What You Want to Know About Reflexology Massage

By Claudine Balsells

Reflexology is another type of massage which is supposed to relieve tension in the body. Another name for reflexology is zone therapy. Reflexology is more focused on the hands and feet. It is believed that by massaging certain points on the hands and feet that it will induce relaxation to other parts of the body. There is no unified theory of reflexology massage so there are different practitioners work reflexology massage and different ways.

However, there are some common areas that are acknowledged. Most practitioners agree that certain areas of the hands and feet correspond to different parts of the body. Reflexology targets these particular areas of the hands and feet. It is thought by manipulating these areas that they can affect other parts of the body. Reflexology is classified as an alternative health since there are no practical studies that have been undertaken to validate these traditions.

Reflexology has been practiced throughout the ages. It can be traced as far back as 2330 B. C. The Egyptians have left evidence of the connections of reflexology and their links to other parts of the body. One of the more noted researchers is Eunice Ingham. Her first reflexology works were published between 1938 and 1942 throughout the world.

The Ingham method of reflexology is used primarily for releasing tension in the body. This method is good for reducing stiffness from stress. Many health professionals agree that stress is one of the biggest contributors to health problems. This method of reflexology is used improve nerve and blood supply while also relieving stress.

Some of the good things of reflexology are that it is a natural treatment and has no known side effects. Since the main focus is on the feet and hands, the release of muscle tension is important. The body also relaxes when reflexology is given to the hands and feet.

There is a certification board for practitioners of reflexology. The main certification board is the Reflexology Association of America. This certification board was established in 1995. It is responsible for setting the guidelines for reflexology standards.

Reflexology massage is interesting assets only apply to mainly the hands and feet. This has made it somewhat difficult for practitioners to only specialize and this technique. As massage gains more notoriety as a natural treatment, reflexology will also increase in popularity.

There isn't a lot of research on reflexology. This area is starting to get more attention with the emphasis on more natural therapies. You can find some further research at Reflexology Association of America. Most of their research is around pain control.

For further research, look for pain control or nausea control. Many times reflexology is used as part of a variety of treatments. Reflexology is good for reducing stiffness and tension in the body. It will be quite exciting to start to see some clinical studies being done for reflexology. There are many natural treatments that have yet to be validated by medical science.

Reflexology is a field of many traditions. Although there is a main certification board, many operate outside of this particular board. There are many diverse practices of reflexology but, nowadays all come back to the connection between the hands and feet and the rest of the body. Like many traditional fields, the light of science is slowly beginning to rise. - 17273

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Obtaining Correct Nutrition From Feeding Tube Formulas

By Chris Channing

Not being able to swallow could mean that you would have to invest in feeding tube options, whether temporary or permanent. Feeding tubes take careful maintenance, but so too does the nutrition content that you feed into the patient's body. It's important to know what type of nutrition the person needs.

Be sure that you obtain a formula that is designed for feeding tube usage. Some formulas may be too thick for the feeding tube, which can be surprisingly small. The correct formula should be more liquid than semi-liquid to prevent clogging of the tube, which can obviously turn into a bad scenario. Obtaining a formula that doesn't leave residue is also quite important for sanitation issues.

It is considered sanitary to flush the tube before and after you make use of a feeding tube formula. The first reason this is good is because it hydrates you. It's best to use purified water to help clean out the inside of the tube. If you would require a more intensive clean, you can use a type of cola or soda to help clean the inside with carbonation. Just be sure to insert a second flush of water to also help clean out all the residue that the soda leaves behind.

The correct nutritional formula should have plenty of carbohydrates, proteins, and minerals so that you will be able to have all the benefits of eating food normally without having to do so. Be careful to find a formula that doesn't contain a large percentage of carbohydrate-based calories, however, as such formulas could inhibit more of a glycemic response in some feeding tube patients.

Formulas should have a healthy supply of fiber so that normal bowel function can be maintained. Diets without fiber can quickly result in more health problems in addition to those already being observed. Due to the nature of the feeding, those who use feeding tubes may not have normal bowel movements so this is an important aspect of feeding tube formulas to remember.

If you have been told that you must be put on a feeding tube formula, do consult a dieting professional so that you can balance out your calories. Taking in too many can cause a build up in energy, which results in weight gain. Too little can starve the body of its nutrients, which is equally unhealthy. In addition, some conditions require certain nutrients and others seek to avoid them.

Closing Comments

Maintaining a good health while not being able to chew or swallow food is important. Do keep in mind that feeding tube formulas vary wildly based on what they were created for, and who they were created for. Ask for additional assistance for more information. - 17273

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Throw Out the Weeds, Not Your Back!

