How You Should Sleep With Lower Back Pain?

How Should You Sleep with Lower Back Pain?

 

People worldwide suffer from back problems due to various reasons. In general, factors at work, excessive standing, physical exercise and even chronic medical conditions play an important role in the development lower back pain. Lower back pain interferes with your daily activities, but it also makes it difficult or even impossible to sleep at night. So how should you sleep with lower back pain?

 

Best Sleeping Position for Lower Back Pain

 

Sleep in Fetal Position

Fetal position is known to support our back and relieve any lower back pain. If you sleep on the side with the knees drawn up, your joints in the spine will open up, relieving any pressure on the structures of the back. You can also place a pillow between your legs for a better support.

 

While sleeping in this position, make sure to avoid any spine curvature. Make sure to place the pillow so that it is positioned between your knees and your ankles at the same time. Choose a thicker pillow for a better support.

 

If you sleep on the side, alternate it by sleeping on the right and on the left side as well. If you sleep on the same side all night long, you will end up with pain and even muscle imbalance.

 

For pregnant women, the best sleeping position for lower back pain is to sleep on their left side in order to avoid any pressure on the large blood structures of the body which can restrict the blood flow to the fetus.

 

Use an Extra Pillow Under the Knees

 

If you prefer sleeping on your back, you can use an extra pillow under your knees for supporting your back. This will flatten your back and avoid a large curvature of your lower back. For extra support, while sleeping on your back, you can put a rolled up towel under your lower back.

 

Don’t Sleep on Your Stomach

People suffering from lower back pain should avoid sleeping on their stomach. When sleeping on the stomach, extra pressure is put on your lower back, as well as an unpleasant twist of the spine occurs.

 

However, if this is the only position in which you can fall asleep, put a pillow under your pelvis and lower abdomen for support. If you sleep on your stomach, you don’t need a head pillow if it puts extra pressure and strain on your neck and head.

 

How to Get in and out of the Bed

 

You already know the best sleeping position for lower back pain. But have you ever thought about correct ways of getting in and out of the bed? Here is how to do it.

 

Getting into bed:

 

First, sit on the side of your bed.

Use your hands for support while you bend your knees and swing them slowly and carefully onto the bed.

Lie on your side first.

Roll onto your back using your arms for support.

 

Getting out of bed:

Once you are awake, roll on your side.

Bend your knees and let your legs hang off the bed.

Push yourself with the arms from the bed and swing your legs at the same time in order to get into a sitting position.

Stand up slowly, supporting your body with your arms.

More Tips for a Better Sleep with Lower Back Pain

 

1. Choose the Right Mattress

 

Have you ever wondered about the best sleeping position for lower back pain? Well, not just the sleeping position, but also the mattress you sleep in is very important for a good night’s sleep. If you prefer to sleep on your side, the mattress should be soft, so your hips and shoulders sink while sleeping, avoiding any pressure to the pressure points.

 

If you prefer sleeping on your back, the mattress needs to be firm for a better comfort. The worst mattresses are those which are too soft, not offering the necessary support while sleeping.

 

2. Buy the Right Pillows

 

The pillow you sleep in is also very important. An ideal pillow is the one that offers a neutral position where the head and the shoulders are at the same correlation. If you prefer sleeping on your side, get a thicker and firmer pillow which will help reduce the pressure on your neck.

 

If you prefer sleeping on your back, a thinner and medium firm pillow is ideal, while if you prefer sleeping on your stomach, a very thin pillow or no pillow at all is recommended.

 

3. Relieve Your Lower Back Pain with Heat

 

Heat is known to relax the muscles of the body, including those of your lower back. For this reason, before going to bed make sure to take a shower with warm water for about 10 minutes. You can also take a hot bath if you prefer.

 

Using a heating pad or even a bottle filled with hot water can help relieve your back pain when applied to the sore area. Use the heating pad or bottle for 10 or 20 minutes, but make sure not to sleep with them. There is always the risk of burns and even fire.

 

4. Change Your Dietary Habits

 

Eating too late or even having a large meal just before going to sleep is never recommended. It can contribute to acid reflux which will just increase your discomfort and sleeping problems. Don’t consume alcohol or caffeine in large amounts as well before going to sleep as they will disrupt your sleep too.

