Healthy Life

Stroke

2007-11-10T08:03:00.000-08:00

Stroke adalah suatu kondisi yang terjadi ketika pasokan darah ke suatu bagian otak tiba-tiba terganggu. Dalam jaringan otak, kurangnya aliran darah menyebabkan serangkaian reaksi bio-kimia, yang dapat merusakkan atau mematikan sel-sel otak. Kematian jaringan otak dapat menyebabkan hilangnya fungsi yang dikendalikan oleh jaringan itu. Stroke adalah penyebab kematian yang ketiga di Amerika Serikat dan banyak negara industri di Eropa (Jauch, 2005). Bila dapat diselamatkan, kadang-kadang si penderita mengalami kelumpuhan pada anggota badannya, hilangnya sebagian ingatan atau kemampuan bicaranya. Untuk menggarisbawahi betapa seriusnya stroke ini, beberapa tahun belakangan ini telah semakin populer istilah serangan otak. Istilah ini berpadanan dengan istilah yang sudah dikenal luas, "serangan jantung". stroke terjadi karena cabang pembuluh darah terhambat oleh emboli. emboli bisa berupa kolesterol atau mungkin udara

Jenis Stroke
Stroke dibagi menjadi dua jenis yaitu stroke iskemik maupun stroke hemorragik. Pada stroke iskemik, aliran darah ke otak terhenti karena aterosklerosis (penumpukan kolesterol pada dinding pembuluh darah) atau bekuan darah yang telah menyumbat suatu pembuluh darah ke otak. Hampir sebagian besar pasien atau sebesar 83% mengalami stroke jenis ini.
Pada stroke hemorragik, pembuluh darah pecah sehingga menghambat aliran darah yang normal dan darah merembes ke dalam suatu daerah di otak dan merusaknya. Hampir 70 persen kasus stroke hemorrhagik terjadi pada penderita hipertensi.
Pada stroke iskemik, penyumbatan bisa terjadi di sepanjang jalur pembuluh darah arteri yang menuju ke otak. Darah ke otak disuplai oleh dua arteria karotis interna dan dua arteri vertebralis. Arteri-arteri ini merupakan cabang dari lengkung aorta jantung.
Suatu ateroma (endapan lemak) bisa terbentuk di dalam pembuluh darah arteri karotis sehingga menyebabkan berkurangnya aliran darah. Keadaan ini sangat serius karena setiap pembuluh darah arteri karotis dalam keadaan normal memberikan darah ke sebagian besar otak. Endapan lemak juga bisa terlepas dari dinding arteri dan mengalir di dalam darah, kemudian menyumbat arteri yang lebih kecil.
Pembuluh darah arteri karotis dan arteri vertebralis beserta percabangannya bisa juga tersumbat karena adanya bekuan darah yang berasal dari tempat lain, misalnya dari jantung atau satu katupnya. Stroke semacam ini disebut emboli serebral (emboli = sumbatan, serebral = pembuluh darah otak) yang paling sering terjadi pada penderita yang baru menjalani pembedahan jantung dan penderita kelainan katup jantung atau gangguan irama jantung (terutama fibrilasi atrium).
Emboli lemak jarang menyebabkan stroke. Emboli lemak terbentuk jika lemak dari sumsum tulang yang pecah dilepaskan ke dalam aliran darah dan akhirnya bergabung di dalam sebuah arteri.
Stroke juga bisa terjadi bila suatu peradangan atau infeksi menyebabkan penyempitan pembuluh darah yang menuju ke otak. Obat-obatan (misalnya kokain dan amfetamin) juga bisa mempersempit pembuluh darah di otak dan menyebabkan stroke.
Penurunan tekanan darah yang tiba-tiba bisa menyebabkan berkurangnya aliran darah ke otak, yang biasanya menyebabkan seseorang pingsan. Stroke bisa terjadi jika tekanan darah rendahnya sangat berat dan menahun. Hal ini terjadi jika seseorang mengalami kehilangan darah yang banyak karena cedera atau pembedahan, serangan jantung atau irama jantung yang abnormal.

Stroke is a cause of poverty and is caused by poverty. Stroke prevention, along with the prevention of other chronic (noncommunicable) diseases, is a grossly neglected feature of the global development agenda,1 despite the huge economic and health burdens due to stroke. The reasons for this neglect are complex. They include a series of myths which have perpetuated the mistaken notion that stroke and chronic diseases in general are primarily problems of wealthy countries and which do not require serious government intervention. Nothing is further from the truth. A serious and balanced global health development agenda should include all key health issues, not just those which have a historical precedence.2
Stroke is the third leading cause of death, responsible for 5.7 million deaths each year, the vast majority of which occur in low-income and middle-income countries.3 Stroke rates in middle-aged people (30 to 69 years) are 5 to 10 times higher in large countries such as Russia, India, China, Pakistan and Brazil, compared with the United Kingdom or the United States.3 Projections suggest that, without intervention, the number of deaths from stroke will rise to 6.3 million in 2015 and 7.8 million by 2030 with the vast bulk in poor countries.3,4
The article on stroke in India in this issue of Stroke5 illustrates the key challenges to be addressed in the global prevention and control of stroke. First, stroke is becoming an even more important cause of premature death and disability in low-income and middle-income countries, largely driven by demographic changes (increased size and the ageing of populations) and enhanced by the increasing prevalence of the key modifiable risk factors, especially in urban populations. Second, the poor are increasingly affected by stroke, both because of the changing population exposures to risk factors and, most tragically, because of the high costs of care. Because the majority of survivors of an acute event continue to live with disabilities, the costs of ongoing rehabilitation and care, largely undertaken by family members, will further impoverish families.
The staggering costs of rtPA in India and other poor countries is scandalous; this is particularly ironic because India is the home of a thriving generic drug industry. Over three quarters of the costs of care for the patient described in scenario 1 by Pandian et al was for rtPA which should be administered in the context of a stroke unit.5 It is no wonder that poor people cannot afford modern therapies even where appropriate facilities are available. Even aspirin, although relatively cheap and readily available, is not routinely administered in low-income and middle-income countries.6 There is an urgent need to further explore the effectiveness of a cheap combination pill for people at high risk of cardiovascular disease.
As Pandian et al note, given the particular health and development problems in India and other low-income and middle-income countries, the way forward is to ensure much more emphasis on the prevention of stroke in the first place. There is sufficient information available on the importance of the main risk factors to guide action. The significance of these risk factors is the same in all countries and all subpopulations even if the chronic disease rates are higher in some populations due to their risk factor exposures.7
WHO has proposed a global goal, additional to the Millennium Development Goals, which aims to reduce chronic disease death rates by an additional 2% per year over current trends.8 The goal, if reached, would avert 36 million chronic disease deaths by 2015, of which about one sixth (6.5 million) would be due to stroke.3 These averted deaths would result in substantial economic savings. The Lancet chronic disease prevention initiative will be presenting evidence in December 2007 on the health impacts and costs of a small number of population-wide and individual level interventions directed toward achievement of the global goal.9
Improved information on stroke incidence and mortality is a key challenge in all countries. In an effort to assist low-income and middle-income countries to get started in establishing surveillance systems for stroke, WHO recommends a stepwise approach (STEPS Stroke) through the use of standardized tools and methods for ongoing core, expanded, and optional data collection.10 Four Indian sites, supported by WHO South East Asian Region and the Indian Medical Council, were included in a test of the feasibility of this approach in low-income and middle-income countries.11
WHO has also proposed a stepwise approach to chronic disease prevention and control which builds on the experience in the Western Pacific Region.12 The main principle of this approach is a phased implementation of interventions—core, expanded and optimal—based on the availability of resources and political and community support.
There is some cause for optimism. There is increasing involvement of international stroke nongovernmental organizations. The World Stroke Organization incorporating the International Stroke Society, the World Stroke Federation and the World Federation of Neurology is supporting a greater emphasis on stroke surveillance and prevention in poorer regions. In India, the pilot phase of an integrated program for the prevention and control of diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease and stroke has begun.13,14 For this optimism to be realized, however, a serious scaling up of the response to stroke and other chronic diseases is urgently required in all low-income and middle-income countries. Until this is achieved, the health and economic consequences of stroke will continue to devastate the poor.

Dengan Pengobatan Rutin, Epilepsi pada Anak Dapat sembuh Total

2007-11-08T22:11:00.000-08:00

Dengan Pengobatan Rutin, Epilepsi pada Anak Dapat sembuh Total
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Penyandang epilepsi akan mengalami kejang secara spontan tanpa sebab sebagai gejalanya. Selain itu, ada pula yang disertai sebab ringan seperti kurang tidur, capek, melihat sesuatu yang berkedip-kedip, dan lain-lain. Pada anak, jenis bangkitan kejang sangat bermacam-macam, dapat berbentuk kejang kaku dan kejang kelojotan yang disertai mulut berbusa atau tidak. Bentuk yang lain berupa serangan bengong, kaget-kaget, jatuh-jatuh, atau mengecap-ngecap. Keprihatinan yang mendalam akan dirasakan semua orang jika melihat bayi berusia tiga bulan yang kejang-kejang karena epilepsi.
Namun, sangat disayangkan masyarakat sudah terlanjur mempunyai persepsi buruk tentang penyakit ini. Persepsi buruk yang dimaksud di antaranya menyatakan bahwa epilepsi merupakan penyakit keturunan, menular, dan tidak dapat disembuhkan. Padahal, dengan pengobatan yang rutin, anak penyandang epilepsi dapat sembuh secara total. Demikian kesimpulan yang didapat dari kegiatan Press Up-date dengan tema "Epilepsi pada Anak" yang diselenggarakan oleh Janssen Pharmaceutica pada 6 Juni 2001. Pada acara yang diikuti wartawan media cetak dan elektronik tersebut, hadir sebagai pembicara Dr. Hardiono D. Pusponegoro, Sp.A(K) dan Dr. Irawan Mangunatmadja, SpA.
Penyebab epilepsi pada anak, menurut Hardiono, sebagian besar tidak diketahui. Namun demikian, faktor lain yang menyebabkan timbulnya penyakit ini yaitu adanya kerusakan kecil atau besar pada otak. Kerusakan ini dapat disebabkan perdarahan, tumor, infeksi otak, kelainan bawaan, dan lain-lain. Dari seluruh kasus epilepsi, 60% di antaranya tidak diketahui penyebabnya, sedangkan pada anak yang berumur < 10 tahun sebanyak 80% tidak diketahui penyebabnya. Berdasarkan fakta tersebut, berarti sebanyak 360 ribu kasus epilepsi tidak diketahui penyebabnya jika dihitung berdasarkan prevalensi epilepsi di Indonesia yang berjumlah 600 ribu penderita. Di RSCM sendiri, menurut dokter spesialis anak yang juga berpraktek di Klinik Anakku, ini terdapat 175--200 kasus baru per tahun. Dengan berkembangnya teknologi kedokteran diharapkan epilepsi yang tidak diketahui penyebabnya semakin berkurang.
Sindrom epilepsi yang terjadi pada anak banyak jenisnya, di antaranya Ohtahara, Spasme Infantil, Lennox-Gastaut, dan lain-lain. Sindrom Ohtahara terjadi pada bayi berusia 0--3 bulan dengan gejala munculnya gerakan aneh yang berulang-ulang. Gejala ini memang sangat tidak khas karena bayi baru lahir sulit dikenali gerakannya. Namun, dengan observasi yang teliti dapat ditentukan gerakan tersebut kelainan atau bukan. Jika masih tidak dapat ditentukan, EEG dapat dilakukan untuk memastikannya.
Selain sindrom Ohtahara, pada bayi terutama yang berusia 3--12 bulan, dapat terjadi Spasme Infantil atau dikenal juga dengan Sindrom West. Sindroma ini ditandai dengan kejang yang dialami bayi menjelang tidur, munculnya berulang-ulang, dan berbunyi. Bayi yang mengalami spasme ini hasil EEG-nya sangat buruk. Selain itu, kejang-kejang yang sering dialaminya dapat mengakibatkan retardasi mental. Sindrom Lennox-Gastaut juga dapat dialami oleh bayi, terutama yang berusia di atas 1 tahun. Sindrom ini meliputi semua jenis bangkitan kejang seperti Atonik (jatuh-jatuh), Tonik (kejang umum), Tonik-Klonik (kejang disertai jatuh), Mioklonik, dan Absence (serangan bengong). Prognosis sindrom ini sangat buruk dan hampir 100% penderita mengalami retardasi mental.
Hal yang terpenting menurut dokter yang juga pengurus Yayasan Autisme Indonesia, ini adalah bahwa epilepsi dapat disembuhkan dengan pengobatan yang kontinyu. Untuk pasien yang akan menjalani pengobatan, harus dipastikan dahulu bahwa ia benar-benar menyandang epilepsi. Dengan diagnosis yang benar, misalnya dengan pemeriksaan EEG, dapat dipastikan bahwa seseorang menyandang epilepsi. Penyandang epilepsi yang tengah menjalani pengobatan sedapat mungkin hanya menggunakan satu jenis obat. Obat yang dipakai pun harus diminum dengan teratur, sebab jika pemakaian obat dihentikan dengan tiba-tiba maka akan menimbulkan serangan yang hebat. Pengobatan yang tengah dijalani harus diberikan secara rutin selama 2--3 tahun dan pada beberapa kasus diberikan seumur hidup.
Penyandang epilepsi yang telah menjalani pengobatan 60--80%, bebas serangan selama 3 tahun tanpa kekambuhan walaupun pengobatan dihentikan. Sebagian kecil penyandang bebas serangan, tetapi harus tetap minum obat. Hanya 2--5% penyandang epilepsi yang serangannya sulit diatasi walaupun dengan beberapa obat (intraktabel epilepsi). Pernyataan di atas merupakan harapan yang menggembirakan bagi keluarga yang salah satu anggotanya menyandang epilepsi. Selain itu, Irawan menyebutkan bahwa alternatif terakhir untuk mengobati epilepsi adalah dengan mengoperasi bagian sel saraf yang sering menimbulkan kejang. Hanya saja, setelah operasi ada bagian tubuh yang tidak dapat berfungsi karena sarafnya telah terpotong. Di Semarang telah berhasil dilakukan sepuluh operasi otak untuk pengobatan epilepsi. (Hidayati W.B.)

