the effects on the human body from the toxins leached from plastic water bottles.

For now no serious action is being taken regarding the very serious health hazards presented by plastic water bottles, plastic food storage containers, and more.

Here's why your plastic water bottle may be unsafe: Most bottled water comes in polyethylene terephthalate bottles, indicated by a number 1, PET, or PETE on the bottle's bottom. While some scientists believe that these bottles are generally safe at room temperature, when they are stored at warm temperatures, the story changes.

When the bottles are warmed, they begin to quickly leach chemicals into the water. It doesn't matter if the bottles are still sealed, of it it's the bottle you're carrying with you and drinking from throughout the day. Scientists agree that the bottle left in the hot car all day is dangerous - but how warm is too warm? And how warm were those bottles during shipment? How warm were they when they sat in a warehouse prior to shipment? You have no way to know.

According to Ken Smith, PhD and past chair of the American Chemical Society's division of environmental chemistry, "Leaving bottled water out in the car changes the chemical equilibrium so that the materials from the plastic go into the water faster."

Note that he didn't say heat causes chemicals to go into the water, but that it causes them to go into the water faster. That would indicate that even if your bottled water has been refrigerated from the day it was bottled, chemicals are leaching into it.

In 2006 scientists in Germany found that antimony, a toxic material used in making PET, begins leaching into the water immediately. So the longer it sits in storage, the more toxic it becomes. High concentrations of antimony can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In the study, levels were found to be "safe" by EPA standards, but they admit that there have been no long term studies to determine if "safe" levels are really safe.

Then, the next year, a National Institutes of Health committee found that bisphenol A (BPA) may cause neurological and behavioral problems in fetuses, babies, and young children. A separate study found that adult exposure to BPA likely affects the brain, the female reproductive system, and the immune system. BPA is a chemical found in polycarbonate, which is used to make water cooler jugs, sport-water bottles, and other hard plastics.

Some plastics used for water bottles, along with some cosmetics and fragrances, shower curtains, and even baby toys, contain Phthalates.

Phthalates are under increasing scrutiny because they are endocrine disrupters. That means they block or mimic hormones and affect the body's normal functions. The effects of exposure to these chemicals may add up - and studies are showing that when fetuses are exposed to high levels during critical developmental periods, the results can be devastating.

What about juices, milk, and soft drinks?

So far, I have not seen any studies or heard an outcry. But it stands to reason that if chemicals leach into your water from plastic containers, those plastics would also leach into any other beverage they hold.

Many experts are now recommending throwing away your plastic water bottles - and also ceasing to use plastics in your home for food storage. They recommend buying juices in metal or glass containers, or at the very least, transferring them to glass containers as soon as you get them home.

Treating Stomach Flu Symptoms

Although it really has no connection to what is commonly thought of as influenza there is often no mistaking the malady properly termed viral gastroenteritis, or referred to as stomach flu. Highly contagious, stomach flu symptoms may strike adults and children of all ages, and most people report having experienced this illness at least once or twice. Telltale signs of viral gastroenteritis include diarrhea, vomiting, and at times fever. Fever, dehydration, and the resulting physical weakness typically take a toll on sufferers, but proper and timely stomach flu treatment can alleviate severe reactions and may help you avoid some symptoms as well.

While stomach flu symptoms such as queasiness, vomiting, and diarrhea are certainly unpleasant what is genuinely troubling is the potential damage to the cells that line the small intestine. The weakened cells leak excess fluid into the contents of the intestines, and this manifests as watery stool or diarrhea. A singular occurrence of diarrhea or vomiting may be easily endured, but lingering occurrences may leave you dangerously dehydrated. The unpleasantness may begin within a few hours to two days after being exposed to viral gastroenteritis, with symptoms lasting one or two days. At worst, cases may last for as long as ten days, but anyone who experiences blood in their stool or vomits for one full day or more should likely seek professional advice and stomach flu treatment.