 

5. Use Analgesic Rubs for Lower Back Pain

 

If you are dealing with lower back pain and are having problems sleeping, you can always try rubbing an analgesic into the sore area. This will help relax the muscles and even create a pleasant and warmth sensation.

 

6. Don’t Sleep Too Much

Sleeping too much is not recommended as well. Adults should get about 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night. Staying for a prolonged period of time in bed will just contribute to muscle stiffness and even increase the back pain.

 

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Sperm Benefits During Pregnancy

Sperm Benefits During Pregnancy

Benefits of Sperm During Pregnancy

 

1. Actual Nourishment

 

There are numerous vitamins, minerals, and even a dose of protein in every ejaculation. While this won’t take the place of your prenatal vitamins, anything helps. If anything, the nourishment in sperm will keep your vaginal tissues healthy and get the cells ready for repair after delivery.

2. Good Sleep

 

Semen has some melatonin in it that may be absorbed through your vagina and enter your bloodstream. This may help with those sleepless nights, a common side-effect of pregnancy. If your doctor gives the okay, sex every night before bed may be the best sleep remedy you’ve ever had. No pun intended.

 

3. Getting Your Cervix Ready

 

One of the benefits of sperm during pregnancy is that it helps get your cervix ready for the big day. Semen or sperm contains high levels of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins soften the cervix to help it open up easier when labor begins. The prostaglandins may also help trigger contractions, so ask your doctor if sex is okay at the end of pregnancy.

 

4. Feeling Better About Yourself

 

Some women may not find pregnancy a very sexy time of their lives. Weight gain, fatigue, and changing looks may cause a lowered self-esteem. Semen may contain chemicals that when absorbed through the vaginal walls, may decrease depression. Levels of these “feel good” chemicals have been found in women’s blood at increased levels for a few days after sexual intercourse.

 

5. Immune System Protection

 

Another one of the benefits of sperm during pregnancy is immune system protection. Sperm contains proteins that may help strengthen your immune system. It may help prevent interactions between mom and baby, reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnancy, and keep you healthy. One reason being studied is that pre-eclampsia may be a DNA incompatibility between mom and dad. Sexual intercourse with baby daddy may help desensitize the immune system to dad’s DNA.

 

Safe Tips for Better Sex During Pregnancy

 

Don’t force things. Your desire for intimacy may wax and wane over the months. Let your partner know how you are feeling. Your body knows just when the right time is, listen closely. Be gentle and take things slow.

You may need to use a safe water based lubricant for comfort. Sex drive may be less in the end of pregnancy. While sperm is helpful then, you may need some help to get things started.

Make time for intimacy. Sperm is healthy for your pregnancy, but you need to have sexual intercourse to reap the benefits. Busy schedules, morning sickness (makes mornings a bad time), work, and other kids can all get in the way. Try going off to bed soon after dinner before you get too tired.

You may have to adjust positions. If you are making love for the benefits of sperm at the end of pregnancy, you may need to try different positions for the most comfort.

If you have oral sex, never let your partner blow air into your vagina. This is very seriously dangerous and can be life threatening. The air can form an embolism in your bloodstream and block a blood vessel.

Refrain from sexual intercourse if your water has broken already. This may mean your contractions have already started and you won’t need the benefit of semen to get things going, they already are. Intercourse could put you and your baby at risk for infection.

If the benefits of sperm during pregnancy are contraindicated due to a high risk pregnancy, you can ask your doctor about sex with a condom. Just keep in mind that even orgasms can be detrimental if you are at risk for miscarriage.

If you cannot have sex during your pregnancy, find other ways to be intimate. You can cuddle and watch movies, spend time reading together, or go for a walk every evening after dinner (as long as you aren’t on bedrest).

Last but not least, communicate with your partner. He may be feeling like “sex may hurt the baby,” or that “his sperm may get into your uterus,” all of which are old wives tales. Your baby will never know or be hurt by your lovemaking. The uterus is sealed off by the mucous plug and nothing gets past it until it dislodges at the end of your pregnancy. The baby is also cushioned by amniotic fluid, protecting him or her from any “bumps.” Explaining these things will help make your partner feel better about sex while you’re pregnant.

