Health

Archive for December, 2009

Author: Dr. Puneet Kathuria

Everybody secretly longs to have a fresh and wonderfully smelling mouth, a feeling which is so personal. Bad breath or halitosis as it is known in medical terms is a condition in which the mouth develops a foul odour that is difficult to combat. The problem is not so serious in medical terms but it does a lot of damage to the person’s self esteem and confidence after all. The chronic problem could have a devastating effect on happiness and peace of mind. One does try hard to emerge out of the problem but often lands up being frustrated. The crux of the problem is, that one does not discuss it with most near and dear ones, be it family or close friends as there is a lingering sense of embarrassment.

Why Does One Have Bad Breath

Most of the people presume that foul odours in the mouth are linked to the gasses which are expelled out from the digestive tract. This may be one of the causes but not the whole and sole reason. Frequently it is seen that bad breath is simply caused due to an unclean mouth. The reason is very simple and direct. Traces of food particles left in the mouth provide an easy thriving media for the oral bacteria and their colonies to flourish. These oral bacterial colonies expel out a pungent gas as their excretory waste, the prime reason for a badly smelling mouth.

Fresh Breath……..not a distant dream but a reality

As our mouth odour is hugely governed by the food residues in the mouth, it could mean that rinsing the mouth well could be the easy cure. Are mouthwashes the way to prevent bad breath? A lot of dental products are being propagated which claim to work wonders on breath. Actually speaking all these remedies work hand in hand with good brushing and flossing techniques.

What role does our toothbrush or a toothpaste play

The toothbrush and toothpaste are the first things which begin our day. They cannot be underestimated in terms of the role they would play to give one a fresh breath. It is also very important for us to know the right brushing techniques as simply gliding the toothbrush laden with toothpaste will not help. Gentle circular motions which touch nearly all corners of the mouth do the trick. Here it is very important to mention the quality of toothbrush and paste that are being used. It may sound a bit funny but small baby or infant toothbrushes reach every nook and corner of the mouth, not to mention the ultra soft bristles that make brushing a pleasure.

Thus if the person does not suffer from any gum disease or serious dental problem bad breath can be easily cured just by changing the toothbrush or style of brushing.

About the Author:

Article written by Dr. Sween Kathuria Cosmetic Dentist in Delhi, India, offering world class Cosmetic Dentistry.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – How to control bad breath by brushing

Author: Zero Gilbert

Pregnancy could influence considerably all parts of the body. It could seem like a surprise for you to suffer from the side effects of pregnancy inside the mouth. It is very familiar to experience bleeding gums on pregnancy, but treating bleeding gums may be vital for your health.

Pregnancy springs heighthened blood flow throughout your body to aid in nourishing your baby. The raised blood flow, however, could make inflamed, distressing and bleeding gums. Furthermore, pregnancy hormones in your body may causes you to be more sensitive of the bactheria in the plaque which dwelling on the theeth. Treating bleeding gums during this moment becomes really necessary as it can influence the pregnancy. When the body becomes more sensitive to the bactheria, your gums bleed fasther. This results to what is known as pregnancy gingivitis.

Pregnancy gingivitis can be more than a simple inconvenience. When ignored, it could multiply the risks of premature birth. Bleeding gums may put you in line of infections because of the open sores, thus treating bleeding gums becomes all-important. Hence, although this could appear like an innocent side effect of pregnancy, it’s necessary to handle it.

The most effective way of treating bleeding gums while pregnant (and even before pregnancy) is by taking out the bactheria that are irritating the gums. The key is to rid your mouth of the bactheria to which the body has become very susceptible. Brushing and flossing would help, nevertheless a lot of women undergo troubles while brushing their theeth during pregnancy, specially at moments of morning sickness. Thus, just as you need a great oral hygiene practices, you find it more troublesome than ever to practice one.

Consulting a dentist to get a dental cleaning along with necessary check-up can be the starting point of building up a great plan of action versus oral health complications linked with pregnancy gingivitis. Make sure that you brush and floss everyday, on a habitual basis for efficiently treating bleeding gums. Floss cautiously, and it is advised to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, being more careful of the soft gum tissues around the theeth. Pick the proper oral cleaning products also. A lot of time, chemical ingredients from most commercial dental products further inflame your mouth making more complications to develop. Treating bleeding gums, particularly on pregnancy, requires you to look for oral care products containing ingredients great in eliminating bactheria naturally.

