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Personal Hygiene And Its Effects On Food Safety, Part 4

Cross contamination is the transfer of pathogens from a source to a high risk meals. If the high risk items are allowed to remain at ambient temperature, the bacteria can grow and illness can result. Sources include raw meats and vegetables with soil contamination, hygiene handlers, pets, packaging and pests..all safety hazards. There are four main contaminants, they are:

  1. Microbial, which are the living microscopic organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and protoctists
  2. Chemical, such as pesticides, agricultural residues, excessive additives / preservatives, vehicle fumes, perfumes and aftershaves.
  3. Physical reflectors to foreign body contamination such as glass or wood from the inside of kitchens, parts of kitchen equipment, packaging materials, bones and shells from products being prepared and items from staff or customers such as jewelery, cigarette ends, plasters, tissues, pen tops, drawing pins, buttons, etc.
  4. Allergenic contamination is the fourth hazard, this includes:

Cereals containing gluten, crustaceans, eggs, fish, peanuts, soybeans, nuts, celery, mustard, sesame seeds, sulfur dioxide and sulfites. Cross contamination can occur when raw products are placed next to high risk items, which is called direct cross contamination. Indirect cross contamination is when high risk meals are contaminated by a vehicle which has been in direct contact with the source. The vehicles can include hands, cloths, knives, forks, containers, preparation boards, work surfaces. When raw meat juices drip onto high risk eats in a fridge, this is another form of direct contamination which affects operations. The ten major causes of food poisoning include:

  1. Preparation too far in advance of service and storage at room temperature
  2. Improper cooling to within the temperature danger zone
  3. Insufficient reheating to less than 75C
  4. Processed or canned meals already contaminated
  5. Inadequate cooking to less than 75C
  6. Insufficient thawing
  7. Cross-contamination
  8. Raw ingredients consumed
  9. Improper hot holding at less than 63C
  10. Infected hygiene handlers attending the workplace without informing the supervisor.

Food preservation works on the promise of removing one or more of bacterial requirements for growth. Bacteria require protein, moisture, warmth and time to grow. One method is by controlling warmth. Use of heat advances growth and will, in most circumstances kill bacteria lead to safety. Cooking to 75C kills bacteria, both pathogens and spoilage microbes. Pasteurisation to a temperature exceeding 63C kills all pathogens, but spores can remain, especially fungal spores which causes milk, of example, to go off even if left unopened in a fridge. Ultra heat treatment (UHT) is very high for a very short period of time (135C for 1 second) This kills all microorganisms and spores and is why UHT products do not have to be refrigerated until opened. The canning industry uses commercial sterilization to kill all microorganisms and spores, especially important with Clostridium botulinum, which, if the spores survived, would germinate and vegetate and release Botox.

This extremely poisonous neurotoxin could kill within minutes if the can's contents was ateen cold. (Cooking to 75C deactivates Botox). Commercial sterilization, or the Botulinum Cook is 121C for> 3 minutes, depending on the thickness of the can and product. Autoclaves, used in hospitals and dentists, use the same temperature for 15 minutes to sterilize their instruments. Cold temperatures can also prevent microbial growth such as -18C or 1 to 4C. At freezing temperatures there is no moisture available for growth, it is held in ice crystals. Most pathogens do not grow in refrigeration temperatures, apart from E coli 0157, Listeria, Yersinia and C botulinum. Spoilage bacteria prefer warmer temperatures for enzymatic activity to occur and to compromise food safety. Most bacteria will not grow in an acidic environment, a pH of below 3.8 is required to prevent growth. The pH scale goes from 1 to 14, where pH 7 is neutral. 1 is classed as very acidic and 14 as very basic (alkaline) Human blood, for example, has a pH of 7.4. So the use of acids such as vinegar, acetic acid, lime or lemon juice are very good preservatives. Microbes require moisture, so if this is removed by dehydration, there will be no growth of spoilage or pathogenic bacteria. Dehydration can be achieved by drying or the addition of salt / sugar to the ingredients.