By Dr. Jason Fowler

As springtime approaches, weather warms up and leaves turn green, many people will spend more time outside planting bulbs, cutting the grass and pulling weeds. Gardening can provide a great workout, but with all the bending, twisting, reaching and pulling, your body may not be ready for exercise of the garden variety.

Gardening can be enjoyable, but it is important to stretch your muscles before reaching for your gardening tools. The back, upper legs, shoulders, and wrists are all major muscle groups affected when using your gardening skills.

A warm-up and cool-down period is as important in gardening as it is for any other physical activity," said Dr. Scott Bautch of the American Chiropractic Association's (ACA) Council on Occupational Health. "Performing simple stretches during these periods will help alleviate injuries, pain and stiffness."

To make gardening as fun and enjoyable as possible, it is important to prepare your body for this type of physical activity. The following stretches will help to alleviate muscle pain after a day spent in your garden.

Garden Fitness Stretches Before stretching for any activity, breathe in and out, slowly and rhythmically; do not bounce or jerk your body, and stretch as far and as comfortably as you can. Do not follow the no pain, no gain rule. Stretching should not be painful. While sitting, prop your heel on a stool or step, keeping the knees straight. Lean forward until you feel a stretch in the back of the thigh, or the hamstring muscle. Hold this position for 15 seconds. Do this once more and repeat with the other leg. Stand up, balance yourself, and grab the front of your ankle from behind. Pull your heel towards your buttocks and hold the position for 15 seconds. Do this again and repeat with the other leg. While standing, weave your fingers together above your head with the palms up. Lean to one side for 10 seconds, then to the other. Repeat this stretch three times. Do the "Hug your best friend." Wrap your arms around yourself and rotate to one side, stretching as far as you can comfortably go. Hold for 10 seconds and reverse. Repeat two or three times. Finally, be aware of your body technique, body form and correct posture while gardening. Kneel, don't bend, and alternate your stance and movements as often as possible to keep the muscles and body balanced.

When the Bulbs Are Planted... If you already feel muscle aches and pains and did not complete the warm-up and cool-down stretches, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort. Apply a cold pack on the area of pain for the first 48 hours or apply a heat pack after 48 hours, and consider chiropractic care.

Prevention is Key! The best way to fight the pain, emotional stress, and missed work that may accompany a spinal problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. The following tips will help you identify and eliminate "spinal stressors" and incorporate spinal health into your daily routine. - 17273

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For moreinformation on health please contact Dr. Fowler at www.lakestlouisdc.com

Helping Curb Autism Through Casein-Free Dieting

By Chris Channing

Autism is a disease that many children and even adults suffer through. Autism can be helped through various means, but a cure is not currently available. Finding relief from symptoms, such as lack of social skills, is possible by dieting according to certain standards. One diet proposes that you cut out casein and gluten.

The grains you eat contain gluten, which is a protein that has been known to cause allergic reactions to some with food allergies. Gluten is a tough food allergy to work through since we as a nation use grains in almost every meal of the day, from cereal to dinner bread. A gluten-free diet is still possible with substitutes, so long as you can find a store in your local area that is allergen-friendly.

Casein is another protein, only it is found in dairy products and derivatives. Casein is a bit easier to avoid than gluten, since there are many alternatives to the dairy products most of society uses each and every day. Remember that dairy products would include basic things such as milk, but also cheese and even things such as chocolate.

Gluten and casein are proteins and present in many foods, so why go through the trouble of removing them from a diet? Those who study the link claim that there may be a possibility that autistic children have a certain allergic reaction to the proteins. Oddly enough, the children may not even show signs of a food allergy, yet can still have benefit from initiating such a diet. It is still partly speculation, but worth trying nonetheless.

Testimonials from some parents conclude that the benefits of such diets have shown autistic children to be more social and productive than what they are on average. This is a good step in the right direction, as parents know that anything they can do to help their child is worth it. When you see the term GFCF diet, it is common to associate the diet with a treatment for autism symptoms.

It's only a matter of time before the link between symptom relief methods and autism are discovered and studied. Once we can study the condition, we will have a better chance at formulating a cure that can one day bring an end to the autism predicament that so many face. In the mean time, you can make use of subtle improvements such as dietary modification.

In Conclusion

A dieting expert or physician will be able to point you in the right direction from here. You must be careful when planning the diet, since a lack of certain foods or nutrients can be harmful to your child. Who knows- maybe you and your child can finally find symptom relief! - 17273

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Learn more on Casein-Free Foods and Gluten-Free Foods.

Colon Cleansing and NatraTox

By John Steely

Doctors agree that a wide variety of illnesses and disease come because our colon begins to age.