Epilepsi

2007-11-08T22:02:00.000-08:00

Epilepsi
Dari Wikipedia Indonesia, ensiklopedia bebas berbahasa Indonesia.
Langsung ke: navigasi, cari
Epilepsi, berasal dari bahasa Yunani (Epilepsia) yang berarti 'serangan'। Perlu diketahui, epilepsi tidak menular, bukan penyakit keturunan, dan tidak identik dengan orang yang mengalami ketebelakangan mental. Bahkan, banyak penderita epilepsi yang menderita epilepsi tanpa diketahui penyebabnya.
Penyebab Epilepsi
Otak kita terdiri dari jutaan sel saraf (neuron), yang bertugas mengoordinasikan semua aktivitas tubuh kita termasuk perasaan, penglihatan, berpikir, menggerakkan otot. Pada penderita epilepsi, terkadang sinyal-sinyal listrik tersebut, tidak beraktivitas sebagaimana mestinya. Hal ini dapat diakibatkan oleh berbagai faktor, antara lain; trauma kepala (pernah mengalami cedera didaerah kepala), tumor otak, dan lain sebagainya।
दिअग्नोसिस
Hippocrates adalah orang pertama yang berhasil mengidentifikasi gejala epilepsi sebagai masalah pada otak, roh jahat, dan sebagainya. Seseorang dapat dinyatakan menderita epilepsi jika orang tersebut telah setidaknya mengalami kejang yang bukan disebabkan karena alkohol dan tekanan darah yang sangat rendah. Alat bantu yang digunakan biasanya adalah:
MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) Menggunakan magnet yang sangat kuat untuk mendapatkn gambaran dalam tubuh/ otak seseorang. Tidak menggunakan X-Ray. MRI lebih sensitif dripada CT-Scan.
EEG (electroencephalography) alat untuk mengecek gelombang otak।
पेंगोबतन
Berikut ini adalah nama-nama obat yang dipakai untuk menyembuhkan epilepsi. Semua obat harus dikonsultasikan terlebih dahulu ke dokter.
Carbamazepine, Carbatrol, Clobazam, Clonazepam, Depakene, Depakote, Depakote ER, Diastat, Dilantin, Felbatol, Frisium, Gabapentin, Gabitril, Keppra, Klonopin, Lamictal, Lyrica, Mysoline, Neurontin, Phenobarbital, Phenytek, Phenytoin, Sabril, Tegretol, Tegretol XR, Topamax, Trileptal, Valproic Acid, Zarontin, Zonegran, Zonisamide.
Selain dengan obat, epilepsi juga dapat disembuhkan dengan Ketogenic Diet।
Orang-orang terkenal dengan एपिलेपसी
Epilepsi tidak identik dengan orang yang mengalami keterbelakangan mental. Berikut ini adalah beberapa dari sekian banyak orang ternama yang menderita epilepsi.
Penulis: Dante, Moliere, Sir Walter Scott, Edgar Allan Poe, Lord Byron, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Alfred Lord Tennyson, Charles Dickens, Lewis Carroll, Fyodor Dostoevsky, Gustave Flaubert, Leo Tolstoy, Agatha Christie, Truman Capote.
Pemimpin Dunia: Alexander Agung, raja Makedonia, Julius Caesar, Napoleon Bonaparte, Harriet Tubman.
Olahragawan: Marion Clignet, Buddy Bell, Bobby Jones.
Ilmuwan: Isaac Newton, Alfred Nobel.
Tokoh Religius: Santo Paulus, Jeanne d'Arc, Søren Kierkegaard.
Komponis: George Frederick Handel, Niccolo Paganini, Peter Tchaikovsky, Ludwig van Beethoven.
Aktor: Richard Burton, Michael Wilding, Margaux Hemingway dan Danny Glover।

Welcome to the No-Fad Diet

2007-11-08T04:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the No-Fad Diet




	Get ordering information

You may have tried several times before to lose weight, but without much long-term success. That’s no reason to feel bad about yourself — losing weight is not easy. No magic formula will trim away extra pounds and keep them off. Gimmicks and get-thin-quick schemes don’t work. That’s why, over the long haul, fad diets are not the answer.

We aren’t offering any magic either — quite the opposite. Instead, we offer you the tools you need to personalize a weight-loss plan to fit your lifestyle. You can design your own approach using three key concepts, or what
we call the Circles of Success.

To lose weight effectively, you need to set realistic goals and create a personal action plan. Your planning should focus on you, your commitment to yourself, and the three essential circles — think smart, eat well and move more. These circles will overlap as you work toward your goals, and you will need to embrace all three to achieve successful weight control for life.

Because your choices are tailored to reflect your individual needs, the actions you take to follow through will be suited to become part of your new life. It won’t happen overnight, but if you persist, it will happen! Any step you take in the right direction — no matter how small — moves you closer to your weight-loss goals and a healthier life.

	“Let this book be your guide and the American Heart Association be your partner on your journey to losing weight — and keeping if off — realistically, healthfully, and successfully for years to come. Do it for you, and encourage those you love to join you. Years of added life may well be the outcome!”
	—Robert H. Eckel, M.D. President, American Heart Association, 2005–06

2007-11-08T04:11:00.000-08:00

Our 2006 Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

A healthy diet and lifestyle are the best weapons you have to fight cardiovascular disease. It’s not as hard as you may think! Remember, it is the overall pattern of the choices you make that counts.

Make the simple steps below part of your life for long-term benefits to your health and your heart.

Use up at least as many calories as you take in.

Start by knowing how many calories you should be eating and drinking to maintain your weight. Don’t eat more calories than you know you can burn up every day. Increase the amount and intensity of your physical activity to match the number of calories you take in. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week or — best of all — at least 30 minutes every day. Regular physical activity can help you maintain your weight, keep off weight that you lose and help you reach physical and cardiovascular fitness. If you can’t do at least 30 minutes at one time, you can add up 10-minute sessions throughout the day. more

Eat a variety of nutritious foods from all the food groups.

You may be eating plenty of food, but your body may not be getting the nutrients it needs to be healthy. Nutrient-rich foods have vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients but are lower in calories. To get the nutrients you need, choose foods like vegetables, fruits, whole-grain products and fat-free or low-fat dairy products most often. more

Vegetables and fruits are high in vitamins, minerals and fiber — and they’re low in calories. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables may help you control your weight and your blood pressure.

Unrefined whole-grain foods contain fiber that can help lower your blood cholesterol and help you feel full, which may help you manage your weight.

Eat fish at least twice a week. Recent research shows that eating oily fish containing omega-3 fatty acids (for example, salmon, trout, and herring) may help lower your risk of death from coronary artery disease.

Eat less of the nutrient-poor foods.

There is a right number of calories to eat each day based on your age and physical activity level and whether you are trying to gain, lose or maintain your weight. You could use your daily allotment of calories on a few high-calorie foods and beverages, but you probably wouldn’t get the nutrients your body needs to be healthy. Limit foods and beverages that are high in calories but low in nutrients, and limit how much saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and sodium you eat. Read labels carefully — the Nutrition Facts panel will tell you how much of those nutrients each food or beverage contains.

As you make daily food choices, base your eating pattern on these recommendations:

Choose lean meats and poultry without skin and prepare them without added saturated and trans fat.

Select fat-free, 1 percent fat, and low-fat dairy products.

Cut back on foods containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils to reduce trans fat in your diet.

Cut back on foods high in dietary cholesterol. Aim to eat less than 300 milligrams of cholesterol each day.

Cut back on beverages and foods with added sugars.

Choose and prepare foods with little or no salt. Aim to eat less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day.

If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation. That means one drink per day if you’re a woman and two drinks per day if you’re a man.

Follow the American Heart Association recommendations when you eat out, and keep an eye on your portion sizes.

Also, don’t smoke tobacco — and stay away from tobacco smoke. more

For more information on the 2006 American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations. . .

Download our podcast.

Read the news release.

Read the scientific statement in the American Heart Association journal, Circulation.

Call 1-800-AHA-USA1 to order a free consumer-friendly brochure.

7 Rahasia Tetap Awet Muda

2007-11-08T02:38:00.001-08:00

7 Rahasia Tetap Awet Muda

Banyak orang yang mengeluhkan keadaan kulit dan wajah mereka yang tampak lebih tua daripada umur sebenarnya.

Untuk mengatasi masalah ini, ada 7 rahasia agar Anda tetap tampak awet muda:

1.Selalu merasa bahagia

Merasa bahagia adalah salah satu kunci utama agar tetap ter
lihat awet muda. Dalam setiap kegiatan, usahakan agar apa yang Anda lakukan sesuai dengan apa yang Anda inginkan. Hindari stres, perasaan bersalah dan tertekan karena paksaan orang lain. Ingat, apa yang Anda rasakan akan tercermin pada wajah Anda. Jadi, orang yang sedang bahagia, wajahnya akan terlihat berseri-seri, santai dan lebih muda daripada usia sebenarnya.

2.Banyak bergerak

Berolahraga adalah cara agar awet muda. Lakukan joging, jalan cepat, bersepeda maupun berenang sekitar 30 menit setiap hari. Dengan olahraga, risiko terkena serangan jantung, osteoporosis, dan kanker pun akan mengecil. Olahraga teratur dapat menambah fleksibilitas otot, memperkuat tulang, serta mengurangi stres, karena sel-sel tubuh mendapat lebih banyak oksigen. Tidur Anda pun akan nyenyak.

3.Konsumsi vitamin C

Vitamin C bisa Anda peroleh dari buah-buahan segar (terutama jeruk), sayur-mayur berwarna hijau (brokoli dan lain-lain) atau suplemen vitamin C sebanyak 1000 mg perhari. Vitamin C terbukti bisa meningkatkan daya tahan tubuh, mengurangi risiko terkena kanker dan melindungi tubuh dari efek yang ditimbulkan oleh polusi. Di samping itu, perbanyak minum air putih. Meminum air putih 8 gelas per hari akan mengurangi stres, menjaga kesegaran kulit, serta memperlancar kerja organ tubuh.

4.Gunakan pelindung UV

Matahari adalah salah satu faktor utama penyebab penuaan dini. Oleh karena itu, gunakan selalu lotion pelembab secara teratur setiap hari, khususnya bila akan bepergian, agar kulit tetap segar, lembab dan tidak terbakar sinar matahari, terutama sinar ultra violet (UV).

5.Istirahat cukup

Manusia butuh sekurang-kurangnya 8 jam setiap hari untuk tidur. Istirahat cukup bermanfaat untuk menghindari terbentuknya kantung mata, kulit keriput dan wajah kusam.

6.Perhatikan penampilan

Penampilan dan tata rias wajah juga memegang peranan penting. Meski usia terus bertambah, tetap perhatikan jenis kosmetik yang Anda pakai. Gunakan make-up tipis untuk kesan natural dengan tetap memperhatikan kondisi dan jenis kulit Anda.

7.Optimis

Orang yang pesimis selalu tidak percaya diri, gampang putus asa, dan tak pernah memperhatikan penampilan, yang bisa berakibat depresi. Jadi, berusahalah menjadi orang yang optimis dalam segala hal, sebab ini akan membuat hidup Anda akan lebih sehat dan bahagia. (Tabloid Nova)

Makanlah dengan "Otak", Bukan dengan Emosi!

2007-11-08T02:37:00.001-08:00

Makanlah dengan "Otak", Bukan dengan Emosi!

Oleh Dr. Handrawan Nadesul

Bagaimana bisa tahu kalau yang kita makan itu tidak berlebihan? Dengan rutin menimbang berat badan!

Seperti balita ditimbang di posyandu, kita pun yang harus selalu mawas dengan pertambahan berat badan, perlu menimbang setiap bangun tidur pagi. Berat badan ideal kita menjadi acuan untuk tahu apakah yang kita makan berlebihan atau kurang dari yang tubuh minta.

Pola menu harian tentu harus senantiasa bervariasi. Semakin bervariasi menu semakin memenuhi kecukupan vitamin-mineral.

Tubuh membutuhkan 40-an jenis vitamin-mineral, asam amino esensial, dan nutrisi lain yang tubuh tidak bisa memproduksinya sendiri. Untuk itu tubuh hanya mengandalkan dari variasi menu harian, termasuk kebutuhan akan trace-elements. Kekurangan salah satu nutrisi esensial semacam ini untuk waktu lama tentu akan mengurangi kebugaran mesin tubuh yang harus terus beroperasi setiap saat.

Menu yang komplet, utamanya protein, dibutuhkan selain untuk melumasi, juga untuk mengganti bagian tubuh yang aus, dan pembentukan zat anti.

Sel tubuh perlu terus beregenerasi. Sel tubuh juga perlu diproteksi. Sel tidak boleh layu. Kualitas sel-sel tubuh menentukan kemuliaan umur kita.

Proses menua atau lekas menjadi tua, juga lantaran sel-sel tubuh tidak terawat dengan baik. Peran besar bagi perawatan sel diberikan oleh apa yang kita konsumsi setiap hari. Kondisi tubuh kita mencerminkan otobiografi gizi harlan kita.

Untuk bisa setua Shirli-baba Muslimov dari Azerbaijan yang masih aktif sampai usia 168 tahun, setua rata-rata umur penduduk Hunza (Pakistan), atau penduduk Rusia dan Ekuador, tentu tak bisa jika kita masih mengikuti selera hidup meja makan kita selama ini.

Zaman memang sudah berubah, pertanian dan peternakan juga sudah berubah. Yang belum berubah tekad kita untuk berubah. Seperti penduduk yang berumur panjang, kita merencanakan untuk mengisi meja makan dengan lebih banyak ikan dan unggas, membatasi daging, rutin mengonsumsi umbi-umbian, kacang-kacangan, sayur organik, buah lokal (pepaya, pisang, belimbing, sirsak, sawo, manggis), dan tinggalkan kebiasaan mengisi piring seperti porsi makan pekerja kuli.

Sekali lagi, supaya adil dan arif memperlakukan tubuh sehingga mampu hidup merentang panjang sampai ke paling ujungnya, kita harus "makan dengan otak", bukan dengan emosi. @

Makanan yang Membuat Anda Tua ...

2007-11-08T02:36:00.001-08:00

Makanan yang Membuat Anda Tua ...

Jakarta, Selasa

Marilah kita melihat makanan buruk, yaitu makanan yang harus dihindari sebisa mungkin.

Makanan tersebut masuk ke dalam empat kategori:

1. Daging merah dan produk olahannya -- hamburger, cheeseburgers, daging lapis
2. Daging olahan seperti hotdogs, ham, dan daging asap.
3. Susu lengkap dan keju (kecuali keju rendah lemak dan yogurt)
4. Makanan yang dipanggang seperti cookies, cakes, dan donat.

Makanan tersebut merupakan sumber lemak total, biasanya masuk dalam diet Amerika. Ingatlah pula, terlalu banyak lemak di dalam tubuh berarti kanker, diabetes, hipertensi, gangguan pencernaan, dan komplikasi dalam artritis, belum lagi penyakit jantung dan kolesterol dalam darah.

Salah satu faktor yang menyebabkan daging membuat Anda tua adalah cara bagaimana ia diolah atau disimpan. Cara pengolahan hotdog, misalnya, menyebabkan kanker. Daging yang dibakar juga diketahui menyebabkan kanker.

Daging yang dibakar diketahui membentuk karsinogen di dalam daging, dan pada permukaannya. Karsinogen tersebut cenderung terbentuk di duapertiga bagian luar daging.

Kategori lain makanan yang membuat Anda tua adalah makanan olahan yang telah dibungkus dan siap dikonsumsi setelah dipanaskan dahulu dengan microwave. Mereka biasanya tinggi kalori dengan sedikit serat. Mereka biasanya (tetapi tidak selalu) menghasilkan 30 persen kalori atau lebih dari bentuk lemak. Merekah hampir selalu mengandung natrium yang tinggi pula.

