Maple Leaf Meds Health Guide

Complete Nutrition Findings of 2011

By jmullen | Published: December 30, 2011

2011 was a year of optimum nutrition controversy. There was a worldwide consensus that people need to include more fruits and vegetables in their diet. In Canada, only forty three percent of Canadians, aged twelve and older, manage to eat more than five servings of fruits and vegetable per day. The US saw the Obama administration attempting to tackle school lunch programs, aiming to help children and teens eat better, to reach optimum nutrition. In response, the US congress introduced a spending bill that sought to keep pizza on school lunch menus by deeming it a “vegetable.” This is because the bill allows pizza to qualify as a serving of vegetables since it contains two tablespoons of tomato paste. Evidently, this controversial ruling was widely criticized. Two tablespoons of tomato paste does not contain the nutrients seen in vegetables like broccoli or carrots.

In addition to news about food, 2011 also witnessed some news about supplements and vitamins, which were internationally recognized as necessary to reach complete nutrition requirements. Specifically, calcium supplements were scientifically linked to heart attacks. This is troubling, since calcium supplements are frequently taken by women to protect bones. In the study, women were given calcium and vitamin D supplements to asses risk of hip fracture. Those women who began taking calcium supplements for the study, and who did not take the supplements prior to the study, were at a greater risk of a heart attack. The medical researchers speculate that this is because a sudden change in calcium blood levels can clog arteries and lead to a heart attack. Therefore, instead of reaching for the vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis related fractures, consider trying a prescription drug, such as Estrace.

However, calcium supplements were not the only nutritional supplements to receive a bad reputation. Vitamin E, once thought to guard against prostate cancer, actually slightly increases the risk. The medical study found that prostate cancer rate was 17 percent greater in the group that took vitamin E, which was deemed as statistically significant. There was no increased risk when vitamin E and selenium were taken together. The study suggests that high-dose vitamin supplements may be harmful.

With all the above in mind, venture into the new year with a mindset to optimize nutritional intake, by eating lots of “real” fruits and vegetables, and with a new awareness of some potentially hazardous vitamin supplements. Instead of high-dose vitamins, look for normal dose and reliable vitamins, such as A Day Fruit Essentials Gummy

Posted in food safety, medicine | Tagged complete nutrition, hip fracture, optimum nutrition, vitamin supplements | Comments closed

10 Ways to Reduce Anxiety

By Kcondon | Published: October 31, 2011

Anxiety is a mood condition which can be caused by different psychological, biological and individual factors. Anxiety is a broad term; there are specific disorders, (anxiety disorders) that fall into this category. Some common ones include: panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), phobias, obsessive anxiety disorder, (OCD) and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you suffer from anxiety, whether mild or severe, and would like help to eliminate it, here are several ways to reduce your anxiety and keep you relaxed:

Take a walk or exercise. Step outside and walk, freeing your mind of any problems. Don’t think about where you’re going, just let your feet take you there as you enjoy the scenery. Stretching can ease the tension in your body. It also prevents injury. It is good to stretch before bed to leave your body and mind ready for a great night’s sleep. Working out can also relax your mind as you focus on the task at hand and think of every motion your body is making.

Do breathing exercises. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Slowly inhale from your nose and exhale from your mouth. Feel your diaphragm move up into the ribcage and drop back down. Take five to ten minutes to do this and simply let all your problems disappear. Aromatherapy also helps reduce anxiety. Breathe in the fragrances and allow them to liven your mood. Whether you fill your house with Glad fresheners, candles, potpourri or even incense, be sure to let these smells captivate you and relax your mind.

Meditate or get a Massage. Meditation is a great way to clear your mind of its problems. Take the time to appreciate life. When you open your mind to the good things in the world it is easier for you to feel happy about your life. Massages also help to clear the mind and relax the muscles. Enjoy the time and allow yourself to be pampered; it doesn’t happen often!

Listen to some music. Put on some relaxing music, or your favorite songs, and simply sit in a chair listening to them. Do not start working; do not start cooking; just let your mind get swept away by the message and tune you are listening to.