To eliminathe or decrease side effects, it’s more agreeable to acquire dental products which have essential oils from peppermint, spearmint and almond which are proven to eliminathe bactheria as well as infection. These essential oils are used for centuries for treating bleeding gums, and numerous other infections due to their antibactherial properties. You must also think of your lifestyle in your fight versus pregnancy gingivitis and treating bleeding gums. How we live and the food we put into our bodies would have a significant impact on our oral well-being. Smoking, poor eating routines, and heart disease dangers have all been relathed to a heighthened risk for gum disease.

Upholding necessary dental habits and using only good all-natural oral products can be important in treating bleeding gums and eliminating additional dental problems brought about by pregnancy. Oral well-being could highly affect your general well-being. Guard yourself from the risks produced by bleeding gums through necessary dental care and using natural ingredients from OraMD. Understand how you could ensure your theeth and gums against canker sores, halitosis, gum disease and additional theeth and gum complications.

Pregnancy Calls For Treating Bleeding Gums Immediately

About the Author:

Karyu Gilbert is an expert on health related topics. He has written many articles regarding skin care, dental health and many others.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – How Treating Bleeding Gums Can Save Your Pregnancy

Author: Vitaly V

Teenagers that are a group of people that are most affected by acne dread the prospect of dealing with acne and in fact, even before the difficulty occur; it already starts to have a detrimental effect on their personalities and destroys their sense of well-being. However, acne affects adults as well as children and is usually initiated because their testosterone (a hormone) levels boost as too does level of body oil. Even excessive amount of stress and the incorrect eating habits can origin acne to develop though fortunately there are numerous treatment options to select from.

Throwing Caution To The Winds

Most people tend to throw caution to the winds and will try the first medicine that they can lay their hands on though for them using a natural acne treatment would be a better choice ; unless, of course only surgery can cure the problem. There no doubts the fact that those natural acne treatments are the best choice because they are secure to try out and in also very effective as well. Some of the natural acne treatment options that are worth checking out include Tea Tree oil that is often also referred to as melaluca oil and its major benefit is its ability to heal acne in a natural manner. Another wonderful natural acne treatment choice is using Aloe Vera that is renowned throughout the world for its ability to improve the working of the immune system as well as to treat inflammations. It can furthermore heal the skin and so is very useful in curing acne.

Licorice is another good example of a natural treatments for acne and this root of a plant has known abilities to heal acne scarring and it is also available as an extract that assists to clear unattractive skin blemishes that are often caused by acne scarring.

Olive oil too has been suggested as another effective natural adult acne treatment and has in fact been used for many centuries to cure other ailments encompassing treating colds and coughs. However, its leaf as well as the oil can play an significant role in treating acne in a natural manner.

Finally, another good natural acne treatment option is drinking an herbal product known as green tea that has outstanding antioxidant properties that can deliver … To read the end of article visit best natural acne treatment article page.

About the Author:

best natural acne treatment

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Best Natural Acne Treatment Or Drug Based Treatment?

Author: Melanie

In case you are one of those women who got rid of vaginosis without resorting to any type of bv cure you are really lucky. For the other not so lucky women I would recommend bacterial vaginosis natural cures which are much more reliable and easy to use compared to conventional medicines.

Trust me conventional bv cure methods come with a number of side effects and rarely offer permanent relief from the infection.

Use any of the following bacterial vaginosis home remedy in isolation or combination with others for swift relief from the infection

1.Cranberry juice

Because of its strong acidic properties, cranberry juice is considered to be one of the best bacterial vaginosis home remedy. You must have pure and fresh cranberry juice twice a day to stop the bad bacteria from multiplying in the vagina.

2. Wear loose fitting cotton clothes

The most simple and easy to implement bacterial vaginosis natural cures is to wear loose cotton clothes so as to ensure good air circulation. Wearing tight clothes made of synthetic fabrics will cause the bad bacteria to breed further in the absence of fresh air and worsen your condition

3. Sweets and processed food

Carbohydrates and sugar boost the bad bacterial breeding and can worsen your problem. Try to avoid these as far as possible.

4. Water

Consume at least ten to twelve glasses of water every day. Follow this as a general health rule to keep your self healthy and fit at all times.

You must take appropriate treatment to get rid of vaginosis as soon as the infection is identified. Bacterial vaginosis home remedy is one option which you can consider. Being completely devoid of any side effects bacterial vaginosis natural cures are sure and safest means of bv cure. These days many such natural remedies for bv cure are easily available on the net too. It would be worthwhile for you to do some research and understand how each product works before choosing the treatment method which would suit you the best.

