Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

Was The Ephedra Ban Really a Success?

Ephedra and Ephedrine consumers are still under the assumption that the Ephedra ban is still in place. It probably comes as a great surprise that the ban on Ephedra, one of nature’s most powerful weight loss supplements, was lifted in April of 2005. A Utah Judge overturned the FDA’s decision. So why is it that the most sought after diet pill so difficult to get your hands on? We spoke to four o. . .

Are You Just Filling Your Tummy?

The Proper Way to Diet The importance of a well balanced diet is very important. The goal of this article is to answer the questions you may have about a well balanced diet. A well balanced diet must include the correct amount of vital nutrients. These nutrients include carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, mineral salts, and fiber. Water is also vital and may be more important that all the ot. . .

About Diabetes and Exercise

There are two main types of diabetes, type I and type II. Type I diabetes is characterized by the pancreas making too little or no insulin. An individual with diabetes type I will have to inject insulin throughout the day in order to control glucose levels. Type II diabetes, also known as adult onset diabetes, is characterized by the pancreas not producing enough insulin to control glucose leve. . .

White Bread or Whole Wheat Bread?

For any kid who grew up eating doughy, thick Wonder Bread for lunch, the encouragement by dietitians and nutritionists to switch to whole wheat bread can be a tough transition.Bread, like any other part of our diet, is an acquired taste. Starting out early helps since children are much more adaptable to accepting foods than adults. This does not mean that children LIKE as many foods as adults -. . .

Why Do Athletes UseThe Ephedra Pill?

You are probably familiar with the weight loss connection with the ephedra pill, but did you know that the ephedra pill is also extremely popular with performance athletes? For decades, athletes have been seeking out ways to enhance their performance. One of the most common and popular enhancing substances was the ephedra pill. Athletes use the ephedra pill as it has a significant stimulatory. . .

Do Diet Pills Really Work?

You’ve seen diet pill advertisements… You have read the testimonials claiming diet pills work. You have often wondered - will diet pills work for me?For fast weight loss, diet pills can work. If you are overweight or obese, using diet pills can help to kick start your weight loss program and help you in attaining your ideal weight.A word of caution when determining whether diet pills are for . . .

Memory Power: Flex Your Mental Muscle

Mental Muscle:As with all your organs in the body,your brain is subject to age-related fatigue. Levels of nutrients and vital oxygen slowly decline. Conditions such as Diabetes and hypertension can accelerate aging and increase the risk of memory problems.Flex Your Grey Matter:Just as Physical exercise inreases muscle mass.Working out your brain can stimulate and keeps your brain active.Strengt. . .

Seven Reasons to Take Acai

Acai (pronounced ah-sy-ee) is a berry grown mainly in South America that has a number of nutritional properties, and has even been known to prevent certain diseases. There are a number of reasons to take acai supplements or drink acai juice on a daily basis no matter what your health needs are; here are seven of the great qualities of acai juice that everyone should take advantage of.Antioxidan. . .

Restaurant Dining for the Health Conscious Eater

Here's food for thought! Did you know the average restaurant meal has over 1,000 calories? That's enough to blow any healthy eating plan. Fortunately, by following a few simple guidelines, you can dine out without having to sacrifice good taste and nutrition.1. Avoid ordering an appetizer. It's a little known fact that some appetizers have more calories and fat than the main course. Plus, many . . .

Seven Keys to Permanent Weight Loss Success (Part 1 of 4)

This is Part 1 of the 4-Part "Seven Keys to Permanent Weight Loss Success" series.Terrorists are aptly named because their tactics are designed to strike fear into the hearts of the people. This fear is often irrational. Many people bide their time suffering anxiety over the next unlikely attack while falling prey to a monster that kills more people every week than those murdered on September 1. . .

Can You Still Buy Ephedra

With millions of people aiming for successful weight loss, many are still interested in diet pills and want to buy ephedra. Perhaps you are wondering...can I still buy ephedra?The answer is yes, you can still buy ephedra. Not all countries have placed bans on allowing people to buy ephedra. These countries may believe that ephedra is still useful for weight loss or other condition. Some cou. . .

Appreciating The Importance Of Folic Acid

Folic acid is actually just one of the many vitamins that make up the Vitamin B complex. Also known as folacin and folate, this indispensable nutrient serves the body in more ways than one.While very much important for all age groups, pregnant women are the ones who actually benefit the most from folic acid as well as those who getting past the prime of their lives. However, despite all of its . . .

