10 Dangers in Beauty Products

Many of us like to look good when we go out or to a social gathering. Cosmetics have been used for centuries to help people look good, but have you ever thought about the effects cosmetics have on your skin? This article will discuss the harmful effects cosmetics can have on your skin.

1. Change in skin color
Products like fairness cream, sunscreens, and toners can have a bleaching effect on the skin if used without regulation. These cosmetics, especially if inferior quality, can be harmful to your skin. Excessive use leads to red patches, blotches, and brown pigmentation. Some fairness creams can make your skin tone darker. You can replace these products with natural masks and toners.

2. Weaker eyes
Use of products like eyeliners and mascara might be harmful to the health of your eyes. These products are made of harmful chemicals, applying them close to your eyes can cause irritation and itchiness. These products have also been associated with blocked tear ducts. Many do not replace their eyeliner every three months as recommended.

3. Deteriorated immune system
Using powder blush for rosy red cheeks is associated with weakening of the immune and respiratory system. These artificial blushing products contain chemicals that are highly toxic.

4. Dangers to hair
It may seem frightening to stop dying your hair, but prolonged use may lead to more macabre consequences. Hair dye contains para-phenylenediamine (PPD) which can cause permanent hair loss. Use of hair dye can also cause skin sores and blisters. Allergies to PPD can come up any time, its advisable to perform a patch test before applying dye completely.

5. Headaches
Various studies show a strong relationship between wearing makeup daily and prolonged headaches. The chemicals present in cosmetics interfere with muscles under our skin causing headache, nausea, and fatigue.

6. Dangers of fake eyelashes and mascara
Using false eyelashes and mascara can be dangerous to your eyes. Application of layers of these products over eyelids allows the dust on eyelashes to enter the eyes which causes problems including redness and eye diseases. Usage of mascara also results in falling eyelashes and reduction of their growth.

7. Cancer from lipstick
Studies have found harmful chemicals in lipstick that can cause cancer. Statistics suggest that 28% of lipsticks are not lip-friendly. An average woman eats 4-9 pounds of lipstick in her lifetime. A study conducted on brands of lipsticks found that almost 50% of lipstick brands contain lead which is certainly not meant for use by the body. Usage of lipstick should be minimal, particularly if you are expecting a baby.

8. Depression and mood swings
A scientific study has linked heavy makeup with depression and frequent mood swings. Beauty products like foundation, toner, mascaras, and blush contain chemicals like triclosan and parabens responsible for hormonal imbalance. These products can also lead to loss of optimistic outlook, focus, and determination.

These health hazards may be something you want to avoid. Positive Med makes constant attempts to come up with natural replacements for cosmetic products that are not harmful to your health.

Source- http://listdose.com/top-10-negative-effects-of-using-cosmetics-and-makeup-daily/
Source- http://www.realbuzz.com/articles/top-10-beauty-health-hazards/
Source- http://www.bloomberg.com/slideshow/2011-12-01/what-s-on-your-face-ten-most-toxic-cosmetics.html#slide6

What You Should Know About Bed Bugs

Bedbugs are tiny insects often found in mattresses that become active during the night. They feed on human blood as their only source of nutrition. They bite exposed areas of the skin which cause irritated patches that sometimes bleed and can become infected. It’s difficult to see differences between bedbug bites or bites from other insects. Bedbugs have an oval shape and are reddish-brown in color. They are about the size of an apple seed and they hide in the corners of the bed during the day because they like living 3-6 feet from their feeding area.



There are various signs and symptoms of bedbugs. The first and most evident sign of a bedbug bite is development of itchy red bites on the skin. They usually attack shoulders and arms but these are not the only places they target. They usually bite in a straight-line pattern which differentiates them from other insects that bite randomly. Another sign of bedbug bites is the itchiness, which is more than the itchiness from other insects. The itching can be so severe that the victim scratches so hard that it bleeding and may become infected. Some have reported allergic reactions from bedbug bites. In some cases they also cause a burning sensation which leads to red bumps known as papules or wheals.

Since bedbugs hide during the day it can be difficult to spot them directly. In this case the things to look for are small brown blood stains on pillows and mattresses also called fecal spots. You can also spot the seams and folds of the mattress on which you sleep. The bugs also hide in carpet, rugs, and loose wallpaper. Shed skin can help trace them, bedbugs usually shed their skin 5 times before they fully mature.

Try to avoid scratching if you develop a rash after a bedbug bite. Some think that bedbugs cannot spread if they have a neat and clean environment, this is incorrect. Bedbugs only need a warm and moist environment. Some of the biggest hotels in the world have reported an emergence of bedbugs and have been sued by guests for damages from bugs.



