Six million people die each year because of tobacco use

Cigarette packages in most countries, including South Africa, carry health warnings; however, it seems these cautionary messages are not effective in stopping smoking. According to a new landmark global report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Cancer Institute of the United States of America globally, there are 1.1 billion tobacco smokers aged 15 or older, with around 80% living in low- and middle-income countries. Approximately 226 million smokers live in poverty. The report says the tobacco industry and the “deadly impact” of its products cost the world’s economies more than US$ 1 trillion annually in healthcare expenditures and lost productivity. The report further says that more than six million people die annually as a result of tobacco use, with most living in developing countries.

The report says the tobacco industry and the “deadly impact” of its products cost the world’s economies more than US$ 1 trillion annually in healthcare expenditures and lost productivity. The report further says that more than six million people die annually as a result of tobacco use, with most living in developing countries.

But what is being done to discourage people from smoking? The WHO says policies to control tobacco use, including tobacco tax and price increases, can generate significant government revenues for health and development work. The global health organization such measures can also greatly reduce tobacco use and protect people’s health from the world’s leading killers, such as cancers and heart disease.

“The tobacco industry produces and markets products that kill millions of people prematurely, rob households of finances that could have been used for food and education, and impose immense healthcare costs on families, communities and countries says Dr Oleg Chestnov, WHO’s Assistant Director-General for Noncommunicable Diseases and mental health.

Six tips to help you lose weight

Phew, finally the silly season is truly behind us. It’s time to dust ourselves and prepare for the New Year ahead. Over the last eight days, I have drafted and redrafted my New year’s resolutions. I’m told the best way to lose weight is to have a proper nourishing meal followed by a “great” workout. So, with bloodshot eyes (reluctantly), I resolved to rejoin the gym for the fifth time in eight years. Sigh. Everyday dieticians tell us about the health benefits of weight loss. They say it can assist in reducing the risk of many serious diseases like; high cholesterol, cancer, depression and gallbladder disease. But as you would know it is discouraging to make the effort to lose weight, only to have it all return in a matter of hours! Yo-yo dieting is also bad for your health. Meanwhile, a renowned dietician says sugar is the ‘alcohol of the child’, yet we let it dominate the breakfast table! Professor Hans de Ridder of North-West University’s (NWU) school of biokinetics, recreation, and sports science says sugar is responsible for all of the chronic metabolic diseases that we know about today. “We are experiencing a large increase in overweight and obesity in adults as well as children. Research shows that nearly two-thirds of South Africans are overweight.” To help you jump-start your weight loss plan, the Impilo lenhle team has found six practical and helpful tips to help you lose weight!

Water 

Water is essential for keeping the body hydrated and we’re actually more likely to retain “water weight” by not drinking enough of it rather than by having too much.

Portions

Generous amounts of healthy foods that contain a smaller number of calories in a large volume of food, particularly fruits and vegetables.

Increase your physical activity

We recommend getting at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. If you’ve been inactive or you have a medical condition, talk to your doctor or health care provider before starting a new physical activity program.

Kick the salt habit

Salt is a big contributor to weight gain and often a reason why the numbers on the scale aren’t going down.

Spice up your food

According to a study in the British Journal of Nutrition adding hot spices to your meals can help curb hunger. Scientists at the State University of New York at Buffalo found that capsaicin (a compound found in chilies) triggers your brain to release feel-good endorphins.

Diet soda  

A University of Texas Health Science Center study found that the more diet sodas a person drank, the greater their risk of becoming overweight. Downing just two or more cans a day increased waistlines by 500%. Why? Artificial sweeteners can disrupt the body’s natural ability to regulate calorie intake based on the sweetness of foods, suggested an animal study from Purdue University. That means people who consume diet foods might be more likely to overeat because your body is being tricked into thinking it’s eating sugar, and you crave more.

Additional source: http://www.prevention.com

That dreadful morning after a night of binge drinking

Hands up those who had to deal with a terrible hangover? Too many books and articles have been written about coping with binge drinking, during New Year’s celebrations. But, how can you prevent it before it knocks you down? Do I hear someone whispering “don’t drink”? Heh heh heh.

Francesca Mcmackin of the Gladstone Observer in Australia recently published her list.

We like it and thought it would be great sharing with you.  Here it is:

Here it is:

Drink in moderation and know your limits

At the risk of sounding like your mother, do you really need to get plastered? It might be obvious, but this is the simplest way to avoid any kind of morning regret.

Avoid alcohol with congeners

Congeners are by-products of alcohol production hanging around in trace elements. Studies have shown they intensify hangovers. Drinks like whiskey (especially bourbon), cognac and tequila contain the highest amounts of congeners. Vodka, gin, and rum are all low in congeners.