Appreciating the Importance of Folic Acid

Folic acid is actually just one of the many vitamins that make up the Vitamin B complex. Also known as folacin and folate, this indispensable nutrient serves the body in more ways than one. While very much important for all age groups, pregnant women are the ones who actually benefit the most from folic acid as well as those who getting past the prime of their lives. However, despite all of its. . .

What's Causing My Lower Back Pain And How Can I Get Rid O...

Lower back pain is one of the most common ailments people suffer from and approximately 8 out of 10 people will deal with back pain at some point in their life. That's a lot of people… are you one of them? Out of all of the various forms of back pain, lower back pain is by far the most common and there's a good explanation for this. Any idea why? It's not car accidents, it's not work-related i. . .

Tobacco - A Crime Against Humanity!

Believe me.. no other consumer product in the history of the world has even come close to inflicting this amount of damage on mankind. If anything else of this magnitude was to pose the same threat to life, whether it was human induced or naturally occurring – be it war, terrorist attack, genocide, ethnic cleansing, natural disaster or disease, it would as a rule command immediate international. . .

Celiac Disease

Celiac Disease is a digestive disorder found in patients who are genetically susceptible, with the resulting damage to the small intestine by an interference with the absorption of nutrients. The main culprit with Celiac Disease is a protein called Gluten. These proteins are found in all forms of main stream and non-mainstream wheat products. Such as durum semolina, spelt, einkorn, kamut and re. . .

Side Effects of The Ephedra Product - Dangerous or Not?

Ephedra has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. However, in the last decade, ephedra products have been thrust into the media spotlight given to high profile lawsuits, the FDA all encompassing ban, and the recent ban reversal.With all this media attention, you may be wondering what exactly the ephedra product is. Ephedra product is derived from a herbal plant called MaHuang.. . .

Using Natural Remedies Constipation

There are two basic types of constipation - organic and functional. Organic constipation is a result of some physical change, obstruction, or distortion in your colon. This type of constipation needs immediate attention from a doctor. This article only covers Functional Constipation. This type of constipation is a result of not following a proper diet, drinking enough fluids, having good emotio. . .

How Do You Take Care of Your Body's Biggest Organ?

How do you take care of your body’s biggest organ ? Let’s think about this question for a moment. We eat low fat foods for our heart; lower sodium intake for out blood pressure; dental check up twice a year; eye exams and physicals yearly. We do all of these things to make sure we live long healthy lives. But the biggest organ, our skin, is often neglected, dehydrated, sun damaged and suffocate. . .

Thyroid Disease Symptoms - Understanding Hypothyroidism S...

Thyroid disease symptoms and hypothyroidism symptoms afflict millions of adults in the USA alone. Thyroid disease symptoms are frequently misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. Approximately 10-20% of women and 1-2% of men have symptoms of thyroid problems. The most common type of thyroid dysfunction is the condition hypothyroidism, also called low thyroid or underactive thyroid. When thyroid function sl. . .

Steroid Stars

A long time ago, in the country far, far away, a young boy decided he wanted to change his stars for good. He decided that bodybuilding would be his ticket to the top and starts pumping iron. He quickly became successful, but that was partially due to the fact that bodybuilding was the least popular sport in his country at the time. He continued to win other prizes all over Europe, but realized. . .

Gastric Bypass – The Nightmare for Food Lovers

While the gastric bypass may seem like the perfect solution to those who are obese, I’d like to explain just how the surgery affects the lifestyle of those who’ve had gastric bypass surgery. If the lovers of food really know the drastic lifestyle change involved in the months and years after gastric bypass surgery then, unless they we’re considering the operations for alleviating an immediate h. . .

Ganoderma Lucidum - The Wonder Herb.

THE WONDER HERB THAT IS GANODERMA LUCIDUMOne of the most apparent influences modern times has brought to people is their realization of going back to the basics, to the natural, and to the organic. Although the advances brought by technology has made life easier to people, many are still looking for better organic alternatives that are proven to be more effective in their most natural of form, . . .

Beneficial Effects of Vitamins and Minerals To Your Blood

Vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are essential to the health and functioning of the body and are delivered throughout the body by the blood. There are several vitamins and minerals that directly affect the blood and its ability to perform its important tasks within the body. For the blood to be able to perform its duties properly and efficiently as well as the body and mind in general it . . .

Drug And Alcohol Rehab

Although it isn’t something most people talk about or even want to think about, drug and alcohol rehab are places that exist because of such an unfortunately high prevalence of a number of different addictions in society. In fact, so many people are having to deal with some sort of drug and alcohol rehab in their personal lives that a new reality show called “Intervention” is being shown to ed. . .