Akhirnya, kategori makanan yang membuat Anda tua: makanan dalam kemasan yang dilabel makanan sehat, namun membuat Anda tua dalam cara yang terselubung. Membingungkan? Memang inilah tujuan pembuat iklan.

Beberapa contohnya: Susu 2 persen mungkin diiklankan sebagai susu “rendah lemak,” dan mungkin menghalangi kita untuk memilih susu skim, yang memang memiliki kekuatan untuk membuat kita awet muda dan lebih sehat. Daging kemasan mungkin dilabel sebagai “ayam tanpa lemak” atau “daging tanpa lemak,” namun kombinasi keseluruhannya dengan keju menghasilkan kadar lemak yang sangat tinggi. Sehingga berhati-hatilah terhadap makanan “sehat” tersebut.

Buah dan Sayuran Segar Membuat Anda Panjang Umur

Menurut Framingham Heart Study, mereka yang makan sedikit lemak akan hidup dua tahun lebih panjang dibandingkan mereka yang makan makanan berlemak.

Jelas makan makanan yang sehat menghasilkan hidup yang lebih panjang. Selain vitamin dan mineral, serat dan karbohidrat, terdapat substansi yang dikenal dapat membuat Anda panjang umur: fitokimiawi!

Substansi tersebut membantu untuk mencegah timbulnya kanker, dan terkandung di dalam makanan yang berasal dari tumbuhan. Sebagai hasil dari penemuan ini, masyarakat kedokteran semakin menghargai pengaruh menyehatkan yang dihasilkan dan gaya makan vegetarian. Semakin banyak dokter yang memahami kemampuan buah dan sayuran untuk memperpanjang umur dan kesehatan Anda.

Lebih dari 12 juta orang Amerika sekarang menjadi vegetarian, tetapi kelompok yang besar ini dibagi menjadi kelompok-kelompok yang lebih kecil berdasarkan derajat dedikasi mereka terhadap gaya makan mereka. Inilah pembagiannya.

Sebagian besar dari 12 juta orang itu masuk ke dalam kategori yang dikenal sebagai semivegetarian. Mereka tidak makan daging merah tetapi kadang-kadang makan ayam atau unggas lain, atau ikan.

Lakto-ovo-vegetarian tidak makan daging sama sekali, tidak makan unggas, tetapi makan produk hewan seperti susu dan telur, tidak seperti lakto-vegetarian yang tidak makan telur, atau vegans yang tidak makan telur dan produk susu.

Banyak kelompok yang menganggap dirinya vegetarian namun demikian kadang-kadang makan daging merah dan mencoba membatasi konsumsi mereka terhadap daging atau ikan. Inilah tampaknya kecenderungan yang terjadi pada masyarakat: makan lebih sedikit daging dan makan lebih banyak buah dan sayuran, sekurangnya pada mereka yang ingin hidup sehat dan berumur panjang.

Jinakkan Sifat Pemberang

Diet yang salah juga dapat membuat Anda merasa kesal dan penampilan Anda kuyu, demikian kata para peneliti di State Univerity of New York, di Stony Brook dan di Oregon Health Sciences University di Portland.

Setelah mempelajari 156 wanita dan 149 pria selama lima tahun, mereka menyimpulkan bahwa orang-orang yang mengkonsumsi kebiasaan makan orang Amerika yang kaya lemak akan lebih mudah marah dibanding mereka yang telah berubah ke pola makan lebih sehat.

Mereka yang beralih ke kebiasaan makan santapan miskin lemak menunjukkan sifat tidak begitu mudah marah dan kelihatannya tidak berpeluang mengalami depresi.

Para peneliti percaya bahwa mengurangi kandungan lemak dalam makanan dan dalam aliran darah menghasilkan dampak yang baik: Makin sedikit kandungan lemak di situ, makin baik pula suasana hati Anda. Begitu?

Biar Kulit Jeruk Saja yang Keriput ...

2007-11-08T02:35:00.000-08:00

Biar Kulit Jeruk Saja yang Keriput ...

Wajah terlihat muda dan mulus jadi dambaan orang. Tampak sedikit keriput, biasanya langsung ribut.

Sayangnya, usaha maksimal - khususnya wanita - dalam memelihara dan memperbaiki tampilan kadang dilakukan tanpa mempertimbangkan aspek kesehatan dan keamanan. Apa gunanya muda dan cantik, kalau badan justru sakit?

Wajah cantik itu seperti apa sih? "Ya, seperti model di majalah," ucap Sekar enteng. Rasanya, kasihan juga kalau semua orang beranggapan seperti Sekar, sehingga berlomba-lomba memermak wajahnya bak model yang kerap tampil di majalah atau televisi. Padahal setiap orang ’kan punya karakter wajah dan kulit yang berbeda. Lagi pula, kalau setiap orang berniat memermak wajahnya seperti model, malah jadi enggak lucu. Banyak orang bakal serupa wajahnya. Betapa membosankannya dunia. Kita tahu, wajah model yang sering muncul di sampul majalah atau televisi itu sudah mengalami banyak rekayasa, sehingga tampak lebih cantik dari aslinya. Entah karena rekayasa kosmetik, tata lampu, atau desain grafis.

Kulit cantik, kulit sehat

Tak kurang dr. Sandra Widaty, Sp.KK, seorang dokter spesialis kulit di klinik Senopati Skin Center, Jakarta Selatan, ikut melontarkan pertanyaan yang nyaris serupa, apa sebenarnya yang membuat orang terlihat cantik?

Apakah lantaran kosmetik atau dasar wajahnya memang cantik? Sandra geleng-geleng kepala sebelum menjelaskan, "Orang terlihat cantik kalau dia sehat. Buktinya, kalau kita melihat orang sakit, wajahnya tampak pucat, kuyu, kering, tidak bersinar meskipun orang itu cantik." Ya ’kan?

Soalnya, Sandra berkata, kulit yang sehat itu cermin kondisi tubuh yang sehat. Ia punya fungsi penting selain sebagai indera perasa dan pelindung tubuh dari kondisi alam sekitar. Juga membantu mengatur suhu tubuh, melindungi tubuh dari virus dan bakteri, serta menjalankan fungsi sekresi dan pengeluaran cairan, saat kita berkeringat.

Dalam melakukan fungsi sekresi, kulit mengeluarkan minyak, namanya sebum, untuk menjaga kelembapan dan kehalusan kulit. Jadi, keringat yang kita keluarkan itu juga ada gunanya, untuk menjaga suhu tubuh tetap dalam batas normal.

Pasalnya, kulit kita bukan seperti selembar kertas, tetapi terdiri dari beberapa lapisan dan bagian. Tiap 1 cm2 kulit dialiri 1 m pembuluh darah, dihuni 100 kelenjar keringat, 3.000 sel sensor di ujung serabut saraf, 4 m saraf, 25 instrumen perasa, 200 ujung saraf perasa sakit, dua instrumen perasa dingin, 12 perasa panas, 10 rambut, dan 15 kelenjar minyak.

Biang keriput

Supaya kulit kelihatan tetap cantik dan awet muda perlu upaya. Sebab, ada faktor dari dalam dan dari luar tubuh yang menyebabkan kulit mengalami penuaan dini, alias menua sebelum waktunya.

Secara alamiah, kulit dan tubuh memang akan menua dan keriput, sejalan dengan bergulirnya usia dan waktu. "Sel dalam tubuh memiliki batas tertentu untuk bertambah dan berkembang, istilahnya biological clock," terang dr. Sandra. Selain itu, ada juga faktor bawaan atau biologis sebagai penyebab penuaan dini.

Kata orang, stres bikin cepat tua. Ini ada benarnya. Sandra bilang, kondisi stres akan menarik otot-otot ekspresi wajah. Lama-kelamaan tarikan otot-otot itu bisa membentuk kerutan di wajah. Makanya, stres jangan dibiarkan hinggap terlalu lama.

Faktor dari luar yang diyakini lebih cepat menyebabkan penuaan dini, yakni sinar ultraviolet dari Matahari, antara pukul 10.00 - 15.00. Buat pekerja yang gawe di luar ruangan sepanjang hari, perlu disadari bahwa aktivitasnya berpotensi memicu penuaan dini. Polusi udara menjadi penyumbang nomor dua. Bisa polusi asap pabrik sampai asap rokok.

Dari dalam tubuh, di samping usia, pencetus penuaan dini juga dapat datang dari malanutrisi. Tidak hanya karena kekurangan gizi, tetapi juga kelebihan gizi. Makanya, kita perlu menjalankan pola makan yang sehat dan pas. Tidak kelebihan vitamin, protein, lemak, dan sebagainya. Sebab, ketika tubuh mencerna makanan, selain menghasilkan energi, juga menghasilkan radikal bebas. Radikal bebas ini salah satu hasil dari metabolisme tubuh yang ada di dalam sel. Ia berupa molekul yang dikelilingi elektron, tapi tak punya pasangan.

Karena kelebihan elektron, radikal bebas akan mencaplok elektron lain yang berpasangan. Nah, pemecahan dan pencaplokan inilah yang merusak sel-sel lain, sehingga berujung pada penuaan dini. Radikal bebas terbentuk tidak hanya dari dalam tubuh. Ia juga bisa terbentuk karena polusi udara atau sinar ultraviolet yang menstimulasi tubuh menghasilkan radikal bebas.

Radikal bebas atau juga disebut oksidan ini bisa dicegah dengan antioksidan yang bisa didapat dari vitamin A, C, E, melatonin, dan betakaroten.

Bule lebih cepat tua?

Penuaan dini mudah terlihat dari luar, seperti kerutan kulit di wajah, leher, lengan, lengan bawah, punggung telapak tangan, dan telinga.

Kalau yang tersembunyi, misalnya pada lengan atas, atau paha kulit terlihat kering dan mengkilat, juga kendur. Kadang kala sedikit bersisik. Kemudian terjadi pigmentasi atau warna kulit yang tidak merata.

Ada anggapan, wanita lebih cepat tua dan keriput dibandingkan dengan pria. Anggapan ini ditepis Sandra. Katanya, "Soal penuaaan dini, wanita atau pria sama saja." Namun, penuaan dini pada ras tertentu tak dibantah. Seperti pada ras kaukasia atau orang bule. "Mereka lebih cepat terlihat tua dibandingkan dengan orang Asia."

Iklim Asia yang lembap memungkinkan cairan dalam tubuh tidak lekas menguap, sehingga kulit tidak cepat mengering. Ujung-ujungnya, ya awet muda.

"Tetapi memang wanita bisa cepat terlihat tua, karena kadar hormon estrogen di dalam tubuhnya," jelas Sandra. Pada wanita, ada masa menopause yang ditandai dengan berhentinya menstruasi, yang menyebabkan ketidakseimbangan hormonal. Akibatnya, kulit menjadi kering. Setelah itu, muncul tanda-tanda penuaan dini, yakni kulit menjadi kering, kusam, dan kendur.

Kulit menjadi kendur karena zat atau lapisan penyangga kulit yang berupa serabut collagen dan ellastin sudah tidak ada. Pada usia tua, jumlah lapisan penyangga kulit ini menurun dan menurun lebih cepat lagi jika kerap terpapar sinar Matahari. Bahan pembentuk collagen salah satunya adalah vitamin C. Tidak salah kalu banyak orang lantas mengonsumsi vitamin C demi kulit kencang.

Rajin bersihkan make-up

Kalau mau tetap awet muda, punya kulit cantik dan sehat, kulit butuh perawatan, dibersihkan dari kotoran, dan dijaga kelembapannya.

Bagi yang memakai make-up, butuh kesadaran tinggi untuk membersihkannya, tidak lebih dari 24 jam. Kulit butuh bernapas, sehingga make-up yang menutupi pori-pori kulit perlu dibersihkan.

Untuk membersihkan wajah jangan menggunakan sabun mandi, tetapi sabun khusus untuk wajah. Sabun mandi bersifat alkalis (basa), sehingga membuat lapisan paling atas dari kulit ari terkelupas. Padahal, kulit ari berfungsi sebagai pelindung tubuh. Akibatnya, jika cairan sabun ini masuk ke kulit, bisa terjadi iritasi seperti kulit memerah, gatal, kering, dan bersisik. Sabun yang baik untuk wajah itu pH-nya balance-nya netral, atau sama dengan pH (tingkat keasaman) kulit.

Selain kebersihan kulit, konsumis air yang cukup dibutuhkan pula untuk mencegah penuaan dini. Para pekerja kantoran yang kerap berlama-lama di ruang ber-AC perlu waspada. Sebab, tubuh bisa mengalami dehidrasi atau kekurangan cairan. Akibatnya, kulit juga menjadi cepat kering. Untuk itu, minum air yang cukup sangat dianjurkan.

"Takaran berapa jumlah air yang dianjurkan untuk diminum setiap hari tidak pasti buat setiap orang. Minimal dua liter sehari. Atau mengandalkan ’perhitungan’ alamiah saja, yakni rasa haus. Karena haus adalah sinyal dari tubuh kalau kita butuh banyak air," terang Sandra. Mungkin sesekali perlu juga menyemprotkan air ke wajah, agar kulit tetap lembap.

Dari dalam tubuh, Anda juga bisa melakukan pencegahan penuaan dini dengan membiasakan diri mengonsumsi makanan secara seimbang. Jangan lupa, menyantap makanan yang menghasilkan antioksidan. Cara ini terasa lebih murah dan ampuh ketimbang membeli produk atau obat-obatan yang mengandung antioksidan. Kecuali jika memang mendesak dibutuhkan.

Makanan penghasil antioksidan di antaranya sayuran, kacang-kacangan, jagung, kedelai, dan buah. Buat mereka yang lebih sering terkena radikal bebas, bila perlu, mengonsumsi suplemen obat atau antioksidan.

Saran lain, jangan makan daging terlalu banyak, karena akan membentuk oksidan yang banyak juga. Untuk kesehatan kulit lebih baik perbanyak konsumsi sayuran dan buah.

Satu lagi hal yang mungkin selama ini dianggap remeh - utamanya oleh lakki-laki - yakni memakai cairan pelembap kulit meskipun kulit masih terlihat sehat dan segar. Fungsi pelembap ini menghambat penguapan cairan dalam kulit. Contohnya, pelembap vaselline (bukan merek dagang) yang mengandung air untuk mengisi sel-sel kulit, membuat kulit tampak gembung dan lembap.

Perlu diingat, pelembap sebaiknya digunakan sesudah mandi. Pasalnya, kalau digunakan sebelum mandi, kulit masih tertutup kotoran. Sesudah mandi, kulit menjadi lembap karena air, kemudian baru dilapisi dengan pelembap. Hasilnya, cairan di dalam kulit tidak keluar, sehingga pelembap bisa mengisi sel-sel dengan air, serta gizi berupa minyak dan vitamin yang dikandung dalam pelembap itu. Secara kasat mata, kulit pun terlihat gembung, lembap, segar, dan bersinar cerah.