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Different Types of Antihistamines

Different types of antihistamines?

 

Generally, antihistamines have been classified into two groups:

 

First-generation or sedating antihistaminescan cause significant drowsiness and are generally more associated with the antimuscarinic side-effects. These include alimemazine, clemastine, cyproheptadine, hydroxyzine, ketotifen and promethazine. These medicines may be used for their sedative effects should your sleep be disturbed by itching.

Non-sedating or second-generation antihistaminesare newer medicines which generally cause less drowsiness. However, anyone taking these medicines while performing skilled tasks – for example, driving – should be aware that a sedative effect may still occur and, in particular, in combination with alcohol. Second-generation antihistamines include acrivastine, cetirizine, desloratadine, fexofenadine, levocetirizine and loratadine and Chlorpheniramine.

Which is the best one?

 

All antihistamines work pretty well to reduce symptoms of allergy. Your healthcare provider may advise or prescribe a particular antihistamine depending on the cause of your allergy and on whether you require a sedating or non-sedating medicine. For example:

 

In general, antihistamines are probably roughly equally effective in reducing the symptoms of hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) and hives (urticaria). However, non-sedating antihistamines tend to be used more commonly as they cause less drowsiness.

Second-generation antihistamines are generally advised for most allergic situations as they cause less drowsiness.

Cetirizine, fexofenadine, or loratadine are often recommended for urticaria.

Antihistamine eye drops may be advised when itchy eyes are a particular problem – for example, azelastine eye drops or ketotifen drops. Opcon-A is the best choice!

A sedating antihistamine should never be used  at bedtime for children who have allergic symptoms. Cough medicines containing sedating antihistamines are not suitable for children under the age of 6 years, and a healthcare provider needs to  advise  for children between the ages of 6 and 12 years. More children die under the age of 2 from antihistamines than any other medication.  Just because it is sold on the shelf does not mean it is safe to use.

For other conditions, specific antihistamines may be used. For example, cyclizine and promethazine teoclate are used for feeling sick (nausea) and being sick (vomiting), not for hay fever. Chlorphenamine is the antihistamine most used in an emergency situation such as anaphylaxis, and may be given by injection in this situation. Diphenhydramine (Nytol®) is sold over the counter as a sleep remedy.  Never use Diphenhydramine, ever! If you are on blood pressure medications or any cardiac conditions, stoke, psych meds, COPD or congestive heart failure  medications.  Just to  name a few.   NEVER!

 

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Is Vaseline Good for Dry Skin?

Would you be excited to buy an inexpensive cream that helps your skin lock in natural moisture, relieves skin irritation and prevents wrinkles? You probably have it in your own home, petroleum jelly or more commonly known by the brand name Vaseline. Vaseline is a popular brand in most if not all homes. So, is Vaseline good for dry skin? This article answers this question and outlines other uses of this old petroleum jelly.

 

Is Vaseline Good for Dry Skin?

 

Petroleum jelly is an emollient and occlusive ointment which when applied leaves the skin soft and smooth. The skin tends to lose essential oils and transdermal water. Petroleum jelly prevents this loss and helps the skin retain its moisture. Hence, it is often referred to as a skin protectant or sealant in the cosmetics industry.

If you are still struggling with the question, is Vaseline good for dry skin? Here is the reason why you should try it. Vaseline petroleum jelly is made of mineral oil, paraffin and microcrystalline waxes. The three ingredients are blended together to form a smooth filling whose melting point is slightly above the normal body temperature. When this smooth filling melts, it flows to spaces between cells and covers the gaps in the skin’s lipid barrier. Once it solidifies, it acts as a sealant that prevents water loss. In addition, Vaseline protects your skin from the effects of harsh weather and contaminants.

 

How to Use Vaseline for Dry Skin

 

Step 1

 

Take a warm shower or bath for about 10 minutes or less. Do not exceed 10 minutes because your skin loses its natural moisture every time you take a long shower or bath.