Salt and sugar use a biological process termed osmosis, where liquid is transferred from an area of ​​high solute concentration to an area of ​​low solute concentration through a semi-permeable membrane. The salt and sugar are the high concentrations and therefore "suck" liquid from a food material. This process is used in curing pork into bacon. Also, if strawberries are covered in dry sugar, liquid will be drawn from the strawberries, making them more firm (The best way to prepare them for strawberry jam, by the way!) Vacuum packing removals oxygen and aerobes will not grow. However, Closridia, which are anaerobes, could grow and there before vacuum packs must be refrigerated to prevent growth and affect operations. Smoking food releases chemicals such as esters, aldehydes and alcohols which act as preservatives. Smoking also dries the surface of food that preventing oxidization and growth of microbes. Chemical preservatives are used in regulated amounts in foodstuffs such as salami, bacon, bottled drinks, etc. For example Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate.

For further information go to Food Safety .

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Choosing A Blood Pressure Monitor

Your doctor may suggest that you monitor your blood pressure at home if it is either to high or low. This will help specify if there are any serious problems going on and if your medication is working properly. Until your blood pressure is regulated, you should check it once in the morning and again in the evening. Make sure you sit down and rest your arm against a solid surface. Also, you should follow all the instructions that come with your monitor and do not forget to write down the date, time of day and your readings. There are some machines that have a memory area where you can record your readings. When choosing a monitor, the best choice would be one that fits your needs. The cuff size is important because if it does not fit properly the blood pressure readings will not be accurate. The size you need depends on the size of your arm. The standard cuff is suitable for most people but if you have large or small arms you'll probably need a large or small size cuff. Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist can tell you what your correct size is.

One type of monitor is called the aneroid monitor. It is convenient because you can take it wherever you go. Squeezing a rubber bulb by hand will expand the cuff. A dial gauge with a pointer is where you'll see your reading. Since the stethoscope is already built into the monitor there is no need to buy one. There are a few disadvantages to this type of monitor. There should be a metal ring or the cuff could be hard to put on. Some people might have trouble squeezing the rubber bulb. If you have problems hearing, you may be difficult to listen to the heart sounds clearly though the stethoscope.

Another blood pressure monitor is the digital. A lot of people like this monitor because it is easy to use. Your blood pressure reading is displayed on a screen. There are some digital monitors that are electric and will print out your reading on paper. Certain models have a cuff that is automatically inflated. The downside of a digital monitor is accuracy can be affected if you move your body or if you have problems with irregular heartbeats. You'll also need batteries in order for it to work. The price range can be a little steep for some digital monitors.

When you use any kind of monitor, it needs to be checked for accuracy. Take it with you when you visit your doctor and ask him to check it for you. Also, ask him questions to make sure your using the monitor correctly. Let the doctor or a nurse watch you use it. You should wait about an hour after you wake up to take your blood pressure. If you exercise in the morning then take your blood pressure first. Make sure you're relaxed and comfortably appointed with your back against the chair. Use the same arm every day. Do not smoke, drink alcohol, eat and stay away from caffeine for at least 30 minutes before taking a measurement.

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Panic and Anxiety Attack Treatment Reviews – Ease Out of Fear Vs Panic Away

Panic Away VS Ease Out of Fear – Two Popular Panic and Anxiety Treatments

As a long time sufferer (over 20 years) of panic attacks and anxiety attacks I am all too familiar with the symptoms of these debilitating conditions. After trying multiple medications, various therapy treatments and countless positive thinking and self help methods I have come across 2 highly effective systems that have made a world of difference in giving me back my life. I'll let you know my thoughts on both these highly recommended products.

EOOF = Ease Out of Fear – PA = Panic Away

Uses easy to follow steps – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Easy to read and understand – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Does not require the use of medication – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Money back guarantee offered – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Prompt product / customer support – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Does not require professional assistance – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

100% natural approach – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Progress at your own pace – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Easily molds to your schedule – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Cures – not just missions anxiety disorders – EOOF Yes – PA Yes

Provided some one on one email coaching – EOOF No – PA Yes

Both these eBooks were written as "user friendly" in a manner that you can apply the information directly to your life. Both use many examples and stories to help illustrate their message.

As you can see in the comparison above both products are very similar in what they offer.

Ease Out of Fear is a real bargain at only $ 27 – well worth the price and with a money back guarantee you really have nothing to lose by giving it a test drive. Panic Away is a little more pricey at $ 67.95 but if you take advantage of the one on one email coaching the extra cost can be justified. Either way I highly recommend both products. It's up to you … Ease Out of Fear or Panic Away?

