Posts Tagged ‘allergies’
Why We Need Dehumidifier on Basements
Why we need to have dehumidifier on our basements? Basements are prone to dampness and if the humidity level is above 50 percent, it is the best place for molds, mildews, and other allergens to breed on organic surface area.
Having a basement dehumidifier that extracts the humidity out of the air could eliminate these harmful organisms by depriving water and make them unable to release spores that cause severe allergies.
You need to consider the area of your basement before purchasing a dehumidifier for it to be effective. There are portable and fixed units of dehumidifiers. If you want your dehumidifier to be flexible, be placed on different sections, then have the portable one. There are dehumidifiers that are noisy, so better check out its noise level too.
Having a humidifier at home to protect your family health does not end up on owning one. You need to maintain its cleanliness too to avoid bacterial growth on your humidifier that could be harmful to your family health as well.
Say goodbye to health problems associated with high moisture level by having a clean air and healthy temperature inside your home.
My Battle Against Eczema
What is the health problem that I usually encounter? An itchy atopic eczema. People need not to keep away from me if I am suffering from it because it is not contagious. This irritating itchy allergic disease is believed to be hereditary in nature, that someone suffering from it has inherited the genes from parent who is overly sensitive to allergens in the environment and in environmental factors like emotional stress.
Allergies could trigger eczema thus those that could trigger allergies like certain foods, dust, mold, pollen and animal danders and irritating skin products, hormonal imbalance and stress are some of the culprits of eczema. Excessive heat, certain fabrics that are made up of coarsely woven materials and tobacco smoke could also trigger eczema. All of these things should be avoided as much as possible.
I remember the lady I met in the hospital I am working last January, her problem just started in a small eczema on her neck that became severe. Lichenification or thickening of the skin due to excessive rubbing or scratching of the itchy skin could be seen not just on her neck but on her face as well. I let her see the usual site where eczema usually takes place in me (inside the elbow), she said that I really need to take care of my skin by avoiding the culprits that could trigger eczema and avoid scratching the site to avoid lichefication.
Those who inherited an overly sensitive genes to environmental factors and allergens in the environment could stay away from itchy eczema as long as they stay away from those that could trigger it. Battle against eczema could be lifetime thus they need to take care of their health always by living a healthy lifestyle and stay away from emotional stress.
The Benefits of Area Rugs
Area rugs help a lot if you have allergies from airborne dusts. It traps the allergens, preventing them from becoming airborne. But, you need to vacuum it at least once a week to remove the trapped allergens.
Habitat has large impact on how we feel, have you noticed it? If you are in a place that is warm and welcoming definitely you will feel comfortable and safe. But, if you are in a room that has uninviting atmosphere though you have been there for weeks, you will still feel strange and unwelcome. One of my friends just move out to her new apartment, she wanted to feel comfortable in her new haven thus she decorated the apartment with lots of consideration to bring everything she put in harmony, from the color of the walls and floor to area rugs, furniture and curtains. Her apartment’s interior design was nice, as if she hired an interior designer for her apartment. The color scheme was great, I love it! She admitted that it has been not easy for her to choose the right rugs for her apartment because there are lots of cheap rugs to choose from and are elegant to look at. It gives life to the place and absorbs the noise in the room too.
My friend has allergies on dusts, thus, aside from the fact that her area rugs helps her feel at home on her apartment it plays a big role on her allergies too. She just makes sure to vacuum her place twice a week to make sure her indoor environment is clean. There a lots of good quality but cheap rugs in the market. The place you are staying in really has an impact on your physical and mental health, thus you need to clean, arrange and decorate things accordingly. A sight of messy and cluttered place triggers stress while clean and well-arranged place make you feel at peace.
How to Reduce Dust and Other Pollutants in Your Home
Protect your family health by reducing dust and other pollutants in your home. It is true that harmful microorganisms exist everywhere and we cannot totally get rid of them but, we can limit their population by making sure our place is clean.
Parents encourage their children to stay at home as much as possible to keep them safe from accidents and diseases. But, did you know that indoor pollution is one of the top environmental health risks? Inhaling pollutant-free air is part of healthy lifestyle because clean air is necessary to achieve a healthy body. We already knew how harmful tobacco smoke is to your family health, this time we will talk about dust and common biological pollutants that could be found in our homes, their harmful effects and an effective way to get rid of them.