The colon keeps our bodies healthy and rids them of harmful wastes.

It also absorbs nutrients that allow us to live healthy lives and is thus a very important part of us.

Unfortunately, when it is filled with toxins, bacteria or more, there can be many long term poor effects on us.

Some of the other short term effects that can occur are a lack of energy, bloating and a loss of motivation as well as constipation.

To keep yourself healthy and clean, a colon cleansing supplement can aid you in your goals.

Colon cleansing supplements keep your body clean in a natural way while cleansing your colon of harmful waste so that you no longer look bloated.

They also provie a gentle cleansing through their formulation and there are no side effects.

It works in a natural way using clinically proven ingredients to truly help you.

If you are interested in living a healthier life and losing some weight, definitely check out Nature Cleanse today. At the time of writing, a free trial is available so that you can check out its great benefits for yourself without paying a dime! - 17273

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To read more about weight loss, check out NatraTox testimonial. Also, check out the NatraTox free trial that is now being offered for a limited time.

Bucks County Exercise Videos - Benefits vs. Consequences

By Jose Loni

Exercise videos are here to stay. We like them because they make our lives easier, are inexpensive, and allow us the privacy to ease into a healthy lifestyle at our own pace. But what are pros for others become a major con for some especially those who need a more social environment to keep them going.

Exercise videos like Jane Fonda's, Suzanne Somers' and Richard Simmons' have been very popular in the past.

They paved the way for the great selection of videos on pilates, yoga, tai chi, belly dancing and more on the market today. There's a huge variety of exercise videos out there and that's why they're still popular.

Exercise videos are convenient. For some, the effort of getting in their cars to get a workout is daunting especially if the closest gym is an hour away. Not to mention battling the weather or struggling through traffic.

What about the cost of the workouts? At an average of U$20 per video, doing the video 3x a week for 2 months gets you back its retail cost. But gym memberships entail a bigger lump sum output with hidden costs like gas, parking and drive time.

In addition, videos allow us to go at our own pace especially when there are certain moves we need more practice with. We're shown how to do it correctly and we can also pause the video at any part and keep repeating the section if we need to.

That said, there are the social butterflies who like the interaction they get in gyms. They prefer real time feedback from their instructors and look for encouragement and support from their peers. In fact, the setting inspires them to achieve their goals.

And so, the pros and cons of exercise videos have been laid out. We love their no-trouble, low maintenance quality, low cost and privacy options, but we do have to consider the lack of social interaction aspect of it. We need to evaluate our preferences in order to make the perfect choice for our lifestyle. - 17273

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Is My Easy Bruising Linked in Any Way to My Alcohol Consumption?

By Carolyn Cooper

If you are someone who is afflicted by easy bruising, you'll find that you need to identify those factors that might make it worse, and this is when alcohol should come into the discussion. Lots of people who find that they bruise easily end up suspecting that alcohol intake might be a factor, and they would find that their suspicions were correct. When you are trying to find the culprit behind bruises that can be received from simply brushing against a counter, or that you can get without any memory of the cause at all, you may find that it is the proper time to look into your alcohol consumption.

First and foremost, try to determine how alcohol consumption affects your bruising. Next, examine what really makes up a bruise. A bruise is normally caused by breaching the capillary walls just below your skin. When the blood seeps out, it pools or clots just beneath the skin, making the glaring and vivid colors that are the visible reminders of the bruise. While thinner capillary walls are one cause of bruising, alcohol is actually not involved with this type of bruising. Rather, alcohol acts the same as a blood thinner. Much like aspirin and some forms of prescribed medicines, alcohol makes your blood become thinner, which then interferes with clotting, which then makes you bleed more effusively.

The place where this thinned blood comes together with bruising is at the point where you bump yourself and break some of your capillaries, even if you are don't know it, alcohol reduces your body's ability to stanch the free flow of blood. When alcohol is present in your system, your body's capability to stop the blood flow is going to be diminished, and this can cause what should have been a light bruise look much darker and ominous. When you want to make certain that your bruises do not appear so dark, or so dramatic, you should seriously consider reducing your alcohol consumption.

If you are worried about the effects of alcohol or other blood thinners on your susceptibility to bruising, you'll discover that the answer is increasing your iron intake, which is essential for good blood production in your body. It can help you with faster blood clotting, and it will contribute towards your immune system by helping to keep it strong. Foods that are rich in iron include liver as well as dark green and leafy vegetables like broccoli and spinach (whats the old saying about if it tastes good, it cant be good for you?).