You Need To Know What Is In Your Food

Whether you're concerned about cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or simply losing weight, you want to eat a healthy diet and focus on foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, and balanced in fats, carbs, proteins.There is only one way to incorporate healthy foods into our diet and that is to make the decision to do it! Practical information about the nutrition and . . .

What is Hormone Replacement Therapy?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment that combines estrogen and progestin to restore the premenopausal levels of estrogen. Hormone replacement therapy is prescribed for protection against osteoporosis and heart disease, and relief of menopausal symptoms. BenefitsIt has been well documented for several decades that Hormone replacement therapy is the most effective remedy for . . .

Relieving Your Ache Joints and Arthritis -- are there Opt...

Can New Joint Treatments Like MSM and Phosoplex Help Relieve Joint, Back and Knee Pain? The Baby Boomer generation or those approaching fifty to sixty-five years of age is the fastest growing segment of the US population. Although these maturing adults are expected to live longer than their predecessors, many complain of joint, back, and knee pain as eroding their quality of life. One of the mo. . .

Depression

INTRODUCTIONIn any given year about 18.8 million American adults, suffer from a depressive illness. The economic cost for this disorder is US $40 billion per year, but the cost in human suffering cannot be estimated. Depressive illnesses often interfere with normal functioning and cause pain and suffering not only to those who have a disorder, but also to those who care about them. Serious depr. . .

The Great Influence Of Vitamin B to the Nervous System

In order for a person to actually have a healthy well-being, one must always remember to have an adequate daily intake of the prescribed vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that your body needs in order for it to stay healthy and fit.Unfortunately, due to stress and the increasingly fast-paced environment that we’re often subjected to, it’s quite easy to neglect one’s body, most importantly . . .

One Change Can Make All The Difference

Ever wondered why some people manage to keep their weight off easily and others just pile it all back on when they stop that new diet? The answer is easy, it comes down to one simple change.Before we get to that simple change, you need to keep in mind these rules of thumb when it comes to dieting. 1. Never do a diet which forbids a food group. This is simply asking for trouble. One day, not m. . .

The Truth About Halitosis, More Commonly Known As Bad Breath

PART I: THE SCIENCE OF HALITOSIS AND BACTERIA IN YOUR MOUTHHalitosis, also more commonly known as bad breath, is caused by anaerobic producing bacteria which normally live WITHIN the surface of the tongue and in the throat. These bacteria are supposed to be there because they assist with digestion by breaking down proteins found in specific foods, mucous or phlegm, blood, and in diseased or "br. . .

Should I Be Taking Vitamin Supplements?

Most people believe that they are reasonably healthy. Exercise, having a solid diet, and keeping stress to a minimum is a great way to live a longer, happier, and healthier life. That being said, will taking vitamin supplements help you even more? Who should take vitamin supplements? Are vitamin supplements only for extremely unhealthy people who simply don’t have the time to exercise and eat r. . .

Is There a Perfect Contact Lens For Dry Eyes?

Do you have dry eyes? Whether you just feel like you have dry eyes or your doctor has told you, there are contact lenses made just for you. Dry eye contact lenses vary depending on the type of dry eye. Manufacturers of contact lenses have focused a lot of time and research into developing the perfect dry eye contact lens.A dry eye can be caused by numerous factors, and therefore, the perfect dr. . .

Common Pitfalls of Plastic Surgery

Common pitfalls of plastic surgery are those involving before and after pictures with photographic tricks or attractive models instead of the surgeon's patients, that are publicly displayed in printed ads, online advertisement or broadcasted by TV, audio-visual or specific tele-shopping and infomercials.Before and after pictures are useful to help you make the decision to have cosmetic surgery . . .

MRSA in Ireland

In Ireland those who run the hospitals would rather you did not know how many people were being infected as a result of a hospital acquired infection.Incredibly, journalists have been forced to use freedom of information legislation to prise the information from the hospitals and even then the picture is incomplete with some hospitals “unable” to provide any figures at all and with no national . . .

How Colostrum Differs From Herbal Remedies

At some time or another, most people have taken some sort of herbal remedy or supplement to help support their body in achieving optimal health. Now, however, you may be considering taking a Colostrum supplement, and wondering how it differs from standard herbal remedies, in the way it works to benefit your body.The primary difference is that herbal remedies and dietary supplements contain plan. . .

B-Vitamins Help Promote Healthy Arteries and Heart

A 2002 study reported, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation reported that a six-month regiment of taking folic acid, vitamin b12, and vitamin b6 can be instrumental in the prevention of recurring blocked arteries in coronary angioplasty patients.The findings, which were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association are an extension of a clinical trial that examined the. . .

