Fitness and Exercise For Disabled

30 12 2009

   If you spend long hours in a wheelchair you know it can lead to uneasiness and be very uncomfortable, which is true for everyone who is disabled. Keeping the body moving as much possible in your wheelchair should be a regular part of your daily fitness program. This should be a priority no matter what your disability. Doing regular wheelchair exercise will help you increase your strenght, flexibility, improve your mobility, strenghten your heart and lungs, and help you control your weight.

   When starting or ending any workout or exercise session, it’s important to take ten minutes to warm up, stretch a little but without hurting yourself and then cool down for about ten minutes. When you work out with weights you want to start slowly gradually work up to more weight. Start with simple exercises as outlined below and then move on to some of the more difficult exercise.

   Your upper body workout should include exercises that include both arms, the torso, neck, and the shoulders. However, depending on the nature of the disability, everyone’s situation is different so make sure to consult with the doctor. Let the doctor know what exercises you plan to do and get his/ her okay and which of the exercise are best for you and which should be avoided.

Here are two types of wheelchair exercise that you’ll want to use for you workout.

   Resistance training- Resistance training uses large, stretchy rubber bands that are called resistance bands. Take the bands and wrap them securely around a stable object such as a door, or the arm of your wheelchair. Pull the bands towards you and then the other way away from you to give your muscles a good workout. Rubber bands can be use for pull-downs, shoulder rotations and arm and leg extensions.

   Strength training- Strength training uses the lifting of “free weights” or “dumbbells”. If you don’t have free weights or dumbbells try to find some cans of food that fit nicely in  your hands. Or you might be able to find something better. Whatever you choose have it weighed. You want to start with one or two pounds weights and gradually work up. Do three sets of 12 repetitions for each exercise resting between each set.

   Set realistic goals and reward yourself for working out. Don’t do anything you know you shouldn’t. Start slowly. Keep your eye on the end result. A simple but the best wheelchair exercise and fitness program can improve your overall health, boost your immune system, get blood flowing to the brain  preventing brain disease such as dementia and Alzheimer’s and increase mobility for you.   And encourage others who are disabled to exercise along with you whenever you get together for an added boost.



Superfoods for Circulatory System

29 09 2009

   Circulation problems can be felt in a number of ways. Some symptoms include fatigue due to poor circulatory function, which may bring on other symptoms such as dizziness and fainting. The inability to concentrate, coldness in the hands or feet, headaches, angina, and high blood pressure are also other signs there could be problems with the circulation system. There are nutritionally-dense foods we can incorporate into our diets to ensure our circulatory system is functioning at it’s best.

   If your circulation is poor, it is vital that the Vitamin C content of the body is kept up, because it will help prevent hardening of the arteries ballooning. Citrus fruits, red berries, tomates, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprout, red and green bell pepper, cabbage, and spinach are all great Vitamin C foods sources, and it helps promote a healthy immune system and is required to help make collagen, which holds cells together, which is vital in maintaining the integrity and strenght of the arteries and veins.

   Leafy green vegetables, almonds, hazelnuts, and vegetable oils like sunflower, canola, and soybean are all great sources of antioxidants, which are widely recognized for their ability to ward off diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Other great sources include broccoli, cabbage and kale.

   Nuts are high in beneficial, unsaturated fatty acids and research shows a correlation between nut consumption and a reduced incidence of ischemic heart disease. Walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts are very high in these needed fatty acids.

   Fish Oils an in sardines and may help to improve or reverse atherosclerosis, angina, heart attack, congestive heart failure, arrhyththmias, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Fish oils help maintain the elasticity of artery walls, prevent blood clotting, reduce blood pressure and stabilize heart rhythm.

   Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects body tissue from damage caused by unstable substances called free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells, tissues, and organs can cause damage to the cell walls of the vessels in the circulatory system. Vitamin E is also important in the formation of red blood cells. Wheat germ, corn, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, and asparagus are all wonderful Vitamin E food sources.

  



Superfoods for Relief from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

27 09 2009

   The main indications of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), on the other hand, are overall general physical and mental weariness. There are many different causes of tiredness. Just because you’re frequently tired doesn’t neccessarily mean you’ve got CFS. The condition must persist for more than six consecutive months and include other symptom’s such as memory loss, sore throat, headaches and muscle/joint pain without swelling or redness.

   Though there are several potential causes for CFS, the main reason for all fatigue is poor nutrition. Other causes could be faulty digestion, food allergies, obesity, sleep problems, tension or depression. Smoking, alcohol and drugs are also contributing factors.

   The main indications  are physical and mental weariness. It can be so severe that people are unable to participate fully in normal, everyday activities. Even getting plenty of rest doesn’t seem to make a difference for most sufferers. But, with basic lifestyle changes and a diet rich in whole foods nutrients, almost anyone can help prevent or even reverse these symptom”s.

   You can switch to a more wholesome diet that consists mainly of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, red and green pepper, cabbage and spinach are all full of Vitamin C, which helps promotes a healthy immune system. Zinc does the same. Red meat, fortified cereals, peanuts and dairy products are all good food sources of zinc.