Read a good book or write your own words down. A good book can transport you into someone else’s mind or give you the opportunity to learn about things that interest you. This helps you to forget about your problems. Simply pay attention to the material that is right in front of you. Do not let in any problems but those in the book.

Have some chocolate. Chocolate is proven to release phenylethylamine in the brain which can cause changes in blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Once changed, these levels can lead to feelings of alertness and excitement. Chocolate can lower your depression and increase your mood.

Clean and remove the clutter. Clutter creates confusion and chaos; if your environment is cluttered, stress can increase and that leads to anxiety. Clear your cluttered house and clear the clutter in your mind. Feng Shui is a great way to make your house more serene and relaxed.

Use guided imagery. This exercise is a way to visually calm yourself by simply closing your eyes and imagining a place where you feel relaxed, whether it is the beach, a grassy field, or enjoying a beautiful sunset. Wherever it is, find a place that you enjoy and visualize it. The important part of this exercise is to try your best to visualize the scenery and escape to that picture.

Go near or in water. You can lie by the pool or walk by the beach, take a hot bath, or even soak your feet in a foot bath. Water has a calming effect. Be consumed by it and try to relax. Taking a hot bath can help loosen your muscles and soothe you, especially if you put on some music and place candles around you. Foot baths can also work; add some flowers, like lavender petals, and relax. Take this time to pamper yourself and do not rush, or you will become more agitated.

Try to avoid caffeine. It may be tough, but it will be beneficial in the long run for you to reduce your caffeine onsumption. Caffeine makes your mood heightened and when you crash from caffeine high you are more susceptible to feelings of anxiety or depression. Try green tea as a healthy alternative to your morning cup of coffee!

Posted in anxiety | Tagged anxiety, panic attacks, reduce anxiety, relaxing | Comments closed

FDA and FTC Now Stopping the Sales of False STD Medication

By Kcondon | Published: August 28, 2011

A rule that we have all heard but some may have not followed is that “You shouldn’t always believe what you hear on the internet”. When you get information on the internet you should always make sure it’s from a credible site. Unfortunately, some people don’t know this yet, or are very gullible, so in turn they suffer the consequences. The most devastating can be when the lies are told in the pharmaceutical industry. A recent report has come out by the FDA and FTC that 11 companies in the US are falsely advertising claims that their drugs can cure and prevent STDs.

Firstly, you should know that there are no over the counter meds, online drugs or supplements available to treat or prevent STDs. The web sites promised their products will cure HIV, herpes, Chlamydia, and other sexually transmitted disease. However, these diseases are not curable. There is no medication to help lessen its symptoms or prevent the STD from occurring. Drugs such as Medavir, Herpaflor, Viruxo, C-Cure, and Never an Outbreak are a few that are being advertised. Online claims can be ridiculous but still scam some people. For example, a Texas based company says their product “oil of oregano” can be used to treat/cure AIDS, anthrax, genital herpes, gonorrhea and syphilis. If you are looking for safe medication that will help reduce outbreaks for herpes then Zovirax, Famvir, and Valtrex may help to treat herpes.

When you buy medication make sure the people selling it to you are properly licensed, and always do some background research. The best thing to do is consult your doctor and bring up the drug you are interested in so the drug can be discussed. The FDA has announced the companies have 15 days to correct any violations, or face “legal action, including seizure and injunction, or criminal prosecution”. The FDA also announced that “It is unlawful… to advertise that a product can prevent, treat, or cure human disease unless you possess competent and reliable scientific evidence, including, when appropriate, well-controlled human clinical studies, substantiating that the claims are true at the time they are made”. It is critically important to research STD medication for both yours and your partner’s protection.

Posted in medicine | Tagged buy medication, safe medication, STD medication, treat herpes | Comments closed

Who’s Walking?

By Kcondon | Published: July 28, 2011

Although everyone knows that exercise is extremely important for our health, who is really changing their lifestyle and how much physical activity do they do? Compared to 2001, Americans made 17 more walks in 2009 which is increase of approximately 9 miles. The percentage of people who walked more than 30 minutes increased from 7.2% in 2001 to 8% in 2009.