There are several ways you can prevent the spread of bedbugs. Regularly inspect mattresses, carpets, and wallpaper for them, if you find any signs of their presence, spray for them. Try to avoid moisture coming in the bedroom through the walls and ceiling. If you have bedbugs wear full-sleeve clothes when you sleep, you can also wear pajamas that cover the entire leg. Bedbugs cannot burrow under clothing and if they do not have exposed skin they cannot bite. When buying second-hand furniture check them carefully before bringing them inside your house.

If the problem becomes severe you can get help from pest control organizations and have your entire home cleaned and debugged. In the case of bedbugs, prevention is better than cure.

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How to Get Rid of Skin Bumps

Red itchy bumps on the skin are a common problem, they can be annoying and painful. This condition is known as Keratosis pilaris. These bumps can happen on any part of the skin, however the back, arms, thighs, andbuttocks are some areas that are more prone to it. Statistics say that approximately half of the world population suffers from these bumps.

The exact cause of these bumps is unknown but there are certain factors that contribute to their development. Hormonal imbalances are the major cause, while humidity, clothing, and pollution can lead to these bumps. Back acne in particular happens from clogged pores. Studies have found that students who carry heavy backpacks can get bumps on their back from the pressure these bags exert. Hot and humid conditions are also a leading cause for people who work outdoors.



Its not difficult to get rid of these bumps and there are things you can do at home to help you. The first and most important thing is to wear loose-fitting clothes. Wearing loose clothing allows the skin to get some air and reduces friction between skin and clothing.

The presence of bacteria in clothing is also a cause of back bumps. Its recommended to wash clothes carefully using a quality cleansing agent.

A massage of apple cider and vinegar can also reduce bumps. First clean your back properly and keep it dry. Place water in a bowl and mix it with vinegar in 50/50 ratio. Add cider to it and use a cotton ball to apply the mixture on the bumps, leave for 5-10 minutes. Wash it off and make sure your skin is dry before you dress.

Regular toothpaste can be effective. Place some toothpaste on your finger and apply it to the affected areas and leave for about 30 minutes until it dries. Gently wash it off with clean water, do not use soap. Repeat this process until the bumps go away completely.

Another homemade recipe for back bumps is a mixture of honey, milk, and radish seeds. Take one tablespoon each of honey, milk, and radish seeds and place them in a blender to make a smooth paste. Apply the paste to your skin and leave it for 2 hours. Wash your back with clean water and use your regular moisturizer if desired. You can preserve the paste in the refrigerator and use it daily for 5 days.

You can also wash your back frequently with a gel made with salicylic, lactic and glycol acid or use the lotions that contain them on the skin of affected areas. A polyester sponge, like a Buf-Puf, can be used to wash the back. Glycolic acid can be mixed with tea tree oil and zinc supplements to get rid of acne. Some people scratch the bumps too much which adds to their spread.

If the skin bumps do not go away after trying these home remedies visit your doctor to ensure it’s not something more serious.

Source 1- Source 2- Source 3

What You Should Know About Boils

Boils, also known as abscesses, are defined as painful lumps filled with pus, white blood cells, and bacteria. These lumps form under the skin when one or more hair follicles becomes infected and inflamed by bacteria. Boils can develop on any part of your body. The pus inside the boil is a thick fluid made up of bacteria, dead tissues, and white blood cells. Boils usually begin as red lumps that grows larger with time and becomes more painful until the pus drains out of it.

Boils often occur on areas of the skin that have hair like armpits, face, neck, buttocks, and thighs, they can also develop inside the body between two organs. Ultrasound is essential to locate boils inside the body. Sweat and friction within the skin is a contributing factor to boils. The symptoms of a boil include red swollen skin around the lump, increase in size over time, and a yellow-white tip that bursts and allows pus to get out. A connected area of infection with a number of boils is called carbuncles.



The bacteria that causes boils is Staphylococcus, a bacteria often found under the skin and inside the nose. Boils can also be caused by insect bites or a small cut that allows bacteria to enter the body.

Boils can be easily treated at home. Here are some home remedies that can be used to treat boils:

Turmeric-Its blood purifying properties help get rid of the pus, hence the boil. Put one tablespoon turmeric powder in a bowl and mix it with warm milk or water. Drink this mixture 3 times a day for 3-4 days. Turmeric can also be mixed with ginger and made into a paste that can be applied on the boil, cover with a clean cloth after application.

Onion- Boils are caused by infection and the antiseptic properties in onions are effective for treating them. Place a slice of onion on the boil and cover it with a clean cloth. The heat generated by the onion helps treat the boil. Repeat 3-4 times a day until the boil vanishes.

Eggs- Boil an egg and remove the white, get it wet. Apply the wet egg white directly on the boil and cover it with a clean piece of cloth.