Do you want to get rid of bacterial vaginosis bv permanently? Did you know that a) There is a proven all natural technique which will help you to get rid of bacterial vaginosis in a matter of under 3 days b) This technique has effectively saved the sex life of thousands of women the world over including me. Having been developed by a chronic vaginosis sufferer, this scientifically proven method will permanently relieve embarrassing vaginal odor in just 3 days. To Know more details on this please click -bacterial vaginosis bv

About the Author:

I am an alternate medicine practitioner specializing in natural treatment for women’s health problems. Since I am over 40, my body too is undergoing a number of changes and it is a challenge to find a natural cure for these typical women’s issues. I strongly believe in nature cure and see no reason why it cannot solve most of our problems.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – You Can Treat Vaginosis Naturally – 4 Easy Bacterial Vaginosis Natural Cures For Quick Relief

Author: Nick Harrison
Possibly the last thing on your mind is any form of exercise if you have a frozen shoulder but surprisingly, the right type of exercise can actually speed up the healing process and get you back to full pain free movement more quickly.

But don’t make the mistake of cherry picking exercises from a book or reading up on them on the internet. If you really want to get better and get your shoulder working again then you need to use an exercise programme designed by a physical therapist specifically for shoulder injuries. Doing the wrong type of exercises can do more harm than good irritating the capsule around the shoulder and leading to more damage and a longer recovery time.

Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is caused by the internal membrane that surrounds the shoulder joint contracting and thickening. As it does this it compresses the shoulder joint limiting movement and causing the characteristic pain.

It is not known for sure, exactly what sets it off but it usually occurs in people over forty and around seventy percent of sufferers are women. There are some medical conditions such as thyroid disorders and diabetes that make people more likely to suffer from frozen shoulder. If you have had a previous shoulder injury or undergone surgery you are also at risk.

The condition is self limiting which basically means that if you ignore it, it will sort itself out. Unfortunately this can take anything up to two or even three years if you do nothing to speed things up.

Frozen shoulder has three distinct phases to the condition. It can start out as shoulder pain, a simple ache. We all get them and we all tend to ignore them, but as time passes the pain will worsen and the joint will start to stiffen up. This is known as the painful phase and is the first sign of a frozen shoulder. All you can do at this stage is take pain killers to alleviate the symptoms.

Following the painful stage, you will go through a stage where the pain gets less but the shoulder continues to lose mobility., This is known as the freezing phase. Don’t be lulled into thinking that things are getting better simply because the pain reduces. Your mobility can actually decrease significantly during the freezing phase.

Finally you get to the thawing phase where your shoulder gradually loosens up and gets back to normal. Pain significantly reduces and movement improves.

It is during this final phase that you can significantly improve recovery time through frozen shoulder specific exercises designed to help you get things moving again as quickly as possible.About the Author:

If you would like to know more about

frozen shoulder exercises that can help your shoulder read my blog at
http://frozenshoulderhelp.blogspot.com

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Frozen Shoulder Exercises – The Way to get Your Shoulder Moving Again

Author: Fred Ashton

There are a lot of controversies when it comes to SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorders) and its current methods of treatment. Light therapy is the most common way to get rid of SAD, once and for all, with minimum efforts. But, as stated, there are a lot of skeptics who keep questioning the “apparent advantages” shown by the usage of lights for SAD.

One of the most frequent questions which is put when it comes to light therapy is whether the lights are causing or not tanning. This myth has been busted some time ago. Most light therapy systems are designed in a manner that all the harmful effects of UV are avoided. All the ultraviolet rays are shielded out and tanning is substantially reduced. Only skin sensitive persons show redness, but these persons are rare cases.

Another frequent question is whether lights can be combined with antidepressant medication. This is right and correct from all perspectives. Most of the patients who have received antidepressant medication often begin light therapy, and this is achieved without changing the drug dose. However, before beginning the light treatment, any person should discuss with the ophthalmologist.

The most known myth regarding light therapy is that its usage presents side effects. Eye examinations of SAD patience were made after the treatment. There were not found any damages. It is important to mention that any treatment which involves powerful light must be approached with caution.

Last but not least, it was stated that the treatment was not enough researched and developed, and there are not known all the long-term side effects. This affirmation is plain wrong. The first demonstration was made in the early 1980’s and more than 2500 SAD patience were studied till now. Compared to drug treatments, light therapy is not only more efficient, but also the effects are longer-lasting. Do not forget that it is also a cheap way to get rid off depressions.