Despite this minor change, it is men, middle aged people, people who are employed, educated, and people without cars who are walking more. Women, children, and seniors are vulnerable while walking thus putting them in danger which causes a decrease in activity. Public transportation also influences how much people are walking. When taking public transport, people walk to the stops and to a destination at the end of a trip. The use of sidewalks and bike lines also influences how much a person walks. When there are no sidewalks or no proper bike lane, it reduces people’s opportunity to be more active.

In order to increase the amount of daily physical activity, changes must be made. It is important to target women, children, and seniors in these changes because they need that extra step to be protected when they are trying to enjoy the outdoors. Another change that is required is an improvement in sidewalks, bike lanes, and public transportation. Improving these factors increases the chance of people getting out and living healthy lifestyles and reducing obesity in the US.

About 75% of walking trips and 50% of cycling trips in 2009 were for practical purposes such as going to work, school, a friend’s house, or when using public transportation. The increased number of people cycling resulted in the biggest change in daily physical exercise .Cycling in the US rose from 43% to 51%.

Physical activity is crucial in staying healthy or reducing weight. A minimum of 30 minutes of cardiovascular activities at least 4 days a week is the key to staying healthy. However, if you are trying to lose weight, your goal is to burn more calories than you eat so taking longer walks is a good idea! In order to stay healthy, make sure to maintain a healthy diet as well as getting exercise but remember to have fun while doing it!

Posted in Health | Tagged exercise, healthy living, reducing obesity, trying to lose weight, walking | Comments closed

Fighting Mother Nature with Mother Nature

By Kcondon | Published: July 21, 2011

An allergy occurs because of hypersensitivity to a particular allergen, with the symptoms varying upon ones sensitivity. An allergic relief is the body’s way of combating the allergen. What results is an excess inflammation of chemicals such as histamine, which is produced from the body’s mast cells. The inflammation brings upon watery eyes, red eyes, skin rashes, runny nose and sneezing.

The most popular and easiest way to combat the dreaded allergies one experiences is by using allergy medications. This, however, is not necessarily the best way to deal with allergies. In the game of allergy relief, slow and steady wins the race. The best way to deal with ones allergic problems is to take the natural allergy relief route. The saying “fight fire with fire” can be applied to allergies as well – “fight mother nature with mother nature”.

By taking natural remedies, one is building up a strong immune system defense. A stronger immune system will mean diminished allergic symptoms and a greater chance of not being affected as easily. The best known remedies are vitamin C for allergies, and any natural remedies for allergies. For example, Omega-3 fatty acids aren’t just a great source of healthy fats; they also reduce the production of prostaglandin E2 and inflammatory cytokines which are inflammatory chemicals in the body. Fish oil capsules, Flaxseed oil, and Walnuts are the best way to get the fighting power of omega-3 fatty acid. It’s ironic that the some plants can cause people allergies but also some plants can relieve people of their allergies. Here are some of the most effective plant based remedies. The herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus) is a shrub like plant that, when extracted, helps lower allergy sensitivity. However, it should be used with caution as it may have other side effects. Nettle (Urtica dioica) has historically proven to be a great seasonal allergy remedy. Ephedra has been a very popular Chinese herb for more than 5,000, years treating bronchial and inflammatory disorders. Just remember Mother Nature is on your side so use what she gives you and remember a vitamin for allergies a day will help keep the dry eyes, red eyes, skin rashes, runny nose and sneezing away.

Posted in allergy | Tagged immune system defense, natural allergy relief, natural remedies for allergies, vitamin C for allergies | Comments closed

Operation Medicine Cabinet Has Been A Success In Curbing OTC and Prescription Drug Abuse

By Kcondon | Published: June 30, 2011

Throughout the United States more cities have been taking place in an event known as Operation Medicine Cabinet. OMC is a “take back” program that allows people to get rid of their unnecessary or expired prescription and over-the-counter medication. The event takes place at certain local drug stores and is open to anyone during the specified time and day. All the events are monitored by the local law enforcement and have been extremely successful throughout the country.