Bacon- Bacon contains salt and fat that can be used to treat boils. Add some salt to a thick piece of bacon and place it in between two cloths then apply to the boil. Repeating this process make the boil come to a head and drains the pus from it.

Tea Tree Oil- Anti-bacterial and antifungal properties of tea tree oil make it effective for treating boils. Application of tea tree oil on the boil speeds up the healing process and provides relief from the discomfort. Dip a clean piece of cloth, preferably cotton, in the oil and gently massage it on the boil. Repeat this 5-6 times a day to see your boils go away.

The above mentioned remedies are all homemade, if the boils do not go away for an extended period see your doctor to make sure it’s not something more serious.

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Oil Pulling

The first thing you may think on hearing this term is, ‘What on earth is that?’ Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvdeic natural remedy for improving health. When you get up in the morning, before you eat or drink anything, put 1/2 to 1 Tablespoon of oil in your mouth, they say any kind will do, sesame is most popular, coconut has added health benefits, and swish it around in there, for 5-20 minutes. While you are swishing it becomes toxic so please spit carefully into garbage bin or toilet, rinse mouth a couple times, and clean as normal. Check out this poster for more!

3D motion capture technology helps improve rehabilitation for stroke patients

In a unique study, researchers have used 3D technology from the film and video game industry to analyse everyday movements of stroke patients.

The results of the study indicate that computerised motion analysis increases the knowledge of how stroke patients can improve their ability to move through rehabilitation.

In the film and video game industry, motion capture technology is used to convert people's movements into computer animations - famous examples include the character Gollum from the Lord of the Rings and Na'vi from the blockbuster film Avatar.

Margit Alt Murphy and colleagues at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg in Sweden, have brought the technology into the research laboratory.

Researchers used motion-capture technology to film everyday movements among roughly one hundred people, both healthy people and people who suffered a stroke.

The 3D animations have provided a completely new level of detail in terms of mobility in stroke patients - knowledge that can help patients achieve more effective rehabilitation.

"Computer technology provides better and more objective documentation of the problem in terms of the everyday life of the patient than what human observation can provide," Murphy said.

"With 3D technology, we can measure a patient's movements in terms of numbers, which means that small changes in the motion pattern can be detected and can be fed back to the patient in a clear manner.

"Our results show that computerised motion analysis could be a complement to a physician's clinical diagnosis and an important tool in diagnosing motion problems," Murphy added.

The technology is highly advanced, but for the patient, the method is simple.

In the study, the test subjects were equipped with small, round reflex balls on their arm, trunk and head, and they were then instructed to drink water out of a glass.

The motion is documented by high-speed cameras whose infrared light is reflected by the balls and sent back to the computer where they create a 3D animated image in the form of a stick figure.

"With 3D animation, we can measure the joint angle, speed and smoothness of the arm motion, as well as which compensating motion patterns the stroke patient is using. This give us a measurement for the motion that we can compare with an optimal arm motion in a healthy person," said Murphy.

"Our study shows that the time it takes to perform an activity is strongly related to the motion quality.

"Even if this technology is not available, we can still obtain very valuable information about the stroke patient's mobility by timing a highly standardised activity, and every therapist keeps a stopwatch in their pocket," said Murphy.

BioPen developed, uses 3D printing methods to 'draw' live cells onto patients

Doctors may soon be able to 'draw' new bone, skin and muscle on to patients, after scientists created a pen-like device that can apply human cells directly on to seriously injured people.

The device contains stem cells and growth factors and will give surgeons greater control over where the materials are deposited.

It will also reduce the time the patient is in surgery by delivering live cells and growth factors directly to the site of injury, accelerating the regeneration of functional bone and cartilage, scientists said.

The device developed at the University of Wollongong (UOW) will eliminate the need to harvest cartilage and grow it for weeks in a lab.

The BioPen works similar to 3D printing methods by delivering cell material inside a bio-polymer such as alginate, a seaweed extract, protected by a second, outer layer of gel material.

The two layers of gel are combined in the pen head as it is extruded onto the bone surface and the surgeon 'draws' with the ink to fill in the damaged bone section.

A low powered ultra-violet light source is fixed to the device that solidifies the inks during dispensing, providing protection for the embedded cells while they are built up layer-by-layer to construct a 3D scaffold in the wound site.

Once the cells are 'drawn' onto the surgery site they will multiply, become differentiated into nerve cells, muscle cells or bone cells and will eventually turn from individual cells into a thriving community of cells in the form of a functioning a tissue, such as nerves, or a muscle.

The device can also be seeded with growth factors or other drugs to assist regrowth and recovery, while the hand-held design allows for precision in theatre and ease of transportation.

The BioPen prototype was designed and built using the 3D printing equipment in the labs at Wollongong and was handed over to clinical partners at St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, led by Professor Peter Choong, who will work on optimising the cell material for use in clinical trials.