Pay attention to standard drinks

Count the standard drinks, not how many glasses you’ve had. It’s right there, on the back of every bottle. If you find yourself unable to do the basic maths, maybe it’s time to skip the next round.

Stay hydrated

Dehydration causes most symptoms of a hangover. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means you lose more water through urine, so keep chugging the aqua. Drink a glass of water or a non-sparkling soft drink between each alcoholic one. Then have another big glass of water before going to sleep, and keep water at your bedside for the night.

Don’t drink on an empty stomach

Have a decent-sized dinner with plenty of carbohydrates or fats. This will slow alcohol absorption.

Have a good late-night meal or breakfast

This is especially important if you have low blood sugar. A hearty meal after drinking or in the morning will perk up your sugar levels, mitigating some hangover symptoms.

Sleep in

Alcohol can disturb sleep, so it’s important to let your body have a nice, long rest to mitigate fatigue.

Source: http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au

 

Six vital symptoms of heart attack

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says more men die from heart disease alone than all cancers combined. An average man is likely to die five years earlier than the average woman, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But it would be better if you know how to read the signs that your body sends you.

Chest pressure

This symptom is the most ignored. People often think that this is nothing special and do not pay special attention to it.

Shortness of breath

The lungs and the heart are two systems that are connected. Lack of oxygen in the lungs means that your heart won’t get the blood that it needs to come through it.

Cold and Flu Symptoms

There is enough evidence that lots of people had suffered from cold and flu just before a heart attack.

Cold Sweats and Dizziness

This symptom can indicate that you have poor circulation which affects the brain and the heart.

Fatigue

If you feel constant fatigue even after you have been sleeping or resting means that you have improper blood circulation and blood flow to your heart.

Weakness

When your arteries become narrow they don’t allow the blood to circulate properly which means that the muscles are not getting what they need, and this could cause you to fall.

Meanwhile, the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) says knowing how to recognise the signs of stroke, is a key first step in treating stroke.

A useful acronym to remember and to share widely with family and friends, is FAST:

Face: Is one side drooping?

Arms: Raise both arms. Is one side weak?

Speech: Is the person able to speak? Are words jumbled or slurred?

Time: If even one of these signs are present, act quickly and call emergency services.

HSFSA says by asking these simple questions and being able to identify whether you, a friend or bystander is having a stroke, could save a life and improve chances of rehabilitation.  The sooner a stroke is recognised and care is sought, the higher the chances of survival and recovery.

If you think someone is having a stroke are 10177 (Landline) and 112 (Cell).

Additional source: dailyhealthgen.com

Fake plastic rice seized in Nigeria

Nigerian customs officials have seized over 100 bags of plastic rice smuggled into the country.

The 50kg bags, branded “Best Tomato Rice”, had no date of manufacture and were intercepted in the Ikeja area of the sprawling city, the official said on condition of anonymity.

Rice is the most popular staple food in Nigeria.

The BBC is reporting that Lagos customs chief Haruna Mamudu said the fake rice was intended to be sold in markets during the festive season.

He said the rice was very sticky after it was boiled and “only God knows what would have happened” if people ate it.

Mamadu said a suspect has been arrested over the haul of 102 bags of the fake rice.

“We have done a preliminary analysis of the plastic rice. After boiling, it was sticky and only God knows what would have happened if people consumed it,” Ikeja area customs controller Mohammed Haruna was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, a senior customs official told AFP that they suspect the rice could have been smuggled or illegally shipped in from China through Lagos port.

It is not clear where the seized sacks came from but rice made from plastic pellets was found in China last year.

Five foods that unclog arteries and protect against heart attack

Although there are drugs, smoothies, and juices which can flush out toxins from the body and get the body running properly, nature has provided us with foods which have the same effect.

This is an edited version was first published by homehealthyremedies.com. Here are five foods which can unclog your arteries and protect your cardiovascular health:

Avocados

Instead of putting unhealthy mayo in your burger, why not try adding some avocado? According to studies, daily avocado consumption resulted in decreased cholesterol levels, which can keep the arteries clean.

Asparagus

Although not many people like it, asparagus is very useful for your health and can clean your arteries as well. It can lower your blood pressure and prevent blood clots. This amazing vegetable is rich in nutrients such as vitamins B1, B2, C, E and K, besides containing numerous minerals.

Pomegranate

This sweet fruit contains phytochemicals with antioxidant properties which can protect the arterial lining and prevent damage. Drinking pomegranate juice every day can increase the production of nitric oxide in the body, resulting in proper blood flow and clean arteries.