Over the counter and prescription drug abuse is on a rapid rise, especially amongst teenagers. Abusers of OTC medication either buy medication, because it is legal, or steal from others medicine cabinets. The most common abused prescription medications are opioids which treat pain, CNS depressants which treat anxiety and sleep disorder and finally stimulants which treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Dextromethorphan (DXM) is the main ingredient found in OTC cough and cold medications. Dextromethorphan overdose is what gives the mind altering effect abusers look for. Abuse of prescription medication is relatively new but already has made a large impact on society. In a survey it is estimated 6.9 million people (2.8% of the population) aged 12 or older used prescription medication for non-medical purposes. This activity leads to “pharm parties” where people would bring in prescription medication and mix it. Then the party members would consume the drugs. The abuse leads to dizziness, nausea, impaired judgment, hot flushes, hallucinations, seizures, brain damage, and death.

It is important to educate your children about the dangers of over the counter drug abuse. Look for signs of abuse in your kids and keep a strict tab on the contents of your medicine cabinet. That is why having events like Operation Medicine Cabinet are so important because they help curb over-the-counter and prescription drug abuse by giving you an opportunity to safely remove your medication.

Posted in medicine | Tagged medicine cabinet, operation medicine cabinet, OTC medication | Comments closed

Health Effects of Mobile Phones

By Kcondon | Published: May 24, 2011

The rise of cell phones has created concerns mobile phones and their effects on our health. While there have been no completed long term studies on the effects of cell phones, a recent study discovered links between psychosocial aspects of mobile phone use and mental health symptoms.

The study began with a questionnaire at baseline given to young adults aged between 20 and 24 years old and then a 1 year follow up. The questionnaire varied from frequency of use, to stressfulness of accessibility, personal overuse, being awakened by a mobile phone at night, and demands of availability.

The outcome of this study consisted of cross sectional associations between high and low mobile phone use. When excluding reports from respondents at baseline about mental illnesses, the high mobile phone use was linked with symptoms of depression, sleep disorders, and stress. Moreover, this study showed a greater association with stress and sleeping disorders in women, while a high rate of accessibility stress was connected to depression, symptoms of stress, and sleep disturbance in both men and women.

Furthermore, there have been many assumptions as to what effects mobile phones have on our health. Other studies demonstrate other possible hazards of mobile phone use such as how exposure to mobile phones can hinder a safety barrier in the blood causing a leak in the brain of toxins. Also, low level radiation can case blood cells to seep hemoglobin which can cause heart disease and kidney stones. Another study shows that 50 minutes or more of cell phone use can cause a rise in glucose in areas around the brain.

It is good to be aware of how much time you spend on a mobile phone. Children with cell phones or who use cell phones a lot are at risk of health problems linked to radiation. Since a child’s brain is still developing and their tissue is thinner, they absorb twice as much radiation as an adult. Being on the phone all day is not a problem for many people, it’s being connected to what is happening and being available to everyone just a dial away. When people have to shut their phones off, they start to suffer symptoms of anxiety since they cannot keep checking to see if they have any voicemails or text messages. Putting your phone away or shutting it off for a bit will not harm anyone. Just remember, when you turn it back on, all your messages will still be there!

Posted in Health | Tagged mobile phones, phone health issues, symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of depression, symptoms of stress | Comments closed

Seasonal Allergy Diagnosis

By Paul | Published: May 16, 2011

Spring has arrived and already left allergy sufferers with a runny nose, itchy eyes, as well as other symptoms of hay fever. Hay fever has symptoms that closely resemble those of the common cold. It is for this reason that many allergy sufferers are not getting professional help. “Uhh, I just have a cold,” is the thought that runs though most people’s minds.

What people don’t seem to realize is that the longer one is in the presence of an allergen, the worse the symptoms become. An allergen is the substance that causes an allergic reaction. For example, pollen is an allergen common to many people. Due to the serious consequences an allergy can have, diagnosis is very important.