About the Author:

It is important that the people know the real facts about light therapy, and also about the lights for SAD. The controversies will still remain, without any doubt. For more information about SAD lights have a look at out website: http://sadlights.org

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Lights for SAD – Some Questions and their Answers

Author: Hogel Wash

Neck pain is a serious condition and the most common problem faced by all ages of people. In severe pain cases it is advisable to contact a chiropractor as soon as possible. The purpose of Chiropractic Cure is to get rid of any physical ailment through natural means. Chiropractors understand the workings of how to effectively control and treat the pain in necks and also have the skills and necessary tools to assess any problems associated with neck problems and make a better cure for neck pain. The Chiropractic treatment was invented in the late 1890s and is a very popular alternative treatment all over the world.

In Human body, neck is sensitive and vulnerable area of the body which controls the whole body and connects head to other part of the body. The neck contains the top end of the spinal column or spine, which supports the head and also protects the spinal cord of the body. The spinal cord is also the main nerve which runs from the brain, through the neck and also down the back, and connects with nerves to the rest of the body. The spine is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae stacked one on top of another to form a column and many ligaments and muscles are attached to the spine, which controls movements of our head with the help of neck. Neck consists of seven very small vertebrae and supports the entire weight of our head. So, here is a great and very important role is played by human body neck. Our whole body needs complete rest in a suitable time for make it better, flexible and in strong condition. Our Most muscles of the body relax completely when they are not being used but anti-gravity muscles but some have to work all the time in order to keep our body upright position. Muscles at the back of our neck must always be tensed and working, while otherwise our head would fall forwards when we are sitting or standing. When these muscles of the neck work too hard then it can cause a neck pain.

In most cases of neck pain, it come from problems in the muscles, joints, bones and nerves and usually does not come from organic problems like diseases or infections. In that case if you have been through rounds of negative physical therapy or even tried to exercise the problem away yourself without any relief, or worse, it even increased your neck pain and other body pains. Neck pains are often caused by stiff muscles in the neck. Stiff muscles in the neck can be caused by a variety of things like Poor sitting posture for long periods of time, stress, sleeping in a bad position, bulging discs, wrong exercises and etc. Some of the major signs & symptoms of Neck pain are:

• Postural strain like improper position when sitting, reading and working at a computer, table, chair etc.
• Sleeping without good neck support and also sleeping on your stomach.
• Car accident, Bone spur, Nerve dysfunction, Heavy lifting are also causes neck pain
• Participation in games without warming up your body stretches.

In the mean while, the chiropractor attempt to align the bones in the neck with a chiropractic adjustment and back into the proper alignment or position. Using Chiropractic therapy is very safe, simple and effective. The practice of chiropractic therapy shares many qualities with other physical manipulation therapies including massage therapy and physical therapy. Chiropractic treatment is completely drug free and do not cause any side effects, it makes our body flexible and it is a type of massage. Chiropractic cure is also increase strength and energy in a person and it’s also covered by Insurance. Chiropractic treatment is able to cure pain in the joints, tissues, bones and muscles.

About the Author:

Chiropractic Tables: Live Healthy Portable Chiropractic tables.For more details click here.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Chiropractic Cure for Neck Pain

Author: Monika Nigam

Introduction

Vitamin D also called as vitamin D3 or ‘cholecalciferol’; is a fat-soluble vitamin. Human beings are dependent on the sun exposure to fulfill their needs of vitamin D. It is uv-B radiation that are being absorbed by 7-dehydrocholesterol present in the skin that aids in converting previtamin D3 to vitamin D3. Vitamin D is essential for the development of bones and also to enhance calcium and phosphorus uptake from the intestine. It assists in the oscillation of calcium ions between bone and blood. It is therefore vitamin D is essential component for all age groups; during infant to childhood stage it plays an essential role in bone development or else its deficiency results in bone deformation and rickets. In adults its deficiency results in softness of bone leading to osteomalacia. (Goldman, 2004).

Vitamin D3 once formed goes into circulation and is converted to 25 hydroxyvitamin D3 in liver, again released in circulation and subsequently converted to the active form of vitamin D, 1, 25- dihydroxyvitamin D3 in kidney. It is observed that Vitamin D deficiency remains unrecognized and therefore its insufficiency is taking a shape of epidemic among children and adults in United States.

Various research studies have been carried out throughout the world to conclude that vitamin D plays an imperative role not only for the bone health but also for various kinds of cancers, diseases related to heart, multiple sclerosis, in type I diabetes, also in various autoimmune diseases encompassing rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, maintenance of suitable blood concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (30 ng/ml) is very essential. As vitamin D is essential for enhancing intestinal calcium absorption, it’s appropriate level in the blood is also necessary for the formation of extrarenal 1?- hydroxylase which plays an imperative role in the formation of 1, 25- dihydroxyvitamin D3 (Holick, 2004).