Biological pollutants from air and dusts such as molds, dust mites, fecal droppings from dust mites and other insects, animal dander, lint, bacteria and viruses PLUS pollen, plant and mold spores may affect your family health. They can pass through the filters of your respiratory system thus affecting it and, may lower your immune system resulting to respiratory allergies, acute and chronic infections and, or even cancer. it can also cause skin allergy, skin infections, eye irritation and a lot more.
Furnace filters is a great help in reducing this harmful elements of indoor air. As the air passes through the filter, it removes dust and other harmful particles from air. Honeywell Furnace Filters filters sixty times more dust and other air pollutants than the 1″ standard filter. High efficiency Pleated Furnace Filters with no wire mesh are a good choice too. You just need to follow the instructions of manufacturer how often it should be cleaned and replaced to maximize its performance.
Replacing the filters regularly makes sure of the protection of your family health saves your money from hospitalization and, or medications; and from the hassles of repair of your furnace. Good standing furnace filter may even help you reduce your heating bill too. Purchasing wholesale furnace filters is even better because you can save more money if you purchase in bulk. Thus, you can buy other family needs from the money you saved.
Wellness is priceless. Protect your family health at all cost because health is wealth.
Health Benefits of Flaxseed
Health Benefits of Flaxseeds
Flaxseed and Flax Oil Benefits
Have you heard about flaxseed and flax oil benefits? For the benefit of those who are interested to know more about flaxseed and flaxseed oil, I want to share some things I knew that is good for your family health.
Flaxseed and Flax Oil and its health beneficial components are highly significant when it comes to having healthy heart, arteries, and strong bones. We have talked about fatty acids and the significance of polyunsaturated fatty acids in lowering of low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels and in raising the level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol. We have also tackled about omega-3 that is good for our bones. Well, let us add some benefit we can get from omega-3 to our list: it can RAISE high density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol that is responsible in cleaning up LDL-clogged artery; an anti-cancer; it helps reduce psoriasis, eczema, acne, dandruff and some allergies; has anti-stress effect (it increases stamina); and improves calcium absorption. The good news is- flaxseed oil belongs to polyunsaturated fatty acids and it is a good source of omega-3, so good for your family health as source of fat.
Yes, you hear it right, omega-3 from plant source. Usually, when we hear about omega-3, we automatically link it to fish oil, right? Well, flaxseed oil contains twice the amount of omega-3 compared to fish oil. Fish oil has omega-3 that is called eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA omega-3 while flaxseed and walnut has the precursor form and is called alpha-linolenic acid or ALA Omega-3. As you consume ALA omega-3, your body converts it to EPA omega-3. Flaxseed has alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) while evening primrose oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). I highly emphasized it because though both ALA and GLA are linolenic acid that belong to essential fatty acids (EFA), they have different health benefits.
Aside from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 from plant source, flaxseed is rich in essential fatty acid called omega-6 fatty acids. We can also find insoluble and soluble fibers, manganese, magnesium, folate, copper, phosphorus, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), potassium, lecithin, zinc, protein and lignan precursors in flaxseed. Remember the phytoestrogen from soya? Flaxseed also contains phytoestrogen.Lignan precursors in flaxseed are converted to lignans by the body when it is consumed. Lignans acts as phytoestrogen and antioxidant in the body. It has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-cancer properties.
Flaxseed benefits are so promising, right? But, not everyone has good access where to buy flaxseeds. Thanks to the byproducts (flaxseed oil and flaxseed oil supplements) that is accessible in the market. Flaxseed is more beneficial compared to flaxseed oil and flaxseed oil supplements because it contains dietary fibers (soluble and insoluble) and antioxidants. However application of minute amount of flaxseed oil to your face and neck for at least 30 minutes before taking a bath helps prevent your skin from fine lines and wrinkle formation.
Flaxseed is easily destroyed by heat, so, the right time to add your flaxseed or flaxseed oil is when your favorite food is already cooked. You may add it also in your favorite salads or even in yogurt. Practically speaking, you may add flaxseed in any food you want to eat as long as it is not hot. Though flaxseeds has lots of benefits, due to its high calorie content you need to take it moderately. Our body need 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil only for every 100 pounds of body weight every day. And in case you are taking in flaxseed, you only need 10-40 grams a day.
Just a simple reminders:
-You have to ask some opinion from your doctor first, if it is advisable for you to take flaxseed. or not.