A fever may cause you to experience chills or even headaches, and the accompanying sweating may also cause you to lose more fluid as your temperature fluctuates. Adults and children alike should likely have a physician to guide treatment if pain, dehydration, or pronounced drowsiness persists. While the loss of fluids explains the resulting dehydration, producing dark urine or nearly no urine output at all are clear indicators of being dehydrated. For a baby, this will show up in the form of extended periods with a dry diaper, dry eyes or mouth, or a slightly sunken area on the forehead. Fortunately there are some easy remedies to treat mild cases of dehydration, including a variety of sports drinks for adults and replacement drinks containing electrolytes that may be beneficial for children.

The physical exhaustion from vomiting and experiencing diarrhea understandably leave sufferers feeling weak, and weakness is also due to the nutrient loss that occurs from repeated diarrhea and vomiting. Anyone experiencing feelings of excess thirst, dizziness, or lightheadedness should likely seek stomach flu treatment from a medical professional, as any untreated electrolyte imbalance may even affect heart health. Maintaining fluid levels and addressing stomach flu symptoms sooner rather than later may keep this common malady from creating permanent physical damage.

How to Deal with Problems in Feeding Your Newborn

New parents are generally very confused and beset about feeding their baby and care for looking for advice from paediatricians, family, friends, books and articles.

When it comes to feeding your baby, the one of the most researched fact is that the breast milk and/or formula are self-sufficient and are the best forms of nourishment for your baby during the first 6 months of baby's life.

Both breast milk and formula are easily digested by baby's immature digestive system and are nutritionally adequate, containing all the nourishment your baby requires for prompt growth during her first 6 months of life. There is absolutely no need of any other form of nutrition.

Concerning feeding your baby with breast milk, check out these tips below about the problems in feeding your newborn and how to deal with them.

1. Problem: A common problem that majority of the moms comes across while breastfeeding is difficulty in positioning the baby and getting the baby to "latch on" to the breast correctly.

Solution: This problem generally arises when mother's breasts are fully engorged with milk. Engorgement makes the breast hard and flattens the nipples so the baby has nothing to latch on. The methods that help reduce engorgement will soften the breast allowing the nipple to protrude. An easy way to solve to reduce engorgement is to nurse the baby as frequently as possible. You may also consider expressing the milk using electric or hand pumps. The expressed milk can be refrigerated and fed to the baby later on. Wearing nipple shields half an hour before feeding the baby may also make the nipples protrude. If this problem still persists, you may squeeze the end of breast lightly and offer the nipple to baby.

2. Problem: Another common problem is insufficient milk production by moms.

Solution: To increase milk production, you can apply a warm compress to your breasts before feedings. Doing so will make the let down reflex better. You may also massage your breasts during feedings. Another way to increase milk production is by feeding your baby frequently, at least every 2-3 hours. Doing so would stimulate more milk production. You may also consider pumping your breasts for five minutes when you are not feeding your baby to stimulate milk production. Furthermore, drink plenty of fluids, eat a well-balanced diet, and take time to relax throughout the day and night. Lastly, avoid smoking as nicotine also decreases the milk supply.

3. Problem: Fussiness of babies while feeding.

Solution: This is the frequent problem faced by most of the mothers. Your baby may be crying because of many reasons, e.g., a burp ready to come up, you might have no more milk left in your breast or your baby may be full. Thus, stop the feeding and make your baby burp. Thereafter, offer the second breast to your baby if she appears to be hungry. If your baby is bottle-fed, follow the same process, i.e., interrupt feeding and make your baby burp at least twice or thrice while feeding.

4. Problem: Lactose Intolerance (inability to digest lactose) to baby. Some babies are unable to digest the sugar lactose, which is in cow's milk formulas. They are said to be lactose intolerant. Symptoms of lactose intolerance may include excessive gas, abdominal swelling and pain, and diarrhea.