Use some time to really study what the connection between your alcohol consumption and easy bruising could be for you. This may require that you simply cut back a little on the quantity of alcohol that you drink, or it could mean a real change to your drinking habits. - 17273

About the Author:

Carolyn Cooper is recognized as a renowned expert on bruising causes through a combination of her educational experience in nutrition and her real world expertise with nutritional supplements for athletes ranging from kids to the pro ranks. Get a free Special Report on bruising causes and see what she's done to get past the nightmares of easy bruising and prevent bruising.

Gout Food To Avoid To Stay Healthy

By PJ Easton

Gout is known as being a painful type of arthritis. What causes gout? Having lots of uric acid in the body is known for causing it. We know just how painful gout is and we are here to help you. How are we going to help? We are going to help by giving you an article on gout food to avoid. Sure, it may sound a bit complicated to you, because avoiding certain types of food is hard to do, especially when it is your favorite food.

If you have gout right now, then you should make sure you do not have much foods in your diet that are high in protein. The foods you consume should be low in protein. That means you will need to avoid those big amounts of red or dark meat or seafood.

You will need to avoid seafood. We are sorry if seafood is your favorite food, but it is something you will need to avoid. Especially, sardines, herring, scallops, roe, mussels, haddock and trout. You should avoid those foods that have high concentrations of purine as this can make your gout worse.

Apart from all we have listed in the above paragraph, you will need to stay away from salmon, shellfish, anchovies, scallops, dark fish fillets and sardines. Some of the other foods you will need to avoid are those foods that are high in purines. Purines are only known to make gout worse. This means you will need to stay away from spinach, mushrooms, radishes, cauliflower and asparagus. The foods we just listed will raise the amount of uric acid that is in your body. This will crystallize those joints, which will cause you even more pain.

You should also stay away from those foods that are high in carbohydrates. This involves yeast, oatmeal, whole wheat breads and wheat bran. This is because they will higher your acidity level in your body and would make the painful gout attack last even longer.

In the end, the list of gout food to avoid is very long, but we have covered some of the basic, everyday food that you should stay away from as it will only make your problems worse. - 17273

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Do you suffer from Painful Gout? Are you looking for alternatives? This is only one of many free articles on The Foods to Avoid for Goutfrom http://www.NaturalGoutcures.org/ Check out our great range of free quality articles.

Are You An Apple Or A Pear - Weight Loss At Present

By Phyllis H Foster

Obesity and being overweight is reaching widespread proportions these days. Many people need to lose weight. Some people want to lose weight for visual reasons, so that they can look fine in a bikini but other people need to lose weight so that they can preserve their health.

We all carry our surplus flab a little differently. One person may have thunder thighs with a large butt and a smaller upper body so she is shaped like a pear, while the next person will hold it all around the core, in the abdominal area so that she is shaped more like an apple on a stick. The way we carry our body fat contributes to a great extent to our good health.

If you are shaped like a pear you have a clear-cut health advantage over the people who are shaped like an apple. You may have more troubles in getting clothes that fit and you may have body image issues but your health is not really too much as risk. Contrary to that the people who hold their fat in their bellies are at jeopardy for crucial health problems.

On the other hand the fat that accumulates around the mid section puts the person at risk for such things as heart disease, diabetes and other health risks. The trouble is that the fat in the middle collects around the internal organs. This prevents their organs and their bodies from optimal role. Pear-shaped individuals do not have this same problem because none of the internal organs are found in the butt and thighs.

To clarify if you are an apple or a pear, you must compute your waist-hip ratio. Divide your waist in inches by your hips in inches and if the result is o.8 or less you are considered to be a pear. If the result is more than 0.8 then you are an apple shape. For illustration a 28 inch waist divided by a 38 inch hip is 0.73 a pear, while a 32 inch waist divided by the same 38 inch hip is 0.84 or an apple.

A pear may have body image issues and she may fight with her body type but she is not really facing critical health risks, which is not the case for an apple-shaped individual. If you are apple-shaped it is much more important that you drop the weight. Try increasing your cardio exercises and concentrate on consuming a fiber-rich diet with more fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes and lean protein sources such as fish and skinless chicken.

If you are an apple shape though, you do have an advantage in the weight loss department. Additional fat around your center area tends to come off much faster and easier than the fat in the butt and thighs. Butt and thigh fat is much more persistent and it takes much more resolution to get it to finally come off.

We cannot influence our body type and how we hold our excess fat but we can do whatsoever is possible to drop weight and increase wellbeing. - 17273

About the Author:

A healthy diet can include generous servings of acai berries and acai berry juice. Lots of nutritionists advocate high nutritional diet for their clients who wish to lose weight. Learn more at http://acaiwow.com