Production and fate of Vitamin D

When an individual is exposed to sunlight previtamin D3 and also vitamin D3 forms photoproducts which are biologically inert. Vitamin D intake through diet or that formed in the skin with the help of sunlight come into the blood circulation, it reaches liver where it is metabolised to 25(OH)D3 by vitamin D 25-hydroxylase (25-OHase). 25(OH)D3 is again released in the circulation, it reaches kidney and get converted to 1,25(OH)2D3 in presence of enzyme 25(OH)D3 1 -hydroxylase (1-OHase). The renal production of active form of vitamin D is regulated by a variety of features encompassing serum phosphorus (Pi) and PTH. The active form of vitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) is now capable of managing the calcium metabolism. It is observed that the enzyme 25(OH)D 24-hydroxylase (24-OHase) enzyme which plays a crucial role in generating the active form of vitamin D, works on threshold mechanism to keep the check on the production of 1,25(OH)2D3 and if it is produced in higher quantity, the enzyme aids in the degradation of active vitamin D (Holick, 2004).

Further, it is also documented that 1,25(OH)2D can depress the activity of 1 -OHase, and the parathyroid hormone (PTH) can stimulate this activity. Many extrarenal tissues also express the 1 -OHase, these encompass tissues of bone osteoclasts, tissues of skin, macrophages, placenta, tissues of colon, tissues of brain, tissues of prostate, endothelial tissue, and glandular tissues of parathyroid. Extrarenal formation of 1,25(OH)2D3 might participate in the differentiation and proliferation of cell and also in immune response. Consequently, 1,25(OH)2D3 is essential for various physiological processes apart from its well-known function in calcium metabolism. In contrast to renal 1 -OHase, extrarenal 1 -OHase does not respond to stimulation by PTH. Furthermore, 1 -OHase may vary in expression with the physiologic state of a tissue as well as with disease progression (DeLuca, 2004).

Food incorporating Vitamin D

There are various resources of vitamin D, this encompass pure form of Cod liver oil, cooked form of Salmon, Mackerel, Tuna fish and Sardines canned in oil, sardines, margarine fortified, bran flakes, eggs, lamb liver. Fortified foods include milk and milk products especially cheese, orange juice and some breads and cereals (Vitamin D sources- Foods with Vitamin D).

As mentioned, the higher concentration of vitamin D influences the metabolic functions of the body, WHO has recommended intake dose of vitamin D by individuals belonging to different group. Up to the age of 50 years, during pregnancy and lactation the requirement is 200 IU/d, for the age group from 51-65 years it is 400 IU/D for the age of 65+ the requirement exceeds to 600 IU/d (Vitamin D sources- Foods with Vitamin D).

Considering the above data it is manifested that vitamin D is the most essential component for endorsing and preserving the health and vigor of bones as it directly affects the strength of bone in various skeletal and nonskeletal activities of the body encompassing cancers and depression (Lapp, 2009).

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency

Fall in plasma calcium and phosphate level, due to insufficient intestinal absorption, renders stimulation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion to restore serum calcium and bone resorption.

Rickets

In children, the deficient calcification of osteoid tissues result in bony deformities like bow leg, enlarged skull, spinal curvature, chest deformities and hepatosplenomegaly- characteristic features of Rickets. The reason is lack of appropriate bone tissue mineralization, causing soft bones and skeletal deformities. At-risk children are on prolonged exclusive breast feeding without supplementation of vitamin D. Additional risk factors includes vigorous use of sunscreens, and infants placed in daycares, with chances of sun exposure is reduced. Rickets is more prevalent in the children from Asia, Africa and Middle East (Davidson, 2002).

Osteomalacia

In adults decalcification and demineralization of bone leads to osteomalacia which is characterized by bone tenderness with pain and loss of bone density.

This disease is characterized by the aches and pains specifically in the lower back and thighs. Later on, it spreads to the arms and the rib cage. This pain does not radiate to other areas. It is accompanied by the local tenderness in bones. Another cardinal feature is the weakness of the proximal muscles. This represents as a difficulty in climbing up stairs and getting up from a squatting position.

Due to the deformation of bones, lordosis is a common representation. While walking, the patient shows a waddling gate. Pathological fractures due to weight gain may occur. Despite all these typical signs and symptoms, sometimes chronic fatigue may be the only representing sign (Eisman, 1988).