-Buy flaxseed oils that are prepared at low temperature and placed in light-resistant plastic container.
-Make sure to refrigerate your flaxseed oil and, or flaxseed oil capsules to extend its shelf life.
Water As An Alternative Medicine
water as an alternative medicine
Water as an alternative medicine is not new to us. It has been practiced by old folks before the time synthetic medicines have been discovered.
I have posted some articles here about water:
Water, how important is it to you?
Water, The Lubricant of Your Functionality
Water for Skin Rejuvenation and Beauty
Why am I doing this? Because I believe that being properly hydrated is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to stay healthy.
Did you know that water can even cure some health problems? People called it water therapy. As far as I know, there is no scientific evidence about it yet but, I firmly believe that water can help cure certain health problems because our body consists of more than 60 percent of water. And, water therapy is not new to me because since I was a kid, my family’s usual practice is to do water therapy first instead of instantly taking in some synthetic drugs as treatment for constipation, hyperacidity, cough, colds, headache and some kidney problems. Usually, those problems can be cured by adding few extra glasses of water from your usual daily intake.
Lately, I learned from a friend that aside from the common health problems I have mentioned earlier, water therapy lowers blood sugar level, blood pressure, and uric acid level. It helps a lot too in people suffering from acne problem; migraine; allergies; sinusitis; arthritis; rheumatism; some respiratory problems; obesity; anemia; leukemia; and certain CANCERS (please ask your physician if it is okay for you to drink plenty of water). Is it not amazing?
Lots of people have tried and found it helpful. Are you interested to give it a try? Here are the 3 simple steps:
1. As preparation, see to it that you have not taken any alcoholic drinks before retiring to bed.
2. Early in the morning, upon waking up, gargle to clean your mouth from accumulated bacteria while you were sleeping then, drink 1.5 liters of water. If you are not used to drink such plenty of water in one setting, just start with 2-3 glasses of water then gradually increase it until you are able to drink 1.5 liters upon waking up.
3. You may proceed to your usual schedule afterwards but NOTHING BY MOUTH (no food or drinks should be taken) should be implemented for 1-2 hours after drinking the 1.5 liters of water.
Note: It is not necessary that you should do it upon waking up, what is important here is you start and end up your water therapy session with an EMPTY stomach. You may start this therapy at least 2 hours after taking your breakfast or lunch.
Please remember that the 1.5 liters of water you will consume is for therapy or cleansing purposes and not part of your daily water intake which is 8 glasses a day. You may train your child as young as 3 years old to drink 2-3 glasses of water upon waking up and take 6 glasses of water everyday.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
laughter is the best medicine
Laughter is the best medicine. It keeps away negative emotions like anxiety and depression, which tend to weaken the immune system. It relieves stress, a common cause of heart and blood pressure problems. It improves lung capacity and oxygen levels in the blood and thus lessens complaints of asthma and bronchitis. It also releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers, thus reducing the occurrence and intensity of arthritic pain and muscular spasms. It is helps alleviate insomnia, migraines, allergies, and ulcers.
Laughter is initiated by many sensations and thoughts, and that it activates many parts of the body. Laughter involves motor, emotional and cognitive components, each one located in a specific part of the brain. When we laugh, we change our facial expressions and make sounds. During high-spirited laughter, the muscles of the arms, legs and trunk are involved. Laughter also needs variation in our pattern of breathing. It activates the cardiovascular system, so heart rate and blood pressure increase. The arteries are dilated, causing blood pressure to fall again. Repeated short, strong contractions of the chest muscles, diaphragm and abdomen increase blood flow into our internal organs, and forced respiration.
Right diet, water intake, exercise, temperance and other elements of healthy lifestyle are important for us to stay healthy. Let us not forget the importance of laughter to our physical and mental health. Good laugh protects us from harmful effects of stress in our daily lives. Why not spend some of your time exchanging healthy humors with your family and friends or watch comedy shows and movies that may trigger laughter. Did you know that one minute of laughing is equivalent to ten minutes on a rowing machine? So what is spending some time going out with your friends to watch live Las Vegas Shows and have fun laughing, and having a great time. To have a good laugh and be happy is priceless.
Effects of good laugh led to new and valuable therapies practiced by doctors, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals using humor and laughter to help patients manage, or treat a variety of physical, mental, and spiritual issues. Indeed, laughter is the best medicine.
