Continuing improvements in healthcare, and a greater understanding of just how the human body ages, have allowed people to live longer and healthier lives. Unfortunately, this has made age related dementia a more common problem. Living a long life is not an advantage if the brain deteriorates to the point where a person cannot enjoy it.
Recent research has shown that some foods may be able to delay and or slow down the loss of brain function that causes the symptoms of dementia. Although nothing can reverse the cognitive loss associated with age related dementia, consuming the right foods in the right amount seems to be able to make a significant difference in slowing the progression of the disease and in some cases may prevent it completely. Anyone who is concerned about their own or a loved one’s brain function should consider adding some or all of these foods to an otherwise healthy lifestyle. These tips are also helpful to those of you who work in the home health care industry, who are currently caring for patients who are at risk for dementia.
Certain fish, particularly tuna, sardines, salmon, and anchovies, are very high in Omega 3 fatty acids. Fatty acids are the basic building blocks of brain cells and the vessels that carry blood to the brain. Making sure that there is enough Omega 3 present in the blood has been shown to prevent brain shrinkage, perhaps by helping to maintain optimal blood flow through the tiny blood vessels that feed the brain.
Fruits are always part of a healthy diet but certain fruits are better for brain health than others. Apple skins are very high in quercetin, a substance that has been shown to protect the brain from the type of damage one sees in the brains of those suffering from dementia. Berries are very high in antioxidants and also have anti-inflammatory properties. Concord grapes, or juice and wine made from them, also seem to be helpful in keeping the brain healthy.
Green vegetables, particularly asparagus and spinach, are high in folate. People who lack enough folate are at much greater risk of developing dementia. Orange vegetables like sweet potatoes, squash and carrots are high in beta carotene which not only helps the brain but has been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain cancers
It seems that for many years nuts have been getting a bad rap. Although it is true that the high fat content of many nuts may make eating them in excess a bad idea, the results of recent studies show that eating small amounts of a variety of different nuts, especially almonds, walnuts and pecans can be very beneficial to the brain. Moderation seems to be the key when eating nuts however. The same studies showed that eating too many, more than an average of one ounce a day, erased any benefits and led to other health issues.
Drinking coffee and tea may also be a good way to keep dementia at bay. Researchers believe that the caffeine in these beverages not only helps to keep those that drink them mentally alert but may also help to maintain blood flow to the brain. In addition, the flavonoids in coffee and tea seem to protect the brain from some types of age related damage.
Spices are often overlooked when discussing a brain healthy diet but that may be a mistake. Turmeric has anti inflammatory properties that may help to improve blood flow throughout the body. More importantly for the brain, turmeric has the ability to destroy the plaques whose build up in the brain has been linked to dementia, Cinnamon also seems to aid in the breakdown of these plaques as well as helping to control blood sugar. High blood sugar is damaging to the brain and many other organs. The good thing about these and other beneficial spices is that a little goes a long way. Adding just a sprinkle to food a few times a week seems to be enough to make a significant difference.
It is common knowledge that a healthy and varied diet is one of the best ways to extend one’s life expectancy. Now it appears that adding specific foods to that diet may help to keep the brain from deteriorating from age related causes. Eating these foods while keeping up an exercise regime and making sure that the brain receives plenty of stimulation may lead to a life that is as productive and enjoyable as it is long.
Digestive diseases are a common problem for people of all ages. Some of the most common digestive disorders include: Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases are notorious for causing pain, complications and embarrassment to those who suffer from them. Unfortunately, there are many myths that surround digestive diseases. Myths can cause fear, offer harmful information and keep the patient from getting the help they need. Read further for some common myths about digestive disease and the facts that prove them wrong.
Crohn’s Disease is Contagious
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease, characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss. Research has shown that there may be a genetic factor in Crohn’s disease, meaning that it can be inherited. If Crohn’s runs in a family, an individual may be more likely to contract it. It is also widely accepted that a compromised immune system plays a part in the incidence of this disorder, due in part to a high bacterial content in the digestive tract. None of these factors, however, imply that Crohn’s disease is contagious. It is not a virus , and although certain bacteria may play a part in the disorder, it is not caused by infection. You cannot give Crohn’s to another person, and you cannot get it from someone who has it.
Ostomy Surgery Impairs a Person’s Sex Life
An ostomy is a procedure in which a diseased portion of the large or small intestine is removed, and the remaining part is attached to an opening in the patient’s abdomen. For a short time, a person with an ostomy may experience embarrassment or a changed body image, but with time, and perhaps counseling, he or she will find that the ostomy does not affect a sexual relationship physically. Both men and women can perform sexually just as they did prior to surgery, and reproduction is not affected either.
Psychological Problems are Responsible for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis have been thought to be related to psychological issues, such as stress and anxiety. The truth is, that while the exact causes are not fully clear, the likely culprits are bacteria or viruses that affect the immune system. There is no evidence that these digestive disorders are caused by mental or emotional factors.
People With Irritable Bowel Disorders Usually Get Cancer
It is a common misunderstanding that if a person has an irritable bowel disorder, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, he or she will eventually get colon cancer. The truth is, although these disorders can increase the risk, most individuals will not get colon cancer. The best way to prevent this type of cancer or get early treatment is to take advantage of important screening tests, such as colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy.