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The Flu – A Holistic Approach

Flu Shots Are Ineffective, There’s A Better Way

Influenza (the flu) is an extremely contagious viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. The virus causes an acute infection of the nose, throat, lungs, middle ear, and bronchial tubes. It is generally an illness of the winter season and is easily spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing. The virus then enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. There are more than 200 strains of the virus which are constantly changing so flu shots have not been very effective.

Symptoms of the flu closely resemble the symptoms of the common cold. They include fatigue, coughing, sneezing, headache, body aches, and fever. Oftentimes when fever develops, you may feel extremely hot followed by a period of shivering cold. You may also feel nauseous, weak, and lethargic. The common cold only lasts for 7 to 10 days. The flu can last up to 12 or more days followed by an additional week of recovery time.

If you are younger than age 65 with a healthy immune system, you may still contract the flu virus but it will not be life threatening. But if you are over age 65 or have a depressed immune system, contracting the flu can be very serious. Over 25,000 people die from flu related conditions every year.

People over age 65 often experience serious respiratory infections like pneumonia after coming down with the flu. You fall into a high risk group if you have a weak immune system or if you have a heart or serious lung condition regardless of your age.

The best defense against the flu virus is to keep your immune system functioning at peak efficiency throughout the year.

Supplements for Immune Health

1. Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant that strengthens your immune system. Take 15,000 IU daily, 10,000 IU if you are pregnant.

2. Beta-Carotene, 15,000 IU, should be taken with Vitamin A.

3. Zinc lozenges should be taken as soon as flu symptoms appear.

4. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids strengthens the immune system. Take 5000mg to 20,000mg per day. Excessive Vitamin C can cause diarrhea so start out slowly.

5. Garlic supplementation has antiviral and antibacterial ingredients. The Kyolic brand is a high quality brand, take 2 caps twice a day.

6. Reishi Mushroom, 2 caps a day fights infection and enhances immune function.

7. Vitamin B complex 100mg plus Selenium 200mg per day aids immunity and the body’s ability to combat infection.

8. Olive Leaf extract promotes immune response and fights numerous types of infection including the flu virus. Follow instructions on the container.

9. Fenugreek has the ability to break-up phlegm and mucus. Slippery Elm aids in their removal from the body.

Fever is your body’s defensive mechanism at work. The flu virus cannot function well in warm temperatures so do not attempt to suppress a fever unless it rises above 102 degrees. Do not take Zinc at the same time you consume citrus fruits or juices. Citrus has a tendency to reduce the effectiveness of zinc.

Caution: Consuming alcoholic beverages, even in small amounts, and taking the painkiller acetaminophen (Tylenol, Datril etc.) has been associated with serious liver problems.

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Why Is Beta-Thalassemia Important?

Also known as Cooley’s anemia, this genetic blood disorder is part of a group of hematologic disorders known as thalassemia. There are multiple categories of thalassemia, and they are one of many subtypes of a common condition known as anemia.

This type of anemia can seem complicated because of the multiple variations in inheritance and expression of abnormal genes. This abnormality results in the excessive destruction of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry hemoglobin, and it is a mix of alpha globin and beta globin proteins.

It is the beta globin protein that is affected in this type of thalassemia. This results in a decreased production of the beta globin protein in hemoglobin. This protein deficiency results in a decrease in the total amount of hemoglobin measured in the blood stream. Deficiencies of hemoglobin, also known as anemia, decrease the availability of red blood cells to transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Where Does It Come From?

The genetic factors identified in this type of anemia are traced to the Mediterranean and surrounding regions. In fact the term thalassemia is derived from Greek roots meaning ‘sea’ and ‘blood’. It is interesting to note that some studies suggest the thalassemia trait may actually afford some immunologic protection against malaria, and areas that have been associated with a higher prevalence of malaria occur in the same areas associated with a greater prevalence of this genetic trait.

Beta-thalassemia is actually a group of genetic disorders with many subtypes and expressions resulting in a range of severity and symptomatology. This genetic abnormality is classified most commonly through three primary groups. These groups include thalassemia major, thalassemia intermedia, and thalassemia minor. The distinction among them is defined by the variability of the inheritance of genes from one parent or both parents. Expression of the defective gene.

Those individuals who receive only one defective gene from one parent are in the thalassemia minor group while those who receive a defective gene from both parents are diagnosed as having thalassemia major.

What Symptoms Occur?