Pelembap yang baik tidak menutup pori-pori. Saat berkeringat, kulit tetap terbuka. Ia hanya berfungsi melapisi. Pemakaian tabir surya atau sunscreen juga perlu dilakukan, terutama pada saat sinar mentari sedang sangat menyengat.

Kini, ucapkan bye, bye pada penuaan dini. Biar kulit jeruk saja yang keriput. *

Apa Salahnya Doyan Daging?

2007-11-08T02:32:00.000-08:00

Apa Salahnya Doyan Daging?

Oleh: Dr. Handrawan Nadesul, dokter umum

Doyan daging dan minuman manis, tapi gemar olahraga apa bisa bikin kolesterol tinggi dan diabetes? Begitu seorang ibu bertanya.

Kasus

"Dokter, suami saya termasuk orang yang gemar berolahraga. Satu minggu 3-4 kali olahraga sepakbola dan bulutangkis. Dia sangat gemar makan daging dan ikan, tapi tidak menyukai sayur dan jarang makan buah. Minumnya banyak, tapi selalu manis (sirop dan susu). Saya takut suami saya lama-lama akan kolesterol dan diabetes. Namun, tiap saya ingatkan, dia selalu berkata, tidak mungkin akan kolesterol karena dia sangat rajin olahraga jadi lemaknya akan terbakar pada saat olahraga. Yang ingin saya tanyakan, apakah benar lemak kolesterol akan stabil bila rajin olahraga?"

(Ny. Lin., Semarang)

Jawaban:

Ketahui Faktor Risiko

Ny. Lin. di Semarang,

Saya memahami kecemasan Anda sebagai istri, dan itu positif melihat zaman sekarang semakin muda saja orang terserang stroke dan jantung koroner.

Sikap waspada dan mempertimbangkan pilihan gaya hidup, bagian dari upaya preventif yang sehatnya dilakukan setiap orang yang hidupnya dalam jebakan serba otomatis seperti sekarang.

Menjawab kasus suami Anda yang hobi makan daging, ikan, serta minuman manis, tapi rajin berolahraga, perlu diperiksa bagaimana otobiografi menu hariannya sejak kecil, dan adakah faktor-faktor risiko yang dibawa dalam tubuhnya. Adakah juga faktor warisan darah tinggi, kegemukan, dan diabetes sendiri.

Apabila sejak kecil sel lemak tubuhnya sudah besar-besar dan banyak akibat menu hariannya berlebihan, punya turunan darah tinggi, dan atau diabetes, sejumlah faktor risiko itu sekarang mungkin telah membuat pembuluh darah tubuhnya mulai berkarat lemak (aterosklerosis). Semakin banyak faktor risiko yang dimiliki tubuhnya, semakin buruk kondisi pembuluh darahnya sekarang. Sebaliknya, bila faktor risiko itu sedikit atau nyaris tak ada, semakin sedikit kerak dan karat lemak pada dinding pembuluh darah yang mungkin sudah melengket pada pembuluh koroner jantung, otak, ginjal, atau matanya.

Di negara maju, sebut saja Amerika Serikat, pembuluh darah rata-rata remajanya sudah mulai berkarat. Diperkirakan ketebalan karat lemak pipa pembuluh itu bertambah sekitar 2 persen setiap tahun jika faktor risiko yang dimilikinya dibiarkan tak terkendali, seperti tetap makan berlebihan dengan menu berlemak tinggi, kurang gerak, dan masih diperberat oleh stressor fisik maupun jiwa.

Benar, dengan berolahraga sebagian kalori yang kita peroleh dan makanan akan dibakar. Tergantung seberapa besar porsi olahraga kita, sebesar itu pula kalori, yang dibakar. Termasuk akan membakar pula kelebihan deposit gajih di bawah kulit jika olahraga atau gerak badan sampai melampaui jumlah kalori yang kita konsumsi.

Meski demikian, olahraga, gerak badan, dan aktivitas fisik tidak akan mengurangi karat lemak aterosklerosis yang sudah telanjur terbentuk pada dinding pembuluh darah. Berolahraga atau kegiatan fisik memang bisa menurunkan lemak darah (lipid: kolesterol, trigliserida, asam lemak bebas), sehingga pembentukan karat lemak pada pembuluh darah tidak berlanjut.

Namun, karat lemak yang sudah terbentuk tidak akan luruh dengan aktivitas fisik. Aterosklerosis yang baru akan kembali terbentuk bila sewaktu-waktu kadar lipid darah kembali meninggi, dan demikian seterusnya sepanjang hidup.

Status Gizi

Kembali ke kasus suami Anda, perlu diketahui seperti apa status gizi suami sekarang?

Jika ia berbakat gemuk, dan total kalori harian yang dikonsumsi setelah dipotong aktivitas fisik (terutama dari karbohidrat, termasuk gula) ternyata masih melebihi kebutuhan harian tubuh, maka akan tetap membentuk deposit gajih.

Jika ada bakat kolesterol (turunan), kelebihan kalorinya bukan saja menjadi gajih, tapi akan mengalir dalam darah sebagai hyperlipidemia (bisa kolesterol saja, trigliserida saja, atau keduanya yang meninggi dalam darah).

Namun, tidak setiap orang yang kelebihan mengonsumsi lemak dan manis-manis, tentu lemak darahnya akan melebihi normal. Tergantung “dapur” metabolisme tubuhnya. Jika tidak berbakat hyperlipidemia atau hyperlipoproteinemia, ya kadar lipid darahnya tetap saja tidak tinggi. Sebaliknya bagi yang berbakat hyperlipidemia, kendati konsumsi kalori (lemak, gula) rendah saja, lipid darahnya bisa saja melebihi normal.

Amati saja, apakah dengan pola kegiatan dan pola menu harian yang sudah berlangsung rutin itu, kian bertambahkah berat badan suami Anda? Jika ya, berarti kalori yang dikonsumsi dalam menu harian melebihi yang dibakar. Untuk itu agar stabil berat badannya, porsi menunya dikurangi atau aktivitas fisiknya yang ditambah.

Namun, itu saja belum cukup. Periksa kadar lipid dan gula darahnya juga. Bila ternyata tidak meninggi, berarti aman, dengan catatan pola dan porsi aktivitas hariannya harus tetap dipertahankan demikian.

Jika ternyata aktivitas hariannya berkurang, agar stabil, porsi menu hariannya pun perlu dikurangi. Begitu pula jika aktivitas fisik hariannya bertambah, porsi menunya pun perlu ditambah pula.

Itu saja pun belum cukup. Selain kecukupan kalori, tubuh juga membutuhkan kecukupan vitamin dan mineral dalam takaran yang memadai. Vitamin dan mineral yang jumlahnya 40-an jenis itu dan tubuh perlukan setiap hari diperoleh dari sayur-mayur dan bebuahan segar.

Namun, kita tahu, kualitas sayur mayur dan bebuahan kita zaman sekarang tidaklah sesehat zaman dulu. Cara panen, cara simpan, dan distribusi, selain kualitas lapisan tanah atas (topsoil) bumi sudah tidak selengkap produksi dulu, menambah rendah kualitas bahan makanan bersumber vitamin-mineral kita.

ltu berarti kendati kita cukup mengonsumsi sayur dan buah setiap hari, belum tentu kecukupan tubuh akan vitamin dan mineral harian terpenuhi. Belum lagi kalau cara menyiangi, cara olah, cara menyajikannya tidak memenuhi syarat gizi sehingga tidak seluruh kandungan nutrisi dalam bahan makanan tersebut berhasil tubuh manfaatkan. Seperti itu agaknya nasib menu rata-rata orang modern.

4-5 Variasi Menu

Kecukupan tubuh orang modern akan seluruh kebutuhan zat gizinya bertambah kritis lagi apabila menu hariannya kurang bervariasi.

Untuk memenuhi kecukupan ragam nutrisi yang 40-an jenis itu meja makan kita memerlukan sedikitnya 4-5 variasi menu setiap kali saji.

Harus diakui kalau menu harian orang modern yang hidupnya serba instan dan dikejar waktu, dan untuk memilih praktisnya sehingga cenderung bermenu seketemunya yang itu-itu saja lagi (monodiet). Kalau bukan soto, ya, gado-gado, atau nasi padang.

Dalam menu harian yang bolak-balik seperti itu saja diperkirakan tidak semua zat gizi yang tubuh butuhkan terpenuhi. Itu sebab acap disebut-sebut, orang modern, yang kelihatannya saja gemuk dan tambun, kalau diperiksa ternyata tetap kekurangan gizi. Sebut saja kemungkinan kekurangan Zn, selenium, chromium, bahkan vitamin C, dan kalsium sebagaimana banyak terungkap pada sebagian besar populasi Amerika.

Melihat kebiasaan suami Anda yang ogah makan sayur dan tanpa buah (yang sedikitnya perlu 5 porsi dalam sehari) pula, saya kira jika darahnya diperiksa, dan rambutnya dianalisis (hair analysis), tentu ada zat gizi yang kurang dalam tubuhnya yang belum tentu sudah menimbulkan keluhan atau gangguan yang terasakan atau bermanifestasi. Dunia medis sudah mencatat sekian banyak ancaman gangguan pada organ tubuh jika sampai kekurangan zat nutrisi yang vital tubuh butuhkan, termasuk vitamin dan trace-elements, zat esensial, yang cuma dibutuhkan dalam takaran yang amat kecil (mikrogram), tapi vital bagi tubuh.

Daripada bingung harus bagaimana, saya kira, bila suami Anda masih juga susah mengonsumsi sayur-mayur dan bebuahan, tidak salah jika mulai rutin mengonsumsi esktra suplemen multivitamin (boleh pilih merek apa saja asal lengkap). Dengan berolahraga berat (sepakbola dan bulutangkis), berarti fungsi otot tubuhnya sangat terperas. Padahal, selain kalori, fungsi otot juga memerlukan beragam pula kebutuhan aneka vitamin maupun mineral. Keluhan gampang kram, atau kejang kaku, bisa jadi sebab kebutuhan otot akan vitamin dan mineral yang tidak tercukupi.

Yang perlu Anda lakukan kini jika belum mengenal profil lemak darah suami Anda, periksalah sekarang, termasuk gula darahnya. Jika ternyata masih dalam batas normal, tak perlu cemas sekalipun tetap doyan makan daging, ikan, serta minuman manis.

Selama berat badannya terkontrol ideal (ideal bodyweight), yakni berat badan (Kg) dibagi tinggi badan (meter) pangkat dua = menghasilkan indeks antara 20-25. Lebih dari 25 berarti mulai kegemukan, dan bila kurang dari 20 berarti kelewat kerempeng.

Bersyukur punya suami yang masih rajin berolahraga. Karena hanya dengan cara itu, orang kota yang kecukupan pangannya sudah terpenuhi, masih bisa bertahan hidup bugar. Sebagai suami ia boleh saja seperti harimau, atau kucing.

Untuk lebih lengkapnya ia juga harus doyan makan kacang-kacangan seperti orang Italia. Perkara ia suka yang manis-manis, selama masih sebatas seperti semut, tak perlulah Anda risau. Bukan sebab kebanyakan manis orang jadi kencing manis. Namun, jika kesukaan manis-manis sudah berubah lebih dari perangai semut, itulah yang mesti Anda sebagai istri waspadai. Umpama kata ia mulai terpikat manisnya rumput tetangga.

Maaf cuma bercanda. Salam. @

Stop Makan Sebelum Kenyang!

2007-11-08T02:30:00.001-08:00

Stop Makan Sebelum Kenyang!

Oleh: Dr.Handrawan Nadesul, Dokter Umum

Banyak yang tanya, selain jenis makanan, apa yang salah dengan keputusan ingin menikmati sebanyak mungkin makanan?

Semakin banyak pilihan menu modern yang lezat-lezat sekarang ini, cenderung semakin besar porsi makan kita.

Namun sebuah riset menemukan, dengan porsi makan lebih rendah, harapan hidup bisa meningkat duaperlima .

Benar! Semua orang ingin menikmati hidup yang lebih panjang. Banyak upaya dicari untuk menuju ke sana. Salah satunya dari sikap makan.

Tubuh kita merupakan otobiografi dari apa yang kita makan. Rakus dan banyak makan menyimpan banyak penyakit. Sedang dengan membiasakan sedikit makan bisa merentang umur lebih panjang.

Boleh jadi banyak makan juga berarti lebih banyak racun dalam menu masuk ke dalam tubuh. Dari dulu banyak bahan-bahan berbahaya ditemukan dalam menu harian kita.

Kebanyakan menu modern kini kedapatan mengandung racun yang merusak sel-sel tubuh. Baru-baru ini racun dioxin diketahui terdapat dalam semua jenis menu berlemak, misalnya. Kini diteliti di banyak negara bahaya dioxin dalam menu siap-saji yang dijual kepada publik. Dioxin dinyatakan WHO sebagai pencetus kanker selain merusak sistem saraf, hati, dan hormon reproduksi.

Bahaya Dioxin

Dua studi di Inggris menyimpulkan bahwa dioxin dan zat yang menyerupai (dioxins-like substances), seperi PCB dan Furans masuk ke dalam makanan, tertinggi ada dalam lemak, dan rendah dalam menu rendah lemak (sayur dan buah).

Rice-oil di Jepang dan Taiwan sudah tercemar PCB dan Furans sejak 1960, itu yang menjadi penyebab kematian akibat kanker, infeksi paru-paru, gangguan saraf di sana terbilang tinggi.

Setiap orang di kebanyakan negara industri, 96 persen darahnya mengandung dioxin yang mencemari menu hariannya. Es krim, dan ikan di restoran ayam goreng AS, atau contoh makanan yang diambil dari restoran siap-saji di AS hampir semua mengandung dioxin. Terhadap ’Pepperoni pizza’, misalnya, Badan Pengawasan Obat AS (FDA) memonitor keju yang dipakai yang dicurigai tinggi kandungan dioxin-nya.

Bayi dan anak paling rentan terhadap efek dioxin. Munculnya bayi cacat lahir, gangguan belajar, dan gangguan perkembangan lain berkorelasi dengan dioxin yang diduga berasal dari air susu ibu.

Bayi-bayi AS yang 6 bulan menyusu ASI rata-rata mengonsumsi dioxin, sebab lemak ASI tercemar dioxin akibat konsumsi menu harian ibu sudah tercemar dioxin. Dioxin kebanyakan masuk ke dalam menu siap-saji, daging, ikan, dan produk susu.

Dioxin itu produk sisa jika sampah berbahaya kota dibakar, atau berasal dari zat chlorine, seperti pestisida dan produk kertas. Sekali hewan-hewan ternak makan zat kimiawi berbahaya tersebut, racun akan diakumulasi dalam lemak gajihnya. Manusia tercemar racun jika mengonsumsi gajih ternak yang sudah tercemar racun tersebut.

Bukan saja di negara maju, studi dioxin juga menunjukkan hasil positif di Vietnam, Rusia, Cina, Kamboja, dan Timur Tengah. Burung penguin di Artartika, hujan di Asia Tenggara, sampai susu bayi di Jerman, positif kandungan zat-zat berbahaya (synthetic chemicals).