"This type of treatment may be suitable for repairing acutely damaged bone and cartilage, for example from sporting or motor vehicle injuries," Choong, Director of Orthopaedics at St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne said.

12 Interesting Facts About IQ

IQ stands for Intelligence Quotient, it was derived from the German phrase intelligenz-quotient which was originally coined by psychologist William Stern. It signifies the level of intelligence and ability to learn based on standardized tests. Here are some interesting IQ facts:

1. Breastfeeding
Per Psychology Today children who are breastfed are likely to have higher IQ’s by 3-8 points than children who are not breastfed.

2. Birth Order does not affect IQ
We sometimes hear that the eldest children in a family are the smartest and have the highest IQ, this is a myth. IQ is not dependent on birth order but on genetics, gender, age, personality, family size, and parental age.

3. Lower IQ is linked with higher suicidal feelings
Swedish researchers have found a link between lower IQ scores and higher suicidal feelings. According to them lower IQ means less ability to solve problems which makes people less capable of dealing with mental stress, hence suicidal feelings may be more likely.

4. IQ is related with simple abilities and head size
It’s been discovered that those who with lower IQ have a less efficient nervous system than those with higher. No one with measurable IQ will face difficulty deciding the length of two lines as to which is longer, however a person with IQ of 70 will take more time to do it.

5. Anyone with an IQ over 115 can do any job
A simple task can be performed by those with lower or higher IQ’s, performance depends on IQ level. A person with a lower IQ may find it stressful to perform complex jobs. An IQ above 115 means you can do any job without restrictions and difficulties.

6.IQ varies between sexes
Studies have been conducted to compare IQ levels of men and women that found there is slight difference between male and female IQ scores, men tend to score higher in some sections like spatial awareness, while women tend to score higher on language development and emotional quotient. There are slight variance but their overall intelligence is the same.

7. Higher IQ means higher confidence
Studies show those with higher IQ scores are likely to be more confident than those with lower ones. Those who are aware of their high IQ tend to push themselves to match expectations.

8. IQ is affected by environmental factors
A person’s environment can affect their IQ. Environment involves nutrition, socio-economic status,stress, mood, and attitude towards life. Scientists have found that education may affect IQ. Students studying at financially stable schools are likely to have higher IQ’s than those in poorly funded schools.

9. Creativity is linked to IQ
Dr. Scott Kaufman says creativity potential can be measured by IQ tests. Creativity involves thoughtful reasoning, innovative ideas, pattern detection, and learning, all of which are measured through IQ testing. The higher the IQ score, the more creative you are.

10. IQ tests were used to diagnose mental retardation
IQ testing is done to test intelligence level and career success, earlier it was done to diagnose mental retardation as well. As per Binet-Simon’s tests of IQ an IQ score below 70 was set as the benchmark for mental retardation, those with scores below 70 were diagnosed as mentally retarded. It was done to differentiate between the mental retardation and mental illness which was misunderstood in the 19th century.

11. IQ tests are culturally and ethnically biased
One of the main criticisms of IQ tests is that they show ethnic and cultural bias. IQ tests lack sensitivity to different cultures and religions, especially between Eastern and Western culture. It does not consider lifestyle, values, or other common traits.

12. IQ reference chart
>145 – Genius
120-144 – Exceptional
110-119 – High
90-109 – Average
80-89 – Dull
70-79 – Mild disability
50-69 – Moderate disability
20-49 – Severe disability
Below 20 – Profound disability

Sources-
Source 1, Source 2, Source 3, Source 4

Gallstones, Simple Overview

Several people have asked recently about gallstones, mostly whether or not to have surgery. Gallstones are small hard solids formed in the gallbladder of cholesterol, bilirubin, and other waste products. They can cause severe symptoms or none, and the preferred treatment is surgery. Risk factors include being female, being overweight, losing a lot of weight quickly, and certain medications. This can also cause gallbladder disease which can be life-threatening as it blocks digestive enzymes from the pancreas.

Symptoms include pain in right upper abdomen that starts about 30 minutes after a fatty meal, this can last up to 5 hours. The pain is usually severe, dull, and constant. Other symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, fever, indigestion, bloating, jaundice, and intolerance for high-fat foods.

Measures to take at home include intake of only clear liquids to give the gallbladder a rest, acetaminophen, and resting after meals.

There is a “gallbladder cleanse” or flush that includes olive oil, herbs, and clear liquids. Proponents state this can work, doctors say no, for people suffering it can be worth a shot but keep in mind you may still need medical care. There are several recipes for this available online.

There is a ‘shock-wave’ treatment that can break the stones so that they are able to pass through ducts on their own, this is not always effective.