Thalassemia minor is typically asymptomatic. It is detected and diagnosed by examining the abnormal hemoglobin protein through electrophoresis or mutational analysis. It is an important diagnosis to make for genetic counseling and prenatal risk assessment.

Individuals with this type of thalassemia should be closely followed by their doctors as complications can occur including enlargement of the spleen and liver abnormalities. Recent studies have also suggested there may be an increased risk of infection and mood disorders associated with thalassemia minor.

Beta-thalassemia major is the severe form that occurs from acquiring the abnormal gene from both parents. These individuals develop severe anemia which require intensive treatment and medical care. Though often normal at birth, severe symptoms develop and can result in heart failure and liver abnormalities resulting in early death.

How Is It Treated?

Patients with severe symptoms are often treated with blood transfusions and require other procedures such as chelation therapy to remove the increased iron that occurs along with the transfusions. Bone marrow transplants may be performed especially in children to treat this severe form of anemia.

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Back Inversion – Better Treatment for Spinal Compression

There are people who do not have any idea what back inversion is, or what it entails. Well, there is no need blaming them since they may not have come across it or have come across someone who has undergone it. All the same back inversion is one of the methods of treating spinal compression. It involves trying to reduce the effects of gravity on the individual's spinal cord. This process is usually referred to as back inversion therapy. The process works in a way that there is reduced compression on the vertebral column and the disks surrounding the vertebral column, so as to allow the muscles around the area to relax. Although this method of treating back pains can hold on paper, there are some instances where it is advised not to attempt them.

Consider a patient who has high blood pressure, or some heart disease, or even glaucoma. Being in the inverted position could be very dangerous to their health status, and for them this process would be more of a life threatening risk than a corrective measure for spinal compression. When in an inverted position, the pulsation of the heart slows down and the blood pressure rises if you remain so for some time, therefore never try inversion therapy if you have any of the cardiovascular diseases mentioned or even elevated pressure in the eye.

Basically, how this process works is that the inversion therapy procedures eases gravitational pressure off the nerve roots and disks in the spinal column and increases the space between spinal column. There are several ways of back inversion therapy that are in use today. There is a method wherey you invert the whole body. In this way, you hang from a horizontal bar that is typically supported by a sturdy frame. This process usually involves the whole body. There is also another form wherey they employ the use of a strong frame with some supports to help in bending your knees while keeping your hips loosened. The other method involves you lying on an inversion table, and it inclines slowly, turning you upside down.

Although there are so many ways of handling spinal disorders and correcting the posture of the spine, back inversion therapy is one of the most commonly used, and it has yielded good results over the past few years. For a long time however, most people have bought it to find a solution to their back pains, but the only problem is that the back inversion procedures only offer short term relief from pain. For those who are seeking something long term, this does not usually auger well with their plans. There is however no need to discredit the back inversion therapy treatments, since even though they do not offer the ultimate solution to back pains in the long run, they can be effectively implemented as part of an increase back pain treatment, especially for the lower pains usually caused by compression of the spinal discs.

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Primera Disc Publisher Pro – Does not Allow You to Think About Other Options

If you are into the business of disc publishing since a couple of years or are a newbie to this business, you must have heard about Primera. Yes, I am talking about Primera Technology, world's leading manufacturer of premium quality DVD, CD and BD duplicators and printers. It created the new wave of sensation in the market by introducing its award-winning Bravo Disc Publishers. Since its introduction, Primera disc-publisher pro has been the most preferred choice of experienced and quality conscious professionals. Although after its introduction, many disc publisher models were introduced by several other manufacturers but no one could match its performance and price both.

The users of Primera publisher pro recommends it to othere without a second thought or a single hitch. It means that this Primera Pro disc publishers offer something unique that may bring some commercial and practical benefits to your organization. Just have a quick glance over some unique features of Primera disc-publisher pro:

  • Direct-to-disc prints with 4800 dpi printing resolution. Afterburner Print Technology controls the print quality precisely.
  • Assures smooth and faster output
  • For high printing needs, equipped with two high speed drives
  • Comes with smallest ink droplet size of 3 picoliters that delivers superb graphics, live like photo finish and the best standards of text quality
  • Comes with optional Windows networking software PTPublisher NE that enables you to operate it from multiple locations. It can be used by multiple users networked with it.
  • Primera disc publisher pro comes with AccuDisc Technology that optimizes the disc transport at the most.
  • It has probably the widest compatibility, so there is Primera need to change the existing operating system.
  • No need of any other supporting software

Primera Pro disc publisher range is designed to make the whole CD / DVD printing complete automated, unattended and hands-free. Just select the files for duplication, select the quantity and command to start. The entire operation is so simple that you hardly ever feel the requirement of training or orientation. In case you feel, worldwide network of Primera is ready to help you in every best possible way.