Medication Cures Digestive Diseases
This is false. With the exception of colon removal, there is no current cure for digestive diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. There are medications to decrease symptoms, such as pain and inflammation, and prevent further damage to the colon, but there is no permanent cure, although scientists continue to look for one. Some people look to “miracle cures,” or alternative treatments for a cure, but it is important to remember that these treatments are not regulated, and thus may not be safe. It is vital to consult a doctor before trying any alternative treatments or medications.
A Certain Type of Diet Will Cure Digestive Disease
This claim is false. There is no specific diet that can cure digestive diseases. However, if a person is experiencing a flare-up in symptoms, it may be beneficial to implement a bland diet that is low in fiber and fat. It can also help to avoid highly spiced foods and dairy products. Remember, there is no cure for inflammatory bowel disease.
Colonoscopies Are Horrible!
Many people have such an intense fear of having a colonoscopy, they often ignore this potentially life-saving screening test. The fact is, there is little or no discomfort during a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a simple procedure that can diagnose and treat problems in the colon and the rectum as well. It usually lasts less than an hour, and the patient rarely remembers the procedure afterward, due to sedation or anesthesia. Most people don’t like the preparation for the colonoscopy, such as laxatives and a liquid diet, but these are small discomforts compared to the benefits.
As you can see, there are many misconceptions revolving around digestive diseases. The important thing is to get the facts straight from a physician, and follow his recommended treatment plan to the letter. Digestive disorders are no fun, but with the right information and treatment, they can be controlled well, while not disrupting the normal flow of life.
This guest blog post was written by Kara Taylor. Kara works for a disability lawyer that helps people with digestive diseases, such as Crohns, fight back when it comes to disability denials .
Many people believe that they can just simply take out a life insurance policy without any problems however something that is not often thought about is their weight in relation to the kind of cover that they will be getting. When it comes to life insurance you think of things like smoking and past illnesses that will affect the kind of policy you can get however this is also the case with weight and how heavy you are definitely plays a part in the amount that you can insure your life fore and how much you will be paying towards the policy every month.
There is a standard chart that explains what weight you should be in relation to your height and although you should watch your weight this doesn’t have to be stuck to religiously. Indeed, there is some room for leeway however if your weight greatly exceeds the recommended weight for your age and height then it can mean that you do not get to take out a life insurance policy at all as the company may feel that it is too risky to do so or they may offer you one that means you need to pay higher premiums and therefore more money.
It is a fact that those who are overweight require more medical help than those who are at a standard weight and this is reflected in the price that you will pay for your insurance. While we are not saying that you should be bang on the money when it comes to the chart you should be in and around the recommended weight for your age to ensure that you get to take out the policy that you want; if you are not then you could be denied altogether or end up paying over the odds.
For decades doctors and scientists have painstakingly searched for a mythical wonder drug that would perhaps cure the body of all ills and make an afflicted person well again. While no such drug actually exists, more and more doctors are beginning to understand and even prescribe vitamin D and its variants. Vitamin D is naturally present in active humans and it has positive effects on many different systems and organs of the body including helping the body stave off infections and illness, making bones stronger and sturdier, as well as colonic health. However, doctors and scientists are also beginning to realize that vitamin D seems to have a positive affect on a person’s general health in very non-specific ways. Although it is not fully understood why, deficiencies of vitamin D in elderly and extremely sick patients is a common situation. Studies have shown that administering vitamin D to these patients will slightly improve their overall condition.
There are a few different variants of basic vitamin D, all of which offer different boons to one’s general health. Vitamin D is natural to humans as it is created when sunlight comes in contact with skin. Vitamin D2 and D3 are the most common variants of vitamin D and are typically taken as supplements due to their overall health benefits. Some consumers have recently shown a higher demand for the liquid vitamin D supplement option because the liquid form allows for faster and more effective absorption than through pill form. Although it should definitely be noted that vitamin D administered in pill form is certainly effective, liquid doses of vitamin D are much easier for children and the elderly to partake in because it can be safely flavored and does not add to a high pill consumption count. Doctors are still learning of the many health benefits that vitamin D and its variants offer and more healthy aspects are sure to come to light in the future.
Online dating is becoming more and more popular as successful pairings are now commonplace all over the United States due to online singles sites. However, the online dating sites are simply the very first step! Despite having great chemistry during an online date the follow up real life date must also be successful for the relationship to have any lasting success. A common obstacle that online daters run into after having a successful online date is determining where to date after having an online date. The answer is both very obvious and very delicate at the same time: an online date should translate into a real date and that means choosing the perfect place to meet and have a meal. But choosing the right place to eat for a real date after an online date can be a tricky decision and the burden of choosing can lay upon either partner.
The best advice for choosing a great place to eat while meeting up with your online date is to remember the feel and flow of your online date. If the online date was very formal and the partner seemed a bit uncomfortable or trepidacious about the aspect of online dating then consider a very laid back restaurant or perhaps even a quick dining experience, such as an ice cream stand or even a popular fast food joint. The atmosphere of a real life date can have a major impact on how well the real life date will go! On the other hand, if the online date was very in depth and passionate then a fine dining establishment may be the right call as it will communicate the willingness to move the relationship forward in a serious fashion. No matter the restaurant locale for a real date after an online date just remember to have fun and treat the other person as you would like to be treated.