Osteoporosis

According to an estimate, about more than 25 million adults in United States alone are having or are at risk of developing this disease. This disease is most often associated with an inadequate calcium intake, therefore vitamin D is essential for reducing calcium absorption

Osteoporosis epitomizes reduction in mass of bone, also reduces microarchitectural framework of bone and thereby weakens the tissues of bone and amplifying the risk of fracture. The incidence of osteoporosis and fractures related with osteoporosis raise with age in both males and females, displaying a decline in bone mass with age.

Osteoporosis has emerged as a major health issue in developed nations. It is a condition that depicts frequent fractures, and is expected to influence more of females than males at some stage in their lives. As the age progresses bones become tender leading to osteoporosis in older adults, post menopausal women, non ambulatory individuals and individuals on chronic steroid therapy. The natural rhythm of the body allows a constant remodeling of the bones. In post menopausal women, this ratio is disturbed resulting in a greater amount of bone absorption rather than bone remodeling (Goldman, 2004).

Calcium and Vitamin D

Calcium 500- 1000 mg daily and vitamin D supplements 20µg daily have an established role in deterrence of elderly fractures, irrespective of whether or not BMD (Bone Mineral Density) values are reduced. This treatment is effective in reducing the danger of fractures related to hip fractures or other kind of fractures in community-living patients. (Davidson, 2002).

Reasons displaying insufficiency of vitamin D

1. Elevated pervasiveness of lactose intolerance causing undesirable effects with consumption of mild and dairy foods especially in African Americans.
2. Reduced ingestion of vitamin D- equipped food products, predominantly liquefied milk, milk products cereals, because of changing attitude towards health concern and fat intake.
3. Poor intake of calcium rich food encompassing poor intake of milk especially by the young women of reproductive age group thereby reduced concentration of vitamin D and calcium.
4. Augmentation in the use of sun block lotions along with the diminished exposure to sun to avert the chances of skin cancer is also one of the reasons of vitamin D insufficiency.
5. Human milk is meager in vitamin D, in the present era there is enhanced predominance in the duration of breast- feeding ensuing insufficient intake of vitamin D. thus causing low circulation of 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations among women.
6. Due to air pollution in industrial areas, the exposure to uv- radiation is reduced and also the poor dietary habits and availability of vitamin D equipped food makes the individual a victim of vitamin D deficiency.
7. In rare cases impaired absorption, enhances body requirement of vitamin D, or enhanced excretion or stringent practice of vegetarianism leads to vitamin D deficiency.
8. In some Arabian countries it is mandatory for women to long robes for religious purpose so their exposure to sun is reduced leading to insufficiency of vitamin D.

(Looker, 2002; Kreiter, 2000; Nesby-O’Dell, 2002).

Vitamin D and Bone Health (BMD, BMC, falls and fracture)

Vitamin D is responsible for forming and sustaining good health of bones by increasing absorption of calcium from intestine and depositing calcium in bones and maintains optimal BMD (Bone Mineral Density). Observation says that diminished absorption of calcium is related to vitamin D; thereby resulting in loss of bone or enhanced chances of osteoporosis (a situation depicting low BMD). Osteoporosis makes the bone fragile making the individual vulnerable to fractures (Cranney et al, 2007).

It is reported by Holick (2006) that vitamin D deficiency causes various bone related anomalies like osteopenia, osteoporosis apart from osteomalacia, resulting in further weakening of muscles and hence exacerbating the risk of falls and fractures. Under such conditions the recommended dose must be increased to 1000 IU/d.

Recommendations for reducing fracture risk with vitamin D and calcium based on clinical studies

While giving the vitamin D supplements, mostly it is accompanied by calcium in order to obtain the desired results. According to a research study, it was concluded that the combined supplementation of both vitamin D3 and calcium in elderly patient aged 62-85yrs resulted in a decrease in the jeopardy of an individual’s falls, fractures, the bone loss within elderly population. The dose of vitamin D was given as 700-800 IU/day and calcium was given as 500-1200 IU/day.

It is now clearly understood the significance and pivotal role that vitamin D holds in retaining the good health of bone. A number of studies and surveys have been carried out, which strengthen this fact even more. Down here are discussed a few of such studies:

Skin Cancer and Vitamin D

People are now a-days much concerned about the sun exposure resulting in skin cancer. It is observed that chronic and extreme exposure to sunlight in childhood and early stages of life causing sunburns may culminate to increased risk for non-melanoma basal and squamous cell carcinomas (Veierod, 2003; Grodstein, 1995; Kennedy, 2003). Various research studies conclude that melanomas occur in the areas which are not exposed to sun indicating that the vitamin D3 is less synthesised; individuals apply sun protection creams which block UVB radiation responsible for the synthesis of vitamin D3 and the hence they may allow other sun radiations which may cause melanomas (Garland, 1993).