Some professionals think that when a disc publisher has so many advanced features it would have been complicated to install it and they will need external pricy help. It is not so. Primera disc publisher pro comes with USB connectivity port, so no need to open the case cover of your PC. Connect USB 2.0 high-speed interface cable, power it and install the integrated software. The whole installation typically takes less than five minutes.

When you start comparing the prices, you will be surprised that Primera disc publisher pro, despite having the most advanced features, wins your favor here too. Therefore, can you still think about other options?

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Our Body – Oxygen Curing Cold Sore

The human body is a prerequisite mechanism which needs to function very rigidly and precisely because disorder creates imbalances throughout the entire system. Herpes Simplex is a virus that will take advantage of a body which is suffering from imbalance.

There are numerous methods of treatment for this disease, there are over the counter medicines and ointments which can be used to cure this virus temporarily. There is, however, no permanent cure for this virus. So, the basic fact we need to understand is that our immune system needs to be strong and healthy from the inside and also from the outside.

Many people affected with this virus have seen it affecting only their lips but they do not know that this virus can cause Alzheimer's, facial palsy, etc. There have been cases of this virus attacking new born babies and the retina. This virus can be dormant for several years but when it gets triggered it can do nasty things to your lips and other parts of your body. This virus also has the potential to destroy the basic building blocks of your life – proteins.

Oxygen and water are two very important essential compounds without which human body ceases to perform normally. Oxygen is present in all the cells of the human body and if the oxygen content level in these cells decreases they tend to become weak. These weak cells are easily susceptible to herpes simplex virus and other diseases such as cancer. Vitamins, nutrients and proteins which we take can not save an oxygen deficient human body. Cells become too weak when oxygen deficient and can not perform their basic duties.

Herpes simplex virus is anaerobic which means that it survives in conditions where there is low amount of oxygen. Low amounts of oxygen inside the human body increases acid levels and this acidic nature of the human body is the ideal condition for herpes simplex virus because it can not survive in alkaline conditions. Herpes simplex virus can not be destroyed permanently but it can be put into remission. Human bodies tend to suffer from oxygen deficiency and this is normal in this day and age of air pollution.

There are certain over the counter oxygen supplements which can increase the oxygen level of your body. The amount of oxygen in the air is not sufficient to supply the required amount we need because the amount of oxygen in the air is decreasing gradually over time. Previously it was around 40% and now it hovers around 15 – 20%.

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Fat Burning Foods to Lose Weight

Aside from doing regular workouts and other forms of exercise, individuals who would like to lose weight know that they have to check on the food that they eat. However, they also have to be aware that there are actually fat burning foods that they can eat without gaining weight. These foods increase the rate of the metabolic functions of the body and in the process, the body utilizes more energy than usual. Individuals with good metabolism store less fat in their bodies each day.

Among the foods that help people to lose their body fat includes citrus fruits, vegetables, poultry, nuts, eggs, oats and salmon as well. Citrus fruits like grapes, strawberries, plums, cherries and oranges are some good sources of vitamin C. Those who include it as part of their daily diet will be able to lose weight as vitamin C has the body metabolism. Aside from fruits, people may also include vegetables that are rich in minerals and other nutrients. Vegetables mostly contain less calories so people do not have to worry about storing fats in their bodies. They may include broccoli, carrots or cage in their meal plans for example.

Individuals may eat red me sparsly but they can eat more of the white meats instead. Chicken and fish like salmon are better than pork or beef meat. Poultry meat contains the proteins that the body needs in order to work well. However, individuals are caution against eating the skin part of chicken because it has lots of fats that may be dangerous to the health and may only add more weight as well.

There are also kinds of nuts that people can snack on if they are hungry. Nuts provide lots of vitamins and other nutrients that the body need. The fat contained in nuts is not harmful for the body. People should not disregard good sources of fat that the body cells need in order to function properly. What they should avoid is the bad kind of fats that are found in some types of food especially those that have undergone processing.