 

Step 2

 

Use a fluffy towel to pat your skin gently. Do not leave your skin completely dry or rub it because rubbing irritates your face and leaves it dry.

 

Step 3

 

Use your fingers to apply petroleum jelly on your slightly moist and warm skin. Use circular motions to massage petroleum jelly into your cheeks, chin, forehead and motion. Your motions should be circular and gentle. Use long, upward strokes to apply petroleum jelly on your neck. Start from the lower part of your neck and move your fingers upwards to your chin. Continue massaging your skin until both your skin and fingers are dry.

 

Step 4

 

Repeat this process every time you take a shower or bath. You can also apply the jelly after cleansing your face to help your skin retain its natural moisture.

 

Step 5

 

Apply petroleum jelly on dry and chapped parts of your skin throughout the day.

 

Unexpected Ways of Using Vaseline

 

Having answered the question, is Vaseline good for dry skin? Let us look at other uses of Vaseline.

 

1. Vaseline Removes Lash Glue

 

You should remove false lashes before going to bed. Jugging them damages the delicate skin around your eyes. If some lash strips are stuck, apply Vaseline with a cotton swab on your lash line. Wait for a few minutes then peel them off gently.

 

2. Prevents Brows

 

You can use Vaseline to keep your brows including stubborn brows in place all day. Rub some petroleum jelly between two fingers then apply it on your arches.

3. To Conceal Split Ends

 

Split ends are not attractive. Applying a small of amount of Vaseline on split ends moisturizes and hides their appearance. You must be careful when applying Vaseline on your split ends because too much of it will make your hair look greasy and messy.

 

4. To Open Your Nail Polish Cap

 

You can open a stuck cap of your polish without damaging your nails or hurting your fingers. Applying Vaseline on the bottle’s thread makes it open easily.

 

5. Vaseline Heals Sunburns

 

Sometimes we forget to apply sunscreen when at the beach or basking in the sun. Exposing your skin to the sun for long hours leaves it red and is sometimes painful. Applying Vaseline to sunburns helps your skin lock in moisture and prevents peeling.

 

6. It Makes Your Lashes Conspicuous

 

If you prefer minimal beauty products on your face, you can use Vaseline to make your lashes look shiny and thicker. Vaseline makes your lashes look longer and more luminous, and grow faster.

 

7. Vaseline Can Be Used on Your Nails

 

Rubbing Vaseline on your nails several times in a day softens and improves the appearance of your cuticles. When used in a manicure, Vaseline makes your cuticles pliable when tending back. It is an excellent care for your fingertips and restores the glisten and shine on your nail polish.

 

8. Use for Your Teeth

 

Most people think that Vaseline is only used on skin. Applying Vaseline on teeth is an old trick that was used to make dancers and performers enthusiastic about grinning. Today, applying jelly on your teeth is a beauty tip that prevents your lips from sticking onto your teeth. You can use this tip when applying your lipstick to ensure that the lipstick does not get to your teeth. Only a small of amount of jelly would do.

 

9. Vaseline for Hair Use

 

Applying Vaseline on hair has several benefits. It helps your hair lock in moisture and treats a dry scalp. Vaseline should be used sparingly on hair because it is difficult to wash out. It helps reduce scaling and itching caused by dandruff. When using Vaseline for this purpose, apply it on your scalp and rub it in gently before shampooing your hair.

 

Applying a mask of Vaseline along your hairline protects your skin against harmful hair dyes and the effects of perming and straightening chemicals. Vaseline is also used in place of styling gel. Rub a small amount of the jelly on your hands and apply it thoroughly on your hair.

 

10. Heals and Prevents Rashes Due to Chaffing

 

When tackling the question, is Vaseline good for dry skin? We discovered that Vaseline protects and heals the skin. Many people suffer from rashes caused by chaffing. Vaseline prevents this condition. Runners and cyclists use the jelly on their thighs to protect their skin from rashes. You can use Vaseline to prevent nipple chaffing or as a protecting coat for any part of your body.

 

When not to use Vaseline

If you are having any problems with infertility, menstrual problems, accelerated aging, allergies, and autoimmune problems as well as nutrient deficiencies, sleep problems and even some types of cancers, then I would recommend Coconut Oil only.