The most common surgical procedure is referred to as a ‘lap chole’ and involves 2 small slits on either side of the gallbladder, a laser probe goes in and breaks up the stones and removes them with a small device doctors call a ‘cherry-picker.’ This usually involves an overnight stay but often is performed as same day surgery.

If there are no symptoms there is usually no treatment. Vomiting with other symptoms requires immediate medical attention.

Sources:

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/gallstones/page8_em.htm#gallstones_medical_treatment

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/gallbladder-cleanse/AN01283

http://curezone.com/cleanse/liver/

Stress Management and Health Benefits of Laughter

Research has shown that the health benefits of laughter are far-ranging. While more studies need to be done, studies so far have shown that laughter can help relieve pain, bring greater happiness, and even increase immunity. Positive psychology names the propensity for laughter and sense of humor as one of the 24 main signature strengths one can possess, and laughter yoga clubs are springing up across the country. Unfortunately, however, many people don't get enough laugher in their lives. In fact, one study suggests that healthy children may laugh as much as 400 times per day, but adults tend to laugh only 15 times per day. Other studies find us laughing a little more than that, but if you ask me, virtually all of us could use a little more laughter in our lives, considering how beneficial a good laugh can actually be for our stress levels and overall wellness. Read on for more findings about the health benefits of laughter, and see how to incorporate more humor and fun into your life.

Stress Management Benefits of Laughter:

• Hormones: Laughter reduces the level of stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine (adrenaline), dopamine and growth hormone. It also increases the level of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins. Laughter increases the number of antibody-producing cells we have working for us, and enhances the effectiveness of T cells. All this means a stronger immune system, as well as fewer physical effects of stress.
• Physical Release: Have you ever felt like you "have to laugh or I'll cry"? Have you experienced the cleansed feeling after a good laugh? Laughter provides a physical and emotional release.
• Internal Workout: A good belly laugh exercises the diaphragm, contracts the abs and even works out the shoulders, leaving muscles more relaxed afterward. It even provides a good workout for the heart.
• Distraction: Laughter brings the focus away from anger, guilt, stress and negative emotions in a more beneficial way than other mere distractions.
• Perspective: Studies show that our response to stressful events can be altered by whether we view something as a 'threat' or a 'challenge'. Humor can give us a more lighthearted perspective and help us view events as 'challenges', thereby making them less threatening and more positive. (For more on changing your perspective, see this article on cognitive reframing.)
• Social Benefits of Laughter: Laughter connects us with others. Just as with smiling and kindness, most people find that laughter is contagious, so if you bring more laughter into your life, you can most likely help others around you to laugh more, and realize these benefits as well. By elevating the mood of those around you, you can reduce their stress levels, and perhaps improve the quality of social interaction you experience with them, reducing your stress level even more!

How To Use Laughter:

Laughter is one of my all-time favorite stress management strategies because it's free, convenient, and beneficial in so many ways. You can get more laughter in your life with the following strategies:

• T.V. and Movies: There's no shortage of laughter opportunities from the entertainment, both at the theater and in the aisles of the video stores, as well as at home with T.V. comedies. While wasting your time watching something marginally funny may actually frustrate you, watching truly hilarious movies and shows is an easy way to get laughter into your life whenever you need it.
• Laugh With Friends: Going to a movie or comedy club with friends is a great way to get more laughter in your life. The contagious effects of laughter may mean you'll laugh more than you otherwise would have during the show, plus you'll have jokes to reference at later times. Having friends over for a party or game night is also a great setup for laughter and other good feelings.
• Find Humor In Your Life: Instead of complaining about life's frustrations, try to laugh about them. If something is so frustrating or depressing it's ridiculous, realize that you could 'look back on it and laugh.' Think of how it will sound as a story you could tell to your friends, and then see if you can laugh about it now. With this attitude, you may also find yourself being more lighthearted and silly, giving yourself and those around you more to laugh about. Approach life in a more mirthful way and you'll find you're less stressed about negative events, and you'll achieve the health benefits of laughter. (See this article on maintaining a sense of humor.)
• 'Fake It Until You Make It': Just as studies show the positive effects of smiling occur whether the smile is fake or real, faked laughter also provides the benefits mentioned above. The body can't distinguish between 'fake' laughter that you just start doing on purpose, and 'real' laughter that comes from true humor--the physical benefits are exactly the same, and the former usually leads to the latter anyway. So smile more, and fake laughter; you'll still achieve positive effects, and the fake merriment may lead to real smiles and laughter.
• More on Having Fun: See these additional suggestions on laughing more and having fun in your life.