People do not have to exclude a variety of foods from their diet especially those that would actually help them to lose the fat in their bodies. They may select carefully which ones would facilitate their metabolic process so that more calories are used and less is stored. Starving oneself is not the right way to reducing weight. People can still burn fat if they include healthy foods that help the body to function properly.

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Dry Skin – Diabetes and Your Skin

There are many things that can cause your skin to become dry, brittle and cracked. Only a portion of the things that cause dry skin are purely environmental, meaning that they are skin are internal or medical in nature. These are the causes that are the most difficult to pihings outside of your body that you come into contact with on a daily basis. Other causes of drynpoint and address.

Medical conditions that cause dry skin are numerous. Thyroid disease, Hodgkin's disease, eczema, and diabetes all contribute toothersome skin conditions. Sometimes, it may not be directly caused by a medical condition but rather the treatment for that condition. This is especially true in cases of cancer where radiation and chemotherapy are used.

Diabetes and Dry Skin

Diabetes, dry skin and other skin conditions are closely linked. In fact, the first sign that a person has diabetes is usually some sort of skin disorder. It is estimated that more than 75 percent of diabetes patients will suffer from a skin condition. These in patients with diabetes can be especially troublesome and difficult to treat. This is because the body's ability to renew and heal itself is stunned in persons with diabetes.

Dry skin is so common in people with diabetes because diabetics regularly experience high glucose levels. When glucose levels are high, the skin and surrounding tissues are zapped of vital moiture resulting in extremely dry legs, feet and elbows. The dehydrated, dry skin is then prone to cracking, peeling and infection which can be very difficult to reverse. In extreme situations, amputation is needed to help heal an infected wound.

Another cause of dry skin in diabetes patients is poor circulation. People with this disease often experience a loss of circulation and nerve sensation in their extremities. This can cause the sweat glands to slow or shut down. Without sweat to keep the skin moist, a further drying of the skin can occur.

Dry skin can be cured in patients with diabetes. It just takes a little more effort than in people who do not have an underlining medical condition contributing to their skin woes. Follow these tips for keeping your skin hydrated in spite of diabetes:

* Try to keep your glucose levels under control. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and follow a good diet.

* Drink plenty of water.

* If you notice any dry patches, discuss these with your doctor immediately before they become cracked.

* Always use lotions and creams to hydrate your skin.

* Decrease the amount of times that you bathe and use a gentle, hydrating soap when you do. Your water temperature should also be lukewarm, not hot.

* Use a humidifer.

Other Diabetic Skin Conditions

In addition to dry skin, there are many other types that can affect people with diabetes. Here is just a brief overview of a few of the conditions that can exist on their own or in combination with dry skin.

* Acanthosis nigricans – This skin condition is identified by the brown or black patches of skin that are normally associated with overweight people. These marks are usually seen on the neck, groin, or underarms and are caused by insulin receptors in the skin that cause the skin to grow abnormally.

* Diabetic dermopathy – Is identified by small, round, raised lesions that may crack and open up. They are caused by changed in small blood vessels and poor circulation.

* Bullosis diabeticorum – This condition is identified by small, ruptured blisters underneath the skin of a diabetic patient. The blisters are typically painless and heal on their own. They are caused by uncontrolled glucose levels.

* Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum – Is identified by dull, brown sores which may crack and peel. After some time, these sores become shiny and resample scars. They are often indented. This condition is caused by changes in skin cells due to lack of circulation and is more common in Type 1 diabetes than Type 2 diabetes.

Diabetic skin care does not have to be that difficult. The key to combatting dry skin and other skin conditions cause by diabetes is to never let them get out of control. Take a few minutes each day to care for your skin. Be sure to use plenty of moisturizers and report any troublesome spots to your doctor. This will help keep your skin healthy and moist suitable for your medical condition. Most importantly, strive to keep your glucose levels under control. This is your best defense against skin conditions.

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Your Career and the Natural Adult Stages of Life

Understanding how practitioners may evolve over time can help individuals and organizations to plan for career change and to manage it properly. Since the early 1970s, several life-cycle theories of careers have been developed, partly as a result of psychological examination of adult development. These theories find their roots primarily in the work of Carl Jung and Erik Erikson. Jung wrote a "noon of life" transition from youth to middle life, occurring between the ages of 35 and 40. This noon of life is the "last summons to attain all of one's capabilities." Psychosomatic symptoms at this age and such ailments as depression and ulcers were seen as resulting from the failure to attain goals set during youth.