Newborn Do's And Don'ts
All of us are so excited to meet the new member of our family. “I’m so excited to see if to whom does the baby looks like”, my grandma exclaimed. Little boy, my nephew, was just born yesterday and we are preparing a welcome party for him today.
Not only that, I also made a research on taking care of a newborn because taking care of them involves learning a whole new skill set. Here are few tips I’ve learned that can help first-time parents feel confident about caring there newborn. The things to do and things not to do with your baby:
DO breastfeed your baby exclusively. It is recommended to exclusive breastfeed the baby on his or her first six months of life, and that there is no upper limit to the duration of breastfeeding.
DO select an iron-fortified infant formula if breastfeeding may not be possible.
DON’T feed your baby low iron formulas, homemade formulas, cow or goat milk as a substitute to iron-fortified formula.
DON’T feed your baby juice or even water. If you think that they are thirsty, just feed them with breast milk or iron-fortified infant formula because it provides everything babies need nutritionally until they start eating solid foods.
DON’T heat your baby’s bottles in the microwave. Microwave ovens heat liquids unevenly, and so can leave super heated pockets of formula in your baby’s bottle. Even if you vigorously shake the bottle afterwards, heating bottles in the microwave should be avoided.
DON’T start your baby on solid foods before 4 months of age, especially if allergies fun in the family.
DO remember that a newborn baby needs to be fed every 2 to 3 hours. If you’re breastfeeding, give your baby the chance to nurse about 10–15 minutes at each breast. If you’re formula-feeding, your baby will most likely take about 2–3 ounces (60–90 milliliters) at each feeding. Generally, it’s recommended that babies be fed on demand — whenever they seem hungry. Your baby may cue you by crying, putting fingers in his or her mouth, or making sucking noises. However,
DON’T focus too much on how much, how often and how regularly your baby eats. Instead, look for contentment between feedings, alertness, good skin tone and steady weight gain. Call your baby’s doctor if you need to awaken your newborn frequently or if your baby doesn’t seem interested in eating or sucking.
DO remember that babies often swallow air during feedings, which can make them fussy. You can prevent this by burping your baby frequently. Try burping your baby every 2 to 3 ounces (60–90 milliliters) if you bottle-feed, and each time you switch breasts if you breastfeed. If your baby tends to be gassy, has gastroesophageal reflux, or seems fussy during feeding, try burping your baby every ounce during bottle-feeding or every 5 minutes during breastfeeding.
DON’T shake your baby. Shaking your baby can cause Shaken Baby Syndrome. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, ‘shaken baby syndrome is a severe form of head injury that occurs when a baby is shaken forcibly enough to cause the baby’s brain to rebound (bounce) against his or her skull. This rebounding may cause bruising, swelling, and bleeding (intracerebral hemorrhage) of the brain, which may lead to permanent, severe brain damage or death.
If you need to wake your infant, don’t do it by shaking — instead, tickle your baby’s feet or blow gently on a cheek.
DO respond to your baby when he or she cries. Crying is a baby’s way of communicating one of his or her needs. Crying can be upsetting. You will gradually begin to recognize your baby’s different crying patterns and, as you get to know her better, will be able to anticipate her needs.
DO provide an environment with a lot of social interaction. This includes eye contact, talking, listening and touching. For infants, the attachment contributes to their emotional growth, which also affects their development in other areas, such as physical growth. Physical closeness can also promote an emotional connection.
DON’T allow stuffed animals, soft bedding or improper or extra mattresses in your baby’s crib to ensure that your baby doesn’t get tangled in them or suffocate.
DO put your baby to sleep on his back, this is one of the best ways to prevent the risk of SIDS ( Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). But be sure to alternate the position of your baby’s head from night to night (first right, then left, and so on) and or have a tummy time when your baby is awake to prevent the development of a flat spot on one side of the head.
DON’T expect your newborn baby to sleep through the night. Newborns typically sleep for periods of 2–4 hours. The digestive system of babies is so small that they need nourishment every 2-3 hours. You can expect your baby to sleep for 6-8 hours by the time they are about three months old.
DO support your baby’s head and neck to avoid injuries. A new baby is not strong enough to support her own head, cradle the head when carrying your baby and support the head when carrying the baby upright or when you lay him or her down.
DON’T leave your baby alone on places where he or she could fall like changing table or bed or a couch.. Make sure cribs meet current safety standards.
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