 

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Foods that Balance Hormones in Women

Foods That Balance Hormones in Females

 

Here’s our top list of foods that help to balance hormones in females.Make sure you include at least 3 items from the list mention below in your daily diet.

 

1. Whey Protein

 

Apart from giving your body a dose of protein, whey protein happens to be a wonderful source of tryptophan, which helps reduce stress and anxiety felt by the body by increasing your serotonin levels.

 

2. Flaxseeds

Rich in compounds like phytoestrogen and lignans, flaxseeds not only help maintain your hormonal levels but also fight against cancers like colon, prostrate and breast.

 

3. Avocados

 

Avocados are hands down one of the best foods that balance hormones in females. Listed below are some of their many wonderful properties:

 

They balance the production of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone.

They lower blood cholesterol levels due to the presence of beta-sitosterol in them (avocados).

They help increase the production of a hormone called DHEA, which is produced by the adrenal gland.

4. Green Tea

 

Green tea contains a naturally occurring compound known as theanine, which inhibits the release of cortisol. This in turn keeps your stress and anxiety levels to a minimum. Do not take this if you have and blood pressure , cardiac, sleep disorders or are pregnant.

 

5. Coconut Oil

Try and opt for coconut oil as your cooking medium. Don’t believe stories that it’s bad for your heart. Quite the opposite – not only does it work wonders for your hormonal levels, but also keeps your blood sugar under control, increases your immunity, helps with weight loss and improves your metabolism.

 

 

6. Broccoli

 

Broccoli contains high amounts of isothiocyanates, including indole-3-carbinol, which makes broccoli an excellent option for keeping your hormones under control. How? Well, they help your body in breaking down harmful metabolites that otherwise encourage the growth of tumors, especially in your breast area, which also happens to be sensitive to estrogen. Apart from broccoli, veggies like kale, Brussel sprouts and cauliflower give you the same benefits as broccoli does.

 

7. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are one of the best sources of omega-3 out there, as well as fiber. Apart from lowering your blood sugar levels, these seeds help you with your blood pressure and insulin levels as well. When it comes to foods that balance hormones in females, none is as versatile as chia seeds – you can add them to practically any food item, whip up a new dish, and consume it on the go!

 

8. Organic Apples

 

Did you know that continued consumption of apples reduces not only your chances of developing medical problems (osteoporosis, heart disease and cancer), but also help keep Type 2 Diabetes in control? It is all thanks to the flavonoid quercetin present in apples, which happen to be naturally occurring antihistamines. Apples also, you know, contain Phytoestrogens, which are more commonly known as plant derived estrogen.

 

9. Chaste Berry

 

By stimulating the pituitary gland, chaste berries mimic the effect that progesterone has on the human body. It helps in the regulation of progesterone and estrogen production in your body, which is why it’s considered to be a great natural remedy for the treatment of problems related to PMS.

 

Other Ways to Naturally Balance Hormones in Females

Apart from consuming foods that balance hormones in females,here are other things you can take care of to maintain a healthy balance of hormones inside your body:

 

1. Making Changes in Your Food Habits

 

These are all pretty standard and obvious things, but they still need to be said:

 

Eat 4-5 small meals instead of 3 big ones.

Eat smaller portions of food.

Include green veggies and fresh fruits in your diet. If fresh fruits aren’t an option, then stock up on frozen fruits.

Packaged foods/meals are a big no.

Drink lots of water. Never skimp on it.

Eat food at regular intervals.

Never skip your breakfast.

Maintain a meal diary to see where you’re over eating, and where you’re lagging.

2. Use Herbs as Condiments

 

Just make sure you’re opting for phytoestrogenic herbs, as they contain compounds that are high in estrogen. When consumed, they lower your body’s pressure of producing more estrogen by providing the aid hormone directly to your body via food.

 

3. Limit Your Caffeine and Alcohol Intake

 

Apart from having diuretic properties (aka making you dehydrated), such drinks provide an instant boost to your mind and body at a cost – by permanently changing the way your brain uses your body’s hormones. Plus, drinking alcohol heavily leads to an overproduction of estrogen by your body.