Erikson suggested that there are eight stages of life, each characterized by the individual's facing and trying to resolve a crisis. He identified the following four adult stages:

1. Adolescence. This is the identity crisis stage. Childhood adaptations are reexamined. The adolescent searches for a new, creative, and independent role through which to contribute to society and derive a sense of meaning and faith.

2. Young adulthood. At this stage there is an intimacy crisis. The individual tries to develop intimacy and sharing with others.

3. Adulthood. Here, the individual faces a generativity crisis. There is concern with others beyond the immediate family. He or she tries to act as a mentor for the next generation.

4. Maturity. At the maturity stage the individual experiences a second identity crisis. There is a sense of near completion. This is a stage of reflection. The individual tries to accept the rightness of his or her life, and of all reality.

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Yeast Infection and Skin Rash – Its Many Forms

If you have noticed that you have a rash on your skin, especially around the genitals, mouth or under folds of skin then you could be suffering from a yeast infection rash. This is not of course a diagnosis and it could also be the symptoms of many other conditions and the only way in which you can be sure what it is, is to visit your local doctor. It has been noted that a vaginal yeast infection skin rash is the second most common cause of vaginal itching and irritation and this is due to the yeast that is naturally present overgrowing due to changes in the pH levels of the area.

A lot of babies get a yeast infection skin rash from diapers on the bottom area and also in the mouth and the latter is also the case for older adults that may find that they get the yeast infection in their mouth due to dentures. However the yeast infection can generally affect any person, of any age and in other areas such as the nail bed, under the breasts, in folds of skin and also around the lower abdomen.

As a general rule a yeast infection skin rash will clear up rather quickly with the right antifungal treatment that you can get from a doctor or over the counter at a pharmacy and there will be no more problems with it but in some cases they can be recurrent and if this is the case then monitoring from a doctor may be needed as there can be an undercoming cause.

There are a number of reasons as to why a yeast infection skin rash will occur and for women it can be such such as taking the oral contraceptive pill, pregnancy and also menstruation. For men and women alike it could be due to poor levels of personal hygiene, a poor diet that is too high in sugars and yeast products and also wearing tight clothes, washing the genital area too much or with perfumed products and also coming into contact with an already infected person.

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Need Safe and Effective Skin Care? Go Herbal!

If you think that skin care is merely the product of modern times and the ever-evolving complexities of commercialization, think again! Historical records show that the importance of skin care had already been recognized and practiced by ancient civilizations all around the globe. The only difference is that ancient man took care of his or her skin in a more natural way. They were primarily using plant materials to keep their skin clean and healthy!

However, due to modern man's complicated lifestyle, chemical-based skin care products replaced the use of herbs in skin care. Occasionally, the herbal skin care recipes that were once handed from one generation to the next were nearly forgotten until recently. More and more people are now favorable organic and natural skin care after the numerous banes of commercially prepared products have been discovered.

But are these "organic" and "natural" skin care products really what they claim to be? If you read the labels of these so called "herbal skin products" in the market today, you will see that they are still heavily laden with chemical preservatives. As a result, the effectiveness of the natural ingredients contained in these products is greatly reduced. What's worse is that these chemical ingredients may even lead to the development of several skin conditions!

Your best bet? Prepare your very own skin care products at home! It can entail quite an effort on your part to prepare homemade natural and herbal skin care recipes but there are quite a number of advantages in doing so. First, you can be sure that you are using only the finest materials available. Thus, you can be 100% sure of its effectiveness. Second, you can be safe from the side effects that result primarily from using commercial preparations. And third, it can translate to great savings on your budget! So, what more could you probably ask for? Start making your personal blends now! Enumerated below are some of the most amazing herbs that can do wonders for your skin.

Aloe Vera – Aloe vera is considered to be one of the best herbal ingredients for natural skin care preparations. This wonderful herb contains the active ingredient aloin, which is a virtual goldmine of naturally existing vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Freshly extracted aloe vera helps soothe skin, heal cuts and treat sunburns.

Calendula – The healing powers of this herb have been used for more than a hundred years now. Calendula is used as a major component in ointments, oils and teas and is proven effective for any kind of skin problems ranging from wounds to frostbite, burns, boils, bruises and sprains. Calendula also possesses a strong antibiotic and anti-fungal effect but is non-toxic, so it is safe enough to be applied to the skin.