Two Easy Ways to Protect Against Flu

People across America are lining up for flu shots, buying cold and cough medications, and researching which antibiotics that might need this winter. Despite all this elaborate planning, there are surprisingly few people who remember two of the low tech staples that can be first line defenses against seasonal illness: exercise and Beta Glucan oat fiber (ß-glucan).Both moderate exercise and Beta . . .

Selenium May Help to Prevent Prostate Cancer

According to a federally sponsored study, published by a Stanford University urologist, men with abnormally low levels of Selenium in their blood are four to five times more likely to develop prostate cancer. Selenium is a trace element that is supplied in certain foods and supplements.The study suggests that making a point of eating Selenium-rich foods, such as Brazil nuts and tuna, or taking . . .

Superior Absorption of Coral Calcium

Over the past few years, Coral Calcium has received a lot of media attention as the widely preferred source of readily absorbable calcium. In 2003, a study was undertaken to compare and contrast the absorption of Ryukyuan Coral Calcium, as opposed to carbonate derived calcium.Twelve normal subjects, including six men and six women, were selected to participate in the study. None of them had tak. . .

Tools to Manage Your Diabetes

It’s estimated that in the US, over 18 million people over the age of 20 have diabetes. If you happen to have been diagnosed with diabetes, make sure you’re getting all the right diabetes treatment supplies. Also check to make sure that your glucose levels are within the accepted guidelines. Take any other additional steps your physician has advised – but most of all, go out and live your life . . .

Gastric Bypass Surgery - What Are The Risks?

Although all of the risks involved in gastric bypass surgery aren't fully known, there are many that are. These include possible infection, clotting of the blood, and the development of gallstones, a bleeding ulcer and even pneumonia. It certainly isn't a simple procedure and complications may occur as with all invasive medical procedures.Before the surgery is performed your doctor or physician. . .

The Simplest Weight Loss Tips No One Follows!

I have a Cheez-It problem. You're not listening, I really have a Cheez-It problem! I have never met a Cheez-It I didn't like.* Some people can't resist chocolate or ice cream, some people it's pizza or some other food or sweet. While I enjoy all of those foods on occasion, Cheez-It's are the food equivalent of crack cocaine for me. It takes all my willpower to pass up the isle where the Cheez-I. . .

Ace Abs Without Crunches, Cradles, Or Sit-ups!

I know what many of you are thinking reading the title of this article. I also thought the same once. It cannot be done! Attaining a stronger, visible, set of abdominal muscles has always been a common goal in people’s fitness training programmes and yet, paradoxically, many (most) of these people never actually achieve this goal. Being involved in the fitness industry I see the same problem ov. . .

Selenium Can Lift Your Spirits

In July of 1995, the United States Department of Agriculture officially published research information, which acknowledges Selenium as "an essential trace element known for its antioxidant prowess."In addition to this, the mineral has been recognized for its ability to lift the spirits, and prevent mood swings of those who take it as a nutritional supplement. In a 15-week clinical study, 30 men. . .

Colostrum May Help Prevent Upper Respiratory Tract Infect...

A 2003 study by the Health Sciences Department of the University of South Australia suggests that taking concentrated bovine colostrum supplements could reduce the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.The study involved subjects being randomly allocated to consume 60g/day of Colostrum for eight weeks, then examining their occurrence of symptoms. Results from the first week were kept . . .

Orally Administered Beta-Glucan May Prevent Cancer

A recent study has shown that immune stimulation has a significant effect on tumor growth in animal specimens. Safe and effective forms of immune stimulation can enhance cellular immunity, which in turn enhances the activities of T-helper cells and natural killer cells.Beta Glucan has been shown to increase activation of macrophages, lymphocyte production, and natural killer cell activity. Seve. . .

Tips on Taking Colostrum

When selecting a brand of Colostrum, you should be sure that it is collected within 24 hours of birth, as that is the time period in which Colostrum has the highest concentration of important immune and growth factors. For best results, Colostrum should not have been exposed to high heat pasteurization, which can cause damage to many of the contained proteins. Processing methods may vary betwee. . .

The Immune-Boosting Power of Colostrum

Bovine Colostrum is the form of "milk" taken from dairy cows, within 24 hours of giving birth to a calf. The liquid is known for its high protein immunoglobulin and antibody contents, and numerous immune and growth factors that can be highly beneficial to humans.Although many animals have some sort of colostrum, a lot of scientific research conducted in the last decade has shown that the combin. . .