Solution: If you are breastfeeding, alternate it with lactose free formula as breast milk contains appreciable amount of lactose. Secondly, avoid taking dairy products, as they are likely to enhance lactose levels of breast milk you produce. Thirdly, try to finish one breast before offering the second to your baby. By doing so, your baby will get more of hind milk, which is richer in fat and help cure diarrhea seen in lactose intolerant babies. Finally, a potential solution to this problem may also be switching over to soy-based infant formula, or other special lactose-free formula, several of which are commercially available.

5. Problem: Noisy sucking sounds while the baby drinks milk by bottle.

Solution: If your baby is producing a lot of noisy sucking sounds, she may be taking in too much air. You may try holding your baby at 45-degree angle; doing so would considerably prevent your baby to swallow air. Furthermore, remember to tilt the bottle so that the nipple and neck of the bottle are always filled with formula.

How to Tell If a Dog Has a Fever

Dogs have similarities to Humans. They get fever the same way we do. There are usually indicators before a fever that tell us something is wrong. If we do ignore those indicators, them they turn into a fever. A fever is really a symptom that something is amiss. Basically, we need to treat dogs like babies because they cannot talk and explain what they are going through.

How is it done? How to tell if a dog has a fever.

A healthy dog has bright cheerful eyes, is full of energy and has a good diet. A dog's attitude will change when something is wrong. He is may be indifferent to your talking to him and he may become indifferent to his meals. A dog has a normal body temperature between a 100 deg F and 102 deg F.If your dog has a fever, when you touch the dogs nose, the back of his ears or his fur it will appear warm. But the best and most accurate method to see the dogs fever is to use a thermometer rectally.

If the fever is accompanied with changes in the dog's attitude and you notice more Dog Fever Symptoms like scratching, itching, painful movement or even bloody stools, diarrhea or vomiting it is time to take action.

A little rest and perhaps a change to a lighter diet usually help the dog to fully recover. If it doesn't, the veterinary doctor has to examine the dog. Before the doctor arrives it is imperative that all the Dog health symptoms are noted down. Make sure you note all changes in behavior, diet, the brightness in the eyes, and any visible mucous or discharge around the eyes or now. It may also be a good idea to keep the necessary stool or other samples of discharges ready for any clinical investigation. Additionally, all records of vaccination may come in handy when you meet the veterinary doctor for examination. Keep all records you have on hand.

Simplified - When Should I Take My Pet To the Vet?

There have been many articles written and news events these days about your dog's future and their health, and how each and every one of us dog owners, can make a substantial difference in our dogs longevity, just by making a few simple intelligent decisions regarding our pets. I myself have written many articles from Complimentary medicine, Training, to Holistic diets.

And clearly, I realize that not everybody has the time to read articles that are thoroughly researched and explained information, which singles out a topic and delivers quality content in long form. But it's hard to do when the author wants to assure themselves that the content of the article is complete and informational to the reader. So I am going to try something new for me, and that is to write a few articles that are short and sweet and designed to make the reader respond instead of going to bed with it.

Simplified: When should I take my Pet-To the Vet?

Part One

1. Pale, grayish or purple colored gums.
2. Any unusual swelling of any kind.
3. Rapid or unusual breathing patterns.
4. Any sign of weakness or shaking
5. Disorientation
6. Loss or lack of coordination
7. unusual demeanor
8. Extreme form of listlessness
9. Swallowing of any sharp object like glass, etc
10. Seizure
11. Any injury to the eye. No matter how insignificant it appears.
12. Any deep bite
13. Puncture wounds
14. Any form of trauma to the head.
15. Temperature of 103 or higher
16. Any sign of respiratory blockage or obstruction
17. Inability to inhale
18. Wheezing sounds
19. A stiff stance with the dogs legs apart and the appearance of the head outstretched.
20. Bloody diarrhea
21. Gagging at the mouth
22. Difficulty breathing.
23. Any sudden swelling in the face or throat area.
24. Signs of significant pain
25. Reluctant to move
26. Vomiting
27. Fainting
28. sunken eyes
29. FOR MORE go to our website