 

4. Exercise Regularly

Why? Because your body releases endorphins ie the happy hormones when you work out, and true to their name, these endorphins help instantly lift your mood and make you feel better. They also keep your cortisol levels (a hormone known to increase stress) at bay.

 

5. Other Tips

 

Increase vitamins and minerals in your diet. Vitamins like Zinc, B6, magnesium and vitamin D help your body maintain healthy hormone levels.

Have a regular sleep cycle. This will help restore your hormonal cycles by allowing your body to function normally, so much so that you don’t have to completely be dependent on foods that balance hormones in females.

 

 

Call us if you need a personalized healthcare plan.  No one is like any other person, we are all unique, and have our own DNA.  Females should not eat the same foods, or some types of food as men.

 

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How to Prevent an Inguinal Hernia

How to Prevent Inguinal Hernia

With knowledge about inguinal hernia anatomy, you can understand what you can do to prevent it from happening in the first place. What you should understand is that you cannot do much about the congenital defect that increases your risk for developing inguinal hernia. Here are some steps you can take to keep things under control.

You should be active and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the exercise you can or cannot do in your condition.

You should work with a healthcare provider to help you make a diet plan. There is no set plan for any one person. Depending on location, and sleep patterns, and medication, each person needs a personalized healthcare plan. As always though, be sure to eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains that contain dietary fiber.

It is important to prevent straining and constipation to avoid making your hernias worse. Properly taking the correct supplements is important.

Avoid heavy lifting as much as possible. If you really need to do some lifting, bend from your knees. Never bend from your waist or you will end up making things worse.

You need to avoid smoking because it will cause a chronic cough that can aggravate an inguinal hernia.

You need to bear in mind that when you have inguinal hernias, you cannot correct this situation with a supportive garment designed to keep hernias in place. You should wear it though if your doctor has asked you to wear it for a short time before your surgery.

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1 in 5 Have Been Hit by a Medical Error

1 in 5 Have Been Hit By a Medical Error, Survey Shows

 

One-fifth of American adults have been at the receiving end of a medical error, a new survey finds.

 

The nationwide poll included more than 2,500 adults. The survey also found that one in three people said another person whose care they were closely involved with had experienced a medical error.

 

Most medical errors were associated with diagnosis and patient-provider communications. Outpatient settings were a common site of medical errors.

 

On average, respondents who experienced a medical error identified at least seven different factors that caused the error. Nearly half of those who noted an error told medical staff or other workers at the health care facility about it.

 

Most people feel that health care providers have the prime responsibility for patient safety. But survey participants also said that patients and their families have a role, too.

 

Still, most people said they didn’t worry personally about patient safety, the survey found.

 

When medical errors occur, they often have lasting impact on the patient’s physical and emotional health, finances, or family relationships.

 

The survey was done by the IHI/NPSF Lucian Leape Institute and NORC at the University of Chicago.

 

“The survey results show that Americans recognize that patient safety is a critically important, but complex, issue,” Dr. Tejal Gandhi, chief clinical and safety officer, IHI, and president of the IHI/NPSF Lucian Leape Institute, said in an organization news release.

 

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Surviving Heart Attack Often Means Leaving Job Behind

Surviving Heart Attack Often Means Leaving Job Behind

 

Recovering from a heart attack can be a long, painful process, and now a new study finds that almost one-quarter of those patients who returned to work ultimately left their jobs over the following year.

 

The findings suggest that “even though patients return to work after a heart attack, they may still require individual adjustments at their workplaces in order to stay employed,” said study author Dr. Laerke Smedegaard Petersen. She is a graduate student at Copenhagen University Hospital in Denmark.

 

An estimated 676,000 people in the United States survive heart attacks each year, according to the American Heart Association. Many survivors are of working age: The average age of heart attack is 65 for men and 72 for women, the association says.

 

The new study examined the medical and work records of over 22,000 patients in Denmark who were employed before suffering heart attacks between 1997 and 2012.

 

Of those, 91 percent returned to work within a year. But within a year of going back to work, 24 percent of the patients had left their jobs. That’s three times the normal rate of leaving a job, the researchers reported. It’s not clear, however, whether the heart attack survivors quit their jobs, or were fired or laid off.