Racun Acrylamide

Hal baru lainnya, bahwa keripik kentang (potato chip) dan kentang goreng, dua jenis makanan yang mulai ditakuti sekarang sebab mengandung acrylamide yang tergolong zat pencetus kanker (cancer causing-substances).

Periset Swedia menemukan dalam kebanyakan camilan dengan karbohidrat tinggi yang dibakar atau digoreng dengan suhu tinggi bersifat pencetus kanker (carcinogenic). Yang sama bisa berasal dari masakan tradisional.

Zat acrylamide bahan pembuat plastik dan pewarna selain pemurni air minum. Itu sebab bahaya kemasan plastik (sterofom) untuk masakan panas (soto, bakmi, masakan Cina restoran yang dikemas semasih panas). Dalam kentang terdapat asparagine yang jika dipanaskan dengan suhu tinggi berubah menjadi acrylamide, sang pencetus kanker itu.

Bagi penganut Orthomolecular Medicine, banyak menu orang modern yang mengandung bahan kimia buatan (man-made chemicals), yang sebagian besar berbahaya. Bahan kimia dalam makanan, baik yang berbahaya maupun yang belum kedapatan berbahaya, selain merusak, juga bisa mengganggu, dan mengacaukan fungsi sel tubuh. Sel-sel tubuh kita merupakan ’dapur’ pengolah mesin tubuh.

Dapur mesin tubuh jadi kacau kerjanya jika dicemari berbagai bahan berbahaya yang dibawa makanan. Selain kemungkinan kekurangan atau kelebihan zat-zat makanan yang dibutuhkan, sel juga kewalahan menampung cemaran dari bahan-bahan asing bagi tubuh yang dibawa oleh makanan, antara lain oleh dioxin, acrylamide, dan racun-racun kimia lainnya dalam makanan modern.

Jangan berpikir hanya menu modern yang berisiko merusak sel tubuh kita. Di kita, jenis saus tomat, sambal, kecap, tahu, penganan industri rumahan, baru-baru ini (sesungguhnya sudah sejak lama ada) kedapatan memakai zat warna tekstil (Rhodamine-B), pengawet formalin, pemanis sakarin, yang sama-sama membahayakan kesehatan juga.

Bahkan ikan asin yang dianggap menu sederhana dan dianggap aman pun sebetulnya mengandung nitrosamin, zat pencetus kanker juga. Orang kecukupan yang bermenu resotran dan orang papa, kini sama-sama memikul risiko yang sama-sama bisa tercemar bahan berbahaya dari menu hariannya.

Stop Makan Sebelum Kenyang

Kembali soal makan dengan porsi lebih sedikit. Stewart Frankel periset dari Universitas Yale (28/11/02) menyimpulkan dari hasil temuannya terhadap berbagai kapang, cacing, serangga, dan mamalia.

Diketahui, dengan porsi makan yang lebih sedikit akan mengoptimalkan umur (life-span) 33 sampai 50 persen dibanding yang rakus makan. Diduga demikian halnya pada manusia.

Ada dua gen kunci yang menentukan umur bisa direntang lebih optimal, yakni penghasil enzim Rpd3 (Histone deacetylase), dan Sir2. Kadar Rpd3 yang rendah dan Sir2 yang tinggi menentukan bisa lebih optimalnya umur seseorang direntangkan. Oleh karena makan banyak meninggikan Rpd3 yang bikin umur tidak bisa panjang optimal, maka agar umur merentang lebih panjang kadar Rpd3 diturunkan dengan mengurangi porsi makan.

Orang bisa tidak perlu mengurangi porsi makannya jika berhasil menurunkan kadar enzim Rpd3. Untuk itu sedang diteliti terus hadirnya obat yang bisa menekan enzim Rpd3 dalam badan. Kini sedang diteliti kemungkinan Phenylbutyrate menekan enzim Rpd3, sehingga orang masih mungkin mengoptimalkan panjang umurnya, sambil masih bisa tetap rakus.

Selama obat pengoptimal umur belum ada, agar umur kita bisa direntang optimal, pilihannya cuma satu: stop makan sebelum kenyang, tidak lapar mata, atau punya hobi doyan ditraktir, dan kepingin makan terus kendati tidak sedang lapar. @

Diet and Diabetes

2007-11-08T02:18:00.000-08:00

Diet and Diabetes

What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a general term for an endocrine disease that is characterized by excessive urination and thirst. Many Americans suffer from this disease, as well as the limitations to one's lifestyle that accompany it. The two most commonly known forms are diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus.

Diabetes mellitus is a pancreatic disease primarily affecting carbohydrate metabolism. In this condition, the pancreas is unable to secrete sufficient insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose level. This results in abnormally high levels of blood sugar, causing the symptoms of thirst, hunger, emaciation, and weakness. The imperfect combustion of fats may ensue, resulting in ketosis-- high levels of ketones in the body. Difficult breathing, heart problems, and even coma may occur in the complicated stages of diabetes.

Diabetes insipidus is a condition associated with the kidney's inability to conserve water. It is caused by the failure of the hypothalamus to release anti-diuretic hormone, resulting in the passage of large amounts of urine. This is often accompanied by a voracious appetite, loss of strength, and emaciation.

Who is Diabetic?
Diabetes mellitus is far more prevalent than diabetes insipidus. It affects more than 10 million people in the United States and causes over 30,000 deaths each year; it contributes to an additional 100,000 deaths annually. Diabetes is costly for Americans-- over 18 billion dollars are spent every year to treat the disease. Its prevalence increases with age from affecting approximately .1% of the population under 17 years of age to reaching approximately 8% of persons over age 65.

The non-insulin, dependent type of diabetes usually occurs in obese people who are age 40 or older. They have higher than normal amounts of insulin in their blood but are resistant to the action of this blood sugar regulating hormone.

How is Diabetes Diagnosed?
A variety of methods, including Glucose Tolerance Tests, have been used to diagnose diabetes mellitus. The most reliable of these methods detects a blood glucose concentration greater than 140 milligrams per deciliter (normal is considered to be between 70-100 mg/dl) after an overnight fast.

How is Diabetes Treated?
After the isolation of insulin by Frederick Banting and Charles Best in 1921, incidence of death from ketoacidosis and diabetic coma decreased dramatically. The prolonged life span, however, revealed long-term complications such as kidney failure, eye disease, blindness, heart disease, gastrointestinal and nervous system disorders. Elevated blood glucose levels are believed to be at the root of these disorders. Thus, the objective of treatment for the diabetic is to restore blood glucose to normal levels.

In obese, non-insulin dependent individuals with diabetes, the treatment of choice is weight loss. If this plan is not successful, oral, blood sugar-reducing medicines are required. These hypoglycemic agents act primarily by stimulating the patient's pancreas to secrete additional insulin.

Is There a "Diabetic Diet"?
It is apparent that there are as many "diabetic diets" as there are persons with diabetes। Any dietary program is complicated by the fact that the same food may be eaten by different people and produce different responses in blood sugar levels. On-going research which investigates a food's ability to raise glucose levels (also known as glycemic index) indicates that the response is dependent upon the proportions of carbohydrate, protein and fat. For example, some individuals will spike a high blood glucose level when juice is ingested alone. However, the same juice may be better tolerated if taken with a meal which includes more protein and fat.

Generally, a diabetic meal plan discourages the daily intake of fatty meats, high fat dairy products, fatty desserts, highly salted foods, and excess calories that may lead to obesity.

How to Begin?
So, what can the individual with diabetes do to create an individualized diet? Perhaps two of the most useful tools are blood glucose self-monitoring and a detailed diet diary. Glucose meter readings indicate the body's response to meals, snacks, exercise, stress, illness and general habits. Upon careful examination of multiple meter readings and diary notations, you and/or your physician can devise a diet suited to your lifestyle. For example, your physician or a board-certified diabetes educator may advise you to avoid large caloric intake during the evening meal. This can be especially true if the diary note for the same night was, "Sat and watched television until bedtime." Whereas a diary note such as, "I took a brisk walk for 20 minutes after dinner" may necessitate no changes in the evening meal because exercise lowers blood glucose levels.

What is a "Diabetic Diet?"
Simply "cutting out sugar" and "watching your diet" are not diet plans. In fact, a successful plan generally includes all types of foods. Most meal plans begin by estimating the amount of calories an individual needs to manage a realistic weight. Then, 55-65% of the total daily calories are allotted to complex carbohydrates; 20% to protein rich food; and, 15-30% to fatty foods.

After these proportions have been estimated, the size, time and number of meals may be determined. For example, it is possible that six small meals are going to be easier to digest and assimilate than three larger ones. For some people, it is easier to dispose of smaller amounts of glucose because less insulin is needed. Oftentimes, merely eating meals and snacks at consistent times will improve glucose levels.

What is an Exchange List?
Many individuals with diabetes are introduced to the "exchange list" system of food choices when they are given a diet plan. Foods are placed on one of six lists based upon their predominant nutrient content. Portion sizes are also indicated to keep caloric value very close for all foods on the list. These six lists are: starch/bread, meat/substitutes, vegetables, fruit, milk, and fats. A meal plan will most likely indicate how many choices may be taken from a list for a meal or a snack. Such an arrangement should afford a well- balanced diet while still regulating blood glucose levels.

What is Carbohydrate Counting?
Carbohydrate counting is a method of achieving a diet plan which is responsive to effective glucose control as well as offering a tremendous variety of food choices. Plans are drawn up which indicate a suggested amount of carbohydrates and calories for a meal or snack. Today most packaged foods have a nutrient label indicating the carbohydrate and calorie count in a serving. Once choices are made to attain the optimal carbohydrate amount, the remainder of the calories are allotted for protein and fat. Many vegetarians prefer to use carbohydrate counting because animal products which appear on the meat and milk exchange lists are usually omitted.

What about Fats?
Fat restriction is very important for the person with diabetes। Cooked fats are perhaps the most offensive to the body. High fat diets are not only linked with diabetes, but also with other degenerative conditions such as cardiovascular disease, breast cancer and colon cancer.

How do you reduce your fat consumption? Here is a simple list of do's and don'ts.

Don't fry food. Rather: bake, broil, steam or poach.
Use low fat or skim milk dairy products.
When buying canned products make certain they are packed in water and not oil.
Do eat lean meats. Try to emphasize white poultry meat with the skin removed.
Consider fish as a replacement for meats. You should avoid smoked fish and the dark fatty sections of some fish.

How do I Reduce my Salt Intake?
Reducing salt intake of particular importance. Salt is frequently a culprit in cases of high blood pressure. Individuals with diabetes tend to develop hypertension which can threaten the health of the kidneys and the circulatory system.

Limit the use of prepared sauces such as mustard, ketchup, salad dressings and packaged foods high in "sodium."
Persons with hypertension are recommended not to exceed 2000 milligrams of sodium a day. A teaspoon of salt has 2300 milligrams of sodium.

How do I Increase Fiber Intake?
There are numerous benefits in replacing animal protein-saturated foods with plant foods which are richer in fiber. Improved digestion and elimination, lowered blood cholesterol, lowered blood pressure, weight loss and an increased sensitivity to insulin are some of the possible benefits of increased fiber in the diet.

Choose whole grain cereals, brown rice, barley, millet, oats, etc..
Eat plenty of whole, raw, fresh vegetables and fruit. String beans, cucumbers, celery, Jerusalem artichokes, garlic, and onions are particularly good for the diabetic. Garlic, in fact, has been shown to reduce blood sugar in those suffering from diabetes.

Are There Any Herbs to Help the Individual with Diabetes?
Several herbal remedies have been used successfully by persons with diabetes. It is a good idea to experiment with one herb or herbal formula at a time, making sure that its effect on your blood sugar is beneficial. Typically, these herbs are used as a tea or an herbal extract. Make a strong decoction of the herb in hot water, and drink the tea one to three times a day. If you prefer the liquid extract, take the recommended dose in warm water two or three times daily. It is also acceptable to use the capsule or tablet form.

Siberian ginseng is a great place to start for the diabetic, as it can aid in the regulation of blood sugar. As an "adaptogenic" herb, it helps the body adapt to stress, including the metabolic stress of blood sugar fluctuations. It often has a harmonizing effect on blood glucose, making it the ideal remedy for the diabetic to consider. In addition, rarely does one find an unfavorable reaction to Siberian ginseng.

Other botanicals include dandelion root and goldenseal*। These two herbs assist digestion, and are best taken with a meal to reap optimal benefits. The herbs blueberry leaf, nettle leaf, red raspberry leaf, and string bean pod are better when taken one hour before a meal as they may ultimately help reduce the quantity of insulin needed. Horsetail and alfalfa, both high in silica and other trace minerals, are best taken at the beginning of a meal. Juniper berries, which are cleansing to the kidneys, may be taken between meals. Keep records on how each one affects your blood sugar levels. Ideally, you will find a few that you can rely on to help stabilize your condition.

Are there any Nutritional Supplements to Help the Diabetic?
Many nutritional supplements have been demonstrated as effective in helping to correct and improving the diabetic condition. The following are nutritional supplements to consider in a program:

B Complex
Chromium
Trace mineral complexes including calcium, magnesium, zinc, and manganese
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Beta Carotene (Vitamin A) and Vitamin D

What About Exercise?
Both types of diabetes can be fought using a regular, moderate exercise program. There is a clearly demonstrated effect of aerobic activities, including brisk walking, running, cycling, and swimming, on blood sugar levels. Improved glucose uptake by the exercising muscles occurs and lasts for up to 72 hours. Many diabetics who exercise regularly are able to decrease their medication. Exercise programs also have been shown to improve the blood lipid profile and help control blood pressure. However, you are urged to carefully monitor your blood sugar during this time to avoid overdoses of insulin.

General Guidelines for the Person with Diabetes?

Avoid overeating.
Emphasis should be on whole foods.
Avoid excessive emotional stress.
Avoid soft water. Diabetes is higher in soft water areas. Diabetics should drink natural, non-carbonated mineral or spring water which contains naturally occurring trace minerals. Clinical studies have shown that a good supply of trace minerals are important for effective glucose tolerance and utilization.
Get lots of exercise! Aside from dietary restrictions, exercise and strong physical labor will help to diminish the need for insulin.

* NOTE: Goldenseal should not be taken by itself for more than seven consecutive days.

Janet Zand, OMD, L. Ac., is a respected naturopathic physician who lives and practices in the Los Angeles area. She has developed a unique and effective method of combining herbal medicine with nutrition, homeopathy and acupuncture. Her credentials include a Doctor of Naturopathy, Doctor of Oriental Medicine, and Certified Acupuncturist. Dr. Zand has over fifteen years of clinical experience treating with natural medicine, as well as formulating her own line of herbal supplements.