Broccoli

Love it or hate it, broccoli is a nutrient rich vegetable which can keep your arteries clean. It contains fiber, which can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Turmeric

This incredible spice has powerful anti-inflammatory properties which can prevent atherosclerosis. Adding it to your diet will reduce the damage to your arteries and prevent blood clots.

Four food items to avoid this Xmas

As you know holiday weight gain is a reality during the festive season. During this time it seems food gods are lurking around every corner conniving so that you and I gain extra calories. Here are four holiday diet hazards you and your family should try and avoid.

Never arrive hungry

New York psychologist Carol Goldberg, PhD, says planning ahead can help you maintain discipline in the face of temptation. “Don’t go to a party when you’re starving,” she warns. Try to have a nutritious snack beforehand. If you do arrive hungry, drink some water to fill up before filling your plate.

Stuffed potatoes

Baked potatoes are rich in vitamin C and fiber, but add in cheese, sour cream, and butter, and you’ve negated most of the health benefits. One medium stuffed potato has 316 calories and 8.25 grams of saturated fat. That’s almost half of your suggested daily upper limit of saturated fat.

Limit alcohol

Avoid drinking too much alcohol at holiday parties. “If you drink a lot you, won’t have as much control over what you eat. If you feel out of place without a drink, health expert suggests sipping water or soda water, “so you have something to carry like everyone else.”

Be choosy about sweets

When it comes to dessert, be very selective. “Limit your indulgences to small portions and only what is very sensual to you,” health expert says. But ke if you simply can’t resist a calorie-laden holiday favorite, make sure to keep portions small.

Source: http://www.webmd.com

Tips to prevent stress and depression during the festive season

It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is upon us.  Is it me or this year just zip pass…  Although the silly season is a good time to unwind with family and the loved ones, but it also a time of loneliness and misery, frustrated for some. Wendy Walters, a Social Worker at the Hospice program, recently told the SA Depression and Anxiety Support Group (SADAG) that for people on their own, Christmas can be the loneliest time of the year and a period to be dreaded, especially if it is the first holiday after the death of a loved one. “A loss is felt even more acutely at this time of year because the person’s absence is so conspicuous at family gatherings, and people who are grieving often find it difficult to allow themselves to enjoy the festive season,” she said.  Walters, says in order to cope with the stresses and difficult emotions of Christmas, some people make merry by overindulging in alcohol, with the result that depression is often aggravated and becomes more pronounced. In order to combat feelings of loss, Walters suggests making changes to usual Christmas rituals: “The biggest trap well-meaning families and friends fall into is to pretend that things will be just the same as they have always been – it is only through doing something different that the loss can be properly acknowledged”.

Walters, says in order to cope with the stresses and difficult emotions of Christmas, some people make merry by overindulging in alcohol, with the result that depression is often aggravated and becomes more pronounced. In order to combat feelings of loss, Walters suggests making changes to usual Christmas rituals: “The biggest trap well-meaning families and friends fall into is to pretend that things will be just the same as they have always been – it is only through doing something different that the loss can be properly acknowledged”.

Meanwhile, Mayo Clinic http://www.mayoclinic.org has published some practical tips, you can use to minimize the stress that accompanies the holidays. Don’t abandon healthy habits. Don’t let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt.

Try these suggestions:

Get plenty of sleep.

Incorporate regular physical activity into each day.

Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.

Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.

Listening to soothing music.

Getting a massage.

Reading a book.

Seek professional help if you need it.

The SA Depression and Anxiety Support Group (SADAG) offers telephonic counselling and referral service to assist those suffering from loneliness and depression. 0800 567 567 Their offices are open from 8am to 8pm, and will be open on Christmas.

Five common habits that damage your kidneys

In the last few days have you notice these symptoms; the color change of your urine, nausea, breathing problems, fatigue, anemia, and a sensation of coldness, bad breath, itchy skin, and pain?

Here is a list of five habits that you should try and avoid.

This is an edited version of a text first published by http://www.healthybodyandtips.org:

Drinking less water

If you do not drink enough water, you can damage your kidneys. When there is an insufficient quantity of water into your body, your blood becomes thicker and more concentrated, and there is less blood flow to the kidneys, which results in impaired kidney function and buildup of toxins in the body.

Delaying the urge to urinate

If you do not pee when you need to, you contribute to damage of your kidneys. In other words, whenever you feel the need to pee, do that as soon as possible.

Drinking too much alcohol

One of the most toxic substances for the kidneys is alcohol, which can harm their function if you take it in great amounts. Alcohol also causes body dehydration, meaning that you need to stick to the rule of two drinks a day only.

Smoking

Smoking causes damage to all body parts and organs, and there are numerous studies that confirm its relation to kidney damage.

Source: healthybodyandtips.org