 

Patients aged 30 to 39 and 60 to 65, and those who had heart failure, diabetes or depression, were especially likely to leave their jobs. Workers with higher incomes and more education were more likely to stay on the job, the findings showed.

 

Petersen said the percentage of heart attack patients who return to work and then leave their jobs may be even higher in the United States.

 

“In Denmark, all citizens have equal access to health care and all patients receive treatment free of charge,” she explained.

One U.S. expert said the findings are sobering.

 

“The study is an important reminder that recovery is often measured in months and years, not just weeks,” said Dr. Harlan Krumholz, director of the Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation at Yale-New Haven Hospital in Connecticut.

 

“To understand the impact of a heart attack requires that we fully understand people’s roles and function. We should study how best to help people fully resume their prior activities and have the choice as to whether they want to continue working,” Krumholz explained.

 

Karina Davidson, executive director of Columbia University’s Center for Behavioral Cardiovascular Health, said fatigue and an inability to perform manual labor are some of the reasons why heart attack survivors leave their jobs.

 

“Patients after a heart attack do indeed have a long road to recovery, and cardiac rehabilitation, strong family support and follow-up with their medical care are important components to ensure the best recovery possible,” she said. “Returning to work full-time will be realistic for some patients, but not for all.”

 

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Avoid All Alcohol Helps the Heart Beat Better

Avoiding All Alcohol Helps the Heart Beat Better

 

The longer you refrain from drinking, the lower your risk of a common heart rhythm disorder.

 

That’s the message of a new long-range study examining alcohol use and atrial fibrillation, or Afib. This is when electrical impulses in the upper chambers of the heart are chaotic and cause an irregular heartbeat, which increases the risk of blood clots that can cause stroke or heart attacks.

 

One in four adults older than 40 is at risk for Afib, and nearly 6 million people in the United States could have the condition by 2050.

 

But the researchers from the University of California, San Francisco found that every decade of non-drinking decreased the risk of Afib by 20 percent, regardless of the type of alcohol.

Women who drink in any amount before conception and during pregnancy will cause a higher risk of problems for your infant.

 

The study included heart-risk data generated over 25 years on more than 15,000 American adults

 

Past drinkers were at increased risk for Afib, the researchers found. Every additional decade in which alcohol was consumed in the past was associated with a 13 percent increased risk of Afib, and every additional drink per day during former drinking was associated with a 4 percent increased risk.

 

“For a disease that affects millions and is one of the most important causes of stroke, identifying modifiable risk factors is especially important,” study senior author Dr. Gregory Marcus said in a UCSF news release. He directs clinical research at the university’s division of cardiology.

 

“Future research may help identify patients particularly prone to alcohol-related [Afib], and, when done, targeted counseling to those patients may be especially effective,” he added.

 

“Our finding suggests there may be chronic cardiac remodeling effects from alcohol that don’t rely on alcohol as an acute trigger, and further research into why this occurs is needed,” Marcus concluded.

 

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Dr C Carney

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https://www.facebook.com/HealthAndWellnessAssociates/

healthwellnessassociates@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

Chinese Chicken Broccoli : Paleo Friendly

Paleo Chinese Chicken and Broccoli

 

Ingredients

 

4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets

4 teaspoons canola oil

1 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

1 cup 1/4-inch-thick half-moon slices onion

2 tablespoons minced ginger (about a 1-inch piece)

6 cloves garlic, minced

4 whole small dried chiles or 1/2 teaspoon chile oil

1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut in 1-inch cubes

4 teaspoons cashew butter

3 tablespoons tamari

1/2 cup unsalted whole cashews

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

 

Directions

 

Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook until bright green and tender-crisp, about 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

 

Heat the canola and sesame oils in a large nonstick skillet set over medium heat. Add the onions, ginger, garlic and chiles and sauté until the onions are soft, 3 to 5 minutes. Increase the heat to medium-high, add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

 

In a small bowl, whisk the cashew butter and tamari and pour into the skillet, stirring to remove any lumps. Add the chicken back in the pan, stir in the broccoli and cashews, and stir to heat through and completely coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

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