Sources:
Bennett MP, Lengacher C. Humor and Laughter May Influence Health: III. Laughter and Health Outcomes.Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, March 2008.
Bennett MP, Zeller JM, Rosenberg L, McCann J. The Effect of Mirthful Laughter on Stress and Natural Killer Cell Activity.. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, March-April 2003.
Berk LS, Felten DL, Tan SA, Bittman BB, Westengard J. Modulation of Neuroimmune Parameters During the Eustress of Humor-Associated Mirthful Laughter.. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, March 2001.
Skinner N, Brewer N. The Dynamics of Threat and Challenge Appraisals Prior to Stressful Achievement Events.Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, September 2002.
Research is showing healthful effects of laughter. Family Practice News, May, 1992.

How Stress Affects Your Body - Know How

You probably already know that you can experience stress from your environment, your body, and your thoughts. Stress is a very normal part of life, but that doesn’t mean we have to let it harm us.

Constantly feeling under pressure, overwhelmed, anxious, and totally frazzled can add up to a condition called distress, which can lead to physical symptoms including headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain, and problems sleeping.

Stress symptoms may be affecting your health, even though you may not realize it, the body reacts to these changes with physical, mental, and emotional responses.

There are many ways in which stress can show up, so it is good to learn them in order to recognize it and treat it right away.

Cravings: Cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress leads to cravings for sugar and fat.

Fat storage: You can clearly correlate stress to weight gain, the stress hormone cortisol may also increase the amount of fat tissue your body hangs onto and enlarge the size of fat cells.

Insomnia: Stress can cause hyper-arousal, a biological state in which people just don’t feel sleepy.

Headaches: Chemicals like adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol can cause vascular changes that leave you with atension headache or migraine, either during the stress or in the let-down period afterward.

Memory loss: Too much of the stress hormone cortisol can interfere with the brain’s ability to form new memories.

Blood sugar: Stress is known to raise blood sugar, and if you already have type 2 diabetes you may find that your blood sugar is higher when you are under stress.

Digestion: Heartburn, stomach cramping, and diarrhea can all be caused by or worsened by stress.

Back pain: Stress can set off an acute attack of back pain as well as contribute to ongoing chronic pain.

Asthma: Stress exacerbates asthma in people who have it.

Sex drive: People who are stressed out have less sex and enjoy it less when they do have it compared to people who aren’t under stress.

Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can give you a jump on managing your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior.

Source:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/04/stress-health-effects-cancer-immune-system_n_2599551.html

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20642595_24,00.html

http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/effects-of-stress-on-your-body

The Surprising Origin of Blue Eyes

What Causes Blue Eyes?

A team at University of Copenhagen conducted a study in 2008 about the formation of blue eyes. The research showed that those who have blue eyes have a single common ancestor. They found a genetic mutation that took place between 6000 – 10,000 years ago which is the reason behind the occurrence of blue eyes and the causation of all blue eyed people today.

What is genetic mutation?

Eiberg, a professor of the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, says we all had brown eyes originally. A genetic mutation affected the OCA2 gene in our chromosomes which created a switch that literally switched off the ability to produce brown eyes. The OCA2 is a gene that codes for P-protein, responsible for the production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to hair, eyes, and skin. The switch is situated in the gene adjacent to OCA2 and does not entirely switch off the gene but limits its function to reduce the production of melanin in the iris – effectively diluting brown eyes to blue.If there were no melanin then we all would be without colors in our hair, eyes, and skin, a condition known as albinism.

Genetic Variation

Variation in eye color from brown to green is linked to the amount of melanin present in the iris. All blue-eyed people have a small amount of variation in the amount of melanin in their eyes, leading to the conclusion that all blue-eyed people have a common ancestor and have the same switch inherited at the same place in their DNA.

The findings of Professor Eiberg and his team are the latest regarding genes. He and his team examined mitochondrial DNA and analyzed and compared people who had blue eyes in countries like Jordan, Denmark, and Turkey. Research began in 1996 when Professor Eiberg suggested the theory of the OCA2 gene as responsible for eye color.

Shuffling of genes

Nature is responsible for the shuffling of genes. The mutation of brown eyes to blue ones does not represent a positive or negative mutation, it’s like many other mutations including baldness, hair color, freckles, and beauty spots, none of which affect chances of survival. Professor Eiberg explains that it is nature who is continuously and constantly shuffling the human genome thereby creating a cocktail of human chromosomes trying out changes.

Blue eye color is the second rarest color after green. Blue eyes are common among Israeli Jews, the percentage of people with blue eyes is decreasing in the US. The countries where you can find the most blue-eyed people are Netherland, Germany, the Baltic States, and Scandinavia. In Germany almost 75% of the population have blue eyes.

Sources:

Source 1

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Source 3

15 Things To Try When You Can’t Sleep

There are many health benefits to a good quality sleep but few of us get it. Those who suffer from insomnia know how frustrating it is to be awake in the middle of the night and not be able to do anything about it.