Part Two

1. Make your pet carrier, a common part of your dog's life, in their beginning stages of growth so they don't grow up fearful of the carrier. It will definitely make the trip to the vets easier for everyone involved. Place it in their play area with the door open so they can go in or out, as they please.
2. Make sure you have all important paperwork always in a handy place, in case of emergency. If you have easy access to your personal veterinarian, that is unnecessary.
3. You should always take your pet to the Vet if you suspect your pet is in danger in any way. If it's a small cut or an upset stomach use your best discretion, because sometimes an upset stomach could actually be something very serious like if your dog has consumed cocoa shell mulch from a neighbors home. That would be fatal and the dog would act as if it had an upset stomach. If it's a small cut, you can save quite a bit of money if you take care of that yourself, as you would for your own child.
4. You need to bring your pet to the vet for regular checkups. Routine veterinary care and wellness screenings are the best way to detect all kinds of problems early on. Especially Cancer, that kills 1 in 3 dogs annually......Very,Very Important
5. When going in for check-ups your vet will know if they need any shots.
6. If you dog develops, any skin rashes or any other unusual growth, such as the look of bloat or inflation of the stomach or abdomen...Take your pet to the vet.
7. Save money and costs for visits to the vet by investing in Pet Insurance for your pet. You can find a specially priced plan for your dog on our website and read interesting articles by people who saved thousands of dollars to save their pet from either an accident or disease.
8. The ability to recognize the warning signs of any illness comes from educating yourself on what to look for when you suspect something is wrong, and the best way to accomplish this is to visit our website and familiarize yourself with different types of illnesses and their symptoms. So you'll know what to look for. It could save your dogs life.
9. Definitely do not procrastinate. If you ever think your gut is telling you something is wrong...It usually is. Take your pet to the vet.
10. An ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure.

This is not the Holy Mantra. What you have here, is just some simple common sense advice from someone who has been down this road a few times. You can also read more about this topic and get more detailed information about Dogs and Puppies and Reasons for taking your Pet to the Vet and Related information, at: http://www.HealthyDoggy.com

Should I Call the Doctor If My Baby Has a Fever?

Sooner or later, your new baby will develop a fever. It would be a rare child who does not come down with some kind of illness that elevates their temperature. Babies can get fevers for a variety of reasons, and understanding the whys, can help you determine if you should call your doctor.

On a warm day, and over-dressed baby, particularly an active or squirmy one, can become flushed and hot. When their temperature is taken it is up. The first thing to do is remove some of the clothing, and place the child in a cool spot to rest or play quietly. Take their temperature again in 20-30 minutes, if there are no signs that their distress is increasing. Chances are, it will be headed back towards normal. Sometimes just a very active play session in hot weather, can make a toddler's temperature go up, and the cure is the same: remove some clothes, and cool down by taking a break.

Most fevers are the result of a child's body fighting off an infection of some sort. As white blood cells become active and mount a defense, their temperature will rise, and they may develop other symptoms, including coughing, excessive crying, restlessness, listlessness, lack of appetite, unwillingness to drink, diarrhea and vomiting. But occasionally, fever is the only symptom, and many times, it does not seem to interfere with their activities or behavior.

Generally speaking, a child with a fever, who has other symptoms of distress like vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive crying, may have an illness that requires medical attention. Take their temperature, and call your pediatrician with the results. Be prepared to give them a list of the symptoms. They may ask that you administer a fever-reducing medication such as acetaminophen, or if they are over six months of age, ibuprofen. It is best not to administer these on your own, if the child becomes ill suddenly, as the doctor may want to assess their condition without some of the symptoms being masked.

In addition to the medication, you can sponge your baby off in the tub, with lukewarm water, running it over their whole body and head. If the doctor has asked that you call them back after a specified time lapse, be sure that you take note of any changes in their condition.