Herbal Treatment of Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes

2007-11-08T02:17:00.001-08:00

Herbal Treatment of Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes

The plant kingdom has many hypoglycemic plants. They have much to contribute to a comprehensive management program of non-insulin dependent diabetes. Insulin dependent will rarely respond well to hypoglycemics, as the Islets of Langerhans are largely incapable of working. Herbs will not replace insulin therapy where it is necessary. Laboratory screenings, similar to those for cytotoxic plants, have demonstrated the reality of plant hypoglycemics. Many hundreds have been documented. Examples from Europe include :

Bilberry (Vaccinium mytillus)
Garlic (Allium sativum)
Goat's Rue (Galega officinalis)
Mulberry Leaves (Morus nigra)
Olive Leaves (Olea europaea)

Interestingly Goat's Rue is also an effective galactagogue, hinting at a possible pituitary or hypothalamus activity. Remember that gentle endocrine stimulation is one of the properties of the bitters, and in some people they can be dramatically effective in lowering blood sugar.

Many plants well known to students of this course have been shown to have experimental hypoglycemic effects to a greater or lesser degree. The mechanisms are not always clear. Listed here are some examples cited in:

Lewis and Elvin-Lewis, (1977). Medical Botany. John Wiley & Sons, New York

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
Burdock (Arctium lappa)
Cashew (Anacardium occidentale)
Cayenne (Capsicum minimum)
Celery (Apium graveolens)
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Golden Seal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Gravel Root (Eupatorium purpureum)
Oats (Avena sativa)
Peyote (Lophophora williamsii)
Pill bearing Spurge (Euphorbia pilulifera)
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)

The challenge for the practitioner is the appropriate application of the hypoglycemics. Such remedies can sometimes have a rapid impact on blood sugar levels, but one that varies from patient to patient. Their safe use can only occur when part of a comprehensive diabetes management program that is suitable for that individual. It is essential that very close observation be kept on urine and blood signs. This necessitates skilled practitioner straining the patient. The practicalities of this are beyond what can be adequately covered in this here, and so no protocols involving hypoglycemics will be given.

Herbal preventive work to avoid the various long-term complications maybe undertaken quite safely, even if no attempt is made to deal with insulin levels. Attention should be given to the cardio-vascular system for the reasons discussed above. Heart and vascular tonics are appropriate for long-term use, especially Crataegus spp., Ginkgo biloba, Vacciniummyrtillus.

Diabetes

2007-11-08T02:13:00.000-08:00

Diabetes

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine
(Excerpted from Healthy Self: The Guide to Self-Care and Wise Consumerism)

Diabetes is a condition which results when a person's body doesn't make any insulin, or enough insulin, or doesn't use insulin the right way. Insulin is a hormone made in the pancreas gland that helps your cells use blood sugar for energy. When insulin is in short supply, the glucose (sugar) in the blood can become dangerously high. That's why someone who is diabetic may have to take insulin by injection, or pills by mouth to help the body secrete more of its own insulin or make better use of the insulin it does secrete. Some diabetics, however, require no medication. All persons with diabetes must follow a controlled diet and exercise regularly to prevent their blood sugar from getting too high.

There are two (2) forms of diabetes:
Type 1 - (sometimes called insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or juvenile diabetes) is more severe and usually shows up before the age of 30 (but may occur at any age). Insulin injections are essential as well as dietary control and exercise.

Type 2 - (sometimes called non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) or adult-onset diabetes) is less severe, usually affecting persons who are forty (40) years of age or older and overweight. This type is most often treated with diet and exercise and sometimes oral medicine. Occasional insulin injections may be required as well.

Diabetes can contribute to hardening of the arteries, strokes, kidney failure, blindness, and gangrene.

Signs and Symptoms
The American Diabetes Association uses the acronyms DIABETES and CAUTION to help identify the warning signs of diabetes.

Drowsiness.
Itching.
A family history of diabetes.
Blurred vision.
Excessive weight.
Tingling, numbness, or pain in extremities.
Easy fatigue.
Skin infection, slow healing of cuts and scratches, especially on the feet.

Other signs are:

Constant urination.
Abnormal thirst.
Unusual hunger.
The rapid loss of weight.
Irritability.
Obvious weakness and fatigue.
Nausea and vomiting.

You don't necessarily have to experience all of these warning signs to be diabetic; only one or two may be present. Some people show no warning signs whatsoever and find out they're diabetic after a routine blood test. If you have a family history of diabetes, you should be especially watchful of the signs and symptoms above. If you notice any of these signs, report them to your doctor. Being overweight increases your risk significantly. A diet high in sugar and low in fiber may increase your risk if you are prone to developing diabetes. Pregnancy can trigger diabetes in some women.

Treatment and Care
Treatment for diabetes will depend on the type and severity of the disorder. Both forms, however, require a treatment plan that maintains normal, steady blood sugar levels. This can be accomplished by:

Proper dietary measures that give prescribed amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, are set up in regular meals adequate in intake of dietary fiber, and promote weight reduction, if necessary.
Exercise.
Medicine: Oral hypoglycemic agents, pills, or insulin injections, if necessary.

With either type of diabetes, routine care and follow up treatment is important. Careful control of blood sugar levels can allow a person with diabetes to lead a normal, productive life. Persons who are genetically predisposed to diabetes should watch their weight, control their eating habits, and exercise regularly to reduce their risk of getting the disease.

Glossary

2007-11-05T20:21:00.000-08:00

Glossary

7-Keto (n) a metabolite of DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) which boosts the thyroid gland's production of T3 hormone, the hormone with the greatest effect on the body's metabolic rate. 7-Keto is a trademark of Humanetics Corp., patent no. 5,296,481. Order 7-Keto.

acidosis [acid, sour + osis, a condition] (n) a condition in which the pH of the body's fluids becomes excessively acidic which occurs when the body's intake and production of acid residue exceeds its ability to adequately eliminate it (See also autotoxication.)

active (n) in herbology refers to a naturally-occurring ingredient in an herb that is believed to be responsible for the herb's desirable effects on the body

adaptogen (n) an agent, such as an herb, that allows the body to adapt to various conditions, bringing the body back toward a state of normalcy or homeostasis. For example, an adaptogenic herb that affects blood pressure will help lower the blood pressure when it is too high, and raise the blood pressure when it is too low.

ADD (n) "Attention Deficit Disorder" (See Focus Attention and Focus Attention Powder.)

ADHD (n) "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" (See Focus Attention and Focus Attention Powder.)

agalactia [a, not + galact-, milk] (n) absence of milk secretion after childbirth

alkalosis [alkal- + osis, a condition] (n) a condition in which the pH of the body's fluids become excessively alkaline (See also acidosis.)

allopathy [allo, other + pathy, disease] (n) the system of treating disease by inducing a pathologic reaction that is antagonistic to the disease being treated, (usually refers to conventional medicine)

alternative medicine (n) commonly used to refer to health care existing outside the medical status quo, e.g.; herbalism, nutrition, chiropractic, naturopathy, acupuncture, etc.; although the more correct terminology for these disciplines would be complementary or traditional medicine

arthritis [arthr-, joint + itis, inflamation] (n) a non-specific term referring to any type of joint inflammation. There are many different types of arthritis. The three most common ones are osteoarthritis (by far the most common), rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

amylase (n) a digestive enzyme secreted in the saliva and pancreatic juices that aids the breakdown of starch, also called ptyalin. (See enzymes.)

analgesic [an-, not + alg, pain] (n) a substance that relieves pain (also antalgesic)

anhidrosis [an-, not + hidro, sweat + osis, a condition] (n) a condition characterized by diminished or complete absense of sweating

annual (n) a plant that lives only one year, or one plant season

anodyne [an-, not + -odyne, pain] (n) a substance that relieves pain

antalgesic [ant-, against + alg, pain] (n) a substance that relieves pain (also analgesic)

anthelmintic [ant-, against + helmin-, worms] (n) a substance that kills parasitic worms

antibiotic [anti-, against + bio, life] (n) an agent that kills microorganisms

antibody [anti-, against + bio, life] (n) in the body's immune system, a molecule that is responsible for recognizing and marking an antigen for destruction by the white blood cells

antiemetic [anti-, against + emet-, vomiting] (n) an agent that relieves nausea and vomiting

antigalactic [anti-, against + galact-, milk] (n) an agent that stops or reduces the flow of milk

antigen [anti-, against + gen, producer] (n) a substance that, when introduced into the body, induces an immune response consisting of the production of a circulating antibody

antihydrotic [anti-, against + hydro-, sweat] (n) an agent that reduces or stops perspiration

antilithic [anti-, against + lith-, stone] (n) an agent that reduces the production of urinary stones or acts to dissolve those already present

antioxidant [ant-, against + oxid-, oxygen or oxidation] (n) a substance that prevents oxidative damage done by free radicals. It does this primarily by giving up an electron to the free radical converting it to a less reactive molecule. Antioxidants include the vitamins A, C and E; the minerals zinc and selenium; and various herbs and phytonutrients such as Ginkgo bilboa and lycopene. Antioxidants are also called free radical scavengers. (See also free radical.)

antiperiodic [anti-, against + period-, periodic] (n) a substance that works against periodic or intermittent diseases

antiphlogistic [anti-, against + phlogist-, fire] (n) an agent that reduces inflammation (anti-inflammatory)

antipyretic [anti-, against + pyret-, fever] (n) an agent that prevents or reduces fever (febrifuge)

antiscorbutic [anti-, against + scorbut-, scurvy] (n) a substance (containing vitamin C) that prevents or cures scurvy

antiseptic [anti-, against + sepsis, putrifaction] (n) an agent that prevents infection by preventing or inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms

antispasmodic [anti-, against + spasm-, spasm] (n) an agent that relieves or prevents spasms

antitussive [anti-, against + tuss, cough] (n) an agent that relieves coughing

aphrodisiac (n) an angent that increases sexual desire

aroma (n) aromatic (adj) relating to fragrance or smell. Aromatic herbs (e.g., peppermint, spearmint, catnip) are herbs that contain a high amount of volatile oils and are often valued for their beneficial effects on the digestive system by promoting the secretion of digestive juices.

aromatherapy (n) treatment in which the subject is exposed to certain aromas or fragrances such as those released by diffusion of essential oils from herbs

arteriosclerosis [arterio-, artery + scler-, hard + -osis, a condition] (n) or "hardening of the arteries" a condition in which fatty deposits, cholesterol and calcium build up on the inside of arteries decreasing blood flow and pliability. This is a common cause of high blood pressure as the heart has to beat harder to push the blood through arteries that are partially blocked and less pliable. When arteriosclerosis occurs in large arteries, such as the aorta, it is often referred to as atherosclerosis.

autonomic nervous system or ANS (n) the "automatic" or "subconscious" part of the nervous system that is not under conscious control and is responsible for controlling such automatic functions as heart rate, breathing, etc. The ANS is divided into two subdivisions, the sympathetic nervous system or SNS stimulates the body for action, and the parasympathetic nervous system or PNS slow down most bodily functions.

autotoxication [auto-, self + toxi-, poison] (n) (lit. "self-poisoning") is a term used by William Howard Hay, M.D. in his book A New Health Era (1933) to refer to what he considered the most fundamental cause of disease; i.e., accumulation of excess acid in the body (acidosis) which occurs when the body's intake and production of acid residue exceeds its ability to adequately eliminate it. This occurs primarily as a result of unwise food choices, improper food combining, and consumption of chemical food additives and drugs.

Ayurveda (n) Ayurvedic (adj) relating to the traditional medicine or herbalism of India

bile (n) also called gall, a bitter, yellow-green secretion of the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and released in the small intestine (duodenum) during digestion when fat enters the first part of the small intestine from the stomach. Bile emulsifies fats preparing them for further digestion and absorption in the small intestine.

bitter herb (n) an herb that is bitter to the taste

Body Mass Index (BMI) (n) defined as your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared (BMI = kg/m²). A BMI of 30 or above is considered obese.

botanical name (n) the name given to a plant according to internationally accepted rules in which a species is identified by two technical names, the genus and the species. Such names, also known as "species names" should always be either underlined or printed in italics and the first word, which always identifies the genus to which the species belongs, should be capitalized. (See also Linaean system).

botany (n) the science concerned with the study and classification of plants, the branch of biology dealing with plants

bursa (n) a sac filled with synovial fluid to cushion an area where a muscle or tendon rubs against a bone

bursitis [bursa + -itis, inflamation] (n) inflammation of a bursa

Candida (n) Candida albicans a yeastlike fungus which reproduces by budding and is generally found in trace amounts in the mouth, skin, intestinal tract, and vagina of normal individuals. Candida is the organism most commonly associated with mycotic (yeast or fungus) infections. Such infections are referred to as candidiasis. Ordinarily, the growth of this fungus is kept in check by the immune system and by the beneficial bacteria of the body or flora.

cardiac sphincter (n) a sphincter muscle located between the esophagus and the stomach which acts as a valve to prevent the contents of the stomach from entering the esophagus.

cellulase (n) a enzyme that breaks down cellulose cellulose, the carbohydrate that is the main part of the cell walls of plants. Animals such as cows produce cellulase but humans do not. This is why cows can get nutrition from plants such as grasses, while humans can not. (See enzymes.)

cellulose (n) the carbohydrate that is the main part of the cell walls of plants. Cellulose is nondigestible by humans because we to not produce the enzyme cellulase. Cellulose provides the bulk (or fiber) needed for proper functioning of the digestive and intestinal systems.

chi (n) 1. the "life force" according to Chinese philosophy and medicine; 2. energy

chiropractic [chiro-, hand + pract, to perform] (n) the drugless system of healing founded by D.D. Palmer in Davenport, Iowa in 1895, which is primarily concerned with body structure (particularly the spine) as it relates to body function and pathology; and which employs various physical treatments to improve the structure and function of the body, including manipulation or adjustments to the spine (See also subluxation.)

cholagogue [chol-, bile + -agogue, to produce] (n) an agent that increases the flow of bile

collagen (n) a fibrous protein which makes up skin, bone, tendons, and cartilage. It is the most abundant protein in the body.

cystitis [cyst-, sac or bladder + -itis, inflamation] (n) inflamation of the urinary badder, usually associated with a urinary tract infection

decoction (n) similar to an infusion or a "tea" except a decoction is made by actually boiling the herb in water. A decoction is sometimes used to extract the constituents of roots, bark, and thick leaves. For most leaves and flowers, and for beverages, an infusion is more desirable. (See infusion.) To make a decoction bring fresh cool water to a boil, drop the herb in the water and allow it to boil for about 3 to 5 minutes, then turn the heat off and allow it to steeped for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Keep covered through the entire process. Unless otherwise specified, one part chopped fresh plant material should be used in 9 parts water. When using dried herbs use one part dried plant material in 19 parts water. As with an infusion, the plant material should be strained out of the liquid before it is consumed.

dehydroepiandrosterone or DHEA (n) a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and also available as a nutritional supplement, which is a precusor for other hormones, particularly the sex hormones in both men and women. The body's production of DHEA declines with age making supplementation desirable.

diagnosis (n) the art and science of identifying a disease by its signs and symptoms

dilation (n) the act of opening up wider (e.g., dilation of the pupils of the eyes, the bronchial tubes of the lungs, etc.)

diuretic [dia-, through + urea, urine] (n and adj) increasing or an agent that increases the secretion of urine

dosah (n) a body or physiology type according to Ayurvedic herbalism. One's body type is also referred to as one's Prakriti and is determined by heredity.