Chamomile – Chamomile is another useful herb that has good antiseptic properties and can be used effectively in maintaining your natural beauty. Try rinsing your face with chamomile tea every morning as you wake up and observe the marked improvement in your skin after some time. See that resulting healthy glow? Using the tea as a hair rinse can add shining highlights to the hair (especially for blondes!).

Chickweed – If you are feeling totally helpless and are looking for relief from chronic itching caused by eczema, psoriasis and other rashes, try chickweed. It can really cure the itch! It is also used in poultices to help remove toxins from a wound. And this herb has an extraordinary bonus – it acts as a mild diuretic and laxative. So when taken internally, chickweed can effectively reduce excess fat!

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What Causes White Spots To Occur On Your Skin And How Can They Be Eradicated?

White spots on skin can be caused by many things, but cancer is definitely not one of them, so if you have noticed white spots appearing on your skin, please do not be overly concerned. They may not look very nice, but they are no threat to your health.

In many cases, these spots are a result of tinea versicolor. This is essentially a fungal infection which can be triggered by a number of things, including the use of shared tanning beds, and towels which have been used multiple times between washes. The actual fungus that causes the spots is present on everyone's skin, so in medical terms, tinea versicolor is not contagious since we all have this fungus living on us anyway.

Tinea versicolor is easily treatable with both prescription drugs and over the counter treatments, and if treated, the spots will soon start to fade. If after about two months you can still see the spots, you should go and see another doctor in order to get a second opinion.

A health condition known as vitiligo can also cause white spots to appear, but there are two distinct differences. Spots which are caused by vitiligo look different different, and they will not respond as well to any medication. The reason for this being that vitiligo is not caused by a fungus, but instead, it occurs when areas of pigment producing cells are damaged. Although doctors remain uncertain as to what actually causes this, it is believed to be an autoimmune disease.

There are a number of different treatment options, but these are often ineffective. It is however quite possible for pigment to return at some point, but if it does, the affected areas are usually slightly lighter or darker than the surrounding skin.

These days there are a variety of different makeup products which can be used in order to cover up the spots, and one can also buy dyes that can be applied to the white spots. The biggest concern with these types of products is that many of them contain harsh chemicals, and so in my opinion, they should be avoided.

Areas of skin affected by vitiligo are more susceptible to skin cancer, so I really do not think people should be exposing these areas to any sort of chemicals. There are other creams and lotions available on the market which are completely free of any chemicals, and some of them are known to be very effective at reducing the appearance of white spots.

These types of creams may take longer to produce the desired results, but certainly it's worth the wait. After all, what is the point of getting rid of white spots on skin, only to have them replaced by skin cancer? As a general rule, if you can not eat something, you should not be putting it on your skin either.

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Cures for Depression

Have you ever felt very like life was treating you unfairly, or that life was not worth living anymore. If the answer is yes then you should know that its quite possible that you suffer from some form of depression. Depression is a deadly disease that can make your life spiral out of control if not taken care of / at its early stages. Some people suffer from temporary depression while others are more intense, whatever the strength of your depression you should know that there are cures for depression out there and that you are not alone in your battle.

For parents its sometimes difficult to notice a child is suffering from depression, it can be a result of teasing at school, a divorce of parent are usually prime examples of this. T is important to recognize depression and get it treated either through therapy or even in some cases through prescription drugs. Some people are said to be born with depression where other people can develop depression over time either through a bad job, bad life circumstances or even the death or a traumatic experience in your life.

If you suspect that you or someone you love is suffering from depression its usually good advise to seek help right away. There are trained professionals who are experienced in handling depression disorders and properly find cures for depression. It is said that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. This chemical imbalance is what makes us feel down and depressed.

Its is important to remember that there are cures for depression that are available to us online trying doing research and see what works best for you but in cases of severe depression it is best to seek help from a qualified consultant.

From past experience my grandmother was a manic depressant who was back in the 1940's was unable to get a proper diagnosis of her condition. Unfortunately back then there was not that kind of information available that we poses today. Resulting in her long life of depression. Today fortunately there is help available and there are cures for depressions that were not always available. Advances in medicine and technology have helped turned the corner on depression and hopefully with research and knowledge one day we can all live a life without depression.