Here are 15 things you can do if you find sleep eluding you:

1. Make yourself comfortable – For good sleep everything in your bedroom from temperature to bed-sheets should be absolutely perfect to your preference. Wear the most comfortable, clean sleeping clothes you have.

2. While you sleep, make sure there is total darkness in the room. If you cannot sleep in total darkness make or buy a sleep mask and wear it.

3. Managing noise is important. Silence is best for quality sleep however many enjoy white-noise machines or Apps that produce soothing sounds while you sleep like falling water, crickets, waves, or breezes.

4. Take a warm and relaxing bath before going to bed. Bathing before sleeping refreshes the mind and body while giving you a clean feeling and removes stress.

5. Try to read something before going to bed, something un-exciting is better.

6. The way we breathe influences the quality of our sleep and relaxation levels. Studies show that deep breathing helps you relax and induces sleep. Breathe at a rate of six times per minute to speed up the sleeping process.

7. Fresh bed linens are great for going to sleep. This technique is especially beneficial after bathing. Fresh linen sheets give a cozy feeling and promote sleep, soft fabric is ideal. You can try a sachet or spray between washes.

8. If you just can’t fall asleep stop trying so hard, let it come on its own. Try to involve yourself in something else and divert your attention and try to sleep again later. Usually the results are better than earlier.

9. Make a schedule for going to bed and stick to it. Go to sleep at the same time every day, with weekends being no exception. Changing sleeping time daily disturbs the routine and detracts sleep.

10. Keeping a separator between your legs is a good way to go to sleep faster. Pillows reduce leg pain from daily walking and relaxes leg muscles.

11. Do not eat close to bedtime. Studies prove eating right before bed requires activity in your body for digesting food which keeps you from the relaxation required for sleeping.

12. Remove gadgets from your bedroom including television. Keeping a TV in your bedroom makes it hard to resist watching it and the time that you should spend sleeping you spend watching TV.

13. Keep serious conversations for another time. Serious conversations often have serious aftermath and lead to stress. Keep such things for daytime and enjoy light and relaxing activities before bed.

14. Many people sleep during the day especially on weekends and holidays. If we sleep during the day time, our bodies’ sleep routine gets disturbed and we find it difficult to sleep at night. This excludes those who work nights, reverse it.

15. Meditation can be useful for getting you a good night’s sleep.

22 Ways To Clean Indoor Air Naturally

According to the The American Lung Association the indoor air quality of one’s home could be 2-­5 times worse than the air outdoors, thanks to a study done by the EPA! That is pretty scary considering some reports say we spend 90% of our time indoors. So, there are a few strategies that the EPA recommends for reducing indoor air pollution, controlling sources of pollution, ventilating adequately and cleaning indoor air.



1. Proper Filters: Did you know that the air filter in your heating and cooling system can help create healthier indoor air by capturing airborne allergens such as pollen, mold spores, dust mite debris, smoke, pet dander, and smog from the air passing through the filter? Sort of like vacuuming your air! (and you don’t have to put much effort into the work it is doing! Bonus!)

2. New filters: Change out your air filters regularly, the filter mentioned above lasts up to 3 months, but if you are a big remodeler like me consider changing it out a little more often during times of construction!

3. Other filters: Don’t forget your other filters! There are filters and screens around your home, for example: air purifiers, dryer lint screens, vacuum cleaners, range hood screens, and bathroom exhaust fan grilles, for starters. Be sure to keep them clean or replace them as needed.

4. Please Remove Your Shoes. Believe it or not your shoes are covered with a fine layer of chemicals, dirt, bacteria, and mold. These contaminates will settle onto your flooring, carpeting, and rugs. Then as you walk around you can stir up these particles, causing you and your family to breathe them in.

5. Fresh air. Opening a window isn’t always the best choice. Be sure to check the air quality and pollen levels outside before opening the windows.

6. Cooking: When you are using your stove top, be sure to turn on your outdoor venting fan to help moist, smoky, or chemical laden air to leave the house.

7. Dry Cleaning: Try to get your dry cleaning done with a few days to spare for them to air out at the dry cleaners! That way you can pick them up after they have dried completely and have let off most chemicals. There are also less toxic dry cleaning options, so be sure to do your research.

8. Attached Garage: Be sure to open the garage door fully before starting a car. When pulling back into the garage be sure to leave the door open for a few minutes after turning the car off to allow fumes to escape. Otherwise, over time the carbon monoxide can enter the home.

9. Fireplaces: Be sure the fireplace flue is inspected by a pro to be sure that it is working properly and keep those particles out of indoor air.

10. Bathroom Fans: When showering or using hot water in a bathroom, be sure to use bathroom fans to vent out all the steam and extra moisture in the bathroom air that can cause mold and mildew growth.