A rule of thumb for calling the doctor, is for infants under three months, the temperature should be above 100F, and if they are over three months, a temperature of over 101F. Often times, the more obvious illnesses like flu, with a temperature and vomiting, are easier to diagnose than a temperature with no other symptoms.

How to Deal With Baby Teething

The natural process in which a baby develops teeth is 'baby teething'. The age of teeth appearance varies with all children. For some, the age can be as early as 3 months, while for others it can be more than a year- often following the genetic patterns. Generally, baby teething is a painful process, more so because the symptoms are so different and the parents have no idea how to deal with it.

Pointer given below will help you to identify teething issues.

- If baby teething begins early around 3-4 months, symptom of drooling is prominent. Level of drooling varies and excessive drooling brings about chin rashes. This is highly irritating for the baby. Solution is to carry or tie a piece of cloth around the baby to soak all the drooling. Otherwise, the extra saliva formed cause the baby to cough, even though the baby does not have cold, flu and fever. You know having cold at such a young age can be disastrous. Prevent such situation with precautions.

- Pain of baby teething makes the baby bite and gnaw upon anything handy. Rubbing the mouth and trying to bite helps to relieve pain and pressure on gums. This accompanies the symptom of pulling ear and frequent cheek rubbing caused by the emergence of molar teeth. A little further development of teeth pressurize the gums, therefore, baby behaves irritably and constantly fuss. Sleeping pattern becomes erratic too. No amount of cajoling seems to help though not all babies react in the same manner. Give them time to become accustomed with the changes.

- Loose bowel movement is the widely accepted and contradicted view of parents and doctors. Swallowing large amount of saliva loosens the bowel movement. Notify the doctor of such diarrhea symptom.

Solutions like cold foods, cold water, teething rings, teething toys, yoghurt and others are ascribed by parents and doctors to reduce baby teething problems.

Do You Believe Everything Green Is Good for You? Benefits of Green Food

"Green" is the heart of America and it means money and wealth, although in the last twenty years, green has come to mean conservation of our environment. The symbolism of "GREEN" is global. Globally "Green" means hope, life, growth and the ability to move forward like the message of a green traffic light. Most citizens of other countries want a Green Card (Tarjeta Verde) to come to America for a better life. China produces the most green vegetables for global distribution. Along with other countries, the economics of green vegetables tantamount to 84 million dollars. Green landscapes empowers us with "life" mean lots of Oxygen for us to breathe in for energy processes. Most shades of green have a long wavelength which is relaxing. The Wizard of Oz lives in Emerald City, with green symbolizing wisdom, while children love the Mermaid with green eyes, which they believe is magical. Recall, Popeye, the cartoon who got a lot of energy after eating spinach. Since green vegetables have most of the nutrients for our bodies, and they are cheap commodities, do you realize how much money can be saved per household?

On the other hand, green can symbolize envy, ignorance, jealousy, and sickness. Shakespeare wrote about "The green-eyed monster." Olive green color is thought to have adverse effects on our brain waves. The green skin of apples do not have chlorophyll, it has Cyanide! Some green leaves have poison, excess medicinal compounds, or psychedelic drugs. There is Cannabis and the Deadly Nightshade plants to name a few examples.

Any object that cannot absorb green reflects it. This object can absorb yellow and blue and other colors of the spectrum, while reflect green. For example, our plants have chlorophyll, a chemical that absorbs all wavelengths of white light, except green, which it reflects. The structure of Chlorophyll is similar to Vitamin B12 and Heme in the blood. These three compounds have a circular structure called porphyrin, a natural occurring substance, with a metal at the center.

Let us recall, Vitamin B12 has a circular Porphyrin structure, called Corrin with Cobalt metal ( attached to Cyanide) at the center, which appears pinkish-red. Chlorophyl, too has a circular porphyrin ring with Magnesium metal at the center and it appears green. In the future, we will discuss Heme, a portion of hemoglobin in the blood stream, which also has a circular porphyrin structure, with the metal Iron at the center. This Iron gives the blood red color and when it is bound to Oxygen, it is called Ferric Oxide. Therefore, to increase your awareness, most ( not all) red color products contain Ferric oxide. Ferrous sulfate is green.