   And for protein, focus on fish high in omega-3 oils and lean poultry, since they are loaded with essential fatty acids (EFAs) which help improve circulation and oxygen uptake with proper red blood cell flexibility and function. It’s imperative to get EFAs from your dietary choices, as the body cannot manufacture them. EFA deficiencies are linked to diminished mental capacities and immune function.

   Other things that will help include decreasing stress and getting plenty of good quality rest and regular moderate exercise. Drink lots of pure, clean water, and avoid sweets, caffeine, sodas, processed and salty foods. Set obtainable goals and think positively.



Superfoods for Healthy Prostate

13 09 2009

   The prostate gland has a reputation as a health destroyer. Hypertrophy of the prostate gland, which affects nearly every eilderly male, strangles and urethra. This troublesome condition makes urination difficult and increases the risk of bladder infections and kidney damage. However, there are many superfoods that may already be a part of your everyday diet that can help thwart the onset of prostate problems.

  Tomatoes, watermelons, red grapefruit, papaya and red berries are all great sources of lycopene, a health-promoting plant pigment known for its cancer battling ability. It also promotes a strong immune system and helps supports prostate health in men. Though fresh are always an excellent option, the lycopene in cooked tomatoes is actually absorbed more readily by the body. It’s also your ally in the battle against heart disease.

  Quercetin, a flavonoid that forms the backbone of many other flavonoids, may have positive effects in combating or helping to prevent many different types of cancer, including prostate. It also acts as an antihistamine and has anti-inflammatory properties, which may be helpful in relieving pain of an inflamed prostate.

   Foods rich in quercetin including apples, black & green tea, onions, raspberries, red wine, red grapes, citrus fruits, broccoli & other leafy green vegetables, and cherries. Quercetin can also be found in honey and sap, including the type from eucalyptus and tea tree flowers.

   It’s important to remember to get a healthy balance of foods to keep your prostate healthy, including antioxidants, Vitamin E from nuts and seeds, and drink plenty of clear fluids to help flush the bladder. Try to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. Keeping your weight in check will also help maintain a healthy prostate.

  



Superfoods for Fighting a Bladder Infections

10 09 2009

   Cranberries willhelp to fight off urinary tract infections (UTIs). They reduce the power of certain E. coli bacteria to adhere to and penetrate the walls of the bladder.

   In about half the cases of UTIs, the E, coli responsible have special little hairy tips called P fimbria. The bacteria use their fimbria to attach themselves to the bladder so that they can multiply and cause an infections. That’s where cranberries which contain a group of chemical called proanthocyanidins come in. They bind to the P fimbria of the E and hinder them so they are unable to sticking to the walls of the bladder. As a result, the E coli is flushed out in the urine instead of causing an infection. And because cranberries remove rather than kill the bacteria, there’s less of a chance for the E, coli to became resistant.

   It’s imperative that those who are prone ti UTIs eat cranberries or drink cranberry juice on a daily basis, because once the bacteria are able to adhere to the wall, the infection sets in, and the cranberries can’t help at that point.

  It’s probably best to use cranberry products twice a day if you are prone, as the effects of the cranberries wear off after about 10 hours.

   You should also be diligent about drinking lots of fluids in order to flush the bladder out on a regular basis. Citrus fruits and fresh vegetables high in Vitamin C are also good, as they help boost the body’s immunity and germ fighting abilities. Coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages should be avoided, as well as alcohol. Be sure to complement your diet with plenty of foods rich in vitamin B, such as fortified cereals, lean proteins, asparagus, almonds and bananas, as they all assist the body in the digestive process and conventing food to energy, which your body will need if it’s working to fend off a UTI.



Super Foods for Flu

25 06 2009

   Breakouts of the flu are responsible for millions of lost hours at both work and home each year, not to mention many miserable days trying to recover. If you’re wondering what you can do to naturally boost your immunity and prepare your body’s defenses, study the foods you’re eating, look at your family’s meals, and make the changes needed to ensure everyone is eating a well-balanced diet abundant in nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, low-fat proteins, and complex carbohydrates.

   Black currants are even richer in Vitamin C than oranges, containing approximately three times the recommended daily intake for adults. It’s imperative that you get plenty of Vitamin C since it helps prevent infections and helps keep the immune system healthy.

   Pork has high levels of zinc and selenium, both of which help keep your immune system strong. It’s also one of the best sources of Vitamin B and contains only a little more total fat than beef. So be sure to include lots of pork entrees in your menu planning.

   Mix up your morning breakfast with a glass of grapefruit juice instead of orange juice for a VitaminC- rich drink that’s both sweet and tart. However, you should check with your doctor if you’re on certain medications for blood pressure, AIDS, anxiety, or hay fever, as mixing grapefruit juice with certain drugs can lead to dangerous toxicity.

   Brussel sprouts are a great vegetable sources of Vitamin C are high in fiber and contain lots of folate as well. They improve anticarcinogenic glucosinolates, which have important cancer-fighting properties. They’re a great addition in a stew to provide lots of fl-busting nutrients.