eclectic (adj) 1. composed of elements drawn from various sources 2. selecting the best from various methods or sources. An eclectic herbalist draws upon various traditions (e.g., Chinese, Ayurvedic, etc.), choosing what appears to be the best for any given situation.

ecology (n) 1. the study of the interrelationship of organisms and their environments; 2. the totality or pattern of relations between organisms and their environment

electrolyte [electro-, electricity + -lyte, soluble] (n) ionized (carrying an electrical charge) salts in blood, tissue fluids and cells; so named because a solution containing electrolytes will conduct an electric current. Sodium, chloride (from common table salt) and potassium are examples of electrolytes.

emmenagogue [emmena, menses + -agogue, to produce] an agent that promotes menstrual flow

endocrine gland [endo-, within + crin, secrete] (n) a "ductless" gland that secretes its substance (a hormone) directly into the general circulation or blood. Examples are the pineal, pituitary, thyroid, thymus, adrenals, etc.

enzyme (n) 1. a protein which makes possible or facilitates a chemical reaction under a given environmental condition. 2. a digestive enzyme, an enzyme secreted by the body which helps break down food substances into forms that can be absorbed and assimilated by the body. Digestive enzymes are secreted by the salivary glands (e.g., amylase or ptyalin which breaks down starches); by the stomach (e.g. pepsin which breaks down proteins); by the liver (e.g., bile which help break down fats by emulsifyinng them); and by the pancreas (e.g., amylase which breaks down starches and lipase which breaks down fats.) 3. a plant enzyme, an enzyme naturally contained in the plants that we eat—usually destroyed by cooking and food processing

etymology (n) the study of the meanings of words according to their origin

euphoric (n) an agent that improves mood or increases feelings of well-being

exocrine gland [exo-, outside + crin, secrete] (n) a gland that secretes a substance through a duct or tube to an outside surface. Examples are tear glands, salivary glands, and sweat glands.

extracellular fluid [extra-, outside + cell] (n) the fluid, from the general circulation, which surrounds each cell in the body and from which the cells obtain their nutrients and expell their waste products. (Compare with intracellular fluid, the fluid that is found inside the cell.)

febrifuge [febri-, fever + fuge-, to put to flight] (n) an agent that prevents or reduces fever

fiber (n) the nondigestible parts of the plants that we eat, such as cellulose, also known as roughage. Fiber is an essential part of our diet.

fibromyalgia [fibro-, fibrous (tissue) + my-, muscles + algia, pain] (n) also known as fibromyositis and myofascial pain syndrome, refers to a chronic condition of unknown cause resulting in pain in the fibrous tissues, muscles, ligaments and tendons. The condition occurs mainly in women and is often associated with depression, sleeping problems, irritable bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue. In fact, most experts consider fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome to be the same condition. (For more information click here.)

fight or flight response (n) a hormonally stimulated state to prepare the body for an upcoming threat or challenge, brought on by the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, and consisting of such bodily changes as dilation of the bronchial tubes, increased heart rate and blood pressure, etc. It is sometimes evoked as a general reaction to stressful conditions, such as pressures on the job, and if continuous may lead to health problems such as hypertension and decreased immunity.

flora (n) the beneficial bacteria naturally found in the body that are essential for our health. Examples are lactobacillus acidophilus (the main bacteria in natural yogurt) and bifidobacterium.

free radical (n) a highly reactive molecule (usually oxygen) with an unpaired electron. Free radicals cause damage to other molecules by robbing them of an electron. (See also antioxidant.)

GABA (n) (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a nonessential amino acid that functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (decreases neuron activity.) GABA is the brain's natural calming agent. (See GABA Plus.)

galactagogue [galact-, milk + -agogue, to produce] (n) an agent that promotes the flow of milk

germ theory (n) the theory that disease is caused primarily by pathological microorganism or "germs"

gingivitis [gingiva, gums + -itis, inflammation] (n) a condition in which the gums become inflammed, red, swollen and bleeding, often as a result of poor mouth care, but also resulting from other conditions including pregnancy and osteoporosis.

glucose (n) [Gk gleukos, sweet wine] or "blood sugar" is a normal constituent of blood and a major source of body energy

herb (n) 1. a seed producing plant that does not develop persistent woody tissue but dies down at the end of the growing season. 2. a plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities.

herbal 1. (n) a book about herbs 2. (adj) of or relating to herbs

herbalism (n) the art and science concerned with herbs and their uses—particularly with regard to their health-enhancing properties

herbalist (n) 1. one who practices healing with the use of herbs 2. one who collects or grows herbs

holistic (adj) holism (n) relating to or concerned with the whole system, rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts. "Holistic medicine" is concerned with treating the whole person, rather than just the disease or the diseased organs. It recognizes the fact that nothing in the body occurs in a vacuum—everything is related to everything else.

homeopathy (n) [homeo-, like, similar + -path, disease] a system of treating disease founded by Dr. S.C.F. Hahnemann (1755-1843) in 1796 in Philadelphia based on the theory of "like cures like" which is also known as the "law of similars." This theory states that a substance that produces symptoms of a disease in healthy people when given in a large dose will cure the same symptoms when given in very minute (diluted) amounts.

homeostasis (n) [homeo-, like, similar + -stasis, a standing] a state of equilibrium of the internal environment of the body that is dynamicly maintained by feedback and regulation.

hormone [Gk to urge on, to set into motion] (n) a chemical messenger secreted by an endocrine gland into the bloodstream.

hydragogue [hydra-, water + -agogue, to produce] (n) a substance that increases watery discharge

hydroxycitric acid or HCA a naturally-occurring ingredient of Garcinia fruit (Garcinia cambogia) believed to be responsible for the majority of the herbs benefits including appetite suppression and energy enhancement as a by-product of its ability to block the liver's conversion of excess carbohydrates into fat

hygiene or hygienics [Gk healthful] (n) the science and practice of maintaining health

ileocecal valve (n) a sphincter muscle located between the small intestine (ileum) and the colon (cecum).

immuno-stimulant (n) an agent that stimulates or supports the immune system in its attempt to keep us well.

infusion (n) sometimes called a "tea," the process of steeping an herb in water, usually hot, to extract its active constitutes for consumption. To make a pot of "herb tea" first bring cool fresh water to a rolling boil. Then rinse out a non-metal tea pot with some of the water. Put the herbs in the pot (2 tablespoons of fresh herbs or 1 tablespoon of dried herbs for each cup of water, plus one "for the pot.") Pour the hot water over the herbs, cover, and let steep for about five minutes. (The time can be varied depending on taste. For medicinal use, let steep for 10 to 20 minutes.) Strain the herbs out and serve the tea plain or with honey, lemon, orange slices or fresh sprigs of herb. For medicinal use the tea may be drank a little at a time throughout the day and need not be hot when consumed. Room temperature is fine, but it should be kept covered to retain the essential oils of the herb. The usual dosage is 1 to 4 cups of herb tea a day. (See also decoction.)

innate (adj) inherent, inborn, existing in a living organism since birth; (n) the function of the autonomic nervous system or unconscious mind that directs homeostasis and healing and believed by some (often capitalized) to be in direct contact with or emanating from the Supreme Being.

key product (n) refers to the NSP nutritional product with the broadest and most general application for the given body system. There is at least one key product for each body system. (For a list of key products for each body system click here.)

libido (n) sexual drive

ligament (n) strong elastic connective tissue which crosses a joint preventing excessive movement which could dislocate the joint. When a joint is forcefully moved beyond its intended range of motion a ligament can tear. The resulting injury is referred to as a sprain.

Linaean system (n) The system of universal cataloguing of living organism developed in the 18th Century by the Swedish naturalist Carl von Linné (Linnaeus.) (See also botanical name.)

lipase (n) any of several digestive enzymes that breaks down fats (lipids.) (See enzymes.)

Mastication (n) the process of chewing our food and mixing it with saliva as the first step of digestion. This is necessary so that the digestive enzymes can work effectively and the nutrients contained in the food can be absorbed and assimilated by the body.

Metabolism (n) [Gk metabol, change.] the physical processes and chemical reactions occurring within a living cell or organism that are necessary for life; including, but not limited to, the burning of fuel (calories) to produce heat and energy

materia medica (n) [L medical matter] the branch of science dealing with drugs and herbs used in the treatment of disease

mucilaginous (adj) slippery, mucus-like. Mucilaginous herbs are herbs that contain mucilage, a long chain of sugars (polysaccharides) that make a slippery substance when combined with water. They have a soothing and protective effect on inflammed tissues.

mucous membrane (n) (syn. mucosa) mucus-secreting membrane lining passages and cavities of the body that come in contact with air

mucus (n) a viscous fluid secreted by mucous membranes as a protective lubricant coating

network marketing (n) (also known as "multi-level marketing") an effective form of direct-selling in which independent distributors are financially compensated for their efforts in (1) selling products to consumers, and (2) recruiting and training other distributors to do likewise. A distributor's earnings depend on (1) the individual's personal sales volume, (2) the size and scope of the individual's "successline" or sponsorship group, and (3) the sales volume generated by the successline group. In the case of NSP, qualifying distributors earn bonuses on four levels of sponsorship and overrides on managers up to five levels deep.

Neurotransmitter (n) a chemical secreted from the axon of one nerve cell when stimulated in order to transmit or pass a signal to another nerve cell. Examples of neurotransmitters are serotonin and GABA.

NSP (n) Nature's Sunshine Products - U.S. based vitamin and herb manufacturer since 1972. For additional information, see Nature's Sunshine. For information on membership, see memberships.

obesity (n) overweight to the point where serious health problems due to excess weight are likely to result. Obesity is determined by a Body Mass Index (BMI), defined as your weight in kilograms divided by your height in meters squared (BMI = kg/m²), of 30 or above.

Osteoporosis (n) condition in which there is improper mineralization of bones causing the bones to be weak and easily fractured

Otitis Media (n) [ot-, ear + itis, inflammation] middle ear infection

pancreatin (n) pancreas enzymes used to aid the digestion of foods. (See enzymes.)

paradigm (n) a way of viewing the world about us. Occasionally new discoveries are made which require a paradigm shift, or a new way of looking at the world. Such shifts are initially rejected by the masses but eventually are accepted. Viewing the world as round as opposed to flat is an example of a paradigm shift.

pepsin (n) an enzyme released in the stomach that aids the breakdown of proteins. (See enzymes.)

peristalsis (n) [peri-, around + stalsis, contraction] a progressive wavelike movement that occurs in hollow tubes of the body (such as the esophagus and the intestines) by the involuntary contraction of smooth muscles within the tube walls

pH (n) [potential of Hydrogen] is a measure of the acidity of a liquid on a scale of 1 to 14 with 1 being most acidic and 14 being least acidic (or most alkaline or basic.) A pH of 1 to 6 is considered acidic while a pH of 8 to 14 is considered alkaline or basic. A pH of 7 is neutral.

phagocytosis (n) [phag-, to eat or ingest + cyt-, cell + -osis, condition or the act of] the process whereby one cell ingests or "eats" another, as when a white blood cell destroys an invading organism or a damaged body cell by engulfing it.

phyt- [fr Gk phyton plant ] combining form meaning plant (e.g., see phytoestrogen and phytonutrient)

phytoestrogen (n) [phyto-, plant + estrogen] a nutrient naturally found in plants that exerts an estrogen-like effect on the body, usually by binding at an estrogen receptor cite

phytonutrient (n) [phyto-, plant + nutrient, to feed] any nutrient that is naturally found in plants—particularly those that have special health-enhancing benefits

placebo (n) [L I shall please] an inactive substance given to satisfy a patient's demand for medication

placebo effect (n) a therapeutic effect observed from an inactive substance (i.e., placebo) which presumably occurs because the patient "believes" that it will occur

potentiate (v) to make effective or more effective (e.g., homeopathic preparations are potentiated by dilution and shaking) See also homeopathy.

protease (n) an enzyme that helps the breakdown of protein, also known as a proteolytic enzyme. (See enzymes.)

proanthocyanidins (n) (formerly known by the trade name "pycnogenols") phytonutrients found in some foods and herbs, particularly in certain types of grape seeds and pine bark, that have powerful antioxidant activity

pyloric sphincter (n) a sphincter muscle located between the stomach and the small intestines (duodenum) which acts as a valve to prevent the contents of the stomach from entering the small intestines until the proper time.

reductionism (n), reductionistic (adj) 1. breaking down [reducing] a complex system, such as a living organism, into its component parts in order to better understand how the parts work to gain a better understanding of how the system works. 2. the attempt to explain all biological processes in terms of chemical and physical processes

rhizome (n) a root-like plant stem that grows horizontal along or below the ground which sends out roots and shoots.

SAD (n) Seasonal Affective Disorder, a type of depression caused by insufficient exposure to light and which is prevalent during the months of the year in which there is less natural daylight.

salt (n) in chemistry, a compound consisting of a positive ion other than hydrogen, and a negative ion other than hydroxyl. (See electrolyte.)

savory (adj) pleasing to the sense of taste. "Savory herbs" can refer to either 1. any herbs that are used to season food, or 2. aromatic mints such as Summer Savory or Winter Savory

scurvy (n) a disease caused by deficiency of vitamin C characterized by hemorrhagic manifestations (e.g., bleeding gums) and abnormal formation of bones and teeth

serotonin (n) a neurotransmitter of the nerve cells in the brain. Problems with serotonin insufficiency have been associated with mental disorders such as depression.

shamanism (n) a religion characterized by a belief in an unseen spirit world of gods, demons, and ancestral spirits responsive only to a shaman or priest

sialagogue [sial-, saliva + -agogue, to produce] (n) an agent that stimulates the secretion of saliva

sign (n) objective evidence of an illness or condition. Signs are more definitive and obvious than a symptom, which is usually considered more subjective.

sphincter (n) a circular muscle constricting an orifice. Examples are the cardiac sphincter, located between the esophagus and the stomach; the pyloric sphincter, between the stomach and the small intestines; and the ileocecal valve, between the small intestine (ileum) and the colon (cecum).

sprain (n) an injury to a ligament which results when the ligament is partially or totally torn (compare with strain).

strain (n) an injury to a muscle which results when the muscle is partially or totally torn (compare with sprain). Strains and sprains are referred to as "soft tissue injuries."

subluxation [sub-, below + luxation, dislocation] (n) 1. a partial dislocation or misalignment of a body part, especially a joint. 2. The "chiropractic lesion" including all of its anatomical, physiological and pathological concomitants (See also chiropractic.)

symptom (n) any perceptible change in the body that can indicate an illness or abnormality. Symptoms usually refer to subjective indications (felt by the patient) while signs usually refer to more objective indications (can be observed by others.)

synapse (n) the tiny space between two nerve cells through which the neurotransmitter is passed to conduct a nerve signal from one nerve cell to another

synergism (n), synergistic (adj) [syn, with, together] action of two or more substances such that the total effect is greater than the sum of the individual effects.

system (n) a group of structures, such as organs, related and organized in such a way to perform a specific function, e.g., the circulatory system.

systems approach (n) a method of determining nutritional need based on an analysis of the body systems. Two steps are involved: (1) An analysis is made to determine the body's weakest system(s), and (2) nutritional supplements, e.g. herbs, are selected by their ability to support those systems.

taxonomy (n) also known as systematics, the study of the general principles of the scientific classification of living things (See also botanical name.)

tendon (n) the part of a muscle near the ends where the muscle attaches to a bone (e.g., achilles tendon).

thermogenesis [thermo-, heat + genesis, to create] (n) the bodily process of burning fuel (calories) to produce energy or heat

thrombophlebitis (n) also known as phlebitis, a disorder involving the formation of a blood clot (or clots) in large veins, usually in the leg or pelvis

tonic (n) an agent that tonifies or strengthens

weed (n) 1. the right plant growing in the wrong location; 2. an herb whose virtues have yet to be discovered

wildcrafting (n) the gathering of plants or plant parts from their native or "wild" environment.