11. No Air Fresheners! Homeowners often turn to products to help mask odors in the home but often times do not realize that they may also contribute to poor indoor air quality. According to the EPA air fresheners actually release VOC’s into the air. Scented candles and incense may contain particulates, soot and chemicals. For a safer air freshener, dip cotton balls in a sweet smelling extract or essential oil and stash them around the house.

12. Vacuum Often. Ideally, we should be vacuuming twice a week. It’s a great way to get rid of excess dust, dust mites, lead, mold, and pet dander. Use a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA type filter, so while cleaning it’s not spitting the dust back into the air. Consider changing bags and or cleaning filters outside.

13. Beware of Cleaners. Household cleaners, even “green” cleaners often contain cancer-causing chemicals. The best bet is to use truly non-toxic cleaners like baking soda, salt, lemon juice, essential oils, and vinegar.

14. Say NO to Dusting! Dry dusting, that is. Don’t just dust or mop with dry cloths, instead use a damp cloth. This avoids spreading and lifting dust into the air.

15. Launder! Don’t forget to launder window coverings regularly. When it comes to draperies, dust can settle often. Either launder them according to the manufacturer directions, or vacuum them with the proper attachment.

16. Clean Sheets! Wash bedding bi-monthly, if not weekly. (130 degrees F to kill dust mites)

17. Mattresses: Vacuum mattresses, couches, and chairs quarterly.



18. VOC Free Paints- More and more paint lines have options for VOC low or free paints. (volatile organic compounds = bad) Wherever possible opt for these types of paint, the fewer fumy chemicals in the home, the better. Especially as off-gassing can continue for a long time.

19. Control Dust Mites: Whenever possible, opt for hard surface flooring. Be sure to vacuum and or launder throw rugs often!

20. Pet Dander: This is a tough one, but try to prevent animal dander from accumulating. Most doctors suggest that people allergic to animal dander not keep household pets with feathers or fur. Ban them from any bedrooms and be sure to keep the doors closed.

21. Lethal Fumes: Beware of lethal fumes and be sure to have adequate alarms for these types of gases: carbon monoxide, radon, and second-hand smoke. Make sure to install a carbon monoxide detector and have a radon test performed in the home, and please do not smoke indoors nor allow friends to.



22. Plants: There are several great plants that can help your air to be cleaned of toxins. One caveat to adding plants is that you have to be sure to control the water and not create a mold or mildew problem! Also if you have children or pets, be sure to know what plants are poisonous before bringing them into your home. Great air filtering plants include:

Orchids: may seem like a hard to plant to care for, but they actually thrive on neglect. Don’t kill them with kindness (too much water and sunlight). They filter: xylene , a pollutant found in many glues and paints. Orchids respire and give off oxygen at night – so they’re great for the bedroom! And they just look so good in decor which is win/win!

Palms: hardy, exotic-looking, and easy to grow, palms filter formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide

Philodendrons need very little attention. They filter xylene, a toxin found in glues and leathers.

Aloe Vera – Aloe is mostly know for medical uses like relieving burns, but it’s also easy to keep alive, and sculptural-looking. Also, aloe filters formaldehyde!

SOURCES

Indoor Pollution, How Stuff Works – http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/household-safety/tips/indoor-air-pollution.htm

Natural Ways to Purify Air, Natural News – http://www.naturalnews.com/035961_air_quality_indoors_purification.html#

5 Ways to Improve Air Quality, WebMD – http://www.webmd.com/lung/features/12-ways-to-improve-indoor-air-quality

Improve Air Quality For Those With Allergies, Mother Nature Network – http://www.mnn.com/your-home/remodeling-design/sponsorstory/improve-indoor-air-quality-for-people-with-allergies

Indoor Air Solutions – http://www.indoorairsolutionslv.com/2013/09/natural-solutions-to-improve-indoor-air-quality/

The Best Cellulite Treatments

Many of us struggle with cellulite for years and try many different treatment options out there. Some people use “the best cellulite creams” or expensive anti cellulite gels. Some choose to go with laser cellulite removal. Anyway, cellulite removal is a huge business. But the truth is we have to take a multidimensional approach to fight against cellulite:


1- Healthy Diet: Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and stay away from fatty foods and sugar. You can never imagine what those sugary drinks do to your body.

2- Drink Plenty of Water: Water helps flush out the fat as well as toxins from the body. Also water suppresses your appetite and helps you to eat less.

3- Skin Treatment: Many of expensive cellulite creams on the market contain caffeine. The reason is that caffeine increases blood flow and reduces the fat cells under the skin. So one of the best options as skin treatment is ground coffee scrub, which you can easily prepare at home: Want smooth skin treatment? Coffee ground scrub can fight cellulite

4- Exercise: Exercise boosts the muscle tone and increase blood flow to the fat under skin. Watch this video that demonstrates some effective exercises to reduce cellulite.