In general, allergies tend to occur in the spring and fall, whereas colds tend to occur in the winter. In addition, even though the symptoms of allergies and the common cold are pretty much identical, the occurrence of the symptoms varies. For example, with allergies people tend to experience symptoms all at once. When one has a cold, symptoms tend to progress. For example, a sick child may first experience sneezing and then become congested over time.
Despite the information provided above, seasonal allergies and the common cold can be very difficult to distinguish between. Thus, making professional care necessary. Diagnosis of allergies consists of a physical exam. Skin tests are usually performed to test for allergies. Once the cause of the allergy is found, a doctor can proceed in terms of allergy treatment.

The skin tests cause little discomfort unless there is a positive reaction to the allergen. A positive reaction means you are allergic to the particular allergen tested for. A negative reaction to the allergen indicates that the allergen has no effect on you. It is recommended that people get tested if they are not sure what they are affected by.

Posted in allergy | Tagged allergen, allergy, seasonal allergies | Comments closed

Birth Control Pills Surfing High

By Janine | Published: March 31, 2011

student birth control Ten years ago, many college women who bought contraceptives only spent $7. However, nowadays popular brand names, such as YAZ are more than $50 per month. So what has changed?

In 2005, a Deficit Reduction Act was introduced. This Act removed a college health center’s ability to give birth control pills to students at a discounted rate, a service which had been offered for more than 20 years. In 2009, President Barack Obama signed a revised Deficit Reduction Act of 2009, which allowed college health centers to resell discounted contraceptives to students; however, it is dependent on whether drug companies will offer such low prices. So far, no attempts have been made from manufactures to lower their prices for birth control pills. Some pharmacists believe that manufacturers are more interested in spending money on advertising and offering voucher cards than providing discounts. Voucher cards are given to potential buyers for discounts on a certain brand of contraceptive; however it is only available for a limited amount of time. Manufacturers hope that when these voucher cards expire, patients will keep on buying the product regardless of an increase in the price. Many women are dependent on college health centers for discounted prices of contraceptives since they offer privacy and affordability. Due to the recent increase in price, many women are faced with the decision of involving their parents for insurance coverage or going without contraceptives.

Posted in Health | Tagged benefits of zinc, zinc | Leave a comment

Novartis Smart-pill could be watching you Soon

By sgordon | Published: February 14, 2011

Novartis says it plans to submit its pill containing a microchip to European regulators within 18 months.

The “smart-pill” is a silicon and metal digestible tablet with a sensor in it. The pill is activated by stomach acid after being ingested and it is able to transmit data using wireless or Blue-tooth connections to a patch worn by the patient. From there the data is sent to a doctor’s smart phone or computer.

Novartis is using this technology on a drug that has already been approved used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients. Novartis is attempting to incorporate this sensor-based technology into other medications, such as medication for cardiovascular problems, and medication for tumours.

It is anticipated that once the sensor-based technology is approved, the Smart Pill will be used in other drugs. In the future, variations on the Smart Pill will be able to collect data on a patient, instead of just helping treat already known problems. The Smart Pill will be able to collect data on the patient’s heart rate, body movement and temperature. Being able to collect information like this will also allow the pill to tell how well a drug is working.

The company spent 24 million dollars on exclusive worldwide rights to using sensor-based technology. There is plenty of fierce competition to bring an “intelligent” drug to the market. A company known as Philips is still working on the “IntelliCap” which was first showcased in 2008.

Posted in Health | Tagged digestible, medication, microchip, pill, smart pill, stomach acid | Comments closed

Complete Nutrition Findings of 2011

10 Ways to Reduce Anxiety

FDA and FTC Now Stopping the Sales of False STD Medication

Who’s Walking?

Fighting Mother Nature with Mother Nature

Operation Medicine Cabinet Has Been A Success In Curbing OTC and Prescription Drug Abuse

Health Effects of Mobile Phones

Seasonal Allergy Diagnosis

Birth Control Pills Surfing High

Novartis Smart-pill could be watching you Soon

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