Let us connect Chlorophyll to Heme in our bloodstream. Some believe that because the chemistry is of Chlorophyll and Heme is so much alike, all the body does is to replace the Magnesium of Chlorophyll with Iron. As a result when we eat green vegetables., the magnesium moves out of the vegetables and the iron moves into the porphyrin. It must be emphasized that Magnesium in vegetables is one of the vital minerals for the body. If the vegetables are eaten unwashed, the bacteria will make more Vitamin B12 in the gut. Vitamin B12 increases the production of Red Blood Cells from the bone marrow, which transport heme in hemoglobin with oxygen. Therefore all processes are connected.

The power of green is that green plants in the environment give us the Oxygen we need in the body. The oxygen intake can be increased by aerobic exercises. At the same time, we excrete Carbon Dioxide. The plants absorb this Carbon dioxide from us, and with the aid of sunlight make nutrients for our bodies.

The importance of eating green vegetables is: (1) the chlorophyll decreases toxin (2) Vegetable protein comes in the form of enzymes which is necessary for digestion. Enzymes are compounds that break down carbohydrates, proteins, fat and other nutrients, so that it can be absorbed by the body. It is necessary to eat green vegetables at lunch time. This is because this the time that the body's elimination process is finished and we need more enzymes for the food to be ingested that day. (3) The Magnesium present in vegetables will work with Calcium and other Vitamin B to prevent osteoporosis. (4) Vegetables have water and hormones and can keep our bodies cool. Now that Summer is here, this is a good time to eat more green vegetables.

Green vegetables contain most nutrients and Vitamin F (Bio-flavanoids). Potassium is greater in vegetables than Sodium, which is more inprocessed foods. One can find Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Cobalt, Copper, and all B vitamins except B12 and Vitamin D. However if we eat unwashed vegetables, the bacteria present will start B 12 synthesis in the gut. All B vitamins are good for energy and the immune system to decrease infections. There is also folic acid. Vitamin A occurs as carotene and is an antioxidant and to improve vision. Vitamin C is an antioxidant. An antioxidant is a chemical that binds Oxygen to remove excess amounts from the body. Vitamin D is generated when we go into the sun. There is also Vitamin E, another antioxidant, vitamin K for clotting and Bio-flavanoids.

Green vegetables have fat, only as Linoleic, and Alpha- Linoleic Acid that are important for cell membranes and the immune system. Furthermore, green vegetables have protein in the form of enzymes, which immediatelyspeeds up chemical reactions like digestion, absorption and elimination. Green vegetables have fiber, which provides the bulk force that pushes the food along the digestive tract. Green vegetables also have healing and cleansing compounds. Allow me to review the action of a few vegetables: Celery and Dandelion are diuretics. Aloe Vera heals wounds and Mint is good for gas. Lettuce contains a calming compound, called Lettucine, (which was thought to be similar to opium), the best effect comes from eating the bitter stem areas.

The best green sources are bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, celery, green peas, thyme and parsley. Of course there are cucumbers, but they are classified as fruit. Cucumber has all the nutrients of a vegetable, including phosphate for energy. Cucumbers keep you cool in the summer. It is also good to be, "As cool as a cucumber, meaning "imperturbable." It is really enlightening to know that plant structures resembles that of our bodies.

Now there is one green fruit that is popular, but toxic. Green apples have cyanide in the skin and also in the seeds. Cyanide is a poison to our eyes. It is also a poison to children. The inside of the apple contains pectin, which can be used medicinally to make an antidote to diarrhea known as Kaolin-Pectin.

Hippocrates stated, "Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food." For example, when copper replaces magnesium in the porphyrin structure, it is believed that it can heal cancer. Green is available globally; it is economically priced, as well as physiologically and psychology good for you.