   Yogurt that includes live cultures has a positive effect on your GI tract, and as a result helps the body purge the germs from the body more quickly and effectively and fight the flu. You want your yogurt to contain the active culture L, acidophiles, which is also helpful in fighting off yeast infections.

   Potatoes are one of the most affordable sources of vitamin C and nicely complement any entree with their high levels of potassiums and fiber. The skin contains the most fiber and the flesh just under the skin contians the most Vitamin C . Fresh potatoes are the best sources of Vitamin C. Be careful of how you choose tp prepare them, as soaking them in water robs them of their germ-busting Vitamin C.

   Whole wheat pasta is also rich in niacin, fiber, and iron. Its complex carbohydrates are an essential part of a healthy diet that will keep your immune system strong. Simply delicious and nutritious twist on your favorite pasta dishes.

  



Bee Propolis- Is Nature’s Antibiotic

17 04 2009

   Wouldn’t it be great if there were a Natural antibiotic that would not cause antibiotic resistence? Wouldn’t it also be great if you could take this natural antibiotic and get other health benefits, without having to worry about some of the nasty side effcts of prescription antibiotics? And if you could get antiviral benefits, that would be really great, wouldn’t it.

   Bee propolis is the product is not exactly a biological product of bees. They collect a resinous tree sap and mix it with honey back at the hive, and that’s propolis. They use it to seal their homes, the way we would use a caulking gun to seal ours.

   You may never have heard of bee propolis, but it has long been known to provide significant health benefits. The most important of these benfits may be propolis use as an antibiotic.

   Why would bees need to make antibiotics?

   We know bees are among the most efficient creatures on earth. They use everything they make, and they don’t make anything they don’t need. So why would they need antibiotics?

   While this is not household knowledge, any beekeeper can tell you that bees are very, very vulnerable to infections, both bacterial and viral. Entire hives can be destroyed by an infection running rampant. To survive, bee must create an antibiotic, antiviral substances to protect themselves.

   Most people need to be convinced of the effectiveness of bee porpolis, and there are several studies, on various aspects of bee propolis healing properties, which back up the claims of bee products supporters.

   In a chinese study, researcher found that propolis, specifically the sinapic, isoferulic, and cafeeic acides it contains, inhibied the growth of W. aureus. In Europe, ethanol extracts from bee propolis had a “marked synergistic effect” on the anti-staph effectiveness of streptomycin and cloxacyllin and a less marked but still noticeable effect on several other antibiotics.

  The antiviral properties of propolis are its greatest strenght, and remarkable in terms of health, because viruses are completely unaffected by antibiotics, and can cause severe illness which are treatable, medically, only by a few prescription antivirals which are reserved for extreme cases. Sufferers of the common cold and the flu may find bee propolis very beneficial in shortening the duration of their symptoms and relieving their illness.

   Bee propolis has a lot of functions in wellness, in addition to its antibiotic and antiviral properties. Some of its elements are free-radical scavengers. It has anti-inflammatory properties. It can prevent blood clots, and is helpful with allergies.

   Bee Propolis is an important health supplement which can fight infections, reduce allergic reactions, and generally promote a healthy body and immune system. It is no wonder, considering how hard bees work, that they would create one of the most remarkable health supplements known, but we as humans, are lucky to have bees inhabiting our world. Through they are of course making their own world better, and don’t even think about us unless we bother them, they are good neighbors. And the  honey is delicious. 



Acupuncture Secrets on Curing Gastro Intestinal Disorders

12 04 2009

   The World Health organization has recommended acupuncture treatments for dealing with a variety of gastric disorders such as hiccups, gastritis hyper acidity, ulcers, colitis, constipation and diarrhea.

   In the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, the key organ to take note of when looking at such gastric disorders is the spleen. It has the primary responibility for the transportation and transformation of food around the body, including the excretion of waste from the body.

   For the spleen to function well, it must be moist. However, if there is a deficiency of chi in the spleen, it may become too moist and a condition known as “damp heat” will develop.

   For the stomach to function well, it must be dry. When it is imbalanced, it can easily overheat and create a painful condition known as “stomach fire”. The liver can also contribute to gastric infections.

   There are four main reasons for gastric disorders according to traditional Chinese medicine:

1. Deficiency of chi in the spleen, this can be brought on by severe fatigue or severe illness.

2. Retention of damp heat, this could be caused by infections, improper diet and environmental factors.

3. Disharmony in the liver and spleen, this could be caused by emotional disturbances.

4. Deficiency of yang in the spleen and kidney, this is caused by illnesses or aging.

   Most people who are suffering from gastric disorders have a lower than usual immune response.

   The cells of the immune system produce a protein called immunoglobulin in the blood serum and tissue fluids. This protein helps to exterminte antigen bearing micro-organisms in the blood stream and tissues. Extensive research has proved that applying acupuncture to certain points increase the levels of this protein.

   This helps the body to deal with a multitude of health conditions including chronic gastritis, antral gastritis, gastric ulcer and atrophic gastritis.

   Let us lok at another way in which acupuncture helps the function of the digestive system. When we eat, the stomach and colon. This action moves the food along the digestive tract. Acupuncture techniques along the relevant acupuncture points can raise the levels of gastrin and ensure a more efficient digestive system.