Noncalcemic Actions of Vitamin D

It is known that vitamin D3 interacts with nuclear receptor similar to steroid hormones. As soon as it enters the cell, it passes through the road map of microtubular network to the nucleus. In nucleus it binds with vitamin D receptor (VDR) and generates a complex to generate vitamin D responsive gene (Holick, 1999).

VDR is present in many tissues of body like small and large intestine, osteoblasts, T and B lymphocytes, ?-islets cells, brain, heart, skin, gonads, prostate, breast and mononuclear cells (Holick, 1999). Studies shows that when 1,25(OH)2D3 if nurtured with leukemic cells of human and mice origin, arrest the propagation and encourage to form grown-up macrophages (Tanka et al, 1982).

1,25(OH)2D3 has come up with antipropagation action that has been proved through clinical trials in psoriasis management. 1,25(OH)2D3 when topically applied, induced a noteworthy progress in various diseases like plaque thickness, scaling and erythema (Holick, 1998). Therefore, this has become the foremost treatment in psoriasis.

1,25(OH)2D3 is playing an imperative role in providing stimulus to the production of insulin (Lee, 1994), inflecting the activation of both B and T lymphocyte (Tsoukas, 1984), direct effect on myocardial contractility (Weishaar, 1987), effect on prevention of inflammatory bowel disease (Cantorna, 2000) and stimulate secretion of TSH.

Deficiency of Vitamin D and its association with to occurrence of autoimmune disorders and cancer

It is observed through various research studies that people living in higher latitudes get less exposure to sun, culminating in vitamin D deficiency and hence accounts for higher incidence of breast cancer mortality rate in north Europe (Grant, 2002).

Vitamin D and Autoimmune Diseases

Data from many animal and human studies shows that vitamin D prevents development of type I diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, cancers of colon, breast and prostate, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis (Holick, 2004).

Vitamin D Supplementation

The required amount of vitamin D is difficult to be met from food alone. In some at-risk groups it becomes necessary to give vitamin D-fortified food, or expose them to sunlight. Various at risk groups for vitamin D inadequacy include:

1. Breastfed infants:

The human milk provides vitamin D with the concentration of 25 IU/L insufficient for the baby. The results of a recent review revealed that a majority of cases of nutritional rickets were found among young African American breastfed infants. According to the recommendations by AAP it is advised that the partially and exclusively breastfed infants should be supplemented with a daily dosage of 400 IU.

1. People with limited sun exposure:

These include:

1. People exclusively bound to stay in homes
2. Northern latitude inhabitants
3. Women wearing long robes for religious purposes
4. People with occupations preventing sun exposure

All such individuals must obtain the recommended daily supplemented dosage of vitamin D equivalent to 400 IU in order to prevent them from vitamin D deficiency diseases.

1. People with dark skin:

These individuals possess a larger amount melanin pigment. Having an excess of this pigment reduces the vitamin D generating ability of skin on sun exposure. It is also suggested in some studies that women of older age, with a darker skin relatively show higher possibility of developing deficiency of vitamin D. Yet, it is seen that the African Americans, possessing a darker skin, despite having a lower level of vitamin D than required, develop fewer osteoporotic fractures compared with the Caucasians (Eisman, 1988).

1. People with fat malabsorption:

Fat solubility of vitamin D demands a little fat in the diet to be absorbed well in the gut. Individuals having decreased vitamin D absorption capability need the its supplementation in order to meet its demands. Some of the diseases leading to fat malabsorption include:

1. Liver diseases
2. Cystic fibrosis and

1. Obese people:

Obese people also come under at risk individual’s group for vitamin D inadequacy. This is thought to be true for people with a BMI > 30. As their obesity increases, the level of vitamin D in their body decreases. This is because of an increase in the body fat. The reason behind is greater amount of subcutaneous fat sequester more of the vitamin and affect its release in to the circulation. BMI is inversely related with the peak serum concentrations of vitamin D, thus sometimes even the oral supplementation in such individuals causes sequestration of the vitamin into the larger fat pools of the body.

1. People with gastric bypass surgery:

Such individuals are prone to develop a deficiency of vitamin D because part of upper small intestine, where vitamin D gets absorbed is bypassed. Thus, they also require the oral supplementation of vitamin D.