Yoga (n) a system of exercises and asanas (postures) for attaining mental and bodily control and well-being based on the traditional Hindu philosophy of India

Acid - Alkaline Balance

2007-11-05T20:01:00.000-08:00

Acid - Alkaline Balance

The Cause of Disease

Have you ever wondered if many of the diseases raging through our society have a common cause? Many doctors, herbalists and nutritionists believe that the explanation may come down to three words:

Acid Alkaline Imbalance

Over acidity, which can become a dangerous condition that weakens all body systems, is very common today. It gives rise to an internal environment conducive to disease, as opposed to a pH-balanced environment which allows normal body function necessary for the body to resist disease. A healthy body maintains adequate alkaline reserves to meet emergency demands. When excess acids must be neutralized our alkaline reserves are depleted leaving the body in a weakened condition. An Acid Alkaline Balanced diet, according to many experts, is a vital key to health maintenance.

The concept of acid alkaline imbalance as the cause of disease is not new. In 1933 a New York doctor named William Howard Hay published a ground-breaking book, A New Health Era in which he maintains that all disease is caused by autotoxication (or "self-poisoning") due to acid accumulation in the body:

Now we depart from health in just the proportion to which we have allowed our alkalies to be dissipated by introduction of acid-forming food in too great amount... It may seem strange to say that all disease is the same thing, no matter what its myriad modes of expression, but it is verily so.
William Howard Hay, M.D.

More recently, in his remarkable book Alkalize or Die (see recommended reading), Dr. Theodore A. Baroody says essentially the same thing:

The countless names of illnesses do not really matter. What does matter is that they all come from the same root cause...too much tissue acid waste in the body!
Theodore A. Baroody, N.D., D.C., Ph.D.

Understanding pH

pH (potential of hydrogen) is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 14—the lower the pH the more acidic the solution, the higher the pH the more alkaline (or base) the solution. When a solution is neither acid nor alkaline it has a pH of 7 which is neutral.

Water is the most abundant compound in the human body, comprising 70% of the body. The body has an acid-alkaline (or acid-base) ratio called the pH which is a balance between positively charges ions (acid-forming) and negatively charged ions (alkaline-forming.) The body continually strives to balance pH. When this balance is compromised many problems can occur.

It is important to understand that we are not talking about stomach acid or the pH of the stomach. We are talking about the pH of the body's fluids and tissues which is an entirely different matter.

Test Your Body's Acidity or Alkalinity with pH Strips:

It is recommended that you test your pH levels to determine if your body's pH needs immediate attention. By using pH test strips, you can determine your pH factor quickly and easily in the privacy of your own home. If your urinary pH fluctuates between 6.0 to 6.5 in the morning and between 6.5 and 7.0 in the evening, your body is functioning within a healthy range. If your saliva stays between 6.5 and 7.5 all day, your body is functioning within a healthy range. The best time to test your pH is about one hour before a meal and two hours after a meal. Test your pH two days a week.

Click here to order pH Test Strips

Most people who suffer from unbalanced pH are acidic. This condition forces the body to borrow minerals—including calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium—from vital organs and bones to buffer (neutralize) the acid and safely remove it from the body. Because of this strain, the body can suffer severe and prolonged damage due to high acidity—a condition that may go undetected for years.

Mild acidosis can cause such problems as:

Cardiovascular damage, including the constriction of blood vessels and the reduction of oxygen.
Weight gain, obesity and diabetes.
Bladder and kidney conditions, including kidney stones.
Immune deficiency.
Acceleration of free radical damage, possibly contributing to cancerous mutations.
Hormone concerns.
Premature aging.
Osteoporosis; weak, brittle bones, hip fractures and bone spurs.
Joint pain, aching muscles and lactic acid buildup.
Low energy and chronic fatigue.
Slow digestion and elimination.
Yeast/fungal overgrowth.

	pH and Bone Loss:

A recent seven-year study conducted at the University of California, San Francisco, on 9,000 women showed that those who have chronic acidosis are at greater risk for bone loss than those who have normal pH levels. The scientists who carried out this experiment believe that many of the hip fractures prevalent among middle-aged women are connected to high acidity caused by a diet rich in animal foods and low in vegetables. This is because the body borrows calcium from the bones in order to balance pH. — American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Urine pH

Urine testing may indicate how well your body is excreting acids and assimilating minerals, especially calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium. These minerals function as "buffers." Buffers are substances that help maintain and balance the body against the introduction of too much acidity or too much alkalinity. Even with the proper amounts of buffers, acid or alkaline levels can become extreme. When the body ingests or produces too many of these acids or alkalis, it must excrete the excess. The urine is the perfect way for the body to remove any excess acids or alkaline substances that cannot be buffered. If the average urine pH is below 6.5 the body's buffering system is overwhelmed, a state of "autotoxication" exists, and attention should be given to lowering acid levels.

Saliva pH

The results of saliva testing may indicate the activity of digestive enzymes in the body. These enzymes are primarily manufactured by the stomach, liver and pancreas. While the saliva also utilizes buffers just like the urine, it relies on this process to a much lesser degree. If the saliva pH is too low (below 6.5), the body may be producing too many acids or may be overwhelmed by acids because it has lost the ability to adequately remove them through the urine. If the saliva pH is too high (over 6.8), the body may suffer greatly, e.g. excess gas, constipation and production of yeast, mold and fungus. Some people will have acidic pH readings from both urine and saliva—this is referred to as "double acid."

Keeping the Balance Right for Excellent Health

Your body is able to assimilate minerals and nutrients properly only when its pH is balanced. It is therefore possible for you to be taking healthy nutrients and yet be unable to absorb or use them. If you are not getting the results you expected from your nutritional or herbal program, look for an acid alkaline imbalance. Even the right herbal program may not work if your body's pH is out of balance.

What if I'm Acidic?

By far the most common imbalance seen in our society is over acidity. If your urine and/or saliva test below 6.5 pH start with steps 1, 2 and 3 below and continue adding steps until desired results are achieved. Be sure to monitor your progress with easy-to-use pH test strips:

Enzymes are essential: Take 1-2 capsules of Food Enzymes or Proactazyme Plus with every meal. Also take 1-2 capsules of High Potency Protease and Nature's Noni between meals on an empty stomach.
Correct easily absorbable magnesium is needed: Take 2 Magnesium Complex with each meal which provides highly absorbable magnesium to help build necessary buffers. Magnesium is often lost in urine as a consequence of too much acid in the body. If your urine is 5.8-7.2 take Skeletal Strength as directed to support healthy bones.
Alkaline minerals are essential: Take 1 ounce of either Colloidal Minerals or Mineral Chi Tonic once daily.
Alkalize with Green Food: Take 1 teaspoon of Liquid Chlorophyll in water up to eight times daily.
Vitamin A & D hold calcium in the body. Taking NSP's Vitamin A & D will help the body buffer acid.
What if my pH is still too acidic? Use Coral Calcium according to label instructions if saliva pH is 5.8-6.5. Use Coral Calcium cautiously if pH is below 5.8. Monitor your pH daily.
Cleanse as needed: Take a psyllium hulls supplement such as Psyllium Hulls Combination at bedtime to maintain regular bowel movements. Use CleanStart twice a year for liver, bowel and kidney detoxification.
Get the book! Get a copy of the book Alkalize or Die by Dr. Baroody (see recommended reading below) and carefully follow his dietary recommendations choosing more foods that are alkaline-forming and less that are acid-forming. The food chart below briefly summarizes this information for some of the more common foods. A healthy diet should consist of 80% alkaline-forming foods and 20% acid-forming foods.

What Causes Me to be Acidic?

The reason acidosis is more common in our society is mostly due to the typical American diet, which is far too high in acid-producing animal products like meat, eggs and dairy, and far too low in alkaline-producing foods like fresh vegetables. Additionally, we eat acid-producing processed foods like white flour and sugar and drink acid-producing beverages like coffee and soft drinks. We use too many drugs, which are acid-forming; and we use artificial chemical sweetners like NutraSweet, Equal, or aspartame, which are extremely acid-forming. One of the best things we can do to correct an overly-acid body is to clean up the diet and lifestyle. Refer to the recommended reading for specific help with diet and lifestyle.

What if I'm Overly-Alkaline?

Alkalinity is relatively rare, but if your urine and/or saliva consistently test above 7.0 pH, start with steps 1, 2 and 3 below and continue adding steps until the desired results are achieved. Be sure to monitor your progress with easy-to-use pH test strips. You will notice that some of these steps are the same as those recommended above for an overly acidic condition. This is because these steps have a buffering effect, or in other words they are balancing, tending to bring the pH back toward normal no matter which direction it has gone:

Enzymes are essential: Take 1-2 capsules of Food Enzymes or Proactazyme Plus with every meal. Also take 1-2 capsules of High Potency Protease and Nature's Noni between meals on an empty stomach.
Support urinary and lymphatic systems' ability to excrete toxins: Take Kidney Drainage and Lymphatic Drainage in water according to directions. Then use Lymphomax and Urinary Maintenance to maintain.
Correct calcium is needed: Use NSP's Liquid Calcium.
Vitamin C: Use Timed-Release Vitamin C. Use 3,000 mg or more, to maximum bowel tolerance. (If diarrhea occurs, reduce intake.)
Flax Seed Oil: Use 1 capsules of Flax Seed Oil 3 times a day or 2 tablespoons of Liquid Flax Seed Oil daily.
Cleanse as needed: Take a psyllium hulls supplement such as Psyllium Hulls Combination at bedtime to maintain regular bowel movements. Use CleanStart twice a year for liver, bowel and kidney detoxification.

Note that a food's acid or alkaline-forming tendency in the body has nothing to do with the actual pH of the food itself. For example, lemons are very acidic, however the end-products they produce after digestion and assimilation are very alkaline so lemons are alkaline-forming in the body. Likewise, meat will test alkaline before digestion but it leaves very acidic residue in the body so, like nearly all animal products, meat is very acid-forming.

Acidity verses Alkalinity

2007-11-05T19:46:00.000-08:00

Acidity verses Alkalinity
by: Glenn Antoine

While I originally started to avoid this subject like the plague, I felt the need to at a minimum address it because there are so many widely differing view points on what this actually means, what to do about it and how this really affects your overall health.

I was very happy to find that the Chief Science Officer at Univera LifeSciences, Steven Cherniske, had published a very informative article, “The Acid Alkaline Mystery Solved”, on this very subject. For any of you that have read any of Stephen Cherniske’s work, you will not be surprised to see that it comes complete with all the references that you could hope for and the straight hard facts on this very confusing subject. As a result of this finding I am not going to attempt to do the subject justice, by trying to recreate an article of equal caliber. Verses re-inventing the wheel I am going to simply hit some of the high points for those of you who would prefer the cliff notes version. For those that would like to read all of the details I will leave that to Stephen and his article, “The Acid Alkaline Mystery Solved”.
First of all what is an Acid or for that matter an Alkaline substance? These substances are measured on a pH scale with water being neutral at 7.0. With values less than 7.0 being acid and the lower the pH value the stronger the acid. As you may have guessed alkaline (or base) substances have a value greater than 7.0 up to a maximum of 14. By now you may be wondering where our bodies should fall on this scale. First of all when we speak of an acid/alkaline balance in the body we are talking about the pH balance of our blood and tissues that should remain in a fairly narrow range of about 7.4 – slightly alkaline.

The real heart of the matter here is the byproducts of the digestion of foods that we consume and absorb. The biggest contributors to the fact that ACIDOSIS is at an all time high are the facts that most Americans are consuming beef and/or poultry multiple times per day, Americans are now consuming more soft drinks than water, consumption of coffee (caffeinated & decaffeinated) and lastly the processing of many of our foods have removed all of the alkaline forming minerals. When thinking about the foods that we consume you can not take the natural state of a food as the prime indicator of how that food will interact with our bodies. As an example, most fruits when consumed will result in an alkaline ash residue once digested even though naturally they maybe very high in acid in their natural state, even oranges.

The primary acid forming foods in your diet contain the minerals, sulfur, phosphorus and iron. Typically you will find these minerals in proteins, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, grains, most nuts and soft drinks (due to the high phosphate levels).The minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium form alkaline reactions in the body and are found primarily in fruits and vegetables, and so these foods are classified as alkaline forming foods. As many of you are aware the consumption of alkaline-forming vegetables and fruit is at an all-time low. This has resulted in an increase of acidosis which accelerates catabolic damage and impairs our bodies anabolic repair processes. One of the best examples is the fact that it has been known for a long time that diets high in protein greatly increase the risk of osteoporosis. While there are many theories on this subject it appears that the body is simply taking from one part of the body to help support other systems that have been depleted due to the body staying in such a high state of acidosis.

In an attempt to help us make this shift in our diet Univera LifeSciences has created MetaGreens™. MetaGreens™ is extraordinary mix of land and sea vegetables, all of which are rich in alkaline minerals. I take great comfort in knowing that these greens are pesticide-free, grown on high-nutrient soil that has never been chemically fertilized. Additionally, Univera LifeSciences takes great care to ensure that the vegetables are harvested at the peak of their nutrient value and then these ingredients are processed by low-temperature dehydration to retain all the raw food goodness and manufactured in small batches to maximize freshness.

While the words “stomach acid” have a negative connotations for many of you it is because you have been brain washed over the years by the non-stop advertisements about how excess stomach acid is causing all of your discomforts. While I would be able to spend days address this issue I will pass. For those of you that want to read a very well presented explanation of why our stomach acids are in fact a good thing please read Stephen Cherniske’s article. For myself I continue to rely on Univera LifeSciences Aloe Gold product to help keep my digestive track in order and functioning properly. For those of you that have not tried Aloe Gold take a moment to ask anyone that have used the product and I am very certain you will hear fantastic praises about how it has helped them with numerous digestive track disorders.

I hope that you have found this latest entry to be of interest and most of informative. While I have barely scratched the surface here I hope that I have helped to clear up some of the confusion associated with the Acid Alkaline debate. For those of you that are hungry for more on this I can not recommend highly enough that you read Stephen Cherniske’s article the Acid Alkaline Mystery Solved.