1. Older adults:

Older adults come under the endangered groups in case of developing deficiency of vitamin D; because, with an increasing age, the skin loses its ability to synthesize vitamin D from sunlight. Also, there becomes a decreased ability to convert vitamin D in kidneys into live hormone.

Conclusion

Initially it was thought vitamin D is imperative only for preventing rickets in children or osteomalacia in adults or osteoporosis in elderly group or is responsible for bone health but now it is established fact that vitamin D is imperative for metabolic processes. Deficiency of vitamin D and reduced solar UVB exposure increases the risk of various widespread cancers or type I diabetes, various autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis and schizophrenia. Various studies demonstrate that vitamin D has evolved as a vital and necessary hormone, which acts as a marker for the overall health and well being of an individual. It is therefore important to maintain normal vitamin D level of 75-125nmol/L. It is therefore mandatory that one must get the plasma levels of 25(OH)D checked and it should be part of routine checkups.

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About the Author:

Monika Nigam

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – VITAMIN D AND HEALTH: BONES AND BEYOND

Author: Andre Hansen

I used to be a passive little woman with no desire to hurt anyone…that is until there was a race at the local Pottery Barn for the last of my very favorite bath towel.

Christmas is the time of year when people show generosity, care, compassion…anger, selfishness and greed! I never knew how hostile people could be until the sales hit on Black Friday. I could tell from all the ‘leaked’ Black Friday ads that it was going to be a race to the isles and a gauntlet of blood, sweat and tears.

Like I said before, I used to be a passive woman. I never liked the idea of shopping on Black Friday. The thought of having to compete with other people for the things I wanted was scary. All I wanted to do was take advantage of my day off, snuggle beneath a lap quilt and read one of my favorite books. Sounds like heaven doesn’t it?

Well, I thought so too, until I saw the Pottery Barn coupon codes that would change my life forever. Pottery Barn has always been one of my favorite stores. Not only do they always have the best deals, but they carry a line of organic bath towels that I can’t seem to get enough of.

The bath towels I loved were going on sale for Black Friday, but they were first come first serve! I began to feel a tingle in my feet that was directing me to my local Pottery Barn. I grabbed the Pottery Barn coupon codes from my newspaper, threw on my shoes and raced to the store- only to come face to face with another woman clutching the same coupon codes and an armful of my favorite organic bath towels.

I glanced over to see that there weren’t any more of my favorite towels left…I didn’t come all this way to leave empty handed. I stood up straight, tossed my hair over my shoulder and prepared to do battle…

About the Author:

Andre Hansen is a Norwegian author. He writes about many interesting things including health and wellness. You can go to http://hugeoutletstores.com/how-to-get-a-pottery-barn-coupon-code/ to read more about Pottery Barn Coupon Codes.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – The Fight is On!

Author: Chris Dillon

Flat feet (also known as “prenated foot” or “fallen arches”) is a condition where one or both feet do not display a normal arch when standing, walking or running. In infancy, all children appear to be flat footed because of a soft fat pad on the foot. Over time, however, that fat pad dissipates and you will be able to discern a clear arch when the child stands. With flat-footed children the foot may appear normal when sitting, but once weight is applied to the foot, it will roll forward at the ankle creating the appearance of a flat or fallen arch.

Flat feet are usually painless and nonthreatening. Unfortunately, in severe cases, a prenated foot condition may lead to pain or aching in the ankle and foot. If your child complains that they are experiencing foot or ankle pain, it is important that they see a foot specialist to discern the root cause. The doctor can determine if fallen arches are the culprit, rather than more serious hip or knee issues. In some rare cases, flat feet may actually be the result of fused foot bones. A simple X-ray can help determine if that is the case. In some cases, the child may benefit from the use of a custom orthotic insole or heel cup that will resituate the foot and alleviate discomfort. Surgery is not a common treatment for children with flat feet, nor is activity avoidance. Most flat-footed children live very normal lives, playing sports and running just as children with normal arches. Treatment is really focused on alleviating pain, and not permanently correcting the arch itself.

When looking for orthotic inserts to treat your child’s foot pain, look for quality which will deliver longer-lasting comfort. Custom orthotic insoles are generally the best choice. You want an insole that will cushion the foot, absorb shock, and transfer to many of the child’s shoes for a consistently comfortable fit. There are a number of different insole styles available depending on your child’s needs. Consult with your doctor to determine what type of support the child requires.

About the Author:

About the Author: Chris Dillon is the V.P. of MMAR Medical Group Inc., a leading orthotic device supplier specializing in diabetic footwear including shoes and socks for diabetics as well as a full line of orthotic insoles.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Treatment for Severe Flat Feet in Children